Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine - November 2024

KEEPING YOU INFORMED

CALENDAR 2024-25

2024

Automechanika Shanghai

National Exhibition and Convention Center (Shanghai) China

2 – 5 December 2024 www.automechanika.messefrankfurt.com

Automechanika Dubai

Dubai World Trade Centre

10 – 12 December 2024 www.automechanika.messefrankfurt.com

PRI Show

Indianapolis, Indiana, USA 12 – 14 December 2024 www.performanceracing.com

2025

Taipei AMPA

Taipei Nangang Exhibition Center, Hall 1 & 2 23 – 26 April 2025 www.taipeiampa.com.tw

Automechanika Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur Convention Center, Malaysia 15 – 17 May 2025 www.automechanika.messefrankfurt.com

Autopromotec Bologna, Italy 21 – 24 May 2025 www.autopromotec.com/en

Autocare 2025

Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre 20 – 21 June 2025 www.autocare.org.au

Wayne Bryant Chairman

A & D Automotive Technicians

NEW MEMBERS

Shed 4/5 Industrial Street MACKAY QLD 4740

Ph: 07 4944 0557

E: adautomackay@hotmail.com

Amajez Pty Ltd

9a Berriman Drive Wangara WA 6065

Ph: 08 9309 3636

E: joe@eliteeuro.com.au

American Builds

4/61 Dacre Street MITCHELL ACT 2911

Ph: 0430 612 966

E: sales@americanbuilds.com.au

Benz Star Motors

98 Henty Street RESERVOIR VIC 3073

Ph: 03 9462 3124

E: sales@benzstarmotors.com.au

BM Techniks

9A Mooney Street BAYSWATER WA 6053

Ph: 08 9371 3131

E: andrew@bmtechniks.com.au

Combined Auto Repairs

169 Kingsgrove Road KINGSGROVE NSW 2208

Ph: 02 9150 8002

E: info@combinedautorepairs.com.au

DC Tyre & Auto

2/3 Weedon Road FORRESTDALE WA 6112

Ph: 08 9394 8501

E: anthony@dcarc.com.au

DingGo AU Pty Ltd

Suite 3.02, 1F Homebush Bay Drive

RHODES NSW 2138

Ph: 0431 383 424

E: dmitri@dinggo.com.au

Etuners Motorsport

1/ 1626 Centre Road SPRINGVALE VIC 3171

Ph: 0423 014 114

E: etuners.au@gmail.com

Euro Car Services

91 Elgin Street MAITLAND NSW 2320

Ph: 0460 871 032

E: info@eurocarservices.com.au

CHAIRMAN

Jenok Pty Ltd

22 Irene Avenue COBURG NORTH VIC 3058

Ph: 1800 976 119

E: john@jenok.com.au

Method Race Wheels Australia

48 Paisley Drive LAWNTON QLD 4501

Ph: 07 3285 8456

E: clayton@racewheelsaust.com

Natrad Port Lincoln

Shop 1 13 Mortlock Terrace PORT LINCOLN SA 5606

Ph: 08 8682 2649

E: eyreradiators@gmail.com

Pace Auto Werks

513 Newcastle Street WEST PERTH WA 6005

Ph: 08 9227 8772

E: simon@paceautowerks.com.au

Ralph Guastella Motors

479 Victoria Street BRUNSWICK WEST VIC 3055

Ph: 03 9387 7460

E: ralphguastellamotors@gmail.com

Repco Authorised Service Rutherford (U-Mech & Air)

4, 39 Kyle Street RUTHERFORD NSW 2320

Ph: 0400 491 967

E: mechanic@umech.au

S Technic

63 Bickley Road CANNINGTON WA 6107

Ph: 08 9451 2555

E: info@stechnic.com.au

SMTAFE

1 Fleet Street FREMANTLE WA 6160

Ph: 0417 988 346

E: keith.murray@smtafe.wa.edu.au

Techworkz Automotive

76 Kembla Street FYSHWICK ACT 2609

Ph: 0418 837 055

E: admin@techworkz.com.au

Tig Tac Fabrications 11/16 Milne Street SEAFORD VIC 3198

Ph: 0402 624 604

E: carl@tigtacfabrication.com.au

AAAA BOARD OF DIRECTORS

DEPUTY

SECRETARY

TREASURER

DIRECTORS

BUILDING FOUNDATIONS, STRENGTH AND FOCUS FOR THE FUTURE

I’ve just returned from the whirlwind that is the SEMA and AAPEX shows in Las Vegas, where AAAA Director of Government Relations Lesley Yates and I had an incredibly impactful week

These events draw representatives from aftermarket associations worldwide, making our time in Vegas invaluable for connecting, exchanging insights on key issues, and sharing our experience in creating a world-first mandatory data sharing law.

I also had the privilege of speaking at the National Automotive Service Task Force (NASTF) General Meeting and thoroughly enjoyed the “Aussies in Vegas” event hosted by the AAAA, an informal networking evening that brought together Australian companies and industry representatives.

Vital groundwork at these events enhances our connections, improves our service offering and further focuses our advocacy efforts into the future.

This US trip wraps up my international travel and major events for the year, which feels like it has flown by. Reflecting on 2024, I am reminded of our amazing AAAA Annual General Meeting a few weeks ago at the Pullman Hotel Sydney Airport. The evening was filled with optimism, as we celebrated our collective achievements and looked ahead to new opportunities. A special thanks to our guest Richard Hopkins, whose stories from Formula 1, Supercars, and the Sunswift Racing EV Project reminded us of the innovation and resilience at the core of our industry.

The AGM was a powerful barometer for the industry, showcasing both our strength and momentum. As we look forward, this unity and strength will be vital as we tackle critical issues including ADAS, Vehicle Standards, Fair and Open Competition, the skills shortage, the EV transition, and more recently, a pressing issue currently affecting our skilled workshop technicians in Queensland.

The AAAA has forcefully and publically raised concerns about the Queensland Department of

Transport and Main Roads’ (TMR) recent decision to implement mandatory training for Approved Inspection Station (AIS) scheme members. The mandatory training directive is inappropriate and ineffective, introduced without industry consultation, and rolled out during Queensland’s caretaker period without a clear cost/benefit analysis. This is unacceptable. While subsidised training is generally welcomed, the rushed timeline and mandatory nature are ill-suited to most workshops.

These hastily introduced requirements have the potential to drive some of our most professional and competent businesses out of the program, while operators who exploit the system can still complete a training session and continue as before. This approach risks eroding trust in a system designed to enhance road safety. There is, however, a path forward. We are in discussions with the Department and new Minister and will continue to advocate for genuine consultation and an evidence-based approach. Our goal remains clear: to ensure road safety for all Queenslanders while championing policies that support and strengthen our industry – not hinder it.

Speaking of strengthening our industry, I am excited to announce Autocare 2025, Australia’s premier training-led event for technicians and business owners.

This event will feature top local and international experts and offer invaluable training across a wide range of workshop management and technical topics. In addition, Autocare 2025 will host a bustling trade show, providing unmatched networking opportunities for all attendees.

Nowhere else will you have the chance to experience such a comprehensive training event, learning from the best in the business while covering all the key topics that matter most to your success.

Mark your calendars for June 20–21, 2025, in Brisbane. This is one industry event you won’t want to miss – you can learn more on page 6 and book tickets at www.autocare.org.au

Finally, I want to extend my sincere thanks to all of our members for your unwavering support throughout the year. Your commitment is what keeps us moving forward.

As we approach the holiday season, I hope you all enjoy a well-deserved, safe, and relaxing Christmas and New Year break. Here’s to a successful 2025 – I look forward to what we will accomplish together in the year ahead.

Stuart Charity Chief Executive Officer

DAVID FRASER SAYS FAREWELL

The Group CEO of Capricorn steps down from his role in December

This is the last time I will be writing this column as Group Chief Executive Officer of Capricorn.

David Fraser Group CEO, Capricorn Society Ltd

Making the decision to retire wasn’t easy, particularly given Capricorn is in the best shape of its 50-year history and has such an exciting future ahead. I have really enjoyed hearing all the stories from our community over the past six months. If you haven’t already, you can meet some of the Members, Preferred Suppliers and Capricorn team that make up the Capricorn Community.

From January 2025, Brad Gannon will be your new Group Chief Executive Officer.

Brad is Capricorn through to his core and brings a wealth of experience and energy to the role.

We are also excited to welcome a new Chair of the Board, with Queensland Member Director Mark Rowe stepping into the role.

This leadership transition leaves the cooperative in good hands, and I am confident Capricorn’s purpose, and its work, will continue.

We are quickly getting close to the end of the year, which is a natural time of reflection for all of us.

I am acutely aware that 2024 has not been an easy year for many and this was clearly indicated in Capricorn’s 2024 State of the Nation (www.cap.coop/SOTN). As always, Capricorn is committed working with our Members and Suppliers to support the industry during this difficult period.

I hope you are all able to take some time away from the workshop, spend time with the people you love, and do the things you enjoy over the holiday period.

I wish you, your family, and your team all the very best for a prosperous and happy 2025.

David Fraser, Group CEO – Capricorn Society Ltd

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

GEAR UP FOR GROWTH

At Autocare 2025

Autocare 2025, Australia’s largest automotive training event, is set to return with an unmatched training experience, focused on advancing technical skills and driving business growth within the automotive industry.

Hosted by the Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association (AAAA), Autocare will take place on 20-21 June at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre (BCEC), where thousands of technicians, business owners, and industry leaders will gather for two transformative days of learning and networking.

As Australia’s premier automotive training convention, Autocare 2025 will bring together renowned international automotive trainers and Australia’s top experts to present a comprehensive education program tailored for parts, service, and repair professionals.

The agenda will focus on global trends, cuttingedge technology, and best practices to equip attendees with the knowledge to stay at the forefront of an evolving industry.

“Autocare 2025 is a vital event for any workshop owner, manager, or technician committed to advancing their career and business,” AAAA Chief Executive Officer, Stuart Charity, said.

“With technology progressing so rapidly, Autocare offers cutting-edge training from top experts, and solutions to the most pressing challenges we face.

“Autocare 2023 was a resounding success, with outstanding feedback from attendees on the value it delivered.

“We’re working hard to make Autocare 2025 even better, with an exceptional lineup of trainers and speakers, soon to be announced.”

Autocare 2025 will feature two distinct training streams for a targeted learning experience.

The Technical Training program will provide indepth, hands-on sessions for technicians and apprentices, covering advanced diagnostics and service for the latest generation vehicles.

The Business Management program will focus on emerging industry and consumer trends, improving profitability, and strategies to future-proof workshops, including best practice approaches to staff recruitment and retention.

The event also features an exciting free Trade Show with over 120 leading companies, showcasing the latest products and services.

Visitors can engage with exhibitors on the interactive demonstration stage, gaining valuable insights through live displays.

The hugely popular Autocare networking event on the show floor returns, a great chance to connect and enjoy the positive atmosphere.

The highly successful National Light Vehicle Modifications Summit also returns, running sideby-side with Autocare.

The important summit, championed by the AAAA, brings together aftermarket leaders, manufacturers, and regulators to collaborate on national vehicle standards, supporting continued innovation in vehicle modification while navigating regulatory compliance, all to to protect the future of the industry.

“Mark your calendars for Autocare 2025. This is the best opportunity to fast-track your technical knowledge, uplift your team, and grow your business,” Stuart said.

Tickets and session topics are now available at www.autocare.org.au

Sponsorship opportunities and exhibitor spaces are also available – to secure your place at Australia’s largest automotive training event, contact partnerships@autocare.org.au

CONNECTED CARS: SAFETY, CONVENIENCE, AND A HIDDEN AGENDA

Connected cars are here, and like it or not, they are changing the game

In Australia, we are already sharing the road with thousands of internet-enabled vehicles, and by 2030, over half of all cars will be hooked up to a digital lifeline.

But let’s not get carried away by the hype – connected vehicles mean more than just convenience; they are also about data. So, we need to ask: who controls it, who profits from it, and who’s left in the dark?

Why connected cars matter

Let’s be clear, connected cars aren’t just here to monitor our driving behaviour and collect data –they offer some real benefits that could save lives and protect the environment.

A connected vehicle can send an instant alert to emergency services if there is a crash or an airbag deployment, which means faster response times when seconds count.

Real-time data can help prevent drivers from breaking down, entering highly congested areas, and even adjusting traffic lights so people aren’t idling for no reason.

And there is the environmental payoff, with less wasted fuel, lower emissions, and safer roads for everyone.

There’s a lot of common good here, there is no question about it.

But before we let automakers use this tech to lock drivers into their networks, we need to talk about the real cost of connected cars and what it means for people who rely on the independent aftermarket.

Beyond the very important safety features, connected cars are basically mobile data factories.

Every trip, every refuel, every diagnostic alert is collected, stored, and transmitted. And while drivers think this is all in the name of better service, car manufacturers have other ideas.

Data collection has become a revenue stream, with the car essentially reporting back to the factory like a loyal employee.

But here’s the kicker: there is no active consent from consumers and in many cases, drivers are automatically signed up to these OEM data collection programs and have no idea this is even happening.

Imagine your car automatically sends a “service due” notification to the dealership as soon as your oil levels dip. This might sound convenient on paper, but for those of us in the independent sector, this automatic connection puts up a wall between drivers and their local mechanics.

Why can’t this same car notify your trusted local technician who knows your car’s quirks better than anyone? Why does it have to be the dealership? The simple answer is, it doesn’t, unless we sit back and let it.

It is time to demand consent and choice

Here’s where we come in. As connected vehicles take over the roads, we need to be asking tough questions and giving drivers the tools they need to demand clear, informed consent over their data.

People need to know, without the fine print nonsense:

• What is my car collecting?

• Who has access to it?

• Am I even okay with that?

These questions aren’t just about privacy, they are about a driver’s right to choose how their vehicle is serviced and by whom.

And let’s be clear, if this technology is about creating convenience, the car owner should decide who has access to their data.

The truth is that connected technology should be a benefit, not a ball and chain tying you to the original manufacturer.

Now, for the independent aftermarket, this is a huge opportunity. We are looking at a future where we can offer the same high-tech support to customers on their terms.

If a car owner wants their vehicle to be connected to a trusted independent workshop rather than the dealership, they should have that choice. But are we, as an industry, ready to meet this demand?

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

To make this a reality, we will need to invest in technology partnerships, push for standardised data sharing that doesn’t lock us out, and, frankly, keep raising our voices.

The demand is out there, and if we are serious about supporting drivers, we need to be the first in line with a solution that respects their choices and meets their needs.

Connected cars are changing our industry, there is no two ways about it.

But the promise of safer, cleaner roads doesn’t mean we should accept a backdoor to data mining and manufacturer lock-ins.

This technology can be a great tool, but only if the control and the benefits stay with the driver.

Let’s stand up for a connected future that keeps drivers, independent workshops, and the industry we’ve built in the loop.

We’ve got to make sure that every connection counts, and that it is not just the manufacturers who profit from it.

Let’s keep pushing for a fairer, more open road ahead.

If you would like to offer your thoughts on this subject, please email advocacy@aaaa.com.au

AAAA REPRESENTS AUSTRALIA AT AAPEX AND SEMA

The AAAA was on-hand at the AAPEX and SEMA shows recently, taking part in a number of important presentations

The Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association (AAAA) was well represented at the recent SEMA and AAPEX shows in Las Vegas, with Chief Executive Officer, Stuart Charity, and Director of Advocacy, Lesley Yates, taking advantage of a number of valuable opportunities to engage with international industry leaders.

As major events of international importance, AAPEX and SEMA brought together key players from aftermarket associations worldwide, encouraging important discussions on current issues in the sector.

As part of their work at the shows, Stuart and Lesley represented Australia at the Associations in Motion Congress, and the National Automotive Service Task Force (NASTF) General Meeting.

“Having representatives from aftermarket associations worldwide in one location made our time in Vegas invaluable for connecting, exchanging insights on key issues, and sharing our experience in creating a world-first mandatory data sharing law,” Stuart said.

“I had the privilege of speaking at the National Automotive Service Task Force (NASTF) General Meeting to their Board and Members, providing our best practice recommendations about right to repair, which was well received, including many questions.”

AAAA’s reputation as a world-leading aftermarket association was prominently showcased at the

Associations In Motion event, an international gathering focused on three critical themes: the right to repair, industry skills shortages, and trade show and visitor experiences. Stuart and Lesley contributed to the event with presentations on two key topics.

Lesley presented an update on Right to Repair from an Australian context, and shared successful AAAA tactics, including documentation created during its campaign around excuses car makers would come up with for not sharing data, and the real reasons.

The AAAA will provide this documentation as a resource for participating associations, enabling them to adapt it to their markets and support their right-to-repair campaigns. Other associations were also interested in following the AAAA’s strategy to have workshops engaging with MPs and encouraging them to visit to hear their stories. This forms part of the AAAA’s broader best practice strategy on how to run a right to repair campaign, including best practice for legislation.

Stuart presented an industry skills and training update and shared learnings from the AAAA’s member association survey on the skills shortages in their areas and ways associations can collaborate on training programs and delivering what technicians need from the best trainers.

The valuable information shared by Stuart and Lesley was so well received, they were also invited to attend and present at SEMA’s ADAS Working

Group Committee during the show, sharing their knowledge and experience in this critical area.

Alongside these speaking engagements and a wide array of private meetings, the AAAA also hosted its annual ‘Aussies in Vegas’ event at SEMA, offering a relaxed networking evening for Australian companies and industry members who proudly showcased high quality Australian aftermarket products and services at SEMA.

“The vital groundwork we undertake at these events enhances the AAAA’s connections, improves the Association’s service offering for members, and further focuses our advocacy efforts into the future,” Stuart said.

To learn more about the AAAA, visit www.aaaa.com.au

DON KYATT SPARE PARTS CELEBRATES 40 YEARS FOR ‘FROGGER’

Parts Interpreter Andrew ‘Frogger’ Fregonese is one of a small group to reach a remarkable milestone with the company

Don Kyatt Spare Parts celebrated 40 years of service from Andrew Fregonese in November, with Andrew being one of only five staff to have reached the milestone over the company’s 55-year history. At a small internal get together at Terrain Tamer Hut, located at Don Kyatt Spare Parts’ Melbourne head office, staff gathered to congratulate Andrew, fondly referred to as ‘Frogger’ by colleagues, and heard him speak about his time with the company.

Frogger talked about his time starting out as an Engine Reconditioner in 1984, a trade he had trained in and wanted to put to use, however it was only ten years later that he was called in to help out the busy sales team.

His natural people skills quickly saw him moved to the road where he served as the Victorian sales rep, selling the company’s Terrain Tamer 4WD and Flashlube brands to customers throughout the state.

Lastly, Frogger discussed the relationship he has built with Allan Gray, travelling from state to state to represent Terrain Tamer at the many 4WD shows around the country over the years, and reminisced about some of the characters the two had come across and mischief the two men had gotten up to in their travels.

Don Kyatt Spare Parts General Manager, Brent Hutchinson, also spoke, recognising that “from the beginning, Frogger has always been a favorite with customers and a very likeable, loyal and trustworthy member of the team.”

“Even now, he is in at 7.00am and often the one closing up at night,” Brent said.

Frogger’s son Marcus was also able to attend the presentation recognising his father’s service, while also debuting the cameo role that he is set to play in the new video series the company is set to release in 2025 – Terrain Tamer: The New Build.

Showing no signs of slowing down, Don Kyatt Spare Parts says Frogger’s 40 years of service makes him one of the most experienced Parts Interpreters within the Don Kyatt Spare Parts Tottenham head office team.

For more information, visit www.terraintamer.com or call 1300 888 444.

AAAA WELCOMES $400 MILLION COMMITMENT TO NATIONAL RIGHT TO REPAIR

The funding will build on the Motor Vehicle Service and Repair Information Sharing law

The Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association (AAAA) enthusiastically welcomed the recent announcement by Federal Treasurer Jim Chalmers of a $400 million annual investment to advance Right to Repair (R2R) across industries.

Building on the Motor Vehicle Service and Repair Information Sharing law of 2021, Australia’s landmark automotive R2R legislation, this new commitment marks a pivotal step in creating a truly competitive and consumer-friendly repair landscape across all sectors.

“This announcement is a tremendous boost to consumer rights, business efficiency, and national productivity,” AAAA Chief Executive Officer, Stuart Charity said.

“The Motor Vehicle Service and Repair law transformed the automotive sector by guaranteeing independent access to essential repair information, and now this federal investment will broaden those benefits.

“A robust Right to Repair framework increases productivity by reducing repair wait times, cutting down costs, and encouraging a dynamic marketplace that drives efficiency and innovation.”

Stuart also acknowledged the leadership of Professor Leanne Wiseman as the Chair of the Australian Repair Network.

“Leanne has been an incredible advocate for R2R

for households, medical devices, and agricultural machinery over a significant period of time,” Stuart said.

In addition, Stuart also highlighted AAAA’s support for general R2R reforms and the contributions of Lesley Yates, AAAA’s Director of Advocacy and AAAA representative on the Australian Repair Network Steering Committee.

“Lesley has been a tireless advocate, championing R2R to ensure Australians have affordable, highquality repair options across industries,” Stuart said.

“Her work is essential to the R2R movement’s success, and today’s commitment reflects the government’s recognition of these efforts.”

Treasurer Chalmers’ initiative aligns with a larger strategy to drive productivity gains through collaboration with state and territory governments.

In his meeting with state and territory counterparts on November 29, Treasurer Chalmers discussed key R2R reforms alongside adopting trusted international product safety standards.

These reforms are projected to deliver significant economic benefits, including an estimated $400 million annually in R2R-related productivity gains, as they streamline access to repairs and boost economic dynamism.

PRTC MEMBERS TO SAVE ON OUSC SPACE

PRTC members access 10 percent discount on Optima Ultimate Street Car Challenge trade space

The AAAA’s Performance Racing and Tuning Council (PRTC) has teamed up with the Optima Ultimate Street Car event crew to provide PRTC members with a 10 percent discount on trade sites at the 15 February 2025 event at Calder Park Raceway.

Optima Ultimate Street Car (OUSC) is a unique event that tests street-registered cars against a broad range of motorsport disciplines, including hot laps of the Calder Park Raceway as well as drag racing, speed stop and motorkhana. Each year, the event attracts more than 70 competitors in a diverse variety of vehicles and a large number of spectators. More than 50

competitors have already secured their place on the grid for the 2025 event.

“We’ve got big plans for the PRTC, and this is just a taste of the value-add programs we’ve got in the pipeline that will be available exclusively to PRTC members,” PRTC convenor, Daniel Nelson, said.

“The deal we’ve stuck with Optima Ultimate Street Car is an excellent opportunity for PRTC members to engage with a passionate and hard-to-reach audience while enjoying a save of 10 percent on their trade space.

“One of the many highlights of the 2024 event was watching Adrian Portelli of LMCT+ fame cut laps

AAAA’s commitment to expanding R2R across all sectors remains resolute.

“As the national leader in automotive R2R, AAAA is committed to supporting policies that increase productivity and promote fair competition,” Charity said.

“We look forward to partnering with the government to make Right to Repair a reality for all Australians.”

The Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association is the only independent national body representing and supporting the automotive aftermarket industry.

AAAA members are manufacturers, suppliers and retailers of automotive parts and accessories, tools and equipment and providers of service, repair and vehicle modification.

To learn more about the AAAA, visit www.aaaa.com.au

around the challenging Calder Park Track in his amazing McLaren P1.

“Adrian enjoyed himself so much that he has since secured a shareholding in the event with big plans to grow it fast.”

Now that he is a shareholder, Adrian is committed to engaging a wider audience using his massive marketing reach to drive spectator ticket sales to a level never seen before.

Adrian wasn’t alone in having a positive experience at the 2024 event, with PRTC member, James Johnson from Mustang Motorsport, bringing a fleet of tough street cars including several customer cars.

To book your discounted OUSC Trade Space, email tegan@mediascrum.com.au

For event information, visit www.ultimatestreetcar.au

MORE THAN TORQUE

The PRTC has re-launched to reinvigorate and support this passionate and exciting sector of the automotive industry

Under the AAAA, the mission of the Performance Racing and Tuning Council (PRTC) is to represent the interests of tuners, vehicle modifiers and performance parts suppliers across the country.

The PRTC provides advice, understanding and a strategic approach to current and potential market issues, and works with regulators, governments, enthusiasts and community groups.

A key focus of the council is to promote consumer choice and protect the right to modify vehicles to suit Australian conditions.

The PRTC values environmentally responsible tuning, advocating against substandard tuning practices such as removing emission controls like catalytic converters or diesel particle filters.

“Relaunching the PRTC has been received with enthusiasm amongst the performance and tuning sector,” PRTC Convenor, Daniel Nelson, said.

“Australia has so many innovative and exciting companies that produce world leading performance products, parts and service offerings, so having a strong unified voice that actively supports the health and future of this sector is an important step.

“In the months ahead, the Council will explore opportunities to enhance Performance education in Australia, including 4WD diesel tuning.

“Thanks to Adam Rickard from Trico for composing the new PRTC slogan, ‘More Than Torque’.”

If you would like to be involved with the PRTC, explore the benefits of membership, and help shape the future of the performance industry, email daniel@aaaa.com.au

QLD AUTOMOTIVE INDUSTRY’S BEST UP-AND-COMERS AWARDED

The winners of the 2024 TAFE Queensland –SkillsTech CSQ Apprentice Awards have been announced

On Thursday 10 October at the Royal International Convention Centre in Bowen Hills, Brisbane, the best and brightest automotive industry apprentices were recognised at the 2024 TAFE Queensland –SkillsTech CSQ Apprentice Awards in a night to remember for attendees.

Drawing a crowd of 350 attendees made up mostly of apprentices, their employers, and guests, with industry sponsors and TAFE Queensland staff also in attendance, the event showcased the training provider’s very best apprentices across 14 trade categories, along with two employer categories.

There were three automotive categories awarded on the night: the Viva Energy Light Automotive Apprentice of the Year, the HVIA Heavy Commercial Industries Apprentice of the Year, and the CTIAQ Recreational Vehicle Apprentice of the Year.

Zupps Aspley apprentice Mitchell Vessey took out the Viva Energy Light Automotive Apprentice of the Year thanks to his unmatched passion and dedication to his trade, which doesn’t finish when he leaves work.

“It is a passion I’ve carried with me for as long as I remember, outside of work I’ve had the chance to really dive into this passion through my personal projects: a 2014 Holden Colorado and a 2006 BF Ford Falcon,” Mitchell said.

Next up was the HVIA Heavy Commercial Industries Apprentice of the Year won by Corin Brewer of Drake Trailers, who has been driven to success by a passion for heavy vehicle trailers.

“As soon as I saw a Drake steerable pull out of the workshop and saw all the axles steer, I knew that was it for me. I didn’t want to work on anything else,” Corin said.

Finally, it was Xavier Johansen from Caravan Repair Centre who won the CTIAQ Recreational

Vehicle Apprentice of the Year for his skill and leadership qualities, with his TAFE Queensland teacher saying his greatest skill is his ability to delegate appropriate tasks to all team members in complex team tasks.

TAFE Queensland – SkillsTech General Manager, Stephen Gates, said the 2024 TAFE Queensland – SkillsTech CSQ Apprentice Awards was, above all else, an opportunity to encourage reflection on the achievements of Queensland’s future industry leaders.

“Every year, this event gives us the opportunity to promote rewarding excellence and engage the employers who train apprentices with us to think about what their apprentices’ best assets are,” Stephen said.

“I was lucky enough to be involved in the judging process and it was remarkable to hear about the achievements of our apprentices and their individual stories.

“There is no one pathway to success in a trade career and that was exemplified by our winners in 2024.

“We had Apprentices of the Year that were male, female, under 18, over 45, from Brisbane, the Sunshine Coast, North Queensland, starting their first career, extending with a second trade, or changing careers completely. That in itself was inspiring.

