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MAXUS Electric Vehicles and Vans | SAIC EV & Vans in Ireland - Harris MAXUS Newsletter – Spring 2024


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      Ireland’s largest private automotive retailer and distributor announces strategic restructuring

      • Harris Group enters new phase of business growth with appointment of new senior management team 
      • 2024 transformation to position Harris Group for long-term success says CEO
      • Double digit growth forecast for 2024 as new customer showroom planned for Naas Road headquarters 

      6 February 2024: Harris Group, Ireland’s largest privately owned automotive distributor has announced a strategic restructuring of the company, including the appointment of a new senior management team, positioning the business for a new era of growth under the leadership of Chairperson and CEO, Denise Harris. 

      Building on the legacy of Pino Harris who founded the company in 1961, Denise Harris will be joined by four new executive directors who will drive the business in its key areas of sales and distribution, after sales, parts and assembly and training, alongside its finance and IT functions. The appointments, together with the restructuring of the business have been designed to prepare Harris Group for its next phase of growth and future proof it for current and future generations.  

      Speaking about the future of the business, Denise Harris said: “We have ambitious targets for double digit growth across all of our brands in both Ireland and the UK and are growing our dealership network while also investing heavily in training. The redevelopment of our Dublin headquarters will result in a more open site meaning fleet, commercial and private buyers can visit our new public showrooms at their leisure and meet with our commercial automotive experts.”  The new showrooms are at an advanced stage of planning and will open to the public over the coming months. 

      Located on some 24 acres on the Naas Rd. in Dublin, Harris Group is already Ireland’s largest retail sales centre for the commercial vehicle sector with marque brands including Isuzu, MAXUS and Higer Bus & Coach. With a substantial parts stockholding, the business is also the largest parts distribution centre in the country and a recognised leader in the future of motoring both in Ireland and the UK. 

      New leadership team

      The new senior management team working alongside Chairperson and CEO, Denise Harris brings together some of the most experienced professionals in the motoring industry whose remit will be to support Denise Harris in taking the business forward:

      • Brian Patterson has joined the business as Group Managing Director developing and driving the group’s strategy and ambitious growth targets with responsibility for the business’ P&L. 
      • Mark Barrett has been appointed to the role of Managing Director of Group Franchises, with responsibility for the growth and success of the group’s brands, sales, dealer development and marketing in Ireland, the UK and right-hand drive Europe, where Harris has the franchise for the MAXUS brand. 
      • John Keogh joins the business as Managing Director of Retail Operations, heading up the sales and marketing functions in Ireland and with a focus on technological innovation, which will optimise the modern retailing concept. John will also oversee a number of key divisions including retail sales, service and parts. 
      • Barry McGrane is Harris Group’s newly appointed Chief Financial Officer. A vastly experienced finance professional, Barry has more than 30 years’ experience working with both Irish and international businesses across multiple sectors, including motor trade, and will be responsible for Harris Group’s finance and IT functions.

      Denise Harris also confirmed that Nigel Birkmyre has joined the Harris Group board. Widely recognised as a trusted leader and advisor to the automotive industry, Nigel will provide counsel and support to the new management team. 

      Denise Harris said: “Today marks a transformative moment for the Harris Group. Our strategic restructuring creates a platform for growth and innovation as we re-position the business in line with the evolution of the motoring industry. Together with the new management team, I have undertaken a full review of our operation to ensure we have the optimal structure, the best people and the most advanced processes to future proof the business and to be a progressive industry leader. The company has been operating for more than 60 years and is gearing up for the next 60, and beyond. 

      “It’s an exciting time for Harris Group as we enter this new phase of growth. And while we are creating an even more dynamic operation, underpinning all of this change is a consistent commitment to excellence and outstanding customer service. It was important to me that we retained these founding values of the business, honouring the legacy and pioneering spirit of my late husband, Pino Harris.”

