JULY 2020
MIDAS NETWORK CONTINUES TO EXPAND
NEW TOOL FOR WORKSHOPS
USED CAR SALES BOOM AMIDST COVID-19
ABOUT THE COVER Century Yuasa’s automotive division has produced batteries in Australia since 1928, with its portfolio including some of the most recognised battery brands and technically advanced products available in the marketplace.
REGULAR DEPARTMENTS Calendar................................................ 4 New Members........................................ 4 AAAA Report ......................................... 5 News..................................................... 6 Products.............................................. 24
Inside Business.................................... 81 Consumer Law...................................... 82 HR Matters.......................................... 83 Performance & Racing.......................... 84 4WD.................................................... 86
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KEEPING YOU INFORMED Autocare 2020 Convention cancelled........................................................................... 6 Holden agrees to negotiate in good faith....................................................................... 7 New tool for workshops............................................................................................... 8 GPC APAC launches a new philanthropic foundation.................................................... 10 Customer-centric approach pays off for Jax Tyres and Auto........................................... 12 Driving Australia forward, together.............................................................................. 14 Record Summernats entries help drive Coronavirus recovery......................................... 15 Used car sales boom amidst COVID-19....................................................................... 16
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FEATURES Cover Story: Century charged to keep Aussie manufacturing positive.............................. 18 Product R&D: Selleys Turtle Wax - solutions for discerning retailers................................ 20 Member Feature: Saber Offroad - driving innovation through passion and precision........... 60 Batteries & Charging: Power up with batteries and chargers............................................ 62 Trade Talk: Mark Davis, Exedy - forged under pressure.................................................. 78 Milestones: 25 years of Bosch ESP - no more skidding................................................. 80 In the Workshop: Tool launched for workshops ............................................................. 88
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Publisher Cameron McLachlan for The Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association ABN 23 002 271 454
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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
NEW MEMBERS
CALENDAR 2020-21 TAPA Show Bangkok International Trade & Exhibition Centre, Bangkok, Thailand 3 - 5 September 2020 www.thailandautopartsfair.com/
Taipei AMPA Hall 1 & 2, Nangang Exhibition Center, Taipei, Taiwan 21 – 24 October 2020 www.taipeiampa.com.tw
AAPEX Sands Expo, Las Vegas, NV 3 – 5 November 2020 www.aapexshow.com
SEMA Las Vegas Convention Center 3 – 6 November 2020 www.semashow.com
Automechanika Shanghai National Exhibition & Convention Center, Puxi, Shanghai 2 – 5 December 2020 www.automechanika-shanghai.hk.messefrankfurt.com
Performance Racing Industry Trade Show Indiana Convention Center, Indianapolis, Indiana 10 – 12 December 2020 www.performanceracing.com/tradeshow
Ace Automotive Repairs 1/35 The Concord BUNDOORA VIC 3083 Ph: 03 9467 4888 E: info@aceautomotive.com.au
Resto Country Spares 45 Levanswell Road MOORABBIN VIC 3189 Ph: 03 9532 5806 E: martin@restocountry.com.au
Auto Glass Association 1A Jindalee Place RIVERWOOD NSW 2210 Ph: 0498 284 307 E: info@autoglass.org.au
Rippa Automotive Pty Ltd 9 Lambeck Drive TULLAMARINE VIC 3043 Ph: 0417 344 788 E: ripawood@live.com
Custom Offroad Accessories 79 Spine Street SUMNER PARK QLD 4074 Ph: 0417 617 261 E: admin@customoffroad.com.au
Stabilus Pty Ltd 65 Redwood Drive DINGLEY VIC 3172 Ph: 0408 663 544 E: rmoses@au.stabilus.com
Gomaxx Pty Ltd 129-131 McIntyre Road SUNSHINE NORTH VIC 3020 Ph: 03 9313 7555 E: gomaxxbrakes@gmail.com
Tint a Car Cannington Unit 6, 1296 Albany Highway CANNINGTON WA 6107 Ph: 08 9350 5199 E: cannington@tintacar.com.au
GPSengine Pty Ltd PO Box 2454 FORTITUDE VALLEY QLD 4006 Ph: 07 3106 3137 E: jeremy.mclean@gpsengine.net
tools.com 26 Berry Street EAST MELBOURNE VIC 3002 Ph: 0408 365 227 E: lee@tools.com
MTAA Super Level 23, 150 Lonsdale Street MELBOURNE VIC 3000 Ph: 02 6273 4333 E: chrisj@mtaasuper.com.au
Western Automotive Group Pty Ltd 2/1037-1043 Western Highway RAVENHALL VIC 3023 Ph: 03 9111 5678 E: westernautomotivegroup@hotmail.com
Premcar 104 Gateway Boulevard EPPING VIC 3076 Ph: 03 8317 8200 E: jwood@premcar.com
Australian Auto Aftermarket Expo Melbourne Exhibition Centre 29 April – 1 May 2021 autoaftermarketexpo.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 July 2020
Sean Buckley (VIC), Ultra Tune Australia Pty Ltd Ph: 03 9815 9200 Craig Magill (VIC), Burson Automotive Pty Ltd Ph: 03 9914 5555 Adam Pay (NSW), mycar Tyre & Auto Service Ph: 02 9680 6500
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
THE RIGHT DECISION
Amongst ongoing uncertainty the AAAA Board has made the tough call to cancel Autocare 2020 We have seen some positive signs and stabilisation in Australia of the COVID-19 pandemic since I wrote in the June issue However, the recent Victorian flare up of cases (at the time of writing) is a good reminder that COVID19 uncertainty remains a part of our business and personal life, at least in the medium term. It is with this ongoing uncertainty in mind that we have made the difficult decision to cancel Autocare 2020. As hard as it was, we believe it was the right decision to make. The continued implementation of travel, social distancing and public gathering restrictions in each state, and how these might exist in coming months, prompted us to make a decision now. We acknowledge the commitment and understanding of our stakeholders through the earlier rescheduling process and now cancellation of Autocare 2020. I can announce that Autocare will return in 2022, with planning already underway. All Autocare 2020 conference stream registrations, exhibitors and sponsors are entitled to a full refund. Alternatively, our event management partner, IEC, can facilitate a rollover toward the Australian Auto Aftermarket Expo (AAAExpo) scheduled for 29 April - 1 May, 2021. Looking forward, we will now focus our efforts on the upcoming AAAExpo ’21, an event that is primed to become our biggest Expo yet. We are confident that we can deliver a safe, world class event for our industry in 2021. AAAExpo is the nation’s most comprehensive exhibition of vehicle repair and servicing equipment, replacement parts, tools, and accessories. AAAExpo hosts leading industry
experts, seminars and more than 350 top Australian and international brands on display. Don’t miss the opportunity to showcase your business at AAAExpo. In addition to adjusting our events calendar to COVID-19 developments, we have been receiving great feedback on our nation-wide Workshop Impact Survey. The survey results provided a valuable insight into the health and sentiment of our industry through the depths of the COVID-19 slowdown. All indications are that the positive outlook shown by workshops in the study has continued as the COVID-19 pandemic has stabilised. The full Workshop Impact Survey is available to review at https://bit.ly/workshopimpactsurvey I have commenced an important dialogue with Senator Michaelia Cash, the Minister for Employment, Skills, Small and Family Business, to provide her with critical employment insights from our COVID-19 Workshop Impact Survey. During this dialogue, I have also thanked her for the Government’s quick action and economic support throughout the COVID-19 crisis. I know that the government is as concerned as we are about the ongoing structural issues in which people want jobs and yet we can’t fill vacancies for skilled technicians. We have additional research on the labour shortages in our industry and our Automotive Repairers Council of Australia (ARCA) has generated a number of initiatives and ideas for addressing the skills shortage. We are looking for constructive ways to engage in a National conversation with government about how we could be involved in developing solutions that address both our labour needs and Australia’s increasing rate of unemployment.
Since the onset of COVID-19, our communications levels have markedly increased to serve and support our members and the broader industry. Our communication channels span social media, our website, e-mail and this magazine. We are an important conduit for industry news so please stay tuned in. Some of our initiatives, including our AAAA webinars, will become a more permanent part of our communication platform moving forward. As we reduce our focus on COVID-19 support, we are expanding into educational topics that can foster busines growth. Some of our recent and upcoming topics include cash flow and business planning, vehicle technology, government regulation and aftermarket product development, how the AIC can benefit your business, supporting employees’ mental health and mandatory data sharing. Our ability to support your business and the broader industry cannot be done without a strong and growing membership base. We thank our members for their support and loyalty. We have recently sent AAAA membership renewal invoice information to our members via email. Many members tell us directly about the great value they experience from their membership, especially throughout this crisis. Membership renewal and welcoming new members to the AAAA helps us to continue to provide the support services, resources and information that benefit your business and assist the industry to succeed into the future.
MARK PEDDER Chairman
STUART CHARITY Chief Executive Officer
Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine July 2020
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NEWS
AUTOCARE 2020 CONVENTION NEW RESOURCE CANCELLED COMING SOON FOR largest education-led CAPRICORN MEMBERS Australia’s automotive convention and trade show In this column, Capricorn Society’s Group Chief Executive Officer, David Fraser, updates us on all things Capricorn Capricorn recently embarked on an ambitious project to look under the bonnet of our industry. We wanted to better understand the mood amongst our Members, to really get a handle on the issues, trends and challenges affecting them, their businesses, and the industry as a whole. More than 1,500 Members took part in the most substantial survey Capricorn has undertaken in its 40-year history, creating a snapshot of our industry today. The result is the Capricorn State of the Nation report. This report provides insights that will help our Members strengthen their workshops and set benchmarks that measure success. Capricorn Members can look forward to viewing the report in the coming months via a new resource portal that we’ve dubbed, “CapHub.” Full of valuable content designed to inform and entertain, CapHub will include bite sized business tips, workshop hacks and full industry reports to help our Members stay on top of everything that’s happening in auto. This new Capricorn Member benefit will be available in late August.
Capricorn Rising Stars program 2020 marks the third year of the Capricorn Rising Stars program. It has been an absolute honour to be part of this initiative that recognises the next generation of automotive professionals. I would like to congratulate our five finalists, Lachlan Fraser, Abby Brice, Dylan Quinn, Lochlan Robinson and Gabrielle Clift who have managed to distinguish themselves amongst another outstanding pool of apprentices. I also would like to thank our Capricorn Preferred Suppliers and program sponsors Castrol, Repco, The Workshop Whisperer, Autodata Training and TaT; who make Capricorn Rising Stars possible. Yours in cooperation, David Fraser Group CEO, Capricorn Society Ltd For more information on Capricorn Society membership, visit www.capricorn.coop 6
Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine July 2020
has been cancelled
The decision to cancel Autocare 2020, slated to be held across 30-31 October, came after careful consideration of the extraordinary circumstances surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic. The cancellation of the event removes uncertainty for all event stakeholders and ensures the safety of all patrons. At the recent Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association (AAAA) Board of Directors meeting the options for Autocare 2020 were thoroughly evaluated. Given the multitude of factors at play and continuing uncertainty, the Board unanimously decided to cancel the convention. “Cancelling Autocare 2020 was a difficult decision for all of us, however we believe it was the right decision to make and one we had to make now, for all involved,” AAAA Chief Executive Officer, Stuart Charity, said. “With the COVID-19 health crisis still ever present, and after postponing the original June dates to late October, we have continued to listen to Government advice at both Federal and State level and worked closely with our event partner International Exhibition and Conference Group (IEC) and the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre. “The health and well-being of speakers, exhibitors and attendees comes first and foremost. With so many unknowns, including the status of COVID-19 moving forward, restrictions on international and domestic travel, potential venue capacity restraints and general sentiment that may affect attendance, these factors culminated in our decision to cancel,” Stuart said. “We are of course disappointed for all of our international and local guest speakers, exhibitors and attendees who were all looking forward to being part of Autocare 2020 and want to thank them in advance for their support and understanding. “I’d also like to acknowledge the efforts of IEC and our AAAA team for their efforts on Autocare 2020 through this challenging period. Autocare will return in 2022, with planning now underway.” All Autocare 2020 conference stream registrations, exhibitors and sponsors are entitled to a full refund, or alternatively, IEC can facilitate a roll over toward the Australian Auto Aftermarket Expo (AAAExpo) scheduled for 29 April - 1 May, 2021. “Looking forward, we will now focus our efforts on the upcoming AAAExpo ’21 , an event that is now primed to become our biggest Expo yet. We are confident that we can deliver a safe, world class event for our industry in 2021,” Stuart said. AAAExpo is the nation’s most comprehensive exhibition of vehicle repair and servicing equipment, replacement parts, tools, and accessories. AAAExpo hosts leading industry experts, seminars and more than 350 top Australian and international brands on display. Don’t miss the opportunity to showcase your business at AAAExpo. For more information on the Australian Automotive Aftermarket Expo, head to www.autoaftermarketexpo.com.au
NEWS
HOLDEN AGREES TO NEGOTIATE IN GOOD FAITH The Morrison Government has welcomed GM Holden’s guarantee to negotiate with car dealers in good faith, after its decision to withdraw from the Australian market On the 22nd of May GM Holden made a commitment to the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) which the Morrison Government says is positive progress toward a fair compensation package for dealers and their employees. The ACCC has found that GM Holden was placing undue pressure on dealers to accept their compensation package by 31 May. The ACCC found this deadline was ‘unnecessary and unfair’ and had advised it was preparing for court action had Holden not changed its position. Holden also committed to meeting its obligations more generally under the Franchising Code and the Dealer Agreement Dispute Resolution provisions. In a series of statements over recent weeks the Morrison Government has continued to put pressure on GM Holden to act in good faith. One such statement was issued jointly in late June by the Honourable Karen Andrews MP, Minister for Industry, Science and Technology and Federal Member for McPherson; Western Australia Senator, the Honourable Michaelia Cash, Minister for Employment, Skills, Small and Family Business; and Queensland Senator, the Honourable James McGrath.
The statement read: “General Motors must honour its promise to negotiate on compensation with Holden dealers in good faith, amid significant effort from dealers to resolve their ongoing dispute. “Dealers have repeatedly shown they are committed to working with GM Holden to reach an outcome and finalise protracted negotiations stemming from GM’s decision to retire the Holden brand in Australia. GM Holden should demonstrate that same commitment.
corporate citizen. They must also consider their international reputation.
“From day one the Morrison Government has made it clear to GM Holden that we expect them to negotiate in good faith and ensure a fair outcome for the Australian dealers who’ve carried their brand for decades, as well as their workers.
“The ACCC’s investigation is ongoing and is examining allegations relating to the good faith obligations of the Franchising Code of Conduct and the unconscionable conduct provisions of the Australian Consumer Law.
“(In the week beginning 15 June) Minister Andrews and Minister Cash met with GM Holden to reiterate that unequivocal expectation.
“The Morrison Government has also followed through on a promise to rebalance the new car retailing market, with Minister Andrews earlier this month introducing significant reforms to auto franchising regulations.”
“Australian consumers, dealers and the Government have shown great commitment to GM Holden over many years, including more than $2 billion in taxpayer support. It’s now time for this multinational to repay some of that faith. “General Motors must demonstrate they’re a good
“The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) continues to monitor the negotiations between the parties and is communicating with them.
Despite the 22 May agreement, the ACCC will continue its broader investigation into Holden’s engagement with dealers in relation to its withdrawal from Australia.
CARMECHANICA LAUNCHED Introducing a new Australia-wide network of Trusted Master Workshops A new online platform designed to connect discerning car owners with a national network of independent workshops they can trust has been launched. Unlike traditional booking sites which can often be more like a business directory, MotorActive – the company behind CarMechanica – says CarMechanica’s endorsed workshops all meet a high standard of competency and customer satisfaction. By weeding out general, run-of-the-mill workshops, CarMechanica says its users are assured of finding a trusted master workshop near them. To cater to more of the park and to appeal to the growing number of motorists disheartened by the whole dealership experience, CarMechanica incorporates two additional filtering options: EuroMechanica and GTMechanica. Originally launched in 2017, EuroMechanica has reportedly been the home of highly-skilled, expert technicians specialising in European vehicles. Those behind the concept say this
straightforward premise has seen EuroMechanica grow into Australia’s largest network of European Specialists. GTMechanica is for workshops who live, eat and breathe serious performance. It is said to be where enthusiasts can find knowledgeable workshops and experts in aftermarket exhaust, suspension, brake and engine upgrades through to prepping cars for track days, right up to national-level competition. “In combination, CarMechanica, EuroMechanica and GTMechanica have made finding the best easier than ever,” MotorActive Managing Director, Bruce Morrison, said. “This is a massive advantage when you consider there are 30,000 mechanical workshops listed in Australia; making trying to create a genuine point of difference and get noticed within this large and fragmented group near impossible. “Typically, it descends into a lose-lose price war along with a lot of Google scrolling and uncertainty for customers. CarMechanica
sidesteps this, offering a convenient, credible, and trustworthy alternative – ie you! “CarMechanica’s all-in-one approach incorporates an integrated booking system (benchmarked against best practice), trust-building marketing program, digital presence, plus national exposure through sponsorship and personalities. “Think your workshop has what it takes to be a CarMechanica, EuroMechanica or GTMechanica endorsed workshop? Are you ready to boost your presence and simplify your day to day tasks, so you can focus on what you do best? Then head to www.carmechanica.com.au.” For more information, visit www.carmechanica.com.au Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine July 2020
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NEWS
NEW TOOL FOR WORKSHOPS
MIDAS NETWORK CONTINUES TO EXPAND New ‘super’ workshop shows the way for the future
Australian workshops now have access to a free benchmarking service The AAAA recently launched a new and free to use Workshop Benchmarking Tool, available to all Australian workshops via the www.aaaa.com.au website. This new benchmarking tool allows workshops to fill out a quick online survey to receive not only statistical information on how they compare to other workshops in the country, but also strategic tips on what they can do to improve their standing.
Midas has recently established a new Midas Car Service Centre in the western Brisbane suburb of Darra, headed up by Franchisee Luke Hawkins and his lifetime of automotive customer service experience.
“Information is power and the AAAA has been proud over the years to provide valuable data services to our members with the help of our research partners, ACA Research,” AAAA Director of Government Relations and Advocacy, Lesley Yates, said. “This new tool takes the data and strategic insights we have accrued from years of annual benchmarking surveys and takes it to the next level for the benefit of workshops all over the country – both those who are AAAA members and those who are not. “In only minutes, participating workshops can see how they are faring compared to the rest of their industry and receive some great ideas on what they can do to make sure they preserve or improve on their success. “And like with all research-driven projects, as more workshops use this tool, it will continue to evolve and become more sophisticated, which we are all very excited about.” For more detailed information about the AAAA Workshop Benchmarking Tool, please go to page 88 of this magazine. To access the tool, please visit www.aaaa.com.au or go to survey.aaaa.com.au 8
Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine July 2020
The automotive family business Luke’s father established in 1988 specialising in sales, parts and service grew to cover a number of highly successful locations over the next four decades, with Luke being at the forefront of ensuring customer satisfaction across both the sales and vehicle servicing operations of this family business. One of these locations is an impressive 7,200 square metre high profile site at 259 Monier Road in Darra, which served as the company’s dealership-based automotive repair workshop in past years. Luke believed this workshop could be so much better utilised as a dedicated general automotive service and repair centre, providing the motorists of Darra, The Centenary Estates, through to Jindalee and Brisbane’s Western Corridor with the highest quality and value priced vehicle servicing and repairs. Bringing this state-of-the-art workshop into the Midas family was his first choice and this quality workshop was further improved and transformed
into one of Australia’s largest Midas Car Care Service centres in early 2020. Midas Darra has the special advantage of providing factory trained technicians with outstanding prior automotive dealer-based and all make service experience across a wide range of local, Asian and European makes and models. Equipped with no less than 17 hoists, two wheel alignment machines and a vast stock holding of service parts, Midas says its Darra Service Centre ensures your vehicle service and repairs will be completed on time – or if your car is needed for a longer period of time, customers can avail themselves of one of the store’s fleet of 12 loan cars at no extra cost. An Opposite Lock 4WD store is also located at the same site, so Midas Darra is also best equipped for 4WD vehicle servicing, repairs and accessory fitments. It is also close to the Mt Ommaney Shopping Centre and can be easily reached from the Logan Motorway and Ipswich Road, or via the Sumner exit on the Western Freeway. Midas Darra customers can expect a comfortable waiting area equipped with coffee, soft drinks and water which has been extended to the outside to meet current social distancing requirements. There is a fleet of loan vehicles also available to ensure that any guest’s day is not impacted while having their car serviced. “I’m very excited to bring our large and modern workshop to the Midas family,” Luke said. “This ensures that all western Brisbane based car owners can take advantage of the same level of vehicle service professionalism and expertise as any of the major car dealers, at far better value pricing and with the efficiencies that go with this large and highly productive workshop.” For more information, visit www.midas.com.au
NEWS
BRIDGESTONE WORLD SOLAR CHALLENGE INCREASES REAL WORLD APPLICATIONS EMPHASIS New regulations for the 2021 event have been released Regulations for the 2021 Bridgestone World Solar Challenge will see a greater emphasis on vehicle dynamics and a closer alignment to automotive standards for the 3,000km journey from Darwin to Adelaide.
rather than outright pace; and Adventure Class for vehicles that do not meet the requirements to compete in the Challenger Class or Cruiser Class, such as vehicles based on the regulations of prior competitions.
Event organisers launched the 2021 event on World Environment Day, 5 June, with the release of the regulations and announcement of the dates for the biennial event – to be held from 22 to 30 October next year.
Amongst the key changes for the 2021 event are: the introduction of a higher ground clearance based on automotive design standards, a tighter turning circle requirement, certification of dynamic stability, mandatory daytime running lamps and environmental requirements on materials used.
According to Event Director Chris Selwood AM, the changes to the requirements will require a fresh approach for many teams and prove to be a driver of innovative technology. “Each event is unique and key drivers of our latest regulatory changes include challenging complacency and encouraging fresh thinking around the imperatives of sustainable transport, a fitting goal for World Environment Day,” Chris said. The event is comprised of three classes: Challenger Class, which is the pursuit of speed and efficiency for outright event honours; Cruiser Class, where teams must design a passenger friendly vehicle and are judged on efficiency
Next year’s event will be the 16th running of the gruelling 3,000km journey, first run in 1987. In 2019, the event boasted a record field of 53 teams from 24 nations – including eight local entries. Bridgestone has been the naming rights partner of the event since 2013, announcing a 10-year extension at the conclusion of the 2019 event. Bridgestone Australia and New Zealand Managing Director, Stephen Roche, said the ongoing partnership reflects Bridgestone’s global commitment to supporting the next generation of engineers and developing innovative technologies.
“We are seeing rapid transformation in the automotive industry, and this presents an exciting opportunity. Now is the time for us to challenge ourselves, shape the future and accelerate the development of advanced and sustainable mobility solutions,” Stephen said. “The Bridgestone World Solar Challenge is the ideal platform for the development of advanced and sustainable mobility solutions. By supporting this great event, we are continuing to invest in the people who dream bigger and are innovating to create these advanced solutions for the future.” For more from Bridgestone, visit www.bridgestonetyres.com.au
VALVOLINE TO THE WORLD: WE ARE ‘THE ORIGINAL’ The iconic brand has launched a worldwide campaign to celebrate its position in automotive culture Valvoline recently launched its “The Original Engine Oil” brand campaign, publicly proclaiming its status as the petroleum industry’s first US engine oil brand. Dr John Ellis founded Valvoline in 1866 when he discovered the lubricating properties of distilled crude oil, formulating the world’s first petroleumbased lubricant. Valvoline oil was officially trademarked in 1873. Valvoline says it has been a key part of the global landscape ever since and this role is at the center of the Original Engine Oil campaign. “The campaign highlights Valvoline’s place as a pioneer and leader in the automotive industry,” Valvoline Senior Vice President, International, Jamal Muashsher, said. “Since our founding in 1866 and being the first trademarked engine oil brand, we have
been keeping the world moving with innovative products and services in more than 140 countries across the globe.” The campaign also honours the longstanding innovation of the company throughout its rich history. Touting the world’s first racing, first synthetic blend and first high mileage engine oils, Valvoline says it has consistently shown its focus on innovating and reinventing engine oil for the evolving automotive, commercial, and industrial customer needs. “We’ve been at the forefront of many of the innovations in the engine oil category around the world. We constantly strive to make things run better and leverage our hands-on expertise for the benefit of our customers every day,” Valvoline Sales and Marketing Director, Geoff Newson, said.
“That’s why Valvoline has been trusted for more than 150 years.” In Australia, Valvoline has been in operation for over 120 years servicing the automotive aftermarket and a range of commercial industries. Valvoline says the Australian “Original Engine Oil” brand campaign will reinforce the long and proud history Valvoline has within the marketplace. A key communication of the campaign will be a TV commercial which will be on screen from August 2020. For a sneak peek of the new commercial, visit www.youtube.com/ValvolineAustralia For more information, please visit valvoline.com.au Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine July 2020
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NEWS
GPC APAC LAUNCHES A NEW PHILANTHROPIC FOUNDATION The GPC Asia Pacific Foundation will be built on five pillars Leading automotive aftermarket parts supplier, GPC Asia Pacific, has established a new philanthropic Foundation developed to assist employees and communities in need, and to support the establishment of career pathways into the automotive industry. The Foundation will help provide the opportunity for GPC Asia Pacific’s 6,000 employees to participate in a range of charitable activities, whether by volunteering, or by supporting fundraising initiatives to support the Foundation and GPC Asia Pacific’s charity partners. “We are establishing this Foundation to provide an opportunity for GPC Asia Pacific and our team members to make an important contribution in supporting our team members and the communities we operate in through times of hardship or disaster,” GPC Asia Pacific Chief Executive Officer and Chair of the Foundation’s Grants Committee, Rob Cameron, said. “This year, we have seen the great difference we can make by leveraging our reach and scale, and by engaging the passion of our team members, customers and business partners to raise over $300,000 to support bushfire disaster relief.