“TAFE Queensland is so thankful to the raft of industry sponsors that make this event possible, led by Main Event Sponsor CSQ, and enable us to create a fantastic memory for our apprentices as they move towards a high-flying career.”

For more information about the event, visit www.tafeqld.edu.au/apprentice-awards

Corin Brewer and HVIA National Events Manager Kay Marco.

Mitchell Vessey and Viva Energy Account Manager Troy Davison.

Xavier Johansen (proxied by Business Manager Engineering Training TAFE Queensland SkillsTech Kevin Roos) was also celebrated.

NEW BOARD MEMBERS WELCOMED AT AAAA ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

The AAAA is excited to announce the appointment of two new directors to its Board

HELLA Australia General Manager Aftermarket, Glareh Kayhoor, and CoolDrive Auto Parts General Manager – Sales and Branch Operations, Dale Durden, were officially introduced as directors during the AAAA’s 44th Annual General Meeting, which was held on 21 October in Sydney.

With 23 years of experience in the automotive industry, Glareh Kayhoor has excelled in quality systems, operations, and product management.

She holds an MBA from Monash University, is a graduate of the Australian Institute of Directors and has management experience with Ernst and Young and BAPCOR.

Glareh is dedicated to industry growth, diversity, and sustainability, and now leads the Aftermarket division at HELLA Australia.

Dale Durden brings more than 30 years of experience to the AAAA Board, having worked in sales, supply, and distribution throughout the automotive aftermarket.

Holding an MBA, and currently the General Manager – Sales and Branch Operations at CoolDrive Auto Parts, Dale’s strong leadership and passion for supporting independent workshops have made him a key figure in the sector.

Glareh and Dale join a highly regarded group of automotive leaders responsible for steering the strategic direction of the AAAA and the broader aftermarket industry.

“We are delighted to welcome Glareh and Dale to the AAAA Board,” AAAA Chief Executive Officer, Stuart Charity, said.

“Both bring a wealth of knowledge and passion for the industry, and I am confident they will provide fresh insights and perspectives as we continue to navigate the evolving landscape of our sector.”

At the same meeting, current AAAA Board member Mike Carnemolla was re-elected for another three-year term.

The Board also bid farewell to Peter Rogers from Repco Authorised Service and Darren Robinson from HELLA, who retired after many years of valuable service.

“We sincerely thank Peter and Darren for their significant contributions over the years,” Stuart said.

“Their wisdom and strategic insight have been invaluable, and we wish them all the best in their future endeavours.

“I look forward to continuing our work with the Board to ensure the ongoing health and prosperity of our thriving aftermarket industry.

“Our priority remains delivering exceptional value to our members, helping them grow and succeed.”

The full list of AAAA Board Members and positions are available at www.aaaa.com.au

CAPRICORN INTRODUCES CONFIDENCE INDEX

As part of its 50 Years Strong celebrations, Capricorn has launched the Capricorn Confidence Index

The Capricorn Confidence Index has been released in Capricorn’s fifth annual State of the Nation report.

With more than 30,000 Members across Australia and New Zealand, Capricorn says it is uniquely positioned to share the perspective of business owners in the automotive aftermarket industry, capturing how they are feeling about an industry that keeps over 20 million motor vehicles safely on our roads and in our communities.

“The Capricorn Confidence Index is a barometer for the health of the automotive aftermarket industry, and we believe it’s the most accurate measure of business owners’ confidence in the future of the automotive aftermarket,” Capricorn Incoming Group Chief Executive Officer, Brad Gannon, said. “Business and industry confidence is often used as an indicator of the overall condition of an industry and is a helpful tool in anticipating and preparing for future challenges.”

The Capricorn Confidence Index combines the responses to three questions, confidence in the automotive industry, confidence in their own

business’ future and plans for business growth, to calculate a single score out of 100 points.

This score reflects the overall business outlook of respondents, and with four years of data and insight, offers Capricorn and the automotive industry a stable and reliable metric.

In 2024, the Capricorn Confidence Index for Australia is 71.3 points. This shows, that whilst the industry is facing significant change and current economic conditions may be challenging, the majority of business owners are confident in the future of their industry and their business.

Over the past four years, the Index in Australia has improved by three points from 68.3. This reflects growing optimism amongst Capricorn Members regarding their current position and economic outlook.

“We are pleased to be able to publish the Index, and hope our Members, Suppliers and the wider automotive community will find this measure of confidence in our sector useful in the years to come,” Brad said.

“At Capricorn, we take great pride in working in an industry that is prepared to tackle the future, whatever it may be, with enthusiasm and optimism.” Capricorn says its State of the Nation report is a resource for anyone interested in automotive and mobility in Australia.

The data shows that Australian business owners in the automotive industry are not only resilient but look forward to the industry’s growth and future. You can learn more about the Capricorn Confidence Index by heading to www.cap.coop/SOTN to view the 2024 State of the Nation report.

Glareh Kayhoor

Dale Durden

TRAILER VISION UPSKILLS IN HYBRID AND EV REPAIR

AAAA member calls on all automotive businesses to learn the new technology or risk being left behind General Manager of AAAA member business Trailer Vision, Dennis Gravolin, has endorsed a Bosch Hybrid and EV training course (Bosch HEV101).

Dennis recently attended the course along with four other members of the family business – his children, Bambie Gravolin Bridges, Tyne Gravolin, and Laeton Gravolin, and his wife, Sandra Gravolin.

Dennis says the course – which is facilitated by CoolDrive, and in Trailer Vision’s case, was presented by Bosch trainer Scott Daley and held across the Queensland border north of the company’s base at MacLean NSW at the CoolDrive branch at Acacia Ridge – should be attended by all automotive businesses or they could risk falling behind the eight ball.

The comprehensive training program is designed to enhance knowledge of the skills required to repair hybrids and EVs and increase safety awareness when working on these high voltage systems.

Like Dennis, Laeton believes it is vital that today’s mechanics and technicians receive training in this new technology.

“The course itself gives automotive technician training on how to properly disconnect electric

vehicle battery systems so they can be diagnosed, worked on and repaired,” Laeton told local paper, The Clarence Valley Independent

“Upon completion of this course a certification is issued which gives access to the Australian Automotive Service and Repair Authority (AASRA) which is the body for managing OEM repair documentation.

“Due to safety concerns, OEMs will only issue EV repair information through AASRA to those technicians who are certified.”

Laeton also outlined that special PPE must be worn and special procedures followed to disconnect a battery.

“These EVs now have batteries with 200 DC Volts and at the electric motors there could be up to 1000 DC Volts,” Laeton said.

“This level of electricity is very dangerous so there is a huge safety side to anyone working on EVs and detailing or cleaning them, the proper procedures need to be followed.

“For me it was an enlightening course to be able to learn the new technology.”

Bambie Gravolin Bridges told The Clarence Valley Independent that understanding the intricacies of

EVs and hybrids is essential for maintaining safety standards in this rapidly evolving technology.

“These systems are complex, involving highvoltage batteries and sophisticated electronics,” Bambie said.

“A single mishap can lead to severe consequences, including injury or even death.

“Possessing the right knowledge and skills, and equipment, including PPE and a defibrillator, and ensuring safety is crucial.”

For more information on Trailer Vision, visit www.trailervision.com.au

To find out when the next CoolDrive facilitated Bosch Hybrid and EV (HEV101) course near you is scheduled, visit www.cooldrive.com.au

MOTORISTS’ DRIVING RANGE CONCERNS UNDERSCORE NEED FOR PHEV DISCOUNT EXTENSION

NALSPA says a new report drives home the importance of PHEVs

A recent NRMA Insurance report which identifies driving range anxiety and recharging as key barriers for electric vehicle uptake underscores the need for continued government support for plug-in hybrids (PHEV), says the National Automotive Leasing and Salary Packaging Association (NALSPA).

The report found the top reasons people are not considering an EV were due to concerns about driving range (54 percent), lengthy charging times (53 percent) and lack of public charging stations (52 percent) – factors which NALSPA said PHEVs help to address.

Affordability (52 percent) was also a factor, however NALSPA said the Fringe Benefits Tax (FBT) exemption for eligible battery electric vehicles (BEV) and PHEVs was bringing the cost of EVs down for everyday working Australians.

NALSPA Chief Executive Rohan Martin said PHEVs help alleviate concerns about range anxiety and encourage more people to begin their electric driving journey.

“PHEVs are the stepping stone to pure

electric driving – they are a practical solution for motorists who seek the benefits of lower running costs and lower emissions but may regularly drive longer distances or have concerns about driving range, charging times, and lack of public charging stations associated with a pure BEV,” Rohan said.

“We know drivers are primarily using PHEVs as electric vehicles but they also have the security of a conventional engine for longer trips or when charging isn’t readily available.

“PHEVs also align with Australia’s preferred vehicle types. Australians love their larger dualcabs and utes but right now, and into the near future, there will likely be a greater variety of these harder-to-fully-electrify vehicles available in PHEV form compared to BEV.

“PHEVs enable Australian motorists to commence their electrification journey earlier than would otherwise be the case, supporting Australia’s efforts to meet emissions targets.

“Our data shows PHEV uptake is increasing among everyday working Australians living in the

outer suburbs and regional areas as these vehicles better suit their driving needs.

“Sales of SUV and passenger PHEVs are surging in Australia, up almost 130 per cent in the first half of this year compared to the same period the year before.

“Continued government support of PHEVs is necessary to help more Australians transition their lifestyle to electrified lower emissions.

“To support Australia in meeting its emissions targets and to keep environmentally friendly larger vehicles affordable for more Australians, we encourage our national leaders to extend the FBT exemption for PHEVs beyond April 2025.”

For more from NALSPA, visit www.nalspa.org.au

AUTOMOTIVE STUDENTS IN TOP GEAR AT WORLDSKILLS

Finalists will be announced by WorldSkills later this year

Temperature gauges rose at Box Hill Institute recently, as Cert II Automotive Servicing Technology students battled it out in a regional WorldSkills competition.

Dubbed “the Olympics for tradies,” every two years more than 500 regional WorldSkills contests occur across Australia, testing the skills and knowledge of more than 4,000 Vocational Education and Training (VET) students.

In this contest, students were tested on foundational skills like basic servicing, diagnosis, and repairs, racing against the clock to complete all tasks efficiently and safely, while following a clear set of work instructions.

A panel of automotive experts judged each task

using a set of industry-backed assessment criteria. This ensures students learn the best practices and are prepared for future careers in the automotive industry.

To gear up for the competition, automotive trainers dedicated four Saturdays to provide extra tuition for students so they could hone their skills for the big competition.

Box Hill Institute Automotive Coordinator, Mark Egan, said competitions like WorldSkills set students up for future success.

“The automotive industry is advancing rapidly so these students will have to be lifelong learners, willing to have a go and adapt their skills to new technologies,” Mark said.

“WorldSkills helps build their confidence and problem-solving skills under pressure.”

Year 11 student from Rossbourne School, Archie Snelling, 17, is embracing the challenge of WorldSkills to build his knowledge.

“I want to be a mechanic and enjoy working on all types of cars. So far, I’m going well and all the extra training we had leading up to the competition has really helped,” Archie said.

Despite living with the challenges of partial deafness, autism and ADHD, his parents, Lisa and Mark Snelling, have noticed Archie grow in confidence through his experience at TAFE.

“Since Archie started at TAFE we’ve noticed a real difference. He’s willing to talk to people, wears his

SUPERCHEAP AUTO CELEBRATES NEW WEBSITE

The Australian and New Zealand automotive company celebrated with Triple Eight Race Engineering as ‘trade got super’

Supercheap Auto recently expanded its presence in the automotive trade sector with two new, purpose-built websites.

These websites are tailored to meet the needs of automotive workshops, trade businesses, and other industry professionals, marking a significant advancement in the company’s trade services.

To celebrate this milestone, Supercheap Auto Trade held an exclusive event at Triple Eight Race

Engineering, highlighting both the website launch and its ongoing sponsorship of the team.

The event brought together key trade customers and partners for a unique experience at the heart of one of Australia’s leading motorsport teams.

Trade customers also heard from motorsport super star Broc Feeney on the night, gaining valuable insights into his experience behind the wheel for the 2024 race season.

Attendees at the event had the unique opportunity to go behind the scenes at Triple Eight, getting up close with some of the team’s high-performance vehicles and gaining insights into the world of motorsport.

Supercheap Auto says this collaboration not only underscored its connection to the automotive industry but also demonstrated its commitment to providing exceptional value and service to its trade customers.

uniform with pride and feels confident and walks a little taller,” Lisa said.

All competitors receive a certificate from WorldSkills and a small tool kit to acknowledge their participation.

Finalists will be announced by WorldSkills later this year, with the top three students representing the eastern Melbourne region at the Victorian WorldSkills competition.

Box Hill Institute is a trusted vocational education and training (VET) provider in Victoria, connecting people with genuine employment outcomes for 100 years.

For more from Box Hill Institute, visit www.boxhill.edu.au

Photo credit: Chris Franklin, Box Hill Institute.

Supercheap Auto Trade’s new websites are now live, and the company encourages anyone in the trade to take advantage of this ‘super’ program. With enhanced functionality, special pricing, and tools such as the barcode scanner, Supercheap Auto explains the websites are designed to make the purchasing process faster and more efficient for trade account holders.

To explore the features and benefits available, visit www.trade.supercheapauto.com.au and register online today.

Student, Archie Snelling tests his know-how at the WorldSkills competition under the watchful eye of trainer, Leslie Cetoupe.

Student, Karlo Al-Jarah gets under the hood at Box Hill Institute’s automotive WorldSkills

AUTOMOTIVE APPRENTICE SPECIALIST READY TO SERVE

Apprentices Are Us focuses solely on automotive apprenticeships

This Group Training Organisation has plenty of experience to bring to the table in the automotive niche, and says it is ready to assist you with your apprentice needs.

“If you had a very specialised medical concern, would you see your GP, or go to a medical specialist who has trained and committed their career to that one very specific area?” Apprentices Are Us Managing Director, Michael Wentworth, said.

“We are not all things to all people at Apprenticeships Are Us Limited – we are automotive and only automotive.

“At Apprenticeships Are Us, we are more than just a Group Training Organisation, we are true automotive specialists committed to strengthening our industry through skilled apprenticeships.

“I am incredibly proud to showcase our dedicated team of professionals who bring extensive hands-on experience and passion for the trade.

“Each member of our team has years of real-world expertise in various automotive fields, from light and heavy vehicle mechanics to specialised roles in spray painting, workshop control, and more.

“These are not just experts; they are mentors, guides, and champions of the next generation of automotive tradespeople.

“When you partner with Apprenticeships Are Us, you are gaining the support of a team who knows the automotive trade inside and out and is invested in the success of both apprentices and their host employers.

“Why settle for anything less? I encourage you to get in touch with us and let our expertise work for you!

To learn more about Apprentices Are Us, visit www.apprus.com.au

ARE EVS AND HYBRIDS REALLY LOW MAINTENANCE?

With the rise of electric (EV) and hybrid vehicles, many drivers assume they come with fewer (if any) maintenance requirements, bringing servicing costs down compared to traditional petrol and diesel cars

However, recent data from Fifth Quadrant’s Consumer Tracker tells a different story, highlighting the unique maintenance challenges and potentially higher repair costs for EVs and hybrids (and the extent to which the maintenance of plug-in hybrids differs from other, more established hybrid technologies).

Based on the latest data, it can be seen that half of EV / PHEV owners have experienced issues with their vehicle in the past 12 months (higher than those owning any alternate power train), with three in ten reporting multiple problems over this period. This is well above Hybrid (33 percent) and Diesel owners (30 percent), while the vast majority of petrol owners reported no issues with their vehicles.

Unresolved issues: a challenge for EV owners

Importantly, the data also highlights a trend of unresolved major issues in electric vehicles, with more than a third of the issues with EVs or PHEVs remaining unresolved at this time (versus less than one in five of any other fuel type).

When EVs or PHEVs experience major problems, they appear more likely to remain unaddressed than similar issues in petrol or diesel vehicles, potentially due to limited access to suitable repair facilities, the high cost of repairs, or issues around parts availability or supply.

High repair costs for EVs and Hybrids

Given all of this, it is somewhat surprising that electric vehicles aren’t the most expensive when it comes to making repairs.

Among those who have experienced major issues, EV / PHEV owners spent around $1,300 fixing

issues with their cars. While this is well above petrol ($1,039) and hybrid ($810) vehicles, it is about 20 percent less than the amount spent resolving issues with diesel vehicles.

In practice, just under half of the diesel vehicle owners who experience major issues end up spending over $1,000 on repairs, talking to the size of the opportunity for service and repair workshops around the country.

Building aftermarket capacity

As the adoption of EVs and hybrids grows, so does the size of the service task for these vehicles. There is clearly still a need for greater access to EV repair facilities, with work also needed to bring down the cost of repairing and maintaining these vehicles.

With that said, consumers are currently spending significantly more on repairs to diesel vehicles, suggesting that in the short-term, workshops might be better placed to focus on higher volume ute models like Hilux, Ranger or D-Max.

Ultimately, there are significant financial investments required in either case, with business operators needing to invest in specialised training, equipment, and parts for either category of vehicle.

Looking to the longer term, we can also expect to see EV / PHEV servicing become more straightforward, with improvements in cost and availability.

Until this becomes the case though, EV and hybrid owners should be prepared for some more significant maintenance challenges than might be suggested by the extended service intervals and capped price servicing on offer from many EV brands.

This column was prepared for AAA Magazine by Fifth Quadrant, the AAAA’s partners in the AAAA Aftermarket Dashboard which is delivered to AAAA members each quarter. For more information about its services, visit www.fifthquadrant.com.au or contact Ben Selwyn on ben@fifthquadrant.com.au

SNAP-ON TOOLS GOES PINK

The company has raised more than $207,000 for the McGrath Foundation

Partnering with the McGrath Foundation for Breast Cancer Awareness month, Snap-on Tools raised $207,547 with its Socket to Breast Cancer initiative.

The money raised will be donated to the McGrath Foundation to help fund Breast Care Nurses who provide essential care and support to individuals and families affected by breast cancer.

This ambitious fundraising initiative was supported by local Snap-on businesses across the country and was powered by the sale of Snap-on’s limitededition Pink Tool Sets, as well as customer and franchisee donations.

This incredible fundraising milestone puts Snap-on just shy of its ambitious target of $250,000, with franchisees, customers, and communities across

Australia rallying together to support this vital cause.

“People have rallied behind the Socket to Breast Cancer initiative with all our franchisees and customers digging deep and raising much needed funds and awareness for breast cancer,” Snap-on Tools National Marketing and Product Manager, Adam Wright, said.

“We are so grateful to see such support and generosity in the local communities in which we operate.

“We feel fortunate to be part of the automotive community who are committed to making such a meaningful impact.

“Through the dedication of our franchisees and the support of our customers, we are able to support the McGrath Foundation’s work to provide vital care to those in need.”

Unfortunately, most Australians know someone diagnosed or impacted by breast cancer.

The incidence of breast cancer in Australia is increasing, with 20,973 women and 221 men expected to be diagnosed with breast cancer in Australia this year (that is one in seven women diagnosed in their lifetime and 58 people diagnosed every day).

Whilst early detection is key, as the most commonly diagnosed cancer in Australian women

WIN AN XTREME WEEKEND

Gates is celebrating the launch of its new XtremeRunner 4WD Belts with an exciting promotion

The automotive industry is always on the lookout for products that can withstand the rigors of extreme conditions, and Gates says its new XtremeRunner drive belt is designed to do just that.

This high-performance belt is engineered specifically for 4WD applications, ensuring vehicles can tackle the toughest terrains without compromising on performance.

With a legacy of more than 100 years, Gates says it has been a trusted name among manufacturers and installers for its reliable accessory and synchronous belt drive and cooling system replacement parts.

Now, Gates says the XtremeRunner drive belt stands out due to its robust construction and exceptional durability.

Gates explains that it has been designed to endure the harshest environments, including extreme heat, dust, debris, water submersion, and excess oil. It states this makes it an ideal choice for off-road enthusiasts who demand the best from their vehicles. The belt’s heavy-duty construction reportedly ensures all accessory components driven by the

belt perform optimally throughout its lifespan and Gates offers a five-year/100,000km warranty, underscoring its confidence in the product’s longevity and reliability.

To celebrate the launch of the XtremeRunner 4WD belt, Gates is running an exciting promotion for Australian automotive workshops.

From 1 October to 31 December 2024, workshops have the chance to win an Xtreme Weekend at the motorsport racing at Albert Park in 2025, with the prize including:

• Two x three-day tickets (14, 15, 16 March 2025) in a corporate suite, valued at over $4,600

• Food and beverages throughout the day

• A Gates Merchandise pack

• A $2,000 EFTPOS/Visa Gift Card for travel expenses

The Xtreme Weekend promotion is straightforward to enter. Automotive workshops simply need to go to www.gatesxtremeweekend.com and sign up for the Gates mailing list for one entry into the prize draw.

In addition, workshops which purchase XtremeRunner drive belts will receive 10 entries for

there is a ripple effect that stretches through families and communities.

To view the final donation amount, visit www.pinkisthecolour.com.au/fundraisers/snapon

Snap-on Tools Australia and New Zealand is a leading global innovator, manufacturer and marketer of tools, diagnostics and equipment solutions for professional tools users.

Operating in Australia since 1988, Snap-on says it is one of the longest running and successful franchises in Australia and across the world.

The Snap-on Tool range has more than 22,000 hand tools, power tools, tool storage products, diagnostics, equipment and related accessories. In Australia, there are in excess of 180 Snap-on franchisees and a global network of 4,800 serving more than 130 countries.

To learn more, visit www.snapontools.com.au

every belt purchased – simply upload a copy of the invoice/receipt at www.gatesxtremeweekend.com to claim these entries.

Gates says its XtremeRunner drive belt is a gamechanger for 4WD applications, offering unparalleled performance and durability, and with the accompanying Xtreme Weekend promotion adding an extra layer of excitement, states it is a win-win for both automotive workshops and their customers. By choosing the XtremeRunner drive belt, Gates says workshops can ensure they are providing their customers with the best possible product while also giving themselves a chance to experience an unforgettable adventure.

For more information, visit www.gates.com/xtremerunner or contact Gates Australia on 03 9797 9688 or salesAUS@gates.com

YOUR TOOLS AND EQUIPMENT EXPERT

CoolDrive Auto Parts is one of “Australasia’s preferred automotive parts distributors”

The family-owned company says as a market leader, it is “the go-to tools and equipment supplier for workshops across Australia and New Zealand.”

“In today’s ever-evolving automotive repair and maintenance landscape, CoolDrive recognises that workshops are constantly seeking efficiencies to stay ahead,” CoolDrive Auto Parts Head of Tools and Equipment, Matthew Douglass, said.

“The direct correlation between the complexity of vehicles in the car parc and the tools and equipment a workshop requires to service mechanic’s needs cannot be understated.

“With the automotive industry facing challenges such as a skills shortage and the pressing need to retain and nurture talent, having the right tools and equipment in a workshop can make all the difference.

“As automotive technologies advance, the tools and equipment for servicing these innovations must evolve.

“CoolDrive continues to remain at the forefront of industry trends, offering the largest and most comprehensive tools and equipment range that is in sync with the latest and emerging technologies.”

Proudly Australian family-owned-and-operated, CoolDrive says it has established partnerships with global brands renowned for quality, innovation, and reliability, to ensure it offers its customers only the very best in tools and equipment.

Among these trusted partners are industry leaders such as Bosch, CPS, Tufflift, Alemlube, GYS, SP Tools, Launch, FCAR, Ravaglioli, Autel, TradeQuip, Ariazone, Macnaught, Branick, AutoTest, Jayair, Jaylec, Powerprobe, Ignite, Lubemate, Retracta, Kranzle, Aunger, and Tolsen.

CoolDrive says its exhaustive product range addresses every facet of vehicle maintenance and repair to ensure it can equip workshops with the tools needed to tackle any job, from simple oil changes right through to complex engine diagnostics.

CoolDrive’s comprehensive range caters to a wide variety of service demands, enabling workshops to streamline their procurement and inventory management by sourcing all their tools and equipment from one supplier.

Diagnostic tools

CoolDrive offers an impressive selection of diagnostic tools that provide technicians with original equipment (OE) level diagnostic information, which is crucial for making accurate assessments and repairs.

A standout offering from CoolDrive is the Bosch ESI[tronic] Evolution, which it says has revolutionised workshop diagnostic software. With its sophisticated features and extensive database, it ensures speedy and precise information

and data. The Bosch KTS 560, 590, and Truck are equipped with this software, making them integral tools for thorough fault diagnostics.

A key feature of the ESI[tronic] Evolution, is Bosch’s Secure Diagnostic Access, providing standardised access through the vehicle’s Secure Gateway module (SGM) to properly interrogate vehicle data directly from manufacturers, ensuring up-to-date and accurate diagnostics.

As vehicles incorporate more sophisticated Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) that require precise sensor alignment, the need for specialised calibration tools becomes paramount. Calibration is critical particularly following procedures such as accident repair, wheel alignment, general maintenance, tuning, diagnostics, windshield replacement, and sensor repair, to ensure system functionality and driver safety.

CoolDrive offers the Bosch DAS 3000 S20 calibration device, which it says guarantees OEM compliance and caters to an extensive range of vehicle makes and models.

Moreover, CoolDrive extends its diagnostic offerings with LAUNCH scan tools, which support OE-level diagnostics for over 110 manufacturers to ensure coverage across the Australasian vehicle car parc.

Complementary brands like FCAR and Jal-Test are also part of CoolDrive’s product line-up, broadening options for workshops to find the precise tools they need for diagnostics and repairs.

Battery Charging and Testing

CoolDrive’s electrical system test tools encompass a wide range of battery charging and testing equipment, catering to the diverse needs of contemporary automotive workshops.

This includes the GYSFLASH Pro Battery Support Units which are said to be indispensable for

maintaining the stability of both lead-acid and lithium vehicle batteries at a perfectly regulated voltage. This feature is particularly important for conducting diagnostics and ADAS calibration as it ensures a consistent energy supply even when the engine is off. Another key offering in CoolDrive’s range is the DIAG-STARTIUM, a multifunctional device for both 12V and 24V systems which combines a battery charger, starter, and support unit.

CoolDrive also provides battery testing equipment from leading brands such as Bosch, Matson, and SP Tools, for assessing charge or voltage output, as well as advanced units capable of conducting in-depth analysis of a battery’s overall condition.

Workshop Equipment

CoolDrive boasts an expansive range of workshop equipment with the line-up including hoists and wheel service equipment from trustworthy brands like Tufflift, EAE, Alemlube, and Ravaglioli.

Offering a variety of sizes and capacities from two post and four post hoists, to scissor lifts and

mobile column lifts, CoolDrive ensures workshops can accommodate any vehicle, be it a standard passenger car, truck, or bus.

When it comes to wheel service, CoolDrive says workshops can rely on its high-quality equipment including wheel balancers, tyre changers, wheel alignment systems, and wheel service accessories.

CoolDrive also ranges an impressive line-up of workshop lubrication and refuelling equipment from Alemlube and Macnaught, with tailored offerings including oil pumps, waste oil drainers, oil extractors, storage tanks, grease guns, and reels.

Additionally, CoolDrive has partnered with AutoTest to offer accredited roadworthy testing equipment.

CoolDrive’s range further expands to include efficient part washers and TradeQuip garage and workshop gear all manufactured with durability in mind to withstand the most vigorous trade use.

Items such as workshop presses, evaporative coolers, fans, transmission lifters, and a robust selection of air compressors from brands like Senator, Puma, and Airmac will meet any workshop’s needs.

Also on offer are speciality tools such as walnut blasters, smoke machines, engine management speciality tools, brake lathes, and bleeders, plus commercial pressure washers.