      2023 growth, 2024 forecasts

      Harris Group has reported significant sales growth for 2023, notwithstanding the industry-wide global challenges relating to supply chain and changes in regulatory requirements. Highlights include: 

      • The MAXUS range of light commercial vehicles, which includes an extensive range of all-electric vans and the first EV pick-up and MPV in Ireland and the UK, grew by a significant 46% in 2023. 
      • Further growth in the region of 60% is anticipated for 2024, which will be complemented by the launch of more new vehicles for both commercial and passenger car drivers.  
      • In the UK, MAXUS ranked number one in EV light commercial vehicle sales in December 2023 and fourth overall for the full year, despite having only launched in 2016 (Source: Glass’s)
      • Harris Group parts business is growing by ~30% year on year. 
      • Sales of bus and coach grew by 19% in 2023 and is forecasted to grow significantly  in 2024 with a UK launch (sales and aftersales) planned this year. 
      • While sales of premium brand, Isuzu fell last year, primarily due to model changes and regulatory requirements, Harris Group forecasts sales growth of 50% in 2024, which will be driven, in part, by the much-lauded Isuzu D-MAX. 

      Investing in the future

      Plans have been approved for the expansion of Harris’ onsite Training Academy, which provides cutting-edge EV (electric vehicle) training for technicians both within the group and across its extensive dealership network. The academy, launched in 2021, has quickly become a premier hub for knowledge exchange and a leading centre of excellence in EV technology education. Denise Harris said: “I am personally committed to supporting the next generation of technicians, engineers and industry professionals and firmly believe in the importance and power of continuous education and training. Future proofing the business is an ongoing process and the training academy is a central component of our long-term investment strategy.” 

      Network 

      With more than 120 independent dealerships across all its brands and territories Denise Harris confirmed that her team expects to grow the group’s dealership network by 15% in 2024. The territories in which Harris Group operates are: 

      • Harris MAXUS sales and aftersales’ function operates in Ireland, the UK and across right hand drive Europe (Cyprus, Malta, Chanel Islands and Isle of Man) 
      • Harris Bus and Coach is active in Ireland and the company is gearing up for a sales and aftersales launch in the UK in H2 2024 
      • The group has the franchise for Isuzu (sales and aftersales) in Ireland 

      In the past three years, staff numbers have increased by 30% and the company plans to optimise its already comprehensive sales and after-sales services and enhance the customer experience through additional on-the-ground support. A recruitment drive is underway for 2024 in line with Harris Group’s long-term growth strategy.

      There is a new energy that is being felt right across our business as a result of the significant changes we are making,” said Denise Harris. “Backed by an incredible team of visionaries, I am confident that the Harris Group will continue to grow at pace, while being recognised as both an industry leader and a pioneer in new and alternative energy vehicles for many years to come.” 

      www.harrisgroup.ie 

      MAXUS LAUNCHES ANNUAL CHRISTMAS FOOD BANK APPEAL

      Harris MAXUS Dealerships across support local charities ahead of difficult festive period

      Harris MAXUS has launched its annual Food Bank Appeal to support people in need across the UK this festive season.

      This December, our participating Harris MAXUS dealers across the MAXUS networkwill be aiding their local food bank to ensure that those in need have access to essential resources in the lead up to Christmas.

      Participating dealerships will also be accepting non-perishable items for donation and are appealing to members of the public and neighbouring businesses to support where possible.

      Mark Barrett, Harris MAXUS Managing Director said: “We were blown away with the support for our food bank campaign last year, so we’ve brought it back for 2023 and we’re hoping to grow on its success. Last year we deployed more than 30 MAXUS vans around the country, delivering food to where it is needed most and supporting the incredible work of local foodbanks through our dealer networks.

      As the cost-of-living crisis continues, more people than ever are relying on their local food bank this winter.  In response, we invite MAXUS customers and neighbouring businesses to make a meaningful difference to those most vulnerable by supporting this year’s MAXUS Food Bank Appeal. All donations are welcome however big or small. Together we can really make a difference and help drive change.”

      Independent Food Aid Network[1] has reported that food banks in the UK are facing unprecedented challenges due to the cost-of-living crisis as increased demand on their resources are coupled with a decrease in donations.

      Those who wish to donate to the MAXUS Food Bank Appeal are asked to supply long-life non-perishable food items, such as, pastas, rice, noodles, tinned fruit and veg, jars of sauce, jams, powdered soup, cereals, lentils, beans, pulses, tea, coffee, and tinned meat. Participating MAXUS dealerships will be accepting food donations until the 18th of December.

