JUNE 2020
A MILESTONE ON THE ROAD TO FULLY CONNECTED TRAFFIC
AUTO INNOVATION CENTRE – CHARGING AHEAD
EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO SERVICE YOUR CUSTOMERS’ VEHICLES
ABOUT THE COVER ZF expands TRW Brake Program with a focus on safety
REGULAR DEPARTMENTS Calendar................................................ 4 New Members........................................ 4 AAAA Report ......................................... 5 News..................................................... 6 Products.............................................. 26
Inside Business.................................... 81 Consumer Law...................................... 82 HR Matters.......................................... 83 PRTC.................................................. 84 4WD.................................................... 86
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KEEPING YOU INFORMED Repco Australia raises over $50,000 for Starlight Day.................................................... 6 Trade Partner referrals by Pedders................................................................................ 7 Auto One launches new brand platform......................................................................... 9 New campaign to improve safety of young workers....................................................... 10 Auto Workshops: Impacted yet optimistic.................................................................... 12 Automechanika Frankfurt rescheduled........................................................................ 14 The aftermarket rebound........................................................................................... 15 Bosch ramping up.................................................................................................... 16
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FEATURES Cover Story: ZF expands TRW Brake Program with a focus on safety............................... 20 Product R&D: Auto Innovation Centre – Charging ahead................................................. 22 Member Feature: Century Yuasa – The power to push the envelope................................. 52 Replacement Parts: Parts for your customers’ vehicles................................................... 54 Servicing: Everything you need to know about servicing................................................. 62 Trade Talk: Geoff Newson – Oil running through his veins............................................. 76 Future Auto: A milestone on the road to fully connected traffic....................................... 78 In the Workshop: Get communicating........................................................................... 88
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Publisher Cameron McLachlan for The Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association ABN 23 002 271 454
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7 – 8 Bastow Place, Mulgrave VIC 3170, Australia Phone: 03 9545 3333 Fax: 03 9545 3355 Email: info@aaaa.com.au Website: www.aaaa.com.au
EDITOR Allan Edwards
EDITORIAL Tel 61 3 9372 9125
PRODUCTION MANAGER Brigid Fraser, Tel 61 3 9505 0121
Official publication of the AAAA
ADVERTISING Tel 61 3 9545 3333
PUBLISHER Cameron McLachlan
All material appearing in Australian Automotive Aftermarket magazine is copyright. Reproduction in whole or in part is strictly forbidden without prior written consent. Contribution: Freelance contribution and submissions are welcomed by this magazine. No responsibility is accepted for unsolicited manuscripts, photographs and transparencies. The opinions expressed by contributors are not necessarily those of the AAAA. All statements made, although based on information believed to be reliable and accurate, cannot be guaranteed and no fault or liability can be accepted for error or omission. The publisher reserves the right to omit or alter any advertisement and the advertiser agrees to indemnify the publisher for all damages or liabilities arising from the published material.
AAAA NEWS
NEW MEMBERS
CALENDAR 2020 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
Autocare Brisbane Exhibition & Convention Centre 30 – 31 October 2020 www.autocare.org.au
AAPEX Sands Expo, Las Vegas, NV 3 – 5 November 2020 www.aapexshow.com
ARB Windsor 16-18 Park Road VINEYARD NSW 2765 Ph: 02 4587 7114 E: duncan@arbwindsor.com.au
Neu-Tech Auto Elec & Mech 1 Kunjin Street CORRIGIN WA 6375 Ph: 08 9063 2149 E: neutech@westnet.com.au
Autobarn Burleigh Heads 151 West Burleigh Road BURLEIGH HEADS QLD 4220 Ph: 07 5535 7055 E: sales@burleighheads.autobarn.com.au
Perfect Fit Industries Pty Ltd 3 Irvine Court ALTONA MEADOWS VIC 3028 Ph: 0403 069 605 E: sales-au@pfibearings.com
Australian Recreational Motorists Association PO Box 7541 BAULKHAM HILLS NSW 2153 Ph: 0434 947 917 E: miles.brennan@arma.net.au
Repco Authorised Service Werribee (Fred’s Auto and Mechanical) 135-145 Railway Avenue WERRIBEE VIC 3030 Ph: 03 9742 7971 E: fredautomech@gmail.com
Bohman Automotive 298 Bathurst Road KATOOMBA NSW 2780 Ph: 02 4782 4207 E: info@bohmanauto.com.au
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
TJW Fabrications 9 Tygum Road WATERFORD WEST QLD 4133 Ph: 07 3805 3241 E: tjwfab@bigpond.com
Bruder Expedition Pty Ltd 21 Fulcrum Street RICHLANDS QLD 4077 Ph: 0418 774 520 E: rboegheim@bruderx.com
TKB Mechanical 19 Wongan Road WONGAN HILLS WA 6603 Ph: 08 9671 1305 E: trent@tkbmechanical.com.au
Hardex Pty Ltd 5/31 Chaplin Drive LANE COVE NSW 2066 Ph: 0410 956 596 E: info@hardex.net.au
Top End Motors 1 Tradesmans Way SEISIA QLD 4876 Ph: 07 4069 3182 E: top_end_motors@bigpond.com
Motorsport Brakes Pty Ltd PO Box 186 ORMEAU QLD 4208 Ph: 0404 023 535 E: marty@motorsportbrakes.com.au
Automechanika Frankfurt Frankfurt AM Main 14 – 18 September 2021 www.automechanika.messefrankfurt.com
Vandapac Pty Ltd 2 Dexter Drive EPPING VIC 3076 Ph: 0466 112 828 E: nigel.b@vandapac.com
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 June 2020
Sean Buckley (VIC), Ultra Tune Australia Pty Ltd Ph: 03 9815 9200 Nikki Gerling (VIC), Robert Bosch (Australia) Pty Ltd Ph: 03 9541 5555 Craig Magill (VIC), Burson Automotive Pty Ltd Ph: 03 9914 5555
Darren Robinson (VIC), HELLA Australia Pty Ltd Ph: 1800 061 729 Graham Scudamore-Smith (QLD) Fulcrum Suspensions Pty Ltd Ph: 07 3892 9000
Mark Pedder Chairman
AAAA NEWS
PLAYING OUR PART IN KEEPING AUSTRALIA MOVING We want to take this opportunity to congratulate all of our members on how you have responded to the COVID-19 pandemic and your efforts in keeping Australia’s essential workers and services on the road, during this unprecedented health and economic crisis While working around the clock to advocate for the industry and provide members with critical and practical support and advice, the AAAA has been encouraged to see how the industry has quickly adapted to the changes thrust upon it. Faced with a once in a century global pandemic, we have seen many of you quickly innovate and adapt; leading your staff, serving your customers, protecting your business, and upholding best practice health and safety standards. Because of these efforts our industry remains open for business and you should all be proud of the role you are playing in keeping other industries and people moving. Of course, it is stating the obvious to say that COVID-19 is having a big impact on customer volumes and revenue right across our industry. However we believe that much of this downturn in activity has been as a result of public confusion about what is and is not open and what you can and cannot do under the various restrictions imposed in each State and Territory. Collectively we are hurting but it is not consistent across the country – workshops of the same size are equally likely to be booked out till the end of the month, or struggling to stay open. But everyone is affected in some way. It is impossible not to be. To ensure the AAAA has a strong understanding on how hard this crisis has hit our industry, we have just completed a national survey. I can tell you that early results are that yes, it is having a big effect that will take some time to recover from – but people are remarkably optimistic about the recovery period. They are saying that in three to
six months they will be back to the same level as before this event occurred. To learn more, see pages 12-13 of this magazine. And we have a great deal to be optimistic about. All the economic indicators that normally drive demand for aftermarket parts and services are pointing to a relatively rapid and sustained recovery once we are through the other side of this crisis. For many of our industry’s customers it may seem counter intuitive to be thinking about these matters when their cars are not being used as much as usual. However, people can only defer a service on their vehicle for so long, and vehicles sitting idle for long periods can produce their own set of risks. The dramatic decline in kilometers travelled during March and April is starting to turn around as people get back to some level of normality in their lives, and this pent up demand is already starting to translate into increased workshop volumes. Other factors are also likely to aid in the recovery. The combination of lower petrol prices and the need for continued social distancing will mean that many people will favour private cars over public transport for the foreseeable future. And in the medium to long term, airline travel and border restrictions will see more people going on driving holidays. Further to this, two successive years of sharp declines in new car sales with no recovery in sight means that people are holding onto their older vehicles longer which will drive increased demand for our products and services into the future. Here at the AAAA, our team remains committed to doing everything we can to support you as we navigate through these challenging times together, and help you ride the recovery phase. A real problem is that we are all being bombarded with information at a time when we are facing significant challenges in our professional and personal lives, so it is sometimes difficult to sort through all the noise. To simplify this challenge, we have been working extremely hard to provide the tailored information, services and assistance that you need to make informed decisions. Our dedicated COVID-19 resource area for members
contains a huge range of information including webinar videos, fact sheets and information on Government Assistance programs, Fair Work Act obligations, mental health advice for employers and employees and marketing resources. Our now regular industry-specific member webinars have also been incredibly popular and enable participants to receive useful and timely business information from industry experts and ask questions. Our partnership with Industry Legal Group has also seen an unprecedented influx of calls and emails to both our Legal and Employer Assist hotlines and the ILG team have proven to be an incredibly valuable member benefit during this crisis. Members wishing to speak to them can contact ILG on 1300 735 306. To access our AAAA COVID-19 resources, login to the AAAA Members Area and enter your login details. If you are not sure what these are, please email admin@aaaa.com.au and we will provide them to you. Once logged in click on ‘Resources’ and then ‘COVID-19 Business Resources.’ Looking forward, we are starting to see some positive numbers when it comes to infection rates and we are also beginning to see some light at the end of the tunnel in the messaging from Governments. As every day passes, we get closer to the end of this crisis. While it may seem a long way away now, we are optimistic our industry will bounce back strongly and quickly from this. So continue to stay positive and informed, and make sure you access our AAAA support services.
MARK PEDDER Chairman
STUART CHARITY Chief Executive Officer
Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine June 2020
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NEWS
STRONGER TOGETHER DURING COVID-19 In this column, Capricorn Society’s Group Chief Executive Officer, David Fraser, updates us on all things Capricorn As we continue to work through the COVID-19 pandemic, there is some hope on the horizon. At the time of writing, we are seeing infection numbers drop considerably across both Australia and New Zealand. As a result, restrictions are beginning to lift, allowing for some sense of normalcy to return. Of course we do not want to be complacent. To continue to protect the health and wellbeing of Capricorn’s Members, Preferred Suppliers and staff, Capricorn has implemented several new procedures to make Capricorn site visits safer. If you are a Capricorn Member or Preferred Supplier, we look forward to seeing you again soon, to further support the growth of your business. More broadly, Capricorn is working hard to help the automotive industry through these tough times. Capricorn Members, Preferred Suppliers and others in the auto industry are able to access a range of COVID-19 support resources through Capricorn’s online community portal, “The Workshop” (www.theworkshop.capricorn.coop). Here you will find the latest information on Government support initiatives, advertising templates as well as information on providing a more contactless customer experience. More recent resources available on “The Workshop” portal include two online seminars that were recorded for Capricorn Members and Preferred Suppliers. The first seminar titled “Your Business Reboot Toolkit”, presented by Brad Gannon (Capricorn CEO, Automotive), Rachael Sheldrick (The Workshop Whisperer) and myself, addresses the top three things all workshops should be doing right now to adapt and thrive. A second seminar presented by international customer service guru, Shep Hyken, provides practical steps for workshops to build their customer service culture in times of crisis. Regardless of whether you are a Capricorn Member or not, I encourage you to take advantage of these resources that are available. After all, we’re stronger together! 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 June 2020
REPCO AUSTRALIA RAISES OVER $50,000 FOR STARLIGHT DAY Friday 1 May, 2020 was Starlight Day The annual fundraising event was developed by the Starlight Children’s Foundation (SCF) to help seriously ill and hospitalised children, and their families. Despite the many challenges posed by a very different and challenging climate this year, Repco Australia says it pivoted the style of its usual fundraising efforts and still raised $52,500 for the SCF. Repco, a long-time and very proud partner of the SCF, developed a support campaign that spanned both its Retail and Trade business channels. By pre-promoting its fundraising intent and reaching out to hundreds and thousands of consumers via email and a digital media campaign, it pledged to donate $1 from each transaction over the three-day period of May 1 to 3, 2020. Whilst the initiative was initially capped at $40,000, a further $12,500 was raised by a network of over 320 Repco stores across Australia, in addition to a separate donation from a generous supplier. The total donation of $52,500 made a significant impact on SCF’s $250,000 target, of which they only just fell short. Repco says its stores have a successful history of rallying behind Starlight Day each year by transforming their stores into Starlight-like environments to improve awareness of the SCF’s cause and of course, raise much needed funds. Repco team members dressed up in the signature Starlight shade of purple, added theatre in-store by wearing fancy-dress costumes, merchandised the stores with SCF products and transformed counters and shelves into Starlight colours.
including our team members. Yet, despite the challenges of social distancing, I am very proud that Repco was still able to find an innovative way to celebrate Starlight Day in 2020.” Additional praise for Repco’s efforts was summarised by SCF Chief Executive Officer, Louise Baxter, who thanked Repco, its employees, suppliers and customers for their support. “During times like these, sick kids in hospital still need fun and happiness to help them cope with the solitude and fear they face,” Louise said. “At Starlight, we know happiness matters to a sick child’s development and the work we do to support them in children’s hospitals nationally is only made possible through community support. Every dollar makes a lasting difference, and we’re so thankful for Repco’s ongoing support.”
Due to current community restrictions team members were unable to bake and sell to fundraise this year which is usually something they enjoy going the extra mile to do. But even so, team members did still dress up and significantly contributed to the overall success of the day.
Over the past four years, Repco has raised close to $350,000 for the SCF. Support and fundraising activities have included but not been limited to: Annual Starlight Day activations (in-store, online, Support Office locations), Hospital visits, Repco Support Office events, the selling of SCF merchandise, Team and Staff donations, Battery recycling program donations, and support of the infamous Larapinta Trek.
“I congratulate our team for their great effort in getting behind Starlight Day this year given the difficult circumstances,” Repco Australia Executive General Manager, Wayne Bryant, said.
Repco says it looks forward to continuing to support SCF in any way possible so that together, the organisations can bring even more happiness and support to sick kids and their families.
“These are tough times for everyone,
For more information, visit www.repco.com.au
NEWS
TRADE PARTNER REFERRALS BY PEDDERS New video showcases Pedders’ No Bull approach to trade sales Pedders has recently relaunched its trade partner customer offering by creating an informative video entitled “Pedders Trade Partner Referral Program.” The informative video was created by Pedders’ long standing automotive brand ambassador, Neil Crompton, and his AirTime Media Production company. The video aims to showcase Pedders’ No Bull approach to trade sales amongst fellow Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association members. The video tells the story of how Pedders can provide all of its valued trade partners with an alternative income stream.
Simply based off outsourced brake, steering and suspension work conducted by the local Pedders outlet, Pedders says all local mechanical and automotive workshops can easily participate in this simple Trade Partner Referral program. Pedders says that what is even more appealing is that the program enables the general workshop to still deal with its regular flow of customer’s needs. “The hard truth of business these days is that there is an oversaturation of companies doing everything they can to get their name out there,” Pedders Senior Executive for Brand and Marketing, Adam Gillick, said. “With the internet giving consumers access to more information than they know what to do with, brands need to go above and beyond to engage consumers with their unique story. “That’s why we as an organisation have partnered with Neil Crompton’s AirTime Media to demystify the complex world of the automotive aftermarket. “This latest video is the perfect medium for our brand’s story on our Trade Partner Referral program. Our latest offer on trade presents a unique opportunity for fellow aftermarket business operators to earn additional profits by taking on more work in the complex field of brakes, steering and suspension.
“Our local team of nationwide Pedders outlets is there to help you grow your business. It is as easy as contacting your own local family owned business to find out how to get started.” Neil Crompton is the Pedders Suspension and Brakes brand ambassador and Executive Producer of AirTime Media. He is also a Supercars presenter and he and his team at AirTime Media specialise in Automotive Aftermarket production of radio commercials, product videos and general production services. For more details, visit www.airtimemedia.com.au For more from Pedders, visit www.pedders.com.au
NEW 4WD INDUSTRY COUNCIL LINE-UP New and returning committee representatives have been announced following Council elections recently The 4WD Industry Council recently opened nominations for its committee, with the Council buoyed by the high level of interest received from members seeking to help shape the future of the industry.
The Council is pleased to be able to congratulate the following successfully elected new and returning committee representatives, who will now sit a four year term: · · · · · · ·
Miles Brennan (4WD Australia) Chris Roberts (TRED 4x4) Stephen Handbury (Sabre Offroad) Duane Rutherfurd (East Coast Bullbars) Jeff Newick (Exclusive Tyres) Kalen Ziflian (Club 4x4 Insurance) Anton Griffiths (Tuff Bullbars)
They join continuing committee members Anthony Kittel (Redarc), Ben Lavis (Motospecs), Matt Frost (ARB), Bryan McMeikan (TJM) and Gordon Scott-Worthington (Hella). “Congratulations to our new and returning committee members. I look forward to working with you all to provide a strong, unified voice in
response to future industry challenges,” 4WD Industry Council Convenor, Nigel Bishop, said. “The 4WD Industry Council would also like to express its sincere gratitude to the new candidates who were not successful in this year’s election: Rob Boegheim (Bruder Expeditions) and Mark Muras (A247). “Finally, I would also like to acknowledge the contribution of outgoing committee member, Eddie Ziada (Opposite Lock), who has served the 4WD Industry Council for the past four years including, most recently, serving as interim Chairman following the retirement of Ray SmithRoberts.” To learn more about the 4WD Industry Council, please visit www.4wdcouncil.com.au Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine June 2020
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NEWS
TOYOTA ISSUES RECALL
25 YEARS OF EXEDY AUSTRALIA
Recall issued for Toyota LandCruiser 70 Series MY2016-2018
Rather than letting the pandemic spoil the celebration, Exedy Australia says it is celebrating this milestone by sharing its history through the lens of how its customers have always been the cornerstone of its achievements.
The Toyota Motor Corporation has issued a recall for Toyota LandCruiser 70 Series MY20162018 (VDJ76, VDJ78, VDJ79) sold nationally by authorised Toyota dealers between 26 October 2016 and 14 February 2020. It is estimated that 22,971 vehicles are affected. Toyota explains that vegetation may accumulate around the affected vehicle’s underbody and exhaust system as a result of driving in dry vegetation environments. If the vegetation is not removed in accordance with maintenance instructions in the Owner Manual, the Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) system’s periodic regeneration may cause it to combust. If the vegetation combusts, there is a risk of vegetation fire, which may increase the risk of injury to bystanders or damage to property.
The company is celebrating a quarter of a century in Australia this year
Exedy has a long and successful history in the Australian Automotive Aftermarket. That history can be tracked all the way back to 1986 when Clutchco Pty Ltd was formed by Barry Davis, Ken Davis, Peter Marsh and John Ede, with Bernie Solomons joining the team in 1992. Together they shared a vision to deliver a superior quality clutch, have the largest range and set the benchmark for service. The original founders worked around the clock to build the business from scratch. Based on their vision and dedication, Clutchco quickly became a preferred choice for the network of brake and clutch specialists and rebuilders as well as general automotive parts reseller businesses around Australia. In 1995 the team engaged with Exedy Corporation from Japan (then known as Daikin Manufacturing Co Ltd). Established in 1950 in Osaka Japan, Exedy Corporation began life as a clutch rebuilding operation but fast became a supplier of clutches to OEMs around the world. Today, Exedy has 44 operations around the world and employs more than 18,000 people in 25 countries.
What should consumers do? Toyota Dealers will install modified exhaust system heat shields to parts of the vehicle’s exhaust area and enable the DPF manual regeneration customisation mode, which allows owners to conduct manual regeneration in a safe location prior to entering off-road, dry vegetation environments. In addition, a DPF information booklet will be provided to owners, which provides maintenance information to manage underbody cleanliness. These repairs will be undertaken free of charge. The Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Communications is the responsible regulator for this recall. For further information, consumers should contact the Toyota Recall Assist helpline on 1800 987 366 (Monday to Friday, 8.00am – 6.00pm AEST). To find a local dealer, visit www.toyota.com.au/find-a-dealer 8
Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine June 2020
Since those early days, Exedy in Australia has expanded its range, distribution network, staff and reputation for quality to entrench itself as the premier distributor of clutch kits to the Australian and Pacific Island markets. The range has long progressed beyond standard OEM Replacement clutch kits to include an extensive range of performance clutches and more. Exedy Australia says its growth and success are largely due to the dedicated team of staff and the loyal customers with which they have partnered along the journey.
In parallel to growing its core clutch kit business, Exedy recently expanded its product offering with the introduction of the AISIN brand. It says AISIN is one of the world’s leading OE manufacturers for Japanese, European and American vehicles with more than $35 billion in global revenues and the OEM quality range is reportedly quickly gathering traction in the Australian aftermarket. In 2017, Exedy acquired Driveline Auto Parts, a leading supplier of automatic transmission components. It says this acquisition allowed it to expand its presence in the automatic transmission aftermarket. Exedy says the vision of the original founders of Clutchco to combine local expertise, networks and customer-centric focus with the brand strength, manufacturing, development and logistical capabilities of the global Exedy business ultimately cleared the path for Exedy to evolve and grow. It says that today the company still has a razorsharp focus on its customers that have been the cornerstone of its success. ‘We will continue to work on strengthening our existing partnerships with our customers while further improving our existing products,” Exedy Senior Product Manager, Mark Davis, said. “We see many future opportunities for our company and will keep our focus on manufacturing high-quality product and providing expert after-sales service based on a quarter of a century of experience.” “All our customers, and in turn their customers, would also be feeling uneasy and fragile at this difficult time. I firmly believe it is our responsibility to help them through it,” Exedy National Sales Manager, Chris Philp, said. “Companies that can take their customer service to a new level at this time will flourish when things get back to some sense of normality. We continue to be the leaders in this field by making every aspect of our customers’ interactions with us an enjoyable and helpful experience.” For further information, visit www.exedy.com.au
NEWS
AUTO ONE LAUNCHES NEW BRAND PLATFORM Auto parts and accessories retailer, Auto One, has launched its new brand platform: “It’s the One” Auto One says the new platform was first launched to support Auto One’s national Easter catalogue sales campaign and leverages its authentic passion, expert knowledge and relatable service.
repairing and even racing anything that can be revved,” Edge Managing Director, David Stretch, said.
The campaign is the first for Auto One from independent agency Edge, which secured the creative and media account earlier this year.
“This, coupled with the depth of expertise and personalised service they offer, makes Auto One ‘The One’ when it comes to auto parts and accessories.”
“We were looking for a creative platform that would help differentiate us in a crowded auto parts and accessories environment and the guys at Edge nailed it,” Auto One Australia General Manager Merchandise and Marketing, Lee Scott, said.
“The new brand and integrated campaign will roll out in the coming year across TV, radio, digital, social media, catalogues and in-store and also consists of new video commercials that have already received some tremendous reviews from our customers,” Lee said.
“It’s a tough retail climate currently but hopefully this campaign can put a smile on our audience’s faces. There’s certainly no better time for our car enthusiast customers to get under the bonnet and do what they love best.”
Edge and Auto One also recruited Les Gock (of Hush fame) and some of his famous Australian rocker friends to put down the new “It’s the One” jingle.
“When we spoke to Auto One store owners, one thing really jumped out: that just like their customers, they love modifying, tinkering with,
“Feedback on the new branding and jingle from our Members has been tremendous and we have been extremely encouraged by the results so far,” Lee said.
“We look forward to this new platform driving new and existing customers into our stores.” To view the latest commercials, hear the new jingle and see action from behind the scenes, visit the Auto One Australia YouTube Channel. For more from Auto One, visit www.autoone.com.au
KYB CORPORATION PARTNERS WITH REE AUTOMOTIVE The partnership has been created to develop a next-generation Modular EV Platform REE Automotive (REE) and KYB Corporation (KYB) recently announced a strategic partnership to develop suspension capabilities for future electric vehicle (EV) platforms. Automotive Tier 1 supplier KYB’s “unparalleled” semi-active and active suspension systems will boost REE’s next-generation EV platform, which reportedly delivers complete design freedom and cost-effective, scalable solutions in e-mobility. The companies state that the combined expertise of REE, a pioneering technology company and leader in electric vehicle platforms, and KYB, a leading global hydraulics manufacturer, will reshape the movement of goods, people and services by revolutionising electric vehicle design. REE’s partnership with KYB further expands REE’s global manufacturing capabilities.
It also ignites a new level of suspension technology within the REEcorner architecture solution, which integrates all drivetrain vehicle components (steering, braking, suspension, e-motor) into the wheel. The REEcorner combines with the REEboard – a completely flat platform – allowing complete freedom of design, improved performance and safety, and modular applications for any vehicle type – from last mile delivery to heavy duty shipping. The KYB-REE partnership marks the first time KYB has formally collaborated on EV platforms with a technology company. “KYB has vast experience in developing and manufacturing advanced suspension systems, and we are excited to partner with REE Automotive and
share its revolutionary EV vision by engineering a suspension subsystem that supports the needs of tomorrow’s mobility ecosystem,” KYB Automotive Component Business Division General Manager of Engineering Headquarters, Kazunori Masumoto, said. “REE is delighted to welcome KYB to our unique network of global strategic automotive partners, bringing world-class expertise in advanced suspension systems,” REE’s CoFounder and Chief Executive Officer, Daniel Barel, said. “KYB’s technology will play a crucial role in the rapid development of our next-generation EV architecture, which reinvents the electric vehicle with a completely flat, scalable and fully modular platform, ready to carry the future of e-mobility.” For more information, visit www.kyb.co.jp/English Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine June 2020
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NEWS
NEW CAMPAIGN TO IMPROVE SAFETY OF YOUNG WORKERS The campaign is part of a social experiment The Andrews Labor Government is warning employers to protect young workers and is making sure young Victorians are aware of their rights through a powerful new campaign. Minister for Workplace Safety, Jill Hennessy, and WorkSafe Chief Executive, Colin Radford, launched the campaign in March at Melbourne’s KereKere Green Cafe. The campaign is part of a social experiment which saw young workers aged 18-25 asked to participate in a mock job information session for a research company. Participants were asked a series of questions about the risks they were willing to take to secure employment – revealing young workers lacked the confidence to question unsafe working conditions. Twenty-one of the 23 participants said they would accept their employer had no responsibility for their health and safety, that they would work without first being trained, accept bullying and harassment in the workplace, and accept unsafe work conditions to secure and maintain employment.
