Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine - March 2023

KEEPING YOU INFORMED

NEW MEMBERS CALENDAR 2023

TAIPEI AMPA 2023

Taipei Nangang Exhibition Hall 1 12 – 15 April 2023

www.taipeiampa.com.tw

Autopromotec

Bologna Exhibition Centre, Bologna, Italy 26 – 30 May 2023

www.autopromotec.com/en/

Autocare 2023

Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre 9 – 10 June 2023

www.autocare.org.au

Automechanika Ho Chi Minh City

Saigon Exhibition and Convention Center (SECC)

23 – 25 June 2023

www.automechanika.messefrankfurt.com

Automechanika Dubai

Dubai World Trade Centre 2 – 4 October 2023

www.automechanika.messefrankfurt.com

AAPEX

The Venetian Expo, Las Vegas

31 October – 2 November 2023

www.aapexshow.com

SEMA Show

Las Vegas Convention Center

31 October – 3 November 2023

www.semashow.com

PRI Indianapolis, Indiana

7 – 9 December 2023

www.semashow.com

A Plus Automotive

7 Edwin Street MORTLAKE NSW 2137

Ph: 02 9743 4596 E: aplusautomotive@hotmail.com

A1 Autohaus

4/25-29 Nancarrow Ave RYDE NSW 2112

Ph: 02 8964 0088 E: info@a1autohaus.com.au

AB Phillips

1/445 Warrigal Rd MOORABBIN VIC 3189

Ph: 1300 242 136 E: stephenj@abphillips.com.au

Advance Braking Technology

19 Creative Street WANGARA WA 6065

Ph: 0421 281 559

E: david.newcombe@advancedbraking.com

Audcare

50 Whiting St ARTARMON NSW 2064

Ph: 03 9439 9055 E: justin@audcare.com.au

Australian Automotive Service And Repair Authority

12 Ceralean Drive OFFICER VIC 3809

Ph: 0497 200 726 E: rodger.nardi@aasra.com.au

Autohaus Euro Pty Ltd

70 Davenport Street SOUTHPORT QLD 4215

Ph: 07 5532 0450 E: southportautohaus@bigpond.com

Automotive Hospital

313 Parramatta Road HABERFIELD NSW 2045

Ph: 02 9716 8888 E: tim@automotivehospital.com.au

Bavaria Cars

Unit D/39 College St GLADESVILLE NSW 2111

Ph: 03 9879 7557 E: info@bavariacars.com.au

Baytech Automotive

11 Dissik Street CHELTENHAM VIC 3192

Ph: 03 9555 6000 E: info@baytechautomotive.com.au

Bentley Auto Repairs

4/31 Hillcrest Parade MIAMI QLD 4220

Ph: 07 5575 1644 E: bentleyautorepairs@gmail.com

Bosch Car Service Taren Point

Unit 1/3 Box Road TAREN POINT NSW 2229

Ph: 02 9526 1855 E: info@bavarian.com.au

Burleigh Miami Auto Centre

19 Christine Ave MIAMI QLD 4220

Ph: 07 5520 4978 E: christineavemechanical@gmail.com

Cavalli Motor Sports

1/ 6 Meek Street NEW GISBORNE VIC 3438

Ph: 03 5428 8884 E: admin@cavallimotorsports.com.au

CMN Motors

2/21 Buffalo Road GLADESVILLE NSW 2111

Ph: 02 9808 2367 E: service@cmnmotors.com.au

Euro Auto Tech

22 Duntroon Road BRENDALE QLD 4500

Ph: 07 3171 2477 E: info@euroautotech.com.au

Euromaster Autohaus

1/31 Hotham Parade ARTARMON NSW 2064

Ph: 1300 387 611 E: info@euromasterautohaus.com.au

CHAIRMAN Mark Pedder (VIC) Pedders Suspension Pty Ltd

Ph: 03 9706 3500

Craig Baills (QLD) Highfields Mechanical Ph: 07 4696 7116

European Garage Canberra

2/2 Isa Street FYSHWICK ACT 2609

Ph: 0498 012 818 E: info@europeangarage.com.au

Euroserve Automotive Pty Ltd

36 Ross Street NEWSTEAD QLD 4006

Ph: 07 3852 1399 E: admin@euroserveauto.com.au

EVSE Australia

19/287 Victoria Rd RYDALMERE NSW 2116

Ph: 1300 406 210 E: james.greathead@evse.com.au

EVT Consulting

43 Farm Road SPRINGWOOD NSW 2777

Ph: 0428 899 963 E: evtconsulting@hotmail.com

Exaltd Automotive

2/37 Rooks Rd NUNAWADING VIC 3131

Ph: 03 9872 44 59 E: admin@exaltdautomotive.com.au

Gateway Automotive

694 Bellarine Highway LEOPOLD VIC 3224

Ph: 03 5250 3382 E: gatewayauto@bigpond.com

GLT Car Centre

14 Veronica Street CAPALABA QLD 4157

Ph: 07 3245 7966 E: peer@gltcarcentre.com.au

Grease And Oil Automotive

396 Keira Street WOLLONGONG NSW 2500

Ph: 02 4288 0110 E: info@greaseandoil.com.au

J & J Auto Fix Pty Ltd

1/ 12 Bimbil Street ALBION QLD 4010

Ph: 07 3862 3057 E: jason@jjautofit.com.au

Kings Automotive Service

8/19 Kangoo Road SOMERSBY NSW 2250

Ph: 0450 227 810 E: simon@kingsautoservices.com.au

Klemtech Automotive

14 Pikkat Dr BRAEMAR NSW 2575

Ph: 02 4761 0304

E: nathan@klemtechautomotive.com.au

Kool House Of Landrover

3/56 Burrows St BOWEN HILLS QLD 4006

Ph: 0416 806 009 E: admin@khor.com.au

Langford Auto Repairs

60 Railway St BOMADERRY NSW 2541

Ph: 02 4421 4937 E: langfordautos@bigpond.com

M1 Motors Pty Ltd

3/50 Rooks Road NUNAWADING VIC 3131

Ph: 03 9873 3668 E: joe@m1motors.com.au

MB Centre Pty Ltd

76B Norma Road BOORAGOON WA 6154

Ph: 08 6161 8561 E: orlan@mbcentre.com.au

Mermaid Mechanical

3/16 Northview St MERMAID BEACH QLD 4218

Ph: 0411 928 224 E: mermaidmechanical@outlook.com.au

Midas Coorparoo

Unit 3, 68 Harries Road COORPAROO QLD 4115

Ph: 07 3891 5733 E: sales@coorparoo.midas.com.au

AAAA BOARD OF DIRECTORS

DEPUTY CHAIRMAN Wayne Bryant (VIC) Repco Pty Ltd

Ph: 03 9566 5444

Perth Euro

42 Howe Street OSBORNE PARK WA 6017

Ph: 08 9244 7177 E: david@pertheuro.com.au

PHC 4x4 Car Accessories

U1/ 203 Collier Rd BAYSWATER WA 6053

Ph: 08 6161 4645 E: info@phc4x4.com.au

Poulton’s Garage

70 Main Rd RIDDELLS CREEK VIC 3431

Ph: 03 5428 7555 E: poultonsgarage@outlook.com

Reveng

13 Warner St CAMDEN PARK NSW 2570

E: info@reveng.net.au

Riddells Creek Automotive

3/ 11-13 Sutherlands Rd RIDDELLS CREEK VIC 3431

Ph: 03 5428 7922 E: michael@rcauto.com.au

Robby J’s Automotive

50 Della Torre Road MOE VIC 3825

Ph: 03 5127 6044 E: robbyjsauto@gmail.com

Scalzo Automotive

13 Ryan Court WARRAGUL VIC 3820

Ph: 03 5622 2006 E: scalzoautomotive@outlook.com

SONAX Australia and New Zealand

401 Coolart Road SOMERVILLE VIC 3912

Ph: 1800 476 629 E: stephan.rausch@sonax.com.au

Startech Prestige

8B Universal Way CRANBOURNE WEST VIC 3977

Ph: 03 8782 0711 E: service@startechprestige.com.au

The Garage Kyneton

1667 Kyneton-Metcalf Rd KYNETON VIC 3442

Ph: 03 4404 8616 E: andrea@thegaragewoodend.com.au

Top Source Unit 3/9 Hillview St RUNCORN QLD 4113

Ph: 0452 391 319 E: xiongace1@gmail.com

VA Garage Pty Ltd

Unit 2&3/5 Olympic Circuit SOUTHPORT QLD 4215

Ph: 07 5591 6009 E: tech@vagarage.com.au

Veloce Tuning

55-57 Futures Road CRANBOURNE WEST VIC 3977

Ph: 0447 575 750 E: eddie@velocetuning.com.au

Wollongong Auto Excellence

4 Glebe Street WOLLONGONG NSW 2500

Ph: 02 4226 5550

E: enquiries@wollongongautoexcellence.com.au

Yakuza Motorsports

3/1 Field Close MOOREBANK NSW 2170

Ph: 02 9620 2684 E: accounts@yakuzamotorsports.com

SECRETARY Janelle Gonzalez (NSW) Blue Toro Pty Ltd

Ph: 1300 258 386

DIRECTORS

Michael Carnemolla (NSW) 313 Automotive Pty Ltd

Ph: 02 9713 9476

Adam Pay (NSW) mycar Tyre & Auto Service

Ph: 02 9680 6500

April Harwood (NSW) JAX Quickfit Franchising Systems

Ph: 1300 189 665

Darren Robinson (VIC) HELLA Australia Pty Ltd

Ph: 1800 061 729

TREASURER Don Cormack (SA) ADRAD Pty Ltd

Ph: 08 8243 9888

Colette Kirby (VIC) Logicar Australia

Ph: 1300 564 422

Peter Rogers (VIC) Repco Authorised Service

Ph: 0428 896 597

Mark Pedder Chairman

CONTROLLING OUR DESTINY WITH VEHICLE MODIFICATION REGULATIONS

Australian aftermarket manufacturers are world renowned for innovative, high-quality products, technology and parts that improve upon and add to a vehicle’s capability and performance

The 4WD aftermarket is a great example of a healthy and growing modification sector, with hundreds of companies producing a vast array of 4WD products to help consumers enjoy the great outdoors more or help our workforce with built for purpose work vehicles.

As fantastic as this market is for manufacturers, retailers and consumers alike, vehicle modifications have to integrate with vehicle safety systems, and abide by relevant state and federal requirements including ADRs and general vehicle roadworthy requirements.

Although our product developers work diligently to produce high quality, safe, and compliant modifications, navigating Federal and individual state and territory regulations to ensure compliance can be challenging, and restrictive. This process is made more complex given different jurisdictions have different regulations, and some of these regulations are not best practice.

You may remember the situation the industry faced in Queensland in 2018. The Queensland Government had without notice, and without proper industry consultation, implemented a new restrictive suspension lift law. The law was retrospective and immediately resulted in vehicles with responsible lift modifications becoming illegal overnight. Police then conducted ‘Operation Lift’ and fined, issued Defect notices and impounded modified 4WD vehicles.

The AAAA mobilised very quickly, immediately engaging with Queensland Government and Transport and Main Roads (TMR) to strongly object to the enforcement action. We also mobilised our members and the public to contact the Minister responsible to share their views as responsible 4WD owners.

We were proud of our response and deployed our

government relation resources effectively to work to have the Government amend the regulations, but it was a cautionary tale for the industry. To ensure better transparency and avoid similar situations, we have been proactively engaging with regulators, to understand what they are worried about before decisions are made. And we’ve been making significant inroads.

Our initiative to form the Gross Combination Mass (GCM) Technical Working Group was an absolute game-changer, yielding very positive results on a topic that is increasingly important for our industry, and consumers.

We didn’t stop there. Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) are a new frontier for modifiers and regulators, and knowing the future challenges in this space we also formed an ADAS Technical Working Group. These collaborative groups allow us to help set an agenda, get ahead of issues and potential changes and ensure we are in a strong position to help shape good regulation.

With momentum and learnings from the success of these working groups, I’m proud to announce the inaugural National Light Vehicle Modifications Summit, to be held at Autocare 2023 on June the 9th in Brisbane. This exclusive summit is the next logical step for our industry to collaborate and influence national vehicle standards and we’re very excited to launch this new initiative.

The unique, highly-interactive one-day Summit format will bring together industry leaders, business owners, product developers and entrepreneurs. Crucially, we will also be joined by regulators.

Why should you attend? If you are in the vehicle modification space, want to understand what regulators are thinking, hear different perspectives, and contribute to the discussion on

important topics including GCM, ADAS, EV and more, this is a must-attend summit.

If we can lead the conversations to regulate our industry, we can control our destiny. This Summit will be a big part of these efforts.

The Summit’s format will feature three key themes.

Knowledge – sharing about vehicle modification regulations; what’s changed, what is under review and what’s coming.

Influencing – identifying the major issues and working together on agreed solutions for regulations and for industry.

Priorities – setting the agenda for industry collaboration on policy influence and product testing. Using recent testing examples, can we as an industry get ahead of the curve and develop responsible standards that are commercially practical and produce safe outcomes.

So, if you are a modifier or design parts and accessories that enhance vehicle performance, join us at Autocare for the historic National Light Vehicle Modifications Summit. Let’s work together, talk, learn and make a positive impact on the future of this important sector.

I look forward to seeing you there.

For further information on the National Vehicle Modifications Summit, and to register, visit www.autocare.org.au/modsummit

Charity Chief Executive Officer

Stuart

WHAT’S NEXT?

Could improved diversity and inclusion be the key for our industry to achieve its full potential?

The idea of diversity and inclusion has, unhelpfully, become part of a culture war, often attacked as “woke” or do-gooding. Even if it is those things, viewing it in that negative context ignores, to our detriment, the opportunity that improving diversity and inclusion creates to address our skills and labour shortages. It is all about broadening our talent pool. It is about saying to people from all kinds of backgrounds –gender, race, ethnicity, age, sexuality, language, education, disability – that, “you are welcome in our industry; there are good opportunities in the aftermarket for you to build a career, grow a business and enjoy success.”

In State of the Nation 2022, 39 percent of Capricorn Members said they were struggling to find good staff. Yet only six percent of Members employ one or two qualified female mechanics or fitters.

There is a huge opportunity to welcome more women into technical roles, grow our talent pool and create a more sustainable future for the auto industry.

As it happens, in the 2022 Capricorn Rising Stars award we had three female finalists and a female winner – Marama Thompson of Auto Super Shoppe in Hamilton, New Zealand – which suggests the task of improving diversity and inclusion is not only already underway, but it is working.

Speaking of Rising Stars, nominations are now open for the 2023 Capricorn Rising Stars Apprentice of the Year at cap.coop/stars.

The competition is all about recognising effort, rewarding hard work, and helping workshops retain their future leaders. There are great prizes on offer for both the apprentice and their workshop, so please consider nominating your superstar apprentice. There has never been any doubt in my mind that we are stronger together. That strength will only grow as we create a more diverse and inclusive workforce for our industry.

Yours in cooperation, David Fraser Group

CEO –

Capricorn Society Ltd

For more on Capricorn Society membership, visit www.capricorn.coop

AUTOMECHANIKA SHANGHAI CONCLUDES ENERGISED FOR A YEAR OF DEVELOPMENT

The Shenzhen edition of the show was held across February 15-18

On the 18th of February 2023, exhibitors and visitors waved goodbye to the 17th edition of Automechanika Shanghai, hosted at the Shenzhen World Exhibition and Convention Center.

Event organisers stated that all signs point to a surge of market activity in the global automotive supply chain, with visitors from 89 countries and regions attending the show. Through innovations across the fairground, networking activities and events, the four-day exhibition also reflected many rising trends around vehicle connectivity and new energy, and relinked ties between the overseas and domestic supply chain.

Key figures from Automechanika Shanghai –Shenzhen Edition:

• Onsite visitors: 106,383 from 89 countries and regions

• Exhibitors: 3,302

• Scale: 220,000sqm

• 58 fringe events

• Online visits through AMS Live: over 400,000

• 43 hybrid programmes broadcast on AMS Live

A renewed sense of anticipation was felt all around the fairground, with numerous overseas and domestic partners reuniting for the first time since the previous edition in 2020. Overall, the event saw a 33 percent increase in visitors, a true indication that the market is open for business and trade.

Exhibitors keenly showcased their latest innovations in line with an industry-wide shift towards environmental sustainability, autonomy, intelligence and new mobility. In this regard, Parts and Components; Electronics and Systems; Tomorrow’s Service and Mobility; Accessories; Customising; Diagnostics and Repair / Body and Paint and Tyres and Wheels offered full coverage of the up to downstream supply chain.

Participants also praised the show’s take on the brand’s Innovation4Mobility concept. In the Showcase, the Innovation4Mobility Mainstage, Green Repair Zone, A New Era of Commercial Vehicles, and Motorsports and High Performance areas drew attention to key market segments in China with strong growth and development potential.

This year, a total of 58 fringe programme events ran concurrently with the main show, of which all covered the latest global trends and advancements in the market.

Once again, AMS Live was a key communication gateway empowering remote and onsite users to explore purchasing decisions and capture the latest market information. On-demand video content and exhibitor searches on the platform remained open until the 17th of March 2023.

“After a two-year hiatus, it was very rewarding to see the fairground burst into action and transform into an assembly point for the overseas and domestic market,” Messe Frankfurt (HK) Ltd General Manager, Fiona Chiew, said.

“The Innovation4Mobility Showcase was a triumph as it offered a wider perspective on new mobility solutions, market trends and policy updates.

“Showcases and discussions also echoed the focus on next-generation technologies from exhibitors across the show floor. For the show’s return up north in November, we will further build upon the concept to act as a window into tomorrow’s industry.”

The next edition of Automechanika Shanghai will take place from the 29th of November to the 2nd of December 2023 at the National Exhibition and Convention Center (Shanghai). The event is organised by Messe Frankfurt (Shanghai) Co Ltd and the China National Machinery Industry International Co Ltd (Sinomachint).

In addition, the brand’s flagship show, Automechanika Frankfurt, will return to the stage from the 10th to the 14th of September 2024.

For more information on Automechanika , visit www.automechanika-shanghai.com or email auto@hongkong.messefrankfurt.com

David Fraser Group CEO, Capricorn Society Ltd

ARE YOU EDUCATING YOUR CUSTOMERS ON ADAS?

Consumers are concerningly confused when it comes to this important technology

Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) help drivers avoid on-road collisions by supporting the driver to make safe choices, alerting the driver to potential danger, and intervening to avoid an accident.

ADAS systems are being progressively included in new models (currently at 60 percent) and ADAS now incorporates a wide range of systems from Adaptive Cruise Control to Forward Collision Warnings.

Further, we expect to see this trend increase over the next two years as we see the effect of Australia’s adoption of Autonomous Emergency Braking and Lane Departure warning as mandatory requirements (ADRs) for new car models.

However, consumers do not appear to be keeping up.

Research data indicates that many don’t seem to fully understand the capabilities or how and when to use ADAS, and even if their vehicle is equipped with some features.

Of course, none of this will be news to you as aftermarket and workshop professionals.

As ADAS features increase in a relatively short time frame, a number of concerning key trends are being brought to the fore, including consumer confusion. Research from 2020 onwards shows that while consumers are showing a preference for selecting vehicle models with ADAS, many are unsure of all of the features and how these systems affect the day-to-day driving experience.

And the fact that the car companies are using different proprietary names for similar systems is adding to the confusion.

Consumers can see the safety benefits, but international research indicates car owners don’t

quite understand the capabilities of these systems (70 percent) and that incessant beeping can lead to abandonment and misuse.

We know the average handover of a new vehicle can last for less than 30 minutes and what is evident is that consumers are leaving the showroom with a brand-new car without a full working understanding of the vehicle capability.

To be fair, loading up the new car handover process with more details will probably lead to information overload and interestingly, this gap in consumer understanding is an opportunity that the aftermarket can fill.

Many commentators are already pointing out the need for the automotive industry to better educate and engage consumers on how to incorporate ADAS technology into the day-to-day driving experience.

Perhaps this is a role that we can play – for instance, as we undertake logbook servicing of these new vehicles, there is an opportunity to educate consumers on the features and to intentionally work in a conversation about ADAS. Options for messaging here include reminding consumers of their systems.

For example, “your car has lane departure warning, how are you finding the lane keeping assist systems, are you using the systems, and do you find the warning noises to be annoying or beneficial?”

This can lead to discussion and a valuable chance to educate consumers on recalibration.

Independent repair and service workshops are increasingly investing in ADAS equipment and training, and the next logical step is that we should tell customers why their choice of repairer was the

best choice to check their safety systems are in proper working order.

Of course, we also need to be investing in the training and equipment required to ensure that this is a true statement.

While ADAS features on a whole are far from brand new – ESC and traction control were introduced last century after all – these systems have evolved. Car makers are bringing out vehicles equipped with more and more varying ranges of advanced technologies and their prevalence can be expected to grow as more innovations in technology are uncovered.

As such, this is the right time for the independent aftermarket to work together to support consumer awareness that we have the training and the technology to ensure their ADAS technology continues to operate within the required operating parameters.

There is also another concerning trend we can expect to see, and the early signs are already here. That concern is that we are experiencing some subtle public messaging from the car industry implying you can only trust an authorised repairer to service an ADAS-equipped vehicle.

This is clearly not true because Australia’s Motor Vehicle Information Sharing Law mandates the sharing of repair information, but consumers may not know this.

The good news is that the perception of our capability is largely in our own hands.

A clean workshop, knowledgeable staff, state-ofthe-art equipment, and constant updates on the progress of the repair can influence perceptions of capability.

Similarly, engaging in an ADAS conversation, ‘pulling back the curtain’ and educating them does a similar job.

It reinforces the message that our industry is ahead of the curve, supporting consumer choice and playing a vital role in keeping our customers and their families safe while enhancing their experiences of driving a sophisticated computer on wheels.

Lesley Yates, AAAA Director of Government Relations and Advocacy info@aaaa.com.au

SETTING THE STANDARD

For safe EV service and repair

The Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association (AAAA) has welcomed the release of the new Australian Standard for electric vehicle (EV) service and repair.

The standard, ‘AS 5732 Electric Vehicle Operations – Maintenance and Repair’ contains new safety framework for independent service and repair workshops including workshop layout, specialised tools, and protection equipment for technicians to safely and efficiently service and repair EVs.

The new standard comes at a crucial time for the aftermarket industry as it progressively gears up to be ready for the car-parc transition to EVs.

“Our industry is committed to national standards, and the implementation of the revised AS 5732 standard is an important resource for workshops,” AAAA Chief Executive Officer, Stuart Charity, said.

“The standard provides guidance to technicians and business owners on how they can safely service customer EVs in a safe and professional workshop environment.”

Servicing and repair of EVs will require a combination of new training, investment in insulated tools and new EV safety workplace practices.

“There is an urban myth that the EVs can run forever with no technician involvement, but this is not the case. Like Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) vehicles, EVs need servicing, and EV vehicle components encounter wear and tear,” Stuart said.

Common replacement components and maintenance services that are shared between EV and ICE vehicles include: electric diagnostics, safety systems sensors, brake systems, suspension componentry, windscreen glass, wiper components, cabin air filters, lighting and signal systems, air conditioning and tyres. For Hybrid vehicles, which will play a large role in the EV car-parc transition, standard ICE and drivetrain servicing and repair schedules will remain a constant for many years. As Hybrid and EVs increase their share of the carparc, consumers will likely see noticeable changes to the layout of many workshops.

The AS 5732 standard encourages the design of a distraction free workshop zone for the decommissioning of the HV system to create a safe environment prior to any work on any HV and non-HV components.

AAAA JOINS THE GLOBAL RIGHT TO REPAIR MOVEMENT FOR VEHICLES

Automotive aftermarket releases best practice guidelines for legislators

The Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association (AAAA) has joined other global association leaders to support the critical global right to repair movement by signing the new right to repair position statement.

The statement enumerates the core beliefs of the movement and the objectives and intended outcomes of right to repair legislation.

Importantly, the document sets forth 10 best practice principles to developing a framework

for right to repair legislation that any supporting country can use and adapt to their needs.

Globally, the automotive aftermarket keeps 1.5 billion vehicles on the road while contributing $1.8 trillion to the global economy.

After vehicles exit their warranty period, independent repair shops perform 70 percent of repairs.

This vibrant industry and the consumer choice that it creates is being threatened by automotive manufacturers that block access to wirelessly transmitted vehicle repair and maintenance data. Without the convenience and choice of independent parts and repair, especially in suburban and rural communities, consumers will have limited access to affordable vehicle service and repair.

These restrictions can have catastrophic effects on local economies and the well-being and safety of millions that rely on vehicle transportation daily. In Australia, the Federal Government introduced the new Motor Vehicle Information Scheme (MVIS) in 2021, and that Law came into effect on 1 July 2022.

To ensure the standard delivered a positive outcome for independent repairers and automotive parts designers and manufacturers, the AAAA actively participated on the Standards Australia ‘EM-001: Electric Vehicle Operation’ technical committee.

“I would like to thank AAAA’s Lesley Yates, Director of Government Relations and Advocacy for her robust and active participation on the EM-001 technical committee, leading to a sensible and comprehensive workshop standard for Australian workshops,” Stuart said.

To purchase a copy of AS 5732:2022 Electric Vehicle Operations – Maintenance and Repair, please visit https://store.standards.org.au/product/as-5732-2022

“We are now the only country in the world to have comprehensive legislation to protect consumers rights to fair and open competition,” AAAA Chief Executive Officer, Stuart Charity, said.

“That legislation does not include access to information that is transmitted wirelessly from the vehicle to the car maker, all of which is not well known by drivers and not regulated by governments.

“Our Law is the best in class, but even here in Australia we can see areas of improvement when the Law is reviewed – we need to keep up with evolutions in technology that would limit owners right to choose and violate their privacy.”

To read the full position statement, go to https://bit.ly/3J4URSY

4WD INDUSTRY COUNCIL PROUD TO SEE FORMAL QUALIFICATION LAUNCHED

The qualification will be available from late March

The AAAA’s 4WD Industry Council is excited to announce that a new formal training qualification pathway for automotive accessory fitters is now available.

The recently formalised qualification, AUR22021 -Certificate II in Automotive Accessory Fitting, will be offered through the MTA Institute in Queensland as a government funded traineeship, available from late March.

The AAAA supported the MTAI with industry feedback and letters of support for funding, and is pleased to be able to share this positive industry news.

This is an exciting and important development for the 4WD aftermarket sector and accessories industry more broadly; a segment which continues to thrive but is simultaneously suffering the effects of the industry wide skills shortage.

In 2016, recognising the challenge for the 4WD Industry and the lack of a formal training pathway specifically tailored to train the next generation of 4WD industry workers, the 4WD Industry Council commenced a project to address the issue.

Over a seven-year journey, the Council worked closely with members and engaged Kangan Institute to conduct a course pilot program which proved to be a resounding success.

Momentum continued to build, leading to the establishment of a review and consultation project led by the Skills Service Organisation, Price Waterhouse Coopers.

The AAAA actively participated in this project, alongside the MTAQ, other industry bodies, and several AAAA member businesses.

This led to the development of a new, national qualification early in 2022 catering to accessories fitters, with new course content created specifically for the 4WD industry.

The final challenge in the journey was for Registered Training Organisations (RTOs) to develop the resources to offer the new qualification.

The AAAA assisted by providing data from their ‘Expression Of Interest’ survey, demonstrating the strong industry demand for the course.

The 4WD Industry Council congratulates the MTAI on becoming the first RTO to offer AUR22021 -Certificate II in Automotive Accessory Fitting, and hopes to see RTOs in other states soon to follow.

“The new 4WD specific qualification for students is a fantastic accomplishment and will support the growth and sustainability of the 4WD industry,” 4WD Industry Council Convenor, Nigel Bishop, said.

“I’d like to thank our members, the 4WD Industry Council for their tireless work, Kangan Institute, our pilot program students, MTA Institute Queensland and everyone involved who contributed to this important new industry training pathway.”

For more from the 4WD Industry Council, visit www.4wdcouncil.com.au

FAST TRACK YOUR VEHICLE DIAGNOSIS AND EV SERVICE SKILLS

Autocare is the perfect place to advance your skillset in these important areas

Automotive technicians will have an unprecedented opportunity to fast-track their technical, diagnostic and EV service skills at Autocare, a comprehensive automotive training event for the aftermarket industry.

The unparalleled two-day training convention will take place across the 9th and 10th of June 2023 at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre. Autocare will host hundreds of technicians and apprentices looking to invest in their future of servicing and repairing modern generation vehicles, including EVs.

The comprehensive Technical Training Program at Autocare 2023 will be a huge drawcard for technicians and cover the most in demand technical topics.

Sessions will include Hybrid and EV servicing, Pass Thru technology, EV safety, high-voltage battery management, oscilloscopes, sensor and component testing, EGR systems, fuel injection systems, exhaust aftertreatment, diesel specific diagnostics and much more.

“Modern vehicles are incredibly complex, with dozens of sensors and electronic control units and modules for safety systems, vehicle operation, pollution control and occupant comfort,” The

Automotive Technician Technical Editor and Director, Jeff Smit, said.

“EVs add another dimension to this complexity. Autocare will provide technicians with the understanding and skills to diagnose, service and repair these modern vehicle systems methodically, safely and efficiently.”

Technicians at Autocare will be trained by handpicked, highly respected technical trainers from the US and Australia – representing the largest collection of expert technical trainers ever assembled under one roof in Australia.

“Attending Autocare will be an important investment in your career, and make your job as a technician easier and more enjoyable thanks to new diagnosis capabilities and specialist skills,” Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association (AAAA) Chief Executive Officer, Stuart Charity, said.

The Autocare Technical Training Program is complemented by a dedicated Workshop Management Program for workshop owners and managers looking for the latest research, trends and management techniques to increase their workshop efficiency, sustainability and profitability.

A feature-packed Trade Show with over 100 of Australia’s best brands, a careers hub, training stage and networking event will complement the training programs, offering a complete solution to take your automotive career development, skills and business growth to the next level.

To review the full training program schedules and secure your tickets to Autocare, visit www.autocare.org.au

A limited number of sponsorship opportunities and exhibitor places are still available for Autocare 2023. For more information on these, please contact partnerships@autocare.org.au

MTA NSW APPRENTICES SHINE

More than 15 automotive apprentices competed for a shot at a spot in the WorldSkills national competition

In November at the Axalta training centre in Marsden Park, entrants battled against one another in a series of paint and panel style challenges, designed to put their skills to the test across disciplines ranging from spray painting to buffing and even design layout.

“The WorldSkills competition provides a key opportunity for recognising emerging talent in our industry,” MTA NSW Chief Executive Officer, Stavros Yallouridis, said.

“Not only is WorldSkills a chance to demonstrate the high quality of our training, it’s also an opportunity for our organisation to give back and invest in the future careers of our talented trainees.”

WOLFSPEED AND ZF ANNOUNCE PARTNERSHIP

The companies are teaming up to work on Future Silicon Carbide Semiconductor Devices

Wolfspeed, Inc, a global leader in Silicon Carbide technology, and ZF, a global technology company enabling next generation mobility, have announced a strategic partnership that includes the creation of a joint innovation lab to drive advances in Silicon Carbide systems and devices for mobility, industrial and energy applications. The partnership also includes a significant investment by ZF to support the planned construction of the world’s most advanced and largest 200mm Silicon Carbide device fab in Ensdorf, Germany.

Both the joint innovation lab and the Wolfspeed device fab are planned as part of the Important Project of Common European Interest (IPCEI) for Microelectronics and Communication Technologies framework and are dependent upon state aid approval from the European Commission.

“These initiatives are a significant step towards a successful industrial transformation. They strengthen European supply resilience and, at the same time, support the European Green Deal and the strategic goals for Europe’s Digital Decade,” ZF Chief Executive Officer, Dr Holger Klein, said.

Wolfspeed and ZF partner on Silicon Carbide R&D Centre

ZF intends to support this new construction by making a sizable financial investment in the hundreds of millions of dollars in exchange for Wolfspeed common stock.

As a part of this investment ZF will have a minority ownership position in the fab. Wolfspeed will maintain all operational and management control rights in the new fab.

ZF and Wolfspeed previously announced a strategic partnership in 2019 to create industryleading, highly efficient electric drivelines with a Silicon Carbide inverter, and these new initiatives represent the next generation of innovation for the partners.

When all was said and done, taking out the top honours were Kynan Bonanno (Gold), Braeden Lemke (Silver) and Bryceson Gordon (Bronze).

The WorldSkills regional competition is held every two years, featuring more than 500 events across 34 regions of Australia. Competitions test the skills and knowledge of 4000+ apprentices, trainees and students, who each have the chance to win gold, silver and bronze medals.

Successful entrants will go on to be selected for the National championships to be held in at the Melbourne Conference and Exhibition Centre in September 2023, with further successful entrants from the National event to be invited to join the ‘Skills Squad’ offering the chance to travel internationally and compete on a global scale.

In order to be eligible to enter the regional competition, entrants must either be undertaking an apprenticeship or traineeship, undertaking studies towards a qualification at an RTO/TAFE or University or have completed a relevant qualification at an RTO/TAFE or University. For more from MTA NSW, visit www.mtansw.com.au

The strategic partnership includes a joint research facility in Germany that will focus on real world e-mobility and renewable energy system level challenges.

The goal of the collaboration is to develop breakthrough innovations for Silicon Carbide systems, products, and applications, covering the full value chain from chip to complete systems. Additional collaboration partners will be invited to participate in the innovation process, establishing an end-to-end European Silicon Carbide innovation network.