SP Tools complements the line-up with its range of tool cabinets, benches, trolleys, and hand tools including impact wrenches, spanners, and screwdrivers.

Rounding out the range are induction heaters from GYS, such as the award-winning Powerduction 37LG, which provides a modern and efficient alternative to conventional metal heating methods, offering precise heat through electromagnetic fields allowing users to free up seized components without using a flame.

Hybrid and Electric Vehicles

CoolDrive has also expanded its hybrid and electric vehicle (EV) tools and equipment range, to cater to the ever-evolving needs of the industry.

This line-up features an extensive range of spare parts, tools, and workshop apparel from respected brands such as Bosch, Chargemate, Wallbox, Tolsen, Salisbury, and Jaylec.

The offerings span vehicle chargers, insulation tooling, replacement gloves, and insulation testers, to full EV tool kits and fire cloaks, as well as Heartsine defibrillators.

Air-Conditioning Repairs and Maintenance

CoolDrive’s extensive range of air-conditioning service tools and equipment positions workshops to confidently provide a full range of maintenance and repair services to their customers.

Among its offerings, air-conditioning service stations equipped for both R1234yf and R134a refrigerants stand out.

Sourced from reputable brands like Bosch, Ariazone, and CPS, these stations enable effective and efficient servicing of air-conditioning systems

in both passenger and commercial vehicles, encompassing refrigerant recover, recycling, and recharging processes.

Furthermore, CoolDrive’s range extends to essential accessories, including oil, dye, and consumables.

CoolDrive says this extensive selection ensures workshops can deliver high-quality air-conditioning maintenance and repairs, as well as comply with governmental safety and environmental regulations. Training and Support: the CoolDrive edge

CoolDrive says it distinguishes itself not just through its product offerings, but with the comprehensive training and support services it provides.

“Understanding the intricacies of modern automotive technologies requires ongoing education, which is why CoolDrive focuses on providing our customers access to training programs and technical support,” Matthew said.

“This ensures that our workshop customers are not only equipped with the best tools, but also possess the knowledge and skills to use them effectively and efficiently.

“CoolDrive’s technical training programs are a testament to the importance of upskilling in the face of rapid technological advancements, ensuring workshops not only thrive but can lead in today’s competitive automotive industry.”

CoolDrive’s technical training schedule is developed in collaboration with an extensive network of industry partners including Bosch and TaT, and emphasise practical, hands-on sessions to ensure workshops remain at the forefront of service and repair proficiency.

A wide range of technical subjects are covered, with the 2024 schedule featuring training topics such as Hybrid and EV, Diesel System Diagnostics, PassThru Programming, Diagnostics Testing, Battery Management, and ADAS Systems.

“At CoolDrive, our commitment to customer satisfaction does not end at the sale. It continues well beyond with robust aftersales support and training

programs, to ensure our customers derive maximum value from their investments with us,” Matthew said.

“Our comprehensive aftersales service is underpinned by a dedicated team of tools and equipment experts who are readily accessible to provide expert guidance, troubleshoot issues, and offer ongoing training to enhance product knowledge and usage proficiency.

“This approach to customer service fosters a stronger, more informed, and satisfied customer base, reinforcing CoolDrive’s reputation as a partner committed to the success of every automotive professional.”

CoolData: technical information at your fingertips

Underpinning these industry-leading tools and equipment offerings is CoolData, CoolDrive’s revolutionary technical resource platform.

This platform has been meticulously designed to equip workshops with an exhaustive online data system that streamlines the processes of maintaining, repairing, and diagnosing vehicles with unmatched accuracy and efficiency.

CoolData boasts an extensive OEM database encompassing a vast range of makes and models, supplemented by an easy vehicle identification feature.

The platform allows technicians to enrich their arsenals with comprehensive vehicle adjustment data, guided troubleshooting, detailed technical diagrams, component locations, and precise repair times.

Furthermore, it offers an expansive selection of service and repair manuals, alongside crucial specifications for everyday maintenance jobs. Continually updated with the latest information, CoolData also delves into vital areas such as manufacturer recalls and technical service bulletins. Whether for cars, trucks, or motorcycles, CoolData’s subscription packages are tailored to meet the diverse needs of modern workshops.

For further information on CoolDrive Auto Parts, and its product and service offerings, visit www.cooldrive.com.au

TODAY’S TECHNOLOGY ENABLING TOMORROW’S CLIMATE FRIENDLY TRANSPORTATION SECTOR

Commercial vehicles are the backbone of the global economy and the need for transport will continue to grow

The industry must strike a balance between necessary climate protection, global market developments and customer requirements for reliable and affordable transport.

MAHLE says it is broadly positioned with components and high systems expertise for battery electric drives, hydrogen engines, fuel cells and the use of renewable fuels, stating that technological diversity is key to the fast decarbonisation of the global transportation and commercial vehicle sector.

“The wide variety of applications and requirements for today’s commercial vehicles will require an array of technical solutions for sustainable drive systems which are just as multifaceted,” MAHLE Management Board Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Arnd Franz, said.

The automotive supplier states it is extensively represented with components in all electrified trucks that are currently being launched and is involved in all current major hydrogen engine projects and development projects for fuel cell vehicles.

MAHLE supplies over 120 international commercial vehicle brands in the on- and offhighway sector, with the commercial vehicle segment accounting for about one-fifth of the company’s original equipment business, and the trend points up.

MAHLE expects particularly strong growth in

China and at the IAA Transportation international commercial vehicle trade fair in September, the automotive supplier presented its systemic approach to a fuel cell truck: with fuel cell peripherals, thermal management, and a fully functional electric axle with two integrated SCT electric motors.

Other world premieres included a new evaporative cooling system and a bionic fan for demanding fuel cell and electric vehicles.

“Our products are developed, tested and ready for volume production,” Arnd said.

MAHLE says that according to forecasts, purely electric trucks with batteries and fuel cell trucks will account for around 30 percent of global production by 2035.

This means that the internal combustion engine will remain an essential drive system around the world for the foreseeable future.

MAHLE expects that battery-electric drive systems will mainly be used in the medium-duty truck segment and in the heavy-duty truck segment on short-haul routes, while fuel cells and combustion engines, powered by either hydrogen or other renewable fuels, capitalise on their advantages on the long haul.

MAHLE states that it stands for technological diversity and, with its three strategic fields of electrification, thermal management, and highly efficient sustainable combustion engines,

“develops the best solutions for every use case worldwide.”

In this way, the company seeks to enable the reduction of the carbon footprint of road freight transport.

The MAHLE SCT electric motor (Superior Continuous Torque) is said to be the company’s endurance champion among electric motors.

MAHLE says its high continuous power and efficiency make it the ideal electric drive for heavyduty traffic in all-electric trucks and in fuel cell applications.

At IAA Transportation, MAHLE showed a heavyduty e-axle for the first time, in which two SCT electric motors with a total output of 520 kW as well as the complete liquid management are compactly integrated, demonstrating its systems expertise and the suitability for series production of its innovations.

Together with a fully functional fuel cell, the e-axle, battery cooling and fuel cell peripherals from MAHLE formed its technology exhibit.

“This demonstrates how we can integrate our technologies, including thermal management, into electric vehicles and thus develop and optimise a wide range of options for different customer applications,” MAHLE Vice President Corporate Research and Advanced Engineering, Dr Marco Warth, said.

The conversion of hydrogen into electricity in the fuel cell places high technical demands on the vehicle – particularly with regards to thermal management.

MAHLE says it plays a leading role in this field of technology. Also part of its recent technological exhibit was its evaporative cooling device, presented as a world first at the IAA.

This technology ensures the optimal temperature for fuel cells and offers up to 50 kW more cooling capacity in a given installation space.

This enables a reduction of the required fan performance and reduces hydrogen consumption by up to 1.5 percent.

At the moment, MAHLE says hydrogen is the renewable fuel with the greatest potential to decarbonise the transportation sector.

Several hydrogen engines are currently being tested at MAHLE.

This year, DEUTZ, another engine manufacturer using MAHLE components, will enter series production.

This flagship project will first focus upon stationary engines before expanding to mobile, off-highway applications.

“We are very confident that serially-produced hydrogen engines will enter widespread use as early as this decade,” Arnd said.

But even the most modern and sustainable truck is useless without the right infrastructure.

“We welcome the fact that the EU has set targets for the expansion of charging and refuelling

facilities. Still, increased efforts in this sector will be needed to serve a broad fleet of zero-emission vehicles,” Arnd said.

“The member states are now called upon – and we hope that they will go beyond the minimum and accelerate expansion efforts. This will ensure that industry – and, especially, the transport industry –receive the planning security they need.”

Arnd reiterated that, for users to invest in emissionfree vehicles, it must make sense economically.

He said legislators, then, should create a framework which allows the market to build climate-neutral drives.

In lieu of meticulous requirements and technological regulations, he said renewable energy sources should be promoted with marketbased instruments.

MAHLE says this could be achieved by, for example, taking the effect upon the climate into consideration when levying taxes, tolls or other payments.

Arnd cited synthetic fuels – or biofuels, until synthetic fuels are more widely available – as energy sources which should not be underestimated.

He said these fuels could make an additional contribution to the reduction of carbon emissions in the transportation sector.

Some regions, such as South America or India, are already focusing fully on biofuels. MAHLE also utilises them wherever possible.

For example, in Germany, the company uses the environmentally friendly HVO 100 fuel in its shuttle traffic between the central warehouse in Freiberg am Neckar and its two plants in Vaihingen an der Enz and Mühlacker, saving up to 90 percent carbon in the process. In addition, the Group has converted the approximately 70 diesel vehicles in its fleet in Stuttgart to HVO 100 – reducing annual carbon emissions by up to 250 tons.

For more from MAHLE, visit www.mahle.com

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine Publisher, Cameron McLachlan, takes a look at the products driving the automotive aftermarket. cameron@aaaa.com.au

PHILIPS PREVIEWS NEW PRODUCT FOR 2025

The lighting brand says its new Xperion 3000 LED Work Shop Lights will elevate your workshop

Philips is pleased to announce the upcoming launch of its latest innovation, the Xperion 3000 LED workshop light series.

With a wide range of 11 versatile and rechargeable LED workshop lamps, the new range will see Philips able to bring handy and robust LED illumination to any task in the workshop.

The new Philips Xperion 3000 LED workshop light range helps professionals see almost anywhere they need, while offering long-lasting durability, flexibility, and battery lifetime which lets them work comfortably.

Philips says what sets the Xperion 3000 apart is its advanced LED technology; providing intense, focused illumination which covers every angle of a workspace.

“These lights are all IP rated for resistance to impact, water, and dust, with their grip surfaces designed to retain excellent grip even in the presence of grease and oils,” Philips Country Manager, Reece Walker, said.

“Many of the Xperion 3000 work lights are equipped with integrated magnets and 360° rotating hooks, leaving your hands free for the job.

“These lights provide professional quality and lighting performance at price points that many can afford.

“We anticipate strong demand for the lights as they represent an excellent combination of value, quality, and performance.”

Philips Xperion 3000 LED workshop lights will be available in the Australian market in early 2025, with Philips stating they will allow users to “experience a new standard in professional lighting.”

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

MAKING THE DIFFERENCE

Bilstein says its Bilstein B4 OE replacement shock absorbers ensure satisfied workshop customers

Forewarned is forearmed, but when it comes to shock absorbers, this rule is difficult for drivers to put into practice.

This is because shock absorbers wear out almost imperceptibly with increasing mileage, with handling becoming more imprecise and the braking distance longer.

It is therefore all the more important that the workshop regularly checks the safety-relevant shock absorbers – for the safety of the drivers, and possible additional business for the workshop.

If the shock absorbers need to be replaced, it is important to opt for a reliable quality product.

Bilstein says its B4 OE replacement range corresponds exactly to original equipment in terms of technology and quality.

After the shock absorbers have been replaced, Bilstein says the perfect road grip and precise handling are restored, resulting in maximum safety and a driving experience as if the car just came from the assembly line – a difference which Bilstein says the driver can feel immediately and experience over tens of thousands of miles.

As such, Bilstein says the overall package of its Bilstein B4 range ensures satisfied workshop customers who will gladly come again.

With more than 2,300 applications, Bilstein explains its B4 product range covers more than 90 percent of all European vehicle models, and so “there is a suitable B4 model for almost every car on the market as a monotube and twin-tube gas pressure shock absorber in the specification that corresponds exactly to the standard equipment.”

Bilstein says it is also a one-stop shop for the necessary accessories, such as top mounts or bump stops and even springs.

When replacing shock absorbers, it says workshops should always keep an eye on the surrounding components, noting that it is also important to replace the shock absorbers always in pairs on both sides of the vehicle at the same time.

OEM competence for the aftermarket

Bilstein B4 OE replacement shock absorbers are manufactured on the same production lines as the OE products.

Bilstein explains that it “supplies many premium vehicle manufacturers with the highest quality shock absorber and suspension systems as standard and therefore knows exactly what the OEMs require.”

If the workshop decides to use Bilstein products for replacement, Bilstein says they can rely on getting first-class components with excellent quality, while customers can be sure that the driving experience of their vehicle is the same as ex-works.

The shock absorber expert not only supplies OE products for series production, but also develops innovative OE suspension technologies together with vehicle manufacturers.

One example is the DampMatic developed jointly by Bilstein and Mercedes-Benz. Even without external control, Bistein says the mechanical system ensures that the shock absorber is tighter or softer depending on amplitude of vibration.

Bilstein holds the patent for its DampMatic technology. Bilstein explains this means that no other manufacturer can offer OE replacement shock absorbers, which are identical to the OE component.

However, because the amplitude-dependent control is integrated in the damper and works without cables, there is a risk that the workshop may overlook it, says Bilstein.

However, if they opt for the Bilstein B4 OE replacement shock absorber, Bilstein says the DampMatic technology for the particular Mercedes-Benz model is automatically equipped – just like in series production and in OE quality.

Air spring modules with a unique feature

For vehicles with integrated air suspension modules, Bilstein says another look at the B4 product range will help.

The company states it is “one of the few aftermarket suppliers to offer brand-new spare parts that are cheaper than OE replacement parts and that surpass remanufactured parts in terms of quality.”

In the latter case, it states used shock absorbers of uncertain mileage are installed and not infrequently, the electronic control valves are shut down instead of replaced. This turns an active system into a passive one.

And if the compressor in an air suspension system is defective, Bilstein says it can also help; with replacements able to be found in the B1 product range. For more information, visit www.bilstein.com

Photos: Copyright BILSTEIN 2024

THE HIDDEN EMISSIONS THREAT

Could your customer’s car be the culprit?

Many drivers remain unaware that their vehicles may be contributing to climate change while costing them money.

Emissions can signal inefficiencies, which, if undetected, lead to increased fuel consumption and expensive repairs.

AutoTest explains that regular emissions tests can help identify these problems early, ensuring vehicles run efficiently and sparing customers from unexpected expenses.

AutoTest says regular, professional testing crucial for workshop owners aiming to provide top-tier service and uphold emission standards.

Workshops should inform clients about the importance of emissions testing, ensuring potential issues are addressed promptly.

AutoTest says this proactive approach can save clients from costly repairs, improve fuel efficiency, and maintain compliance with environmental regulations.

How emissions testing works

Emissions testing measures pollutants such as CO2, hydrocarbons, and NOx emitted by a vehicle.

During the test, a diagnostic device analyses these gases while the engine runs, comparing the readings against state or national standards.

A well-maintained engine ensures better performance and lower emissions.

Preparing for an emissions test

To help clients prepare for emissions testing, AutoTest recommends they:

• Regularly maintain the vehicle, including oil and filter changes.

• Warm up the vehicle for 20 minutes before testing to activate the catalytic converter.

• Ensure the check-engine light is off and fix any issues.

• Have at least a quarter tank of fuel and a fully charged battery.

AutoTest’s Five Gas Analyser

AutoTest says its Five Gas Analyser is ideal for emissions testing, compatible with petrol, LPG, CNG, and diesel engines.

It measures key pollutants (CO, CO2, HC, O2, and NOx), has an easy-to-read LED display, stores up to 100 tests, and features an integrated printer.

With Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity, AutoTest says this tool ensures compliance and vehicle longevity.

AutoTest encourages workshops to invest in quality testing equipment, stating that doing so positions workshops as leaders in emissions management, benefiting clients and the environment alike.

For more information, contact AutoTest Products on 03 8840 3000 or visit www.autotest.net.au

PROTECTIVE COATING SOLUTIONS

Rhino Linings says it provides

“the world’s best”

When you rely on your ute, truck, or other work vehicle to handle daily wear and tear, protection is key.

Rhino Linings says it offers the ultimate solution to extend the life of your vehicle with world-class spray-applied Ute Tub Liners.

It states these tough, resilient coatings protect against rust, corrosion, chemicals, and abrasion to deliver a long-lasting shield for your vehicle’s most vulnerable areas.

Whether you are looking to protect a new ute or refresh an older one, Rhino Linings says it offers advanced solutions tailored to meet the highest industry standards.

Established in 1988, Rhino Linings says it has earned a global reputation as a leading manufacturer of spray-applied protective coatings. Initially developed in the USA for the automotive industry, Rhino’s specialised products are now reportedly trusted by thousands worldwide.

The company says its unique, high-performance formulations have been engineered to withstand heavy impact, resist scratches, and maintain integrity through years of rigorous use.

Unlike traditional plastic drop-in liners, which can crack, shift, or collect moisture, Rhino Linings says its seamless application provides superior corrosion resistance and a guaranteed fit that won’t rip or tear under pressure.

Rhino Linings further states that its success stems not only from the quality of its products, but also from its focus on safety, quality control, and customer satisfaction.

Rhino’s Tuff Stuff ute tub liner is a flagship product, designed to protect against dents and scratches that are inevitable with daily usage.

Applied by trained professionals, each liner is custom-sprayed and bonded directly to the truck bed, ensuring a smooth, skid-resistant surface that keeps your cargo stable.

Rhino Linings explains it is a popular choice among customers who want a durable solution which meets the unique demands of their work environments.

In addition to quality, Rhino Linings says its commitment to customer assurance is evident in its Nationwide Lifetime Warranty on Tuff Stuff liners. It states this warranty, available across all locations,

covers the integrity of the liner against cracking, peeling, and other forms of wear, giving customers peace of mind and confidence in their investment. Rhino Linings further explains that its network of certified applicators is “ready to deliver the highest standard of service, ensuring that every customer benefits from the same level of excellence that defines the Rhino brand.”

For more information, visit www.rhinolinings.com.au or call 07 5585 7090.

NEW WIPER BLADES TARGETED TO WORKSHOPS

French Car Care has launched its own brand of wiper blades and says it covers the majority of the Australian car parc

French Car Care states it has a proud history of supplying Peugeot, Citroen, Renault and Fiat European car parts at what it describes as “the most competitive prices in south-east Queensland.”

With a large network of suppliers to draw upon, French Car Care says it is now excited to launch its own range of wiper blades, targeted to workshops. It says its multi-fit front and rear wiper blades carry the widest variety of adapters to fit most cars on the Australian market, while the price of its wipers and also its wiper stands “are the cheapest and best bang for buck in the market.”

French Car Care has also recently shifted its focus to supplying the trade, and so is currently offering special trade deals to workshops including a purpose-built rack with wipers for storage and display.

There are 12 different adaptors included, which means a very large portion of the Australian car parc is covered.

Its rear wiper blades are also multi-fit, with sizes ranging from 8” (200mm) to 16” (400mm) and 17 different adapters included to ensure as many models in the Australian marketplace are catered for as possible.

Because French Car Care imports direct from the manufacturer, it believes it can ensure the quality of all of its blades are of the highest standards. The business also has a huge range of other parts available for Renault, Citroen, Peugeot, Fiat and

registration number or VIN and a list of parts required, we will reply immediately with price and availability,” Noel said.

“We also carry a large range of basic service parts, including sensors, widow regulators, steering and suspension parts and much more.

“We have over 11,000 different part numbers listed in our system and our friendly staff will be more than happy to help with all your queries.”

The company states it has grown its reputation via word of mouth and through its connection with organisations such as AAAA and Capricorn.

The business is also planning on expansion in the next 18 months.

“At this stage we are focusing on south-east Queensland with the hope to expand to the full east coast of Australia,” Noel said.

Noel explains that the company prefers to keep overheads low rather than spending big dollars on marketing and branding, so that it can remain cost competitive.

“We can price match where possible,” Noel said. French Car Care claims it takes great pride in its ability to provide customers with the parts that they need, with its knowledgeable parts team “the king pin of its highly successful parts operation.”

“In most cases, our team will have an answer to your parts queries on the spot, and if not, we get back to you as soon as possible,” Noel said.

For more information and prices, workshops should contact French Car Care direct on 07 3391 6522 or info@frenchcarcare.com.au

MONROE SHOCK TESTER

Monroe says this new tester is “turning workshop tools into revenue generators”

Monroe has spent more than a century perfecting the engineering of its ride performance products. All workshops or installers know that shock absorbers are critical to vehicle safety, similar to tyres and brakes.

However, unlike these components, shocks don’t have visible wear indicators, making it difficult to assess their condition without specialised tools. This often leads to shocks being overlooked until failure occurs, potentially compromising both safety and performance.

Research shows that the average shock replacement rate across the industry is about one in 12 vehicles serviced, yet many workshops report rates as low as one in 36 or even 48. This gap represents not only a missed revenue opportunity, but also a safety concern for customers.

Shocks rely on oil for damping, and as with any engine oil, it degrades over time. By 80,000km, most shocks have gone through 600–800 million cycles, and replacement is strongly recommended.

However, different terrains and usage patterns can accelerate wear, meaning each vehicle requires an individualised assessment.

Monroe says it offers an innovative solution: the Monroe Shock Absorber Tester.

This portable, hand-held device provides a quick, effective, and affordable way to test shocks, right in your workshop.

Monroe states that in just five–seven minutes, you can test all four corners of a vehicle without the need for costly equipment.

Using both the “rebound method” and “damping ratio,” it says the tester provides an accurate, onthe-spot reading of shock performance and prints a report which can support your replacement recommendations to customers.

It is compact and cordless, easy to operate, and comes with a Bluetooth thermal printer, poly or rubber bumps, and an easy-to-read display screen.

Compatible with passenger and light commercial vehicles, Monroe says this tester is a powerful tool for building customer trust and generating revenue. Just as battery testing has become a standard

part of service checks, shock testing can add a new layer of credibility to your offerings, allowing customers to see for themselves the importance of shock replacement.

In many cases, Monroe says just two sets of shock replacements can cover the cost of the tester, making it not only a valuable diagnostic tool but also a solid investment in your workshop’s bottom line. Available at local Repco stores, Monroe says its Shock Absorber Tester is a must-have for any workshop focused on safety and customer service. For more information, call Monroe’s Customer Service Team at 1800 088 205 or visit www.monroe.com.au/shocktester

PRODUCTS

A NEW CHAPTER FOR BW

A significant milestone has been reached in the evolution of the BW brand

BW states a complete brand refresh underscores its dedication to delivering excellence to customers, going beyond just a new logo or packaging design to reaffirm its commitment to delivering superior bearing and driveline solutions for the automotive industry.

Giving BW its own identity

Born from Bearing Wholesalers, the BW brand reportedly builds on the rich history and expertise of its past while evolving to deliver bearing and driveline solutions in a more modern and distinctive way.

“We’ve crafted a fresh identity that reflects BW’s quality and focuses on continual improvement, while retaining the reliability, expertise, and extensive product range that customers have come to trust,” BAPCOR Marketing Manager – Brand, Sonia Pace, said.

“Our updated brand identity includes a new logo distinguishing BW from its Bearing Wholesalers heritage.

“This modernised logo represents our innovative spirit and high-quality standards. Additionally, our revamped packaging enhances functionality and visual appeal, ensuring our products stand out in both performance and presentation.”

The right range

BW says it is proud to offer a full range of bearings and driveline products for the Australian and New Zealand markets including bearing, driveline, and kitting solutions.

“Our selection is meticulously curated to meet diverse regional demands, covering all your automotive needs – from high-performance bearings to reliable driveline components,” Sonia said.

Amongst the range are the following products:

• Wheel bearing kits for passenger vehicles, 4WDs, commercial vehicles, and all types of trailers.

• Hub Assemblies which are maintenance-free, direct replacement units; ready for fast, easy installation.

• Idlers and pulleys for various applications.

• Rebuild Kits – built for Australia and New Zealand vehicles consisting of premium quality products; available for Differentials, Transfer Cases, Gearboxes, and Swivel Hubs.

• Trailer Bearing Kits to suit all towing applications, including marine trailers.

“Our team comprises automotive industry experts with extensive knowledge and longstanding partnerships with global suppliers,” Sonia said.

“BW products are designed for a direct fit and engineered to perform as well as, or better than, original parts.

“Our dedication ensures that you can trust BW for quality and reliability. Our commitment to excellence in bearings and driveline solutions allows us to offer products tailored precisely to your needs.

“With this brand refresh, BW is strategically repositioned to better serve our customers’ evolving bearing and driveline needs.”

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

PEDDERS ADJUSTABLE FOAM CELL SHOCK ABSORBERS

Pedders says this adjustable system ensures your vehicle handles exactly the way you want it to

When it is time to upgrade your vehicle’s suspension, Pedders says its Adjustable Foam Cell Shock Absorber range sets a new benchmark for aftermarket performance.

Building on the trusted Pedders Foam Cell technology, Pedders says these innovative shock absorbers deliver exceptional durability, enhanced capability, and unmatched adjustability for drivers who demand more from their 4x4.

It states replacing factory-fitted shocks with Pedders Adjustable Foam Cell Shock Absorbers means upgrading to a nine-stage damping system which allows you to fine-tune your ride for any driving condition.

With a simple twist of a knob – conveniently located on the lower section of the shock body –you can instantly adjust both bump and rebound settings.

Whether you prefer a softer, more cushioned ride for everyday driving or a firmer, more controlled feel for off-road excursions, Pedders says this adjustable system ensures your vehicle handles exactly the way you want it to.

Thanks to Pedders’ Foam Cell technology, Pedders states these shocks reduce aeration, ensuring consistent damping performance for superior stability and smoother control.

Engineered for longevity, these shocks are crafted from corrosion-resistant materials and have been rigorously tested in the toughest Australian terrains and harshest weather conditions.

With a large-bore, heavy-duty twin-tube construction and double-welded mountings, they are designed to deliver consistent performance, durability, and allow for easy maintenance.

Pedders explains that installation is hassle-free, requiring no vehicle modifications, with the Pedders Adjustable Foam Cell Shock Absorbers seamlessly replacing factory units and improving both ride quality and handling.

Further, it states the serviceable adjuster knob, made from impact and corrosion resistant hightensile PVC plastic, ensures ease of use and long-term durability.

Backed by Pedders’ two-year, 40,000km Nationwide Warranty, Pedders says choosing

the Adjustable Foam Cell Shock Absorbers “isn’t just an upgrade – it is a commitment to quality, performance, and adaptability.”

Pedders invites you to “say goodbye to underperforming factory shocks and upgrade your 4x4 with Pedders.”

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

ENSURING ADAS SAFETY

Logicar offers a range of calibration tools and services

Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) technologies such as Blind Spot Monitoring, Adaptive Cruise Control, and Lane Departure Warning rely on cameras, radar, and sensors to provide timely alerts, braking assistance, and steering intervention.

Accurate calibration is essential to make sure these features operate with precision and ensure safety systems can detect, warn, and react correctly in real-world driving scenarios.

Misalignment or improper calibration of sensors can lead to malfunctioning safety features, such as failing to detect obstacles or providing inaccurate warnings.

This can severely compromise safety, as these systems are designed to act at critical moments to prevent accidents or minimise damage.

“At Logicar Australia, we prioritise equipping workshops with the latest ADAS calibration technology to help them maximise both their skillsets and business opportunities,” Logicar Chief Executive Officer, Colette Kirby, said.