Almost all of the participants displayed vulnerability in speaking up when they were uncomfortable about having their health and safety compromised. Young workers can be reluctant to question their employers about hazards in the workplace and often have a poor understanding of their health and safety rights. The campaign will also be supported with education for employers and young workers to increase awareness of their rights and responsibilities. “This campaign reveals how our young Victorians are vulnerable to injuries in the workplace and reminds us of the importance of making sure they know they have the right to come home safe from work at the end of each day,” Minister Jill Hennessy said. “Everyone has a part to play to make sure young workers are given the training and supervision they need to feel safe and be safe at work. Young Victorians should be safe at work and it is unacceptable for employers to pressure
inexperienced workers into situations that put their physical or mental health at risk.” “Employers have no excuse for abusing their power and endangering the health and well-being of young workers,” Colin said. “With more inspectors completing more inspections than ever before, WorkSafe will not hesitate to take enforcement action where it finds employers failing to meet their health and safety obligations.” For more information, visit www.worksafe.vic.gov.au
NSW GVM UPGRADE CHANGES WITHDRAWN The withdrawal should considerably allay any concern by NSW drivers who have already fitted a GVM upgrade Following representation by the Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association (AAAA), Transport for NSW has now withdrawn the GVM upgrade changes outlined in Vehicle Safety Compliance Certification Scheme (VSCCS) Notice 17. VSCCS Notice 17, dated 20 April 2020, suggested there was a change to NSW rules that limited post-registration GVM upgrades to the vehicle’s axle mass rating. During persistent and spirited representation on this matter, Transport for NSW stated that VSCCS Notice 17 was nothing more than a clarification of existing requirements listed in Vehicle Standards Bulletins VSB 14 and VSB 6 pertaining to postregistration GVM Upgrades. The AAAA saw matters differently. “VSCCS Notice 17 was much more than a ‘clarification,’ it introduced new conditions and selectively quoted from VSB 14,” AAAA Chief Executive Officer, Stuart Charity, said. “Of great concern to us was how Transport for NSW introduced VSCCS Notice 17 without consulting the industry, greatly affecting our members – the companies that manufacture, supply and fit GVM upgrade kits to post-registration vehicles in NSW, as well as their customers.” 10
Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine June 2020
The AAAA convened an online Forum on 6 May, 2020 to address the matter after which Transport for NSW agreed to temporarily withdraw VSCCS Notice 17. Transport for NSW distributed the following message to stakeholders on 7 May, 2020: “Transport for NSW wishes to advise that VSCCS Notice 17 will be temporarily withdrawn. A subworking group made up of stakeholders from the vehicle standards working group will be engaged to develop additional guidance material. Certifiers are still required to comply with the registration regulations, including VSB6 and VSB14. Following this process, Transport for NSW will then re-publish VSCCS Notice 17 with the additional guidance materials developed in consultation with the sub-working group.” The withdrawal on VSCCS Notice 17 should considerably allay any concern by NSW drivers who have already fitted a GVM upgrade to their post-registered vehicles. The Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association is a member of the NSW Vehicle Standards Working Group. “We are looking forward to working with Transport for NSW on guidance material for GVM upgrades,” Stuart said.
“We are able to draw on the expertise of a large group of professional vehicle modification engineers and we will of course, constructively engage in a process that can deliver safer outcomes for the community, and clearer rational guidelines for industry.” For more from the AAAA, visit www.aaaa.com.au Note: VSCCS Notice 17 did not apply to vehicles produced by Second Stage Manufacturers (ie. vehicles fitted with a GVM upgrade by a second stage vehicle manufacturer prior to first registration). It only affected already-registered vehicles in NSW.
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BRIDGESTONE REMAINS AUSTRALIA’S MOST TRUSTED TYRE BRAND The company has been recognised once again with the Reader’s Digest Most Trusted Brands Award Australian motorists have named Bridgestone as ‘Australia’s Most Trusted Tyre Brand’ for the seventh consecutive year in the annual Reader’s Digest Most Trusted Brands Award. The market leading brand’s unblemished record remains intact, with Bridgestone as the only tyre company to win the highly coveted title since the tyre category was introduced in 2014. The Reader’s Digest Most Trusted Brands survey is conducted by independent research firm Catalyst, and saw nearly 2,500 Australian respondents in the 2020 appraisal across 70 categories. The research showed that reputation, reliability and quality were key considerations relating to a consumer’s trust. Reader’s Digest Australian editor-in-chief Louise Waterson says being a Most Trusted Brand is a great achievement, well deserving
of acknowledgement. She said consumers appreciate being able to turn to brands they trust, especially in challenging times. “This is an unprecedented time in history right now and trust has never been more tested in our community” Louise said. “Consumers have turned to those trusted and familiar brands to protect themselves and their families.” Bridgestone Australia and New Zealand Managing Director, Stephen Roche, believes building trust is at the core of Bridgestone’s operations. “More than ever, we are seeing how trust is crucial to Australians, and we’re honoured to maintain the trust we’ve earnt with Australian motorists over the past seven years with safe, reliable tyres, great service and meaningful contributions to the community,” Stephen said.
Beyond supplying Australians with safe, quality and trusted tyres, Bridgestone says it prides itself on its corporate social responsibility (CSR) commitments, under Bridgestone’s global ‘Our Way to Serve’ initiative – including a 34-year partnership with the Leukaemia Foundation, supporting Road Safety Education Ltd’s flagship RYDA program, Tyre Stewardship Australia participation and an array of other community driven activities. For more information about Bridgestone’s Our Way to Serve activity, visit www.bridgestonetyres.com.au/our-way-to-serve
Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine June 2020
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AUTO WORKSHOPS: IMPACTED YET OPTIMISTIC
COVID-19 industry study finds auto service and repair workshops are more optimistic of a bounce back than any other sector In recent weeks the Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association (AAAA) has conducted a COVID-19 Impact Survey of almost 300 auto service and repair workshops. While the survey results have unsurprisingly revealed an industry under intense stress with 83 percent of respondents having seen revenues drop significantly, they have also highlighted remarkable resilience. Indeed, the results of the study – commissioned by the AAAA and conducted by ACA Research – show the auto repair and service industry as a whole is actually highly optimistic about the future; even more so than many other small and medium business sectors, with only 10 percent expecting COVID-19 to have a long-term impact. Looking across industries, the best comparison points can be made with the retail and hospitality sectors, which are also highly dependent on consumer activity. “With more than 80 percent of our workshops experiencing a downturn in revenue, this sees us in line with the hard-hit hospitality and retail sectors,” AAAA Director of Government Relations, Lesley Yates, said. “While the reduction in turnover numbers is very concerning of course, what is encouraging is the optimism being reported by our respondents. It has been quite heartening to read that 64 percent of automotive workshops reported that while they are being significantly impacted in the short term, they believe they ‘will get through it.’” This optimism is being driven by a number of key factors. These factors, as listed below, are driving how independent repairers are coping and tell the story of an industry responding at pace to an extreme change in operating environment: 1. Workshops have been able to reduce their cost base (negotiating supplier terms, rent relief). Automotive workshops had the highest level of rent negotiations than any other industry sector (52 percent). 2. They have introduced temporary staffing cuts. They are more likely to reduce hours than cut staff, with few of those making cuts laying off more than one employee. 3. They have quickly introduced new services and ways of operating to maintain some level of activity throughout the shutdown, such as non-contact pick-up and drop-off, increased sanitising of vehicle interiors, and 12
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complimentary services for essential workers (such as healthcare staff). 4. They have made use of government support programs such as JobKeeper, with a number also taking the opportunity to invest in new equipment to prepare their businesses for the future by making use of the instant asset write-off. “Despite being hit hard, particularly early as consumers were unsure about whether they could go to their local auto workshop, most respondents see this unprecedented situation as a short-term impact. They share a level of confidence about the ongoing viability of their businesses and they are more optimistic of a bounce back than any other sector,” Lesley said. “There is a shared understanding that there will be a bounce when restrictions are lifted. Consumers will need to attend to overdue services, or they may need an urgent repair to a vehicle that has been idle for several weeks. People want to stay mobile and auto workshops are the ultimate enabler for this.” The study has also unveiled that most in the industry believe we’ve already hit the hardest point of the COVID-19 impacts on daily people movement, and that we should see some level of improvement in consumer activity over the coming month. This is a similar experience to what is being reported in the retail sector, which is also expecting swift improvement as the economy re-opens.
“We have compared the auto service and repair results with data from our weekly SME survey across key industry sectors including hospitality, retail, services, production, health and education, construction, and distribution,” ACA Research Director, Ben Selwyn, said. “While we know that auto service and repair is generally comparable with retail and hospitality in terms of the revenue impact, it’s promising that they have been able to maintain activity in their workshops, and a level of optimism about the future. “We do however see some variation between the different states and territories, with Victorian workshops the most significantly impacted off the back of particularly cautious consumer behaviour. “Almost two thirds (61 percent) of them experienced a 30 percent or more decline in revenue, against 41 percent of workshops in Queensland. We should note though that while Queensland has been relatively less affected, more than three quarters (77 percent) of their
NEWS “Clearly some businesses are in a positive financial position and can invest in tools and equipment during these hard times. These workshops are going to be able to gear-up quickly and meet the market in what is likely to be an increase in consumer activity during the recovery period.” Workshops have also been busy introducing new services, and many have reduced operating hours rather than closing. The AAAA has also been pleased to hear of workshops sharing staff between other stores within the same group to help each other cope on the busy days and to keep their valued workers in jobs. “Workshops are certainly looking after their people by doing whatever they can do to keep their staff – that’s the message that we have received and that is great to hear,” Lesley said. workshops still saw revenue fall during the pandemic, highlighting the impact that COVID19 has had across the country. “Anecdotally, we had also heard that the impact in regional and rural areas was more limited, with some regions applying less restrictions than in the metro centres. This has now been confirmed by the research, with more than half (56 percent) of the metro workshops in the survey experiencing a 30 percent or more revenue reduction, against 40 percent of those in regional areas.”
Government financial support packages have been a critical part of many businesses being able to keep their doors open, workers in jobs and bills being paid throughout the automotive aftermarket supply chain. The nation-wide survey also collected data on satisfaction with government response to COVID-19.
While optimism and preparing for a future recovery are top-of-mind for most, like other sectors, those businesses who were struggling before COVID-19 are feeling the pressure more than others.
“The study has reported the highest level of confidence in the government of any comparable industry and 36 percent of workshops said they were extremely satisfied, which is also higher than every other small business sector.
“Despite the optimism, we need to be mindful that 12 percent of workshops are very concerned about surviving post COVID-19 – if we translate that across our industry we will need to be providing some significant levels of support and attention to about 2,750 workshops nationwide,” Lesley said.
“Similarly, we asked workshops about their level of satisfaction with the government stimulus packages and their levels of support are, once again, the highest of all SMEs and higher than the construction industry with good take up of both the JobKeeper (52 percent) and the Apprentice wage support (78 percent).”
“It was interesting to see that 85 percent of our survey respondents were either ‘somewhat’ or ‘extremely satisfied’ with the government business response,” Lesley said.
There have been however perceived challenges with how the government stimulus packages have been rolled out. Stress has been added to workshops and other businesses who have indicated uncertainty about JobKeeper eligibility and the requirement to take the risk of paying staff before being reimbursed. Further, in a setting of heavily reduced small business cashflow, some workshops have been frustrated at the lag in payments for the Apprentices wage subsidy with some schemes being more efficient than others in approving applications and providing payment. “Interestingly, and perhaps as a demonstration of the optimism present in auto workshops, we have seen 25 percent of businesses taking advantage of the Instant asset write-off and accelerated depreciation deductions,” Lesley said.
“We have a significant labour shortage in this industry, and we cannot afford to lose our trained mechanics or any of our apprentices. “The intelligence that we have is that independent repairers are doing everything they can to keep their staff: using JobKeeper, rotating staff, sharing apprentices and as a last resort, reducing the opening hours.” As the only national professional association for the auto aftermarket, including auto workshops, the AAAA has been working hard to support the industry throughout the COVID-19 crisis. “The AAAA has been working around the clock to support our members with everything from webinars and fact sheets to facilitating one-toone legal and government assistance advice,” AAAA Chief Executive Officer, Stuart Charity, said. “The survey results show that these services have been well used and appreciated by the industry with a very high reported level of engagement and satisfaction with what we have been doing to help. “We plan to continue to adapt to what the sector needs on a week by week basis to keep providing the most needed support – we are going to be here for our members and just like them, we are optimistic that we will bounce back from this crisis.” To learn more about the Study results, please visit https://bit.ly/36G9mJr ACA Research is the AAAA’s partner in the Aftermarket Dashboard which is delivered direct to members’ inboxes each quarter. To view the latest Dashboard, please login to the AAAA Members Area. If you are not sure of your login details, please email admin@aaaa.com.au and they will be provided to you. Once logged in click on ‘Market Intelligence’ and then ‘Industry Snapshots.’ For more from the AAAA, including access to a range of COVID-19 resources, please visit www.aaaa.com.au Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine June 2020
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AUTOMECHANIKA FRANKFURT RESCHEDULED The leading automotive aftermarket show will now be held in 2021 Due to the difficult conditions resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic and measures taken to stem its spread, Messe Frankfurt and its customers, partners and supporting associations have agreed to postpone the Automechanika Frankfurt event which was originally scheduled to take place from 8 to 12 September 2020. The international industry gathering for the automotive aftermarket is being postponed until 14 to 18 September 2021 in response to local and global measures implemented to stop the spread of COVID-19. Event organisers state it simply would not have been possible for many of the exhibitors and visitors from over 180 countries to take part in the event under the conditions currently prevailing or those expected at that time. Following the new date, Automechanika Frankfurt will then resume its biennial rotation which means the event will now be taking place in oddnumbered years. “Our top priority is ensuring the health and safety of everyone – exhibitors and visitors alike – taking part in the event,” Messe Frankfurt Member of the Executive Board, Detlef Braun, said. “With waves of the pandemic moving around the globe and many countries not expecting it to peak until the (northern hemisphere) summer, I am certain that the decision to postpone Automechanika until September 2021 is the right one. “We have been engaged in intensive discussions with our customers, partners and supporting associations, and they sent us a clear signal. By holding the event in 2021, we are responding to our customers’ wishes.” Messe Frankfurt Brand Manager Automechanika, Michael Johannes, said that even though the Automechanika team has spent the past 18 months working all-out to get ready for the event, postponing was the right choice and has been received positively. “All the feedback has been positive – exhibitors are particularly pleased that they now have planning certainty,” Michael said. “Many exhibitors have to be extremely careful about their liquidity right now and have placed staff on short-time work – eliminating the trade fair as a cost factor for this year has helped a lot of them. The exhibitors also agree that it was the right decision to postpone the trade fair for a year and then resume holding the event once every two years. “The wheel keeps turning, and things continue to develop at a dynamic pace. As a result, I would 14
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not be at all surprised by the inclusion of new technologies or services that we haven’t even thought about yet (in 2021). “But naturally our first order of business will be to work closely with all the exhibitors who were eager to showcase their products this year and help them get ready for 2021. In addition to a major focus on parts and the workshop business, we will be featuring pioneering technologies, mobility services, vehicle customisation, washing and detailing; not to mention the classic car business.” When it comes to the possibility of Automechanika taking place on a digital platform, Michael says there isn’t anything that can replace face-to-face business encounters. “Nor is this simply our opinion as trade fair organisers. In discussions over these past few weeks, industry representatives have once again made it clear just how important an international flagship fair like Automechanika is. It is the most popular international gathering for the automotive industry, an event taking place every two years that everyone looks forward to,” Michael said. “Every business contact is prepared for this occasion and travels here with a list of their own appointments and business partners. Automechanika offers personal interaction with lots of familiar faces, a place where people can shake hands in person – people really care about that. “As one industry representative put it: ‘Skyping is something we can do ourselves, and we’re already doing that on a regular basis.’ “Naturally Automechanika can be supplemented with digital offerings, and that is already happening. This year, for instance, we intend to go live with a networking tool as part of our event app that allows trade fair participants to network with one another.” When it comes to other shows, Michael says Messe Frankfurt is in close contact with Show Directors regarding the current situation. “We are analysing and evaluating the regulations of the local government and the health authorities to develop scenarios under which the shows might take place,” Michael said. “We are also hoping that our international business, especially in Asia, can restart in the last quarter of this year and that we can at least hold a couple of regional shows such as Automechanika Ho Chi Minh City in the meantime.” For more information on Automechanika Frankfurt, visit www.automechanika.messefrankfurt.com
MORE NEW DATES ANNOUNCED Automechanika Frankfurt is not the only show that has decided to reschedule A wide array of events have announced postponements and new dates in the wake of COVID-19 restrictions, including but not limited to: • Automechanika Istanbul – was to be held in April, now scheduled for 25-28 June, 2020. For more information, visit www.automechanika.com.tr • Automechanika Ho Chi Minh City – was to be held in March, now scheduled for 20-22 August, 2020. For more information, visit www.automechanika-hcmc.com • Busworld India – was to be held in August, now scheduled for 6-8 October, 2020. For more information, visit www.busworldindia.org • Automechanika Dubai – was to be held in June, now scheduled for 19-21 October, 2020. For more information, visit www.automechanikadubai.com • The Auto Maintenance and Repair Expo (AMR) – was to be held in March, now scheduled for 24-27 April, 2021. For more information, visit www.amr-china.cn • WH&S Show – was to be held in May, now scheduled for 18-19 May, 2021. For more information, visit www.whsshow.com.au • CAPAS – was to be held in May, now scheduled for 20-22 May, 2021. For more information, visit www.capas-chengdu.com • VASA Wire & Gas – was to be held late July/early August, now scheduled for 30 July – 1 August, 2021. For more information, visit www.vasa.org.au
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THE AFTERMARKET REBOUND It goes without saying that 2020 has fundamentally changed the world as we know it, however Australia does now seem to have weathered the brunt of the storm With strict restrictions in place early, Australians shut down their lives for the best part of two months, largely halting the spread of the disease. This did however deliver a seismic hit to many industries, taking away the consumers upon which they rely. The AAAA COVID-19 Impact Survey has shown a significant financial hit for automotive workshops, in line with other impacted sectors (for example, retail and hospitality). This revenue hit comes off the back of drastic falls in distances travelled, therefore meaning less wear and tear on components, as well as consumers choosing to delay maintenance because they have less cash in the bank. We do however now need to start looking forward to the economic recovery. The Australian government has started this process, with promising signs that Australia could be amongst the first to return to a “new normal.” The question we’re left with now is what that looks like for automotive servicing and maintenance. To provide some context on this, personal vehicle travel in China was estimated to be down up to 80 percent during the pandemic, with TomTom also recording car density down by over 80 percent in parts of Italy and Germany. The crisis was however less severe in Australia than most other countries, meaning that we’re unlikely to be impacted to this extent. Looking at our scenarios (Figure One), we’d suggest Australia’s decline is potentially half that, or around the 40 percent mark. In practical terms, this means each vehicle travelling 450 fewer kms
per month. Extrapolating that over the lockdown period, it amounts to a 10-15 percent decline in annual km travelled.
FIGURE ONE: MONTHLY AND ANNUAL AVERAGE KMS TRAVELLED PER VEHICLE Kms Travelled Total decline (per month) (Mar-May)
Current avg
1,118 km
0km
20% decline
894 km
671km
40% decline
671 km
1,342km
60% decline
447 km
2,012km
80% decline
224km
2,683km
The recovery from this can also be looked at from a couple of angles. The first, more pessimistic outlook would see continuing maintenance and repair delays, along with less driving as consumers remain cautious of the virus in their everyday life. This would lead to continued weaker conditions, as the Australian consumer opts for a more cautious return to ‘normal.’ However, a second, and arguably stronger argument offers a more optimistic outlook for recovery. Playing out this scenario, servicing activity would be boosted by a range of factors, including: - Consumers ‘catching up’ with servicing or repairs they put off - Declining confidence in public transport resulting in more use of personal vehicles - Ongoing caution around air travel, boosting
intrastate holidays and road-trips (and the associated servicing and maintenance preparations) Despite the negative impact COVID-19 has had on workshops across Australia, we’re already seeing a level of positivity as restrictions start to ease. Anecdotal feedback from aftermarket manufacturers and retailers also suggests they are ramping up for an expected post-lockdown rush. On balance, the second option seems more realistic, with Australians already showing an eagerness to make the best use of their time as restrictions loosen. This would lead to robust results through June as restrictions lift. The school holidays at the end of June would then bolster this, as Australians get back in their cars for a longawaited escape from home. Beyond this short-term boost, a shifted mindset around the use of public transport is likely to see many Australians continuing to choose the car over the train or bus, ensuring the rest of 2020 can proceed in a more ‘normal’ manner. 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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ARB AT YOUR FRONT DOOR
ARB is offering services to help protect customers and staff In light of the current situation, ARB says it understands the importance of keeping its customers and its staff safe and comfortable while in its environments. It says it also recognises the need to adapt both as consumers and retailers; therefore, ARB stores and stockists are now offering phone consultation, phone ordering and home delivery of a range of 4×4 accessories. During this time, to improve hygiene and social distancing, ARB has increased both frequency and depth of cleaning within all ARB stores, warehousing and office sites as well as setting up boundaries and guidelines for safe distancing measures.
Staff who handle customers’ vehicles are taking additional precautions to ensure a heightened level of sanitisation and surface cleanliness both before and after working on any vehicle. All ARB accessories come with extensive fitting instructions, so it says, if you’ve found you’ve got some extra time on your hands, why not have a go at home installation? You can contact your local ARB store to discuss delivery options and get to work on installing drawers, driving lights, UHF radios, roof racks, tailgate assists, UVP and so much more.
Think ahead ARB says there’s never been a better time to sit down and plan your next big adventure; stating a great opportunity presents itself to help many rural and remote towns, pubs, caravan parks and tourist destinations in the future. ARB says it can ensure you are ready to get back to some of the most iconic destinations, with a vehicle ready to roll and your camping cupboard sorted, as soon as possible. ARB is continuing to monitor the situation and will adapt to all federal and state government regulations and says it appreciates your support in flattening the curved and keeping all Australians safe. For more information, visit www.arb.com.au 16
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BOSCH RAMPING UP Amidst the coronavirus crisis, Bosch is preparing for a gradual manufacturing ramp-up After shutting down production at nearly 100 Bosch locations worldwide, Bosch says it is systematically preparing for a gradual ramp-up of manufacturing. “We want to ensure reliable supplies to meet our customers’ demand as it gradually returns, with a view to helping the world economy recover as quickly as possible,” Robert Bosch GmbH Chairman of the Board of Management, Dr Volkmar Denner, said. “Our goal is to synchronise the ramp-up of production and secure supply chains, especially in automotive production. “We have already achieved this in China, where our 40 or so local plants are producing again and the supply chains are stable. We are working hard to do the same in our other regions.” To make a success of ramping up production, Dr Denner said the company is putting numerous measures in place to ensure associates are adequately protected against coronavirus infection. Bosch says it is also committed to taking a coordinated, joint approach with customers, suppliers, authorities, and employee representatives. Bosch has already started production of face masks. Even now, thirteen Bosch plants in nine countries – from Bari in Italy, to Bursa in Turkey, to Anderson in the United States – have taken the initiative and are making such masks for local requirements. In addition, the company is currently setting up two fully automatic production lines at its Stuttgart-Feuerbach location with further lines to follow at its German Erbach location as well as in India and Mexico. Bosch has also made the designs available to other companies free of charge. This means the company will be able to manufacture more than 500,000 masks per day which are intended to protect Bosch associates at plants worldwide. Furthermore, the aim is to make them available to third parties as well – depending on gaining the appropriate country-specific approvals – and Bosch is also producing 5,000 litres of
disinfectant each week in Germany and the US for its associates in American and European plants. In addition, Bosch’s Australian Manufacturing Solutions division (BAMS) will be supplying testing equipment for locally manufactured ventilators after being awarded a AUD $1 million project as part of the industry consortium to build ventilators in Victoria. The notus Emergency Invasive Ventilator Program, a Grey Innovation led initiative supported by the Victorian Government and Advanced Manufacturing Growth Centre, will supply lifesaving invasive ventilators and ensure Australia does not have a shortfall amid the COVID-19 pandemic. The program will supply 2,000 units to the Australian Government, and the Victorian Government has announced its intention to purchase another 2,000 units. Bosch Australia’s President, Gavin Smith, is proud the local manufacturing team can play a pivotal role in the fight against COVID-19. “This consortium shows the strength and skill of the Australian manufacturing sector to be versatile and to work together,” Bosch Australia President, Gavin Smith, said. “We are proud to contribute to the highly advanced manufacturing capability in Victoria, and particularly with this project, to help in the fight against COVID-19.” A leader in the design and development of special purpose machinery, Bosch says BAMS is the preferred supplier to the MedTech, Food and Beverage, and Advanced Manufacturing industries. It recently announced construction of a new AUD$17 million facility to support the expansion of its factory automation business in Australia. Despite the challenges of the current situation, Bosch is also maintaining its long-term strategic course. The supplier of technology and services is continuing with its systematic pursuit of ambitious climate goals and is developing the activities required to support an expansion of sustainable mobility. “Although other issues are currently in the spotlight, we must not lose sight of the future of our planet,” Dr Denner said. For more information, visit www.bosch.com.au
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SUPPORTING EMPLOYEES Mental Health Matters There is no doubting the continuously evolving impacts of COVID-19 on our society, industry and communities have been stressful. Weeks of uncertainty and abrupt changes have required significant and rapid adaptation.
AAAA is aware these worries extend past simply wanting to keep workers ‘in a job’ as auto aftermarket employers want to ensure they are best supporting the mental health of their staff members during this difficult time.
AAAA understands that for those who run businesses which may be negatively affected by the Coronavirus, the stresses can be many and varied.
Beyond Blue has provided the following tips for employers who are looking to support the mental health of their employees during the coronavirus pandemic:
Some may be feeling worried about the health and economic impacts for themselves and their families. Many are also concerned about the wellbeing of their employees and are doing everything they can to support their workforce.
• Maintain regular communication with your employees. • Keep staff up to date about your business’ response to COVID-19. • Make sure your staff are aware of the supports that are available to them (for example, if you have an Employee Assistance Program [EAP] in place). • If you are concerned about an employee or colleague, make sure you check-in with them and encourage them to get the support they need. Having conversations like this can be difficult, so check out Beyond Blue’s advice on conversations around mental health at www.headsup.org.au
• Don’t forget to take time to look after yourself too. You may also like to check out Beyond Blue’s online Tips for Managers resource which provides valuable information on maintaining a mentally healthy workplace; and their Coronavirus Mental Wellbeing Support Service through which trained mental health professionals are available to talk 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, by phone, webchat and email. For more info, visit www.headsup.org.au The AAAA has also collated a list of further resources which may also be helpful for employers, employees and their communities. To view the listing, please visit www.aaaa.com.au/news/supporting-employees-mentalhealth-matters/
FUCHS CONTINUES TO FOCUS ON THE FUTURE Despite the current level of global uncertainty, Fuchs Lubricants Australasia is remaining totally focused on the future Fuchs says it is ready to accept the needs of customers once the various COVID-19 restrictions across Australia and New Zealand have been lifted. Along with working with its global operations to improve its product offering, Fuchs has been pushing on with the safe manufacturing of products at the company’s cutting-edge manufacturing facilities located in Victoria and New South Wales. In addition, Fuchs has had the complex task of integrating the acquisition of the well-respected Nulon brand within its local operations.