The R&D centre will focus on innovation for Silicon Carbide systems and devices to meet specific requirements in all mobility segments including consumer, commercial, agricultural, and industrial vehicles as well as in the industrial and renewable energy markets.

The collaboration will drive improvements such as higher efficiency, increased power density and higher performances for electrification solutions.

ZF to Invest in Wolfspeed for Next Generation 200mm Silicon Carbide Fab

Wolfspeed plans to construct a fully automated, highly advanced 200mm wafer fabrication facility in Saarland, Germany.

“We have a strong partner by our side in ZF, which brings industry leading experience in scaling components for electric mobility as well as the aptitude to accelerate innovation in Silicon Carbide systems and power devices,” Wolfspeed President and Chief Executive Officer, Gregg Lowe, said.

“I am confident this partnership will lift Silicon Carbide semiconductor technology to a new level of global impact, supporting increased sustainability and efficiency efforts across a multitude of industries.”

“Together, Wolfspeed and ZF combine expertise in power electronics and systems with a knowhow in applications that is unparalleled in the industry,” ZF Board of Management Member, Stephan von Schuckmann, said.

“Wolfspeed brings its more than 35 years in Silicon Carbide technology, and at ZF we have a unique understanding of the overall systems across all sectors from passenger cars and commercial vehicles to construction machinery, wind power and industrial applications. The close cooperation between fab and R&D center will enable us to develop breakthrough innovations beyond state of the art for the benefit of our customers.”

For more information, visit www.zf.com

GATES AUSTRALIA TEAMS UP TO SUPPORT AUTOMOTIVE APPRENTICES

The company is rewarding automotive apprentices with Supercars experiences in partnership with RAS

Gates Australia says it strongly believes young apprentice mechanics are the future of the automotive industry and recent survey data has shown a large percentage of Australian apprentices leave the industry in their third year.

Gates’ objective for its apprentice program is to reward young apprentice mechanics and demonstrate to them there is more to the industry than just the daily grind.

During 2022, a pilot program was launched by Gates in partnership with Repco Authorised Service (RAS), where apprentice mechanics were encouraged to submit a short video explaining why they decided to become an automotive mechanic. Winning submissions were rewarded with a VIP Supercars experience at the Gold Coast 500. The apprentices were treated to the full corporate hospitality experience in the Penrite Racing corporate suite, including Supercar driver meet and greets, pit tours and team merchandise packs.

After the success of the initial pilot, Gates launched the same program with RAS apprentices in South Australia. With the hype buzzing from the Gold Coast event, videos submissions rolled in, which Gates then shared via its social media channels with strong engagement across multiple platforms.

The lucky SA apprentices were treated to a day at the Adelaide 500 street circuit, the exciting final round of the Supercars calendar. One extremely lucky apprentice also got the opportunity to experience an adrenalin packed hot lap around the track in the Ford Mustang Safety Car.

Following the overwhelming success of the program, Gates will again be running the program during 2023 with winning apprentices having the opportunity to attend the Newcastle 500, Melbourne GP, Perth SuperSprint, Tasmania SuperSprint and Darwin Triple Crown Supercar events.

In addition, Gates will also be launching an exciting Bathurst 1000 experience, with all apprentice videos submitted putting them in the running to win a spot to attend the pinnacle event in Australian sport as a guest of Gates.

“The initial idea for this program evolved from an initial approach by a RAS Business Specialist who was looking to take some apprentices to the Gold Coast 500 event as part of the RAS workforce development initiatives and hoped Gates may be able to assist with some merchandise or general admission ticketing,” Gates Australia Marketing Manager, Priscilla Robb, said.

“From there we have turned this into a national program to recognise, reward and educate the apprentices who are the future of the Australia Automotive Aftermarket Industry.

“Being able to host the apprentices provides Gates the opportunity to educate and promote our brand at the grassroot levels, and it is so rewarding to see many of them experiencing the excitement of a Supercars event in a Corporate Suite.”

National Manager for the RAS program, Peter Rogers, who is also a board member of the Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association, expressed his gratitude to Gates Australia for supporting skills development in the industry.

“The skills shortage is a critical issue, and we are actively seeking initiatives and partnerships that will help enhance our workforce” Peter said.

“From a simple request for help, Gates have stepped up to throw their full support behind our efforts and we are extremely grateful for their ongoing commitment to RAS and to the trade more broadly.”

For more from Gates Australia, visit www.gatesaustralia.com.au

AAAA SEEKING EOI FOR AUTOMECHANIKA DUBAI 2023

Opportunities exist for AAAA members to participate in an Australian Pavilion at this leading trade show

Automechanika Dubai, to be held across the 2nd to the 4th of October 2023, is the largest international trade show for the automotive aftermarket industry in the wider Middle East region.

For many AAAA members, this show represents an important opportunity to connect with new and existing buyers in the Middle East and Northern Africa.

The AAAA says it would love to hear from members interested in participating in the Australian Pavilion at Automechanika Dubai 2023.

The exhibitor package includes:

• Minimum 3m x 3m display area – greater space is available on application

• Stand positioning in the ‘Australian’ section of the show (limited space available)

• Individual show directory and website listing

• Carpet – delivery and installation

• Lighting and one electrical line

• Header panel with your company name printed

• Basic furniture package including lockable cabinet, table and two chairs

Also available are the following additional bundled benefits:

• VIP invitation to the Australian Networking Evening Function hosted by the AAAA during the show with the option to invite key, current or prospective, customers to this function.

• Pre-visit support including complementary hotel booking service (nightly accommodation cost is not included, however very competitive

room rates will be negotiated at a hotel within short walking distance from the show).

To register your interest, email AAAA National Membership Manager, Nigel Bishop, on nigel@aaaa.com.au

TJM TO REVITALISE US MARKET

The company has appointed R&R Marketing Consultants Inc

TJM is taking significant steps to revitalise and proactively grow its operations in the US market.

Late last year at the SEMA show in Las Vegas, TJM unveiled products designed for the Jeep Wrangler Rubicon and the Ford Ranger, along with a 30 percent increase in its US product range.

TJM followed this up in February with the appointment of what it says is one of the most renowned automotive aftermarket sales and marketing businesses in the US, six-time SEMA Representative of the Year award winner, R&R Marketing Consultants Inc (RRMCI).

TJM USA originally began in 2011 largely driven by consumer demand for 4x4 accessories. In 2016 to service significant interest in the brand, the organisation opened its own engineering department in San Diego, California.

Since then, interest in the brand has continued to increase, and in the next step in the TJM growth story, the organisation plans to ramp up its participation in the growing overlanding market throughout the United States.

The characteristics of overlanding have some subtle differences to the 4x4 recreational market here in Australia and requires some much-needed consideration for the market offer to resonate with US consumers.

TJM says contracting RRMCI is an important milestone in the strategic road map to developing its North American market, and will deliver the access the brand needs, but a complete market offer will be vital to ensuring the ongoing success of the brand with US consumers.

TJM Head of Customer Experience and Retail, Matt Logan, reflected on the appointment of RRMCI, the strategic fit of the business and the organisation’s plans to build a loyal following in the US.

“We’ve been looking for a partner to support our growth throughout the USA and provide an improved level of service to our growing customer base,” Matt said.

“RRMCI has a great reputation across the industry, and we look forward to working with the R&R team.

“Historically, we’ve been consumer lead in this market and have lacked a more wholistic and targeted US and North American market offer.

“This has limited our capacity to build the TJM brand and deliver a package that consumers in this market really want.

“We’ve now listened to the needs of the growing US overlander market and have a package that provides significantly more options and greater convenience to consumers.

2023 FUTURE:GAS SEMINAR ROADSHOW IS GO

Tickets are now on sale for 26 industry-supported refrigerant education events for those working in the automotive and stationary HVAC/R sectors

A lot of change has emerged in the world of refrigerants since the highly successful future:gas refrigerant seminar roadshows of 2016 and 2017. So it is time for another, say event organisers. Refrigerants are still changing, with some of the changes discussed in previous future:gas seminars happening faster than expected and some slower. There are also some unexpected developments and curveballs in the mix.

Everyone in the industry needs to be aware of what is happening in the market, what the laws are and how they could be changing.

The 2023 future:gas roadshows will again assemble expert speakers to discuss and explain the latest on the recovery and handling of new refrigerants, the laws that will influence each part of the industry and what this will mean for the day-to-day life of those in the business of handling refrigerants.

At least 3000 delegates from the automotive and stationary HVAC/R sectors are expected to attend the 26 events across Australia, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea and Vanuatu.

Tickets to future:gas seminars in Australia and New Zealand are just $20, making it affordable for technicians to pay for themselves and for business owners to send a number of their employees.

To help as many people as possible to attend, the seminars will take place on weekday evenings during the winter, beginning at 5.00pm with complimentary welcome drinks, food and trade displays.

Seminar timetable:

Stationary:

• Vanuatu - 11 May 2023

• Melbourne VIC - 16 May 2023

• Albury NSW - 17 May 2023

• Canberra ACT - 18 May 2023

• Hobart TAS - 23 May 2023

• Adelaide SA - 24 May 2023

• Sydney NSW - 6 June 2023

• Newcastle NSW - 7 June 2023

• Brisbane QLD - 13 June 2023

• Townsville QLD - 14 June 2023

• Darwin NT - 27 June 2023

• Perth WA - 28 June 2023

“Having put in place a far stronger value proposition in the US market and bringing on RRMCI to enhance our market access, will give TJM meaningful upside exposure in the coming years.”

RRMCI Chief Operating Officer, Chuck Lenhart, was keen to share the news of the partnership with distributors throughout North America.

“The team here at RRMCI could not be more excited to represent a premium 4x4 and overlanding brand like TJM USA,” Chuck said. “TJM is well known in these segments by consumers around the globe and we very much look forward to making more products available to them by building a strong distribution network in the US and Canada.”

For more information, visit www.aeroklasasiapacificgroup.com

• Port Moresby PNG - 11 July 2023

• Lae PNG - 12 July 2023

Automotive:

• Adelaide SA - 1 August 2023

• Melbourne VIC - 2 August 2023

• Canberra ACT - 15 August 2023

• Sydney NSW - 16 August 2023

• Newcastle NSW - 17 August 2023

• Brisbane QLD - 22 August 2023

• Townsville QLD - 23 August 2023

• Darwin NT - 5 September 2023

• Perth WA - 6 September 2023

New Zealand – automotive and stationary:

• Auckland - 25 July 2023

• Wellington - 26 July 2023

• Dunedin - 27 July 2023

To securely purchase tickets online, visit www.futuregas.ac

TECALLIANCE INTRODUCES GLOBAL CODE OF CONDUCT

The code is based on the company’s values TecAlliance, a leading expert for data management and processes in the independent automotive aftermarket, has adopted a Code of Conduct that applies to all locations and subsidiaries worldwide as of January 2023. With this set of rules, the company is setting an example for transparency, quality and sustainability.

“With the publication of the Code of Conduct, we are taking the next logical and sensible step towards becoming a sustainable company. This makes it clear that we take our social responsibility as a global player seriously,” TecAlliance Chief Executive Officer, Jürgen Buchert, said.

THE EVOLUTION OF VEHICLE TECHNOLOGY

Vehicle technology is a fascinating space, says ACA Research

OEMs are trading off inclusions against cost as they try and deliver a package that appeals to buyers without breaking the bank. While there is a natural evolution over time, some technologies become commonplace, while others remain more niche, or fall by the wayside.

In this article, we explore a couple of these, looking at their usage across different OEMs. We talk a lot about vehicles being suitable for local conditions. While part of that is tuning them for our roads, a more basic consideration is Australia’s heat.

Given that, we tend to take air conditioning for granted. While it’s a fair assumption that newer vehicles include it, this wasn’t always the case. In fact, almost 600,000 of the ~4.2m pre2007 vehicles on the road didn’t come with air conditioning as standard.

It is no surprise that some OEMs were earlier adopters than others, with premium brands such as Mercedes and BMW leading the way.

There is however an unexpected name at the top of the list – Hyundai was ahead of its time, almost universally fitting vehicles with air conditioning as far back as the early 2000s.

just one in three vehicles from 2017-on offered this, largely driven by premium European brands. This includes almost all of the vehicles sold by BMW, Audi, and Mercedes, as well as a significant proportion of those from Audi’s sister brand VW. However, Mazda is the only mainstream manufacturer outside of these brands widely using this technology, including it across most of its range (except the BT50 ute).

At the other end of the spectrum, almost no vehicles from market leader Toyota include this function. The exception here is the newly released C-HR compact SUV, suggesting that it could become more common in newer models as they’re released into the market.

The Code of Conduct provides TecAlliance employees with a clear set of rules on the essential topics of social interaction in everyday work, occupational safety and environmental protection, and data protection.

It also covers dealing with gifts and invitations, avoiding corruption and bribery, nondiscrimination, and responding to indications of unethical behaviour.

The guidelines give orientation and security in their daily business life in an increasingly complex and challenging working environment. They show how TecAlliance deals with possible questions that may arise or difficult situations concerning business practices or dealings with colleagues, shareholders, and business partners.

The code is based on the company values that have been defined in order to make TecAlliance a driving force in the digitisation of the entire automotive aftermarket, ie: One Team, Customer Centricity, Entrepreneurial Thinking, Innovation and Result Driven.

For more information or to access the Code of Conduct, go to www.tecalliance.net

This is even more impressive given just two thirds of vehicles from its sister brand Kia included this feature. We can also see the evolution of Japanese brands, with older vehicles from Toyota, Mazda, and Suzuki lagging behind many local and international competitors.

Fast forward to today, and the technologies might have changed, but we’re still having many of the same conversations.

OEMs are emphasising vehicle safety, with driver assist functions making the transition from niche to mainstream (and even essential for any OEMs seeking a five-star ANCAP rating).

One area that’s seen more mixed adoption however is stop-start engine technology. Despite benefiting fuel efficiency and vehicle emissions,

From an aftermarket perspective, this can help us understand which technologies we need to be focussing on as we make decisions around investing in training and tools.

As is often the case, this will vary depending on the customer base and car parc you’re servicing. The key here is to remember that this isn’t static, but changes over time – keep an eye out for the upcoming release of the updated AAAA car parc tool to see what your local car parc looked like in 2022, and how this has evolved over the past five years. This column was prepared for AAAA Magazine by ACA Research, the AAAA’s partners in the AAAA Aftermarket Dashboard which is delivered to AAAA members each quarter. For more information about ACA Research, visit www.acaresearch.com.au or contact Ben Selwyn on bselwyn@acaresearch.com.au

PARTNERSHIP TO DELIVER CRITICAL ELECTRIC TRANSPORT TRAINING

TAFE Queensland is a provider of choice for global leaders

TAFE Queensland has been identified as a training provider of choice by the exclusive Australian distributors for global heavy automotive manufacturers, Foton Mobility, to assist in developing training to enable local Queensland businesses to prepare for a Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) takeover in the heavy automotive sector.

The 100 percent Australian owned Foton Mobility Distribution currently supplies a range of ZEVs including Battery Electric (BEV) and Hydrogen Fuel Cell (FCEV) trucks and buses, and is at the forefront of heavy vehicle technology in Australia.

Foton Mobility announced in a press release that they had “signed Deeds of Collaboration with a number of major national education and vocational training institutions,” which includes TAFE Queensland.

Foton Mobility went on to say the partnerships will work towards “developing training programs and accreditations to meet the needs of the transport industry.”

“The partnerships we form with educational institutes are extremely important to us,” Foton

Mobility General Manager of Aftersales, Ross Thompson, said.

“Not only do they enable us to pass on our extensive body of knowledge around new energy vehicles, but they also help us to understand what skills need developing, and what skills don’t currently exist.

“Partners were chosen for this collaboration based on their experience and demonstrated excellence in their respective areas.

“TAFE Queensland are well-respected in the industry as developers of cutting-edge training and Foton Mobility is excited to work with the largest training provider in Queensland.”

TAFE Queensland Emerging Industries Business Development Manager, Shawn O’Sullivan, says the partnership is an acknowledgement of TAFE Queensland’s market-leading training and the respect that local industries have for the provider.

“TAFE Queensland is a proud leader in the training of automotive apprentices,” Shawn said.

“At June 30 2022, more than 50 percent of Queensland’s Certificate III in Heavy Commercial Vehicle Mechanical Technology (AUR31120) students were completing their training at TAFE Queensland.

“Looking towards future skills, we are leading the charge for ZEV training in Queensland, and this partnership is recognition for the work we are already doing to provide upskill opportunities to Queensland technicians.

“We have been offering nationally accredited Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV) units as electives to all our automotive apprentices for a number of years and have added Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV) units as these vehicles have become more popular.

“This is unique to TAFE Queensland and makes this important training available at no extra cost for employers and their apprentices.

“There are also Skillsets available for experienced industry members looking to upskill into the ZEV space, which we are offering to members from all corners of the automotive industry.

“We are looking forward to working with Foton Mobility to develop training that will support local industries and equip Queensland for its ZEV future.”

TAFE Queensland is the largest training provider in Queensland and provides vocational training to over 120,000 students per year, including almost 25,000 apprentices state-wide.

It is well-equipped to contribute to large-scale improvements to Queensland’s industries given its impressive tally of 60 campuses from Cairns to Coolangatta and out to Mt Isa.

For more information about automotive training, visit www.tafeqld.edu.au or call 1300 308 233.

Foton Mobility General Manager of Aftersales, Ross Thompson.

TAFE Queensland Emerging Industries Business Development Manager, Shawn O’Sullivan

2023 CAPRICORN RISING STARS NOMINATIONS NOW OPEN

Nominations close on April 30

Nominations are officially open for Capricorn Members to nominate their outstanding apprentices as Capricorn Rising Stars. This is an opportunity for automotive workshops and repair centres to recognise, reward and retain apprentices for their ongoing effort and dedication.

Capricorn says a nomination to the Capricorn Rising Stars Apprentice of the Year program will not only benefit the individual but the whole team as it promotes and embeds a positive workshop culture, which rewards commitment and passion.

As Australasia’s largest automotive cooperative, Capricorn explains that it supports businesses to thrive and be sustainable in the automotive aftermarket industry.

The prestigious Rising Stars achievement award recognises talented apprentices who show initiative, thirst for knowledge and commitment. The competition is open to all types of workshops and disciplines; from panel and fabrication to auto-electrical, general mechanical, heavy diesel and more.

“Encouraging and acknowledging future leaders is

an important part of growing and supporting the automotive industry,” Capricorn Chief Executive Officer Automotive, Brad Gannon, said.

“We at Capricorn want to help our Members strengthen their teams and believe that recognition and reward will help businesses attract and retain the best talent.”

Capricorn Members are encouraged to nominate their star apprentices as they continue to develop their technical proficiency.

Capricorn says recognising an apprentice’s commitment will keep them engaged and excited about their promising careers ahead of them. Every apprentice nominated will benefit by receiving a certificate sent to their workshop.

The Capricorn Rising Stars competition highlights the importance of apprentices to the Australian and New Zealand automotive aftermarket industries. The competition also seeks to encourage new talent to join the industry, ultimately generating more qualified automotive repairers to ensure the industry’s continued future growth and strength. More than $27,000 in shared cash and prizes is up for grabs for the top five apprentices, overall winner and nominating workshops.

AUSTRALIAN COMPANY SETTING THE PACE FOR HYDROGEN VEHICLES IN EUROPE

H2X Global has partnered with Norwegian Hydrogen Australian Hydrogen Fuel Cell Vehicle Manufacturer H2X Global Limited has announced the signing of a memorandum of understanding with Norwegian Hydrogen AS, a green hydrogen production-, distribution- and refueling company, to collaborate on the commercial supply of hydrogen and the range of Hydrogen Fuel Cell commercial vehicles. The new venture will focus on the Nordic region, and the companies will develop a joint commercial and operational framework for commercial fleet operators located nearby Norwegian Hydrogen’s sites, for the transition to hydrogen as the zeroemissions solution in the future.

The partnership intention is to offer all components for climate-friendly commercial transport through a single channel, such as the production and purchase of green hydrogen, distribution, and hydrogen refueling stations, and to provide customers with the supply and aftersales of vehicles, overcoming the challenge commercial operators have faced in obtaining a full- service option for emission-free transport in the past.

Using Norwegian Hydrogen’s pilot plant at Hellesylt as an example, the 1.4 ton a day hydrogen

production, if used to abate emissions in the transportation sector, would remove more than 9000t of CO2 every year.

This would provide more than nine million kilometers of emission-free heavy road transport per year. And again, this is only based on one out of many Norwegian Hydrogen sites under development In the Nordic region.

“Norwegian Hydrogen’s focus is to enable zero emissions for our customers. It is paramount for our customers to also have access to hydrogen vehicles, and we are excited to collaborate with H2X to present a full package solution,” Norwegian Hydrogen CTO, Ian Thompson, said.

“The transition to net-zero carbon transport through Hydrogen is vital to help eliminate the growing emissions from the transport sector,” H2X Global Head of Sales and Marketing, Bill Moss, said.

“This sector accounts for 23 percent* of global energy-related CO2 emissions and is the fastestgrowing contributor to climate change.

“Collaboration between hydrogen producers like Norwegian Hydrogen and a commercial vehicle

Capricorn thanks long-term program sponsors Castrol, Repco and the Workshop Whisperer for taking part in this most valuable automotive aftermarket industry recognition program.

Entries close on the 30th of April 2023 and Capricorn will announce the overall winner in early August 2023 with the top five finalists announced in July.

Capricorn Members are encouraged to nominate their star apprentices at cap.coop/stars.

To find out more about Capricorn or to join Australasia’s largest automotive cooperative, visit capricorn.coop/join or call 1800 327 437 (AU) or 0800 401 444 (NZ).

manufacturer like H2X is crucial in the reduction of zero emissions and offering fleet owners a good alternative.”

Norwegian Hydrogen announced last year that they entered into a partnership with US-based company FirstElement Fuel and Japanese company Mitsui to build a Nordic-wide network of hydrogen refueling stations and this partnership will assist in accelerating the success of this rollout.

This follows H2XGlobal’s recent announcement through its subsidiary H2X Gothenburg AB’s of the awarding of the public tender for the supply vehicles in the 3.5T, 5.0T, and 18T categories. It is planned that the first vehicles will be operational at the end of 2023 and all vehicles to be fully operational by 2025, supporting the production of vehicles for the Northern European regions in line with Norwegian Hydrogen’s development and operation of hydrogen refueling stations for heavy duty applications in the Nordics.

For more information, visit www.h2xglobal.com

*Source: www.iea.org/etp/tracking2017/transport

VALVOLINE GLOBAL LAUNCHES FOURTH ANNUAL MECHANICS MONTH

Valvoline puts a spotlight on mechanics every March in appreciation for keeping the world moving

This month-long initiative from Valvoline will highlight the contribution of mechanics in more than 60 countries worldwide, including Australia and New Zealand.

The effort will celebrate the importance of mechanics as knowledgeable professionals who are critical to keeping engines running and people moving forward.

In ANZ, Valvoline says it will show appreciation for industry professionals through social media, giveaways and paid advertising to enhance consumer awareness.

AUTOMECHANIKA HO CHI MINH CITY 2023 LAUNCHED

The June 2023 show will explore Vietnam’s automotive supply chain evolution

Vietnam is in a unique position to fast-track its electric vehicle (EV) development given its transformation in automotive manufacturing, electrification and digitalisation.

In a bid to speed up the advancement nationwide, government initiatives stand to benefit the public and private sectors.

The launch of the fifth edition of Automechanika Ho Chi Minh City gathered local players leading the EV supply chain formation.

The show will take place from the 23rd to the 25th of June 2023 at the Saigon Exhibition and Convention Center (SECC).

“The growth and development of Vietnam’s automotive industry show no signs of slowing down with both sales and manufacturing capabilities on the rise,” Messe Frankfurt (HK) Ltd General Manger, Fiona Chiew, said.

“The recent urbanisation of the country means its automotive industry has leapfrogged internal combustion engines straight into a heavy focus on EV development.

“As a result, the country has the potential to become one of the fastest ASEAN member states to take on the rising demand for EV consumption and production.”

and Automation, Auto Service and Maintenance / Accessories and Customising, and EV and IoT zones will become an integral part of the collaborative platform.

Furthermore, the show will see more local participation from the advanced technology manufacturing and production sector as an advantage of deeper collaboration with the local supporting organisations VASI and NC Network. In addition, a collection of domestic and international speakers at the Automechanika Connected Exchange, Smart Factory and Industry 4.0, and Electrification and Digitalisation Conferences will explore ways to enhance the vehicle lifecycle in line with electrification and digitalisation to transform Vietnam into a complete automotive manufacturing hub. This includes developing core parts, technologies and digital solutions in manufacturing stages through to enduser experiences and aftermarket services.

Valvoline says it supports trusted mechanics around the world all year long through technical training and business growth initiatives, but during the month of March, the brand looks for others to join in the celebration and support of mechanics.

Participation in the Mechanics Month campaign has grown from 15 countries to over 60 in 2022 and continues to gain momentum.

In Australia and New Zealand, Valvoline would like to say thank you to all mechanics, whether automotive or heavy duty, for keeping our world turning.

Valvoline is also looking to set-up seven young apprentice mechanics with a Tool Trolley and 261pc tool set, valued at $2,500 each. It says this initiative will go a long way to helping seven young apprentice mechanics get set-up for their automotive career.

For more information on Mechanics Month and Valvoline’s celebrations, visit www.valvolineglobal.com/en-au/mechanics-month/

Although, more action is still needed for the country to mobilise its resources. In this view, the Government is already prioritising investment plans and tax incentives to support the competitiveness of domestic companies in the value chain and the uptake of electric two and four-wheelers amongst the growing consumer base.

“As always, we will promote opportunities in the market to our local and global networks. Our launch in Hanoi with strategic partners, supporting organisations, associations and the media aimed to grow the show’s awareness in Northern Vietnam,” Fiona said.

“I believe it was an important opportunity to create stronger ties in the domestic market to offer up a broader overview of automotive manufacturing and EV development.”

The launch included the likes of the Vietnam Automotive Technicians Network (OTO-HUI), Vietnam Association of Mechanical Industry (VAMI), Vietnam Association for Supporting Industries (VASI), Vietnam Automobile Transportation Association (VATA), and NC Network.

Reflecting industry trends in product coverage

The synergy of local and overseas exhibitors with showcases in the Automotive Manufacturing

However, to fully embrace EVs, Vietnam must also nurture talent across the board to meet the demands and boost productivity in manufacturing, as well as after-sales services in the local market. This will be an overarching theme during the Auto Service and Maintenance Workshop. Professional instructors will guide manufacturers, technical engineers, mechanics, and workshop owners on repairing and diagnosing high-voltage systems and ADAS recalibration.

At the same time, the Auto Service Day will help car owners recognise the importance of car maintenance through onsite auto services like diagnostics and detailing.

Elsewhere, AutoFest@HCMC will present a medley of activities to fuse automotive culture with the day-to-day marketplace.

The line-up of events, which includes the Auto City Marketplace, EMMA Vietnam, Drift and Stunt and Auto NITZ Party, aims to offer more outlets for suppliers to interact with potential clients, workshops, car owners and enthusiasts. Automechanika Ho Chi Minh City is co-organised by Messe Frankfurt (HK) Ltd, Chan Chao International Co Ltd and Yorkers Exhibition Service Vietnam.

For more information, please visit www.automechanika-hcmc.com

RACV CALLS ON MELBURNIANS TO HAVE THEIR SAY

Opinions are being sought on the state of Melbourne roads

RACV is asking Melburnians how roads across the entire city can be made safer through the My Melbourne Road survey.

Responses are being sought from all road users whether they ride a bike, drive a car or walk. The My Melbourne Road survey uses an interactive map showing roads from 31 local council areas.

Survey participants are able to provide feedback by dropping a pin and filling out information about how a section of road or intersection can be improved from a safety perspective. The interactive map also shows participants where serious injuries and deaths have occurred on our roads between 2016 and 2019.

In 2022, 106 people died on Melbourne roads. This shows no improvement with the four-year average between 2018 and 2021 which was 105.

In addition, the first 44 days of 2023 saw 17 fatalities on Melbourne roads. An increase in rainfall and severe weather events as a result of a La Niña weather phase has led to an increase in potholes, flash flooding and safety hazards.

Melbourne recorded 33 pedestrian deaths and eight cyclist deaths in 2022. For pedestrians, the

four year average between 2018 and 2021 was 25 and six for cyclists.

RACV General Manager Automotive Services, Jackie Pedersen, said the My Melbourne Road survey provides an excellent opportunity for motorists, pedestrians and cyclists to highlight road and driving conditions that have given them cause for concern and assist RACV in achieving a safer road environment for all modes of transport.

“RACV really wants to know what Melburnians think about the roads, intersections and routes that make up their daily commutes,” Jackie said.

“For example, is the speed limit too high? Are certain lanes too narrow? Is there inadequate signage that could lead to collisions? Have potholes or deteriorating road surfaces made a certain road dangerous to travel on?

“When talking about Melbourne roads, it’s not just drivers we’re hoping to hear from. We want to be a voice for everyone including pedestrians, bike riders and public transport users. This is your chance to speak up and be heard.”

Jackie said RACV will share the input from survey participants with all levels of government.

“We want to gather as much data as we can so

BURSON AUTO PARTS COMES TO THE RESCUE

The company gets behind Victoria’s Nyora Speedway in its time of need

Every Burson Auto Parts store across the country has a special commitment to its local community.

The company’s Pakenham (Victoria) store recently played an integral role in assisting a local community group that had suffered a sudden and unexpected setback.

A very popular local Sprintcar racing venue, Victoria’s Nyora Speedway has a history dating back to 1960, starting out as a safe place for local teenagers to drive beat-up old paddock cars, growing to become one of the largest Speedway organisations in Victoria.

Nyora Speedway has a growing membership of more than 150 dirt racing enthusiasts competing in VSC Open Standard Saloons, VSC Ladies Standard Saloons, VSC Junior Standard Saloons, SSA Junior Sedans, VSC Sports Sedans and Vic Mini Sprints club categories, hosting more than ten race events each year.

The regional venue also runs exciting speedway races for Modified Production Sedans, Street Stocks, V8 Dirt Modifieds and on occasion SDAV Hot Rods along with Crash n’ Bash/Demolition Derby events.

The Burson Auto Parts Pakenham store has been a long term sponsor of Nyora Speedway joining several other local businesses that support this family orientated venue and club to cover its operating and maintenance costs.

A break-in over the Christmas break saw Nyora Speedway lose more than $15,000 worth of essential tools and equipment.

This is where the Burson Auto Parts/BAPCOR

“We Give a Damn” value pillar became a reality, with the Pakenham store team organising quality replacement Milwaukee tools and equipment to ensure the Speedway’s continued operation. This significantly eased the financial impact of the break-in for this not for profit local Speedway racing venue and club, assisting them when they needed it most.

“On behalf of the Nyora committee and members we would like to thank you for your continued support of our complex over the years,” Nyora Speedway Club President, Marcus Reddecliffe, said.

“We all appreciate your kind donations. Without support from local businesses like Burson Auto

that we can highlight and encourage meaningful changes that can deliver safety improvements and help save lives,” Jackie said.

The My Melbourne Road survey follows RACV’s My Country Road survey in 2021, which saw more than 4,000 Victorians provide feedback on the state of Victoria’s regional and rural roads. In the survey, 31 roads were highlighted as having serious safety issues. Of these, 16 have seen infrastructure upgrades commence or committed to by government.

You can take the My Melbourne Road survey online at www.racv.com.au/mymelbourneroad

Parts we would be in trouble and with our last break-in you were there to help us out once again.”

In the famed Aussie spirit of supporting your mates, Burson Auto Parts says it proudly supports the local communities of its national store network. For more from Burson Auto Parts, visit www.burson.com.au

REDARC ANNOUNCES NEW PRESIDENT

Peter Favilla has been appointed as REDARC President of Mobile Power and Connected Vehicles

REDARC is thrilled to welcome Peter Favilla as its President of Mobile Power and Connected Vehicles.

Based in Wisconsin, Peter is joining the team with the direction to lead REDARC’s growth both internationally and in North America. He comes to REDARC as a customer-centric executive with a wealth of knowledge in elevating brands.

Peter’s rich background includes positions at Miller Brewing Company, Fiskars Brands, Andersen Windows, and Ecolab.

Most recently, Peter was employed by Pentair, where he spent nearly five years in multiple roles including Vice President of Global Marketing and Chief Experience Officer of Consumer Solutions.

Over the course of his time at Pentair, he led multiple strategic initiatives which increased demand generation and enhanced the customer experience.

Peter’s expertise in leading teams, building brands, developing customer-centric strategy and propelling growth through new products will be incredibly valuable for accelerating the REDARC brand in North America.

Loyal customers can rest assured that REDARC

will stay committed to its roots in overlanding by expanding its product and service lineup while simultaneously looking to expand into new strategic verticals.

“The REDARC team couldn’t be happier to have Peter Favilla joining us as the President of Mobile Power and Connected Vehicles,” REDARC Managing Director, Anthony Kittel, said.

“His depth of experience will undoubtedly elevate the REDARC team while also providing us with new opportunities to serve our customers at an even higher level.

“We foresee the markets we serve will grow to exciting new heights in the coming years and I’m confident that with our strategy, REDARC will be right there alongside our consumers and channel partners.”

“I am honoured to have the opportunity to contribute to REDARC’s legacy of quality, innovation, and customer focus,” Peter said.

“We have significant traction across the globe, a promising and focused growth strategy, and the talented people and resources to accelerate our momentum. The future is very bright for REDARC, and I am excited to be a part of this great team.”

Born in Australia, REDARC has more than 40 years of experience in the research, design, and advanced manufacturing of power and safety solutions for 4x4s, RVs, and trailers.