      Charities that need vans for donation collections or deliveries in the run up to Christmas can reach out to their local MAXUS dealership for support.

      [1] IFAN SURVEY August 2023

      50 ELECTRIC VEHICLES VISIT FIVE CITIES IN FIVE DAYS – HARRIS MAXUS WELCOMES THE EV RALLY TO DUBLIN 

      Dublin, 7th July 2023 – Five days, five cities, 100 drivers, fifty electric vehicles and almost 1200 e-mile across the UK and Ireland, today saw Dublin host the conclusion of GreenFleet magazine’s EV Rally, organised to demonstrate the role EVs play in the world today. 

      The Five Cities EV Rally challenge, which started in Cardiff on July 3rd, saw the drivers power into Dublin and cross the finishing line at the headquarters of commercial vehicle distributor, HARRIS MAXUS, a brand seen as one of the trailblazers of the EV market in Ireland and the UK.

      As well has hosting the finishing event, HARRIS MAXUS took part in the electric challenge with a team of four drivers completing the full 1200-mile (2,000km) route in two state-of-the-art MIFA 9 (electric MPV) and T90EV (electric pickup truck) vehicles.

      Mrs Denise Harris, CEO of The Harris Group, welcomed participating teams and rally organisers as they crossed the finish line: “We’re thrilled to welcome the EV Rally to Dublin and are honoured to be part of this fantastic showcase. This event is an important one, demonstrating EV capabilities in terms of power, technology, and real-world range.

      “The road to zero is long, and we are still a while away from the finish line, but events such as this help encourage drivers to transition to EV and highlight to stakeholders and governments alike that there is still work to do to drive forth the move to net zero motoring.

      As the Official Event Logistics Partner, MAXUS supported the EV Rally with transport solutions, providing rally organisers with supporting vehicles through each stage of the event.

      Following the success of the inaugural EV Rally in 2022 which saw drivers travel from the tip of Scotland at John O’Groats to Land’s End at the bottom of Britain, this year’s rally upped the ante, expanded its route to include Ireland and Northern Ireland.

      The 50-strong convoy of electric vehicles was made up of eLCVs, e-motorcycles and zero-emission HGVs which were driven by fleet professionals, key industry people, media and celebrities. 

      The teams set off from Cardiff and travel through Bristol, Heathrow, Wembley and Leicester before finishing the first stage at Nottingham. On day two, drivers travel 316 e-miles through York and head north to Edinburgh city.

      The third leg saw the group travel from Edinburgh to Cairnes on the west coast of Scotland before boarding a ferry to Belfast in Northern Ireland. Day four and five saw the delegates loop through Cloughmills and Ballymoney to Newry in Co Down before making their way south of the border to Co Westmeath. 

      The rally participants then veered east to enjoy a scenic drive through the Wicklow countryside before ending the 1,200-mile (2,000km) journey at Harris Group’s headquarters in Dublin.

      Stylish Maxus T90 EV is Ireland’s first all-electric pickup

      Credit: Irish Auto Trade Online (Web), 27/03/2023

      The Maxus T90 EV is the first electric pickup to go on sale here in Ireland. It was unveiled at last year’s CV Show in Birmingham by the UK and Ireland distributor, Harris Group.

      It is now on sale in this part of the world, and being first has its advantages.

      Stylish Maxus T90 EV - 1

      The T90 EV is available in one size and one trim level (Elite). The standard specification includes a reversing camera, rear parking sensor, 10.25 inch touch screen and a side-step.

      You can opt for metallic paint and the likes of headed seats is an available option, as is a hard top for the loading bay.

      The new T90 EV pickup offers a 1,000kg payload. At this time, only rear-wheel drive is available, with the popular 4WD option to follow in early 2024. It does offer hill-descent control, and as you’d expect the towing capacity at 1,500kg is not as high as diesel.

      Stylish Maxus T90 EV - 2

      It has a fairly good electric range, with up to 354 kilometres (WLTP combined) promised. A WLTP City range of 421 km is also publicised by Maxus – of course, the 2WD helps with this range.