However, according to Fuchs Lubricants Australasia’s Managing Director Wayne Hoiles, these activities have not only been handled correctly and effectively but will ultimately strengthen Fuchs’ local offering. “Although we’ve all been experiencing a period of uncertainty, Fuchs has kept staff employed in order to stay focused on completing a variety of activities whilst maintaining supply to our customers in those industries in which they participate in,” Wayne said. And with Fuchs’ business model based upon working closely with customers whilst benefitting from local manufacturing, Fuchs has also spent the last couple of months increasing the product and industry knowledge of its associates. One such example has been Fuchs’ usage of the latest ‘contactless’ technologies to carry out numerous online training sessions for its associates across Australia and New Zealand. And with more than 100,000 customers in industries ranging from automotive, mining, industrial, agriculture, forestry and power
generation, Fuchs is not only maintaining the safe production of lubricants, coolants and greases but is also working hard to ensure its product range continues to meet the needs of the Australasian market. “Along with our production facilities in Melbourne and Newcastle running at full capacity, our product and marketing teams have been extremely busy working on the development of new offerings which will certainly benefit our customers,” Wayne said. As a lubricant manufacturer, Fuchs says it stands for performance, sustainability, safety, reliability, and efficiency; while boldly standing by its promise of ‘technology that pays back.’ For more information, visit www.fuchs.com.au Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine June 2020
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COOLDRIVE TRANSPORTS PPE NATIONWIDE CoolDrive has been playing a core role in distributing PPE developed by Supercars team, Erebus Motorsport CoolDrive is utilising its extensive distribution network to deliver important medical infrastructure that has been produced within the motorsport industry. The company has also quickly embraced a raft of changes to its health and safety practices, while also using its far-reaching network to inform the entire automotive collective of the latest information pertinent to the industry. “CoolDrive’s focus is 100 percent on the health and welfare of everyone in the community; from our customers, to our staff and beyond,” CoolDrive Chief Executive Officer, John Blanchard, said. “We are a family owned business and so many of our customers are other family businesses, so we understand the impact COVID-19 is having. That’s why we have instigated a number of important changes to the way we interact within the business, and with other businesses, to minimise the effects of COVID-19 for everyone. “We’re proud, too, to have a role in the distribution of thousands of face shields around the country as well as the E-aerosol negative pressure box which will potentially help prevent the infection of our critical health care professionals.” CoolDrive has drawn on its fleet of more than 70 vans and 30 branches to distribute the new personal protection equipment (PPE) face shields
and E-aerosol boxes which have been developed by Supercars team, Erebus Motorsport. Initially, twenty prototype units of the E-aerosol – a protective Perspex box designed to sit over a patient’s head and upper chest whilst they are lying on a stretcher or bed – were shipped to the most critically in-need hospitals and health care institutions by CoolDrive. “The first trial batch was distributed to Adelaide, Hobart and Ballarat (Victoria) via our Melbourne head office. Such was the success, that (as of early May), we have delivered 70 boxes of the E-aerosol to around 45 hospitals around the country,” John said. The E-aerosol box was designed by Erebus Motorsport in conjunction with Supercars’ Medical Delegate, Dr Carl Le. Meanwhile after just a few short weeks in development, the Erebus Face Shields (e-masks) – the brainchild of Erebus Motorsport engineer Mirko De Rosa – are now also providing healthcare workers with much needed protection on the front line. The team, together with CoolDrive, have so far distributed a total of 12,000 face shields around Australia. “Our staff have done a tremendous job in delivering the Erebus Face Shields to those most in need. So far, some 118 hospitals have each
taken receipt of the Face Shields and we are committed to contributing our services to this cause for as long as needed,” John said. “The Erebus team have done a wonderful job at stepping up and bringing together the community as we unite to fight COVID-19. I am immensely proud of everyone who has been part of this initiative.” CoolDrive remains open to service its customers in line with the advice from the relevant Government and Health Authorities. Sourcing product from around the world, CoolDrive anticipates that any region-based restrictions will only affect some product lines. It is constantly monitoring these supply issues for any potential delays that could affect the supply chain. To read the latest updates from CoolDrive Auto Parts, visit www.ishop.cooldrive.com.au/news
DAYCO STEPS IN TO HELP IN COVID-19 BATTLE The leading company is producing an important component for life-saving ventilators Dayco has taken the opportunity to apply its manufacturing resources to helping those suffering from the COVID-19 pandemic by producing a vital component in the conversion of a readily available snorkeling mask, into a lifesaving ventilator. The adaption of the mask, normally supplied via sports outlet Decathlon, is the brain-child of the inventor supported by a project team including Italian consultancy Isinnova, eight individuals and several partners. The adaption transforms the mask, originally intended for leisure activities, into a vital resource that is already being used in hospitals in northern Italy and by the Italian Red Cross. Recognising the value of the initiative to help save lives, Dayco has taken the opportunity to produce a key component for the mask, known as the Charlotte Valve. This valve allows the mask to be converted 18
Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine June 2020
to a medical respiratory device and Dayco is producing it on 3D printers at its San Bernardo d’Ivrea facility in northern Italy. “To be able to contribute in the fight against this terrible virus was an easy decision to make as we have both the facilities and machinery required to make the Charlotte Valve in the required numbers, as well as a duty to respond to the national and international emergency,” President of Dayco Global Powertrain Operations, Michael Weiss, said. “We are now in contact with the Ivrea and San Giovanni Bosco hospitals along with the Red Cross to help distribute the item, which can be installed quickly and easily, and in conjunction with the reversal of the three existing valves in the face of the mask, convert it into the lifesaving device.” All files required to produce the 3D printed valve are available at https://dayco.com/wp-content/ downloads/COVID19-Healthcare-Support.zip
Dayco is a global leader in the research, design, manufacture and distribution of essential engine drive systems and aftermarket services for automotive, truck, construction, agriculture and industrial applications. It has more than 40 locations in 22 countries and over 4,500 associates. For more information about Dayco, visit www.dayco.com
COVER STORY
ZF EXPANDS TRW BRAKE PROGRAM WITH A FOCUS ON SAFETY TRW, a global leader in safety systems for the automotive aftermarket, has announced a significant investment in the local market TRW has announced the expansion of its braking product offering through ZF Services Australia, effective 1 August, 2020. Worldwide, as a premium brand of ZF, TRW says it is leading the field in OE quality components for Passenger Vehicles, Light Commercial Vehicles, Heavy Commercial Vehicles and Motorcycles, with products covering braking, steering and suspension. With 100 years of experience, TRW’s local offering covers 2,744 brake related product lines, with input from 6,000 engineers, designers, and experts from around the planet, ensuring the products are the benchmark in the industry. “ZF’s TRW is the leading provider of OE quality parts to the Aftermarket. As a whole chassis provider, all TRW parts are designed and manufactured to work in perfect harmony,” ZF Services Australia Head of IAM Oceania, Darren Leyshon, said.
TRW: maximum safety Safety is reportedly always at the forefront for all TRW products, with rigorous testing of all items giving vehicle manufacturers, aftermarket suppliers, workshops, and ultimately consumers the confidence to trust the wide array of products. Working with premium vehicle manufacturers for over a century has given TRW the know-how to produce cutting edge products, which are tailored to ensure efficient installation in the workshop.
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A brake pad leader TRW says it has developed a reputation as the trusted provider of braking products, with marketleading advances in brake pads setting the brand apart, with the range available in Australia providing coverage for the majority of the local car parc. One of the most recent innovations for the ZF brand is the world’s first aftermarket brake pad for electric vehicles. Called ‘Electric Blue’, it has been produced in response to the global move toward hybrid and electric vehicles, placing specialist demands on the aftermarket. Meanwhile, for more traditional petrol and dieselpowered vehicles, COTEC is an advanced silicate made of naturally occurring materials, forming an eco-friendly coating that TRW applies to the majority of its brake pads. It results in improved contact between the brake disc and pad, promoting shortened stopping distances of up to seven metres during the first few brake applications after fitment. This innovative coating means that TRW brake pads consistently outperform other premium brands during the bedding-in period, especially when fitted in combination with TRW brake discs, improving the friction co-efficient when braking performance is at its lowest. TRW has also developed DTEC, a premium
quality ceramic brake pad which reduces brake dust exfoliation onto the surface of the wheel rim by up to 45 percent.
Brake rotor range TRW produces more than 12 million brake discs worldwide every year, for both original equipment fitting and aftermarket purposes, with a range of 559 parts destined for Australia. Its High Carbon Discs were developed as a means of reducing weight, while also improving braking performance and NVH (Noise, Vibration Harshness) properties via optimal thermal conductivity. This technology allows the discs to run cooler for more consistent brake performance, better stability, plus increased resistance to distortion and thermal cracking. TRW utilises the edge-grinding method for manufacturing discs, ensuring they remain balanced for the life of the rotor, providing for safe, comfortable and vibration free driving. Each TRW disc has the minimum thickness, part number, and a traceable batch code etched into the edge of the rotor, for your peace of mind. Another signature TRW product from ZF is its Black Painted brake discs, where the disc is coated in special gloss black paint to provide a protective barrier against corrosion. Packed in moisture inhibiting VCI paper, the discs do not have to be cleaned with oil or rust preventative prior to fitting, enabling them to be taken straight out of the box and installed, a valuable time-saving initiative for workshops. TRW also offers a range of cast iron discs made
COVER STORY
from GG20 grey cast iron material, as well as an assortment of discs with integrated bearings, ABS ring sensors and fixing accessories, all to suit a multitude of replacement applications.
Brake accessories, consumables and beyond Outside of the extensive brake pad and rotor line up, ZF Services Australia from August 1 will also be offering a range of TRW OE quality companion products. Included in this range will be necessities such as brake hoses, brake fluid, brake grease and brake cleaner. Future moves into the space for TRW are set to feature other braking components such as
brake calipers, drum brakes, brake boosters and hydraulic brake components. TRW says its caliper range perfectly complements the disc and pad combinations, with parts ranging from electronic Park Brake Calipers, to Foundation Brakes Composite Calipers, OE matched painted calipers, as well as repair kits for an array of applications. While there was a time when it seemed that the humble drum brake was heading to extinction, the emergence of small city cars has seen the system now installed in around 45 percent of new cars manufactured globally. The simplicity of the drum brake system leads to lower costs, with TRW leading the market with
its preassembled Super Kit, containing all of the necessary parts for workshops to complete jobs quickly, including brake shoes, wheel cylinders, required adjusters, high temperature grease, and any necessary accessories, such as axle nuts or bearing caps.
Corner Module Solutions Another potential future product line for TRW locally is the expansive range of Corner Module Solutions, which draw together components such as steering, braking and suspension complete in the one box, with fitting kits ensuring a perfect installation. These Corner Module Solutions cover a wide range of applications, from passenger cars, as well as light and heavy commercial vehicles. “TRW understands the demands facing workshops, and the products required by mechanics to get jobs completed, easily, and on a budget,” Darren said. “The beauty of the entire TRW range is that it streamlines operations for workshops, with our prepackaged and assembled options not only reducing installation time, but also the administration effort when ordering and charging out jobs.”
TRW and the Environment Also of increasing importance in the modern day marketplace is the environmental credentials of products, with TRW’s line-up said to be leading the way with not only innovative manufacturing systems, but also throughout the life of the parts. For more information on the full range of TRW products from ZF, visit www.trwaftermarket.com or contact ZF Aftermarket via 02 9679 5555. Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine June 2020
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PRODUCT R&D
CHARGING AHEAD Opened just six months ago, the Auto Innovation Centre is already making big impacts and expanding its services for the Australian Aftermarket Since the opening ribbon was cut back in December, the Auto Innovation Centre (AIC) has been turning heads thanks to its specialised industry focus and customised service offerings. Already many companies in the Australian automotive aftermarket industry – including but not limited to AAAA members – have been impressed by the Centre’s state-of-the-art facilities and the unrivalled role it can play in their product development activities. “We are a very focused team and the Centre has been designed from the ground up to help the Australian Automotive Aftermarket industry,” AIC Managing Director, Luke Truskinger, explained. “When you call the AIC, you talk to the people who not only work in the Centre but who played a key role in creating it. Our team has a broad range of experience in both the aftermarket and OEM automotive sectors, and this allows us to offer tailored and unique advice to those utilising our services. “While the AIC is wholly-owned by and co-located with the AAAA, being a separate, independentlyfunctioning business entity provides benefits to the entire Aftermarket industry. “Our mission and ability to represent the industry as a whole allows us the unique opportunity to collaborate and gain traction (and all-important vehicle access) with OEMs; and we are pleased to offer cost-effective, premium services to our customers. We are committed to always demonstrating best practices as a true centre of excellence.” Hand in hand with the AIC’s dedication to best practice and accessibility, is a core commitment to confidentiality. This means customers can feel
confident in using the AIC for their most secret product development activities. “Absolutely every interaction between customers and the AIC, right from the very first phone call enquiring about utilising the Centre, is completely confidential,” Truskinger said.
A COMPREHENSIVE ARRAY OF SERVICES From the aforementioned access to vehicles to the use of the workshop for test fitting; 3D scanning and post processing; 3D printing; dynamic vehicle testing and ADAS calibration; the AIC boasts a comprehensive service offering to its clientele.
Vehicle access “One of our points of difference is that we acquire vehicles which are then made available for companies to rent for the purpose of product development either on or off site,” Truskinger said. “Access to vehicles is a real challenge for many companies because they can’t justify the expense of sourcing them; and while commercial ‘rentals’ can be a stop-gap this is far from ideal and usually, it is not permitted to conduct product development on hire cars. “As a hub for the whole industry, we can acquire these vehicles for the benefit of all; targeting vehicles which are of particular interest to the aftermarket based on demand – even if they are not typical of accessorising. “This means clients can come to the AIC and access vehicles for test fitting in our workshop, or they can arrange to rent a vehicle from us and take it off site for other types of dynamic testing.”
A fully-equipped workshop Customers can also benefit from accessing the
truly state-of-the-art workshop which is fullyequipped with all of the tools and equipment they could possibly need thanks to the Centre’s supporters. “Thanks to the collective expertise of the industry, we have been able to fit out our workshop to make sure that virtually anything that could be done on a car, can be done here at the AIC,” Truskinger said. “We are very thankful to all of our sponsors, partners and especially our champion companies (please visit www.autoic.com.au for a full listing) who have provided support since long before the AIC was guaranteed to be approved. “They believed this was something which was going to help the industry as a whole and their backing has made the AIC a reality. “Further, their continued support alongside our sponsors and partners ensures that not only are we offering world-class facilities now, but that we will continue to stay at the forefront of technology far into the future.” Alongside a fully-fledged fabrication workshop which boasts Burson Auto Parts-supplied Hunter Equipment hoists, tyre changers and tyre balancers, as well as a full complement of Repco hand tools and Milwaukee power tools, the AIC has a long and varied list of precision equipment on-hand.
3D scanning, post-processing and printing technology Amongst this equipment is a range of the latest 3D scanning, 3D post processing and 3D printing technologies. “Having highly detailed and accurate 3D scan data is vital. In recognition of this, we have invested in two types of 3D scanning technologies, with each scanner performing a different function,” Truskinger said. “This means we have the ability to scan entire vehicles, chassis and mechanical components as well as other items. This is thanks to metrology grade scanners which offer some of the highest possible accuracy available and produce data which exceeds the expectations of our customers. 22
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PRODUCT R&D
“Of course we all know scan data itself is not overly useful unless it is post-processed well, so the AIC has a number of post-processing programs which allow us to produce surface and solid models to suit the customer’s chosen usage and CAD programs. “As part of the AIC’s commitment to help customers amortise costs where possible, companies can even purchase 3D scan data created by the AIC as standard data sets which have been organised into particular target areas to suit most common requirements. “At the same time, we offer pay per use contract scanning services and, like with all activity undertaken by and for customers at the AIC, the customer owns all of the data for that job – although they can agree to allow the AIC to use or adapt their data for industry access in exchange for lower cost service if they choose to. “Then there is our additive manufacturing centre, which boasts three 3D printers which offer three different technologies and therefore three different capabilities. We have done this because each printer has a unique strength: one is best for larger volumes, one excels with incredibly detailed smaller parts, and one is perfect for very strong parts. “This means we can provide a more flexible service offering which is better suited to the customer’s application. We are also getting ready to run training courses on additive manufacturing to help keep the industry abreast of the new technologies and even help them to add additive manufacturing capability to their own company if they so wish.”
Dynamic Vehicle Testing and ADAS Calibration When it comes to the various systems of vehicles on the road today, the AIC is ready to assist with dynamic vehicle testing and Advanced Driver Assist Systems (ADAS) calibration offerings. “We are proud to offer dynamic vehicle testing services with a range of specialised equipment including a steering robot, inertial measurement units, GPS positioning technology, force
transducers and data logging equipment,” Truskinger said. “We are an approved testing facility for ADR 31, 35 and 88 which represent brakes and electronic stability control and we also offer customised dynamic testing services tailored to the requirements of the customer. “AIC sponsor, Continental, plays a key part in this area of dynamic testing, supplying all of our tyres and tyre data for future simulation work. “With the widespread introduction of cameras and radars into new vehicles, it is also exceptionally important that we are able to support the industry to best understand the operation and performance of that technology and the impact after accessorising. “As such we are thankful for our partnership with AIC sponsors Bosch and Hella Gutmann Solutions, which allow us to offer a full complement of ADAS calibration equipment.”
Training facilities The Centre also boasts a fully-fitted out training facility which can now be used for training courses, seminars, networking events and more (pending any physical contact restrictions.) “Where previously you may have booked a hotel meeting room or similar for your seminar or training event, the AIC’s facilities allow you to take advantage of not only a state-of-the-art training room, but one that is accompanied by the AIC workshop,” Truskinger said. “This means those hiring the room can arrange for the use of the workshop to accompany the training space so they can perfectly partner theory and practice for their event. Even if the workshop is not utilised, the view is great.”
Even more services are coming soon And that is not all, with a number of other exciting services also coming to the AIC during the third quarter of 2020. “Soon we will have a range of exciting new equipment at the AIC,” Truskinger explained.
“We will be switching on our hydraulic test facility which can perform asynchronous fatigue testing and static testing up to 10kN. “We will also be offering vibration testing with load capacity up to 150kg which can provide high frequency vibration testing to validate the durability life of components mounted to a vehicle chassis or engine. “At the same time, we will be bringing to the AIC laboratory-spec tensile/compression testing with capacity up to 10kN and a range of options for grips and mounts. “Finally, we will also be introducing a Damper Dynamometer which will boast the capability to provide highly accurate damper plots for a wide range of vehicle dampers, right up to armoured. “It really is an exciting time for all of us here at the AIC and we look forward to offering these new services and continuing to evolve and exceed the expectations of the industry.” For more information on the AIC, please visit www.autoic.com.au
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 June 2020
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PRODUCTS
TRU-FIT 3D MATS REDARC RELEASES NEW TOW-PRO UNIVERSAL WIRING KIT RANGE A new way of protecting your vehicle’s interior while reducing cleaning time
Tru-Fit Carpets says each of its Kagu and Maxtrac 3D Mats are perfectly designed to the vehicle, with a moulded raised lip to contain dirt, mud, spills and so on. An inner XPE layer is added to the mat which provides a strong structure, and is also waterproof, shock absorbent and provides sound insulation. The company says its patented Maxpider Backing fabric then completes the mat, ensuring all mats are non-slip for “100 percent safety.” Tru-Fit Carpets says this backing is unique in its design, in that it will lock in to your carpet but won’t damage it like Loop and Hook style fasteners. In the original Kagu series of 3D Mats it also has a range of both Carpet and Rubber Mats in either Black, Grey or Beige. The mats can be purchased in front pairs (select models), front and second row rear sets, or for all three rows with a “huge” range available for sedans, wagons, utes and SUVs.
The new kits join a complete range of accessories for the Tow-Pro range Redarc has released a range of Tow-Pro Universal Wirings Kits which aid and support the installation of its Tow-Pro Elite electric trailer brake controller into a wide range of vehicles. By offering two new Tow-Pro Universal Wiring Kits, Redarc says it has streamlined the existing range of options down from 11 to just three kits, allowing customers to be able to consolidate their stockholdings. The Universal Tow-Pro Wiring Kit (#TPWKIT-013) is suitable for vehicles where the Start Battery, Tow-Pro Main Unit and cable run to the cabin are all in-line. The Universal Tow-Pro Extended Wiring Kit (#TPWKIT-014) is suitable for vehicles where the Start Battery is on the other side of the vehicle from the rest of the installation. These two kits differ only in the provision of the length of the positive power connection. Meanwhile, the Tow-Pro Wiring Kit to Suit Ford Ranger and Everest (#TPWKIT-012) will remain available, working seamlessly with all Ford onboard systems. This kit already connects to the trailer socket (with suitable signal conditioning). Given the comprehensive nature of the new Universal Kits, Redarc says they now suit a broader range of vehicles (almost all SUVs and LCVs). When installing a Tow-Pro Elite with a superseded vehicle-specific wiring kit, please refer to the table to see which new Universal Wiring Kit is suitable for a particular vehicle. Old SKU
The Maxtrac series is the Heavy-Duty premium range of 3D Mats from Tru-Fit Carpets. The top surface of Rubber is 40 percent thicker and has a unique embossed pattern to keep spills from moving around the mat. The Maxtrac 3D Mats can be purchased in either front pairs (select models), front and rear sets and three-row sets. They are also available in either Black or Grey Rubber. Tru-Fit Carpets says you can increase your car’s resale value with its 3D mats, stating that its Kagu and Maxtrac 3D Mats provide maximum coverage and are a breeze to clean. It explains that to clean, you can either pull them out and just shake them off, wipe them off with a wet cloth or use a high pressure hose. Tru-Fit 3D Mats are 100 percent waterproof and Tru-Fit Carpets says you should not be fooled by cheap plastic imitations. For more information, visit www.3dmats.com.au 26
Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine June 2020
Vehicle
New SKU
TPWKIT-002 Colorado TPWKIT-014 TPWKIT-003 Triton TPWKIT-014 TPWKIT-004 Hilux TPWKIT-013 Fortuner Prado TPWKIT-005 LC200 TPWKIT-014 TPWKIT-006 Isuzu TPWKIT-013 TPWKIT-007 Kluger TPWKIT-013 TPWKIT-008 Navara TPWKIT-014 TPWKIT-009 Pajero TPWKIT-013 TPWKIT-010 Amarok TPWKIT-014 TPWKIT-011 Universal N/A TPWKIT-012 Everest/Ranger N/A The Wiring Kits provide ‘Plug and Play’ style connectivity and include hardware and fitting instructions to deliver a high-quality and reliable outcome for every installation whilst protecting the integrity of the vehicle, avoiding
the setting of fault codes or damage to sensitive electronics. Redarc’s Managing Director, Anthony Kittel, said that the new wiring kits were developed following feedback received from customers who use and install the products. “Ultimate customer satisfaction for our customers and end-users is what Redarc strives for. The feedback on our Tow-Pro Wiring Kits has been really positive but now we are able to offer a more cost-effective and consolidated product offering for our installers looking to install our award-winning Tow-Pro Elite,” Anthony said. “Our Universal range of Wiring Kits ensure compatibility with modern driving aids such as Autonomous Emergency Braking, Adaptive Cruise Control and other advanced systems where the brake signal may be generated from a number of different systems within a vehicle.” The new Tow-Pro Universal Wiring kits join a complete range of accessories for the Tow-Pro range, including switch inserts, an encapsulated protection device, remote head wiring kits and a mounting bracket. Redarc says the Tow-Pro Elite V3 was released in January 2019 and features improvements to the remote head and is compatible with new vehicle technology. Like all Redarc products, the Tow-Pro Universal Wiring Kits come with nation-wide support including a two-year hassle-free warranty and after-sales service. For more information, visit www.redarc.com.au/trailer-brakes
PRODUCTS
TRIDON HOSE CLAMPS A rich history Tridon explains that it has been manufacturing hose clamps at its state of the art facility in Sydney, New South Wales, since 1976. The company says it has a very rich history in manufacturing unique products for OEM applications, stating that if a unique clamping product is required to solve a problem, Tridon’s engineering team can design and build the product to meet the challenging clamp application. After more than 40 years of manufacturing hose clamps in their Australian facility, Tridon proudly remains a fully Australian owned and managed company.
Hose Clamps: small yet vital A hose clamp is a small component, performing an extremely important job. The hose clamp is tasked with performing under pressure and retaining the vehicle’s vital fluids which keep it running – fuel, oil and coolant. Tridon says its industry leading quality control combined with the features and benefits of each clamp – including rolled edges and exact
tolerances – make fitting easy while protecting each hose and ensuring a perfect seal.
Tridon quality Tridon says it is passionate about quality and that this focus has helped it to achieve “world class status” in manufacturing through a commitment to constant improvements throughout the manufacturing processes. It says its management system ensures adherence to customer specifications through contract review, advanced quality planning, production part approval processes and a comprehensive inspection and test program. This philosophy is also said to be evident in its commitment to environmental practices and excellent customer service.
Tridon network and subsidiaries Tridon has branch and warehouse facilities in key locations around Australia and New Zealand, keeping product and local service close to its customers and reportedly offering extremely fast turnarounds for support and service.
When you purchase a Tridon hose clamp, Tridon says you are supporting Australian manufacturing and receiving “a premium product that will not let you down.” When it comes to hose clamps, Tridon says “Premium quality. Extensive range. We’ve got it covered.” Alongside its Tridon Hose Clamps, Tridon has a comprehensive range of products which are sold in Australia and New Zealand whilst its manufactured products are exported to many countries around the world including Japan, North America, Asia and the Middle East. For more information, visit www.tridon.com.au
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PRODUCTS
NEW HELLA HIGH-PERFORMANCE LAMPS Introducing the high-performance Rallye 4000 LED family of driving lamps Offering superior long-distance performance, Hella Australia says its new Rallye 4000 LED Driving Lamps replace the Halogen Rallye FF 4000 Driving Lamp that has long been popular with drivers. Weighing in at 2.7 kg each, Hella Australia says the all metal casing construction is a robust, tried and true design that has withstood the test of time. The lamp is water and dust resistant to the IP67 and IP69K ratings, making it suitable for use in demanding environments. A single lamp may be used on vehicles with either a 12-Volt or 24Volt DC electrical supplies, and reverse and over voltage protection is also a standard feature. The Rallye 4000 LED comes with either a spread beam light distribution with a range of over 800 metres, or a pencil-beam pattern that extends range to 1.3km. This output reportedly compares favourably to the previous Halogen Rallye FF 4000 light which holds a rating of One-Lux at 700 metres for the pencil beam and 485 metres for the spread beam.
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Hella says that as with all of its lights, the quality and uniformity of the light distribution sets this lamp apart and has to be experienced to be fully appreciated. It states that the luminous efficacy of over 90 lumens per watt of electrical output is testament to the superior electronic and optical design of the Hella Rallye 4000 LED family of lamps. Hella also offers the Rallye 4000 LED lamp insert, which contains all electronics, light source and optical elements to upgrade older Halogen Rallye 4000 lamps to the latest LED technology. The inserts are also very useful if you want to try a change in beam pattern or replace a damaged unit. A replaceable pencil beam or spread beam insert can be swapped over in the original housing, taking only a few minutes and not much longer than a bulb change on previous lamps utilising incandescent bulbs. Sharing the same generic appearance and casing size, but also featuring an LED position light, is the Hella Luminator 3.0 LED Driving Lamp. This new model reportedly excels where a position light function is a critical requirement.