It states that it makes the most rugged, reliable, and innovative voltage converters, power supplies, battery chargers, 12/24V management systems, and trailer braking products on the market, explaining, “our technology is trusted by many in the automotive aftermarket, RVing, industrial, and defense sectors, and we strive to set ourselves as a benchmark for product and customer service quality in our industry.”

For more information, visit www.redarc.com.au

NEW MAHLE GROUP MANAGEMENT BOARD MEMBER ANNOUNCED

Martin Wellhoeffer will succeed the retiring Wilhelm Emperhoff

Martin Wellhoeffer is to be the member of the MAHLE Group Management Board responsible for Mechatronics and Electronics.

The 44-year-old, who holds a degree in automotive engineering, has worked for MAHLE for almost 20 years, most recently as Corporate Executive Vice President Sales and Application Engineering. He is to succeed Wilhelm Emperhoff, who is retiring on April 30. Dr-Ing Roger Busch is to be the new Corporate Executive Vice President Sales and Application Engineering.

“Thanks to his many years with MAHLE, Martin Wellhoeffer knows the company inside out and will master his new tasks outstandingly well as a graduate in automotive engineering,” MAHLE Supervisory Board Chairman, Professor Dr Heinz K. Junker, said.

“The Mechatronics and Electronics business unit is playing a key role in our Group’s transformation to e-mobility.”

Electrification is a major strategic area for MAHLE. The company is focusing especially on the development of electric drive systems and charging technologies for electric vehicles.

“On behalf of the boards of MAHLE, I would like to

thank Wilhelm Emperhoff for more than a decade of dedicated work for the Group. He has my best wishes for the next stage in his life,” Dr Junker said.

Wilhelm headed the business unit since it was founded in 2020. Previously he had been the Management Board Member responsible for Filtration and Engine Peripherals for seven years. Martin has spent his entire career to date with the MAHLE Group. After completing his degree in automotive engineering, he joined MAHLE as a trainee in sales in 2004 and was then responsible for a number of major customers for several years in various positions including key account manager.

In 2015, he became Head of Group Strategy and Sales Planning. Wilhelm has been Corporate Executive Vice President Sales and Application Engineering and a Member of the Management Committee of MAHLE since 2019.

Martin’s successor will be Dr-Ing Roger Busch.

“Roger Busch has proven system expertise in vehicle drives and thermal management and many years of experience with our customers throughout the world. MAHLE will take the next

steps towards the mobility of the future with him,” MAHLE Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Group Management Board, Arnd Franz, said. Roger started his career with Robert Bosch GmbH. In 2015, he became Managing Director of the former Bosch Mahle Turbosystems Joint Venture. Roger joined the MAHLE Group in 2019 and as Vice-President, he has been responsible for the Compressors Profit Centre and most recently for product development in the Thermal Management Business Unit.

For more information, visit www.mahle.com

TYRE INDUSTRY STALWART CELEBRATES DIAMOND JUBILEE

The Vitanza Tyre and Mechanical store network is turning 60 Brisbane tyre industry icon and long-standing Bridgestone store owner Vince Vitanza is celebrating six decades of his family run Vitanza Tyre and Mechanical store network.

From humble beginnings in 1963, the business has grown over the past six decades to build a reputation underpinned by exceptional service.

Over its history, the Vitanza Tyre and Mechanical name has spanned across 17 locations – peaking at 10 sites at one time during the 1990s.

According to founder and patriarch of the family business, Vince Vitanza, the longevity of the group’s success is built on family values and a focus on the customer experience.

“We pride ourselves on knowing our industry. We are the experts, and we offer great service, a good price so customers continue to come to us because they know what we stand for. You don’t get to celebrate 60 years in business if you are not honest and provide a seamless customer experience,” Vince said.

“Vitanza Tyre and Mechanical has always been a family run business with Anthony our eldest son joining in 1987, followed by Michael in 2003 and Melissa and Venetia in 2011. We have also had many loyal staff over the years, we provide a good working environment for our staff.”

The move into tyre retailing was born through Vince’s passion for all-things automotive, and a desire to run his own business. From his time as an accountant at fuel company Ampol, an opportunity arose to purchase a service station in the inner suburbs of Brisbane on the corner of Kent and Brunswick Streets in New Farm – kickstarting the Vitanza Tyre and Mechanical legacy.

Vitanza Tyre and Mechanical has been synonymous with Bridgestone, with the iconic brand serving as a staple on the store’s tyre

racks from the outset. In 1991, Vince Vitanza solidified his relationship with Bridgestone by officially becoming a Bridgestone Tyre Centre, and then converting to Bridgestone Select when the franchise model was launched 15 years later. With more than half of Vitanza Tyre and Mechanical’s history spent within the Bridgestone network, Vince explained that the longstanding partnership is built on common values.

“Over the years, I’ve learned that you have the right product at the right price, treat every customer with respect and make sure they get what they ask for,” Vince said.

“So much has changed in our industry over six decades. When we first opened our store, everything was done manually to change a tyre, now we have machines that do this for us, along with the introduction of computers, the internet, online bookkeeping systems and Google.

“The one thing that remains the same is our focus on providing a great customer service and experience. We want every customer to walk away wanting to come back to us and recommending us to their friends and family. We have so many loyal customers and we are so thankful to be providing a service to each customer.”

The business is a family success story, with wife Lyn by his side for the entire time, and their children Anthony, Melissa, Venetia and Michael all playing active roles in the day-to-day operations. Family plays a significant role in Vince and Lyn’s lives, and he takes great pride in working with his children, and spending time with his nine grandchildren: Matteo, Anton, Lucas, Nicola, Lucinda, Gabriella Marcello, Olivio and Alessandro.

Today, Vitanza Tyre and Mechanical’s operation is comprised of two Bridgestone Select Tyre and Auto stores: Bridgestone Select Fortitude Valley

managed and run by Anthony and Bridgestone Select Coorparoo managed and run by Michael. Having survived multiple natural disasters, economic downturns, more intense competition and numerous changes within the industry, Vince puts the longstanding success down to the people within the business.

“Without our hardworking staff we wouldn’t be celebrating such a milestone, the knowledge and customer experience our staff provide is what keeps our doors open and our customers coming back. Many of our employees have been with us for more than 15 years,” Vince said.

“We especially would like to thank and acknowledge our current staff: Jason, Jeff, Tha, and Hayley at the Fortitude Valley Store, and David, Stuart, Pwa and Troy at Coorparoo. It’s our staff that makes our business thrive.”

Vince has always been an active contributor to the community, within the business network and the local community.

Over the past 60 years, he has been an active member of the Motor Trades Association of Queensland and various tyre industry panels such as the Queensland Tyre Dealers Association, as well as passionate involvement in his children’s school committees, New Farm Rotary Club and Brisbane Racing Club.

Bridgestone Australia and New Zealand Managing Director, Heath Barclay, says Vince Vitanza has become a stalwart of the Bridgestone network and a much-loved business associate to many.

“Sixty years in business is an incredible achievement and we’re proud to have such a longstanding and meaningful relationship with Vince and Lyn, their family and the wider team,” Heath said.

“His contribution and commitment to the industry over six decades has been massive and we congratulate Vince, Lyn, Anthony, Melissa, Venetia and Michael on this significant milestone, and wish them the best for the next 60 years!”

For more information, visit www.bridgestone.com.au

THE ONE STOP EQUIPMENT SHOP

Australasia’s largest automotive aftermarket specialised company, BAPCOR, says it is proud to offer its many thousands of trade customers complete end to end support.

BAPCOR says that “just as these customers rely on Burson Auto Parts as their preferred choice for premium quality automotive parts, Burson Equipment has grown to become the one stop destination for workshop consultations, supply, fitment, and the servicing of workshop equipment.”

The Burson Equipment team consists of sixteen specialists located across Australia, who bring the combined benefit of more than 250 years of vast automotive workshop equipment experience to repairers and service centre operators.

A wide range of leading products

Burson Equipment works with the Precision Automotive team, as both companies are part of the BAPCOR Group, to provide workshop equipment solutions for customers’ needs.

Precision Automotive is the importer of many of the world’s best equipment brands that Burson Equipment supplies. These brands include Hunter, Rotary, Autel, Jaltest and Ecotechnics, to name a few.

When it comes to training the team in these brands, Burson and Precision invest heavily to make sure that its specialists understand the product inside and out, while keeping up with the latest everchanging industry technologies.

Burson Equipment says it only offers products that represent the highest quality, reliability and workplace safety, providing a lifespan that ensures a strong return on each customer’s equipment investment.

As such, this proud Australian company explains

that it does not offer workshop equipment based on the lowest cost and the resultant lower quality of such products, preferring to source workshop products from well-established and trusted world leading brands.

It says this ensures Burson Equipment customers can completely trust their recommended equipment choice, supported by a highly trained and nationally accessible Burson Equipment aftersales service team.

Along with the company’s complete workshop equipment product range, Burson Equipment exclusively offers state of the art equipment from two of the global automotive aftermarket industry’s most renowned workshop equipment innovators and manufacturers: the premium quality Hunter wheel service product range and the world-leading automotive hoist inventor and innovator, Rotary. Hunter’s award-winning research and development team of mechanical, electrical and software engineers is responsible for hundreds of patented and exclusive features that make Hunter wheel service products one of the world’s most productive under car service equipment brands.

Burson Equipment says Rotary is the world’s most trusted vehicle hoist company, setting the benchmark for vehicle hoists with research, development and manufacturing plants located across three continents. It states that Rotary is a dynamic global leader in the vehicle service industry that offers the widest variety of vehicle hoists including Two Post, Four Post, Scissor, Alignment, Inground and Mobile Column lifts. Burson Equipment also offers the latest Autel and Jaltest diagnostic tool solutions along with the Italian sourced Ecotechnics air conditioning equipment range, ensuring that updating existing

workshop equipment, or new automotive workshop turnkey fit-out requirements, can be met no matter what the size or specific vehicle specialisation. This is particularly important when it comes to updating workshops with the latest specification Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) equipment, with so many passenger cars and commercial vehicles fitted with these high-tech and constantly developing electronic safety systems. Burson Equipment says that it does not only supply optimum quality ADAS calibration equipment – the Australian company also offers highly experienced consultation with workshop owners and managers. This relates to the importance of workshop space requirements along with other factors that will ensure the correct recalibration of vehicles with ever more sophisticated ADAS systems.

Comprehensive training for expert advice

It is one thing to offer the world’s leading automotive workshop equipment brands and products, but quite another to be comprehensively trained in the operation, maintenance, and servicing of these products.

Burson Equipment’s emphasis on product training has seen members of its team travel the world to learn everything that there is to know about the latest specification workshop equipment products that it supplies.

Along with visiting manufacturing facilities for factory approved training courses, Burson Equipment often welcomes global equipment manufacturer experts to Australia to conduct staff training that is specific to Australian automotive aftermarket customer requirements.

This also ensures that the Burson Equipment team is updated with technological developments and changes taking place in line with modern automotive vehicle technology.

To this end, several Burson Equipment specialists recently visited the Cojali (manufacturers of Jaltest

The Burson Equipment team combines vast experience with a true passion for the automotive service industry

diagnostic tools) manufacturing plant in Spain to gain the latest factory provided training, along with taking part in a highly detailed training course at the Hunter headquarters in the United States, gaining the company’s highest level of wheel service product training.

Together with international factory certified training, the Burson Equipment team also makes excellent use of their own custom designed three bay training facility located in Brisbane.

Along with being a major staff training asset, this facility is also used to thoroughly test workshop equipment products. Burson Equipment customers are also invited to ‘try before they buy’ to guarantee satisfaction of their purchase when making their new equipment investment.

This exclusive training facility has most recently been used to test Autel ADAS frames along with advanced diagnostics systems, while also providing ongoing training for the Hunter wheel service equipment range, Rotary Lift hoists and many other workshop equipment products.

This facility also ensures that Burson Equipment staff from all over the country can partake of highly specialised product and technology development training.

“The ongoing training of our team ensures that we remain the industry leaders when it comes to technical advice, the correct setting up of equipment, the optimum training of our customers and best supporting the premium quality workshop equipment that we provide,” Burson Equipment General Manager, Peter Hewitt, said.

“By selecting us, all automotive repair and service businesses gain the combined benefits that both BAPCOR equipment business divisions, Burson Equipment and Precision Automotive Equipment, can bring.

“Both divisions have close to 100 team members combined with 40 service vehicles to support the entire Burson Auto Parts store network and to best service our customers at workshops all over Australia.

“We have sites located in every state to ensure proximity to our customers for detailed after sales service and equipment maintenance support.

“It is all about ensuring that our trade customers gain the maximum benefits and return on their premium quality workshop equipment investments.”

These are sentiments that are shared by Burson Equipment National Sales Manager, Alan Dowsett.

“Burson Equipment is there to help the many small businesses that have the very major responsibility to keep Australia moving,” Alan said.

“Our dedicated focus on training ensures that we don’t just sell boxes to our customers, we instil confidence by providing the right equipment solution, be it workshop needs or pain points.

“Once the correct piece of equipment is agreed upon, our team uses superior knowledge gained from extensive training to correctly set up and very importantly train our customers on the operation of their new equipment purchase.

“Having your equipment set up right and your staff competent in the operation of the equipment supports buyer satisfaction and business growth through efficiency. The correct product, training, and ongoing support guarantees workshop owners’ financial prosperity well into the future.

“An example of this is the training that we are receiving in relation to Electric Vehicle (EV) specific requirements, such as new Rotary hoist arm designs to enable battery pack removal along with other developments.

“We can pass this on to our customers to help them prepare to maintain these vehicles as EVs reach independent repairers.

“EVs will still need to be maintained, so this represents another growth opportunity for repairers into the future, along with taking care of the many internal combustion engine cars that will remain on our roads for years to come.”

Doing away with downtime

BAPCOR says that it is important to note that when you deal with Burson Equipment, any equipment maintenance or other downtime is limited as any workshop equipment part requirements or maintenance components can be quickly delivered to your local Burson Auto Parts store and directly to your workshop.

The same applies with after sales service, with a dedicated and mobile Burson Equipment service team ready to assist at any time.

Burson Equipment says you can rest assured its team is “always ready to assist, from the smallest workshops to complete turn-key workshop fit-outs or workshop modernisations, using the highest quality equipment that improves automotive business capabilities and productivity.”

Find out more at your local Burson Auto Parts store by calling 1300 287 766 or visiting www.bursonequipment.com.au

DAVIES CRAIG RAISING THE BAR

Following intense research and development, Davies Craig is set to release new high power brushless Thermatic Electric Fans

Fifty years ago, a belt-driven automotive radiator fan was the only other option for vehicle engine cooling, save for the mechanical, belt-driven water pump.

Searching for a more efficient cooling method, Australian engineers Daryl Davies and Bill Craig created the Thermatic Electric Fan.

Davies, Craig Pty Ltd was formed in 1972 to further research, develop and manufacture these innovative ground-breaking automotive electric fans, and has since developed and produced a very comprehensive range.

The Thermatic Electric Fan range covers most makes and models of vehicles and is deployed extensively in the air conditioning industry.

An Australian manufactured Davies, Craig Thermatic Electric Fan has now become one of the most popular cooling system upgrades, for all veteran, vintage, classic, modern and performance vehicles around the world, says Davies, Craig.

Going brushless

In the current automotive market, most electric cooling fans utilise a conventional brushed DC motor, while some Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEM) have commenced developing brushless fans to replace and complement the existing brushed DC motor.

These brushless electric fans are now appearing in automotive manufacturing and the aftermarket. Both brushed and brushless motors use the same basic principles of attraction and repulsion between windings and permanent magnets to achieve rotation.

The primary difference between brushed and brushless motors is the brushed motors

are mechanically driven and brushless are electronically driven.

In brushed motors, the stationary part contains permanent magnets while the moving rotor contains the windings. Carbon brushes are in physical contact with the rotor to transfer and flip the electric voltage going to the windings. This voltage creates the constantly flipped electromagnetic field required to achieve rotation. This design is very simple but over time the brushes wear down.

In brushless motor technology the rotor contains the permanent magnets, and the windings are stationary.

Instead of brushes, an electronic controller powers the windings in succession. This forms a rotating magnetic field in the stator which then creates the rotating motion.

The brushless electric fan offers up to four to five times longer serviceable life than the standard brushed fan, says Davies, Craig.

A brushless fan motor may offer up to 10,000 hours of serviceable life. In comparison, a normal, brushed electric fan, may only offer around 2,000/3,000 hours of serviceable life.

At this point in time, the brushless variety units are more expensive, but this cost is offset by the extra service life the brushless motor offers in an automotive application and more importantly in the air-conditioning and refrigeration space. An expanding range

Davies, Craig’s research and development focus for the past few years has been expanding the

overstated or not stated at all is the strength or ‘air force’ of respective electric fans.

Cubic Feet per Minute (Cubic Ft/Min, ft3/min) is the key to the acceptable performance of an electric fan and the appropriate ‘pan cake’ motor and blade pitch will determine the how an electric fan will deliver into a heat exchange/radiator.

Davies, Craig’s work on brushless fans means it can offer a brushless motor fan which can move more volume of air than a conventional brushed motor fan, consumes less energy/current, sustains a longer life, and are extremely compact when compared to their brushed motor equivalent, says

Further, Davies, Craig explains that most automotive brushless electric fans marketed globally are currently one-directional, and as such are not reversible like the current Davies Craig’s

As such, it says the development of the Davies, Craig Brushless Thermatic Electric Fan will stand out amongst the rest as one of the first ‘reversible’ brushless electric fans to offer both upstream and downstream operation, without loss of

On top of this unique reversibility feature, Davies, Craig explains that its brushless Thermatic Electric Fan will also offer some exciting new features as standard equipment, such as, PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) and analogue voltage-based speed control, built in soft start technology to prevent current spikes when powered up, and a host of

The Davies Craig High Power Brushless Thermatic Electric Fan range will be launched in four sizes:

Nine-inch 12V High Power (850CFM-950 CFM)

• 10-inch 12V High Power (1000 CFM)

• 12-inch High Power (1250 CFM)

The range is expected to hit the automotive aftermarket in early 2024. For more information, visit www.daviescraig.com.au

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine Publisher, Cameron McLachlan, takes a look at the products driving the automotive aftermarket.

NEW AUSTRALIAN JB WELD CATALOGUE RELEASED

More than 60 products are featured in the catalogue

HPP Lunds has released a new Australian 56page catalogue for its JB Weld branded products and it contains the entire range of JB Weld products including those newly released such as ValveGrinder, FiberWeld and the range of Herculiner ute bed liner products.

Each section is headed with a large photo of the product in use, and the sections are broken up into product groups such as exhaust repair, thread lockers or putty sticks.

There is also a group of speciality products such as windscreen, radiator, leather and vinyl repair, tank repair, valve grinding paste and metal strapping products.

To assist customers there are easy to read charts explaining the many uses for the products such as for the two-part epoxies.

LAUNCH AUSCAN 4 DIAGNOSTIC TOOL

Featuring 33 service functions

With the technological advances in vehicles, a high-end quality diagnostic scan tool is a must for today’s workshops.

With special ‘service functions’ to aid the service/ repair of specific components, the diagnostic tool assists in completing tasks more efficiently and accurately, saving time and money.

Logicar have the newly released Launch Auscan 4 Diagnostic Tool with 33 service functions.

With service functions ranging from Brake Resets through to Window Calibrations, Logicar says the Auscan 4 has the capabilities your workshop requires. Examples include:

• Adaptive Front Lighting Calibration: resetting and zeroing out of sensors, in the event of headlight repair or replacement.

• Battery Matching: resetting the battery parameters allows the ECU to determine the correct charging algorithm.

• Stop Start Reset: after battery replacement or low voltage warnings.

• Sun Roof and Window Calibration: resetting of the window operating parameters.

During a site visit, the Logicar Technical Team witnessed a vehicle with an electric hand brake that required the diagnostic tool to ‘release’ the hand brake while the vehicle was elevated on a lift, to allow the brake pads to be replaced. The diagnostic tool was used to engage the

electric hand brake and return the vehicle to its original operating procedure.

With more and more vehicles using brake pads with built in wear sensors, these vehicles require a ‘brake reset’ after the worn pads have been replaced, resetting the parameters of the new pads back into the ECU.

Gearbox Relearn may be required after gearbox removal, repair and in some cases, when the vehicle battery has been replaced. The relearn function is used to improve the quality of gear shifts, reducing delay and shift impact.

High Voltage Battery Diagnostics allow the testing of EV Batteries and Battery Modules. SoH (State of Health), cell voltages and cell resistance readings are displayed to assist in low voltage detection.

For more information, call Logicar on 1300 322 782.

PETRONAS LEADS THE WAY

These charts clearly show which applications are suited to each of the tailored products. As an example, ClearWeld is suitable for repairs to garden equipment, fibreglass, rigid and semi flexible plastics, ABS, PVC and CPVC pipes, auto trim and bumpers, crafts toys, wood, concrete, ceramic, tiles, glass, gap filling and vinyl siding. Easy to read charts are also included that quickly show the product attributes, the materials to which they are best suited and a rating system that with a quick view allows you to see which product best suits a material. These are rated in terms of Good, Better, Best.

In addition to the charts, complete product descriptions are detailed including part numbers and product sizes available.

Specialty packs are also listed such as the Essential Travel Pack of products and product display units; both counter and wire rack types. The JB Weld Australian catalogue is available to download from www.hpplunds.com.au/j-b-weld

For a hardcopy version, contact Ben Leonard on 07 3722 1111.

PETRONAS products come from the team behind “the world’s most efficient racing engine”

PETRONAS is the official technology partner to the eight-times FIA Formula One World Championship-winning MERCEDES-AMG PETRONAS Formula One Team, engineering high performance, bespoke engine oil, race fuel and other lubricants, greases, and fluids.

A critical part of the team’s success lies in the car’s unrivalled ability to convert fuel into useful work.

Most engines only convert around 35 percent of the potential fuel energy into power, however PETRONAS says its Syntium’s CoolTechTM technology enables the Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS Formula One car to achieve more than 50 percent thermal efficiency – making it “the most efficient racing engine ever created.”

PETRONAS says its technicians are world leaders when it comes to maximising the potential of every drop of energy – and they pour all their experience working with the world’s fastest, most

efficient hybrid car, into developing advanced fluids for drivers all over the world.

PETRONAS Syntium engine oils with CoolTechTM technology is able to target and cool critical engine parts, controls damaging heat, reduces wear and maintains optimal performance, allowing the car to convert the maximum amount of fuel energy into power, for more efficient, cleaner motoring.

For more information about PETRONAS Lubricants, please visit au.pli-petronas.com or call 1800 841 566.

UFI FILTERS LEADS IN F1

The company says it is Formula One’s preferred filter supplier Components made by UFI Filters, a world leader in fluid filtration technologies, will be used by the major teams competing in this year’s Formula One World Championship.

UFI Filters says this fact confirms the position of the company as “undisputed leader” in this premium motorsport class.

Indeed, nine of the 10 Formula 1 teams have chosen UFI, with the company supplying more than 8,000 individual parts per year to the racing sector.

UFI Filters says all solutions are customised to the individual team cars and will be modified throughout the championship to reflect the evolution of the F1 engines as the season progresses.

At the Melbourne Grand Prix, 110 filters made by UFI will contribute to the race for the podium. In fact, the company tailor makes 15 different filters for each vehicle, ranging from engine oil filters, fuel filters (low and high pressure), “last chance” filters (for water and/or oil circuits), hydraulic and water filters for the cooling circuit, as well as filters on power steering systems.

It is a long-lasting relationship between UFI and the racing world, with the first contract awarded in 1976.

The components for the world of racing are developed by the dedicated High-Tech Division in Italy. There, a team of highly technical experts work 24/7 on breakthrough technologies, developing and producing new products for special applications.

UFI Filters says the team dedicates part of their time alongside the various design engineers of the racing teams to develop the most advanced filtration technology.

The presence of the High-Tech Division within the company and the knowledge and expertise that this team brings represent strategic advantages in the production of traditional automotive technologies at UFI Filters, says the company. Thanks to its relentless effort, UFI says it can quickly transfer the know-how learned in the racing field to everyday vehicles.

It states this knowledge extends to the choice of processes, materials and suppliers and has a

major impact on the technological characteristics of all UFI Filters components.

UFI Filters’ involvement in motorsport in 2023 does not stop at Formula 1. The company’s products will also play a key role in the Indycar, Nascar, Formula 3, FIA Formula 2 and Le Mans Series.

UFI Filters is also taking part in the MotoGP Championship, Moto2 and Moto3 with the supply to KTM and in the motorbikes with Aprilia Racing and Ducati Corse.

For more from UFI Filters, visit www.ufifilters.com

NEW ZF HEAT BELT

Helping to improve energy of Electric Vehicles in cold weather

ZF has developed a heated seat belt option for electric vehicles, allowing drivers to reduce the energy used to heat the vehicle especially in combination with other contact heaters such as a seat heater.

During cold weather, ZF says the system may increase range by up to 15 percent by reducing the energy required to heat the interior of the vehicle.

The ZF heated seat belt is based on a special webbing with integrated heating conductors that minimally increase the thickness of the webbing. This makes integration easier for vehicle manufacturers and offers occupants the same comfort as normal seat belt webbing.

With this integrated heating function, ZF’s new heated seat belt can provide close-to-body warmth immediately after the driver starts driving, typically between 36 and 40 degrees Celsius.

In combination with heated seats, the heated seat belt has the potential to provide occupant comfort quickly.

In electric vehicles, the climate control system is

powered by battery current, as there is no usable waste heat as with the combustion engine. Reducing the amount of battery current used to heat the interior of the vehicle may enable a range gain of up to 15 percent using contact heaters and reducing the usage of conventional climate control systems.

Other advantages of ZF’s heated seat belt are decisive for its broad acceptance among drivers and passengers: it behaves like a conventional seat belt, and its operation is also identical.

Slim and safe

ZF used a special textile processing method for this innovation, with the heating conductors woven into the seat belt structure.

The contact elements for the electrical heating circuits are positioned in such a way that they do not interfere with belt operation or retraction and special belt retractors at other installation positions are not necessary.

Since all relevant characteristics of the seat belt remain the same, there are not any added procedures or qualifications for the OEM.

The heated seat belt is in no way inferior to its conventional counterparts in terms of occupant protection, says ZF.

Important indirect safety

ZF says an important indirect safety benefit of the new ZF Heat Belt is that the occupants experience is enhanced through the reduction in bulky clothes.

This allows the belt to lie much closer to the body while continuing to restrain and protect the occupant in a crash.

For more information, visit www.zf.com/au

HAYNESPRO

Now with ADAS information included HaynesPro enables mechanics to diagnose, maintain and repair cars, trucks, and motorcycles*. It covers a large percentage of the Australian car parc, and being a web-enabled product, those behind HaynesPro says the data is always the most up to date available.

With most data no more than two mouse clicks away, the fast and efficient access to the correct data saves you precious time.  HaynesPro’s core data is focused around three sections: Technical Data, Electronic Repair Data and Smart Repair Data.

Information in these sections includes service schedules; maintenance and repair instructions and data; specifications; warning lights and

indicators; fuse box locations and layout; lubrication and fluid capacities; technical drawings, which includes torque specifications; VESA MKII (guided diagnostics); manufacturer recall information; manufacturer technical service bulletins; SmartCases, verified fixes and tips; interior dash and door trim removal guides; repair times; timing belt and chain replacement guides; electronic park brake disconnection/reconnection; TPMS initialisation; repair manuals; and now, ADAS.

ADAS and HaynesPro

Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) aim to reduce road accident casualties by helping drivers avoid collisions. They react faster than the driver and are constantly vigilant.

ADAS constantly monitor the vehicle’s surroundings, alert the driver to hazardous road conditions, and take corrective action such as slowing the vehicle, stopping, or steering away from danger. Technicians need vehicle specific information to calibrate an ADAS using diagnostics tools. The information is based on the Vehicle Manufacturers’ (OEM) recommendations.

ADAS systems include long- and medium-range radar and vision system technology which can be embedded in the vehicle to detect and classify exterior objects.

A state-of-the-art radar system can differentiate between a vehicle and a pedestrian, identify the location of any potential hazard, and compute the vehicle’s corrective path.

NEW FROM TUFF TONNEAUS

Tuff Tonneaus has launched a range of waterproof, load rated soft canvas canopies

Tuff Tonneaus continues to develop new products for the Australian market, recently introducing the Tuff Canopy.

The Tuff Canopy is an economical cover designed to expand your ute’s storage capabilities and provide optimal functionality.

It has a completely waterproof design to protect your load from the elements and ensures all your everyday items are securely stored, says Tuff Tonneaus.

The lightweight construction also allows you to effortlessly attach and detach as required whilst providing unrestricted access from all three sides of the tub.

Tuff Tonneaus explains that the configuration optimises tub space, effectively doubling the tub area load capacity.

It also includes an integrated ladder rack system which can support up to 100kg while on the move and 350kg when stationary, so you can load up

on bulky items without sacrificing valuable cargo space below.

The Tuff Tonneaus Tuff Canopy is designed, manufactured and assembled in Melbourne, Australia.

Tuff Tonneaus says that with the Tuff Canopy, everyone is an expert fitter – stating that its professionally created, easy to read fitting instructions means you can finish the job in under 90 minutes, even with no experience.

“With over 25 years’ experience in the industry, we’ve mastered the design of our tonneau covers, so we can guarantee with confidence that our covers are a perfect fit for your ute,” says Tuff Tonneaus. Made to order and dispatched within four business days, Tuff Tonneaus says the Tuff Canopy “provides excellent value and premium quality to both customers and retailers at the right price; one that is made and backed by Australia’s leading tonneau cover manufacturer.”

Below are some of the calibrations that ADAS systems require if any component is replaced or in need of calibration:

• (ADAS) 360° system camera: calibration

• (ADAS) 360° system front/rear camera: calibration

• (ADAS) 360° system side camera: calibration

• (ADAS) Augmented reality (A/R) camera: calibration

• (ADAS) Blind spot monitoring system: calibration

• (ADAS) Forward-sensing camera: calibration

• (ADAS) Front-corner radar: calibration

• (ADAS) Lane-keep assist: calibration

• (ADAS) Night vision camera: calibration

• (ADAS) Radar unit aiming: calibration

• (ADAS) Rear-view camera: calibration

To learn more about HaynesPro, visit http://haynespro.com.au/  *separate subscriptions required

Key features and benefits:

• The “massive” 350kg static weight rating is perfect for mounting a rooftop tent that weighs up to 100kg.

• Doubles tub area load capacity (not weight).

• Complete waterproof design made from 16oz premium heavy duty canvas which is both UV and mildew resistant to withstand harsh weather conditions.

• Extremely lightweight design (< 20kg).

• Less than 90 minute installation time.

• Unlimited three-year warranty.

For more information, visit www.tto.com.au or email sales@tto.com.au or call 03 8720 0700.

ONE SIZE SPARK PLUG DOES NOT FIT ALL

NGK says it has done the hard work for you when it comes to choosing the correct spark plug

While many spark plug suppliers recommend a single part number for a variety of vehicles, NGK says this “one size fits all” approach compromises performance.

“Any manufacturer who still believes they can produce a spark plug to suit multiple applications is living in the dark ages,” NGK Spark Plug Australia Senior Product Manager, James Filshie, said.

“This old school type of thinking disregards advancements in modern engine evolution and can compromise precision engine output, reliability, and fuel efficiency.”

Engine manufacturers spend many years researching and developing a new engine design. During this complex process, every engine component, including the spark plug, is engineered and tailored to perfectly match the make and model.

“Being the largest OE spark plug supplier in the world means that we work hand-in-hand with vehicle manufacturers during the development of each new engine configuration,” James said.

“We engineer spark plugs specifically designed to suit each engine’s individual requirements to ensure optimum performance.”

When spark plugs are generic, important attributes are often compromised and this can have a big effect on performance and longevity, says NGK.

“Our research has found that installing a spark plug that is not specifically designed for the engine in which it is being installed can result in some pretty serious side effects, the biggest of which is the heat range,” James said.

“If the spark plug is too cold then carbon fouling can become a problem, while if the spark plug is too hot, pre-ignition can occur that can cause serious engine damage.”

In addition to heat range, there are a number of attributes which can impact the vehicle when a spark plug is commonised: Centre Electrode Projection length, number of ground electrodes, ground electrode design and Double Fine Electrode (DFE) design.

“To assist mechanics and automotive technicians

to quickly and easily identify common spark plug issues, we have developed a series of short videos that you can check out on our website,” James said.

“At NGK Spark Plugs Australia, we are engine ignition specialists. We partner with OE engine manufacturers to ensure all NGK Spark Plugs meet exacting engine specific requirements.” For more information, visit www.ngk.com.au

CONTROL CAR PERFORMANCE WITH YOUR SMARTPHONE

With numerous computer modules and sensors installed, today’s vehicles are becoming more complicated

To help both daily drivers and professional mechanics, experienced automotive engineers and software developers at Voltas IT have created a smart vehicle assistant – OBDeleven.

OBDeleven is a small Bluetooth device that can be plugged into a car’s OBD-II diagnostic port and connected to a dedicated OBDeleven smartphone app.

As an officially licensed third-party tool, OBDeleven provides users with dealership-level diagnostic and customisation capabilities allowing users to access all control units of the vehicle, enable hidden car features and fix complex problems.

One of the key benefits of OBDeleven is that the device was designed to be extremely easy-to-use.

OBDeleven offers a wide variety of One-Click Apps, pre-made coding applications, so users can easily customise various features of the car, such as comforting windows, interior lighting, oil service reset, comfort turn signals, motion video, and much more.