“As we watch the COVID-19 pandemic play out across Australia and New Zealand, it could not be more timely to launch this Foundation and ensure we have the right programmes in place to help those who are going to need support at this time.” The GPC Asia Pacific Foundation will be built on the following five pillars: 1. A Team Member Hardship Fund, providing short-term, temporary financial support to employees who find themselves in times of hardship and duress. 2. A Disaster Relief Fund, providing support to individuals and communities impacted by natural disasters, including by supporting appropriate relief organisations. 3. A Charitable Foundation, focused on addressing disadvantage though educational pathways into the automotive industry. 4. Third-Party Charity Support, underpinning provisions for charity partners, such as the Starlight Children’s Foundation in Australia and CanTeen in New Zealand. 5. Team Member Volunteering, providing a formal program to encourage and enable the
donation of employee time to support charity partners, or local community organisations. “The establishment of the Foundation is a reflection of GPC Asia Pacific team members’ community mindedness and generosity over many years,” Rob said. “Its creation is consistent with our value of genuinely caring and enables us collectively to go the extra mile in caring for the members of the GPC Asia Pacific family, as well as those suffering hardship in the community. For more information, see the “Foundation” tab of www.gpcasiapac.com/our-culture
SCHAEFFLER LAUNCHES NEW REPXPERT MOBILE APP The new app is available free of charge at the Apple App or Google Play stores Dedicated to providing practical support to automotive repair professionals, Schaeffler says it has taken its efforts a step further by developing its free of charge and easy to use REPXPERT mobile app. Developed with the same basic idea as that behind its digital platform, the REPXPERT app for smartphones and tablets offers new functionalities designed exclusively for automotive repair personnel. Users can access all technical content by scanning the barcode of a Schaeffler product (LuK, INA or FAG) directly, search for a product using the voice command and check the set values and tightening
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Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine July 2020
torques of the dual mass flywheels. They can also call the technical hotline directly. All these functionalities complement the platform’s existing services on the portal (www. repxpert.com.au), including free-of-charge access to the TecDoc database as well as assembly videos and installation tutorials – all of which are now available via smartphone. The app home screen reflects the essential elements of the REPXPERT platform, providing rapid access to the app’s functions, including “Vehicle Search” which helps to find the required parts for all kinds of vehicles immediately. Once the vehicle has been selected, the app enables the user to scroll through the products that match the vehicle, sorted either by Schaeffler brand and its respective product brands LuK, INA or FAG or by category. Another major function is the “Product Search” function which allows subscribers to find information via part number – whether from Schaeffler, original equipment manufacturers or competitors – or even by barcode.
Mechanics can also simply use their camera to scan the barcode of any Schaeffler packaging and the system will go right to the corresponding product information sheet. “CheckPoint” is an extra icon on the REPXPERT app that contains a complete version of the “Dual Mass Flywheel Values” app – an indispensable tool for anyone who services and repairs clutches that have a dual mass flywheel. This icon also provides the tightening torques of the timing belt rollers and pulleys along with various values associated with belt maintenance. REPXPERT members can use their login data and new subscribers can register free of charge to access the full functionality of the application. For more information, visit www.repxpert.com.au
NEWS
CUSTOMER-CENTRIC APPROACH PAYS OFF FOR JAX TYRES AND AUTO Jax Tyres and Auto data marks May 2020 as its third best month ever for retail tyre units sold While the full impact of the current economic situation on the tyre and automotive industry is yet to be realised, it is encouraging to see that the sector has met the challenges head on, says Jax Tyres and Auto. One key aspect is shifting the understanding of not only consumer patterns, but also what became relevant to them as service. Steve Grossrieder, Chief Executive Officer of Jax Tyres and Auto, noted that a strong focus on customer experience was crucial for business resilience and longevity for business survival. “At Jax Tyres and Auto, an important part of
our business’s premium retail strategy during challenging times is adding value and providing customers an overall peace of mind while driving,” Steve said. “So, enhancing our focus on customer experience when COVID-19 government restrictions understandably made people wary of leaving their homes, even for essential services such as automotive repair and maintenance, was key during this period.” Jax Vehicle Inspections, a visual inspection conducted by certified mechanical team members to identify vehicle issues, were offered as a free initiative to support the community which led an increase of 50.6 percent over January-May 2020, compared to the same period in 2019. The strength of the relationships between the business, franchise network, suppliers and business partners and the ability to offer essential services, such as tyre and wheel retailing and mechanical servicing, was a core pillar to customer service. “Regular contact with our suppliers to prepare for supply chain disruption enabled us to effectively communicate the potential impact to store teams, of which there are more than 85 across Australia, and their community,” Steve said. These approaches were reportedly effective in
bolstering consumer confidence in the tyre retailer and fast-fitting mechanical service provider. As restrictions in many Australian states started to ease, the initial spike in consumer sentiment was reflected in the tyre and automotive space, with Jax Tyres and Auto data marking May 2020 as its third best month ever for retail tyre units sold. “This year has presented some unique challenges for everyone and the tyre and automotive market industries were also impacted,” Steve said. “For us, it’s also emphasised that our sector is providing drivers and their loved ones with more than the nuts and bolts; our collective expertise can truly deliver peace of mind. “We’re taking a long-term customer-centric view with this in mind, and I’d encourage the wider industry to consider taking a similar approach for the months ahead.” For more from Jax Tyres and Auto, visit www.jaxtyres.com.au
ANOTHER NEW STORE FOR AUTO ONE Auto One Scone is the network’s newest store The Auto One group has recently expanded its network of stores with the acquisition of Scone Auto Parts in the Hunter Region of New South Wales. Scone Auto Parts has been in operation for more than 30 years and the sale of the business is the culmination of a lifetime of hard work and commitment for owners Paul and Elizabeth Smart. “This is an exciting opportunity for our group and continues the application of our strategy to grow our network with both corporate and franchise owned stores,” Auto One Managing Director, Andrew Boath, said. “We are committed to providing a successful outcome for members should they choose to exit their business or move into retirement – we are very pleased with the outcome, as are Paul and Elizabeth.” 12
Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine July 2020
Scone Auto Parts has been a valued member of the A1 Autoparts group for many years and becomes the second A1 acquisition for the group, following the successful purchase of the nearby Singleton store in 2018. “The store will immediately transition to the Auto One brand to access a larger and more expanded marketing platform to facilitate further growth,” Store Operations Manager, Cassandra Towill, said. “The proximity of the Singleton and Scone stores will provide us with some important synergies to improve our level of service to the Upper Hunter area.” The store is located on busy Kelly street, has a large local retail customer base and services a wide range of agricultural and equine businesses.
merchandise at the store to further grow the retail business and has already implemented the Auto One Pronto ERP system which is providing a new level of operational efficiency at the store.
Auto One says it will invest in expanding the retail
For more information, visit www.autoone.com.au
NEWS
R&J BATTERIES OPENS ITS 23RD STORE R&J Batteries says it has proven yet again why it is Australia’s fastest growing battery company, by opening its 23rd store at the start of July The new store is located on 45 Macleod Street Bairnsdale, in Victoria, and takes over where Wilsons Batteries and Lubes was previously located. Earlier in the year, Wilsons Batteries and Lubes elected to pass its business’ reins over to R&J Batteries, who will be able to continue the excellent service to communities in the Bairnsdale and East Gippsland areas. R&J Batteries’ association with Wilsons Batteries and Lubes’ founders, Rob and Jacinta Wilson, dates back 12 years to when they supplied batteries and oil to the Wilsons’ previous business, RWB industrial. The Wilsons decided to retain these products when they reopened the business as Wilsons Batteries and Lubes back in 2016. “Although Wilsons Batteries and Lubes now has a new name – R&J Batteries – the quality of products and service remains the same,” R&J Batteries Co-founder and Managing Director, Ray Robson, said. World class brands such as ACDelco, Delkor, Fullriver, Motobatt and Fuchs that were previously available at Wilsons Batteries and Lubes will continue to be available at the Bairnsdale store along with other brands in R&J Batteries’ extensive brand portfolio such as U.S Battery, BAE, Optima, Predator and Hardcore. The retail store will also be carrying
new brands in the filters and cleaning products categories. Following the sale of Wilsons Batteries and Lubes, Rob and Jacinta will go into retirement. “I have worked in retail – the majority of the time in Bairnsdale – for 48 years and that’s long enough,” Rob said. “When we sold our previous business, RWB Industrial, we were not quite ready to retire but now we are,” Jacinta said. “Once the COVID-19 situation gets better, we are planning to travel around Australia and see everything our beautiful country has to offer. “On a parting note, we would like to thank our staff and customers for making the business what it is today. We have had a great 12 year working relationship with R&J Batteries so we couldn’t think of a more fitting company to take over the business.” All existing staff that were instrumental in making Wilsons Batteries and Lubes a success have been employed by R&J Batteries, in a move the company says proves its commitment to helping the local community. “We are excited to grow our footprint with the recent opening of our Bairnsdale store and look forward to becoming part of the surrounding community in Bairnsdale,” Ray said.
Since its inception in 1995, R&J Batteries says it has built a reputation throughout Australia and New Zealand as the fastest growing battery company. One of the principle drivers behind this success is attributed by the company to its range of world class products “at reasonable prices, backed by outstanding service.” Through its 23 stores and 7,000 distributors, R&J Batteries says it ensures its quality products are within reach for consumers across Australia and New Zealand. R&J Batteries says it stocks some of the world’s leading battery products such as the awardwinning Delkor batteries, ‘six-pack’ shaped Optima batteries, Fullriver AGM batteries, performance-driven ACDelco batteries, industrial heavy-weight U.S Battery, Motobatt and German-made BAE batteries and Fuchs lubricants. These batteries are designed for a comprehensive range of applications including automotive, commercial, industrial, deep-cycle, solar, motorcycle and more. For more information, visit www.rjbatt.com.au
COOLDRIVE’S BATHURST BUSINESS BOOST A competition is open to CoolDrive account customers from July 1 to August 31 CoolDrive Auto Parts is looking to give one lucky business a boost, with a once in a lifetime opportunity to be featured on the Team CoolDrive Supercar at this year’s Bathurst 1000. To enter, CoolDrive account customers simply need to submit a 90 second self-shot video, or in 250 words or less answer why their workshop should be featured on the Team CoolDrive Supercar, how the opportunity will help the business, and how the business will leverage the opportunity to push forward in 2020 and beyond. “The Bathurst 1000 is the biggest event on the motorsport calendar, so we are proud to be in a position where one of our customers can come along for the ride with us!” CoolDrive Auto Parts Chief Executive Officer, John Blanchard, said. “There is no doubt that 2020 has been a difficult time for all businesses, our aim through this
period is to support our loyal customers the very best we can. “Through this competition we want to stimulate the aftermarket and workshops, and share some of the publicity this amazing event provides. “Last year, the exposure the race received was staggering; Network 10 viewership was up 6.6 percent, with Fox Sports up 21.5 percent, culminating in a combined TV audience of nearly 2.5 million people at the end of the broadcast. “Correspondingly, the event also carries a massive following through online and social media channels, meaning it is the one event you really want to be involved in. “Outside of the potential exposure, there is nothing better than being able to cheer on your car that is carrying your branding, it’s a great buzz, and it really makes you feel a part of the action.
“Our driver Macauley Jones is a star on the rise, so Bathurst this year will be one event to get excited about!” The competition is open to CoolDrive account customers in Australia and New Zealand between July 1st and August 31st 2020, with the Bathurst 1000 scheduled from October 8th to 11th. For full entry details, visit www.facebook.com/ cooldriveautoparts, with terms and conditions available at www.ishop.cooldrive.com.au/terms_and_conditions Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine July 2020
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NEWS
DRIVING AUSTRALIA FORWARD, TOGETHER Exceptional circumstances called for an exceptional approach to unifying our industry in its time of need The AAAA’s membership is made up of a diverse mix of fantastic automotive businesses large and small, covering manufacturing, supply, retail, tools and equipment, service, repair and modification. Employing thousands of workers and contributing greatly to our economy, together AAAA members are driving Australia forward. As the voice of the Australian aftermarket, the AAAA is working hard to ensure its members can get on with doing what they do best. As part of this work, the AAAA recently collaborated with AusGarage – a premium automotive marketing agency based in Brisbane – to produce and launch a 30 second television commercial style video encouraging the Australian public to support their local automotive businesses. “It is a perfect time for the AAAA to share positive messaging around the industry we serve,” AAAA Head of Membership and Marketing, Tiffany Conway, said. “The COVID-19 pandemic generated such uncertainty and fear that here at the AAAA we knew we needed to help members quickly and effectively. Along with our online COVID-19 resource centre, webinars and specialist hotlines, we saw the opportunity to support members with a celebration of their great strengths and a call to the public to support local automotive business in the form of a promotional video. “In keeping with the exceptional circumstances of running a business in a pandemic, how this video was produced was exceptional in its own right. Not one face-to-face meeting was held to discuss the brief or script – all arrangements were made virtually and only skeleton staff were
allowed at each filming location to abide by social distancing and gathering rules. With no travel allowed, we could also only work with Brisbane locations and members, and what an inspiring group of members they are!” As a great example of how the industry works together to achieve shared success, featured in the video were representatives from AAAA members Pedders, Century Yuasa Batteries, Fulcrum, AMA Group (East Coast Bullbars), Accelerate Automotive, and Prestige and Performance. Collectively, these brands and businesses represented the automotive industry holistically, touching on various sectors such as manufacturing, service and repair, and retail. Together, they also showcased their determination to meet customer needs with their genuine commitment to customer care and providing innovative automotive solutions. “We were really grateful to our video superstars for sharing their time and business premises with us, to ultimately help other members and industry colleagues. It is not every day you have a film crew set up in your workshop or factory, and it is not every day that you’re asked to be a spokesperson for your industry,” Tiffany explained. “AusGarage were great to work with, they really understood the purpose and value of this activity and were totally committed to producing a video that the automotive aftermarket would be proud to be represented by. “It is great that together we have been able to encourage the public to support local, and as such help to create jobs, foster innovation and help the aftermarket industry drive the economy forward.”
AusGarage has served the Australian aftermarket for almost a decade and is passionate about all things automotive. “The ‘support local business’ message is something we at AusGarage feel pretty strongly about,” AusGarage Director, James Payne, said. “We were honoured to work with the Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association and the local automotive businesses featured in the final piece. The message conveyed was one of strength and unity. “We look forward to working closely with the AAAA on future campaigns that continue to support, unite and promote the industry we are so passionate about and proud to be a part of.” The video was released in early June via AAAA’s social media, website and electronic newsletter platforms. AusGarage has also shared the video on its Facebook and LinkedIn platforms. AAAA Members will have the opportunity to use campaign materials linked to the video for their own business. For more details on this, and all other member benefits and services, visit the AAAA Member Portal at www.aaaa.com.au/member-login or contact the AAAA directly via 03 9545 3333 or info@aaaa.com.au To view the video, visit www.aaaa.com.au/news/togetherwe-are-driving-australia-forward
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NEWS
RECORD SUMMERNATS ENTRIES HELP DRIVE CORONAVIRUS RECOVERY The automotive festival will be held across January 7-10, 2021 Event organisers say the 34th Street Machine Summernats, proudly presented by Rare Spares, is set to be the biggest automotive festival the nation has seen with record early bird entries, providing a vital boost to tourism spending in the Australian Capital Territory. More than 1,550 entrants have now been processed and approved, representing a 15 percent increase over the next fastest selling event in the festival’s history, Summernats 30, when more than 2,500 passionate car enthusiasts entered Summernats to celebrate three decades of Australia’s biggest horsepower party in Canberra. The record early ticket sales build on the back of an extremely challenging start to 2020 when despite both record poor air quality and extreme heat, Summernats 33 delivered a direct economic impact to the ACT of $29.7 million dollars. Of the 2,262 cars entered into Summernats 33, the average annual spend per car to prepare it for Summernats was $8,901, which equates to
almost $2 million spent by ACT car enthusiasts alone and a total spending impact of over $20 million countrywide. While Summernats represents having a good time with friends, the event also represents a massive economic benefit to a tourism and hospitality sector punished by summer bushfires and COVID19, as Summernats Managing Director Andy Lopez outlines. “Almost 85 percent of entrants come from outside of the ACT, delivering a tourism windfall to the capital territory of nearly $30 million for the fourday event,” Andy said. “Our car entrant numbers are actually significantly up right now compared to last year. With many car enthusiasts spending lockdown in their sheds finishing off project cars, it is clear that everyone is very eager to get revving again soon. “Summernats is as much about seeing friends in the scene as the cars, and many are looking forward to catching up with mates in what has
been a strange and difficult time with far fewer car shows and a lot of time in isolation in one form or another.” Andy also recognises the “legendary” event is more than just looking at chrome bumpers and wide tyres, as thousands of entrants and over a hundred thousand spectators come together to spend time with like-minded friends from around the nation who they otherwise wouldn’t see. As more activities come back online each week, Summernats organisers are considering what social distancing measures might be implemented at the January 2021 event. This might include more event spaces, more events to stretch the crowd and longer hours to accommodate the demand for popular programme events. “We naturally want to run a safe event for both our customers and the larger community, and we will continue to take advice from experts as we plan our 34th event,” Andy said. While the first round of early bird entries to the 34th Street Machine Summernats, proudly presented by Rare Spares, have closed, entries are still open at www.summernats.com.au with the next price rise occurring on July 31. For tickets and more information, visit www.summernats.com.au
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NEWS
USED CAR SALES BOOM AMIDST COVID-19 In this article ACA Research, our partner in the AAAA Aftermarket Dashboard, takes a look at the latest car parc data Given this year’s events, it is unsurprising that Australian dealerships have been dealt a significant blow when it comes to new vehicle sales, with year-to-date (YTD) sales down by a quarter. In real terms, this means that 104,468 less new vehicles have been sold versus last year. Given the tight margins with which dealerships operate, they need the sales volumes to manage their finances, so this will be leaving many in a somewhat precarious position. While anecdotal feedback suggests that June figures could be stronger off the back of loosening lockdown conditions, EOFY deals, and tax breaks for businesses, this is unlikely to overcome longer term structural weakness in the market. At a brand level, we do however see some differences. Starting at the top of the list, we see that Toyota is clearly outperforming its competitors in the top five, with Mazda, Mitsubishi, and Hyundai all losing more than a third of their sales. This is largely riding on the ongoing strength of the Hilux, which remains the best-selling car in the country, and the outstanding results it is achieving with the third placed RAV4 (which is driving significant growth in hybrid sales). Brand
2020 YTD New Car Sales
2019 YTD New Car Sales
YoY Variance %
Toyota 74,862 83,573 -10%
Brand
2020 YTD New Car Sales
2019 YTD New Car Sales
YoY Variance %
MG 4,394 2,704 63% Ssangyong 443
0
n/a
Haval 899 457 97% RAM 1,123 855 31% Peugeot 670
665 1%
Vehicle
Genesis 42
37 14%
Ford Mondeo
Great Wall
581
486
20%
-0.7%
59.0%
59.7%
Looking at sales by buyer type, we can also see a level of stability in Government purchases. Overall sales are down, reflecting a consistent drive to reduce fleet budgets, but government SUV sales have increased, suggesting they are continuing their shift away from passenger vehicles, and reflecting broader industry trends.
-1.8%
55.0%
56.8%
Holden Commodore
-3.4%
43.1%
46.5%
Hyundai i30
1.7%
51.5%
49.8%
Hyundai Tucson
0.6%
51.9%
51.3%
Isuzu D-MAX
2.0%
62.5%
60.5%
May YTD Variance % Buyer Type Passenger SUV Light TOTAL Commercial
Source: VFACTS New Car Sales. May 2020 Year to Date.
We do however see that some brands have managed to grow their sales year on year. In some cases, this is due to their re-entry into the market (ie. Ssangyong), but others such as MG and RAM are seeing the payoff of an aggressive strategy to expand into the Australian market. In particular here, we can see the success that Chinese auto brands are having in the Australian market (with LDV also down just six percent YoY).
Subaru Forester
0.3%
57.0%
56.7%
Toyota Camry
-0.2%
53.3%
53.5%
Toyota Corolla
2.3%
57.6%
55.3%
Toyota Hiace
-2.0%
66.9%
68.9%
Toyota Hilux
2.8%
69.8%
67.0%
Business -41% -18% -20% -25%
Toyota Kluger
0.9%
51.3%
50.4%
Gov’t
-28% 10% -20% -13%
-1.0% 65.1% 66.1%
Rental
-41% -44% -18% -40%
Toyota Landcruiser Prado Toyota RAV 4
2.1%
Private
-32% -14% -26% -22%
Although new car sales are down dramatically, it is not all bad news. The used car market is booming, with industry reports showing used car prices increased by 11 percent in May, swiftly regaining ground lost in March and April. Looking at the 15 most traded models, resale prices for nine increased week to week, with others falling back slightly off the back of recent gains. This is being driven by a range of factors, with consumers seeking affordable alternatives to public transport, as well as stock shortages in high quality used vehicles off the back of individuals and fleets deferring replacements.
Kia 20,731 24,864 -17%
32.8%
Ford Ranger
Mitsubishi 21,367
Hyundai 23,050 34,940 -34%
35.0%
Holden Colorado
Source: VFACTS New Car Sales. May 2020 Year to Date.
-39%
2.2%
Source: VFACTS New Car Sales. May 2020 Year to Date.
Mazda 29,427 44,565 -34% 35,136
Weekly Current Week Previous Week Change in 3-yr Resale % 3-yr Resale % 3-yr Resale %
57.9%
55.8%
Source: Datium Insights Weekly Market Update 22nd June 2020
In summary then, we are left with the question of how this affects the aftermarket. Ultimately, while we are likely to see a shift back to new vehicles over the longer term, the short-term demand will skew more to older vehicles. As a manufacturer or retailer, this is going to affect ranging decisions, with less of a focus on parts or accessories for newer models. As a service and repair provider, this can be seen as an opportunity. Used car buyers typically have a more limited level of engagement with dealerships, opening the door to attract them into your workshop. Some key questions you should potentially be asking yourself right now are around your customer’s broader household fleet (ie. the other vehicles they own that you could potentially be servicing), how you might be able to meet the needs of local small businesses, and what else could you be offering to make it easy for people to service with you in a COVID-19 environment. This column was prepared for AAA Magazine by ACA Research, our partners in the AAAA Aftermarket Dashboard which is delivered to AAAA members each quarter. For more information, visit www.acaresearch.com.au or contact Ben Selwyn on bselwyn@acaresearch.com.au
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NEWS
EXHIBITION AND TRADE FAIRS CANCELS 2020 SHOWS The 2020 instalments of the National 4x4 Outdoors show, Fishing & Boating Expos and Motorclassica will not be held Exhibition and Trade Fairs, the organisers of the National 4x4 Outdoors Show, Fishing and Boating Expos as well as Motorclassica, have announced that the 2020 dates for these events will not be held. Instead, they say they look forward to bringing together bigger and better Shows in 2021 on the following dates: • National 4x4 Outdoors Show, Fishing and Boating Expos (Brisbane): 19-21 March 2021
• National 4x4 Outdoors Show, Fishing and Boating Expos (Melbourne): 20-22 August 2021 • Motorclassica: 22-24 October 2021 “While we are disappointed that we are unable to come together this year - our priority when planning these Shows is to create a world-class experience that celebrates the great outdoors and all that is great about the motoring community respectively in a safe environment,” Exhibition and Trade Fairs Event Director, Jon Perry, said. “In our best efforts to safely bring the 4x4 and outdoors and motoring communities together this year, we explored a range of options. “After monitoring the ever-evolving situation, there are many uncertainties still in place that impact our ability to deliver the experience that you have come to expect and deserve. “We believe that focusing on the future is the best option, so we are busy working on new and exciting initiatives that ensure we come back even stronger. “At times like these, it is important to stay in
touch, so we are also working to introduce new ways to come together later in the year. In the meantime, we encourage you to stay connected via our social media channels and by subscribing to our newsletter. “For 2020 ticket holders and exhibitors, further information regarding the next course of action is being communicated via email. “We thank you for your patience while we have worked through this and for the continued support we have received. We will do everything we can to help everyone in our community stay safe, informed and connected, and we look forward to seeing you all in 2021.” For more information, visit www.4x4show.com.au and www.motorclassica.com.au
ZF COMPLETES WABCO ACQUISITION During the integration of WABCO, ZF says it will continue to strengthen its existing service portfolio and put its customers first ZF Friedrichshafen AG has successfully completed the acquisition of commercial vehicle technology supplier WABCO, having gained approval from all required regulatory authorities. WABCO shares, previously listed on the New York Stock Exchange, have ceased public trading with immediate effect. Signalling the start of WABCO’s integration into ZF, those behind the acquisition say it unites two industry leaders behind a shared vision to create a customer-focused powerhouse to advance commercial vehicle technology. With the addition of WABCO, ZF’s focus will be on expanding its commercial vehicle service portfolio and on operating customer business. “The combination of these two successful enterprises will bring a new dimension of innovation and capability for commercial vehicle systems technology,” ZF Friedrichshafen AG Chief Executive Officer, Wolf-Henning Scheider, said. “Thanks to our perfectly complementary portfolios and competencies, we are able to offer unprecedented solutions and services for manufacturers and fleets globally.
