WWW.AUTOFORUM.CO.ZA
RSA: R20.00 (incl. VAT) Other Countries: US $13.50
November / December 2018
A N D
I N N O V A T I V E
Autoforum Online
SCAN ME!
I N F O R M E D
Keeping the SA auto sector moving forward
Hollard Highway Heroes 2018 R2R meanS competitive pricing and job creation Bosch Service Convention 2018
B ODYSHOP NE W S
MIAZ congress 2018: opportunities of change Rising repair costs and new technology
Tel: 0861 762 763, E-mail: info@johnbean.co.za www.johnbean.co.za
November / December 2018
CONTENTS
12
Cover Stories R2R means competitive pricing and job creation
18
Keeping the SA auto sector moving forward
22
Bosch Service Convention 2018
24
Hollard Highway Heroes 2018
30
MIAZ congress 2018: opportunities of change
34
Rising repair costs and new technology
48
8
Trade Talk Editorial The final edition for 2018 and the sector is ready for a break and refresh. It has been a full, and often trying, year. But for many of us, while the rest of SA appears to be setting off on their holidays, it is really still our busiest time. Once you put down the tools and switch off the lighst in your workshop however, we hope your festive season is a relaxing one, and we wish all our readers a very happy and successful 2019!
SA COTY Finalists announced
6
Oooof! A zero rating in a crash test in 2018?
7
Cars.co.za Consumer Awards testing underway
8
NAACAM Show 2019: Galvanising the industry around the vision of the SA Automotive Masterplan
10
Tenneco signs “definitive agreement’ to acquire Öhlins Racing
12
Carlos Ghosn arrested over allegations of financial misconduct
14
Goldwagen’s 100th store opens in KZN
14
AA expects a fuel price drop, while SAPRA requests more industry engagement
16
24
Enjoy the read.
Industry News EDITOR: CLARE RUTKIEWICZ CONTRIBUTORS: AUSTRALIAN BODYSHOP NEWS ROBERT KAISER Warwick robinson Roy Cokayne grant west Louis Bles Dave Scott EMAIL: INFO@AUTOFORUM.CO.ZA Fax: 086 627 1135 PUBLISHER: SWIFT PUBLICATIONS & OLYMPIC PARK TRADING POSTNET SUITE 174 PRIVATE BAG X11 HALFWAY HOUSE 1684
R2R would mean competitive pricing and job creation
18
Ford kicks off production at new engine assembly line
20
Keeping the SA auto sector moving forward
22
Apprenticeship programmes powering auto aftermarket sector
23
Bosch Service Convention 2018 roadshow off to a flying start
24
Kickstarting opportunities
26
GM closures cause US auto sector turmoil
27
OEMs lose ground to third parties on vehicle technology
28
Hollard Highway Heroes 2018
30
Who are Chris Kambouris and TurboDirect?
30
34
32
MIAZ congress 2018 – opportunities of change
34
FOR ADVERTISING ENQUiRIES: GRANT WEST Mobile: +27 (0) 76 727 8161
PUTCO safety and reliabilty improves with Netstar partnership
42
How not to recyle your toxic used motor oil, and what to do instead
43
WARWICK ROBINSON Mobile: +27 (0) 82 855 7750
Truck servicing - the time is nigh
44
PAGE 3
AutoForum - November / December 2018
www.AutoForum.co.za
I N F O R M E D
BodyShop News
A N D
I N N O V A T I V E
Advertisers Guide
Paint Shop on tour
46
Rising repair costs and new technology
48
New global refinish report highlights changes and major players
50
AESO Rubber Alert Engine Parts
4, 12, 31, 42 9
Safety features - and your future in our industry
52
Alfa Int
17
It’s time for the industry to come together as one to succeed
56
AMR
59
SA’s best body repairers revealed
58
AMUPRO - Car-O-Liner
57
Spraying with nitrogen – what you must know
60
AS Titan
13
AS Ampro
5
Auto Cosmos - Electrolog
31
Celette SA
47, 51
Contitech
17
Highveld Garage Equipment
21, 23
Ital Machinery
4, 31
Mahle
15
Robert Bosch - Diagnostics
IBC
Robert Bosch - Parts
11
Robert Bosch - WSC
OBC
Silver Falcon Hurricane
54-55
Snapon Wheelquip
IFC 19
Don’t Know what this is?
Download a QR code reader for your Smart Phone or Tablet from the Apple or Android app stores, and you can use it to scan this code & go direct to our online edition at www. autoforum.co.za – it is free and updated DAILY! Follow us on Twitter and Facebook: AutoForumZA While reasonable precautions have been taken to ensure the accuracy of the advice and information given to readers, neither the editor, nor the publishers, can accept any responsibility for any damages, injury or loss which arise there from. The opinions expressed by contributors to this magazine are not necessarily shared by the editor or the publishers.
PAGE 4
FOR THE REAL WORKSHOP
We Have a Tool For That. Discover your next obsession at
www.amprosa.co.za CH7881
Trade Talk
AutoForum - November / December AutoForum - November / December 20182018
www.AutoForum.co.za
SA COTY Finalists announced The 2019 AutoTrader South African Car of the Year Awards are almost upon us, and the organisers have released the list of finalists. George Mienie, AutoTrader CEO commented that the list covers vehicles from across the globe. “South African motorists have access to vehicles from all over the world and to every conceivable type. This is reflected in the list of finalists.” The South African Guild of Motoring Journalists says they would back each and every finalist as a contender worthy of wearing the 2019 AutoTrader SA Car of the Year crown. “The judges will have their work cut out for them when it comes to evaluating the finalists, because they represent the crème de la crème of the crop, but we believe we have a jury that has vast experience in judging our competition. Stuart Johnston and Colin Windell are current jurors who were part of the Jury at the very first historic Car Of The Year Competition 33 years ago. The record for the juror serving for the most consecutive years is Bobby Cheetham with an impressive 29-years, although he is not a juror this year.” The 25 Jurors will be given the opportunity to drive all the finalist vehicles over the next 3 months under normal driving conditions experienced by the average consumer. The formal AutoTrader Car Of The Year evaluation days that will be held in Gauteng in March 2019 will allow judges the opportunity to reacquaint themselves with the vehicles.
PAGE 6
.
At these evaluation days – the most critical of which will be the scheduled procedures to be held at Kyalami – the COTY Jury will assess the cars independently, with routes and modules designed to test the vehicles on specific criteria. They are, in alphabetical order: 1.Alfa Romeo Stelvio 2.Honda Civic Type R 3.Hyundai Kona 4.Lexus ES 5.Mercedes-Benz A-Class 6.Mitsubishi Pajero Sport 7.Nissan Micra 8.Porsche Cayenne 9.Renault Duster 10.Suzuki Jimny 11.Suzuki Swift 12.Volvo XC40 The Jury will also have access to performance test data, comparative pricing and specification data, as well as comparative parts and pricing data.
Oooof! A zero rating in a crash test in 2018? Kicking off November with a bombshell, Global NCAP and AA South Africa released the latest crash test results in the #SaferCarsForAfrica campaign.
Nissan’s NP300 ‘Hardbody’, sadly received a “zero star” safety rating from the results. Global NCAP and AA South Africa have announced their combined plea to the UN Economic Commission for Africa and the African Development Bank, for urgent action by African governments to prevent the sale of zero star rated cars. Global NCAP Secretary General, David Ward, commented: “The zero star result of the NP300 is particularly troubling as the car is fitted with dual airbags, and this might encourage consumers to believe that the car has a good level of safety. Indeed, Nissan misleadingly claims that the car occupants are protected by a so-called ‘Safety Shield’ and its ‘Hardbody’ label also conveys an image of strength. However, in our crash test, the car’s bodyshell collapsed and neither the steering column nor the airbags acted as they should to minimise risk of injury.”
“In our view remedial action to strengthen the NP300’s bodyshell is now urgently needed. This is a concern not just in South Africa but elsewhere as Nissan has plans to increase exports of this vehicle across Africa. We believe action should be taken now to prevent the sale of zero star cars like the Nissan NP300 anywhere in Africa.” The NP300 achieved the alarming rating for its poor adult occupant protection, mainly in the driver head and chest areas, in the frontal crash test at 64km/h. The steering wheel column did not collapse, penetrating the passenger compartment, and created additional risk for the driver as it moved into the dummy’s chest. This performance showed a significant risk of injuries for the driver despite the car being equipped with double frontal airbags. The NP300 also achieved two stars for child occupant protection, the low result is explained by the manufacturer decision to install one of the child seats without following child seat manufacturer instructions. We asked Nissan South Africa for a comment on the results. I have to say it didnt really answer the concerning questions raised by the test results, and was less than inspiring. Here is Nissan’s comment verbatim: ”The safety of our customers is Nissan’s top priority. All of our cars meet or exceed regulations in all countries in which they are sold. The Nissan NP300 is a tried and trusted partner for businesses and entrepreneurs, providing reliability and affordability. Continuous improvements are being made to the NP300 such as dual airbags and ABS brakes which are fitted as standard equipment. Nissan is studying further enhancements”.
PAGE 7
Trade Talk
AutoForum - November / December AutoForum 2018 - Novemberwww.AutoForum.co.za / December 2018
Cars.co.za Consumer Awards testing underway It is certainly the beginning of awards season, with Cars.co.za announcing that 39 vehicles have been rigorously tested as part of the preparations for the fourth annual Consumer Awards, powered by WesBank.
Awards are not about handing out trophies, but to give car buyers considered advice. We believe our process of backto-back testing and real-world consumer input is key to #CarsAwards achieving those goals.”
Three finalists in each of the 13 categories were recently assessed on a wide variety of merits by a total of 20 judges over two days at the Gerotek test facility near Pretoria. The organisers point out that the awards are comprised of not only the judging panel, but 50% of a respective vehicle’s score is based on detailed feedback on after-sales servicing and ownership.
We need to take a step back and ask who the consumer is,” said Khulekani Dumisa, motoring expert and Budget Car judge. “The Budget Car category is a critical segment. For many this is a first purchase and affordability is key, not only in terms of price but also running costs. In the current economy consumers have become more discerning. People want to spend less but get more for their money.”
It’s not unusual that the expert judging panel’s favourite vehicle does not win, due to the impact of the Ownership Satisfaction Survey, which is based on thousands of respondents who complete the in-depth 50-question survey. As with all past competitions, results from the survey will completely determine the coveted 2018/19 Brand of the Year.
“For 60 years WesBank has been at the heart of South Africa’s automotive industry, and we feel privileged to be able to partner with Cars.co.za for this project,” said Ghana Msibi, WesBank’s Executive Head of Sales and Marketing.
The awards are open to all vehicles currently available in the South African market (provided they were introduced by 1 September, 2018). Hannes Oosthuizen, Consumer Experience Manager at Cars.co.za, commented: “We continue to hone the testing procedures and voting systems utilised by #CarsAwards as we strive to serve the consumer better. Ultimately, these
PAGE 8
“We’re in an era where the new vehicle market is evolving and consumers have varying requirements. These awards truly resonate with the consumer. Offering the public an opportunity to have a say in judging aligns with WesBank’s consumercentric focus.” This will be the third consecutive year that WesBank is sponsoring the awards programme.
At Alert we guarantee that whether your preference is for premier international brands or our own house brands, you’ll get NO compromise on performance or quality, ever. Our AutoPower® and PowerTorque® ranges are priced to suit your pocket and tested for performance, quality and value. That’s why when you visit any of our 16 branches nationwide, you can trust that whatever your needs, we have the right brand for you along with parts that deliver performance at an affordable price.
Cape Town
Durban
Durban CBD
East London
East Rand
George
Johannesburg
Nelspruit
Ottery
Pietermaritzburg
Pinetown
Polokwane
Port Elizabeth
Pretoria
Namibia
Bloemfontein Engine Parts Turbo Chargers
Tel: (021) 590 8200 Fax: (021) 591 0363 Tel: (011) 870 0300 Fax: (011) 870 0400 Tel: (041) 404 8700 Fax: (041) 404 8701
Tel: (031) 582 3400 Fax: (031) 582 3458/9 Tel: (013) 741 8400 Fax: (013) 741 8500/01 Tel: (012) 327 9300 Fax: (012) 327 9394
Tel: (031) 368 8642 Fax: (031) 368 3643 Tel: (021) 703 8744 Fax: (021) 703 1779 Tel: +264 (0) 61 240 905 Fax: +264 (0) 61 248 719
Tel: (043) 722 3007/70 Fax: (043) 743 0990 Tel: (033) 341 6000 Fax: (033) 342 6745
Tel: (011) 874 4600 Fax: (011) 826 0167 Tel: (031) 705 2363 Fax: (031) 705 2535
Tel: (051) 409 2700 Fax: (051) 430 8617
www.alertengineparts.com
Tel: (044) 873 3755 Fax: (044) 873 3765 Tel: (015) 299 2800 Fax: (015) 299 2828
Trade Talk
AutoForum - November / December AutoForum - November / December 20182018
www.AutoForum.co.za
NAACAM Show 2019: Galvanising the industry around the vision of the SA Automotive Masterplan
Beyond the significant Conference Programme and Exhibition of the NAACAM Show 2019 there are three additional aspects to the initiative firms are encouraged to engage in to maximise the value from participation: Buyer-supplier linkage meetings, Hosting nominated foreign technology partners and international buyers, and a Localisation exhibition.
to ensure a high conversion into actual contractual agreements, although supplying firms are encouraged to state their product and process capabilities and desired customers to meet with and meetings will be sought for them. 2. Hosting nominated foreign technology partners and international buyers Coupled to the buyer-supplier linkage meetings is the intention to host foreign technology partners, potential investors and international buyers. Firms that would like to nominate an invitee to be hosted – based around a localisation or export opportunity - are encouraged to contact the organisers. 3. Localisation exhibition The localisation exhibition is envisaged as being a significant drawcard to, focus of, and value creator by the NAACAM Show. Held within the exhibition area, participation by all OEMs and 20 tier 1s will be catered for with approximately 100 parts per OEM and 50 parts per Tier 1 displayed, with 1 000+ parts anticipated in the display. This exhibition provides OEMs and Tier1s who are exhibiting at the event with additional opportunities to display localisable components and sub-components.