These pre-programmed functions act as a simple solution for those who have no time, interest,

or even knowledge about coding a vehicle and improve a car at a moment’s notice by enabling various hidden features, or disabling something that might annoy a driver.

For Volkswagen Group vehicles, OBDeleven also offers a unique set of advanced features with the PRO plan like advanced diagnostic information, control unit reset, adaptations, settings, output testing, and even manual coding.

Voltas IT says OBDeleven is the first third-party diagnostic tool that allows modifications on the newest Volkswagen vehicles, including real-time SFD unlocking.

Currently there are two OBDeleven applications on the market: OBDeleven VAG – suited for all Volkswagen Group-made vehicles, including Volkswagen, Audi, Seat, Škoda; and OBDeleven BMW – which supports BMW F and G series, Mini F series as well as select models of Rolls-Royce.

According to the requirement of the signed agreements with car manufacturers, the OBDeleven VAG application is available worldwide (except in China) and the BMW application

BLUE MAGIC LIQUID GLASS METALLIC SEAL-UP

Fixing overheating engines permanently, easily, and cheaply

The Technical Chemical Company (TCC) says with its Blue Magic Liquid Glass Metallic Seal-Up a radiator repair can be done easily and inexpensively, using just an ounce of mechanical knowledge.

But it is not just faulty radiators that cause overheating and TCC says Blue Magic Liquid Glass Metallic Seal-Up is a proven way to seal and repair many overheating causes such as sealing a cracked engine block, heater cores and welch plugs, as well as radiators.

Blue Magic Liquid Glass Metallic Seal-Up filters into cracks and chemically seals them permanently. It also forms a permanent copper-ceramic seal that withstands up to 1093°C and 3000 PSI. Full instructions are detailed on the bottle.

Carrying or stocking bottles of Liquid Glass Metallic Seal Up takes up very little space.

Two different sized bottles are available: Blue Magic Liquid Glass Metallic Seal-Up 1008 is 323g (for use in systems up to 22.7 litres) and 1116 is 646g and used for larger capacity cooling systems (up to 45 litres).

For more information, visit www.hpplunds.com.au or call Ben Leonard on 07 3722 1111.

is available in the European Union, Iceland, Lichtenstein, Norway, Switzerland, Turkey, United Kingdom and the United States.

Voltas IT asserts that OBDeleven is an affordable and powerful customisation tool that makes it easy to interact with automotive technology. It provides a wide range of features and functions that can be used to diagnose and fix problems, customise settings, and increase performance, allowing users to save their time and money.   For more information, visit www.obdeleven.com or www.voltasit.com

To become a distribution partner, contact Voltas IT via distribution@voltasit.com

INTRODUCING THE SPECIALIST CLUB

A Valeo loyalty program, now available in Australia

The Valeo Specialist Club is an online loyalty program that gives Capricorn Bonus points to workshop owners and representatives.

Initially launched in 2018, Valeo’s Specialist Club is now available in 13 countries across the world. In 2023, on Valeo’s 100th anniversary, the loyalty program was launched in Australia.

The complimentary rewards program only takes two minutes to join.

When a user scans the barcode of any Valeo product, they receive points for every eligible purchase. They can collect points from Valeo parts for any type of vehicle, be it passenger cars, commercial vehicles or trucks.

COOLDRIVE OFFERS MORE WITH ALEMLUBE WORKSHOP EQUIPMENT

Alemlube workshop equipment is now available through CoolDrive Auto Parts

The addition of Alemlube workshop equipment to CoolDrive Auto Parts marks the further expansion of the automotive aftermarket parts distributor’s offering to its customers.

The comprehensive Alemlube range at CoolDrive is headlined by its heavy-duty workshop products including tyre changers, hoists, wheel aligners and wheel lifters, as well as lifting tables. Also available are Alemlube’s waste oil drainers, air and water reel offerings, grease kits, oil and fuel transfer pumps and accessories, drum spill containers, along with a number of its AdBlue solutions, including tanks.

“Alemlube is a progressive, innovative, customercentric focused company, and like CoolDrive is solely 100 percent Australian family owned and operated,” CoolDrive Auto Parts Category Manager – Tools and Equipment, Matthew Douglass, said.

“This creates a lot of complementary parallels between our two companies, with both CoolDrive and Alemlube constantly assessing the industry and working with suppliers to continue to offer more to our customers.

“Alemlube is a strong company that we’re really excited to partner with, offering a great support network, quality products with an extensive spare parts and accessories inventory.”

Along with its own leading Alemlube-branded products, additional brands now available at CoolDrive as a result of the new partnership include Samoa and Ravaglioli.

The new partnership with Alemlube is part of CoolDrive’s concentrated efforts to cement its position as a reliable trusted partner to workshops across the country, offering the latest in tools and equipment from the world’s leading brands.  For further information, visit www.cooldrive.com.au

DIESEL PARTICULATE FILTERS

An exclusive partnership with Capricorn

Valeo is exclusively collaborating with Capricorn to provide bonus points to its loyal members.

All points earnt in the Valeo loyalty program will be automatically converted into Capricorn Bonus Points and available in the Capricorn Rewards program.

Those hard-earned points can be redeemed for a wide range of rewards, from merchandise, gift cards, electronic goods and sports accessories to travel, events and equipment finance deposits, and can even be used towards paying off trading accounts.

Key features and benefits:

• Rewards your loyalty for each purchase

• Exclusive point promotions across the year

• Privileged partnership with Capricorn

• Free, easy to use and downloadable to your smartphone

To become a member, download the app now and create an account.

For more information, visit http://bit.ly/3SCFENn

DPF Australia says it has thousands in stock for next day delivery

Stock inventory is a problem for any workshop, especially workshops that deal with a multitude of vehicle brands and types.

DPF Australia explains that it stocks 178 different DPF types, and currently has just over one thousand DPFs ready to be shipped. A further 220 types are also accessible for rare or low volume vehicles with a little more lead time.

DPF Australia says that ordering a DPF from its team means you will receive a high-quality product as the company sources from high end manufacturers such as Delphi (Germany), Euromax (UK), Ernst (Germany), Bosal (Czech/ Spain) and Ecore.

Further, it states that purchasing a DPF from DPF Australia means that you will receive a highquality product but at a price that is up to 70 percent cheaper than buying the OE equivalent.

DPF Australia stocks DPFs for most popular vehicles including those from Europe, the UK, the US, Japan and South Korea.

A simple to use chart is available on the DPF

year of manufacture, engine specification and code, with notes to help you select the correct part.

DPF Australia carries one of Australia’s largest ranges of DPFs, and the company dispatches the same day – if the item is ordered before 1.30pm, then it will arrive in Brisbane, Melbourne, Sydney or country NSW the next day for less than $30 freight.

For more information, visit at www.facebook.com/dpfsales or www.dpfaustralia.com.au

X-1R DIESEL TREATMENT

Burg Design says this product goes the extra mile Diesel Engines have changed enormously over the years, and we are now looking at Tier 4 Diesel Engines becoming the norm across all of the world.

“We needed to update our product to take into account the changes to the fuels and the demands the engines are making of them,” Burg Design’s Ray Graham said.

“In accordance with the changes we made to our X-1R Petrol product, we have now designed a Fivein-One product that is already the one to beat!”

Burg Design says key features of the X-1R Diesel Treatment are as follows:

• Removes Carbon deposits and cleans fuel injectors.

• Noticeably improves fuel economy and power delivery.

• Results in a much smoother running engine.

• Lubricates upper cylinder and reduces engine wear .

• Stabilises fuel.

• Eliminates moisture from the fuel tank and lines. Nozzle fouling tests, performed using a Peugeot XUD9 1.9 litre engine according to the CEC F-23-01

test procedure, have reportedly demonstrated the detergency performance of the X-1R Diesel Treatment. Detergent performance is measured as percent fouling of an injector at 0.1mm needle lift, with zero percent being equal to a clean, as-new injector, and 100 percent representing complete fouling.

Burg Design says the results shown in the comparative images are typical of X-1R Diesel Treatment’s detergent in ultra-low sulphur fuels, with and without biodiesel.

“Our new Diesel Treatment formula will ensure consistently high engine performance by cleaning dirty injector nozzles and then keeping them free from deposits, more commonly called Clean-Up and Keep-Clean effect,” Ray said.

“The X-1R Diesel Treatment features a Cetane Booster. This cetane biossting technology ensures that when used, the machine operator will clearly feel a difference in the power delivery.

“Our new formulation contains an improved water dispersant that stops water/ethanol separation and of course reduces exhaust emissions.

“The product also improves lubricity. We took four

representative diesel fuels from various outlets and using a treat rate of 96ppm, we conducted tests using the ASTM D6079 test protocol.

“At this treat rate we saw a reduction in Wear Scar Diameter (WSD) of 73µm from the D975 target of 520µm, thus making all of the fuels EN590 compliant and proving our X-1R Diesel Treatment Technology leads to improved lubricity.”

For more information, visit www.burgdesign.com.au

CONTINENTAL TYRES LAUNCHES VANCONTACT ULTRA

This all-new van tyre is now available in Australia

Continental Tyres says the arrival of the VanContact Ultra capitalises on its long history of success in the segment, with top global vehicle manufacturers reportedly choosing the tyre as Original Equipment. Further, Continental Tyres states the launch of VanContact Ultra in Australia further cements its reputation to deliver a category-leading tyre suitable for Australian delivery service and trade vehicles.

The next-generation design reportedly offers significant developmental advances that boast outstanding mileage, durability, grip, and improved rolling resistance – while maintaining low noise and the high safety attributes so important for delivery or trade vehicles.

Longevity is said to be a standout feature for the VanContact Ultra. The closed pattern design includes fewer and smaller lateral grooves in the shoulder, resulting in excellent mileage performance and a reduction in tyre wear and road noise – meaning a longer and more comfortable drive.

Additionally, the VanContact Ultra tyre uses the latest generation of functionalised polymers,

resulting in a tread compound with high mileage and low rolling resistance – helping van drivers reduce the operating costs associated with tyre wear.

Continental Tyres says the robust sidewall design offers thicker rubber blocks and a scuff rib around the entire side of the tyre, increasing durability and assisting in the prevention of kerb damage without compromising on tyre grip.

“Our all-new VanContact Ultra tyre represents the product vision we set out to achieve – a newgeneration Continental van tyre with a focus on leading robustness and mileage,” Continental Tyres Australia Managing Director, Mitchell Golledge, said.

“With the continual increase in online shopping and therefore door-to-door delivery services, we’re excited to be launching a tyre that meets the latest needs of the Australian market.”

To prevent tyre damage, ‘stone stoppers’ are attached to the outer two grooves of the tyre, preventing stones and other objects from penetrating the tread while the vehicle is being driven.

Continental Tyres says it will be bringing a

comprehensive range of sizes to the Australian market from March 2023, catering for rim sizes between 15 and 17 inches in diameter, suitable for a wide range of delivery van and trade vehicles. The Continental VanContact Ultra van tyre is available now at all major Australian tyre retailers.  For over 150 years, Continental Tyres says it has been a leader in creating world-class innovations using advanced technologies. It states the Germanengineered tyres are refined and tested with safety in mind and are the first choice for leading vehicle manufacturers globally.

For more information, visit www.continental-tyres.com.au

ROADSAFE SHOCK ABSORBERS

Now available in the aftermarket

Leading Australian automotive steering and suspension parts company Roadsafe, says it is bringing its passion and suspension component expertise to a new high with a quality Shock Absorber program delivered to the aftermarket that consists of OE replacement or enhancement options.

Roadsafe explains that its STR and 4WD Shock Absorber ranges now form integral parts of the Roadsafe automotive aftermarket product range, “bringing competitively priced quality to automotive repairers and suspension specialists nationwide.”

Roadsafe STR covers replacement Shock Absorbers for passenger vehicles and daily drives, while Roadsafe 4WD is a performance enhancement for 4WD vehicles, suited up to a 50mm lift.

Roadsafe STR and 4WD Shock Absorbers are tested locally to suit Australian conditions and they are specifically built for Aussie Terrain.

All Roadsafe product testing is conducted in a dedicated Research and Design Facility located in Victoria, where shock absorbers are tested using a very stringent testing process.

The process includes visual inspections, shock dyno tests, vehicle fitment and on road testing, with Roadsafe stating that its product quality is backed by a comprehensive three-year/100,000 kilometre warranty.

Roadsafe STR replacement Shock Absorbers

are Nitrogen Gas charged to provide precise and consistent valving and feature high quality hard chromed finished shafts to eliminate wear, chipping and drag.

Finely tuned valving to suit each specific vehicle application reportedly ensures improved vehicle comfort, control, steering response and reduced emergency stopping distances; while high quality piston rod guides ensure smooth operation with superior strength against side loading.

Each Roadsafe STR Shock Absorber pressure tube is seamless, ensuring they are 100 percent cylindrical with high burst pressures, resulting in consistent performance and reliability. High quality rubber mounting bushings reduce noise, vibrations and harshness, while also ensuring stable mounting.

The Roadsafe STR Shock Absorber range is available in sealed strut, telescopic and spring seated Shock Absorber designs as determined by vehicle specifications, ensuring repairers have easy access to an extensive range of shock absorbers to suit a vast array of vehicle makes and models being driven on Australia’s roads.

Roadsafe explains that its Roadsafe 4WD Shock Absorbers feature a larger surface area for optimum heat dissipation and excellent dampening control properties. Further, it states that the Roadsafe 4WD big bore design ensures greater oil capacity and temperature control under extreme four-wheel driving conditions.

ADRAD RADIATOR FILLER NECKS

A new addition to Adrad’s engine cooling products range

It is known that plastic automotive parts can deteriorate over time, especially when they are exposed to extremes of weather, pressure changes and temperature cycling.

Anyone who has battled with brittle plastic parts or accidentally snapped off a radiator filler spigot pipe knows they can be a real pain in the neck.

A recent addition to Adrad’s engine cooling products range is a variety of quality aftermarket plastic radiator filler necks.

These direct-fit parts are made from glass-filled plastic and meet or exceed the vehicle’s original equipment specifications. They are backed by a national two-year warranty.

Adrad says that it knows a thing or two about engine cooling parts after 38 years in the industry, and these filler necks add to its already extensive range of quality products.

Available to suit various models from Honda,

Hyundai, Kia, Mitsubishi, Nissan, Suzuki, and Toyota, these plastic filler necks are in stock across the country for quick supply.

Adrad is quality accredited to ISO9001:2015 which covers both manufacturing and distribution. This means that no matter where they are made,

Additional features include a large diameter, high quality chrome finished shaft with an internal rod stop. These Shock Absorbers also feature a large surface piston rod guide to support increased side load and heavy bump impacts.

The Roadsafe 4WD Shock Absorber range also benefits from high quality upper shaft seals to handle the demands of rugged terrain, along with heavy duty, double welded mounting points for increased stability and strength.

Roadsafe 4WD direct fit Shock Absorbers are available in Nitrogen Gas (up to 35mm bore) and Foam Cell (up to 40mm bore) configurations to ensure reduced fade, aeration and cavitation control.

The Roadsafe STR and 4WD replacement Shock Absorber range is available from Burson Auto Parts and other quality independent auto parts resellers nationwide.

For more information, call 03 8687 1700 or visit www.roadsafe.com.au

Adrad’s products adhere to a rigorous quality assurance process as they make their way to the customer and throughout their service life. To find out more about these new releases, speak with your local Adrad parts distributor or contact the Adrad Customer Service Team on 1800 882 043.

BOSCH ADAS EQUIPMENT

Now at CoolDrive

CoolDrive Auto Parts says it continues to prove itself as a partner of choice for workshops across Australia and New Zealand.

Now available through its expansive branch network and online is a range of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) calibration equipment from Bosch.

“With ADAS becoming more and more common on new vehicles on our roads, there is an increased need for quality equipment that is capable of adjusting and calibrating these systems,” CoolDrive Auto Parts Category Manager – Tools and Equipment, Matthew Douglass, said.

“The Bosch ADAS equipment range is one of the most reputable in the industry and we are pleased to have it available at CoolDrive.

“Made for collision repair shops, mechanical and auto electrical workshops alike, the Bosch ADAS offering is equipment our customers can trust to calibrate the vehicle correctly with its wide coverage and easier set-up making the job faster than ever before.”

ADAS systems on a vehicle are extensive and

include Electric Control Units (ECUs) for safety control such as Electronic Stability Program (ESP) and Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), a central computing unit for sensor data fusion, as well as units for engine, transmission, brake and lighting control.

Newer vehicles are also increasingly equipped with a wide range of ADAS cameras such as front cameras for lane assist, speed limit displays, adaptive lights and rain/sun sensors, as well as surround view cameras for rear and 360-degree views, and infrared cameras for night vision.

ADAS also cover a range of sensors such as LIDAR for ACC, lane assist and stop-go function, front radar sensors for ACC and stop-go function too, and emergency brake assist, as well as corner and steering angle sensors.

Heading the Bosch ADAS Equipment range at CoolDrive is the DAS 3000 S20, its newest universal computer-based calibration and adjustment device for ADAS, which is complemented by the SCT815 corner reflector target and carrier for calibration of radar sensors.

Also available through CoolDrive – and which work in conjunction with the DAS 3000 – is Bosch’s KTS Diagnostic Scan Tool range and its ESI[tronic] diagnostic software.

Bosch’s calibration solutions are compliant with OEM requirements with targets for most vehicle manufacturers including Alfa Romeo, Audi, Fiat, Honda, Hyundai, Jeep, KIA, Mazda, MercedesBenz, Mitsubishi, Nissan, Opel, Peugeot, Porsche, Renault, Seat, Skoda, Subaru, Suzuki, Toyota and Volkswagen.

In conjunction with Bosch, CoolDrive also hosts ADAS and Diagnostic-focused training at some of its regular Specialist Training Events and through the Bosch Technical Training program. For further information, visit www.cooldrive.com.au

INTRODUCING THE HAMER ATLAS SERIES BULL BAR

Hamer says this new bar provides “the perfect mix of looks and functionality”

With its modern design and cutting-edge technology, Hamer says the Atlas series bull bar is sure to make any Next-Gen Ranger and Raptor stand out from the crowd.

Setting a new standard in vehicle’s front protection equipment, the Atlas series offers a lightweight frame and advanced sequential lighting that heightens your viewing experience, says Hamer.

The Hamer Atlas Series Bull Bar has been designed with Australia’s Design Rules (ADR) in mind.

“This makes it a great choice for drivers who want protection without compromising on safety (airbag compliant) and style,” Hamer 4x4 Country Manager, Pol Golard, said.

“As we take safety as first priority, the bar comes

with European E-Mark certified high-quality LED lighting systems.

“These day time running lights provide a very clear and bright light during the daytime. Indicators and Fog lamps are included too.

“The bull bar is made from 3mm high-grade steel with a black powder-coated finish, ensuring superior strength and durability, while the design integrates seamlessly into the Next-Gen Ranger Raptor’s look.

“The Atlas is a full bumper replacement and all factory features such as the original parking sensors, camera or radar module are relocated to the Hamer bull bar.

“With a pair of mounting brackets and a lightbar provision included in its design, the installation of spot lights or/and lightbar is piece of cake.

“The bullbar cradle will accommodate a 12,000 lbs winch with full access under the flip number plate and a side lever access.

“The bar can be complemented with underbody protection plates starting with a one-piece bash plate, all the way to the complete set of three plates

protecting all vital components of the ute while offroading.

“Whether you’re out on the highway or off-roading, the Hamer Atlas Series Bull Bar will make sure to keep the vehicle’s occupant safe and self-sufficient with the assistance of a winch and 3.5T rated recovery points.

“The Hamer Atlas Series Bull Bar is the perfect mix of looks and functionality and these are the key elements nowadays to meet on and offroad enthusiasts expectations.”

For more information on the brand-new Atlas Series from Hamer, call 1300 545 554 or email sales@hamer4x4.com.au Alternatively, Hamer invites you to visit www.hamer4x4.com.au and check out the ‘Become a dealer’ section.

AUSTRALIAN MADE AIR FITTINGS AND COUPLINGS

Parish Engineering has been awarded ‘Australian Made’ status for this product range

The Australian Made campaign was launched five decades ago to encourage Australians to support Australian made products.

Since then, the logo has come to be recognised nationally and internationally as a symbol of quality, reliability, and authenticity. But it has also become a shorthand for investment in Australian skills, Australian jobs, and the Australian economy.

Parish Engineering says it has been a champion of Australian manufacturing for a long time, stretching back before the Australia Made campaign was launched.

It explains that it has been supplying the Australian automotive industry since the first Holden began rolling off the assembly line in 1948.

Six years ago, Parish Engineering acquired Longworth Engineering, and launched its own brand of Longworth Air Fittings and Couplings –which provides high-quality air fitting and couplings for various industrial applications.

Recently, it was granted permission to use the Australian Made logo for this range of products. “This development is a significant achievement

for Parish Engineering as it indicates our products meet the strict standards set by the Australian Made campaign,” Parish Engineering Chief Executive Officer, Nicole Sinclair, said.

“Parish Engineering’s commitment to producing Australian-made products is evident in our manufacturing processes.

“We use state-of-the-art equipment and employ skilled workers to ensure our products meet the highest standards, ensuring they are safe and reliable: a critical factor when we consider where some items are used.

“Many of the Longworth components manufactured, go on truck braking systems. These braking systems are critical in ensuring the safety of heavy-duty vehicles.

“Our components are reliable and built to withstand harsh Australian conditions. Good for jobs, good for the economy, and good for highest quality safety standards.

“The Australian Made logo is not just a testament to Parish Engineering’s commitment to providing high-quality products to our customers, it is also

a recognition of our contribution to the Australian economy.

“By manufacturing products in Australia, Parish Engineering supports local jobs and promotes economic growth.

“Our customers can be assured they are purchasing products that are not only of the highest quality but also benefit their fellow Australians.

“We invite other Australian manufacturers to use Australian Made as much as possible, to help Australia’s manufacturing sector continue to grow and thrive, to be the manufacturing foundation it once was.”

For more information, visit www.longworthairfittings.com.au or www.parishengineering.com.au

303 PRODUCTS GO NEXT LEVEL

Taking car protection to a new technological level of excellence

As any discerning car enthusiast will tell you, there are a multitude of exterior and interior protection products available to Australian motorists, but very few truly excel in quality and long-term effectiveness.

The United States-manufactured 303 Products says its exterior and interior protection product range leads the world in the science of surface cleaners and protectants.

It states that these premium quality automotive car care products were derived from the development of the world’s first UV-screening surface treatments that were initially developed and perfected for NASA and the aerospace industry.

As a result of this world-first surface protection technology, 303 Products says it has set the industry standard for total UV protection on virtually any surface with its 303 Automotive Protectant, 303 Graphene Nano Spray and 303 All Surface Interior cleaner.

303 Products says motorists who expect effective, easy to apply and long lasting exterior and interior vehicle protection choose 303 as a result.

303 Products explains that there are three premium quality 303 vehicle detailing products available to Australian and New Zealand motorists, 303 Automotive Protectant, 303 All Surface Interior Cleaner and the revolutionary new 303 Graphene Nano coating.

“Unlike other interior cleaners, 303 All surface Interior Cleaner can be used on almost any

surface including vinyl, plastics, rubber, fabrics, leather and even on LCD screens,” 303 Products Marketing Manager, Mike Morgan, said.

“It is gentle and safe, but still has the strength to clean away tough stains. It lifts dirt from the surface when sprayed on and wipes off residue free. This product also helps to repel dust and dirt, and leaves a clean natural appearance on the surface after its application.

“After prepping the surface with interior cleaner, 303 Automotive Protectant can be applied to create tough UV barrier protecting against the harsh Australian sun which over time can cause fading and cracking.

“303 Automotive Protectant product restores lost colour and lustre from vehicle interior surfaces while also repelling dust, soiling and stains and lasts up to four to ten times longer than competing products in the market.

“303 Automotive Protectant rejuvenates and protects tyres, bodywork, plastic bumpers, guard flares, trims and lenses, car bras, tonneau covers, chrome and alloy wheels, providing outstanding UV, dust and water resistance.

“When combined with the revolutionary 303 Graphene nano coating, these products create new-look shine and long-term vehicle exterior protection for up to 12 months.

“The most exciting new addition to the 303 Products automotive range takes car owners to the next step beyond ceramic, with the 303 Graphene Nano Spray Coating.

DRIVING LUBRICANTS INNOVATION

TotalEnergies Lubrifiants launches its new RobotQuartz campaign

TotalEnergies Lubrifiants is back with a new campaign featuring RobotQuartz.

This advertising character is used to represent the engine and show the effects of the Quartz lubricants on all types of engines.

Known in more than 80 countries, the RobotQuartz gets a complete makeover in line with the most advanced vehicle technologies, especially electric.

With this campaign, TotalEnergies Lubrifiants says it is differentiating itself in the lubricants market by placing innovation at the heart of its strategy.

Quartz EV Fluid by Total Energies

For 70 years, TotalEnergies Lubrifiants says it has been innovating to offer Quartz lubricants adapted to all types of engines: Quartz 9000 for thermal engines, Quartz Ineo Xtra for hybrid engines and eventually Quartz EV Fluid for electric engines.

TotalEnergies Lubrifiants says it was thus a pioneer

in 2019 by developing the first entire EV fluid range to meet the specific needs of electric vehicles: increase power, improve safety and extend the life of motors and batteries.

The Quartz EV Fluid range reportedly features a state-of-the-art technology called ‘Thermo.Control Augmented’ that provides a high level of resistance to prevent oxidation, protects against short circuits, and keeps the battery at an optimal temperature range.

“This fifth generation RobotQuartz illustrates TotalEnergies Lubrifiants innovation ability to meet the needs of all types of vehicles, even the most demanding,” TotalEnergies Lubrifiants Inland General Manager, Jean Parizot, said.

“With the evolution of the robot, the film tells the story of innovation behind Quartz lubricants, through the lens of the automobile: from thermal to electric.”

TotalEnergies is a leading global manufacturer and marketer of lubricants, with 42 production sites

“Transforming a matt shine to an outstanding gleaming shine, this state of the art vehicle protection product offers more than 12 months of premium protection.

“This unparalleled chemical formulation actually lowers vehicle surface temperature, thereby reducing water-spotting.

“The formulation sheds water quickly and can be used on any surface including wheels, trim and glass without leaving any residue. The 303 Graphene Nano Spray can also be applied in direct sunlight and on any colour vehicle.

“303 Products represent the new generation of car interior and exterior products that need to be used to be believed. These technologically advanced products have transformed the formerly time consuming, expensive and labour intensive process of maintaining vehicle exterior and interior shine and stain resistance.”

The 303 Products range is available from quality automotive aftermarket parts and accessories stores nationwide and 303 Products encourages you to ask for them if you can’t find them. For more information, visit www.303products.com.au

around the world and more than 5,800 employees in 160 countries.

TotalEnergies’ Lubricants division offers innovative, high-performance and environmentally friendly products and services, developed by its R&D centers, which employ over 130 researchers. For more information, visit www.totalenergies.com

HERCULINER

Put your load to bed easily and safely

JB Weld has added Herculiner to its product lines. It explains that Herculiner is the only polyurethane and rubber granule coating able to be applied in just three easy steps to ute trays, truck beds and other surfaces.

JB Weld says the proprietary solvent-based formula allows Herculiner to adhere better to surfaces than water-based products, and it can bond to virtually any surface or material including wood, metal, concrete, aluminium, asphalt, rubber, fibreglass and plastics including PVC. By sealing the surface Herculiner prevents rust and is also resistant to petrol, oils, solvents and other chemicals. When cured Herculiner provides a textured tough, durable, skid resistant protective coating that won’t chip, flake or peel and prevents rust.

While other coatings when damaged need to be removed or gouged, Herculiner adheres to itself and so can easily be repaired with additional applications.

Herculiner can be painted using a polyurethanebased paint and the best time to apply paint is

within 24 hours of Herculiner becoming dry to the touch.

A brush, roller or spray compressor can be used to apply Herculiner. Step one is to prepare the surface by cleaning it of dirt and grime and masking off the areas to be painted. All paint areas must be scuffed to remove gloss and the surfaces wiped down with Xylene (Xylol), Acetone or MEK solution using a rag.

Next, it is suggested Herculiner not only be thoroughly mixed before use, but also mixed during application to help the rubber particles remain suspended and ensure even application. A light first topcoat acts as a primer. Allow Herculiner to dry to the touch for four hours and when the topcoat no longer feels tacky, you can apply a second coat which should cure for at least 24 hours before light use or three-five days before heavy use.

Herculiner is available in a Bed Liner Kit which has everything you need to get the job done including two rollers, one brush, 3.78L of Herculiner and one abrasive pad.

For those who already have brushes and abrasive pads there are two sizes of Herculiner tins. The 946ml tin will cover around 1.4 square metres with two coats, and the larger 3.78 litre tin will cover around 5.5 square metres.

Herculiner is also available in an aerosol spray which is great for touch-ups, cutting in before applying with a roller or for protecting hard-toreach areas like wheel wells.

For more information, visit www.hpplunds.com.au or call Ben Leonard on 07 3722 1111.

BUMPER NEW PROJECTA CATALOGUE

The new catalogue is 70 percent larger than its predecessor at 124 pages

Projecta has released its highly anticipated new catalogue highlighting an expanded power management range, many new product innovations, and progression into several completely new product categories.

While being 70 percent larger than the previous catalogue, the latest release also showcases layout changes which will allow prospective buyers to find the products and associated information they require more easily.

The addition of seven application/sector guides sees equipment logically grouped, while new educational sections seek to inform the reader as to how the products are best installed and set-up to work together.

There are 183 new products featured in the catalogue this year and four new product categories: lithium batteries, 240V switches and power points, personal power, and towing safety, highlighting Projecta’s strong focus on growth and providing customers with solutions to charge, harness and convert power across a broad range of applications.

Other product categories catered to include battery chargers, solar panels and controllers, jump starters, inverters, dual battery systems and accessories, power management, booster cables, battery terminals and accessories, and battery maintenance/testing equipment.

Featuring prominently in the new catalogue is an expanded family of Projecta ‘Intelli’ products, which feature the latest technical advancements that make this equipment easier, more reliable and more efficient to use.

The line-up includes Intelli-Start Lithium Jump Starters which recharge themselves for unlimited jump starting; Intelli-Charge IDC25X – an evolution of the legendary IDC25 DC-DC/Solar charger; Intelli-IQ smart relays and touch screen displays; an upgraded range of Intelli-Charge battery chargers which are now compatible with lithium; pre-built power boards which combine multiple Projecta products with Narva switches and sockets for simplified all-in-one power management, ideal for 4x4s, canopies and caravans; Intelli RV systems for comprehensive power management in RVs and caravans; and Intelli-Grid systems for off-grid power

management and meeting high power demands in 4x4, RV and Caravan applications.

Another noteworthy entry is Projecta’s recently introduced range of lithium batteries, the 100Ah rated models of which feature true 100A and 150A high discharge rates, ensuring consistent and adequate power for inverters and 240V appliances. The lithium battery offerings continue under Projecta’s premium Intelli-Grid range, where 100Ah, 200Ah and 400Ah options with higher discharge rates are available for parallel/series joining and can be used standalone or incorporated as part of an Intelli-Grid system to make the most of their built-in communication capabilities.

To get a copy of the catalogue, contact your local Projecta distributor or view online at www.projecta.com.au

TIPS FOR SHOCK ABSORBER DIAGNOSIS

Mono-tube, twin-tube or electronic systems require different approaches in the workshop

In the fifth part of Bilstein’s video series, “Suspension Fundamentals – powered by Bilstein Academy,” the head of the Bilstein Academy, Rainer Popiol, reveals what mechanics need to look out for.

In the mono-tube shock absorber, oil from the piston chamber is forced back and forth through a valve in the working chamber, creating forces for the compression and rebound stages. Behind the separating piston is the gas chamber.

“The gas presses the oil column together so that cavitation does not form,” Rainer said.

“In addition, the gas chamber must accommodate the volume of the piston rod, because when the shock absorber is working, the piston rod is pressed into the working chamber.”

In the twin-tube shock absorber, the working piston also works in a working chamber filled with oil. If the piston rod presses into the shock absorber, the oil is displaced into the compensation chamber through a bottom valve.

Whether it is a mono-tube shock absorber or a twintube shock absorber, mechanics have to keep a few things in mind when it comes to fault analysis.

“Usually it is like this: If the shock absorber loses oil, it becomes softer. But then there is a type of construction where the shock absorber becomes tighter,” Rainer said.

“This means that the piston rod no longer enters the shock absorber properly. This is the mono-tube shock absorber. When it loses oil, the separating piston moves upwards towards the working chamber. At some point the piston rod then touches the separating piston and that gives a loud knocking noise and the car behaves harder.”

A special challenge is mono-tube shock absorbers in an upside-down design.

Because MacPherson struts perform wheel-guiding duties on the front axle, larger diameter piston rods are used. Therefore, MacPherson monotube shock absorbers in upside-down design are often used.

“Then the damper is “turned around”. The piston rod is at the bottom. Two plain bearings take over the guidance of the shock tube in the MacPherson strut so that the high forces can be transmitted,” Rainer said.

“With the monotube shock absorber, no oil can escape at the top because the piston rod is at the bottom.”

This is why it is so important for mechanics in the automotive workshop to know what kind of system they are dealing with.

“In our technical support, we are often confronted with the assumption in the case of the monotube shock absorber that when an emulsion leaks out, it is an oil leak. Most of the time, however, it’s slightly excess grease,” Rainer said.

Electronic systems meanwhile can usually be identified by their wiring and externally mounted valves.

