APRIL 2020
FUTURE AUTO: THE NEW ‘FUEL STOP’
AAAA: 40 YEARS STRONG
COVID-19 ASSISTANCE FOR THE AFTERMARKET
ABOUT THE COVER In 2020 Alemlube is celebrating its 50th anniversary.
REGULAR DEPARTMENTS Calendar................................................ 4 New Members........................................ 4 AAAA Report ......................................... 7 News..................................................... 8 Products.............................................. 32
Inside Business.................................... 73 Consumer Law...................................... 74 HR Matters.......................................... 75 PRTC.................................................. 76 4WD.................................................... 78
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KEEPING YOU INFORMED Opus IVS partners with Autocom.................................................................................. 8 Auto Innovation Centre drives Ryco Filters’ R&D forward................................................ 9 Supporting car manufacturing transition..................................................................... 10 Australian made Fuchs full steam ahead .................................................................... 10 70 years of Pedders.................................................................................................. 11 New branding for Jax Tyres & Auto............................................................................. 11 The journey from manual to automatic........................................................................ 12
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FEATURES COVID-19: Assistance for the Aftermarket.................................................................... 15 Special Feature: AAAA - 40 years strong...................................................................... 22 Cover Story: Alemlube 50 year anniversary................................................................... 28 Product R&D: Adrad - Dana Tru-Cool Oil Coolers........................................................... 30 Garage Equipment: The latest in tools and equipment for your workshop.......................... 62 Trade Talk: Wayne Bryant - From one horsepower to over one hundred............................ 66 Member Feature: Norman Haupt - Taking the road less travelled..................................... 68 Future Auto: The new ‘Fuel Stop’................................................................................. 70 In the Workshop: Gabby Clift - Making her mark........................................................... 72 Industry Awareness: Don’t be limited by your own perception......................................... 80
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Publisher Cameron McLachlan for The Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association ABN 23 002 271 454
CAB Audited
7 – 8 Bastow Place, Mulgrave VIC 3170, Australia Phone: 03 9545 3333 Fax: 03 9545 3355 Email: info@aaaa.com.au Website: www.aaaa.com.au
EDITOR Allan Edwards
EDITORIAL Tel 61 3 9372 9125
PRODUCTION MANAGER Brigid Fraser, Tel 61 3 9505 0121
Official publication of the AAAA
ADVERTISING Tel 61 3 9545 3333
PUBLISHER Cameron McLachlan
All material appearing in Australian Automotive Aftermarket magazine is copyright. Reproduction in whole or in part is strictly forbidden without prior written consent. Contribution: Freelance contribution and submissions are welcomed by this magazine. No responsibility is accepted for unsolicited manuscripts, photographs and transparencies. The opinions expressed by contributors are not necessarily those of the AAAA. All statements made, although based on information believed to be reliable and accurate, cannot be guaranteed and no fault or liability can be accepted for error or omission. The publisher reserves the right to omit or alter any advertisement and the advertiser agrees to indemnify the publisher for all damages or liabilities arising from the published material.
AAAA NEWS
CALENDAR 2020 TAPA Show Bangkok International Trade & Exhibition Centre, Bangkok, Thailand 3 - 5 September 2020 www.thailandautopartsfair.com/
Automechanika Frankfurt
NEW MEMBERS Bosch Car Service Somerville 93A Grant Road SOMERVILLE VIC 3912 P: 0412 325 348 E: seqauto@bigpond.com
Bosch Car Service Raceview 4 Sonia Court RACEVIEW QLD 4305 P: 07 3294 1782 E: amccluremech@bigpond.com
Bosch Car Service Midvale 31 Stanhope Gardens MIDVALE WA 6056 P: 08 9274 8083 E: admin@autoedge.com.au
Bosch Car Service Thomastown 1 Northgate Drive THOMASTOWN VIC 3074 P: 03 9464 7229 E: info@asfrizzo.com.au Bosch Car Service Winnellie 166 Coonawarra Road WINNELLIE NT 0821 P: 08 8984 4555 E: danny@automotive-solutions.com.au
Bosch Car Service Port Noarlunga 10-12 Gawler Street PORT NOARLUNGA SA 5167 P: 08 8382 1239 E: david@seasideauto.com.au
Frankfurt AM Main 8 – 12 September 2020 www.automechanika.messefrankfurt.com
Bosch Car Service East Bentleigh 223B East Boundary Road EAST BENTLEIGH VIC 3165 P: 03 9570 2844 E: admin@bentleighautomotiveservices.com.au
Bosch Car Service Blackmans Bay 9 Opal Drive BLACKMANS BAY TAS 7052 P: 03 6229 1434 E: bbmotors@bbmotors.net.au
Taipei AMPA Hall 1 & 2, Nangang Exhibition Center, Taipei, Taiwan 21 – 24 October 2020 www.taipeiampa.com.tw
Autocare
Bosch Car Service Berwick 16 Intrepid Street BERWICK VIC 3806 P: 03 9707 0588 E: berwickcarservice@gmail.com
Bosch Car Service Kingswood 59 Belair Road KINGSWOOD SA 5062 P: 08 8271 7617 E: brae59@internode.on.net
Bosch Car Service Moorabbin 4 Powlett Street MOORABBIN VIC 3189 P: 03 9555 2764 E: service@bhmautomotive.com.au
Bosch Car Service Biggera Waters 1B Gateway Drive BIGGERA WATERS QLD 4216 P: 07 5529 0827 E: boschautoservice@yahoo.com
Brisbane Exhibition & Convention Centre 30 – 31 October 2020 www.autocare.org.au
Bosch Car Service Rosebud West 2 Merino Street ROSEBUD WEST VIC 3940 P: 03 5982 0377 E: info@bjpautorosebud.com.au
Bosch Car Service Maryborough Shed 4, 437 Alice Street MARYBOROUGH QLD 4650 P: 07 4123 2050 E: admin@6starmotors.com.au
AAPEX Sands Expo, Las Vegas, NV 3 – 5 November 2020 www.aapexshow.com
Bosch Car Service Mandurah 4 Harlem Place MANDURAH WA 6210 P: 08 9586 7111 E: service@boschcarservicemandurah.com.au
Bosch Car Service Cannonvale Whitsunday Plaza, 8 Galbraith Park Drive CANNONVALE QLD 4802 P: 07 4948 3204 E: simon@airlieauto.com.au
SEMA
Bosch Car Service Ringwood 7 Molan Street RINGWOOD VIC 3134 P: 03 9879 4559 E: info@boschcarserviceringwood.com.au
Las Vegas Convention Center 3 – 6 November 2020 www.semashow.com
Bosch Car Service Leichhardt 625 Parramatta Road LEICHHARDT NSW 2040 P: 02 9560 3624 E: allcaretyreandauto@gmail.com
Automechanika Shanghai
Bosch Car Service Ravenhall Factory 7, 1021 Western Highway RAVENHALL VIC 3023 P: 03 9361 2555 E: amalmechanical@hotmail.com
National Exhibition & Convention Center, Puxi, Shanghai 2 – 5 December 2020 www.automechanika-shanghai.hk.messefrankfurt.com
Bosch Car Service Mermaid Waters 10A Northview Street MERMAID WATERS QLD 4218 P: 07 5554 6664 E: info@boschservicecentre.com.au
Performance Racing Industry Trade Show
Bosch Car Service Caroline Springs Factory 10/15 Ecumbene Dr CAROLINE SPRINGS VIC 3023 P: 03 8348 5619 E: amalmechanical@hotmail.com
Indiana Convention Center, Indianapolis, Indiana 10 – 12 December 2020 www.performanceracing.com/tradeshow
Bosch Car Service Epping 65 Miller Street EPPING VIC 3076 P: 03 9408 0616 E: anandsauto@gmail.com
Bosch Car Service Arana Hills 3/1154 South Pine Road ARANA HILLS QLD 4054 P: 07 3851 1866 E: sales@brettsautomotivecare.com.au Bosch Car Service Mansfield 27 Devlan Street MANSFIELD QLD 4122 P: 07 3170 3777 E: anthony@brisbaneautocare.com.au Bosch Car Service Clyde 39 George Street CLYDE NSW 2142 P: 02 9897 2277 E: sattar@boschclyde.com.au
AAAA BOARD OF DIRECTORS CHAIRMAN Mark Pedder (VIC) Pedders Suspension Pty Ltd Ph: 03 9706 3500
DEPUTY CHAIRMAN Wayne Bryant (VIC), Repco Pty Ltd Ph: 03 9566 5444
SECRETARY Janelle Gonzalez (NSW), Blue Toro Pty Ltd Ph: 1300 258 386
TREASURER Don Cormack (SA) ADRAD Pty Ltd Ph: 08 8243 9888
DIRECTORS Craig Baills (QLD), Highfields Mechanical Ph: 07 4696 7116
Stuart Charity Chief Executive Officer
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John Benson (VIC), Davies, Craig Pty Ltd Ph: 03 9369 1234
Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine April 2020
Sean Buckley (VIC), Ultra Tune Australia Pty Ltd Ph: 03 9815 9200 Nikki Gerling (VIC), Robert Bosch (Australia) Pty Ltd Ph: 03 9541 5555 Craig Magill (VIC), Burson Automotive Pty Ltd Ph: 03 9914 5555
Darren Robinson (VIC), HELLA Australia Pty Ltd Ph: 1800 061 729 Graham Scudamore-Smith (QLD) Fulcrum Suspensions Pty Ltd Ph: 07 3892 9000
Mark Pedder Chairman
AAAA NEWS
NEW MEMBERS Bosch Car Service Brendale Unit 4, 31 Kremzow Road BRENDALE QLD 4500 P: 07 3881 1800 E: info@carservicebrendale.com
Bosch Car Service Ulan 34 Main Street ULAN NSW 2850 P: 02 6371 2000 E: bill.d@gbauto.com.au
Bosch Car Service Mornington 22 Progress Street MORNINGTON VIC 3931 P: 03 5975 7700 E: morningtonauto@gmail.com
Bosch Car Service Castle Hill 7/11 Packard Avenue CASTLE HILL NSW 2154 P: 02 9899 9845 E: carpro3@optusnet.com.au
Bosch Car Service Abbotsford 347 Johnston Street ABBOTSFORD VIC 3067 P: 03 9416 0761 E: g.a.e@live.com.au
Bosch Car Service Deception Bay Unit 7, 2-8 Kabi Circuit DECEPTION BAY QLD 4508 P: 07 3203 2200 E: luke@egmsol.com.au
Bosch Car Service Healesville 5 Hunter Road HEALESVILLE VIC 3777 P: 03 5962 3144 E: service@clintrosemotors.com.au
Bosch Car Service Queanbeyan 1 Erin Street QUEANBEYAN NSW 2620 P: 02 6297 1868 E: gombarsmotors@bigpond.com.au
Bosch Car Service Alfredton 4 Endeavour Way ALFREDTON VIC 3350 P: 03 5337 6634 E: brian@mrbrakesballarat.com.au
Bosch Car Service Langwarrin 1/407 McClelland Drive LANGWARRIN VIC 3910 P: 03 9776 6628 E: service@compujection.com.au
Bosch Car Service Caboolture 37 Lower King Street CABOOLTURE QLD 4510 P: 07 5328 1230 E: accounts@boschcaboolture.com.au
Bosch Car Service Acacia Ridge 1240 Beaudesert Road ACACIA RIDGE QLD 4110 P: 07 3255 6088 E: mvautocare@gmail.com
Bosch Car Service Lockleys 66 Rowells Road LOCKLEYS SA 5032 P: 08 8234 9112 E: rnharmse@gmail.com
Bosch Car Service Doncaster 57 Carawatha Road DONCASTER VIC 3108 P: 03 9855 8484 E: service@greythornmotors.com.au
Bosch Car Service Rural View Unit 6 / 15 Carl Street RURAL VIEW QLD 4740 P: 07 4840 2334 E: christian@nbindustries.com.au
Bosch Car Service Batemans Bay Unit 1, 5 Cranbrook Road BATEMANS BAY NSW 2536 P: 02 4472 3334 E: Docford2@internode.on.net
Bosch Car Service Pialba 68 Boat Harbour Drive PIALBA QLD 4655 P: 07 4128 1825 E: admin@hbae.com.au
Bosch Car Service Keysborough 1 Futura Road KEYSBOROUGH VIC 3173 P: 03 9706 3444 E: hiperformance1@smartchat.net.au
Bosch Car Service Hampstead Gardens 12 Elm Street HAMPSTEAD GARDENS SA 5086 P: 08 8367 8122 E: contact@loucaautomotive.com.au
Bosch Car Service Clayton South 153 Westall Road CLAYTON SOUTH VIC 3169 P: 03 9547 5339 E: iwim.motors@optusnet.com.au
Bosch Car Service Smeaton Grange 2 Orielton Road SMEATON GRANGE NSW 2567 P: 02 4648 2366 E: coupie@bigpond.com.au
Bosch Car Service Elizabeth South 2 Bayer Road ELIZABETH SOUTH SA 5112 P: 08 8255 2506 E: steve@elizabethsouthauto.com.au
Bosch Car Service Mulgrave 752A Springvale Road MULGRAVE VIC 3170 P: 03 9501 0011 E: info@bcsworkshop.com.au
Bosch Car Service Balcatta 7-8 Corbusier Place BALCATTA WA 6021 P: 08 9240 2996 E: simon@negusautoservices.com.au
Bosch Car Service Carrum Downs 6 Aster Avenue CARRUM DOWNS VIC 3201 P: 03 9775 0889 E: llinaresefi@gmail.com
Bosch Car Service Bacchus Marsh East Maddingley Road BACCHUS MARSH VIC 3340 P: 03 5367 3297 E: pwittick@bigpond.net.au
Bosch Car Service Northcote 456 High Street NORTHCOTE VIC 3070 P: 03 9489 2332 E: dean@northcoteautomotive.com.au
Bosch Car Service Box Hill 8 Nelson Road BOX HILL VIC 3128 P: 03 9890 6222 E: f.tech@iimetro.com.au
Bosch Car Service Geebung Unit 3, 1 Virginia Street GEEBUNG QLD 4034 P: 07 3265 7734 E: jeautos@gmail.com
Bosch Car Service Bunbury 16 Stone Street BUNBURY WA 6230 P: 08 9791 6300 E: pdautos@westnet.com.au
Bosch Car Service Toowoomba 21 Wylie Street TOOWOOMBA QLD 4350 P: 07 4638 2818 E: downsautocure@hotmail.com
Bosch Car Service Kingsbury 931 Plenty Road KINGSBURY VIC 3083 P: 03 9470 4914 E: kingsburyautoelectrical@bigpond.com
Bosch Car Service Seven Hills 13/79 Station Road SEVEN HILLS NSW 2147 P: 02 9620 5942 E: pandgmotors@msn.com
Bosch Car Service Elizabeth West 8 Hooke Road ELIZABETH WEST SA 5113 P: 08 8255 2589 E: ddb.benz@gmail.com
Bosch Car Service Heatherton 61-63 Kingston Road HEATHERTON VIC 3202 P: 03 9551 2402 E: kingstongarage@optusnet.com.au
Bosch Car Service Thornleigh 7 Pioneer Avenue THORNLEIGH NSW 2120 P: 02 9484 0495 E: info@pacificautoelectrics.com.au
Bosch Car Service North Melbourne 5-9 Ballie Street NORTH MELBOURNE VIC 3051 P: 03 9329 7559 E: evsvic@bigpond.com
Bosch Car Service Milton 36 Douglas Street MILTON QLD 4508 P: 07 3369 1374 E: lemansmilton@bigpond.com
Bosch Car Service Hillcrest 3/1 Tradelink Road HILLCREST QLD 4118 P: 07 3800 2700 E: poweronqld@bigpond.com.au
Bosch Car Service Salisbury 15 Cross Keys Road SALISBURY SA 5108 P: 08 8281 7955 E: franksauto@iinet.net.au
Bosch Car Service Bulimba 51 Godwin Street BULIMBA QLD 4171 P: 07 3041 4934 E: lemansbulimba@bigpond.com
Bosch Car Service Rockhampton 301 Bolsover Street ROCKHAMPTON QLD 4700 P: 07 4927 2112 E: dynamic.mechanix@bigpond.com
Bosch Car Service Para Hills West 5 Peacock Road PARA HILLS WEST SA 5096 P: 08 8258 0170 E: gdauto@senet.com.au
Bosch Car Service Moama 2 Regent Street MOAMA NSW 2731 P: 03 5482 3688 E: mrtautomotive@bigpond.com
Bosch Car Service Moorebank Unit 6, 86 Heathcote Road MOOREBANK NSW 2170 P: 02 9601 4932 E: admin@ptaautomotive.com.au
Bosch Car Service Matraville 111 Beauchamp Road MATRAVILLE NSW 2036 P: 02 9316 7600 E: sales@garrysautoservice.com.au
Bosch Car Service Marcoola Unit 4, 13 Runway Drive MARCOOLA QLD 4564 P: 07 5450 5600 E: sales@marcoolamechanical.com.au
Bosch Car Service Paringa 1 Lindsay Point Road PARINGA SA 5340 P: 08 8595 5454 E: riverlandautoand4wd@gmail.com Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine April 2020
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AAAA NEWS
NEW MEMBERS Bosch Car Service Crows Nest 97A West Street CROWS NEST NSW 2065 P: 02 9925 0788 E: safersteering@tpg.com.au
Bosch Car Service Morayfield Unit 11, 30-36 Dickson Road MORAYFIELD QLD 4506 P: 07 5330 3432 E: hicarcareqld@gmail.com
Bosch Car Service Coburg 717 Sydney Road COBURG VIC 3058 P: 03 9350 4695 E: info@ajservicecentre.com.au
Bosch Car Service Highett 411 Bay Road HIGHETT VIC 3190 P: 03 9553 5171 E: boschsouthland@gmail.com
Bosch Car Service Jandakot Unit 3, 6 Biscayne Way JANDAKOT WA 6164 P: 08 9414 9555 E: jack@packardauto.com.au
Bosch Car Service Yarrawonga 56-58 Benalla-Yarrawonga Road YARRAWONGA VIC 3730 P: 03 5744 3399 E: lr@lrauto.com.au
Bosch Car Service Woolloongabba 5 Mountjoy Street WOOLLOONGABBA QLD 4102 P: 07 3891 2424 E: info@southsideautoelectrics.com.au
Bosch Car Service Silverwater 1-5 Vore Street SILVERWATER NSW 2128 P: 02 9647 2960 E: admin@sast.com.au
Bosch Car Service Malvern 109 Station Street MALVERN VIC 3144 P: 03 9500 1911 E: mitchell@malvernautoservices.com.au
Bosch Car Service Brighton 35 Possum Road BRIGHTON TAS 7030 P: 03 6263 7652 E: mgrubb@specialistauto.com.au
Bosch Car Service Myaree 42 McCoy Street MYAREE WA 6154 P: 08 9317 2022 E: sales@unitedauto.com.au
Battery World Australia Level 3, 203 Wharf Street SPRING HILL QLD 4000 P: 07 3361 6765 E: helen.gallo@batteryworld.com.au
Bosch Car Service Mornington 28 McIntyre Street MORNINGTON TAS 7018 P: 03 8566 8443 E: mgrubb@specialistauto.com.au
Bosch Car Service Mackay (Viking Mechanical) 8 Progress Drive PAGET QLD 4740 P: 07 4952 6510 E: darrin@vikingmechanical.com.au
Brainstorm IT Suite 6, 11 John Street PAKENHAM VIC 3810 P: 03 5942 7774 E: jo@brainstormit.com.au
Bosch Car Service Hervey Bay Unit 4, 67 Old Maryborough Road HERVEY BAY QLD 4655 P: 07 4128 4324 E: tsautomotive@bigpond.com
Bosch Car Service Cooee 2/22 Durham Road COOEE TAS 7320 P: 03 6431 5089 E: admin@fuelinjection.com.au
Bridgestone Service Centre Bathhurst 77 Bentinck Street BATHURST NSW 2795 P: 02 6331 1455 E: admin@bathurstautomotive4x4.com.au
Bosch Car Service Ashfield 32 Milton Street North ASHFIELD NSW 2131 P: 02 9557 1200 E: tdcautomotiveashfield@gmail.com
Bosch Car Service Newstead 18 Austin Street NEWSTEAD QLD 4006 P: 07 3162 8122 E: lemansnewstead@bigpond.com
Chris Atkins Enterprises 24 Wragg Street SOMERSET TAS 7322 P: 0419 105 490 E: mymaxx13@hotmail.com
Bosch Car Service Yanchep 8 Stevenage Street YANCHEP WA 6035 P: 08 9561 1111 E: accounts@theflyingspanner.com.au
Bosch Car Service Campbelltown 9/ 13 Mill Road CAMPBELLTOWN NSW 2560 P: 02 4626 2261 E: maeautomotive@bigpond.com
GMB Oceania Pty Ltd PO Box 136 KINGS LANGLEY NSW 2147 P: 0412 000 864 E: steve.hampson@gmb.jp
Bosch Car Service Nambour 9 Quarry Street NAMBOUR QLD 4560 P: 07 5441 3055 E: sales@tonysautoelectrics.com.au
Bosch Car Service Tamworth 16 Bass Street TAMWORTH NSW 2340 P: 02 6765 4390 E: service@tamworthauto.com.au
Ians A Grade Mechanical Services Shed 1, 7-9 Islander Road PIALBA QLD 4655 P: 07 4128 1113 E: iansagrade@bigpond.com
Bosch Car Service Yangebup 109 Barrington Street YANGEBUP WA 6164 P: 08 9434 1020 E: admin@transautomotive.com.au
Bosch Car Service Paget 24 Iridium Drive PAGET QLD 4740 P: 07 4952 3931 E: michael@nbindustries.com.au
Pfitzner Performance Gearboxes 14A Watervale Drive GREEN FIELDS SA 5107 P: 08 8285 2933 E: sales@ppgearbox.com.au
Bosch Car Service Thomastown 212 Settlement Road THOMASTOWN VIC 3074 P: 03 9464 7727 E: carolynne@turboengineering.com.au
Bosch Car Service Hobart 287 Liverpool Street HOBART TAS 7000 P: 03 6231 2541 E: mgrubb@specialistauto.com.au
Bosch Car Service Seaford 2/38 Klauer Street SEAFORD VIC 3198 P: 03 9785 7027 E: seaford@tyreterrain.com.au
Bosch Car Service Port Kennedy Unit 1, 15 Crowley Street PORT KENNEDY WA 6172 P: 08 9524 6202 E: office@idautomotiverepairs.com.au
Repco Authorised Service Blackwater (Ja-Max. Industries Pty Ltd) 16 Littlefield Street BLACKWATER QLD 4717 P: 07 4982 6506 E: kirsty@jamaxindustries.com.au
Bosch Car Service Wangara Unit 4, 38 Prindiville Drive WANGARA WA 6065 P: 08 9309 1641 E: admin@ukautocare.com.au
Bosch Car Service Strathfield South 23 Cosgrove Road STRATHFIELD SOUTH NSW 2136 P: 02 9642 4524 E: jason_fox86@hotmail.com
Bosch Car Service Springvale 80 Virginia Street SPRINGVALE VIC 3171 P: 03 9562 3994 E: vassmotors@ozemail.com.au
Bosch Car Service Gateshead 2 Skyline Way GATESHEAD NSW 2290 P: 02 4943 2122 E: mastermechanicsgateshead@gmail.com
Bosch Car Service Townsville 6 Whitehorse Street GARBUTT QLD 4814 P: 07 4728 9111 E: kristy@x-trememotorsport.com.au
Bosch Car Service Mildura 291-293 Etiwanda Avenue MILDURA VIC 3500 P: 03 5021 0888 E: david@oasisauto.com.au
Bosch Car Service Penrith 4 Robertson Place SOUTH PENRITH NSW 2750 P: 02 4731 1188 E: info@firstdieselservices.com.au
Bosch Car Service Sunbury 6/ 1 Sussex Court SUNBURY VIC 3429 P: 03 9744 1300 E: michael@mjauto.com.au
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Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine April 2020
Repco Authorised Service Bonnyrigg (Ultimate Auto Electrical and Mechanical Repairs) 47 Bonnyrigg Avenue BONNYRIGG NSW 2176 P: 02 9753 5355 E: ultimateauto1@hotmail.com Repco Authorised Service Kilkenny (SAI Mechanical Repairs) 2-8 Gray Street KILKENNY SA 5009 P: 08 7226 0810 E: vish@saicarrepairs.com.au Repco Authorised Service Kent Town (Skipper Automotive) 2A Grenfell Street KENT TOWN SA 5067 P: 08 8362 2501 E: info@skipperautomotive.com.au Repco Authorised Service Williamstown (Dattoy Motors) 130 Maddox Road WILLIAMSTOWN VIC 3016 P: 03 9397 7622 E: dattoymotors@gmail.com
AAAA NEWS
A TIME TO BAND TOGETHER It is fair to say that few would have anticipated the COVID-19 virus and its devastating effect The speed and scale of the economic and social impact of this virus is unprecedented in our lifetime and no person or business anywhere in the world is being spared. This has created a situation where we are all having to make important decisions about our businesses, employees and customers in an environment where there are more unknowns than knowns. This in turn is creating fear, doubt and uncertainty. In short, there is no playbook for what we are all experiencing both professionally and personally. It can be hard to come to terms with the fact that much of this crisis is outside our control, however, “while we can’t control the Coronavirus crisis, we can control how we respond to it.” With that in mind, the AAAA’s role is to support our members, and I can assure you we will be there with you every step of the way, as we navigate through these difficult times and out the other side. We are working hard on a number of fronts to support our members and the broader industry. With a fast-evolving situation, getting timely and accurate information can be challenging. Our sole focus as an association is to ensure we are doing exactly that. Being armed with the right information will assist you in making good decisions that will stand the test of time, while our member services can help cushion the impact on your business. Understandably the important questions being asked by our members are around if automotive is deemed an essential service, issues pertaining to employee leave, and what Government assistance is being offered to our industry. We are utilising all of our communication channels to regularly communicate on these issues and more, relating to the crisis. We are frequently sending emails to the AAAA membership, posting on social media, updating our website news section and providing more detailed information in this magazine. We have a dedicated section setup on our Members Portal with information and documents that apply specifically to automotive businesses. We encourage you to check in on your preferred communication channels regularly to ensure you receive the most up to date information – simply head to www.aaaa.com.au for all Coronavirus resources. We also recently hosted our first ever member webinar, in an effort to provide a direct, timely and interactive communication medium for our members. The webinar was titled “Coronavirus Workplace Update For Employers” and it was a
huge success, with more than 500 registrations. It is now available for watching at any time on our above-mentioned Members Portal. Given the positive feedback, we will be incorporating webinars into our repertoire of communication channels moving forward to ensure we are satisfying the needs of our members, particularly in this challenging time. Our free, dedicated Human Resource/Industrial Relations and Legal Hotlines available to members have also been inundated with queries and support requests. During these times, the value of this service to members has been immeasurable and we encourage any member that has specific questions to get in contact with Industry Legal Group by phoning 1300 735 306. We are very grateful for their tireless work during this time. As we go to print, the Australian Government has just announced a $130 Billion stimulus package. A key feature of the package is the “JobKeeper” wage subsidy scheme which will give eligible businesses up to $1,500 per fortnight per employee, to keep people connected to their workplaces, even if a business has to go into a temporary shutdown or ‘hibernation.’ This stimulus package will offer up to six months’ respite for businesses that have faced a downturn of 30 percent or more relative to a comparable period a year ago. Although this is not a ‘silver bullet’, we certainly believe this will make a real difference to the businesses in our industry and our hard-working employees across Australia. It will go a long way to helping the auto aftermarket industry keep Australia moving. I am heartened by the way people have come together across the world to assist in this crisis. The challenges of Coronavirus have generated outstanding displays of innovation, collaboration and value-driven acts of kindness and compassion. The automotive industry has certainly been a part of this ‘silver lining’ of the crisis and is well positioned to provide support, expertise and manufacturing capability to support our hospitals and emergency service workers. They are under resourced and lacking the sheer quantity of medical equipment and PPE required to handle the significant increase in load on our healthcare system, so the automotive industry is chipping in to do what it can. From Formula One and V8 Supercars through to local aftermarket businesses and even our own Auto Innovation Centre (AIC), efforts are being made to leverage our engineering skills and manufacturing capability to produce medical
equipment and parts that are in dire need across the country and world. It is a testament to the human spirit and a bright candle of hope during these difficult times. In what seems like a decision made a lifetime ago, given what has transpired over the last couple of weeks, on the 17th of March we made the call to postpone Autocare 2020. It was a difficult move, however absolutely the right decision given the situation. Autocare will now be held across the 30th and 31st of October and remains at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre. The event will continue to provide industry-leading speakers and exhibitors, offering a not to be missed, education and training led convention. We also want to assure you that our association is in a strong position to continue to support you through these unprecedented times. The AAAA team is working remotely with no impact to our day-to-day operations and our talented team remain 100 percent committed to doing everything we can to support you at the time you need us most. Although it might not feel that way right now, I do firmly believe that if we keep positive, listen to the direction of the authorities and stay resilient, we will rise to this challenge and come out stronger on the other side. We will pick up the pieces, reflect on what we have learned and in true Aussie spirit, get on with doing what we do best. Please take care and I wish you and your families all the best.