“In this way, we are actively shaping the future of the changing transportation industry. “Together, we will create added value for our customers, employees and shareholders alike. This acquisition marks a major milestone in the history of our company. With it, we are consistently continuing the transformation in the power-train and in the field of digitalisation.” In the future, WABCO will operate as an independent division, Commercial Vehicle Control Systems, within ZF Friedrichshafen AG and become the tenth division of the Germanybased technology company. During the integration of WABCO, ZF will continue to strengthen its existing service portfolio and put its customers first. “We are closing this acquisition in an unprecedented social and economic situation,” Wolf-Henning said, with regard to the COVID-19 pandemic and its impact. “We are currently focusing our efforts on protecting our employees, ramping up production, and securing our company’s liquidity. In the
long term, this thoroughly prepared acquisition will make us even stronger for the future once we have overcome the immediate effects of the pandemic.” The new Commercial Vehicle Control Systems division employs around 12,000 people at 45 locations worldwide and will work closely with ZF’s existing Commercial Vehicle Technology division, ZF’s aftermarket division and the global development team. Jacques Esculier, Chairman and CEO of WABCO, has decided to retire from his role. Effective as of the 29th May, the division is now headed by newly appointed Fredrik Staedtler who brings significant commercial vehicle experience, gained over the past decades working in the industry, most recently as head of ZF’s Commercial Vehicle Technology division. For more information, visit www.zf.com Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine July 2020
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COVER STORY
CENTURY CHARGED TO KEEP AUSSIE MANUFACTURING POSITIVE The world is facing some very uncertain times, but for Australia’s oldest and most iconic battery manufacturer one thing has never been surer: Australia needs a strong manufacturing revival
Century Yuasa explains that its automotive division has produced batteries in Australia since 1928, with its portfolio including some of the most recognised battery brands and technically advanced products available in the marketplace. When many countries and overseas suppliers went into lockdown and imports stopped, Century says it was able to support Australia’s economy by doing what it does best – making reliable and quality batteries. The Carole Park based business has not only been a long-time stalwart of local manufacturing, it has also made a significant commitment to both the future of the business and jobs for its workers. Century employs around 600 employees across Australia and New Zealand, putting over $100 million back into the Australian economy every year. The company is about to further showcase this commitment with a multimillion-dollar upgrade of factory equipment and a significant upgrade and expansion of its research and development facilities. It says this will enable Century to dramatically boost its plate production capability – and it is the plates which are the most critical components of lead acid batteries.
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Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine July 2020
Stu Stanners, the General Manager Automotive Sales (Australia and New Zealand) for Century Yuasa, said the investment would boost annual production capacity by almost 20 percent to 1.3 million batteries.
“Almost every component needed for our manufacturing comes from other local manufacturers – whether that is iron ore from South Australia, recycled components from New South Wales or plastics and signage from Queensland.
“Manufacturing in Australia has fallen over the last two decades from 13 percent of gross domestic product to six percent,” Stu said.
“We have Australia’s back and we hope when you need a new battery next, you’ll insist on a Century battery and support an Australian made product.”
“We are committed to continuous new product development and invest significantly in local manufacturing to ensure we set new standards in product performance.
The call to buy Australian made also comes from Century Yuasa’s General Manager of Operations, Matthieu Anquetil.
“Our core strength and competitive advantage lie in delivering exceptional products supported with an industry-leading service network.
“As a manufacturer we certainly need stateof-the-art machinery, but that can only go so far. We are only as good as our people and our customers,” Matthieu said.
COVER STORY
“We want people to know we are about keeping jobs here in Australia, so we need every Australian to really consider Australia-made. “We have spent many millions in factory upgrades making our facility the equal of any manufacturing plant around the world. “In fact, it is world leading, allowing us to lift efficiency and reduce costs so we can compete against imported products. “Manufacturing in Australia is getting tougher, so we have to become more innovative, designing batteries that better suit the Australian climate.”
“We have staff who have been here 40 years. In fact, across the board the average staffer has been here 15 years, which any recruiter will tell you is incredibly rare these days. So, that tells you we are about relationships – and that extends to genuine relationships with suppliers and customers. “There is integrity to our business dealings that is truly genuine. Whether that is with relationships, with the companies we source our components from, to having local agents across the country to meet with and connect with our customers.
While Century Batteries’ National Marketing Manager (Automotive) Andrew Bottoms also champions the unwavering commitment to Australian manufacturing and creating jobs, the 14-year company veteran says there is even more that sets the company apart from other manufacturers.
“One thing the COVID crisis has highlighted is people do need to talk to people: so, our business is people oriented and positioned so we can provide a full-service circle and not just be a supplier. Our technical team can offer advice and problem solve for our customers, right down to offering training to their staff. We do promotions in the community and genuinely connect.”
“We are uniquely positioned to be more than ‘just a supplier,’” Andrew said.
Century’s Brisbane facility is spread over seven hectares with operations divided across four
main areas of plate making, assembly line, finishing and then distribution. While 50 tonnes of lead are used every day, as a corporate citizen, 98 percent of lead acid batteries are recycled, and 60 percent of the lead used is recycled lead. Century has a strong focus on innovation and technical excellence, and it was the first battery company in Australia to introduce polypropylene cases and lids. Still, the real watershed moment in Century’s success story occurred in the 1980s when it formed an international partnership and signed a technical agreement with Japan Storage Company and Yuasa. “It was at this point we became Century Yuasa Batteries,” Andrew said. “From there we started supplying to original equipment manufacturers such as Ford, General Motors, Nissan and Toyota. In the late 1980s we entered New Zealand and in the mid-1990s we secured our position as the leading battery distributor in that market as well. “We have over 8,000 customers in Australia and 3,000 in New Zealand and while a small percentage of products in the Century range are imported from Century Yuasa affiliated and approved suppliers, the majority of the more than two million units Century Yuasa sells every year are manufactured in the Queensland plant.” With automotive manufacturing the lowest it has ever been in this country; Century says it is on a course to be the first manufacturer to achieve a “Century” in business. Both Stu and Matthieu say this is achievable with the support of a country that sticks by its mates. For more from Century Yuasa, visit www.cyb.com.au
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PRODUCT R&D
SOLUTIONS FOR DISCERNING DETAILERS Turtle Wax’s Hybrid Solutions Ceramic Range Selley’s explains that the Turtle Wax Hybrid Solutions line has been designed by – and for – the industry’s most discerning detailers. Yet at the same time, it says this cleverly-crafted, professional-grade, suite of products is the most approachable on the market from an ease-of-use and price perspective. Each product in the Hybrid Solutions line is crafted with ceramic, Si02 technology for extreme water beading protection and shine. Not only will cars treated with Hybrid Solutions have a high-gloss shine and durable protection for today’s finishes, but they will also be ready to hit the road for any unexpected adventure. Selley’s explains Turtle Wax has launched a complete range of Ceramic products that can work together as a system for the optimal ceramic protection or on their own, adding a boost to the regular car care routine. Included in the range is: • Turtle Wax Hybrid Solutions Ceramic Wax Coating • Turtle Wax Hybrid Solutions Ceramic Polish and Wax • Turtle Wax Hybrid Solutions Wash and Wax • Turtle Wax Hybrid Solutions Ceramic Wet Wax Turtle Wax Hybrid Solutions Ceramic Wax Coating is the ultimate method of long-lasting ceramic protection on your vehicle’s surface, says Selley’s. It explains this easy to use product sprays on and wipes off with very little effort while
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Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine July 2020
delivering superior shine and protection, while also delivering unmatched hydrophobicity and ceramic protection that will last a minimum of six months. With Turtle Wax Hybrid Solutions Ceramic Wax Coating, car care has never been easier, says Selley’s, which states that when used even occasionally as part of your regular maintenance schedule, this product keeps your car’s exterior looking new and helps your car stay cleaner longer with a super-hydrophobic protective barrier to help prevent dusty soils from re-depositing on exterior surfaces.
When it comes to the Turtle Wax Hybrid Solutions Ceramic Polish and Wax, Selley’s says traditional buffing compounds do not provide the level of paint correction, gloss enhancement or ease of use provided by this product. Traditional compounds reportedly typically incorporate fillers or polishing agents that could do damage to a vehicle if not carefully monitored throughout the detailing process. The Hybrid Solutions Ceramic Polish and Wax makes it easy for the novice or professional detailer to restore a vehicle with ease and is also a unique time saving alternative to traditional
PRODUCT R&D
multi-stage paint correction systems. Selley’s explains this product is ideal for those looking for all-in-one paint correction and protection but who may not have the time required for multistage systems. This new and innovative technology uses precision polishing agents in platelet form that clean and remove paint imperfections as well as synthetic wax and superhydrophobic polymers infused with SiO2 for ultimate protection, depth of colour, gloss and shine. The product is designed to be used either by hand or machine to remove moderate scratches, oxidation and swirl
marks for amazing paint correction and durability in one step.
Acc0rd79, Forensic Detailing and Miranda Mobile Auto Spa.
Turtle Wax Hybrid Solutions Wash and Wax is a pH balanced premium vehicle wash that is safe for all exterior surfaces and surfaces treated with ceramic coating technology.
These YouTubers in the detailing business have reviewed and torture tested the Turtle Wax Hybrid Solutions products. Selley’s says the response has been phenomenal and a selection of the best reviews is featured in the Turtle Wax 2020 campaign and can be viewed at www.youtube. com/turtlewax
Selley’s explains that this wash will provide maximum hydrophobicity (water-repellency) even after just one use and can be used in conjunction with all Hybrid Solutions products to boost the ceramic enhanced protection on the vehicles surface. It states the innovative high lubricity formula will help lift and encapsulate dirt from paint and suspend it in the lather, minimising scratching while performing your wash process.
For more details on the Turtle Wax Hybrid Solutions Range, go to www.turtlewax.com.au
For shine and protection, Selley’s says the Turtle Wax Hybrid Solutions Ceramic Wet Wax is the one-step solution. You can use this product regularly by itself, or in conjunction with other Hybrid Solutions products, to quickly shine and protect while also delivering ceramic protection and super-hydrophobic polymers to your vehicles surface. This product will reportedly keep your car’s exterior looking new and help your car stay protected from environmental assaults without the laborious detailing process required of traditional products – simply wash your vehicle, spray on and dry off. The detailing and Car Care categories have seen a huge resurgence thanks to detailers like Pan the Organizer, Jimbo’s Detailing, Apex Auto Detail, MeanBee392, Fab Automotive Detailing,
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 July 2020
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SERVICE PRE-CLEANING RIDOF Hygienic Waterless Hand and Surface Wipes Burg Design says RIDOF Hygienic Waterless Hand and Surface Wipes are considered by numerous industries around the world to be the safest and most effective wipes available.
RIDOF Wipes are manufactured from natural ingredients and unlike many others reportedly do not contain any of the harmful petrochemicals that can far too often cause split skin, rashes and serious skin conditions. In fact, Burg Design says many regular RIDOF users have reported a dramatic improvement in the condition of their hands. RIDOF Wipes were originally developed for convenient hand cleaning in mobile mechanical servicing businesses. Burg Design says they have quickly become an essential must have item for just about every type of mobile service operator, workshop and major industries simply because “they perform beyond expectations by easily removing all types of grease, silicones, graphite, ink and lots more as well as being very convenient and cost effective.” Since entering into the world of COVID-19 car dealers and car service outlets are now having to preclean various contact surfaces on motor vehicles before work can proceed. Burg Design says RIDOF wipes have quickly become the first choice of many car dealers and service outlets, as they do not cause any damage to a vehicle’s sensitive surfaces such as leather, vinyl and plastic. It states that many of the alcohol cleaning sprays and wipes available feature a very high content of isopropyl alcohol which is known to have a bleaching effect on leather, plastic and vinyl however RIDOF wipes do not contain this high content of isopropyl alcohol. The wipes come in a range of sizes to suit most businesses. For more information, visit www.burgdesign.com.au or call 1800 445 983. 24
Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine July 2020
NEW FROM BENDIX Ultimate+ high performance, low dust brake pads now available Brake specialist Bendix has announced the release of its latest high performance disc brake pads, the Ultimate+ range, designed for high performance and low dust. Upgraded from the current Ultimate range, Bendix says the Ultimate+ range provides even greater stopping power utilising advanced ceramic formulation with the added advantages of low dust generation for cleaner wheels, low braking noise and even greater resistance to brake fade at higher temperatures. Under extreme conditions, Bendix says the new brake pads deliver consistent brake pedal feel even after a hot lap. Designed and developed for use with slotted rotors, the new brake pads incorporate the Bendix Blue Titanium Stripe for instant friction without the need for bedding in the brakes on installation. Bendix Ultimate+ brake pads come complete with Bendix proprietary brake shims featuring nitrile rubber coating that absorbs noise and vibration. Drawing on their latest OEM research and development experience, Bendix says its Australian engineers continue to bring leading edge products to the aftermarket. For more information, free call the Bendix Brake Advice Centre on 1800 819 666 or +61 3 5327 0211 from overseas (8am – 5pm Monday to Friday EST), email brakeadvicecentre@bendix.com.au or visit www.bendix.com.au
NEW GEARBOX CONTROL UNITS For Renault Vans Australian Clutch Services has recently added gearbox control units for Renault Trafic and Master models under its ClutchPro brand. The gearbox control unit is a critical component for controlling the actuation and gear selection in an automated manual transmission. “We have recently introduced a replacement gearbox control unit for Renault Trafic and Master vans,” Australian Clutch Services Managing Director, Brenton Jordan, said. “These are an OE quality replacement item and have been introduced after demand for these units in the Australian market. “The unit is suitable for a variety of different Trafic and Master vans and comes as a complete replacement unit with fluid reservoir and electronics.” Australian Clutch Services is always looking to expand its range of accessories, hydraulics and tools and has also recently introduced air packs for Hino 500 and Nissan UD trucks as well as a range of clutch fork replacement kits complete with pivot ball and retaining clips. “Our range of accessories is critical to our customer base throughout Australia,” Brenton said. “By offering accessories and hydraulic components in stock, we are able to supply our distributors with a complete clutch solution, saving time for the installer and helping to get the vehicle back on the road as quickly as possible.” For more information on the Australian Clutch Services range of accessories and tools, please visit www.australianclutch.com.au
PRODUCTS
SAKURA FUEL FILTERS Keeping systems clean and overall operating costs down
Keeping any fuel system free from contaminants is essential. Contamination can occur from impurities like dirt/dust, metal particles, rust, water and more. A fuel filter’s purpose is to mainly filter out all the potentially harmful contaminants that could exist in your fuel system before reaching your engine. As such, regular service of the fuel filter is important in the upkeep of vehicles. Diesel fuel systems in particular are difficult to keep clean as water can easily enter the fuel (also referred to as water contamination.) Common rail diesel engines running high fuel pressures are especially at risk of any type of fuel contamination and they can prove to be very costly to rectify. Water contamination is a high-risk issue as it can cause algae and bacterial blooms within the fuel, which can quickly cause blockages, corrosion and damage to other components. The regular service of fuel filters will vary depending on application, says Sakura Filters Australia, which states some service intervals can range from 10,000km up to 30,000kms. Also needing to be considered is the fact that some vehicles may utilise two fuel filters, where the second one is attached to the fuel tank. And in diesel applications, optional fuel/water separators may also be in place as a customisable set-up to provide additional forms of filtration. Sakura Filters Australia says its fuel filters eliminate fine containments from entering the fuel injection system, keeping systems clean and overall operating costs down. Sakura Filters Australia explains it carries a large variety of fuel filters, covering automotive, commercial, marine, agricultural and heavy equipment applications. The range includes in-line, spin-on, cartridge and in-tank filters and, depending on the filter, are compatible with E10, petroleum, diesel, B10 and E85 fuels. Sakura Filters Australia has been in the aftermarket filtration industry for more than 28 years in Australia and New Zealand. It says its products are produced to meet the highest JIS / SAE International Technical Standards and are manufactured according to the quality assurance standard TUV SUB ISO/TS 16949:2009. In addition, Sakura Filters Australia has also attained the Australian Standards AS/NZ ISO9001. Sakura Fuel filters are available from your local Sakura Filters distributor. For more information, visit www.sakurafilters.com.au or call 1800 246 302. Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine July 2020
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HELLA AUSTRALIA’S THERMAL MANAGEMENT PROGRAM GROWS Hella Australia has added Mahle thermal management components to its product portfolio Earlier this year, Hella Australia became the exclusive distributor of the comprehensive range of Mahle thermal management products in Australia and New Zealand. The distribution agreement follows Mahle’s recent acquisition of Hella’s shareholding in BEHR Hella Service. Thermal management is a key technology for any drive type. It improves the efficiency of combustion engines and in electric vehicles, the economical use of hot and cold currents determines the vehicle’s performance and cruising range as well as the service life of the battery. Integrated thermal management is therefore a prerequisite for the ongoing development of e-mobility. Hella says Mahle is a leading international development partner and supplier to the automotive industry as well as a pioneer and technology driver for the mobility of the future. The new distribution agreement provides Hella
Australia customers with access to a much broader portfolio of premium thermal management products for passenger car, light commercial vehicles, heavy goods vehicles and off-highway vehicles. The Mahle thermal management programme comprises of 3,600 engine cooling and air conditioning components, including Mahle’s wide range of Original Equipment parts such as Visco fans and blade assemblies for the Volvo FM series, radiators and heater blower fans for Volvo FH series vehicles, expansion tanks for MercedesBenz Bus and intercoolers for the Nissan Navara and Pathfinder. Also on offer is the Mahle air conditioning compressor, which is suitable for BMW1, X1 and 3 Series models (pictured). Hella Australia Managing Director, Darren Robinson, says the new partnership with Mahle offers tremendous benefits for Hella Australia’s customers, both now and in the future.
“Hella Australia customers now have faster access to an even wider range of premium quality and Original Equipment thermal management parts than we were previously able to offer through the BEHR Hella Service brand alone, backed by the high levels of customer service, marketing support and training that we’re committed to providing,” Darren said. For more information, call 1800 061 729 or email custservice@hella.com
Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine July 2020
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PEDDERS LAUNCHES EV SOLUTION SportsRyder eXtreme XA Adjustable Coilover Kits are now available for Tesla Model 3 Pedders has launched its SportsRyder eXtreme XA Adjustable Coilover kit for the 2017-on Tesla Model 3 AWD Long Range and Performance Models. It says that when fitted to your vehicle, Pedders SportsRyder eXtreme XA Adjustable Coilover kits provide exceptional ride and handling characteristics. The award winning kits reportedly offers exceptional ride and handling characteristics, including the ability to raise or lower the car to suit driving conditions without changing the coil pre-load or lower spring seat position, as well
as 32 position adjustable bump and rebound damping with the simple click of the adjuster knob located on the top of the shock. With these features, Pedders says the eXtreme XA kit is a valuable component for the street tuner or weekend track day racer.
Key features and benefits: • • • • •
32 Position Adjustable Damping Adjustable Ride Height Nitrogen Gas Charged Alloy Steel Motorsport Coils Fully Threaded Mono-Tube Body
Kit inclusions • • • • • •
Two x Front eXtreme XA Adjustable Coilovers Two x Rear eXtreme XA Adjustable Coilovers Two x Rear Coil Springs Adjustment C Spanner Tools Instruction Manual Pedders eXtreme XA Car Badge
For further information please contact your local Pedders Suspension specialist or visit www.pedders.com.au/store-finder
HOLTS TYREWELD Repairs and reinflates to get you back on the road fast Filpro Automotive says Holts has been keeping people driving for over 100 years, with a large range of products designed and developed to solve everyday problems encountered by drivers. A commonly encountered problem, and one of the most common reasons for a call to roadside assistance, is a flat tyre. A flat tyre is an unexpected inconvenience that can happen at any time or anywhere. Changing a flat can be a dangerous task on the side of the road whilst trying to avoid passing traffic; and with most new car manufacturers opting for more space in place of a spare tyre, a tyre change isn’t an option. For this, Filpro Automotive says Holts is an alternative to a lengthy wait for roadside assistance. Holts Tyreweld is a water-based rubber solution that can repair punctures up to 5mm in diameter, which accounts for approximately 95 percent of punctures. With Holts Tyreweld there is said to be no need for removal of the tyre, or the use of any tools. 28
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The unique, twist button, automatic transfer system is reportedly unlike other aftermarket tyre repair products. By attaching the end of the tube to the tyre valve and twisting the red button, the Holts Tyreweld disperses into the tyre within seconds, and works instantly by coating the inside of the tyre to seal the puncture. The gas in the can inflates the tyre, making it possible to drive on immediately. The temporary repair system is sufficient in getting the vehicle to the tyre shop for a full repair; withstanding a maximum speed of 80kph. Being a water-based rubber solution, Holts Tyreweld is not toxic and non-damaging to rims and tyres, and is not hazardous or flammable; making it easy to wipe or wash away, and to dispose of by the tyre repairer.
and if cold weather is a factor, Tyreweld will reportedly work in temperatures as low as -10°C. Filpro Automotive says Holts Tyreweld is compatible with all Tyre Pressure Monitoring Systems and will not cause damage.
Taking up much less space than a spare tyre, Holts Tyreweld is safe to store inside the vehicle in both hot and cold weather.
The Tyreweld Emergency Puncture Repair product comes in three sizes, for different tyre sizes; covering small cars to 2WD and 4WD vehicles.
Tyreweld cans are made from one piece of aluminium to withstand temperatures up to 97°C;
For more information, contact Filpro Automotive on 0400 878 837 or via arossiter@filpro.com.au
PRODUCTS
RYCO RE-LAUNCHES SOUGHT AFTER CLASSIC FILTER The classic Z23 Spin-On Oil Filter is back Ryco Filters says British classic car enthusiasts will rejoice to hear that it has re-released the classic Z23 Spin-On Oil Filter. First released in the 1960s, the Z23 spin on filter with the unique ½ inch BSPF (½ -14 BSPF) thread size will be released this year after a more than decade on hiatus. “Owners of classic British vehicles no longer have to make do with oil filter conversion kits,” Ryco Filters General Manager of Engineering and Innovation, Alastair Hampton, said. “The brand new Z23 is better than OE, utilising 21st century filter media and presented with a nod to its historic past with retro touches. We wanted it to look like the original Z23s once in the engine bay.” The Z23 features a unique thread size, the only one in the Ryco range and used on BMC engines of the period. Also featured are an anti-drain back valve with a stack tube to support an inverted mounting position; a pressure relief valve making
it a modern OEM quality filter; and media and construction with superior efficiency, life and flow of the original Z23 oil filter. The filter fits uniquely British vehicles utilising engines from the BMC B-Series family of four cylinder and six cylinder engines. British classics such as: Morris Major and Elite, Oxford, Austin 1800, Lancer, A40, A50, A55, A60 Cambridge, Freeway, Wolseley 24/80, 1500, 15/50, 15/60, 16/60, 24/80, MGA, MGB (1955 – 1974), MG Magnette ZA, ZB, Mk3 - 4, Riley one point five, 4/68, 4/72 and Leyland Marina 6. The Z23 can be easily fitted or removed with the RST222 Spin On Filter Cup made especially for unique Ryco filters cans, with a 92 mm diameter can with eight flutes. “The vintage appearance of the filter was researched by the Engineering team digging through the Ryco Filter archive and uncovering original samples to come up with the original can colour, retro screen print and retro style packaging for a more correct period appearance for the filter in the engine bay, and more authentically pleasing for the classic car owner,” Alastair said. The original dark grey colour of the filter cans was commonly referred to on the Ryco factory floor in Maribrynong as ‘Battleship Grey.’ The paint was excess dark grey battleship paint purchased post WWII by Ryco from the ship building yards in
Williamstown in Victoria. After that supply of paint ran out the filter cans continued to have varying shades of grey throughout the 50s, 60s and 70s until paint colours were fully standardised. “We’ve already had people contact us to say that they were just about out of their stash of Z23s purchased more than a decade ago, so the timing of the re-release is a relief for some owners,” Alastair said. The Z23 is available from all good Ryco stockists from July 2020. “If it’s not on the shelf at one of our distributor’s stores you can ask them to order in for you, or purchase through their online websites,” Ryco Filters Marketing Manager, Melissa Simpson, said. For more information, visit www.rycofilters.com.au/Z23 or call the Ryco Filters customer service team on 1800 804 541.
SUPERPRO WHEEL STUD TOOL KIT For re-installing wheels on vehicles with wheel bolts Anyone that has put wheels back on a vehicle with wheel bolts, particularly ones with heavy wheels or chunky tyres, knows how much of a juggling act this can be. It is a daily issue for anyone working with tyres and suspension. Because of this, SuperPro says it decided to design the Wheel Stud Tool Kit to make the process much easier and quicker, saving you and your workshop valuable time. To use, simply screw in the SuperPro Wheel Stud Tool, slot the easy-guide tapered end into the wheel bolt hole and now your wheels are aligned so you can quickly screw in the remaining bolts – it is as simple as that. The SuperPro Wheel Stud Tool Kit (Part number TRC0033K) is designed for re-installing wheels on vehicles with wheel bolts. It has both wheel lug thread sizes for these types of vehicles, predominantly Euro: • 12 X 1.5 Pitch • 14 x 1.5 Pitch
Moulded, CNC and anodized, the SuperPro Wheel Stud Tool Kit is a lightweight high strength tool that can help any workshop, says SuperPro. To learn more about the SuperPro Wheel Stud Tool Kit, check out the SuperPro Suspension Parts YouTube Channel. SuperPro has an ever-growing range of suspension products, including bushings, control arms, sway bars and workshop tools. It says it is always looking for the next suspension innovation to help improve both the retail customers’ satisfaction but also the trade customers experience, stating that with the SuperPro Wheel Stud Tool Kit you get both attributes.
Wheel Stud Tool Kit will save you makes this tool addition a no brainer to purchase. You will make your money back on time saved in a matter of weeks!”
“The SuperPro Wheel Stud Tool Kit is covered by a lifetime warranty, so you know you’re going to get your money worth of use,” SuperPro National Sales Manager, David David Atherton, said.
The SuperPro Wheel Stud Tool Kit can be purchased from any SuperPro distributor or directly from SuperPro if you are an existing customer or are looking to become a SuperPro distributor.