1. Buyer-supplier linkage meetings The buyer-supplier meeting programme is driven by OEMs and Tier 1 buyers, who are looking to boost the local content levels in their respective supply chains. For lower tier manufacturers and suppliers, the opportunity to meet face-to-face with the gathered OEM and Tier 1 buyers is significant. The buyer-led focus of the meetings is intended
The NAACAM Show will be taking place at the Durban ICC, 12-14 March 2019. To express an interest in participating in buyer-supplier linkage meetings, nominate international buyers and technology partners for hosting, or to express an interest in participating in the localisation exhibition, please be in contact with the NAACAM Show Project Management team on info@ naacamshow.co.za or 031 764 6100.
The recently announced South African Automotive Masterplan (SAAM) will guide the sector to 2035, providing a unified roadmap, under a revised incentive framework. Its targets include expanded vehicle production, doubling employment, an increase in local content to 60%, and an increase in the contribution of Black-owned suppliers’ automotive GVA within the economy to 25% of the Tier 2 and Tier 3 total. NAACAM is committed to driving implementation of the SAAM, with the NAACAM Show 2019 playing a leading role. Core objectives of the initiative include the promotion of localisation and transformation of the automotive value chain and attracting foreign direct investment (FDI) and technology transfer to enhance the capacity and capability of local manufacturers.
PAGE 10
.
Driven by
DOWNPOURS
Bosch wiper blades perform when you need them most, ensuring clear vision during a downpour. Don’t compromise with wiper blades. Wiper blades from Bosch ensure perfect wiper performance, a long service life and quiet wiper action – even under extreme weather conditions. The innovative adapter concept allows both quick and easy fitting of Bosch wiper blades. Choose Bosch for a perfect vision and maximum safety. www.bosch.co.za
What drives you, drives us.
Trade Talk
AutoForum - November / December AutoForum 2018 - Novemberwww.AutoForum.co.za / December 2018
Tenneco signs “definitive agreement’ to acquire Öhlins Racing A.B.
Tenneco Inc. has announced that it has signed a definitive agreement to acquire Öhlins Racing A.B. (“Öhlins”), a Swedish technology company that develops premium suspension systems and components for the automotive and motorsport industries. “Tenneco’s 20 year relationship with Öhlins has delivered world class product in the intelligent suspension market and provides a strategic entry into advanced performance communities with premium branded products and proprietary Continuously Controlled Electronic Suspension Valve (CES) technology,” commented Brian Kesseler, co-CEO, Tenneco. “Öhlins’ technology team will allow us to rapidly grow our product offerings for current and future customers, as well as help us win a larger share of business in developing mobility markets. I am delighted to welcome the Öhlins team as an important part of our new Aftermarket and Ride Performance company.” Tenneco believes that the addition of Öhlins will accelerate the development of advanced original equipment (OE) intelligent suspension solutions, while also fast-tracking time to market. It will also enhance Tenneco’s portfolio in broader mobility
PAGE 12
markets with the addition of Öhlins’ range of premium OE and aftermarket automotive and motorsports performance products. Founder Kenth Öhlin will retain a minority interest in Öhlins and partner with Tenneco to provide continuity in his strategic and technological vision. He commented: “I am proud of the Öhlins team and all we have accomplished over the last 43 years. We are excited to continue to deliver innovative technologies that can accelerate growth with the full strength and resources of Tenneco behind us.” The acquisition is expected to close in the first quarter of 2019, subject to regulatory and shareholder approvals and other customary closing conditions. Total consideration for this acquisition is approximately $160 million, which was contemplated in the leverage targets provided in April 2018 as part of the Federal-Mogul acquisition announcement.
Don’t fall prey to the wild road
STABILITY STABILITY THROUGH THROUGH
STRENGTH
For the unforgiving South African road conditions we are faced with, don’t you think it’s time to add a Titan
• 24 Month or 50,000 km warranty
to your life? To ensure that your vehicle’s suspension and braking
• Vehicle specific applications
system are working in unison, it’s important to fit workshop quality and reliable shocks absorbers. Insist on Titan shock absorbers. Don’t let the road take a toll on your vehicle’s road handling performance. Be prepared!
www.pia.co.za
• Workshop quality at affordable prices • Technical and country wide support
STABILITY THROUGH
STRENGTH
AVAILABLE FROM LEADING SPARES SHOPS
A Division of Imperial Group Limited
CH6780
Trade Talk
AutoForum - November / December AutoForum - November / December 20182018
www.AutoForum.co.za
Carlos Ghosn arrested over allegations of financial misconduct Carlos Ghosn, chairman of Nissan, Renault and Mitsubishi Motors, was arrested in late November in Japan over concerns he had underreported his income and misused company funds. In a statement, Nissan said it had been conducting an internal investigation over the past several months regarding misconduct involving Ghosn and representative director Greg Kelly, based on a whistleblower report.
According to the company, the investigation discovered that over many years both Ghosn and Kelly had been reporting their compensation in the Tokyo Stock Exchange securities report as less than what they actually received, the aim being to reduce Ghosn’s disclosed compensation. Nissan also discovered “numerous other significant acts of misconduct, such as personal use of company assets” related to Ghosn, with “Kelly’s deep involvement also confirmed”, according to a statement. The company says it has been providing information to the Japanese Public Prosecutors Office and is fully cooperating with their investigation. In a dramatic move, the company said CEO Hiroto Saikawa will propose to the company board to promptly remove Ghosn from his positions as chairman and representative director, as well as removing Kelly from his own representative director position. The company cited the misconduct’s violation of its board of directors’ duty of care as the reason for the move. The development heavily tarnishes what was a distinguished career for Ghosn, who helped restore Renault’s profitability in the late 1990s and executed the recovery of Nissan in just one year in the early 2000’s, and was an adored local figure.
Goldwagen’s 100th store opens in KZN Automotive parts franchise, Goldwagen, recently announced the opening of its 100th shop. Having grown from the single outlet initially opened in 1992 in Pretoria West, the brand says it can provide virtually any item, for any brand available on the sub-continent. Goldwagen’s store number 100 opened in Newcastle, KZN in late October. CEO Joäo Da Costa, one of two founders commented: “South African motoring consumers are looking for the best aftermarket parts in terms of value to keep costs contained, but not at the risk of impacting negatively on their motoring in any way. Our stores therefore stock not only the best name brands from around the world, but at the same time provide our customers with tiers of parts, so that they can find something that suits their budget.” 2018 has been a massive year for Goldwagen and has seen the addition of parts for Hyundai, Kia, Land Rover, Volvo and Jeep – they now carry stock for 17 individual brands and have mutually-beneficial collaborations with almost 50 parts and component suppliers spanning the globe.
PAGE 14
MAHLE BRAND POWER 2019 MAHLE ORIGINAL BECOMES MAHLE If it says MAHLE on the outside, it’s got the original on the inside. That’s why, beginning in 2019, our global sales brand will become simply MAHLE. MAHLE Aftermarket unites seven strong brands that are synonymous with innovation and uncompromising quality—on a global and regional basis.
Throughout the world, the MAHLE brand stands for spare parts in original equipment quality along the entire powertrain, covering engine components, filters, engine cooling and air conditioning, starter motors and alternators, workshop equipment, control and power electronics, and spare parts for classic vehicles.
BEHR is the global expert in engine cooling and vehicle air conditioning. The BEHR brand offers thermostats, thermal switches, and thermocouples to the automotive maintenance and repair market.
IZUMI is the brand for Japanese commercial vehicle and off-road applications and a long-term member of the MAHLE brand family.
BRAIN BEE is the most recent member of the MAHLE brand family and the European expert in workshop equipment—from exhaust emission equipment and diagnostics to A/C service units.
KNECHT FILTER is the European filtration specialist —a renowned brand with a strong customer commitment that has been part of the MAHLE brand family for decades.
CLEVITE is one of the most tradition-steeped brands for engine components in U.S. commercial vehicle, construction, and agricultural machinery applications.
In South America, the METAL LEVE brand stands for MAHLE’s innovative and high-quality product range, as well as its outstanding service.
WWW.MAHLE-AFTERMARKET.COM
Trade Talk
AutoForum - November / December AutoForum - November / December 20182018
www.AutoForum.co.za
AA expects a fuel price drop, while SAPRA requests more industry engagement The AA has commented on unaudited mid-month fuel price data, released by the Central Energy Fund (CEF), saying that large reductions in fuel prices are being forecast for December. “After months of sustained pressure on the fuel price, fuel users will receive a substantial breather at the end of November going into December if the current fuel price trends continue. The main driver of lower prices has been an accelerating decline in international oil prices, which have trended downwards since the beginning of this month. The picture has been helped along by a modest improvement in the Rand / US dollar exchange rate.” The current data predicts a massive drop of R1.54 per litre for petrol, with diesel dropping by 92 cents and illuminating paraffin by 85 cents. However, the AA cautions that the Department of Energy recently re-introduced the use of the Slate Levy to manage price changes, and the Association cannot rule out the possibility that this may impact the final figure. “Fuel users should also bear in mind that recent oil production cuts by Saudi Arabia could result in oil supply restrictions as we move into 2019, pushing prices higher. While the current fuel price picture is the rosiest it has been for several months, caution should remain the watchword.” Just days after the AA’s media statement, the SA Petroleum Retailers Association (SAPRA) released its media statement on the fuel situation, saying that
PAGE 16
“further discussions are needed before decisions can be made on the best way forward for petrol price relief for consumers”. Vishal Premlall, Director of SAPRA, says, as a key stakeholder, it has been approached by Government for comment on the proposed publication of maximum retail prices for 93 Octane Grades and has appealed for an extension on the required date for comment. “We are concerned that the timeline allotted to give input will not enable fair and reasonable consultation with all affected stakeholders.” He adds that of significant importance, a proposal of this magnitude, coupled with current market conditions including low demand, margin under-recovery and continuing rising costs, could result in job losses. “There needs to be clarity on items such as price competition between retailers, the next steps once the proposal goes ahead, and how new entrants to the market will be affected, amongst others. We believe the only way to gain clarity will be through intensive impact analysis conducted by an independent company and input from all stakeholders.” “We strongly support Government’s attempts to lower the ever-increasing fuel price that has impacted cash-strapped consumers, businesses at large and the overall economic stability of South Africa. The attempt to bring price relief for the consumer needs to be explored in further detail. Deferring this responsibility to the retailer is, however, not going to yield the significant results needed to bring about consumer relief. Rather a full analysis of the basic fuel price needs to be explored.”
Our Drive – Your Success. The leading position of ContiTech Power Transmission Group in the original equipment market is the platform for the international automotive aftermarket.
ContiTech Africa (Pty) Ltd 0800 111 171 automotive@contitech.co.za
Ad-ContiTech-96x276mm_za.indd 1
PAGE02.06.17 17
10:29
INDUSTRY NEWS
News
PAGE 18
AutoForum - November / December 2018
R2R aims to create competitive pricing and job creation According to Gunther Schmitz, Chairman of Right to Repair South Africa (R2RSA): “Fair competition means parts and servicing prices will drop and as vehicle owners have greater choice, they will be more willing to service their vehicles regularly. There’s no doubt this will lead to increased employment and job opportunities.” The Right to Repair campaign is lobbying for just this kind of change and believes the proposed Automotive Code of Conduct is the way forward. The campaign aims to allow consumers to select where their vehicles are serviced, maintained and repaired at competitive prices in the workshop of their choice.
According to Stats SA in a document on the motor trade industry, in 2015 small and micro enterprises made up 91,4% of those employed to do maintenance and repairs. Based on figures provided by the Motor Industry Bargaining Council (MIBCO), an estimate of 245 000 people are currently employed in the aftermarket sector. “These jobs are in jeopardy.”
“It’s not workshops alone that will be effected, but engineering establishments, pump rooms, parts suppliers and fitment centres, to name a few. Dealerships too will benefit as they will have access to service a greater range of vehicles,” says Schmitz.
He adds that there is no evidence of job losses due to dealerships shutting down in countries where access to information has been granted. “There is also not one country around the world where major manufacturers have pulled out of the country because of a code of conduct such as that proposed for South Africa. Rather the competition has stimulated economic growth”.
Unfortunately, the converse is also true. “If we don’t see change soon, there is a very real threat that in a few years’ time many of these independent workshops will go out of business as they can no longer diagnose and repair new and existing models. We are already seeing this happening. Job loss will be inevitable.”
“The sustainability of the aftermarket needs to be a priority because it is a major contributor to employment in South Africa. There is also potential for growth. This will continue to be a strong motivator for the Right to Repair campaign,” he concludes.
Uniformity_210x280.pdf
R
1
E
2018/04/12
A
L
17:00
R
O
A
D
S
I
M
U
L
A
T
O
R
WORLD’S FIRST DIAGNOSTIC TYRE CHANGER Experts Choice! ANALYSES
During the usual mounting and demounting of the tyres, it analyses the geometry of the rim and the uniformity of the tyre (radial and side rigidity, and any geometric deformation) that may cause, above all, vibrations while driving.
MATCH-MOUNTING It solves any irregularity by optimising the coupling position of the rim and tyre (match-mounting), the only real solution to this problem, avoiding the pointless use of the tyre changer and wheel balancer. Uniformity is the first technology that allows match-mounting to be carried out directly on the tyre changer, transforming it into a real wheel diagnosis centre. Essential for the professional who wants to provide clients with a first-class service.
Automechanika Frankfurt 2016
The analysis performed with the innovative Presser Roller and Laser Triangulator gives precise and immediate feedback directly on the monitor.
Presser roller with variable load, for measuring radial and lateral force variation.