MARK PEDDER Chairman
STUART CHARITY Chief Executive Officer
Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine April 2020
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NEWS
OPUS IVS PARTNERS WITH AUTOCOM The organisations will deliver live diagnostic support across 64 vehicle brands Following its January 2020 acquisition of AutoEnginuity, industry-leading intelligent vehicle support company Opus IVS is accelerating support for European vehicles through its “world class” IVS 360 remote diagnostic service. The strategic partnership between Opus IVS and diagnostics leader Autocom will see the bundling of Autocom’s advanced CDP+ diagnostic software application with Opus IVS’ DrivePRO. DrivePRO helps independent workshops repair complex vehicles safely and fast with OE-licensed diagnostic software, remote programming and calibration; supported by live repair guidance from OE brand-specific master technicians. Established in 2018, Opus IVS says it has grown through uniting expertise and technology from Drew Technologies, Autologic, BlueLink and AutoEnginuity to develop innovative solutions for more than 50,000 workshops around the world. With sites across the US, in Oxford, UK and in Melbourne, Australia, Opus IVS is part of the
world-leading vehicle inspection company, Opus Group. The partnership between Opus IVS and Autocom will enable independent automotive technicians to access Opus IVS 360 diagnostic support for all brands covered by Autocom’s software application. Opus IVS master technicians will have access to the AutoCom diagnostic tool to review fault-related detail and provide repair assistance in real time. Work is already underway at the Opus IVS diagnostics and product development team in Oxford to bring Autocom’s diagnostic software alongside DrivePRO in a bundle. Customers across Australia and New Zealand and Europe can expect to be able to use it from the Spring of 2020. “I am delighted to announce this unique partnership, which will join the forces of two of Europe’s market-leading diagnostic software manufacturers,” Opus IVS Senior Vice-President, Kevin Finn, said.
“Independent workshops throughout Europe, Australia and New Zealand working with Opus IVS can be confident of repairing any complex vehicle, whatever the brand, whatever the model.” Opus is a technology-driven growth company in the vehicle inspection and intelligent vehicle support markets. It is headquartered in Gothenburg, Sweden and has 36 regional offices, 26 of which are in the United States and the others in Sweden, Argentina, Chile, Mexico, Peru, Pakistan, United Kingdom, Spain and Australia. For more information, please contact sales-au@opusivs.com or call 03 8561 7600 or visit au.autologic.com
LIQUI MOLY’S PROMISE TO WORKERS Ernst Prost: “Nobody will be laid off – if need be, I’ll waive my salary” German oil and additive specialist Liqui Moly says it is taking a clear stand in the wake of the global economic crisis which is unfolding due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Liqui Moly Managing Director, Ernst Prost, has promised Liqui Moly employees that “nobody will be laid off. If need be, I’ll waive my salary.” In late March, Ernst Prost surprised his Liqui Moly employees with a bonus payment of 1,000 euro (approximately 1,841 AUD). Ernst said this payment was “to boost motivation and as a sign of confidence, because in times of crisis this is quickly shaken.” Now, a job guarantee has followed. “Fear and worry are hard to live with, let alone accomplish great things. That’s why I promised them that they would not have to suffer financial losses. No one is to be dismissed!” Ernst said. Liqui Moly says this statement applies to all employees – in Germany and in the subsidiaries in Spain and Portugal, Italy, France, South Africa and the USA. In addition, there are employees in Denmark, Great Britain, Belgium and the Netherlands, Thailand, China, Japan and India. “Not only is business global, so is responsibility. All around the globe, our colleagues must be able to feed their families,” Ernst said. The top priority for the Managing Director is to 8
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protect the health of his employees and their families. “On the other hand, we are trying to keep operations going for as long as possible. (This is) an exhausting but necessary balancing act,” Ernst said. This presupposes the proper functioning of the supply chains in procurement as well as in sales. “As long as this is guaranteed, we will keep production going,” he said. In addition, Liqui Moly says it is important for the Managing Director to be able to continue to pay wages and salaries in full and on time and this is true especially now, despite the fact that due to the protective measures against the coronavirus, the decline in orders is drastic and revenues are correspondingly low. Looking at the current year, Liqui Moly must generate a payroll including social security contributions of around 57 million euro (approximately 104.84 million AUD). “These are the tasks we have been facing around the clock,” Ernst said. For the worst-case scenario, he goes one step further. “If the situation demands it, I will forgo my salary. Everyone must make sacrifices; the captain has to set an example, so that the crew can trust him,” Ernst said.
Liqui Moly says its Managing Director sees himself as responsible not only to his co-entrepreneurs, but also to his customers all over the world. “Wherever we can assist, we will. The first calls for help have already reached me personally, for example from Mexico. Not only is the new virus rampant in this country, but inflation and violence are also affecting people’s lives daily,” Ernst said. “We are doing everything humanly possible to bring goods, as the basis for the customers’ activities, to the partners.” Ernst sees the situation abroad as more threatening than in Germany, because in most countries the economic strength and state aid programs are not comparable with those in Germany. A glance at Italy reveals apocalyptic conditions. “Many an already weakened country has now been devastated. We must stand firm as long as we can,” he said. For more information, visit www.liqui-moly.de
NEWS
AUTO INNOVATION CENTRE DRIVES RYCO FILTERS’ R&D FORWARD The company visited the AIC recently to further develop its vehicle specific fitment kits Since its launch late in 2019, the AAAA’s Auto Innovation Centre (AIC) has been hosting a wide array of companies who have been keen to use the centre’s equipment and services as part of their product development workflows. One such company is Ryco Filters, which recently visited the centre to further the development of its vehicle-specific fitment kits for the dual or single installation of Ryco Fuel Water Separator and Ryco Crankcase assemblies. Hard working engines such as those in the 4x4 market require additional protection from internally produced and externally introduced contaminants which can cause engine wear and decrease performance. This is where Ryco Filters says its kits shine. “Not only are the Ryco filter products able to help address this problem, we have ensured they are easy to install for customers by engineering these kits to fit each specific vehicle engine bay,” Ryco Filters General Manager of Engineering and Innovation, Alastair Hampton, said. “This work has been very important as while our range of Catch Cans and Fuel Water Separator assemblies are proving very popular in the 4x4 market, these kind of products can be hard to package in engine bays that are already full of other accessories – so developing vehicle specific fitment kits has been a core focus for us. “We have been steadily growing the range and designing all parts so they are a complete bolt-in solution which is designed to look like a factory installation and can be easily installed by the customer in their own driveway if they wish. “As we expand the range, we have been looking for vehicles and a facility to do trial fitments and
the AIC has been invaluable for this as they are not only able to provide the vehicles, but they are also very well equipped with tools and everything else we could need. “For us it has been very convenient as we can essentially turn up with the parts, do the work we need to do and then go home – everything we need is already there.” Alastair explains that prior to the AIC opening, sourcing vehicles was a very real issue for Ryco Filters which could cause delays in its R and D processes. “We would basically have to ‘beg, borrow and steal’ to get access to the vehicles we needed to test fitments. That meant asking friends, family, acquaintances and friends of friends who had the vehicles that we needed, or going out to rental fleets to see if we could rent the vehicles in question. “As a relatively small company, getting the vehicles ourselves for fitment testing has always been one of the hardest elements of developing new products. As such, the access to vehicles made possible to us through the AIC has been really important for us. “We have a very good product development design and prototyping process, but the access to the vehicles to test fitments was one of our biggest barriers to developing new products as we just don’t have the big fleets of vehicles like other bigger companies do. The AIC goes a long way towards solving this problem for us.” It isn’t just in the area of vehicle access that the AIC is providing benefits to Ryco either. “The facility itself is great, it is very well-equipped and there is a significant quantity and quality of
tools there which means there is more that we don’t have to provide ourselves,” Alastair said. “I am also aware of some new equipment that is coming to the AIC in the future, such as vibration testing, which is very exciting and we will be keen to utilise that with some more products we have coming up in the development pipeline. “With automotive database and 3D scan files also potentially being made available in the future that is also very exciting for us for future design projects. “For us it is fantastic to have access to the AIC – we now have one ‘go to’ facility which provides a significant number of tools, rigs and vehicles that we need to develop products. “While it is early days, we can already see that as the centre develops we will be able to use it more and more.” The AIC is designed to support the Australian Automotive industry by using its collective capability and common interests to drive industry improvement. While all projects and testing are conducted with strictest confidentiality, the facility has an open door approach wherever possible to help companies grow and move with the technology. For more information on the Auto Innovation Centre, please visit www.autoic.com.au For more information on Ryco Filters’ Vehicle Specific Fitment Kits, visit www.rycofilters.com.au Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine April 2020
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NEWS
SUPPORTING CAR MANUFACTURING TRANSITION The Coalition Government’s support for car workers and local businesses impacted by industry transition has been backed by a new report released recently The ‘Australian Automotive Industry – Transition following the end of Australian motor vehicle production’ report found that about 75 percent of former supply chain companies remain in business following the closure of the Ford, Holden and Toyota car manufacturing plants in 2016 and 2017. Minister for Industry, Science and Technology, Karen Andrews, said the Morrison Government has a strong set of policies and programs to encourage all manufacturers to embrace new technologies, especially in cases of industry transition.
“This report shows locally-owned businesses achieved the best results by drawing on existing skills to diversify and take advantage of new markets,” Minister Andrews said. “Supply chain businesses have transitioned effectively by moving into new sectors such as truck and bus manufacturing, as well as agriculture and medical technologies. “For future growth, electric vehicle markets offer significant opportunities for businesses to participate further in global supply chains. “Our manufacturers also have strengths in emerging areas of light weight components, battery recharging and cooling, and autonomous vehicle technologies.” Minister for Employment, Skills, Small and Family Business, Senator the Hon Michaelia Cash, said the report details the impact of the Automotive Transformation Scheme on the transition of the industry’s labour force. “These findings reinforce a recent report from my department, which found that as a result of the actions taken by the Coalition Government working with industry, 82 percent of affected workers were able to secure work, with the majority satisfied with their circumstances. Four
percent of these started their own business,” Minister Cash said. “The successful outcomes for car-industry workers shows what can be achieved when industry and government work together. The support provided included tailored career advice, skills and training assistance, health and wellbeing initiatives and job search assistance through the Government’s Stronger Transitions package.” The Australian, Victorian and South Australian Governments together with Holden, Ford and Toyota have provided over $380 million in support for automotive workers and supply chain businesses. To see the report please visit www.industry.gov.au/auto-transition-report
AUSTRALIAN MADE FUCHS FULL STEAM AHEAD Fuchs’ production facilities in Melbourne and Newcastle are running at full capacity In a time of global uncertainty in the supply chain, Fuchs Lubricants Australasia says it is pushing on with full scale production at the company’s cutting-edge manufacturing facilities in Victoria and New South Wales. Globally, Fuchs has developed, produced and sold lubricants and related specialties for more than 85 years – for virtually all areas of application and sectors. With 58 companies and more than 5,800 employees worldwide, the Fuchs Group says it is the leading independent supplier of lubricants. The Fuchs model has been to support local manufacturing in all of these markets. Fuchs has more than 100,000 customers in industries ranging from automotive suppliers, OEM, mining and exploration, metalworking, agriculture and forestry, power generation, mechanical engineering, construction and transport, steel, metal and cement industries, food, glass production, casting, forging industry and many others. 10
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“We have our production facilities in Melbourne and Newcastle running at full capacity,” Fuchs Lubricants Australasia Managing Director, Wayne Hoiles, said. “Add to that, our most recently acquired business Nulon, producing both lubricants and coolants in Sydney to make sure we can continue to supply our customers in these challenging times.” Fuchs explains it is one of the largest lubricants companies still manufacturing products in Australia, and states that while that means the company is perfectly positioned to respond to the immediate needs of its customer, particularly in emergency situations, it also means jobs for Australians. It says it is also the only company manufacturing lubricants, greases, engine coolants and additives in its own facilities in Australia. In close consultation with its customers, Fuchs says it develops holistic, innovative and custommade solutions for the most diverse applications.
As a lubricant manufacturer, Fuchs says it stands for performance, sustainability, safety, reliability and efficiency while boldly standing by its promise of “Technology that pays back.” For more information, visit www.fuchs.com.au
NEWS
70 YEARS OF PEDDERS Celebrating a family franchise across three generations The decision to franchise turned what began in 1950 as a humble shock absorber reconditioning business in the Melbourne suburb of Carnegie into a 120 store Australia-wide network which also exports to over 40 countries around the world. Founded by Roy Pedder in 1950, the Pedders business celebrates 70 years of operation in 2020. Pedders originally offered servicing fixing general household items before finding a niche in the automotive repair market in smash repairs and shock absorbers. Roy’s son, Ron, joined at 16 years of age, learning the business from the ground up starting as a fitter and turner before moving into Sales followed by Management.
“I was very fortunate that my father allowed me to take control of the business in the early 1970s,” Ron Pedder said. It was under Ron’s leadership that Pedders Suspension evolved from a focus on reconditioning shock absorbers to designing and producing its own product. To support this new strategy, Ron saw the only way to ensure good distribution of product was to open Pedders’ own stores. This strategy paved the way for the commencement of extensive franchising to support Pedders’ own homegrown brand. Eventually like his father before him, Ron passed the baton to the next generation with his sons Mark and Scott Pedder now overseeing the direction of the business. While Pedders Brakes and Suspension has grown
extensively since the first franchise opened in 1982, within its heart it has remained a family business that is today in its third generation celebrating the significant milestone of 70 years of operation. For more information, visit www.pedders.com.au
NEW BRANDING FOR JAX TYRES & AUTO The updated branding coincides with the opening of the Jax Tyres & Auto headquarters Operating under the name JAX Tyres since it was founded in 1949, Jax Tyres & Auto now has more than 86 stores nationally, integrated with a growing e-commerce platform to deliver full automotive mechanical servicing and specialised sales of tyres, wheels, brakes and suspension. It says the refreshed naming convention will better reflect the brand’s unique operational model, longstanding retail and mechanical expertise and company mission. The updated brand position coincides with the opening of Jax Tyres & Auto’s new headquarters in Crows Nest, Sydney. A fully operational, inhouse training facility replicating a Jax bricks and mortar store, complete with TouchPoint interactive touchscreen technology and modern equipment, has been constructed onsite to simulate point of sale and service new vehicle technology. Steve Grossrieder, Chief Executive Officer and Executive Director of Jax Tyres & Auto, said the brand change better articulates all facets of the
business and encapsulates the brand’s customerfocused values. “Jax Tyres & Auto’s customer-centric operational model absolutely stood out to me from the outset. However, the majority of our customers weren’t aware that 45 percent of our business is fastfitting mechanical,” Steve said. “They were introduced when we fitted out new tyres and provided a complimentary Jax Inspect safety report capturing our suite of services. So, there was a clear need to put ourselves on the front foot, align our brand with our full business model and give customers more transparency.” The new branding follows a successful year for the business, with a three percent increase in the brand’s NPS score over the last twelve months. “The new identity, look and feel aren’t superficial changes. JAX Tyres & Auto fully embodies where we are as a business now, through our peace of mind driving promise to our customers and our agile retail and mechanical ecosystem facilitated
through our trusted, best-in-class franchise network,” Steve said. With an elevated focus on internal learning and development for all team members to maintain retail, customer service and mechanical best practice, the training facility will enable unique upskilling opportunities for Jax mechanical teams, ensuring the network is ready to leverage evolving automotive technology, particularly in the electric vehicle market. Jax Tyres & Auto will also be rolling out multiple stores nationally this year. For more information, visit www.jaxtyres.com.au Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine April 2020
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THE JOURNEY FROM MANUAL TO AUTOMATIC ACA Research, our partners in the AAAA Aftermarket Dashboard, take a look at the changes occurring in driving habits Driving patterns are changing, with data out of Victoria suggesting younger Australians aren’t turning up at the motor registry on their birthday, but are instead waiting to get their drivers licences a bit further down the track. We’re also seeing a significant shift in the type of vehicle they’re choosing. Over the past five years, we’ve seen Aussie car buyers shift away from manual transmissions, choosing the ‘easy’ option over a ‘more traditional’ hands-on driving experience. Despite this decline, we will always continue to see people who want the driving experience that can only be delivered by manual cars, however this seems to be more focused on niche subsets, such as sports cars and utes.
Table One: Percentage split of automatic and manual vehicles over time in Australia.
Looking at our manual transmissions, we can also see a technological shift within this category. Over the past decade, we’ve gone from five speed gearboxes being the dominant technology to six speed taking over in 2015 and 2016, and back to a more even mix through the past two years. As could be expected, this is very much driven
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by specific vehicles and models, with six speed transmissions historically tending to be used in more powerful, higher-end cars. More recently however, we’ve seen six-speeds more common in passenger vehicles such as the Toyota Corolla, Hyundai i30, and Mazda 3, where it allows the engine to run at lower RPMs, aiming to deliver increased fuel-efficiency.
Table Two: percentage split of manual five speed and manual six speed transmission vehicles over time in Australia in Australia.
The past decade has also seen a significant change when it comes to automatic transmissions. We can again see a clear trend here, with technological improvements allowing manufacturers to increase the number of gears. While many newer vehicles are now operating with a six-speed automatic transmission as standard, CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) appears as the current pinnacle of this movement, typically drawing maximum power from smaller engines, while generating fewer emissions. This customer-friendly offering is evident across the SUV landscape, with examples such as the Nissan X-Trail, Mitsubishi ASX and Mitsubishi Outlander using CVT technology. Given sales of
Table Three: percentage split of automatic vehicle transmissions over time in Australia.
vehicles with CVT transmissions accounted for one in five of the vehicles registered in 2018, consumers are clearly buying into this updated driving experience. What does this mean for a workshop? As we’ve talked about previously, you need to be across the mix of vehicles you’re seeing in your area, as well as understanding how this is shifting over time. While it could be argued that automatic transmissions are inherently more complicated than manual, which means more can go wrong (and often does), you are taking out the human element, which should also reduce wear and tear on components. Either way, with more and more manufacturers rolling out automatic models and embracing technologies such as CVT, you will be seeing these vehicles rolling into your workshop in years to come. This column was prepared for AAA Magazine by ACA Research, our partners in the AAAA Aftermarket Dashboard which is delivered to your inbox each quarter. For more information, visit www.acaresearch.com.au or contact Ben Selwyn on bselwyn@acaresearch.com.au
COVID-19
COVID-19 EFFECTS BEING FELT WORLDWIDE The AAAA is committed to supporting members throughout this unprecedented emergency The aftermarket industry, along with the whole of Australia and the world, is facing a critical juncture in history right now with the health and subsequent economic crisis caused by COVID19 touching more and more of our lives and our livelihoods with each passing day. As discussed by AAAA Chief Executive Officer, Stuart Charity, on page 7 of this magazine, the AAAA is working around the clock to provide concise and accurate information to AAAA members to assist them in making decisions as well as providing services that will help cushion the impact. This information is being distributed regularly via EDMs and newsletters and is also being loaded on the news section of www.aaaa.com.au Information sessions utilising webinar technology are also being held, and invitations to these will be distributed via email to all AAAA members. One such webinar was held recently with nearly 500 attendees and focused on the following: whether the auto industry will be deemed an ‘essential service’ in the event of a full government shutdown of business and what Government assistance is available. Also discussed was your legal obligations and options regarding health and safety, leave entitlements and temporary business closures (see page 72 of this magazine for more on this topic courtesy of Industry Legal Group). “In relation to automotive repair and parts being deemed an essential service, our team – led by Lesley Yates – has been chasing every rabbit
down every hole to ensure this happens,” Stuart said. “This has included letters and follow up phone calls to the offices of State Premiers and key Ministers as well as the PM and key Federal Ministers and agencies. We have also reached out to other automotive associations to encourage them to join the push. “The position we are taking is to advise Government that in our view the supply of automotive parts and repair is a very important service and that we will be advising our members to remain trading until the Government tells us otherwise. “While Government does need to make a lot of very difficult decisions on the closure of businesses, they also need to ensure we can continue as a country to provide the basic necessities in life and in our view, our industry keeps other industries moving. Without parts supply and automotive repair, other services will suffer: emergency vehicles, medical supply, food and other transportation all require time critical replacement parts and urgent repair. “While it is likely that the list of essential services will only be published in conjunction with the announcement of a full shutdown, we are cautiously optimistic our sector will be included on this list. This is based on the positive discussions we have been having with Governments as well as international precedent – recently we have seen the USA, Canada, the UK and New Zealand all classifying auto parts and repair as an essential service. “I will however say that even if we do secure this exemption from closure, it will not be a silver bullet to shield our industry from the impact of this situation. The lockdowns on activity and movement will have a dramatic effect on demand and each business will need to work through issues such as the heath and safety of employees and customers while also making individual judgements on if you remain open and in what capacity. “We do however believe that it is a far better outcome to be in a position as a business owner to make that decision yourself rather than the Government mandating a full shutdown of our industry with 24 hours’ notice.” While working hard to ensure aftermarket businesses have the choice to stay open or to close, the AAAA has also been working on advising members regarding the Government assistance available to businesses.