“The amount of time and hassle the SuperPro
For more information, visit www.superpro.com.au Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine July 2020
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AIR SUSPENSION SOLUTIONS Delivered by Unique Auto Parts Unique Auto Parts says it has been dedicated to bringing reliable and affordable spare parts for European vehicles to the Australian market since 1998. With strong relationships with German companies, Unique Auto Parts has been able to source generally hard to find parts. One such company is TruckTec, which has been helping Unique Auto Parts bring commercial and passenger parts to the Australian market. Air suspension components are known for their expensive nature. Unique Auto Parts says thanks to this partnership, parts which previously could have only been found genuine with a large price tag are now available, such as TruckTec air suspension struts, air suspension pumps and air suspension bags. As most modern vehicles are fitted with air suspension to provide a smoother ride, Unique Auto Parts says they are often failing after years of use and this is where it is able to help. Unique Auto Parts stocks air suspension struts,
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pumps and bags for Mercedes, BMW and Audi, with the parts having been thoroughly tested by TruckTec and accompanied by a 12-month warranty. The air suspension pumps also come with a relay that is recommended to be changed at the same time, all for a fraction of the genuine cost. Unique Auto Parts has one of the largest ranges of European spare parts available, from Mercedes, BMW, Audi, Volkswagen, Citroen, Mini, Peugeot, Porsche, Renault, Seat, Skoda, Smart, Volvo and Land Rover. The range extends to filtration, brake components, suspension, steering, electrical, engine, lubricants, oils, sealants and car care and are all from “the most reputable German and UK brands� such as JP Group, Quinton Hazell,
TruckTec, Hella, Bosch, BBR, Zimmerman and JP Group Classic. Unique Auto Parts says it is able to provide prompt and fast delivery from five conveniently located warehouses across Australia. The three warehouses in Victoria service Dandenong, Mornington, Heidelberg and the surrounding areas. The store in Brisbane is located in Slacks Creek and the Perth store is located in Beckenham, with both stores having delivery drivers who continuously go back and forth delivering parts. Priding itself on customer service, Unique Auto Parts says that when you ring, it can ensure the right part for your car every time. For more information, call Unique Auto Parts on 1300 864 864 or visit www.uniqueautoparts.com.au
PRODUCTS
RIGHTLINE MOKI DOOR STEP Enjoy easy access to your vehicle’s roof Down Under Distribution says it is excited to announce the arrival of the Rightline Gear original Moki Door Step product to the ANZ market. Giving you the ability to effortlessly reach the roof, roof racks and objects mounted on roof racks, the Moki Door Step is a universal globally patented door step that will fit “virtually all” modern Motor Vehicle/SUV applications. The Step provides a comfortable platform for both feet and allows for a balanced standing position. The patented Step also eliminates dirty shoes on vehicle seats and the need to carry bulky step stools or ladders; and if you are short or your vehicle is tall, the Moki Door Step makes getting your gear on or off your roof a breeze.
To use, simply hook the Door Step over the D-shaped door latch in any of your vehicle’s doors. Once fitted, you can load and strap down car top cargo bags and boxes; canoes, kayaks, and SUPs; skis and snowboards; and bikes. You can even use it to help wash your vehicle’s roof. The Moki Door Step is universal and also boasts the following features: • Easy “one, two, three” installation using the silicon coated hook • Constructed from quality aircraft aluminium for ultimate strength • Handles weight up to 181kg (400Ibs) • Powder coated bright orange for clear visibility • Long design to allow for two feet loading • Heavy grip tread and drainage for wet/muddy conditions • Compact design allowing easy storage in the glove box or spare wheel compartment of the boot • Protective rubber heal to prevent paint damage to the vehicle’s door pillar • Protected by global patent 10,155,479 • Attractively gift packed for easy hang sell or countertop display Applications include: • Cleaning the roof of cars, vans and SUVs
• Mounting Bikes, Kayaks, Surf Boards and SUPs on to roof racks • Accessing roof boxes mounted to the top of vehicles • Use by hunters and fishermen • Accessing the roof of commercial vehicles to safely access ladders and other equipment • Emergency vehicle applications Down Under Distribution is the exclusive distributor for Rightline Gear in Australia and New Zealand and says the Moki Door Step is just one product from its line-up of outdoor automotive equipment from Rightline Gear. Available in the coming weeks will be roof top storage systems, rear mounted storage systems, truck bed/trailer nets with tarps, truck and SUV tents and mattresses, specific Jeep products and universal weatherproof duffle bags. For more information, call 1800 304 811, email sales@dudistribution.com or visit www.dudistribution.com
WHEEL AND PAINT IRON DECON Those behind the product say it delivers “the Meguiar’s professional advantage” Every time you step on the anchors, the brake rotors shed iron dust. This hot iron dust embeds itself into the wheel’s painted surface. The vehicle’s paint, plastics and glass also suffer a similar build-up from iron fallout – simply from driving around in traffic.
product in one, stating it is “no wonder it’s a favorite of professional detailers around the globe.”
Meguiar’s All Season Dressing
These stubborn particles are mighty hard to budge during regular washing. Typically, you can’t see them, but rub your hand across the surface and you will definitely feel them.
When it comes to a great tyre dressing, you want it to be long lasting so that it doesn’t wash away the first time it rains; low sling so it doesn’t end up plastered all down the side of your car; and have good UV protection to resist fading to keep your tyres looking better for longer.
The high-cling, gel formula of Meguiar’s Wheel and Paint Iron Decon product reportedly breaks down and dislodges iron contamination from wheels and painted brake components, along with paintwork, plastics and glass.
Meguiar’s says its All Season Dressing ticks all of those boxes and much, much more, stating its product produces a deep, rich and long-lasting shine on tyres along with all exterior rubber and plastic surfaces.
You can even see it working – it turns purple as it reacts with the iron. It also contains chemistry to help remove road grime and grease and being pH-balanced, is said to be gentle on all surfaces.
Meguiar’s All Season Dressing is a ready to use product and is designed to attain great coverage while being non-greasy.
Meguiar’s says its Wheel and Paint Iron Decon is a great wheel cleaner and paint decontamination
It can be sprayed directly onto the surface or accurately applied via a cloth or applicator pad for zero overspray.
In addition to being a fantastic tyre dressing, Meguiar’s says its All Season Dressing is ideal for keeping black plastic body moldings, skirting, wheel arches, wheel wells and mud flaps all looking a million dollars, stating “Meguiar’s All Season Dressing really does it all!” Meguiar’s says the bulk sizes of the Meguiar’s Professional Detailer range represent remarkable value, making them ideal for workshops, professional detailers, prosumers or keen hobbyists with a shed full of gleaming toys. The Meguiar’s Professional Detailer range is available from select Repco and Autobarn stores. For more information, please visit www.meguiars.com.au Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine July 2020
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MADE WITH LOVE Interequip’s wheel servicing equipment is 100 percent Made in Italy Interequip says it supplies 100 percent Made in Italy wheel servicing equipment, including tyre changers, wheel balancers and wheel aligners for cars and trucks. Interequip says it is proud to bring Italian brands M&B Engineering and Vamag to the market, stating these two companies have been manufacturing for more than 50 years combined.
“These Italian-made products are made with love and passion with the highest of quality; and are dedicated to durable designs that last for many years of hard work well after the warranty period,” Interequip Sales Director, Alex Visser, said. “This is something you will not see from cheaper machines made in Asia, thus saving workshop owners time, money, and energy on repairing equipment of inferior quality.” The M&B Engineering tyre changer is approved for Run-Flat tyres for dealerships in Europe. “The top model 6800P wheel balancer with LED, laser, 3D scan, and wheel lifter is making wheel balancing ever easier by taking out operator error,” Alex said. “M&B also specialises in making a patented two in one quality mobile truck tyre changer and truck wheel balancer to install on vans or trucks for mobile wheel service. “Again, the craftsmanship and quality of this machinery is making business operations more efficient and profitable.”
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Vamag specialises in producing CCD and 3D wheel aligners for cars and trucks. “With Vamag machinery, owners can enjoy precision of data accuracy and ease of work once the installation is done by a professional technician,” Alex said. “Interequip also supplies BulletPro and Autoaline brand wheel service equipment for customers that want a decent quality without European cost.” For more information, please call 18000EQUIP or email info@interequip.com.au
Hydraulic lifting equipment company Shinn Fu Australia says Omega Lift’s newest ‘rolling’ Spider Jack Stands are not like the traditional jack stands you know. It explains these pair of heavy-duty pin-style stands can be rolled with the new spring-loaded casters for easy unloaded mobility while the extendable positioning handle slide stands safely under vehicles. These four convenient casters allow the stands to be rolled around the workshop easily, saving energy for mechanics as they do not have to carry it. They compress in when loaded, so they won’t need to withstand load – instead the flat base will support the load and is much more stable. The stands are sold as a pair with two sizes: 33220A with 20 ton capacity and 33300A with 27 ton capacity.
Key features: • Spring-loaded casters for easy unloaded mobility
• Extendable positioning handle to move stands safely under vehicles • Sturdy, welded steel construction for superior safety and strength • Heavy gauge steel frame helps prevent distortion and twisting • Wide flat base for stability, with locking pin storage • Carrying handle on each base, and on 33300A’s pin-hole column for improved grip when raising up For more information, visit www.shinnfu.com.au
PRODUCTS
WHAT DO A TESLA DRIVER, RACE CAR DRIVER AND MINER ALL HAVE IN COMMON? ASV P-Free Puncture Free Tyres, that’s what It has been 3.5 years since ASV Euro Car Parts introduced ASV P-free Puncture Free Tyres to the Australian market. “To say they have taken us on a joy ride is an understatement,” ASV Euro Car Parts Chief Executive Officer, Vic Soghomonian, said. “Our tyres have travelled far and wide. They are now spread across Australian vehicles from the mines in Perth and the race tracks of Western Sydney, to the newest Teslas cruising the Melbourne CBD. “Our customers were looking for an alternative on the tyre market so that they no longer needed to worry about costly punctures, finding room for a spare tyre, and the dangers of changing a tyre on the side of the road. “Whilst all vastly different, they all have one thing in common, they needed a high performance tyre, that won’t let them down. “We’ve let our race drivers put the tyres to the test on the tracks - both wet and dry - and the
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trucks in the mines are conquering water, mud, shrapnel, shale and rock. “At every pressure test, our tyres have outperformed any pre-expectations our potential customers may have had. The market feedback has been so positive, that we are now providing fleets of emergency service vehicles including Paramedical Services Australia with ASV P-free tyres to ensure they can safely transport patients without the added worry of a puncture.” ASV Euro Car Parts says its ASV P-free tyres are competitively priced against other high performance tyres and are made of a self-sealing gel, comprising of thermoplastic elastomer, resin and a rubber processing/extender oil. When they are punctured by a sharp object, the gel application seals itself around the foreign object and remains there even if the item is removed or falls out of its own accord. This means that the tyre remains inflated without losing pressure. The tyre will reportedly remain
inflated even after a puncture, for the complete life of the tyre with no need to ever repair or replace that tyre. “This is an Australian-Patented design and unlike any other tyre or puncture solution on the market in Australia,” Vic said. “Just like other Aussie innovators before us, we are like proud parents watching these tyres earn their stripes as a serious contender on the Australian tyre market.” For more information, visit www.asv.com.au
PRODUCTS
NEW FROM MILWAUKEE TOOL Introducing the M18 FUEL 1/2” Extended Anvil High Torque Impact Wrench with ONE-KEY Milwaukee Tool says it continues to deliver unprecedented innovation for professional tyre technicians with the introduction of the M18 FUEL 1/2” Extended Anvil High Torque Impact Wrench with ONE-KEY. Delivering controlled torque output for fastening and up to 1,491Nm of “nut-busting” torque, this new solution allows tyre technicians to perform faster tyre service without the hassle of pneumatic hoses, compressors, and torque sticks. In addition, the cordless impact wrench features four customisable modes, delivering unique fastening torque outputs to perform tyre services on vehicles such as sedans, light trucks, and box trucks. With up to 1,491Nm of breakaway torque, Milwaukee Tool says the controlled torque impact wrench provides you with more than enough power to remove rusted lug nuts. The four modes are as follows: • Mode one – this mode is designed for small vehicles, delivering a target torque range of 54-102Nm
• Mode two – this mode is for medium sized SUVs, delivering a target torque range of 102203Nm • Mode three – this mode is for trucks, delivering a target torque range of 372 – 610Nm • Mode four – this mode delivers full power in forward of up to 1016Nm Milwaukee Tool’s REDLITHIUM-ION battery pack (not included) is compatible with M18 tools, providing more work per charge and more work over the life of the pack. With ONE-KEY, users also gain the ability to customise, track and manage their extended anvil impact wrench. Milwaukee Tool – an industry-leading manufacturer of heavy-duty power tools, accessories and hand tools for professional users worldwide – says it is committed to improving productivity by providing performance-driven and trade-focused solutions so users can perform an entire day’s work on one battery system. As such, it offers this new tool as part of the M18 System, now with more than 120 solutions. Since the company began in 1924, Milwaukee
Tool says it has led the industry in both durability and performance. With an unwavering commitment to the trades, Milwaukee states it continues to lead with a focus on providing innovative, trade-specific solutions. Whether it is through its leadership in LITHIUMION technology, as seen in the M12 and M18 Systems, time-saving accessories or innovative hand tool products, Milwaukee says it is dedicated to delivering a steady stream of advanced solutions for the trades that offer increased productivity and unmatched durability. For more information, visit www.milwaukeetool.com.au
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DAVIES, CRAIG ADDS 23-PLATE COMBOS
The additions see Davies, Craig’s transmission oil cooler range expand Australian automotive cooling manufacturer, Davies, Craig Pty Ltd, has launched two 23-Plate Transmission Oil Cooler Combos. These additional Hydra-Cool Combo Packs, Part #693 (12-volt) and Part #694 (24-volt), further strengthen the highly regarded Davies, Craig Hydra-Cool Transmission Oil Cooler range. Davies, Craig says the 23-Plate Hydra-Cool Combos are supplied with the proven 8” Slimline Thermatic Reversible Fans which inject more cooling ‘muscle’ to harder-working automatic transmissions.
The patented dimple plates re-direct the oil flow, and in conjunction with the unique louvered fin design provides highly efficient cooling with lowpressure drop for both road, off-road and motor sport applications. These two additional Transmission Oil Cooler Combos unite two proven cooling technology products, says Davies, Craig, which states the new 23-Plate Combos slot nicely into the Transmission Oil Cooler Combo range between the 21-Plate Part#698, #699 and the 30-Plate Part #691, #692 models. These additional units continue the company’s resolve to dissipate the biggest ‘killer’ of automatic transmissions – heat. Davies, Craig says installing a Transmission Oil Cooler can reduce automatic transmission fluid temperature by as much as 33 percent; stating that a reduction of just 11◦C may double the life of automatic transmission plates, the fluid and other internal parts. These two Hydra-Cool Combos (Parts#693 and #694) display all the hallmarks other HydraCool models offer the automotive aftermarket, offering additional cooling and extended product life benefits to a wide variety of automatic transmissions, says Davies, Craig. For more information, visit www.daviescraig.com.au 40
Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine July 2020
PCB SELECTS PRECISION AUTOMOTIVE EQUIPMENT One of Australia’s largest Porsche dealerships has completed a refurbishment with Precision Automotive Equipment Porsche Centre Brighton (PCB) in Victoria has recently completed a full refurbishment of its service workshop. Awarded to Precision Automotive Equipment, this refurb included new oil and air lines, vehicle hoists and a transformation of the wheel service division. One of many key requirements was to enable the PCB site to continue to operate while the refurb took place. The Precision team engineered and fitted remote fill and waste collection points, complete with access points fixed to an external wall of the property. This system completely eliminates the need for trucks to enter the workshop, enabling essential oils to be replenished without interfering with the service department. Another request was to eliminate fluid spilt during waste collection. This was achieved through the installation of safe waste oil and coolant collection boards, ensuring a cleaner and safer workshop. As vehicle hoists and wheel service formed a large component of this refurb, it was important to ensure the right products were selected for high levels of functionality and productivity. “Getting the right alignment machine was the corner stone to this project. Selecting Hunter Engineering’s Hawkeye Elite in Porsche (VAG) configuration would ensure that all current and future demands would be met,” Precision Automotive Equipment’s Norm Wiley said. After working closely with PCB’s Service Manager, Michael Smith, a machine with a wall mount camera system was decided upon. This design was chosen as it provided a clear floor in front of the alignment bay and allowed for a smaller bay footprint without effecting productivity while leaving plenty of room for Porsche’s radar alignment board. Additionally, the Hunter RX45 VAG approved flush mounted alignment rack was requested to cater for the unique challenges of Porsche vehicles. This unique rack communicates with the alignment machine by locking and unlocking the turn plates and slip plates automatically. It also comes equipped with full rack LED lighting and has the ability to individually pump up each of the tyres thanks to its integrated inflation station. PCB’s workshop refurb also included the supply and installation of Rotary full height scissor lifts
and two post hoists. The Rotary DS35EX scissor lift fitted the brief thanks to its low 105mm collapsed height and 3,500kg lift capacity. To achieve a small footprint, the drive on ramps double up as load rated platform extensions, which make these hoists perfect for longer wheelbase SUVs, says Precision Automotive Equipment. When attention turned to general service two posts hoists, the Rotary SPOA10 with 4,500kg lift capacity and unique three stage, low profile trio load arms were the perfect choice to suit the unique requirements of Porsche vehicles. Designed as a true asymmetric hoist, the SPOA10 allows the vehicle to be positioned so that, unlike conventional hoists, the post is not in the way of entering and exiting the vehicle. Removing this common contact point has greatly reduced the chance of accidental damage when opening doors, says Precision Automotive Equipment. “The Porsche Centre Brighton project was a highly detailed, customer specific workshop refurb that the entire Precision Automotive Equipment Team is extremely proud of,” Precision Automotive Equipment National Sales Manager, Michael Bruce, said. “This refurb required a great deal of our own design and fabrication work, utilising our team’s many years of experience to ensure that PCB’s workshop could operate more efficiently and cleanly, using state of the art equipment and bespoke designed oil, waste, air and coolant facilities.” Precision Automotive Equipment says it provides the best of both worlds, from its vast equipment range to its unique ability to custom design, manufacture and install workshop equipment and apparatus for passenger car, commercial vehicle or heavy-duty servicing and repair workshop requirements. For more information, contact Precision Automotive Equipment on 1300 366 252 or visit www.precisionautomotive.com.au
PRODUCTS
MANN-FILTER JOINS COOLDRIVE CoolDrive Auto Parts is proud to add the MANN-FILTER range to its extensive catalogue Like CoolDrive, MANN + HUMMEL is a family owned company, which has forged a path as a leader in filtration since it was founded in Germany in 1941. Innovation and technology have reportedly been key to placing MANN + HUMMEL at the forefront globally, with the company growing a reputation as a development partner and original equipment supplier to virtually all automotive manufacturers worldwide. Synonymous locally for European passenger car applications, MANN-FILTER says it is also the leading supplier to the Korean vehicle manufacturing industry, as well as having a complete range especially produced for Japanese sourced applications. MANN-FILTER also feature prominently in the heavy duty transport market, with filters for truck manufactures such as Volvo, Scania and Iveco, as well as agricultural machinery, covering brands such as John Deere, Case New Holland and Caterpillar. Included in the range are air, oil, fuel, cabin air
filters and more. For CoolDrive, the quality of the products set the brand apart. “While many suppliers claim that they make OE quality parts, MANN-FILTER are manufactured on the very same production line, no matter if the end customer is a vehicle manufacturer or if the parts are intended for the automotive aftermarket,” CoolDrive Auto Parts Chief Executive Officer, John Blanchard, said. “An important fact about MANN-FILTER is that they do not ‘range fill’, meaning if they do not have OE business for a particular application, they do not offer it in the aftermarket. “All MANN-FILTER items are produced in their own factories, there is no outsourcing of manufacturing or brand labelling, so they present a unique quality proposition. “That said, their product line up is competitively priced compared to other brands available in the marketplace. “Outside of the quality and price considerations, MANN-FILTER tick a lot of boxes for CoolDrive,
we are both family owned, and they are also a huge supporter of motorsport, which saw them recently sponsor the Triple Eight Race Engineering Mercedes-AMG GT3 at the Bathurst 12 Hour.” The product line up complements other categories catered for by CoolDrive, including air conditioning, auto electrical, lighting, engine management, alternators and starter motors, engine cooling, underbody and suspension, brake and clutch, lubricants, as well as tools, consumables and much more. The full MANN-FILTER range is available at www.cooldrive. com.au or via CoolDrive’s nationwide chain of branches. For more information, visit www.cooldrive.com.au
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REDUCE DOWN TIME With Optibelt’s quick, accurate and reliable belt tension tester Optibelt Australia says its TT line frequency tension tester provides the most accurate and fastest way to test the tension of drive belts by measuring the frequency of vibration, resulting in extended belt and pulley life and a reduction in down time. The compact design of the Optibelt TT line tester reportedly offers universal application possibilities from an endless range of drives in engineering, in automotive and transport industries and also many other technical applications in industry. Optibelt Australia explains it is designed for even the most difficult to reach places, making it ideal for quickly checking the tensions of V-belts, ribbed belts, kraftbands and timing belts. After switching it on, the appliance is ready to transfer data immediately with the measuring head held over the belt. Two red LED lights in the measuring head combine into one at a distance of 40 - 65mm to position it accurately over the belt. The tensioned belt is then made to vibrate by plucking it by fingers or striking it with an object.
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The Optibelt tension tester immediately starts taking readings showing the results in hertz (Hz) regardless of the condition or colour of the belt. Tension recommendations can be taken from Optibelt specifications CAP drive design calculations or the Optibelt App. It is interference free with measuring methods of EM: electromagnetic waves and AC: acceleration integrated. If there is too much movement when testing the red lights will turn off and the display will show ‘Rapid Move’ until the tester is steady at which point the display will show ‘Ready.’ The Optibelt TT tension tester can also be used on long centre distances due to what Optibelt Australia calls an unprecedented wide high frequency range of AC: 1-16Hz and EM: 6-600Hz. The tester can be used on 300 belt measurements before the battery requires recharging and is not affected by noise of UV light. For those hard to reach belt spans, the measuring head has a flexible goose neck and a 250mm cable AC. The unit has a large easy to read back
lit display screen of 43mm wide and 53mm high, a USB port for recharging and an automatic switch-off. The Optibelt TT comes in a kit containing the tension tester, measuring head, charger, USB cable and a clipper for holding the measuring head and is available from automotive, transport and industrial wholesalers. For more information, contact Optibelt Australia at sales@optibelt.com.au or phone 03 8791 2700.
PRODUCTS
M/T ET STREET The radial revolution In a time when several cars can be purchased new with more than 500 horsepower on tap, Rocket Industries explains the attention falls to suspension, brakes and tyres to keep these guided missiles on target. Just over two decades ago, DOT-legal advocates got the first in a line of tyres bearing the ET Street name from Mickey Thompson. Since that debut, the ET Street line has added many more models and more than 40 different part numbers. A few years ago Mickey Thompson performed a complete revamp of the ET Street line, changing both radial and bias-ply designs in an effort to stay on par with ever-growing horsepower figures, racing class demands and driving requirements. The revamp also added two new names to the ET Street line up, including the ET Street S/S. The biggest visual difference on the ET Street S/S is the changes in the groove pattern. The new grooves make the tyre a little more street friendly in wet conditions. Most customers with larger-diameter wheels do not have another set of rims and tyres for the track and that is what originally prompted the ET Street II, and is carried on with the new ET Street S/S. The ET Street S/S tyre is available in eighteen different sizes, from the staple 15-inch diameter rim to the 20-inch diameter wheel of modern muscle cars. The S/S model is a continuation of the first ET Street radial, and although it is a little different than a normal street radial, it reportedly is still true to its radial roots.
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Features include the steel-belted tubeless design, as well as the proven R2 compound that brings excellent traction with a minimal burnout. The ET Street S/S is targeted for a car with a 70 percent balance of street use compared to 30 percent track use. Mickey Thompson also recognises there are cars geared more towards racing, but also driven occasionally on the street. Its ET Street R tyre is aimed at that market and available in bias-ply and radial versions. The ET Street R line incorporates the technology used in the popular ET Street Radial Pro tyre. The ET Street Radial Pro is designed for certain racing classes and not really designed for street use while the ET Street R addresses that with more streetability. The bias-ply ET Street R also features a stiffer sidewall over the original ET Street bias-ply tyre, and is recommended for manual transmission vehicles. For more information on Mickey Thompson tyres, styles and sizes available to suit your application, contact Rocket Industries on 02 8825 1900 or visit www.rocketind.com
PRODUCTS
SUZUKI JIMNY HEAVY DUTY UPGRADES Xtreme Clutch releases a range of upgrade options Xtreme Outback, the heavy duty 4x4 division of Australian Clutch Services, has recently launched a heavy duty upgrade for the K15B powered 2019 and 2020 Suzuki Jimny. These upgrades have been designed to support a quickly expanding aftermarket performance market for these vehicles. The new model 1.5L Suzuki Jimny has already proven popular amongst tuning groups around the world with several vehicles even being turbocharged to significantly increase their performance. With the older model Suzuki Jimny being a popular platform for heavy duty 4x4 upgrades, Xtreme Outback quickly developed a range of options for the new model including sprung organic, sprung ceramic and cushioned ceramic upgrade kits. It says these upgrades are ideal for vehicles used in harsh environments or that are modified to increase horsepower and torque. The sprung organic option is expected to be the most popular upgrade in the range and offers a 230 Nm torque capacity thanks to a 35 percent increase in clamping force over the standard pressure plate. Retaining a sprung organic friction disc, Xtreme Outback states these kits are ideal for vehicles still being used every day but which also require an increase in torque holding capability. Each of the kits come complete with thrust bearing, spigot bearing and alignment tool ensuring the best efficiency for the installer and long-term reliability for the vehicle owner.
Xtreme Outback is also developing a lightweight flywheel for those wanting to replace this component at the same time. “We have already seen great demand for these performance clutch upgrades through our international distributor base,” Australian Clutch Services Managing Director, Brenton Jordan, said. “Many of our distributors have received enquiries for a clutch to handle significant horsepower increases, especially in the Middle-Eastern markets. “Our range of kits have been developed to suit these higher horsepower applications and we also have a twin plate range of upgrades in development to suit very high horsepower vehicles fitted with turbo setups.” For more information, please visit www.xtremeoutback.com.au
Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine July 2020
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KEYS ARE NOW EASIER THAN EVER BEFORE Thanks to Remote King Why don’t auto electricians, mechanics and tyres stores offer replacement keys, asks Remote King. The company says that the answer is now they do, or if they don’t, they should be. “When a customer walks into your shop, the first thing that they hand you is the keys to their car and this is generally where the first problem begins: my remote doesn’t work, the key shell is broken or please don’t lose it I don’t have a spare!” Remote King Managing Director, Ian Wood, said. “Well, this should be your first upsell for the day! “With changes to technology, cutting your keys takes just a push of a button, thanks to Remote King’s fully automated key cutting machines which make key cutting ‘child’s play.’”