      The battery and motor in the Maxus T90 EV is a similar combination to what is in the larger eDeliver 9 – a 150kW (201hp) motor powered by an 88.5kWh battery. It has type 2 and CSS Charging capability with 80Kw charging capacity promising from 20 per cent to 80 per cent in 45 minutes.

      Stylish Maxus T90 EV - 3

      In line with most electric vehicles, it has an expensive price tag. One dealer’s site that I checked is showing a recommended retail price (RRP) of €62,395 + VAT, giving a launch promotion contribution of €2,495 + VAT, or a price of €59,900 ex-works.

      The Maxus T90 EV is a nice vehicle to drive – the ride is very good for a pickup. It also looks great – very modern and sporty. It is roomy too with a nicely designed interior.

      Ireland’s first all-electric

      The cargo box size is 1485mm x 1510mm x 530mm. The gross vehicle weight (GVW) is 3,300kg. The new Maxus T90 EV pickup comes with a five-year/ 200,000km warranty, an eight-year/ 160,000km battery warranty and a 10 year anti-corrosion warranty.

      Stylish Maxus T90 EV - 2

      Harris Group host the Inaugural MMAI Industry Breakfast Morning

      The Motoring Media Association of Ireland (MMAI) has held its inaugural MMAI Industry Breakfast Morning in association with the Harris Group at the company’s landmark facilities on the Naas Road, Dublin.

      The event was attended by invited guests including motoring journalists and motor industry executives. The aim of the MMAI Industry Breakfast Morning is to facilitate journalists and industry executives to come together to connect in an informal setting, encourage discussion on changes taking place in the motor industry and to look forward to the year ahead.

      Joe Rayfus, Chairperson of the MMAI, welcomed guests and thanked the Harris Group for their support in hosting the event: “Any journalist will tell you that building and maintaining strong relationships is fundamental to helping us provide our audiences with all the latest information, advice and opinion. This event represents an important opportunity to strengthen and deepen those relationships with colleagues and stakeholders from across the Irish motor industry.

      “On behalf of the MMAI, I wish to express our gratitude to Denise Harris and the Harris Group for their continued support of this important event. I would like to thank the representatives from the numerous importers, distributors, and agencies for joining us and supporting this important occasion.”

      Mark Barrett, General Manager of Harris Maxus, and Chris Haughton, General Manager of Harris Bus and Coach, spoke about the company’s EV journey and innovation taking place in their commercial vehicle business towards a more sustainable future.

      Harris Group host the Inaugural MMAI Industry Breakfast Morning

      Promising young Irish racing driver Alex Dunne, who is a Harris Group brand ambassador, spoke to guests about his continued progress towards achieving his goal of becoming Ireland’s next Formula 1 driver.

      Harris Group host the Inaugural MMAI Industry Breakfast Morning

      The keynote speaker was Joe McConville, an approved driving instructor for motorcycles with considerable experience of touring large motorcycles in Ireland, the UK, Europe, and North America. With a career also spanning nearly 40 years in landscape management, Joe spoke about the influence of trees on Irish roads and the balance between improving the road network while maintaining the benefits of trees.

      Speaking at the event, Denise Harris, CEO of Harris Group said: “I am delighted to welcome so many representatives of the Irish motoring media to our Dublin headquarters and to demonstrate our commitment to driving a truly green agenda for the greater good. Of course, our green agenda cannot be delivered successfully without the support of the media. You have a major role to play in helping us to continue to educate people and organisations about the benefits of EVs and the urgent need for us all to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and mitigate the impact of climate change, as well as to reduce dependence on increasingly expensive diesel and petrol.”

      Before closing the event, Tom Dennigan of Continental Tyres and Joe Rayfus presented the award for Continental Tyres Irish Commercial SUV of the Year to Eddie Kavanagh, Managing Director of Jaguar Land Rover Ireland, for the Land Rover Defender Commercial.

      The MMAI made a €500 donation to the Harris Group’s Turkey and Syria earthquake appeal, which will see aid brought directly to the people who most need it.

      Harris Group host the Inaugural MMAI Industry Breakfast Morning