The lamp is optimised for urban environments where minimising glare to oncoming traffic and lower lighting outputs are required. Hella says the cost competitive Luminator LED pencil beam achieves One-Lux at 600 metres, with its spread beam alternative achieving 1-Lux at 440 metres. Both the Hella Rallye 4000 LED and Luminator 3.0 Driving Lamps come with a three-year warranty for peace of mind. To find out more or locate your nearest stockist, contact the Hella Australia Customer Service team on 1800 061 729.
PRODUCTS
KEEPING YOU CHARGED Battery World says it can help small businesses stay lean and reduce stock Battery World says auto electricians and mechanics across the country could protect themselves from downturn costs associated with the COVID 19 pandemic by turning to Australia’s largest battery retailer to cover their battery stock. With 111 stores nationally, and as the exclusive retailer of the Australia made Yuasa Car Batteries, Battery World franchisee Greg Leslie says it is more important than ever for small businesses to stay lean and reduce stock. An auto electrician himself, Greg says keeping a few batteries on the shelf on the off chance they need one for a customer can be challenging when operating in lean times. “Instead, turn to us for batteries as needed, as we always have the latest stock plus we can manage any warranty headaches,” Greg said. “Yuasa Car Batteries are designed and manufactured here in Australia, by Century Yuasa Batteries, who have been proudly supplying Australians with quality batteries for over 90 years.
“They have developed a range better suited to our extreme climate and harsh conditions than any other battery and some also come with an extraordinary 40-month warranty.” Century Yuasa Batteries operates a quality management system that complies with the requirements of ISO 9001, a quality management system that provides for continual improvement, defect prevention and the reduction of variation in the automotive industry supply chain. “Yuasa Batteries are supplied to the world’s leading vehicle manufacturers including Honda, Lexus, Mazda, Mitsubishi, Nissan, Subaru and Toyota: we have batteries for all cars, and we can come to you with delivery whenever you need it,” Greg said. “We can also take your old batteries and recycle them, so you know you’re doing your bit to help the environment.” Battery World says its team members are experts in the field and are ready to assist with any battery problems. It stocks a wide range
of battery chargers and maintainers along with battery monitors to ensure best performance and to extend the life of the battery. “A mechanic wouldn’t let a car leave their workshop after a service with partially flat tyres, so why let it leave with a half flat battery?” Greg said. “Test and if necessary, charge the battery while doing the service. This would be a value add your customers would appreciate, fostering great customer relations.” For further information, please contact Battery World on 13 17 60 or visit www.batteryworld.com.au
Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine June 2020
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PRODUCTS
ULTIMA BRAKE PADS Available from most leading resellers and brake and clutch specialists It has been 12 months since Australian Automotive Parts (AAP) launched its latest range of Ceramic, Heavy Duty and 4WD disc pads. AAP says the new range complements the extensive range of Ultima braking products and has proved very popular with brake specialists and mechanics alike by “offering great value and more importantly, low dust and no noise.” The range has quickly grown to boast more than 300 part numbers, with new additions arriving monthly. “The ceramic range creates little to no dust and the formula in each application is matched to the
vehicle application, with consideration also given to whether the pad is for the front or rear brakes,” AAP Managing Director, John Bourne, said. AAP explains that its manufacturer has a capacity of over 13 million sets a year and has ECE R90 European accreditation for over 1400 part numbers. In Europe, all aftermarket disc pads must have this accreditation which ensures the compound of the pad is the same as the original disc pads supplied by the car maker. “All Ultima ceramic pads carry this certification,” John said. “Within this new range are vehicle specific Heavy Duty pads for light commercial vehicles along with a new 4WD specific compound for 4x4 applications. “These provide excellent fade characteristics and good wear under heavy load.” All Ultima pads are copper free. “The entire production process is fully automated, starting with the automatic mixing system which mixes the various compounds and materials for
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each part number in a production run,” John said. “The production process is done through 100 percent positive tooling in Hot Press machines and computer controlled Oven curing – the latest technology available in disc pad production.” All Ultima disc pads have a three layer rubberized shim developed in Germany, comprising of cold rolled steel encased in an NBR rubber coasting which is then bonded to the pad. “This reduces pad vibration and noise. New shipments will also include a sachet of synthetic moly brake grease to apply to the backing plate and the guide points on the calipers, to help ensure best fitment practices – these sachets will be included in every set of disc pads,” John said. For online catalogue information and a list of stockists, please visit www.australianautomotiveparts.com.au
PRODUCTS
THE LATEST IN LED DYNAMIC LIGHTING TECHNOLOGY New animated rear lighting designs from LED Autolamps LED Autolamps says you can now add the classy look generally reserved for high-end European vehicles to your vehicle, trailer or caravan. The company says it has introduced an exciting brand-new range of animated rear lighting, all with specially designed integrated circuitry included and dynamically lit with the latest in LED lighting technology. There are six new and exciting designs available.
235 and 380 Series LED Autolamps says it has kept the overall look of the latest 235 and 380 series sequential lamps in line with its same size and style recessed lamp range, providing a seamless integration into existing vehicle or trailer lighting designs already using the series lamps. These lights measure only 237mm x 19mm and 382mm x 19mm respectively all with only 3mm protrusion from the fitting surface while a super bright rear indicator sequencing in a 1.2-second interval ensures clear direction indication. LED Autolamps offers its new sequential indicator range in clear or coloured lens options as well as a slimline low-profile configuration for your choice in design applications.
284 Series Next in the range is the exclusive 284 series rear combination lamps. Intensified by a diffused tail light is a sequential indicator that lights up in a dynamic sequence. These lamps also offer a stop function as well as a reverse lamp while neatly positioned within the design is an inbuilt reflex reflector; all cleverly blended in one compact unit that measures 284mm x 100mm x 37mm. These lamps are perfect for small trays or trucks and are suitable to be used with the MFBKT rightangled bracket also offered from LED Autolamps.
355 Series LED Autolamps says the striking smooth angular lines of the new 355 series lamps will not only enhance your vehicle or trailer but also make you stand out brilliantly.
A diffused tail light located at the top intensifies the effect with extremely bright sequential indicators that light up in a slick, dynamic sequence. The lamps also come standard with stop/tail/ Indicator and reverse functions as well as a purpose inbuilt reflex reflector. This compact all in one unit measures 355mm x 85mm x 34mm, making it perfect for small trays or trucks and is also well suited for use with the MFBKT right-angled bracket for extra flexibility with fitting.
385 and 520 Series The flagship of the new range is the new Medium to Large Truck and Trailer 385 and 520 Series Sequential rear combination lamps, which LED Autolamps says will not only look amazing on your vehicle or trailer but also make you shine brighter than everyone else. The first thing you notice is its sleek black chrome clean lines which are surrounded by the outer ring of the diffused glow of the tail function. Still, LED Autolamps says the real magic happens when in active mode – intensified by the diffused tail light are the sequential indicators which light up in a dynamic sequence. Super bright stop, as well as reverse functions, give all road users clear notice of your vehicle’s or trailer’s intentions. Cleverly hidden by the main lamp is an innovative mounting base, which enables a clean surface mounted finish, with no screws visible. The lamps are available in two sizes: 387mm x 105mm x 30.5mm as well as the larger size of 520mm x 141mm x 28.5mm. As well as exceeding the required standards with stringent ECE approvals, LED Autolamps says all these lamps will not only make you stand out from the rest but also ensure your vehicle/ trailer is road legal and compliant in all states of Australia. The low operational current draw of all these lamps reportedly make them perfect for a wide variety of applications and battery system requirements.
Construction consists of hardened acrylic or polycarbonate plastics depending on the application, known for strength durability and UV resistance. A specially designed resin that is resistant to cracking seals the integrated circuitry against water and dust ingress to strict IP67 testing standards. At the same time, vibration and impact resistance with no moving parts ensures these products are made fit for purpose and up to any challenge in Australia’s harshest road environments. The entire range is available in twin retail blister packs with a handy function simulator button included, so your customers can see a sample of the dynamic sequential Indication as well as incredible light output of the diffused tail functions. LED Autolamps says this is an excellent sales feature which is perfect for the aftermarket parts resellers. LED Autolamps states it takes full control in the design, development and manufacture in producing the lamps so they can confidently offer a five-year warranty. Further, it says if you want to provide your customers something different that will give you the ‘wow’ factor you are after, then you should check out its website and search for sequential or give them a call. For more information, visit www.ledautolamps.com or call 03 9466 7075. Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine June 2020
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PRODUCTS
KEEP YOUR HANDS CLEAN WITH EUCA Perfect for your workshops’ reception, work areas, bathrooms and lunchrooms Proud Products, the makers of the famous Euca Eucalyptus Laundry cleaning products which are so effective at helping keep your workshop uniforms clean, now has its own Euca Hand Sanitiser lotion. It is available in a convenient 500ml pump pack, 10lt refill and other larger bulk sizes as needed. With the current world focus and discussion about some pretty nasty viruses that are being transmitted by humans, usually by airborne means, it’s often not understood that the cross contamination by the general use of one’s hands is actually the number one key source of any contagion outbreak, like the common cold and stomach upsets. Whether it be when we are at work, or in our normal daily home lives, our hands are the most important tools we have. We use them everyday for everything, touching all sorts of surfaces and soils each day without so much as a thought as to bacteria or germs which may have been just transmitted back onto our skin.
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Beware the friendly hand shake as well, as when it is often followed by a nervous hand around the face gesture this has now transmitted anything unwanted from one person to the next. Everyone should be engrained with keeping their hands clean and not touching their face or others after touching any possibly soiled surfaces. This action will limit the risk of any spread of bacteria plus regular washing of hands is also imperative. But there are times when you don’t have access to running water or soap, so that’s where Euca’s Hand Sanitiser lotion is a very convenient and helpful way to be confident your hands are safe.
don’t become dried out and uncomfortable like can happen when using other sanitisers.
The main content of any good sanitiser is alcohol to eliminate germs. Euca’s product has 70 percent Alcohol w/w, which means it is well above normal standard strength and Euca says that’s why it is a premium concentrate.
The 500ml pump pack can be placed at all communal areas like reception counters, workstations, outside toilets, in kitchenettes and any area where running water is not easily accessible; making it easy for everyone to access a convenient way to cleanse their hands.
Euca says it has also added skin conditioners and moisturisers to also leave your hands in good condition each time you use it, so your hands
For more information about stockists and where to buy Euca Hand Sanitiser, visit www.eucaonline.com.au or call 1300 722 172
PRODUCTS
FRAM 4WD FILTER KITS Keeping the dirt on the outside FRAM Filters says its 4WD Filter Kits are optimised for both on and off road performance. A solution for complete servicing requirements, the kits contain an Oil Filter, Air Filter, Fuel Filter and Cabin Air Filter where required. The correct filter fitment for each individual vehicle is all in one box, with one reference number. Each FRAM Filter is designed, developed, tested and manufactured to meet or exceed OEM filtration specifications, with a warranty to meet OE specified vehicle service intervals, and will not void New Car Warranties.
Fuel Filter
Oil Filter
Cabin Air Filter (where required)
Air Filter
FRAM Oil Filters are said to be ideal for drivers who push their vehicles. A blend of cellulose and synthetic microscopic fibres provide an ideal balance of dirt-trapping and dirt-holding capacity, whilst providing optimum oil flow to the engine for lubrication of moving engine parts. FRAM Oil Filters continuously purify the oil in the vehicle by filtering out and retaining abrasive particles, dust and combustion residue and are manufactured for use with conventional or synthetic oil.
FRAM Cabin Air Filters allow travelers inside the vehicle to breathe cleaner air by filtering out pollen, allergens, exhaust fumes, dirt and dust. The effects of these contaminants can make for an uncomfortable journey when driving on a dusty, off road trek. FRAM Filters says its Cabin Air Filters can eliminate up to 98 percent* of these impurities.
FRAM Air Filters reportedly provide superior protection for strenuous driving conditions, from idling in heavy traffic to driving on dusty roads and towing heavy loads. With rigorously tested filter media and increased dirt holding capacity which surpasses ISO 5011 testing standards, FRAM Air Filters are engineered to prevent contaminants from entering the vehicle’s engine, providing better engine performance and fuel economy, especially for off road driving conditions.
FRAM Fuel Filters serve a vital function in today’s modern tight-tolerance engine fuel systems. By removing rust and dirt particles from petrol or diesel, fuel filters protect fuel pumps and injectors from rapid wear and failure. FRAM Filters says its Fuel Filters keep your fuel injectors clean for optimum fuel/air ratio, providing superior fuel economy and reducing the costs on servicing injectors in Petrol and Diesel engines.
For more information, contact Filpro Automotive on 0400 878 837 or via arossiter@filpro.com.au *Road dust and pollen particles ranging in size from 5-100 microns.
Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine June 2020
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PRODUCTS
SIGNIFICANT SENSOR CATEGORY EXTENSION FOR NGK NGK is launching four new sensor ranges in Australia NGK says Camshaft, Crankshaft, MAP and ABS Wheel Speed Sensors will be added to its already extensive catalogue of Oxygen, Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensors and Air Fuel Ratio Monitors. “NTK sensors play vital roles in the function of vehicles, communicating the position of various components to the computer for safe, efficient driving,” NGK Spark Plugs Australia Product Manager, James Henson, said. “The addition of these four new sensor ranges cements our position as a world-leading ignition and sensor manufacturer.” NGK says it has always been renowned as a supplier of original equipment spark plugs, glow plugs and NTK Lambda sensors to the world’s leading vehicle manufacturers and the automotive aftermarket and in recent years has also become increasingly well known for its expanding NTK engine and vehicle management sensors‘ range. “The new sensor ranges provide excellent Australian vehicle parc coverage and opens up further original equipment (OE) replacement opportunities for aftermarket customers,” James said.
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Camshaft and crankshaft sensors are a vital part of the engine management system and provide information about engine speed and the exact position of several engine components, camshaft/ valves and crankshaft/pistons. Supplying this information to the engine control unit (ECU) enables the fuel injection and ignition systems to function efficiently. The crankshaft sensor keeps track of the crankshaft’s rotational speed and position. The purpose of the camshaft is to open and close the valves. It is connected to, and driven by, the crankshaft and rotates at half of the crankshaft’s speed. The camshaft sensor continually measures the position of the camshaft to ensure appropriate synchronisation. Timing is critical to optimise the efficiency of an engine and the new sensors are key to ensuring the correct functioning of fuel injection and ignition systems. Connected to the pistons and the gearbox, the crankshaft converts the linear, vertical
movements of the pistons into rotary motion that powers the engine and makes the vehicle move. “NTK has more than 40 years’ experience in the sensor business and these new product ranges confirm our position as Australia’s leading ignition and sensor supplier and is sure to prove popular with our distributors and their customers,” James said. For more information, visit www.ngk.com.au
PRODUCTS
4WD TOOL ROLL KIT Available from A247, the comprehensive kit includes the Bahco 106 Piece Set and Yorktown Tool Roll A247 is proud to present to the market the 4WD Tool Roll Kit, protected by a Lifetime Guarantee. The kit includes the Yorktown Tool Roll and the Bahco 106 piece tool kit, creating the “ultimate 4WD tool roll and tools” offering.
Bahco 106 Pce 1/4” and 1/2” Dr Socket and Spanner Set The 106 piece 1/4” and 1/2” socket set features 106 chrome vanadium and matt chrome-plated sockets in an oil and temperature resistant polythene case.
INTRODUCING OIL FIGHTER A “revolutionary” new oil-stain remover product by CRC Industries CRC Industries Australia is pleased to announce the launch into the Australian market of its Oil Fighter product which effectively ‘spoils oil stains’ by removing them from porous surfaces with a simple ‘spray on, brush off’ formula. Ideal for automotive, industrial and household needs, the award-winning product is effective on concrete floors and driveways, paving, cobbles, masonry, timber, heavy duty carpets and mats. “Whether you are tackling leaks, spills, drips, drops or stains; simply spray Oil Fighter on the oil stain and let the product get to work with its rapid action formula,” CRC Industries Australia Managing Director, Murray Walbran, explained. “Across one to two hours the product will dry to a powder, absorbing the oil and pulling it to the surface in the process. Then all you need to do is give the area an easy sweep and the stain is gone! “This product has been making waves in New Zealand under the brand of Oil Eater in a surprisingly short period of time; thanks to the fact that it is an aerosol unlike other competitor products on the market. It is also incredibly easy to use as it requires no mixing or heavy lifting, is easy to store and of course, there is the simple spray on and brush off solution. “In fact, the product has been so successful in New Zealand, it was recently recognised with an Innovation Award at GPC Asia Pacific’s Awards evening. “We are very excited to be able to bring this exciting and proven product to the Australian market for the first time. Be sure to keep an eye out for Oil Fighter.” CRC Industries Australia’s Oil Fighter product will come in a 400ml can and will be available late June 2020. For more information, contact your CRC Industries Australia representative or visit www.crcindustries.com.au
Yorktown Tool Roll A247 says the Yorktown Tool Roll is the ultimate tool roll pouch, delivering more carry options and organisation. Four generously sized pockets store a variety of tools, while the back is designed to organise and quickly find wrench and tool sets and the Quick Roll System allows the pouch to easily roll up for better mobility. Features include: • Condensed Quick Roll for ‘Throw N Stow’ • Four large front pockets. (16” x 2 1/2” x 3” = 480 total cubic freedoms) • 11 wrench slot organiser • Seven multipurpose tool slots • Patriot made 1000D Cordura • YKK USA made zippers • Two carrying handles secured by precision tack. • Smallest Wrench Slot: 5.5” x 1.375” • Largest Wrench Slot: 8.875” x 2.375” • Handcrafted in the USA • Lifetime Guarantee For more information, visit www.a247.com.au 44
Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine June 2020
TUFF SUPPORT GAS STRUTS An expanding range of Tuff Support Lift Supports are now available Command Auto Group explains its commitment to providing the aftermarket with a complete solution to gas spring applications in Australia has seen it release products for many new vehicle applications. “Tuff Support Gas Struts are a product dedicated to product quality and reliability, covered by an extended five year warranty,” Command Auto Group Marketing Director, James Kennedy, said. “The struts are manufactured in Europe in a certified OEM ISO9001 and TS16949 manufacturing facility and are available for the latest vehicles from manufacturers all around the world. “The struts’ internal components – such as seals, washers and o-rings – are procured from suppliers who are TS16949 and ISO9001 certified manufacturers.” Features include: • Anti-corrosion treatment • High quality seamless tubes • Treated with phosphate, nitrate and specialist painted seal to seal all areas of the strut. • Laser tested for precise fitment to OEM specification. “Display stands, product application guides and merchandising are also available for point of sale displays,” James said. For more information, please visit www.commandauto.com.au
PRODUCTS
LITHIUM: WATCH OUT FOR THE CHEAP AND NASTY Sealed Performance Batteries warns against “battery cowboys” As lithium has grown in popularity, it has inadvertently created a significant issue that could rob consumers and business owners of thousands of dollars each year. Sealed Performance Batteries says that fuelled by a lack of regulation by Australian Standards, a technology that is widely misunderstood, and globalisation, “battery cowboys” are importing cheap inferior products that are faulty and potentially dangerous. It says these products understate the usable capacity and are sourced from manufacturers that use questionable procedures and parts in their construction – in some cases, even using second hand or low-grade cells. “We started hearing whispers of cheap lithium working its way into the Australian market some years ago, and we were always questioning the quality of them,” Sealed Performance Batteries Technical Advisor, Zac Page, said. Understandably consumers are hesitant to lift the lid on their battery as this would void the warranty of a product but a recent picture circulating on social media has exposed a shocking truth to what is in a cheap battery. “After we saw those photos on social media, we had to analyse what was happening there, and we were shocked at the actual internal quality, even if you were to ignore the damage,” Zac said. “It’s important to remember that Lithium Iron Phosphate is different from other lithium chemistries and is actually a really safe and reliable technology, but when a product like this is released to market it has the potential to damage its reputation.” Sealed Performance Batteries says Australian businesses should be wary of international suppliers as consumer law does apply to the retailer when supplying goods. If a company has an influx of genuine warranties, they would be obliged to provide a refund or replacement. If those warranties are not being honoured from the manufacturer to the retailer, this could put their business at significant financial risk. Sealed Performance Batteries says there have also been reports of businesses that ignore consumer claims or provide no help due to closure or just an unwillingness to cooperate. This forces the consumer to seek answers from more reputable suppliers and makes receiving a refund (if any) painful and drawn-out. “I believe that the businesses providing these batteries should be as transparent as possible about what they are selling. For our Invicta product, we supply detailed spec sheets, internal photos, webinars and videos. For anything that isn’t provided they can call us to get an answer,” Zac said. “We even provide this service to our distributors and resellers that may not have the knowledge, so there is no excuse for an answer to not be provided in a timely manner.” To avoid disappointment, Sealed Performance Batteries says you should only buy from a reputable business and arm yourself with knowledge and a list of questions that verify the quality of the product. For more information, visit www.spb.net.au or email info@spb.net.au Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine June 2020
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PRODUCTS
NO-SPILL SYSTEMS Specialists in fluid draining technology helping you to eliminate messy oil changes No-Spill Systems says it has been in the business of fluid draining technology for more than 27 years, manufacturing high quality products that make changing fluids easier and safer while helping the environment by eliminating oil spills. The No-Spill drain plug contains an internal valve that, once activated by the drain tool, lifts to allow the quick, clean, and safe draining and transfer of fluids. The No-Spill Systems drain plug replaces the existing oil drain plug without the need for special tools or fittings. It is a simple two-minute installation: just remove the old drain plug, clean equipment threads, thread in the No-Spill System plug by hand until snug, and finally tighten the No-Spill Systems plug to torque specs. No-Spill Systems offers three different system designs to accommodate customer needs: • Standard Design: the original thread-on version; • Compact Design: a low-profile thread-on version for hard to reach or limited clearance applications; and
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• Speed Click: a quick connect version, designed for ultimate efficiency and convenience. No-Spill Systems produce more than 500 different sizes of drain plugs to fit all types of equipment and applications such as engines, transmissions, hydraulic systems and radiators. All No-Spill drain plugs can drain by gravity or can be attached to a suction pump to change fluids much more efficiently. The demand for more environmentally friendly maintenance equipment is increasing rapidly. Many industries are embracing environmentally responsible behaviours and supporting products that promote their sustainability and safety goals. By using No-Spill Systems for changing oil or transferring fluids, the company says customers can save time and money by eliminating costly spills and stripped oil pans; improve their engine life and performance of their equipment by draining the oil hot; avoid costly clean-up costs caused by unnecessary oil spills; and reduce health and safety issues caused by burns from hot engine oil spills.
No-Spill Systems says it has the most accurate thread pitch, the best magnets (designed specifically to endure the high temp/cooling cycles of an engine), and a hex design that makes its drain plugs exceptionally easy to install. It says its American manufactured product is made from solid brass stock and comes with a Lifetime warranty. No-Spill Systems are reportedly perfect for troublesome fluid draining applications; DIY, collector car and performance vehicles; large company fleet vehicles; truck fleets; earthmoving, mining and roading equipment; and farming equipment. No-Spill Systems are distributed exclusively in Australia and New Zealand by Down Under Distribution. For more information, email sales@dudistribution.com, visit www.dudistribution.com or call 1800 304 811.
MEMBER FEATURE
THE POWER TO PUSH THE ENVELOPE Century Yuasa‘s Automotive division is Australia’s oldest and most recognised battery manufacturer and supplier The company has a proud history of producing batteries in Australia since 1928 and its portfolio includes some of the most recognised battery brands and technically advanced products available in the marketplace. “We are committed to continuous new product development and invest significantly in local manufacturing to ensure we set new standards in product performance,” Century Yuasa General Manager Automotive Sales (Australia and New Zealand), Stu Stanners, said. “Our core strength and competitive advantage lie in delivering exceptional products supported with an industry-leading service network.” That network includes regional agents and metropolitan distribution centres enabling Century Yuasa to offer a nationwide service model consistent in both regional and metropolitan Australia. “Businesses partner with Century Yuasa as they have access to locally held stock and technical experts dedicated to providing services that add value to their customers,” Stu explained. “We have been at the forefront of battery manufacturing and design for over 90 years. Our reputation for quality and innovation has been refined and demonstrated over many decades.” In the early days, Century Batteries were primarily sold to New South Wales only. In the 1960s they expanded into Victoria, and from there moved into Western Australia, before offering nationwide coverage. “Today, we are not only the market leaders in
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Australia and New Zealand, but we also export to international markets where the weather conditions are similar to the extreme heat we experience here in Australia,” Stu said.
Century says it has a strong focus on innovation and technical excellence, and states they were the first battery company in Australia to introduce polypropylene cases and lids.
“Our latest product has pushed battery technology to a new level allowing us to reduce water loss in a battery by up to 40 percent, which is huge, so it is perfectly suited and designed for the Australian market.”
Still, the real watershed moment in Century’s success story occurred in the 1980s when they formed an international partnership and signed a technical agreement with Japan Storage Company and Yuasa.
Century Yuasa now has a world-leading battery manufacturing plant in Queensland and employs more than 600 staff and reinvests in excess of $100 million each year into local businesses and the Australian economy.
“It was at this point we became Century Yuasa Batteries,” Stu said.
“Late last year we invested many millions in factory upgrades making our facility the equal of any manufacturing plant in the world. The factory allows us to make a battery suited to the harsh Australian climate,” Stu explained.