WE HAVE IGNITION Adrad extends its range Adrad has recently added a collection of highquality ignition coils, modules and coil packs to its extensive parts range. It explains Delphi and Valeo coils are backed by over 100 years of collective ignition system experience, delivering reliability and long service life. Adrad says these manufacturers are globally recognised for their OE and aftermarket expertise and have applied their knowledge to include advanced design features to their ignition products. Testing has reportedly proven these superior parts meet the demands of modern vehicles and their construction using quality material ensures longevity. It states Delphi are known to use highgrade materials for superior dielectric strength, insulation and durability.
Why do ignition coils fail? Over time, vibration and overheating will cause damage, leading to premature failure or reduced engine performance (rough/uneven idling), excessive exhaust emissions and increased fuel consumption. Good quality is essential to withstand high temperatures and voltage as well as comply with the fitment requirements found in modern engine designs. Low quality or poor construction coils can result in a myriad of problems, such as overheating, low spark strength, shorter spark duration, and ignition system damage.
Modern demands on coils
Remote King has been supplying the locksmith, key cutting and hardware industry with products, training and support for more than 13 years. It supplies a range of keys, remotes and replacement key shells. “My job is to see where or if a product fits in a marketplace. More recently we have seen an influx of mechanics and auto electricians servicing their customers with our equipment, with some now becoming big players in the key/ remote space,” Ian said. “Thanks to the evolution of fully automatic key cutting machines with built-in touch screens, cutting keys is now as simple as pushing two buttons: duplicate and cut. “And if that’s not simple enough, remote King has added in-built training videos onto the cutting machine’s touch screen. “There are also solutions for most advanced key cloning systems, with universal remotes and transponders now available.” For more information, visit www.remoteking.com.au 48
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Technology in vehicles continues to evolve rapidly. Delphi and Valeo ignition coils are designed to suit compact engine space, adapt to tighter emissions regulations, deliver fuel economy and cope with higher voltage. Delphi’s proprietary steel core design allows the wire winding to be directly applied to the core, while smart engineering processes have streamlined electrical pathways to the spark plug. High quality components have also permitted steady voltage using controlled wire lengths and quality coating, to deliver optimal engine operation. Delphi and Valeo have created a smaller compact design, resulting in fewer materials and tighter coupling to the electromagnetic circuit. The result of this efficient energy delivery is enhanced fuel efficiency and engine performance.
Installation tips Adrad says taking care with correct instalment will help avoid comebacks and ensure satisfied customers. Firstly, if you notice any damage to the coil such as a cracked housing, broken anti-rotational tabs or a broken connector, do not use it. Secondly, never remove or disassemble the boot from the coil, as this can result in engine misfires and RFI noise due to a lost spring or compressor. Finally, do not apply or spray any non-approved material onto the high voltage tower or electrical connectors. Doing so may jeopardise seal integrity in the tower and create electrical shorting or high resistance at the connectors. These quality ignition parts are now available from Adrad distributors across Australia. For more information contact Adrad on 1800 882 043.
PRODUCTS
SPIDER JACK STANDS Omega Lift’s newest ‘rolling’ Spider Jack Stands Hydraulic lifting equipment company Shinn Fu Australia says Omega Lift’s newest ‘rolling’ Spider Jack Stands are not like the traditional jack stands you know. It explains these pair of heavy-duty pin-style stands can be rolled with the new spring-loaded casters for easy unloaded mobility while the extendable positioning handle slide stands safely under vehicles. These four convenient casters allow the stands to be rolled around the workshop easily, saving energy for mechanics as they do not have to carry it. They compress in when loaded, so they won’t need to withstand load – instead the flat base will support the load and is much more stable. The stands are sold as a pair with two sizes: 33220A with 20 ton capacity and 33300A with 27 ton capacity.
STAND OUT AND MAKE A DIFFERENCE With LED Merchandising LED Autolamps says it has stood the test of time with its signature red bays and signage designed to be visually appealing and configured to engage customers at the point of sale. LED prides itself on delivering fast-moving, neat and profitable product displays that not only look great but will also enhance any retail space. Its passion and attention to detail when building the right retail merchandiser display is said by LED Autolamps to engage customers and provide a rewarding retail experience. The company says the secret to its success is a four-step process aptly named “Build-a-Bay” which semi automates and streamlines the method and includes the following approach: 1 Input and evaluation requirements 2 Layout and optimisation of the display 3 Photo-realistic instore digital visualisation 4 Final installation by a dedicated area representative, including follow up to gauge the success of the install. This process reportedly ensures a seamless fit and rapid quoting, explicitly tailored to your specific requirements. LED Autolamps says its determined, dedicated sales team is ready to work with store managers and provide assistance with stock rotations, new product alerts, marketing and promotional assistance. In addition, picture re-order cards come standard with every merchandiser display and take the stress out of the re-order process by giving a clear indicator of the product and barcode which populated that location. LED Autolamps says you can rest assured that its 17 years of experience in retail displays, proven quality products, and competitive pricing will give you peace of mind and the edge over your competition.
Key features: • Spring-loaded casters for easy unloaded mobility • Extendable positioning handle to move stands safely under vehicles • Sturdy, welded steel construction for superior safety and strength • Heavy gauge steel frame helps prevent distortion and twisting • Wide flat base for stability, with locking pin storage • Carrying handle on each base, and on 33300A’s pin-hole column for improved grip when raising up For more information, visit www.shinnfu.com.au 50
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“We pride ourselves on delivering fast-moving, clean, smart and profitable product displays that get excellent results,” LED Autolamps General Manager, Michael Ottobre, said. “Years of fine-tuning and perfecting our Builda-Bay process has enabled us to cover more customers with less stress and has been a huge hit in the marketplace.” No matter what sized merchandiser display you have, LED Autolamps says it offers a range of light-up displays that will reinforce the purchaser’s decision and assist in driving more sales for your business. These striking displays reportedly instantly grab the attention of the customers and by adding matching signage, creates the final package.
“We have created the perfect, customisable, uncluttered solution to our client’s customers retail experience. We believe this will benefit everyone as a whole, and it is a win-win,” Michael said. The automotive aftermarket landscape remains strong and competitive in an ever-changing market and staying ahead is a constant challenge for suppliers. LED Autolamps says since 2002 it has understood the need to be in complete control in the research, development, design and manufacturing of its products to ensure conformity in production. “Our clients put our auto lights through some of the harshest conditions, all over the world. Maintaining this standard gives confidence that each product batch is the same every time,” Michael said. “Our main production sites are quality assured with IATF16949 certification. Both operations in Europe and Australia premises and processes are ISO9001 accredited, providing us credibility and privilege to work our lights into Australian Military applications, particularly the Hawkei PMV, something we are very proud of.” “We provide an ongoing professional service to our customers as well as our customer’s customers that is unmatched in the industry,” Michael said. “Faster moving products and the ability to consistently adapt gives us the edge. Key to our success is making sure every installation is a success!” If you are interested to hear more about LED Autolamps’ “Build a Bay” program or require a stock upgrade or refresh, LED Autolamps invites you to call its team on 03 9466 7075 or visit www.ledautolamps.com
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IS A LITTLE OVER ALRIGHT? In this article, Bilstein explains how its DampTronic X technology provides unrivalled driving dynamics in the new Porsche 911 With every new generation of the Porsche 911, one could easily ask: how does the 911 manage to reinvent itself every time? Somehow the sports car icon always manages to be clearly recognised as a 911 despite new designs on the one hand, and to reliably set the driving dynamics benchmark on the other. With the latest Porsche 911, the 992, the developers went one step further. For years, high agility and high ride comfort were criteria which practically excluded each other. But Porsche has been proving for years that it is possible. In the new Porsche 911 the developers took it to extremes – especially with the suspension. And that is where Bilstein came into the equation. Bilstein says that with its shock absorber expertise, it closely supported Porsche in the development of the PASM shock absorber (Porsche Active Suspension Management) with new technology. “When Porsche first confronted us with the requirements of the new Porsche 992 in 2015, we already had plans in the drawer for a shock absorber in which the conflict of objectives between driving comfort and agility could be resolved,” Bilstein Head of Technology and Innovation, Dr -Ing. Andreas Rohde, said. “The customer wanted a much wider spread between agility and driving comfort in order to have more possibilities to characterise the car. This is made possible by our brand new DampTronic X damper, which is celebrating its premiere in the Porsche 992. “The DampTronic X damper is equipped with a very fast switching adjustment valve. Its high adjustment dynamics allow the required damping forces to be adjusted in a few milliseconds to the damping requirement determined by the central control unit. “The control concept calculates and adjusts the damping several hundred times per second, depending on the driving situation and wheel-selectively.” As a result, both agility and driving comfort as well as safety can be increased. Together with the Porsche engineers, Bilstein worked for about three years on the development of the system. “We were going in circles to meet customer requirements in terms of identification and robustness,” Porsche Key Account Manager, Andreas Verhoven, said. Testing was carried out on the high-speed circuit at Nardo and, of course, on the Nürburgring-Nordschleife. The results were reportedly impressive: compared to its predecessor, the Porsche 991, the damping force in the standard suspension of the Porsche 992 has up to 40 percent more spread. Bilstein says this makes the new Porsche 911 even more comfortable to drive. But at the same time, it says the new 911 generation has certainly not lost its agility. With more agility, more comfort and more driving safety – rarely has a sports car been as perfect as the new Porsche 911, says Bilstein. For more from Bilstein, visit www.bilstein.com.au Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine July 2020
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PAT RACING AND PERFORMANCE INJECTOR RANGE UPGRADED It is reportedly now the largest range of performance injectors in the country The Premier Auto Trade (PAT) Performance Fuel Injector range, from industry leaders Bosch, Siemens and Denso, has further expanded. PAT says it now has the largest range of performance injectors in Australia, offering 45 different injectors ranging from 267cc to 2433cc, including 12 only available from PAT. Raceworks injectors all start off as a genuine Bosch EV14 injector. PAT explains they are all compatible with and warranted for use with Gasoline, Ethanol and Methanol/Alcohol based fuels, for two years. Some injectors are modified physically for fitment in particular applications. For example, lower O-ring retainers swapped for squaresection seals; and injector uppers turned down to accept buffer seals and 11mm O-rings instead of 14mm. This allows fitment on certain engines such as Honda F20C, Mazda 13BT, Mitsubishi 4G63, Nissan RB26DETT, Subaru EJ25, Toyota 1JZGTE and many more. These physical modifications allow the injectors to be direct-fit, negating the need for extensions, and in some cases electrical plug adapters. Other Raceworks Injectors are modified for increased flow. Various organisations commonly do this by ‘de-capping’ the injectors. Almost all Bosch EV14 injectors have a cap on the nozzle that is laser welded. This cap controls
flow, assisting Bosch in reducing flow variance, and determines spray pattern. A nozzle may have multiple holes drilled on precise angles, to give a desired spray pattern, commonly a cone with a particular spray width and angle. By removing this the flow of the injector is significantly increased, which leads to a larger flow variance and reduction in the quality of the spray pattern. PAT explains that Raceworks injectors are decapped but are taken one step further, and the remaining single hole/pintle is precisely drilled to restore the spray pattern quality and width. All Raceworks injectors are statically and dynamically flow matched. This is done to accurately replicate their operating conditions in a vehicle. The n-Heptane test fluid is temperature controlled, and the injectors are preconditioned with 10,000 pulses, before being statically flowed at three different fuel pressures. They are then dynamically flowed at the same three fuel pressures, but with 25 different pulse widths. The injectors are also flowed at 10 different voltages, from 6V-15V respectively. PAT says what is most important is the set of injectors aren’t pulsed at the same time, as is the case with many inferior Injector Flow Benches. Pulsing at the same time causes a pressure
differential through the rail and isn’t an accurate representation of their true firing order, it says. Raceworks Injectors are sold with detailed data, specific to that set of injectors. This data contains slope vs pressure information, as well as a voltage offset table, also known as dead times. Plug and Play data is also available for Ford and GM applications, for use with factory ECMs. Using physical modifications, precise flow matching and in-depth data, PAT says Raceworks offer superior performance injectors, complementing the range of other Bosch, Siemens and Denso injectors available from Premier Auto Trade. PAT’s in-house support staff are trained to advise what accessories are required to make the upgrade injectors work with any vehicle/engine that uses Port Injection. The full range of Premier Auto Trade Racing and Performance Products including Raceworks is now available via a network of Specialised Resellers and Authorised Dealers. For more information, visit www.premierautotrade.com.au
NEW VALVOLINE LUBE GUIDE LAUNCHED Finding the right engine oil has never been easier, says Valvoline Valvoline has upgraded its website Lube Guide to make it easier for workshops to find the right product to service any vehicle. The new user-friendly lube guide has three ways you can search for Valvoline products. The first option is to use the quick search and type the brand, model series and year into the menu. The second option is to choose the type of vehicle category and to then simply input your registration number – this is a new feature that Valvoline has added to the lube guide to make it easy for you to find the right Valvoline product. The final search option is to use the drop-down menus to look up vehicle make and model. Finding the right products and pack sizes specific for the vehicle being serviced is now an effortless process, says Valvoline, which states it has tailored its lube guide for the retail and trade space.
The retail lube guide shows Valvoline products available from retailers and the trade lube guide is for workshop use. In addition, the coloured icons help to easily select the right category for your search. Valvoline has not only made it easier to search for vehicle applications, it has also expanded the product application range on the lube guide with the addition of oil filter applications shown in various vehicle searches.
benefits as the new and improved website lube guide and the company says you should stay tuned for more information on the Valvoline lube app.
Now when searching for the right product, the search results will return suitable products for the vehicle crankcase, transmission, differentials, power steering and brake system.
To view the new website lube guide or to keep up to date with improvements Valvoline is implementing in products, services and technology, visit www.valvoline.com.au
But it doesn’t stop there, says Valvoline. The next improvement Valvoline is working on is the new look lube guide app which will be suitable for smart devices.
If you have any questions on the new lube guide or wish to place an order, contact Valvoline’s Customer Service team on 1800 458 237 (Monday – Friday 8.00am – 5.00pm AEST) or its Technical Hotline on 1800 804 658 (Monday – Friday 8.30am – 4.30pm AEST).
The upgraded app will feature all of the same
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PRODUCTS
IKA GERMANY: RANGE EXPANSION SUCCESS The company specialises in electrical, mechanical and electronic automotive spare parts Since IKA Germany committed itself to the Australian market last year after attending the AAAA Expo in Melbourne, the company has gradually eased its way into the marketplace. Having a dedicated sales representative (Richard Brunger) based in Cairns has reportedly enabled IKA Germany to get a greater understanding of the local marketplace and the company says it has forged some very important relationships over the first year. Over the last 12 months IKA Germany’s product expansion of the 12V and 24V NOxSensor portfolio has reportedly proven the R&D department’s sense for international aftermarket demands and is driving the development of the comprehensive portfolio day by day. “To ensure quality on an OE level, every sensor is built with 100 percent new components, also every component is individually calibrated and tested,” IKA Germany Technical Director, Mark Twardziok, said. “Today IKA Germany can proudly offer the highest level of application coverage within the
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aftermarket and the complementing range is increasing steadily.” IKA Germany says smaller projects, such as the 24V-flasher development with one of its OES partners, has progressed very well and again proved that premium performance in niche ranges provides high competitiveness. It says the GEBE relay range covers the full standard portfolio and features multiple special applications and the company’s own developments, with everything available from stock. “High Pressure Fuel Pumps have been on our agenda for quite some time now,” IKA Germany Head of Product Management, Christian Langen, said.
components are manufactured and assembled in the same plant.”
“Consequently, we are now in the final stages of offering a premium aftermarket range for passenger cars.
Even with the COVID-19 crisis, IKA Germany says it has been able to maintain its operations and is confident it can maintain a strong supply chain through this time.
“As we emphasise OE quality as our standard, every finished product is subjected to a ‘helium leak test’ for final quality assurance, and all
For more information, please contact Richard Brunger in Australia on 0408 613 969 or via email R.Brunger@ika-germany.de
PRODUCTS
LAUNCH SCAN TOOLS & ADAS Available from Logicar With over 25 years in the business, Logicar says it prides itself on supplying the Australian automotive aftermarket with some of the best diagnostic tools from the industry’s largest brands including Launch, Bosch, Jaltest and DrivePro. One of the largest scan tool manufacturers is Launch, which has sold more than one million scan tools worldwide. Logicar says its products offer one of the best Australian and global vehicle coverages, with its popularity around the Auscan and Euro Tab, specially designed for the local automotive market. The Auscan and Euro Tab covers more than 70 global brands, as well as all Australian brands. It offers a wide range of features including immobiliser/key programming, injector reset, caliper retraction and brake bleeding, TPMS reset, electronic throttle relearn, DPF regeneration, SAS reset, service reset and BMS reset. Its quick test functionality where with one click, workshops can clear DTCs to make diagnoses faster and easier, makes it a workshop essential,
says Logicar. Technicians can also automatically scan or manually input VINs. Online repair resources are available for more than 1600 models, with the Auscan offering a one click update capability to ensure the latest information is easily accessible. The ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance System) is the latest automotive calibration equipment. It works in conjunction with the Launch scanners Auscan 2 and Euro Tab for calibration of cameraand radar-based ADAS systems. The Auscan ADAS allows the operator to locate the camera calibration panels and the radar reflector panel in the correct position to ensure the system calibration can be carried out quickly and accurately. The ADAS offers a wide range of features including rapid switch calibration targets, user friendly operations, high accuracy calibration, various calibration targets and model supports and easy storage. Supporting brands including and not limited to Toyota, Lexus, Honda, Acura, Kia, Hyundai, Nissan, Infiniti, Subaru, Suzuki,
Mitsubishi, Daihatsu, GM, Ford, Chrysler, Mercedes-Benz, BMW, Audi, Volkswagen, MINI, Jaguar, Volvo, Fiat, SEAT, Skoda, SMART, Renault, Peugeot, Land Rover, Opel and Citroen. “We work closely with Launch to enhance the team’s technical knowledge, giving us the advantage to ensure our customers’ concerns are swiftly rectified,” Logicar Chief Executive Officer, Colette Kirby, said. Customers can take advantage of 10,000 Capricorn points with any Logicar purchased scan tool until August 31, 2020. For further information on the Launch Auscan or ADAS and the full range of diagnostic equipment available from Logicar, contact the team via www.logicar.com.au or by calling 1300 LOGICAR (564 422).
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QUALITY BRAKE TESTING EQUIPMENT Regular car maintenance means more miles and longer vehicle lifespans The braking ability of a vehicle is one of the most significant safety elements in vehicle design today. Braking performance is critical in the avoidance of accidents and almost every single accident involves the application of the vehicle brakes. Brake testing is an important service workshops can provide customers, but all parts must be tested using properly calibrated equipment focusing on Friction material, Brake Fluid and Suspension, otherwise known as the brake triangle. If any of these three parts has a problem, the system will not operate properly, risking various degrees of catastrophe. The importance of calibrated equipment is crucial in providing peace of mind that the results are reliable and accurate. Calibration defines the accuracy and quality of measurements recorded using a piece of equipment. Over time there is a tendency for results and accuracy to ‘drift’ when using particular technologies or measuring particular parameters such as temperature and humidity; so to be confident in the results being measured, there is an ongoing need to maintain the calibration of equipment throughout its lifetime.
All calibrations should be carried out by a properly accredited laboratory. NATA accredits competent facilities to perform the testing and inspection activities for those products and services. Autotest Products says it provides equipment to reliably test all three parts of the triangle: a range of Decelerometers for testing the whole brake system, a Brake fluid tester for testing the brake fluid and a Suspension meter for testing the shock absorbers. AutoTest Products explains it is an award-winning manufacturer and distributor of state-of-theart automotive testing and diagnostic products located in Kensington, Victoria. “Our products are designed to provide you with many years of reliable testing and are built from durable quality components,” AutoTest Managing Director, David Jenkins, said. “Our new product development program ensures the consistent launch of innovative, new products designed to meet the needs of the automotive industry and changing vehicle safety regulatory requirements.” AutoTest’s product range includes a combined Gas and Opacity analyser, a range of AutoStop
brake performance meters and calibrators, the AutoStop suspension meter, the AutoTest eNoise sound level meter, the AutoTest acoustic calibrator, the AutoLight light transmission meter, a brake fluid tester, and battery analyser. AutoTest says its products are used by garages, workshops, regulatory authorities and service testing stations. AutoTest also supplies directly and through a network of international distributors located in Australia, Asia, the Pacific Islands, Europe, Africa and the US. For more information, visit www.autotest.net.au
BEING ‘SYSTEM SMART’ Gates explains why you should replace the tensioner when you replace the drive belt Inspecting and replacing tensioners at the correct intervals is critical to optimum Accessory Belt Drive System (ABDS) efficiency and performance, says Gates. Did you know that drive belts and tensioners wear at the same rate? Gates explains the ABDS is designed by the OE and they design the belt and tensioner to wear at the same rate, therefore when you replace the drive belt, you should also replace the tensioner. Tensioners are difficult to visually inspect and identify signs of wear. Inside the tensioner are bushings that buffer the force between stationary and pivoting components; these bushings wear over time becoming less effective.
Tensioners also have an internal damping mechanism that wears similarly to a brake pad, so over time it loses material and becomes less effective. As these components are internal, they cannot be seen during an external visual inspection, further reinforcing the need to replace the tensioner when the drive belt is replaced. A common visual sign of a worn tensioner is the arm noticeably ‘bouncing’ during operation: this is a clear sign the internal components are worn and not operating as required to maintain constant tension. Correct tension is vital to efficient ABDS operation, too much tension will overload other components such as bearings, resulting in premature failure. On the other hand, low belt tension results in poor accessory performance, noise, and belt slip; creating heat and reducing component life. When replacing the drive belt and tensioner it is also critical to ensure alignment between all components of the ABDS as misalignment causes wear to the bushings inside the tensioner leading to premature belt wear and failure.
Gates says its DriveAlign laser alignment tool can be used to achieve perfect alignment between all ABDS components. It states following the recommendations in this article will help you reduce warranty returns, save your customers time and money and boost profits for your workshop. To reinforce the importance of tensioner inspection and replacement, Gates Australia is offering a ‘Tensioners – Turn to learn’ wheel which you can turn to see some important questions and answers about tensioners which can be used to educate workshop staff and customers on the importance of tensioner replacement when replacing the drive belt. You can request your free wheel by going to info.gatesaustralia.com.au/Tensioner-Wheel Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine July 2020
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NEW TWO-POST LIFTS FROM MAHA Australian workshop equipment specialist introduces innovative all-new triple safety German-made hoist to local market MAHA has recently brought to Australia the German-made MA Star two-post lift, which has a 3500kg load capacity. It has a triple safety feature and a 20-year plus proven spindle-nut system with self-locking thread and comes with a five-year warranty. The MA Star two-post lift comes in two models: the MA Star 3.5A Asymmetrical and MA Star 3.5S Symmetrical. The MA Star 3.5A includes asymmetrical columns turned by 45 degrees for a generous door-opening angle, and asymmetrical support arms. The support arms have a 180-degree range. The optional MA Star 3.5S comes with symmetrical columns for a reduced overall width and symmetrical support arms. Both models are available with variable installation width and are finished with your choice of powder coating supplied in standard RAL 7040 window grey on the columns and RAL 7016 anthracite grey on the support arms.
• 50mm and 100mm extensions that can be combined to achieve 150mm for large side steps • Adjustable Cable bridge for low ceiling installation
Features with standard delivery:
• 3500kg load capacity CE and Australian Design Registered • 180° swivel range of short support arms • 95° swivel range of long support arms • 40 second raising time (load-dependent) approx. • 40 second lowering time (load-dependent) approx.
• Two asymmetrical columns with control panel at operating column • Four asymmetrical support arms • No need for lowered sports car arms with extremely low 80mm lifting point across four support discs (plug-in system with threaded adjustment)
Optional features for after delivery: • Second Control Panel – fitment after installation • 240v Power / Air Pack – fitment after installation • Second 240v Power / Air Pack – fitment after installation • Larger baseplate for 130mm concrete installation • LED Light set – fitment after installation • Longer Cable set – used for conduit or floating slab installation • Infrared Light Barrier for low ceiling installation
Technical Data MS Star 3.5A:
• • • • •
Two x 3.0 kW Drive power Three phase 16Amp Power supply 650 kg net weight without packaging C 20/25 required concrete quality 180mm required minimum concrete slab thickness without screed Both models can also be installed with many additional accessories including: a light barrier to prevent contact with the ceiling; a non-skid device for vehicles with longitudinal frame; lashing straps as tilt protection for gearbox removal; a magnetic tool tray and more. The features of the MA Star 3.5A and MA Star 3.5S are highlighted in a YouTube video which can be found on the MAHA Australia and New Zealand YouTube Channel. For installation costs and more information, call MAHA Australia on 1800 006 242 or visit www.maha.com.au
INTRODUCING THE “WORLD’S SMARTEST ROLL TOP” HSP’s Roll R Cover is now compatible with Android and Apple devices HSP says it is proud to announce its latest innovative update to the popular Roll R Cover range of roll tops.
Customers who have an Apple device can even take further advantage of voice command via Siri on their iPhone, Apple Watch and Air pods.
The HSP Roll R Cover is now compatible with Android and Apple devices.
“HSP is proud to be pioneering the development of vehicle accessories. We have positioned ourselves as one of the leading innovators in this category with the first electric roll top in the Australian market which is now also the first ‘smart’ roll top in the market,” HSP Sales Director, Massih Aimaq, said.