“Partnering with Thinkcar, we offer cutting-edge hardware and software solutions that ensure

workshops can quickly and accurately calibrate ADAS systems to OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) standards.

“Our Thinkcar Diagnostic Tool provides step-bystep guidance for calibrating ADAS systems on each specific vehicle, ensuring compliance with manufacturer requirements.

“The tool also includes a pre-scan and postcalibration report, streamlining the process for technicians. This approach not only improves safety but also enhances workshop efficiency.”

Environmental conditions like temperature, lighting, and road surfaces can significantly impact the accuracy of ADAS calibration. For example, some sensors may not function correctly in low light or extreme temperatures.

Technicians must be aware of these factors to ensure the calibration process is carried out under optimal conditions.

Logicar states using the right calibration equipment allows technicians to account for these variables, ensuring the system performs as designed.

“Our ADAS calibration frames are designed to support over 45 different types of target and

IP64 SHORT STOP MANUAL RESET CIRCUIT BREAKER KIT

Available from Prolec

Prolec has announced the release of its latest low amperage manual reset circuit breaker which meets growing market needs from both the automotive and marine sectors.

The latest addition to the popular short stop circuit breaker family is an all-in-one kit, called the CB3K Series.

This circuit breaker kit, available in amperages ranging from 10A to 50A, is suitable for both 12V and 24V applications.

It features a manual reset Type III mechanism, where a small button pops out from the top when tripped.

The circuit breaker is easy to connect using two included #10-32 threaded studs with Nyloc stainless steel hex nuts. It is compact and can be easily mounted using two parallel 5.5mm diameter holes.

The kit includes a clear cover to protect the manual reset button from water and dust, as well as a red PVC terminal boot that prevents accidental shorts. When fully assembled, the kit achieves an IP64 Ingress Protection Rating. This user-friendly kit is simple to install and serves as a convenient replacement for cumbersome inline fuses and fuse holders.

Prolec offers a comprehensive range of products including fuses and fuse holders, relays and relay connectors, circuit breakers, fuse relay centres, power distribution units, junction blocks, switches, battery switches and battery management products.

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

pattern boards, ensuring precise camera-based calibrations for systems like AVM (All-View 360° Monitoring), FCM (Forward Collision Mitigation), and RCW (Rear Collision Warning),” Colette said.

“We also provide additional calibration accessories, such as radar/sonar reflectors, for systems like Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) and Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM).

“This range of tools ensures workshops can calibrate virtually any vehicle with ADAS technology, no matter the system.”

Logicar says it emphasises the importance of ongoing ADAS calibration training and encourage technicians to engage in personal research. For more information, visit www.logicar.com.au or call Logicar on 1300 322 782.

ARE YOU PREPARED FOR YOUR NEXT SUMMER GETAWAY IN THE LAND OF ADVENTURE?

Ensure your next holiday isn’t derailed by a flat battery on your tow or recreational vehicle

Summer is in full swing and there is truly no place better than home for an unforgettable end of year getaway.

Byron Bay, Port Douglas, Mornington Peninsula, Katherine, Kangaroo Island, and Albany will undoubtedly be popular hot spots amongst locals and international tourists this Summer.

Before kickstarting your Summer adventure, R and J Batteries cautions it is crucial to ensure that your tow vehicle is fitted with a reliable battery.

It says ACDelco has dominated the aftermarket parts industry for over 100 years, with a solid reputation as a premium source of experience and technology.

Its backing by the global powerhouse, General Motors, is a testament to its product quality, and R and J Batteries further explains that every ACDelco battery undergoes meticulous laboratory testing and rigorous quality control assessments before its introduction to the market, ensuring “utmost standards of excellence.”

All of these batteries are also backed by up to three years in warranty, further attesting to exceptional quality and performance capabilities, says R and J Batteries.

If you don’t have a dedicated holiday vehicle and prefer using the everyday car for everything,

R and J Batteries says the ACDelco Automotive range is an excellent choice.

The range includes Premium (SMF), Enhanced Flooded Battery (EFB), and Absorbent Glass Mat (AGM) options to suit a variety makes and models of vehicles.

ACDelco EFB and AGM batteries have been specifically designed for modern vehicles with high electrical demands and Stop Start technology.

R and J Batteries says these batteries are built to perform in extreme conditions where performance matters.

As well as providing solutions for your cars and/or tow vehicles, R and J Batteries says ACDelco can also help you ensure your leisure craft are fitted with a reliable battery, such as an ACDelco Deep Cycle or Marine battery for peace of mind and uninterrupted fun.

ACDelco M Series and HCM Series batteries are specifically designed for recreational and marine applications.

The ACDelco M Series are marine starting batteries which reportedly provide higher cranking power to reliably start recreational vehicles and marine craft.

M Series batteries also come with many other features; such as increased capacity for higher cranking power, lock bonded plate groups to

ACS LAUNCHES NEW PERFORMANCE UPGRADES

The new upgrades were unveiled at SEMA 2024

Australian Clutch Services (ACS) recently exhibited its US performance brand at SEMA Show 2024 in Las Vegas.

The XClutch brand is US specific and based on the Xtreme Clutch brand in Australia and New Zealand, covering an extensive range of performance clutch kits and accessories for street and motorsport applications.

XClutch launched several new kits at the show including a 184mm triple plate race upgrade for the Porsche 996/997 GT2, GT3 and Cup Car and a new 240mm single plate upgrade for the A90 GR Supra that has been designed to fit the factory dual-mass flywheel.

XClutch also launched several new kits specifically for the US market including an upgrade for the Jeep Gladiator and several new street and motorsport kits to suit the Dodge Neon SRT-4.

“SEMA Show is the ideal opportunity for us to launch our new performance upgrades to the world,” ACS General Manager, Simon Acton, said.

“This year we were able to launch several exciting new kits at the show and we received great feedback from our distributors and the wider automotive community.

“Our engineering team have been working hard to develop these upgrades based on feedback we received from the market, and we are looking to cover both popular and niche vehicle applications to ensure there is a performance clutch solution in the market for these vehicle owners.”

ACS is now offering these performance upgrades in the Australian market under the Xtreme Clutch banner and expect to see great interest.

“The new upgrade to suit the A90 GR Supra is ideal for high performance street cars that require an increase in torque capacity whilst maintaining drivability for daily use,”

Simon said.

“We are also expecting to see interest in the 184mm triple plate race clutch for the Porsche, mainly for 996 and 997 cup car owners who are

improve vibration resistance and marine style dual terminals (stainless steel stud and SAE post).

R and J Batteries further explains that these batteries are maintenance-free, meaning they require no topping up with water over the lifetime of the battery.

The HCM series meanwhile are dual-purpose batteries which can be used for both cranking and cycling.

R and J Batteries explains they are designed for use in demanding marine applications as well as leisure applications like RVs, 4X4s and SUVs.

HCM batteries can be used to power GPS navigation, fish finders, fridges and various other electrical accessories.

These batteries are built with thicker plates to increase cycling capacity, and the plate groups are lock bonded to improve vibration resistance.

ACDelco Automotive, Deep Cycle and Marine batteries are available at all R and J Batteries branches nationwide and via selected stockists. For more information, please visit www.rjbatt.com.au or call 1300 769 282.

looking for a lightweight clutch solution for these vehicles being used for dedicated race use.”

ACS has been distributing the XClutch brand for more than seven years in the US, with the kits now distributed through a national distribution network including major wholesale channels and independent specialists.

For more information, visit www.australianclutch.com.au or call 1800 CLUTCH.

REDARC’S BCDC ALPHA

The Alpha represents REDARC’s next generation to DC-to-DC battery chargers

When it comes to taking innovation to the next level, REDARC says its new BCDC Alpha sets the benchmark for DC-to-DC charging.

Designed with an array of built-in features, REDARC – known for its market-leading BCDC range of DCto-DC battery chargers – says this new product will keep your customers powered on every adventure. REDARC explains that its Alpha is the only DC-DC charger on the market to feature Start Battery Recovery, stating it will get your customers back on the road in as little as 15 minutes in the event of a flat start battery, through the compatible RedVision smartphone app.

Additionally, your customer can take full advantage of their solar panels thanks to the BCDC Alpha’s Start Battery Charging technology.

When the BCDC Alpha recognises that the secondary battery is full, the charger will automatically redirect solar power to the start battery, keeping their whole system topped up.

Like all REDARC’s BCDC chargers, the BCDC Alpha also includes REDARC’s Green Power Priority, which prioritises solar power over alternator charge to minimise the load on your alternator and save you fuel.

Designed with hybrid vehicles in mind, the BCDC Alpha also offers users configurable input current limits. REDARC says this is a great choice for modern vehicles, giving your customers full control over their power system while aligning their system requirements and protecting their electrical system.

Designed with the latest Bluetooth technology, the BCDC Alpha offers RedVision integration, allowing users to monitor the BCDC Alpha’s charge status, battery temperature and system performance in real-time, all in the palm of your hand.

It is available in 25A and 50A, is compatible with all 12V automotive battery types, and thanks to IP67/69K-rated dust and moisture protection, REDARC explains the BCDC Alpha is engineered to outlast and outperform other chargers in the harshest environments.

Installation of the BCDC Alpha is also said to be a breeze thanks to the push-button interface, screw terminals and compatible wiring kits and vehicle specific mounting brackets.

Proudly designed, tested and manufactured in Australia, REDARC says the BCDC Alpha is the perfect addition to any vehicle’s power management system, ensuring you stay charged and never get stranded on your adventures. For more information, please visit www.redarcelectronics.com/bcdc-alpha

BENDIX GENERAL CT PADS AND ROTORS EXCEL IN TESTING

The testing pitted Bendix General CT pads against three prominent competitors as well as OE standard components

Internal Bendix testing completed to Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) international standards* has reportedly highlighted the benefits of Bendix’s general purpose General CT disc brake pads and rotors compared to both direct competitor and OE standard equivalents.

Testing parameters included pad and rotor life, dust, friction level, friction stability, warm noise and cold noise performance, with testing conducted on a VF Commodore and Toyota Corolla test rig.

All the pads were tested on General CT rotors to remove any variations between the OE rotors of the test vehicles.

Bendix reports that in all cases, Bendix General CT brake pads met OE performance requirements and exceeded OE standards in warm and cold noise performance, and also excelled against both OE and competitors in pad life, low dust performance, and rotor life.

Of the competitor brands, Bendix says most fell well short of meeting OE standards when it came to cold and warm noise operation and pad life,

with two of the three also failing to meet OE dust measures.

The Bendix General CT pads topped the charts across six categories and finished equal second in ‘friction levels’ while still meeting the OE standard, says Bendix, which notes testing the combination of Bendix General CT pads with Bendix General CT rotors showed significantly longer rotor and pad life.

As confirmed by the testing, Bendix says its General CT disc brake pads feature proven compounds that deliver reliable and secure stopping performance, coupled with a smooth and consistent pedal feel. As such, Bendix says its General CT pads are an ideal general purpose passenger vehicle brake product for everyday driving.

It states Bendix General CT disc brake rotors feature high quality metallurgy that’s designed for longevity and improved heat dissipation and provide an ‘E+ Original Equipment Fit’ that’s designed to be a direct replacement for OE rotors. The rotors were developed to provide great

results with all disc brake pad formulations, but for optimum performance, they’re best matched with the Bendix range of brake pads.

Another key benefit of the range is Bendix’s market-first and patented SwiftCheck innovation, which provides a fast and convenient visual indicator of rotor wear, letting motor trade professionals estimate remaining rotor life without the need to measure rotor thickness.

For more from Bendix, visits www.bendix.com.au

*All testing performed as per International Standard SAE J2522 - Dynamometer Global Brake Effectiveness.

PRODUCTS

NEW INVICTA BLACK RANGE

Invicta Lithium says this new range is “for those with a champagne taste and a beer budget”

Invicta Lithium has introduced its new Invicta Black range, which is available now from Sealed Performance Batteries.

“Invicta Lithium is a name synonymous with quality and innovation, and it has once again raised the bar with its latest offering: the Invicta Black,” Sealed Performance Batteries Marketing Manager, Callen Price, said.

“This battery is poised to meet the market in the current economic climate, offering a blend of performance, durability, and affordability that is sure to appeal to mechanics and vehicle owners alike.

“One of the most striking features of the Invicta Black is its competitive pricing. Invicta Lithium has managed to deliver an extremely high-quality product without the premium price tag.

“This makes it an attractive option for both installers and consumers looking to upgrade their vehicle’s dual-battery system in the current economic climate.”

Features include Invicta-engineered specifications, Bluetooth monitoring, IEC 62619 Certification, robust internal design, a five-year warranty, and an official IP65 rating.

“Invicta Lithium has a well-earned reputation for producing high-quality batteries,” Callen said.

“The Invicta Black is no exception, boasting a robust internal design engineered to Invicta specifications and rigorous testing to ensure optimal performance and longevity.

“This commitment to quality is backed by a generous five-year warranty, and in true Invicta fashion, they also have posted a number of images of the internals on their website.”

The Invicta Black is equipped with Bluetooth monitoring capabilities, allowing users to monitor vital battery information directly from their smartphones, such as voltage, temperature, and state of charge – empowering consumers to diagnose issues proactively and optimise system performance.

“As we are all too aware, safety is becoming an increasingly important topic for lithium batteries,” Callen said.

“The Invicta Black is no exception and meets the highest safety standards thanks to its IEC 62619 Certification and integrated BMS.

“This ensures that it is built to withstand harsh conditions and prevent potential hazards. Additionally, the IP65 rating guarantees protection against dust and water ingress, making it suitable for a wide range of applications.”

Available in 12V100Ah and 12V200Ah capacities, the Invicta Black caters to a diverse range of applications, from the everyday 4x4 to complete off-grid caravan setups.

“Its compact design and lightweight construction make it easy to install and maintain, saving installers valuable time and effort,” Callen said. For more information, visit www.invictalithium.com.au or contact Sealed Performance Batteries on 1300 001 772 or sales@spb.net.au

OATS PLATFORM PROVIDES OIL SOLUTIONS

Navigate an increasingly busy market

Choosing the right oil for a vehicle has become increasingly difficult for the average customer.

This challenge is driven largely from the growing demands and specifications set by OEMs, which have led to an expansive and complex range of products to navigate.

There are tools available on the OATS Platform to consistently recommend the right product, 24/7 and accessible for all your customers. These tools include:

• Oil Advisor: finds the right product based on the selected equipment in just a few seconds. This allows you as a company to support your customer search, resulting in a satisfied customer, matching the right quality product, and increased sales.

• Analytics: entering new markets, evaluating the current product portfolio or optimising your product range will always be key challenges. As a lubricant data insight specialist, OATS says it can help you define your strategy by providing the data you need to maximise sales opportunities across the APAC region. OATS states it combines unparalleled market insights with oil recommendation data from the most recent car parc data. It says its relevant market information is always fact-based and actionable to give your company a competitive advantage.

• Lube Surveys: enable your sales team to capture all vehicles and equipment for a customer’s fleet and develop a proposal with the right products and quantity of lubricants as per OEM specifications to support the running of equipment over a term.

OATS says it is “the world’s leading supplier in lubricant data for the oil industry.”

This data, found in the world’s largest lubricant database, helps customers to answer the important question of “which lubricant does my equipment need?”

It does this through:

• Functional flexibility: including product tiering to deliver good, better, best alternatives and provision of portfolios to deliver matching across brands and markets to suit different requirements.

• Integration: product codes and additional information such as product descriptions, codes, pack sizes, pack shots plus TDS and MSDS links available in the product resource portal.

• Extensive reporting: indicating product coverage, gaps and opportunities.

OATS invites you to contact its Australian based team to understand the value of utilising its enhanced lubricant solutions within your oil or parts reseller business by emailing muhammad.paracha@infopro-digital.com   To learn more, visit www.infopro-digital.com

NEW NARVA ULTIMA MK3

‘LIGHTING BEYOND’ RANGE

Narva says the new range offers 30 percent more output

The latest iteration of Narva’s market-leading Ultima LED Driving Light range, the Ultima 215 MK3, has arrived, with Narva reporting it delivers up to 30 percent more effective output over the preceding MK2 along with even better durability, control, customisation options and much more.

Narva says the added performance holds true to the product’s development objective of ‘Lighting Beyond.’

Narva says its MK2 lamps were already acknowledged as Australia’s best hybrid beam pattern driving lights, and the new MK3 builds on this legacy with an allnew spot beam pattern that delivers over 1,400m (and over 1,200m for hybrid beam) of forward distance per pair of lamps.

Coupled with this impressive light penetration is beam spread of up to 92m, ensuring improved hazard detection for safer nighttime driving.

The spot beam also features a significantly wider beam width than most other driving lights. However, when compared to the hybrid beam, a deliberate width reduction of 12m allows less light on road signs, to minimise unwanted road sign flare.

In achieving their impressive performance – which also includes output of up to 20,157 effective Lumens per lamp – Narva says its engineers developed and tested 60 different LED and optic pairings before settling on the final combination, which includes high performing 10W Cree LEDs.

To ensure these met expectations, they were extensively tested in Narva’s Melbourne NATA-approved photometric light lab as well as in on and off-road real-world operation.

Narva Senior Brand Manager, James Pearson, said Narva was excited to launch the new range, and there was no doubt the Ultima MK3 would set new benchmarks for its product category.

“The original Ultima lamps revolutionised the LED driving lamp market, delivering superior light output, reliability and durability to what was available at the time,” James said.

“The lamps found favour across a wide scope of applications including recreational four-wheel-driving, competitive off-road racing, commercial transport and other industries.

“This latest offering takes the performance of the original Ultima MK1 and subsequent MK2 lamps to an impressive new level.”

Given the heavy-duty construction and reliable LED circuitry featured in the new Ultima MK3 product line, Narva is backing the range with what it describes as Australia’s first Lifetime ‘No Fault’* Warranty on LED Driving Lights.

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

*Defects are subject to refund or replacement. Damage due to impact, UV or chemicals is subject to a full lamp replacement.

POWERING AWAY THE PROBLEMS OF DIAGNOSTIC TESTING

Effective problem identification is the first port of call of any job in the workshop

However, many might not be aware that to achieve the highest quality scan, consistent battery support is essential.

CTEK Regional Sales Manager for APAC, Paul Oddy, says he has seen the pitfalls of inadequate diagnostic troubleshooting setups in workshops nationwide – with precision, time efficiency and above all, safety, all put at risk with poor performing battery management solutions during this critical part of any workshop job.

“Fundamentally, when vehicle voltage levels fall below normal levels during a diagnostic reading, the accuracy of the results delivered should be questioned,” Paul said.

“With unclear data on hand, you reduce your chances of successfully rectifying the customer’s issue, risk damage to the vehicle’s electricals and add unnecessary time, complexity, and cost to each job.”

CTK says reliable battery management products that can deliver a consistent 50A power supply and 12V or 24V battery support voltage are critical in ensuring those issues can be avoided.

Furthermore, products that allow selectable

output voltages ensure that a manufacturers’ minimum service specifications can be adhered to within the nearest 0.1V.

“Having complete control over the system ensures the technician can remove any variables that could impact the result,” Paul said.

“In addition to that, CTEK has been able to manage sudden power spikes with products such as our MXTS 70/50, minimising the influence of the external influences that are impossible for us to ever fully control, but could cause mischief right at the wrong moment.

“As workshop owners, great customer service remains the leading importance in the success of your business and with an initial diagnostic check the starting point for all work, the above points should all be taken as serious considerations when equipping your ideal workshop setup.

“We’ve seen significant uptake for CTEK battery chargers and support units including the MXTS 70/50, thanks to its temperature compensation and battery reconditioning system eliminating derating, reverse polarity protection bringing added safety, its complexity-reducing eight-step

charging process and ability to operate with all types of 12V lead-acid from 20-1500 Ah.

“With fatigue, environmental factors and the quirks of particular vehicles often leading to errors in this crucial process, workshop owners are able to reduce lost time and cost through installing state-of-the-art battery charging systems that ensure every diagnostic check, day in day out, remains as accurate as the last.”

For more information about CTEK professional battery support units, visit www.ctek.com

TRYDEL EZIUP AND GO KITS

Trydel says these innovative kits are revolutionising tyre repair

Modern Tyre Repair Kits (TRKs) have transformed how we manage punctures, offering a quicker, safer, and more convenient alternative to carrying a spare wheel and its accompanying equipment.

By reducing vehicle weight and simplifying roadside repairs, TRKs have become essential for drivers seeking reliable mobility solutions.

In 1996, Dunlop introduced the first latex-based TRK for the Chrysler Crossfire, a sports car with incompatible front and rear wheel sizes.

While effective, Trydel says latex sealants had limitations and challenges for performance, in application and end use.

They required high latex concentrations to meet OEM sealing standards, often creating permanent rubber plugs that breached industry repair guidelines.

Trydel states latex also complicated professional tyre inspections, as its inherently difficult to distinguish between repairable and non-repairable punctures and locate the puncture location.

Recognising these limitations, Trydel says it embarked on a mission to develop a “superior,” non-latex solution.

By 2005, Trydel founder Terry Dowel had engineered what he describes as the world’s first inside-tyre video monitoring test disk, revolutionising sealant testing.

“Real-world trials demonstrated the unparalleled performance of Trydel’s sealant technology: hundreds of nails and screws punctured tyres with no air loss, as can be viewed with our ‘flying nails’ video on our website,” Trydel Manager, Rodney Dowel, said.

At the 2006 Automechanika trade show, Trydel showcased these advancements, capturing the attention of GMEU.

“Tasked with creating a more environmentally practical sealant, Trydel responded with EZIUP and GO—a non-latex, particle fusion formula that addresses safety concerns and meets rigorous OEM standards,” Rodney said.

“Unlike latex products, EZIUP and GO’s colloidal dispersion passes through the valve core and temporarily seals punctures made by objects up to 6.5mm in diameter.

“Importantly, the tyre gradually loses pressure after travelling 3,000kms if left uninspected and unrepaired, prompting drivers to seek professional inspection

– a critical safety feature latex-based sealants lack. This makes the sealant compliant with industry repair regulations.”

The EZIUP and GO emergency tyre repair kit is engineered for simplicity and performance.

“It features a sealant container that dispenses air or sealant (repair kit mode), ensuring effortless tyre inflation or repair,” Rodney said.

“A unique point of difference that sets Trydel’s sealant apart from competitor Latex products is EZIUP’s ease of use.

“The refillable system allows for seamless sealant replacement without changing hoses or fittings which are prone to Latex blockage.”

In 2015, Trydel’s VT sealant passed stringent TUV testing in Munich.

“Trydel continues to set the benchmark for tyre repair technology, combining practicality, innovation, and performance to ensure drivers can stay safe and on the move,” Rodney said.

Trydel also manufacturers chemicals for Automotive such as Radiator Stop Leak, Head Gasket Repair, Windscreen Fluid and more.

For more information, contact info@trydel.com.au

OEX LAUNCHES INNOVATIVE NEW STARTER MOTORS

These water-resistant starter motors are available for common 4WD applications

4WD enthusiasts love testing their vehicles to the limit, often in remote locations.

If something goes wrong, hours can be spent trying to get the vehicle running again – not to mention the cost of a remote recovery.

OEX explains it has designed and tested an innovative water-resistant starter that handles serious water crossings.

OEX has now released its first water-resistant starter motors for common 4WD applications, with seven units covering 23 applications for 4WD enthusiasts.

The unit is sealed and has a customised drain/ breather tube to help prevent water ingress and other contaminants.

OEX has also designed a front seal to protect against the most vulnerable point for possible water ingress.

As a starter heats up, it naturally draws moisture in, so OEX says it is trying to defy the laws of physics with this design, pushing the boundaries of innovation to solve common design and application challenges.

Another recent improvement from OEX includes upgrading the brush holder on 79 and 200 series Landcruiser alternators to avoid premature failure – a particularly vulnerable component due to the low position of the alternator in the engine bay. When the engine runs, air flows from the rear of the alternator to cool down the rectifier, rotor, and stator.

In wet, dusty, muddy, or off-road conditions, the water, dust, and mud can easily enter the brush assembly through this airflow, leading to brush, brush spring, and slip ring failure.

OEX says its innovation is evident in its design of an alternator with semi-sealed brush holders, which minimises this entry of water, dust, and mud into the brush assembly, preventing premature failure.

Additionally, OEX states it offers two high-output alternators for these applications, with a custommade upgrade cable, fuse and fuse holder included in the box.

The OEX range is available at Repco and NAPA Auto Parts.

For more information, visit www.repcotrade.com or www.napaparts.com.au

PRODUCTS

YAKIMA PRODUCTS NOW AVAILABLE AT SUPERCHEAP AUTO STORES

This partnership brings Yakima’s high-quality outdoor products to an even wider audience

Yakima, which says it a global leader and innovative manufacturer of cargo and gear management solutions, is excited to announce the availability of its premium range of roof racks, bike carriers, platforms, and accessories at Supercheap Auto stores across Australia and New Zealand.

Yakima says this collaboration marks an exciting step in expanding access to premium outdoor gear, making it easier than ever for Australians and New Zealanders to gear up for their next adventure thanks to:

• Expanded accessibility: for the first time, Yakima’s renowned range of roof racks, platforms, bike carriers, camping, and cargo solutions will be stocked at Supercheap Auto stores, providing easy access for outdoor lovers nationwide.

• Enhanced customer experience: with Supercheap Auto’s extensive network of over 340 stores and their user-friendly online shopping experience, customers can now

LAND ROVER PARTS

Rova Range Automotive specialises in Land Rovers

The Victoria-based Rova Range Automotive is not only a specialised Land Rover Automotive workshop, but also stocks and has access to a comprehensive range of Land Rover spare parts and accessories.

explore and purchase Yakima products more conveniently than ever before.

• Seamless shopping: customers are invited to visit their nearest Supercheap Auto store or browse online at www.supercheapauto.com.au and www.supercheapauto.co.nz to explore Yakima’s full range of products.

Yakima’s extensive product range caters to a wide variety of outdoor activities and vehicle types. From roof racks and platforms to bike carriers, kayak mounts, and cargo boxes, Yakima says it offers solutions for limitless adventure and most major vehicle models.

The company’s innovative roof rack fitting systems are said to ensure compatibility with a range of cars, utes, vans and custom applications, making it easy for customers to find the perfect fit for their specific vehicle.

Further, with Yakima’s user-friendly ‘Find My Car’ feature on its website, Yakima says customers can quickly identify the most suitable products

“We keep a wide range of Land Rover replacement parts on hand and further to this, we also supply Land Rover genuine and OEM replacement parts to workshops Australia wide as parts are not always readily in stock when needed at the other workshops,” Rova Range Automotive Owner, Jason Robinson, said.

“Our Parts Manager, Adam Goudge, really excels in his role with Rova Range. Adam’s experience is second to none in sourcing all manner of Land Rover parts and accessories, which includes everything from filters to suspension to brakes and much more.”

“As long as people own and enjoy driving their petrol and diesel Land Rovers, replacement parts are going to be needed and I’m only too happy to assist customers and other workshops Australia wide in sourcing and supplying quality replacement parts at a good price,” Adam said.

“We can pretty much organise to send anywhere in Australia.”

For more information, visit www.rovarange.com.au or phone 03 9939 7615 (M-F 8am-5pm).

for their make and model, ensuring a seamless shopping experience.

“We’re thrilled to partner with Supercheap Auto and make Yakima’s premium outdoor adventure products even more accessible to customers across Australia and New Zealand,” Yakima Australia National Key Account Manager, Beau Wheeler, said.

“Whether you’re a weekend warrior or a seasoned explorer, this collaboration ensures that everyone has access to reliable, durable, and innovative gear for their journeys.

“Together with Supercheap Auto, we’re excited to support adventure seekers in their pursuit of the outdoors.”