“Then you check the electronics with a diagnostic tool. But that is only part of the fault analysis. Of course, that is not a 100 percent test. And I can’t check for wear at all: If the electronics are fine, but the driving behaviour is still bad, then it is quite possible that we are dealing with normal wear and tear. And then I have to check in the same way as with the passive systems,” Rainer said.

Bilstein says that if problems arise, the technical support of the Bilstein Academy is here to help and workshop professionals can contact the support team via email.

For more information, visit workshop.bilstein.com

Photos: Copyright BILSTEIN 2023.

COOLDRIVE EXPANDS SAFETY EQUIPMENT RANGE

The company has added to its range of EV and Hybrid safety equipment

Automatic defibrillators and associated accessories have been added to CoolDrive Auto Parts’ range of safety equipment for workshops.

“This new product range at CoolDrive has been introduced in response to new Australian Standard AS 5732:2022 for workshops working with electric and hybrid vehicles,” CoolDrive Auto Parts Category Manager, David Haley, said.

“This new Australian Standard AS 5732:2022 specify exact requirements on safe and appropriate handling procedures, and provide guidance on safety and personal protective equipment, particularly around electrical hazards and the availability of an automatic external defibrillator.”

Now available at CoolDrive is the industry-leading HeartSine samaritan semi-automatic and fullyautomatic Public Access Defibrillators, which can be used by both people trained in CPR, and those who are untrained.

The easy-to-understand visual and voice prompts guide the rescuer through the entire resuscitation process, including CPR, with the unit conducting its own weekly checks to ensure it is ready to use at any time.

Weighing just 1.1kg, CoolDrive Auto Parts says they are the lightest units on the market, and with a compact footprint, they are easily transported and can be installed in tight spaces.

The HeartSine defibrillators benefit from the innovative Pad-Pak, an integrated battery and electrode single-use cartridge with one expiration date, resulting in a simple maintenance change once every four years.

Offering a IP56 rating, one of the highest ratings in the industry against dust and moisture protection, the HeartSine samaritan units are backed by an eight-year warranty.

Complementing this new defibrillator range are associated safety accessories including a Jaylec

Automatic External Defibrillator (AED) Cabinet to protect the AED, which comes equipped with an alarm and strobe light which will activate when the door is opened, along with a Jaylec AED Prep Kit. For further information, visit www.cooldrive.com.au

A WIDE RANGE OF LUBRICANTS AND FLUIDS

Now in stock at Unique Auto Parts

Stocking high quality lubricants and fluids, Unique Auto Parts says it has got all bases covered with products available for application areas such as the engine, transmission, differential, power steering and brake systems. Products available also include fuel system and engine cleaners and windscreen fluid.

It has been a few years since Unique Auto Parts introduced Carlube oils and Bluecol coolants to the Australian market and although during this time Carlube underwent a total rebrand of its packaging, Unique Auto Parts says it never changed the OEM quality consumables contained within.

Carlube oils are not only recommended for all modern vehicles with a specific focus on European makes, but also come with approval from some of the world’s leading car manufacturers such as Mercedes Benz, Renault, Volvo and many others.

Unique Auto Parts stocks a wide range of Carlube low ash/low SAPS oil, fully synthetic and semi synthetic oils which it explains are suitable for a large variety of passenger and commercial vehicles.

All Carlube engine oils are said to be manufactured using the highest quality refined ingredients which means they not only meet but, in many cases, surpass the stringent requirements set forth by car manufacturers.

They are also formulated for maximum fuel efficiency with added environmental benefits without compromising lubricant durability, says Unique Auto Parts.

The Carlube Driveline range covers transmission fluid for both automatic and manual transmissions as well as power steering and brake fluid.

Driveline fluids are designed for exceptional wear and tear protection and temperature control and also help to prevent bearing failure and offer corrosion protection.

In addition to a wide variety of oils, Unique Auto Parts also stocks selected Bluecol coolants and a number of Carlube additives designed to clean and improve efficiency and performance, including fuel system cleaner (petrol and diesel) and carburetor and engine cleaner.

Unique Auto Parts says each of its five warehouses

are fully stocked with all these great products as well as many others and a premium delivery service is available from all locations using a combinations of Unique Auto Parts’ own delivery vehicles and a network of what it describes as the fastest and most reliable couriers.

Over the years Unique Auto Parts says it has become well known in the industry for supplying top quality new parts for European makes including Mercedes Benz, BMW, Mini, Audi, Volkswagen, Seat, Skoda, Peugeot, Renault, Citroen, Porsche, Alfa, Fiat, Range Rover and Volvo.

For more information call 1300 864 864 to be connected to your nearest store or visit www.uniqueautoparts.com.au

DAYCO EXPANDS OEM QUALITY SILICONE

TURBO HOSE RANGE

Four

new ranges are on offer

Dayco, which says it is a leading engine products and drive systems manufacturer for the automotive, heavy duty and industrial market segments, has introduced another comprehensive product range specifically for the Australian and New Zealand automotive aftermarket.

Four new silicone hose product range expansions are now offered to the market in varying IDs and lengths to cover most heavy duty / diesel engine application requirements.

The Turbo Hose with Aramid Reinforced Nomex, the 90° Universal Hose Bend – Silicone and the 45° Universal Hose Bend – Silicone all exceed performance and physical criteria of SAE J20 R1, SAE J20 R1 H.T. Class A, TMC RP303B Grade I and Grade II, Mil Spec A-A-52426 and various other heavy-duty OEM specifications.

These products are often used in aerospace applications, performance motors and vehicles, marine wet-exhaust, commercial truck and bus induction and cooling systems, agricultural and offhighway vehicles and turbo diesel applications, as

well as other applications with high temperatures or where extreme working conditions exist. They all feature five ply silicone with polyester reinforcement (70 Durometer), offer excellent ozone and UV resistance and are resistant to electromechanical degradation. They each have a recommended working temperature of -53.9°C to +176.6°C.

The Charge Air Cooler Hose – Heavy Duty works well for offset piping connections or where extreme vibration or lateral movement exists. Dayco says it offers a superior connection between engine mounted charge air system components in truck and bus induction systems, performance vehicles, agricultural machinery, off-highway vehicles and aerospace applications. Its key features are as follows:

• Four Ply woven Aramid Silicone Hose (Oxide Red)

• Aramid temperature range -50° to +230°C

• Four Ply Silicone Polyester reinforced configuration (Blue)

• Silicone temperature range -50° to +177°C

• Black CAC Hose has a Fluorocarbon liner for increased petrochemical combustion residue resistance.

• Stainless Steel retention rings

• Excellent Ozone and UV resistance.

• Convoluted design retains flexibility in hostile engine environments.

• Oxide Red for hot side and Blue for cold side applications

For more information, contact Dayco Australia Customer service on 03 9796 4044 or visit www.dayco.com

HUNTER WINALIGN HEAVY DUTY WHEEL ALIGNER

The wheel aligner has received a major vote of confidence from Nolan’s Interstate Transport

Precision Automotive Equipment, which says it is Australia’s leading automotive workshop equipment suppliers, fitters and service providers, states that it prides itself on achieving outstanding customer satisfaction.

As the exclusive Australian distributor of the “world leading” Hunter range of wheel service equipment products, Precision Equipment recently supplied the busy Nolan’s Interstate Transport (QLD) workshop with a “state of the art” Hunter WinAlign Heavy Duty Wheel Aligner.

Designed specifically for heavy duty vehicles, Hunter’s WinAlign system includes unique alignment features to suit a comprehensive range of truck, trailer and bus applications.

According to Aaron Mogg, Workshop Manager of Nolan’s Interstate Transport, the Hunter WinAlign Wheel Aligner has been a total game changer for their business efficiency.

“Since the implementation of the Hunter WinAlign Wheel Aligner some 12 months ago we have significantly reduced our tyre costs per month,” Aaron said.

“We are currently running approximately 2,000 axles in the Nolan’s Transport fleet and we noticed a small saving after the first three months of using this aligner, but it was after the first year where the savings proved to be remarkable.

“Before we purchased the Hunter aligner, we averaged $135K per month in tyre costs (using an external aligner), now we are spending $85K per month.

“We currently only do wheel alignments when a full set of drives are replaced, when a set of steers are replaced, or if a driver complaint comes in.

“On that point, the compliments we are getting from our drivers to our mechanics are very rewarding. Anyone in this business will tell you that getting compliments from drivers is not easy!”

Key features and benefits:

• Six cordless sensors allowing three axle live measurements at once

• More than 60 axle configurations supported

• Reduced setup time with rolling compensation utilising the Truck Pusher

• Alignment angles in under three minutes

• Extensive Specifications Database supplied by major manufacturers

• Specific features for HD Truck, Trailer and Bus applications

• Align Trailer without unhooking from Prime mover

• Align Trailer alone with optional adapters

• Optional Trailer gauge and Frame gauge are available

TRANSMISSION OVERHAUL

CVT NZ wants to make it easier for workshops to overhaul CVT transmissions

Located in New Zealand and specialising in supplying parts and re-manufacturing CVT transmissions, CVT NZ has more than 1200 different parts in stock and supplies parts to every country in the world.

CVT NZ states that the CVT transmission is the transmission for the future, especially now that fuel prices are rising. It says these transmissions are very reliable, provided you maintain them and use the correct transmission fluids.

These transmissions are now used in nearly all vehicle makes, regardless of whether the engine is a four, six or eight cylinder. CVT NZ states the belt used in the majority of CVT transmissions are now of a very high standard and can cope with very high torques.

The company – a family business with more than 50 years of experience in the automotive sector – has more than 180 different CVT transmissions available for two and four-wheel-drive vehicles. It also manufactures some parts because they are not available from the original manufacturer. It is CVT NZ’s intention to make it easier for

workshops to overhaul CVT transmissions because the company believes it is ridiculous that the car manufacturers do not supply parts or any information for these transmissions.

As part of this commitment, CVT NZ is working hard to get all parts available for every CVT transmission, with these parts available via the CVT NZ website to workshops across the globe.

In addition, in the next few years the company plans to publish detailed workshop manuals for these transmissions to make it easier for mechanics to understand the inner workings of the CVTs and how to diagnose and solve problems, and make repairs.

For the last 25 years the business has specialised in diagnosing problems and repairing CVT transmissions.

In fact, the company has worked across several countries to diagnose problems and repair CVT transmissions on request.

In the past two decades, the company reports it has rebuilt more than 5,600 CVT transmissions from every vehicle manufacturer with more than 70 different models of CVT transmissions.

• Also for Car and Light Truck applications

• Self-Centering Wheel Adaptors

• Various Turnplate options

Precision Automotive Equipment says this heavyduty wheel aligner is world leading and comes with a WA670 Premium Cabinet, runs on 240V power and is compatible with DSP760T sensors (six optical sensors, self-centering adaptors and storage cart).

Precision Automotive Equipment invites you to contact its team to find out more about this and the entire Hunter range of wheel service equipment products and all other workshop equipment updating or fitment requirements. For more information, call 1300 366 252 or visit www.precisionautomotive.com.au

If there are any parts you need for a CVT transmission and they are not listed on the company’s website, CVT NZ encourages you to send its team an email with some pictures so that the parts can be recognised.

Further, if you have a problem with a vehicle and you can’t find the parts you need, CVT NZ says you shouldn’t hesitate to email its team with a full description of the problem and all of details from the vehicle, including the fault codes and the transmission code, so CVT NZ can try to help you solve the problem.

For more information, visit www.cvt.co.nz

THE TRIPLE ‘I’ APPROACH – INFORMATION, INSPIRATION AND INSIGHTS

An overseas study trip has mycar management’s eyes firmly focused on an EV future

Emerging from the fog which we navigated through over the last two years with no real compass or GPS, mycar Managing Director, Adam Pay, says it is refreshing to be now looking beyond the day-today and into the future.

Together with his senior leadership team, Adam, like most business leaders, spent most of the last couple of years looking internally at how they could keep their team safe and healthy, how they could be there when the company’s customers needed them the most, and how they could keep the business intact.

The triple ‘I’ approach

Following a research trip to Europe late last year, Adam outlined what he calls the triple ‘I’ approach, which he is confident will take the organisation to the next level.

“At mycar, we are focused on being people first. And we realised that for mycar to be truly people first, it was essential for us to lift our heads up beyond the day-to-day of pandemic navigation and look beyond Australia’s borders for the mycar Triple I – information, inspiration and insights –for our business to continue to grow, thrive, and be future fit,” Adam said.

“mycar’s vision is to be the team of auto experts famous for customer care.

“To do that, we need to be obsessed with ‘world class’. When you think about world class organisations, they are the organisations who are innovating, who are doing things differently, and who are working extremely hard to disrupt themselves.

“For mycar to disrupt itself, we needed to look beyond Australia and even beyond automotive. That is why for a brief period in 2022, we packed up and spent a week on a whirlwind trip of Europe.”

Adam is quick to point out that those picturing fancy restaurants, hotels, limousines and caviar, couldn’t be further from the truth and says they need to bring their thoughts down to three-star, taxi rides and eating on the run!

“We had three goals while we were away. We wanted to gather as much information as possible; we wanted inspiration into what is possible; and we wanted to gain a greater insight into our current business, strategy and plans.

“So, we went on a week-long hunt around the globe, to look at adjacencies and to explore what is being done overseas, what has worked, and just as importantly, what hasn’t. This is so we could look,

listen, learn, and not repeat the mistakes of those who have gone before.”

Evolution, not revolution

Following this trip, Adam then spent some time speaking with Australian industry players, colleagues and contacts to really distil what they had learnt and what it means for mycar, its customers, the industry and the country.

“It is probably no surprise that the greatest learnings from Europe were in electric vehicles (EV) and the supporting infrastructure space,” Adam said.

“Oslo in Norway was definitely an eye-opener. However, it wasn’t as sophisticated as I had imagined – from a charging infrastructure perspective, and other elements too.

“Interestingly the Norwegians have moved beyond range anxiety and are now dealing with charge anxiety – that is, finding accessible, operational, affordable charging when and where they need it; with little to no wait time.”

Adam indicated that one of the crucial take-outs from this discovery period was that no matter how early you think you are moving into next generation automotive, it is never early enough.

“The key for Australia is to pace ourselves. From

what I can see, EV uptake in Australia is an evolution, not a revolution,” Adam said.

“With that said, I believe the projection data on EV adoption to be conservative, even misleading.

“In my opinion, it will be a much faster uptake; however, with the landscape changing so rapidly, if I was asked to commit to a number, I know I would get it wrong. What I do know is that it is not if, it is when, and how soon.

mycar Managing Director, Adam Pay

“What I also know is that there is going to be petrol and diesel cars on Australian roads for many years to come, which is why it was so great to peek into a world which is a few years ahead of us, and think about how we can take advantage of the runway for change and the growth that presents.”

A cool head, steady hand

As an automotive service and repairs business, Adam says mycar has a vested interest in understanding what the future of the industry may look like.

“Contrary to popular belief, EVs still have many of the basic servicing needs that petrol and dieselpowered vehicles do – tyres, brakes, suspension, wipers, fluids etc,” Adam said.

“The bottom line is, it is a vehicle with a different kind of drive/method of propulsion. And everyone in the industry knows, we have adapted before, and we will do it again – as long as we see it as an opportunity, keep an open mind, learn, and be willing to adapt.

“However, it is also fair to say that we are likely to see fewer general repairs over the coming years.

“From what we saw in Oslo, over time, there will be 30-40 percent less general repairs, and in time workshops will need to be servicing two EVs for every one petrol or diesel vehicle, to remain stable state.

“This means that workshop efficiency will become way more important. In addition, EV vehicles and their drivers are likely to need different products and services which the industry will need to adapt to, particularly as we don’t know how EVs will cope with Australian conditions long term.

“As I mentioned before, there will still be petrol

and diesel vehicles on our roads for many years to come and workshops across Australia will play a key role keeping petrol and diesel cars up to scratch, to ensure they are running as smoothly as possible during the transition.

“This will be critical from an environmental perspective as we try and limit emissions from older petrol and diesel vehicles.”

Adam explains that a key insight for the team was that businesses such as mycar – which can

service all types of cars, be they petrol, diesel, hybrid or electric – will still be an essential service for the foreseeable future.

However, he says, what is important to an EV owner can be somewhat different to that of a petrol or diesel car owner, so it is crucial to be obsessed with what the customer wants and needs, regardless of shifting technology.

A sophisticated transition

While Adam says he and his management team didn’t come back with all of the answers, he believes lots of dots were joined, and knowledge gaps closed.

“For me, it is about the need for a sophisticated transition,” Adam said.

“That is, not too fast, but not too slow; not too over-invested, but also not too under-invested.

“It is about finding our Goldilocks pace and investment – the ‘just right’ for the Australian market.

“So as a leadership team, we definitely have lots to think about and mull on.

“However, I’ve also gone one step further with the purchase of my own EV. What better way to understand the needs of an EV driver, than to become one?

“I still have so much to learn as an EV driver, but I’m definitely having fun doing it!

“I can’t say with certainty what is ahead for EVs in Australia, but I know it is exciting. And I also know that if we work together – industry, government and customers – and learn from those who have gone before us, we’ll get it ‘just right’ for Australia!” For more from mycar, visit www.mycar.com.au

COOLDRIVE’S BRAKEBOOK

For all your braking needs

Available for CoolDrive Auto Parts customers is a digital catalogue for its expansive braking range, “BrakeBook,” to simplify the searching for and ordering of replacement parts.

One of the most accurate and comprehensive braking catalogues available in the market today, BrakeBook is accessible for CoolDrive’s customers via iShop on www.cooldrive.com.au

SCHAEFFLER TAKES ITS GARAGE PORTAL TO THE NEXT LEVEL

The company says the garage portal now offers an even better experience with more technical information than ever

Schaeffler has reorganised its RepXpert garageoriented services portal to deliver the vast amount of information it contains more effectively. Around 200,000 users access RepXpert through 36 country portals in 16 languages. To structure this amount of information more clearly and ensure a user-friendly experience, Schaeffler has updated the garage portal and raised it to a new level.

“Through RepXpert garages and technicians have an easy-to-use portal that quickly guides them to the information they’re searching for and offers more technical content than ever before as part of the free service,” Schaeffler Head of Automotive for Australia and New Zealand, Warren Barnett, said.

and maintenance information (RMI) from TecAlliance as well as the ability to register for training courses.

“BrakeBook is a leader in the development of new and niche vehicle applications, with a strong depth of OE references, and is the pinnacle of fitment data for vehicles on Australasian roads,” CoolDrive Auto Parts Category Manager –Brakes, Steve Kreti, said.

“Our braking team at CoolDrive frequently and carefully update BrakeBook to ensure the product listings are accurate and of the highest quality, containing only parts relevant to our local car parc.”

A personalised dashboard has been implemented making extensive technical information and repair data, an overview of training courses, news, and events more accessible to every website visitor. Users with registered accounts have even more functions available. They can access the complete aftermarket parts catalogue, manufacturer data and see their latest activities, like recently selected products or vehicles.

A revised navigation menu and new global search function within the catalogue and technical information quickly takes users to the desired RepXpert content.

Garages also have access to the bonus program where they can accumulate points found in Luk, INA and FAG product boxes and exchange them for specialty tools and other useful items. Other additional features include a complete range of repair data and vehicle-specific repair

“We listened to the feedback we received from garages worldwide and have implemented those changes into RepXpert which now offer our users an even better experience that includes more technical information than ever,” Warren said. The integrated parts catalogue offers the entire product range of all represented aftermarket manufacturers as well as allowing easier access to extensive repair and maintenance information (RMI). Schaeffler product data gets updated daily. RepXpert users will also find numerous courses with extensive theoretical and practical knowledge.

Classroom training courses, online training courses and e-learning courses can either be accessed directly or booked via an integrated calendar with online registration. Additionally, the in-depth technical information is continuously expanded in installation videos, step-by-step instructions, garage tips and help with typical fitting errors.

For more information, visit www.schaeffler.com

Listings are updated in real-time, with users able to search for replacement parts in a variety of ways, including through vehicle make and model, a VIN search, rego search, or by part number. Following a large product range expansion in recent times, CoolDrive say it is now considered one of the market leaders in brakes, stocking an impressive range of leading global brands.

Available from Australasia’s preferred automotive parts distributor are braking brands including Bremtec Brakes, Fremax, Bosch, Brembo, ICER, Project-Mu and Akebono to name a few, covering an impressive range of street, performance, track and off-road products.

For further information, visit www.cooldrive.com.au

COMMON CLUTCH INSTALLATION ISSUES

And how to avoid them

The most important part of any clutch system repair begins with the initial diagnosis – the primary cause of complaint must be identified correctly before replacing or repairing any components.

For example, a clutch might be slipping because it is old and excessively worn, but this phenomenon may also occur for many other reasons (such as grease or oil contamination, release mechanism problems, driver error/abuse, or an incorrect flywheel profile).

If the initial diagnosis is incorrect, then, despite repair work having been carried out, the vehicle will still be in a state of disrepair. The consequence of which is usually the premature failure of the clutch.

Exedy always recommends following vehicle manufacturers’ individual clutch installation instructions, unless the kit selected requires a different procedure, in which case any special instructions required will be provided within the kit.

It describes the following as the top three installation errors its team encounters, along with sure-fire ways to avoid them.

Incorrect or excess grease applied during installation

This is a common mistake, which can result in contamination of the friction surfaces, leading to the clutch slipping and/or juddering. Apply a small amount of suitable high melting point grease to the input shaft, the splined hub, the fork (where it contacts with the release bearing) and the fork pivot surface.

Slide the friction disc onto the input shaft then wipe off any excess grease before completing installation. Exedy includes a tube of high melting point grease with every clutch kit.

Misalignment of the engine and transmission

This can occur for various reasons: hanging the gearbox during installation; forcing the gearbox input shaft during installation; a worn or missing pilot bush (spigot bearing); warping of an alloy gearbox bellhousing; damaged or missing gearbox dowel pins; interference between the gearbox and engine mating surfaces caused by dirt or grease accumulation, metal filings, or even by trapped wiring.

To avoid this, it is important to degrease and

inspect the gearbox bellhousing thoroughly, ensure a transmission jack is used correctly, and use the appropriate clutch alignment tool during installation.

Release bearing installation and release mechanism faults

Thoroughly inspect the gearbox bearing guide tube, the fork or lever and the cable or hydraulics system for any wear or visible faults. Always follow vehicle manufacturers’ recommendations when adjusting or replacing the bearing, the cable or any hydraulics components. Check for any clutch travel adjustment required upon clutch replacement. For more from Exedy, visit www.exedy.com.au

PAYING ATTENTION TO BRAKE ROTORS

Tips and hints from ADVICS and Exedy Australia

You may have seen the name around and wondered about the origins of ADVICS. Simply put, ADVICS stands for Advanced Intelligent Chassis Systems and as an Aisin group company, Exedy says it has earned its reputation as a world-class manufacturer of the market’s most trusted brake systems.

Exedy explains that ADVICS is a supplier of ultra-premium brake system components that are engineered and manufactured with industryleading technology and innovation for the aftermarket; stating that the ADVICS journey “represents the very best of Japanese quality, global expertise and environmental sustainability for the road ahead.”

Identifying brake rotor issues

Like many vehicle problems, issues with brake rotors can be brought to the driver’s attention by an unusual driving feel. Rotor troubles often come in the form of pedal pulsation.

As a tech, you can assess whether the front or rear rotors need your attention by speaking with your customer about where they are feeling the abnormality while driving.

As you know, issues with front brake rotors will feel like a shaking of the steering wheel when pressure is applied to the brake pedal. Rear brake rotor problems will manifest as a vibration below the driver’s seat.

How to mitigate brake rotor problems

Now that you have gone through the troubleshooting process to identify which brake rotor set is being impacted, it is time to establish next steps in mitigating rotor issues going forward, or replacing them if necessary.

First, it is important to inspect the affected rotor(s) for oils or shards of metal, which could be contributing to warping and pulsation. Note that you can wash the rotors with soap and water if excess oil is present – just never wash them with brake cleaner.

Next, it is crucial to inspect the brake rotors for any damage or cracks. If these are present, you will need to replace the rotors.

Then, it is time to check the rotor’s thickness. You will need to find the minimum thickness specifications, which should be labelled on the hat of the rotor, on the sides of the rotor or within the rotor’s veins.

Once that is identified, use a micrometer to measure the rotor’s thickness 10mm into the outer circumference of the rotor. Then, repeat this process seven times at every 45 degrees. If all noted measurements are above the minimum, the rotor does not need replacement. It is also important to note if any of these measurements have inconsistencies. If there are variations in thickness, the rotor will need to be resurfaced.

THE TRANSMISSION SYSTEM

The guardian of the vehicle’s power

Complex and operating under continual pressure at high temperatures, a vehicle’s Transmission System is the very definition of a Hidden Hero. Always ready, always precise, always accurate –the Transmission System performs the critical role of harnessing all the raw power provided by the engine and delivering it in a controlled, measured way to the wheels, through a precise, continuous process of speed and torque transmission. If the transmission fails, so does the whole vehicle.

PETRONAS says this hero will be facing greater stress tomorrow – stating that as if this exploding mechanical complexity wasn’t enough, things are only going to get tougher for this hidden hero. Already highly compact Transmission Systems will become smaller and run hotter, to meet the demand for lighter, more efficient vehicles.

Environmental imperatives will continue, increasing demand for fully electrified and hybrid drivelines which bring with them unique cooling challenges and place further pressures on space. Urbanisation and ‘always on’ delivery trends will

increase stop/start traffic for everyone but place particular pressure on the Transmission Systems of commercial vehicles.

PETRONAS Tutela to protect the Transmission System

All that stands between the full power of a vehicle driving metal against metal is a thin layer of protective molecules.

The PETRONAS Tutela range of specialist transmission fluids has been engineered to withstand pressure, enhance performance and efficiency, and extend the life of moving parts.

PETRONAS says key features and benefits of its Tutela range include the following:

• Improved fuel efficiency – PETRONAS Tutela transmission fluids combine lower viscosity with strengthened fluid film resistance, to reduce friction and improve fuel efficiency without compromising on protection.

• Defends against mechanical stress, to help avoid unexpected downtime and extend the

Replacing brake pads and brake rotors together

While inspecting, repairing and/or replacing brake rotors, it is also important to assess the brake pads at the same time. Brake pads require the same attention to minimum thickness requirements, quality of the friction surface and surrounding components that brake rotors do. There are industry variations on which minimum thickness is standard for brake pad replacement. Some shops recommend replacing pads that are worn to a quarter of an inch, while others will wait until the pad is an eighth of an inch.

Ultimately each brake job should be assessed and addressed on a case-by-case basis. That being said, ADVICS technicians recommend replacing brake pads and brake rotors together, using ultra-premium parts that are designed and engineered to work together, for optimal stopping power and safety.

Exedy Australia is now proudly stocking a broad range of Aisin and ADVICS branded products such as brake calipers, brake master cylinders, brake boosters, brake pads, rotors and drums. For more information, go to www.exedy.com.au/part-finder

working life – PETRONAS Tutela transmission fluids have anti-wear and anti-pitting properties to help extend the life of the Transmission System, and outstanding shock load resistance to protect the axle.

• Performance even at low temperatures.

• Ready to tackle the increased electrification of the driveline.

• Ready to take on new speeds.

• Multi-purpose fluids for increasingly automated transmissions.

• Enhanced noise and vibration control qualities.

• Smoother, more comfortable gear shifts. For more information, please visit au.pli-petronas.com or call 1800 841 566.

DBA TO LAUNCH ALL-NEW RANGE

Disc Brakes Australia is introducing new Brake Pad Wear Sensors to the market

Disc Brakes Australia (DBA) is continuing its journey of expanding its product portfolio.

The latest addition to its increasingly comprehensive brake product offering is a range of pad wear sensors under its STREET SERIES label.

DBA says this new product line perfectly complements its comprehensive range of brake pads - consisting of over 1,500 SKUs and ranging from standard OE replacement to high performance pads (further details are available at www.dba.com.au/products/friction).

Often sold as an add-on and in the same box as the pad itself, DBA says it is now putting the customer in control by offering the option to purchase the sensor based on the actual replacement need.

STREET SERIES sensors are designed for easy replacement as part of routine brake maintenance. They have been developed for and tested in harsh Australian conditions.

It is important to remember that brake pad wear sensors should be part of a vehicle’s regular maintenance schedule.

Keeping the brake pad wear sensors in good working order offers the driver a number of benefits, including:

• Improved safety: by monitoring the condition of the brake pads, brake pad wear sensors help to ensure that the brakes are always operating flawlessly, improving overall safety on the road.

• Peace of mind: by providing an early warning of brake pad wear, brake pad wear sensors help to take the guesswork out of brake maintenance, giving drivers peace of mind that their brakes are always in good condition.

• Cost savings: by alerting the driver to brake pad wear early, brake pad wear sensors can help to reduce the need for more extensive and expensive brake repairs down the line. For performance and track cars, monitoring the vehicle’s braking system is even more crucial –provided a sensor-enabled pad is used. These applications typically generate more heat from braking, which can cause brake pads to wear faster, ultimately leading to potential brake failure and costly repairs.

This is especially important for racers who put the pads through heavy work on the track and then continue driving on public roads on the same set of pads.

DBA’s STREET SERIES comprises two types of brake pad wear sensors: electric and magnetic. Both types of sensors serve the same purpose, which is to monitor the condition of the brake pads and alert the driver when they need to be replaced. However, they work in slightly different ways.

Electric sensors work by using a small electric wire with a contact on its end that is built into the friction material. As the brake pad wears down, the contact moves closer to the brake rotor. When the contact reaches a certain point, it triggers an electrical circuit that sends a signal to the vehicle’s computer, which then displays a warning light on the dashboard.

Magnetic sensors, on the other hand, work by using a weak magnetic field that is generated by a magnet built into the brake pad. As the brake pad wears down, more of the magnet is exposed and the magnetic field becomes stronger. As it reaches a certain threshold, a switch in the vehicle’s

computer is triggered, which then displays a warning light on the dashboard.

Both types of brake pad wear sensors offer tried and tested technology, are durable and reliable, and are typically easy to install and replace as part of routine brake maintenance.

DBA’s STREET SERIES sensors are designed for compatibility with any DBA brake pad, from the OE-replacement STREET SERIES to the upgrade STREET PERFORMANCE and XTREME PERFORMANCE ranges. Due to its multi-pad usability, the range requires less SKUs and less stock holding, explains DBA.

The initial release covers the equivalent of over 300 OE part numbers and is constantly being added to. DBA says that like all of its products, its STREET SERIES brake pad wear sensors have been meticulously catalogued and will be available on all standard cataloguing platforms.

For further information, contact DBA on 1800 730 039 or visit www.dba.com.au

INTRODUCING SHELL’S MULTI-VEHICLE CVT FLUID

Shell has a new product for passenger cars with Continuous Variable Transmissions (CVT)

Every part of your vehicle has been meticulously engineered, so you want to use a lubricant that has been designed to ensure your equipment is well protected and works efficiently.

Over the past few decades, Shell has been developing, testing and refining automatic transmission fluids (ATF) to address the evolving needs of its customers.

Shell says these fluids are the product of its technical expertise and commitment to innovation, as well as partnerships with the manufacturers of automatic transmissions and automotive OEMs.

Shell explains that the Shell Spirax range of passenger car, continuous variable transmission fluids has been developed “to enable vehicle manufacturers and end consumers to select

the oil that will deliver optimum value to their operations and the lowest operating costs through wear protection, long oil life and efficiency.”

Using this product, Shell says end consumers will have peace of mind because they are using a reliable product and proven technology in their continuous variable transmissions.

The advanced formulation reportedly helps to lower running temperatures, which also leads to extended oil drain intervals, helping to optimise the maintenance scheduling.

Shell Spirax S5 CVT X is a premium-performance, synthetic technology CVT fluid. It uses unique formulation technology and is suitable for use in different vehicle manufacturers’ chain and pushbelt type CVTs.

Its unique formulation and technology allows it to meet specifications of several large OEMs, including Honda, Nissan, Jeep, Toyota, Suzuki, Subaru, MB, Volkswagen, Volvo and others. For more information, visit www.shell.com.au or contact the Technical Helpdesk of Shell Macro Distributor, Viva Energy on 1300 134 205.

NEW BENDIX BRAKE PADS

For LandCruiser 300 Series and V6 Amarok

Few model releases generate as much excitement in the automotive world as a new Toyota LandCruiser.

After a long wait for prospective owners, the great news is that the first of these vehicles are now available locally, and Bendix is well underway developing braking products specifically to suit the new Cruiser.

While the Bendix aftermarket offering for LandCruiser will further grow in coming months, as of February initial products have become available. On offer are front and rear disc brake pads from Bendix’s 4X4-focused 4WD/SUV range. The 4WD/SUV range is specifically developed for

four-wheel-drives and SUVs for use in both on and off-road applications and provides low noise and dust operation and reduced brake fade at higher temperatures.

Bendix range extensions

Staying within the 4WD and SUV category, the Ultimate 4WD range has expanded and is now available to suit selected VW Amarok models 2018 onwards with V6, and Land Rover Discovery 3. There is also a first release of the 4WD/SUV range suitable for 2021 Hyundai Tucson and Kia Sportage and for the Toyota Fortuner from 2018 onwards. Additionally, General CT pads have been introduced for Mazda CX-8 and CX-9 models from 2016 and 2017 onwards respectfully.

Other recent releases

Bendix has also released a new range of HeavyDuty Disc Brake Pads for hardworking Volkswagen Crafter van and cab chassis models. The additions suit models from 2017 onwards and include both front and rear options (model dependent).