A REAL ROAD SIMULATOR All the basic steps to replace and check the tyre and the entire wheel are performed with just ONE piece of equipment. The wheel balancing machine is only used for the final balancing phase. TRADITIONAL
TECHNICAL DATA WHEEL SIZE RANGE Rim diameter
from 12” to 32”
Max. tyre diameter
1200 mm (47”)
Maximum tyre width Tyre types processed
15" (from the wheel supporting base) Conventional, low profile and Run Flat
MOUNTING
DIAGNOSIS
MOUNTING BALANCING DIAGNOSIS MATCH-MOUNTING
Suppliers of quality equipment to the tyre industry! Johannesburg 011 390 7160 Windhoek 00264 61 301161* Port Elizabeth 082 553 9987
Cape Town 021 949 0010 082 821 1874 Durban Bloemfontein 051 447 5804
w w w . w h e e l q u i p . c o . z a
MATCH MOUNTING
BALANCING
INDUSTRY NEWS
AutoForum - November / December 2018
Ford kicks off production at new engine assembly line The Ford Struandale Engine Plant has now officially started producing new-generation diesel engines for use in the new Ranger Raptor and selected Ranger and Everest models, which are set to launch in the first half of next year. The plant also boasts an all-new high-tech assembly line, and this production kick off means the plant has produced in excess of 3.4-million engines since it opened in 1964. “With the launch of the new diesel engines, the Struandale Engine Plant embarks on a historic new journey, as it almost doubles our combined installed capacity to 250 000 units for our two engine programmes,” says John Cameron, Plant Manager. As part of Ford’s 2017 investment of over R3-billion in its South African operations, the plant’s new assembly line has an installed capacity to produce up to 120 000 engines per year. The new engine programme starts off with low-volume production for the remainder of this year, then begins ramping up from early 2019. The new assembly line will produce a total of eight derivatives of the new engines, including the advanced 157kW / 500Nm Bi-Turbo unit. All of these engines will be supplied to Ford’s Silverton Assembly Plant in Pretoria for installation. Ford’s local vehicle production supports domestic sales, along with 148 export markets globally. The new engine assembly line incorporates a cylinder head sub-assembly line that uses four fully automated robots, to ensure the precise fitment of components, as well as highpressure leak testing. There are four more robotic stations on the main assembly line that apply the special room temperature vulcanising (RTV) silicone gaskets, with each operation
PAGE 20
monitored by integrated camera inspection systems that guarantee the highest levels of precision and quality control. Each of the 110 assembly stations along the 312-metre line incorporates extensive error-proofing and traceability, and every engine is subjected to an in-depth cold test at the end of the assembly line to verify operating parameters and pressures of all systems, without physically starting the engine. This is backed up by a hot test cell to test engine parameters when running, as well as a fully equipped dynamometer that conducts a wide range of performance and durability tests on selected engines at predetermined intervals. Continuing alongside the new programme, the existing Duratorq TDCi engine programme has seen annual installed capacity increase from 75 000 units in 2011 to a maximum capacity of up to 130 000 units from the end of 2018. This engine platform will continue to be offered in the range of vehicles produced in Silverton, as well as exported to global customers. In addition, the Struandale plant’s machining capacity for the Duratorq TDCi programme has increased from an original 220 000 component sets (cylinder head, block and crankshaft) to a peak of up to 280 000 to meet the growing demand. “Completing the launch for the new diesel engine programme, while expanding our existing machining and assembly operations without disrupting our normal production, is a great achievement and accolade for the Struandale Engine Plant team,” Cameron adds.
HIGHVELD ipment u q E e g a r a G
CC
CK 85/005300/23
Tool Specialist ment & p i u q ge E Gara r u Yo
Buy now and get 15% discount, while stocks last
6000 Plus R-134a
Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ
6000 ECO R-1234yf
Fully automatic operation with complete aircon service Integrated updatable vehicle database Automatic non-condensable gas detection Patented ECO LOCK couplers High performance vacuum pump for improved vacuum testing Special multi-pass system to improve closed circuit filtering of recovered gas 12L internal tank suitable for cars and SUVs Agricultural and Mining vehicle database (optional) Integrated printer (optional) Export saved reports to USB (optional) Nitrogen leak test kit (optional) Flushing kit (optional)
Connex Scan Tool Booster Packs
Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ
Read and erase fault codes View live data Do actuator tests Do ECU initialization Code injectors Learn remote controls Code keys Calibrate steering angle sensors Check cylinder balancing and much more...
Tyre Changers Cars & Trucks
4-Gas Analyser
Cars & Trucks
Gas Analysers
Lubrication
Diagnostics
Aircon Units
Special Tools
Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ
Measures: CO, CO2, HC, O2 5th Gas Nox can be added with optional sensor Automatic flow check with low flow warning Self replaceable external filters Automatic ambient pressure compensation (850 - 1060kPa) Warm-up time < 10 min Response time < 15 sec
General Tools
(012) 330 0540 (012) 330 0860
info@hge.co.za www.hge.co.za
42 Taaifontein Street cnr Khai-Appel Street Montana Park, Pretoria, 0182
PAGE 21
INDUSTRY NEWS
AutoForum - November / December 2018
Keeping the SA auto sector moving forward The National Association of Automobile Manufacturers of South Africa (NAAMSA), has highlighted the need for the SA automotive sector to keep up with international sectors, in order to be successful. But to be able to deliver internationally competitive products; fuel efficient, environmentally friendly vehicles; improved quality and choice; and high quality after sales service, it says, players in the sector require “optimised operations and innovative approaches”.
adds Bannerman. “If this is accomplished, productivity and business efficiency will be taken into the fast lane. The question is; how?” Bannerman shares the top three insights he believes will drive this transformation.
“To achieve this, a unique perspective must be applied to accelerate business performance,” advises Mark Bannerman, Business Unit Executive at EOH Infor Services (formerly Softworx), Infor’s Master Partner in Africa (operating as a Gold Partner).
The first insight involves establishing a firm grasp on the entire production process, from start to finish. “Only a comprehensive, easy to understand and real-time view of your entire business will ensure that every aspect of your operation is running optimally. Conversely, the view will alert management when operations are failing, allowing for fast and efficient fine-tuning without slowing down,” says Bannerman.
To remain competitive in the industry, businesses must launch new products faster with fewer recalls and lower warranty expenses. They must learn to collaborate better with customers and suppliers and drive innovation; the aftermarket order fill rates must be increased (without additional inventory), while increasing customer satisfaction and retention. Businesses must build and assemble custom vehicles in sequence with lower costs.
The second is to make productivity a priority. “In the automotive industry, your overall business performance is inextricably linked to your productivity levels. Keeping pace with customer demand, delivery dates, stock levels and equipment requirements is a non-negotiable element to business success,” he adds.
“Driving growth requires drawing more output from existing production assets, without investing more money. With constant and demanding market changes, the automotive industry must employ unprecedented flexibility in all aspects of operation,”
PAGE 22
Bannerman concludes with his third insight, which is to manage assets effectively. “Managing, monitoring and maintaining assets serve as vital components to overall success.”
Apprenticeship programmes powering auto aftermarket sector In late 2016, MIWA and Bidvest McCarthy joined forces to find the best training solutions to assist the SA independent aftermarket. A year later in 2017, 31 companies and 91 apprentices had applied for funding - of which 22 apprentice grants were awarded. To date, 16 apprentices are currently in training on the full fouryear apprenticeship programme, with a further 18 apprentices having recently received their grant awards. The latter will start their four-year apprenticeship programme in January 2019. “There are also five Artisan Recognition of Prior Learning grants that have been awarded,” says Ilze Botha, Group Training Manager, Bidvest McCarthy. Botha explains that the Bidvest Automotive Artisans Academy has been assisting MIWA member companies with discretionary grant applications. “In most instances we have been appointed as the Skills Development Facilitator (SDF) for the company. In this capacity, we assist the company with all the administration to apply for the grants. We also assisted one company, Bogner Motors, through a ‘train the trainer’ process, so they were able to submit the documents on their own. This is the longer-term approach for the other companies to get them trained to submit their own grant applications in the future. Where companies already had an appointed SDF, they managed the grant application process on their own.”
Dewald Ranft, MIWA director, says the aim of this initiative was to address the artisan skills shortage in the country. “It takes four years to train an apprentice so this really is a long-term plan and we are pleased with the progress made this far.” For many years the industry depended on the larger dealer bodies to train and qualify artisans, but this has proved to no longer be sustainable. Less people are entering the industry and at the top end, qualified artisans are recruited by companies abroad. “Currently there are also many people who have been working in the industry for years without a formal trade certificate. Our aim is to make formal training the norm, so we can improve the industry’s credibility and promote it as a professional career, which in turn will attract youngsters to the industry,” says Ranft. “If we really want to be successful in addressing the skills deficit in SA, all stakeholders in the industry need to participate and create opportunities for youngsters who are passionate about the industry and need to be trained formally,” concludes Botha.
HIGHVELD ipment Garage Equ
CC
CK 85/005300/23
Equip rage a G r You
(012) 330 0540 (012) 330 0860 info@hge.co.za www.hge.co.za
Tool Specialist ment &
42 Taaifontein Street cnr Khai-Appel Street Montana Park Pretoria 0182
2-Post Lift Clear Floor
Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ
220V 2KW motor Lifting capacity: 4 Ton Lifting height: 1815/2044mm Overall height: 3621/3821mm Overall width: 3428mm Drive-Thru clearance: 2528mm Minimum pad height: 90mm Single-point safety release Overhead safety stop prevents vehicle damage CE rated
Buy now and get 15% discount, while stocks last MOTO-MAC PAGE 23
INDUSTRY NEWS
AutoForum - November / December 2018
Bosch Service Convention 2018 roadshow off to a flying start The Protea Hotel at OR Tambo hosted the beginning of the countrywide roadshows, for the 2018 Bosch Service Convention on 10 November. Dereck Knight, Territory Sales Manager and Workshop Test Equipment Sales Manager started off proceedings by welcoming and advising all the delegates of the agenda of topics and speakers for the day. Regional Sales Director, Grant Palliser presented first on the subject of Bosch megatrends and drivers, in which the four business sectors within the Bosch group were explained, along with a selection of facts and stats attached to the group as well as the Bosch Mobility Solutions business sector. Interesting to note was the group’s 2017 stats with sales of 78,1 Billion Euros and a global staffing of more than 402 000 employees, whilst the mobility solutions business sector accounted for 47,4 Billion Euros of the sales and 232 000 employees. Palliser went on to present the trends in connected mobility, automated mobility, electrified mobility and digitalisation, touching on connected workshops, maps technology, autonomous driving, electric vehicles, hybrid batteries and Bosch augmented reality, as well as active schematic systems. He summarised his presentation with the following points • Connected vehicles provide the opportunity for new maintenance, repair and workshop services.
PAGE 24
• Electrified vehicles will probably not reach significant shares before 2030. • Autonomous vehicles will probably not reach a significant share before 2040 • The increasing complexity of the modern vehicle will be the future challenge for workshops & distribution. Vinay Ramjattan, Workshop Concept and Warranty Manager followed Palliser with an overview of the Workshop Concept with 143 Bosch Car Service, Diesel Centre and Diesel Service outlets countrywide. Vinay addressed the objectives and obligations of the Bosch Service Marketing Forum (BSMF) as well as current and potential new current deal partners. He also elaborated on the Express Bosch Car Service brand. Dereck Knight returned to the podium on the subject of product marketing, talking specifically about “gasoline systems & ignition” and highlighting the Bosch products within these systems. Knight focused on the innovation in the modern component with greater capacity and longevity, he then expanded into the Bosch eXtra rewards programme for workshops, which is being re-branded “eXtra”.
Sven Jurgensen continued the marketing presentation, with an overview of 2018/2019 marketing objectives and spend - in particular, the response to the various social media and digital platforms. After a short comfort break it was the turn of the aligned partners and suppliers to address the delegates, with the RMI presentation followed by one on Right to Repair by Les McMaster. These brief presentations preceeded the motivational speaker Stef du Plessis, who as an aside regularly speaks to the McLaren group and gave us interesting tidbits with regards to cleaning of the static show cars and hedge heights within that organisation. He also managed to captivate his audience and provide a banquet of food for thought.
“Bosch Car Service of the Year 2017” • Winner - Auto Expedi8, • Runner up - Piet Retief Auto Clinic “Bosch Car Service/ Diesel Service/ Center of the Year 2017 • Winner - “Diesellec • Runner up - Amtec. “Bosch Diesel Service of the Year 2017” • Winner - Reef Fuel Injection Services (Pty) Ltd, • Runner up - Specialised Fuel Injection. The awards were presented by a combination of Bosch Market Forum Chairman - Carlos Du Plessis, Grant Palliser and Vinay Ramjattan as a finale to the day’s convention.
Lunch was followed by further brief presentations by Innovation Group, Eqstra, Renew my Car and Discovery, before launching into the Bosch Service awards. The Bosch Service Awards have a strict eligibility criteria measured against the following: • Highest % overachievement to set budget • Training achievement – total number of courses attended • Total customer complaints • Account status • Latest SQA & SQT results The winners were announced in the following categories:
PAGE 25
INDUSTRY NEWS
AutoForum - November / December 2018
Kickstarting opportunities
SAB KickStart, a long running and successful youth development programmes, started in 1995, and is now aimed at creating meaningful jobs in South Africa by growing sustainable youth-owned businesses. To date, SAB KickStart, targeted at youth between the
introducing female auto-electricians into the business.
ages of 18 and 35, has upskilled more than 25 000
Long term, Gabisile would like to be recognised as a
entrepreneurs and empowered over 3 500 youth-owned
leading auto electrical solutions company in her region
businesses in South Africa.
as well as to open three departments – repairs, spares and remanufacturing – and employ four people per
One of these businesses that the programme identified as
department.
a finalist, is owned by Gabisile Octavia Mashilwana. Mashilwana established Excserpro in 2015, an auto
As a SAB KickStart Boost finalist, Gabisile wants to take
electrical solutions business that also provides
what she has learnt from the programme and gear her
remanufacturing services. Offering a wide range of auto
business up to be a supplier and market ready. She would
electrical services, the business covers repairs to stators
like market access into bigger corporates and assistance
and alternators, vehicle and machine wiring, winding of
in obtaining compliance within the motor industry.
stators, rotors and armatures, vehicle diagnosis and the supply of auto electrical parts/spares.
“ I love my business and I love what I do – I also I love that I am a woman in a male dominated industry. This coupled
What sets Excserpro apart from its competitors, is that
with the love for my children, means my drive comes
it remanufactures parts instead of just replacing them.
naturally.” She adds: “Never give up and in business,
At the same time, it acts as a ‘one-stop-shop supplying
you need to be patient. It is not easy - if it was, everyone
spare parts to save customers time.
would be doing it.