“The amount of government support announced to date is significant – particularly for small and medium sized businesses – and an understanding of what is available and how to access it is vital to help you make informed decisions about your business operations in the weeks and months ahead,” Stuart said. “The Federal Government support announced to date falls into two main categories – payments that will be made to you automatically when you lodge your monthly or quarterly BAS statement; and those you need to apply for. “Detailed information on these support options is featured on page 18 of this magazine.” If you have questions or need support during this difficult time, please contact the AAAA at info@aaaa.com.au Our Industry Legal Group member hotline is also available on 1300 735 306 or aaaa@employerassist.com.au
All information in this COVID-19 feature was correct at the time of printing; however, with this situation changing so rapidly AAAM cannot guarantee that all information remains correct and relevant. We recommend that you obtain independent expert advice before making any decisions based on this information. AAAA Employer Assist can be reached on 1300 735 306 Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine April 2020
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NEW DATES FOR AUTOCARE 2020 The Convention will now be held in October As the COVID-19 health crisis escalated, the AAAA Board of Directors held a special meeting to fully consider options for the Autocare 2020 Convention, which was scheduled to be held at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre (BCEC) across the 19th and 20th of June, 2020. The AAAA takes the health and safety of our members, staff and event sponsors, exhibitors and speakers very seriously and so the difficult decision has been made to postpone Autocare 2020 to the 30th and 31st of October, 2020. This important convention will continue to run at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre over a Friday and Saturday. It will also continue to provide industry-leading speakers and exhibitors, providing a not-to-bemissed education and training-led convention.
CORONAVIRUS POSTERS FOR YOUR BUSINESS A range of posters and other resources are available for your business The AAAA is committed to providing you with information and tools to support you in managing your business while the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic evolves. The AAAA has developed a poster that you can print yourself, or have printed, to display at entry points, doorways and customer reception areas in your business. This poster is designed to help you prevent the spreading of Coronavirus and protect your staff, customers and yourself. Additional poster resources on a wide array of subjects related to COVID-19 have been produced by the Australian Government and are available for download at www.health.gov.au/resources/ collections/coronavirus-covid-19-campaignresources
For additional resources from the AAAA, visit www.aaaa.com.au
DO I NEED TO SHUT DOWN? The COVID-19 health crisis is resulting in difficult decisions being made by Government With these new dates, AAAA believes Autocare will be run at a time that provides the best opportunity for our industry and the wider community, to enjoy this fantastic event in a safe and healthy environment. All Conference Stream registrations, exhibitor and sponsorship commitments will roll over to the new Autocare 2020 dates. With the support of the Autocare 2020 event organiser, International Exhibition and Conference Group, and the auto aftermarket community, we can look forward to bringing the industry together with an outstanding Autocare program. The AAAA acknowledges the significant commitment by speakers, sponsors and exhibitors and wishes to outline its appreciation for their patience, as Autocare 2020 arrangements pivot to meet the new dates. The AAAA also wishes to send its thanks to all of the AAAA members for their support and understanding during this difficult time. . Further information about Autocare 2020 can be found at the www.autocare.org.au website and also through the AAAA member eNewsletter and the Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine. For any questions about Autocare 2020, please contact Nina Roberts at the International Exhibition and Conference Group on 03 9596 9205 or via autosales@iecgroup.com.au 16
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These decisions may include shutting down parts of our economy. While automotive service and repair is (at the time of printing) not included in shutdown orders made so far, you should be prepared in case of future changes. The AAAA advises you to have your business continuity plan ready and also remember that all businesses need to exercise good judgement, leadership and diligent compliance to health and safety guidelines designed to minimise the spread of the virus. As per normal business management standards, all business owners are responsible for providing a workplace that is safe for employees and customers.
Will I need to shut down at a future date to be advised? The AAAA is of the view that Government agencies need to recognise auto parts supply and repair as a very important service as the industry supports emergency vehicles, essential transportation services and those that will need to support the most vulnerable members of our community. “Our industry keeps other industries moving. Without parts supply and automotive repair other services will suffer. Emergency vehicles, medical supply, food and other transportation will require time critical replacement parts and urgent repair,” AAAA Chief Executive Officer, Stuart Charity, said.
“We want to make sure that we can keep cars and trucks on the road in this time of crisis, particularly for those who are supporting others or accessing medical care or medication. With delivery services being restricted by some supermarkets, being able to access a local supermarket for many people requires a car. “We are calling on Government to ensure auto parts and repair is deemed an essential service, so that our industry can play its role in supporting the country through these challenging times.” Treating automotive repair and parts supply as an essential service would bring Australia into line with other countries, where these activities are already considered an essential service. The AAAA is working very hard to make sure members are aware of any shutdown requirements, their responsibilities as an employer, and details of what assistance is available to help keep businesses up-and-running in these challenging times. For all the latest updates, please visit www.aaaa.com.au
COVID-19
COVID-19 GOVERNMENT ASSISTANCE PACKAGES At the time of printing, the Australian Government is offering the following Assistance Packages for business The Coronavirus (COVID-19) has already had an enormous impact on Australians. These unprecedented times are a cause for concern, not just for the health of those in our communities, but also because of the economic strain it is placing on Australian businesses. The Australian Government has announced a significant stimulus package to assist businesses most likely to face significant financial hardship. As an automotive business this certainly includes you. These assistance packages are designed to help businesses to keep people in jobs. The below was correct at the time of printing – for the latest updates, please visit www.aaaa.com.au
Boosting Cash Flow for Automotive industry employers The Government is providing up to $100,000 to eligible small and medium sized businesses (under $50m turnover) that employ people, with a minimum payment of $20,000. These payments will help cash flow so you can keep operating, pay rent, electricity and other bills and retain staff. To be eligible for this tax-free payment, simply complete your Business Activity Statements ontime – this payment is delivered as an automatic credit and you do not need to undertake any additional application. More detail on the Boosting Cash Flow Stimulus package and how it applies to the auto aftermarket is outlined on the AAAA website. “We have undertaken a comprehensive analysis of this support package and in our view the majority of AAAA member companies will be in a position to access the maximum $100,000 in financial support between now and October,” AAAA Chief Executive Officer, Stuart Charity, said. “In essence the scheme works by rebating the PAYG withholding tax that you remit to the ATO on behalf of your employees via the lodgement of your BAS statement.” For illustrative purposes the AAAA has put together a case study of an automotive repair business that has five employees – one front of house, three technicians and the owner/manager. In this case study, we estimate the total monthly withholding tax paid by this business is around $10,600 per month and they lodge their BAS statement quarterly. In this scenario, this business would receive $32k in assistance 14 days after they lodge their March BAS statement (which is due at the end of April). They would then receive a further $18k in assistance 14 days after they lodge their June 18
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BAS statement (which is due at the end of July). They would then be automatically paid $12,500 per month for the next four months – with the total assistance of $100,000 paid over the next seven months. “The maximum amount claimable under this program is $100,000 regardless of the size of your business and the minimum amount claimable is $20,000,” Stuart said. “Our analysis shows that if your monthly withholding tax is over $8,500 you will receive the full $100k. The only businesses that won’t be eligible are those that are under the threshold to lodge a BAS statement or who do not withhold PAYG for your employees. “It is important to note that cash payments will only be made by the ATO if you are in credit – if you owe the tax office money then this rebate will be credited against your outstanding debt. “Also important is the fact that you don’t have to pay it back if your business circumstances change later in the year. This program has one aim and that is to keep businesses trading and employing people over the next few months and if you have enough cash reserves to get you through to mid-May, then you will receive the initial $32k payment if you lodge your BAS on time.”
Support for Apprentices and Trainees If you are a small business of under 20 fulltime employees, and you currently employ and wish to retain an apprentice or trainee (as at 1 March 2020), you can apply to receive up to 50 percent of the wage for nine months: a maximum of $21,000 per eligible apprentice or trainee – or $7,000 per quarter. You can register for this scheme in early April.
JobKeeper Subsidy The JobKeeper payment is targeted at businesses affected by the shutdowns in response to the spread of COVID-19 and is also available to the self-employed. Eligible employees will receive, at a minimum, $1,500 per fortnight, before tax. Eligible businesses are those with under $1 Billion annual turnover with a reduction of 30 percent relative to a comparable period a year ago of at least a month, or businesses of more than $1 Billion annual turnover with a reduction of more than 50 percent relative to a comparable period a year ago of at least a month. The payment is only for all staff employed with the business at 1 March 2020 who continue in employment each month. This includes, fulltime, part-time, long-term casuals, and stood
down employees. Casual employees eligible for the payments must have been in regular employment at least for the previous 12 months as at 1 March 2020. Employees that are reengaged by a business that was their employer on 1 March 2020 will also be eligible. You must apply for the payment and supporting evidence will be required by the ATO demonstrating a downturn in business. This would include evidence of the comparable month a year previous, and evidence of a reduction in this current month. In addition, employers must continue to report the number of eligible employees employed by the business on a monthly basis. Employers can register their interest at www.ato.gov.au and the ATO will then contact those businesses once the legislation is passed and applications are open.
Other COVID-19 Business Assistance There are other COVID-19 business programs that are available to you, including Loan Guarantee Schemes and Accelerated Depreciation. In addition to the role it is playing in the above programs, the Australian Tax Office is also providing a number of support initiatives, which you can learn more about on page 21 of this magazine. As the situation evolves, more details are sure to be unveiled by both the Federal and State Governments and the AAAA will be providing updates on these at www.aaaa.com.au
Important note The AAAA encourages all members to speak to their accountants if possible, to make sure you maximising all of the stimulus package items available including State Government programs. For more information and the latest updates, please visit www.aaaa.com.au
COVID-19
ATO SUPPORT IN THE TIME OF COVID-19 In addition to the role it will play in the Government Assistance packages, the Australian Tax Office (ATO) has also unveiled a number of initiatives in support of businesses The ATO is focused on supporting the community through this period of disruption and uncertainty. For full and up to date details of support programs, please visit www.ato.gov.au
Tailored support available On 12 March 2020, the Commissioner of Taxation issued a media release advising of a series of administrative measures to assist Australians experiencing financial difficulties as a result of COVID-19. You can find this media release on the ATO website and measures include payment deferral; adjustments to the GST reporting cycle; PAYG variation; and interest and penalty remission. The ATO also recognises there may be a broader range of administrative and technical issues that are arising for you, including matters that concern PAYGW issues for your employees; fringe benefits tax; GST; tax residency; permanent establishments; thin capitalisation; lodgement implications; responding to ATO information requests; and compliance engagements. The ATO has prepared a list of commonly asked tax questions regarding COVID-19 and this is available on the ATO website. You can also email COVID-19Taxissues@ato.gov.au The ATO says it can also assist you with appropriate tailored arrangements that allow you to continue to manage and meet your tax obligations. If you have an existing dedicated ATO relationship manager within the Public Groups and Internationals business line of the ATO, you can also contact them for assistance. Employers will need to meet their ongoing super guarantee obligations for their employees.
A tailored compliance program The ATO’s priority is to provide support to businesses in these difficult times. Its team has been reaching out to all large market taxpayers currently subject to compliance activity to provide support and determine what changes need to be made to current compliance activities. Based on feedback, the ATO understands that the circumstances and needs vary significantly between organisations. As a result, a blanket approach to its compliance program is not appropriate and it will instead be focusing on providing a client experience designed for the individual circumstances of each large corporate. The ATO will not be commencing any new audit or assurance cases over the coming period. For existing cases, the ATO is managing each case based on the specific circumstances and needs expressed by each taxpayer.
The ATO says it will continue to monitor the changing circumstances and will work with large corporates and advisors to make further adjustments to compliance activity as required. If you have any questions, contact your client engagement case officer or your current relationship manager.
The ATO’s PAG approach During this time the ATO’s Public Advice and Guidance Program will largely be on hold, except for critical advice and guidance, and advice relating to COVID-19 and its impacts on taxpayers. If you are concerned about the delay in the delivery of particular pieces of public advice and guidance, or have any other feedback, email PGIPAGUnit@ato.gov.au
Superannuation guarantee amnesty On 6 March 2020 the superannuation guarantee (SG) amnesty was introduced. The amnesty allows employers to disclose and pay a previously unpaid super guarantee charge (SGC), including nominal interest, that they owe their employees, for quarter(s) starting from 1 July 1992 to 31 March 2018, without incurring the administration component ($20 per employee per quarter) or Part 7 penalty. In addition, payments of SGC made to the ATO after 24 May 2018 and before 11:59 PM 7 September 2020 will be tax deductible. Employers who have already disclosed unpaid SGC to the ATO between 24 May 2018 and 6 March 2020 don’t need to apply or lodge again. Employers who come forward from 6 March 2020 need to apply for the amnesty by 7 September 2020. It is understood you may wish to apply for the superannuation guarantee amnesty but may be concerned that, as a result of COVID-19, your circumstances may change and you will not be able to pay the liability. If you want to participate in the amnesty, the law requires you to apply by 7 September 2020. However, the ATO will work with you to establish a payment plan that is flexible to help you to continue making payments. These arrangements include flexible payment terms and amounts which will be adjusted if your circumstances change; and the ability to extend the payment plan to beyond 7 September 2020, the end of the amnesty period. However, only payments made by 7 September 2020 will be deductible. If, after the ATO works with you, you are unable to maintain payments, the law requires the ATO to disqualify you from the amnesty and remove the
amnesty benefits. However, the disqualification will only apply to any unpaid quarters; you will be advised which quarters are unpaid – for these quarters the ATO will re-apply the administration component of $20 per employee included in the disqualified quarter; and the ATO will also take your circumstances into account when deciding whether a Part 7 penalty should be applied to your disclosure – a review of your circumstances may result in the Part 7 penalty being reduced to nil. Paying super is an important part of being an employer. If you’re not eligible for the amnesty, or you have unpaid super for quarters that are not eligible, you must still lodge an SGC statement.
Government stimulus On 24 March 2020, the Coronavirus Economic Response Package Omnibus Bill 2020 received royal assent. This forms part of the government’s measures to support businesses to withstand and recover from the economic impact of COVID-19. This package includes measures available for eligible business with a turnover of less than $500 million, including: • an instant asset write off threshold of up to $150,000 for assets acquired by 30 June 2020 • accelerated depreciation of 50 percent in the first year on new Division 40 assets acquired and installed ready for use by 30 June 2021. Outside of business, the ATO will also work with individuals experiencing financial hardship, and their tax agents, and will apply appropriate tax relief measures for serious and exceptional circumstances, such as where people cannot pay for food or accommodation. Unlike the bushfire relief measures, which applied automatically to particular geographic areas, assistance measures for those impacted by COVID19 will not be automatically implemented. Anyone impacted by COVID-19 is advised to contact the ATO to request assistance on its Emergency Support Infoline 1800 806 218, when they are ready, to discuss their situation. For full and up to date information, visit www.ato.gov.au Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine April 2020
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SPECIAL FEATURE
40 YEARS STRONG In 2020, the Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association (AAAA) celebrates four decades of serving and fighting for its growing membership base From a courageous group of 15 businessmen to a leading industry Association representing more than 2,500 members, the AAAA has flourished since it was established to the unquestionable benefit of the aftermarket. While the challenges of changing legislation and vehicle technology are as prominent today as they were in 1980, today the way the AAAA delivers for its membership has expanded exponentially to include not only information sharing and government advocacy – resulting in achievements such as the Choice of Repairer campaign and pending mandatory data sharing legislation – but also the delivery of specialist research, representative councils, HR and Legal advice, a world-class trade show, respected magazine, stateof-the-art innovation centre, international trade delegations and more. “As with most industry associations, the AAAA was born in response to a government deciding to introduce regulations without consultation; and so it was for us in 1979,” inaugural AAAA President and honorary Executive Director, Graham Rose, explains. “Those proposed changes would have had a catastrophic effect on the aftermarket. I was in a position to bring this information to the industry and following an emergency meeting during my Automotive Parts and Accessories Trade Show, a 15-person Steering Committee was formed. “We were able to get the ear of the Ministers and a seat on a number of Federal and State Committees. It took nearly a year, but we finally got them to scrap the proposed legislation.” The first official meeting of the Steering Committee was held on the 15th of May 1980, during a conference hosted by the APA Trade Journal in Sydney. At this meeting, Graham was appointed as
SEMA/AI Show 1993.
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Chairman and SEMA Vice President Vic Edelbrock gave a keynote address about associations which played an important role in encouraging the committee to later officially incorporate the AAAA in October of 1981. Following the incorporation, Graham was elected as President and his offices in Melbourne became the Association’s headquarters while his trade show and APA Journal played an important part in the AAAA’s early growth. “Membership was slow to begin with aside from almost 100 percent of trade show exhibitors. However, we went to work promoting the Association and over time it increased,” Graham said. “An agreement had been struck between my company and the AAAA in regards to the trade show which in my opinion was a ‘win win’ arrangement and in 1987 it was time to renegotiate. I was advised that a financial component would be required in the new agreement and unfortunately we could not agree, so I sadly announced my resignation. “While I still struggle with how my involvement ended, I am very proud of how far the AAAA has come. I believe the industry should be thankful to have had a very strong Association tackling the issues while assisting members to navigate the rules and regulations successfully. “Without an association, we would float along without direction or input. Having government representation is as important now as it was in 1979 and I believe all in the industry should support the AAAA so it can continue to fight on their behalf. As such, membership fees should not be seen as an expense, but instead as an investment in the future of your business.” As the AAAA evolved and changed, so too did its council, as council member of more than two
Graham Rose in the St Kilda Road offices of the AAAA.
decades and AAAA President for 1996-1998, Greg Barker, explains. “At the beginning you had a lot of business owners and managing directors on the council. These were people that had direct personal involvement with their member company and the industry,” Greg said. “As time went on and big businesses started to see the value of the AAAA, we saw more company representatives on the council – these weren’t the people that owned the member company, they were people put forward by the company to represent it on the council because they saw the value in what the AAAA was doing. “I don’t think this was surprising and it still isn’t today as the AAAA has obviously always had successful member benefits and it has outlasted
George Weatherstone and David Tennent.
SPECIAL FEATURE AAAA Executive Directors
AAAA Presidents: 1981: Graham Rose 1982 - 1983: Terry Mahoney 1983 - 1985: Kim Aunger 1985 - 1987: Ray Della-Polina 1987 - 1989: David Hutchins 1989 - 1993: David Tennent 1993 - 1994: MM (Joe) Jones 1994 - 1996: Eian Mathieson 1996 - 1998: Greg Barker 1998 - 2000: Frank O’Connor 2000 - 2002: Peter Armstrong 2002 - 2005: John Scott 2005 - 2008: Andrew Schram 2008 – 2010: Peter Hein 2010 - 2013: David Fraser 2013 - 2016: Bob Pattison 2016 - 2019: Graham Scudamore-Smith 2020 - current: Mark Pedder other associations and individuals, so of course members see there is strength in the membership and the Association. I am certainly glad the company I worked for saw the benefit in having me on the council and I don’t believe you can put a figure on that. “While the Executive Director steers the ship, the council plays a very important role and I feel we have been lucky in how things have evolved as it has meant we have always had the best people on the council for the period or need of the time.” It is certainly true that it wasn’t long before major players were sitting up and taking notice; with the AAAA’s aftermarket specialisation appealing to many as Mark Pedder – the current AAAA President and Managing Director of Pedders Suspension and Brakes – explains. “My dad Ron Pedder, who was the Managing Director of Pedders then, thought it was really important to be involved in an association which was looking after the aftermarket specifically,” Mark said.
Automechankia Gulf 2005.
Graham Rose 1980-87
George Weatherstone 1987-1993
David Wright 1993-1999
“We were a long-time VACC (Victorian Automobile Chamber of Commerce) member but I remember him saying they had so many interests and he believed it was important to support the aftermarket, which is why we got involved so early. “Having access to others in the aftermarket and the networking side was really beneficial, and we also enjoyed huge success on the export side of things which the AAAA supported us in. “More recently, the Association’s advocacy work has been fantastic for Pedders. We have seen a number of proposed legislative changes which could have really hurt our business if the AAAA hadn’t fought against them. Having an association all about the aftermarket tackling issues like this was really important to Pedders, and still is.” Frank Hutchinson founded Don Kyatt Spare Parts in 1969 and was another who got in on the ground-floor. “When the AAAA started I thought it was important we join so we could participate in the trade shows,” Frank said. “It wasn’t just the shows though which attracted us. I wanted to buy from local manufacturers, but found it difficult as a group called WASPA (Western Australian Spare Parts Association) would not allow smaller companies to buy from a lot of the big Australian manufacturers. When you joined the AAAA, you had clout behind you and could finally get supply as the AAAA would introduce and support you. “I have also always enjoyed how as part of the
Kim Elliott 1999 - 2006
Stuart Charity 2006 - current
AAAA, you feel like part of a team. They give great support, so much information, and importantly have always treated every member as equal – eventually some of the bigger players came on board but still everybody was treated with the same respect. It has been like a big family and has never changed its culture; in fact I think with (current Executive Director) Stuart Charity at the helm it has been even better. “It was also great that through the AAAA you could find other Australian companies which could make certain parts and so on, as the AAAA brought us all together, communicating and fostering the understanding that there was a lot of trading which could be done within Australia.” Unsurprisingly, Frank is encouraging of anyone considering becoming a member of the AAAA. “The AAAA has so much to offer. As things continually change you need the latest information and the AAAA delivers while also providing great connections, ensuring members are in touch with what is happening all over the world,” Frank said. “When it comes to the government, the AAAA is fantastic in keeping them balanced while also keeping us connected with incentives and financial support. “On top of all of this, the new Auto Innovation Centre is world class and of course there are all the other benefits of newsletters, emails, special nights, trade shows, training, HR and Legal advice, the magazine, finance assistance for trade shows overseas and more.
Kim Elliott in 2005 at the opening of the AAAA Trade Show at Darling Harbour, Sydney. Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine April 2020
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SPECIAL FEATURE
“In my opinion, if you are not in the AAAA, you are missing out!” While in 2005 some theorised 1,200 members would be a ceiling for membership numbers, today the AAAA has 2,500 members employing 40,000 people and turning over eight billion dollars of products and services. “Back in the early days those membership numbers were fanciful and setting up the Automotive Innovation Centre would have seemed like building Disneyland. It is certainly something none of us would have ever envisaged and it is absolutely fantastic,” Graham said. “I always thought the Association would get to this level and to be honest I think it is only scratching the surface. Amidst ever-changing times, the AAAA has been here and is going to continue to be here to lead for all and I think that is really valued by our industry,” Mark said. “We don’t just serve larger companies, we work for everyone at all levels. We can do this because of our people – we have a really passionate group who believe in the aftermarket and what we do. From Stuart to the staff to the specialist councils and the Board, we are exceptionally lucky to have people with the same passion we have for our businesses running the Association that looks after our businesses; with a great spread of specialisations which allow us to appeal to all industry segments.” The aftermarket industry is indeed broad, so AAAA specialist councils championed by industry experts provide in-depth knowledge for issues specific to
Stuart Charity at Autocare 2018.
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their area. Current AAAA specialist councils include the Automotive Repairers Council of Australia (ARCA), the Australian 4WD Industry Council, the Automotive Product Manufacturers and Exporters Council (APMEC) and the Performance Racing and Tuning Council (PRTC). Further strengthening the AAAA’s ability to educate and inspire the width and breadth of the aftermarket is the AAAA’s biennial Australian Automotive Aftermarket Expo (AAAE), Collision Repair Expo and Autocare Convention. These shows combined with training events, member networking sessions, international trade show delegations, the Association’s magazine and aftermarket awards program all allow the AAAA to connect and serve. “Launching our own show and bringing our magazine back in-house in the early 2000s were two important milestones,” AAAA Executive Director, Stuart Charity, said. “They are highly valued and we are best placed to deliver these as we are in tune with what our members want and need. Further, we have been able to reinvest the profits to add further member value – we could never have achieved what we have with government advocacy funded by membership fees alone, so it is a win-win. “We also couldn’t have achieved what we have without the early work of the Association under Graham Rose and George Weatherstone to establish our government credentials and networks. This work provided an important platform from which we have been able to grow a constructive and ongoing relationship.
