AutoForum August 2011

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AUGUST 2011

I N F O R M E D

A N D

I N N O V A T I V E

NAPA Exceeds R1 Billion Turnover

PAGE 28

NEWS AFRICA

NEWS AFRICA

IN PARTNERSHIP WITH AUSTRALIAN BODYSHOP NEWS

VITO E-Cell On Show in Stuttgart

B US IN E S S F OR U M

Inside ARE YOU READY FOR THE NEW WASTE REGULATIONS?

Government drives SA Taxi Production OHS: Emergency procedure planning MAN on a hybrid drive PAGE 1

August 2011

CONTENTS

WWW.AUTOFORUM.CO.ZA

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AUGUST 2011

I N F O R M E D

06

Cover Stories 11 16

Government drives SA taxi production

22

NAPA exceeds R1 Billion turnover

26

OHS: Emergency procedure planning

46

MAN on a hybrid drive

54

IN PARTNERSHIP WITH AUSTRALIAN BODYSHOP NEWS

vITO E-cELL ON SHOW IN STUTTGART

Inside

Trade Talk 04

Highlights of global and local industry news

News Forum

50

NEWS AFRICA

ARE YOU READY FOR THE NEW WASTE REGULATIONS?

B USIN ESS FOR Um

20

Are you ready for the new waste regulations?

I N N O V A T I V E

NAPA Exceeds R1 Billion Turnover

PAGE 28

NEWS AFRICA

Vito E-Cell on show in Stuttgart

A N D

GOvERNmENT DRIvES SA TAxI PRODUcTION OHS: EmERGENcY PROcEDURE PLANNING mAN ON A HYBRID DRIvE PAGE 1

Cover photo - Thank you to MBSA.

AIS pays out R584 M

10

Editorial

E-Cell on show in Stuttgart

11

The fuel strikes, combined with heavy snowfall

Online reviews tops for SA buyers

12

FMCSA's new diesel engine up and running

14

empty, trains cancelled, trucks jackknifed, truck-

Waste tyre collection plan gaining traction

16

ers stranded, and shops shelves in some parts

Merc C-Class nip/tuck

20

Government drive to localise taxi production

22

of course, the commercial vehicles traveling on

Road markings key to safe roads

24

them. It goes without saying that the people who

NAPA breaks new ground by transcending R1 Billion in turnover in 2010/2011

26

trainers, parts retailers, fuel distributors etc) are

in late July, certainly reminded us of how fragile our transport networks really are. Fuel stations

of the country, bare. Its just a reminder of how reliant we are on our national road system, and

make the transport sector work (the workshops, all cogs in the machine. Its the bloodline of the country in so many ways - and that means its our responsibility to make sure it works. Luckily, we

BodyShop News 54

are here to guide you through, so take some time

29

PPG takes over Ducol Coatings

31

Kansai appeals Commission condition

36

Discovery insure hosts new consultant, Rory Byrne

36

EDITOR CLARE RUTKIEWICZ

Gear up for regulated waste management

40

The “ideal” customer-focused employee

42

What that traffic jam just cost you

44

How to comply with the Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) Act

46

CONTRIBUTORS: AUSTRALIAN BODYSHOP NEWS DAVE SCOTT ROBERT KAISER GRAHAM BUSH ROY COKAYNE John Hempel

ADVERTISING: GRANT WEST

WARWICK ROBINSON C: 076 727 8161 C: 082 855 7750 T: 011 466 3733 F: 086 627 1135

Some stabilisation at last

47

Business Forum

56

out to catch up on the latest info, regulations and

A&M launch flagship refinish range

issues, right here in this magazine.

PRODUCTION: KAZ NEL EMAIL: INFO@AUTOFORUM.CO.ZA PUBLISHER: SWIFT PUBLICATIONS & OLYMPIC PARK TRADING SUITE 446, POSTNET X033, RIVONIA 2128

AutoForum has an ABC circulation of 13 485 ABC (Jan 2011 to June 2011)

www.Autoforum.co.za I N F O R M E D

New ESR makes even non premium vehicles safer

48

Bosch celebrates production milestones

50

Aer-O-Cure Alfa International Autocosmos/Electrolog Autozone Behr Hella Bosch Coetz Federal-Mogul First National Battery Highveld Garage Equipment Hofmann Megaplan Ital Machinery Leaderquip MISA Motor Merchandise NAPA/Midas Group Newclear Pressure Testers Partquip PIA/Midas Group POS Service Holland Probe Safeline Silver Falcon/Hurricane Snap-on Diagnostics Snap-on Tools Snap-on/John Bean Spanjaard Technica Turbo Exchange World Spares

Commercial Vehicles Safer driving

52

A severe case of trucking ‘acronymia’

52

MAN on a hybrid drive

54

Show Time SAAW Conference this month

56

Tyrexpo 2012

56

The Business of Plugging In

57

Second Afrimold in Gauteng next month

58

New Releases 60

After-Marketplace Directory Directory listings

I N N O V A T I V E

Advertisers Guide

Innovations

Latest offerings of local products

A N D

62

14

30, 34-35, OBC 19 60 32-33, 52 27, 41 13, IBC 53 61 9 59 16 53, 57 5 54 28 45 57 25 7, 21, 55 59 51 15 38-39 17 51 31 23 49 42-43 3, 60

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.

Trade Talk

AutoForum - August 2011

www.AutoForum.co.za

Vibration proof batteries made in SA First National Battery has launched a new range of commercial vehicle batteries, to overcome the problem of vibrationinduced failure in heavy duty applications. The batteries are made in South Africa for locally specific conditions and conform to IEC and DIN specifications.