The update was launched last month and has been added as a complementary feature on all HSP Roll R Covers sold since the 15th of June. With plenty of smart integrations in our current day and age, the bulk of which are ‘smart home’ integrations, HSP says having the first Smart Roll Top in the market is an enormous step towards the future of vehicle accessory development. The integration works via an App available on the Apple App Store or Google Play Store which allows the user to open, close, pause and operate the built-in LED light of the HSP Electric Roll R cover, all via smartphone. 58
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“What is even better is that HSP has kept all of our roll top manufacturing in Australia which has meant jobs have been kept in Australia – this is another achievement we have been very proud of. “As we celebrate this exciting new update for the Roll R Cover, we wish to also say a special thank you to the AAAA for the assistance they have given HSP over the years – it has been greatly
appreciated and we are excited about what lays ahead.” HSP has a few more products that are currently in the pipeline and due for release over the next 12-15 months, so the company is also actively looking to expand its network. For more information on joining the network, the HSP Roll R Cover or any HSP products, visit www.hsputelids.com
MEMBER FEATURE
DRIVING INNOVATION THROUGH PASSION AND PRECISION While still relatively new, Saber Offroad has quickly cemented its position as a premier Australian Vehicle Recovery Brand Ben Bartlett, who will be well known to many in the automotive aftermarket industry having spent almost a decade working at the Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association, launched the Saber Offroad brand late in 2017 after discovering a passion for the growing 4x4 market. “After my time at the AAAA came to an end, I was on the hunt for a new challenge,” Ben said. “I knew that I’d still be working in the automotive aftermarket industry, and there were several options on the table at the time, but I decided to go it alone and started my own business, MercuryPM in early 2015.” MercuryPM focuses on exporting Australian brands around the world, with a particular focus on Asia and the Middle East. While launching a new business is always risky, MercuryPM grew quickly, attracting a high-profile clientele and confirming that Ben was on the right track. But for Ben, the big transition started in early 2017 with the formation of Saber Offroad, which quickly has become the centrepiece of MercuryPM. “It’s been a very exciting journey, but not without its challenges, of course,” Ben remarked. Saber Offroad has quickly become a leading Australian brand in specialist recovery gear. “Our main focus is on soft products and the Saber Offroad range includes kinetic recovery ropes, soft shackles and winch ropes,” Ben explained. “Recently, we extended our offering to include complementary products, of which the launch of our Ezy-Glide Recovery Ring has been a stand-out, generating incredibly strong sales.”
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In several export markets, Saber Offroad also carries some specialist suspension components, including sway bars, control arms and polyurethane bushes. With the vast majority made here in Australia, Saber Offroad is a truly global Australian brand. “2020 is already proving to be a massive year for new product development,” Ben said. Ben explains that MercuryPM has an agile business structure, allowing it to pivot quickly during the COVID-19 pandemic, during which time it has sped up R&D for a number of exciting new projects. “Rather than rest on our laurels, we switched our focus to product development during the pandemic and as a result we anticipate more than doubling our range by September 2020; with a second wave of new products scheduled for launch before the end of the year,” Ben said. Innovation is a cornerstone of the Saber Offroad success story, and that extends into all aspects of the business. A great example of this was the unique sales strategy employed to grow the brand. “We have grown a little differently than most Australian brands,” said Ben. “Rather than starting locally and gradually expanding into export markets, we initially focused on growing key export markets in the Middle East and South East Asia. “MercuryPM already had a good customer base in these regions, speeding up the Saber Offroad launch far easier and much faster than focusing primarily on local sales,” he added.
Domestically Saber Offroad are planning for 12 months of strong growth, with a renewed focus on Australian sales. With a rapidly expanding range, they are expecting more independent 4WD stores to stock Saber Offroad Recovery gear. In addition, Saber Offroad Recovery gear can be purchased online through A247, Sparesbox, and others, plus Saber Offroad’s own e-comm site. “Prior to COVID-19, we planned to have a large stand at the 2020 SEMA Show, signalling our push into the North American market. Unfortunately, this push into one of the world’s most lucrative and competitive markets has slowed, with our participation at the show looking increasingly unlikely due to current restrictions,” Ben explained. In January of this year, Steve Handbury joined Ben Bartlett as Director – Product Development and Partner in MercuryPM. Steve brings with him a wealth of business experience, combined with a passion for four-wheeled adventure. “Having Steve join the business was the next big
MEMBER FEATURE
step in our expansion, and with his focus primarily on Saber Offroad, we are already starting to reap the rewards of his business acumen and knowhow,” Ben said. For more than a decade, Steve has had a personal interest in off-road recovery systems, which culminated in the development of a social media account @79skooby. The relationship started when Steve bought a selection of Saber Offroad gear very soon after the brand was launched in Australia. Following that, the pair continued chatting about their shared passion for off-roading to the point where Ben asked Steve to assist with some early prototype testing. As they say, the rest is history, and it was not long before they both agreed that working together would be mutually beneficial. “The opportunity to work with Ben, along with the huge potential of the Saber Offroad brand basically enticed me out of an early retirement,” Steve said. Ben and Steve both agree their focus on innovation is the most significant competitive advantage.
For 4WD enthusiasts, agricultural and industrial professionals, Saber Offroad provides vehicle recovery solutions designed specifically to recover vehicles quickly and safely. “We invest heavily in research, product development, and testing to ensure our products out-perform the competition in all conditions, and we are confident when we say that very few other brands understand the technical complexities of recovering vehicles like we do,” Steve explained. Saber Offroad is the first Australian brand, and one of only a couple globally, to have products manufactured using their own proprietary fibre. As a result, the team are about to transition the majority of its range to the ‘SaberPro’ fibre (excluding kinetic ropes), where the ‘Pro’ is for proprietary “We’ve tested so many different fibres, both in blends and on their own, and believe our solution is truly world-class,” Steve said. “The cheaper fibres have weaknesses when it comes to shock loads, and they feel hard, making them difficult to handle.”
Both Ben and Steve agree that selecting quality business partners is key, and they believe their strong relationships with key local laboratories and associated facilities is critical to their success. “We test all our prototypes in both real-world environments, but importantly in NATA accredited facilities,” Steve said. “In addition, we batch test all our gear in the same facilities and include the batch number on our warning labels to give our customers confidence in their strength. “Going the extra mile has really resonated in the industry, and we see it as paramount to the growth of the brand.” The next big thing on the horizon for the team is the launch of a new premium range of Saber Offroad: HDX. “All products in our HDX range are designed to push the envelope in terms of strength, durability, and performance,” Ben said. “The first product launched in this range will be a soft shackle only 10 percent larger in diameter, however 70 percent stronger than our current sheath or bound shackles. “There is not a shackle on the market offering that level of strength, in an equivalent size, and we’ve also wrapped the shackle in a cut-resistant Technora sheath, making it the most durable soft shackle available anywhere.” In addition, Ben and Steve recently worked with the team at the AAAA’s Auto Innovation Center in Mulgrave to 3D print some exciting new prototypes, and as a result, they plan to have variations of these products in the market before the end of the year. Like most Australian brands, Saber Offroad is battling the flood of cheap and inferior products that drop into the market without any local testing. “We recently tested a soft shackle from a wellknown international brand and found it broke 20 percent below its stated breaking point. As a result, we would love to see more mandatory product standards around recovery gear, however, that seems unlikely in the short-medium term,” Ben said. Having spent almost ten years working with the AAAA, Ben has seen first-hand the way members and their association work collaboratively together. “The AAAA is a fantastic industry resource that gives the Australian Automotive Aftermarket a voice and the work they have done on the Choice of Repairer campaign has been one of the biggest success stories for the industry in the last decade,” Ben said. To learn more about the Saber’s innovative range of recovery gear, visit www.saberoffroad.com.au. For distribution enquiries, please email Ben via sales@mercurypm.com.au Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine July 2020
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HVBI CONNECTORS From Amphenol Amphenol explains that its HVBI products have been specially designed for use in high power EV and Energy Storage applications. The connectors feature: • A ruggedized design • Convenient push-pull operation in limited space • Robust metal shells • Excellent electromagnetism shielding. Also featured is a potting design for the back shell to provide excellent anti-vibration and water proof performance. The HVBI connectors cater for a wide range of current from 60A to 250A, 880V DC to 1000V DC and also boast UL and TUV Certification
Key features: • High voltage with interlock • Easy to install in a limited space • Push-pull locking system with audible click • EMI shielding • No tool required for unmating • Touch-proof IP2X • Sealing, IP67, IP69K (mated) • RoHS compliant • Multiple coding positions • Zinc alloy metal housings Amphenol says it is one of the largest manufacturers of interconnect products in the world. The company designs, manufactures and markets electrical, electronic and fiber optic connectors, coaxial and flat-ribbon cable, and interconnect systems. Its primary end markets for its products are automotive, rail and other transportation and industrial applications as well as communications and information processing markets and aerospace and military electronics. For more information, visit www.amphenol.com 62
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CONVERTING VEHICLES TO BATTERY POWER…THE NEXT BIG THING? As the world transitions to battery-powered electric vehicles, what happens to millions of internal combustion engine cars that will be leapfrogged by EV technology? An EV conversion is a pretty straightforward concept, explains EVUp. Essentially, you are removing everything related to the internal combustion engine – the exhaust system, fuel tank and, of course, the engine itself. You are then replacing those with batteries, an electric motor and a charging system, plus an inverter and battery management system, as well as implementing regenerative braking so your vehicle can recover charge on the go. The conversion process means classic cars can be transformed into unique silent drive, low maintenance vehicles that cost very little to ‘refuel.’ It can also rescue great cars from landfill and gives them another few decades on the road: think of a Jag E-type or classic Porsche 911 with the instantaneous acceleration of a Tesla and which can take advantage of increasingly common public EV charging infrastructure. In reality, it is a time-consuming and complex process; and it is also expensive. The easiest conversion is a Volkswagen Beetle, but even with a supplied conversion kit you are looking at $40,000 or more. For anything with a Land Rover, Range Rover, Audi or Volkswagen chassis you can expect to pay upwards of $50,000 for parts and labour (not including bodywork). Other types of vehicles can be converted, however research and development time – primarily answering the question of where batteries will fit – creates additional cost.
So why would you do it? In answering that question, EVUp’s partner company, EVolution Australia, explains it has just started the conversion of a 1976 Range Rover dubbed ‘Chrissy.’ A once-loved luxury vehicle, Chrissy has been a bush-bashing parts car in recent years and cost a few thousand dollars to rescue. “We’re aiming for a 75kWh battery capacity, giving a range of around 300kms, new generation LifePo batteries and a HyPer9 electric motor, which, as well as being completely waterproof, we think is the most powerful and cost effective on the market,” EVolution Australia Business Development Manager, Emma Sutcliffe, said. “She’ll have a complete interior refit, but externally will retain a great patina that really shows off her heritage. “Once finished, Chrissy will be a bespoke company car for cruising the café-lined streets of Melbourne as a statement of what can be achieved with a great team of engineering and mechanical professionals.” EVolution Australia notes also that prices are dropping as technology is improving. “As cool as they are; we don’t believe classic car conversions are the only way forward,” Emma said. “Eventually, there’ll be a tipping point in the transition to low-emission transport; as electric vehicles become more affordable a large set of ICE cars may become unsaleable due to lack of buyer demand or tightening of vehicle emission standards. “Rather than scrap them, we believe there’s potential for affordable conversions at scale and our conversion projects today are helping us inform the remanufacturing process of tomorrow.” For more information about EV conversions go to www.evolutionaustralia.com.au/electric-car-conversions, or for information about charging infrastructure please contact EVUp Director Emma Sutcliffe on 0409 040 499 or emma@evup.com.au
BATTERIES & CHARGING
OZCHARGE RESCUE MATE An onboard jump-starting solution which minimises vehicle downtime OzCharge says the new RM400i Rescue Mate Onboard Jump Starter has widespread applications, including emergency vehicles and smaller passenger vehicles up to 4.0L Petrol and 2.0L Diesel. OzCharge says its Rescue Mate Onboard Jump Starter ensures your car is equipped to combat flat batteries when they strike, acting as your battery’s insurance policy as “the number one safety product to consider for your new or current vehicle.” With one press of a button, you are back on your way. The Rescue Mate is a permanently mounted power reserve, is completely isolated from the vehicle’s electrical system and cannot be drained flat by any of the vehicle’s accessories. The Rescue Mate’s power can only be utilised for starting. The small and compact RM400i was released in early 2020 as an addition to the existing RM800i 800A model to target the smaller passenger vehicle market. It is maintenance free and has 400 Amps of starting power. The RM400i like the RM800i can be confidently
and safely operated by any user, says OzCharge. It integrates the jump-start procedure in a way that both looks and functions like a feature standard from factory and will illuminate the dash mounted LED start button if the battery voltage drops below 10.5V. To use, simply engage the dash mounted jump-start button and the RM400i is now delivering the required power to start the vehicle. Once the Rescue Mate is installed, the vehicle’s alternator automatically maintains the Rescue Mate while the motor is running so that it is always kept at full charge. In fact, within just minutes of the engine running, the RM400i is fully charged. Once fully charged, the RM400i completely isolates itself from the starting battery and is ready to jumpstart when required. Once charged and isolated, the RM400i will hold full charge for four to six months without the vehicle being operated. This automatic recharging process via the alternator removes responsibility from drivers to manually recharge the jump starter (as required with portable jumper-packs). The entire starting process can be achieved from
the driver’s seat and removes the danger and confusion associated with jump-starting: there are no jumper leads, no sparks and no mechanical knowledge required. There is also no requirement to connect clamps and no exposed power or sparks. As such, the Rescue Mate is the effortless jumpstarting solution that all users can safely and confidently operate, says OzCharge, which states that Australian Emergency Services have opted for the fitment of the OzCharge Rescue Mate as standard equipment in their fleet. OzCharge notes that the RM400i should be professionally installed to ensure proper mounting and wiring. For more information call 03 9482 2203, email info@ozcharge.com.au or visit www.ozcharge.com.au
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THE CTEK PRO RANGE CTEK says its PRO range offers the best battery tools for a modern business Recent research suggests three out of four vehicles entering a workshop has a battery problem, and CTEK says that is not surprising, pointing towards battery care as a fast-growing issue, particularly as life expectancy drops rapidly due to inadequate maintenance. To protect against a flat battery when leaving a car standing, CTEK says the best course of action is to charge and condition the battery as soon as it arrives in the workshop to bring it up to maximum capacity.
CTEK says its PRO60 is an innovative and highly efficient 60A battery charger and power supply, designed to meet the demands of the modern workshop.
REDARC EXPANDS BCDC MOUNTING RANGE Two new Mounting Brackets have been introduced Redarc has added more vehicle-specific mounting brackets to aid instalments of its award-winning and Australian-made BCDC In-vehicle DC-DC chargers. The following brackets have been added to the range, making a total of eight brackets to suit most popular 4WD makes and models: • BCDC Universal Mounting Kit (BCDCMB-007) is a universal bracket that is suitable for a wide range of vehicles. • BCDC Mounting Bracket (BCDCMB-008) is suitable for Toyota Landcruiser 100, J100 Series (1998 – 2000), J105 Series (19982007). Each bracket is vehicle specific, ensuring that the bracket size and mounting style is tailored for secure fitment within the engine bay. This removes the need to drill holes or make up custom bracketry as a part of the dual battery installation, saving considerable installation time and providing a professional, neat install. Each bracket has been engineered to be used with Redarc’s comprehensive range of BCDC Chargers. They ship complete with instructions and fasteners to complete the installation process. Redarc’s Managing Director, Anthony Kittel, said that the addition of two new Mounting Brackets is a logical expansion of the range.
With cutting-edge design, advanced technology and state of the art features, it says it is the perfect solution for comprehensive battery charging, maintenance and support. The CTEK PRO60 restores charge and reconditions batteries using a patented multistep charging process. It is compatible with all types of 12V battery, including normal wet/ flooded, Ca/Ca and Lithium (LiFePO4), as well as AGM and EFB Stop/Start batteries. The PRO60’s ‘adaptive charging’ mode automatically detects the appropriate settings for the battery and applies the optimum settings for the fastest charge. It is designed to be user friendly with just four buttons and a clear, easy to read LCD display. The PRO60 is also said to be the perfect stable power supply, with 12.6-14.8V available in selectable 0.1V increments. This protects against any damage that can occur to sensitive vehicle electronics. The CTEK PRO60 is available from Repco/NAPA Auto Parts. For further information, visit www.ctek.com/au 64
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“Since the release of our installation-ready mounting brackets in September 2019 feedback from both the trade and end-users alike has been fantastic,” Anthony said. “Each bracket has been extensively tested in our state-of-the-art HALT and HASS testing equipment which exposed the brackets to lifetime test conditions under extreme cold, heat, humidity and vibration. “It is these strenuous tests that ensure they are designed to exceed everyday vehicle applications and provide a product that can stand the test of time. “Built in Australia and proudly bearing the Australian-made logo, our BCDC chargers are tested for the harshest conditions, meaning they will work in the extremes of the outback to the alpine region and not let you down.” Like all Redarc products, the BCDC Mounting Brackets and Charger range come with nationwide support, including a two-year “hassle free” warranty and after-sales service to answer any questions. For more information, visit www.redarc.com.au/batterychargers/mounting-brackets
Part Number
Vehicle Suitability
BCDCMB-001
Suitable for Toyota Landcruiser 200 (11/2008-onward)
BCDCMB-002
Suitable for Toyota Landcruiser 70 (03/2007-onwards)
BCDCMB-003
Suitable for Toyota Landcruiser Prado 150 (10/2009-onwards)
BCDCMB-004
Suitable for Toyota Hilux (03/2005-9/2015)
BCDCMB-005
Suitable for Toyota Hilux (10/2015-onwards)
BCDCMB-006 Suitable for Isuzu D-MAX (06/2012-onwards) & Holden Colorado RG (10/2015-onwards) *New* BCDCMB-007
Universal Mounting Kit
*New* BCDCMB-008
Suitable for Toyota Landcruiser 100, J100 Series (1998 – 2007), J105 Series (1998-2007)
BATTERIES & CHARGING
JUMP START A DEAD BATTERY IN SECONDS With Noco’s GB70 Established in 1914, Noco says it designs and creates premium consumer battery chargers, jump starters, and a wide range of related battery products and accessories. Noco firmly believes that its success is driven by innovation and attention to detail and that through world class offerings, it has effectively set the new standard in design, performance and safety while introducing an entirely new generation of products.
Noco Boost is a product line of ultra-portable, lightweight, and compact lithium jump starters, engineered to significantly outperform traditional lead-acid technology with more power, at a fraction of the size. Included in the range is the Noco Boost HD 2,000 Amp UltraSafe Lithium Jump Starter, or GB70 as it is otherwise known – an ultraportable, compact lithium-ion jump starter rated at 2,000 amps. It is designed for gasoline engines up to eight litres and diesel engines up to six litres and is suitable for cars, SUVs, trucks, boats, RVs, and more. With the GB70, Noco says you can safely jump start a dead battery in seconds, up to 40 times on a single charge. Noco says it is mistake-proof, featuring sparkproof technology and reverse polarity protection, making the GB70 safe for anyone to use. Designed to protect your device, LED status indicators display the internal lithium batteries’ charge level and charging status. Error indicators
show when connected in reverse polarity or when temporarily disabled for thermal protection. The GB70 also features a integrated ultra-bright 400 Lumen LED flashlight with seven light modes, including SOS and emergency strobe. The GB70 also doubles as a USB battery pack for recharging personal devices on the go and the built in 2.1A USB out port can power all of your USB devices such as smartphones, GoPro cameras, wireless headphones, and more. GB70 can also power your 12V devices, providing remote power for a wide range of 12V devices including tyre pumps, inverters, lights, phone chargers and more. For more information, visit www.no.co
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GLADIATOR: ARMED FOR MORE STARTS New range launched by SuperCharge Batteries SuperCharge Batteries says it is proud to introduce its new range of climate balanced batteries: the Gladiator range. Gladiator’s design considers the extreme Australian weather conditions that prevail during the four seasons. SuperCharge Batteries says while its GoldPlus, SilverPlus and Powerstation batteries continue to deliver superior power and durability, Gladiator is a premium option for those who are using their vehicle in the most demanding and toughest conditions that nature has to offer – from the hottest to the coldest. It states Gladiator is equipped with features and internal components that consistently give high performance in response to the ever-changing operating conditions without compromising long lasting durability. Gladiator uses low profile plates intended to optimise the acid to material ratio, helping prevent the battery from drying out. For better durability by minimising grid growth and early failures due to shorts, the positive and negative grids are now fully framed.
Further, the lead connections and PE separators have been re-engineered for optimised capacity utilisation and durability. SuperCharge Batteries also states that Gladiator, with its anti-sulfation enriched electrolyte, delivers faster recharge times giving the benefit of more starts.
Key features: 1. Pro-frame: full framed grid design for both positive and negative plates for better durability and a plate design which has been upgraded utilising a doublesided pasting process to help improve capacity and performance. 2. Dura-connectors: re-engineered lead connections are featured for a more efficient current flow, helping achieve maximum capacity and better durability. Also utilised are improved processes and design to deliver stronger plate assembly bonding for better vibration resistance.
3. PE Ultra Separator: increased separator thickness and improved strength have resulted in better puncture resistance and durability. 4. Electrolyte Plus: features an antisulfation enriched electrolyte to improve battery recharge ability for more starts. For more information, contact SuperCharge Batteries on 1300 737 244 or visit www.supercharge.com.au
DEDICATED IS BEST CTEK says dedicated battery support equipment is best for the modern workshop With almost 50 percent of all vehicles arriving in the workshop with a battery that needs attention, CTEK says it is important to ensure the battery is properly supported by dedicated battery support equipment. “‘Battery Support’ (as distinct from charging) is vital for the supply of ‘clean’ constant voltage for vehicle diagnostics and programming,” CTEK Asia Pacific Director of Sales and Marketing, Robert Briggs, said. “By opting to use a stand-alone battery charger, or not providing any sort of battery support at all, workshops are risking programming failures and damage to vehicle ECUs that can affect workshop efficiency, profitability and reputation.” There are four key aspects to ensuring a battery is supported: • Voltage specific: diagnostic work, flashing and reprogramming require a fixed voltage and ripple free current throughout. In fact, for many vehicles, a specified voltage is required across the vehicle system before it will even start communication with diagnostic and/or reprogramming equipment. • Reaction: during diagnostic and especially flashing and reprogramming work there may 68
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be certain ‘spikes’ in power demands. In order to maintain constant voltage across vehicle systems, any battery support needs to react immediately to avoid voltage drop that can result in diagnostic or programming failure or damage to vehicle ECUs. CTEK says a standard battery charger/maintainer will not react quickly enough, as this is not what it is designed for. • Using a battery charger: however smart a standard battery charger/maintainer is, it will be working on pre-programmed charging algorithms that will see voltage rise and fall to achieve optimum charge levels – good for charging but not so good when a constant voltage is required. This means that there may be certain times when battery voltage is above (and of course below) operating levels for diagnostic work, flashing and reprogramming. • De-rating: battery support units deliver high levels of power over a relatively long period of time, and as a consequence they can generate a lot of heat – this can make a unit de-rate. Derating is where the unit will reduce output levels and that’s because heat causes resistance, that in turn will cause the unit to reduce charge levels, and at really high temperatures reduce
current output – this can affect the unit’s ability to maintain battery voltage. CTEK says its PRO120 is an innovative, versatile and highly efficient 120A battery charger and power supply, designed around the needs of the modern workshop. With its variable yet extremely stable output, quick reaction times and integrated safety features, CTEK says the PRO120 will support the battery and protect the vehicle’s delicate electronic systems – without de-rating. Whether you’re repairing a vehicle, testing electrical circuits, carrying out diagnostic procedures, flash programming ECUs or programming vehicle keys, CTEK states dedicated battery support is a vital activity often not fully appreciated for its importance in saving technician time and insuring against costly programming failures and preventing possible costly damage to the ECU. For more information, visit www.ctek.com/au
BATTERIES & CHARGING
CENTURY EXPANDS DUAL FORCE+ MULTI-PURPOSE AGM RANGE Two new models have been added to the range of multi-purpose starting and semi cycling AGM batteries Following the successful launch of its Dual Force+ battery last year, leading battery manufacturer and supplier Century Batteries has expanded the range with the introduction of two new models to cater for growing consumer demand. Built strong for Australia’s harsh environment and tough operating conditions, Century Dual Force+ now features three models and is a range of multipurpose starting and semi cycling AGM batteries designed to provide superior deep cycling performance and dependable starting power in both recreational and commercial applications. In 14 years with Century Yuasa, National Marketing Manager Andrew Bottoms has overseen the launch of many batteries, but even he says this range offers everything you could want from an AGM. “It delivers on everything our customers have asked for – an AGM starting and cycling battery with under bonnet fitment capabilities and the Dual Force+ delivers,” Andrew said. “From 4x4s, recreational vehicles, marine
systems and dual-battery systems: these batteries have such diverse applications and really are hard to beat. “We launched the first Dual Force+, the 27X in 2018, as a cost-effective alternative to selected AGM products available in the marketplace and following its success we have now expanded the range to include the NS70 and 86 case sizes. “In the past it was strongly recommended to avoid fitting Deep Cycle AGM batteries under the bonnet as this could void the warranty due to the fuel, oil and other engine lubricants causing damage to the ABS battery casing materials. “Unlike many competitors AGMs, Century’s Dual Force+ batteries are manufactured using specialist hardwearing Polypropylene cases which make them ideal for use in under bonnet applications where heat, fluids and other contaminants can damage products not built to the same specification.” Century explains its Dual Force+ batteries are supplied with twin terminals, a 24-month
warranty and an array of advanced design features to ensure long lasting, dependable power and up to 20 times greater vibration resistance than standard flooded batteries. Century Yuasa says they have low internal resistance and low self-discharge rates, enabling faster recharge and longer shelf life. When fully charged, they can reportedly be stored for extended periods of time and conveniently recharged using a range of AGM compatible chargers. For more information on these multi-purpose AGM batteries and to see how your business can benefit from the DualForce+ range, visit www.centurybatteries.com.au or call 1300 362 287.