“It is also important to recognise the work David Wright and Kim Elliott undertook to help our industry internationalise – this has been so important in terms of our sustainability, particularly for the aftermarket parts and accessories sector. “With the demise of the local car industry, many thought the parts industry would go the same way but it hasn’t because it has diversified in terms of market segments and internationally. The aftermarket is exporting 800 million dollars of Australian manufactured products all over the world each year and a lot of that was pioneered by the AAAA throughout the 80s and 90s.” Since those early days, there is no doubt the industry has shifted dramatically, as Stuart explains. “It has always been very entrepreneurial, creating markets and then evolving those. Today the industry has maintained this entrepreneurship while becoming more sophisticated in how it designs and develops products,” he said. “If you think about the car parc of 1980, it was dominated by a few brands under a highly protectionist regime, with predominantly locallybuilt vehicles and large volumes of particular makes and models. Now we have 68 makes, hundreds of different models and tens of thousands of variants to the point Australia has one of the most diverse car fleets in the world for its size. “The industry has had to adapt and a good example is in service and repair parts – resellers here can be singled out for their sophistication and supply chain development which allows them to get parts on any vehicle out to all of the 25,000
Senator Rex Patrick (with Stuart Charity) cuts the ribbon to open the AIC facility.
SPECIAL FEATURE
odd independent repairers often in a few hours. Logistically this is mind boggling and a great example of how aftermarket players are evolving to meet market needs.” As the industry has changed, the AAAA has changed along with it. “In the past, we have been quite reactionary – after all, the Association was started because individual members were concerned about legislation changes,” Stuart said. “While we have certainly served the industry well in that function, we have also shifted to a more proactive approach; actively talking to governments so they know they can come to us with issues. “While over the years we have had to respond pretty decisively to Governments which don’t engage and we have had to bind the members together around regulatory changes, we are now a highly respected body and we are seeing Government coming to us more proactively.” Over recent years the AAAA has been proud to achieve some big wins. These have included the Choice of Repairer Campaign and gaining a landscape-changing commitment for legislation around mandatory data sharing after more than a decade of campaigning; as well as strides forward in battling anti-competitive behaviour. The latter has resulted in a number of car companies signing court-enforceable undertakings.
“There are so many stories of the AAAA playing a part in the Don Kyatt journey; you would think the AAAA is a team of 100 with the amount of work they do,” Frank said. “The AAAA should be congratulated on convincing the government that qualified mechanical workshops can service vehicles during the warranty period. To me this was a game changer and probably the biggest change I have seen in 54 years in the industry; it has really helped so many. “It truly fascinates me how much work the AAAA achieves, from information and research to government representation to events; and now of course the amazing Auto Innovation Centre.” The Auto Innovation Centre (AIC) Frank mentions is part of the AAAA’s push to lift the bar on how our industry develops, tests and validates its products. Launched in late 2019, it is designed to bring together the industry and promote the adoption of new technologies while providing testing services. A centre of excellence, the AIC has open-door facilities where companies can collaborate and also facilitate training to take advantage of new methods. “We think the AIC is an absolute game changer, allowing us to work more collaboratively as an industry and we also want to invite regulators in to work with us on their areas of concern which would again shift the game dramatically,” Stuart said.
“Collaborating with car companies is also on the table. In the US car companies are actively working with the SEMA Garage to provide pre-release vehicles and CAD data, as having aftermarket accessories ready on release is helping drive vehicle sales. We are hoping the same will happen here.” The AIC will definitely play a large role in the industry’s future, but of course it isn’t the only focus point for the AAAA moving forward. “The industry, along with the rest of the world, is facing an unprecedented time of uncertainty and disruption currently with the impact of COVID-19 being felt at numerous levels,” Stuart said. “The AAAA is working around the clock to support and guide members through this difficult time and once the worst of this situation has passed, we will help members to regroup and rebuild so we can resume our industry’s growth trajectory (for more on the COVID-19 situation, please see pages 15 21 of this magazine). “While this emergency is a core focus at present, we are also working on other challenges for the industry – such as skills shortages and skill gaps as well as increasing consolidation and specialisation. “I am proud to say the AAAA is up for supporting the industry through whatever may come. While things are uncertain now due to the health crisis and long-term the industry may change, I believe exciting times are most certainly ahead. “Our research shows the independent repair sector is highly valued and with mandatory data sharing laws to come, we have a strong competitive environment. If we can maintain that, we have a very bright future.” Mark echoed Stuart’s sentiments with this closing thought: “With the car companies now out, this is the aftermarket’s time to really step up and take its place at the forefront of the automotive industry in Australia,” he said. “I think the AAAA is going to play an exceptionally important part in that.”
The new look AAAA office includes the AIC facility.
For more on the AAAA, please visit www.aaaa.com.au Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine April 2020
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From humble beginnings at St Leonards in Sydney, Australia; Alemlube says it has grown to be one of the leading suppliers of lubrication equipment in the country. In 1970 at the age of 43, Ian Williamson saw an opportunity and with an entrepreneurial spirit set up shop close to St Leonards Station in an area which is now primarily retail space and high rise residential apartments, as the New South Wales distributor for Alemite products. At the time Alemite products were being manufactured in Chicago (USA), Newcastle (England) and in Adelaide, under license by Clyde Apac. In the 50s and 60s a large number of new service stations were being built with those new service stations typically having workshops, or as they were known at the time, Lubritoriums. Old oil company brands like Amoco, Golden Fleece, Esso and Ampol usually had Tecalemit, Alemite or Aro oil and grease pumps, hose reels and control valves in their then state-of-the-art workshops. Also at the time there were a lot of Alemite 70:1 ratio grease pumps at the BHP steel manufacturing facilities in Newcastle (New South Wales) and Hastings (Victoria) as well as Australian Iron and Steel in Wollongong (New South Wales). The resupply of new equipment and spare parts to keep the grease pumps operative in what were extremely harsh and demanding operating conditions effectively provided the base for a new business venture. Oil mist lubrication systems at Comalco in Yennora (New South Wales) and the Caltex refinery at Kurnell, also in New South Wales, needed to be replaced, commissioned and maintained and that the fledging company then known as Alemite Lubrequip did. Business was steady through the 70s and 80s and things started to ramp up in the early 90s when Dunlop Industrial Sales came onboard in 1992, inviting Alemite Lubrequip to be its lubrication equipment MRO supply partner: its first national key account. Another milestone in the 90s was when the Shell Oil Company placed an order on Alemite Lubrequip for 800 air hose reels to be used on the forecourts of their petrol station sites around the country: at the time the $250,000 order seemed like a gift from heaven. Slowly the range expanded with grease guns from Germany, drum pumps from Taiwan, plastic covered hose reels from China, lube equipment from Spain, refuelling equipment from Italy, lube systems from Germany and capital workshop equipment from Italy being added to their program as they entered the new millennium. 28
Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine April 2020
Alemite Lubrequip had an offer that closely mirrored and matched the needs of the market. As to be expected, the way of doing business changed and in 2000 step by step Alemite Lubrequip started the move from a Manufacturers’ Rep business model to its own branch model and that change heralded a new era for the company; opening a branch in Brisbane with branches in Perth and Adelaide to follow. With its own staff; a dedicated, knowledgeable and focused sales team; local stock and local after sales service; the company went from strength to strength. When the New South Wales/Australian Capital Territory and Queensland/Papua New Guinea branches started doing their own in-house light engineering work and put together a team of fitters to do Workshop Fit-out and Lube Systems installations, the package that Alemite Lubrequip could offer the market took a big step forward – creating a solutions approach rather than a ‘box in, box out’ offer.
Sadly in November of 2007, Ian George Williamson passed away at the age of 81, but today more than ever Ian’s values, style, personality and business ethos lives on – setting the tone and approach that the business is based upon.
“Of course only time will tell but if Alemlube and its staff keep true to our core values in the future as we have in the past, if we keep abreast of changes in technology and developments in the marketplace,” he said.
Since Ian’s passing twelve years ago, two of his sons – Ross and Mark – now manage the business with the aid of Pam Rodrigues as the third member of the Management Team.
“If we stay flexible and embrace change and if we keep focusing on the needs and requirements of end users in the industry and the distributors with whom we work closely, hopefully the next 50 years will be as rewarding and successful as the past 50 years.
With key supplier Alemite USA – which had no financial interest in the business – about to be sold by an Equity Firm which owned them at the time, after 40 years of being known as Alemite Lubrequip a name change was in the wind. Viewed internally as an opportunity to more clearly define the business and brand, by the end of 2010 Alemite Lubrequip had changed its name to Alemlube and any confusion and uncertainty in regard to the relationship between Alemite USA and Alemite Lubrequip Australia was no more. The scene was set for the company to grow and present itself without the shadow and dilution of the Alemite brand and an unpreceded period of growth followed.
“We’ve got a strong brand, a sound business culture and a solid platform and that combined with an optimistic approach should be enough to deliver a bright and successful future for our 100 percent Australian Family Owned Business.” The team at Alemlube would like to take this opportunity to thank and acknowledge its supply partners, customers – both direct and indirect – and its current and past staff for the confidence and support they have shown and provided Alemlube going all the way back to April 30,1970. For more from Alemlube, visit www.alemlube.com.au
In 2011 the company established its New Zealand subsidiary, Alemlube Ltd NZ, which today is an integral part of the company’s go to market strategy. In 2014, when another opportunity arose, the company acquired Adelaide-based Tecalemit which boasts a proud history in Australia going back 80 years to 1940. It is often asked: What makes a company successful? What is the difference between companies that come and go; companies who emerge but then stagnate; and companies that make their mark, standing the test of time and providing a service and offer that works? Ross says: “For sure it is in part about having the right supply partners. For sure it’s about having good business acumen. For sure it’s about being positive and looking for and being open to opportunities as and when they arise. In part it’s about good luck and being in the right place at the right time, but more than anything else, it is about the team.” “It’s about having the right blend of people with complementing skill sets, it’s about trying to keep that team cohesive, united and together and it’s about creating a culture where the staff’s input is asked for and valued,” continued Ross, who looks after the Operations, Purchasing and IT components of the business. “Of course as a company gets larger and the communication lines expand, that’s easier said than done, but if everyone feels empowered, valued and engaged it goes a long way.” When it comes to the questions of how are the next 50 years looking, where to from here and what impact will electric or hydrogen driven motors in passenger vehicles around the world have on oil companies and the likes of Alemlube, Mark – responsible for Sales and Marketing – has the following to say: Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine April 2020
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PRODUCT R&D
DANA TRU-COOL OIL COOLERS Exclusive to Adrad With a heritage dating back to 1903 and manufacturing operations across the globe, Dana is one of the most respected names in the global automotive industry for both original equipment and aftermarket products. Adrad reports it is pleased to announce it has secured the exclusive Australian distribution rights of Dana’s Tru-Cool range of engine and transmission oil coolers. The company explains these aftermarket oil coolers are ideal for a variety of applications including trucks, vans, passenger vehicles and SUVs which are used for carrying heavy loads or towing duties. The packaging for these coolers features the manufacturing name “Long” (owned by Dana), which was a Detroit-based parts manufacturer supplying America’s pioneer auto industry. Over many years, Long’s reputation for quality engineering has reportedly seen the business grow to become a world-leading manufacturer of oil coolers with production exceeding 20 million units annually.
The preferred choice Adrad says the Tru-Cool oil coolers have been the preferred choice of US vehicle manufacturers and repairers, car enthusiasts and motorsport teams for decades.
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Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine April 2020
The standard transmission cooler in many vehicles is not designed to cope with extra demand, so prolonged driving with a higher temperature load on the transmission can lead to overheating which will increase wear and could lead to expensive repairs. This is the reason why many vehicle manufacturers
will recommend fitting an auxiliary transmission oil cooler when adding a tow bar and typically will include one in their optional accessory “towing pack.” Dana Tru-Cool high quality coolers are available in a selection of sizes and styles to suit all manner of vehicles and include “Tru-Cool LPD”
PRODUCT R&D
(Low Pressure Drop) and “Tru-Cool MAX” high performance variants. All products in the range have installation kits featuring hoses, mounting hardware and fittings either already included or available separately. With high strength brazed construction in either a stacked plate or fin and plate arrangement, Adrad says Tru-Cool LPD products deliver 30 percent more cooling and 15 times less flow restriction than that provided by a traditional tube and fin design unit. When it comes to vehicles that require superior cooling performance, Adrad says customers should opt for Dana’s Tru-Cool MAX unit. These units feature the same high strength brazed aluminium construction but offer double the cooling of the Tru-Cool LPD design. The provided installation kit includes multiple fitting sizes and even a bypass to protect against cold start damage in severe winter conditions. The bypass will start to open at 82°C (180°F) and is fully open at 96°C (205°F).
Follow the rules Adrad explains that there are some essential rules to follow when selecting an oil cooler. As mentioned earlier, a larger size is not always going to provide better cooling. Adrad advises you to take note of the hose diameter that supplies your existing oil cooler, stating this hose diameter is often larger for diesel engines as their high torque can place more load on the transmission.
The hose fittings on your auxiliary oil cooler should not be smaller than the standard line diameter as this will restrict oil flow. No matter which oil cooler is chosen, it needs to be correctly fitted and a good installation location is important to get the best cooling performance. When installing an auxiliary oil cooler into a vehicle, it needs to be exposed to ram air in order for effective cooling to be delivered. If a location with good air flow is not available, this can be overcome by adding an electric cooling fan to the oil cooler. Adrad says you should avoid disconnecting the existing oil cooler in the radiator tank unless the vehicle manufacturer recommends it. It states that leaving this in place will not only allow the cooler to continue functioning, but also assist in pre-heating the transmission after start-up to help it reach operating temperature quickly.
that will protect engines and transmissions against overheating and premature wear. At the same time, the range is also protected, with a 12 month warranty provided and supported by Adrad’s extensive nationwide network. Dana Tru-Cool oil coolers are available from Natrad specialist workshops, Adrad Radiator Experts and independent repairers across Australia. For details of your nearest stockist, please contact Adrad on 1800 882 043 or enquire at customerservice@adrad.com.au
Mounting the oil cooler in front of the radiator is an acceptable location and has the advantage of allowing the radiator fan to boost air flow at slow driving speeds. While it is true that heat released by the oil cooler will partly reduce the effectiveness of the radiator, it is also true that some of the heat load to the in-tank oil cooler is being removed, so overall the engine temperature should not increase by a significant amount.
Protected Adrad explains that all Tru-Cool oil coolers are designed to deliver dependable auxiliary cooling
Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine Publisher, Cameron McLachlan, takes a look at the products driving the automotive aftermarket. cameron@aaaa.com.au Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine April 2020
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SHOP ONLINE WITH TERRAIN TAMER The brand has ramped up its online services recently Terrain Tamer has ramped up its online presence in an effort to meet the dramatic uplift in demand from online shoppers in the wake of recent national quarantine and lockdown laws. As well as having introduced an innovative parts catalogue for trade customers, the 4WD parts brand also launched its retail eStore in late 2019, giving customers an online platform from which to easily search and purchase from an extensive catalogue of more than 40,000 different parts.
STAYING ON TOP OF TOP-UP Castrol wants you to make sure your customers are never letting the oil light come on While it’s hardly breaking news for mechanics or manufacturers, it’s a wellknown fact that many modern vehicles have an appetite for oil. Although different cars consume oil at different rates, one thing is certain: running at a low oil level can leave engines inadequately lubricated, seriously reducing the life of both the oil and engine. With everyday drivers increasingly disconnected from what goes on under their bonnets, the use of a dipstick is almost a foreign concept which means that many drivers may be unwittingly compromising the longevity of their vehicles without intervention from their mechanic. Recognising the increasingly important role that 1L packs play in addressing this challenge, Castrol has dramatically expanded its 1L top-up portfolio to cover more viscosities, more industry approvals, and more OEM specifications than ever before. Amongst recent introductions is 1L Castrol EDGE 5W-30 LL which carries ACEA C3 and VW 504 00/ 507 00 Approval. This product serves as the perfect top-up offer for a wide-range of European vehicles including Audi, Skoda, and VW models. Castrol is also the Official Partner of VW Motorsport globally, giving drivers confidence that the product will deliver true engine performance in their own vehicles. With an expansive 1L range now available from Castrol, it says the opportunity to educate customers on the importance of the top-up, whilst providing a product with the correct OEM Approvals has never been easier. It encourages workshops to make sure their customers are protecting their engines and checking their oil, never letting the oil light come on. Castrol says its full 1L range is available from all good lubricant retailers, or directly from Castrol. To find out more, speak to your local Castrol rep, call Castrol on 1300 554 890, or visit www.castrol.com.au
NEW 4.5T HITCHES Mister Hitches has released its new 4.5T Hitches for the “Yankee Big Rigs” Orders are fulfilled by whichever of Terrain Tamer’s 30 locations around Australia is closest to the customer, who can also nominate to either collect the order or have it delivered to them. In many states, the number of delivery drivers has doubled recently to meet the demand from both professional and home mechanics, now that many are working from home. “We are in a strong position to continue to supply in full and on time for the foreseeable future,” Terrain Tamer General Manager, Brent Hutchinson, said. “Our stock holdings are high, our supply chain has no current interruptions and we are committed to operating as efficiently as possible for as long as our governments, freight companies and the health of our teams allow.” For more information or to search for parts, visit www.terraintamer.com and click the ‘EStore’ link. 32
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Mister Hitches has introduced three new models to suit 63.5mm (2.5”) square Tow Bar receivers found on some imported rigs coming out of America, such as the Dodge Ram, Chev Silverado, GMC Sierra and Ford F-Series. Mister Hitches says it has been common practice to fit a 2.5” to 2” reducing sleeve but there have been rumours that some inspectors are not passing this modification. All of Mister Hitches’ new 63.5mm (2.5”) square shank models are fully reversible so as to use in a drop or rise application. All models can also be used with either a 50mm 3.5t or 70mm 4.5t ball. A tow ball reducing bush is supplied with the Raptor kit but sold separately also. The popular Raptor series of hitches now includes a 4.5t G.T.W. 20 stage adjustable reversible hitch with a 63.5mm square shank (Part No. MHABM45-S25). The Mister Hitches ION Forged range has two models with 63.5mm (2.5”) square shanks – the MHFBM252 ION Forged ball mount with a 2” drop and MHFBM254 with a 4” drop. Enquiries can be sent to Intertrade at info@intertradeholdings.com.au or 08 94187044 or visit www.misterhitches.com.au for additional information.
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DON’T LEAVE YOUR CUSTOMERS STRANDED THIS WINTER Proactive battery testing can help identify suspect batteries before they fail As the days get shorter and temperatures start to decline, like us, a battery goes through changes that can affect the starting performance of a vehicle. These cold conditions increase friction around the engine components, and an increase in oil viscosity creates higher demands on the engine that requires additional cranking power to start the vehicle. To add more stress to the situation, a fully charged battery at 25oC has approximately 100 percent of its power to crank the engine. At 0oC the battery’s ability to deliver the same amount of power is reduced by around 35 percent. The combination of the vehicle’s operating conditions, an increase in engine tolerances and a decrease in available CCA (Cold Cranking Amps) is a big factor behind an increase in battery failures leading into the colder months. Century Yuasa says research has proven the correlation between the more batteries you test the more you sell and states this is particularly pertinent when it is considered that approximately
750,000 battery sales are lost each year to road clubs as a result of people waiting until their batteries fail before replacing them. More than 70 percent of these vehicles would have been in a service bay or retail outlet within the last six months – and the owners could have potentially benefited from receiving a free battery test. Century Yuasa notes this is particularly interesting when we consider that approximately one in every twenty batteries identified with a ‘chance of failure’ leads to a battery sale. It says proactive battery testing using a hand held tester like the DHC BT521A from Century Yuasa provides an accurate on the spot test result in minutes. It can help identify suspect batteries before they fail and highlight problems with the vehicle’s starting and charging system.
sales, but it’ll also help maintain your reputation of offering good customer service and further cementing your business in the local community.
But more importantly, it helps your customers avoid the financial and emotional costs associated with a flat or faulty battery.
Contact your Century Yuasa representative on 1300 362 287 or visit www.centurybatteries.com.au for more information on the extensive range of battery testing and diagnostic equipment.
Not only will this translate into increased battery
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THE IMPORTANCE OF QUALITY UPGRADED 4WD SUSPENSION Supashock is re-launching its range of Australian designed and made SupaTouring 4x4 suspension kits Adelaide-based Supashock says standard suspension systems are designed to be the compromise between cost, reliability and comfort.
than the tow vehicle and in the case of trailer sway, wind gusts, tyre blowout or other unforeseen circumstances, this can be catastrophic.
To use your car outside of the generic dayto-day activities, Supashock says it is highly recommended you upgrade the vehicle to suit your unique application, stating its SupaTouring range is tailored to those who use their vehicles outside of the city bounds.
Supashock says installing a SupaTouring suspension kit on your 4WD gives you the confidence that Supashock’s tuned heavy duty dampers will perform in a controlled and predictable manner, increasing tyre grip on all wheels in all scenarios.
Vehicles fitted with aftermarket accessories and/ or loaded with camping gear or work equipment are heavier and change the factory weight distributions. This often exceeds the capabilities of the OE or poor-quality aftermarket suspension components and can result in compromised steering ability, extended braking distance and unpredictable handling in the event of an emergency.
It says SupaTouring dampers also have multiple patented and unique features to ensure the most stable platform possible for all scenarios – whether your vehicle is packed for the next family holiday, or you are touring Australia with the van.
Whilst towing, the dynamics of a vehicle are totally changed due to the rearward weight bias. Often the trailer or caravan can also be heavier
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In all SupaTouring 4x4 dampers, you will find Supashock’s patented Pneumatic Ride Control and Shell Reservoir System. These unique features are used in Supashock’s proven dampers for defence vehicles. Supashock says these features combined with quality materials, defence grade seals,
specialised bushes and high strength design make a damper that’s ready to battle Australia’s harshest conditions. It states SupaTouring kits also offer a softer spring rate for improved ride quality while the Pneumatic Ride Control compensates for the softer spring rate, without compromising performance, safety, body control or load capacity. Supashock dampers are also fully re-buildable and are covered by a three-year or 80,000km warranty. To find out more about Supashock’s SupaTouring range, visit www.supashock.com/4x4
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DSG AND DCT: EXEDY EXPLAINS What is a direct-shift gearbox (DSG) or dual-clutch transmission (DCT)? Exedy says DSG transmissions, also known as twin-clutch transmissions, offer the best of automatic and manual transmissions; stating they are rapidly increasing in popularity and are available in a wide range of passenger and sports vehicles. A direct-shift gearbox/DSG or dual-clutch transmission/DCT, as its name suggests, utilises two separate clutches in place of a singular item to transmit torque further along the vehicle’s driveline. It is essentially two clutches and two gearboxes in one car. While the concept of a dual-clutch transmission dates back to the early 1900s, it wasn’t until the 1980s that significant advancements in electronic management allowed working examples and racing applications to be produced. The first clutch is responsible for controlling gears one, three and five and the second clutch looks after gears two, four and six as well as reverse. This mechanism provides smooth shifting, similar to an automatic transmission, but with the efficiency of a manual transmission. The TCM (Transmission Control Module) determines which gear is selected.
Which cars use DSG transmissions? Dual-clutch transmissions are becoming increasingly popular, and are available in a wide range of passenger and sports vehicles from carmakers such as VW, Audi, Ford, Renault, Kia and Hyundai. DSGs can be found in anything from small compact passenger cars and motorcycles to hyper cars like the Bugatti Veyron and even larger commercial applications. What’s more, a large number of today’s vehicles are selling this concept as a new high-tech feature.
Do DSG transmissions have a clutch pedal similar to a traditional stick shift manual? Dual-clutch transmissions are fully automated as opposed to manual transmissions, so there is no clutch pedal. The main difference between these and conventional automatic transmissions is that the two clutches are used in place of a torque convertor. Unlike traditional transmissions, which use singular first motion shafts, a DCT has two concentrically arranged input shafts. These inner and outer input shafts are used to control drive to either odd or even gear sets (for example first, third, fifth or second, fourth and sixth gears).
What about the driving experience? When driving, one gearset is engaged and delivering torque through the driveline, while the next gear ratio on the alternate set is preselected and ready for use. This preselection of ratios reduces the time required to engage the next gear and in turn, improves efficiency in the driving experience.
What other benefits do DSG Transmissions offer? DSG transmissions are quicker to shift because the powertrain never gets disconnected from
the transmission in contrast with manual or automatic transmissions. This process allows for faster gear changes and as a result, drivers experience improved acceleration. Compared to most traditional automatic or manual transmissions, Exedy says DSG transmissions offer better fuel economy since they don’t employ a torque convertor.