Bendix says its Heavy-Duty pads are a great fit for working vehicles that carry and tow heavy loads,

and states they also last up to twice as long as allpurpose pads and thrive at higher temperatures. Street Race Track pads are also now available to suit a greater range of Ford Mustang and Mitsubishi Lancer EVO models, while Ultimate+ Pads can now be selected for Ford Focus XR5 Turbo and Lexus RX and VW Golf GTi models. Rounding out the latest Bendix pad additions are new HD offerings for the 2021 model Mitsubishi Outlander along with additional products for Suzuki (Ignis), Haval (H2), Peugeot (3008 and Expert), Ford (Focus, Escape, Endure), Holden (Commodore), Honda (Accord) and VW (Golf and Tiguan).

For more information, visit www.bendix.com.au

INNOVATION FOCUSED CLUTCH SOLUTIONS

Clutch Industries has seen plenty in its seven decades of business

Clutch Industries says it is proud of its 70-plus year history as a major Australian clutch manufacturer, supplying original equipment for Toyota, Nissan, Ford, GM and Mitsubishi.

With the decline in vehicle manufacturing, Clutch Industries has now pivoted its business to supplying the aftermarket, however, it has retained its OEM test lab and most of its manufacturing equipment in Melbourne, Australia.

Research and development is a high priority for the company and Clutch Industries has a dedicated R&D division, known as Mantic Engineering.

Mantic Engineering holds 10 current patents on clutch technology and employs several mechanical engineers in its Melbourne facility. In recent years, the company says it has invested one million dollars in modernising and increasing its manufacturing capabilities, with part of this investment including state of the art automation equipment and robotics to increase efficiencies in its Australian manufacturing processes. Further, Clutch Industries says another focus of its company is undertaking initiatives to increase efficiencies for workshops.

One such initiative launched in 2021 was Clutch Industries’ OEM replacement flywheel program. Traditionally when a clutch kit is replaced, the flywheel must be ground to ensure the surface finish is correct.

Clutch Industries reports it surveyed workshops and found that on average, 4.5 hours of hoist time is wasted due to this process and the trade price for a grind is on average $70 plus the delivery cost: a massive cost for workshops when the cost of the grind, delivery time/cost and lost hoist time is considered.

Clutch Industries says there is a multitude of reasons why you would replace a flywheel instead of grinding one, such as:

• Faster installation time and less hoist time wasted.

• In most cases the price is comparable to a grind.

• Eliminate issues related to a poor grind like shudder, noise and slipping.

• Restore correct stack height, reducing the chance of disengagement issues after installation.

• Stick out from the competition, by offering your customer new instead of old.

Clutch Industries says currently its range covers around 50 percent of the common clutch kits sold (where the OE flywheel is single mass), with the range being expanded regularly. The range is available through our distributors, meaning that you are able to buy everything you need to get the clutch job done in one place.

Looking to the future, Clutch Industries says the rise of Electric Vehicles (EVs) will decrease demand for a lot of common vehicle parts, outside of a handful of categories. It states while the effect of this has not been felt in the market yet, with major manufacturers phasing out production of Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) vehicles in 2030, it is only a matter of time before the effect is seen in the industry. Clutch Industries explains that its Mantic Engineering division has a future thinking philosophy and therefore has been proactively approaching the challenge of how to ensure workshops have immediate access to the parts they need in a complex and significant category (clutch) when demand will be declining with increased adoption of EVs.

In 2018 a dedicated engineering team at Mantic embarked on a project to decrease clutch SKU complexity (ie. increase carparc coverage with less parts) and reduce installation time for mechanics whilst also looking to enhance performance and quality compared with typical OEM clutches.

What they created is a clutch system that

replaces thousands of different clutch kits with 20 products, called UniClutch.

UniClutch works by taking the fitment complexity out of the clutch and consolidating the mechanical interfaces into a fitment kit, which contains its patented multi fit flywheel mount and patented interchangeable splines.

This system allows the sealed pre-assembled clutch to be adapted to various makes and models where traditionally a different clutch would be required for each vehicle.

Another key piece of patented technology, new to UniClutch, is Mantic’s Radial Dampening Centre (RDC) found in the UniClutch disc. Clutch Industries says this technology is the pinnacle of noise and harmonics reduction inside a clutch disc and performs comparable to that of a dual mass flywheel.

Lastly, UniClutch is designed to handle prodigious torque in a compact modular package which fits into the bellhousing of most vehicles from a Toyota Corolla to a Nissan Patrol. This is achieved by leveraging Mantic Engineering’s 70 years of experience manufacturing multi-disc clutch systems in Australia.

With the development stage of the project now complete, Mantic Engineering has been running a pilot program having hundreds of installations completed in Australia, New Zealand and around the world. The UniClutch will be officially launched in 2023 and will be available through select automotive parts distributors.

For more information, visit www.uniclutch.com or call 1300 369 787.

PENRITE SPECIALTY FLUIDS

Penrite says it has a product for most applications

Penrite Oil is an Australian owned and operated lubricant manufacturer which explains why it is well known for its wide range of high-quality products including Automatic Transmission Fluids, Gear Oils, Power Steering Fluids, and Brake and Suspension fluids.

Automatic Transmission Fluids

Penrite produces 10 different types of automatic transmission fluids covering conventional step type automatic transmissions, CVTs (Continuously Variable Transmissions) and DCTs (Dual Clutch Transmissions).

Penrite’s newest automatic transmission fluid product release, ATF BMV, is suitable for many of the latest release transmission types, including vehicles with ZF six, eight and nine speed transmissions and in Mercedes Benz vehicles where MB 236.17 is specified.

If an earlier specification is needed, Penrite ATF LV is a full synthetic automatic transmission fluid that meets the requirements of Ford Mercon-LV and GM Dexron-VI as well as many other manufacturers’ performance levels.

It is an advanced formula designed for optimum performance, outstanding high temperature resistance and it provides 2.5 times the smooth shift durability over the life of the fluid compared to the industry standard anti shudder test.

Gear Oils

Penrite manufactures a variety of mineral, semi and full synthetic gear oils for manual gearboxes, transfer cases and differentials.

For supreme gear oils, Penrite says you should look no further than the Penrite Pro Gear range. The range is comprised of full synthetic products

covering many viscosities and includes both GL-4 and GL-5 products to suit most applications.

Competition proven, Penrite says the Pro Gear range provides “the ultimate in performance and protection.”

Penrite Premium Mineral Gear Oils are made using non-aggressive extreme pressure additives, making them safe to use in transmissions with yellow or white metals in them.

They are API GL-5 grade oils that feature the correct dosage of limited slip differential additive, making them suitable for both Hypoid and LSD differentials, which reduces the amount of inventory workshops need to hold.

Power Steering and Suspension Fluids

Penrite has Power Steering and Suspension Fluids to suit most makes and models.

Penrite Power Steering Fluid is designed for use in power steering units that specify conventional type automatic transmission fluids (ATFs) ie. DEXRON II and III fluids.

It is a premium multipurpose power steering fluid that meets Ford M2C934-C/D specifications for use in Ford EF-FG series Falcons and SX/SY Territories, replacing the need for a separate product.

Penrite Power Steering Fluid contains anti-shudder additives for long and smooth service life and features “Stop Leak” technology to prevent seal failure and leaking. This product is not just ‘another ATF in a bottle,’ says Penrite.

Penrite PAS is a semi synthetic fluid and contains a special anti-shudder (noise and chatter) additive. It is designed for use in Australian, European, US and Korean power steering and suspension systems.

It also meets the requirements of Land Rover PAS 14315 for use in the power steering and active cornering enhancement system (ACE) of Land Rover vehicles such as the Discovery and Defender.

PAS Fluid can be used where Dexron VI is recommended in Holden Commodore / Calais / Caprice and HSV VE series vehicles, in Chrysler and General Motors, and in ZF power steering units.

Brake Fluids

Penrite says it has the Brake Fluid for you, whether you are servicing on-road or competition vehicles. Penrite explains that its DOT 3, Super DOT 4, Racing Brake Fluid and Silicone DOT 5 Brake fluids cover nearly all brake and clutch applications. Penrite DOT 5.1 Fluid brake fluid is perfect for use in vehicles with ABS, AEB and ESP systems. It has a very high boiling point that provides exceptional stopping power, and its high wet boiling point ensures the stopping power lasts for the life of the fluid.

Whatever fluid you need, Penrite says it has product solutions to suit most vehicles and applications. Further, it explains that its products are manufactured here in Australia by an Australian family-owned company, to keep jobs here in Australia and support the Australian economy. For more information, visit www.penriteoil.com.au

BUSINESS FOR SALE

An exciting opportunity exists to acquire a leading brand in the automotive industry with high volume sales. CVT NZ 2010 Ltd and CVT Parts hold a unique strategic position in New Zealand as one of the only businesses of its kind.

Locally owned and operated, CVT NZ 2010 Ltd and CVT Parts is a preferred Capricorn supplier, is one of New Zealand’s specialist remanufacturing transmission businesses and is currently being run as a family business with over 50 years of experience in the automotive sector. Servicing 130 countries worldwide, the opportunity is here and now for a new owner to make this business their own.

The company is situated in the central North Island and specialises in supplying parts and remanufacturing CVT transmissions. It has more than 1,200 different parts in stock and supplies parts to 130 countries worldwide. More than 180 different CVT transmissions used in cars and four wheel drives are available, and the company also manufactures some parts which are no longer available from the original manufacturer.

The option exists to relocate the business to other parts of New Zealand, however being centrally located allows for the cost of retrieving and returning to clients a very cost effective option.

For more information contact Steve Pett, Commercial Sales, Business & Brokerage Ph: 0275 604 838 Email: steve.pett@bayleys.co.nz Web: www.bayleys.co.nz/2312787

CLUTCHPRO DUAL MASS FLYWHEELS

The brand says it is leading the way in this area

ClutchPro is the standard replacement passenger and commercial offering within Australian Clutch Services (ACS) and includes a comprehensive range of OE quality clutch kits, flywheels, hydraulics and accessories.

Incorporating the latest in clutch technology to meet the demands of modern vehicles, ACS says the ClutchPro brand is dedicated to the support of workshops looking to enhance their service offering. Recently added to the ClutchPro range is a variety of dual mass flywheels to suit both dual-clutch transmissions (DCT) and continuously variable transmissions (CVT).

Although not part of the “traditional” manual vehicle market, ACS says this expansion into specialised DCT and CVT components is critical to supporting distributors and workshops around the country.

Examples of the new flywheels include replacements for 2008-2012 Audi A4 models and the 2013 on 1.2L Renault Megane/Clio.

“With manufacturers constantly developing new and innovative ways of improving vehicle efficiency

and also reducing noise, vibration and harshness in the cabin, it is critical for the aftermarket to support workshops around the country looking for more specialised components such as these flywheels,” ACS General Manager, Simon Acton, said.

“The introduction of these flywheels along with the technical support and tools for both testing and installation of specialised components such as these is something we are always looking to perfect for our customers.”

ACS explains that its ClutchPro range also incorporates critical tools to suit these specialised components to support workshops looking to take on these jobs.

“We also offer DCT clutch removal and installation tools for hire with the purchase of our DCT clutch kits through our distributor network,” Simon said.

“With these tools being both valuable and vehicle specific, this service is perfect for workshops looking to start working on these vehicle applications.”

ACS says the ClutchPro range also sets a high standard for dual mass flywheels to fit traditional manual vehicles as well as specialised single

mass flywheel conversions for popular vehicle applications where this alternate is demanded.

“We offer everything here at ACS, from standard replacement dual mass flywheels through to high performance motorsport and 4x4 upgrades. Our focus on accessories, hydraulics and tools is just a part of our total clutch solution for workshops across Australia and around the world,” Simon said. For more information, please visit www.australianclutch.com.au

XTREME CLUTCH PERFORMANCE HYDRAULICS

ACS says these hydraulics are revolutionising the conversion market

Xtreme Clutch’s new range of universal concentric slave cylinders (CSC) are proving to be popular in the tuning and performance industry, particularly with vehicle owners looking to make an engine or transmission conversion.

The innovative new design hit the market after the USA based SEMA show in 2021 and has fulfilled the performance brand’s ambition of providing a unique solution to the market.

The CSC was designed in-house at Australian Clutch Services (ACS), the parent company of the Xtreme Clutch brand, and incorporates a billet 6061 alloy housing, high quality EPDM rubber seals and a threaded adjustment sleeve (where required) for universal applications.

The CSC has been developed to work with a range of different bearings and is ideal for motorsport applications or where a custom clutch solution is required. The new CSCs are also compatible with all high-quality brake fluids.

“One of the main goals for our universal concentric slave cylinders was to provide the most universal design with adjustability for a wide range of applications, especially for customers who

required different mounting options and heights for specialised engine and transmission conversions,” ACS Engineering Manager, Stewart Furze, said.

“This particular design essentially replaces countless performance concentric slave cylinders already on the market for this type of application and has been extensively tested in vehicles throughout Australia, the US and Europe.

“With ease of installation and setup, these CSCs have become a popular choice with specialist workshops and we are now incorporating these into our custom conversion kits where required.”

Xtreme Clutch is a specialist in custom clutch conversions and regularly develops customised clutch kits for vehicle owners that are replacing engines or transmissions.

It is this experience and expertise that has helped to create the ideal hydraulic solution for these applications, says ACS.

“We are developing custom clutch kits almost daily and we have gained a great deal of experience on what customers are looking for in their clutch setups,” Stewart said.

“Whether it is for a purpose built race car with a sequential aftermarket transmission or a simple 4x4 transmission conversion from a later model, we have integrated the knowledge gained through hundreds of conversions into this concentric slave cylinder so the technician has ease of setup and installation whilst offering the performance required for these kinds of applications.”

Xtreme Clutch has published an online PDF explaining the different CSC configurations as well as technical data on its website. It has also developed a video looking at the features and benefits of these new CSCs.

For more information, please visit www.xtremeclutch.com.au

MEYLE PD BRAKE COMPONENTS

MEYLE says these components are in a class of their own

Perfectly functioning brakes are essential for the safety of all road users. As a safety-relevant component and one of the most frequently replaced wear parts, brakes play a particularly important role in the vehicle.

This makes the optimum composition of materials, accuracy of fit and response behavior from the very first brake application even more important. With more than 25 years of experience as a manufacturer in the independent aftermarket and with about 4,000 items on offer in the brake sector, the Hamburg-based spare parts manufacturer MEYLE says it knows exactly what is required of brake components.

MEYLE is specialised on brake discs and pads and this is why out of the total portfolio, MEYLE offers 3,000 brake discs and pads with an EU coverage of 95 percent.

The MEYLE product portfolio: brake technology for highest demands

MEYLE brake components are available in two product lines: MEYLE ORIGINAL and MEYLE PD.

The brake discs and pads in MEYLE PD and MEYLE ORIGINAL quality are perfectly matched to each other and ensure maximum braking power as well as excellent response and pedal feel.

In all MEYLE product lines MEYLE engineers are in close contact with MEYLE’s own production facilities and partners and control specifications, requirements, and processes to ensure the highest possible quality and safety.

MEYLE says MEYLE ORIGINAL stands for safety and comfort through quality-tested, robust, durable spare parts.

With its in-house MEYLE PD product line, MEYLE says it offers performance-oriented spare parts and advanced brake parts for a safe and sporty driving experience.

In doing so, the manufacturer says it goes one step further, stating that it “thinks brake components further and makes them better.”

MEYLE PD brake discs and brake pads are characterised above all by optimum braking performance, durability, noise comfort and ease of installation, says MEYLE.

A modern coating technology provides particularly long-lasting protection against corrosion. To ensure resistance to “warping” and thus avoid vibrations, different alloys are used, such as an increased carbon content (high carbon). This is particularly advantageous for sensitive or highly stressed brake systems, says MEYLE.

INTRODUCING MSBGARAGE.COM

Motorsport Brakes has launched its brand-new web store

MSB Garage is the new online retail store for one of Australia’s leading importers of performance and competition racing parts, Motorsport Brakes (MSB).

MSB supplies premium brake friction products to the Australian and New Zealand performance, offroad and motorsport markets.

The company says it is the world’s largest export brake pad distributor for one of Japan’s most experienced manufacturers – WinmaX – who manufacture high performance brake pads and fluid. World class racing brake pad brand Circo Brakes is also distributed by MSB in Australia and operates in areas such as Rally Championships, TA2 Muscle Cars, TCM, RX8 Cup Racing Series, TCR and more. The MSB product range is not limited to racing

though. MSB has brake products in stock to suit 4x4, Street Performance, Trackdays and also services specialist fleet requirements.

The product range includes high-performance brake fluids and some equipment related to working on your car such as brake bleed bottles and even mechanic gloves.

Introduced by MSB and new to Australia in 2022 is the NRS Galvanised Brake Pad range. These pads are a non-motorsport product designed for premium applications in 4x4, EV and Fleet applications. NRS pads are a NUCAP product and include fully galvanised construction. MSB says that with patented manufacturing techniques, they are “the longest lasting pads on the market in their segment.”

With the launch of MSB’s online store, all of these products are now online at www.msbgarage.com

The web store features real-time stock availability, so once you place your order you can be sure it will be delivered for you as soon as possible straight from the official importer for both retail and trade customers. Free pick-up is also available at the MSB warehouse in Ormeau, Queensland.

“Even though you are buying from a website, the backend is staffed by knowledgeable courteous

MEYLE explains that the improved properties of MEYLE PD brake pads lead to increased performance.

With an extremely stable coefficient of friction, they are said to be low-noise and have a particularly short braking time. Further, their individual friction compound ensures maximum braking power and less brake dust.

The ECE-certified pads are free of copper and heavy metals and therefore already meet the requirements of worldwide regulations that reduce or completely prohibit the residual copper, heavy metal and asbestos in brake components. For more information, visit www.meyle.com

staff who deal with these products every day,” Motorsport Brakes Director, Marty Beckton, said. “They are there to help you have the best possible purchasing experience. Give us a call or email us and we will provide you with the best solution for your braking needs.”

MSB Garage has a parts finder that includes more than 9,000 applications for nearly 40 automotive makers, as well as competition options from 20 aftermarket caliper manufacturers.

As well as this, there are approximately 2,000 crossreference part numbers in the backend that helps search for parts using competitor cross-references.

MSB says you can choose your vehicle and type and see which parts suit your car, add suitable parts in the shopping cart and checkout securely with multiple payment options.

For more information, contact 07 3077 8884 or info@msbgarage.com or visit www.msbgarage.com

4TERRAIN HEAVY DUTY

A 4x4 specialist clutch range by Clutch Industries

An OE vehicle comes fitted with a standard clutch and this is suitable for most drivers, but we’re not all standard drivers.

If an engine is modified, or if the vehicle is under a higher strain than normal (like four-wheel driving or towing heavy loads) an upgraded clutch is required. Our Distributors stock a wide range of clutch upgrade brands and one of the fastest growing ranges is the 4Terrain Heavy Duty clutch system.

4Terrain Heavy Duty is made by Clutch Industries, which has more than 70 years’ experience designing and engineering clutch systems for Australasian conditions.

The product is ideal for applications where the standard clutch is stressed beyond typical daily driving conditions, such as towing, trade/ commercial use or off-road driving.

Clutch Industries says 4Terrain Heavy Duty delivers an increase in torque capacity while also increasing the life of the clutch through improving the following components.

High clamp, grooved cover assembly

4Terrain Cover Assemblies all feature a high clamp, SG Iron pressure plate along with the Patented ER2 Groove Design, featuring a unique groove pattern which is CNC machined on the friction face of the pressure plate.

This groove has been specifically designed to increase the Mean Effective Radius of the pressure plate and assist in heat removal. The increase in the Mean Effective Radius of the cover assembly gives a significant increase in torque capacity which is backed up by dyno testing.

By adding the groove to the pressure plate, the inside radius of the friction face has effectively been increased. The first 8mm of the pressure plate has all but been removed and added to this, there is progressively less material removed as the radius increases. The net effect of this is to move the effective inside radius further out.

the torque capacity of the clutch. Torque capacity is directly related to Rm.

More Friction Material

The 4T Heavy Duty clutch disc features a 25 percent thicker friction material for longer life, this is backed up by a Three-Year/50,000Km warranty which Clutch Industries says is the best warranty in the market.

Everything you need to get the job done Clutch Industries states that a 4Terrain Heavy Duty clutch kit comes with everything you need to do the job including the release bearing or CSC, spigot bearing and clutch aligning tool. Also, 4T Heavy Duty has a range of replacement flywheel kits to take away the hassle of sending the flywheel off to be machined.

The 4Terrain Heavy Duty Clutch system is built to endure the rugged demands of hard-working vehicles and is a logical choice for anyone who demands relentless reliability, says Clutch Industries.

When comparing the Mean Effective Radius (Rm) of the ER2 version to the non ER2 version you can see the ER2 version is further out. This increases

FREMAX BRAKING PRODUCTS

For over 35 years, Fremax has been manufacturing premium auto parts

Fremax explains that it is Brazil’s largest automotive friction material manufacturer.

Fremax was acquired by Frasle in 2018 and continues to manufacture its products at its Joinville manufacturing plant where it specialises in passenger, utility and small commercial vehicles to over 70 countries.

Fremax says it has gained a reputation for manufacturing, marketing and distributing quality products with high levels of customer service.

Access to world class technology has been one of the keys to the company’s success, says Fremax, which officially entered The Australian and New Zealand market in 2019.

Since then, it has since seen very strong growth in both regions with sales up year on year, explains Steve Kreti and Victor Makrievski, who are responsible for overseeing the product.

Fremax explains that its core success comes down to its unique technologies and manufacturing processes that enhance its strength and increase the durability of the parts.

All Fremax brake discs and drums are manufactured with high-carbon metal alloy –carbon at higher levels dissipates heat efficiently in the brake system, which ensures better braking performance and a longer brake life.

The innovative paint used on Fremax parts reportedly offers increased protection against rust, in addition to preserving the aesthetics of the product and the vehicle.

Further, Fremax says that its unique protective oil does not contaminate the pads and does not require cleaning, ensuring a much more practical, faster and more secure application.

Finally, the concentric grooved finish ensures

For more information, visit www.4terrain.com.au or chat to your local Distributor.

better and faster seating of the brake pads or linings, which Fremax says significantly reduces noises and vibrations after brake maintenance. For more information about Fremax products, please contact your local Brake and Clutch specialist or visit www.cooldrive.com.au

INTRODUCING REVIVAL AUTO PARTS

Newly launched by BAPCOR Australasia’s largest automotive aftermarket specialised company, BAPCOR, is excited to announce the launch of Revival Auto Parts – a brake restoration specialist business. Once falling under AAD’s remanufacturing division, Revival Auto Parts now has its own workshop in Derrimut in Victoria and a dedicated workshop team.

BAPCOR says Revival Auto Parts is all about “Quality Workmanship, Built with Passion,” stating that Manager Kent Davey and his team love cars and thrive on restoring brake components.

NINE-INCH DIFFERENTIAL CROWN WHEEL AND PINION SETS

From Aeroflow Performance

Aeroflow Performance explains that the Ford nine-inch differential has long been an industry standard when it comes to strength and reliability when handling high payloads or high horsepower in street and racing conditions. Since this is not going to change any time soon, Aeroflow Performance states it has added a range of nine-inch differential crown wheel and pinion sets with gear ratios including 3.25:1, 3.50:1, 3.70:1, 3.89: and 4.11:1 which it says will suit most applications.

Aeroflow says its street performance ring and pinion Ford nine-inch differential gears are strong but quiet performers. They have been manufactured from 8620 grade steel to handle some of the harshest conditions. Further, they have been designed with a gear tooth surface finish which reduces both friction and heat for long races and high torque conditions.

Aeroflow Performance explains that it uses high

grade steel in both the ring and pinion gears, with fitment designed to OEM specs.

Further, it offers these in a 28-spline pinion with the previously mentioned gear ratios to suit a variety of applications.

The new Street Diff Gear range is in stock and available now from Aeroflow Performance’s online store and all of its distributors.

Since 2010, Aeroflow Performance Products has grown to design and manufacture close to 11,000 quality products.

For more information visit www.aeroflowperformance.com or contact Rocket Industries on 02 88251 900 via www.rocketind.com

PROTEX ULTRA PERFORMANCE

The “ultimate” braking upgrade

Kent and his team have honed their skills to restore the widest range of brake parts from old to latest specification.

Fitted with state of the art testing facilities and equipment, the team repairs and recondition parts to original specifications or to specific customer requirements.

Covering passenger, commercial and agricultural vehicles, Revival Auto Parts’ remanufacturing capabilities reportedly cover the widest range of brake parts including:

• ABS combination brake units found in Toyota Landcruisers, Prado and Mitsubishi Pajero brake boosters.

• Brand new VH40, VH44 and Ford brake boosters.

The Protex Ultra Performance range is a premium brake performance product range that provides an upgraded braking solution for those drivers and enthusiasts who have a focus on performance.

Protex explains that its Ultra Rotor is made from high carbon, cast iron material offering better thermal stability, quieter braking, and high performance in challenging driving conditions. Slotted, drilled, and various vane options are available for better cooling at high braking options.

Key features and benefits include:

• Anti Corrosion Protection: Ultracoat Z360, Protex’s exclusive anti-corrosion coating for faster fitting and longer life.

• Brand new master cylinders (huge range).

• High Carbon Formulation: six directional slots and unique pillar design for optimised heat dissipation.

• Braided and rubber brake lines.

• Truck air compressors.

• Brake calipers.

• Master cylinders.

• Slave and wheel cylinders. For more information, visit www.revivalautoparts.com.au or call 03 869 1345 or visit 7 East Derrimut Cres, Derrimut (VIC).

• Quieter: responsive, and smoother pedal feel

• Quicker fitting: reduces repairer labour costs and cleaning time

• Eco-Friendly: Protex is committed to minimising environmental impact from the production methods deployed through to the materials used

Protex’s Ultra Ceramic Plus Brake Pads contain zero copper, providing less environmental impact

without compromising performance. Other advantages include:

• Ceramic friction pad formulation on the pads that delivers ultra-quiet, stable stopping power.

• Quieter: braking and better pedal feel.

• Quicker fitting: no bedding-in required.

• Eco-Friendly.

Protex says it brings you a specialised range of high-performance brake parts, covering most requirements. With over 30 years in the industry, Protex says it combines its vast product range with experience.

For more information about BAPCOR’s Protex range of performance rotors and the entire Protex range, visit www.protexparts.com.au

REMCO LITHIUM BATTERIES

Now with extended warranty

Confidence in the quality of its lithium battery range has prompted REMCO to extend its warranty from four to five years.

“We trust the quality so much that we decided to increase the warranty by an additional year, offering one of the best warranties in the market,” REMCO Product Manager, Anthony Trigona, said.

“Our Lithium batteries have been designed and manufactured to perform day-in and day-out. Now, with the added peace of mind of a fiveyear warranty, you can be sure you have the right battery for your adventuring set-up.”

NEW FROM LED AUTOLAMPS

The company has released a sleek, modern range of rear function lamps

LED Autolamps is excited to release its latest 174 Series low-profile rear function lamps.

The designer and manufacturer of high-quality LED automotive lighting products says the 174 Series is packed full of features and flexibility that are sure to impress.

It states the 174 Series lamps look great with a slick, clean, modern design that enhances any vehicle or trailer application. Whilst inactive, they feature a coloured or clear lens and a chrome inner reflector, but once lit up, you can rest assured other motorists know your intentions.

The lamps measure 175mm wide, 100mm high and 30mm on its side profile, and are 148mm bolt point to point, making them a perfect fit for vehicle, trailer, or caravan applications.

LED offers the following four designs in the range:

• P/N: 174AMB, Rear Indicator Lamp with Amber Lens and End Caps

• P/N: 174RMB, Stop/Tail Lamp with Red Lens and End Caps

• P/N: 174ARMB, All in one Stop/Tail/Indicator with Tinted Lens and Grey End Caps

• P/N: 174WMB, Reverse Lamp with Clear Lens and White End Caps

exceptionally low current draw, which is essential when considering battery system requirements.

LED Autolamps says twenty-two high-powered SMD LEDs directed through enhanced optics coupled with a chrome inner reflector ensure the greatest light efficiency, shining brightly in all functions and exceeding the stringent ECE standards for road approval; and also include ECE R10 compliance for electrical interference. The lamps have been tested and approved for vertical or horizontal mounting using the supplied bolts or with screws if required, giving you flexibility and choice regarding installation. The 174 Series have been designed to be fit for purpose with ease of mounting in mind and will not disappoint, says LED Autolamps.

The five-year extended warranty will apply retrospectively to batteries bought prior to this announcement.

REMCO is a specialist battery brand for the 4x4, RV, marine, and solar markets.

“REMCO has been producing batteries for over 30 years, so when it comes to looking for easy energy solutions that you can trust we’ve got you covered,” Anthony said.

“We have an extensive range of battery power solutions and offer the best quality products at affordable prices, all backed up by a generous Australia-wide warranty and support team –meaning you can feel confident when choosing REMCO.”

REMCO says its Lithium range is built on quality and reliability, featuring Bluetooth Connectivity, Built in Battery Management System (BMS), is lightweight with faster charging, offers 100 percent DOD (Depth of Discharge) useable capacity, and a five-times Longer Life Span rated to achieve over 3000 cycles.

The REMCO Range is available through quality wholesale and trade locations, Federal Batteries and JAS Oceania.

Vehicles and trailers will experience extreme operational environments across their lifetime, demanding a product that can keep you moving with no stress.

The 174 Series has been vibration tested and come built-in with solid-state circuit technology, meaning no moving parts. They are also comprehensively tested to extreme IP67 dust and water ingress standards.

Utilising the strength and durability of high-impact polycarbonate plastics for the lens, base, and end caps, LED Autolamps says the lamps are manufactured to the highest standard possible, ensuring the most extended operational life achievable from the light.

The 174 Series lamps offer a handy 12-24 voltage range for multiple applications and an

The company explains that its entire operation, as part of the ECCO Safety Group, is certified to ISO9001:2015, while its main production facility is certified to IATF16949:2016 standards. But, more importantly, it says you are guaranteed conformity of production, exceptional service, technical expertise, supply reliability, and dedicated after-sales care.

LED Autolamps offers a five-year peace of mind warranty and says it will guarantee to give you years of trouble-free service.

The 174 Series is supplied in a secure white box and are available to order now.

For further information, visit www.ledautolamps.com for your local distributor or call LED Autolamps on 1800 815 000.

THE AUTO ELECTRICIANS CLUB

Century Yuasa is putting it support into the Auto Electrical industry with the AEC

The automotive industry has seen huge changes over the last decade, with consumer demand moving more towards stop/start, hybrid, and even fully-electric vehicles much more quickly than expected.

These new technologies mean that vehicles are also becoming progressively more complicated, especially when you factor in the additional electrical components required for modern safety features like radar cruise control, blind spot monitoring, autonomous emergency braking and self-parking systems.

As you would expect, all of this means that requirements for auto electrical work are at an all-time high. But for independent auto electrical businesses, there is the struggle of keeping up to date with the latest technological advancements considering little to no training is provided by vehicle manufacturers.

To make matters worse, small independent workshops also don’t have any official industry representation, and often find it challenging to stay competitive in a market which is becoming increasingly dominated by larger automotive workshop groups.

Century Yuasa – which states it is Australia’s largest battery manufacturer and distributor –says it recognised the importance of independent auto electrical businesses, and formed The Auto Electricians Club (AEC).

AEC is one of Australia’s largest connected network of independent auto electrical businesses, dedicated to supporting some of the nation’s best independent electrical experts – helping to future proof their businesses in the rapidly changing automotive marketplace. Free to join for auto electricians, AEC members still retain their business identity and structure, whist also enjoying the benefits of receiving the latest in technical and product information, along with training programs to help keep their businesses up to date on the latest industry advancements.

Century Yuasa explains that AEC is designed to support its members with the latest in marketing initiatives and tools and networking opportunities – allowing like-minded auto electrical specialists to share knowledge to further advance the industry.

“For too long now the Australian Auto Electrical industry (AEI) has been grouped within the Auto Mechanical industry and especially in areas of training.” Century Yuasa General Manager, Stu Stanners, said.

SAFE WORKING ON EV AND HYBRID VEHICLES

The right knowledge and the right equipment is vital when working on EVs and Hybrids

Unquestionably there are new and inherent risks associated with the maintenance and repair of Electric Vehicles and Hybrid Vehicles in contrast to conventional vehicles, such as:

• Short circuits potentially creating explosions and fires.

• Exposed connections and the presence of faulty high voltage cable which has the potential for electric shock, resulting in serious death or injury.

• Components that may retain a dangerous voltage even when a vehicle is switched off.

• Harmful gases and liquids that can be released when batteries are damaged.

• Vehicles silently moving and people being unaware.

• Components which may move unexpectedly due to magnetic forces.

For mechanics and technicians who perform service and maintenance on EV and Hybrid vehicles, it is essential they become competent by being aware of the manufacturers’ procedures and completing accredited courses run by registered training organisations so as to be able to identify potential risks and safely immobilise, disable and deenergize an EV or Hybrid vehicle.

Electrical Factory Outlet explains that it provides the required personal protective equipment (PPE) as listed in AS 5732:2022 Electric Vehicle Operations - Maintenance and Repair.

“Today the AEI has evolved into an extremely specialised sector of the auto industry with the technical development of the motor vehicle. “Century Yuasa Batteries established AEC to assist in training, marketing and more importantly creating networking opportunities for our specialist Automotive Electrical customers.”

AEC members are also invited to participate in the annual national conference, which offers open discussion between members regarding future issues facing the industry, professional business coaching, product and technical training, and networking opportunities to share ideas and initiatives that will help grow their businesses. Century Yuasa says it is dedicated to its local AEC partners, expanding its member’s skills alongside the expanding industry.