Excserpro boasts a Level 1 B-BBEE status and is a
In 2015, I was unemployed and battling to find work so
60% woman-owned business. Mashilwana currently
I became an entrepreneur and essentially, employed
employs three people and plans to employ up to nine
myself. I started my business in a male dominated
by 2023. Other goals include aims to employ a qualified
industry, which could have been intimidating but it actually
auto-electrician, which follows into her next goal of
isn’t – if anything, it motivates me more to succeed.”
PAGE 26
GM closures cause US auto sector turmoil The 20th of November saw the General Motors board of directors approve a large scale cost-cutting initiative, which will see the closure of 5 plants across North America. The targeted plants include two assembly, and two propulsion plants in the US, as well as an assembly plant in Canada, which are expected to close by the end of 2019 and will see an estimated 14,000 hourly and salaried jobs affected. The company unveiled its plan 6 days later and was, unsurprisingly, met with anger from numerous of the affected workers. Especially in light of its comment that it will continue to fill positions related to electric and autonomous vehicle technology. GM says it will close Detroit-Hamtramck, Lordstown in Ohio and Oshawa in Ontario by the end of 2019. It added that the plants produce vehicles that have lost “favour” with consumers, including the Chevrolet Volt, Cruze and Impala, the Buick LaCrosse and Cadillac XTS. According to the Detroit Free Press: “In addition to the production cuts, GM said it will reduce its North American white-collar workforce by about 8,000. The deadline passed on Nov. 19 for a voluntary buyout for those workers. GM said 2,250 employees have asked to take the offer. That means as many as 5,750 workers could be cut if the company keeps to its announced total. The cuts are expected in mid-January.” The plan tis expected to see the automaker save $6 billion by the end of 2020.
during the upcoming G20 summit.” It adds a caution too. “A 25 percent tariff would raise the price of a car by as much as $7,000. Annual sales would fall by 2 million and dealers would shed 117,500 jobs. In total, 700,000 American jobs stand to be lost and customers would see a $73 billion tax increase.” So not quite as simple as it might seem in the tweet. And the impact of Trump’s words are already being felt across the globe. According to Reuters: “European auto stocks extended losses on Tuesday after a German magazine reported that US President Donald Trump could impose tariffs on imported cars from next week.” The White House however, reportedly pledged not to move forward with imposing tariffs on the European Union or Japan - as long as it is making constructive progress in trade talks. Forbes magazine highlighted some of the resulting impacts the closures will have on the auto sector: “This (the closures) coupled with Ford’s recent restructuring announcement is creating some uncertainty in the future of the automotive tool and die industry.”
Just days later US President Donald Trump suggested the addition of a 25% tariff on imported cars, while simultaneously ordering a review of China’s retaliatory auto tariffs against the country. A move Bloomberg describes as the “administration continuing to scramble to respond” to GM’s plant closure announcement.
In an online article at the end of November, Forbes added: “The Asian automakers are not isolated from the turmoil. Honda, Toyota, Nissan and Hyundai have bet heavily on the small car and sedan markets and today’s consumers are increasingly opting for SUVs and CUVs, which is causing Asian automaker stock prices to fall short.
Trump used social media to get his opinion tot he public, tweeting that a longstanding US tariff on imported pickup trucks (bakkies) that he says has helped US-based automakers dominate that market. “He argued that a similar import tax on cars would have prevented GM’s move to close plants in the US.”
And, with the potential of further tax implications to the industry based on the results of the Section 232 Investigation of Autos and Auto Parts, companies throughout the supply chain are struggling to identify and implement a long-term business strategy.”
Trump tweeted: “The reason that the small truck business in the US is such a go to favorite is that, for many years, Tariffs of 25% have been put on small trucks coming into our country. It is called the ‘chicken tax.’ If we did that with cars coming in, many more cars would be built here and GM would not be closing their plants in Ohio, Michigan & Maryland. Get smart Congress. Also, the countries that send us cars have taken advantage of the US for decades. The President has great power on this issue - Because of the GM event, it is being studied now!”
If and how this could impact the SA market remains to be seen. Watch this space for updates.
The American International Automotive Dealers Association highlights: “All of this ire is building ahead of President Trump’s trade meetings with Japanese, German, and Chinese leaders
PAGE 27
INDUSTRY NEWS
AutoForum - November / December 2018
Oems lose ground to third parties on vehicle technology - Brian Albright
Consumers in the United States have had a mixed response to new in-vehicle technologies, according to J.D. Power’s 2018 U.S. Tech Experience Index (TXI) Study, which was released earlier this year. Smartphone mirroring, for example, has been quickly adopted by vehicle owners, and both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto have become what the research firm calls “must have” for many consumers. Both have experienced fast market share increases compared to a few other technologies like integrated OEM navigation systems. “This rapid adoption of smartphone mirroring is the unavoidable outcome of consumers thinking that automakers are being outperformed by smartphone software providers in certain areas,” says Kristin Kolodge, Executive Director of Driver Interaction & HMI Research at J.D. Power. “Most consumers consider phone systems better for navigation and voice recognition—and they’re free. ‘Better and free’ are hard to compete with, so automakers will inevitably have to cede this territory and will be much better served by focusing on areas where they are the exclusive provider — like driver assistance and collision avoidance — and continue to hone those systems.” The TXI Study is based on a survey of nearly 20,000 vehicle owners and lessees in the US. J.D. Power reports that overall satisfaction with new-vehicle technology among owners of luxury vehicles averages 766, while satisfaction among owners of mass market vehicles is 765, representing doubledigit improvements compared to 2017.
PAGE 28
According to the study, 19 percent of new-vehicle owners who have factory-installed navigation don’t use it and, of these, 70 percent use another device instead (mostly smartphones). Other integrated OEM systems have been adopted at widely varying levels. The number of drivers who say they use their lane-keeping/centering system “every time they drive” ranges from 46 percent to 67 percent, depending on the brand. Adaptive cruise control had a range of 16 percent to 42 percent. OEMs are also walking a fine line when it comes to collision avoidance and other automated systems that are considered stepping stones to self-driving vehicles. According to the study, owners may find the systems more bothersome than beneficial. “One element that we see as helping to increase adoption are those systems that create a good balance of consumer trust and usefulness,” Kolodge says. “They can’t be annoying or act strangely. Those are the technologies that perform well and where we see high consumer usage rates. Lane-keeping/centering systems had the highest frequency of owners saying their system is “annoying or bothersome” at 23 percent.
Story published with the permission of Auto Body Repairers Network
However, those that are using those safety systems have found them to mostly be effective. “We asked which consumers had actually avoided a crash in the first 90 days of ownership, and the figure was 56 percent,” Kolodge says. “That’s an extremely high rate for three months of ownerships, and really propels the value proposition.” Apple CarPlay appears to be beating Android Auto in the smartphone mirroring space, with Apple users reporting a higher satisfaction rate (777 compared to 748 on a 1,000-point scale). Google is still winning when it comes to navigation however, with 56 percent of respondents using Google Maps most often, and another 16 percent utilizing Google’s Waze subsidiary. iPhone users are also more likely to use Google Maps. “Today’s experience with a technology drives tomorrow’s desire,” Kolodge says. “Consumers are challenging the level of usefulness that some automotive technology provides, including whether it’s needed at all. For example, although automakers’ built-in navigation systems are appreciated for image quality, owners often prefer using smartphone-based navigation because they consider it more accurate.” If an OEM solution provides inaccurate results or glitchy performance, drivers are likely to look elsewhere. “They need to turn to another device to complete the task,” Kolodge says.
J.D. Power also found that OEMs may also lose ground in music and audio systems that are based on smartphone technology. Kolodge says that OEMs could improve satisfaction with some of their systems by setting the right expectations of what the systems can do. “There are some collision avoidance systems that provide active steering and keep you between lanes, while others just provide a warning,” she says. “Drivers need a baseline understanding of what the technology does. Some of the driver comments indicated they felt like a ping pong ball between the lanes because of the way the system was performing. Others are startled when a system isn’t tracking a curve, and it bails without warning.” High satisfaction with in-vehicle technology can improve overall customer satisfaction. Of the 23 percent of owners who were “highly satisfied” with the tech in their vehicles, nearly all of them (94 percent) indicated they would recommend their vehicle to others. “Automakers need to be very clear where they can win— areas in which there’s no alternative—and where they may have to accept defeat, such as navigation and voice recognition,” Kolodge says. “The smart option in some areas may be to offer the best integration, not the least bad alternative.”
PAGE 29
INDUSTRY NEWS
AutoForum - November / December 2018
Hollard Highway Heroes 2018 Stephen Meje has been named the overall winner of the 2018 edition of Hollard Highway Heroes, the competition that sees truck drivers pit their skills against each other. Meje – who drives for Pretoria-based Faith Wheels – takes
He added that not only had Meje’s participation in
home the grand prize of R100 000 in cash and prizes,
Highway Heroes inspired Faith Wheels’ 64 other drivers to
having pipped over 1 600 competitors to the title of
drive better, the company itself had been inspired by the
Hollard Highway Hero. This is almost twice the 2017 entry
experience. It is doubling its annual driver’s prize to R10
pool of 890, and more than seven times the 220 entrants
000, and is planning to institute a monthly prize for drivers
in the first competition, in 2015.
in 2019. “It’s definitely a win-win,” Fourie said of the value of Hollard Highway Heroes.
Speaking at the winner function in Hyde Park, Johannesburg, a beaming Meje said that his victory would
While in previous years there has only been one winner,
change his family’s life. “I’m overwhelmed … I’m very
the format of this year’s competition changed to allow for
happy,” he said. “The prize means a lot to me, to change
a fairer playing field and more winners. “We wanted to
my life – to change my family’s life. I’ve never had such
give all types of truck driver the opportunity to win big.
money.”
And because we believe that all truck drivers – especially those who drive well – are heroes, we also wanted
Mark Fourie, director of Faith Wheels, was full of praise
to spread the love,” says Paul Dangerfield, head of
for Meje, and the way he had approached the Highway
operations for Hollard Trucking, who manages the event.
Heroes competition. “This thing motivated him from the very beginning. Every week he’d come and ask what his
“So we created four categories for the competition,
score was.”
including tippers, tankers, flatbeds and tautliners; each had four sub-categories: long haul, short haul, crossborder and route-specific.
PAGE 30
Other than the overall winner, the winners of each
Dangerfield concludes: “We have recognised only a few
category have received a very respectable R25 000 in
among thousands of Highway Heroes today. We would
cash and prizes. The rest of the top 30 have received
like the public to help us recognise the many – the people
prizes ranging in value from R2 500 and R1 000, and even
who transport virtually every commodity we use to the
the employers of the top four get in on the action – they
places where we want them. They are critical to every one
are awarded R5 000 each towards a celebratory braai for
of us, and our economy, and they work hard and make
all of their drivers.”
personal sacrifices for our sakes”.
Meje is the winner of the tankers category. The other
“So the next time you encounter a truck on the highway
category winners are as follows:
and you’re forced to slow down briefly, rather than be
•Tautliners: Martin Langeveldt, SSV
impatient, give the driver a smile and a wave. That person
•Flatdecks: Ntsako Mkansi, Digistics
is a hero, after all, and it costs nothing to make their day –
•Tippers: Lucas Naudé, Grain Carriers
and yours.”
PAGE 31
PROFILE
AutoForum - November / December 2018
Who are Chris Kambouris and TurboDirect SA? TurboDirect SA is the leading and most experienced turbo operator in Southern Africa, created and headed up by founder and MD Chris Kambouris, a qualified electronics engineer, with over 20 years in the industry and recognised as an industry expert and guru. Chris is regularly called upon for technical advice and forensic testing of turbo’s in his labs, by industry, corporate customers and private vehicle owners. The company began in the early 1990’s as an automotive performance-based company, Chris Kambouris qualified as an electronic engineer also worked in the IT industry and started importing turbocharger components and manufacturing performance-based turbochargers for racing applications on a small scale, with products to support the local racing industry. Customer requirements soon created expansion into other sectors, including OE in all passenger vehicles, commercial vehicles, mining, trucks, marine, construction and agricultural markets, as well as many other applications. Chris went on to grow and build the business, its brands, products and his investment in state-of the-art innovative machinery and equipment. In 2009 TurboDirect SA imported the countries first Dual VSR high speed testing and balancing rig. A year later CNC milling equipment to manufacture of their own stainless-steel turbine housings, an industry first and the only company offering this service in Africa today. Kambouris also invested in the highest level of Honeywell Garrett turbocharger training available, by Garrett at the Honeywell training and manufacturing centre in Cheadle, UK. No other distributor in Africa has attended and passed this level of training to date. In the growth process TDSA opened their branch in Mauritius and soon expanded into Madagascar and is always on the lookout for new branches, distributors and agents both locally and in our neighbouring territories. Early in 2013, TDSA imported the first VNT Flow bench and calibration equipment in Africa. Currently the only company with the ability to use flow data to measure turbocharger
PAGE 32
performance in order to build compressor maps for its own in-house designed compressor wheels. Since then TDSA have achieved the following: • 2015 - acquired another new 5Axis CNC marching centre for the manufacture and export of Billet compressor wheels abroad. • 2016 - developed a flame proof product for hazardous environments and received their certificate of registration with SAFA (South African flame proof association) • 2017 - purchases a new CNC lathe for the manufacture of the newly designed and updated stainless steel racing turbine housings. Signed an agreement to manufacture Billet compress or wheels for an OEM mining machinery manufacturer and has begun rolling out these units into 4200 machines internationally. • Chris also founded the TRO - Turbocharger Remanufacturers Organisation and is the current chairman • TRO carries out training for most of the industries turbocharger repairers/specialists. Member companies enjoy benefits in pricing on product as well as the full backing from the TRO members in terms of technical, forensic and product support queries. • 2017 - TDSA setup the only Turbocharger training academy in South Africa - offering the official Honeywell training syllabus with certification. • 2018 – although TDSA has always sold and marketed the Borg Warner brand under agreement, they were officially appointed the Borg Warner Master Distributor for South Africa and shortly after this appointed as the Tier1 Borg Warner EFR Distributor for South Africa.