What about the installation process? When installing DSG clutch kits, Exedy explains it is essential to use the right tools, which are specific and expensive due to their superior quality and comprehensive features. Exedy explains that it offers the free use of the toolset when you purchase a DSG clutch from Exedy. When fitting a DSG clutch, another important consideration is the dual-mass flywheel. Exedy’s recommendation is to always replace the dual-mass flywheel at the time the DSG clutch is replaced. The dual-mass flywheel fitting may vary from vehicle to vehicle, so Exedy suggests you consider the engine code and its torque output, as well as the number of teeth on the rim gear. Exedy offers replacement clutch kits and flywheels for the most common Direct Shift Gearboxes (DSG) and specialised tool boxes for clutch replacement are available for loan with DSG clutch kits purchases (subject to availability; terms and conditions apply). For more information, please visit www.exedy.com.au
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FIRESTONE’S BOLSTERED 4X4 RANGE Bringing new dependable options Firestone says it is set to make a resurgence in the off-road segment of the market with the recent launch of the Destination M/T2 ‘maximum traction’ and the Firestone Transforce A/T2 allterrain tyres. The two additions will provide even more choice for Australian off-road enthusiasts by offering new, dependable and value for money options in the 4x4 market, and complementing the existing line of Destination A/T tyres. According to Bridgestone Australia’s Sales Director, Heath Barclay, the expansion of Firestone’s range helps to complete the overall off-road line up. “The launch of the Destination MT/2 and
Transforce AT/2 are important in the expansion of the Firestone brand in Australia. These new products allow us to cater to even more makes and models of 4x4s, and complement the Bridgestone Dueler range with new choices and sizes,” Heath said. The first of the new products, the Destination M/ T2, has been introduced as a rugged and durable ‘maximum traction’ product, engineered to stand up in low grip situations thanks to its aggressive tread design and sturdy construction. M/T2’s tread features mud and stone rejection technology to ensure debris doesn’t stay lodged in the tyre and helps achieve its maximum usable life, while the additional biting edges deliver traction in slick and wet environments. With a hardwearing compound, Destination M/ T2 goes the distance without compromising on performance and grip, while the three-ply sidewall construction and upper sidewall lugs provide excellent resistance to chips, tears and penetration. With an initial line up covering seven sizes from 15-18 inches, the Firestone Destination M/T2 delivers strong results in all performance
characteristics, including dry and wet handling, off road performance, wear life, as well as on‑road comfort and noise levels. Meanwhile, the introduction of the Transforce A/ T2 strengthens Firestone’s existing all-terrain line up. With an initial offering of seven sizes, all in light-truck construction, the Transforce A/T2 sees new sizes offered in the Firestone range. Transforce AT/2 utilises a cut and chip resistant compound that delivers durability both on and off the road, while its tread design provides a long-wear life and consistent performance in all conditions. With an aggressive shoulder for off road capability, and deep grooves for water evacuation, Firestone says Transforce AT2 provides safe, dependable handling for both on and off road conditions. The full range of Firestone products can be viewed at www.bridgestonetyres.com.au/firestone
NEW DESIGN = MORE FUN Bilstein has released its new Bilstein EVO coilover suspension line for “the perfect driving experience” “An irresistible design, even more performance and maximum durability”: With the Bilstein EVO Performance Line, the company explains it is presenting its brand new performance coilover suspension generation in 2020. Three completely newly developed threaded suspension systems will complement the existing Bilstein range: Bilstein EVO S, EVO SE and EVO R. During the development of the Bilstein EVO Performance Line, Bilstein says its engineers and designers focused in particular on uncompromising performance, maximum durability and exceptional visual appearance. The new performance coilover suspensions have a trendy matt grey colour and look quite different than other coilover suspensions. But Bilstein says despite all its beauty, at the end of the day, the suspension must perform on the road or on the racetrack and it says it does just that. With the further developed internal fixation of the one-piece spring plate, Bilstein says it was not only able to achieve a maximum lowering of up to 70mm and further weight savings, but also even 40
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better handling. An extremely resilient construction in combination with a newly developed coating also reportedly guarantees maximum durability. Since tuning fans, track day drivers and racing drivers have different demands, Bilstein also tunes all EVO Performance coilover suspensions in the Bilstein driving test to the different general conditions and requirements and as a result, it says the three new, perfectly tuned performance coilovers for every application leave nothing to be desired: • EVO S: Bilstein’s street performance suspension lets you look good, but also lies deep, well-set and agile on the road. In addition, it ensures greater safety at the limits, higher cornering speeds and stable traction. • EVO SE: Your vehicle has a factory-installed adaptive suspension and you want to keep these features? No problem. The Bilstein EVO SE street performance suspension connects 1:1 to the electronic control system of your vehicle and can be installed using the plugand-play process. Just like the EVO S, the EVO
SE also allows for higher cornering speeds and stable traction. • EVO R: Bilstein’s race performance suspension is just right for the tough use on the race track/ With Bilstein’s 10x10 Pro-Click-Adjustment you can adjust the bump and rebound stages separately and thus have a damper setup with 100 adjustment possibilities. You can adjust your setup with two aluminium adjustment wheels and 10 perceptible clicks when it is installed without having to jack up the vehicle. Bilstein says its EVO R suspension stands for highest cornering speeds, brute traction and best grip. All tuning kits introduced from 2020 onwards will appear in the new EVO Performance Line. For more information, visit www.bilstein.com.au
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PAT ICON SERIES RANGE GROWS The full range is now available via a network of specialised resellers and leading automotive groups Premier Auto Trade has expanded the ICON Series range of aftermarket products to now offer more than 1,600 parts across its Fuel, Ignition, Emission and Sensors categories. In the Sensors category PAT has introduced several new lines including more than 100 Wheel Speed Sensors (WSS) and almost 50 Crank Angle Sensors (CAS), along with many new Power Steering Switches (PSS), all of which feature OE form, fit and function. The electric and mechanical fuel pump range also continues to grow and includes a range of Universal in-tank and external fuel pump kits. Fuel pumps and modules in the ICON Series are direct fit replacement kits and come with replacement fuel strainers to ensure the correct fitting of the pump into the fuel tank or swirl pot, making installation easy while ensuring correct pump operation. The PAT Fuel category now also includes over 50 fuel injectors (INJ). The new ICON Series Hose Clamp range offers
a variety of clamp types and materials including Perforated, Fuel Hose, Nut and Bolt, CV Boot, Solid Band, Spring Loaded, T-Bolt, P Type, Ear Type, Quick release, Multi-purpose and Universal Band – just to name a few. The ICON Series Hose range now includes Intank Submersible Hose (ITS) along with Fuel and Emission Hose, Fuel Injection Hose, Transmission Cooler Hose, Power Brake Vacuum Hose, and Power Steering Hose. ICON Series Hose is available in a range of sizes conveniently packaged in five metre pull-packs, with a colour coded product identification system for ease of identification, storage, and dispensing. ICON Series Hose is also meter marked, making accurate measurement and cutting at the point of sale, or in the workshop, fast and easy. The ICON Series Ignition category now features over 300 Ignition Coils and Ignition Modules, while the Emission category has also been further developed with over 20 new Air Mass Meters (AFM) now offered in the range.
The ICON Series is an extensive offering representing Premier Auto Trade’s heritage in quality automotive products and is covered by a two-year 40,000km warranty. All products in the range are now listed in the OSCAR electronic aftermarket parts catalogue system from AutoInfo, including reference images for easy identification. The full range of Premier Auto Trade ICON Series products are now available in the aftermarket via a network of specialised resellers and leading automotive groups. For more information, visit www.premierautotrade.com.au
SGF COMES TO BURSON AUTO PARTS Quality SGF power transmission products are now part of the Burson Auto Parts range Burson Auto Parts, a preferred supplier of parts, tools and equipment to the Australian automotive trade, has added “German engineering precision and total quality” to its power transmission product range with SGF. Burson Auto Parts now offers a complete range of German manufactured SGF original flex couplings for European, Australian, American, and Asian vehicle makes and models. SGF is a specialist in automotive power transmission products, manufactured from several state of the art engineering and manufacturing facilities located in Germany and around the world. Australia’s Burson Auto Parts says it constantly seeks to provide its valued trade customers with premium quality automotive components. It says SGF’s decades of experience and unmatched quality make this range a clear stand out when it comes to flexible couplings. A flexible coupling is used to transmit rotational torque whilst compensating for axial, radial and angular misalignment in the drivetrain. In a road car, they are typically located between the transmission output shaft and the driveshaft. They can also be located between the driveshaft
and the differential on some makes and models. SGF flex couplings from Burson Auto Parts are engineered to handle the operating and torque peaks of the engine in conjunction with cancelling the various vibration and harmonic frequencies generated by the drivetrain. Each coupling is designed and tuned to perform this task based on the vehicle model and powertrain configuration, so it is vitally important to be aware that a coupling can differ for each make and model of a vehicle. Burson Auto Parts says SGF’s product advantage is based on its expertise in this field, along with its exclusive Tenpu fibre technology. This technology combines unique cord inlays and rubber material that operate under tension load. Unlike common rubber couplings that work with shear load or pressure load on the rubber, the tension load principle ensures the cord inlays transmit most of the load, providing a better tolerance to shock loads and a higher power density ratio. This results in the ability to transmit higher torque with a smaller coupling. Burson Auto Parts says that by selecting its premium quality SGF power transmission
products, automotive experts are fitting the same products that have been selected as Original Equipment for many RWD and AWD vehicles around the world. Ford, General Motors, Chrysler, BMW, Mercedes Benz and Hyundai all reportedly use SGF flex drive couplings. Burson Auto Parts says Australian workshops and mechanics need to beware of the dangers when using lower quality flexible couplings, stating they do not offer the same NVH cancelling properties as the original. This results in vibration and noise issues along with the fact that in many cases, lower quality couplings cannot handle the vehicle torque and RPM. It states this has the potential to cause serious and expensive engine damage. To find out more, contact your local Burson Auto Parts store by calling 1300 BURSON (287 766). Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine April 2020
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BOLT-IN COOLER KITS Australian made and tested for our conditions Dual Wholesale Automatic Transmissions, a manufacturing and servicing Cooler company based in Bayswater in Victoria, has been designing and building vehicle specific, automatic transmission, direct bolt-in oil cooler kits for several years now. The company explains that each of its kits are Australian Made and tested to our country’s harsh climate and road conditions, which can be especially challenging when towing and travelling on corrugated or rough outback roads. Each kit comes complete with step by step fitting instructions, all of the required mounting hardware, the heavy-duty one-piece E-coated cooler mount, extra-large oil cooler and quality cooler hose pre-enclosed into a protective flexible conduit. “Each kit is built to be a direct bolt-in, with easy to read instructions. All you need are the tools and time,” Wholesale Automatic Transmissions Director, Rodney Hudson-Davies, said. “These kits are in high demand and very easy to on sell. They are the perfect upgrade for tradie utes and touring four-wheel-drives. “These kits are also available to all trade customers on discount and are a great money earner when installation is included. “With years of experience, we have learnt the value of one-piece E-coated mounts that are extremely resistant to corrosion. “We learnt you cannot use stainless steel or multi piece mounting brackets as stainless steel in conjunction with aluminium in a vehicle can cause corrosion to the aluminium cooler when in contact with rain and so on. At the same time, multi piece mounts put far too much load on the cooler core that could eventually cause the cooler to crack. “So, in short, one-piece E-coated cooler mounts are the very best we can offer.” Kits are available to suit the following models: • Ford Ranger 3.2L and Raptor 2L (Dual Cooler) – six and 10 speed • Ford Everest 3.2L and 2L (Dual Cooler) – six and 10 speed • Mazda BT50 3.2L (Dual Cooler) – six speed • Holden RG Colorado – six speed • Holden Colorado 7 including Trailblazer – six speed • Isuzu Dmax 3L – five and six speed • Isuzu MUX 3L – five and six speed • VW Amarok – eight speed (comes with fulltime flow valve kit) • Mitsubishi MN Triton – four and five speed • Toyota Prado 120 Series – four and five speed • Toyota Prado 150 Series – five and six speed • Toyota Land Cruiser 200 Series – five and six speed (Dual Cooler) • Toyota Hilux 3L Diesel and V6 Petrol – four and five speed • Toyota Hilux 2.8L – six speed • Toyota Fortuna 2.8L – six speed • Toyota FJ Cruiser – five speed • Toyota Tundra – six speed For all enquiries, please contact Wholesale Automatic Transmissions via www.askorto.com.au or Driveline Auto Parts at www.drivelineap.com.au Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine April 2020
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OPENPAY EXPANDS ITS AUTOMOTIVE OFFERING The buy now, pay later provider has announced an exclusive partnership with Pentana Solutions With a significant proportion of car owners reported to be under-servicing their vehicles, a new arrangement with one of Australia’s largest dealership networks is helping motorists cover the cost of services and avoid the risk of further damage to their vehicles. Car servicing and repairs are one of those tasks that many Australians dread due to the impact this may have on their bank account. On average Australians can expect to pay anywhere between $185 and $2,225 for a service, depending on the make and model of their car[1]. Whilst, 29 percent of Australians have automotive tasks on their to do list[2]. Australians can now use buy now, pay later (BNPL) provider Openpay to cover the unexpected and expensive automotive costs that come with owning a car. Openpay has also now announced an exclusive partnership with Pentana Solutions, which manages a network of more than 1,900 dealerships across Australia. The arrangement will see Openpay offer motorists needing to service
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their vehicles flexible repayments that can be matched with their cash flow. “Often motorists are caught in need of servicing or parts that they did not plan for in their cash flows,” Openpay Chief Executive Officer, Michael Eidel, said. “For that reason, we have seen growing interest in our automotive BNPL plans – people are using Openpay to solve their immediate needs, such as a car service or a set of new tyres, then paying it off over a timeframe that suits their budget. “Pentana Solutions’ dealers service more than 4.2 million vehicles per year, meaning these vehicle owners now have a more flexible way to manage repayments – one that suits their cash flow needs.” Under the agreement, Openpay and Pentana Solutions will work together to offer Openpay to over 1,900 dealerships not currently accessing BNPL services. Prior to the announcement, Openpay had direct agreements with around 1,000 dealer Merchants contributing more than 20,000 plans a year and over $16 million per year in plan value.
“After a competitive tender process, we chose Openpay, being at the forefront in the buy now, pay later space for automotive dealerships. Openpay offers a flexible product delivering higher value plans at attractive terms for our dealers and for dealer customers who are asking for BNPL solutions,” Pentana Solutions Chief Executive Officer, Steve Kloss, said. For more information on Openpay and to view a full list of Openpay automotive merchants, visit www.openpay.com.au 1. Canstar – Car Servicing Costs: What Should You Be Paying? 2. Openpay – Doers Report 2019
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FILPRO AUTOMOTIVE EXPANDS ITS FRAM FILTERS RANGE IN AUSTRALIA Filpro has built momentum around its FRAM Filters range within the aftermarket industry Filpro Automotive says it boasts a portfolio of products covering filtration, workshop consumables, anti-freeze/coolants, performance chemicals, fuel additives and car care. Partnered with market leading brands and world class manufacturers, such as FRAM Filters, Holts, Prestone, Redex and Simoniz; Filpro Automotive says its vision has always been to be the leading supplier of premium aftermarket brands that offer compelling value to customers. Since starting here in Australia, following a longstanding, established business in New Zealand, Filpro has built momentum around its FRAM Filters range within the aftermarket industry. Months of working towards expanding on its offering has equated to a doubling of its part numbers and some other new instalments too. The FRAM Racing Filter range landed in Australia late last year. Filpro says the racing filters, used extensively throughout NASCAR racing in the United States, offer a premium quality, premium
performance and racing engine filtration product option for racing enthusiasts, high performance vehicle technicians and racing teams. It says the high performance filter range coverage has applications to fit various vehicle makes and models. This includes many classic and current high performance drag and circuit racing engines, and a wide number of performance engine specifications including GM, Ford, Chrysler, Nissan and Honda engines, including GM LS1 and LS6. The first injection of 4WD Filter Kits, with 23 part numbers, covers common 4WD applications and has seen stock being rolled out to re-sellers early this year. The 4WD Filter Kit range will see the introduction of more part numbers in the coming months. The solution for complete servicing requirements, Filpro says the 4WD Filter Kits contain oil filter, air filter, fuel filter, and cabin air filter where required. An online catalogue of FRAM Filters, powered by
AutoInfo, is available at www.framfilters.com.au The online catalogue gives search options via vehicle or by part number. Vehicle specific search results show available part numbers across each filtration segment, whilst searching via part number will give part specifications and applications. The online tool also gives up to date catalogue information for Australia, making it easy to find the right filter fitment for all customers, workshops and re-sellers. Location and contact details for national re-sellers can also be found on the FRAM Filters website. For further information on FRAM Filters, contact Filpro Automotive on 0400 878 837, email arossiter@filpro.com.au or visit www.framfilters.com.au
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ZF AT YOUR SERVICE IN AUSTRALIA The company has seen significant growth in recent years ZF Services Australia says it continues to support Australian businesses with a wide portfolio of cutting-edge products across a wide range of applications. Globally, ZF says its diverse product line up is embracing new technology, with the company investing more than six percent of its sales in research and development each year. It says these efforts see continual advancement in chassis and driveline products for passenger vehicles, commercial vehicles and motorcycles. Other non-automotive product ranges include construction machinery, marine, agricultural machinery, wind power, rail, cranes, material handling and specialist industrial applications.
Within Australia, all these different products are supported by a nationwide network of experts, with ZF’s Australian headquarters being a recently opened 7,207square metre facility in Blacktown (NSW) which for the first-time houses all operations under the one roof. A smaller service facility is also located in Perth, while Melbourne and Brisbane are home to decentralised support teams which are backed up by strategically located service partners across the region. The company’s range of automotive aftermarket offerings in Australia is extensive, with components available for driveline, chassis, steering and braking from its primary brands ZF, LEMFÖRDER, SACHS and TRW. For Australian clients, the ZF website (www. zf.com/au) contains a wealth of information on the company’s product and service offering as well as an incredible array of specialised information on all products, while 24/7 technical support is available toll free from the ZF Service Desk via 1300 ZF TECH (1300 93 8324). It is also simple to stay abreast of the latest happenings from ZF in the Oceania Region, with the Up2Date Newsletter. Another service provided by ZF in Australia is a full workshop offering, which provides the
marketplace with remanufactured components in a variety of formats for different client needs. Featuring factory trained technicians, the local facilities utilise special diagnostic and test equipment and ZF genuine parts, supported by a ZF remanufacture warranty, while exchange units are available on many popular lines to minimise down times. Another important portion of the ZF product offering is a full line up of lubricants, designed especially for the demands faced by ZF produced transmissions and axles. ZF also offers a customised training service to customers, major fleet operators, industry associations, as well as its service partner network. The courses are designed to enhance the understanding of the various products and systems now available, expanding the technical knowledge of participants. For more information, visit zf.com/au
NEW FROM GEARWRENCH Gearwrench has rolled out a new line of 90-tooth rachets Gearwrench says it is new line of 90-tooth rachets bolster one of its signature product categories and is available now. Unveiled at the SEMA Show this past November, Gearwrench says the 90-tooth ratchet line is stronger and provides better access, all while being more comfortable in the hands of professional mechanics who turn them countless times a day. The new 90-tooth ratchet line from Gearwrench offers improved strength, speed and access for professional mechanics. “Our growing industrial design team has had a massive impact on our products in recent years, and the 90-tooth ratchet line is a great example of that,” Gearwrench Product Manager, Steven Tokouzis, said. “The goal is to always be improving – to never settle for good enough. “So, we went and made these ratchets sleeker, 50
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with more teeth and greater comfort than ever before, improving them in every way possible.” With 90 teeth, the new line of ratchets provides a four-degree swing arc for greater access in tight spaces. The precision-engineered, high-strength pawl gives increased durability, helping the ratchets exceed ASME torque performance requirements. For those who prefer a chrome handle, the full polish versions are easy to clean and ergonomic to be easier on the hands. For those who prefer it, the solvent-resistant cushion grip is comfortable but tough enough to handle shop life.
Available now are 12 individual standard and Flex Head ratchets to go with six sets. Six are full polished chrome and six will feature the cushion grip, and all except the 3/8-inch stubby flex head ratchet are available in ¼-inch, 3/8-inch and ½-inch drives. Gearwrench is a premier hand tool brand from Apex Tool Group. Since the launch of the original five-degree ratcheting wrench, the Gearwrench brand has reportedly led the industry with breakthroughs in pass-thru ratchets, sockets, screw/nut drivers, pliers, and specialty tools. For more information, visit www.gearwrench.com.au
PRODUCTS
TWO ICONIC ITALIANS JOIN FORCES Corghi plays integral role in P Zero World success The first Pirelli ‘P Zero World’ store was recently launched in the Southern Hemisphere. A retail and brand experience that is uniquely Pirelli, the concept stores are said to offer top level products and services for drivers who expect the very best. “There are only five P Zero World destinations globally,” P Zero World Australia Manager, Ari Kypuros, said. ”They’re located in Dubai, Los Angeles, Munich, Monaco and of course now in Melbourne. It’s Pirelli’s global reference point for the brand.” Born out of the successful and well respected Mag Wheel and Tyre business, Ari, his brother John and father Costa are excited about entering the next phase in their journey. “Our customer philosophy is simple and proven. We aim to provide the best possible service and educate our customers so they leave here knowing more about tyres, and how they affect vehicle performance,” Ari said. The team joined forces with Corghi ensuring that P Zero World customers’ precious vehicles are serviced using only the best tyre machinery.
“We worked closely with the team at Corghi on the workshop layout and equipment selection which includes their Uniformity Diagnostic Tyre Changer, Eyelight diagnostic balancer and the Master Artiglio tyre changer,” Ari said. The Corghi diagnostic equipment allows the team to match the wheels and tyres to reduce total runout delivering a smoother ride. “The Corghi Uniformity Diagnostic Tyre Changer is the hero machine in our workshop,” Ari said. “It has the capability to diagnose an imperfection on both wheels and tyres, featuring a large roller that simulates the force of the actual road on that wheel, to work out the most optimal position for that tyre to negate vibrations.” The Corghi Eyelight diagnostic balancer features a Touchscreen monitor, contactless size detection and an automatic wheel clamping system to quickly complete wheel diagnosis and deliver drift problem solutions. “The Eyelight is fast, accurate, reliable and easyto-use,” Ari said.
“And the Master Artiglio tyre changer is our high volume machine. It’s super quick, 90 seconds on 90 seconds off, demounting and refitting the tyre and it’s leverless design means that there is no metal to metal contact, so there’s no chance of scratching a rim.” P Zero World Australia is said to be truly unique and setting a new benchmark for Tyre Service Centres, not only in Australia, but globally. “The Corghi machines, in particularly the diagnostic balancer, help us rectify a lot of problems we wouldn’t have identified in the past,” Costa said. “I’ll tell any other tyre service owner who is willing to listen to invest in Corghi equipment. The quality of their machinery is bar none, and the accuracy that these machines provide you is exceptional.” For more information, visit www.corghi.com.au or call 1800 267 444.
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PROTECT YOURSELF AND YOUR CUSTOMERS Kill bacteria with Cyclo Australia’s Ozium Air Sanitiser Cyclo Australia says that with the responsibility of workers’ health resting heavily on the shoulders of business owners today, there are a lot of precautions that can be taken to improve the safety of workshops. In the past, Cyclo Australia says all we were concerned about was keeping the seat covered from dirty overalls. Now the world is very different and it is the micro germs and bacteria that has changed the way we perform everyday tasks like driving a customer’s car. Cyclo Australia suggests the use of the following tools:
Number one : Air Sanitiser Ozium was clinically formulated to kill bacteria and malodours with its ultra-fine mist small enough to capture airborne particles, trapping and neutralising them. Ozium also works on surfaces, hard and soft. The secret to Ozium is the Glycol-ised formula. Originally developed for hospitals, it has made a very easy transition to automotive and has reportedly been the number one spray product in the USA for over 50 years.
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For a thorough clean, remove the vehicle’s cabin filter and spray in the ducting with Ozium, before replacing with a new cabin filter. This will eliminate the malodours that cause smells and also give your customers the peace of mind of knowing the cabin filter was replaced.
Number two: Rubber gloves A good pair of disposable gloves will stop the direct contact of your skin to the customer’s vehicle. If gloves are not available, wiping down the steering wheel, gear selector and seat belt with disinfectant will also prevent any germs transferring to yourself through direct contact.