“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 then in the mid-1990s we secured our position as the leading battery distributor in that market as well.” While a small percentage of products in the Century range are imported from Century Yuasa
MEMBER FEATURE
affiliated and approved suppliers, the majority of the more than two million units Century Yuasa sells every year are manufactured in the Queensland plant. “We have more than 8,000 customers in Australia and 3,000 in New Zealand,” Stu explained. “Australia pretty much sticks to the domestic market, however our New Zealand operation exports throughout the Cook Islands, including Rarotonga and also Fiji, Samoa, Tonga, Vanuatu and New Caledonia. “70 percent of our business is what is described as national major accounts, including Supercheap Auto, Repco, Battery World and Autobarn in both Australia and New Zealand. In addition, we also supply directly to car franchises, including Toyota, Mitsubishi, Ford, Mazda and many more.” Century Yuasa also supplies product to specialist Auto Electrical independent customers in both
countries under the AEC The Battery Specialists (Australia) banner in Australia and Battery Zone in New Zealand. In addition, Century Yuasa also owns the Battery World franchise in Australia, but its expertise extends far beyond the automotive market. “We have three divisions: Automotive, which is the largest; Motive Power that manufactures and supplies forklift electric batteries; and Power Systems, which builds and designs battery systems to support power stations and telecommunications providers,” Stu explained. “The Power Systems division is exciting – almost every business has a back-up power system so they can keep working during a power interruption, and many of the systems Century are designing are incredibly sophisticated. “We’re selling a lot of lithium-ion within that sphere. In fact, lithium technology is quickly moving into Motive Power and Automotive
products as well, and the future potential is going to be enormous. “As a part of GS Yuasa, we have access to the latest lithium technology. We have lithium batteries for drive, as well as a lithium plant that is manufacturing batteries for autonomous vehicles’ automotive back-up systems. “For example, the Ford Everest that has an automatic braking system, well that’s got to have a back-up battery should something fail,” he added. GS Yuasa is also making batteries for autonomous vehicles in addition to its extensive range of more traditional automotive batteries that also include deep cycle, marine and commercial automotive. “There is a lot of discussion around the topic of automated vehicles,” Stu said. “While we wait for the legislators to catch-up so we can all enjoy the benefits of automated transport on our road system, in the commercial space we supply storage systems to the biggest autonomous wharf in China. “The port is fully autonomous, and they exclusively use our battery technology.” As battery and automotive technology continues to advance at an ever-increasing rate, Century has invested heavily in training to ensure its product is fitted correctly during every installation. “We invest a lot of money in determining what is required to fit our batteries to specific vehicles, as battery replacement is becoming more and more complex,” Stu commented. “Take some of the new BMWs, for example. Replacing a battery in these vehicles is a time consuming and complex task. “You’ve got to take the stretch bolts out of the seat and take the seat out before installing the new battery. This process can take up to two and a half hours, and to complete, you’ve got to buy 150 dollars’ worth of new stretch bolts. “These days, there’s much more to replacing a battery than just popping the hood and dropping in a new one.” This is why we invest heavily to support our partners and ensure they have all of the information, knowledge and tools to meet the changing market place and car parc. We have invested hundreds of thousands of dollars in a new battery look up system which not only enables businesses to search for a vehicles’ battery via the registration, but also provides the detailed instructions on how to replace the battery in modern vehicles, such as is the case with the BMW. Century Yuasa says there is little doubt that with its continued investment in technology, training and its people, it will lead the industry in the development, manufacture and supply of stored energy solutions across Australia and New Zealand for decades to come. For more information visit www.cyb.com.au Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine June 2020
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REPLACEMENT PARTS
NEW GVM UPGRADE KITS Thanks to Terrain Tamer and Multidrive Technology Terrain Tamer has joined with Multidrive Technology to create a range of vehicle specific GVM upgrades for popular 4WD models. The Gross Vehicle Mass, or GVM, is a rating set by the original manufacturer and refers to the legal maximum weight of the vehicle. Built into the GVM is also the imparted Tow Ball Mass when towing, and a Rated Axle Capacity: a limit set for how much weight should be distributed to each axle.
Terrain Tamer explains it has partnered with Multidrive Technology to develop an upgrade solution for popular 4WD models. Consisting of exclusive Terrain Tamer suspension components, the kits have been thoroughly tested and analysed by Multidrive Technology to reach Secondary Stage Manufacturer’s approval and can be installed either prior to registration or on existing registered vehicles at approved workshops, following state level modification processes. While more kits are currently in development, the first to be released are for Toyota 200 Series and 79 Series Landcruiser models. The 200 Series upgrade kit increases the original manufacturer’s GVM rating by over 10 percent from 3350kg to 3700kg, including an increase of 200kg to the rear axle capacity, from 1950kg to 2150kg. Along with this, there are two kit options for the GVM upgrade of the 79 Series Landcruiser, facilitating an increase from the original rating of 3300kg (dual cab) to either 3950kg or a more modest 3780kg. Both kits have been independently assessed to increase the front axle rating to 1540kg, with the heavier rated kit adding an extra 140kg to the rear axle also, taking the rating to 2440kg For more information, visit www.terraintamer.com 54
Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine June 2020
BOSCH MOTORSPORT NOW AT AEROFLOW PERFORMANCE Aeroflow Performance has added genuine Bosch Motorsport fuel injectors to its expanding product range Aeroflow says the extended lineup includes all of the popular part numbers from the Bosch Motorsport range, with something for everyone. With the addition of these fuel injectors, Aeroflow Performance says it has increased its ability to offer customers a true ‘one stop’ shopping experience for everything fuel system related. Aeroflow explains it offers fuel injectors with a variety of flow rates and physical sizes which are compatible with all fuel types. These injectors can be driven with the saturated drivers found in every OEM ECU and most aftermarket ECUs for ease of usability across the board. It says Bosch Motorsport injectors are able to function at high fuel pressures and do not exhibit the high fuel pressure handling problems found with many other high flow, high-impedance injectors. This allows you to use a larger injector than normally possible without hurting idle and low speed drivability. Bosch Motorsport injectors are suited for turbocharged and supercharged aftermarket or OEM applications that see high fuel system pressures. Bosch Motorsport injectors complement Aeroflow Performance injector plugs and injector plug crossover adapters that make it easy to adapt your current injector plugs to most types of injectors, perfect for upgrades and custom applications. This concise range also includes injector bungs, seats, insert adapters and aluminum injector spacers that allow the use of shorter injectors with OE fuel rails and also adapt 14mm (9/16”) injectors to 11mm (7/16”) fuel rails. With thousands of products in stock, Aeroflow Performance says it has all your fuel system requirements at your fingertips with its full range ready for you to shop online or in-store with fast and reliable shipping anywhere in Australia and around the world. Catalogues are also free to download online or available from your local distributor. For more information, contact your local distributor or Rocket Industries on 02 8825 1900 or visit www.aeroflowperformance.com
NEW GREASABLE SHACKLE KITS RELEASED From Pedders Pedders has released a series of greasable shackle kits to suit the Toyota Hilux generation 8 range of utes. Pedders says its greasable shackle kits are precision engineered to endure heavy loads and tough off road conditions whilst also providing a stabilised ride. These new kits are designed as a high quality upgrade replacement for original factory product. Pedders explains that a unique feature of its range of greasable shackle kits is the heavier side plates. It states this aspect of the design provides heavy duty construction and greater resistance to wear. All of the range is backed by Pedders’ two-year/40,000km Nationwide warranty. For more information, Pedders invites you to talk to your local Pedders undercar specialist today or visit www.pedders.com.au/store-finder
REPLACEMENT PARTS
A COOL CONCEPT Replacing OEM water pumps with Electric Water Pumps Australian auto cooling manufacturer, Davies Craig Pty Ltd, says the notion that Electric Water Pumps (EWP) are a ‘performance accessory only’ is a misleading characterisation. The company has been producing remotemounted Electric Water Pumps for the past twenty years. It explains Electric Water Pumps have been utilised in a variety of motorsports activities over this period and continue to attract high acclaim for their dominant engine cooling advantages. What is not widely known is the universal use capability of remote-mounted Electric Water Pumps as a replacement part for the original mechanical water pump, says Davies Craig. The existing water pump can be removed completely, or the impellor can be removed from the water pump housing, converted into an idler, or indeed left in place and used in conjunction with the EWP. To simplify the installation when the mechanical pump is removed, Direct Fit Adaptor Kits are available for some engines that free up valuable space and take weight off the front of the engine. When used as an idler, the impeller from the OEM water pump is removed and the EWP is installed inline in the lower radiator hose. In this situation, Davies Craig says the user will gain all of the great benefits of using an EWP while retaining all the factory pulleys and belt configuration. The EWP can also be installed to operate along with the vehicle’s OEM water pump. Davies Craig says its Electric Water Pumps are lightweight, compact, easy to install and may well be the answer for difficult-to-cool earlier model engines or modern configurations; stating that if it has a bottom radiator hose, a universal-fit
EWP could hold the key to an engine overheating problem.
Pump has a number of advantages over the engine-driven mechanical pump.
When the EWP with a LCD EWP/Fan Digital Controller is installed, engine temperature, pump speed and electric cooling fans are automatically regulated. Certainly, says Davies Craig, the interest the OEMs have in electric water pumps lends credence to the idea and it may be a cool concept to examine the objectives of installing an EWP to an engine’s cooling system.
It states an EWP will increase power sent to the drive wheels because the power the mechanical pump absorbs from the engine increases dramatically with its speed: when the pump speed doubles from idle, say 600rpm to 1200rpm, the power it takes increases by eight times, then eight times going to 2400rpm and so on.
As outlined earlier, Electric Water Pumps for automotive use have been available for several years and for the most part, they have been used in a variety of motorsport applications. Electric Water Pumps are often used in drag racing, being manually switched on between passes to prevent heat soak. In some applications, an electric motor is used to spin the usually beltdriven style water pump to provide some further, though minimal, cooling on a race engine. Obviously, the emphasis with both methods is on reducing the engine’s parasitic power loss due to driving a mechanical water pump. Davies Craig explains that an Electric Water
This extra power and torque released by disabling the mechanical pump now goes to the drive wheels. Additional benefits of an electric water pump are improved cooling capacity and fuel economy along with the elimination of engine heat soak after a hot engine shut down. Engine cooling is also improved with a EWP thanks to a higher flow rate at idle and low engine speeds when there is little or no ram air, and when the engine is switched off. While some attempts have been made to use race-style electric water pumps on the street, the results have never been very satisfactory, but all that has changed, says Davies Craig. It states Electric Water Pumps do have a place on street-driven cars and in fact, one car manufacturer began using Electric Water Pumps in 2007 and several other manufacturers are working on similar versions for inclusion in hybrid and electric vehicles. Manufactured and sold in Australia, Davies Craig’s auto cooling products are now exported to every continent around the globe. The Davies Craig models have always been available as an aftermarket fitment, suitable for regular daily drive use, and over the last twenty years, the Davies Craig EWP product line up has expanded to include Nylon or Alloy EWP pumps from 80 litres (21 gal/min) to 150 litres (40 gal/min). For more information, visit www.daviescraig.com.au
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Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine June 2020
REPLACEMENT PARTS
ACTIVE SYSTEMS AND AIR SUSPENSIONS Bilstein explains OE and aftermarket trends Bilstein says it is known for its high-quality shock absorbers and suspension solutions, supplying performance products for the aftermarket as well as series replacement parts in OE quality or better. As an original equipment manufacturer, the renowned German manufacturer has also been at the forefront of the development of new shock absorber technologies since the 1950s. In the future, the company is certain that suspension systems will continue to gain in intelligence. It explains that some of the most modern systems are already reacting to the respective road conditions with foresight and in line with requirements. Bilstein says this enables the suspension to provide the optimum spring and damping force in advance. To do this, it is necessary to collect a wide range of information via sensors. Bilstein says its E-Active Body Control and DampTronic X reflect the latest developments for standard equipment. The first has recently been introduced in the Mercedes GLE. The ‘Road Surface Scan’ is reportedly just one of several innovative features: the suspension reacts to bumps detected by a camera, controls the active suspension struts and largely compensates for unevenness when driving over them. Bilstein states another highlight is the ‘Curve’ driving mode, in which the GLE actively tilts in three stages, similar to a motorcycle. DampTronic X, on the other hand, is used in the new Porsche
911 of the 992 series and enables an unbelievably large damping force spread. It says this has been increased by up to 40 percent compared to the predecessor in order to balance driving comfort and agility even better. The DampTronic X damper is also equipped with a very fast-switching adjustment valve that allows the required damping forces to be adjusted in milliseconds. The requirements are determined by a central control unit. In addition to active systems based on conventional gas pressure shock absorbers, air suspension systems are also relatively common today. The breakthrough reportedly came in the late 1990s with the Mercedes S-Class W220 series, with Bilstein’s involvement. The new Land Rover Defender is a very recent application example. In this case, the suspension manufacturer supplies the semi-active DampTronic technology with air suspension module, which enables an unimagined range between off-road performance and road comfort. The electronic damping force adjustment is performed by a setup that adjusts itself automatically and continuously to the respective requirements: with the aid of additional sensors, the driving situation and vehicle status are recorded in a central control unit. In general, however, active shock absorbers and air suspension systems are becoming increasingly common, even in older vehicles. A good example
of this is the Mercedes E-Class S211 estate car with air-sprung rear axle, for which Bilstein has been supplying OE-quality replacement parts as standard for some time now. Due to its widespread use, it offers motor vehicle workshops a particularly high potential for repairs. As an option, the W211/S211 series was also available with AIRMATIC full air suspension. Bilstein says it therefore also offers B4 air suspension modules for the front axle. In contrast to many competitors, Bilstein explains only brand-new components are used, so that functionality and quality are 100 percent at OE level. For reconditioned old parts however, used shock absorbers with uncertain mileage are often used, which can have a negative effect on the performance and durability of the entire unit. In some cases, some integrated functions are simply shut down: for example, the solenoid valves. A formerly active suspension thus becomes a passive one. Bilstein says this results in a significant quality defect that is not in keeping with its high standards and is therefore a no-go for the company. For more information, visit www.bilstein.com or www.facebook.com/bilstein.de or www.youtube.com/bilsteinde
YOUR REPLACEMENT PARTS SPECIALIST Unique Auto Parts began trading in the mid-90s as a three-bay mechanical workshop specialising in European makes Unique Auto Parts explains that by the end of the 90s, replacement parts for European makes were in high demand but hard to find. After identifying the need for quality replacement parts in Australia, Unique Auto Parts shifted focus and began a search that would take them all around the world in order to source the highest quality parts. Fast forward to today and Unique Auto Parts says it is well known in the industry for supplying top quality replacement parts for Mercedes Benz, BMW, Volkswagen, Seat, Skoda, Audi, Volvo, Peugeot, Renault, Porsche, Citroen and Mini. This includes a full range of parts for light commercial and passenger vehicles. Over the years Unique Auto Parts has formed relationships with some of the world’s most prominent aftermarket manufacturers and has
the exclusive import and distribution rights to JP Group, Quinton Hazell and Carlube products. Brands including Meyle, Trucktec, Magnetti Marelli, Victor Reinz, Bosch, Hella and SKF make up the rest of Unique Auto Parts’ impressive list of suppliers. Unique Auto Parts states it has an unbeatable range of replacement parts on the shelf and ready-to-go from water pumps and radiators to steering and suspension parts including struts, shock absorbers, suspension arms, bushes, steering rack ends, tie rod ends, power steering pumps and power steering fluid. A full range of brake components consisting of zinc coated brake discs, brake pads and reliable brake sensors to high quality electrical parts including a full range of alternators, starter motors, ignition coils and spark plugs are also available.
The process of ordering from Unique Auto Parts is said to be quick and easy, using VIN numbers to ensure the right parts are received every time. It has also been a Capricorn preferred supplier for more than 10 years. Unique Auto Parts has five conveniently located branches across Melbourne, Brisbane and Perth, with delivery available from all five locations. Freight is also dispatched nationwide daily using a combination of “the fastest and most efficient couriers.” For more information, visit www.uniqueautoparts.com.au or call 1300 846 846 to be connected to your closest branch. Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine June 2020
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DBA GEARS UP WITH NEW SCHAEFFLER INA R90 CERTIFICATION TIMING CHAIN KIT DBA recently released a range of DBA Performance Brake Pads with ECE R90 certification DBA says it strives to be at the forefront of braking system technology, as an exporter and as a world class leader in brake system component supply. Alternatively known as R90, the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe ECE Regulation 90 is a legal requirement for all replacement brake friction materials (Brake Pads and Brake Shoes) specifying design, construction and performance requirements and test protocols for the European and other markets. The R90 Type Approval system is applicable to all motor vehicles as well as trailers throughout the European Union. Some Non-European countries have also adopted ECE Regulation 90 as it is considered a benchmark for safety.
For 1.2L TSI engines of the VW Group
The experts at Schaeffler’s Automotive Aftermarket division are convinced that chain drives are the future and expect a significant increase in the share of chain-driven engines in new vehicles until 2030. With over 100 years of experience in chain drives, Schaeffler says it is one of the largest original equipment manufacturers, and also supplies the independent spare parts market with a wide-ranging portfolio of repair solutions for chain-driven timing drives. Repairing the timing drive of 1.2I TSI engines from the VW group can be quite complex and time-consuming work. In the event of a malfunction, Schaeffler recommends that all parts must always be replaced to guarantee a sustainable and durable repair. To make repairs faster and easier for garages, Schaeffler has developed the new INA Timing Chain KIT for 1.2 litre TSI engines of the VW Group (VW, Audi and Skoda) suitable for vehicles from 2008 until today (part number: 559 015 630.) Schaeffler says the kits contain more than 25 parts and include all the required components for a complete and professional repair. Besides the timing chain, chain tensioner, slide and guide rails, the repair solution also includes the crankshaft sprocket, the necessary gasket and all required mounting parts.
DBA says its newly approved DBA product is the same, equal to or better than the original equipment product it has always supplied. The DBA R90 approved brake pad products are marked with an R90 code number and a country code in a circle - E11 for UK which signifies where DBA had the testing conducted. For R90 certification, all brake friction materials must meet specific technical requirements (pads and rotors) and undergo strict compliance testing. Also included is factory approval as part of the R90 process. Aspects of the R90 brake tests include but are not limited to on-vehicle performance checks, friction performance, wear performance, thermal fatigue, speed sensitivity tests and materials certification. In addition, R90 and DBA ensures products are in tamper-evident, sealed packaging and this is true for all DBA R90 replacement products. For more information, visit www.dba.com.au 58
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For optimal lubrication and extra protection, Schaeffler explains that every INA Timing Chain Kit comes with the chain additive “Chain Protect,” which was developed together with Liqui Moly. This reportedly reduces running-in wear after chain drive replacement by up to 20 percent and helps to increase the service life of the chain drive. Also available is the special tool for removing and reinstalling the crankshaft sprocket (part number: 400 0588 10.) Further information about Schaeffler repair solutions and the INA Timing Chain Kit can be found on the REPXPERT technical portal: www.repxpert.com.au Users can sign up for free to access technical resources including installation videos and brochures.
EXCEL MATE ECO CONNECTORS High Voltage Safety Locks from Amphenol Amphenol says that when high performance and increased safety are required in electric vehicles, Excel Mate should be your product line of choice. The product line is designed to meet the AK standards for various EV applications. Excel Mate Eco offers one- and two-pole solutions with integrated HVIL contacts and is rated up to 800V and 120A. It is also waterproof according to IP69K standards and different coding options allow maximum flexibility.
Key features include: • Integrated internal HVIL • Current rating up to 40A@ ambient temperature 70°C
• • • • • •
Two-stage, tool or thumb activated latching No tool required to unmate Sealing, IP67 (mated), IP6K9K Touch-proof, IP2XB Multiple coding positions CPA available
For more information, visit www.amphenol.com.au
REPLACEMENT PARTS
POWERSTOP BRAKE PAD RANGE LAUNCHED Clutch and Brake Australia’s new POWERSTOP brake pad range is now available Split into three formulations to suit specific applications, the POWERSTOP Pad range from Clutch and Brake Australia (CBA) is fitted with an all-new anti-noise shim, providing quiet operation. “It is no secret that the brake pad market is dominated by a handful of major brands” CBA Business Development Manager, Daniel Goff, said. “Working with our customers, we found a real demand for an independent option that met consumers’ needs in the key areas of service life, dust, affordability, performance and noise and that is what we have achieved.”
Kevlar Infused Ceramic CBA explains Kevlar Infused is a general-purpose ceramic based pad with a high Kevlar Fibre content sourced from the USA and is ideal for normal, day-to-day commuting. The material helps to eliminate noise and any dust produced does not cling to surfaces, keeping rims and brake components clean.
Ceramic pads are typically less effective when cold. Kevlar counters this by having a high coefficient of friction when cold, giving an excellent initial response. At high temperatures, CBA says the heat resistance and ability to recover is where the ceramic component really shines, giving a consistent pedal feel in all conditions.
Titanium 4WD Titanium is often used in a thin coating on a brake pad to help with bedding in, increasing braking efficiency out of the box. Titanium 4WD has these same advantages but by introducing Titanium throughout the material, CBA explains a more positive feel and increased initial bite is available for the full life of the pad. “In testing, we performed 10 back to back hard braking applications generating pad temperatures between 90°C and 345°C. At each application, there was less than 0.05 percent variation in friction coefficient across all temperatures,” Daniel said. “Translating this to the real world, a loaded 4WD
travelling through hilly terrain or winding roads can expect the brakes to feel the same at the start of the journey as at the end, reliably and without fade.”
Street Composite Street Composite is a low dust, low metallic friction material utilising the same anti-noise technology as the rest of the POWERSTOP range. Street Composite has a more aggressive feel and is ideally suited to heavier vehicles and as an option on some 4WDs. CBA is now looking for distributors for the POWERSTOP range. If you are interested, please contact CBA’s team at info@cbaus.com.au or on 1300 720 728. For more information, visit www.powerstop.com.au
MONROE RELEASES AFTERMARKET RANGE Monroe Intelligent Suspension RideSense Replacement Shocks are now available in Australia and New Zealand Monroe has released a range of premium replacement electronic shock absorbers, branding the line Monroe Intelligent Suspension RideSense. Twelve new part numbers are now available, designed for direct-fit replacement of original equipment shocks on vehicles featuring electronic suspension technology. Part of the Monroe Intelligent Suspension portfolio of advanced suspension solutions designed for the original equipment market, Monroe Intelligent Suspension RideSense replacement shock absorbers are fully compatible with Tenneco-manufactured OE electronic suspension systems found in popular passenger cars, light trucks and SUVs. Monroe says each unit is engineered to continuously adapt its compression and rebound forces to changing driving conditions to deliver optimal handling precision, control and NVH reduction.
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“Global OEMs are increasingly integrating electronic damping technology into their vehicles to deliver a superior driving experience, and aftermarket demand for compatible replacement products is growing,” DRiV Sales Director ANZ Aftermarket, Gavin Pelling, said. “Monroe has continuously expanded its range of advanced suspension solutions to leverage this growth opportunity. Our RideSense replacement electronic shock absorbers utilise advanced valving and other leading-edge technologies to ensure continued normal operation and proper ride height once a vehicle’s original shocks become too worn.” Each Monroe Intelligent Suspension RideSense damper connects to an Electronic Control Unit (ECU) that manages sensor inputs like wheel acceleration, body displacement and steering angle. Using gathered data to react to changing road and driving situations in as little as 10 milliseconds, Monroe says Intelligence Suspension RideSense is the fastest electronic shock absorber on the market. The shocks are said to provide optimal comfort and vehicle control, by improving wheel-to-road contact, reducing oscillations during obstacle
avoidance, improving control during lane changes and a host of other benefits in vehicles fitted with electronic suspension systems. Monroe Intelligent Suspension RideSense shocks are engineered to meet each vehicle’s specific OE ride and handling profile and come with a fiveyear product quality and performance limited warranty. For more information, please call Monroe’s Customer Service Team on 1800 088 205 or visit www.monroe.com.au
REPLACEMENT PARTS
COILS AIN’T COILS With tighter emission regulations being enforced on vehicle manufacturers, engines are being created that operate on lower fuel consumptions Premier Auto Trade (PAT) says this results in the ignition coil having a greater spark output to ignite these leaner fuel mixtures. Whether it is an integrated ignition coil inside a distributor which supplies the output spark for all cylinders, a coil pack or an individual per cylinder configuration coil over plug, they all have to ignite the air-fuel mixture efficiently so vehicle drivability and emissions are not compromised. PAT says only the highest quality ignition coil can perform this function without failing prematurely. Unfortunately, over the past few years, it says the Australian aftermarket has seen a significant increase in inferior quality ignition coils. PAT states that it is easy for consumers and even technicians to be confused as to the quality of the products available in the market. It warns that the issues experienced by workshops which install low quality parts can include safety concerns, expensive repairs and reputation damage. One of the most significant factors to consider
is who stands behind the product you purchase. PAT says that without the support of the leading global manufacturers such as Delphi, VDO, Bosch, Valeo, Denso, Hitachi, YEC and Bremi can offer, is it worth the risk? For your peace of mind, PAT says it has a twoyear, 40,000km warranty on all of its premium brands ignition coils. “Premium components from brand name manufacturers are the best value,” Premier Auto Trade General Manager, Darren Van Gerrevink, said. “We believe Quality plus Durability equals real value, to both the workshop and their customers. Quality replacement parts provide the best value in the long run, and our two-year ignition coil warranty gives the workshop confidence that comebacks will be less of a problem.” With almost 750 ignition coils in the range, all with a two-year warranty and suitable for almost 16 million vehicles in over 14,000 applications
in Australia and New Zealand, PAT says it remains committed to supplying the Australian Aftermarket with the most comprehensive range of premium quality components from the world’s leading manufacturers. Premier Auto Trade distributes across Australia and New Zealand through a network of specialised resellers and leading automotive retail groups. For more information visit www.premierautotrade.com.au
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MECHANICS ON THE FRONT LINE Talyer Auto Group stepped up during COVID-19 Mechanics have been unsung heroes during the height of the COVID-19 ‘curve.’ Everyone in the automotive industry has been busy supporting the community by keeping their vehicles in good condition during the crisis. During the pandemic, Talyer Auto Group says it stepped up support to its customers who were in need. The business launched a promo to offer special pricing and discounts to affected customers like international students who were out of a job or in financial crisis. It also launched a promotion for seniors and health care workers to offer pick up and drop off of their vehicles to have them serviced.
NEW WEBSITE FOR INJECTRONICS The company says the new website is innovative, interactive and informative With automotive electronics and mechatronics becoming increasingly difficult to diagnose, test or repair, Injectronics says it has found the need for information sharing paramount. With this goal top of mind, Injectronics says it has produced an innovative new tool for the automotive aftermarket. After months of work, Injectronics says its new website will improve the flow and sharing of information between Injectronics and the customer, offering an improved customer experience and a streamlined process. Features and benefits for the customer include: • All repairable products are easily viewed, including common faults, images and all critical information • “Huge” host of technical information available at your fingertips • Fully searchable content • Register a unit for repair with a few clicks • Tech support and live chat
Part repairs - REP (Repair) part numbers Whilst part numbers with the REP suffix are not new to the website, Injectronics has added hundreds more, all of which can be promptly tested/repaired for the customer. Injectronics says the repair of a customer’s unit is advantageous over a brand new unit, with many late model vehicles requiring the ECM, BCM, immobilisers and keys to be programmed or matched.
Talyer Auto Group claims this was well perceived by both the local community and the area’s Filipino ethnic group. “We were able to execute this while also protecting the safety and health of our staff,” Talyer Auto Group’s Managing Director, Jazmine Flores, said. To further assist its customers in these financially challenging times, Talyer Auto Group has recently introduced a deferred payment plan through Openpay. Opening its doors in 2011, Talyer Auto Group now has two workshops, located in Maidstone and Dandendong South. For more information, visit www.talyerauto.com.au or call 1300 TALYER (825937). 62
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Safer than installing a second hand unit, as these can be coded to the original vehicle; Injectronics says repairs also provide obvious cost benefits, avoiding expensive re-programming fees. Injectronics can test the associated components together as a set, ensuring accurate and complete diagnosis whilst maintaining all of the vehicle’s original coding, security and programming information. Each REP number on the website has a dedicated landing page providing the essential information such as common faults, additional components required to repair the item, vehicle applications, component locations, OEM part numbers and images to assist in identification.
Technical information Injectronics says its technical support team is regularly adding to its “huge” library of technical bulletins, providing answers to commonly asked questions as well as adding solutions to some not so common problems. All this information is available and searchable on the website.
Regular news articles and technical bulletins are also available straight to your inbox – by subscribing you can keep up to date with all that Injectronics offers.
Search functions Search the catalogue by a specific part number or use the make, model, series search. Users can perform a whole site-search by keyword, phrase or part number. This will find the part you are looking for and will also search the library of technical bulletins and news articles past and present for additional information. You can also print or save the document for your reference.