For more from Yakima, please visit www.yakima.com.au or www.yakima.co.nz

GM LS SERIES COMPLETE MODULAR INTAKE MANIFOLDS

Available from Aeroflow Performance

The Aeroflow Performance GM LS modular intake manifolds allow the end user to customise their intake manifold depending on each individual application.

They are offered as either a hi rise manifold where bonnet modifications will be required with the long runner design allowing for high rpm horsepower with big cube engines for a serious drag racer, and a low-rise design manifold.

The low-rise option allows it to fit under a stock bonnet in most street car applications, with the short intake runners with tapered top designed to increase air velocity and more evenly distribute airflow to all eight cylinders, improving performance and throttle response.

The modular design is made up of the bottom base which bolts to the cylinder heads and the top plate which bolts to the base with an O-ring to seal both components.

Each base will fit either a cathedral port or rectangle port cylinder heads.

With a choice of non-EFI with no injector bosses or EFI with 16 injector bosses (eight undrilled) complete with fuel rails and cross over, it is designed to suit 14mm short length (33mm) fuel injectors.

All bases have a provision for a LS style map sensor on the rear along with one x 3/8” NPT and one x 1/8” NPT ports with bungs.

The top plate features a short throttle body snout to accept up to 105mm 4-bolt GM LS throttle body and a burst panel is welded on the top plate which releases pressure in the event of a backfire.

For more information, visit www.aeroflowperformance.com

INJECTRONICS INTRODUCES 48-HOUR TURNAROUND SERVICE

The automotive remanufacturing and repair specialist says the service will benefit workshops and their customers

Injectronics has launched an innovative 48-hour turnaround service designed to help workshops clear bays faster and get cars back on the road.

It says this new service guarantees rapid, reliable, and cost-effective repairs for a range of electronic components, allowing mechanics to speed up repairs and minimise delays for customers across Australia and New Zealand.

The service applies to a wide range of electronic components, including engine control modules, ABS units, transmission controllers, and electronic throttle bodies.

With workshops under increasing pressure to improve efficiency to minimise inflationary cost pressures of running a workshop, Injectronics says its latest offering fills a critical market gap for highquality, fast repairs.

This service aims to support mechanics in providing customers with a more reliable and affordable alternative to new components.

A key highlight of this new 48-hour turnaround is Injectronics’ recent move to a state-of-the-art facility in Keysborough.

This facility is four times the size of its previous Hallam operations, allowing the company to significantly increase its capacity.

Alongside this expansion, Injectronics has invested in modernising its processes with cutting-edge technology to automate the repair process.

Injectronics says this advanced setup not only enables the rapid diagnostics and remanufacture of components but also ensures the highest standards of quality and precision in every repair.

Having been at the forefront of remanufacturing for over 40 years, Injectronics says its new 48hour service is a step forward in aiding automotive businesses with a solution that is both timeefficient and environmentally responsible. For mechanics, access to repaired and

remanufactured parts within just 48 hours can be a game-changer, enabling quicker vehicle turnaround and improved workshop throughput.

“We understand how impactful it is when a car is off the road, whether it’s a mother unable to drop off her kids or someone missing work for the day,”

Injectronics General Manager, Rajbir Singh, said.

“Our 48-hour turnaround service is designed to alleviate the pressure on both mechanics and their customers, ensuring cars are back on the road as soon as possible.”

Further streamlining the process, Injectronics says it has launched a new online booking system that makes it easier than ever for workshops to arrange repairs.

Mechanics can quickly log in, book a repair, and track the status of their component from start to finish.

Injectronics says this user-friendly platform at www.injectronics.com.au complements the 48hour service, offering a hassle-free experience that saves both time and effort for busy workshops. Workshops across Australia and New Zealand can easily access Injectronics’ new 48-hour service at any of Injectronics’ four locations across either country.

Once the component is submitted for repair through the online booking platform, it undergoes a thorough diagnostic assessment.

If repairable, the component is repaired to meet stringent quality standards and is shipped back to the workshop within 48 hours.

With this new 48-hour turnaround service, backed by the cutting-edge technology at the new Keysborough facility and the streamlined booking system, Injectronics says it is set to transform the automotive repair industry, helping workshops provide faster, more efficient services to their customers.

Injectronics, a leader in sustainable automotive solutions and a subsidiary of IM Group under Amotiv, says it has been at the forefront of automotive parts repair and refurbishment for over 40 years.

For more information, visit www.im-group.com.au

2024 AUSTRALIAN AUTO AFTERMARKET INNOVATION AWARDS

AAAA Most Innovative New Aftermarket Product - Accessories

The competition for the AAAA Most Innovative New Aftermarket Product – Accessories award was exceptionally close with five entries in total from AAAA members. In this issue, we take a look at the entrants who vied for this award including the winning Projecta IDC25X DC to DC Charger from Brown & Watson International.

Brown & Watson International – Projecta IDC25X DC to DC Charger – WINNER

Brown & Watson International says the future of dual battery management is the IDC25X, engineered to provide unparalleled performance and reliability for on-the-go power needs. The IDC25X, short for Intelli-Charge 25 Amp Dual Battery Charger, represents Projecta’s innovative solution for dual battery management. Tailored for 4WD, camper trailer, caravan and marine applications, it stands out with its advanced charging capabilities, simultaneously using solar and traditional or smart alternator inputs. The charger’s sophisticated design allows it to deliver a consistent 25A charge in extreme climates, making it an ideal choice for under-bonnet installation. Designed, engineered, and extensively tested in Australia, the IDC25X boasts a rugged and efficient design, with the ability to operate in temperatures as high as 90°C. The IDC25X also allows parallel charging, enabling users to wire multiple units for larger systems. The IDC25X is also extremely user friendly and easy to install. With the rigid testing and a variety of manufacturing techniques developed by Brown & Watson ANZ, it says this is the toughest and most connected DC to DC charger built for the future, and scalable to the unique need of every user.

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

Brown & Watson International – Projecta Intelli-Grid Power Management System

Intelli-Grid is an all-in-one power management system designed for off-grid AC and DC power needs. Brown & Watson International states it seamlessly creates 240V power from 12V DC batteries when no access to 240V mains is available. It offers a plug and play solution for the manufacturer and serves as the heart of the caravan, with its centralised seven-inch Bluetooth LCD screen providing full control and monitoring of a completely integrated system. This system includes AC charging (from 240V mains), solar charging, DC/DC charging (from your vehicle’s alternator), monitoring of water and gas tanks, tyre pressure monitors, RV leveling, LED lighting, and other auxiliary DC loads such as compressors and water pumps. When connected to mains power, the inbuilt charger automatically starts charging the battery, reportedly providing 1.5 times the charging power (180Amps) compared to competitors for the fastest charging time on the market (2.5 hours from flat for a 400Ah battery). As a Pure Sine Inverter, the range also offers the flexibility to power a wide range of equipment, even sensitive electronic devices. A further use is the grid power boost feature, while for added safety, the Intelli-Grid Inverter Chargers feature an in-built safety switch. For more information, visit www.projecta.com.au

Pro Quip – Pro Quip SCREW U Metal Jerry Can Range

Pro Quip says its SCREW U Metal Jerry Can Range has been meticulously engineered to “exceed military specifications and to provide an unmatched level of durability and ease of use,” with the new design retaining “the highest standards of safety and quality, boasting AS2906:2001 Certification, UN Approval for the transport of dangerous goods, and BAM certification.” It features an externally threaded, larger diameter neck (46mm) which utilises the same characteristics found on a re-fillable, pressurised, screw-top fire extinguisher, complemented by an anodised aluminium cap with convenient grip that is easy to open and close and includes a “groundbreaking” magnet embedded in the cap to prevent its loss and allow for its attachment to metal surfaces (including the can itself) for convenience. Pro Quip says the integration of the magnet within the cap, coupled with an ergonomic grip, solves the common issue of cap loss and facilitates ease of use. Further, it says the robust thread design minimises the risk of damage and maximises the positive thread engagement ensuring longevity whilst allowing the user the ability to torque the cap as much or as little as they desire to feel like the can is safely closed. For more information, visit www.proquip.com.au

Pro Quip – Pro Quip Proper 2L Fuel Can

Pro Quip states the Proper 2L Fuel Can is a testament to advanced engineering and design excellence, featuring a steel body with a passivated aluminium screw cap for “unmatched” durability and security. The Can’s highly durable external powder coating in matt green and fuelresistant internal coating are said to guarantee longevity and safe fuel transport and storage, while its compact dimensions and lightweight design, coupled with the LDPE strap, make it exceedingly convenient for a variety of uses. It is the only civil Fuel Can that meets military standards, highlighting its superior quality and reliability; and reportedly undergoes continuous, rigorous testing with random post-production samples removed for internal pressure tests up to 2.5 bar and drop tests from 1.8m height, ensuring its resilience and safety. The seal of the cap, made of fuel-resistant NBR rubber, and the availability of a shut-off pourer (sold separately), enhances its usability and safety, making refuelling tasks simpler and more secure. As the only Steel Jerry Can of its size to be AS2906:2001 Certified and have UN Approval for packing groups I, II, and III, Pro Quip says the Proper 2L Fuel Can meets the highest standards achievable for this type of product. For more information, visit www.proquip.com.au

TAG Towbars – TAG Extreme Recovery Towbar (TAG XR Towbar)

TAG says the development of its XR Towbar was initiated when it noticed the demand for a competitively priced towbar that excelled in both functionality and aesthetics. TAG says its Australian Made XR Towbar seamlessly integrates with a wide array of 4WD models, providing customers with a highly engineered recovery towbar that complements their vehicle’s unique style. The recovery points are also bevelled to suit and extend the life of soft shackles – a feature that is important for any 4WD enthusiast, while TAG’s new CNC manufacturing process has allowed the XR Towbar to save an impressive amount of weight, with TAG reporting that some models come in as much as 40kgs lighter than competitors’ recovery towbars for the same vehicle. Most importantly, TAG states the reduction in weight has not had any negative impact on the strength and durability of the product. Further, TAG notes that its dedication to safety and quality assurance is evident through its in-house testing to ADR standards, specifically ADR62/02. TAG also took on the challenge of testing the Working Load Limit (WLL) rating for the recovery points in-house, which it states is a testament to its relentless pursuit of product excellence.

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

AUTO ONE CELEBRATES

Auto One promotes itself as “Australia’s leading independently owned and operated company in the automotive parts and accessories aftermarket”

Commencing operations in 1988, Auto One today supports more than 120 independent stores nationwide.

The group positions itself as a solutions provider for independent businesses across the automotive aftermarket, operating a full-service franchise option under the Auto One banner, an extensive buying group model under the A1 Autoparts brand, or a more basic wholesale and distribution service for non-member stores.

The group also operates distribution centres that service both East coast and West coast markets.

Featuring more than 150 industry leading brands and delivering in excess of 100,000 products every month, Auto One explains that its extensive distribution model delivers lower pricing through volume consolidation and weekly promotional deals, while requiring no minimum order quantities. Both same day and online ordering are available along with daily deliveries (twice daily in selected metro markets).

A National celebration

The Group’s National Conference is a muchanticipated annual celebration and was held recently.

The event brings together member store owners, key supplier partners, and the national support team across three action packed days of business

sessions, trade show, and networking events.

Held at RACV Royal Pines Resort, Queensland, the event highlighted a hotly contested charity golf day, informative business sessions including keynote speaker and automotive industry expert, John Cadogan, coupled with the annual trade show and Gala Awards Dinner.

The unique ‘speed dating’ format of the Auto One trade show again proved to be a major hit with both members and suppliers, with some outstanding deals on offer and an exciting array of new products showcased.

“Time together at the trade show is crucial for both members and supplier partners, particularly in the current climate of challenging market conditions and it was heartening to see the level of collaboration and ideas explored to maximise future sales opportunities,” Auto One Managing Director, Mark Garwood, said.

During his National Conference opening address,

Auto One Group Chairman, Stephen Kulmar, gave an excellent overview of the key influences impacting customer behaviour and the changing shape of the market.

“Our brands have built a strong reputation for great service and advise over the past 36 years,” Stephen said.

“This is particularly important to our core audience of automotive enthusiasts.

“The automotive aftermarket is resilient but only those who adapt will thrive.”

The Group also used its Conference to share key business and sector trends, presenting a positive outlook for the future underpinned by strong ongoing industry fundamentals.

In his business overview, Mark Garwood revealed, “the past four years have seen significant sales growth across the Auto One group network of stores.”

MEMBER FEATURE

He went on to highlight that this achievement was celebrated by a record year of rebate returns to the Group’s loyal member owners. Mark also took the opportunity to pass on a heartfelt thank you to supplier partners for their strong ongoing support.

Exciting plans ahead

During the Conference’s business sessions, Auto One announced the re-platform of its Auto One website and exciting plans to significantly grow its online range offering and improve its customer experience in the coming 12 months.

The company also outlined the delivery of a new national customer loyalty program, to be launched under the Auto One brand in mid2025. The brand is positioned to attract car enthusiasts, and the new program will focus heavily on the power of connection with its loyal customer base.

With the accelerated integration of accredited ERP platforms in 2024 and 2025, the Group also announced that it will be in a position to substantially improve both member and supplier partner insights going forward.

Reporting enhancements were highlighted as a key opportunity to deliver a greater understanding of customer behaviour, performance benchmarking, and growth drivers to both members and business partners.

Recognising its best

The final evening Gala Awards Dinner also gave the Group the opportunity to recognise outstanding performance across its network of stores and suppliers.

At this dinner, the group announced and congratulated the winners of both its Auto One large and small store National Store of the Year – Auto One Port Augusta (SA) and Auto One Newcomb (VIC). In addition, A1 Autoparts

Campbelltown (NSW) was crowned the A1 Autoparts National Store of the Year.

Wesfil won the National Supplier of the Year for the third year running, highlighting the deep and sustained support received by member stores across an extended number of years.

A charitable commitment

In August of this year Auto One was proud to formalise its support of Black Dog Institute, a partnership which was further solidified at the Annual Conference with almost $45,000 raised over the event in support of the landmark partnership.

The funding will help to raise awareness and highlight the significance of mental health and wellbeing in male dominated industries.

“Black Dog Institute is proud to partner with Auto One who are committed to breaking down stigma and encouraging people to reach out for

help with their mental health,” Black Dog Institute Head of Philanthropy and Partnerships, Francine Poisson, said.

Mark said Auto One is thrilled to be able to partner with Black Dog Institute. The Group also launched its national donation program in August this year, with donations to the Institute from every Auto One and A1 Auto Parts battery sold across Australia.

“Our battery donation program is just one example of how we are committed to better mental health for all Australians,” Mark said.

“Alongside annual fundraising and community events, the Auto One group has come together, building a sense of purpose, understanding and knowledge to support one another both in the workplace and in the workshops that we service.

For more information, visit; www.autoone.com.au

FLASHLUBE COOLANT AND DISTILLED WATER

Entering into the warmer months, managing the engine’s temperature should be a top priority

The performance and health of a vehicle requires constant maintenance to ensure longevity and effective functioning throughout the seasons. A vehicle’s cooling system acts to remove heat from the engine, ensuring optimal operating temperatures and prevention from overheating of the engine cooling system.

Engine overheating often leads to vehicle component damage, including damage to the gaskets, hoses and seals in the vehicle, which can lead to expensive and long-term damage.

Flashlube says its OEM 100 percent Radiator Coolant has been formulated to deliver the required dose of anti-freeze, anti-boil and corrosion protection for Petrol, Diesel and Hybrid Vehicles, whilst ensuring the overall temperature of the cooling system is maintained.

KNOW YOUR GLOW

Niterra Australia explains metal versus ceramic glow plugs

As more and more manufacturers are specifying ceramic plugs as OE fitment, it is becoming increasingly important to correctly identify the correct replacement part.

“It is critical to ensure you do not replace ceramic glow plugs with metal plugs,” Niterra Australia NGK Product Manager, Chantra Kriv, said.

“In many cases replacing ceramic plugs with metal ones can cause a reduction in performance and in extreme cases, the result can be permanent engine damage.”

Ceramic glow plugs are engineered to perform under the most extreme conditions.

Compared to a metal glow plug, Niterra says NGK ceramic glow plugs have a more robust ceramic heating element, which is encased in a ceramic insulator.

“This pure ceramic design unique to NGK has extremely good thermal conductivity properties and can withstand very rapid heating times over extended service periods,” Chantra said.

“On the other hand, metal plugs feature a metal heating coil within a hollow metal tube, similar to a radiator tube.”

With use of Si-OAT based inhibitors, the Radiator Coolant creates a protective layer, which safeguards vehicle components from corrosion. To accompany the Coolant Range, Flashlube

Distilled Water has been formulated using a filtration system that eliminates any contaminants and impurities that would negatively impact metals and vehicle components such as magnesium, calcium, chlorides and sodium.

Distilled Water is multipurpose, and has a range of use including for automotive, household, and medical applications.

Flashlube Distilled Water should be used to dilute Flashlube Radiator Coolant Concentrate at a 50:50 ratio, to prevent any impurities from entering the Cooling system and maintaining optimum performance of the Cooling system and components.

For more information, visit www.flashlube.com

Chantra says NGK is the only glow plug manufacturer to produce ‘Pure Ceramic’ glow plugs with a ceramic heater and insulator, stating the advantage of NGK’s innovative design means that both the conductor and the insulator have identical thermal properties, ultimately providing superior durability.

“Other brands of ceramic glow plugs are manufactured using a metallic conductor and ceramic insulator,” Chantra said.

“As a result, these two components have different thermal properties, meaning they will expand and contract at different rates during heating and cooling cycles. This increases the risk of the ceramic insulator cracking and reduces service life.”

Chantra says NGK’s unique combination of both a ceramic heating element and ceramic insulator allows the NGK ceramic glow plugs to reach higher temperatures than metal type glow plugs, enabling the engine to reach operating temperature more quickly.

In addition, due to the robust nature of the ceramic heating element and ceramic conductor, post-glow times of up to ten minutes can be employed.

“Be warned, we have tested a variety of cheap ceramic alternatives and found many are actually metal glow plugs,” Chantra said.

“This is concerning as fitting a metal plug where a ceramic plug is specified can have serious consequences.

“These cheap ceramic alternatives end up being overheated due to electrical overload and their service life is reduced.”

This is because ceramic glow plugs are designed to reach higher temperatures faster and hold these temperatures for longer.

Fitment of a metal glow plug in these applications pushes the metal glow plug beyond its capabilities, resulting in premature failure.

“When replacing glow plugs it is critical to select the correct part number,” Chantra said.

“When a glow plug with different thermal characteristics to OE specifications is installed, the glow plug controller cannot identify when an incorrect glow plug has been installed and will continue to supply voltage as pre-programmed.”

Chantra explains this can have one of two results. Firstly, overheating, as too much voltage will be applied for extend periods, which reduces service life; or secondly, the plug will not reach peak temperature, reducing engine performance.

“Always remember, glow plugs are not interchangeable,” Chantra said.

“Identifying and fitting the correct glow plug for your specific vehicle is critical.

“Don’t risk your reputation; choose the correct NGK Glow Plug for the engine and feel confident in a job completed to specification.”

All NGK glow plugs are designed to suit the specific requirements of each individual make and model to ensure engines perform at their peak.

For technical inquiries, call Niterra on 1300 554 059 or visit www.ngk.com.au

BEAT THE HEAT

With CoolDrive’s Engine Cooling Range

CoolDrive Auto Parts was originally established as an automotive air-conditioning supplier more than 45 years ago.

The business strategically expanded into a variety of other industry segments, such as engine cooling, when it began importing and distributing radiators in 2001.

“When we first introduced radiators to the CoolDrive business, it was warmly received by our customers, and so began our engine cooling range,” CoolDrive Auto Parts Executive Chairman, John Blanchard, said.

“Over the past 20 years we have grown to become a market leader in the engine cooling industry, selling approximately 100,000 pieces annually across Australasia.

“With the ever-changing car parc, we need to ensure we can adapt quickly to the requirements of the market and our customer base, which is now strongly catered for by our own Jayrad products and other global brands.”

CoolDrive says its Jayrad product development team is one of the most experienced in the industry, to ensure the range offers premium products at a competitive price.

It states Jayrad’s extensive range of radiators, intercoolers, heater cores, water pumps, and fan clutches are manufactured to the very highest quality and exacting standards to meet or exceed the original equipment.

Rounding out CoolDrive’s engine cooling offering are a vast array of products from many of the world’s premier manufacturers of heat exchange products.

Amongst the brands represented in this range are

Koyorad and Koyoair, Aisin, Denso, Delphi, Dayco, Mahle, Valeo, Nissens, Tridon, Mackay, and many more.

CoolDrive says workshops can find the right part for the customers’ vehicle on iShop via the Vehicle Part Search functionality, or by contacting their local branch.

For more information on CoolDrive Auto Parts and its engine cooling range, visit www.cooldrive.com.au

OEM APPROVED COOLANTS

From Penrite

For nearly 100 years, Penrite has been a family owned and operated Australian business, producing premium quality coolants, lubricants, additives and cleaners.

Renowned “for setting the standard in quality, service, and performance,” Penrite says its range of OEM-approved coolants are no exception.

It says these very coolants are used by leading vehicle manufacturers as initial fill for their vehicles as they roll off the production line.

With the lead up to Summer and with many parts of the country already experiencing heat wave conditions Penrite says now is the right time, “the Penrite time,” to check your and your customer’s vehicles and to consider their coolant system requirements.

It prompts: are you remembering to ask your customers, ‘when was the last time your vehicle coolant was changed?’

Penrite OEM Approved Coolants are suitable for most passenger car, light commercial vehicle, heavy duty vehicle, motorcycle, mining or agricultural equipment and in many cases are warranty approved for service and not simply ’suitable for use.’

Penrite says the use of its OEM approved coolants eliminates compatibility issues and ensures manufacturers’ specifications are met, while

maintaining service intervals and protecting the vehicle warranty.

Penrite says the extended long-life inhibitor formulation prevents rust, corrosion, cavitation and degradation of the cooling system.

Penrite OEM approved coolants are available in eight concentrate and premix specifications to cater for OEM requirements.

Penrite Purple OEM Coolant is the latest specification PSi-OAT coolant as used by manufacturers such as VW, Audi, Skoda, Porsche, Lamborghini, Bentley, Deutz and Volvo.

It is optimised for use in small capacity, high output engines including for use in vehicles such as Toyota, Hyundai, Kia, Mitsubishi and other Asian manufacturers that are currently using P-OAT based coolants.

Penrite Purple OEM Coolant is approved for use in VAG (Volkswagen Automotive Group) vehicles where the new TL 774-L/G12evo specifications are required.

It may also be used as a replacement where TL 744-J (G13) was previously specified, provided a full system service is undertaken.

Penrite Purple OEM Coolant recently joined Red, Blue and Green OEM Coolants that are approved for warranty use in vehicles such as Audi, Bentley, BMW, Deutz, Cummins, Liebherr, MAN,

Mercedes, Mini, Smart, Porsche, DAF, Siemens, MTU, Eicher, Skoda, Volvo, VW, Ducati, SAAB, Ferrari, Fendt, Rolls Royce and others.

Penrite says it has always had the philosophy of solving problems, developing solutions, and completely satisfying customers.

It states its OEM Coolants continue to fulfill this tradition whilst covering the broad range of vehicles and equipment occupying the Australian landscape.

Since 1926, Penrite says its products have helped shape the country while remaining a 100 percent Australian owned and operated family business. It says it is committed to producing the best lubricants, coolants, additives and cleaners which are made right here in Australia, while employing Australians and investing in the future of Australian manufacturing.

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

ENGINE MANAGEMENT AND COOLING SOLUTIONS

From Unique Auto Parts

When it comes to effective engine management, quality and dependable sensors are crucial.

Unique Auto Parts stocks a range of various sensors and solenoids, including oxygen sensors, crankshaft sensors, coolant temperature sensors, oil pressure sensors, knock sensors, DPF sensors, and camshaft variable solenoids.

Additionally, the company also offers other components which are integral to modern engine management, such as fuel injectors, air flow meters, and idle speed actuators.

Maintaining your engine also involves keeping your engine cool as summer temperatures begin to rise.

To achieve this, Unique Auto Parts says it is essential to ensure that all key components of your engine’s cooling systems are of the highest quality, allowing them to operate at optimal efficiency.

Unique Auto Parts says it is ready to assist with all the vital cooling components, including water pumps, thermostats, radiators, expansion tanks, and hoses.

Unique Auto Parts explains that its main objective

is to provide cost effective and high-quality repair solutions for European vehicles while maintaining exceptionally high levels of customer service.

As part of its pursuit of this objective, it says it has established a strong reputation in the industry for supplying new parts for brands such as Mercedes Benz, BMW, Volkswagen, Mini, Peugeot, Citroen, Volvo, Porsche, Seat, Skoda, Audi, Alfa, Fiat and Land Rover.

Catering for both passenger and commercial vehicles, the company says it is proud to have established strong partnerships with what it describes as some of the world’s leading aftermarket manufacturers, securing exclusive import and distribution rights for JP Group, Quinton Hazell, and Carlube products.

Additionally, well-known brands such as Meyle, Trucktec, Bosch, Hella, SKF, and Mahle represent a fraction of Unique Auto Parts’ extensive list of high-quality suppliers.

It states that ordering parts from its team is a straightforward process; just supply a VIN or

registration number to ensure you receive the right parts first time.

With five well stocked warehouses across Melbourne, Brisbane and Perth, Unique Auto Parts says it is strategically positioned to provide an exceptional delivery service, utilising both its own delivery vehicles and what it calls “the quickest, most efficient couriers available.”

Unique Auto Parts is also a Capricorn preferred supplier, so it recommends you have your CAP number ready when you call.

For more information, call 1300 864 864 to be connected to your nearest Unique Auto Parts store or visit www.uniqueautoparts.com.au

ENGINE MANAGEMENT &

SAVE WITH MORE COOLING OPTIONS FROM ADRAD

ADRAD offers more than 2,000 radiator assemblies to the market

ADRAD recently added another 40 radiators to its range to suit popular passenger, 4x4 and commercial vehicles, specifically to help address the current cost-of-living pressures experienced by Australian households and businesses.

ADRAD says these 40 new ADRAD-branded radiators are special because they provide the benefits and warranty support found in premium radiators, but without the premium price tag. Like many ADRAD-branded parts, these quality aftermarket products are said to be easy to fit, while performing to OE standards or better. They also carry the same two-year national warranty as other more costly alternatives from other brands.

ADRAD has been manufacturing radiators in Australia for 40 years and has decades of experience sourcing reliable heat exchange products from suppliers around the world.

ADRAD says that with savings available of around 20 percent, it is very confident these latest radiators will meet the needs of the marketplace and be welcomed by vehicle repairers who are dealing with cost-sensitive consumers.

Vehicle applications include Japanese, Australian

and some European makes that are typically more than seven years old that are represented in higher volumes in the Australian car parc.

In addition, ADRAD offers Fan Clutch and Fan Blade Kits for 4x4 and commercial vehicles that it says will help repairers make some significant savings.

A worn fan clutch prevents the engine cooling system from operating at optimum level. Vibration from a worn fan clutch may also be transmitted to other parts on the same belt system, leading to increased wear and premature failure.

Failed fan clutches may also place constant unnecessary load on the engine, reducing available power and increasing fuel consumption.

When a failed fan clutch does not engage cooling fans, under-bonnet heat can build up, reducing the efficiency of the vehicle air conditioning system which must work harder to maintain cabin temperature.

According to ADRAD, its fan blades are manufactured to original equipment specifications and are a directfit replacement, designed to resist cracking and warping in the extreme heat of engine bays. It says they are made from the highest-grade

Polypropylene (PP) or Polyamide (PA) to match the vehicle manufacturer’s material specification. Blade profiles are also the same as the factory design to match cooling performance and noise levels.