New sizes, scents to come Cyclo Australia says Ozium has come a long way in its career with new sizes, new scents and more to come. New 0.8oz blister pack cans are now available in Original, Vanilla, New Car, Outdoor Essence, Country Fresh and Citrus. It says these cans are great for carrying on your person. The Ozium 3.5oz can comes in Original, Vanilla,
New Car, Outdoor Essence and Country Fresh. This size is great for truck drivers, vehicle owners or small workshops. The Ozium large 8oz can is best for the workshop, car dealers and commercial applications. This size is currently only available in the original Scent, but will soon be available in Vanilla around the second half of the year and Carbon Black will also be joining the range early in the second half of the year. Ozium gels are also currently available in two fragrances – Original and Outdoor Essence. Also available are new mirror hangers. All of these products are available from Repco and Burson Auto parts. For more information, please contact Cyclo Australia 03 9702 4314 or sales@cycloaustralia.com or visit www.cyloaustralia.com.au
PRODUCTS
REDARC RELEASES NEW THIRD GEN MANAGER30 “The complete battery management system” REDARC Electronics has released the nextgeneration of its popular battery management system, the Manager30 (product code: BMS1230S3). REDARC has also introduced a variant of the Manager30 which is supplied with the RedVision display (product code: BMS1230S3-R). This provides connectivity of the Manager30 to the RedVision Smartphone app, allowing real-time monitoring of the battery state of charge. This is the third generation of REDARC’s Manager30 battery management system with the original released in 2014, and the previous generation in October 2015. Whichever you choose, this 30amp charger is the complete battery management system. Whether you are free camping or on a powered site, REDARC says Manager30 knows how to take charge and keep auxiliary batteries fully charged. The main enhancements in this next-generation Manager30 are all designed to improve the installation process, software functionality and broaden the mounting options to better service the install locations. REDARC says the Manager30 maintains all its features which have seen it set the benchmark
in battery charging and monitoring. It operates like six products in one: it powers an auxiliary battery from your vehicle while on the move, it is a 240-volt charger, a solar regulator, a dual-battery isolator, load disconnect controller and remote battery monitor. Compatible with all common automotive batteries including Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePO4), Lead Acid, Calcium and Gel, The Manager30 represents a complete battery charging and maintenance solution for recreational, 4WD, automotive and marine use. Its advanced DC-DC charging algorithm enables optimal charging of these batteries even if they have a different chemical characteristic from the vehicle battery. It has been developed with ease of installation in mind and is compatible with all vehicles and alternator systems. “Industry and customer feedback plays a key role in our product development process. We are proud when we can announce a development which demonstrates our commitment to continuous product improvement, innovation and customer service,” REDARC Electronics Managing Director, Anthony Kittel, said. “The next generation Manager30 not only features updates which will improve performance
and improve installation flexibility, it now gives customers a choice of how they can monitor their battery usage with the option of using the RedVision display which can also connect to a SmartPhone app to allow remote monitoring.” Whether using the standard display or RedVision display, you will be able to view real-time information on your battery condition, where charge is coming from, how much power is remaining and where it is being used. The easy to operate, user-friendly graphical displays show what is always going on. Like all REDARC products, the Manager30 range comes with nationwide support including a twoyear “hassle free” warranty, technical support and after-sales services to answer any questions which may arise. For more information, visit www.redarc.com.au/manager
NEW FROM LED AUTOLAMPS LED Autolamps has introduced its 235 Series sequential rear indicators LED Autolamps says you can now add a classy look to your caravan, vehicle or trailer that is generally reserved for high-end European vehicles, thanks to the introduction of its 235 Series sequential rear indicators. The new indicators boast specially designed integrated circuitry and are dynamically lit with the latest in LED lighting technology. LED Autolamps has kept the overall look of the latest 235 Series sequential in line with its same size and style recessed lamp range. It says this provides a seamless integration into any new or existing vehicle or trailer lighting designs already using the 235 Series lamps. These lamps also feature a super low profile with a compact size of 237mm x 25mm x 3mm as well as recessed mounting, providing great flexibility when fitting to small tight spaces; while Australian road compliance with ECE approval by using enhanced lens optics coupled with high powered SMD LEDs deliver an incredibly bright light output. As well as exceeding the required standards, LED Autolamps says they will not only make you stand
out from the rest but also ensure your vehicle/ trailer is road legal and compliant in all states of Australia. Included as standard are 10 high brightness SMD LEDs that power through a Fresnel style lens Sequencing in a 1.2-second interval, ensuring clear direction indication. The low operational current draw as well as its single 12 voltage makes them perfect for a wide variety of applications and battery system requirements. Hardened acrylic plastics, known for strength durability and UV resistance, make up the bulk of the lamp. A specially designed resin that is resistant to cracking seals the integrated circuitry against water and dust ingress to strict IP67 testing standards. Further, LED Autolamps says vibration and impact resistance with no moving parts ensures this product is made fit for purpose and up to any challenge in Australia’s harshest road environments. LED Autolamps offers its new sequential indicator range in a clear or coloured lens option for your choice in design applications.
They are also available in a twin retail hang blister pack with a handy function simulator button included, giving your customer a sample of the dynamic sequential indication as well as incredible light output which LED Autolamps says is an excellent sales feature, perfect for the aftermarket parts resellers. LED Autolamps explains it takes full control in the design, development and manufacture in producing the lamps so it can confidently offer a five-year warranty which it states is testament to LED Autolamps’ commitment to providing its customers with the best possible quality at the best price. For more information, visit www.ledautolamps.com Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine April 2020
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ANBI SWITCH DRIVES WORKSHOP PROFITS The switch eliminates the drainage of stored power For workshops looking to increase customer spend at the counter, Digital Pulse Systems says its ANBI Switch is a great impulse buy which is helping many workshops drive profitability. Designed and manufactured in Australia to international automotive specifications and standards, the ANBI negative battery isolator switch eliminates the drainage of stored power by isolating the battery from power-hungry components like clocks, and general energy leakage.
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“The ANBI Switch is suitable for a broad range of applications including automotive, marine, caravans, motorcycles, agricultural and industrial equipment,” Digital Pulse Systems Designer and General Manager and inventor of the ANBI Switch, Theo Brown, said. “Installation is quick and easy and can be completed in less than 15 minutes.” Digital Pulse Systems says the ANBI Switch provides automotive workshops, tyre dealers and automotive electricians with an additional source of revenue that will improve profitability and increase customer satisfaction and the numbers add up. “Many workshops set a conservative target to sell six Multi-Purpose ANBI Switches per week,” Theo said. “Based on that they stand to increase nett profit by $5,148 annually (six x 52 = 312 sales per annum. 312 sales x $16.50 unit price = $5,148 net profit annually). “The ANBI Switch is a great addition to any workshop and keeping the ANBI Switch in stock
and recommending it to customers who have vehicles sitting idle for extended periods, is a fantastic way to increase the profitability of your business.” To find out more about how stocking and recommending the ANBI Switch could increase the profitability of your business, visit www.anbiswitch.com.au or call 1800 290 812 for trade enquiries.
PRODUCTS
XTREME CLUTCH EXPANDS SERVICE KIT RANGE The Xtreme Clutch range has proven popular around the world The street performance and motorsport division of Australian Clutch Services, Xtreme Clutch, has continued to expand its range of service kits for their popular 184mm, 200mm and 230mm multi-plate range of products. These service kits are designed as a cost-effective solution to allow existing customers to service or repair their clutches to as new condition when required. The Xtreme Clutch range of multi-plate Motorsport and performance street applications have proven popular around the world and are currently utilised by some of the top drift and time attack competitors from Australia, Europe, the United States and New Zealand. The lightweight kits utilise an aluminium pressure plate and 4140 chromoly flywheel to retain excellent throttle response whilst also offering a major increase in torque and heat capacity. These kits have proven durable in high horsepower applications and with the service kits readily available, ensure a long-term solution for owners of these high-powered vehicles around the world.
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“Our multi-plate range of clutch kits are often selected by drivers looking for a clutch that can handle excellent torque capacity and driver feel whilst still offering great durability for these types of applications,” Xtreme Clutch Mechanical Engineer, Stewart Furze, said. “Motorsport and very high-power street use will always result in accelerated wear rates. Our kits have been designed carefully to try and maximise service life for these applications. “We have had some drivers using our 230mm twin ceramic upgrades in very high horsepower drift cars for multiple seasons between servicing.
upgrade to a ceramic version for motorsport use without having to purchase a whole new clutch kit,” Stewart said.
“By offering service kits as part of our multi-plate range, we are able to offer even further value to our customers from around the world.”
“We can often offer these customers a twin disc ceramic service kit to convert their clutch over as long as the clutch assembly is still within the serviceable tolerances and the flywheel has been re-surfaced.”
The service kits can also be used to upgrade clutch kits for vehicles that have progressively developed with more power or switch from street use to dedicated motorsport applications. “For example, a customer who was already running a 230mm twin plate organic clutch can
For more information on the Xtreme Clutch range of multi-plate service kits, please visit the online catalogue at www.xtremeclutch.com.au or call 1800 CLUTCH.
GARAGE EQUIPMENT
STORE IT
Milwaukee Tool offers a wide array of storage solutions for garages and workshops all over the country Milwaukee Tool says it is ready to help improve the storage capability of your work space with its wide range of high quality and innovative storage solutions that deliver on the versatility and ‘Nothing But Heavy Duty’ promise demanded by users.
PACKOUT RANGE Milwaukee Tool’s PACKOUT Modular Storage System utilises an intuitive and quick attachment mechanism to give users the freedom to stack and lock PACKOUT tool boxes, organisers, totes, bags, coolers and crates in numerous configurations that best suit their needs. Milwaukee Tool says its PACKOUT Modular Storage System has 19 different pieces for users to choose from to build out their custom storage solution; making PACKOUT the most versatile and durable modular storage system in the industry.
Tool Boxes The base of the PACKOUT Modular Storage System is the PACKOUT Rolling Tool Box. Nineinch all-terrain wheels allow the Rolling Tool Box to easily roll over a variety of rough surfaces, and a metal through-axle secures the wheels providing a stronger connection and longer life in jobsite conditions. An industrial-grade extension handle is designed to support box loads up to 113kg, and its wide handle produces a more comfortable grip during transportation. In addition, metal reinforced corners provide ultimate durability. Users can also choose to utilise the PACKOUT Large Tool Box or PACKOUT Tool Box to securely stack and transport on top of the PACKOUT Rolling Tool Box. Each features an internal organisation tray for hand tools and accessories. All Tool Boxes in the PACKOUT System are constructed with impact resistant polymer, metal reinforced corners and feature IP65 rated seals to prevent damage from water and jobsite debris.
Organisers The PACKOUT Organiser and PACKOUT Compact Organiser are designed to securely stack and transport on top of any PACKOUT tool boxes. Each includes small and large removable bins that can be mounted on common jobsite materials by utilising integrated screw slots. A No-Travel Bin seal around the perimeter of each bin prevents small items from migrating from one bin to the other and each utilises impact resistant polymers and is IP65 rated to prevent damage from water and jobsite debris. Also available in a low profile design. 62
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Totes Unique to the Milwaukee PACKOUT modular storage system is the integration of soft storage totes designed to attach to the top of any PACKOUT storage box or organiser. This allows users to not only attach a storage tote to the top of their PACKOUT system for transport, but also gives the flexibility to attach an organiser to the bottom of a tote for quick tasks that only require a few hand tools and small fasteners. Available in 254mm (10”), 381mm (15”) or 508mm (20”) sizes, the new soft-sided totes can fit a wide variety of tools – from accessories and wrenches, to impact drivers and die grinders. Each is constructed of 1680D ballistic material and an impact resistant moulded base, protecting contents from water and abrasion.
Tech Bag Constructed of 1680D Ballistic Material, the PACKOUT Tech Bag provides a convenient and protected location for users to store their mobile devices, as well as other tools and equipment. Its impact-resistant moulded base protects contents from water and abrasion and acts as a stable base when the bag is unattached to the other PACKOUT components. Optimised to provide storage capacity for a wide array of items, the bag features 58 pockets including a protected interior tech storage pocket and a dedicated Hardshell protected instrument pocket. Its padded shoulder strap provides ultimate comfort for users when transported separately from the PACKOUT System.
Backpack Like the Tech Bag, the PACKOUT Backpack is built with 1680D Ballistic Material and an impact-resistant base which easily locks into the
PACKOUT System. The heavy duty back pack is equipped with 48 pockets, including a hardshell pocket designed for sensitive equipment, providing optimised storage capacity.
Cooler Sized to accommodate ice, frozen water bottles, and/or cooling packs, the PACKOUT Cooler features a leak-proof food grade liner and dual layer insulation to ensure the cooler holds ice for up to 24 hours. Like the tech bag, the cooler is constructed with all-metal hardware and an impact-resistant base that easily locks into place on the PACKOUT System. The heavy duty cooler features 4 storage pockets allowing users to carry food, beverages and personal items to the job site each day.
GARAGE EQUIPMENT Crate Constructed of impact resistant polymer and equipped with a 22kg weight capacity, the PACKOUT Crate offers maximum durability and easily connects to all Milwaukee PACKOUT Modular Storage System products. With rear hanging points for vertical use and top attachments for stacking full-width PACKOUT components, the crate provides users with multiple mounting options.
Dolly Constructed with impact resistant polymer and a 113kg weight capacity, the PACKOUT Dolly provides users with a convenient way to transport their tools and equipment throughout the jobsite. Its smooth roll wheels allow the Dolly to easily roll with a heavy load, while a QUICKSTOP Loading Lever enables users to hold the dolly in place when loading and unloading.
Mounting Plate The PACKOUT Mounting Plate provides users the ability to stabilise and secure their PACKOUT Storage in the shop or in a vehicle. Like the Dolly, the PACKOUT Mounting Plate is constructed with impact resistant polymer and has metal reinforced mounting and tie-down points that allow it to support and secure 45kg of weight on the floor and 22kg on the wall.
STEEL STORAGE RANGE In addition to its PACKOUT range, Milwaukee Tool also offers a range of high-capacity steel storage options.
Steel Storage High Capacity Combo The Steel Storage High Capacity Combination is the next generation of Milwaukee Tool’s high capacity steel tool storage and boasts 18 gauge steel construction, and a 6 gauge angle iron base. It is available in a 56” or 46” model. It has a four-outlet/two USB power strip mounted inside the chest and one on the side of the cabinet, allowing users to keep all power tools powered up even while the unit is locked. Cord hooks are included to wrap the power cords for
storage. Both models have soft-close ball bearing slides for smooth drawer operation (rated to 68kg for the 56” model and to 45kg for the 46” model), paper towel holder and two large J-hooks can be mounted on either side of the chest – high or low – to suit your preference. The cabinet has two full-width drawers in cabinet for storage of longer items. Top and bottom include pre-cut, premium PVC solid drawer liners and a thick top mat to keep your tools in place. The chest also has a Privacy Drawer with separate lock in chest for personal items.
40” Mobile Work Bench Steel Top Milwaukee Tool says the 40” Mobile Steel Top Work Bench is the most durable and best equipped steel storage solution in its class. Featuring a reinforced angle iron frame, 45kg soft close drawer slides, and five inch industrial casters, the Milwaukee steel storage cabinet has a built-in power centre consisting of four power outlets and two USB outlets.
The six-drawer steel top work bench is designed with a variety of innovative features such as a side shelf, cable hooks and built in organiser. It also features a steel work surface to maximise your space, productivity and also assist with ease of cleaning. Also available in wood top.
61” Mobile Work Station Featuring a reinforced angle iron frame, 45kg soft close drawer slides and 127mm (6”) industrial casters, the Milwaukee Mobile Work Station has a weight capacity of 998kg and is designed with a variety of innovative features such as built in power centers, a 558mm multiposition metal peg wall and a 25mm (1”) thick reversible hardwood top to provide maximum versatility and productivity. For more information on Milwaukee Tool’s storage solutions, visit www.milwaukeetool.com.au/storage/packout or www.milwaukeetool.com.au/storage/steel-storage
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THE TOOLS YOU NEED Having the right tool for the job can make any task easier Unique Auto Parts – which stocks a speciality line of tools designed for European vehicles – encourages you to save yourself time, effort and frustration by ensuring you are using the tool specifically designed for the task at hand. Before the company began supplying quality parts for Mercedes Benz, BMW, Mini, Audi, Volkswagen, Seat, Skoda, Peugeot, Renault, Citroen, Porsche, Volvo, Alfa Romeo, Fiat and Range Rover, Unique Auto Parts was a workshop.
GARAGE READY Aeroflow Performance has a range of garage tools and equipment Aeroflow manufactures a wide variety of performance products and says it has a great range of specialty motorsport tools and garage equipment, including the below listed products. Vice jaws in aluminium or nylon protect your fittings and other fragile jobs that you don’t want marked by your vice; while aluminium shifters in different sizes are great for assembling fittings and other nuts and bolts that you don’t want to mark. The tube straightening tool helps straighten and uncoil hard line, whether stainless steel or aluminium; and Aeroflow’s coil over adjuster tool helps you easily change the height of your coil over shocks to adjust your car’s ride height.
This has given the UAP team a unique understanding of what mechanics need and how important using the correct tools really is. If you are after a tool to help you with a general service then Unique Auto Parts has you covered with oil filter removal tools, alternator pulley removal tools and spark plug sockets. If you are in need of something a bit more specific, there is a wide variety of timing tools ranging from camshaft locking, adjustment and alignment tools, timing tool kits, crankshaft pulley holders and guide pin pullers that are currently available. Also in stock are tools for all your suspension and engine needs including, but not limited to, spring compressor tools, ball joint socket and remover tools, rear axel bush and socket tools, injector nozzle pullers, fan wrenches and more. There are also several other useful tools available such as airbag removal tools, dashboard tool kits, automatic transmission dipsticks and drive multi-spline bit socket sets. In addition, Unique Auto Parts has a wide range of top quality parts to suit all your needs including filters, brake components, steering and suspension, electrical components, cooling components, gaskets and seals, oils and lubricants and much more. With five fully stocked branches around Australia and a premium delivery service, Unique Auto Parts says it makes ordering and receiving parts simple and stress free. To be connected to your nearest store, call 1300 864 864 or visit www.uniqueautoparts.com.au 64
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If you’re an engine builder, Aeroflow says its oil pump primer tool is a must to help you get oil pressure and it also manufactures an assortment of engine cradles to help you store and transport your engine, available for Chevys, LS engines, Fords and Holdens. If you have a project or a race car, Aeroflow says its quick lift vehicle jacks are a must; lifting the wheels off the ground with a couple of pumps. And with one under all four wheels, the jacks provide the ability to maneuver the vehicle around the garage. If you are working on an engine or just collecting them in the corner, an Aeroflow engine stand is for you. With three styles to choose from there is one for all types of engines from little four cylinders to blown big blocks. To get the engine in and out of your car, Aeroflow has a heavy-duty two tonne engine crane which folds up for neat storage and is powder coated black. Aeroflow also has Metric and Imperial thread identification kits which are very handy for matching up fittings in the workshop or garage and feature a male and female thread so you can ensure ordering the correct fittings for your plumbing requirements. The Aeroflow cutting shears are great for cutting all styles of Aeroflow hose including braided and rubber. Aeroflow says they are a must if you are plumbing your car and give you that nice clean cut. Further, Aeroflow says its Brake Flaring tool is the fastest way to get a professional single or double flare, every time. This easy to use flare tool comes with six assorted metric and imperial dies, including the popular 3/16” brake line which requires a double flare to meet ADR standards. This flaring tool produces convex and double flares to SAE and DIN standards in seconds while the smooth die does not mark the tubing. It also comes with an easy carry case. Aeroflow also offers the Push Rod Length Checking Tool which it says makes it easy and cost-effective to lay out and establish the proper pushrod length during an engine rebuild – the correct pushrod length is critical in achieving proper valve train geometry. There are also many more Aeroflow specialty tools for your garage and workshop, so Aeroflow distributor Rocket Industries encourages you to get your hands on the latest Aeroflow catalogue to check out the full range. Rocket Industries is Australia’s largest distributor of Aeroflow performance products with a “massive” inventory in stock ready to ship. You can check out the full range or grab a 600 page Rocket catalogue online at www.rocketind.com or call one of the friendly staff on 02 88251900. You can also get your free Aeroflow catalogue and view the full range of products at www.aeroflowperformance.com
GARAGE EQUIPMENT
HOW OLD IS TOO OLD? HDR Workshop Solutions explains the factors which decide when you should replace your vehicle hoist David Duncan of HDR Workshop Solutions says he is often asked by clients about the life span of hoists, how old is too old and when should they be replaced. He explains that there really is no hard and fast answer to the question, but states there are lots of factors to consider when answering. Just some of the factors to consider are: 1. The number of cycles the hoist has completed (a cycle is one raise and one lower movement). For example, dealership hoist will do approximately six cycles each day which equates to 1560 cycles each year; 2. The maintenance history of the hoist; 3. The type of loads the hoist has been lifting (lifting heavy vehicles wears parts on hoists faster than lifting lighter vehicles); 4. The wear history of the same brand and model of the hoist across the industry (to discover any brand centric problems); and 5. The condition of the hoist and the demand which will be placed upon the hoist in the future. David says some influencers in the industry are stating that once a hoist is 25 years old that it is automatically “no longer safe” and needs to be replaced. “Not surprisingly these are the same people who manufacture vehicle hoists and really want you to buy a new one, so forgive my cynicism,” David said. “It is impossible for me to believe that at 24 years + 364 days old your hoist is safe to operate and yet the next day it is no longer safe to use and must be replaced, crazy right?
“On the flip side of that, would you let your son or daughter work under an unsafe vehicle hoist and the answer quite rightly is no, so somewhere there needs to be a balance in the conversation. “I guess the real question to ask is: how old is too old for any piece of machinery?” David says there are many views on this. “You could argue that if you maintained your favourite EH Holden sedan to factory specs, that you could continue to drive it forever without issue and that is a viable and real argument,” David said. “However, if I then asked if you would entrust the EH to one of your employees to operate every day to use to drive 100km to and from work and do deliveries to your customers, then you might answer the original question differently.
low kilometre vehicles will return you the best value for money and suffer less downtime than older equipment, because, as equipment wears, it requires more maintenance to keep it running and on the road – vehicle hoists are no different in this respect.
“It comes down to use, operating conditions, demand and maintenance.”
“We recommend to our high use dealership clients that they view all of their hoists as a 10-15 year investment.
The goal with any equipment purchase for a business is to get a high return on investment as quickly as possible so that you can return a profit from the equipment in your business.
“That’s five years to pay the hoist off and five to 10 years to enjoy the benefits of the equipment; and then replace them before the ongoing costs of maintaining the hoist start to ramp up.
“The average vehicle hoist will cost you around $7,000 plus GST delivered and installed; and if you lease it over four years the average payment will be less than $10/weekday,” David said.
“As a business we currently service more than 1,300 hoists each year and we have found that as hoists age we are faced with issues of lowered factory support and marginal parts supply and this inevitably means longer downtime when something fails on aging hoists.