Today 20 years later TurboDirect S.A is active in all turbocharger market sectors providing complete turbochargers and all related repair components, in addition to carrying out the repairs to manufacturer specifications and standards, on all makes and models of turbochargers. “Our company offers a lot more just than selling the correct Turbocharger, we also offer a full test report on Turbo’s and will give you a full run down of the problem you are having, its causes and effects on related components, plus we are also able to correct the problem, and advise customers as to whether it can be repaired or would have to be replaced,” said Kambouris. Currently they are South Africa’s largest performance product importer, manufacturer and official agents and “Master Distributers” representing all the leading international OEM brands such as, Garrett by Honeywell, Borg Warner, MSD, ARP, NOS, ACE Clutches, Simpson Race Products, to complement their own in-house range of intercoolers, Billet compressor wheels, and hand-built custom-made Hybrid turbochargers using both Garrett and TurboDirect components. They also recently announced the new addition of imported genuine Holset, IHI and Mitsubishi turbochargers, and are now offering the widest range of turbochargers under one roof on the African Continent. Within the industry, trade, and private vehicle owners very few are aware that the TurboDirect SA brands are OE and account for almost 90% of the turbo’s fitted on all turbo powered vehicles and equipment in the world. For example, the very same identical turbo unit fitted to your vehicle originally in manufacture, is one of their brands. At the same time it is not commonly known that this identical unit can be bought as a
replacement and fitted at very affordable price from up to 50% less from their company. The huge advantage across the board is that one can purchase a brand new genuine turbocharger direct from South Africa’s official distributor and have them install it at prices lower than the vehicle official agents. The company and its employees have a proven record of accomplishment in the turbocharger and related products sector, with international OEM brands for all the manufacturers models plus a wide range of products designed and manufactured by TurboDirect SA powering the fastest cars and motorcycles in Africa. TDSA also cater for and service the marine, commercial & transport, construction and earthmoving sectors. “TurboDirect S.A are the official technical face for original OE turbochargers on all vehicles, whether it be passenger or commercial vehicle, genset, mining, agricultural or a race application, we service, supply and fit the very same Turbo’s that are currently in your vehicle,” said Kambouris. “We have also launched an industry first, a wholly owned specialised, in-house turbocharger fitment centre, now you can purchase your brand-new genuine brand turbocharger direct from South Africa’s official distributor and have us install the turbocharger for you at prices lower than the vehicle agents.” Chris is committed to the industry and has a unique open-door policy to all his customers.
PAGE 33
AutoForum - November / December 2018
INDUSTRY NEWS
MIAZ congress 2018 – opportunities of change The Motor Industry of Zimbabwe held their annual congress for 2018 in Vic Falls at the end of November with members from around the country flying in on a chartered flight, to attend three days of presentations. The latter were designed to allow members to make informed decisions, and to push the organisation’s quest to make “doing business” in Zimbabwe, easier. Delegates arrived in the town, which surrounds one of the
Matabeleland North Province, who welcomed everyone to
seven natural wonders of the world, to work and within
his province and wished delegates a successful congress.
two hours of landing, were ensconced in the convention
The Minister of Industry & Commerce, Hon. Nqobizitha M
room and being welcomed to the opening of congress by
Ndlovu (M.P.) officially opened the congress and raised
MIAZ President, Simplisio Shamba.
expectations for the future of the local motor industry, with the country’s government commitment to the sector, and
As facilitator on the first day, Shamba acknowledged
some of his ministry’s budget proposals to be submitted
the visiting dignitaries and invited guests, amongst
in the next quarter. Mininster Ndlovu presented his
whom were a delegation of South African motor industry
overview of the Motor Industry Sector, which included
representatives. He started proceedings by introducing
Zimbabwe’s Motor Industry Development Policy (MIDP)
the Honourable R Moyo, Minister of State for the
PAGE 34
Main image - The 2019 convention delegates. Inset - MIAZ President Mr. Simplisio Shamba opening the congress.
2018 – 2030, launched in June this year, to guide and direct the growth of the sector. In its implementation he focused on the development of the industry value chain and cluster, mobilising financial assistance to stimulate demand, procurement of vehicles from local assemblers, franchise arrangements and recapitalising the sector through investor encouragement . He said the programmes must be private sector led. “In terms of special economic zones (SEZ’s), on application and approval, investors will be allowed to establish in SEZ’s ... they will enjoy all the benefits afforded companies established in these SEZ’s such as: • 0% corporate tax in the first 5 years and 15% thereafter. • Free importation of capital equipment and inputs. • 0% capital gains tax. • Exemption from non-residents tax on dividends, fees and royalties. • 100% ownership of companies.”
Clockwise from top: Minister of State Matabeleland North Province Hon. R Moyo, Hon. NM Ndlovu Minister of Trade & Commerce.
37
OK
PAGE 35
INDUSTRY NEWS
AutoForum - November / December 2018
Government is working on appropriate incentives to
Next at the podium was the Economic Regulation
encourage exports,” he said.
Manager from the Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority (ZERA), Learnmore Nechitoro who addressed the
Ndlovu went on to say: “the new government is positive
challenges of the electric power sector in Zimbabwe.
towards business and has a willingness to restore a
Nechitoro outlined the relevant laws, the sector structure,
normal relationship with the international community,
generation; transmission & distribution constraints, as
showing respect for investor concerns by the removal
well as the performance of Kariba and IPP participation
of investment pediments like the indigenisation and
and requirements. He discussed the revenue collection
economic empowerment regulations, as well as the
challenges, saying the utility owed in excess of $1 Billion.
establishment of the One Stop Investment Centre (ZIDA).”
In his conclusion he stated the country had enough resources to supply itself and export to the region, saying
The minister highlighted his 2019 budget proposals for the
the low cost of hydro and solar power will act as catalysts
motor industry, which included:
in the reduction of overall electricity costs.
• Tax incentives for the creation of new jobs • Customs duty, import VAT and surtax on imported
At the onset of her Post Budget 2019 Analysis
motor vehicles payable in foreign currency, with effect
presentation, Christina Muzerengi of Grant Thornton
from 23 November 2018 (this excludes commercial
and Associates jovially reiterated that she was “only the
vehicles).
messenger” regarding her detailed summary and analysis
The measure is envisaged to reduce imports of second
of the 2019 Zimbabwean Budget proposal.
hand cars which compete with new vehicles on the market.
As part of her analysis, Christina mentioned that the 2019 National Budget constituted the first macro-fiscal
He concluded saying:“It is my earnest hope that the motor
financial framework for implementing the Transitional
industry and government, working together, can turn the
Stabilisation Programme (TSP), which is an initial stepping
economy around. We need to look seriously at our core
stone towards realising Vision 2030. This is designed to
commitments, each co-operating partner should play their
guide not only the fiscal, but also the monetary and other
part and together we can revitalize the motor industry. We
economic policies during its subsistence.
hope to create an export orientated industry, with strong global and regional alliance to ensure globally competitive
Word from the President of Zimbabwe has been very clear
quality and optimal capacity utilisation. The motor industry
“that there is no alternative to a strong, sustainable and
must be co-ordinated and well positioned to ensure value
shared growth except through expenditure cuts” and the
addition and job creation, capitalising on improved market
budget is testimony to that. A shortage of forex remains
access with, amongst things an affordable vehicle.”
a contentious issue in Zimbabwe, whereby it is illegal to trade in forex, however it is required that all taxes must be
He urged delegates to look beyond the current economic
paid in forex and not
challenges. With those statements Minister Ndlovu
bond notes.
officially opened the 2018 MIAZ congress.
PAGE 36
Of concern to the overall economy in Zimbabwe is that in less than a year government had borrowed $4billion, which saw the domestic debt doubling to the current levels of $9.5billion. Wages are a major driver of government expenditures (around 90% of revenues), with 40% being allowances for senior government officials. Certain revenue enhancing measures in the 2019 budget include, excise duty which will go up by 7 cents per litre on diesel and paraffin and 6.5 cents on petrol. A “money transfer tax” will be introduced, which is calculated at the rate of US$0.02 on every dollar transacted for each transaction. Road traffic offenses will be moved from the Standard Scale of Fines with a maximum monetary value of $30 to levels 8 to 10, which attract a maximum fine of US$700 and imprisonment for a period not exceeding 12 months, with effect from January 1, 2019. In conclusion, Christina mentioned that big “take home” from the 2019 budget is that the “USD is equal to bond note, but the bond note is not equal to USD”. Buying or selling forex attracts a 10 year jail sentence, but paying duty in forex is permissible, no questions asked and finally, whilst it is the government that is undertaking the austerity measures, the impact cascades to all citizens. A reduction in government spending implies projects and programmes, which were benefiting society are stopped, while an increase in taxes naturally reduces incomes.
Opposite page insert: Mr Learnmore Nechitoro, Top inset: Christina Muzerengi, Main pic: MIAZ president welsomes the SA delgation
PAGE 37
AutoForum - November / December 2018
INDUSTRY NEWS On these sobering notes, delegates retired for dinner and
Autoforum can provide the full details of this presentation
to prepare for the next day’s sessions.
on application and it will be covered in the Jan/Feb 2019 issue.
Past President of MIAZ, Ian Teasdale was first up on the second day of congress, giving an insight into the
The medium and long-term prospects of the SA
automotive industry in Zimbabwe. Teasdale’s review of
Automotive Industry were presented by Louis Bles,
the history of local assembly in the industry - from the pre
industry consultant to Autoforum, based on data supplied
UDI beginnings of Zimbabwe’s auto industry to the current
by Naamsa, Naacam, RMI and the AIEC.
scenario - provided an enlightening perspective on the industry as a whole. He concluded with the thought that
Bles provided interesting analogy’s between the two
Zimbabwe should be seriously considering bus assembly
countries’ auto industries and detailed the programmes in
and motor cycles as potential growth points for the
place in SA that help to both protect and grow our local
industry In his opinion.
industry, whilst identifying growth areas and targets within the region and internationally.
These thoughts dovetailed nicely with the presentation
After a refreshment break, Autoforum’s publisher
by His Excellency R. Masakui, the Ambassador of India.
presented a combined paper on the importance of SA’s
The ambassador unpacked India’s Automotive Industry
export markets to sustainable growth in our industry.
(Automotive Mission Plan) AMP 2026, which envisages that the Indian Automotive Industry grow 3.5 – 4 times in
Thanks to the kind assistance of Dr. Norman Lamprecht
value to approximately US$ 280 Billion by 2026, based on
from AIEC, the presenter was able to incorporate detailed
a base case with average GDP growth of 5,8% during the
data on the official export statistics relating to both
period.
the region and Zimbabwe in particular. Delegates were urged to think laterally in terms of market potential and look to their neighbours for growth in the industry. All the delegates received copies of both the AIEC Export manual in hard and soft copy, as well as the Sept/Oct issue of Autoforum. Automechanika Jhb Show Director, Tracy Gounden presented the stats from the 2017 show and highlighted some of the compelling reasons for attending the 2019 exhibition, which included skills development zones, experiential areas, interactive workshops, activation zones and increased sector representation.
PAGE 38
Clockwise form top left: Ian Teasdale former President of MIAZ; Louis Bles, R Masakui, Ambassador of India
Gounden expanded on the African Road Show schedule
An unscheduled brief by Raymond Manyika from the
to seven countries, confirming Zimbabwe’s dates as the
Motor Industry Pension Fund reminded members of the
18th and 19th June 2019.
mortgage scheme available to members, which had been
With a depiction of the 2019 show layout, she enticed a
facilitated by the pension fund with the banks. Manyika
number of the delegates to attend next year’s show.
detailed the success of the scheme and urged members to utilise this facility when looking to purchase their
Lunch was followed by Dr. John Pedzapasi, Director in
houses.
the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructural Development, responding to specific questions from the association and
Raymond was followed by Dr. Nathan Chikono, General
its members, a number of which focused on the state of
Manager of Econet Insurance, who discussed challenges
the national and local roads in Zimbabwe and provisions
faced by the insurance companies with the difficulties
for their rehabilitation.
encountered in sourcing replacement parts and panels, and with the current restrictions in terms of available foreign currency. He said the scarcity of replacement parts was forcing some panel beaters to source used parts in order to keep vehicles on the road. Insurance companies
were forced to write off some vehicles due to the cost of Pedzapasi announced that $200 million had been set
sourcing new aftermarket parts and panels, which often
aside for this and that the 2019 budget made allowance
totalled more than the insured value. Autoforum raised the
for the continuation of these projects.
question of safety critical parts and their fitment – used parts being fitted opens up question of legal recourse in
He said that the Beit Bridge – Harare – Chirundu
the event of an accident or fatality. Chikono responded
highway rehabilitation would likely be an internal project,
that the insurance companies would probably look at
undertaken by the ministry.
used body panels only.
Clockwise form top left: Tracy Gounden, Dr Nathan Chikono of Econet Insurance, Dr John Pedzapasi, Ronand Bescoe MD of Total Zimbabwe.