Online Repair Registration The most significant change to the website is the addition of the Online Repair Registration, which allows the customer to register a product for testing or repair online in just a few clicks. A four step process allows you to register a unit quickly and easily and the system will offer a list of common faults usually attributed to that specific part number which can then be selected with a click, if it is relevant to the vehicle in question. Prompts to send any additional components required to do a thorough test/repair of that part number is also a game changer. You will be asked to confirm the items you are sending, with reminders to send the correct items to expedite the testing process. Injectronics says these additions will reduce the many calls between Injectronics and the customer for authorisation to repair, fault reports and requests to send additional components. Also all repairs will be logged in your account, allowing you to review past repairs at the click of a button.
Technical Support Injectronics says the priority for its team has always been technical assistance to the trade. Injectronics still offers free expert assistance to its customers and alongside the Injectronics website, its tech support staff can offer help with tech advice, tips, wiring diagrams and programming procedures. The tech department is available via email at techsupport@injectronics.com.au or phone on 1300 308 060 (AU) or 0800 536 547 (NZ). You can also live chat with a team member at www.injectronics.com.au
SERVICING
QUALITY SERVICING WITH PENRITE Servicing vehicles today is not the same as what it was 25 years ago Today’s vehicles are far more sophisticated and many require specialised servicing products to complete the job. Whether this is an OEM approved engine oil or maybe a product to fit with the owner’s environment and driving conditions, Penrite says its expertise with engine oils, gearbox and drive train lubricants, coolants, greases, additives, hydraulic fluids, brake and clutch fluids, cleaning and dressing products is unsurpassed. Customer satisfaction is paramount to repeat business. Penrite says using the highest quality products that meet the customer’s expectations for their driving demands as well as that of the manufacturer for warranty, reliability and service interval are keys to customer satisfaction. Penrite explains it has many products that are OEM Approved by the manufacturer for warranty service as well as Industry Licensed products that guarantee quality and assurance. Penrite says it blends products right here in Australia to the highest standards, ensuring that
only the highest quality products are supplied to customers. Supplying the products to complete the servicing is only part of the job for Penrite. Assisting customers with relevant and up to date information is another. Penrite provides: • Online ordering • Online product recommendations • Mobile phone apps • Specification to product matching • Vehicle look up by registration • Reverse product matching • Telephone and online chat technical support • Customer service support • Equipment loan and purchase • Local area marketing • Customer web page hosting • Merchandise • Personalised lube stickers • and much more Penrite says it has a dedicated team of
representatives that can assist you to utilise all of the resources available to grow your business. When you are looking for products to use in your mechanical workshop or service centre or even mobile service unit, Penrite states it is the Australian company that has been supporting Australian local businesses for over 90 years and invites you to join the Penrite family and see why local business, is a “Better Class of Business.” For more information visit www.penriteoil.com or call Penrite’s sales and technical hotline on 1300 736 748.
NEW BIO-GUARD CABIN FILTER RANGE From Sakura Filters Sakura Filters explains it has brought a new range of cabin filters into the automotive market, with a triple layer protection cabin filter providing cleaner air for all occupants in your vehicle. Cabin filters, also known as pollen filters, provide protection from a number of harmful contaminants that can enter a vehicle’s heating ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system. Thus, creating a safer environment for all vehicle occupants to breathe. The Sakura Filter Bio-Guard cabin filters reportedly offer additional protection to the standard cabin filters. The three layers include: 1. Bio-Guard Layer: protects against viruses, germs, allergens, bacteria, or fungi.
2. Carbon Layer: removes unpleasant odours and reduces impact of harmful exhaust gases. 3. Protective layer: eliminates microscopic particles and pollen. Sakura says its Bio-Guard cabin filters provide cutting edge protection by destroying germs and viruses that cause diseases, as it is able to deactivate dangerous airborne bacteria and thus prevent further formation of mould. Sakura Bio-Guard cabin filters also maintain clear air circulation and reduce the presence of allergens causing hyper-sensitive reactions including asthma. This is because the media used reportedly provides exceptional absorptive properties and capacities (up to 99.5 percent of allergens and other pollutants are reduced). The Sakura Bio-Guard filters contain an extra layer of carbon activated media which removes the unpleasant and harmful odours, such as Sulfur Dioxide and Nitrogen Oxides. The filters hold and filter out particles up to 2.5 microns, or in S.I. units 0.0025mm. They should be replaced every 15,000km or in one year from the date of installation to ensure the best performance, with the cabin filter life expectancy depending on the environment in which the vehicle operates.
Sakura Filters Australia explains it has been in the aftermarket filtration industry for more than 28 years in the Australia and New Zealand markets. Sakura Filters Australia has an extensive range of filters which covers most of the local market’s needs and includes filters for automotive, light commercial, heavy industrial, marine, farm and mine machinery. The filters 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. Sakura Filters Australia has also attained the Australian Standards AS/NZ ISO9001. The new 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 June 2020
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THE TOOLS YOU NEED Milwaukee Tool says it offers the largest and most flexible range of cordless power tools The company says its range offers best in class accessories and hand tools which are ideally suited for the automotive industry. “Our ranges combine power, weight, performance and reliability. The perfect match for workshop and mobile service mechanics,” Milwaukee Tool Product Manager, Michael Di Lorio, said. “Our M12 FUEL Right Angle Die Grinder disrupted the market and exceeded users’ expectations by delivering the industry’s first cordless right angle die grinder. “We’ve now expanded our offering in the new product category by introducing the M12 Fuel Straight Die Grinder.
“Designed to replace pneumatic die grinders, this new tool delivers the performance and size professional service mechanics demand. The die grinder delivers maximum power and features our Powerstate Brushless Motor Technology.” Milwaukee Tool says the cordless M12 Fuel Straight Die Grinder provides up to 0.3 HP motor output performance, best-in class size to help fit in tight places and offers greater mobility and access. It also features a Three-Mode speed control and responsive variable-speed trigger for “unmatched control.”
No air hoses, compressors or daily maintenance “Milwaukee Tool 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,” Michael said. “Delivering controlled torque output for fastening and up to 1491Nm of nut-busting torque, this new solution allows technicians to perform faster tyre service without the hassle of pneumatic hoses, compressors, and torque sticks. “In addition, four customisable modes prevent overtightening by delivering unique fastening torque output for tyre service on small vehicles, medium sized SUVs, and trucks.” True to all M18 Fuel solutions, the new M18 Fuel 1/2” extended high torque impact wrench combines three exclusive innovations — the
Powerstate Brushless Motor, Redlithium-Ion Battery Pack, and Redlink Plus Intelligence. “Together, these innovations deliver unmatched performance and durability for the most demanding tyre service applications, as well as including up to 1491Nm of breakaway torque for more than enough power to remove rusted lug nuts,” Michael said. Milwaukee Tool says it is an industry-leading manufacturer of heavy-duty power tools, accessories and hand tools for professional users worldwide and says its commitment to improving productivity across the job site by providing performance-driven and trade-focused solutions is a testament to its disruptive innovation and game changing technology. For more information, visit www.milwaukeetool.com.au
YOUR COMMON SERVICE NEEDS SORTED Unique Auto Parts says it only stocks the best Unique Auto Parts has containers arriving monthly to fill a constant need for the most common service items including filters, brakes, wipers, oil and cleaning additives for European makes including Mercedes Benz, BMW, Volkswagen, Seat, Skoda, Audi, Volvo, Peugeot, Renault, Porsche, Citroen and Mini. Unique Auto Parts says it only stocks the best of the best when it comes to filters, including TJ filters. The company explains that TJ Filters have always been a reputable name and while the brand itself has been around for over 40 years, it has recently been given a new lease on life by Quinton Hazell (QH), a brand which is imported and distributed in Australia by Unique Auto Parts. The QH range includes oil, air, fuel and cabin filters – all of which are available from Unique Auto Parts. 64
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Unique Auto Parts is also the exclusive Australian importer for Carlube oils which are high quality oils and lubricants that are not only recommended for all modern vehicles, but also have a specific focus on European makes. The company stocks an extensive range of products for all application areas such as engine, transmission, differential, power steering and brake systems. In addition to this, Unique Auto Parts also has selected Bluecol coolants and a range of Carlube additives in stock, designed to clean and improve efficiency and performance. Brakes and windscreen wipers are also amongst some of the most required service items and Unique Auto Parts has recently begun stocking a new line of zinc coated brakes from JP group. It says these brakes are exceptionally durable and
have a higher temperature tolerance compared to others. When it comes to wipers, Unique Auto Parts states it only trusts the best and stocks a complete range of Bosh wipers to suit both European passenger and commercial vehicles. With five fully stocked warehouses in Melbourne, Queensland and Perth , Unique Auto Parts says it is well situated to provide quick and reliable delivery with freight also dispatched Australia wide daily using “the fastest and most efficient couriers.” To be connected to your nearest branch, call 130 864 864 or visit www.uniqueautoparts.com.au
SERVICING
ELECTRONICALLYCONTROLLED PUMPS An electronically-controlled or Common Rail pump can generate fuel rail pressures of up to 40,000psi Cornell Diesel Systems explains that this offers a number of benefits over traditional mechanical diesel fuel systems as these high pressures improve the atomisation of the fuel, improving the combustion within the engine. In addition to the increased fuel pressures, the electronically-controlled system improves the drivability performance, lowers fuel consumption, and provides for quieter and more efficient and emission-friendly engines.
The role of the ECU in the electronic control of pumps Common Rail systems are controlled electronically, giving many more options for control and monitoring. An electronically controlled system has an electronic control unit (ECU), monitoring what the engine is doing using a number of sensors, and supplies the precise amount of fuel to the engine. The engine ECU – through its sensors – also monitors engine speed and load, and alters the fuel injection rate to deliver the right amount of power as it is needed. Mechanical fuel systems use a more direct approach with a rotary or inline pump providing individual fuel bursts – one for each cylinder. This is normally controlled through a mechanical linkage to the timing or gears that opens the injectors and controls the fuel pressures.
Electronic Pump Servicing Cornell Diesel Systems says it services a range of electronically-controlled pumps, including the Bosch VP44 (pictured). It explains that the VP44 fuel pump is an electronic rotary pump that delivers a precise amount of fuel flow rate and electronic timing for the diesel engine. All of Cornell Diesel Systems’ exchange VP44 pumps are reportedly rebuilt using only genuine parts for the replacement of components and are tested and electronically calibrated on an authorised Bosch test bench. They also come with a full 12-month warranty. Cornell Diesel Systems says it ensures its highly trained and experienced technicians are experts when it comes to service and repair of electronic common rail diesel systems. It says its technicians only use OEM parts and test to the highest OEM guidelines. As the highest level of cleanliness is required when working with this technology, it says all electronic and fuel components are carefully handled and assembled within a pressurised pump room to maintain cleanliness to OEM standards. Further, it says all of its electronic common rail pumps go through an extensive test process to verify any damage or fuel contaminant, with the technician conducting the following checks: • Visible checks for damage • Resistance check • Partial break down to examine internal components and check for fuel contamination For more information from Cornell Diesel Systems, email sales@cornells.com.au or call 03 9267 8800. Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine June 2020
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ROTARY LIFT SETTING THE STANDARD AGAIN Precision Automotive Equipment says the “world’s most trusted lift” is again setting the industry standard for innovation and value Rotary Lift says it is continually developing its range of hoists and accessories to ensure safety and efficiencies are always front and centre. Designed to suit a number of models in the Rotary hoist range, the latest addition to Rotary’s accessories list are the plug ‘n’ play options of SpotLine and LockLight. SpotLine is a motion activated laser spotting system that helps centre vehicles in service bays quickly and accurately. Designed for use with Rotary clear-floor two post hoists, the laser device installed to the overhead bridge simply shoots a green line down the centre of the vehicle during approach. Rotary Lift says this innovative solution helps to ensure you are right where you need when loading a vehicle for a quick, efficient lift, stating gone are the days where you need to have multiple attempts at trying to centre a vehicle on a two post hoist.
LockLight reportedly provides peace of mind as it provides an instant green light visual confirmation when a hoist is lowered onto its mechanical locking system. Before any under vehicle service is performed by a technician, a hoist should be set securely on its locks. Precision Automotive Equipment says this patent pending system is an easy way to protect your technicians, your investment and your business. With its bright green light, you can easily see from any vantage point within your workshop that your Rotary hoist is on its locks. “No matter the size of your shop, LockLight gives technicians and owners the certainty their hoist is on its locks and ready for the safe maintenance of a vehicle”, Precision Automotive Category Manager, Brent Wilkinson, said. With preventative maintenance and longevity of hoists in your shop also a vital factor in today’s environment, Precision Automotive Equipment says it is important to know that SpotLine and LockLight help minimise wear and tear maintenance costs. With SpotLine designed to position vehicles in the dead centre of the bay and LockLight designed to remind technicians about putting their hoist on its locks, both accessories help to reduce unwanted pressures across the lift.
“Both the SpotLine and LockLight are tried and tested and have been available from Rotary in the past, but with them now available as plug ‘n’ play, it gives you greater flexibility for purchasing and fitting opportunities,” Brent said. The plug ‘n’ play options, which are currently available for select three phase hoists built from December 2019 onwards, can either be ordered and fitted at the time of your new hoist purchase or they can be added at a later date. For single phase and earlier three phase models built prior to December 2019, Rotary Lift also has hardwired options available. For more information, call the team at Precision Automotive Equipment on 1300 366 252 or visit www.precisionautomotive.com.au
XTREME CLUTCH EXPANDS SERVICE KIT RANGE The Xtreme Clutch range has proven popular around the world The street performance and motorsport division of Australian Clutch Services, Xtreme Clutch, has continued to expand its range of service kits for its popular 184mm, 200mm and 230mm multiplate range of products. These service kits are designed as a cost-effective solution to allow existing customers to service or repair their clutches to as new condition when required. The Xtreme Clutch range of multi-plate Motorsport and performance street applications have proven popular around the world and are currently utilised by some of the top drift and time attack competitors from Australia, Europe, the United States and New Zealand. The lightweight kits utilise an aluminium pressure plate and 4140 chromoly flywheel to retain excellent throttle response whilst also offering a major increase in torque and heat capacity. These kits have proven durable in high horsepower applications and with the service kits readily available, ensure a long-term solution for owners 66
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of these high-powered vehicles around the world. “Our multi-plate range of clutch kits are often selected by drivers looking for a clutch that can handle excellent torque capacity and driver feel whilst still offering great durability for these types of applications,” Xtreme Clutch Mechanical Engineer, Stewart Furze, said. “Motorsport and very high-power street use will always result in accelerated wear rates. Our kits have been designed carefully to try and maximise service life for these applications. “We have had some drivers using our 230mm twin ceramic upgrades in very high horsepower drift cars for multiple seasons between servicing. “By offering service kits as part of our multi-plate range, we are able to offer even further value to our customers from around the world.” The service kits can also be used to upgrade clutch kits for vehicles that have progressively developed with more power or switch from street use to dedicated motorsport applications. “For example, a customer who was already
running a 230mm twin plate organic clutch can upgrade to a ceramic version for motorsport use without having to purchase a whole new clutch kit,” Stewart said. “We can often offer these customers a twin disc ceramic service kit to convert their clutch over as long as the clutch assembly is still within the serviceable tolerances and the flywheel has been re-surfaced.” For more information on the Xtreme Clutch range of multi-plate service kits, please visit the online catalogue at www.xtremeclutch.com.au or call 1800 CLUTCH.
SERVICING
PEDDERS CHOOSES MAHA German manufactured test equipment gets the green light from Aussie-owned company Family owned Australian business of 70 years, Pedders, has chosen 50-year-old German family owned MAHA as a preferred equipment supplier. Under the arrangement, the worldwide supplier of German made premium workshop equipment has begun fitting its Automotive Test Lanes at Pedders’ premises. Trial equipment was fitted at the Pedders Moorabbin location in November 2019 with a group-wide release announced at Pedders’ 70th birthday conference in February of this year. “The MAHA test lane is absolutely the best test lane in the world. We couldn’t be the best at what we do without it,” Pedders Moorabbin’s Nick Papasergio said. Pedders reportedly chose MAHA products as they are 100 percent German made with repeatable accuracy guaranteed from the German factory. The Australian brake and suspension company claims that dealing with MAHA Australia is like dealing direct with the manufacturer, as a factory trained technical team supports the products. Pedders will also install MAHA supplied two-post lifts, wheel alignment lifts, truck lifts and other suspension testing equipment.
“MAHA provides us with customised solutions in the fields of automotive brake and shock absorber testing, diagnostics and workshop fitting,” Pedders Senior Executive Product Research and Integration, Rob Davis, said. “We have chosen MAHA Australia equipment as a preferred supplier. They provide well-thought through concepts for workshop fittings ranging from German made vehicle lifts, brake testers, suspension testing technology, modern emissions testing, 2WD/AWD dynamometers and much more.” MAHA claims that it offers the most durable quality combined with the highest accuracy in lifting and test equipment. “A huge part of our role at Pedders is to assist our stores in ensuring they are at the leading edge of specialist customer service and are able to deliver accurate diagnosis and offer appropriate solutions efficiently to our customers. Our people are specialists and that philosophy underpins our business,” Rob said. “We are constantly reviewing tools we can utilise to enhance the customer experience and we take any addition to the Pedders method very seriously. “By teaming with MAHA we are able to provide our stores with state of the art test lanes that not only provide them with excellent drive on brake and suspension testing but also allows each store to add on to the base units to provide a tailored diagnostic solution depending on their customer base. Some stores will value add and opt to upgrade to the knock detection and tread depth modules as well. “Pedders stores are not limited to one or two vehicle segments but instead offer product
across all segments. The MAHA machines have the flexibility to handle passenger cars up to commercial vehicles where we will be offering GVM upgrades. “It is a pleasure to be partnered with a company that shares our values and prides itself on its product and its people, which is what Pedders is built on.” The MBT2250 test lane now being installed at Pedders locations has been built for high volume and accurate repeatable vehicle testing. The MAHA MBT2250 can be optioned with: • Noise detection • Suspension System tester • Warped Rotor Test • Oval Drum Test • Electric Park Brake Test • AWD Brake Testing • Bi Directional Testing • Wheel track indication • 3.5 T up to 20 T Axle Load • Motorcycle Testing • License Plate Recognition • Emissions, Headlight, and Axle Play For more information visit www.maha.com.au or www.pedders.com.au
GET CONNECTED Have you heard about Valvoline’s Connect customer portal? Valvoline Connect is Valvoline’s secure online customer portal which has been designed to make your experience with Valvoline convenient and easy. Valvoline says the Valvoline Connect customer portal is the smart and easy way to order the complete range of Valvoline products and access Valvoline product information at your convenience. The Valvoline Connect customer portal offers many features including: • Access to place orders for the full Valvoline product range at any time of the day, every day of the week.
• Track the status of your order at any time. • Access to exclusive promotions that are only available in the Connect portal. • Access to the online Valvoline Product Catalogue that is updated in real time so you can access the most current product information and specifications at any time. • Need to find the right Valvoline product for your vehicle? Access the Valvoline Lube Guide any time. • Managing your account becomes easier with access to your statements and invoices online which you can view or download.
If you are a current Valvoline customer and do not already have a login, or would like to become a Valvoline customer, you can contact Valvoline’s customer service team on 1800 458 237 and they can help you access the Connect Customer Portal. For more information, visit www.connect.valvoline.com.au Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine June 2020
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CERAMASIL BRAKE PARTS LUBRICANT Brake parts lubricant is an essential part of brake servicing Leading brake manufacturer Bendix says specially engineered and formulated ceramic brake parts lubricant has become an essential part of brake servicing, avoiding wear on several mechanisms which scientists categorise as adhesive, abrasive, fretting and erosion. In a brake caliper, the brake pads move in their abutment slides not only when the brakes are applied but also when vibrations are transmitted from the road surface and drivetrain. According to Bendix some wear is closely associated with corrosion where oxygen from the air reacts with metal to form oxides. This results in oxidisation forming and this is much harder than metal. When this is present the sliding interfaces can be abrasive, causing rapid acceleration of the mechanical wear rate. This can be microscopic in the early stages creating roughness on the sliding surfaces, becoming worse over time with wear on the slides increasing until the pads can no longer move freely. Pads that jam in the caliper can lead to a raft of brake problems including shudder, drag, rapid pad wear, noise levels and overheating.
Bendix also advises that the noise behaviour of a brake system is a complex interaction between all parts of the braking system such as the pads, caliper, rotor and often the suspension components. When several components in the system go into resonant vibration together it can lead into brake noise and a strategy to avoid this is to isolate the pads from the caliper. To overcome these many problems Bendix engineers explain they have developed a specially formulated ceramic high performance synthetic lubricant called Ceramasil Brake Parts Lubricant which is available in a handy 255 gram tube with an extended nozzle, ideal for workshops working on a brake job. Whilst any grease will do the job in the short term, this specially formulated lubricant is designed to last the life of the brake job. It is designed to work in a range of temperatures – from the coldest winter’s morning to searing temperatures generated under hard working braking conditions – and not melt. Tested and proven under the worst undercar conditions where it is exposed to continuous jets of water, clouds of dust and road
grime, Bendix Ceramasil reportedly remains as a constant lubricant. Application of Bendix Ceramasil between the back plate of the pad and the piston and fingers of the caliper is an effective way to isolate the pads and decouple a system resonance. Guide pins of a sliding caliper require lubrication to operate correctly, allowing the caliper to centre over the rotor and adjust to accommodate wear on the pad. For more information, free call the Bendix Brake Advice Centre on 1800 819 666 or +61 3 5327 0211 from overseas (8.00am – 5.00pm Monday to Friday EST), email brakeadvicecentre@bendix.com.au or visit www.bendix.com.au
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HAS YOUR HOIST ENGINE OIL EVOLUTION API and ILSAC are evolving MET ITS LIFE SPAN? Intheir2020latestbothpetrol standards In this article, Molnar’s Kevin Dawes explains hoist life span requirements Even a good hoist with good maintenance has a life span. Kevin Dawes from Molnar, who has reportedly attended all Standards Australia Vehicle Meetings held over the past 28 years, explains that the Australian Standard defines this life span as a 25 year Structural Design Life (AS/NZ1418.9 Vehicle Hoists Standard). Quality hoists with correct maintenance and spare parts available are expected to last this lifespan. Vehicle hoists have been manufactured and designed for 25 years of normal workshop usage; and this is calculated at eight hours of use a day, five days a week for 25 years.
Usage starts after the hoist has been installed. If there are no documented records of when the hoist was installed, then the usage will start from the date of manufacture. After this time a hoist should not be operational for use within a commercial workshop environment. Every hoist manufacturer has created a preventative maintenance recommendation to support 25 years of usage, based on the standard eight hours per day, five days a week calculation. According to legislation you must do at least one annual service to ensure safety and daily performance; and to identify and undertake any preventative maintenance required. If a hoist is operating in an environment where the hourly and daily usage is higher, service intervals will need to be adjusted according to the usage hours, and the 25 year design lifetime will be reached sooner. For example, if a hoist is working two shifts per day this means that annual maintenance will be required every six months and the 25 years will actually be reached in 12.5 years. For more information, visit www.molnarhoists.com.au 72
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When it comes to modern lubricants, an ongoing challenge confronting market leaders like Castrol is developing and delivering products that can support OEMs in their pursuit of fuel economy gains, without sacrificing engine performance or reliability. Increasingly demanding emission targets, driven by associated Government legislation, has forced OEMs to adapt their engine technology and operating conditions to comply. With engine technology evolving rapidly as a result, it is necessary for key industry bodies to keep pace in defining new testing and benchmarks to provide assurance of a lubricant’s performance to motorists, mechanics and manufacturers.
What is changing? To cater to the new technical demands placed on lubricants, 2020 sees both the API (American Petroleum Institute) and ILSAC (International Lubricants Standardization and Approval Committee) evolving their latest petrol standards with the introduction of two new specifications – API SP and ILSAC GF-6 – each delivering enhanced performance benefits over their predecessors. One key area that both API SP and ILSAC GF-6 seek to provide assurance around is Low Speed Pre-Ignition (LSPI), which is increasingly a concern in today’s smaller turbocharged petrol direct injection engines. In the case of ILSAC GF-6, this involved the addition of specific LSPI testing criteria (Ford LSPI test) vs. ILSAC GF-5, with the test differentiating between oils that minimise its occurrence and those that may contribute to it. Beyond this, more demanding testing and standards apply, focused on wear, sludge, oxidisation and fuel economy, with three new tests and four upgraded tests being added to the criteria for ILSAC GF-6 approval. Of note with ILSAC GF-6 is that for the first time, the specification will be split into two subcategories – GF-6A and GF-6B – depending on the oil’s viscosity grade and high temperature high shear (HTHS) viscosity requirements. ILSAC GF-6A (or more commonly referenced as simply GF-6) will replace the current GF-5 specification in market. Being backwards compatible, it is approved for use where OEMs call for older specs such as ILSAC GF-5 or ILSAC GF-4. In the case of ILSAC GF-6B, this specification meets all the same performance criteria of GF-6A but has a lower HTHS specification. It is applied to the SAE 0W-16 viscosity grade
and will not be backwards compatible to earlier ILSAC specifications due to the change in HTHS specification. API SP includes all ILSAC requirements, while at the same time providing performance requirements for oils that do not fall under ILSACmember recommendations. API SP is backward compatible to all prior API petrol standards.
Tomorrow’s products, today Castrol says it has long been at the forefront of engine oil technology and innovation, and states that commitment remains true today with the introduction of products carrying the latest API and ILSAC specifications. With multiple Castrol engine oils already available in Australia carrying API SP and ILSAC GF-6 approvals, Castrol says mechanics and drivers alike can ensure they are using products benchmarked against the highest standards. To meet the demands of today’s most advanced vehicles – including downsized turbo engines prone to damage caused by LSPI – Castrol MAGNATEC Professional DX 5W-30 and Castrol MAGNATEC FUEL SAVER DX 5W-30 products have already been tested and approved to both API SP and ILSAC GF-6 specifications. Providing coverage all the way from 1L top-up packs through to 205L drums, Castrol says these full synthetic engine oils provide peace of mind for both workshops and drivers with the latest specification and intelligent molecules to provide engines with instant protection from the moment they start. In addition to these upgrades, Castrol says it will soon be adding a new cutting-edge product – Castrol EDGE 0W-20 C5 – to the range. Carrying API SP and ILSAC GF-6 specifications, this advanced full synthetic product has a broad application across late model vehicles and holds an extensive range of additional Industry and OEM Approvals including: ACEA C5, Chrysler MS 6395, GM dexos1 Gen 2, MB-Approval 229.71, Fiat 9.55535-CR1, Fiat 9.55535-GSX, Ford WSS-M2C947-A and Ford WSS-M2C947-B1. To learn more about API SP and ILSAC GF-6 contact the Castrol Technical Team on 1300 557 998. To discover Castrol’s full product range, speak to your local Castrol rep, call Castrol on 1300 554 890, or visit www.castrol.com.au
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WORKSHOP TIPS: STABILISER LINK REPLACEMENT From LEMFÖRDER Part of ZF’s global portfolio of premium brands, LEMFÖRDER steering and suspension technology products are fitted as original equipment and available to the aftermarket for passenger cars, light trucks and larger commercial vehicles. ZF’s experts have shared with us some useful tips on diagnosing and replacing suspension stabiliser links, as follows. A broken stabiliser link can be recognised while driving by the following symptoms: rattling and thumping noises on rough roads; imprecise vehicle handling; and heightened roll of the vehicle during cornering. If, upon inspection, the stabiliser link is found to be defective, ZF notes the following steps on how to replace it with a new unit: 1. Raise the vehicle and remove the front wheels. 2. Spray the fastening nuts of the stabiliser link with rust remover and let it penetrate for a few minutes. 3. Loosen the lower fastening nut of the stabiliser link at the stabiliser and remove. If the ball stud also starts to turn, hold it with a suitable tool. 4. Press the stabiliser link out of the torsion bar.