“While a vehicle hoist is a large initial investment the cost is not huge when you break it down like this. You should be able to recover your hoist cost each day before smoko in every bay that you have one fitted. “If you run a fleet of vehicles, the late model
“We have hoists on our books that we carry out annual inspections on that are more than 30 years old and they are still performing well due to the efforts of their conscientious owners, who follow a solid maintenance regime. But remember the statement: “they don’t make ‘em like they used too! “This is true in our society for everything that we purchase, so be aware that a large percentage of the hoists available today will be unlikely to make the 20 year+ mark let alone the 30 year mark due to lower standards of manufacturing and quality. “If you want to get the best possible return on investment, then pay close attention to your daily, weekly and monthly checks inhouse, maintain and service your equipment in accordance with the manufacturers guidelines and the Australian Standards and engage a reputable service company to help you develop a maintenance and where required a replacement plan.” If you have questions or would like more information, contact the team at HDR Workshop Solutions via info@hdrworks.com.au Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine April 2020
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TRADE TALK
FROM ONE HORSEPOWER TO OVER ONE HUNDRED After starting his career racing thoroughbreds, Wayne Bryant now heads up one of the biggest automotive parts suppliers in the country Wayne Bryant was always into horsepower, just a different kind. “My dream was to be a professional jockey and I enjoyed considerable success in this field as a teenager. I was one of the first jockeys in Australia to finish my secondary education whilst also completing my jockey apprenticeship. My father really instilled in me the value of having a solid education. But life doesn’t always go to plan,” the now Executive General Manager for Repco Australia explains. “As I matured and started to ‘fill out’, it became apparent that my dream was not sustainable. In my fourth year as an apprentice jockey, I couldn’t maintain my weight. “It was at that point I realised I needed to change course. My education and job experience paid off. Being an apprentice jockey for four years taught me how to communicate professionally with a vast range of stakeholders and it taught me the discipline you need to be successful.” Wayne was born in Warrick, Queensland and completed his schooling at Toowoomba on the Darling Downs. He started working for Repco in 1989. “I knew I wanted to be with a company where I could go as far as I could in life, and it was obvious I had to make some big decisions,” he says. His Repco opportunity came about as a result of knowing Allan Shelley, who was the Queensland State Manager at the time. “Allan was a family friend and he was kind enough to arrange an interview for me. I was unsuccessful in the first application in Warwick but with a second attempt, I landed the job as a delivery driver in Toowoomba,” he said. “I quickly realised I was starting out with a hugely
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successful company with enormous scope for people who were prepared to pivot and stand out from the crowd.” Wayne admits that while he liked cars, he was never a “tinkerer” and that the automotive industry was not where he expected to take his career. “I must admit that when I started out, I didn’t know a lot about the automotive aftermarket industry. What I did recognise quickly was that Repco was the sort of company that provided career scope and professional development opportunities,” Wayne explains. “I knew this was the sort of career that was going to be good for me when I had a family and my simple philosophy was to grab an opportunity like that with both hands when it was presented to me.” While his start with Repco as a delivery driver in Toowoomba came when he was still an apprentice jockey, once he decided to make the automotive industry his career, he decided to do whatever it took to get to the top. “I was determined to do whatever it took to succeed. I got my head around the automotive industry and vowed to myself to be mobile and flexible so I could take advantage of new opportunities as they arose,” he reflects. “I relocated whenever an opportunity presented itself. I moved to country towns and took on all sorts of roles within the network. Amongst a variety of roles, I was a Sales Representative and Store Manager before moving into Regional and State Sales Management. I had a dream to be the State Manager of the state I grew up in.” Wayne believes he owes a lot to Allan Shelley and is grateful for the guidance and advice he instilled into him as a youngster. “Allan Shelley was an outstanding mentor and
Wayne Bryant friend for me as I worked my way through the ranks. It was Allan who helped me understand that if I wanted to go further in the company, then I probably had to be prepared to move interstate. My wife and I packed our bags on a regular basis as I pursued my dream to go as far as I could in the company,” he says. “I moved to Melbourne in 2002 and to Perth at the end of the same year when I was fortunate enough to be promoted to be the WA/SA State Manager. Two years later, I returned to Victoria and then moved to Repco’s main headquarters in Melbourne.” Wayne says that experience in Sales and Operational roles in most states of Australia helped him prepare for a bigger role in the organisation. “I took hold of the opportunities that presented themselves and these exposed me to different leaders – it was these aspects that really accelerated my career at Repco to where I am today,” he says. “A big moment for me was in 2005 when I was offered a variety of options for my career. I know I made the right decision for sure. “I received a phone call from the General Manager
TRADE TALK
of Repco who laid out the options for me. I was offered the opportunity to take on the New South Wales, Victoria or Queensland State Management role all on the same day and I needed to decide which way I wanted to go. I felt the best option from a long term career path viewpoint was to take the Victorian opportunity.” Wayne’s guidance to any youngster trying to break into the automotive industry today is to always listen to good advice. “I’m happy to share my own experiences and learnings with young people on their way up in the industry,” he says. “There are boundless opportunities for people who are passionate. They need to have a strong work ethic and be customer focused. I can’t emphasise that last point enough – be incredibly focused on your customers and importantly, continue to invest in your own personal and professional development. “Be prepared to step outside of your comfort zone and make sure you make it a priority to develop relationships with strong mentors. Don’t be afraid to move around – it is important to expose yourself to as many opportunities as possible. I found that changing locations enabled me to be more flexible, adaptable and more resilient. Every move brings different challenges and learnings, but stick with it, even if it gets hard sometimes, you won’t regret it. “Having a positive, can-do attitude is vital. With the right attitude and the right energy, you can always be coached, developed and learn new
skills. Be passionate, work hard on building strong relationships, find common ground with people and develop an ability to relate to people in all walks of life. “I really encourage young people to be passionate about what they do. It’s also important to be compassionate and understanding, and at the same time be prepared to make tough decisions when needed.” Wayne still follows horse racing and has a small interest in “a horse or two.” He also likes to play golf and enjoys being out in the garden and most importantly, he loves spending time with his family. “I attribute my success to my beautiful wife of 25 years, Sandy. We have two daughters, Paige (19), who is at university, and Jemmah, who is in year eight. I wouldn’t have achieved the success I have today if it wasn’t for the love and support from my family,” Wayne says.
Repco at the front of the pack Repco has always been a leading provider of automotive parts, tools, equipment and consumables. Wayne says the company has expanded its offering with a variety of value-added services which now includes access to Repco’s market leading B2B digital solutions: Navigator Pro, Smart Quote, Autopedia and Smart Inspector. “These systems are integrated with the vast majority of workshop management software systems and enable our customers to run their businesses more efficiently – importantly, the solutions help them
better serve their customers than ever before. These systems make doing business with Repco easy,” he explains. He says Repco has stood the test of time. “I firmly believe that Repco has a successful track record of working alongside our sister company, NAPA Auto Parts, across Australia and New Zealand – this will enable us to provide our customers with the best possible solutions. “We have identified our customer markets across the group to enable us to provide genuine customer service by always putting our customer at the forefront of everything we do. “Repco’s competitive advantage is in our ability to understand our customers and what’s most important to them. We have a very clear and compelling customer value proposition and we know we are best placed to serve them by providing the right product and right solutions, at the right time. We have an unrivalled national footprint that allows us to be closer to our customers than anybody else. “I am fortunate to be surrounded by a highly passionate and dedicated team who provide genuine service to our store teams and customers every single day. They really are ‘salt of the earth people’ with incredible knowledge, capability and most importantly, they are terrific leaders.” Like all businesses in the world right now, Repco is facing unprecedented challenges in the face of the COVID-19 crisis. Wayne believes that Repco will adapt to a world “that no-one imagined, even just a few weeks ago.” “Repco has weathered wars, the depression, the GFC and recessions. While we are all learning and adapting, we are fortunate to be part of a successful organisation in Genuine Parts Company and we will work through this with our customers, our supportive suppliers and our team members, to ensure we remain in good shape. Repco is very well placed to come through it stronger,” he explains. “Aside from the immediate COVID-19 challenge, our industry will continue to evolve with technology playing a bigger role in every aspect of our business.” For more information about Repco, visit www.repco.com.au Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine April 2020
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MEMBER FEATURE
TAKING THE ROAD LESS TRAVELLED AEI left starter motors behind to drive new ideas and pioneer lighting, safety and electrical systems for the automotive, mining, OEM, transport and construction industry worldwide
Norman Haupt, the Managing Director for Auto Electrical Imports (AEI – pictured right), began his career as an auto electrician at the end of an era when American muscle cars were at their prime. He took this experience and founded AEI in late 1987, supplying rotating parts and accessories to the auto electrical trade in Queensland. As the industry changed and shifted towards price competition for starter motors, alternators and other components, the AEI leadership team decided to take the road less travelled. The company recognised the potential for a niche market in lighting, safety and electrical systems. It says it focused on sourcing and supplying the highest quality products; supported by exceptional levels of customer service and technical expertise.
a company that employs close to 50 people with a combined 250 years of industry experience.
Encouraging innovation and quality service Today, AEI specialises in designing and building innovative products and systems, customised to meet its clients’ needs.
There were few companies in the 1990s investing in product solutions that put safety first. AEI was in a unique position to build success by designing to customers’ specifications.
The company can deliver a comprehensive range of heavy-duty and made-to-order products and systems explicitly tailored to the demands of the market.
In 2011 AEI launched the IONNIC brand which today is globally recognised as a leader in electrical, safety and lighting solutions.
Norman attributes AEI’s success to keeping people, and product innovation, top of mind.
The company expanded into diverse market segments with the support of in-house programmers and engineers and the ability to create, test and prove products before manufacturing. This approach has taken AEI from a team of two to
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and mutual respect is part of our culture. “Additionally, most of our team comes from a technical background or have worked in the industry for many years. “What this means for our customers, is that when you call AEI, you can speak to a staff member who may have designed a piece of equipment, and they will know how to solve problems for you. “High employee turnover can destroy a customer’s confidence in any company. When your staff arrive early to work, you know you’re doing something right.
“We treat our people well; we value different approaches and skillsets.
“Having loyal staff means that we retain some of the best technical minds in the industry. Because of the expertise, culture and longevity of our team, we can respond faster and get to market sooner with solutions that meet our customers’ needs.
“We have a flat management structure, so our team is comfortable to approach management,
“We can even innovate and improve on original designs from direct market feedback. The bottom
“There’s a link between service quality and staff retention,” he said.
MEMBER FEATURE
line is our people work to get the best outcomes for our customers.” AEI says it has inhouse experts in designing and manufacturing systems, from conception to production, that are easy to understand, simple to use and which improve operational efficiency. Simple solutions such as its latest ICS switch panel showcase the company’s technical expertise and ability to make complex products, simple. With reduced capacity for switch provisions in vehicles, the compact ICS switch allows for eight aftermarket products such as light bars or beacons, to run – each with independent onboard current protection. The switch panel also features three master switches that can program multiple accessories to run at the press of a button. This is the type of smart system that can get the job done quicker, says AEI.
With products built for industries where safety is paramount, AEI now designs and supplies products for emergency services vehicles around the globe. Norman says AEI will always focus on bringing new products and systems to market that suit its customers’ unique requirements. “If you work in a niche market, you can’t afford to be lazy. You always have to be looking for the next product and importantly, system solutions that meet your customers’ needs today, and tomorrow.”
Built tough to save time and money AEI says it understands that its customers’ needs evolve and as such, it is always looking for new ways to help develop innovative products and customised electrical systems. In responding to shifting market needs and technological developments, AEI explains
that it partners with many of the industry’s most recognised and highly regarded global manufacturers to continually bring innovative products and technologies to market. AEI’s flagship brand, IONNIC, encompasses safety and emergency LED lighting products, Australian built minebars, switches, control systems and wiring accessories. A major contender in the automotive electrical market in Australia and South East Asia, AEI also represents several of the world’s leading lighting, safety and electrical equipment manufacturers, including: • Nordic Lights: a world leader in heavy-duty LED, HID and halogen work lamps. Nordic is a line fit supplier to many of the leading mining equipment manufacturers. • Brigade: safety products including the patented bbs-tek white sound reverse alarms, CCTV systems and digital video recorders. • Deutsch: world leaders in wiring harness connectors for harsh environments in the mining and construction industries. • Schlemmer: wiring harness protection components including conduit and sealed fittings for use on both above and underground equipment. • Class 1: CAN - J1939 compliant vehicle control equipment. In house service technicians can custom design a vehicle control system with LCD engine instrument display, wiring schematics and fault diagnostic capabilities that will improve reliability and reduce maintenance and service costs. To learn more about how AEI can help you build innovative systems and to learn more about its easy to use and fast to install products, please visit www.ionnic.com Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine April 2020
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FUTURE AUTO INNOVATIONS
THE NEW ‘FUEL STOP’ Electric vehicle charging – the mad, bad and brilliant Sometimes it’s not such a bad thing to be left behind. While Australia lags in the race to lowemission transport, the rapid acceleration of electric vehicles into mainstream use in overseas markets means we’ve got a crystal ball into what the future of EV charging could look like. In this article, Miles O’Connell from EVUp takes a peek beyond the veil to explore the ideas and innovations that could help change the way we travel.
A glimpse into the future A friendly box-shaped robot is summoned via smartphone app and trundles across a car park to plug itself into an electric vehicle as the driver wanders off. When the vehicle battery has reached 80 percent state of charge, the robot rolls itself back to a charging bay, where it too gets topped up on mains power, ready for the next EV customer. This is a glimpse into the future of electric vehicle charging according to Volkswagen, who released a conceptual video of their Mobiler Laderoboter – or Mobile Charging Robot – late last year. While it could reduce electrical cable runs for charging infrastructure in public car parks, you can’t help but wonder how it’ll cope with potholed surfaces and have the dexterity required to connect a cable without scratching the duco.
EV owners currently charge their vehicles at home As a quick explainer, a typical EV driver will plug their car into their home overnight, in much the same way you’d charge up your phone or laptop. In the morning, with a tank full of electrons, they’ll head off to work where they might have access to a 10 or 15amp power point or an installed charging station throughout the day. Alternatively, they’ll plug in at a shopping centre while getting the groceries or going to the gym. Before a long highway drive, they can use DC charging to completely fill the battery in half an hour or less – just enough time for a coffee and toilet break. While internal combustion engine (ICE) drivers are used to emptying the tank and then finding the cheapest fuel at the nearest petrol station to fill up, EV charging is more often multiple, flexible and short top-ups during the day, wherever the driver happens to be.
AC vs DC charging To take the explainer a step further, AC (alternating current) is the most common type of publicly available electric vehicle charging. Power from the grid is AC, meaning it can be stepped up or down for different applications. 70
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An electric vehicle battery pack is charged using DC (direct current), so cars typically have an onboard converter that transforms AC from the grid to DC. Obviously, this means publicly available DC charging stations charge EVs much faster than AC, but the hardware is more expensive to purchase and install due to power supply requirements.
There’s no such thing as a jerry can full of electrons One of the common barriers to electric vehicle adoption in Australia is what we term ‘range anxiety.’ Put simply, this is the fear that your battery power will run out before you reach your destination and you’ll be stranded. While it’s true that most electric vehicles currently don’t have a comparable range to an ICE vehicle, they’re far more flexible in how they can be ‘refuelled.’ But this is bit of a chicken and egg scenario. Electric vehicle charging networks – like EVUp – are installing AC and DC charging to reduce range anxiety and encourage EV uptake, but we also need more Australians to purchase electric vehicles so charging site owners see a return on investment. In the UK, there are now more charging locations than petrol stations. This is thanks to strong government incentives, requirements for EVready homes and far shorter distances to travel. However, we expect this to also be the case for Australia within the decade.
Perhaps the most exciting thing about the EV sector is that we’re still right at the start of what this technology can deliver. Let’s face it – there’s not too much innovation left in the space of putting petrol into a tank. With electric vehicles, there’s the potential to completely rethink what it means to fill up your vehicle.
Charge as you travel Induction charging is the new technology that keeps threatening to break through, but never quite makes it. A wireless system, induction charging allows EV drivers to park or drive over charging plates embedded in the ground, transferring power
FUTURE AUTO INNOVATIONS
through an air gap. Formula E already uses this tech to charge their safety car and a 1.6km-long road trial in Sweden is looking promising. The benefits are huge; no park and plug downtime, and the near-constant wireless charging means electric car, bus, rideshare and truck batteries can be smaller, reducing weight and cost. However, the loss of power through the transfer process (sometimes up to 20 percent), coupled with the need to retrofit the six million EVs currently on the road worldwide with an underside induction pad PLUS the massive cost of trenching existing road infrastructure to install charging plates may mean inductive charging is leapfrogged by improving battery technology.
Your EV as a mobile storage battery Vehicle to grid, otherwise known as V2G, charging is another exciting charging innovation that’s already on the market in the latest Nissan LEAF. It’s exactly what it sounds like – energy from a charged car battery can be momentarily pushed back into the grid to balance spikes in electricity use. V2G is particularly exciting as we move towards a decarbonised energy grid that comes with the challenges of integrating renewable energy and battery storage to ensure grid stability. That’s the idea behind V2G; if your EV is essentially a mobile battery just driving around,
why not make use of it? While it is still a little way off, all indications from overseas markets are that we’ll soon boil the kettle using our electric vehicle.
The EV sector in the future We will definitely be seeing more electric vehicles and probably, a greater range of charging options that suit a range of locations and applications. If the sector is confusing you or if you’d like to get the low-down on installing EV charging hardware at your business, the EVUp team can help. Future proofing your auto aftermarket business in readiness for the rapidly growing e-mobility market by thinking about EV charging is a great first step to making you attractive to customers and future employees. Current and near-term future charging units aren’t just an appliance on the wall; smart chargers can be managed, monetised and are intelligent enough to track usage data and even connect to an onsite solar system. The EVUp team can also help site owners strategically plan EV charging, starting with one unit and scaling up as demand increases over time, while also managing the energy supply load placed on the building. The big question of course is: what does it cost? Charging units come in a range of sizes and capabilities, which means they can fit smaller budgets as effectively as multi-site big-budget businesses. What’s clear is our electric vehicle charging future is exciting…and Australia will soon catch up. For more information, contact Miles O’Connell on miles@evup.com.au or phone 1300 EVUP 00 Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine April 2020
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IN THE WORKSHOP
MAKING HER MARK
Gabby Clift is one of a new generation of apprentices turning heads in the Australian automotive industry At Highfields Mechanical, Gabby Clift is working hard to make the most of the opportunities presented to her as a Certificate III in Light Automotive apprentice under the watchful eye of business director, Craig Baills. While still in training, her hard work and passion is already paying off – she was announced as Apprentice of the Month in December by MTAQ and has also been nominated for MTAQ’s Apprentice of the Year Award. “From a very young age I have always been intrigued by mechanical operations. My father is a truck driver and from the age of four I would go to work with him, learning basic skills such as holding the torch in the right position and inflating tyres to later fitting trailer tyres, wiring up electric plugs, replacing suspension bushes and servicing wheel bearings,” Gabby explained. “He taught me the basics of a car and taught me how to service cars and trucks. I loved going to work with him and learning about trucks and then in my gap year (2017) I held multiple job positions driving tractors, heavy rigid trucks, front-end loaders and other machinery. Whilst holding these positions, I learnt how some of the systems worked and I knew from that point that I really wanted to be a mechanic. “I am loving my job because I enjoy the physical work as well as fixing problems and I am loving working at Highfields Mechanical. I have been here for a year and I have learnt and accomplished so much in that time. “In my first year, I started a heavy diesel apprenticeship where I didn’t receive the mentoring and knowledge that is required in the
beginning of my trade, which meant that when I moved to work for Craig, I was behind. However, within a few months thanks to the whole team I was getting back on track. “The guys and gals at Highfields Mechanical are fantastic to work with. We have an awesome team where we work together, pass on knowledge and of course, have a good laugh. I am so grateful for each and every one here.” While as a female apprentice in a traditionally male-dominated industry many would assume Gabby has run up against some obstacles, she reports this hasn’t been the case for her. “I haven’t experienced many issues at all. I believe it is because people see my work ethic; I work hard, I give it my all. At the end of the day I am here to do a job the same as everyone else,” she said. “I think the whole ‘women being in a male dominated industry’ argument is old school. We live in a day and age where it shouldn’t matter what gender we are and where we work. The only thing that should matter is that the job, whatever it may be, is done correctly and efficiently. The way I see it, the student is as good as their mentor.” For Craig, apprentices like Gabby play a vital role in his business. “Apprentices are the future of the trade; I see them as my replacements. They will be taking over the keys to a lot of workshops in the future, and with the correct training and mindset, this is beneficial to everyone – the more the business puts in, the more we should get out of them,” explained Craig.
Gabby Clift “Gabby has gelled very well with the business and the team. Her enthusiasm and drive, along with that of the other apprentices, encourages us to make sure they are getting the best exposure to all aspects of the trade. “Having female staff in the business is a great asset in any position of course and having an apprentice tech that is female portrays diversity and opportunity to our customers. At the end of the day though, it was attitude, passion and a drive to work and achieve which were the attributes Gabby was employed on. She fits in as one of the team and pulls her weight day in day out and as we have seen with the MTAQ awards, her work is being recognised outside of our business as well.” Unsurprisingly, Gabby wants to see more young people considering taking up a trade. “I would encourage everyone – male and female – to start a trade if they want to, whether it is mechanical, building, hair dressing, hospitality or whatever – we need more people in the trades,” the 21 year old said. “Teachers and parents are advising their students to go to university which is great but a lot of these students finish their degree and then cannot find work. There is always work in trades and apprenticeships are so rewarding because you are learning on the job as well as getting paid, which is a huge benefit. “All that matters is that you do your job because you love it, and you want to strive to do your best. If a man wants to go into hair dressing or beauty therapy it shouldn’t be questioned just the same as if a female wants to be a mechanic or boiler maker or get into cabinet making – just go for it. Let your personality drive you, not your gender.” For more on Highfields Mechanical, visit www.highfieldsmechanical.com.au
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INSIDE BUSINESS
RFID IN THE AUTOMOTIVE PARTS SUPPLY CHAIN Most automotive parts distributors and suppliers have heard of RFID and may already use it in their warehouses RFID technology is based on Radio Frequencies received by a RFID scanner which communicates via a signal transmitted from the tag/label antenna. This permits a signal to be read from the RFID circuitry, transmitting information encoded in the tag. Some of this information is mandatory, and some information can be user defined relating to the product or business processes. Scanning a large number of items when performing inventory processes like receiving goods, picking items or stocktaking using a standard barcode can be time consuming. Using RFID technology can scan multiple items, making it faster and therefore more efficient than the more common barcode scanning technology. As such, it is especially important for parts suppliers with large inventories and/or regular movement of goods with high value items to consider investing in RFID technology to streamline their supply chain.
Case Study: CFI Australia CFI Australia warehouses a large number of inventory products using RFID labels to manage inventory control. These products are distributed all over Australia, New Zealand and Fiji through a service network. CFI Australia is responsible for monitoring serial numbers for warranty processes, so accurate tracking is essential. CFI Australia’s ISO 9001 facilities and operations serve as a benchmark in automotive parts distribution. Chief Operations Officer Mike Hadathy has reportedly implemented significant changes over several years resulting in continued growth for the company which also provides a 3PL
service consisting of handling small components and pallet break down. Across his varied career, Mike had obtained experience with barcode data capture solutions, labelling applications and ERP systems like SAP. He was also experienced in RFID Technology and assisted in its implementation at CFI Australia, overhauling its inventory management methods by adapting RFID quickly into its existing barcoding system over a six month period. As part of the implementation, CFI Australia has benefited from SATO RFID Printers providing a quick labelling solution with encoding product information using specialised software; ReCapture Software Development; DENSO RFID Scanners; and Fixed Reader options. The existing barcode system had been time consuming when inventory control was needed, with scanning a single 1D barcode and manually counting items creating a ripe environment for human error while having to scan every single serial number for stocktakes or handling orders
could take several hours – for a full stock take of high valued products including serial number records, this could even take a full day. With the new system, inventory control reduced from a full day of counting to a two-hour operation. In addition, inventory control for missing products could hold up processes and create delivery delays. For instance, previously if the warehouse was short of a part number linked to a serial number, trying to find the item was like looking for a needle in a hay stack. However, with the RFID system, missing items can now be identified when placed in the wrong location throughout the warehouse as RFID Technology provides a scanning option when looking for a missing item, similar to using a metal detector. Meanwhile, the DENSO scanner alerts you if the missing item is near, so you can find its location. As a result, the new system has saved CFI Australia not only time, but also costs, labour and shipping time. It has also increased its productivity and stock cycle counts which has benefited its stock management processes with inventory control currently sitting at 99.5 percent. The benefits of this are clear – having accurate inventory means customers can receive products listed in stock and products can be easily identified for picking. To undertake the implementation, CFI Australia worked with Recapture which provides consultative advice on data capture hardware and software, including RFID scanners, RFID label printers, consumables (RFID labels and tags) and accessories. To find out more about how CFI Australia manages their inventory and stocktake procedures with RFID, call CFI Australia on 03 9267 8700 or email info@recapture.com.au Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine April 2020
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CONSUMER LAW
TEMPORARY CHANGES TO ASSIST BUSINESSES DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC Temporary measures have been introduced by the Australian government to assist businesses impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic This article provides a general overview of the Australian government’s temporary changes to statutory demands, bankruptcy and directors liability for trading while insolvent to address the COVID-19 pandemic and is not intended to be comprehensive. If you have any concerns, or if circumstances relating to the issues set out below arise, please contact Industry Legal Group. These changes commenced on 25 March 2020 and at the time of writing this article are to remain in place for six months. Creditors may still take action to recover debt through the courts.
STATUTORY DEMANDS What is a statutory demand? A statutory demand is a document served on a debtor that is a company by a creditor requiring payment of a debt. If the debtor does not pay the outstanding amount or make a Court application to set aside the statutory demand within the required time, then an application can be made to the Court to have the debtor wound-up in insolvency. What are the changes? At the time of writing this article the changes are: 1. the period within which a debtor must pay the debt or make an application to the Court to have the statutory demand set aside is increased from 21 days to six months; and 2. the minimum debt amount to issue a statutory demand has increased to $20,000.
BANKRUPTCY What is Bankruptcy? A person who is unable to pay their debts may be declared, through a legal process, to be bankrupt. A creditor may apply for a bankruptcy notice if an individual, the debtor, has a final judgement against them by a Court to pay a specified amount. If the debtor does not comply with the bankruptcy notice within the required time (or take other steps), the creditor can file a creditor’s petition with the Court, following which a Court may make a sequestration order making the debtor bankrupt. What are the changes? At the time of writing this article the changes are: 1. the period within which a debtor must pay the debt identified in the bankruptcy notice, or otherwise avoid an act of bankruptcy is increased from 21 days to six months; and 74
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2. the minimum debt amount required to apply for a bankruptcy notice has increased to $20,000.