PAGE 39
INDUSTRY NEWS
AutoForum - November / December 2018 of goodwill or business value and transformation in the sector. Mbatha described the differences between high
Focus was then directed to the Petroleum Industry with
and low-density sites, equating the local stations of Mbare
Ronand Bescoe, MD Total Zimbabwe, addressing the
and Borrowdale and concluded that fuel retailers will need
major challenges in this sector. In terms of supply, the
to join forces for a better margin.
oil companies facing hard currency shortages added to limited credit facilities, have led to the current situation
The final day of congress facilitated by MIAZ immediate
with no buffer in the system, which is causing panic
past president, Luckson Gwara, opened with a master
buying and in turn forcing an increase in the market price.
class presentation on the auto technician’s toolbox in the
The fluctuating ethanol blending ratio in conjunction with
21st century from Wayne McLean of Highveld Garage
challenging logistics and additional costs, combined with
Equipment, based in Pretoria. McLean focused on modern
an increase in licensed fuel importers (40 in 2016 to 57
technology and the equipment and training required to
in 2017) are some of the factors affecting the suppliers.
cope with it. He explained to the delegates how a lot of
Bescoe commented on the commercial challenges facing
the equipment should not only be charged out on the flat
the sector, saying: “This is a capital intensive industry.
rates based on time, which modern equipment reduces
Maintenance costs are not sustainable with high inflation
through efficiency, but also the expertise required in
and the requirement to import spare parts. There is a need
analysis, which could increase the profitability of the shop.
to review the wholesale and dealer margins. Dealers are currently trying to operate on a margin of 6 cents/litre. “
Delegates were then introduced to Andre Froneman of Hurricane Equipment, who captured their attention with some of the emerging technologies in collision repair. Froneman’s presentation resulted in his being asked to provide demonstrations on plastic repair and quick dent repair, after the official close of the congress, using some of the equipment he brought to the congress. Froneman was inundated with requests to purchase this equipment, but due to the import restrictions imposed by customs, he had to unfortunately decline these offers with a promise to provide quotes to the interested parties. The collision repair theme continued with an enlightening presentation on auto refinish technologies and trends, from Paul Rathbone of BASF Coatings Services. He covered the various solvent and water-borne paint technologies and continued into Basf’s Reflow technology
On the regulatory front, there has been an increase of
in their clear coats and UV curing. Rathbone introduced
licensed retail sites from 229 in 2012 to 540 at the end
the company’s Ratio concept Plus – a professional
of 2017and a change in specifications from RON95 to
consultancy offer to increase efficiency and develop new
RON 93 are expected to drive costs higher in the current
and profitable business areas. Rathbone concluded with a
market. He reiterated his comment that the hard currency
vision of the body shop of the future.
shortage is exacerbated by increasing market price and that the same US$ brings far less molecules into the retail
The final presenter was Brains Muchemwa, MD of
pump.
Outlink Capital, who titled his presentation “Zimbabwe – Economic outlook 2019”. He raised the questions of the
Another of the South African contingent, Sbonelo
bond note and its cousins – RTGS, whether it would be
Mbatha, a multi fuel retail franchisee and co-founder of
phased out early in 2019 and if adopting the Rand is the
PetroCONNECT SA, responded with a presentation on the
best way forward? After analysing the economic data,
challenges faced by the SA Petroleum Industry. Mbatha
Muchemwa summarised by stating that Zimbabwe was
addressed the current outlook of the fuel retail sector in
officially in moderate-to high inflation territory and that
SA today and differentiated between the categories of
the country required policy consistency, and a return to
service stations. He spoke passionately on the subject
normalcy with the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe’s role in the
PAGE 40
economy critical. He said there was a growing domestic
Autoforum would like to thank MIAZ and their Executive
confidence, but said that businesses need to preserve
Director Ms Masoka for an excellent congress, with lively
balance sheets.
debate from the delegates and informative speakers.
MIAZ President, Simplisio Shamba, thanked attendees
The congress was professionally conducted and we all
and guests for contributing to another successful event,
left with an enlightened view of the motor industry in
officially closed the congress and invited delegates to
Zimbabwe.
explore the Falls, prior to an evening social diner and their departure early the next morning.
Opposite page: Sbonelo Mbatha of Petro Connect, Wayne McLean of Highveld Garage Equipment; Paul Rathbone of BASF; Andre Froneman of Hurricane Equipment; Brains Muchemwa, MD of Outlink Capital.
PAGE 41
INDUSTRY NEWS
AutoForum - November / December 2018
PUTCO safety and reliabilty improves with Netstar partnership The Public Utility Transport Corporation (Putco), says it has recorded impressive performance metrics in passenger safety, fuel management and improved driver behaviour in the past 18 months, following the implementation of a fleet management technology solution from Netstar. Altron Group Chief Executive Mteto Nyati comented: “Our partnership with Putco is part of our commitment to doing good business while doing good. Our telematics and fleet management solutions are driving societal impact in safety and security for South Africa. We are helping Putco achieve great business results but most importantly the safety of their 350 000 passengers who, on a daily basis, depend on safe, affordable and reliable public transport services.” The partnership, he says, has resulted in positive trends, from fuel consumption to revenue collection, while simultaneously increasing safety with camera monitoring, real-time vehicle tracking and managed maintenance. This turnaround in South Africa’s largest bus operator is facilitated by Netstar’s Fleet Solution for Buses & Coaches that Putco implemented in 2017. “The impact of the Netstar solution on our business is one of continuous improvement,” says Jack Sekwaila, head of MCC at Putco. “Our service has become more reliable and predictable simply because shifts start on time as drivers
PAGE 42
no longer spend hours in our massive depots searching for a specific bus – we know where every bus is, every minute of the day. Theft of diesel and batteries has reduced significantly, and stolen buses no longer disappear across our northern borders; instead Netstar retrieves them within an hour. Integrated, automated systems have cut down on data processing lead times and instances of human error. This, combined with improved efficiencies, is having a direct and significant impact on our bottom line. The ability of the solution to evolve and adapt to changing circumstances and requirements is remarkable, and allows us to keep improving performance.” In early 2017 Netstar won the Putco contract and implemented its Fleet Solution for Buses & Coaches. This included tracking and recovery units with Jamming Resist™ technology, driver ID tags and emergency panic buttons, as well as interior and exterior cameras. Furthermore, consoles within the buses provide drivers with route information, and enable communication with Putco’s contact centre.
How not to recyle your toxic used motor oil, and what to do instead According to the ROSE Foundation, while disposing of used oil may seem like a no brainer, too many South Africans continue to get rid of it in the craziest of ways. But used oil is hazardous stuff - containing poisonous substances and heavy metals that can pollute the environment and are dangerous to your health, and just one litre of used motor oil can contaminate one million litres of water. The ROSE Foundation is urging anyonee who generates used motor oil to collect and store their used oil carefully and to drop it off at approved disposal points for safe recycling - thereby ensuring it does not make its way into the environment. “While industry faces rigorous environmental compliance, in smaller domestic circumstances used oil is often not disposed of correctly, with thousands of unaccounted for litres going straight into the environment,” says Bubele Nyiba, CEO of the ROSE Foundation. “Recycling used motor oil keeps this carcinogenic substance out of our rivers, lakes, streams and ground water. In many cases, that also means keeping it out of our drinking water, off our beaches, and away from wildlife.” “Anyone with used motor oil can drop it off at their nearest approved municipal garden refuse site – a list of which is available from the ROSE Foundation,” advises Nyiba. “Otherwise, most reputable service centres have used oil storage facilities and will take your oil, as they are paid according to volume by the collectors who take it away for processing.” For more information and to find out about an accredited collector or drop-off point, contact the ROSE Foundation on (021) 448 7492 or visit www.rosefoundation.org.za. Here is the organisation’s list of top crazy - and dangerous ideas for “repurposing” used oil: 1. Some people fire up their chainsaws and lawnmowers on the power of used motor oil. 2. Instead of buying a can of lubricant like WD-40 some people put their used motor oil in a squirt can and use this to lubricate.
3. Some gardeners like to dampen a rag with used motor oil to wipe down all their garden tools. They say that this will help protect the metal from rusting and the wooden handles from drying out and cracking. (This contaminates the soil in the garden and possibly that of a vegetable garden with tools covered in used motor oil.) 4. Some gardeners spray used oil onto weeds to kill them. 5. Some people use used motor oil to burn firebreaks by pouring it onto the ground and lighting it. 6. Some people believe that you can use used motor oil to treat mange in dogs and as a parasite deterrent for livestock. Used motor oil is a known carcinogen and this will make the animal sick. 7. Some farmers use used motor oil as a wood preservative and paint it on their wooden fencing. 8. Some farmers use used motor oil to dampen down dust on dirt roads by spraying it onto the ground. 9. Some handymen like to loosen up their rusty nuts and bolts by soaking them in a jar of old used motor oil. 10. As a cheap way to protect the underside of their car from rusting, some people paint used motor oil on the bottom of their cars. Obviously they never take into consideration what kind of impact all this old oil will have on the environment as it drips back onto the road and works it way back into the water table. 11. In the construction industry some concrete workers brush a little used motor oil onto the wooden forms to help prevent the concrete from sticking. They also use it when plastering to achieve a smooth finish. 12. Some people use old engine oil as a hair cream to protect the scalp from burning when applying hair relaxers. 13. Some people actually use used engine oils in treatment of open wounds as they believe it makes the wound heal better.
PAGE 43
INDUSTRY NEWS
AutoForum - November / December 2018
Truck servicing - the time is nigh With an increase in spending and a demand on supply over the festive season, there’s no doubt that more trucks will be on the road during the coming holiday period. “Trucks provide a vital service for consumers. Unfortunately, poorly serviced trucks or trucks not being serviced at all are a major contributor to road deaths at this time of year,” says Dewald Ranft, Chairman of the Motor Industry Workshop Association (MIWA), a constituent association of the Retail Motor Industry Organisation (RMI). Ranft is appealing to all truck owners to ensure their vehicles are in top condition before the December rush begins. Derick Horrmann, owner of Don-Der Truck Repairs, says the regular servicing of trucks ensures fuel consumption, prevents the oil filter from clogging up and collapsing and is an opportunity to check if the oil is diluted with diesel which would point to a faulty injector solenoid. “All internal moving parts that are oil dependent for lubrication as well as brakes and clutch are subject to the most wear and tear.” He explains that trucks should be serviced as per the truck manufacturer’s schedules. “Most trucks are serviced at 30 000km intervals, other have extended intervals when using a synthetic oil. These intervals are usually 40 000km.”
PAGE 44
Ranft says it’s important to use an accredited repairer and Horrmann agrees. “An accredited servicing workshop will ensure peace of mind as they will be using premium quality oil and good replacement parts.” Over and above regular servicing, he urges truck owners to also keep tyre pressure in accordance to specifications, and to check cooling systems and intake piping for leaks and cracks. Ranft is also appealing to all motorists to be patient and courteous to truck drivers on the roads. “Motorists need to realise that trucks are not cars. The handling of a truck, the speed, and how the truck is affected by external forces is vastly different to that of a car. While it can be frustrating to be stuck behind a truck, respect the road rules and only overtake when it is appropriate. Give a truck room to manoeuvre and keep a safe following distance. We all need to do what we can to reduce accidents on our roads over this season with the increased volume of traffic on our roads,” he concludes.
Body repair insight in association with BodyShop News International November / December 2018
Rising repair costs and new technology New Global Refinish Report Highlights Changes & Major Players
SAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s best body repairers revealed Contents Paint Shop on tour Safety features - and your future in our industry Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s time for the industry to come together as one
AutoForum - November / December 2018
BODYSHOP NEWS
Paint Shop on tour Once the Formula One season leaves Europe, Mercedes-AMG Petronas Motorsport has to carefully plan the timing and processing of components that usually come back to the Paint Shop in Brackley, England, after every race. But for 2 races – the US Grand Prix in Austin, Texas, and the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix in the United Arab Emirates - the Paint Shop packs up and goes on tour. Take apeek behind the scenes. Timing is everything in Formula One – qualifying
a scheduled re-paint ahead of the United States
In Abu Dhabi, the four painters arrive on the
laps times where 1/100th of a second can
Grand Prix in Austin, Texas, and the Abu Dhabi
Saturday, a week before the race, where they
count, the strategically calculated time to come
Grand Prix in the United Arab Emirates. Four of
have a designated area at the Mercedes-Benz
in to change tyres in a race, the split-second
Andrew’s painters head to Austin and Abu Dhabi
approved bodyshop. Once there, they unpack and
choreography required for a pit stop. The timing
to do that, accompanied by everything they need
check all the freight, and set everything up. Both
between race weekends is also critical.
to get the job done - from gloves, sanding paper,
chassis arrive Monday morning. The painters then
scalpels and spray guns, to all the Spies Hecker
begin the gruelling job to strip back and repaint
Generally, components and chassis are sent to
products and paint mixes. All of these are sent
both chassis, which can go on long into the night.
the team’s Paint Shop in Brackley to be refinished
by sea freight at least two months in advance.
They follow the clearly set out processes in Job
with Spies Hecker products, before being sent
“We take everything we need,” he says. “If we
Element Sheets, which detail the what, how
back out for the next race. However, once the
could, we would probably even take the spray
and why, including, of course, all the required
European leg of the season is over, the timing
booths! We have to deliver consistent perfection
products.
challenges take on a new dimension for Andrew
in everything we do, every day. And that shouldn’t
Moody, Head of Paint and Graphics for Mercedes-
– and isn’t – impacted simply because we are
They use a variety of Spies Hecker products,
AMG Petronas Motorsport, and his team.
working somewhere other than our Paint Shop.”
including Priomat® Wash Primer 4075,
And when speed and accuracy is required for
Permasolid® HS Performance Surfacer 5320, and
The two chassis of the Mercedes-AMG Petronas
the painting, Andrew knows he can rely on Spies
many more.
Motorsport’s F1 W09 EQ Power+ race cars have
Hecker to deliver.
PAGE 46
AutoForum - November / December 2018
BODYSHOP NEWS
Rising repair costs and new technology
- Heather Grant
The cost of crash repairs is rising in the UK due to the increasing complexity of car technology, structural build and passenger safety systems. While cars are being built to improve occupant safety and reduce the severity of crashes, to meet the exacting demands of these high spec vehicles in repair, body shops are having to invest in specialist training and tools as well as employ recalibration equipment to reset the cameras and sensors on the Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) post repair. With the vast number of vehicle variants entering
The average net parts prices for every estimate
It is estimated that around 10 per cent of
the market, costs are rising in every area.
calculated using Audatex increased by an average
vehicles are now fitted with some form of ADAS
According to the ABP Club’s Industry Yearbook
of 42.6 per cent between 2007 and 2017, from
for emergency braking, parking sensors, lane
statistics for 2017-2018 – based on over 21
£502 to £716 respectively.
discipline, adaptive headlights, adaptive cruise
million UK assessments across the last 10 years
control, etc. After a vehicle repair, many of the
– the average estimate has soared by 34 per
“This is all having a profound effect on the
systems’ cameras, radars and lidars require static
cent. It’s gone up from £1163 in 2007 to £1558
overall cost of repair,” added Shepherd. “A
or dynamic recalibration, or sometimes both.
in June 2017, in line with the rise in vehicle build
study conducted by Thatcham Research and the
Incorrect calibration of even a simple adaptive
complexity and the fluctuating value of the British
Association of British Insurers (ABI) revealed that
cruise control sensor may result in a vehicle
Pound in the last decade.
average vehicle repair costs in their sample have
slowing unexpectedly if, for example, the camera
increased by 32 per cent to £1678 in the three
senses a vehicle approaching in another lane
“In this time, vehicles have become much more
years leading up to June 2017. This highlights
rather than sensing the distance of the vehicle in
complex, in both the nature of the structural build
the importance of right-first-time estimates and
front. Even door mirrors can require calibrating
and in intelligent electronic systems, such as
building knowledge of the technology fitted to
and programming – if they have sensors to pick
ADAS equipment, Safety Restraint Systems (SRS)
modern vehicles, which will help to minimise the
up vehicles in the blind spot.
and sophisticated infotainment systems,” said
time taken to perform repairs and contain the
David Shepherd, Managing Director, Audatex UK &
overall claim cost.”