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ATOMIC BATTERIES Club Assist says atomic batteries are leading the charge in lead acid battery technology Designed, sourced and tested by Australianowned business Club Assist, Atomic Batteries are said to be a great choice in the automotive, equipment and leisure sectors, highly regarded for their reliability, durability and high-performance.
sourced from the world’s leading manufacturers and distributed through its nationwide supply chain network. Distribution centres and stocking sites are also conveniently located in each state, serving metropolitan and country areas.
Club Assist says it applies a rigorous approach to innovation, with industry-trained engineers at its dedicated laboratory.
Service and reliability
It says this ensures Atomic batteries are manufactured to meet or exceed OEM specifications, and more importantly, built to last. As a result, customers are assured of quality from Club Assist’s “comprehensive and competitivelypriced” product range. The depth and breadth of Club Assist’s expertise has been built over close to three decades. Today, the company claims to have the industry’s most comprehensive database and up-to-date information on all things battery related – for virtually any automotive brand and model. “Our specialist knowledge extends to knowing the exact battery for any vehicle – from older vehicle models to the latest models available in the market today, including those with start-stop technology,” Club Assist Executive General Manager for Sales and Operations, Adrian Smith, said. Uniquely designed for Australia’s diverse terrain, Club Assist explains its Atomic batteries are
Club Assist says it partners with businesses, both small and large, to extend their offering and customer engagement, explaining that through a unique integrated battery program, businesses can increase vehicle reliability and improve customer satisfaction. Just one of those businesses is Jax Tyre and Auto. Club Assist states that Jax Tyre and Auto Chief Sales Officer, April Harwood, says that Atomic batteries are its “brand of choice” to ensure it provides “the most reliable and high-performance product” to its clients. Atomic batteries are available in Jax Tyre and Auto’s more than 85 stores across Australia. Ensuring the right battery for a vehicle and offering appropriate battery care advice are integral to a successful battery program. “At Club Assist, our battery program utilises state-of-the-art battery testing equipment and accessories to support a quick and accurate diagnosis, enabling motorists to get back on the road as quickly as possible,” Adrian said.
Sustainability driven Lead-acid batteries are hazardous and cannot be legally disposed with regular waste. Club Assist has a strict environmental policy to ensure all components of a battery are recycled responsibly. As such, 99 percent of each lead acid battery is recyclable, equating to the return of one scrap battery for every battery sold. “We recycle every battery we replace nationwide at an EPA approved Recycling Centre and all waste that cannot be recycled is disposed of correctly and responsibly. Our battery recycling programs are designed to also maximise collection rates for used automotive batteries,” Adrian said. Atomic batteries are available at leading retailers including Jax Tyres and Auto as well as online via Amazon Australia. For more information, visit www.clubassist.com.au or www.atomicbatteries.com.au If you would like to become a Club Assist battery agent, email atomic@clubassist.com.au
NEW PROJECTA COMPAC SERIES POWER BANKS Projecta says the new power banks are the future for personal charging/power solutions The increasing popularity of outdoor adventure activities has prompted Projecta to develop a new range of innovative portable charging and power solutions equipment. The new Compac Series of fast chargers is designed to provide efficient, reliable and convenient power supply for a variety of equipment such as smart phones, drones, laptops and GoPros. The Projecta Compac Series Power Banks are available in two sizes: the super light yet powerful
PB5 (101 grams total weight/18W/ 5,000mAh) and the fast charging PB10 (190 grams total weight/18W/10,000mAh). Both power banks boast the same 21700 lithiumion cell technology as used by Telsa, allowing them to output 18 Watts of fast charge power to provide up to 50 minutes (PB5) or 100 minutes (PB10) of additional run time on a MacBook or equivalent-sized laptop. Projecta says the charging performance on phones is even more impressive with the capability to recharge an iPhone to 80 percent battery life from flat in just one hour. As well as these fast charging capabilities, depending on the equipment that is being recharged and the condition of the battery, the power banks can be used multiple times before needing to be recharged themselves. In the case of the PB5, it can recharge a phone (model dependent) up to two times, while drones could be recharged up to eight times depending
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on its specific specifications. The PB10 reportedly effectively doubles this performance offering up to four charges of a smart phone and up to 16 charges of a drone. The power banks themselves can be recharged to 100 percent in approximately 1.9 hours (PB5) and 3.8 hours (PB10). For added peace of mind, the power banks also feature over charge, short circuit, over discharge and over current protection. Projecta PB5 and PB10 are available from leading automotive, 4WD and outdoor specialists at approximately $69.00 for the PB5 and $99.00 for the BB10 including GST. For more information, visit www.projecta.com.au
BATTERIES & CHARGING
ANBI SWITCH Helping save batteries during lock-down As Australia continues its battle against the COVID-19 pandemic, ANBI Switch sales have reportedly surged as motorists recognise the benefits of installing a battery isolator to protect against flat batteries. “During the pandemic, the RACV has reported a spike in call-outs to jump-start cars and replace batteries across Victoria,” said Theo Brown, the designer and general manager of Digital Pulse Systems and the inventor of the ANBI Switch. The combination of the cold weather and the reduced use of vehicles during travel restrictions is thought to be behind the surge.
“The RACV recorded a 17 percent increase in demand for battery relates services in May, on the same period last year,” Theo said. “But fitting and installing an ANBI Switch can help your customers avoid a flat battery.” Designed and manufactured in Australia to international automotive specifications and standards, the ANBI negative battery isolator switch eliminates drainage of stored power by isolating the battery from power-hungry components like clocks, and general energy leakage. “The ANBI Switch is suitable for a broad range of applications including automotive, marine, caravans, motorcycles, agricultural and industrial equipment,” Theo said. “Installation is quick and easy and can be completed in less than 15 minutes.” Theo says the ANBI Switch also provides automotive workshops, tyre dealers and automotive electricians with an additional source of revenue that will improve profitability and increase customer satisfaction. For workshops looking to increase customer spend at the counter, the ANBI Switch is a great impulse buy, which Theo says is helping many workshops drive profitability.
“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. “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.” For more information, visit www.anbiswitch.com.au or call 1800 290 812 for trade enquiries.
BAINBRIDGE TECHNOLOGIES EXPANDS LIFEPO4 BATTERY OFFERING The slimmest 110Ah lithium battery hits the market Bainbridge Technologies says you can now reduce the weight of 4WDs and caravans with the Baintech 110Ah Slimline Lithium Battery. Measuring 50mm in thickness and weighing in at 11kg, the Slimline Lithium Battery is designed to significantly reduce the installation footprint. This battery can be installed in any orientation, flat under a false floor, in the side wings of rear drawers or mounted behind dual cab seats. A
strong aluminium enclosure delivers a safe, lightweight and powerful unit which offers complete versatility and point of difference for installers. To increase capacity, the Baintech Lithium batteries can be used in parallel to increase your capacity for longer storage. When placed in parallel using the 50A Grey Anderson, these batteries operate together as a single battery: for example, two 110Ah Slim batteries in parallel provide 220Ah stored capacity. Made for the Automotive industry, the new range of Baintech Lithium Batteries are Australian made, using the latest generation prismatic lithium iron phosphate cells and an inbuilt Battery Management System (BMS). The range of batteries are backed by a five-year warranty, fully supported and manufactured in Australia. According to Bainbridge Technologies Managing Director, Michael Tyrrell, the expansion of
the Lithium battery range into the automotive industry complements the existing caravan and power system range by Baintech. “We have been supplying the caravan industry with lithium batteries for the past two years and have now expanded the range with a focus on the Automotive industry,” Michael said. “The Slimline battery will be a real game changer for automotive and OEM installers.” The core range of Baintech Lithium Batteries has sizes to suit any application, ranging from 110Ah slim to 220Ah, and can weigh up to one third of the weight of traditional AGM batteries. For more information, contact Bainbridge Technologies on sales@baintech.com.au or 1300 224 683 or visit www.baintech.com.au/lithiumbatteries Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine July 2020
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BURSON AUTO PARTS FOR BATTERIES Burson Auto Parts is the auto trade’s exclusive destination for the Motorgear Battery range Australia’s Burson Auto Parts offers automotive repairers nationwide its exclusive Motorgear range of fully sealed and maintenance free automotive batteries. These fully sealed and maintenance free automotive batteries cover more than 65 percent of vehicle makes and models in the Australian car parc. Importantly, Burson Auto Parts says every one of its stores stocks enough Motorgear automotive batteries so workshops don’t have to. With Motorgear maintenance free batteries delivered to workshops promptly as and when required, there is no need for valuable workshop floor space to be taken up, or for business expense to be incurred up by having “in house” bulk battery stocks. Burson Auto Parts exclusively offers every
Motorgear automotive battery with a trusty 24 month warranty, making this maintenance free replacement battery range the leading choice when it comes to price, quality, prompt availability, application coverage and importantly, for end customer peace of mind. “There has been a traditional belief that to sell batteries, automotive workshops needed to have a rack in the workshop with the top half a dozen batteries ready to go, consuming valuable business floor space and adding to business operating costs,” Burson Auto Parts General Manager - Merchandise, Peter Cheney, said. “We are saying to repairers that this method is outdated due to the complexity of the car parc these days when Burson can provide a cost effective ‘Just in Time’ solution due to our broad store ranges with prompt delivery.
“Add to this the Motorgear Batteries 24-month warranty and the maintenance free, fully sealed design, along with with excellent value pricing and we have the vast majority of workshop replacement battery requirements covered. “Repairers have access to quality replacement battery products as and when needed, rather than stocking random part numbers in house.” To find out more about the exclusive Motorgear battery range from Burson Auto Parts, contact your local store by calling 1300 287 766.
DURST JUMP STARTERS For all applications Durst Industries says it is the leading Australian manufacturer of Industrial Jump Starters to suit all types of cars, trucks and heavy equipment. Designed by Australians for Australian conditions and market needs, Durst Industries says that whether you’re up in the cold conditions of the Australian Alps or in the harsh deserts of the Australian outback baking in the summer heat, there is a Durst Jump Starter to suit your needs. The light and portable BJC-2000 CCA 340 amps (Cold Cranking Amps) is a 12-volt model that will start the family car or light commercial with ease time and time again. The larger capacity BJC-4000 (CCA 680 amps) is light, portable and easy to use but Durst Industries says this “little monster” will start both cars and light trucks and is available in 12 and 24-volt models. Both the BJC-2000 and the BJC-4000 are designed with many safety features. They are fuse protected and have anti-spike protection; and they are supplied with their own Durst Switchmode charging unit which is fully automatic and keeps the unit ready for action. Durst Industries says another brilliant feature included is the reverse-polarity warning buzzer: a handy future that alerts the user if an incorrect connection has been attempted. They are also available in trolley versions ideal 76
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for the workshop, allowing for easy movement to the vehicle. The company says another popular model is the BJT-200, a heavy-duty 12 and 24-volt CCA 1600 amps model which is mounted on inflatable tyres for full mobility and ease of use on any surface or terrain. Durst Industries says this starter is reliable and easy to operate and is supplied with two-metre leads and heavy-duty insulated alligator clamps with its own Durst Switch-mode Charger (custom leads lengths are available). It says it is perfect for the workshop, yard and farming applications with the mobility to get those broken-down vehicles up and going. The Durst Jump Starter range extends to high capacity units to suit large trucks, buses, bulldozers and earthmoving equipment, with the “Big Mother” of the Durst Jump Starter group being the BJT-520B which is supplied on its own trolley. Durst Industries says this workhorse will start just about anything and is able to deliver CCA 4800 amps which suits virtually any heavy-duty automotive application. This unit is reportedly popular with earthmoving equipment, defence and mining industries. All Durst Industries starters are said to meet all OH&S regulations and the Australian Standards
requirements and can even be used as a mobile power supply. Durst can also custom build to your requirements and says it looks forward to finding new applications for its “proven and reliable technology.” Durst also exports its starters to more than 11 countries throughout the world which it says “proves the design and reliability are exceptional.” Durst Industries Pty Ltd has been an Australian Manufacturer since 1918. For more information, call Durst on 02 9660 1755 or view the range at www.durst.com.au
TRADE TALK
FORGED UNDER PRESSURE
From the Storeroom to the Boardroom, Exedy’s Mark Davis has ticked plenty of boxes across his successful career in the automotive aftermarket Facing challenges head-on is nothing new for Exedy Australia Senior Product Manager, Mark Davis. After finishing school, a surfing safari, and building golf courses, Mark started his career in the automotive aftermarket. “When I finished high school, I didn’t really know what I wanted to do, so I took some time off, hit the surf and did a bit of labouring building golf courses while I decided in which direction I’d like to take my career,” Mark said. “While I really enjoyed my time building golf courses, after a few years working outdoors in scorching 40+ degree temperatures in summer and the freezing cold of Victorian winters I decided it was time for a change. “So, I enrolled to study civil engineering and while I was studying, I was doing a bit of part-time work with Daikin Clutch to pay the bills.” This signalled the beginning of Mark’s successful career in the automotive aftermarket industry. “I started my career in the automotive industry working in the Daikin warehouse in 1994,” Mark said. “I was hooked, I really enjoyed the work, and I felt an affinity with the characters who work in the automotive industry. “It sounds a bit sappy, but they’re my kind of people. We all shared a similar outlook and interests, so when I was presented with the opportunity to join the team full time, I jumped at it and have never looked back.” Exedy has a long history in Australia that extends all the way back to 1986, when four knock-about blokes banded together to start Clutch Co Imports before in later years a fifth founding member came on board in Sydney. For the next decade these founding members toiled, and in 1995 Daikin Clutch Japan came to Australia and looking for a local partner, they joined forces and Daikin Clutch Australia was born. “In 2020 we are celebrating our 25th year as Exedy Australia, and Exedy Japan is celebrating their 70th year in business this year as well,” Mark said. Mark spent a couple of years working in the warehouse in Melbourne, filling customer orders, dispatch, inwards goods and learning the grassroots of warehousing. Mark’s can-do attitude quickly grabbed the attention of the management team, and he was offered the internal customer service role. “I grabbed that opportunity with both hands,” Mark said. 78
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“I’m one of those people that has a hunger to learn new things, and it was a big leap from the warehouse into customer service.” Mark explained that in those early days, the customer service role was very hands-on. There were no online catalogues and the team would take several thousand telephone calls a month. For example, people would ring up and just say something like ‘I’ve got a laser, Mazda 323, I need a clutch for it, what options do you have?’ “Back in the early days, you needed to be on your game as a parts interrupter,” Mark said. “I learnt a lot about our product range and applications during my time in the customer service department that would serve me well as my career developed.” Mark then moved into a role as an external sales representative. “I enjoyed my stint in the sales team,” Mark said. “In addition to getting out of the office and travelling all over Australia, it also provided me with the opportunity to hone my customer liaison and relationship building skills, but my next step was a big one!” To strengthen ties between Exedy Australia and their parent company, Mark was invited to join the global employee training program, so he packed his bags and headed to Japan in the early 2000s. Landing in Osaka, Japan’s second-largest city, Mark jumped into the deep end, taking on a role in the aftermarket sales department. Armed with only an English to Japanese and a Japanese to English dictionary, it was sink or swim. It was undoubtedly a significant change for a kid who had grown up in the small town of Upper Beaconsfield, located about 40 kilometres from Melbourne’s CBD. “On a personal level, it was very satisfying to have
Mark Davis been selected to join Exedy’s global employee training program,” Mark explained. “It was a massive challenge as not many people spoke English, and when I started, my Japanese only extended as far as Kon’nichiwa, but that wasn’t going to stop me. “I’d go off to the production planning department or the warehouse or R&D department and talk to these guys who didn’t speak English about customer requests. I’d listen to them, take a couple of notes, I’d look it up in the dictionary, I’d get the gist of what they were was saying, and then go back to the other dictionary and respond.” Luckily for Mark, he is a quick learner, and it wasn’t long before he became fluent in Japanese to the point where his grasp of the language was so strong, he ended up answering calls in the sales department. “I really enjoyed my stint in Japan,” Mark said. “It was an amazing experience, and apart from enjoying the work, I had an opportunity to visit Kyoto, Hiroshima, and Mount Fuji, and immersed myself in the culture.” At Mark’s own admission, he returned home from
TRADE TALK
Japan in the early 2000’s quite a bit thinner, but with a wealth of experience that saw him land the position as Operations Manager while also becoming the liaison between Exedy Japan and Australia. “I was the window person, the conduit for information between Australia and Japan, and in that time, I helped align both businesses,” explained Mark. By the time the mid-2000s had rolled around, it quickly became apparent that Exedy’s product range was too narrow. Until this point, the Australian car parc was dominated by Holden and Ford. But that was changing fast as Japanese, European and Korean vehicles were quickly becoming more popular with Australian motorists. As a result, Mark made his next move into the product team. “We needed to inject some additional resources into the product team to help them with new product development, and this is where I found my experience in Japan, combined with the extensive product knowledge I’d gleaned early in my career, paying dividends,” Mark said. In his current role as Senior Product Manager, Mark is responsible for quality assurance, new product development, production, marketing and purchasing. “In the past, all you’d need was about ten clutch kits on the shelf - a Gemini, a Corolla, a couple
of Falcon kits, a couple of Kingswood kits and maybe a Commodore kit, that was pretty much it,” Mark said. “Today we have more than 4,500 skews covering everything from passenger, commercial and agricultural vehicles as well performance upgrades and heavy-duty kits for those 4WD enthusiasts who like to get off the beaten track.” Exedy currently employs in excess of 50 people and has offices in Melbourne, Sydney, and Brisbane. Always on the lookout for new opportunities, Exedy recently launched a new venture, Driveline Auto Parts. “Driveline Auto Parts distributes automatic transmission parts, for the automatic transmission re-building industry,” Mark explained. “Driveline is a critical piece of the puzzle for us moving forward, given that we have to face the reality that the clutch market is declining.
A subsidiary of the Toyota Motor Company AISIN has a vast range of products, mainly for Toyota applications. While the future looks bright for Exedy, it’s certainly not without its challenges. “The decline in the overall market size for clutches is our biggest challenge,” Mark explained. “There are some human resource challenges, as well. The pool of experienced people in our industry sector is getting smaller and smaller.” To overcome these challenges, Exedy is investing heavily in research and development to expand its offering and open up new market segments. “An example of that would be the AISIN product,” Mark said. “In addition, we are putting a lot of time and money into the development of products for hybrid and electric vehicles. It’s a little early to say too much at the moment, but there is no doubt that’s where the future is headed.”
“You would know when you go to buy a new car that sometimes you’re not offered a manual vehicle. And a lot of younger people don’t necessarily want to drive a manual car these days.
Family is very important to Mark, and with two young girls, there is never a dull moment at home.
“So, we have to face the reality that the clutch market is in decline and look a bit further afield for new products that we can offer to our customer base.”
“I couldn’t have done it without the support of my amazing wife and the patience of the girls.”
Exedy is also the Australian agent for the AISIN brand.
“I recently completed a commerce degree with a major in business analytics,” Mark said.
Exedy’s motto is to provide the best service in the automotive aftermarket, they are one of the largest original equipment manufacturers of clutch products in the world. “Our strength is our people, we have great people who are all working hard to provide exceptional quality, service, promotion, and after-sale support, we pride ourselves on those elements within the business,” Mark said. “Of course, the AAAA helps us deliver on these promises. “It’s a terrific organisation – they support their members and our interests, advocating for the automotive aftermarket at federal, state, and local government levels. “If you’re not already a member, I strongly suggest getting involved,” he added. To find out more about Exedy, visit www.exedy.com.au Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine July 2020
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MILESTONES
25 YEARS OF BOSCH ESP No more skidding
A wet road and a sudden evasive manoeuvre: there was a time when such a situation would frequently have ended in a ditch or against a crash barrier, and not rarely with fatalities or severe injuries. 2020 marks 25 years since a remedy was finally provided in the shape of a pioneering invention – the ESP electronic stability program that Bosch and Daimler-Benz first launched in S-class vehicles in 1995. Since then, ESP has been keeping vehicles safely on track, also in critical situations. Bosch accident researchers estimate that in the EU alone, the anti-skid system has saved some 15,000 lives over the past 25 years, as well as preventing just under half a million accidents involving personal injury. Together with the seatbelt and airbag, ESP is said to be one of the most important life-savers in a vehicle.
If there is a discrepancy between these two factors, ESP intervenes. This may sound simple, but is in fact a complex process.
types, and from November 1, 2014, for all newly registered passenger cars and commercial vehicles.
“The development of the electronic stability program was a milestone on the path to our ‘vision zero’ of no more road deaths,” Bosch board of management member, Harald Kroeger, said.
Smart sensors help compare steering angle and vehicle trajectory 25 times a second. If the two diverge, ESP reduces engine torque and brakes individual wheels.
And also in Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, Ecuador, Israel, Japan, Malysia, New Zealand, Russia, South Korea, Turkey, and the United States, the anti-skid system is either legally mandated or a self-imposed commitment.
“ESP is an outstanding example of what we mean by ‘Invented for life.’ “The innovation may be from 1995, but there is nothing dated about it: Bosch has continuously improved its anti-skid system, and produced more than 250 million ESP systems to date. “Modern cars are inconceivable without this electronic guardian angel. Worldwide, 82 percent of all new vehicles are equipped with ESP. “In 2017, this figure was 64 percent.”
ESP can prevent up to 80 percent of all skidding accidents Especially when roads are wet or icy, when evading unexpected obstacles such as animals on the road, and also when driving into a bend too fast, the electronic stability program intervenes. With ESP on board, Bosch says up to 80 percent of all skidding accidents can be prevented. It combines the functions of the ABS antilock braking system and the TCS traction control system, but can do considerably more. It also detects vehicle skidding movements, and actively counteracts them. The anti-skid system uses information about vehicle dynamics to detect whether the car is heading in the direction the driver is steering. 80
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In this way, the system helps the driver prevent the vehicle from breaking away or skidding – effectively nipping many accidents in the bud.
Breakthrough following the elk test The story behind this achievement is a long one. It started in the 1980s with initially independent efforts by Bosch and Daimler-Benz to achieve more vehicle stability. From 1992 until market launch, experts from the two companies worked together in a project unit. The legendary elk test of 1997 helped the system achieve a breakthrough: during tests for a Swedish automotive magazine, a Mercedes Benz A-class tipped over when making an abrupt evasive manoeuvre. Mercedes-Benz responded by making ESP standard equipment. Since that time, more and more vehicles of many different automakers have adopted the anti-skid system. Fewer accidents, fewer injuries, fewer fatalities – legislators have also recognised the benefits of ESP and made it a mandatory feature of vehicles in many parts of the world. In the EU, the mandating process was gradual. From November 2011, it was initially mandatory for new passenger-car and commercial-vehicle
Experience from Europe shows that if the proportion of vehicles featuring the system rises, accident numbers fall.
Basis for automated driving “ESP has taken road safety to a new level,” Harald said. “And it has done so across a diverse range of vehicle types. Bosch offers customised ESP systems for all powertrain types, from combustion engines to electric motors, and for vehicles of all kinds, from micro cars to commercial vehicles.” At the same time, ESP is the basic technology for many driver assistance systems, as well as for the automated driving with which Bosch is pursuing its vision zero. “Whether new or tried and tested, Bosch technologies alert and support drivers in critical situations. And increasingly, they are in a position to assume monotonous and fatiguing tasks,” Harald said. “This gives us an opportunity to further reduce the number of accidents and road deaths. “Whether with or without a driver at the wheel, Bosch will be nipping accidents in the bud in the future as well.” For more information, visit www.bosch.com.au
INSIDE BUSINESS
RE-BOOT YOUR BUSINESS With Capricorn online seminars Capricorn says it is committed to providing constantly updated and highly detailed COVID19 support services to its Members and Preferred Suppliers across Australia and New Zealand. Capricorn, Australasia’s largest automotive cooperative, says it provides a range of COVID19 business support services through its easily accessible and user-friendly online information portal known as The Workshop, available via www.theworkshop.capricorn.coop To ensure optimum levels of support are provided during this important time, Capricorn has added two new online seminars to The Workshop that have been produced specifically for its Members across Australia and New Zealand. Designed so Capricorn Member businesses can ensure the best possible return to pre-COVID-19 operations and for continued growth thereafter, these online seminars provide specialised business support information presented by people who know and understand the intricacies of the automotive aftermarket industry. The first online seminar is titled “Your Business Reboot Kit.” It is presented by Capricorn Group Chief Executive Officer, David Fraser, the highly accomplished automotive repair business coowner and business coach Rachael Sheldrick (The
Workshop Whisperer) and Capricorn Automotive Chief Executive Officer Bradley Gannon. Capricorn says this online seminar addresses the three key objectives that all automotive workshops should be actioning to adapt and grow from the disruption this unprecedented pandemic has caused. These include the establishment of a business game plan – a strategy to preserve finances and accelerate business growth; details of key government assistance packages as normal business resumes; along with details of additional resources that are available to the industry. Another new seminar is titled “Delivering Amazing Customer Experience.” Capricorn says this entertaining and easy to watch online seminar brings the outstanding experience of international customer service guru Shep Hyken directly to your desktop. Initially organised to be the special guest keynote speaker for the now cancelled 2020 Capricorn Convention, Shep details how life-long customers can be created during times of crisis. This USA expert brings his renowned customer service expertise to this highly specialised seminar, which is freely available to view at The Workshop. “We encourage our Members and Preferred Suppliers to ensure they make the most from
these two online seminars along with the abundance of COVID-19 support that is available via our online information portal, The Workshop,” Capricorn Group Chief Executive Officer, David Fraser, said. “Our goal during these highly challenging months has been to provide the maximum support possible to Capricorn Members and Preferred Suppliers across Australia and New Zealand. “We have ensured updated information and significant business support services through all of our content at The Workshop and with the valued contributions of industry leading professionals with these two new online seminars.” To view these seminars, along with other COVID-19 related support information, Capricorn Members should visit The Workshop at www.theworkshop.capricorn.coop To learn more about Capricorn or to become a part of this automotive aftermarket buying group, visit www.capricorn.coop
DIESEL SERVICE ADVISOR ONLINE TRAINING LAUNCHED A new training series has been released by Diesel Help Australia Clinton Brett of Diesel Help Australia has been offering dedicated diesel training for seven years. “I recall one of my champions’ advice soon after I released my first dedicated diesel training seven years ago. He said, “don’t become a one hit wonder!” Clinton said. “I took their advice and I’m continually working towards an album of hits. And just like musicians we not only deliver live – we also have started a collection of pre-recorded hits.” Diesel Help Australia’s newly released Diesel Service Advisor Online Training was uploaded to the company’s website in April and will soon be joined by other courses. “Our onsite training courses will continue to be delivered throughout Australia and New Zealand as soon as the COVID-19 restrictions are lifted,” Clinton said. “Talking with our Diesel Help members on a daily basis, we receive a large volume of FAQs relating to service requirements for diesels. “Our membership levels have a certain number
of jobs allocated and as you could understand, a phone call FAQ involves a thorough explanation and we don’t want our members using up their diagnostic jobs on FAQs – so we launched this new series. “With the popularity of diesel light vehicles high in Australia and now this pandemic, you’ll experience people keeping their cars longer rather than updating and so the demand is there for a well-trained service department.” Clinton says the main focus is maintaining the diesel engine, particularly long term. “One of my favorite topics I cover is ‘the hidden extras of a diesel engine.’ Another topic included is ‘understanding the customer’s diesel symptoms.’ Our Diesel Symptoms Self-assessment sheet can be accessed via our website and be given to your customer to assist in saving time and money on misdiagnosis when symptoms are overlooked. “We understand the importance of assessing your staff’s knowledge following the investment of training. We have developed a short questionnaire
for each module and included an answer sheet to assist you with assessing their competency and ongoing professional development needs. “These online options are not exclusive to our Diesel Help members, as all of our training is available to the automotive trade. The first series of the Diesel Service Advisor is included in Gold and Platinum level memberships and discounts are offered to members for all our online and onsite training courses.” For more information, visit www.dieselhelp.com.au Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine July 2020
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CONSUMER LAW
FALSE AND MISLEADING REPRESENTATIONS IN PROMOTIONS AND ADVERTISING This article provides a brief overview of the rules provided in the Australian Consumer Law (ACL) relating to advertising and promoting goods and services to assist your business to comply with those rules False or misleading representations or claims made in advertising or promoting products and services will contravene the ACL and penalties may apply regardless of whether the misleading or false representation or claim was intentional. A business must be careful not to make false or misleading representations or claims in promoting products or services including on websites, in social media, through radio, posters, flyers, statements made by employees, in promoting product sales or service offers made by your business or in promoting your business generally. Following are examples of matters that false or misleading representations or claims should not be made about: • the quality, standard, composition, style, model, grade, history, previous use or value of a product; • the standard, quality, value or grade of a service; • the need to have a particular product or service; • the price of products or services; • that products are new when they are not new; • that particular persons have purchased the product or that the product or service is sponsored; • testimonials about a product or service. Whether or not a representation or claim is misleading will be based on the overall impression created by the advertisement. This means that advertising may be misleading where for example a statement is true but a picture used with the statement gives a different impression or changes the meaning of the statement so that the overall impression created by the advertising is misleading.