For more information on the Auto Electricians Club, call 1300 362 287 or email info@cyb.com.au

This includes caution signage, electrical insulating gloves, arc face shields, voltage testers, 1000V insulated tools and other relevant products. For further information, please visit www.electricalfactory.com.au

OEX ELECTRICAL CABLE

OEX says its team is taking charge in the automotive aftermarket industry

For over 25 years, Australian auto electricians and mechanics have been supported with quality aftermarket products by OEX.

Over this time, OEX says it has earned a reputation for its continuous improvement through quality, range, pricing, innovation, and service for the everevolving car park.

GPC Asia Pacific Rotating Electrical Merchandise Manager, Andrew Little, says OEX starts with quality selection.

“What might surprise you is that most of the factories OEX use also supply original equipment manufacturers, so their processes, testing, and equipment are state of the art,” Andrew said.

“The arduous testing process represents the final piece that ties the superior raw materials, great designs, and manufacturing excellence together to produce the high-quality products OEX is known for.”

OEX says an example of its premium products is its extensive cable range, which OEX says has propelled to being the leading automotive cable brand.

GPC Asia Pacific’s Auto-Electrical Accessories Merchandise Manager, Steve Mitchell, says there are several reasons why the Australian and New Zealand automotive trade market has been relying upon OEX’s cable for their customer’s needs.

“In addition to being Australian owned and made, OEX cable is made using 99.99% oxygen-free copper from Australian mines, which produces High Conductivity Copper with less impurities, resulting in less resistance and higher performance under load,” Steve said.

OEX says its cable range is the most extensive range of cable lengths, sizes, and colours in the Australian market.

OEX says that further cementing its position as

the leaders in cable is that earlier last year, OEX expanded its cable range into handy trade packs containing shorter lengths for those smaller jobs. These trade packs offer single core (2.5mm to 6mm), twin core (3mm, 4mm and 6mm), twin core figure 8 (2mm, 3mm and 4mm), trailer cable (2.5mm 5 core and 2.5mm and 4mm 7 core) and battery cable (six B&S and eight B&S).

Available in rolls of between 3m and 10m lengths, OEX says you’re sure to find exactly what you need to get all those smaller jobs done.

The complete OEX range is well stocked throughout Australia and New Zealand in both NAPA Auto Parts and Repco, so accessibility to the range is convenient and local.

For more information, speak with your local NAPA Auto Parts or Repco team – visit www.napaparts.com.au/ locations or www.repco.com.au for your nearest location.

SPB LAUNCHES NATIONAL PARTNER PROGRAM

For Energizer Automotive resellers

Sealed Performance Batteries (SPB) has launched a partner program for Energizer Automotive resellers to help promote, grow, and generate awareness of their business or workshop.

Fresh off the back of the Energizer Automotive launch in Australia, SPB has created this partner program using its 25-plus years of industry knowledge in the automotive battery market.

Designed to be highly dynamic and flexible, SPB says the partner program will be an incredibly useful resource for resellers to promote their business, locally and nationally.

It includes Energizer branded merchandise, signage, local area marketing support, fitment guides, exclusive events, and more.

Tailored to each reseller’s business, SPB says it is perfect for any small or large business and can cater to those based in regional or metro areas.

SPB explains that it has taken the time to understand the uniqueness of every business and market they operate in and that an individual approach is required for each reseller to get the most out of the partner program.

Resellers in the partner program also have the benefit of being associated with a globally recognised brand, a brand that their customers will instantly trust and will have them returning time and time again, says SPB.

SPB states that “only Energizer provides quality battery products that consumers have come to know and rely on daily. And now that the Energizer brand has turned its focus to the automotive industry in Australia, Australian businesses and customers can get the same level of quality and comfort whether they need a Calcium/Calcium, EFB, or AGM battery for their car, boat, or truck.”

SPB – the backer of the program – is the national distributor for Energizer Automotive batteries

in Australia. Its history dates back over 25 years in the automotive battery market, and it says it only sources products from suppliers that have achieved ISO 9001 in quality management. Although its foundation is in automotive batteries, SPB says it now leads the pack in other areas of batteries and battery-related products, including lithium, EV and solar for applications in recreation, commercial, industrial, and renewable industries.

If you would like to learn more about becoming an Energizer Automotive reseller or discover some of the other products SPB offers, please get in touch with the team at SPB on 1300 001 772 or sales@spb.net.au

For more information, visit www.spb.net.au

PARTNERING FOR THE PROFESSIONAL

BaxtersMTQ announces alliance with CTEK

BaxtersMTQ has announced a strategic alliance with CTEK, which it describes as “the global market leader in battery management solutions.”

“As one of Australia’s leading sales and service providers of auto electrical solutions, we are delighted to announce BaxtersMTQ as an official distributor of CTEK products,” BaxtersMTQ General Manager, Dean McKellar, said.

BaxtersMTQ services professionals in the 4WD, transport, commercial truck and bus, agricultural, mining, and large-scale industries, and states it offers “the largest and most comprehensive range of OE and aftermarket rotating/automotive electrical, lighting, switching, air conditioning, and accessories, as well as turbochargers and diesel fuel injectors.”

“We cater for the professionals, and with CTEK on board, we are able to expand our current range of quality products and services,” Dean added. Through its partnership with CTEK, BaxtersMTQ explains it now offers customers high-quality, reliable chargers and accessories that are effective, user friendly and safe for the user, vehicle electronics, batteries, and chargers. It says CTEK products are designed and tested to deliver maximum performance in a range of different situations.

“Adding CTEK products to our portfolio is a natural step for BaxtersMTQ, as we both share the same vision and passion – to deliver quality, technical expertise and reliability to our customers. With over 45 years’ experience, BaxtersMTQ is the driving force within the industry,” Dean said.

“Heavy duty is in our DNA. And with over 20 years’ experience in battery management technology, innovation is in CTEK’s DNA.

“CTEK’s continuous investment in innovation combined with BaxtersMTQ’s unparalleled knowledge and experience in automotive electrical solutions ensures that new and unique battery charging technologies are available to the Australian market.”

With an unrelenting focus on customer service excellence, BaxtersMTQ reports it is committed to bringing value to customers far beyond the supply of products alone.

BaxtersMTQ explains that it is the only accredited warranty and service agent in Australia for many leading brands, and states that its insights on products are sought in the pursuit of quality improvements and the development of new products.

With a nationally integrated distribution chain, branches strategically located nationwide, and a team of Territory Managers and highly trained technicians, BaxtersMTQ says it can “offer an unequalled level of service – ensuring customers receive the products they need, where and when they need them. That’s why customers think of BaxtersMTQ first when it comes to automotive electrical and lighting solutions.”

CTEK battery management solutions are now available from BaxtersMTQ. For more information, visit www.baxtersmtq.com.au

LOKITHOR JA301

A new four-in-one jump starter with air compressor, available from R&J Batteries

Dubbed as “the force of thunder in hand” by R&J Batteries, the Lokithor JA301 is said to be your solution to solving common roadside emergencies within minutes.

Lokithor is a four-in-one product consisting of a jump starter, air compressor, power bank and a LED light all rolled into one handy device.

Powerful and intelligent jump starter

R&J Batteries says the Lokithor’s jump starter offers peace of mind with the ability to deliver a peak current of 2000 Amps, so you never have to worry about being stranded with a a flat battery. The Lokithor can jump start the vehicle for one to three seconds and attempt up to 40 starts under normal conditions. It can jump start up to eight litre petrol engines and up to six litre diesel engines, making it suitable for a wide range of applications such as cars, SUVs, 4WDs, RVs, motorcycles, vans, boats, ATVs and even tractors and lawn mowers.

The Lokithor also has a very low self-discharge rate, with a standby time of up to 30 months. The intelligent jump starter can also detect the voltage of the vehicle’s battery in real time and alert the user of abnormal conditions.

The Lokithor’s built in BMS power management system ensures the user’s safety when operating the device. It consists of short circuit protection, over current protection, reverse connection protection,

over heat protection, over time protection and even clipping off protection.

The device is also UL certified (UL2743), meaning it conforms with the applicable standards for product safety.

Air compressor

Lokithor’s handy tyre inflator has the capacity to deliver an output of 150 psi and an airflow of 35 litres/min.

The air pump is manufactured with a unique turbocharged movement which is more powerful, more stable and less noisy compared to counterparts, says R&J Batteries.

It can be switched between BAR or psi and only requires five minutes to completely inflate a 195/65/R16 car tyre from 0 to 35 psi.

It can inflate up to six standard vehicle tyres on one charge and the digital air pump controller allows you to pre-set a specific tyre pressure if desired.

Apart from its use as a tyre inflator, the Lokithor comes with three different needle types which can be used for inflating air mattresses, pool floats, balls and other inflatable toys while on holiday.

Portable power bank for your devices

The portable power bank has a USB A port with an output of 5V/3A and 9V/2A. It also supports fast charging (using QC protocol) so if you are ever in an emergency needing to make a quick phone

SPECIALISED LIGHTING SOLUTIONS

From Invision Sales

Invision Sales is an Australian lighting company specialising in high-quality lighting solutions for just about every application.

The company is the exclusive distributor of renowned brands such as Tungsram Automotive Lighting, JW Speaker LED lighting products and the Invision Headlight Restoration program.

Invision Sales says JW Speaker is a leader in the design and manufacturing of innovative LED lighting solutions for industries including automotive, mining transportation, and emergency.

JW Speaker supplies a wide range of major OEM companies including Harley Davidson, McLaren, John Deere and so on, and specialises in advanced product design and manufacture with a complete in-house facility.

Tungsram Automotive Globes is a trusted brand that provides durable and reliable lighting solutions for cars, trucks, and motorcycles, explains Invision Sales.

Headlight Restoration is a brand that specialises

in restoring the clarity and brightness of foggy or yellowed headlights.

With these reputable brands under its umbrella, Invision Sales says it has become a go-to source for quality lighting solutions.

“The company is unique in that it offers a complete sales and brand management package to companies it represents,” Invision Sales Managing Director, Wayne Blackman, said.

“Invision’s marketing is innovative and targeted, while maintaining the integrity of global branding strategies and guidelines.

“Tungsram Automotive Lighting and JW Speaker now have a very strong presence in the Australian market and are considered leaders in innovative marketing.”

Invision Sales explains JW Speaker is also a leading manufacturer of worklights and associated products in the US, supplying a wide range of major companies with new technology lighting products.

Focused on engineering lighting solutions,

call with a dead phone, the Lokithor can be your lifeline.

LED flashlight with three lighting modes

While most smartphones have a torch function, they are often not powerful enough to deal with roadside emergencies at night.

The Lokithor’s LED flashlight features 300 Lumens of intensity and has three lighting modes (constant light, flash and SOS) to assist with most situations. The LED light feature of this product becomes particularly useful in situations where you are using the Lokithor to pump a flat tyre or jump start a vehicle in the dark.

For a product consisting of so many features and benefits, the Lokithor is a lightweight yet robust device. It is purposely designed to be easy to carry with its ergonomic grip and soft-touch handle on top. Its compact design ensures it fits into any space be it at the back of the trunk, under the seat or tool bag. Lokithor JA301 is now available at all R&J Batteries branches Australia wide.

For more information, please call 1300 769 282 or visit www.rjbatt.com.au

JW Speaker offers the industry a wealth of optics and light sources information though the program. Invision also recognised the need for a comprehensive Headlight Maintenance Program. “As cars get older, the plastic headlight lenses deteriorate as a result of abrasion and UV exposure,” Wayne said.

“The headlights become a dirty yellow colour with an opaque surface. This surface damage can dramatically reduce the light output and make headlights less effective.

“The Invision Headlight Restoration Kit is designed to restore plastic headlight lenses back to as new condition.”

For more information, visit www.invisionsales.com or call 03 9336 2066.

AUTO ONE SPARKS WITH NGK

You can find an extensive range of NGK Spark Plugs at Auto One

Established in 1988, Auto One says it is a champion of the independent network in Australia.

Hosting two banner groups, Auto One and A1 Autoparts, the Auto One group has more than 80 stores Australia-wide and says it remains the only independently owned national chain in the automotive parts industry.

Already home to over 110 industry brands, “Auto One is proud to have been partnering with NGK since the Group’s inception delivering a range of over 900 NGK Spark plugs to the Australian Market,” Auto One Head of Merchandise, Sean Hegarty, said.

NEW M12 REDLITHIUM-ION HIGH OUTPUT BATTERIES

The next breakthrough in Milwaukee’s M12 system

Not all lithium-ion batteries are created equal, so for fade-free power, Milwaukee says you should choose Milwaukee RedLithium-Ion batteries, now available with High Output technology.

With the introduction of High Output technology to the M12 system, Milwaukee says it is pushing the capabilities of its existing and future M12 solutions. Milwaukee explains that these batteries provide increased performance* while maintaining the same footprint as current M12 RedLithium-Ion batteries.

Built for heavy duty use, Milwaukee says these new M12 RedLithium-Ion High Output batteries provide more power* and improved thermal technology,* keeping the packs cool. Further, Milwaukee states that the improved technology leads to increased run time and the durability to withstand wear from more demanding M12 applications, allowing you to be more productive on the job site.

Key specs:

• Voltage: 12V

• Cell type: High Output

• Amp hour: 2.5

• Weight: 0.18kg

To explore the full battery and charger range from Milwaukee, visit www.milwaukeetool.com.au

*compared to standard M12 RedLithium-Ion batteries

JAS AD100+ ALTERNATOR TESTER AND KIT

For computer-controlled alternators

The JAS Oceania AD100+ Alternator Tester and Kit is said to be a must-have tool for any automotive professional working with computercontrolled alternators.

As the largest OE spark plug supplier in the world and a leader in spark plug technology for more than 80 years, Auto One says NGK is driven by quality to deliver the best levels of range, supply, and service.

In keeping with their Japanese heritage, NGK’s precision manufacturing using only high-quality materials reportedly proves the difference in keeping your vehicle efficient, clean and reliable. “NGK’s product offering exemplifies our high level of quality products and the right advice offered within all Auto One stores,” Sean said. Auto One stocks a complete range of copper, platinum, iridium, small engine spark plugs and glo plugs.

Customers can select the best NGK product suitable for their vehicle at any Auto One store, where Auto One team members can provide professional advice on which NGK product will work best.

For more on the NGK plug range, and Auto One store locations, please visit www.autoone.com.au

Paul Keenan of JAS Technical Training and Quality Control, states it is “the best tool for testing smart alternators on-or-off the vehicle.”  Computer controlled alternators are unable to be tested using previous methods, and they can be also quite difficult and time consuming to remove for testing, states Paul.

JAS says it is proud to introduce the AD100+ unit to the Australian market, noting its ability to identify the alternators protocol and accurately test its operation.

With various protocols used by manufacturers, this unit can identify and control the alternator output to give accurate results, identifying issues such as slipping harmonic balancers, belts, connections and of course a faulty alternator, eliminating costly time in mis diagnosis.

With its user-friendly design, clear screen with large font, and sealed, soft-touch buttons, operating the tester is said to be effortless. The long connecting cable and included plug looms make it easy to test alternators, no matter their configuration.

The AD100+ is also capable of testing a wide range of protocols, including LIN, BSS, RLO, SIG, PD, RVC, COM, DFM, F, and FR. This makes it a versatile tool that can be used on a wide range of alternators, ensuring that technicians have the right tool for the job.

Another important feature of the AD100+ is its 12-24v operation, which makes it suitable for use on a wide range of vehicles.

The AD100+ is the selected tester that JAS uses itself in its R&D workshop, with the Paul stating that after testing many, this was by far the superior tester to give the correct information in the fastest period.

Whether you are a seasoned professional or just starting out, JAS says the AD100+ is the ultimate solution for testing computer-controlled alternators.

For further info, visit www.jasoceania.com.au or call your local branch.

PUTTING ON A SHOW

But Andy and his tight-knit team have developed a business that extends way beyond selling tickets and t-shirts in Canberra each January.

Andy is the first to admit that before acquiring Summernats, he had little more than a passing interest in cars, but he knew a thing or two about running a successful event.

Over the journey, Andy and his team have worked tirelessly to deliver memorable events for massive public and sporting events, including Australia Day in Sydney, World Youth Day, National Rugby League Grand Finals and State of Origins, music festivals and plenty of others.

“Events are my passion,” Andy said.

“But when Chic Henry approached me with an offer to purchase Summernats, I didn’t know much about the event and even less about the automotive industry.

“But I was pretty good at putting on a show and a party, and we were confident we could do good things with what was a pretty unique show.”

With Andy’s attention flagged by Chic’s offer, after completing the due diligence the sale contract was inked, and the future of this iconic event was sealed.

“Summernats was an institution, and plenty of people were nervous when Chic handed over the reins to the new guys,” Andy said.

“But I actually liked that and respected their concerns. The anxiety from the Summernats faithful showed how much they cared about the Nats and what it meant.

“I was confident we could deliver a show that was true to Chic’s vision while improving the experience for entrants and spectators and delivering real value to traders and sponsors. We had to grow the Nats beyond what it was to make it sustainable and better.”

After delivering 12 massive four-day festivals, there is no doubt Andy and his team have delivered on their vision.

Today Summernats is Australia’s largest automotive lifestyle marketplace, which attracts more than 100,000 spectators and 2,200 entrants to Canberra annually, and is the envy of automotive festival promoters worldwide.

“It’s been some ride,” Andy remarked. “We’ve broadened our target market while retaining the key elements that keep the faithful coming back year after year.”

When Andy’s team took over the event, it attracted about 80,000 spectators, 1,200 entrants, and its fair share of bad press, but that’s all in the past. The 2022 post-report highlights the evolution of the event.

“Thirty percent of punters that walked through the gates at Summernats 34 were female, and I can tell you that back in 2009, it was pretty much a sausage fest,” Andy said.

“With the help of our crowd, we’ve eliminated the sexist behaviour that tarnished the brand for so long and have developed the Nats into a complete festival experience that everyone feels welcome at.”

The post event report also revealed that 47.3

percent of spectators are under 35 years of age and that 89.7 percent of spectators said they are likely to return next year.

“Summernats is the perfect place to launch new products, engage with customers, create brand awareness, and build brand loyalty,” Andy said. In addition to Summernats, Andy purchased Meguiar’s MotorEx in 2017, which he describes as “the best business-to-consumer exhibition in Australia.”

Andy and his company have also co-promoted Red CentreNATS with the Northern Territory Government since 2015, bringing 1,000 cars to the centre of Australia every year.

In 2021, during COVID-19, the Rockhampton Regional Council and QLD Government also

Since taking the plunge and purchasing Summernats in 2009, Andy Lopez has built a reputation as one of the heavy hitters in the automotive lifestyle event industry

Andy Lopez

brought the team in to create RockyNATS, which has grown to 1,500 entrants and 50,000 spectators in two years.

More recently, Andy and his team have extended their automotive event portfolio with the launch of the Burson Auto Parts Top Fuel Championship in January of 2022.

“While this new Championship is still in its infancy, we’ve run eight rounds, visited New South Wales, Queensland, Victoria, Western Australia, Alice Springs and Darwin, treated fans to a feast of horsepower and delivered a next-level festival experience that has included burnouts, drifting, car shows, live music, fan activations, a quality food and beverage experience, and more familyfriendly activities,” Andy said.

There is no doubt that over the last decade, Andy

has truly immersed himself in the automotive industry. As his business has evolved, Andy has built out a team of industry experts who share his passion and who aren’t afraid to push the envelope.

“We’ve delivered a stack of amazing events and raised the benchmark for sponsor engagement, entrant management and fan experience. But we’re about to change the game again, and I can tell you that 2023 will be a watershed year,” Andy said.

While Andy and his team have built a reputation as automotive event experts, they are redefining the business to ensure it is future-proofed and to deliver exponential growth.

“We run the biggest and best car festivals in Australia. More than 8,000 car builders and

300,000 spectators attend our live events every year,” Andy said.

Andy has built what is sure to be one of Australia’s largest automotive lifestyle audiences with an engaged customer database of over 75,000 consumers and an aggregated social footprint with more than 1,000,000 followers.

“Basically, if anyone’s spending money making their car faster, louder or shinier, we’re already talking to them, and they trust us,” said Andy, who noted the business is undergoing a significant restructure.

“From the first of January, we started defining ourselves as a media, content and entertainment business, and at Summernats we launched our digital play, Performance Garage, that captures everything we do under one umbrella.

“We’ve got an amazing automotive ecosystem, and the Performance Garage website sits at its heart.”

Performance Garage will give modified car builders and fans first access to the latest builds, the biggest burnouts and all the nitrofuelled action from the Australian Top Fuel Championship.

“Performance Garage will provide modified car builders with the biggest audience to show their pride and passions,” Andy said.

“But most importantly, for fans, our events are a showcase where they can come and see the best machines in Australia, drive, skid, race and show, all in a festival environment.”

There is little doubt that 2023 will be a massive year for Andy and his growing team.

To find out more, visit www.performancegarage.com.au

THIRD PARTY TRADE MARKS

Often third party trade marks are used for advertising aftermarket products and automotive services to inform potential customers the type of vehicle the product or service is suitable for

If using such trade marks, it is important not to infringe the trade mark owner’s rights. This article provides a very brief overview on trade marks and using third party trade marks.

What are trade marks?

A trade mark is a sign used, or intended to be used, to distinguish goods or services dealt with or provided in the course of trade by a person from goods or services so dealt with or provided by any other person. Often when thinking of what a trade mark is, logos come to mind. However, trade marks are more encompassing than only logos. Trade marks can be words, letters, an image (such as a shape or logo, which may incorporate words), a phrase, or even a sound or colour.

Infringing a trade mark

The circumstances in which a trade mark will be infringed are set out in the Trade Mark Act 1995 (Cth) (Act). A trade mark is infringed by a person when a person uses a 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

• in relation to the following (unless the person using the other sign (as a trade mark) establishes that its use is not likely to deceive or cause confusion):

o goods or services of the same description in respect of which the trade mark is registered; or

o services closely related to the goods in respect of which the trade mark is registered; or

o goods closely related to the services in respect of which the trade mark is registered.

Additionally, where a trade mark is well known in Australia, that trade mark may be infringed by the use of another sign (as a trade mark) in respect of unrelated goods or services, if the other sign (used as a 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.

When may a third party trade mark be used?

The registered owner of the trade mark has the exclusive right to use the trade mark or to authorise other persons to use the trade mark. If you are not authorised by the trade mark owner to use the trade mark, then a third party trade mark may only be used in compliance with the Act. The Act permits the use of third party trade marks in certain circumstances. For a business offering aftermarket vehicle parts and accessories or services for particular vehicles, the following permitted use is relevant:

• the business uses the third party trade mark in good faith to indicate:

o the kind, quality, quantity, intended purpose, value, geographical origin, or some other characteristic, of goods or services; or

o the intended purpose of goods (in particular as accessories or spare parts) or services. However, if seeking to rely on the above in relation to the use of the third party trade mark, it is important that the business is careful in how the trade mark is used.

Tips on using third party trade marks

The general rule is not to give the impression that the business using the third party trade mark is, or is affiliated with, the trade mark owner. This includes all types of trade marks and all types of third party trade mark use including, use in general descriptions of goods and services, use in website menus, use in articles, photographs, website URLs and use in “about us” information on websites. Below is a brief example on using a third party trade mark.

In the below examples:

• assume the word “Karr” is the trade mark of a vehicle manufacturer; and

• assume the word “Prro” is the trade mark of an aftermarket parts manufacturer.

Using third party trade marks in respect of aftermarket parts or accessories, example:

• incorrect use: “Karr clutch.” This is incorrect use as it gives the impression that the clutch is made by Karr rather than the clutch being an aftermarket part;

• suggested use: “clutch suitable for Karr.”

Also:

• incorrect use: “genuine Karr Prro clutch.” This is incorrect as it gives the impression that the clutch is a genuine Karr clutch rather than a genuine Prro clutch;

• suggested use: “genuine Prro clutch suitable for Karr.”

Using third party trade marks in respect of vehicle services, example:

• incorrect use: “Karr logbook servicing.” This is incorrect as it gives the impression that business is approved by, or affiliated with, Karr to provide logbook servicing;

• suggested use: “We provide logbook servicing suitable for Karr vehicles.”

A court may order the payment of damages (among other types of relief), to the trade mark owner if trade marks are incorrectly used. Please contact Industry Legal if you would like assistance with using third party trade marks.

Passing off

Besides trade mark infringement, the incorrect use of trade marks may also amount to passing off. Briefly, the wrong of “passing off” at common law and misleading and deceptive conduct under the Australian Consumer Law may occur where it is wrongly suggested that there is a connection between a trader, for example a vehicle manufacturer, and another business.

Takeaways

The key takeaways are:

• a trade mark owner has exclusive use of trade mark and may authorise a third party to use the trade mark; and

• if a business is not authorised to use a third party trade mark, it may only be used in accordance with the Act.

Liability limited by a scheme approved under professional standards legislation.

This document is intended for general information purposes only and should not be regarded as legal advice. Please contact Industry Legal if you require legal advice.

AAAA Member Benefits

Industry Legal provides advice to members on commercial law matters. If you have any questions relating to the above information, please contact Industry Legal on 1300 369 703 or

aaaa@industrylegalgroup.com.au

PAID FAMILY AND DOMESTIC VIOLENCE LEAVE

Employers are now required to offer family and domestic violence paid leave to their employees

Employees can take paid leave to deal with family and domestic violence from:

1. 1 February 2023, for employees of non-small business employers;

2. 1 August 2023, for employees of small business employers.

Non-Small Business Employers

Starting on 1 February 2023, non-small business employers (employers with 15 or more employees) must provide their employees with 10 days of paid family and domestic violence leave each year.

Small Business Employers

Small business employers (employers with less than 15 employees) will have to offer paid leave starting from 1 August 2023. Until then, employees of small businesses can take up to 5 days unpaid family and domestic violence leave each year.

Entitlement

Employees are entitled to the full 10 days upfront, meaning they won’t have to accumulate it over time. However, the leave doesn’t accumulate from year to year if it isn’t used.

All employees (including full-time, part-time and casual workers) are entitled to family and domestic violence leave every year according to the National Employment Standards.

Taking Leave

Employees can take this leave if they need to do something to deal with the impact of family and domestic violence.

Family and domestic violence means violent,

threatening or other abusive behaviour by certain individuals known to an employee that both seeks to coerce or control the employee and causes them harm or fear.

The individual could be an employee’s close relative, a member of an employee’s household, or a current or former intimate partner of an employee.

A close relative is defined as the employee’s spouse or former spouse, de facto partner or former de facto partner, child, parent, grandparent, grandchild, sibling, or a person related to the employee according to Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander kinship rules.

Pay Slips

From 1 February 2023, there are rules about information that must not be included on an

employee’s pay slip relating to paid family and domestic violence leave.

This is to reduce the risk to an employee’s safety when accessing paid family and domestic violence leave.

Employers need to keep a record of leave balances and any leave taken by employees. However, pay slips must not mention family and domestic violence leave, including any leave taken and leave balances. Leave should be recorded in the employer’s time and wage records.

Support

1800RESPECT is the national domestic, family and sexual violence counselling, information and support service.

If you or someone you know is experiencing, or at risk of experiencing, domestic, family or sexual violence, call 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732 or visit www.1800RESPECT.org.au

This article is intended for information purposes only and should not be regarded as legal advice. Please contact Employer Assist for advice.

Liability limited by a scheme approved under professional standards legislation.

AAAA Member Benefits

Employer Assist provides all AAAA members with advice regarding all aspects of your workplace and employment law. We can assist you in understanding and complying with your obligations in relation to the new legislation. Please contact Employer Assist on 1300 735 306 or aaaa@employerassist.com.au if you require any assistance.

A LOOK AT THE EARLY DAYS OF A SNAP-ON FRANCHISE

Josh Bazika has been one of Snap-on’s fastest-growing entrances

With a background in customer service across the retail and hospitality industries, Josh Bazika is a stellar example of how following the Snap-on program can drive real results.

“My entrance into Snap-on really does feel full circle,” Josh said.

“As a kid, I would often see the Snap-on truck because of my father’s line of work as a panel beater. I would look up and admire this giant truck that had pulled up and want to own one when I was older. Lo and behold, here I am about to get my second truck.”

Josh’s progression from responding to a job ad to owning his own business was lightning fast.

“My journey was quick! I applied for a job with a previous franchisee who ran the area that I’m now taking over,” Josh said.

“I started as a store manager for him at 24-yearsold and within months he offered me the first opportunity to buy the business off him. I took over ownership of my first store in late 2019.”

Only months after buying into the Snap-on franchisee model, Josh was faced with the restrictions that came with the COVID-19 pandemic.

“I won’t lie, I was worried. I was 24 and just starting out my new business. That said, I looked at how long Snap-on had been around – 2020 marked

100 years – and they’ve seen plenty of financial crises and interruptions in that time,” Josh said.

“So, I felt confident that something about Snap-on simply works and that it had the fundamentals to help me ride that wave.

“I followed the program that I learned at Dallas, Texas when Snap-on sent me out there for training, and that worked. It saw me through.”

Josh has expanded his business with Snap-on to own a second truck, allowing him to seamlessly service nearby workshops and expand his own team.

“Having that passion to sell is vital,” Josh said. “At the end of the day, what differentiates success from failure is customer service. Customers are usually receptive to you reaching out to them.

“Do that and you’ll succeed because the brand awareness exists, the products are top quality, so what you need to provide is high-quality customer service and knowledge.”

This doesn’t mean there isn’t hard work, and those becoming a Snap-on franchisee can benefit from understanding what’s involved in those early years.

“There are many hours on the road and prepping for runs. For the first three years I worked my butt off and then my weekends were mine to enjoy,” Josh said.

“Now with things expanding and having more team members, we shuffle timings around to provide flexibility and work-life balance for them. It always comes down to balancing priorities.

“It is super helpful to have someone supportive behind you in those early stages. For me, it was my wife Sandra, who I’m incredibly thankful for.

“I want to make sure she knows how incredibly appreciative I am for her support, while I also want to make a call out to those customers who have helped me reach a stage where I can see the longterm future of my business.”

Snap-on welcomes potential franchisees from diverse backgrounds to get in touch. Founded back in 1920, Snap-on says it has spent that time honing smooth processes for its franchisees and providing them with ongoing support as they grow their businesses.

To learn more, head to www.snapontools.com.au

BURSON AUTO PARTS REWARDS STORE MANAGERS

The company recently took 17 of its leading store managers to Las Vegas

There are many ways to reward Australia’s highest performing Burson Auto Parts store managers, but the company says nothing beats the return of its annual visit to Auto Week in Las Vegas.

Held annually until disrupted by the pandemic, the first week of November 2022 saw 17 store managers from Australia’s preferred supplier of parts, tools and accessories fly to Los Angeles and drive across the Mojave Desert to one of the most exciting cities in the world.

The visit saw the managers take in an NBA game in Los Angeles, go on a spare parts store tour of Las Vegas, and take a sunset helicopter trip to the Grand Canyon while also visiting two of the world’s

largest automotive aftermarket industry trade shows, the SEMA and AAPEX trade exhibitions. With specially themed dinner events each night, a night golf event and even an unplanned close-up look at the World Championship winning Red Bull Formula One car doing high speed practice runs and donut burnouts on Las Vegas Boulevard, the trip proved to be an extraordinary experience for all involved.

Burson Auto Parts suppliers Bendix, Dayco, DBA, Penrite, Ryco, SGF, SWG and Wesfil supported all of the special events conducted for the store managers during this visit, helping to make it a fitting way to thank these hard-working team leaders for their efforts during FY21 and 22.

The store managers were joined by Burson Trade Executive General Manager, Steve Drummy, along with other members of Burson Auto Parts/Bapcor senior management.

“The visit to AAPEX and SEMA was not only a very productive one for the Burson Trade team but a very exciting and enjoyable one for our top performing store managers,” Steve said.

“For some it was their first time overseas or first

time visiting the USA, so we made sure it was as memorable an experience as possible for them with the help of some of our valued suppliers.”

Burson Auto Parts is a part of Australasia’s largest automotive aftermarket specialised company, Bapcor.

Burson Auto Parts says this is another example of how this proactive Australian company places strong emphasis on supporting, rewarding and developing the company’s greatest asset – its people.

For more information, visit www.burson.com.au

KEEPING YOUR BRAND RELEVANT

In this article, automotive marketing specialist MotorActive presents a case study for keeping brands relevant in the marketplace

The automotive landscape is littered with great products and brands that have gone the way of the Dodo, while others have held strong for a millennia. Typically, this is more a result of staying vigilant and pro-active rather than blind luck. Even when sales are strong, you risk becoming irrelevant by thinking that product-on-shelf is ‘Job Done.’

MotorActive, the company behind Supercheap Auto’s exclusive automotive paint brand ColorSpec, recently implemented a full revamp, despite fantastic year-on-year growth.

“With 30-years’ experience maintaining Meguiar’s as the premier car care brand, we’re well aware of the dangers of resting on your laurels,” MotorActive founder and Chief Executive Officer, Bruce Morrison, said.

“Also, ColorSpec was 10 years old – its original look and feel was designed around it being a true, professional grade, clear-over-base automotive paint system.

“Typically, professional products do not have overly flashy labelling and lack sex appeal. It needed a facelift, because this becomes a bigger and tougher job if you wait until things are in decline.”

Market research revealed ColorSpec was predominantly a grudge purchase – customers

looking to fix a problem, who had already committed to buying paint before entering the store. The challenge was to generate fresh, new business, while retaining the brand’s professionalgrade character, so as not to negatively impact the existing sales stream.