Africa. “Audatex has observed an increase in the number of parts required to repair vehicles safely, with the inflationary cost of parts also rising.
PAGE 48
Dynamic calibration involves plugging a diagnostic
to all forms of static calibration is the necessity
“We have invested in the best manufacturer
tool into the vehicle’s On Board Diagnostics (OBD)
to accurately position the calibration equipment
approved equipment for dynamic and static
port to initiate the calibration process which is
in relation to the vehicle. All Bosch systems meet
recalibration and will be able to do all the lidar,
completed as the car is driven, and for this reason
or exceed the individual vehicle manufacturer’s
radar, surround cameras and LED headlamps,
requires two people – a driver and the technician
requirements for determining the vehicle centre
etc,” said Andy Pennell, Group Operations
initiating the calibration. Certain driving conditions
line or geometric driving axis.”
Manager, Balgores Motor Group. “Before deciding
are required such as the type of road, speed and
to invest we looked at the value of having ADAS
distance travelled to confirm the system is able to
At present, relatively few repairers have invested
calibration equipment, and randomly picked out
correctly recognise road features such as white
in calibration equipment because of the expense,
30 vehicles with a 17 or 67 plate and checked
lines and road signs.
the greedy amount of space required in a
what safety systems they had fitted,” said Andy.
workshop and also because it is not needed for
“Seventy per cent of them had some form of
Static calibration requires more specialist
every repair. However, the number of vehicles
ADAS, so there is definitely a market for it and we
equipment, including a target board, diagnostic
requiring attention is rapidly growing. Thatcham
knew we couldn’t have 70 per cent of our cars
tools, wheel aligner, and is carried out in a
recently conducted research on a large body shop
once they are finished waiting to go and be reset
workshop to exacting standards. Every vehicle
chain and found that 26 per cent of the vehicles in
at the dealer.”
manufacturer has specific procedures and even
for repair had some form of ADAS present. Also, it
the same sensor in a different model can have a
is no longer just the high-end vehicles which have
different setting procedure.
a variety of ADAS fitted, as these safety systems are quickly filtering down to high volume vehicles
“There are two fundamental families of sensor:
such as the Volkswagen Golf and the Ford Fiesta.
radar, lidar or ultrasonic based for distance and speed measurement, and vision-based sensors
Despite the high investment, some body shop
for object detection and location,” said Andy
groups see ADAS calibration equipment as an
Morrison, Automotive Aftermarket, Robert Bosch
opportunity to sell the service to other body
Ltd. “However, it is no longer the case that these
shops, as well as take back control of their cycle
sensors work independently. With a technology
time (there are often long delays in getting resets
known as Sensor Fusion, information from all
booked in at dealerships). One body shop group
types of sensors together with mapping provided
that bit the bullet earlier this year is Balgores
by GPS can be combined to provided increasingly
Motor Group, which has 10 body shops situated
sophisticated levels of driver assistance.
throughout East London, Essex, Kent, Suffolk, Cambridgeshire and Norfolk. With 20 vehicle
“Static calibration of radar-based systems, for
manufacturer approvals across the group, the
example, Adaptive Cruise Control, typically uses
company made the decision to bring ADAS
a reflector at a known distance and angle for
recalibration in-house and has invested around
calibration, whereas the vision-based systems
£85,000 on a workshop in Colchester (central
tend to use a board with a specific target pattern
to all locations) which will be solely for ADAS
for calibration,” said Morrison. “What is common
recalibration.
PAGE 49
AutoForum - November / December 2018
BODYSHOP NEWS
New global refinish report highlights changes and major players A new report on the global automotive refinish coatings market has found that the sector is highly consolidated, with five companies holding 65 percent market share in recent years. Transparency Market Research found that two
TMR analysts say the ongoing trend has forced
countries is likely to, in turn, act as catalysts in
major companies, Axalta Coatings Systems and
many manufacturers to concentrate more on
the growth of the automotive refinish coatings
PPG Industries alone hold 40 percent share in the
development of effective waterborne varieties
market.
global market.
of automotive refinish coatings, a trend that is
The report also finds that with stringent rules
likely to have a significant impact on the marketâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s
Another finding of the report is the numerous
dynamics in future.
strict rules and regulations regarding emissions
and regulation pertaining to VOC emissions,
and how these have been levied for declining
particularly in Europe and North America, the
It is expected that the global automotive refinish
usage of certain elements and chemicals in
consumption of solvent-based coatings has seen
coatings market is likely to display a 5.7 percent
automotive refinish coatings. This has seen the
a massive reduction.
compound annual growth rate (CAGR) during the
sales of solvent-based products dwindle, including
forecast period 2016-2024. The market, which
higher levels of organic compounds in comparison
The global automotive refinish coatings market is
was valued at US$6.6 billion in 2015, is likely to
to water-based products.
currently segregated into clear coat, primer, base
touch US$10.8 billion by the end of the assessed
coat, filler, activator, and others. Of these, base
period.
coat holds the top position in the market and is
Several efforts made by government and environment sustenance bodies are likely to
also expected to hold a 31 per cent share of the
According to the researchers, developing
increase knowledge amongst consumers, and this
global market by the end of the assessed period.
countries across the world are likely to witness a
has seen a steep decline of sales in solvent-based
On the other hand, the activators segment is
surge in their automotive market over the years.
coatings in recent years.
predicted to display high growth during the same
Countries such as China, South Africa, India, and
period, ensuing in a minimal rise in its share by
Brazil are expected to remain at the forefront of
2024 with North America anticipated to hold the
this surge, due to rising populations and increases
dominating position in the market.
in disposable income. The rise in these developing
PAGE 50
AutoForum - November / December 2018
BODYSHOP NEWS
Safety features - and your future in our industry - Lori Lorentz
Vehicle safety has come a long way thanks to better car design. In the years when people were driving the Ford Model T, it is estimated that as many as 15 fatal accidents occurred for every 100 million kilometres travelled. For the same travel distance these days, we have less than 0.7 fatal accidents. Better roads, driver education and alcohol
have a direct effect on our industry, either
European vehicles. These headlights offer
limitation while driving have helped reduce the
because of their high-tech nature, prohibitive
maximum light by masking off oncoming traffic.
number of fatal accidents but there is no doubt
cost to repair or that they simply make cars
It is possible to drive with high beam turned on
ever-improving safety features have played a
“un-crashable”.
without dazzling vehicles travelling in the opposite
significant role in saving lives.
direction. Features like electronic stability control, adaptive
Over the years safety improvements have rarely
cruise control, lane departure alert and blind spot
The current E-Class Mercedes has a staggering
impacted our industry as these cars were mostly
warning, just to mention a few, were initially found
84 LED chips and it is expected that future cars
written off. Times have changed and in this
in top-of-the-range European cars, but within a
will have hundreds of these chips to maximise the
article I will introduce you to some of the new
few years they have become standard on most
light output. I would love to have this great feature
technologies affecting our industry.
“econoboxes”.
on my car, but it is very expensive to replace, and special training is required for adjustment and
Some of the early safety inventions were safety
According to the German Federal Highway
glass, seat belts, collapsible steering columns,
Research Institute, 40 percent of fatal accidents
padded dashboards, crush zones, ABS braking
occur during night driving and it can be assumed
Ninety percent of accidents are caused by human
and airbags.
that poor light is a contributing factor.
error and this is where a lot of progress has been
In more recent times, safety features have
The multi-beam LED headlight is an emerging
become electronic in nature and most of them
technology that can be found on several top-end
calibration.
made. Today there are several safety devices that
PAGE 52
will even override the driver’s action.
To commemorate its 50th anniversary, America’s Insurance Institute for Highway Safety conducted a crash test between a 1959 Chevrolet Bel Air and a 2009 Chevrolet Malibu to demonstrate how car safety has improved.
One of these is evasive steering assist, which is
head and eye movements, body posture and/
Looking at all these new and emerging
offered in various forms by several manufacturers.
or yawning to analyse how alert the driver is,
technologies, one can be forgiven for not seeing
It is an extension of automatic emergency braking
sounding an alarm if justified.
a bright future in repairing cars. Repair methods
and adaptive cruise control, and assists drivers with emergency steering manoeuvres.
as we know them will no longer be acceptable or In addition, General Motors offers seat vibration to
frankly, no longer needed. Already, a simple repair
alert the driver. I am just picturing an apprentice
like a dent in a plastic bumper bar can have its
Another impact avoiding feature found in several
on Monday morning, driving a customer’s car
challenges as many safety sensors are hidden
new cars is called rear cross traffic alert, which
into the workshop, and the drowsy driver alert
behind these plastic covers. Added filler and paint
is engaged when reversing and sounds alarms or
vibrates! And while on the subject, teen-driving
can cause a sensor to misread and send wrong or
applies automatic braking where appropriate.
technology is the latest kid on the block from
delayed information to the on-board computer.
Chevrolet. The system can mute the audio volume
Being able to read, understand and interpret OEM
Volvo has taken its pedestrian detection
until the occupants buckle up, sound alerts if the
repair information is becoming more and more
technology to a new level. The Large Animal
car is driven past a pre-set speed limit and create
important for our technicians. These high-tech
Detection System can recognise moose, deer
an in-vehicle report card showing how many
cars can’t just be thrown away – they are way too
and other four-legged road obstacles, initiating a
times the safety systems have been activated. I
expensive. The collision repair industry needs to
warning and, if needed, apply automatic braking.
guess it won’t be long before you can find a hack
reinvent itself and there must be a fundamental
on YouTube showing how to turn this feature
skill shift. Many will be left behind, but I see a
I’m not sure whether this can be fine-tuned for
off. Ford offers pothole protection, a technology
very bright future for those who are flexible and
kangaroos, but jokes aside, anyone that regularly
which senses a wheel dropping into a pothole and
innovative.
drives at night would know how difficult it can
adjusts the shock absorbers to reduce impact.
be to see a cow or a camel, because the car’s
The system improves driver comfort, but also
light beam is too low, and all the driver can see
reduces wheel and chassis damage. Traffic-sign
is the legs. Cross traffic brake assist is another
is a feature found on Hondas, Toyotas and more
new feature that alerts the driver when entering
and more other cars – it could have saved me a
an intersection of oncoming traffic from the right
few dollars over the years! This technology can
or the left. If the driver is not responding, the car
recognise speed-limit information from traffic
automatically applies the brakes. Drowsy driver
signs and display it on the driver-information
monitors are also becoming more popular. A
screen.
camera uses face recognition and may detect
Road safety and body repair have come a long way since the early days of motoring. The new Mercedes-Benz E-Class headlights have 84 individually controlled high-performance LEDs. Mercedes-Benz’s Adaptive Highbeam Assist Plus masks out other road users within a fraction of a second, while highly reflective road signs are automatically dimmed.
PAGE 53
BODYSHOP NEWS
AutoForum - November / December 2018
It’s time for the industry to come together as one to succeed The Inter-industry Conference on Auto-collision Repair (I-CAR) was formed to educate collision repair technicians in changes to vehicle body structures. Forty years later, I-CAR is dealing with even more change as technology, advanced materials, electronics and drivetrains become more challenging. What isn’t changing is an old-age attitude that has hindered collision repairs for many years; the inability of all parts of the industry to come together as one. However, with the speed of change happening now, industry consultation is vitally important.
Do we want to be at loggerheads with each other in repairing vehicles with old methods, performing repairs at unrealistic costs, providing work based on quantity and not acknowledging the pressure being placed on suppliers, repairers and customers?
Everyone is struggling with change. Insurers struggle to provide customers with policies that are comparable to competitors. Repairers struggle with completing repairs to the OEM requirement, especially with newer cars. Adding the requirement to diagnose and calibrate vehicles for even the most minor of accidents will increase cycle times and place more pressure on everyone involved. The parts versus labour costs are growing and repair costs are strangling even the most successful of businesses. OEMs are challenged in providing repair information that acknowledges the standard of tooling available in Australia. To ask for MIG plug welds in 2018, with the level of resistance spot welding equipment available, highlights a lack of understanding of the modern collision repair industry.
Will there be a time when everyone comes together? Will we respect each other’s role and work in unison to meet the challenge collectively?
If the industry continues to be built around individual business ‘silos’, without any discussion or collaboration, nothing will change.
PAGE 56
Perhaps we should take the focus away from short-term gains and discuss a long-term strategy that will answer the need for a sustainable future for all. A future that allows for investment in tooling, to recognise those who commit to training and development, to encourage growth in capabilities and to provide an ongoing commitment to those who are moving into the future. I-CAR is uniquely positioned to provide information relevant to a modern repair industry. Unfortunately, not everyone is willing to listen, and many people view training as a cost rather than an investment for the future. There are many who believe that as they are currently successfully
repairing vehicles, on-the-job learning is all that is required. However, this is an unrealistic cost model. a A few years ago, during a discussion on vehicle technology at the Collision Industry Conference (CIC) at SEMA, a comment was made that in the future, collision repair businesses may need to have a full-time electrical engineer on the roster; this prediction is becoming reality. Will dealerships be able to contend with hundreds of calibrations every day? Will this be a new business model for a budding entrepreneur, or is it the next phase of development in a future repair facility? The 2019 Collision Repair Expo should be a time to gather stakeholders together and discuss the future without the blame game. Maybe it is an opportunity to begin the discussion on the expo floor, at the many functions or even at the seminar program being offered. It is our industry – let’s ensure we have a say, collectively.