5. Loosen the upper fastening nut of the stabiliser link at the suspension strut and remove it. If the ball stud also starts to turn, hold it with a suitable tool. 6. Press the stabiliser link at the suspension strut out of the bracket. 7. Insert new stabiliser link at the suspension strut. 8. Tighten the stabiliser link at the suspension strut to the tightening torque specified by the vehicle manufacturer. TIP: Secure the ball stud against twisting with a suitable tool. 9. Insert the new stabiliser link at the stabiliser. 10. Tighten the stabiliser link at the stabiliser to the tightening torque specified by the vehicle manufacturer. TIP: Secure the ball stud against twisting with a suitable tool. 11. Remount the front wheels. Lower the vehicle and tighten the wheel studs to the tightening torque specified by the vehicle manufacturer. TIP: Even if replacing the stabiliser link does not directly affect the chassis setting, LEMFÖRDER recommends checking the axle setting and adjusting if necessary, after working on the suspension.
12. Conclude with a test drive Before commencing the work, make sure to check both stabiliser links and replace them in pairs if necessary. LEMFÖRDER’s range of original equipment quality suspension and steering parts is available across Australia from ZF Services Australia. On offer is a comprehensive range of passenger car steering and chassis parts for repair or replacement including stabiliser mounts and links, rubber-to-metal components like axle bearings and suspension and strut mounts, control arms and bearings, tie rods and suspension joints. Also available are SACHS shock absorbers and clutches and TRW brake pads, brake discs and steering components. For more information, visit: www.aftermarket.zf.com
WHERE ARE YOUR HOISTS AND WORKSHOP EQUIPMENT REALLY MADE? Interequip wants you to ask the question As Holden closed its car-making-facility in Australia and stopped local production of cars for cost reasons, Interequip says the same strategy occurred with many hoist suppliers. It says while hoist suppliers might have had brands already well-established over the years with truly solid manufacturing in USA, Australia, or Denmark and so on in the past, many big brands have now chosen to manufacture their products in China. Interequip says this same situation is occurring for many manufacturers of wheel service equipment (such as tyre changers, wheel balancers and wheel aligners) which is claimed to be made in Italy or the USA, but the real production is occurring in China. Because of this Interequip says to avoid disappointment, you should always ask where your hoists and wheel service equipment are made before you pay premium dollar. The company says it has a vast range of vehicle hoists on offer, from the useful two post hoist to
the common four post hoist as well as specialised scissor lifts and wheel alignment lifts. Interequip imports three levels of different quality and pricing to cater for customers with different budgets: the BP40M is made in China as an entry level product; the Elite series is made in China by a quality factory which manufactures OEM lifts for a premium brand; and the Powerrex hoists are made in Korea with a much higher cost as well as Korean craftmanship and Korean-made parts. This approach of various levels of imports also applies to Interequip’s wheel service equipment, including tyre changers, wheel balancers and wheel aligners. “When we say they are made in Italy, M&B Engineering and Vamag are truly 100 percent made in Italy and quite famous in Europe,” Interequip Sales Director, Alex Visser, said.
products made by premium factories in China. We can also supply our BulletPro range BP816, BP800, BP409, BP75L tyre changers and wheel balancers and VH8 moveable 3D aligner. “What is very wrong is if a company told you something is made in the USA or Italy when it is actually made in China. We are proud and honest about what we import and we are always straight forward with customers, especially when it comes to where the products are made.”
“Customers usually find Italian made products are indeed better quality with a slightly higher price tag than Chinese made products.
If you are looking for a new lift, wheel service equipment or diagnostic scan tools, Interequip invites you to call them on 18000 EQUIP (1800 037 847) or contact them via email at info@interequip.com.au
“In saying that, there is nothing wrong with
For more information, visit www.interequip.com.au Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine June 2020
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TRADE TALK
OIL RUNNING THROUGH HIS VEINS
Valvoline’s Geoff Newson has been working in the automotive oil industry for his entire career Like the guy on the Haymes Paints adverts who used to claim, “he had paint running through his veins,” Valvoline Australia’s Sales and Marketing Director, Geoff Newson, could claim his heart was pumping pure oil. His career has been constantly linked with the black stuff, right from his first job as a youngster pumping petrol at a local Mobil service station. Born in the New South Wales regional center of Gosford, his family moved to country Victoria before heading to the big smoke of Melbourne. “My father worked in a bank, so we moved around quite a bit when I was younger. I attended Monash University and RMIT to attain my professional qualifications,” Geoff explains. His love of all things with wheels goes back a long way. “When I was still at school and worked in the Mobil petrol station, I used to tinker with cars in my spare time. The petrol station had a double bay workshop, so it was quite handy to utilise the hoist from time to time when business was slow,” Geoff enthuses. He believes the experience gained in the petrol station from such a young age gave him a great grounding in customer service, which is something he still draws on today. “Providing full driveway service was great experience in dealing with the motoring public and learning firsthand the virtues of great customer service,” he says. After returning from the Aussie ‘rite of passage’ European backpacking trip at the age of 26, Geoff landed a role at Caltex as a trainee in 1987 and made up his mind that his career would be in automotive.
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“Certainly by the time I moved to Valvoline in 1995 I knew I would stay in the oil and automotive industry for a long time,” he admits. “Pretty amazingly I have always worked in the oil industry in one form or another. I managed a few petrol stations while studying and used to chat to the oil company reps and thought I wouldn’t mind having a crack at that type of role one day. “After graduating I decided to apply for a few sales positions at various oil companies and eventually got lucky. It is amazing how the industry gets into your system and you become addicted to it.” Geoff believes that a move to Sydney in 1997 to take up a role as National Sales Manager was the turning point in his career. “That presented some great opportunities and has given me great experiences in Valvoline, including five years setting up the company’s South East Asia business and involvement in the greater International Valvoline business,” he explains. However, he also describes that decision as the toughest he has ever had to make. “Moving to Sydney and living in a city with no extended family was tough. It has been hard at times living away from family, but the reality is you need to make sacrifices to get ahead sometimes,” he says. “For the last 23 years I have lived in Sydney after accepting that promotion. The family love living in Sydney and it is now home for us. “I have been blessed to have a great family and my wife Leanne has been a great support to me. I also have two fabulous children, Kate and Matthew, who are now in their late 20s. They all
Geoff Newson mean the world to me – we spend time together whenever we can, and I look forward to those catch-ups.” Geoff does not spend as much time as he used to tinkering with cars these days, but he does enjoy getting to the track to see some car racing or even a bit of horse racing. “I do like going to both forms of racing on weekends. I love all sport, as well as exercise, cooking and socialising and I try to maintain a healthy balance of them all,” he enthuses. Geoff is a strong believer of having a ‘can do’ attitude. “I think it is vital to being successful in business,” he says. He lists his greatest strength as his ability to relate to people no matter what their background may be. “I am always interested in hearing their story and finding some common ground,” he said. “I also think I am very perceptive to new ideas and I love to chase opportunities in the marketplace. I like to delegate where possible and back my people in. I trust them to get the job done.
TRADE TALK “I equally believe that team unity is very important and try to ensure people are pulling in the same direction. As a leader you should always have an eye on team morale and effective teamwork if you want the team to be successful.” His advice to youngsters trying to break into the industry is not to be scared to start from the bottom and work your way up. “The experience you gain in doing that is invaluable. If you keep working hard and learning you will eventually achieve your goals in life,” he said.
Valvoline – trusted in Australia and around the world In 1866 Dr John Ellis developed the world’s first petroleum-based lubricant for steam engines. The excellent lubricating properties of this product gained a quick reputation, and Ellis’ oil was soon being used in steam engines across the United States. Even though Valvoline lubricants had in the United States for close to 40 years, it was not until the early 1900s that Valvoline became widely used in automobiles of the day. When it became the recommended oil for use in the Ford Model T, the world’s first mass production car, it was catapulted to the status of a household name. As word of Valvoline’s quality products grew, so too did its demand in countries outside of the US. The first Valvoline oil came to Australia’s shores in 1901 in wooden barrels and the brand quickly became a staple in Australian engines and culture. With over a century of experience, Valvoline is now a leading supplier of quality automotive products and services to the Australian market. Today, Valvoline Australia employs over 300 people; has six major branches and 19 regional distributors; has a sales team based in every state and territory; and delivers quality products to customers across the entirety of Australia. Valvoline says that as a lubricants business, it has the product to suit vehicles in the Australian market, no matter the make or model. The company states it produces a range of engine,
transmission and gear oils as well as coolants, chemicals and car care products for virtually every vehicle, piece of machinery or equipment in the Australian market. The retail market was the first channel for Valvoline products when the business initially launched into Australia in 1901. In 1960, Valvoline expanded its business model to service the ever-changing needs of the automotive aftermarket servicing landscape and continues to supply workshops as well as all major automotive retailers today.
As America’s first branded engine oil, Valvoline says it has been trusted in engines around the world for over 150 years. It also introduced the world’s first racing oil, the world’s first high mileage oil, and the world’s first synthetic blend. From the outset Valvoline says it has been an R&D focused company with the willingness and ability to adjust its product offer to the changing characteristics of the lubricant market.
Valvoline explains that its mission is to provide hands-on service for customers with innovative, operationally proven solutions that add significant value to their business.
Further, as a well-resourced lubricant supplier, Valvoline says it can call on the global expertise of the Valvoline business to deliver products and solutions to satisfy customer needs and offer a full-service model to all workshops including products, service and technology.
It claims it provides all its business partners with top-notch solutions, which are backed up by excellent customer service, great logistics and a technical department that can help find a lubricant solution.
Valvoline says its biggest challenge will always lie ahead and as such it is focusing on ensuring it continues to deliver the products and services needed by the Australian automotive industry now and in the future. As the inventor of engine oil, Valvoline states it still needs to maintain a lot of innovation and the ability to meet the needs of an evolving lubricant market and claims this is the biggest attribute that has made it such a successful company. Contributing to this successful foundation has been a portfolio of products that meet OEM requirements, whatever the application, backed up by an enthusiastic sales force dedicated to making the businesses of Valvoline customers more successful with operationally proven solutions. For more information, visit www.valvoline.com.au Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine June 2020
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FUTURE AUTO INNOVATIONS
A MILESTONE ON THE ROAD TO FULLY CONNECTED TRAFFIC 5G NetMobil project develops real-time communication solutions to boost safety and efficiency Safer, more convenient, greener: connected vehicles that can communicate with roadside infrastructure in real time reduce emissions and the risk of accidents. This communication requires a stable and reliable data link provided by high-performance 5G, the new fifth-generation wireless technology for cellular networks, or by Wi-Fi-based alternatives (ITS-G5). Sixteen research institutions, medium-sized enterprises, and major players have been working toward this goal over the past three years in the 5G NetMobil research project. They are now presenting their results which will enable major strides for a new era in mobility. “With the 5G NetMobil project, we have achieved decisive milestones on the road to fully connected driving and are demonstrating how modern communication technologies can make our road traffic safer, more efficient, and more economical, all at the same time,” said Thomas Rachel MdB, the parliamentary state secretary in the German Ministry of Education and Research. This ministry had funded this research project with 9.5 million euros. The groundwork done in this project in the areas of networks, security, and communication protocols now underpins efforts to standardise specifications, develop new business models, and ramp up the partners’ first production runs.
A launch pad for innovative traffic engineering In many traffic situations, it is virtually impossible for drivers to see everything they need to, such as pedestrians crossing convoluted intersections or vehicles suddenly emerging from blind alleys. Radar, ultrasonic, and video sensors are the eyes of modern vehicles. They monitor the traffic situation around the vehicle, but they cannot see around corners or behind obstacles. Direct vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V), vehicle-toinfrastructure (V2I) and vehicle-to-network (V2N) communication enables vehicles to share data in real time with one another and their surroundings – even data on things that cannot be seen. The partners in the 5G NetMobil project are using this communication capability to develop tools such as a crossing assistant to protect pedestrians and cyclists at blind intersections. A camera installed in the roadside infrastructure 78
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detects pedestrians and warns vehicles within just a few milliseconds to prevent critical situations – for instance, when a car turns into a side street. Another item on the research agenda is platooning. In the future, commercial vehicles will be able to join up in convoy-like platoons where synchronised acceleration, braking, and steering enables trucks to operate at very close ranks thanks to V2V communication. This automated drafting – that is, tailgating another vehicle to ride in its slipstream – reduces fuel consumption and boosts safety on freeways. Experts from the participating companies and universities have laid out the groundwork for platooning with vehicles less than ten meters apart and for parallel platooning in agriculture. “The work of the research project is relevant to a wide range of applications. This not only benefits project partners from industry and research, but especially road users,” said Robert Bosch GmbH’s Dr Frank Hofmann, who is coordinating the research project on the manufacturing end.
Paving the way to standardisation and new business models
But what happens if the quality of the data link changes, leaving less bandwidth available for direct V2V communication? The experts developed an agile “quality of service” concept to detect changes in the provided network quality and alerts the connected driving functions accordingly. This way, the distance between vehicles in a platooned convoy can be increased automatically when network quality decreases. Another focal point of this research was to break the main cellular network down into discrete virtual networks (slicing). A separate subnet is now reserved for safetycritical functions such as alerting drivers to pedestrians at an intersection. This safeguard ensures data communication for these functions is always enabled.
This research project’s brief was to find solutions to key challenges in automotive real-time communication.
Another discrete virtual network handles data transmissions to stream videos and update the road map. Its operations can be temporarily suspended when the data rate dips.
There is a good reason for this: direct V2V and V2I communication has to be failsafe, with high data rates and low latency, for fully connected driving to become reality.
This research project has also made significant contributions to hybrid communication where the more stable connection – either the cellular network technology or a Wi-Fi-based alternative –
FUTURE AUTO INNOVATIONS • Vodafone GmbH • Volkswagen AG The participating partners are pursuing different technological approaches to enable direct communication between vehicles and infrastructure – based on either cellular network technology or WiF-Fi-based alternatives (ITS-G5). This project has aimed to build the foundation for standardising both technologies and enabling manufacturer and technology-agnostic communication.
is used to prevent the data link from dropping out while the vehicle is on the move. “The insights gained in this project are now flowing into the global standardisation of communications infrastructure. They are cornerstones for partner companies’ further development efforts,” Dr Hofmann says. Partners in the 5G NetMobil project include: • Robert Bosch GmbH (project coordinator) • Technische Universität Dresden (project cocoordinator) • Acticom GmbH
• • • • • • • •
BMW AG CLAAS GmbH Deutsche Telekom AG dresden elektronik ingenieurtechnik GmbH Ericsson GmbH Fraunhofer Heinrich-Hertz-Institut Heusch/Boesefeldt GmbH Hochschule für Technik und Wirtschaft des Saarlandes – htw saar • Logic Way GmbH • Nokia • Technische Universität Kaiserslautern
The 5G NetMobil project focused on five applications – high-density platooning of commercial vehicles separated by less than ten meters, parallel platooning of harvesters, a crossing assistant that uses infrastructure-based detection to protect pedestrians and cyclists, and smart traffic control that enables vehicles to ride a wave of green lights and steers them swiftly through city traffic. Another task on its agenda was to draft specifications for the fifth-generation cellular network to meet the requirements of safetyrelated applications and treat the user to a satisfying user experience. For more information, visit www.5g-netmobil.de/en/index.html
ELECTRIC VEHICLE CHARGING: THE BASICS Charging your EV is like charging your smartphone, explains EVUp The biggest difference between an EV and a petrol or diesel vehicle is the way you ‘refuel.’
charge will typically cost less than $10 on your power bill.
With an EV, you will charge anywhere there is a power point. The best analogy is thinking of it like your smartphone; you plug it in whenever and wherever there’s access to power and it is rarely close to zero.
Level Two
Always be charging at Level One, Two or Three Level One The most common way to charge is using what is known as Level One charging. This is also known as AC charging and is the easiest and most freely available way to get a top up. While convenient, it is also the slowest way to charge your EV and can take anywhere from four to 40 hours, depending on your EV and charging equipment. While slow, it protects your battery, which may degrade over time if continuously fast charged. Most EV drivers charge up at home, which is the best way to avoid ‘range anxiety’ or the fear of running out of power. Using a charging cable, you can plug into a 10 or 15amp household powerpoint. There’ll be a charging cable in your EV, or a new one will cost under $500. A full
A Level Two charger can be installed in your garage to provide a faster and efficient charge. EVUp recommends a 7kW unit – which will take four to eight hours to charge up, depending on your EV – and particularly a charger that will connect to a solar system and use your selfgenerated renewable power. Types of Level Two chargers available include the ChargeAmps AURA or the locally made AURIGA with inbuilt security light and a 10amp plug for e-bike charging, which also comes as a portable option for workshops. You can expect to pay from $1500 plus installation for EV charging hardware.
Level Three Also known as fast or DC charging, this is the fastest way to charge an electric vehicle. By converting AC power to DC within the charging station itself, Level Three chargers provide a faster charge, with some able to charge an EV from 0 percent to 80 percent in under 30 minutes. DC charging is a great option for highway locations, but if you want drivers to stop and
spend their time and money at your location, a Level Two charger is a better solution. Queensland-built Tritium DC chargers are among the best in the world, but there are also portable DC charging options. Cost depends on charge rate which ranges from 20kW right up to 350kW, and costs upwards of $20,000 plus installation. Supporting infrastructure may also be required to power a DC charger, which can make them expensive to install.
Need advice? If you would like impartial advice about the EV sector or want to know more about providing EV charging for your customers, EVUp invites you to call its director, Emma Sutcliffe, on 0409 040 499 or alternatively you can email her at emma@evup.com.au Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine June 2020
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INDUSTRY AWARENESS
HOW TO ENCOURAGE GREEN SHOOTS DURING A CRISIS Opportunities will emerge for those prepared to look closely, says Walter Scremin of Ontime Delivery Solutions The words “don’t waste a crisis” are currently being used by politicians and business leaders ad nauseum. But there is a nugget of wisdom in this term, which can apply to any industry or sector, including auto parts. I have been involved in providing delivery transport solutions for many aftermarket autoparts firms over several decades, and while I have never seen a challenge like this, memories of previous crises including the 1990s recession have taught me some businesses will recover faster than others. The companies which attempt to learn from the current crisis and look hard for opportunities to control costs and introduce efficiency gains will find the “green shoots” sprout more readily during recovery. Now is the right time to analyse:
Business flexibility: In business, flexibility equals “survivability.” Even better, flexibility creates opportunities to grow. A flexible business is already more adaptable and better able to enjoy the spoils when times are good and minimise damage when times turn tough. Not all areas of business lend themselves to flexibility, but logistics and parcel delivery is one high-cost area which many businesses could make more flexible by analysing their delivery fleet make-up.
Now is a great time to take liabilities off the balance sheet and introduce more flexible options for the logistics solution. A flexible business enjoys more control, and the ability to recover faster. Being flexible also creates opportunities for growth by allowing parts companies to trial new delivery runs cost-effectively.
Customer service: Customer expectations are rising, and not even a pandemic will alter this trend. Communication, accuracy and reliability of service will only become more critical. It is not all about speed. A quick turnaround is sometimes essential, but research shows communication and accuracy are highly valued. Be wary of any action which compromises customer service – having said that, the current crisis shows customers may tolerate reduced service levels, provided they feel well-informed and looked after. Communication is key.
Improve efficiency: The first step to improving efficiency is knowing the exact costs of doing business. For example, parcel delivery is an important and expensive business activity and knowing the exact delivery costs for your parts delivery provides clarity on potential for efficiency gains. Efficiency is also helped by understanding value. For example, it may be tempting to find someone who can do a delivery for a few dollars cheaper,
but what if it takes two hours longer? If the supplier does not have the systems or experience to improve your business, it is a false economy.
Digitalisation: We are seeing improvements in digitalisation all the time, whether it is the ability to track items in transit or communicate directly with customers. Digitalisation not only makes you more efficient by helping with communication across the supply chain, it is also a potential customer service booster as customers love being accurately informed about their deliveries. At a minimum, parts companies should consider digital tracking, communication to keep customers up-to-date, and proof of delivery systems.
Leftfield thinking: Sometimes you need to be creative to solve a problem, but achieving this requires experienced operators who are able to treat your company’s challenges as if they were their own. For example, Ontime recently facilitated a conversation between two different companies to pool some of their delivery resources. They were each located on either side of a major capital city, and we found they could share some of the costs by teaming up on certain delivery runs. This created an instant and profound efficiency gain. Until next time, Walter Scremin CEO – Ontime Delivery Solutions www.ontimegroup.com.au 80
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INSIDE BUSINESS
EXHIBITORS LEVERAGE SUMMERNATS INVOLVEMENT Event content capture is providing results for event sponsors Trade attendance at car festivals is often seen as an opportunity to reach a large number of end users and to field enquiries about products faceto-face from existing and potential customers. For many trade exhibitors this opportunity is reason enough to book some space and set up shop for a few days, but as many switched-on businesses are finding, it’s an approach that leaves some valuable promotional meat on the bone. At the recent Street Machine Summernats which was supported by Rare Spares, event sponsor K&N took a smart new approach to content capture in order to complement its sponsorship that consisted of signage in key competition locations around the venue. K&N leveraged its involvement at Summernats by producing four hosted videos, one at the conclusion of each day, that gave a light-hearted
snapshot of the exciting activities that happen at Summernats each year. In total, these videos were viewed in excess of 400,000 times in the week of the event, with thousands more seeing them in the time since. This relatively inexpensive exercise not only made for terrific branding via the engaging content it produced, but also grew audience interaction with K&N’s social channels and banked hours of material that can be used well into the future in its other marketing activities. It’s not easy for any businesses to attend every major trade event or car festival on the calendar, with staffing and marketing budgets already stretched to produce the most worthwhile result. But with a more strategic approach, Summernats organisers says it is possible to increase your visibility at events as well as your level of
customer engagement, all while snaring future content for their various channels along the way. To view K&N’s ‘On the Street at Summernats’ video series, go to http://bit.ly/KN_STREET Summernats organisers state that 43 percent of commercial exhibitors at Summernats 33 generated sales in excess of $10k and on average, each of the 2200+ Summernats Entrants spent $13,000 annually readying and modifying their car for the event*. The January 2020 event was the second largest ticketed event in the festival’s 33-year history. For information on how to get more from your event involvement or how to get your company’s message in front of your audience without even attending, contact business@summernats.com.au * Summernats 33 2020 – Economic Impact & Market Research Study - IER
NEW SERVICE MOBILITY APP LAUNCHED The new app provides a single system for job management Markinson says it has been servicing the automotive aftermarket for the last 30 years with enterprise grade business systems based on its flagship Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) platform, MomentumPro.
Technicians can easily view assigned jobs on their smart phone or mobile device and quickly review customer locations and contact details and with a single tap either call a customer or navigate to remote jobs using Google Maps.
“As more of our clients’ businesses evolve to provide their customers with a one stop shop for parts and servicing, we’re extending our software solutions to assist,” Markinson Product Manager, Simon Marles, said.
Once on the job they can track time spent and record parts usage, capture notes using voice to text and take photos if required.
“Our newly released Service Mobility app allows service job management on any device in the workshop or out in the field. It provides a single system for job management that is simple to use with full visibility of your servicing commitments, utilisation and capacity. “Real-time seamless integration with your MomentumPro ERP avoids double handling of data between your business systems and ensures efficient workflows for quoting, invoicing and allocation of parts.” With a simple touch centric interface, Service
When finishing up, customer and technician signatures can be captured by signing on glass. It is a quick and efficient workflow and allows the technician to get onto the next job fast. “The Service Mobility management console empowers Service Managers and Coordinators to create and schedule jobs, ensuring jobs are assigned to the most appropriate technician,” Simon said. “Drop and drag scheduling adds to the flexibility and provides instant visibility on scheduled jobs and highlights outstanding jobs. At a glance current utilisation can be viewed as well as overall capacity.
“Designed from the ground up by working closely with our clients and leveraging Markinson’s extensive experience in the automotive aftermarket, we’ve been able to bring an application to market that has a highly streamlined workflow and natively integrates to the MomentumPro ERP platform that is prominent in the Australian automotive aftermarket.” “MomentumPro Service Mobility is another great example of our ongoing commitment to the automotive aftermarket industry, recognising the growing need of our customers to provide additional value to their customers in an increasingly competitive marketplace,” Markinson Chief Executive Officer, Mark Clearwater, said. For more information, visit www.markinson.com.au Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine June 2020
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CONSUMER LAW
PROTECTING REGISTERED TRADE MARKS A trade mark is an important marketing device Trade marks identify and differentiate your business from other businesses, and are connected with the reputation built by you for your business. For these reasons, your trade mark is valuable and worth protecting.
What is a trade mark? A trade mark can be a word, letters, an image (such as a shape or logo, which may incorporate words), a phrase, or even a sound or colour.
Must a trade mark be registered to be protected? A trade mark can be registered which gives the owner of the registered trade mark specified rights under the Trade Marks Act 1995 (Cth) (Act). Trade marks that are not registered may also attract legal protection pursuant to the Australian Consumer Law (ACL) and the civil wrong, or tort, of passing off. However, although the legal protection available under the ACL and the wrong of passing off may be available to both registered and unregistered trade marks, these legal protections are likely to be more difficult to establish than the infringement of a registered trade mark pursuant to the rights available to holders of registered trade marks under the Act.
Protecting the trade mark used by your business: There are steps you can take to protect the trade mark used by your business. These protective steps include: • Be alert to the use of trade marks that resemble the trade mark used by your business. If you identify a similar trade mark being used, consider if the use infringes your trade mark and if you may have a right to prevent its use under the Act and/or the ACL and the wrong of passing off (refer below to information regarding infringement under the Act). If the trade mark is in the process of being registered, consider if you are in a
position to oppose the registration of the trade mark (refer below for information regarding opposition applications). • Make sure your contact details, including the address for service of notices by IP Australia, are updated as required to enable receipt of important notices, such as the requirement to renew your trade mark and pay the appropriate renewal fees. • Ensure your trade mark is renewed and appropriate fees are paid. The failure to do so when required may result in your trade mark being removed from the register. Caution: be aware of unofficial registers/services, especially if seeking payment from you – if in doubt contact Industry Legal Group or IP Australia. Remember, the ® symbol may be used only with registered trade marks. Using the ® symbol indicates to others that the trade mark is registered. However, if the trade mark is used overseas, check the requirements for the use of the ® symbol in that country to ensure that local laws are complied with. It is an offence to use the ® symbol with unregistered trade marks, although the ™ symbol may be used. Note: If you register a trade mark and do not use the trade mark then, after a period of time, an application can be made by a third party for its removal from the register. Also, if your trade mark becomes the generic name of a type of product or service, then a person may apply to the court to have the registration cancelled.