Disclaimers and qualifications It is also important to keep in mind that using disclaimers and fine print may not be sufficient to prevent a statement made in an advertisement from being misleading. For example, an advertisement promoting services as “Always” using “New Parts” to replace parts, with fine print advising that “refurbished parts may also be used”, is unlikely to sufficiently change the overall impression that new parts are always used by the business, as a result the statement is likely to be misleading. If there are any limitations or exceptions, ensure they are clearly and prominently stated. For example, if you offer a discount on logbook 82
Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine July 2020
services during the month of January only then this should be clearly stated, for example:
25 percent off Logbook Services Booked in for January 25 percent discount applies to logbook services booked in to be completed in the workshop during the month of January 2020 only.
If you have only limited items of a product that is on sale, it is important to clearly and prominently state how many there are available. This is to avoid bait advertising. If in doubt, please contact us.
Substantiate representations or claims When making a representation it is prudent to stop and think about whether or not you can prove the claim is true and accurate, rather than false or misleading. This is because you may be required to prove the statement does not contravene the ACL should it be required by the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) or a court. It may be a good idea to keep a file of information, that you can verify as correct, to use to prove the claim is true and accurate. For example: • if you are making a claim that the price for a logbook service is 25 percent off for the month of January, then retaining information on the prices charged for that logbook service for the months prior to and following the discount may assist to prove the representation is true and accurate; • if you are claiming that a product will perform to a particular standard, ensure you have the facts on file to back up the claim (for example testing you have done with the product proving the claim).
Tips for approaching advertising and promotions When promoting the products and services advertised by your business there are some simple steps you can take that may assist with compliance, for example: • be careful in the wording you choose and avoid using absolute words such as ‘best’, for example the statement “providing the ‘best’ servicing in the city” will be difficult to substantiate; • use accurate and correct information; • make sure any limitations and exceptions are clearly and prominently stated; • check you can substantiate a claim, especially if using facts;
• ensure any testimonials are true and accurate; • avoid comparative advertising unless you have very strong facts that you can verify to substantiate your claims; • consider the overall impression of the promotion: is the impression true and accurate and not misleading.
Non-Compliance The following may apply for non-compliance: • the ACCC may issue an infringement notice, carrying a financial penalty for a body corporate of $12,600 in June 2020 (to be indexed 1 July 2020), and for an individual $2,520 (to be indexed 1 July 2020); • court imposed maximum criminal or civil penalties: for body corporates of up to the greater of $10 million, three times the value gained or, if indeterminable, then 10 percent of the annual turnover for the 12 month period before the act, or for an individual up to $500,000; • non-punitive orders may also be made, such as corrective advertising and/or establishing a compliance program.
Takeaways The key takeaways are: • use true and accurate information in advertising and promotions; • clearly state all limitations and exceptions; • check the overall impression of any advertising or promotion is not misleading; and • be prepared to substantiate a claim.
AAAA Member Benefits Industry Legal Group provides advice to members on commercial law matters. If you have any questions relating to the above case, please contact Industry Legal Group on 1300 369 703 or aaaa@industrylegalgroup.com.au
HR
1.75 PERCENT WAGE INCREASE ANNOUNCED The Fair Work Commission (FWC) has announced a 1.75 percent increase to minimum wages following its 2020 annual wage review The commencement of the increase will depend on which group the applicable award falls under and will apply from the first full pay period starting on or after: • Group One – 1 July 2020; • Group Two – 1 November 2020; or • Group Three – 1 February 2021. Relevantly, the Clerks Private Sector Award and Manufacturing and Associated Industries and Occupations Award fall into Group Two and the Vehicle Repair, Services and Retail Award falls into Group Three.
Award Employees Employer Assist will provide members with access to updated pay scale summaries in due course. Alternatively, updated award rates will be made available on the Fair Work Ombudsman website shortly after the FWC updates the pay rates in each award. If an employer is already paying their employee more than the minimum award rate, the employer may be able to absorb the increase depending on the particular employment arrangements. Members can contact Employer Assist for specific advice on whether absorbing an increase is possible based on individual circumstances.
Enterprise Agreements If a registered agreement applies to the workplace, employers will need to ensure the minimum base rates in the agreement remain at least equal to the award rates.
If not, the agreement rates will need to be increased to match the new award rates.
Award Free Employees The new national minimum wage that will apply from the first full pay period starting on or after 1 July 2020 will be $753.80 per week or $19.84 per hour. The national minimum wage applies to employees who aren’t covered by an award or registered agreement.
JobKeeper Under the JobKeeper scheme, each fortnight employers need to pay their employees the higher of:
• the amount of the JobKeeper payment ($1500 before tax), or • their usual pay for the work they perform during the fortnight (including any paid leave or public holiday pay). When calculating the amount an employee in the JobKeeper scheme needs to be paid, the employee’s usual pay for work performed in the fortnight may be affected by the minimum wage increase.
What can members do now? Members should keep an eye out for updated pay scale summaries. In the meantime, members can start reviewing and considering current wage arrangements based on the upcoming increase. Also, now is a good opportunity to consider implementing updated employment contracts. There have been a number of recent significant decisions and changes in employment law which may conflict with existing contract terms. Employer Assist can review existing employment contracts and provide members with advice regarding any amendments required. Employer Assist can also provide members with template employment contracts and tailor these as necessary to suit any individual requirements.
AAAA Member Benefits If you require further advice, please contact Employer Assist on 1300 735 306 or aaaa@employerassist.com.au Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine July 2020
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PERFORMANCE AND RACING
CASTROL PARTNERSHIP EXPANDED The expanded partnership allows Renault drivers to benefit from the successful cooperation already in place When Castrol last year announced an extension to its strategic partnership with the Renault DP World F1 Team, it ensured Castrol would continue to provide advanced engine oil, gear and hydraulic oils, greases and brake fluid to the Team until at least the end of 2024. The announcement though went even further, with the news that Groupe Renault had formally appointed Castrol as its aftersales’ global service fill engine oil lubricants partner from 2020.
HOLDEN ‘PROJECT MONARO’ WINNER ANNOUNCED Nearly 500,000 entries were received and there were close to a million video views online Project Monaro was an exciting custom-build of an iconic VZ Holden Monaro with the team at Holden giving a 2004 CV8 Monaro a full makeover with their designers, engineers and key build partners redefining the car. You can watch the complete build of the car thanks to an online video series at www.acdelco.com.au/offers/project-monaro Genuine Holden and ACDelco parts were used to bring the car back to life with some special modifications making this car truly unique. But of course, there can only be one winner and it was Littlewood’s Smash Repairs of Parkes in New South Wales who was ultimately announced by Craig Lowndes as the winner of Project Monaro while Randall’s Smash Repairs of Maitland in New South Wales was the winner of the Lowndesy’s Ultimate Holden Garage prize. In addition to the main prizes, 54 RBHRT vouchers were given away across the build duration. For more information, visit www.acdelco.com.au/offers/project-monaro
LIQUI MOLY ENTERS WTCR The brand will enter the World Touring Car Cup WTCR at the side of Hyundai Motorsports
Underpinned by a Renault Castrol joint-branded product range – available exclusively to Renault dealers – this expanded partnership provides a platform for Renault drivers to benefit from the successful cooperation already in place through the existing motorsport technical association. Castrol says that with a strong technical partnership now in place across service fill and Formula 1, this broader alignment will allow both parties to push technological boundaries both on and off the track. In combination with Castrol, one of the world’s leading lubricants brands, Groupe Renault intends to build a strong foundation that will enable Renault customers and dealers to enjoy the best service and products, while relentlessly pursuing their Formula 1 ambitions. “Castrol is an industry leader in its field with a rich heritage in motor racing and feeder series,” Renault Sport Racing Managing Director, Cyril Abiteboul, said. “A partnership of this scale and length underlines the desire to write a common history.” For more from Castrol, visit www.castrol.com.au 84
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For the first time in its motorsport history, German oil and additive specialist Liqui Moly is partnering with a works team. “This shows how important we are now also for car manufacturers,” Liqui Moly Marketing Director, Peter Baumann, said. Liqui Moly says it has been at home in touring car sport for well over ten years. Initially in the World Touring Car Championship WTCC and then, since its establishment in 2015, in the TCR series, always in partnership with the Engstler racing team. Now, it is taking the next step into the World Touring Car Cup WTCR together with the team. There Engstler will compete as the Hyundai works team. In two Hyundai i30 N TCRs, Dutch WTCR veteran Nicky Catsburg and German TCR talent Luca Engstler will fight for the title – if/when the season is able start after the Corona crisis. Despite many decades in motorsport, Liqui Moly’s appearance in the WTCR heralds a new era for the oil specialist. “This is the first time that we are involved with a works team, ie. working directly with a car manufacturer,” Peter said. This cooperation is reflected firstly in the clearly visible presence on the vehicles and secondly in the fact that the two Hyundai i30 N TCRs run on Liqui Moly oil. It is the Synthoil Race Tech GT1 10W60, a fully synthetic oil that has been specially developed for use on the race track. Liqui Moly’s cooperation with Hyundai is not just about brand awareness, but also aimed at developing new business areas. This is because the company has traditionally focused its attention primarily on the aftermarket. Liqui Moly says this is why the company is better known among workshops than at car dealerships and says it intends to expand its business with the dealers. “Now that Hyundai has decided in our favour for racing, the Hyundai car dealerships should definitely take a look at us,” Peter said. For more information, visit www.liqui-moly.de
PERFORMANCE AND RACING
ACL PARTNERS WITH PAT MUSI RACING
ACL has been involved in drag racing for many years but this marks its first major American drag racing sponsorship ACL RACE Series Performance Engine Bearings have been named as the official Engine Bearing of the Mooresville, North Carolina based Pat Musi Racing Engines. ”We’re thrilled to be working with Pat to add to the drag racing side of our business,” ACL Distribution Inc, USA, Director of Sales and Marketing, Dennis Fox, said. Pat Musi worked with ACL to help design and engineer a custom engine bearing for all of his applications, which he used with great success during the 2019 racing season. That relationship will continue on a larger scale in 2020, as Pat Musi Racing Engines will continue using the custom engine bearing set, while displaying the ACL logo on the PDRA Pro Nitrous Dodge Dart and the Street Outlaws: No Prep Kings “Aftershock” Camaro, both driven by Lizzy Musi.
ACL says it is an ideal opportunity, as it has always looked to move forward with innovations in its area of expertise. Pat hatched the idea of a partnership at the PRI show in Indianapolis in December last year, bringing together two industry powerhouses. “ACL is a great company with a great product and we’re really pleased to be working with them,” Pat said. “I believe in their engine bearings and they are our bearing of choice. They were very receptive to the input we had, and it’s been exciting for both of us to work together and come up with a great bearing.” “ACL has a long and rich history in motorsport with its range of RACE Series Performance Engine Bearings being the first choice for discerning engine builders, and this partnership is the perfect opportunity to continue that tradition and
build on our drag racing experience in the USA,” Dennis said. “It’s very exciting. Working with Pat on the custom engine bearing set has been rewarding, and we are looking forward to where this partnership will take us.” For further information, contact ACL at www.aclperformance.com.au
SECOND REPCO YOUNG DRIVER SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM RECIPIENT ANNOUNCED Repco launched the Scholarship Program in conjunction with the Shell V-Power Racing Team in October 2019 Louis Sharp, a 12-year-old karting sensation from Christchurch in New Zealand, has been announced as the second recipient of Repco’s Young Driver Scholarship Program. Repco, a leading aftermarket automotive retailer for Australia and New Zealand, launched the Young Driver Scholarship Program in conjunction with the Shell V-Power Racing Team in October 2019 to assist the next generation of racers make their way through the motorsport ranks. At that time, they announced 11-year-old Tom Bewley as the first recipient. Louis will receive assistance from Repco as well as mentorship from No. 12 Ford Mustang driver, Fabian Coulthard, who personally selected the talented youngster. With multiple National and Series titles to his name, Louis is already a very successful karter. For many young drivers, the journey to becoming a professional driver is often a difficult and expensive process, one which Wayne Bryant, Executive General Manager for Repco Australia, said they hope can be made a little easier through their program. “Repco has a long and proud history in motorsport and having a program that supports the grassroots
of motorsport is vitally important to ensure the best and most talented drivers make their way to the top, regardless of their circumstances,” Wayne said. “We are not only proud to be supporting a skilled and capable young driver like Louis to help him realise his dream, but we are also looking forward to following his progress and seeing where his career takes him.” Fabian said that with so many worthy young drivers hoping to make their mark in the sport, choosing just one to mentor was something he considered very carefully. “I put a lot of thought into who I wanted to mentor. I’ve watched Louis’s performances over the years, and he has impressed with not only his ability on the track but also his maturity,” Fabian said. “I know Louis will get the job done wherever he races, but above that, he is well presented, marketable and speaks in front of the camera with confidence, which are all required qualities to be the complete package.” Louis and his family are thrilled to have been selected for Repco’s Young Driver Scholarship.
“When I received the call from Fabian Coulthard to tell me he selected me, I was so excited!” Louis said. “My dream is to be a race car driver just like Fabian, so having someone like him to talk to and get advice from, is really cool. I would like to race my kart overseas next year and this scholarship will be a big help.” For more from Repco, visit www.repco.com.au Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine July 2020
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4WD
ARB RELEASES NEW SPORTLID No stranger to the cargo space, ARB has updated its hard lid offering While a canopy gives you extra height, for those who prefer the sleeker styling of a tub only but need the extra roof load, ARB says its Sportlid is the perfect solution. The ARB Sportlid allows in-tub cargo to be kept out of the elements, is lockable to keep your items safe and provides that precious extra space to carry larger items such as bicycles, timber or a rooftop tent.
ECB ANNOUNCES NEW POWDER COAT OPTION Textura Black is now available East Coast Bullbars, which says it is Australia’s oldest and most respected manufacturer of alloy Frontal Protection Products, has announced a new powder coat option which is now available on all its products. ECB says it has added Textura Black to its range as part of its commitment to keeping up with the latest trends in vehicle colours and accessories. Testing was completed in-house in ECB’s R&D department to ensure the durability of the finish and UV stability. “The new Textura Black is a contemporary satin look that will really suit all current SUVs and 4WDs,” East Coast Bullbars Finishing Supervisor, Sean Laverty, said. “It will fast become the most popular finish in our range. “The new Textura Black, like the other powder coat finishes we offer at ECB, is maintenance free and suited to the busy person who may not
Made from super-strong ABS, the same as used in the ARB canopies, the new ARB Sportlid can hold up to 75 kilograms of dynamic weight and can be opened with up to 13kg on it as standard (or up to 25 kilograms with optional upgraded struts). The dual external T-slot extrusions allow for easy installation and removal of roof bars or roof racks (and further accessories) and the improved new handle design is said to be easier to use.
As standard, the lid is locked via a key on the handle or you can upgrade to a premium kit and receive central locking and interior lighting. The ARB Sportlid is initially available for (current models) HiLux, Ranger, Amarok, Navara and Colorado, with further model development in progress. The ARB Sportlid starts from $2,727 and is available in store now. For more information, visit www.arb.com.au 86
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have time to maintain the mirror polished finish of alloy we offer.” ECB is part of the AMA Group and is a publicly listed company on the ASX. It has more than 400 resellers around Australia and exports to several countries worldwide. ECB explains that its products are manufactured using a hi-tensile alloy and are designed to be “Lighter, Stronger, Better!” Every ECB product is 100 percent ADR compliant, airbag compatible and covered by ECB’s exclusive Lifetime Warranty. For more information please visit www.ecb.com.au
GVM+ UPGRADE SOLUTIONS FROM PEDDERS To suit Jeep Gladiator 2020-on The all-new Jeep Gladiator has launched into the Australian market and is ready to set the benchmark for adventure with unrivalled off-road capability, explains Pedders. Pedders Suspension and Brakes has announced it now offers a GVM+ upgrade solution for selected Jeep Gladiator models to assist in compliance for GVM ratings. Through exhaustive and detailed testing, the Pedders GVM Upgrade Kits have been approved by the Federal Department of Infrastructure and Regional Development. Once installed by a Pedders technician, Pedders explains the new vehicle can be registered as a ‘Light Commercial’ vehicle with the upgraded payload. It says a Pedders GVM+ upgrade solution will
allow the vehicle to be legally registered and driven in all states of Australia. A Pedders GVM+ upgrade will reportedly increase a Jeep Gladiator Overland payload from 379kgs to 798kgs, which is a 110 percent increase in capacity; providing Jeep customers with more flexibility when it comes to carrying heavy loads for the journey. The Pedders GVM+ solution for Jeep Dealers is backed by a five-year/100,000 kms Nationwide Warranty to mirror the original manufacturer’s support. Pedders Suspension and Brakes is an Australian family owned company that has been operating since 1950. Its 120 plus franchise and dealer store network prides itself on offering “No Bull” aftermarket parts and tailored vehicle solutions in six key automotive aftermarket product categories: Shock Absorbers, Suspension, Brakes, Steering, Wheel Alignment and Towbars. For more information, visit www.pedders.com.au
4WD
BOCAR MAKES RETURN The pioneering brand says it is making a long-awaited return to the bull-bar market Bocar says its latest range addition is set to make protecting your workhorse that much more affordable. Focusing design and development efforts on the 4x4 ute market in Australia, Bocar says it aims to provide a stylish and functional, yet affordable frontal protection system for tradies, fleets and leisure seekers alike. Bocar states it is bringing its innovative heritage in designing and developing great value, heavy duty alloy ute trays for the rear of your vehicle, through to the front, with the introduction of the Stockade series black steel bull bars.
The Genuine Bocar Stockade series of black steel bull bars combine style and functionality, making this bull bar the perfect frontal protection system for your 4x4 ute, says Bocar. Featuring a strong steel construction body and Ø63mm rounded tubing, Bocar says this bull bar will be ready for anything you can throw at it. The bull bars come standard with a three in one LED light (indicator, park, DRL) and specifically designed light housing ready to add the optional LED fog lights if you desire. All Bocar bull bars are covered by a twoyear/40,000km warranty. Bocar is aiming to be at the forefront of product development for any newly released 4x4 utes in Australia and is kicking off this new range launch with the following models: • Ford Ranger PX2 and PX3 • Toyota Hilux 06/18+ • Nissan Navara NP300 • Isuzu D-Max 01/2017+ • Mitsubishi Triton MR • Holden Colorado 2016+
Bocar was established on the Gold Coast in 1970 and says it has a history of developing high quality automotive aftermarket accessories at affordable prices. Bocar also has a long and proud history of working with some of Australia’s leading automotive OEMs, along with a trusted network of aftermarket resellers across the country. Genuine Bocar products are designed, engineered and tested in Australia to suit tough Australian conditions, with Bocar stating that it aims to provide far superior products to any in the same price range. You can check out full specs on the Bocar website or drop into one of Bocar’s nationally approved distribution and fitment centres. For more information, visit www.bocar.com.au
OE REPLACEMENT TURBOCHARGERS From Terrain Tamer Terrain Tamer has recently released a range of OE replacement Turbochargers for an array of Toyota Landcruiser and Hilux models. Designed and developed in Australia to OE standards, Terrain Tamer says this new range of Turbochargers have been VSR balanced to control vibration levels, effectively reducing noise and prolonging bearing life. The turbos are intended as a direct replacement part and feature either cast or billet compressor wheels, depending on the OE design. As well as providing an increase in speed, engine power and overall efficiency, Terrain Tamer explains that turbochargers utilise some of a vehicle’s normally wasted exhaust energy to contribute to the engine’s efficiency. As such, it states turbochargers can therefore act to reduce emissions and can help improve fuel economy by up to 20 percent. Terrain Tamer says the benefits of a Turbo often replace the need to upgrade to a larger, more expensive engine; providing a quieter, smaller compromise that is still quite powerful, and saves both space and money. Terrain Tamer specialises in 4WD original replacement parts and has a history dating back to 1969. It says it is committed to its promise of quality, research and design to provide parts that are tested in the toughest Australian outback environments. To view Terrain Tamer’s growing Turbo range or for more information, visit www.terraintamer.com or call 1300 888 444. Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine July 2020
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IN THE WORKSHOP
TOOL LAUNCHED FOR WORKSHOPS In this article, ARCA’s Mike Smith takes a look at the AAAA’s new workshop benchmark tool As you may know, the AAAA conducts an annual benchmarking survey each year, with 200 workshops surveyed and the collected data analysed by the AAAA’s research partner and data specialist, ACA Research. In this survey, data is collected on how these workshops are performing now and their outlook for the future. We look at whether they are growing or contracting, and for those that are performing well, we drill down further and ask them to tell us what they are doing that is new or different. This has allowed us to create a sizeable and very valuable data set on not only the current and projected state of Australian workshops in Australia, but also to gather some amazing business growth strategies intelligence. This information has already been very helpful for our industry and workshops everywhere, but the AAAA has now taken this another step further by using this data and the associated strategy intelligence to create the new AAAA Workshop Benchmarking Tool. The new and free to use benchmarking tool is available for all of Australia’s workshops, including those that are not AAAA members, on the AAAA website homepage or at survey.aaaa.com.au To use the tool, workshops simply need fill out a one-page online survey which takes only minutes. Questions to be answered include information around: • Business type (independent, part of a chain, mobile, dealer, distributor/reseller etc) • The location of your business • The percentage of capacity at which you are running • How many vehicles serviced/repaired in the last month (select from a range)
• Whether those numbers have increased or decreased in the last 12 months • Whether you expect those numbers to increase or decrease in the coming 12 months • What performance indicators you utilise in your workshop, if any • How your profitability has changed over the last 12 months • What services you offer or are planning to offer Once you have input this information, it is collected by ACA Research and the tool will instantly process the data. It will then display information showing not only how your results compare to the wider population of Australian workshops and workshops in your State, but also provide suggestions on how you may better your position based on the lessons learned from high performing workshops. The full report will also be emailed direct to your nominated email address. This tool is of course in its very early days, however as more workshops use it, the more data we will collect and that will mean the tool and the results and advice it provides will become more and more sophisticated over time. I for one am very excited to see how this tool evolves. I believe any tool that workshops can access to gather useful information about not only where they stand in relation to their industry and their competition but also what they can do to protect and improve their standing is a valuable one.
you may learn or what new idea may be sparked to help you drive more business through your front door. Don’t forget either – if you are looking for even further insights into the market, all AAAA members have access to a library of industry research and data to help you make smarter business decisions, as well as specialist advisory services such as those supplied by Employer Assist and Industry Legal. To access, simply login to the Member Portal of the www.aaaa.com.au website.
Information is power, and with no cost involved and no AAAA membership required to access, I can’t see any reason why any workshop in Australia shouldn’t give the AAAA Workshop Benchmarking Tool a try – you never know what
In this series of articles, Automotive Repairers Council of Australia (ARCA) convener, Mike Smith, will take a look at issues that will affect automotive repairer workshops and topics of interest to the sector including occasional profiles of mechanics and other key personnel. msmith@aaaa.com.au 88
Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine July 2020