BODYSHOP NEWS
AutoForum - November / December 2018
SA’s best body repairers revealed The 15th Lightstone Consumer report has been released, unveiling how South Africans rate their experience of our local Motor Body Repairer (Panel Beater) industry. The vast majority of top level SA body repairers
the example of of major players such as Amazon
is spotless, staff are friendly and enthusiastic,
make use of Lightstone’s Echo-MBR platform
and Google, using Bayesian statistical analyses
and the vehicle handover process is
to ensure that their customers are getting the
for their product and service review ratings.
benchmark” adds De Vantier. Park Panelbeaters
best service possible, and the system provides
still operates out of premises set up 50 years
ongoing feedback on key issues such as was
Park Panelbeaters and Spraypainters in
ago where brothers Karl and Anton and other
the car ‘fixed right first time?’; was it ‘ready on
Vanderbijlpark was named the overall best
family members are passionately committed
time’; the ‘quality of the repair work’, the MBRs
panel beater in South Africa for 2018. “The
to growing the legacy started by Gerhard and
staff’s ‘friendliness’ and much more.
Echo-MBR rankings are based on issues that
Marie in 1967.
customer have told us matter to them,” says De Paul De Vantier, Lightstone Consumer MD
Vantier, “customers most care that the repair
explains the process: “We have almost 1 000
is done right first time, that it is completed on
Motor body repairers who subscribe to Echo-
time, that the staff are friendly, and they are
1. Park Panelbeaters – Gauteng
MBR and this generates an enormous amount
kept informed on progress.” These aspects
2. Brighton Body & Spray – Western Cape
of data, which we can analyse to produce very
make up the Echo-MBR Key Attributes Index
3. CBS Body Work – Western Cape
accurate ratings and rankings for MBRs across
encompassing ‘Fixed Right First Time’; ‘Ready
4. Classic Panel Beaters - Kwa-Zulu Natal
the country”
on Time’; ‘Staff Friendliness’ and ‘Consultant
5. WesKaap Bakwerke – Western Cape
De Vantier explains that there has been a
Rating / Keeping Clients Informed’.
6. Greenstone Auto Body – Gauteng
challenge in producing ranking based on
“I visited Park Panelbeaters myself to deliver
7. Tableview Coachworks – Western Cape
average scores, thanks to the variability that
the Echo-MBR trophy and after seeing the
8. Louis Auto Body Repairs – Western Cape
smaller sample sizes can introduce. In an effort
family run operation first hand, I could readily
9. Harveys of Durban – Kwa-Zulu Natal
to resolve this issue, Lightstone has followed
see why customers rate them highly; the place
10. Forsman Paneelkloppers - North
PAGE 58
The overall winners are:
ooth now!
b Book your China International Trade Fair For Auto Service, Parts, Maintenance And Repair Technology And Equipment
21 – 24.3.2019 New China International Exhibition Centre (NCIEC) • Beijing
120,000
Exhibition space (sqm)
1,300 Exhibitors
65,000 Visits
70
Countries and regions
* AMR 2019 estimated figures
Contacts Messe Frankfurt Traders-Link (Beijing) Co Ltd Tel: +86 10 8472 8428 / 8471 0628 Email: amr@china.messefrankfurt.com
www.amr-china.cn
中国汽车保修设备行业协会
中国汽车维修行业协会
China Automotive Maintenance Equipment Industry Association
China Automotive Maintenance and Repair Association
PAGE 59
AutoForum - November / December 2018
BODYSHOP NEWS
Spraying with nitrogen – what you must know - Tim Sramcik
At what point can we stop jumping on every efficiency effort and just get paid fairly? Why do we have to be the ones who are constantly expected to change?” That was the lament a repairer confided nearly a decade ago when one seemingly could not open an industry trade journal or talk business with a consultant without hearing about “lean processing” and “lean operations.” The repairer had a point. Shops, especially those wanting to survive and expand, were under considerable pressure to expend resources to cut every last bit of waste while hoping the results showed up in their revenue columns. Sometimes, it seemed, their efforts didn’t pay off or pay off enough. Repairers can be excused if they are more than a bit skeptical of every new cost-cutting product that hits the market. But they also need to take a long, hard look at those that are proving their worth. Such is the case with nitrogen spraying systems. This technology has been around for more than a decade, steadily, though quietly, gaining converts.
Nitrogen spraying system typically consist of technology that filters oxygen and trace gases out of atmospheric air that is already 78 percent nitrogen. Painters simply plug their guns into the system.
Is it time you took the dive into what could be a better way for you to apply finishes? Consider the following responses to the most common and significant questions surrounding this product from both experienced repairers and spray manufacturers. Why nitrogen? Due to its chemical properties, the nitrogen (N2) used for spraying offers a number of benefits over standard compressed air. First, it’s anhydrous, meaning it contains no water, so flash and bake times are reduced significantly. Some nitrogen spraying manufacturers says flash times can be eliminated all-together, allowing painters to move from one coat to another with no wait time. Second, nitrogen is inert--its molecules don’t contract or expand. More uniform molecules translate into more product transferred to the vehicle so there’s less product waste. The uniformity also translates into more uniform distribution of the product onto the finish and fewer coats needed for a job.
Nitrogen sprays also are ionized so they aren’t drawn away to static surfaces like the spray booth or painter. This factor further reduces product use and cuts spray booth filter maintenance costs. Additionally, the ionization prevents contaminates from being drawn to the new finish, cutting down the number of potential flaws that must be addressed later. Solvent levels too are significantly reduced (manufacturer Eurosider says levels drop from 40 percent to seven-10 percent). Shops not only benefit from having fewer harmful emissions in their work spaces, a higher gloss finish is produced with fewer coats and less sagging and dripping. Moreover, using fewer solvents helps eliminate orange peel, saving considerable time spent fixing this flaw later. Finally, nitrogen-enriched air (as much as 99.5 percent) is much cleaner than compressed air. Impurities from oil, oil fumes and dust are eliminated. The overall result of moving to nitrogen is a much more efficient paint department that produces better finishes using less product with far less waste, reduced costs and improved cycle times. That’s more money in the pockets of repairers. How does this technology work? Most nitrogen systems utilise an in-line nitrogen source located between a shop’s compressed air supply and its spray guns. The system pulls nitrogen out of the atmospheric air--which is 78 percent nitrogen, 21 percent oxygen and one percent trace gases. Air is pushed through a pre-filtration system and then through a nitrogen membrane separator before being heated in a hosing outlet. The process filters out oxygen and other elements leaving only nitrogen, which is then ionized and heated. To use the system, painters simply connect their guns as they would with compressed air. No special spraying techniques are necessary, though painters should be aware they won’t need to apply as much finish as they previously needed.
PAGE 60
(Photo courtesy of nitroheat) Nitrogen spraying system typically consist of technology that filters oxygen and trace gases out of atmospheric air that is already 78 percent nitrogen. Painters simply plug their guns into the system.
However, those shops make up a small percentage of the industry market. Most shops make less than $500,000 annually so paying for the system could take an additional year. For those repairers, that’s a big downside. “We’ve looked at lowering pricing every way we can, but it’s a matter of simple volume,” explains Naidoo. “If we sold 50 more a month, we could cut costs in half. That just isn’t happening.”
Considering all the benefits and ease of use, why hasn’t spraying with nitrogen become far more popular over the past decade? A number of factors have conspired against largescale adoption of nitrogen sprays. Consultant Ben Bailey points to three. The first is simple timing. “When nitrogen was becoming more affordable and practical, the industry was already focused on a more pressing issue— converting to waterborne finishes, “he says. “Shops were already being tasked with one significant change. Adding one more seemed excessive even for the best businesses.” Costs for sandpaper and other materials can be cut since nitrogen spraying typically produces more uniform coats and fewer flaws.
Third, many shops still have difficulty quantifying ROI. “A lot of people haven’t been and still don’t look at their numbers, so how can they get a real understanding of any benefits?” Bailey asks. “It can make more sense to keep working a certain way—even if it means fixing flaws and redoing work—since you’re familiar with this process and getting by.” “Change, even good change, can be intimidating. If you’re already making money, you have even less reason to do something different,” he adds. Derek Naidoo, CEO of US based NITROHEAT, points to a single cause—cost. He notes that shops pulling in a million dollars a year will see the system’s ROI recovered in a year, which is a remarkable selling point.
Should you buy in? Nitrogen spraying arguably has proven its value for some time. Shops making the transition, by all accounts, aren’t going back to compressed air. Based on the factors Bailey and Naidoo point out, whether other repairers buy in will be based largely on how they measure improvement and if they’re willing to wait for what might be 24 months to see a return on investment. Painters spray as they normally would, with no need to change application styles. That’s a tough call for many shops who are already struggling to keep their doors open or to find ways to afford other investments, such as certification. Ironically, cutting waste and building revenue in the paint department could be just the ticket to helping resolve both those issues. Such is the dilemma repairers face as they review new technological solutions and ask, “What can I afford to invest or potentially risk losing by not buying in?” Once again, shops find themselves asking critical questions for which there are no easy answers, only the need to choose wisely and continue moving forward in some direction to survive.
Bailey says this reluctance to “pile changes” on paint departments is also a reflection of how most owners/managers prefer to follow their lead painters in making modifications to this part of a shop’s operations. Painters, he says, like many other workers, tend to be creatures of habit. They prefer to go with what they know before investing in wholesale changes. “When you’re dealing with finishes, you’re taking in multiple considerations and processes at once: prepping, mixing, spray technique, bake times, etc. Why complicate it further with another technology even if it’s an upgrade,” Bailey explains. “You’re already busy enough, so when are you supposed to find the time to experiment with something you may later decide not to adopt?”
Reprinted with permission from Auto Body Repairer Network.
PAGE 61
DIRECTORY LISTING
AutoForum - November / December Aftermarketplace Directory
To advertise your listing in AutoForum Aftermarketplace Directory contact us on 20180861 222 878 or email: info@AutoForum.co.za
AUTO ELECTRICAL Auto Cosmos - Electrolog
Electronic Parts (Electrical) Catalogue
012 327 6210
Bosch
Parts, Accessories & Batteries
011 651 9600
AAAS - Parts Incorporated Africa
Automotive Components & Accessories
011 879 6000
Highveld Garage Equipment
Air Conditioning Specialists
012 330 0540
Snap-on Equipment
Diagnostics Equipment
0861 762 766
Celette
Spray Booths,Chassis Aligners, Compressors & Welding Equipment
011 334 1875
Hurricane
Chassis Aligners, Compressors & Spray Booths
083 628 2288
Celette
Pressure Washers & Vacuum Cleaners
011 334 1875
Highveld Garage Equipment
Pressure Washers & Vacuum Cleaners
012 330 0540
AAAS - NAPA
Tools & Garage Equipment
011 879 6000
Celette
Electronic Chassis Straighteners
011 334 1875
Beissbarth
Wheel Alignment Equipment
011 651 9600
Bosch
Diagnostic Equipment
011 651 9600
Highveld Garage Equipment
Engine Analyser & Diagnostic Scanners
012 330 0540
AAAS - Midas
Diagnostic Tools & Garage Equipment
011 879 6000
Snap-on Diagnostics
Diagnostics Equipment
086 176 2766
Tenneco - Monroe
Shock Absorber testers
011 574 5602
Celette
Tools & Garage Equipment
011 334 1875
Beissbarth
Wheel Alignment Equipment
011 651 9600
Bosch
Diagnostic Equipment
011 651 9600
Highveld Garage Equipment
Tyre & Lifting Equipment & Tools
012 330 0540
Hurricane
Tools & Garage Equipment
083 628 2288
Ital Machinery
Brake & Clutch Machinery
011 483 3737
John Bean - Snap-on Equipment
Wheel Service Equipment
086 176 2766
AAAS - Midas
Tools & Garage Equipment
011 879 6000
Snap-on Tools
Tools & Garage Equipment
086 176 2766
Alfa International
Brake Drums, Discs, Linings & Pads. Clutches & Flywheels
011 608 0801/3
AUDI Parts
Genuine OE Parts
086 043 4838
Auto Magneto
Alternators, Starter motors, electric & electronic parts
021 531 8144
Bosch
Parts, Accessories & Batteries
011 651 9600
AAAS - Midas
Aftermarket Parts & Accessories
011 879 6000
Mahle
Engine parts, Filters & Thermal management
041 408 3598
AAAS - NAPA
Aftermarket Parts & Accessories
011 879 6000
AAAS - Parts Incorporated Africa
Automotive Components & Accessories
011 879 6000
Tenneco
Shock Absorbers
011 574 5602
VW Parts
Genuine OE Parts
086 043 4737
Auto Cosmos - Electrolog
Electronic Parts (Electrical) Catalogue
012 327 6210
Bosch
Automotive Training Courses
011 651 9600
Trade Show
+27 10 599 6165
AIR CONDITIONING
BODY REPAIR EQUIPMENT
CLEANING EQUIPMENT
DIAGNOSTIC EQUIPMENT
GARAGE EQUIPMENT & TOOLS
PARTS MANUFACTURERS & DISTRIBUTORS
SERVICES
Shows & EXHIBITIONS Automechanika South Africa
PAGE 62
Driven by CLIMATISATION
Excellence for professionals Bosch air conditioning service units for R-134a and R-1234yf www.bosch.co.za What drives you, drives us.
AutoForum - November / December 2018
Driven by PASSION
Secure the future of your workshop! Choose one of the Bosch workshop concept solutions As a Bosch workshop concept partner you can offer your customers first-class quality and you can profit from distinct advantages when partnering with Bosch:
Internationally recognised brand Distinctive corporate identity Effective marketing and advertising programme Comprehensive technical support portfolio, including ESI[tronic], Bosch diagnostics, technical training, hotline and field support Quality automotive parts at competitive prices Customer retention programme National Deal Partner support programme Fleet program
www.boschcarservice.com/za/en Share the success of a strong brand in the workshop market. For more information, visit our Website or call Customer Careline
0861-267-247 PAGE 64