Opposing the registration of a trade mark: Before a trade mark is registered it is advertised in the Australian Official Journal of Trade Marks. An opposition to the registration of the trade mark may be lodged within two months of the advertisement on the basis of one or more of the grounds provided in the Act. There are various grounds for opposition, including where a trade mark has been continuously used in respect of goods or services before a ‘substantially identical’ or ‘deceptively similar’ advertised trade mark was first used, the person applying for registration does not intend to use the trade mark or the trade mark registration application is made in bad faith.
When is a trade mark infringed under the Act? Under the Act a person infringes a trade mark when the person uses another sign as a trade mark that is ‘substantially identical’ with or ‘deceptively similar’ to the trade mark: • in relation to the goods or services in respect of which the trade mark is registered; or 82
Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine June 2020
• in relation to goods or services of the same description, services closely related to the goods in respect of which the trade mark is registered, or goods closely related to the services in respect of which the trade mark is registered, unless the person using the other trade mark establishes that its use is not likely to deceive or cause confusion. Note: A trade mark that is well known in Australia may be infringed by the use of another sign as a trade mark in respect of unrelated goods or services, if the other trade mark is ‘substantially identical’ or ‘deceptively similar’ to the well known trade mark, so that it is likely to indicate a connection between the unrelated goods or services and the trade mark that is well known in Australia.
Takeaways The key takeaways are to: • be alert to the use of trade marks that resemble the trade mark used by your business; • protect your trade mark through use; and • update your contact details with IP Australia if they change. This article is intended for information purposes only and should not be regarded as legal advice. Please contact Industry Legal Group for specific advice.
AAAA Member Benefits Industry Legal Group provides legal advice to members. If you have any questions relating to the above article, please contact Industry Legal Group on 1300 369 703 or aaaa@industrylegalgroup.com.au
HR
JOBKEEPER: AMENDMENTS TO THE FAIR WORK ACT On 8 April 2020, Parliament passed the Coronavirus Economic Response Package Omnibus (Measures No. 2) Bill 2020 which amends the Fair Work Act 2009 (FW Act) to support the JobKeeper scheme The FW Act has been amended to add new temporary provisions to assist employers who qualify for the JobKeeper scheme to deal with the economic impact of COVID-19. The amendments commenced from 9 April 2020 and will apply until 28 September 2020 (unless extended). Below is a summary of the key changes:
JOBKEEPER ENABLING DIRECTIONS 1. JobKeeper enabling stand down - applies if: (a) after 9 April 2020, the employer gave the employee a direction to not work their usual day or days, work for a lesser period on a particular day or days or work for a reduced number of hours during a period; (b) the employer qualified for the JobKeeper scheme when the direction was given; (c) the employee can’t be usefully employed for their normal days or hours because of changes to business attributable to the COVID-19 pandemic, or government initiatives to slow its transmission; (d) the implementation of the direction must be safe, having regard to (without limitation) the nature and spread of COVID-19; and (e) the employer becomes entitled to the JobKeeper payment for the employee for the period. During a JobKeeper enabling stand down, employees continue to accrue leave and their service is continuous for the purpose of redundancy and payment in lieu of notice. Further, the employer must pay the higher of the JobKeeper payment or the employee’s usual pay (base rate cannot be reduced) for any hours that they work. This stand down does not apply during a period of paid or unpaid leave or other authorised absence and is separate to the stand down provisions in section 524 of the FW Act. 2. Change usual duties – applies if: (a) after 9 April 2020, the employer directed the employee to perform any duties during a period that are within the employee’s skill and competency; (b) the employer qualified for the JobKeeper scheme when the direction was given; (c) the duties are safe, having regard to (without limitation) the nature and spread of COVID-19; (d) the employee has the required licence or qualification to perform the duties; (e) the duties are reasonably within the scope of the employer’s business operations; and (f) the employer becomes entitled to the JobKeeper payment for the employee for the period. The employer must pay the higher of the JobKeeper payment, the employee’s hourly base rate of pay had the direction not been given or,
if a higher hourly base rate of pay applies to the duties the employee is performing, the higher hourly base rate of pay. 3. Change location of work – applies if: (a) after 9 April 2020, the employer directed the employee to perform duties during a period at a different location from their normal place of work, including the employee’s home; (b) the employer qualified for the JobKeeper scheme when the direction was given; (c) the place is suitable for the employee’s duties and does not require the employee to travel an unreasonable distance in the circumstances (including those surrounding COVID-19); (d) the performance of the duties at the place are safe, having regard to (without limitation) the nature and spread of COVID-19 and reasonably within the scope of the employer’s business operations; and (e) the employer becomes entitled to the JobKeeper payment for the employee for the period.
RULES RELATING TO JOBKEEPER ENABLING DIRECTIONS INCLUDE: 1. Reasonableness: must not be unreasonable in all of the circumstances (eg. a direction may be unreasonable depending on the impact of the direction on any caring responsibilities the employee may have). 2. Continuing the employment of employees: directions regarding duties and location of work have no effect unless the employer has information which leads the employer to reasonably believe the direction is necessary to continue the employment of one or more employees of the employer. 3. Consultation: direction does not apply unless the employer gave at least three days written notice (in any prescribed form) of the employer’s intention to give the direction (or lesser notice period if genuinely agreed by the employee) and before giving the direction, the employer consulted with the employee (or representative of the employee) about the direction. The employer must keep a written record of the consultation. 4. Form of direction: must be in writing (in any prescribed form). 5. Duration: direction continues in effect until it is withdrawn or revoked by the employer or replaced by a new JobKeeper enabling direction but ceases to have effect at the start of 28 September 2020. 6. Compliance: the employee must comply with the direction.
AGREEMENT TO WORK DIFFERENT DAYS AND TIMES An employer that qualifies for the JobKeeper scheme and is entitled to receive the JobKeeper payment for the employee can request to make an agreement with the employee to perform their duties on different days, or at different times, compared with the employee’s ordinary days or times of work. The employee must consider the request and must not unreasonably refuse it. This new provision applies to agreements made after 9 April 2020 in writing. The agreement cannot have the effect of reducing the employee’s number of hours of work (to reduce hours see “JobKeeper enabling stand down” above). It must be safe, having regard to (without limitation) the nature and spread of COVID-19 and reasonably within the scope of the employer’s business operations for the employee to perform their duties on those different days or at those different times.
AGREEMENT TO TAKE ANNUAL LEAVE An employer that qualifies for the JobKeeper payment and is entitled to receive the JobKeeper payment for the employee can give the employee a request to take paid annual leave (provided the employee will have a balance of at least two weeks). The employee must consider the request and not unreasonably refuse it. The employer and employee can agree in writing to the employee taking twice as much paid annual leave at half their rate of pay (note similar temporary amendments to modern awards).
DISPUTES The Fair Work Commission (FWC) will deal with disputes relating to the above by arbitration. Information on how to apply can be found at www.fwc.gov.au/about-us/coronavirus-covid-19updates-advice/jobkeeper-disputes This document is intended for general information purposes only and should not be regarded as legal advice. Please contact Employer Assist by Industry Legal Group if you require legal advice.
AAAA Member Benefits If you require further advice, please contact Employer Assist on 1300 735 306 or email aaaa@employerassist.com.au Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine June 2020
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PERFORMANCE AND RACING
ACS THE TRUSTED CHOICE FOR ACL RELEASES NEW ENGINEERING BATHURST LEGEND Gerace Restorations has selected ACS to BULLETIN supply a clutch kit for the restoration of a The new bulletin focuses on clearance control ACL ambassador Rick Kelly of Kelly Racing recently launched ACL’s latest Engineering Bulletin. “We have a fantastic partnership with Kelly Racing, spanning over 12 years,” ACL Bearing Company (Australia) General Manager, Chris Brooks, said. “We have supplied the performance engine bearings for all of their engines during this time. We are delighted that Rick could assist with the launch.”
piece of Bathurst history
The Australian Clutch Services (ACS) range of clutch kits, hydraulics and accessories covers everything from the daily driven passenger car through to vintage commercial vehicles and forklifts. As specialists in everything clutch, ACS says it is no surprise many restoration businesses around the country trust ACS with clutch solutions for some of their most valuable and rare projects. Adelaide-based Ford Falcon specialists, Gerace Restorations, is one such example of this and have recently trusted ACS in the supply of a clutch kit for the restoration of one of three, original works Ford XW Falcon GT-HO Phase IIs that competed in the 1970 Bathurst Enduro. Gerace Restorations will soon be publicly announcing which of these three iconic cars is being restored. Gerace Restorations is a world leader in the restoration of various Ford Falcon and Mustang models and specialise in the iconic Phase II and III GTs as well as a variety of muscle cars from this era.
“Our Supercar engines take a pounding and are under enormous loads; they operate in challenging conditions for extended periods of time,” Rick Kelly said. “There is no better test lab. We have a great relationship with ACL which has been really important in the success of the engine program.” The latest Engineering Bulletin from ACL focuses on Clearance Control and provides a detailed insight into the selection of the correct bearing to optimise clearance. ACL says it is an excellent reference document and resource for the first time or experienced engine builder. “One of the most critical and often misunderstood variables that determine the success of a performance engine build is the bearing oil clearance,” Chris said. “We regularly receive enquiries seeking additional information and advice in this area. This bulletin provides a great insight and will address many of the FAQs.” For more information or to download a copy of the bulletin, please visit www.aclperformance.com.au 84
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Restoring these vehicles back to the exact specification that they were in the period, the team at Gerace Restorations say they only look for the best quality from their suppliers around the country and the world. Each component is carefully selected to ensure accuracy of specifications, and with this in-mind, they choose ACS for the supply of their clutch kits for these iconic vehicles. “We have had a long relationship with Gerace Restorations and enjoy working with such a
highly regarded restoration shop to ensure they get the components they require to get these incredible vehicles back to driving like new,” Australian Clutch Services Managing Director, Brenton Jordan, said. “Our Classic Clutch range of products has been developed specifically to support the restoration industry with rare or obsolete clutch components often readily available on the shelf. We also offer rebuild services for some clutch kits where the items are simply no longer available.” Australian Clutch Services provided a factory style twin plate clutch for the Bathurst car including all of the associated hardware such as pressure plate bolts, spacers and bearings. “Often people believe that multi-plate clutch kits are a relatively new technology,” Brenton said. “However multi-plate clutches have been available for many decades and were popular for these types of applications due to the torque from these engines.” Classic Clutch offers clutch kits for vehicles from around the world and from almost every decade of motoring history. “We have provided clutch kits for some of the rarest vintage cars on the planet, classic formula one cars and even army tanks,” Brenton said. “Our range is constantly under development and we are also looking for modern solutions for applications where the components are no longer available on the world market.” For more information on the Classic Clutch range of kits and components, visit www.australianclutch.com.au or call 1800 CLUTCH.
PERFORMANCE AND RACING
‘KW SUSPENSIONS CHASE’ STARS AT THE LIQUI MOLY BATHURST 12 HOUR For 12 hours on the 2nd of February, Australia was the epicenter of Motorsports With the world watching the 2020 Liqui Moly Bathurst 12 Hour, KW Suspension and it’s Australian official importer Scuderia Autoart presented “The KW Suspensions Chase.” The Chase is one of the toughest and most challenging action zones at the legendary Mount Panorama circuit. A feast for all motorsports fans with plenty of overtaking and late braking, this section also requires the ultimate in suspension control as the
GT3 cars fly though the right-hand kink at more than 280km/hr. The event started well for the KW equipped cars with defending race winner Matt Campbell returning to the mountain with confidence after his win last year, wrestling his #911 Porsche to pole in qualifying before replicating his performance in the shootout. With four customer motorsport teams, Porsche Motorsport completed the Australian endurance
Here’s how the KW Equipped Porsche GT3 Rs finished in the 2020 Liqui-Moly Bathurst 12 Hour Pos Car Competitor/Team
Driver
Vehicle
4 911 Absolute Racing
M.Jaminet/P.Pilet/ M.Campbell
Porsche GT3 R
7
D.Werner/M.Cairoli/T.Preining
Porsche GT3 R
9 1 Earl Bamber Motorsport
E.Bamber/L.Vanthoor/ C.Lowndes
Porsche GT3 R
10
4
Team Australia Grove Racing
S.Grove/B.Grove/ B.Barker
Porsche GT3 R
11
12
NED Racing Team
D.Calvert-Jones/R.Dumas/ J.Evans
Porsche GT3 R
912
Absolute Racing
classic and sent five Porsche 911 GT3 Rs homologated with KW motorsports dampers to the Mount Panorama Circuit. “We came to the event with high expectations after Earl Bamber Motorsports took out last year’s race with a KW equipped Porsche GT3-R,” Scuderia Autoart Chief Executive Officer, Alessio Iera, said. “This race is such a grueling test of man and machine and the perfect testing facility for the KW Competition racing suspension we sell every day. “With such a high level of completion we are more than happy to have had four cars finish in the top ten and the fifth car in position eleven.” Via Scuderia Autoart, the same KW Suspensions components utilised in the 12-Hour can be purchased by customers for use in both their competition and road going vehicles. For more information, visit www.scuderia-autoart.com
BURSON AUTO PARTS GOES E-RACING Bargwannas represent Burson Auto Parts in Carsales ARG E-Sport Cup Racing drivers Jason and Ben Bargwanna have kept Burson Auto Parts, a preferred Australian parts, tools and equipment trade supplier, ontrack by sharing an entry in the Carsales ARG E-Sport Cup that started on April 2.
the TCR Australia Facebook, YouTube and social media channels.
The father and son combination alternate the drives, ensuring that at least one Burson Auto Parts Racing entry will be on the grid for the entire season.
“It’s a great way to take our minds off the devastating events that are occurring around the world and I hope people can enjoy some close and exciting racing – something we haven’t had for quite a while now.”
The Carsales ARG E-Sport Cup is a new online motor racing series, borne out of the Coronavirus pandemic that has kept the actual motorsport world on ice since early March. The series features races for Audi TCR cars and Formula 3 cars at iconic racing circuits all over the world. Ben Bargwanna has also provided Burson Auto Parts with signage on his Formula 3 e-racing car. The junior Bargwanna is competing in the Australian Formula Ford Series and has been confirmed as a future TCR Australia enduro co-driver in the actual #17 Burson Auto Parts Peugeot 308. The virtual races are run on the popular iRacing gaming software, with all races streamed live on
“To be able to race against some of the guys I’ve watched on TV is a whole lot of fun,” Ben Bargwanna said.
Jason Bargwanna, a former Supercars race winner and Bathurst 1000 champion, is keen to step out of his comfort zone and compete in the online ARG Cup. “This has been a whole new eye-opener for me, my previous sim experience amounted to a Colin McRea Rally game – clamping a steering wheel to the coffee table with a stack of books holding the pedals from sliding across the floor!” he said. “This sim racing is seriously cool to watch and damn competitive. We all compare ourselves to our team-mate and mine is going to be tough to beat. Ben is a bit of a gun on these things and hoses me!
“These blokes all talk about having a laugh and a bit of fun, but this is full-on and great to be part of. Ben is already trash talking with the other drivers and they are winding each other up.” Jason said he has been encouraged to see the motorsport fraternity work closely together during these tough times. “This whole situation is tough on a lot of people and it’s hard to watch so many people under so much stress both health-wise and financially,” Jason said. “The motor racing industry employs so many people and this situation has been really hard to deal with for the whole racing family. I like the fact that all of us, racers and fans, are working with each other to get through this, as we are all in this together.” For more from Burson Auto Parts, please visit www.burson.com.au Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine June 2020
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4WD
SABER OFFROAD LAUNCHES ON SPARESBOX The innovative Australian brand Saber Offroad says it is disrupting the 4WD recovery market Committed to providing 4WD enthusiasts, Agricultural and Industrial Professionals with innovative vehicle recovery solutions, Saber Offroad says its ever expanding range is designed specifically to quickly and safely recover vehicles. Continuing to build on both its local and international distribution network, Saber Offroad is excited to announce its latest partnership with Sparesbox, Australia’s largest online auto parts store. “As a brand we’re still evolving and growing,” MercuryPM (T/A Saber Offroad) Managing Director, Ben Bartlett, said. “But there is no doubt that the combination of our range, product design and aftersales service is capturing the attention of consumers and distributors around the globe and launching with Sparebox is certainly a big step in the right direction.” Saber Offroad says it has been actively building a robust and loyal online community and this was critical in developing its relationship with Sparesbox.
“Saber Offroad had been on our radar for some time,” Sparesbox E-Commerce and Merchandising Manager, Gus Marin-Acosta, said. “We look forward to working with their committed team to build the brand for our mutual benefit.” Sparesbox currently has more than 250,000 products online, attracting a diverse customer base. “We invest heavily in local research, product development and testing to ensure our products outperform the competition in all conditions,” Ben said. “We strongly believe that no other vehicle recovery brand understands the technical complexities of recovering vehicles like we do and partnering with Sparesbox will ensure that more consumers are aware of the innovative work we are doing in the 4WD recovery market.” The Saber Offroad range currently includes the kinetic recovery ropes, soft shackles, recovery rings, fairleads and more, all of which are available on Sparesbox. As expected from a growing brand like Saber Offroad, more exciting new products are just around the corner.
“We can’t say too much at the moment, but we have been working closely with the Auto Innovation Centre prototyping new products using their 3D printing facility,” Ben said. When it comes to innovation in the Australian Automotive Aftermarket Industry Ben says there in no doubt that both Sparesbox and Saber Offroad are amongst those leading the charge. For more information, visit www.sparesbox.com.au or www.saberoffroad.com.au For distribution enquiries, please contact Ben Bartlett at sales@mercurypm.com.au
GVM UPGRADES FOR LANDCRUISER Ironman 4x4 has received Federal Approval for GVM Upgrades to suit Toyota Landcruiser 200 Series Ironman 4x4 explains that the usable payload of many 4x4 vehicles today is minimal. It says that by adding basic vehicle accessories or work tools and having two or three adult passengers, the vehicle will be brought close to, if not over, its legal maximum weight, also known as the Gross Vehicle Mass (GVM). Commonly, many 4x4 owners will fit and carry optional accessories like long range fuel tanks, bull bars, winches, side steps, roof racks, recovery gear, a payload of camping equipment or an industrial type custom body. Add these accessories with tow ball weight from a trailer, camper trailer or caravan; and it is almost guaranteed to be over.
Ironman 4x4 explains that with each accessory carried by the vehicle, the responsiveness of the Original Equipment (OE) suspension changes. The OE manufacturer designs their suspension kits for comfort above all else and the addition of load can compromise ongoing performance and this is where Ironman 4x4 says its suspension and GVM upgrades come in.
Ironman 4x4 GVM Upgrades Creating safe and appropriate dynamic handling at higher than maximum original weight ratings requires careful consideration. Forces generated by a heavily loaded vehicle in rough terrain can be considerably higher than those generated during normal driving. The vehicle’s springs must be matched to the load for optimum ride height and body control. If the shock absorbers do not possess the correct amount of damping resistance, the vehicle will remain highly susceptible to a rollover accident. By building high critically damped shock absorbers, Ironman 4x4 says it has created the safest and best handling after-market suspension possible at GVM weights and beyond.
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It says its Foam Cell Pro Shock Absorbers are perfectly suited to increased load in demanding and hot off-road environments, stating that compared to gas shocks they distribute the oil more evenly around the shock body, resulting in more dissipation of heat and long lasting control. The Ironman 4x4 Toyota Landcruiser 200 series GVM upgrade is now available through approved GVM installers across Australia, in pre and post-registration kits, with prices starting from $2,600. For post regulation, State Approval, the vehicle must be inspected and approved by a state authorised automotive engineer for the issue of modification plate. For more information, visit www.ironman4x4.com
4WD
GIVE YOUR 4WD A BOOST With HPD Turbochargers are a key factor to the popularity of modern diesel engines, delivering improvements in flexibility, efficiency and capability over naturally aspirated powerplants. Australian diesel specialist High Performance Diesel (HPD) manufactures a range of direct replacement and normally aspirated to turbo upgrade kits that it says can safely and reliably deliver significant gains in power, torque and allround drivability to a range of popular models. Among the most popular kits in its line-up are those designed to enhance naturally aspirated variants of the Nissan TD42 and Toyota 1HZpowered vehicles. HPD’s turbo kits feature braided oil and water lines, custom manufactured dump pipes, improved air intakes and CNC-machined adaptor flanges, all designed for high flow and OEM reliability. The company explains that a range of turbocharger options are available, beginning with the proven Garrett GT2860R. With a fast spool rate, combined with reliable power and
substantial torque, HPD says this turbo is suited to most applications, delivering enhanced towing capacity and improved highway and off-road performance. For those seeking higher power outputs, the GTX2860 GEN ii and GTX2867 GEN ii turbochargers are available, with HPD stating that 200kW at the wheels is an achievable target with the right supporting modifications. HPD turbo upgrade kits can be ordered off the shelf, or its specialist staff can help customers put together a package including HPD turbo and intercooler kits as well as supporting modifications such as boost controllers and fuel system upgrades, depending on the application and the project requirements. With a variety of top and front-mount intercoolers to choose from, combined with turbo choice and other modifications, HPD says there is an option to suit every driver. From the daily driver to extreme off-roader, HPD says it can tailor a comprehensive package to suit the end user’s needs and budget.
HPD says its kits are well-known for including everything needed to complete the installation, usually with little or no modification required to the vehicle. Designed, developed and manufactured in Australia, HPD performance products are supported by a twelve-month warranty and comprehensive technical support from the factory. To transform a naturally aspirated engine, replace a tired or faulty factory unit, or to deliver the ultimate in turbo-diesel performance, HPD says one of its turbo upgrade kits is the smart choice. Kits can be purchased online at www.hpdiesel.com.au or contact HPD on 08 8299 0320 to discuss a package that will suit your requirements.
BRAND NEW ARB STORES Three new flagship stores now open
Iconic Australian 4x4 accessory brand, ARB, is continuing to roll out its new Flagship Store project with three brand new stores now open around the country. Joining 20 other Flagship Stores, the St Peters, Dandenong and Coopers Plains teams are excited to start trading in their new fitouts. These stores are the latest to be completed in the new Flagship style and ARB says the improved retail design offers customers an unprecedented 4x4 shopping experience with more product interaction, educational displays and state-of-the-art fitting bays. ARB says that together with its friendly team, the fresh new look brings with it expert advice and specialised service, making it the perfect place for customers to personalise their 4WDs. The new stores are located at: • ARB St Peters: 500 Princes Hwy, St Peters NSW 2044. Phone: 02 9565 2455. • ARB Dandenong: 4a/6 Lonsdale St, Dandenong VIC 3175. Phone: 03 9793 0002. • ARB Coopers Plains: 988 Beaudesert Rd, Coopers Plains QLD 4108. Phone: 07 3277 2020. For more information, visit www.arb.com.au Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine June 2020
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GET COMMUNICATING In this article, ARCA’s Mike Smith takes a look at some communication tips workshops can use to boost bookings It is always true that proactively communicating with customers in a well-considered manner should be a key pillar of every workshop’s business plan. This fact has been thrown into even sharper relief as businesses have been faced with a downturn in demand due to COVID-19. In talking with workshops around the country and members of the ARCA Committee, I have been hearing some great examples of businesses proactively reassuring their customers and encouraging business through their doors as a result. While there is now light at the end of the tunnel, communication must always be a top priority. Because of this, I wanted to take this opportunity to share with you some key takeaways from conversations I have had with four ARCA committee members lately.
Show and tell “I have been taking snap shots of what we do on a day to day basis and creating regular slide shows for our Facebook page,” Hendon Automotive Services and Repairs’ Joe Musolino of South Australia explained. “These snapshots reassure customers we are open for business while informing them of the in-depth and proactive procedures we have in place to look after their wellbeing. We have had quite a good response, with some customers even telling their family and friends about what we are doing which has lead to some new clients. “In that first week we had 35 cancellations which is something I have never experienced in my 25 years of owning this business. But we dug deep and are pleased with what we have been able to achieve – I definitely think without our communication efforts, we would not have the respectful levels of business we have and I recommend all workshops make sure they are keeping their customers in the loop. “I would also like to remind everyone the ARCA committee is here and happy to chat if you need some advice or just someone to listen. We have a lot of experience and there is a committee member in every state. At the end of the day, in times of need we all need to be each other’s strength and while you can be there for your customers, we (the ARCA committee) can be there for you.”
Think carefully about your messaging Queensland’s Ron Atkinson, Managing Director of Northside EFI Centre (a member of the Future Auto Service Centre network), says it is important to think about what kind of messaging you are putting across. 88
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“While most of our tools were already in place, what we did do was up the ante on our digital communications as many of our clients were suddenly working from home and getting their news on their computers; so Facebook, news streaming and Google was where we needed to be active,” Ron said. “We recognised people were getting plenty of bad news, so we delivered our messages in a good news, light-hearted format. On the advice of our media company, we avoided sales pitch based messaging and focused on social interaction which has helped us build our reputation in the local communities. We also adopted a ‘support your local businesses policy’ to assist our supplier network and other businesses in our area. “When going down any social media path, it is important to not think of it as a traditional marketing method – if it looks like a great advert to you, it probably isn’t good for social media. Focus on ‘what do people want,’ versus ‘what do I want to sell,’ keep your message light-hearted, and work on building online relationships and providing solutions. Finally, remember it is not a fast process – you must give it plenty of time and content to work for you.”
Think about the various tools available to you Repco Authorised Service’s Dave Lyall, based in Victoria, says that while email is a popular communication platform, in times like these SMS can offer great cut-through when done correctly. “A key challenge early in this situation was customers being unsure of what they were allowed to do, so communicating to them about this was very important and definitely had an impact on bookings,” Dave said. “We have also found those workshops using wellconsidered and engaging SMS for this purpose seemed to be experiencing great cut-through and booking results, as customers struggle with an avalanche of emails. “There is no one size fits all approach, but consider all of the tools available to you and what will help your audience most.”
keep in touch with customers and help them keep up with their car maintenance and repair. “Our communication efforts have been a big plus for us and have kept us active – we are booked out two weeks in advance which is just brilliant given the situation and shows the importance of communicating effectively with customers.”
In conclusion Whether in crisis or not, simple messages of hope, camaraderie and empathy can go a long way while practical messages that inform, educate and create understanding about the how, what, when and whys can also be extremely helpful. Utilise the resources you have at your disposal, plan ahead, communicate early and often, and engage with your customers while continuing to deliver on your brand promises. And do not forget – we are all in this together and we will emerge on the other side of this situation wiser, tougher and more resilient. To this end, myself and everyone on the ARCA Committee are here to help you – committee member contact details were emailed to you recently so please do not hesitate to call or send any of us an email if you think we can help. You may also want to check out the AAAA’s recent Local Marketing Webinar, which is available to view on-demand now in the Member Portal of www.aaaa.com.au
Utilise your resources “For any communication efforts, I highly recommend going through your system files and identifying who is due for rego check-ups, who has outstanding repairs waiting etc, and pull out that data and make sure you are contacting your customers,” Anthony Dack of Anthony’s Car and Head Centre in Bega said. “Even when not in crisis, this is an important strategy for workshops everywhere to proactively
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