“This was a fantastic opportunity to reposition the brand. We concentrated on two key elements; invigorate the livery to make it more attention grabbing and enhance the satisfaction-ofpurchase,” Bruce said.

“Witnessing the spectacular success of the bright and vibrant colours of the new Meguiar’s Hybrid Ceramic range, gave us the confidence that adding just the right splash of colour will draw in customers – without generating any negative perceptions about quality. The vibrant colours contrast extremely well against the modern, sophisticated satin black.”

In addition to the fresh, new livery and sharper point-of-sale area, MotorActive spent considerable time revamping the website, and producing a host of new, How-To videos.

This collateral was designed to not only ensure customers realised the full benefit of their purchase, but to inspire them to get creative and undertake

SLIMSTOCK ADDRESSES SIGNIFICANT CHALLENGES IN THE AUTOMOTIVE INDUSTRY

Agile and robust inventory management is your best bet against the complex and competitive conditions of the automotive market

Customers expect suppliers to be able to provide anything and everything at a moment’s notice.

As a response to this demand, many businesses retain a large assortment to encompass thousands of different SKUs. The problem is, how much do you know about the items within your ever-expanding assortment?

Do you know which items offer the highest return or which are most important to your customers? Equally, do you know which items are costing you the most money?

While offering millions of different products undoubtedly provides customers with plenty of choices, keeping up with these exploding ranges can prove a constant battle.

Consequently, many companies are unnecessarily investing considerable resources into items that offer limited value to the business or the customer. That being said, usually the items that result in less value for the company sell at a relatively slower

pace (slow moving items) and are because of that, much harder to forecast.

This results in planners spending more time on them which ultimately results in an even lower margin. Some businesses try to resolve this by offering replaceable items, but the difficulty here is to make sure planners all follow the same rules and consistently apply these when ordering, to avoid one item being stocked with ten different brands on the shelf. This type of excess stock from replaceable items has a high chance of becoming obsolete stock.

To ensure assortment decisions are made in line with both the expectations of the customer as well as the demands of the wider industry, businesses must ensure that the assortment strategy is a clear reflection of the business’s goals as well as the expectations of the customer.

Slimstock says your best plan of action to combat these challenges is to invest in the right technology: a specialised inventory management software can provide that solution, like Slim4.

DIY projects they were not necessarily thinking of – as undertaking and finishing a fun, DIY project delivers loads of lasting satisfaction about their purchase, something grudge purchases definitely struggle to do.

“Building excitement around the brand, has proved to be a double win,” Bruce said.

“Not only has it generated new business by getting customers thinking about projects it could be used for. We’ve seen firsthand the change in the attitude of the store’s retail teams.

“By investing time with them, making the product fun and showcasing its capabilities, they’ve become more excited about the brand. And it goes without saying, getting retailers and their teams excited about your product or brand is a powerful way to maintain growth and ensure its longevity well into the future.”

For more information, visit www.motoractive.com.au

It says the right software has an integrated assortment index to support companies in making the right decision in whether to sell SKUs from stock or not and whether replaceable items should be ordered or not.

Slimstock explains the automated planning will indicate how much to stock for slow moving items based on historical demand, trends, seasonality and expected order sizes. That way the business will be supported in what to order, when and how much.

Slimstock is participating at the Autocare Convention 2023, with its supply chain experts to speak with attendees from Stand 32 on how Slim4 can solve inventory challenges. For more information, visit www.slimstock.com

MEMBERS IN MOTORSPORT COOLDRIVE: A SUPERCARS SUCCESS STORY

There is no arguing the fact that CoolDrive Auto Parts is making its mark in the land of Supercars

The leading aftermarket parts company is the operator of the Blanchard Racing Team (BRT), which launched in 2021 as a standalone outfit following four years as a satellite team to Brad Jones Racing (under the moniker of Tim Blanchard Racing).

As they got ready to embark on their third full time season following strong 2021 and 2022 showings, the team claimed an important early win – being the first to complete the build of their Gen3 Supercar; hitting the track with the CoolDrive Racing Ford Mustang at Winton Motor Raceway on the 1st of February with new recruit Todd Hazelwood behind the wheel.

This fantastic achievement was the latest in a list of wins for the company and the team, with CoolDrive Auto Parts approved as the supplier of an exhaustive list of Gen3 control products for the Supercars Championship, and an expansion into Super2 with up-and-coming racer Aaron Love at the wheel.

Gen3 race won

The CoolDrive Racing BRT Ford Mustang was built completely in-house at the BRT workshop, with the squad taking the opportunity at Winton to unveil not only the car, but also its 2023 warpaint.

“The team at BRT have done a superb job with the build of this brand new Mustang. They have aimed for perfection in every aspect, and when you look closely at the car, you can truly see the attention to detail. I’m working harder than ever to ensure the long hours, late nights and commitment this team has made will be rewarded with some great results in 2023,” Todd said.

For Blanchard Racing Team Co-Principal, John Blanchard, the opportunity to be the first to complete a car to the new regulations was a source of great pride.

“The effort that Mirko (De Rosa) and the entire crew put into the build is incredible, it is a tribute to the flexibility of a single-car operation,” John said.

“The build of the new Gen3 car started back in September of last year when we started planning and preparing our resources in anticipation. We significantly increased our manufacturing capabilities, minimised outside commitments, picked up parts to save time on freight no matter where in the country they were, built as many components in house as possible to minimise reliance on third parties and just worked hard and long hours.

“I am very proud of everyone in our business and team for what they have achieved to get this car on track by 1 February – it has been a real team effort. The wider CoolDrive and entire BRT businesses have been heavily involved in a massive

collaborative effort, whether it is leveraging our product sourcing and supply chain capabilities, our technical support of the components, or just simply picking up parts to save time on freight.

“CoolDrive has supplied nearly 90 components to the Gen3 build working closely with Supercars. It has been imperative that we are transparent with the teams and we are confident that any component available to BRT has been also available to other teams in the same timeframe.

“It’s obviously a very exciting time for Supercars with the introduction of the Gen3 project, which will truly level the playing field for competitors. We are looking forward to a big season, paying off the long hours, and the blood, sweat and tears the crew have put into this program.”

A key Supercars supplier

Supercars has approved CoolDrive Auto Parts to supply an exhaustive list of Gen3 components including bodywork latches, electrical sensors and hardware, filters, fire extinguishers, flywheels, fuel systems, heat shields, steering columns, starter motors, steering racks and hardware, steering wheels, wheels and windscreens.

“The list that CoolDrive has been approved to supply for the Gen3 cars covers all aspects of the vehicles and continues to grow, as the Supercars category recognises the efficiency with which the CoolDrive business operates,” CoolDrive Auto Parts Business Development Manager – Performance, Mathew Nilsson, said.

“The supply of parts by CoolDrive will be threefold, utilising our relationship with existing Racer Industries suppliers, our existing supply chains, products and suppliers, both of which will be complemented by the establishment of new supplier relationships.”

CoolDrive’s distribution centres will form the primary basis for the warehousing and distribution of approved parts, supported by the everexpanding branch network across Australia. At race events, a select range of spare parts and components will be available for Supercars teams via the Blanchard Racing team transporter, with

selected Championship events also hosting the Racer Industries trackside store.

In a further display of its motorsport prowess, CoolDrive is also handling the supply of categoryspecific items for Super2 and Super3, including the control wheels, fire systems and fuel cells for the Supercars category, where Racer Industries is the sole appointed supplier.

An expanding effort

The Blanchard Racing Team has expanded to two cars for 2023 with young gun Aaron Love joining the squad in a PETRONAS Lubricants-backed Ford Mustang in the Super2 Series.

A product of Formula 4 and the Porsche Motorsport ladder, Aaron proved to be a revelation in the 2022 Australian Carrera Cup, finishing second in the final standings with 12 wins from 17 races, despite missing two events with conflicting race commitments overseas.

Aaron is campaigning the same chassis the team utilised in the Supercars main game over the past two seasons, carrying PETRONAS Lubricants branding – since 2018, CoolDrive Auto Parts has partnered with PETRONAS Lubricants to supply its leading products to the workshops of Australia.

“We’re running a new car for Super2 and the field has a lot of depth with many of the drivers holding a good amount of experience in these cars already so it will be tough, but with BRT being the team that is, I know we are well prepared,” Aaron said.

The PETRONAS Lubricants livery is reminiscent of the hues carried by BRT co-principal Tim Blanchard during wildcard appearances in the 2019 Supercars Championship.

“We have been thrilled to welcome Aaron and PETRONAS Lubricants to BRT for 2023. We are excited to be launching our Super 2 program with a rising star in Aaron, supported by a well-known brand such as PETRONAS Lubricants. This is an important step for BRT, and we are looking forward to what we can achieve this year,” Tim said. To learn more about CoolDrive Auto Parts, visit www.cooldrive.com.au

ACL EXTENDS WITH GROVE RACING

Once again, ACL will be involved in the Supercars Championship

ACL Bearing Company (Australia) Pty Ltd is proud to announce the extension of its long running partnership with Supercars team, Grove Racing. Grove Racing will again run under the banner of Penrite Racing for season 2023 with a new driver pairing of David Reynolds and Matt Payne.

The Penrite Racing team has been busy during the offseason, bringing new driver Matt Payne into the Number 19 car and recruiting five-time Bathurst 1000 winner Garth Tander as a driver for the enduros and to also work closely with Matt throughout the season.

In addition, like the category, the team has

embarked on a major program during the off season to build the Gen 3 vehicles which debuted at the Newcastle 500 earlier this month.

“What has been achieved by the team at Grove Racing since the December 2022 Adelaide round is remarkable,” ACL Bearing Company (Australia) General Manager, Chris Brooks, said.

“There is no doubt there have been many challenges, so to see the new cars and livery first at the launch and then on the track in Newcastle is testimony to the hard work of the team.

“We have been involved with the build-up for Gen3 and are very excited for what the category has in store this season.

“Anticipation was exceptionally high ahead of Newcastle, and now we can’t wait to see how the rest of the season unfolds.”

ACL has been involved with what is today known as Grove Racing for decades.

“We have had a relationship with the team dating back to the early 90s through the various iterations of team ownership and vehicle generations,” Chris said.

“The reach of Supercars is very significant, and we

PEDDERS’ EXPERTISE ON DISPLAY

The company played an important role in the preparation of Supercars teams ahead of the 2023

season opener

Pedders Suspension and Brakes has a long and rich history in Australian motorsport, and is a longterm partner of the Supercars Championship.

The company’s expertise in suspension and braking systems has made it an integral part of the motorsport community, and it says its partnership with the Supercars Championship is a testament to that.

Since 2020, Pedders has been the Official Suspension Partner of the Supercars Championship as all teams race on the Pedders By SupaShock control shock absorber.

The control shock absorber has been praised for its superior handling and performance, and has helped teams achieve better handling in tough motorsport conditions.

In 2023, Pedders took its involvement in the Supercars Championship to the next level by becoming the Gen3 Official Control Spring supplier to the Championship.

This involved supplying each Supercar with eight springs for each of the 17 different spring rates, totalling 136 springs per car.

The amount of high tensile spring steel used in the process was approximately eight tonnes, and if you straightened the springs out and laid them end to end, they would stretch over two kilometres.

Rigorous testing in partnership with the Supercars technical department ensured there were no discrepancies between spring rates, as even small differences of one to two degrees can cause a significant effect in highly tuned and engineered race cars like the Gen3 Camaro and Mustang Supercars.

Before the season commenced in Newcastle across March 10-12, all teams completed shakedowns and pre-season tests, including

leverage our relationship with the Penrite Racing team through social media, customer ride day experiences, driver promotional activities and customer interface opportunities.

“The current introduction of Gen3, whilst there is no doubt it has been challenging for the team, promises exciting racing for the next generation of the category.

“The opening round at Newcastle was certainly the start of a new era and we love seeing the Penrite cars on track displaying the ACL brand –the Gen 3 livery looks amazing.”

For more information on ACL RACE Series performance engine bearings, visit www.aclperformance.com.au

the Pedders-supported Erebus Motorsport, with drivers Will Brown and Brodie Kostecki reportedly extremely impressed by the new-look cars.

“Pedders Suspension and Brakes has a proud history in Supercars racing, and our continued partnership with the Championship as the Official Suspension Partner and Gen3 Control Spring Supplier is a testament to our expertise and commitment to the sport,” Pedders Suspension and Brakes Managing Director, Scott Pedder, said.

“Pedders involvement in the championship has helped teams achieve success on the track, and our intensive testing and Australian manufacturing processes ensure that each car is equipped with the best suspension available.”

For more from Pedders, visit www.pedders.com.au

HARROP WINS OPTIMA USCI

Optima’s Ultimate Street Car Invitational (OUSCI) ran for the second time in Australia late last year

The Optima Ultimate Street Car Invitational (OUSCI) has been built off the successful series in the USA which started in 2006 to support the aftermarket industry.

The Ultimate Street Car Association (USCA) runs seven qualification events for the Invitational at Las Vegas Speedway immediately after SEMA. Whilst there is no qualification in Australia, the OUSCI event aims to find the ‘ultimate street car’ across four segments: Motorkhana, Drags, Circuit Sprinting and Speed-Stop. Each segment is worth 100 points, with a bonus five points up for grabs in Show and Shine judging.

SILVERADO ZR2 CONCEPT PREVIEWED

GMSV and Chevrolet Racing provided a special look at the concept in late 2022

GM Specialty Vehicles (GMSV) and Chevrolet Racing staged a surprise preview of a sensational new homegrown concept vehicle which provides a sneak-peak at the latest addition to the brand’s new model portfolio ahead of its upcoming launch early this year.

“The Chevrolet Silverado ZR2 will be a new model to the GMSV line-up for MY23 and will deliver next-level off-road capability direct from the factory – making it the perfect platform for this latest announcement from Chevrolet Racing,” GM Australia and New Zealand (GM ANZ) Director of Planning, Network and Motorsport, Tim Price, said.

“What started as a passion project 12 months ago across GM teams in Australia and New Zealand quickly transformed into the creation you see today.”

The Off-Road Racer concept was built at the company’s Port Melbourne workshop by an enthusiastic group of GM employee volunteers and was taken to the next level with the involvement of Chevrolet Racing.

dedication and enthusiasm the team at GM ANZ has for a project of this magnitude.”

The Silverado ZR2 Off-Road Racer concept was on display as part of the GMSV activation at the Adelaide 500 in December, alongside the Corvette Stingray and Chevrolet Silverado models plus the 3,500hp Chevrolet Racing Pro Slammer drag car. A C8 Corvette Stingray also acted as a safety car for support categories participating in racing across the event.

From a GMSV perspective, the upcoming launch of the first-ever Chevrolet Silverado ZR2 will add a new level of off-road capability and performance to the brand’s portfolio.

At Calder Park Raceway across the 3rd and 4th of December 2022, Harrop Engineering took out the outright win in their Z06 Corvette powered by an LS7 engine breathing through their Hurricane ITB manifold and Fluix Carbon Airboxes mated to a PPG upgraded gearbox.

Harrop’s Z06 Corvette’s engine performance is matched with equally impressive stopping power thanks to their prototype ‘big brake kit’ tucked behind Forgeline monobloc wheels.

This marked back-to-back outright wins for Harrop Engineering at the event, with their Porsche GT3 finishing second overall, in front of a Harrop Supercharged Ford Mustang GT in third, making it a Harrop Enhanced Podium.

The USCA and Optima are committed to bringing the event down under and growing the community in Australia to create a safe and controlled environment for entrants to enjoy their aftermarket modified street cars with likeminded enthusiasts.

Entries are now open for the next Optima Ultimate Street Car Invitational Australia, welcoming all aftermarket workshops and retail customers to join this fantastic weekend of automotive action. To learn more about Harrop Engineering, visit www.harrop.com.au

This included exchanged learnings with GM Motorsports Division in the USA and tapping into knowledge of Hall Racing, especially related to suspension development, through their own 2022 championship winning Chevrolet Silverado ZR2 in the gruelling ‘Best in the Desert’ off-road racing series.

Initial testing and development will take place early in 2023, with Supercars legend Craig Lowndes to provide expert feedback and analysis on the performance of the concept. The programme was managed by Mark Wakeman, a GM ANZ employee who has been involved in offroad racing for the past 25-years.

“I am extremely proud to have been given the opportunity to lead the project and I am grateful for the support GM ANZ management has provided to the team,” Mark said.

“I would also like to express sincere gratitude to our partners who have been involved in this incredible journey. It demonstrates the

“GMSV has enjoyed a sensational two years since launch in November 2020 and we’re incredibly excited to be adding an entirely new model to the line-up,” GMSV General Manager Marketing and Communications, Jodie Lennon, said.

“The Chevrolet Silverado ZR2 will feature an enhanced appearance, a new level of technology, eye-catching aesthetics and increased driver and passenger comfort throughout the cabin, complete with renowned performance attributes. “It will be the new hero in the increasingly popular full-size pick-up segment and we’re super proud to offer it as part of the GMSV range.”

Some feature highlights of the new Chevrolet Silverado ZR2 are front and rear e-lockers and Multimatic DSSV dampers, 33-inch mud terrain tyres and new high-approach steel cut front bumper designed for off-road strength, durability and clearance.

In addition to its functional features, the Silverado ZR2 is distinguished by unique aesthetic cues, which includes a unique black chrome grille with a Chevrolet ‘flow-tie’ emblem.

It also includes a raised black hood insert with ZR2 badging, exclusive ZR2 wheel flares, unique 18” Gloss Black wheels and exclusive Jet Black/ Graystone leather-appointed interior with dark trim.

The Silverado ZR2 will feature the impressive 6.2-litre V8 paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission.

For more information, visit www.gmspecialtyvehicles.com/ pickups-and-trucks/2023-silverado

PENRITE RACING FINALLY HAS THE NUMBERS

In 2023 the Penrite-sponsored Supercars entries will run under numbers 19 and 26

Australia’s Penrite Oil Company first joined the Supercars Championship as a full-time team sponsor at the 2015 Bathurst 1000.

Over the past seven years, the company has transitioned from Erebus Motorsport, through to Kelly Grove Racing which then became Grove Racing, enjoying several major successes along this exciting journey.

One goal the company had from the start of its Supercars journey was to secure the race car numbers of 19 and 26, which together form the year that this proud Australian company was established by the young entrepreneur Les Mecoles at just 16 years of age.

“It has always been a goal since entering the Supercar Championship Series full time that we could get our hands on the perfect bookend numbers of 19 and 26,” Penrite Oil Brand Manager, Jarrod Harding, said.

“So, all of us at Penrite are delighted to announce that from the 2023 season onwards we have finally secured these historic race numbers that mean so much to us.

“At Penrite we have always celebrated our Australian history, which is why our cars have always flown the Australian flag. We are equally as proud of our family-owned company’s history and the year 1926 is very important to us.”

Penrite has quietly tried to manoeuvre behind the scenes to secure numbers 19 and 26 for

each of their sponsored team Supercars over the past seven seasons but they were either in use or reserved for use by other teams.

“When we first became involved in Supercars, I saw an old Fujitsu Supercar Team picture on the wall at Penrite which had some small Penrite stickers on the front,” Jarrod said.

“These were cars 25 and 26 and I thought how cool it would be for us to one day have our own Penrite sponsored team with the race numbers 19 and 26.

“Now as we head into a historic new season with the Gen3 Mustang and Camaro Supercars we will also be able to celebrate Penrite’s longevity and continued success as a quality lubricant manufacturer of choice in Australia.”

The entire Penrite Australia team looks forward to watching Penrite Racing drivers David Reynolds and exciting rookie Matt Payne take to the track in 2023 in Supercars #19 and #26. This means that #10 will now be retired from the Supercars Championship along with star Supercar driver, Lee Holdsworth, who ended his almost twodecade Supercars career at the 2022 Adelaide 500.

This 96-year-old Australian oil company has grown from humble beginnings to become a premium quality favourite among performance, classic, commercial and daily drive vehicle owners, along with two and four wheeled racing teams nationwide.

To learn more about Penrite, visit www.penriteoil.com.au

COOLDRIVE ACQUIRES TURBO MASTER AUSTRALIA

CoolDrive Auto Parts has acquired Turbo Master Australia, in a significant boost to its engine management offering

Effective as of 27 January 2023, the Turbo Master Australia business and its full turbo product range officially became a part of the CoolDrive family.

Turbo Master Australia products are available for passenger cars, 4WDs, trucks and machinery with the core of the range focusing on direct replacement aftermarket turbochargers that consist of upgraded components such as billet compressor wheels and other high quality internal parts.

Also available are genuine turbos, aftermarket turbos and a host of other turbo accessories.

“Over the past seven years, CoolDrive has been strategically increasing our engine management product range and service offerings, and when the opportunity arose to welcome Turbo Master Australia into the business officially, we knew we had to pursue it,” CoolDrive Auto Parts Category Manager – Engine Management, Jarrod Hurst, said.

“We have been aware of Turbo Master Australia and

its products for quite a while with our relationship officially beginning three years ago when we started offering a select range of its aftermarket turbos. In that time, we were significantly impressed with the quality of the products, and so were our customers, and the breadth and depth of the entire range.”

“By integrating Turbo Master Australia into the CoolDrive business, we are continuing to cement our position in the local engine management scene.”

CoolDrive has an industry-leading engine management product offering which is headlined by AFI, an established brand of automotive petrol and diesel engine management components.

Complementing AFI are leading global brands including Denso, Bosch, Continental, Delphi, NTK, Walker, Nissens, BorgWarner, Valeo and of course, Turbo Master Australia.

On offer at CoolDrive are large components including fuel pumps and fuel pump modules,

throttle bodies and vacuum pumps. There is also an industry-leading range of sensors, including oxygen sensors, cam and crank sensors, MAP and boost sensors, air mass meters, knock sensors, pedal position sensors and more. Both diesel and fuel injectors are available, as are spark plugs, glow plugs, ignition coil and lead sets, variable valve timing solenoids, along with EGR valves, EGR coolers and oil coolers.

For further information, please visit www.cooldrive.com.au

HULK 4X4 SECURES RANGE

With new ropes and straps

Hulk 4x4 says it continues to prove itself as the go-to brand of 4x4 and outdoor accessories in Australia with new additions to its cargo management category.

A house brand of CoolDrive Auto Parts, Hulk 4x4 is one of the fastest growing players in the market with an expansive and innovative range, which now includes new rope and strap options.

Headlining the new rope offerings is a 30m paracord with an impressive working load of 84kg, making it ideal for any 4WD scenario such as repairing gear, securing loads or even as a clothesline. Strong and thin at just 4mm wide, the paracord is quick drying and will not rot.

There is also an ultra-high visibility 15m rope, perfectly suited for low light or obscured vision situations such as overnight camping, night

fishing or all-hours work. The diamond braided construction is said to be incredibly strong with a working load of 40kg and the rope can glow in the dark for up to five hours, after charging in sunlight.  Another diamond braided option is a 30m poly rope in a variety of colours for heavy duty applications such as fishing, agriculture, packing and transportation, with its pliable construction making them ideal for roof racks and ute trays as well.

Hulk 4x4 also offers high visibility reflective ropes, perfect for all nature of outdoor recreational scenarios including fishing, boating, and camping, and even light construction work thanks to their 60kg working load.

A 15m reflective rope with a spool is also available, ideal for all camping adventures and for items that need to be hung up such as tarps and shelters with a durable construction, and ease-of-use and pack away qualities.

Hulk 4x4 has also welcomed a new adjustable tyre strap with a ratchet handle, made from strong and flexible high visibility yellow webbing for vehicles

REDVISION LOAD DISCONNECT FEATURE

Get a new level of automation with REDARC’s RedVision vehicle management system

REDARC says your customer can get a new level of automation and security in their caravans and 4WDs thanks to the Load Disconnect feature in its RedVision vehicle management system. RedVision’s Load Disconnect feature is a useful setting to optimise your customer’s auxiliary battery life and prevent it from getting over discharged.

This feature allows you to program your customer’s system to automatically switch off selected channels based on the auxiliary battery state of charge or voltage.

This means that if your customer’s battery drops below a set level, RedVision will automatically switch non-essential loads off, helping avoid premature battery failure caused by repeated over discharge.

Unlike traditional isolators that just disconnect everything once a certain voltage is reached, RedVision can be programmed to disconnect only non-essential loads based on battery state of charge.

This level of customisation means customers can be completely in control of how their system is configured and don’t need to rely on battery voltage, which is prone to fluctuating depending on which appliances are running.

This Load Disconnect feature also allows you to program RedVision to automatically turn your customer’s non-essential devices back on once the battery state of charge or voltage recovers above a specified level.

Not only can RedVision be set to disconnect nonessential loads past a certain discharge, but custom warning levels can be programmed to let your customers know when their battery state of charge or voltage reaches a specified level.

This means that customers are alerted when their batteries are approaching the Load Disconnect level and can connect a charger or decrease their battery usage.

RedVision has been designed to work seamlessly with REDARC’s full suite of off-grid charging and power products.

With flexible hardware options including the new, smaller TVMS Rogue, the distribution box can be tucked into any available space in your customer’s setup.

REDARC explains that these hardware options have been designed to be used with the RedVision colour display or smartphone app, making it easier than ever for your customers to keep track of what their system is doing.

Made in Australia, REDARC says its entire RedVision

up to 1.5 tonnes, with tyres sized between 13 to 20 inches.

Complementing this are the motorcycle tie down straps, which can be used for a variety of applications such as towing, transportation, storage, and fixing loads and with a break strength of 500kgs per strap, usage scenarios include securing large household appliances, car trailer, boats, motorcycles, luggage and while camping. Capping off the new range is tie down hardware in light and medium duty constructions, bungee straps in a variety of colours and lengths, as well as high-strength rubber straps for a range of uses and applications.

For more information, visit www.hulk4x4.com.au

system is backed by its in-house customer and technical support and hassle-free warranty.

If you have any questions on wiring up your customer’s RedVision system, REDARC has a full team of Customer Service Technicians ready to take your call on 1300 REDARC (1300 733 272).

Operating Monday to Friday, 6am to 6pm ACST, REDARC says its Technical Support Team is knowledgeable on all things REDARC. For more information, visit www.redarc.com.au/total-vehicle-management-system

FORMULA 4X4 EXTENDS REMOTE RESERVOIR LIFT KIT RANGE

The popular range is being expanded to cover more vehicles

Following a successful launch of the F4R remote reservoir lift kit in 2022 for the PX3 Ford Ranger, Formula 4x4 have just released an expansion to the range to include popular vehicles like the Toyota LandCruiser, Hilux, and Nissan Patrol.

Formula 4x4 says the F4R adjustable, remote reservoir range is backed by decades of fourwheel drive industry experience, research, and development.

Each kit is said to be engineered for performance, comfort, and safety: providing up to three inches of lift once installed, with the ability to tune them for different load scenarios and road conditions on the go.

Updates to take you further

The new F4Rs have received an aesthetic facelift and key functional updates for an even better experience, on and off-road.

Formula 4x4 says the most noticeable improvement is the addition of high/low compression adjustment over standard compression adjustment; providing

owners the ability to express more control over the way their vehicle handles, especially when offroading. The new range also offers a heavy duty 22mm damper shaft across all skews.

Built to go the distance

Formula 4x4 says the F4R range of shock absorbers are its “premium product offering without the premium price tag.”

It states they are built strong with quality components, including SuperPro polyurethane bushes that come with a lifetime warranty and aviation-grade aluminium, which is light, strong, and provides better heat dissipation.

Further, the company says a key benefit of the F4R over standard shock absorbers is that they are completely rebuildable and repairable, further reducing the total cost of ownership.

Plus, they are backed by an industry leading fiveyear, unlimited kilometre warranty for peace of mind.

NEW FROM TERRAIN TAMER

A second Modified Fifth Gear Set has been released by the company

Terrain Tamer has recently released a second Modified Fifth Gear Set, suitable for Hilux, Prado and an expanded range of 70 series LandCruiser models.

The original Modified Fifth Gear set was released in 2017 and designed to fit 70 Series V8 Toyota LandCruiser vehicles.

A commonly raised issue for these models is that the engines run at unnecessarily high RPMs when travelling at highway or cruising speeds.

A speed of 100km/hr in fifth gear can equate to approximately 2400rpm, causing loud engine noise, excessive fluid temperatures and poor fuel consumption, with a detrimental long-term effect on engine durability.

A second gear set has now been developed for a further range of vehicles, that have since been increasingly reported to experience the same problems.

Terrain Tamer explains that it has developed its Modified Gear Sets to feature a taller fifth gear, as a direct replacement for the OE fitted part.

This brings the original gear ratio of .881 down to .736, reducing RPM by up to 20 percent, and effectively resulting in improved engine stability, addressing any fuel efficiency or running temperature issues that may arise from the original gear and generally offering a smoother and quieter drive.

Developed at Terrain Tamer’s head office in Melbourne, this taller gear has been made from 62 strength Rockwell hardened steel by an OE manufacturer in Japan, to meet exclusive Terrain Tamer tooling specifications.

Terrain Tamer Modified Fifth Gear Sets can be purchased individually or in gearbox overhaul kits.

For more information, visit www.terraintamer.com or call 1300 888 444.

Performance, handling, and comfort

For those wanting to enhance the overall performance of their vehicle, Formula 4x4 says its F4R remote reservoir lift kit is the perfect solution. It explains that the F4R’s lightweight design, premium performance, and affordable price point makes it a great choice for off-roading enthusiasts, or anyone who requires a flexible solution to meet their needs, stating “they tick all the boxes for the perfect towing, touring, adventuring, everyday driving, or serious fourwheel driving setup.”

For more information, visit www.fulcrumsuspensions.com.au or call 1800 385 278.

NEW HARROP ELOCKERS

For the next gen Ford Ranger and Toyota Landcruiser 300 Series

Harrop says it is proud to have developed a Front ELocker Differential to suit Next Gen Ford Ranger, as well as Front and Rear ELockers for non-factory locked Toyota Landcruiser 300 Series.

The Harrop ELocker features Eaton technology with OEM proven electromagnetic locking mechanism and is assembled with precision forged gears that are designed to mesh perfectly together, providing more strength and durability over a standard cut gear.

The Harrop ELocker performs as an open differential until you decide that you need more traction, capturing 100 percent of the available torque and sending it equally to both ends of the axle at the switch of a button.

ROADSAFE RAISES FUNDS

ROADSAFE is supporting Beyond Blue and The McGrath Foundation with a special initiative

ROADSAFE is bringing some vibrant colour and important support to two of Australia’s most deserving charities, Beyond Blue and the McGrath Foundation.

Limited edition ROADSAFE Pink and Blue 4WD soft shackle compliant alloy recovery Hitch and Soft Shackle packs have been produced to raise awareness and much needed funds for Beyond Blue and the McGrath Foundation.

A limited run of the ROADSAFE Blue or Pink 4WD Alloy Recovery Hitch packs have been specially manufactured with $5 per blue unit sale going towards the Beyond Blue Support Service and $5 per pink unit sale to the McGrath Foundation until all of these limited edition ROADSAFE 4WD Hitches are sold.

Simple to install to an adequately rated tow hitch receiver, ROADSAFE says the extremely versatile 4WD Hitches are designed to create a rated recovery attachment point on the rear of the vehicle to enable 4WD enthusiasts to perform safe rearward recoveries.

All premium quality ROADSAFE 4WD Hitches are capable of a 5,000 kilogram working load limit with the soft shackle rope spliced breaking strain load rated at 12,500 kilograms.

All ROADSAFE 4WD Hitches are anodised for long term reliability and dual drilled for ease of fitment and use, suited to 50mm x 50mm hitch receivers. These ROADSAFE 4WD Hitches are also NATA tested locally to ensure total quality.

lifetime, with more than four million living with anxiety or depression, making Beyond Blue’s services extremely important.

The McGrath Foundation raises money to place specialist McGrath Breast Care Nurses wherever they are needed across the country, while also seeking to increase breast health understanding. Approximately 57 people are diagnosed with breast cancer every day across Australia and some 20,428 women and 212 men have been diagnosed over the past year.

This makes it the most commonly diagnosed cancer in Australia for women, with one in seven women being diagnosed during their lifetime, making the support of a specialised breast care nurse extremely important. McGrath Breast Care Nurses have supported more than 118,000 Australian families since 2005.

Installing front and rear Harrop ELockers or a front unit in conjunction with a factory rear locker allows you to have independent, selectable front and rear differentials, giving the driver greater control.

Harrop says that when locked, the Harrop ELocker enhances off-road performance, allowing you to navigate the toughest terrain with switchable control.

Further, it says the ELocker’s ease of installation and superior design make the Harrop ELocker an absolute must for all off-road applications.

Harrop Engineering says it is a modern, world-class operation committed to technical excellence in design, development, and manufacturing. With over 65 years of experience designing and manufacturing automotive and specialist products, it says its passion is performance enhancement through innovation. For further information, please contact Harrop Engineering on 1300 HARROP or sales@harrop.com.au or visit www.harrop.com.au

Along with selecting premium quality 4WD Hitches during this busy motoring period, your customers will also be assisting two of the nation’s most hard working and community immersed charities. Beyond Blue works with the community to improve mental health and prevent suicide. Their support service provides counselling, information, advice and referrals to people experiencing anxiety,

“We are delighted to be able to show our support for the vitally important work that both Beyond Blue and The McGrath Foundation provides to the Australian community through this ROADSAFE 4WD initiative,” ROADSAFE General Manager, Tania Allatt, said.

“We look forward to many 4WD enthusiasts across the country taking the opportunity to provide their support and to show it with the easy fitment of these limited edition pink or blue ROADSAFE 4WD