ADRAD states its aftermarket fan clutches, and fan blades rival the OE parts for quality while costing just a fraction of the OE price.

Further, ADRAD explains matching parts are available paired together into a single FCBKIT part number, which makes for convenient ordering and further reduced costs.

Trade customers can order these products online at Natrad Trade or Radshop.

For more information, speak with your local ADRAD parts distributor or contact the ADRAD Customer Service Team on 1800 882 043 or customerservice@adrad.com.au

RYCO BATTERY AIR FILTERS

For Toyota Hybrid vehicles

Ryco says it is known for always looking for creative ways to continue bringing innovative products to the market.

It states its range of Battery Air Filters is no different, assisting in readying workshops for the increase of hybrid vehicles in Australia. This is an ever-growing range of filters developed by Ryco which specifically caters to Toyota vehicles.

Always “at the forefront of filtration technology,” Ryco says its Hybrid Battery Air Filters are

designed to remove dirt and contaminants before they enter the battery’s air-cooling system.

The Battery Air Filters ensures that only clean and cool air is supplied to the battery system, with a high dust holding capacity that prevents even the worst of dust levels infiltrating the cooling system, all while retaining that all important new vehicle warranty protection.

While many may not be aware that their hybrid vehicle has a battery air filter, which needs to be replaced with every logbook service or 20,000km, it is essential to ensure the safeguarding of the longevity, efficiency and reliability of your hybrid battery system.

The entire Ryco Hybrid Battery filter range is made from a flame-retardant synthetic fibre that traps particles and will reduce dust build-up in the battery air system.

By making sure that a build-up of dust is prevented from entering the battery, this will mean that the temperature is kept within tolerance by the vehicle’s cooling system and will prevent damage to the battery system by reducing its chances of overheating.

GATES EMPHASISES THE IMPORTANCE OF COMPREHENSIVE COOLING SYSTEM CHECKS

These checks are crucial for vehicle longevity

In the ever-evolving landscape of automotive technology, maintaining the health of a vehicle’s cooling system has never been more critical. Gates says it understands and emphasises the importance of comprehensive cooling system inspections during vehicle servicing to identify worn components that could lead to catastrophic engine failure.

The cooling system operates through several critical components, each serving a specific function.

This includes cooling system hoses, the radiator, the water pump, the thermostat, and components like the radiator and expansion tank caps.

Each of these elements must work in harmony to absorb, transport, and dissipate heat effectively. If any component falters, the overall efficiency of the system declines, leading to increased engine temperatures or, at worst, mechanical failure.

Particularly, cooling hoses are vulnerable to various forms of degradation, including electrochemical wear and exposure to heat, which may hinder coolant flow and affect system performance.

Gates recommends proactive maintenance, especially during the peak heat of summer when the risk of overheating escalates.

During servicing, a thorough inspection allows mechanics to identify and replace worn components before they lead to catastrophic engine failures.

Gates also offers a comprehensive range of OEquality cooling system components tailored for a variety of popular vehicle makes and models, which:

• Feature factory quality connections that are durable and eliminate coolant leaks

• Are engineered to resist electrochemical degradation – the leading cause of hose failure

• Include a heat and ozone resistant cover

• Meet SAE 20R4 and 20R3 Type EC Class D-1 and D-2 specifications

• Have a temperature rating of -40°C to +135°C in coolant hose applications

Gates says each component is meticulously engineered to meet or exceed manufacturer specifications, providing workshops with the assurance their clients’ vehicles will perform optimally.

This range is now available through all good Ryco stockists.

For more information and full product specification sheets, visit www.rycofilters.com.au/battery-air-filters

Gates explains that it is committed to delivering quality products that support workshops in maintaining the health of modern cooling systems, ensuring that customers enjoy a safer and more reliable driving experience.

As a leading supplier of cooling system components in Australia and New Zealand, Gates states it is recognised as a true specialist in cooling systems.

As summer yields higher temperatures, the demand for reliable cooling systems becomes paramount. Workshops can seize this opportunity by emphasising the critical role of routine inspections and maintenance.

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

ENGINE MANAGEMENT & COOLING

DELPHI NOX SENSORS

Designed for a sustainable future

As environmental concerns and emission regulations tighten, the automotive industry faces increasing pressure to reduce harmful pollutants. Among the key technologies driving this change are NOx (Nitrogen Oxide) sensors, which play a crucial role in monitoring and controlling vehicle emissions. Delphi has added Nox sensors to its already extensive sensor portfolio, which includes antilock braking system (ABS), diesel particulate filter (DPF), exhaust gas temperature (EGTS), mass airflow (MAF), manifold absolute pressure (MAP), camshaft and crankshaft position sensors, and more.

Delphi explains that its NOx sensors are designed to Original Equipment (OE) standards, ensuring “seamless fit and function.”

With precise engineering, Delphi says these sensors play a critical role in emission control systems, ensuring vehicles meet regulatory requirements while maintaining peak performance.

Compatible with both commercial and passenger vehicles, Delphi explains its sensors cover more than 70 million vehicles across Europe.

The company asserts this wide-ranging applicability ensures that a variety of vehicles, from compact cars to heavy-duty trucks, benefit from Delphi’s high-performance emission solutions, helping to reduce environmental impact on a large scale.

Further, Delphi states that its sensors are validated not just in labs but under actual driving conditions.

It notes this real-world testing ensures that the

sensors perform reliably in everyday scenarios, from urban traffic to highway driving.

With this rigorous testing, Delphi says its NOx sensors provide vehicle owners with the confidence that their emissions systems will operate efficiently, no matter the environment.

Engineered to withstand extreme temperatures from -40°C to +850°C, Delphi says its sensors maintain reliable performance even in the harshest conditions.

Whether it is freezing winter mornings or intense summer heat, these sensors are designed to thrive where others may fail, ensuring longevity and reduced maintenance needs.

With an impressive measurement range of 0-3000 ppm, Delphi says its sensors provide highly accurate detection of NOx levels, which is crucial for managing vehicle emissions and performance. This precision allows the vehicle’s engine control unit (ECU) to adjust combustion parameters in real time, ensuring both lower emissions and optimal fuel efficiency.

Delphi states that its NOx sensors are built to last, with a proven lifespan of 800 hours at 85°C in SCU testing.

It says their extended durability reduces the need for frequent replacements, lowering maintenance costs and offering peace of mind for vehicle owners, while longer-lasting components help ensure smoother, more cost-effective operation over time.

DAYCO SILICONE TURBO HOSE RANGE

The comprehensive range is proving popular

Dayco explains it is one of the world’s leading engine products and drive systems manufacturers for the automotive, heavy duty and industrial market segments, providing Australian and New Zealand automotive repairers and re-sellers with a comprehensive range of silicone complete hose kits and rubber turbo hoses.

Four new silicone Charge Air Cooler (CAC) hose product range expansions are now offered by Dayco to repairers and performance tuners in varying IDs and lengths to cover most heavy duty/ diesel engine application requirements.

Dayco Aramid-Reinforced Turbo Hose is commonly used in the following applications: air intake connections, supercharger connections, hot side turbo and intercooler connections, radiator or heater core connections or virtually any application where high temperatures or extreme working conditions exist.

Dayco Elbow Silicone Hoses are commonly used for

air intake connections, supercharger connections, cold side turbo and intercooler connections, radiator or heater core connections or virtually any application where high temperatures or extreme working conditions exist.

Dayco Elbow Silicone Hoses are commonly used in the following applications: air intake connections, supercharger connections, cold side turbo and intercooler connections, radiator or heater core connections or virtually any application where high temperatures or extreme working conditions exist.

Both the Dayco Aramid-Reinforced Turbo Hoses and Dayco Elbow Silicone Hoses are also used in aerospace applications, performance motors and vehicles, marine wet-exhaust, commercial truck and bus induction and cooling systems, agricultural and off-highway vehicles and turbo diesel applications.

Meanwhile, the Dayco Elbow Silicon Hoses are also often used in all of these above applications

Further, Delphi notes its sensors feature an innovative three-sensing element cavity design, which ensures the accurate measurement of “pure” NOx, minimising interference from other gases.

It asserts this advanced design improves the reliability and precision of the sensor, offering better performance than traditional two-cavity sensors. Delphi sensors undergo rigorous three-axis vibration testing to simulate real-world road conditions.

This reportedly ensures they can handle the vibrations, shocks, and impacts vehicles encounter during normal driving, resulting in a robust, reliable sensor which performs consistently, even under challenging conditions.

With OE-quality engineering, extensive real-world testing, and advanced sensing technology, Delphi says these sensors help reduce vehicle emissions while improving overall performance and states that investing in Delphi’s NOx sensors means investing in a cleaner, greener future – supporting both regulatory compliance and long-term vehicle reliability.

For more information, visit www.phinia.com

as well as food and beverage connections and general manufacturing industries worldwide plus for turbo, supercharger or intercooler connections or virtually any air-to-air application where high temperatures or extreme working conditions exist. Dayco says this product works well for offset piping connections or where extreme vibration or lateral movement exists.

For more information, contact Dayco Australia Customer service on 03  9796 4044 or visit www.dayco.com

THE ULTIMATE-HDI COOLING SYSTEMS

The Ultimate Suspension says it has the ultimate solution to your engine management and cooling needs

The Ultimate Suspension says it understands that a 4WD is more than just a vehicle – it is your trusted partner on every journey, built to conquer rugged terrains and demanding adventures.

“Our latest innovations in Engine Management and Cooling are designed to meet the performance requirements of 4WD enthusiasts, while remaining within manufacturer accepted limits,” The Ultimate Suspension Managing Director, Ken O’Keefe, said.

Engine management: precision meets power

Fine-tuning your engine’s performance is crucial for the adventures you take on.

“With The Ultimate-HDi Engine Management System, your 4WD’s safety, performance and reliability is the number one priority,” Ken said.

“By optimising air-fuel balance, ignition timing, and turbo boost, our system ensures that your 4WD responds reliably, whether you are ascending steep trails or towing heavy gear.

“Get the power you need while reducing fuel consumption and emissions – a must for an off-road enthusiast.”

Cooling systems: designed with expertise

For any 4WD, staying cool under pressure is essential – overheating can compromise efficiency and durability, especially in demanding environments.

“That’s where The Ultimate-HDi Cooling System steps in – designed with high findensity GT2 core technology, our intercoolers and transmission coolers provide unbeatable heat dissipation without restricting airflow,” Ken said.

“This technology keeps intake temperatures down, boosting your engine’s power and efficiency and extending its life.

“Our transmission coolers, crafted with 28-row oil cooler designs and AN8 fittings, offer robust temperature control that is essential when carrying heavy loads or driving in high-temperature conditions.

“With durable components like stainless-steel fittings and braided lines, these systems are built to protect your engine and transmission over the long haul.”

Engineered to go the distance

Ken says at The Ultimate Suspension, quality is its promise.

“Our Engine Management and Cooling systems undergo extensive testing on the dyno and road to ensure they’re ready for your toughest trips,” Ken said.

“Whether you’re pushing limits on a weekend expedition or need performance you can rely on for your work vehicle, we deliver the durability and control that your 4WD demands.

“For 4WD owners who demand more than just basic performance, our Engine Management and Cooling systems delivers the boost in efficiency, power, and safety your vehicle deserves.

“We invite you to discover how The Ultimate Suspension can transform your drive and prepare your 4WD for a memorable journey for all the right reasons.”

For more information, contact The Ultimate Suspension on 02 9618 7674 or sales@ultimatesuspension.com.au or visit www.ultimatesuspension.com.au

FIVE IN ONE X-1R DIESEL FUEL SYSTEM TREATMENT

This unique product is available from Burg Design

There have been various diesel engine problems reported to the Burg Design team over the past couple of years, with the company reporting its team has encountered these themselves during recent tests on various makes and models with diesel engines.

As reliability is such an important issue, whether the vehicle is used for lifestyle or commercial purposes, Burg Design says it contacted many owners to find out how widespread the problem is.

In doing so, it reports it found the average diesel engine could face a fault after just 35,000 kilometres, with DPF problems being high on the list.

After a while, the amount of particulate matter caught on the DPF starts to build. Burg Design says its X-1R Five in One Diesel Decarboniser positively starts to remove this build-up from the DPF as well as all of the other gunk in the fuel system.

From the very first fuel treatment, Burg Design says the engine will be running much smoother and users will have a far more economical engine. When the engine control software recognises a DPF blockage greater than 10 percent, it injects extra fuel into the engine.

When the fuel-rich exhaust gases pass through the Diesel Oxidation Catalyst, they raise the temperature high enough for the soot to burn, a process that requires temperatures of at least 600°C.

The problem is that it requires at least a quarter of a tank of fuel and 15 to 20 minutes of timewasting driving with the engine spinning at over 2,200rpm consistently only to achieve a shortterm result. During this time, you will notice increased fuel consumption and a burning smell. However, Burg Design says all of this is completely unnecessary when X-1R Five in One Diesel Decarboniser / Fuel Treatment is added to the tank every 5,000 kilometres.

Burg Design says the product has been tested and proven by NASA, and that “while others make claims, we have the proof!”

For further information, contact Burg Design on 03 9555 9277 or sales@burgdesign.com.au

HP DIESEL FOR TOYOTA 300 SERIES LANDCRUISER

High Performance Diesel has developed a ‘holy trinity’ of products for this vehicle

Following extensive research and development work with Brad Schumacher’s 300 Series Landcruiser, High Performance Diesel (HPD) has developed what it describes as its “holy trinity” of products for this popular vehicle: the muchanticipated Heat Exchanger kit, Transcooler kit, and Catch Can kit.

The Heat Exchanger Kit

Like many 300 Series Landcruiser owners, HPD says Brad had reported severe power loss (commonly called derating) during towing.

As intake temperatures heated up during uphill towing tests, HPD reports it experienced noticeable power loss, as the engine management system was doing its job protecting the engine.

In dyno conditions, HPD reports the power loss was much worse. With a maximum figure of 140kW at the wheels, its team observed power figures as low as 25 kW after only four minutes, holding sustained load simulating extreme towing conditions.

HPD explains Toyota’s latest generation of Diesel passenger vehicles now have water-toair intercoolers (W/A), as they can be packaged much smaller than the previous generation’s airto-air intercoolers (A/A) and in normal conditions, provide similar charge air cooling performance.

HPD says the problem is, on the 300 Series, the little radiators (heat exchangers) in the front bumper that cool down the coolant circulating through the W/A intercooler don’t receive good airflow.

Under extreme load the OEM heat exchangers can’t reduce the coolant temperature adequately and suffer from heat soak.

To help maintain maximum performance when the heat is on, HPD states it has developed a solution that does not require any cutting or drilling and only takes around an hour to install: HPD’s HEK-300F-A heat exchanger unit.

HPD explains this is a high quality, Australian made auxiliary heat exchanger that is mounted into direct

air flow behind the grille, maintaining much lower coolant temps entering the W/A intercooler.

HPD states it features “all the tried and proven elements that have made HPD products famous,” including Bar and Plate core and CNC machined billet end tanks with minimum 3mm wall thickness. And like all HPD products, it comes with every nut, bolt, bracket and hose for a perfect, factory-look installation.

During rigorous dyno testing once the unit was fitted, HPD reports it did not record power figures lower than 123 kW despite long sustained pulls replicating extreme towing conditions as well as multiple back-to-back power runs.

During road testing, towing a 2.2 tonne load, the team states it did not experience any noticeable power loss.

Better still, HPD says that Brad, the owner of the vehicle, reported that during his subsequent family trip, towing his 3.5 tonne caravan up Accommodation Hill, “the vehicle didn’t even think about losing power.”

The rest of the “holy trinity”

HPD also developed a transmission cooler kit that reduces transmission temps by 15°C for additional transmission protection.

It further states that the famous HPD Catch Can also fitted has a beautiful and durable billet intake adapter that ensures all the hoses in the PCV system are neatly integrated with the catch can kit to create a factory look installation and ensure there are no low spots for oil vapour to condense into pools of oil, thereby increasing crankcase pressure.

Orders available now

Transcooler and Catch Can kits are readily available, but due to demand for the Heat Exchanger kits, HPD states there is an approximate six week wait for delivery, so it advises orders are placed as soon as possible to ensure the shortest wait time possible.

For more information or to order, contact HPD today on 08 8299 0320 or visit www.hpdiesel.com.au

Before Treatment After 1st Treatment After 3rd Treatment

NEW UFI FUEL-FILTER MODULE AND BLOW-BY FILTER

For FPT Industrial’s Cursor XC13 engine

UFI Filters has produced a new filtration module supplied to FPT Industrial as original equipment for the new Cursor XC13 engine, a top-of-therange heavy-duty on-road vehicle powertrain with a displacement of 13 litres and a power output of up to 600 hp.

The new UFI Filters filtration module allows a concentration of technologies that integrate both the filter and the diesel pre-filter in the same component.

UFI says its main innovations include the very high separation performance of water from diesel fuel that reaches up to 96 percent and is achieved by the pre-filter module.

This water can then be discharged separately from the diesel fuel via an automatic system operated from the vehicle’s cab.

The module also uses lightweight materials with an optimised design, which contribute to reducing the weight of the vehicle.

Further, the module is equipped with a thermostatic valve, a non-return valve and two valves to facilitate service operations, developed and manufactured by UFI.

In addition, a suite of high-tech pressure and temperature sensors measure the working conditions of the different circuits.

UFI states this type of module is designed to meet the most extreme requirements. In fact, by ensuring low pressure drops in the diesel circuit, it says it contributes not only to the reduction of fuel consumption, but also to the achievement of maximum performance of the heavy vehicle on a high level.

UFI Filters says its new filtration module is instrumental in reducing the weight of vehicles fitted with the new Cursor XC13, and thus contributes to their sustainability.

In the construction of the module, UFI uses aluminium and technical polymers (such as polyamide) to keep the weight down.

The pre-filter is made with the synthetic filter media FormulaUFI.Extreme coupled with a hydrophobic inner septum, so that a water separation capacity of up to 96 percent, according to ISO 16332, is guaranteed.

The filter, which UFI says has the function of separating the finest particles, is made of

FormulaUFI.Stratiflex filter material, a combination of meltblown and cellulose, which achieves a filtration capacity of 98 percent at four microns, according to ISO 19438.

For FPT Industrial Cursor XC13 engines, UFI Filters also supplies a new rotary type blow-by filter, developed as an evolution of existing products in the UFI filtration system range.

To learn more, visit www.ufifilters.com or www.ufi-aftermarket.com/eu

JLM DIESEL DPF REFILL FLUID

An effective aftermarket alternative

JLM Lubricants says its JLM Diesel DPF Refill Fluid offers an aftermarket alternative for particulate filter regeneration fluids from most popular car manufacturers.

With the latest generation JLM Diesel DPF Refill Fluid, JLM says it can offer one replacement product with a very broad OE coverage.

Thanks to the new composition, JLM explains this refill fluid is suitable as a replacement for OE particulate filter regeneration fluids of the first, second, third and fourth generation.

Further, JLM says it ensures soot particles in the DPF burn at a lower temperature which improves the service life of the diesel particulate filter.

JLM warns: not all DPF refill fluids are the same JLM warns that the increasing usage of DPFs in modern vehicles has led to an influx of poorly performing DPF refill fluids with a minimal dose of active ingredients.

It says the appeal of these products is the price, but just like with any other product on the market – you get what you pay for.

This is especially important in today’s cost-

cutting climate where automotive technicians are trying to keep the vehicle maintenance and parts repair costs down in order to ensure customer loyalty, but opting for the cheapest product available can often yield the exact opposite results, says JLM.

“It can be challenging to convince the technicians that they should invest in a product that really does what it says on the tin as opposed to choosing the cheapest,” JLM Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Gilbert Groot, said.

“Especially when the cheap DPF refill fluid additives boast of doing everything that our products do.”

JLM says it decided to put some of those products under a microscope in their research laboratory in The Netherlands.

It states the testing revealed the cheap DPF refills contain only a fraction of the working ingredients.

“Their claims are inaccurate and right down misleading…. they’re not fit for purpose,” Gilbert said.

“Ultimately you are tasked with looking after your

customer’s vehicle and to do that effectively, you must choose products that deliver on their promises and that extend the life of vehicle parts, in this case the DPF.

“Savvy technicians know that quality counts and it delivers.”

For more information go to www.jlmlubricants.com.au or email sales@jlmlubricants.com.au

NEW FROM DPF AUSTRALIA

The Aftermarket DPF supplier has introduced a range of new DPFs to its offering while boosting its equipment

DPF Australia stocks a large and diversified range of DPF filters, including Euro 4, Euro 5 and Euro 6 compliant DPFs and SCRs, with the company stating that using its Aftermarket direct fit DPFs can ensure you “are getting an easy fitting, quality and cost-saving product.”

Recently, DPF Australia has been busy launching its latest two Ecore DPFs, launching it into the Heavy Truck Market. These DPFs are designed for the Cummins ISX and the Detroit DD13, DD15 engines.

DPF Australia has also added Fischer OE Quality DPF Fitting Kits from Poland to its range, giving its customers more options for DPF servicing, and has purchased an X-Ray Spectrometer for measuring CAT, DOC and DPF metals including Platinum, Palladium and Rhodium, Iron, Nickel, Strontium, and so on.

At the same time, the team has also been concentrating on building its B2B Store, which is being added to daily.

With this store, customers can check prices

and availability, and place orders 24/7, with orders usually shipped the same day.

Other products in the DPF Australia offering include:

• Euromax DPFs – the company’s main brand for European vehicles; manufactured in the UK using state of the art robotic welding.

• Ecore DPFs – DPF Australia’s own range made to its specifications in China. DPF Australia says Ecore is a very comprehensive range of DPFs for most popular cars, light commercial and trucks in the Australian market and states it is constantly developing a list of new fitments.

• DPF Australia also stocks and has the agency for the Ernst range of DPFs from Germany. Ernst is a 100 year old premium brand, offering some specialised European car fitments. DPF Australia states Ernst products are highly sought after by European Car Specialist Service Centres.

• AS Catalyst DPFs – these DPFs come from a

10,000m2 factory in Pamplona in Spain and DPF Australia states it has increased its range of these products due to the multitude of later model Euro fitments.

The Team at DPF Australia are also ready to assist with technical advice on how to maintain your DPFs, and diagnose underlying issues.

For more information, visit www.dpfaustralia.com.au or contact DPF Australia via enquiries@dpfsales.com.au or 1300 821 877.

CLEANLINE FILTERS

Advanced filtration for superior diesel engine protection from MAHLE

Diesel engines are powerful workhorses, but they’re also highly susceptible to contaminants that can damage their complex internal systems.

Effective filtration is essential to maintaining diesel engine health and efficiency, especially in the demanding conditions commercial vehicles face daily.

MAHLE says its latest CleanLine fuel filters have been designed specifically for trucks, providing a cutting-edge solution to protect diesel engines from harmful contaminants while improving performance and reliability.

Diesel engines require exceptional fuel purity to operate efficiently and reduce wear on critical components.

In heavy-duty applications, contaminants such as water, dirt, and rust particles can quickly degrade the fuel, causing issues like injector blockages, increased fuel consumption, and reduced engine life.

The CleanLine filters from MAHLE feature an innovative multi-stage filtration process that effectively separates and removes contaminants before they reach the engine.

With a pre-filter stage that isolates larger particles and a fine-filter stage that captures micro-particles, MAHLE says CleanLine ensures comprehensive fuel cleanliness that is essential for diesel engine longevity.

MAHLE says one of the standout features of its CleanLine filters is the superior water separation capability.

Water in fuel is one of the most damaging contaminants for diesel engines, leading to corrosion and damaging sensitive injection systems.

MAHLE explains the CleanLine filters are designed with advanced water separation technology that reliably captures and removes water droplets from the fuel, ensuring that only clean, dry fuel reaches the engine.

This advanced filtration minimises wear and tear, extends service intervals, and ultimately reduces maintenance costs – a significant benefit for fleet operators aiming to maximise vehicle uptime and reduce operational expenses.

Additionally, MAHLE says the durable construction

of CleanLine filters makes them ideal for the harsh environments commercial trucks often operate in. The high-quality materials and reinforced filter housing are designed to withstand extreme temperature fluctuations, vibrations, and pressure changes.

MAHLE says this resilience ensures long-term performance, providing peace of mind for truck operators who need reliable filtration to meet their rigorous demands.

MAHLE says investing in quality fuel filters, like its CleanLine, is essential for protecting diesel engines, improving fuel efficiency, and ensuring that trucks perform at their peak over extended service lives. For more information, visit www.mahle-aftermarket.com or email sales.australia@mahle.com

COMMON RAIL DIESEL RETURN ADAPTOR KIT

Available from Diesel Help Australia

There is nothing worse than the daunting task of calling your customer and informing them the job is going to cost more than what was originally quoted.

Of course, most workshops are prepared for the unexpected, but a minor replacement of the valve cover seal blowing out with an additional $1600 for an injector return line is never welcome, and to make matters worse, often the vehicle will be off the road until the part arrives in four weeks.

Due to ageing vehicles, Diesel Help Australia says this situation is becoming increasingly common.

Diesel injector return adaptors are often made from a plastic material which over time becomes brittle and breakage occurs, or the O-ring seal is damaged during the removal.

Even with the most delicate hands, this removal process can be an anxious task.

“I have often been called upon by workshops to answer the question: can you refer us to someone who has these fittings?” Diesel Help Australia

Founder and Trainer, Clinton Brett, said.

“Often difficult to replace individually, I previously could only refer them to dealerships, so we

DIESEL

researched our database which has been formed from diagnosing hundreds of diesel models and created a kit.

“This cost-effective selection kit contains a variety of plastic and metal return fittings/adaptors/ connectors and clips suitable for most applications available throughout the world.

“We have sourced the components from quality manufacturers whom we are aware supply most OEMs.

“The kit also includes a small selection of our popular dust caps and a placard containing makes, models and types of injectors, including Bosch, Delphi, Denso and Continental/Siemens.

“These fittings can also be used for testing injector back leakage and a re-order option is available for individual packs.

“These kits provide a cost-effective option to relieve the stress and help get your customer back on the road, are a suitable alternative to replacing the entire OEM pipe, and minimise downtime by providing access to multiple application options.”

Clinton says the kits cover most vehicle, including

popular models such as Bosch Solenoid injectors  (Audi, VW, Hyundai, Mercedes, Peugeot, Citroen and more), Bosch Piezo injectors (Jaguar, BMW, Chrysler, Jeep, Kia, Iveco, Nissan, Porsche and more), Delphi injectors (Mercedes, Mondeo, Focus, Kuga, and Skoda), Continental/Siemens injectors (Ford Ranger, Territory, Mazda BT50, Landrover and more), Denso injectors (Isuzu D-Max and Holden Colorado) and also Securing clips applicable for Bosch, Continental/ Siemens and Denso outlets.

The kit does not include piping, hoses, tubing, or joiners.

Diesel Help Australia says stock is available now and pre-orders are also an option. Those with Gold or Platinum Diesel Help Membership also receive a five percent discount.

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

PARTICULATE FILTER SERVICE WITH LIQUI MOLY

Diesel vehicles used for short trips and city traffic are especially affected by clogged diesel particulate filters

LIQUI MOLY says that with its products, workshops can offer a professional diesel particulate filter (DPF) service.

In order to reduce the emissions of diesel vehicles, the DPF collects most of all soot particles generated during the combustion process in the engine. For the filter to clean itself or “regenerate” while driving, the exhaust gas temperature must exceed the soot ignition temperature of more than 500 degrees Celsius to burn the deposited soot. Ash remains in the filter as residue. However, the temperature required for burning off the soot in the particulate filter during regeneration mode often cannot be reached, especially when frequently driving short distances or in stop-and-go traffic. Both the unburned soot and the ash residues from the combustion block the air flow over time, which reduces the effectiveness of the filter and can have serious consequences.