TEMPORARY RELIEF FOR DIRECTORS FROM THE DUTY TO PREVENT INSOLVENT TRADING If a company trades while insolvent the directors of the company are personally liable and under normal circumstances the directors would be required to enter into an insolvency procedure, for example voluntary administration. The government has made temporary changes to this obligation during the COVID-19 pandemic by giving directors temporary relief from personal liability if (1) the company incurred the debt in the ordinary course of the company’s business (2) during the six month period commencing 25 March 2020 (or longer period if so prescribed for this purpose) and (3) before an administrator or liquidator is appointed. Note that if a director is seeking to rely on this temporary measure, the director must be able to prove each of the foregoing points exist, including producing books and records. If seeking to rely on this temporary measure it is very important for directors to consider, and satisfy themselves, whether or not the temporary measure will provide them with adequate protection; if the business is and will remain viable and be in a position to engage in solvent trading once the COVID-19 pandemic and the temporary measure lifts; and what realistic steps the business should take to assist it engage in solvent trading and remain viable (these should be written). Directors also need to continue to comply with their director’s duties (as no relief is granted in respect of director’s duties) and to always act honestly. If the director/s do not think the business can return to solvent trading, other options can be considered, for example external administration. Relevantly: • the relief is only granted in respect of debts incurred in the ordinary course of the company’s business (according to the government’s explanatory memorandum, this could, for example, include debts incurred to facilitate the continuation of business during the six month period, such as a director taking out a loan to move some operations online or to continue paying employees during the COVID-19 pandemic); • the company will still be required to repay any debts the company incurs;
• the measure is only temporary; • the Australian government fact sheet named ‘Temporary relief for financially distressed businesses’ notes that these measures do not apply to ‘egregious cases of dishonesty or fraud’ (for which criminal penalties apply); • the director’s duties, such as the duty to act with care and diligence continue to apply and no relief has been granted in this respect; • it is important for directors to act honestly, consider and satisfy themselves if the business is and will remain viable, consider what realistic steps can be taken to achieve this and return the business to solvent trading (in writing) and take steps that continue to comply with the director’s duties.
TAKEAWAYS The key takeaways are: • temporary changes to time frames and minimum debt amounts are in place for statutory demands and bankruptcy notices; • temporary relief is in place for director’s personal liability while trading insolvent; and • the temporary measures commenced on 25 March 2020 and, at the time of writing this article, continue for a period of six months. If you have any concerns, or if circumstances relating to the issues set out in this article arise, please contact Industry Legal Group. This article is intended for information purposes only and should not be regarded as legal advice. Please contact Industry Legal Group for specific advice.
AAAA Member Benefits Industry Legal Group provides legal advice to members. If you have any questions relating to the above article, please contact Industry Legal Group on 1300 369 703 or aaaa@industrylegalgroup.com.au
HR
THE EMPLOYER’S GUIDE TO COVID-19 Industry Legal Group has prepared guidance for employers dealing with the fallout of the Coronavirus health crisis and subsequent economic impacts The Guide covers hygiene practices, self-isolation and quarantine, alternative work arrangements, entitlements and leave, and other provisions for employers in relation to employees. Following is a quick summary of the kind of information you will find in the guide. To read the guide in full, please visit www.aaaa.com.au
General Health and Safety Workplace health and safety laws require employers to ensure (as far as reasonably practicable) the health and safety of their workers and others in the workplace: • Encourage good hand hygiene by everyone at the workplace (including customers). • Provide access to facilities for good hygiene and encourage workers to practice good hygiene: for example, hand washing and sanitising, covering coughs and sneezes. • Limit contact with others/employ social distancing: four square metres per person for enclosed spaces/gatherings in addition to the general practice of 1.5 metres distance. • Ensure regular, scheduled cleaning of your workplace (especially frequently touched areas). • Use PPE appropriately. • Do what you can to reduce psychological risks.
Self-isolation and quarantine Fourteen days of self-isolation is required when a case of COVID-19 is confirmed, if close contact has occurred with a confirmed case, and following international and interstate travel (see State/ Territory government websites for details on exemptions).
An employer is not required to pay an employee who is subject to an enforceable government direction to self-isolate which prevents the employee from working unless the employee uses paid leave entitlements or is able to work from home.
Alternate work arrangements If possible, consider allowing employees to work from home but ensure safe systems are in place. Working from home may not be suitable or possible for many businesses/workers in this industry. However, consider it where possible for office workers, administration, HR, sales and so on. Note: Employees who work from home should be paid as normal.
Leave entitlements • Annual leave: employers can reach mutual agreement with employees to take annual leave if self-isolating but not sick or working from home. If an agreement cannot be reached, directions to take annual leave must comply with the Fair Work Act and/or Awards. • Personal/Carer’s leave: can be taken when sick or injured or when providing care or support to an immediate family or household member. Employers can use their discretion to allow employees to use sick leave to cover selfisolation even if they are not sick. • Long Service Leave: entitlements vary by State/ Territory. Depending on the jurisdiction, some employees may be eligible to take their LSL accrual. Employers may also be able to direct employees to take their LSL. • Unpaid leave: if an employee has exhausted their paid leave entitlements, an employer may authorise a period of unpaid leave.
Temporary Closures Employers may be able to stand down an employee without pay under the Fair Work Act, if they can’t usefully be employed because of a stoppage of work for any cause which the employer can’t reasonably be held responsible (for example, due to an enforceable government order, a lack of vital supply or a large portion of workforce self-isolating with the result that the remaining workforce cannot be usefully employed). Note: Enterprise agreements and contracts may have different or additional stand down provisions. Check these first. Employers cannot generally stand down employees simply because of a deterioration of business conditions or because an employee has COVID-19.
If an employer unlawfully stands down employees without pay, the employees will likely be able to recover unpaid wages. For more information and examples on when you can and cannot stand down employees, please see the full guide. Employers and employees are encouraged to work together to find appropriate solutions. Other options that an employer may consider instead of a stand down include: • Seeking employees’ agreement to take a period of paid or unpaid leave. • Directing employees to take paid annual leave in accordance with Fair Work Act, Award or Enterprise Agreement. • Negotiating with employees to change regular rosters or hours of work (see Award/Enterprise Agreement re consultation requirements). • Terminating the employment of the employees in response to business downturn as a result of COVID-19, in which case the employer may have to provide redundancy pay unless they are a small business or another exemption applies (Note: Generally, small businesses with less than 15 employees are exempt from the requirement to pay redundancy pay). All employers will need to comply with the usual redundancy obligations including consultation requirements for Award employees. This information is intended for general information purposes only and should not be regarded as legal advice. Please contact Employer Assist by Industry Legal Group if you require legal advice.
AAAA Member Benefits To view the full Employer’s Guide for COVID-19, visit www.aaaa.com.au If you require further advice, please contact Employer Assist on 1300 735 306 or email aaaa@employerassist.com.au Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine April 2020
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PERFORMANCE AND RACING
IRONMAN 4X4 SUPPORTS STADIUM SUPER TRUCK TEAM Ironman 4x4 is partnering with Greg Gartner Motorsport in 2020 Ironman 4x4 says it is proud to be part of the return of Stadium Super Trucks as they make their return to the Supercars circuit. Following the lifting of the CAMS safety ban on the category, Ironman 4x4 is partnering in 2020 with Stadium Super Truck team, Greg Gartner Motorsport. After having a couple of years out in the desert, Greg says he is ready to hit the tarmac in the Greg Gartner Motorsports truck.
“I’m super excited to be a part of the Stadium Super Trucks, to be able to race these trucks against some of the biggest names in motorsport is fantastic,” he said. “One of the biggest challenges for me is to change my driving style from the dirt to tar as most of my racing career has been in off-road racing and speedway. “I wouldn’t be able to compete in this racing without my great sponsors, big and small, so thank you very much to everyone for their support.” Ironman 4x4 also went one step further for the opening round held at the Superloop Adelaide 500 in late February, with the Ironman 4x4 logo appearing on the stadium ramp, lifting the trucks to a new height. For more from Ironman 4x4, go to www.ironman4x4.com 76
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HARROP ENGINEERING CELEBRATES 65 YEARS The company has come a long way since it was founded in 1955 Harrop Engineering has a rich heritage in the Automotive and Industrial sectors and is celebrating its 65th Anniversary in 2020. Harrop says it has a legendary reputation for proprietary innovative design and precision manufacturing and supporting programs for iconic motorsport teams, Automotive OEM and diverse Aftermarket and Industrial customers globally. Founded in 1955 by Len Harrop in the inner Melbourne suburb of Brunswick, Harrop Engineering originated in specialist general engineering for the textile and general trucking/haulage industries. As the business grew, Len and Elsa Harrop’s son, Ron, joined after completing his boilermaker apprenticeship. Ron had a strong interest in modifying cars and motorsports, so with Len’s technical knowledge and Ron’s motorsport passion the business evolved, opening them to the world of automotive performance parts. The production of performance parts continued to gain momentum through Ron’s car racing, with the iconic Harrop Howler through to touring cars (HDT) and then engineering Holden Racing Team Commodores. Harrop had enormous on-track success, with a rich history of decisive roles in the precision and design of performance products for racing teams over the past 30 years. In 2008, Harrop Engineering was acquired by the Adrad Group, a family-owned conglomerate of companies from Adelaide, South Australia. Today the business offers several core product groups – supercharging and induction, braking, driveline and cooling over several different market segments – alongside its industrial manufacturing capabilities. Harrop Engineering recognises its ability to remain agile and capitalise on new product opportunities both locally and in export markets as fundamental to its ability to remain a leader in the Automotive Aftermarket industry. As a result, Harrop Engineering USA was recently established in Dayton, Ohio to support the brand’s growth in the US market, and it also invested in an Agile Robotic System and Mazak Multi-Pallet Variaxis to remain at the forefront of manufacturing technologies in support of its production efficiency and capacity. Harrop Engineering was also recently certified by SAI Global to the internationally recognised AS9100D standard, gaining accreditation to precision manufacture components for Aerospace and Defence applications. “We’re very proud of our rich heritage and talented team who design, develop and deliver our world class products. It’s a significant milestone for Harrop to reach 65 years manufacturing in Melbourne with today an increasingly diversified global focus which is exciting for all of our stakeholders,” Harrop Engineering General Manager, Heath Moore, said. “We are very proud to be celebrating our 65th year as an Australian manufacturer. It is with a salute to our staff who create and our customers that partner with us, that enables us to deliver precision engineered solutions,” Harrop Engineering Operations Manager, Tim Harrop, said. “We embrace the challenge of continuing to innovate our products, processes and engineering service offerings for our broad customer base.” Harrop says it looks forward to celebrating the skill and expertise of its team, in addition to recognising the passion and energy of its customers and key strategic partners who have been a key part of its story and encourages you to keep an eye out for further announcements detailing Harrop’s 65th Anniversary celebrations. For more information, visit www.harrop.com.au
PERFORMANCE AND RACING
RACING TO SUCCESS James Deane wins the Oman International Drift Championship for the third year in a row During February James Deane made history once again by winning the Oman Drift Championship for the third year in a row, making this his eighth consecutive international Drift championship since 2017. The Oman International Drift Championship was held in Muscat, Oman over three rounds from the end of January to late February.
The three rounds were held at the Oman Automobile Association in Muscat, with each event featuring a different track layout where James, driving his Nissan Silvia S14 powered by the ever reliable Toyota 2JZ-gte engine, was able to prevail after some tight racing. James is now preparing his BMW E92 for the 2020 European Drift Masters Championship which will be held over six rounds in Austria, Poland, England, Latvia and Germany before ending up at James’ home track, Mondello Park in Ireland, for the series finale. James will be aiming for his third successive European Drift Masters Championship and will also soon compete in the Formula Drift Championship in the USA and Red Bull Drift Shifters before featuring at the Goodwood Festival of Speed. ACL Bearing Company (Australia) is a proud partner of James’ racing program.
“We are very proud to be partnering with James – not only is he a highly talented and successful driver, arguably the best in the world, he is an exceptional role model to a new generation of motorsport followers and an extremely professional ambassador,” ACL Bearing Company (Australia) General Manager, Chris Brooks, said. “ACL has a rich history of over 50 years in motorsport across most racing categories. Drifting has a very loyal and strong following throughout the UK and Europe and it is an excellent addition to our motorsport portfolio.” For more information, visit www.acl.com.au or www.aclperformance.com.au
DAVID RUSSELL, DAYCO RACING AND GOLD 104.3 JOIN FORCES The trio united to raise bushfire appeal funds at the Adelaide 500 and the Australian Grand Prix Dayco Ambassadors and 2020 Porsche Carrera Cup Australia drivers David Russell and Roger Lago recently assisted the nation’s Bushfire relief fundraising efforts. At the Adelaide 500 the pair answered the call of the top rating Christian O’Connell Breakfast Show on Gold 104.3 seeking support to promote a special brew of beer, Heroes Gold, which was developed to raise funds for the Victorian Bushfire Appeal. Heroes Gold was created by the popular Melbourne Breakfast radio show host in conjunction with independent brewer Hawkers Beer to assist in raising funds for the Victorian Bushfire Appeal. Christian made the call on his popular show seeking billboards to promote this most worthy of beer brews ahead of the Adelaide 500 and he was inundated with offers of support. David and Roger, with the support of major sponsor Dayco, made the generous offer to race with the Heroes Gold hashtags and logo at both the Adelaide 500 and the Australian Grand Prix (which was later cancelled after one day of running due to COVID-19) in front of what would have been a combined total of more than 500,000 spectators and many more television viewers.
The stunning black #23 Dayco Porsche GT3 Carrera Cup Car featured Heroes Gold hashtags below the front headlights along with Heroes Gold signage on the roof of the car throughout the three-day Superloop Adelaide 500 and the Thursday of the Grand Prix. Both events were broadcast live on both Network Ten and Fox Sports across the country and were also streamed through Kayo. “It was great to do our bit as a team to assist in the bushfire fund raising effort. The Heroes Gold can looked great on our black beauty in Adelaide and at Albert Park and I hope we encouraged more Aussies to take part in this fantastic fundraising initiative,” Dayco Racing Porsche team driver, David Russell, said. “What a partner to have come onboard,” said Christian O’Connell, from The Christian O’Connell Breakfast Show on Gold 104.3. “A huge thank you to Dayco for working with Gold 104.3 to raise funds for the Victorian Bushfire Appeal. We are lucky at Gold 104.3 to have such strong support from our audience for this incredibly worthy cause, Heroes Gold and the Victorian Bushfire Appeal.” Gold 104.3’s support included several Dayco acknowledgments and guest spots on the top
rating breakfast show which were replayed across all peak listening times in the lead up to both events, along with social media and website images and audio grabs. “It was great to join forces with Melbourne’s top radio station for such a worthy cause,” Dayco Vice President Aftermarket Asia Pacific, Arnold Mouw, said. “We loved the idea that Christian O’Connell came up with and it is clear that this sentiment was shared by many other companies who joined the Heroes Gold bushfire fundraising effort along with us. “Big thanks to David Russell and Roger Lago for activating this so well at the Adelaide and at the Australian Grand Prix, even if that event was short-lived.” For more from Dayco, go to www.dayco.com Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine April 2020
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4WD
CARBON WINCH EXPANDS OFFERING The Australian winch company now offers performance exhausts Carbon Winch is known for manufacturing a range of winches and recovery gear but now has expanded into the performance exhaust world for 4WDs. Carbon states the main reason for this expansion is that it was dissatisfied with the current options for the Australian market, and felt that better options needed to be offered to the Australian 4WD community. The Carbon Off-road 3.0 Exhaust System is made here in Australia, supporting Australian jobs and manufacturing. The company states this is important as it tries to utilise Australian labour and processes as it is also a small Aussie business.
NEW LDV BATTERY TRAY New from Piranha Off Road Products The latest model LDV T60 Luxe has started to feature in many 4WD magazines as a serious contender in the dual cab field, although several comments have been made on the lack of availability of aftermarket products. To counter this, Piranha has launched a dual battery system ‘ripe to go’ for LDV enthusiasts. Piranha has launched the LDV dual battery kit into the market to cater for the LDV T60 Luxe range from 10/2017 onwards with a 2.8Ltr Turbo Diesel.
their kit. This installation replaces the original battery and there are two batteries recommended by Piranha for this application – for battery details, contact Piranha Off Road Products.
The kit can be fitted at a Piranha Stockist and a fitment can be organised through a workshop or the LDV dealer if required.
Piranha also wants to advise that the fitting of this tray is irreversible and is a workshop fit only kit. The battery tray and kit is covered with a two-year warranty and retails for $215.00 including GST and can be posted around the country.
This kit fits neatly under the bonnet and allows for a decent sized auxilliary battery and cranking battery that will handle the rigours of town and country touring. There is reportedly enough grunt in the battery to run fridges, charge cameras, laptops, video cameras and more for days on end. Piranha recommends the DBE140SF or the DBE180-SX isolator to handle the charge role with
Battery and isolator options can be discussed through Piranha via email at sales@piranhaoffroad.com.au For more information, contact the team at Piranha Off Road Products on 03 9762 1200 or visit www.piranhaoffroad.com.au or the company’s Facebook page.
IT’S A LIFESTYLE Lifestyle 4WD says that when it comes to your 4WD, its not just a car, it’s a lifestyle What makes the Carbon 3.0 Exhaust System unique is that it is modular. The basic system comprises of three-inch 2mm H/D Aluminised steel, 10mm two bolt flanges for easy installation, CNC mandrel bent pipe for maximum flow and electrostatic black paint for a nice look and finish. What makes it different is you can choose if you want a muffler/hot dog/straight pipe, dual exit exhaust tips or just a normal dump and with/ without catalytic converter. These choices also assist with your budget so prices do vary from straight pipe to full house ‘tick all the boxes’ systems, explains Carbon. If you change your mind down the track and get tired of the turbo whistle, you can simply swap out the straight pipe section and purchase a muffler section instead, explains Carbon, which states it is simple and easy as it just bolts up and you are back on the road, making these exhaust systems perfect for the home DIY guy who knows his way around the basic tools. To find your local Carbon Offroad Dealer or purchase online, visit www.carbonoffroad.com.au 78
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Located in Western Australia, the company was established by Steven Armour in 2010 and boasts more than 30 years of experience in both 4WD Vehicle Servicing, Repair and aftermarket 4x4 Accessories. This offering is further complemented by a division for Service and Parts Supply for Land Rover Vehicles. The diversity offered by these two divisions within the one company allows Lifestyle 4WD to supply and install high quality, trusted brand 4x4 vehicle accessories alongside vehicle service and repairs all from its Morley workshop. The modern large capacity workshop is well equipped to cater for all aspects of 4X4 and commercial fitouts, from Private to any Fleet and Trade requirements. Steven says his employees are dedicated Off Road Enthusiasts and have sound knowledge in the field which makes Lifestyle 4WD’s servicing and repair division a trusted name in the West. Steven says Lifestyle 4WD has been a member of the Australian Automotive Industry since its inception and that he was himself on the 4WD Industry Council representing WA for a few years
prior to the business’ opening. “We are committed to providing our customers with fast, helpful and accurate cost-efficient service at all times,” Steven said. “Customers can be assured of receiving excellent value for money and peace of mind as all parts are manufactured to the highest standards and specifications. “We are a 100 percent Western Australian owned company and are totally independent, offering quality assurance to all our customers, large and small. “When buying, servicing, owning, or fitting out your next vehicle: we say, it’s not just a car, it’s a lifestyle!” Lifestyle 4WD is located at 4 Barnett Court, Morley, Western Australia. For more information, contact Steven Armour on 08 9271 7500 or lifestyle4wd@iinet.net.au or visit www.lifestyle4wd.com.au
4WD
MEAN MOTHER LAUNCHES NEW RECOVERY BOARD Haigh Australia expects its new Exitrax range to grab a “huge chunk” of the 4WD market The popularity of 4WDing and the seemingly endless growth of related products continues to amaze. One product which gets plenty of attention is the recovery board. The market has been dominated by just two brands for the best part of a decade however, according to Haigh Australia, that might be about to change. Haigh Australia and its 4x4 brand Mean Mother were the national distributor of TRED recovery boards since their inception in 2012 and after a change in management and distribution arrangements, began working on developing its own recovery board which was released in December 2019. Haigh Australia claims its new Exitrax range of recovery boards are refreshingly different from everything else that is currently on the market. It explains the new range cleverly eliminates the incline typically found on one or both ends and each Exitrax board features a flat engagement zone which reduces the boards’ angle by up to 12 degrees.
“We simulated the operation of the new board and were thrilled testing confirmed our theories that the new design and unique nodules improved tyre grip and reduced the likelihood of wheel spin during a recovery,” Haigh Australia Sales and Product Manager, Mark Christie, said. One area of a recovery board that is often overlooked is how it grips to various soft surfaces. This is where Exitrax’s superior architecture really shines, says Haigh Australia, which says an impressive spread of ground engagement teeth or what it calls “grip chevrons” reduces movement as the tyre passes over the surface of the board. The Exitrax range features 930mm and 1110mm length boards constructed from tough durable polypropylene while the Ultimate 1150mm board is made from high quality engineered reinforced Nylon. Haigh Australia says the 1150 is packed with features that make it a stand-out performer, delivering an aggressive appearance, streamlined design, ultra-tough grip nodules and cleats as well as deep evacuation channels that effectively
shift sand, dirt, mud and snow away from the surface of the board to ensure grip levels remain high in all conditions. Each board also features a proper handle located at the rear of the board that provides added control and comfort when being used as a shovel to dig away sand or debris. If that isn’t enough, Haigh Australia says it also designed a device called Exi-Link, a plate which connects two Ultimate boards transforming them into a 2.3 metre long board for extended recovery situations. For more information, visit www.exitrax.com or contact Haigh Australia on 1300 654 008 or email at sales@haigh.com.au
ARB RELEASES REPLACEMENT AIR LOCKER For the 70 Series On the back of popular demand, ARB has released an Air Locker to replace the factory locker in the rear diff of the 70 Series. Those who enjoy heading off the beaten track in their 4×4 know that even the most familiar tracks can present you with unexpected conditions. Whether you’re up against a steep incline, uneven and rocky terrain or a slippery muddy track, being able to take advantage of traction is one of the most important elements. In a vehicle with open differentials in 4WD mode, drive can only go to two wheels at any given time. At the flick of a switch, an ARB Air Locker can send equal drive to both wheels on an axle allowing you to take advantage of the wheels that have traction and push forward along the track. The ARB Air Locker allows the user to activate it at any speed, meaning you don’t have to come to a stop in a tricky situation. It also enables the user to drive difficult tracks at a slow and controlled pace, which improves passenger comfort and reduces track damage and premature drivetrain wear. Connecting to the factory locker switch, the ARB Air Locker will give you the confidence to go further, says ARB. For more information, visit www.arb.com.au Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine April 2020
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INDUSTRY AWARENESS
DON’T BE LIMITED BY YOUR OWN PERCEPTION Mechanics are underselling their experience and abilities, says Craig Baills of Highfields Mechanical For years our industry has been internally boxed up by our own perceptions, our own opinions and our own values, limiting our ability to grow and move forward. Your perception is not that of your customers and your opinion is not necessarily theirs and thus, we can hinder the profitability and development of our business and trade through our own perceptions. As mechanics and as mechanics that have turned business owners, by nature we want to fix problems; and fix cars specifically. We do this to the best of our abilities and we are damn good at it, but we often let our perception of value and cost dictate what the cost of a repair should be. Too often we undersell our experience and abilities because we can complete a job quickly and efficiently due to our experience and skill set. Too often we see a business down the street, or on the internet, undervalue a job because they have no objective perception of how to value their ability or they don’t realise what the consumer’s actual expectation or perception of the value of the job is. Often the two are worlds apart. Delivering quality, value and professionalism in all aspects of our trade is where we are at right now. From the moment we first answer the phone or a face-to-face enquiry, our customers start to develop a perception of expectation when they deal with us. If we drop the ball at this point of enquiry, we lower our standards and lower our perceived
value. If we deliver courteous, friendly service with great communication, and present a quality workshop, our perceived value increases. Once we receive the vehicle and carry out the necessary repairs, putting our finishing touches on the service or repairs, the perceived value can again increase or decrease. The repairs we carry out, and in particular servicing, more often than not won’t be recognised by the consumer. However, if we take the time to let them feel and experience our quality of service, the perceived value continues to grow. Adjustment of handbrakes, a clean windscreen, a washed car, lube stickers, a clean dash, drop off and pick up, loan cars and convenience are all things which build confidence in the minds of our customers that we have provided value and quality and as such, diminishes notions that we may feel of being too expensive. Experience is a commodity that cannot be sold to the cheapest bidder – experience takes years to develop and maintain, so please don’t undersell your experience or ability just because another shop claims they can do a job quicker or cheaper. Instead, sell your experience and your value and deliver quality service to meet the expectations of your customers while remembering the perception of the customer starts from the moment they lay eyes on your business. Good business owners will try to understand the perceptions and mentalities of the consumer they want to deal with and deliver great service to this
market, while investing back into their business to increase profitability, improve growth and deliver quality. If you sell yourself and your business as cheap, that will be all you get: cheap! If you promote and deliver quality, you guessed it, you will get quality, and in particular you can sell an appropriate price tag that will come along with it. We are very often guilty of making decisions for our customers because we feel a repair may be too expensive, not worth it, or quite possibly, they cannot afford it. Give them the decision, communicate with them, explain the options and give them choice. We often try to read a customer, but at the end of the day, we don’t know their situation. Instead, offer advice, service and value and don’t let your perception of a customer or their vehicle get confused with the customer’s perception of the expected outcome. Provide options for repairs and give the consumer the facts to manage their perception of what is required. For every customer and every job, always play your best hand – the odds of a great return will always be much greater and the outcomes and perception so much more beneficial. Here’s to the future, Craig Baills Highfields Mechanical
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