These consequences include, but are not limited to, acute risk of turbocharger or engine damage, increasing fuel consumption and decreasing engine output, reduced throttle response due to the increased exhaust back pressure, or impairment of the turbocharger, particulate filter and EGR system. For this reason, it makes sense for repair shops to offer a professional DPF service.

LIQUI MOLY says a major advantage of its products for professional DPF servicing is that the DPF can remain installed, with no time-consuming and costly removal necessary.

To do the service, LIQUI MOLY says you only need the Pro-Line Diesel Particulate Filter Cleaner and the Pro-Line Diesel Particulate Filter Purge products.

LIQUI MOLY states the cleaning and purging can be carried out with the DPF Pressurized Tank Spray Gun and the specially developed DPF lance with five interchangeable tips. When cleaning large diameter units, it says you should also use the DPF Spray Probe Long.

Cleaning is undertaken by removing a temperature or other sensors from the DPF unit. The highly effective Pro-Line Diesel Particulate Filter Cleaner then dissolves hard, dense or encrusted dirt on the surface of diesel particulate filter, with the cleaner and the dissolved soot then remaining in the DPF.

In order for these to be burned off by normal regeneration, the material must be flushed off and distributed in the DPF, and the cleaner must be neutralised by purging. LIQUI MOLY says the ProLine Diesel Particulate Filter Purge does this job.

To complete cleaning, LIQUI MOLY says a suitable scan tool or diagnostic software is required for

final DPF regeneration in accordance with the current manufacturer’s specifications.

LIQUI MOLY says its products are water-based and non-flammable and if DPF regeneration is performed in accordance with the vehicle manufacturer’s specifications, fire in or damage to the DPF or adjacent systems is ruled out.

If the DPF is loaded with too much ash, cleaning does not help anymore, and the filter must then be removed and replaced, warns LIQUI MOLY.

In order to delay this work as much as possible and increase the service life of the DPF, regular prevention is important.

LIQUI MOLY states the interval is highly dependent on vehicle use and DPF age or mileage and it therefore recommends a professional diesel particulate filter cleaning service at 30.000 to 50.000 kilometers. For more from LIQUI MOLY, visit www.liqui-moly.com.au

ENGINE PROTECTION ESSENTIALS

Sakura Filters Australia offers a range of engine protection products

Sakura Filters Australia says its renowned product range includes oil filters, air filters, fuel filters, coolant filters, and diesel filters, each playing a vital role in the engine management system.

Diesel Filters and the Filter Guard Kit

Sakura offers a comprehensive range of diesel filters to protect diesel engines from contaminants.

A standout product is the Filter Guard Kit, which provides an additional layer of protection by filtering out larger contaminants before they reach the main filter.

It features a clear water drainage bowl for easy identification and removal of accumulated water, preventing water-related engine issues.

Sakura’s diesel filters are built to withstand harsh conditions, such as extreme temperatures and dusty environments, ensuring compatibility and performance through high-quality materials and advanced manufacturing processes.

These filters provide reliable protection and long service life.

Oil Filters

Sakura oil filters are designed to remove

contaminants from engine oil, keeping it clean and effective in lubricating engine components.

This reduces friction and wear, extending engine life and maintaining optimal performance.

Sakura Filters Australia explains these filters are built to capture even the smallest particles, providing superior engine protection.

Air Filters

Sakura air filters clean the air entering the engine by trapping dust, dirt, and other airborne particles, preventing them from reaching the combustion chamber. This is especially important in dusty environments like Australia.

These filters are engineered for high filtration efficiency while maintaining adequate airflow, ensuring smooth and efficient engine operation.

Fuel Filters

Fuel filters from Sakura remove impurities from fuel before it reaches the engine.

They are designed to separate water and particulates from the fuel, ensuring only clean fuel is delivered to the engine.

This helps prevent blockages and damage to fuel

NEW FEBEST GLOW PLUGS

Designed to provide reliable performance for diesel engines

Febest Auto Parts says it is pleased to announce the addition of a comprehensive range of glow plugs, now available on www.febest.com.au, designed specifically for diesel engines in Australia’s demanding conditions.

Diesel engines are known for their durability and fuel efficiency, but they also require precise and powerful ignition components to perform optimally.

Febest says its new range of high-quality glow plugs ensures drivers experience reliable engine starts and performance, even in challenging conditions.

The importance of quality glow plugs in diesel engines

Unlike petrol engines, diesel engines rely on compression ignition rather than spark plugs to ignite the fuel-air mixture.

Glow plugs play a critical role in this process by preheating the combustion chamber, ensuring a reliable start and smooth running of the engine, especially in low temperatures.

High-quality glow plugs help to prevent common issues like difficult cold starts, excessive smoke, and inefficient fuel consumption.

Febest says its glow plugs are crafted with durability and performance in mind, designed to meet the rigorous demands of diesel engines.

It states they provide quick heat-up times, consistent performance, and are built to withstand repeated cycling over thousands of starts, making them an ideal choice for mechanics, resellers, and diesel vehicle owners across Australia.

Key features and benefits:

Febest says it has carefully engineered its glow plug range to meet industry-leading standards while offering the following ‘stand-out’ features:

• High-quality materials: Febest says its glow plugs are manufactured with premium-grade materials, ensuring they resist wear and corrosion, even in the harshest environments.

• Optimised for quick heating: Febest states its glow plugs are designed to reach optimal temperature quickly, allowing diesel engines to start smoothly and efficiently. This is particularly beneficial in colder temperatures where reliable ignition is essential.

• Energy-efficient performance: with advanced technology, Febest says its glow plugs provide efficient power usage, helping to reduce the strain on the vehicle’s electrical system.

• Longevity and reliability: Febest states its glow plugs are rigorously tested for durability, capable of thousands of heating cycles, giving drivers peace of mind and longer service intervals.

injectors and other components, maintaining engine performance and reliability.

Coolant Filters

Coolant filters are critical for the engine’s cooling system, removing contaminants from the coolant to prevent blockages and ensure optimal heat dissipation.

This is vital for diesel engines that generate significant heat. Sakura coolant filters maintain the proper chemical balance of the coolant, preventing corrosion and scaling within the engine and radiator.

Regular replacement of these filters can extend the life of cooling system components and improve overall engine efficiency.

For more information, go to www.sakurafilters.com.au

“At Febest, we understand that the reliability of a vehicle depends on every component working seamlessly, especially those in the ignition system,” Febest Auto Parts Director, Steven Zdraveski, said. “Febest glow plugs are an affordable aftermarket solution without compromising on quality or performance.

“Our glow plugs are compatible with a wide range of diesel models, making them an excellent fit for Australia’s diverse automotive landscape, from commercial vans to everyday SUVs.”

Febest says its glow plugs are backed by the brand’s reputation for excellence in aftermarket parts, known for both quality and competitive pricing.

“Choosing Febest glow plugs means choosing parts that not only meet but often exceed the standards set by original equipment manufacturers (OEM), giving mechanics and resellers a product they can confidently recommend to their clients,” Steven said. For more information, visit www.febest.com.au

DIVERSITY THE KEY TO SUCCESS

GNG Sales Managing Director Greg Davie wasn’t a natural car lover, but he grew into it

Unlike many of our industry leaders, Greg Davie did not start out with an existing passion for cars.

“It was not until later in life that an appreciation for cars developed,” Greg said.

While he may not have come to the industry with that background, the Managing Director of GNG Sales has developed a healthy knowledge of automotive products.

Today GNG Sales is 100 percent owned by British car care specialist, Autoglym.

As well as its car care products, GNG Sales stocks many other automotive accessories, including spray guns and car buffing equipment.

Greg certainly has an interesting past. He was born in Auckland in New Zealand, and has lived in Hong Kong, in Houston in Texas, and in Boston, Massachusetts.

He attended the University of Massachusetts –Amherst, where he graduated with a Bachelor of Science.

While he wasn’t always a car nut, the selling and the sales process captivated Greg from his early 20s.

“I was in a sales position after University when I began to get interested in why people made the decisions they did as it related to purchasing products,” Greg said.

His first part time job was as a carpet layer while he was in school, before going on to work as a merchandiser for a wine company after school.

“My career journey has been quite diverse from hospitality and IT where I gained a broad set of experiences before eventually moving into the automotive and industrial sectors,” Greg said.

“Early on, I had the chance to work in both startups and large corporate settings, which taught me a lot about adaptability and strategic thinking.

“Then, my father decided to invest in a small, local import business, and he asked my brother-in-law and me to join him.

“Initially, we saw it as a short-term commitment, but 25 years later, both of us are still deeply involved in the company’s growth and evolution.

“In the beginning, it was a very small operation, so I had to wear many hats, working across everything from unloading containers and sourcing suppliers to developing new products and pitching to major Australian retailers and trade specialists.

“Along the way, I completed my Masters degree at Macquarie Graduate School, studying part-time.”

Greg outlined the importance of knowing the products you are selling and working closely to align values and strategies with manufacturers or parent suppliers.

“A big part of our success has been working closely with our key brands, positioning ourselves as a local extension of their teams by aligning with their goals and strategies,” Greg said.

“This commitment required us to continuously build our internal capabilities to meet the evolving demands of both our customers and manufacturing partners.

“Eventually, we reached a stage where we were bringing innovative ideas to our suppliers, proactively driving growth initiatives.”

Having said this, he is also the first to admit that they didn’t always gel with their suppliers.

“Not all partnerships along the way were aligned

with our values, and we made the tough decision to exit some. These changes ultimately strengthened our business and solidified our focus,” he said.

While sometimes it didn’t work out, Greg says that when it did, it created strong partnerships.

“Two years ago, Autoglym, one of our largest and longest-standing partners, approached us about taking an equity position in our company,” Greg explains.

“With this acquisition, I was honored to join the Board of Directors of Autoglym in the UK, marking an exciting new chapter in my career.”

Greg’s advice to youngsters looking to start out in our industry is to follow their hearts.

“My advice to anyone starting out – whether in this industry or any other – would be to trust your instincts and have the courage to follow them,” Greg said.

“While doing your research and gathering

information is essential, don’t ignore your intuition; those gut feelings are often based on valuable, even if subconscious, insights.

“I would also encourage new professionals to challenge the status quo.

“Don’t be afraid to question established practices and look for creative solutions, rather than simply following the way things have always been done.”

Greg says his best decision for the business was to grow the distribution of the Autoglym brand in Australia.

“Aside from convincing my wife to marry me, one decision that stands out to me, and was pivotal for GNG’s growth, was the timing of our decision to expand Autoglym’s distribution network,” Greg said.

Again, he’s not scared to admit that he doesn’t always get it right.

“Wrong decisions are part of business. Making a

wrong decision isn’t the issue – it is repeating the same mistake that becomes problematic,” Greg reflects.

“Some of my greatest lessons have come from missteps rather than successes.

“One decision that stands out was our acquisition of a small abrasive conversion facility. The choice to acquire the business itself wasn’t the core mistake…the real error was in not cutting our losses sooner.

“Strategic decisions are tough, but it can be even harder to acknowledge a misstep and take corrective action.”

Greg met his wife in the USA and moved to Australia for what was originally going to be two years, but they are still here 26 years later. They have three daughters aged 17 to 21, all living in Sydney.

Away from the office, Greg is involved in surf

lifesaving and is an active patroller on Sydney’s northern beaches. He loves being in or around the water; swimming, paddling his surf ski, and surfing. Greg describes his greatest strengths as “adaptability, creativity, and passion for problemsolving.”

“I thrive on challenges and enjoy finding innovative solutions to issues. Having started in the company when it was a small business and playing a role in its growth, I’ve developed a unique perspective on how to drive results efficiently,” Greg said.

“One of the most fulfilling parts of my work is helping my team succeed. I genuinely enjoy supporting their growth, trying to give them the resources they need and watching them develop their own skills and confidence.”

GNG Sales’ products are available from large automotive retailers such as BAPCOR, GPC, and Supercheap Auto, as well as industrial outlets such as Sydney Tools, Wholesale Paint Group along with a wide range of specialist resellers in the automotive refinish, marine, and industrial markets. The company also works with OEMs, dealerships, and commercial fleet businesses.

Greg believes building strong relationships is key to GNG Sales’ success.

“One constant strategy has been our focus on building strong relationships with our team, suppliers, and customers. We aim to be easy to work with and committed to doing the right thing by our stakeholders,” Greg said.

Greg believes the company’s challenges have changed over the journey.

“In the past, our biggest challenge was managing capital constraints as a growing business. During periods of rapid expansion, we had to be especially careful with our resources to ensure we could continue to support growth sustainably,” he said.

“Today, our main challenge is integrating smoothly into a larger organisation.

“We are learning how to align our capabilities with those of our parent company to maximise new opportunities and leverage our combined strengths.

“This integration is a shift, but it is one we are tackling with a focus on long-term benefits.

“Looking to the future, as part of a global manufacturing network, we face several significant challenges.

“One of the most pressing is the journey toward sustainability.

“Creating a genuinely sustainable future means rethinking traditional practices, adapting to evolving consumer habits, and addressing the complex environmental impacts of our industry and reporting requirements from governments.

“This will require innovation, agility, and a deep commitment to continuous improvement.”

To learn more about GNG Sales, visit www.gngsales.com.au

GCG TURBO CELEBRATES 45TH ANNIVERSARY

The company is marking four and a half decades of innovation and growth

GCG Turbochargers, a leader in the distribution and servicing of turbochargers, is celebrating its 45th anniversary this year.

The company was founded in 1979 with three dedicated staff members – Graham, Colin, and Garry – after their employer, Boustead Industries suddenly went into receivership.

The three friends concocted a plan to create a company selling the brands they were in control of at Boustead.

The three American brands; Ingersoll Rand, Jacobs Engine Brake, and AiResearch Turbo (now Garrett Motion) agreed to the business model so Graham, Colin and Garry quickly secured premises in Sydney’s suburb of Yagoona and GCG was born.

Graham left after just two months and Colin bought out Garry in 1990 to become the sole owner of the business. The same year Colin’s son, Brett, joined the company to make it a truly family-owned business.

In the time since, GCG says it has grown into an international powerhouse with more than 40 employees across four countries, and service/ distribution centres in Sydney, Brisbane, and Tokyo, building a reputation for expertise, service and dependability within the automotive, transport, agricultural, and marine industries.

A journey of evolution

Back in the late 1970s and into the 1980s the turbo market in Australia was almost exclusively in transport and heavy duty diesel applications.

“The three brands GCG sold were all heavy diesel focused,” Brett said.

“We concentrated on contract supply parts with major OEMs like Mack, Kenworth, Detroit Diesel. That was the backbone of the business in the early years.

“Early on, turbo passenger cars were rare and turbocharging in that market segment was still a very black art.”

That all changed in the 1980s, with the decade bringing with it a big shift in the Australian performance car scene, with GCG quickly pivoting to cater to the growing market.

“Suddenly we started seeing turbocharged cars becoming more popular. The likes of SAAB 99, Porsche 930, Porsche 911 led the way but it was with the early turbo performance cars from Japan that the scene really took off,” Brett said.

GCG quickly jumped onboard the new ‘sport compact’ wave, getting involved with some of the biggest names in the industry.

From D1GP and Formula Drift in Japan to Australian Drift GP and the Garrett Drift Challenge,

some of the most successful drift teams started using GCG-supplied or GCG-built turbochargers.

As the sport of Time Attack racing started to gain momentum, GCG partnered up with one of the most recognised time attack drivers in the world, “Under” Suzuki, developing turbo solutions for his Pro Class Silvia S15 – the driver would go on to stand on the World Time Attack Challenge podium numerous times and is the current lap record holder at the Tsukuba Raceway.

“When the World Time Attack Challenge kicked off in Australia, we were very well positioned, with our contact in Japan, to support the event,” Brett explains.

GCG have been a part of WTAC since its inception and continues the relationship to this day as the Open Class naming rights sponsor.

“As Time Attack has continued to grow, so too has GCG’s commitment to the scene and the events,” Brett said.

“The distinctive GCG logo became a common place on the carbon-clad, bewinged time attack race cars.”

As the usage of turbochargers expanded across other forms of motorsport, so did GCG’s involvement. From off-road, rally to circuit and drag racing, GCG-built or supplied turbos can now be found on many top-ranking vehicles.

Growth and expansion

As it continued to grow, GCG moved to a new building in Condell Park in 2000 after outgrowing its first premises, with the company later

expanding further to the neighbouring building as the number of stocked products increased.

In 2009 Brett was appointed to the Managing Director position, taking over from his father, with GCG stating his vision and tenacity quickly started yielding results with a string of important acquisitions and expansions.

In 2010 after seeing an opportunity in Japan, Brett took the GCG brand overseas and started GCG Turbo KK in Tokyo.

The small office quickly grew into a fully equipped and staffed, stand-alone distribution and service centre for the whole of Japan.

Meanwhile back in Australia, GCG opened another branch in Sumner, servicing Queensland

Current Chief Executive Officer, Brett Lloyd joined his father, Colin at GCG in 1990.

The original GCG building in 1979.

and the Northern Territory, before over the next few years, GCG acquired distributorship rights for BorgWarner, Holset, IHI, Continental and Mitsubishi Turbochargers.

Most recently the company has added a Dutch lubricants and fuel additives manufacturer – JLM – to its list of world-renowned brands.

“Securing exclusive distributorship rights for JLM in Australia and New Zealand was a big leap forward for us. The brand has since grown at an amazing pace and is now one of the major pillars of the GCG business,” Brett said.

World-wide recognition

Held bi-annually, the Garrett Global Distributor Conference is an invitation-only event bringing

together the best-performing distributors from around the world.

The highlight of the conference is the crowning of the ‘Distributor of the Year.’

GCG has been fortunate enough to win that award twice, in 2013 and in 2022, cementing its position as the leading Garrett distributor world-wide.

“For a family-owned, Australian company to go head-to-head with giant distributors from Europe, Asia and America and then to win, that’s saying something,” Brett said.

“For me personally, winning the Garrett Global Distributor of the Year award is like winning a gold medal at the Olympics. It really is that special. And we’ve done it twice!”

The company has forged strong relationships with the world’s leading turbocharger brands, offering a comprehensive range of products and services that meet the needs of a diverse clientele.

GCG explains that its commitment to quality and innovation has been recognised with numerous accolades, including two prestigious Global Distributor of The Year awards from Garrett, the world’s biggest turbocharger manufacturer.

It states these awards highlight GCG Turbo’s dedication to delivering exceptional products and services to its customers.

Investing in the future

Always the planner, Brett has a very clear vision for the coming years.

“As we celebrate our 45th anniversary, we’re not just looking back at our achievements but also looking forward to the future,” Brett said.

“We’re investing in new technology, state-ofthe-art equipment, and most importantly, in our people.

“Our team is the backbone of our success, and we are committed to providing them with the tools and resources they need to continue driving innovation and growth.”

As GCG Turbo enters its next chapter, it remains focused on expanding its global footprint, enhancing its service offerings, and continuing to build strong relationships with customers and partners around the world.

“As we continue to grow, our goal is to be a global leader in the niche market of turbo supply and service,” he said.

“For the JLM pillar, our plan is to chip away at the majors and grow by clawing little bit off them month on month, year on year.

“I believe within five years JLM can be a household name and a sought-after product at every service centre and parts reseller in Australia and NZ.”

Brett’s long-term plans are even more ambitious.

“Within the ten years I see GCG becoming the training hub and technical centre for everything turbo,” Brett declared.

“I see knowledge as the key investment in the next 10 years and beyond as our engines and turbo systems become more and more complex.

“That’s why, above all else, I am investing in people and in improving their skills and knowledge.

“We also have to acknowledge that over the next 10 years we will have to transition into new areas of products, based on the growing EV market.

“Thankfully our two major suppliers, Garrett and BorgWarner, are already deep into this segment, investing heavily in R&D and new technologies.”

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

The company is today marking four and a half decades of innovation and growth.

Original GCG founder, and Brett’s father – Colin Lloyd in 1979.

PLANNING FOR THE 2024/2025 CHRISTMAS/NEW YEAR PUBLIC HOLIDAYS

As we near the end of the year, it is important to be aware of the upcoming public holidays and how they may impact your business and employees

The following days have been declared Public Holidays for the 2024/2025 Christmas/New Year period:

Tuesday 24 December

Wednesday 25 December X X

Thursday 26 December X

(from 6pm to (from 7pm to (from 7pm to midnight) midnight) midnight)

Tuesday 31 December X

(from 7pm to (from 7pm to midnight) midnight)

Wednesday 1 January

Monday 27 January X

for Australia Day

PUBLIC HOLIDAY ENTITLEMENTS

Entitlement to be absent

The National Employment Standards provide all employees with the right to not work on a public holiday.

While an employer can reasonably request that an employee work on a declared public holiday if the request is reasonable, the employee may refuse to work if they have reasonable grounds.

Payment for absence

Employees (except casual employees) who normally work on a day that a public holiday falls, will be paid for the ordinary hours they would have worked on that day at the base rate of pay (that is, which excludes incentive-based payments and bonuses, loadings, monetary allowances, overtime or penalty rates, or any other separately identifiable amounts).

If an employee does not normally work on a day

that a public holiday falls, the employee generally does not get paid for that public holiday.

For example, if a part-time employee only works Monday to Thursday each week but the public holiday falls on a Friday, the employee does not get paid for the public holiday because they do not normally work the Friday.

Please note, a roster can’t be changed to deliberately avoid public holiday pay.

Payment for working on a public holiday

Generally, employees will be paid public holiday rates for time worked on a public holiday.

The applicable public holiday rates will depend on the workplace instrument that covers the employee.

Substitute Days

An employer and an employee can agree to substitute a public holiday (or part-day public holiday) for another day if permitted by the

applicable award or if the employee is not covered by an award.

If a public holiday is substituted, then the substitute day is regarded as the public holiday and penalty rates are only paid on the substitute day.

Rostered Days Off

If employers have a rostered day off (RDO) system in place with any of their employees, they should refer to the applicable award for specific information.

Some awards may provide for an alternative paid day off where an RDO falls on a public holiday.

CHECK YOUR CONDITIONS

The information provided in this publication is necessarily general. Different arrangements for the public holidays may apply depending on the applicable workplace instrument.

Before this holiday season, it is important to check what conditions and penalty rates apply to your employees.

This publication 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 AAAA members with advice regarding all aspects of your workplace and employment law. It can assist you in understanding your employment obligations in relation to public holidays and applicable penalty rates.

Please contact Employer Assist on 1300 735 306 or aaaa@employerassist.com.au if you require advice.

IMPROVE CASH FLOW IN YOUR BUSINESS

Improving cash flow is critical to the financial health of any business

As we approach 2025, it is a great time to take stock and make adjustments to enhance your business’ cash flow.

Megabus has put together the following list which it says offers eight simple yet effective strategies to help you get started.

1. Payment terms: entice earlier payments by offering varying payment terms. Consider offering a discount for payments made within seven days or COD (Cash on Delivery). Additionally, establishing long-term contracts with consistent revenue streams can allow for extended payment terms while maintaining steady cash flow.

2. Invoice promptly: send invoices immediately after completing the work. By delivering trade invoices electronically, you ensure they quickly reach the accounts payable team, speeding up payment processes.

3. Timely End-of-Month statements: since many businesses pay upon receiving a statement, make sure to send monthly statements on the last trading day. Email delivery is preferred and

be sure to highlight any overdue amounts for quick reference.

4. Expand payment options: bank transfers aren’t the only option. Offering multiple ways to pay, such as easy-to-use credit card payment links, makes it more convenient for customers to settle their invoices.

5. Request deposits for special orders: for special or large orders, ask for an upfront deposit or offer instalment plans to help customers manage their cash flow while securing your revenue early.

6. Incentivise early payment: if your business can afford it, offer discounts for early payments. Settlement discounts can be a great incentive to speed up cash inflows.

7. Set credit limits: establishing credit limits should be paired with a formal credit application process. Ensure your business systems consistently enforce these limits to minimise risk.

8. Regular follow-ups on outstanding payments: keep a close eye on payments due in the

coming week and follow up regularly. Weekly reviews of overdue accounts and keeping detailed debt collection notes in your system can help you stay on top of collections. By adopting these strategies, Megabus says you can enhance your business’s liquidity and ensure it remains resilient through economic shifts, stating that now is the time to implement changes that will make a positive difference as you move toward a more prosperous 2025. For more information, visit www.megabus.com.au

SWAN AUTO PARTS DRIVING CHANGE

The company proudly supports a number of charitable causes, including in the motorsport arena

Swan Auto Parts is an active supporter of a number of teams within the motorsport arena, with one such partnership – its support of Team 300Z in the Shitbox Rally – seeing it combine its commitment to supporting grassroots racers with its passion for supporting charitable causes.

Swan Auto Parts first backed Team 300Z in 2019, then known as Team Greg and Goldy, and after taking a break in 2023, the team returned to the rally in 2024.

For this year’s campaign to raise funds for cancer research, Swan Auto Parts donated ignition coils and other parts for the team’s 1991 Nissan 300ZX for both the Autumn Rally (2 May – 10 May, Canberra to Townsville) and the Mystery Box Rally (17 August – 22 August, Airlie Beach).

The Shitbox Rally concept, founded by James Freeman after he lost both parents to cancer, has so far raised more than 50 million dollars for cancer research, with each team raising at least $5000 to participate.

Every car in the event is purchased for under $1500, and Team 300Z’s yellow Nissan 300ZX was no exception, originally found with its engine in pieces.

In addition to raising funds for cancer research, the rally also provides a significant economic boost to the remote rural communities along the route.

Swan Auto Parts Marketing Manager, Steve Butrakoski, said Swan Auto Parts was very proud to be able to play a role in the raising of funds for cancer research while pursuing its passion for supporting independent racers in the pursuit of their goals.

“It is really important to us that we can support not only independent racers, but especially those who are making such a difference by participating in events such as the Shitbox Rally, which raises funds for such a valuable cause,” Steve said.

“Motorsport and automotive parts go hand in hand, so it makes sense that we would be involved in motorsport sponsorship, but unlike the corporate brands, we are dedicated to lending a hand to the teams who need it most.

“As an Australian independent automotive brand, we are passionate about supporting independent teams – we know from first-hand experience that running a business, or a race team, needs local help and support.

“While bigger brands focus on large teams, we are here to ensure smaller and independent teams get the assistance they deserve.

“These teams face more challenges but display incredible grit to enter and compete in motorsport.”

Steve says this commitment to independent competitors is paying off in more ways than one.

“We are making our way against the big brands because we believe in the power of grassroots racing,” Steve said.

“Our reward is the thrill of seeing our branding on their cars and the joy of knowing we’re backing the local talent.

“Plus, it gives us exposure and shows the community that we support the independent teams who embody the spirit of motorsport.

“Our sponsorship of independent motorsport teams is a testament to our commitment to our customers and companies who share our vision.”

It isn’t just in its racers that Swan Auto Parts seeks to support ‘the independents.’

“We strive to be recognised as an authentic, independent brand that offers unparalleled customer service and competitive pricing,” Steve said.

“We see our customers as individuals, not just corporate numbers.

“As an brand supportive of motorsport, we wholeheartedly encourage anyone with a passion for it to pursue their dreams.”

Steve is quick to encourage anyone looking to make a move into the motorsport scene to do so, stating that Swan Auto Parts will be there to assist.

“Whether it’s a pastime pursuit, a passion project, or a semi/full career move, the rewards of creating

and participating in motorsport are immense,” Steve said.

“There’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of knowing that you’ve fought, struggled, and ultimately achieved your goal.

“And when you decide to take the leap into motorsport, Swan Automotive Parts will be there to offer a helping hand. We always encourage locals to support independent and local race teams.”

Alongside Team 300Z and its Shitbox Rally pursuits, Swan Auto Parts also supports BlueDog Racing and its 14 year old driver Harrison Turnbull in the Junior Sedans, husband and wife team Garage of Awesome Racing in the rallying, and Vivid Motorsport driver Jason Selmen.

Swan Auto Parts’ charitable commitments also extend beyond cancer research, with 2024 marking the fifth consecutive year that it has supported The Christmas Party Melbourne, a heartwarming event that provides children with disabilities and complex needs a day of unforgettable joy.

Held annually, it features celebrity stage shows, fun rides, interactive games, delicious food, face painting, and more. The highlight is Santa’s Toy Room, where each child receives three brand new, high-quality toys.

For more from Swan Auto Parts, visit www.Swancoils.com.au

PERFORMANCE & RACING

REPCO EXTENDS NAMING RIGHTS OF THE REPCO ADELAIDE MOTORSPORT FESTIVAL

A new multi-year sponsorship deal has been struck

Repco will once again be the naming rights sponsor for the 2025 Repco Adelaide Motorsport Festival, which will be held on March 8 and 9, after signing a new multi-year deal recently.

Repco’s portfolio of Australian motorsport sponsorship includes the Repco Supercars Championship, Repco Bathurst 1000, and the Shell V Power Racing Team, alongside the Repco Adelaide Motorsport Festival.

As part of the naming rights deal, the Repco Circuit Safari will return at the 2025 Repco Adelaide Motorsport Festival following its debut in 2024.

The Repco Circuit Safari gives guests and fans the chance to be on track alongside a selection of race cars, enabling the passengers the once in a life-time experience of seeing and hearing iconic sportscars, touring cars and more up close.

Repco has played an important part in Australian

motorsport history, contributing to Sir Jack Brabham’s Formula 1 world championship win in 1966 by building the V8 Repco engine that powered his Brabham BT 19.

“The motorsport heritage that comes with the Repco brand isn’t just confined to Australia, it is globally recognised for its connection with names such as Sir Jack Brabham and this is a perfect fit with what the Adelaide Motorsport Festival is about,” Adelaide Motorsport Festival Chief Executive Officer, Tim Possingham, said.

“We have a huge amount of Australian motorsport content at the event, but at the same time the event is now recognised globally and attracts cars from all over the world.

“On-event, we have a burgeoning audience of car enthusiasts, all of whom know and respect the Repco brand at a local level, so the fit is great for both brands.”

Repco Executive General Manager of Marketing, Mitch Wiley, said Repco is thrilled to once again

MAXIMISING PERFORMANCE

MAHLE explains the crucial role of pistons and rings in racing engines

In the world of motorsport, every component of an engine must work in perfect harmony to achieve peak performance.

Among the most critical components that drive the engine’s efficiency and reliability are the pistons and piston rings.

These components play a pivotal role in the performance of a racing engine, where precision and durability are paramount.

Pistons are the heart of any engine, responsible for converting the explosive energy generated by the combustion of fuel into mechanical power.

In a high-performance racing engine, pistons are subjected to extreme pressures, temperatures, and speeds.

MAHLE says its Pro Series pistons are designed with advanced materials and cutting-edge technology to withstand these harsh conditions.

It states their lightweight construction reduces

friction and enhances acceleration, allowing racers to push their engines to their limits while maintaining optimal power delivery.

Equally crucial are the piston rings. These small but mighty components provide the essential seal between the piston and the cylinder wall. Their primary functions include controlling oil consumption, ensuring combustion efficiency, and preventing the escape of gases that could reduce engine power.

In racing, where every ounce of power counts, the performance of the piston rings can make a significant difference.

MAHLE says its high-performance piston rings are engineered to maintain precise control over oil and gas flow, minimising wear and maximising the engine’s longevity even under extreme conditions. The precision of both the pistons and rings is vital not only for performance but for the engine’s ability to endure over the course of a race.

partner with the Adelaide Motorsport Festival for 2025 and beyond.

“Repco has a proud and deep heritage in motorsport and this festival celebrates the rich history of all forms of racing,” Mitch said.

“It has been fantastic to be part of this festival and witness it grow every year. The Adelaide Motorsport Festival is quickly becoming a ‘bucket list’ event for any motorsport fan.”

Held the week prior to the Australian Grand Prix, the Repco Adelaide Motorsport Festival is a museum in motion, displaying historic, rare and significant racing vehicles on the Victoria Park section of the Adelaide Street Circuit.

Categories featuring Formula 1, V8 Supercars, touring cars, sportscars and more will feature over the course of the 2025 Repco Adelaide Motorsport Festival, in addition to on-track demonstrations, offtrack displays, villas and more.

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

MAHLE says its expertise in motorsport applications ensures that their piston and ring combinations are finely tuned to provide superior strength, durability, and efficiency.

Whether in a circuit race or endurance event, MAHLE says its pistons and rings help to extract the maximum performance potential from an engine while reducing the risk of failure.

For more information, visit www.mahle-aftermarket.com or email sales.australia@mahle.com

LIQUI MOLY AUSTRALIA PARTNERS WITH MOTOSCHOOL

Motor oil manufacturer becomes Exclusive Lubricant and Chemical Partner of motorcycle coaching and rider training organisation

LIQUI MOLY Australia has proudly announced an exclusive cooperation with MotoSchool, a premier Australian motorbike training institution.

LIQUI MOLY Australia says this emphasises its ongoing commitment to supporting motorbike riders and workshops across the country with products that enhance performance, reliability, and safety.

Over the years LIQUI MOLY says it has gained a reputation as a trusted brand among motorbike enthusiasts worldwide, being the exclusive lubricant supplier for Moto2 and Moto3 races globally, and with a strong presence in the MXGP series.

“Our expertise in motorsports is now extending to the Australian market, where we’re excited to support MotoSchool in fostering the skills of riders, whether they’re just starting out or are seasoned veterans looking to refine their craft,” LIQUI MOLY Australia Managing Director, Vincent Prinzing, said.

MotoSchool Founder and Managing Director, Haydan Parker, likewise expressed his gratitude and excitement about the partnership.

“I am thrilled and, above all else, honoured to be collaborating with LIQUI MOLY, a company synonymous with motoring excellence across the globe,” Haydan said.

MotoSchool will now exclusively use LIQUI MOLY’s products in its workshops, providing students with access to the same high-performance lubricants and chemicals trusted by professionals in the racing world.

For more from LIQUI MOLY, visit www.liqui-moly.com.au

LANOTEC RALLYING FOR A CAUSE

An Australian-made leader in all-natural lubricants and protectants, Lanotec was pleased to support a family team in the Spring Shitbox Rally

Lanotec is proud to have supported a family team in the Spring 2024 Shitbox Rally, all in the name of raising money for cancer research.

Participating under the team Mayhem banner with the support of Lanotec, father and son Ross and Benjamin May honoured their daughter and sister Katie, who passed away 25 years ago after a brave five-year battle with Leukemia at the age of six.

The basis of the Shitbox Rally concept is not specifically competitive, but rather taking $1,500 vehicles across a formidable rural course in the name of charity and awareness raising.

Starting in Bendigo, the route for the rally took participants to Townsville via overnight stops in Pooncarie, Milparinka, Innamincka, Betoota, Isisford and Belyando Crossing.

All told, the event raised over $2,200,000 from the 225 registered teams, bringing the total raised by all Box Rallies to over $50 million in the aid of 63 different cancer research programs.

Against incredible competition, Mayhem tallied over $36,000 for the Cancer Council, far exceeding their original target of $20,000, with their total placing them in the top ten fundraisers for the event overall.

“For me personally, it’s 25 years since Katie died, I’m finding that my son Benjamin, who is 32 now, he is talking about it more, asking questions, he talks about his recollections, because he was anywhere from two years old to seven years old when it was happening,” Ross said.

“I thought to myself that it sounds like it is time for us to do something together to remember her and bring it out in the open.

“We come from a fairly small community, and we are doing a fair bit to open up about it… everyone has their story, cancer will affect almost everybody, and we’ve got to work our way through it together.

“The only way to make a better future is to put more money into finding answers.

“I think the Shitbox Rally is very inclusive, and something the entire community can be a part of.”

For the Rally, Mayhem secured a 2007 Ford Territory – although it was trashed inside, it started the event mechanically sound and in fitting with the event’s cost cap.

Importantly, the Territory offered an extensive canvas, with artists at a local school in Mansfield, Victoria, turning one of Katie’s pictures entitled “Dreaming” into a uniquely eye-catching livery.

Unfortunately, en route, the Territory succumbed to the tough course, and the crew switched to a spare Holden to complete the rally.

Mayhem coordinated various initiatives to assist in their quest to raise funds. This included an art auction featuring more than 20 pieces donated by local artists and private collectors from around the Mansfield area. Supporters also donated ten prizes for a raffle valued at over $3,500.

To support Mayhem’s mission, donations can be made at https://spring2024.shitboxrally.com.au/ mayhem

Details on the Spring 2024 Shitbox Rally can be found at www.shitboxrally.com.au

For more from Lanotec, visit www.lanotec.com.au

PERFORMANCE & RACING

CASTROL CELEBRATES GREAT PARTNERS AT THE GREAT RACE

Castrol hit the throttle on its 125-year anniversary celebrations by uniquely recognising its independent workshop customers at the iconic Bathurst 1000

The names of 27 of Castrol’s long-standing customers were integrated into the livery of the Castrol Racing Tickford Ford Mustang (#55) in advance of The Great Race – securing the workshops’ places in Mt Panorama history.

Castrol General Manager, Jane Carland, said the brand’s anniversary was a fitting time to acknowledge the loyal customers that continued to put their faith in Castrol.

“Independent workshops are an integral part of the Castrol team, and we wanted to do something visible and symbolic to say thank you for always trusting us,” Jane said.

“Castrol is woven into the fabric of The Great Race, so it made sense that we would do something extra special at Mt Panorama.”

A combined 500 years of Castrol history was on board for 161 exhilarating laps of the challenging 1000km race.

A portion of that history included HMR Australia – a workshop located in Bathurst’s neighbouring town of Orange.

Owner Jason Hunt said Castrol had been crucial to his business for over 16 years, but his relationship with the brand began almost 14 years earlier when he started his apprenticeship.

“Castrol have been absolutely critical to us as a small family-owned business,” Jason said. “They have always backed us up...the product

support is just phenomenal, and their coverage is enormous.

“They really made you feel part of the Castrol experience and team. It is just a well-known brand, it’s trusted, it is good quality, I have always stuck with it.”

As part of its anniversary celebrations, Castrol has been showcasing its customers at each Supercars round, with loyal workshop owners receiving prominent branding on the #55 bumper over six racing weekends, along with an exclusive Castrol trackside experience and marketing support.

The unique activity has generated significant exposure for the small businesses – reaching hundreds of thousands of race attendees and millions of television viewers.

Barry Bangay Motors owner, Joel Evans, said attention from media and spectators was at an alltime high at the Sandown 500 after the legendary Castrol TOM’s livery was revealed for the first time.

“Seeing our logo on there, I’ll have those memories forever,” Joel said.

The team at Chris Colgrave Automotive from Launceston were also recognised for their loyalty during a spectacular round of racing at the Tassie SuperSprint.

After starting out selling pints and quarts of Castrol at his local service station as a 13-year-old, owner

Chris Colgrave said Castrol was the only choice when he started his own business 27 years ago.

“We’ve never changed. When you’re on a good thing just stick to it,” Chris said.

“To have a business like ours, and our logo on the front of that car...it’s awesome. It is something that I would never ever have dreamed of.”

Jane said she was delighted that independent workshops across Australia continued to put their trust in Castrol.

“We’ve been committed to pushing boundaries through research, technology and racing for 125 years, and it’s a big part of why Castrol remains the brand of choice for manufacturers, professionals and enthusiasts,” she said.

“Castrol is a brand that is steadfast in its reputation for quality and reliability in all conditions, and this focus helps independent workshops build trust with their own customers.

“We remain relentlessly focused on accelerating our game, so our customers can accelerate theirs.” For more information, visit www.castrol.com.au

MOTORACTIVE BRANDS GET BEHIND BATHURST 12 HOUR

Meguiar’s and Elf Lubricants have taken starring roles in supporting Australia’s international enduro

MotorActive was pleased to announce recently that two brands for which it is a distributor in Australia, Meguiar’s and Elf Lubricants, have signed significant partnerships with the Bathurst 12 Hour.

Meguiar’s, a globally renowned and leading car care brand, will become the title partner of the Bathurst 12 Hour from 2025, while Elf Lubricants has signed on as the Official Oil Partner.

Distributed in Australia by MotorActive since 1990, the new partnerships renew a longstanding relationship between the Australian-owned business and Australia’s international Enduro that dates to the event’s early days as a GT classic in 2013.

MotorActive says the new multi-year title sponsorship agreement will see the Meguiar’s Bathurst 12 Hour continue to grow as one of the world’s leading and most iconic GT endurance races, while partnering with a brand globally respected as best in class.

“Meguiar’s is about the celebration of cool cars, on and off the track and when it comes to fast and

cool there’s nothing better than an international GT endurance race at Mount Panorama,” MotorActive Managing Director, Bruce Morrison, said.

“Meguiar’s is known around the world for its passion for the car hobby and for motorsport and we want to bring that passion back to fans who love the event as much as we do. It is terrific to see how engaged they are and how they support the event in greater numbers every year.

“This is the renewal of a great partnership, this time with Meguiar’s as the headline brand, and we’re going to hit the ground running now, in the lead up the race next February.”

Bruce is also excited about the new partnership between the event and Elf Lubricants, for which it was recently appointed as an Australian distributor.

Elf Lubricants are closely linked with high performance motorsport and GT Racing in particular, with MotorActive stating the brand has a reputation for superior product quality, innovation and technical expertise, as well as a rich heritage

in style and prestige, along with a passion for endurance motorsport.

“There’s a deep and trusted relationship between Elf Lubricants and GT racing around the world. Where you see one, you often see the other,” Bruce said.

“Bathurst is an incredible place and the 12 Hour is a fantastic race so joining forces with them to showcase the Elf Oils brand makes a lot of sense.”

For more from MotorActive, visit www.motoractive.com.au

HAMER EXPANDS INTO THE WEST

The 4x4 accessories specialist has expanded into Perth, bringing its products to WA 4WD enthusiasts

Hamer 4x4 explains this expansion is a strategic move aimed at making its adventure gear more accessible while providing customers in the region with “better and faster service and delivery.”

With the appointment of Stephen Gurman as State Manager for WA, operating out of Canning Vale, the company says it is ready to offer personalised support to the local off-road community.

“Hamer 4x4 has built a strong reputation for its durable, safety-focused products that cater to the needs of modern adventurers,” Hamer 4x4 Marketing Manager, Mark Gelo, said.

The product line includes essential gear like bull bars, rear bars, side steps, underbody protection, sports bars and roof racks.

“These accessories are designed using highgrade materials that can withstand the toughest conditions, ensuring both safety and durability during any off-road journey,” Mark said.

“For example, Hamer 4x4’s bull bars are engineered for both style and strength, offering easy installation and heavy-duty impact

absorption, making them an ideal choice for those who take their vehicles off the beaten path.”

Hamer 4x4’s decision to expand into Perth comes at a time when Western Australia’s off-road community is growing.

“By establishing a local presence, Hamer 4x4 will provide quicker access to its products, reducing the need for long shipping times,” Mark said.

“Perth customers will also benefit from hands-on opportunities to test products and receive expert advice on-site, which will enhance the overall customer experience.

“Additionally, the closer proximity allows Hamer 4x4 to gather direct customer feedback, helping the company continuously improve its product offerings to meet local preferences and needs.”

Mark said Stephen Gurman’s leadership in Perth is expected to strengthen the company’s relationship with the local dealers and 4WD community, offering a blend of premium products and expert advice.

“His focus will be on building a strong local presence based on a one stop shop model to

CALOFFROAD UPPER CONTROL ARMS

CalOffroad says these are “stronger than the original”

For more than 30 years, CalOffroad explains it has been developing and producing some of “the most advanced and highest-performing” 4x4 and offroad suspension systems in Australia.

Since becoming an official member of the CoolDrive Auto Parts family, the brand is reportedly going from strength to strength.

CalOffroad, along with Bilstein and FOX, form a comprehensive range of offroad suspension products available from CoolDrive, which includes a complete line-up of “hassle-free,” bolt-on suspension components such as upper control arms, ball joints, and bush kits.

When a 4x4 suspension lift kit is installed, it can displace the original suspension caster and camber specifications beyond acceptable limits.

This can result in the loss of caster, leading to vague steering and the introduction of positive camber, which contributes to uneven and accelerated tyre wear.

CalOffroad’s upper control arm technology, with fixed and adjustable options, provides OE equivalent bolt-on solutions for lifted 4x4s to correct the wheel position and eliminate misalignment.

They are designed to maximise tyre-to-arm clearance and increase chassis space clearances to ensure a hassle-free off-road adventure.

Forged from heavy-duty STKMIIA carbon steel tubing, CalOffroad upper control arms are coated with a double-layer shield to protect against corrosion.

Low noise, maintenance-free original equipment style rubber bushes are built into the upper control arms, with wheel travel increased by complementary heavy-duty, high-angle, greaseable ball joints.

The CalOffroad upper control arm ball joint provides better articulation over the factory arm which works in unison with the upgraded suspension.

The ball pins are constructed from SCM435 Molybdenum and Chromium alloy steel and have undergone heat treatment which improves wear resistance and extends product life. Employing a Mirror treatment process, the ball stud surfaces are polished to an ultra-smooth finish, facilitating fluid rotation. With options for fixed and adjustable configurations, the CalOffroad ball joints cater to diverse needs.

Complementing the ball joints, are CalOffroad’s upper control arm bush kits to ensure peak vehicle stability, braking efficiency, and steering precision.

ensuring that customer needs are met quickly and efficiently,” Mark said.

“The new Perth workshop will also feature a full fitting facility with qualified technicians, ensuring that all products are installed with the highest level of quality control and precision while also serve as a central hub for inventory management, improving supply chain efficiency and reducing delivery times for customers and dealers across Western Australia.

“This means customers can expect faster service and easier access to the gear they need to enhance their off-road adventures.

“Hamer 4x4’s expansion into Perth marks our third location, following successful launches in Brisbane and Melbourne, bringing high-quality 4WD gear closer to customers, ensuring faster service, better product access, and reinforcing its commitment to the off-road community in Australia.”

For more from Hamer 4x4, visit www.hamer4x4.com.au

Utilising CalOffroad’s advanced composition bushings, these kits offer exceptional elasticity, memory, and unparalleled durability.

Compatible with a range of control arms, CalOffroad says its bush kits represent a substantial upgrade over stock components, promising superior performance and reliability. All CalOffroad products are developed, tested and refined in a private off-road testing facility right here in Australia.

CalOffroad also boasts a comprehensive delivery and service network staffed by the CalOffroad and CoolDrive teams, many of whom are 4x4 enthusiasts themselves.

For further information, visit www.caloffroad.com.au or to become part of the CalOffroad Official Dealer Network, contact CoolDrive Auto Parts.

MAXLINER AUSTRALIA ANNOUNCES ACCESSORY RANGE FOR THE NEW TRITON

Maxliner Australia recently unveiled its latest lineup at the National 4x4 Outdoors Show in Melbourne

Designed with durability, performance, and practicality in mind, Maxliner Australia says this range for the new Mitsubishi Triton offers an ideal opportunity for accessory dealers to expand their product offerings.

“As a brand deeply committed to the needs of the Australian market, we’re focused on delivering products that enhance functionality and add style and durability,” Maxliner Australia Managing Director, Nigel Brownscombe, said.

“With over 30 years in the aftermarket accessories industry, we are excited to introduce this new range to our dealer network and aftermarket stockists.”

Maxliner says it proudly produces its own aftermarket brand and OEM-branded accessories across the globe, reflecting its commitment to quality and innovation worldwide. The new Triton accessory range consists of:

• Venture Canopy: versatile and robust, the Venture Canopy reportedly offers ample storage and customisation options, making it ideal for off-roaders and professionals. It is available in

body colour and two-tone designs. Customers can add window barriers, doggy windows, or solid side windows for enhanced security and convenience.

• Window Barriers: extra protection for the interior, adding peace of mind for valuables or work gear.

• Doggy Window: designed for pet owners, this window ensures a safe, comfortable ride for furry companions.

• Solid Side Window: for added privacy and a streamlined aesthetic, these solid side windows provide a sleek look to complete any Triton setup.

• Floor Mats: made to withstand Australian conditions, these floor mats deliver heavy-duty protection with easy cleaning, helping keep interiors looking new. Each mat is backed by a lifetime warranty, guaranteeing lasting durability.

• Five-Piece KD Liner: this liner provides comprehensive bed protection against scratches, dents, and everyday wear. Its five-piece design

NEW BOAB HEAVY-DUTY PREMIUM FRIDGE SLIDE

The new fridge slide comes with an extension table

BOAB says its new Heavy-Duty Premium Fridge Slide makes it easier to access fridges (and gensets) from the back of vehicles, and is perfect for use in four-wheel-drives, station wagons and utes as well as camper and tradesmans’ trailers, securely holding them in place while still providing convenient access.

A further benefit of the BOAB Premium Heavy-Duty Fridge Slide is the inclusion of a retractable table / cutting board (made of food grade PE), providing a convenient space for a camping stove, for loading and unloading fridge items, or for prepping food.

With inner tray dimensions of 846mm (L) X 527mm (W), the latest BOAB Fridge Slide accommodates a wide range of fridge sizes (up to 70L) and comfortably handles weights of up to 100kg.

Also featured is a locking mechanism, allowing users to secure the slide once retracted, and four quick release tie-down straps for easy tethering. The model features robust construction, including powder coated steel with zinc coated ball bearing slide runners, giving BOAB the confidence to offer a three-year warranty on the product.

Also available is a medium slide which suits most 50/60L fridges and a small slide which is said to be perfect for most 40L fridges. For more information, visit www.boaboffroad.com.au

is engineered to preserve the Triton’s tray, extending the lifespan of your investment.

• Sliding Tray: Maxliner Australia says the sliding tray is a must-have accessory for quick and easy access, giving customers fast access to tools or gear stored in the Triton’s bed.

Aftermarket accessory dealers can purchase Maxliner products directly or through its nationwide distributor network.

Maxliner encourages those looking to unlock specialised pricing, priority access to new products, a loyalty program, and comprehensive product and marketing support to join its Stockist Program.

Maxliner Australia is the Australian arm of the global aftermarket and original equipment 4WD accessory manufacturer Vandapac Pty Ltd. For more information, visit www.maxliner.com.au

BENDIX GIVES NEW 2.8L LANDCRUISER

70 A BOOST

Bendix has increased its range of Ultimate 4WD Brake Booster Upgrade kits to suit Toyota Landcruiser

The Bendix Ultimate 4WD Brake Booster Upgrade kit range has been expanded with the recent release of a booster for the latest fourcylinder, 2.8 liter model Toyota Landcruiser 70 Series.

Bendix says the upgrade is designed to increase braking performance by up to 30 percent, making it an attractive option for owners who use their Landcruisers to carry heavy loads or for towing, either in work or recreational situations.

ADR-approved and a direct ‘bolt-in’ replacement for the original equipment (OE) booster, Bendix says the Ultimate 4WD Brake Booster features a dual diaphragm design, that dramatically reduces the pedal effort required to bring the big Cruiser to a standstill.

While most OE brake boosters use a single diaphragm, Bendix says the Ultimate 4WD Brake Booster’s dual diaphragms work to effectively double the diaphragm surface area within the brake booster, without increasing the canister size. It states it also dramatically increases the vacuum pressure within the booster.

Thanks to its direct bolt-in design, fitting the Bendix Ultimate 4WD Brake Booster is said to be as simple as removing the factory-fitted brake booster, and replacing it with the Bendix Brake Booster upgrade which includes all necessary parts including hard lines – no further modifications are needed.

However, given that the brake booster forms an integral part of the braking system, to ensure safety, Bendix recommends that the upgrade is installed by a mechanic or braking professional. For more information, visit www.bendix.com.au

NEW IRONMAN 4X4 RECOVERY KITS

Ironman 4x4 has released three new recovery kits

Ironman 4x4 has recently released a new range of recovery kits to the market.

Pro Recovery Kit

Ironman 4x4 says the Pro Recovery Kit delivers everything the experienced 4WDer needs for those more sophisticated recoveries.

The Pro Recovery Kit is designed to provide everything you need for the more advanced recovery situations, with lighter weight materials and heavier duty ratings to ensure that you have the right gear to get you going. It features:

• 9mm Kinetic snatch rope (9,500kg) suitable for vehicles 3-4t

• 3m Bridle equaliser rope (13,000kg)

• Two Soft shackles (18,000kg)

• 3m Tree saver (12,000kg)

• 20m Winch extension rope (9,500kg)

• Aluminium recovery ring

• Kevlar recovery gloves

• Recovery winch blanket

• Large recovery storage bag

Sand, Mud and Snow Recovery Kit

Ironman 4x4 says the Sand, Mud and Snow Recovery Kit offers all you need for a vehicle-tovehicle recovery, when a winch is not available or suitable.

The Sand, Mud and Snow Recovery Kit is designed for vehicle-to-vehicle recoveries, and does not require a winch. It features:

• 9m Kinetic snatch rope (9,500kg) suitable for vehicles 3-4t

• Two Soft shackles (18,000kg)

• Steel tow-bar recovery hitch (14,000kg)

• Recovery winch blanket

• Small recovery storage bag

Starter Recovery Kit

Ironman 4x4 says its Starter Recovery Kit is a great kit to complement your winch and prepare you for the most common recovery situations, full of all the 4x4 vehicle recovery essentials to get you started. It features:

• 9m Snatch strap (8,000kg) suitable for vehicles 3-4t

• Two Steel bow shackles with protector (4.75t)

• 3m Tree Saver (12,000kg)

• 20m Winch extension rope (4,500kg)

• Recovery winch blanket

• Kevlar recovery gloves

• Small recovery storage bag

The latest in a list of new products from Ironman 4x4

These new recovery kits join a range of new products launched by Ironman 4x4 this year, including five new products which were launched

at the National 4x4 and Outdoor Show held in Melbourne in late August.

Amongst that release were the new Raid Canopy, Tub Rack and Roof Rack.

With a growing demand for greater load carrying capacity and improved functionality for utes, Ironman 4x4 says its new aluminium Raid Canopy offers customers a refined platform suitable to trades and tourers alike. Furthermore, it says it has acknowledged a trend for storage and mounting solutions on an open-tub.

And when it comes to the new Raid Tub Rack, it says it is unlike anything else on the market, offering the flexibility of an open ute with the practicality of a roof- and side-loading solution. Further, whether you are decking out your ute with a Canopy or Tub Rack, Ironman 4x4 says optimising your roof storage can be completed with its new Raid Roof Rack.

It explains this sleek, low profile and light aluminium roof rack is seriously quiet, its height perfectly matches the canopy or tub rack, and it has been designed with both functionality and style in mind.

Also released were the Ironman 4x4 Roller Drawers and IM2.5 Monotube Shock Absorbers.

Ironman 4x4 says no touring or trade setup can be complete without a well-considered set of roller drawers.

Amongst its new releases is its Ironman 4x4 Roller Drawer System, which it describes as ‘A-class,’ offering up to 25 percent weight saving thanks to its aluminium construction.

Rolling on silky smooth rollers, Ironman 4x4 explains this system incorporates slide-top functionality and premium finishes, for a product that will set your build apart.

Finally, Ironman 4x4 says it has “nailed the pinnacle of bulletproof touring shock absorbers” with its Foam Cell Pro range, and now “it has nailed ‘Ultimate Ride Comfort’” thanks to its new IM2.5 Monotube.

Ironman 4x4 says “this aluminium 2.5” monotube goes head-to-head with the best in the business, while maintaining the Ironman 4x4 core value: affordability.”

For more information, visit www.ironman4x4.com