Some of the factors that make them vibration proof include that the plates are anchored to the bottom of the containers using hot melt glue, and that the plate locks are fitted to the end cells, eliminating the possibility of damage to inter-cell connectors. At the same time, fully framed grids provide superior strength, better conductivity and eliminate the possibility of separators being pierced.

Hubert Brody, CEO of Imperial

Road safety one pledge at a time In late July, Imperial Holdings officially launched its new I-Pledge campaign, which it hopes will encourage sound driving habits throughout the company. And who better to kick it off than the company executives, by committing themselves to being safe and courteous road users, at a function in Sandton.

The company’s CEO, Hubert Brody, commented: “As part of our corporate citizenship, we are calling on all of our 35,000 employees to make a pledge to apply safety principles when they use the roads. We believe that each one of us needs to change bad habits to have safer and friendlier roads.”

And although it is just one company, the impact could result in huge gains for SA roads. The organisation’s fleets travel an average of around 500 million kilometers a year, with 5,500 trucks on the road.

The company plans to roll its campaign out to the rest of the country in the near future.

Imperial Executive Directors signing the pledge

PAGE 4

The new range is now made using silver calcium alloys that result in additional benefits. These include: suitability for diesel starting - even under the most trying conditions - with increased cold cranking power; lower self discharge rates; and suitability for parasitic loads, such as GPS and driver comfort amenities. The new batteries’ flat lid design is in line with international trends, and they boast flash arrestors for improved safety.

They are ideally suited for long distance haulage, frequent stop-start deliveries in urban areas and coaches and buses, and are subject to and exceed SANS Battery Vibration test 60095 – 1: Rev 7. The latter requires the battery to withstand vibration levels twice that of a passenger vehicle battery, for four times longer.

PAGE 5

Trade Talk

AutoForum AutoForum--August August2011 2011

Daimler and Bosch in new JV Daimler AG and Robert Bosch GmbH have started working together on electric motors for EV’s, having recently signed an agreement on the establishment of a 50:50 joint venture to do so. The new venture will see the establishment of a new company, EM-motive GmbH, which will develop and produce innovative electric motors – or traction motors – for electric vehicles. Based in Hildesheim, Germany, the business is expected to employ 100 staff by the end of this year, with production commencing early in 2012.

The JV is aimed at pooling competencies and exploiting synergies in an effort to accelerate the development of premium traction motors for electric vehicles with battery, fuel cell, or range extenders. The new traction motors will be used in Mercedes-Benz and smart brand EV’s, starting with the new generation of the smart fortwo electric drive, which is to go on sale in early 2012. What makes these motors unique is their modular design, which allows them to be installed in a wide variety of allelectric vehicles.

As Prof. Dr. Herbert Kohler, Vice President e-drive & Future Mobility in Group Research & Advanced Engineering and Chief Environmental Officer of Daimler AG explains: “Like lithium-ion batteries, electric motors are key components for our electric vehicles. It is extremely important that competence in this field is maintained in Germany. In joining forces with Bosch, we have now teamed up with a long-standing partner, and are confident that this move will lead to outstanding results.”

PAGE 6

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Trade Talk

AutoForum AutoForum--August August2011 2011

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Wheelquip receives award in Italy Wheelquip was recently honoured in the Italian city of Bologna, at the latest Autopromotec event (see our report on the show in AutoForum June issue).

As the sole agency of Corghi SPA imported automotive equipment for Southern Africa, Wheelquip was awarded in recognition of sales volumes from the Italian tyre and lifting equipment giant. The award was handed over by the President of Corghi Spa Italy, Mr Remo Corghi, at a ceremony held at Corghi’s new state of the art factory in Prato, Italy.

Dieter Horni (MD of Continental Tyre) and Rolf Lensch (GM: Finance of Continental Tyre) with the award.

Wheelquip Managing Director, Nic Kruger, commented: “We are very proud of this achievement, as we were one of three agents recognised out of over 100 countries in which there are Corghi agents.”

Eastern Cape's champion Continental Tyre South Africa (CTSA) recently walked away with a PMR.Africa Silver Arrow 2011 award, in the tyre manufacturer’s sector. The award was in recognition of the company’s efforts to stimulate economic growth and development in the Eastern Cape over the past 12 months.

The annual Eastern Cape Provincial Survey of Leaders and Achievers is used to determine perceptions of the region as a potential investment area, as well as to measure and reward the contributions of individuals, companies, institutions and government entities to the economic growth and development of the province. At the same time, it measures brand awareness and levels of innovation in the region.

Wirelessly adjustable heavy duty shocks Rancho off-road shock absorbers are targeted at customers looking for an ultra heavy duty and adjustable shock absorber. The brand promises to deliver a number of advantages over similar shocks available locally. These include the fact that they are thicker, allowing more oil for cooling, they feature an indestructible triple tube design and come with a three year unlimited mileage warranty.

Rancho contends that it is the only nine way adjustable shock, meaning that it is adjustable without requiring removal from the vehicle.

Whats more, the shocks can be adjusted via a wireless remote control system (MyRide RS999705) from within the cab.

The shocks made in California in the US, are nitrogen gas charged and have Duracrush polyurethane bushings.

For more information contact your closest Monroe distributor or visit the website at www.gorancho.com.

PAGE 8

In memoriam: Francesco Rovelli It is with great sadness that the industry recently lost beloved Probe Group founder Francesco Rovelli, following a long illness.

Francesco was a true “character” with his sense of humour, knowledge, honesty and pure love for “His Probe, His Delco & His Batteries”.

It was this passion that gained him the respect of many in the motor industry and all who had the pleasure of dealing with him.

The “Probe Legacy” has been left to his staff and family to fulfil, who unfailingly feel honoured and thankful to have known such an honest, humble and committed person and had the opportunity to have been guided by him. He will be greatly missed.

AutoForum - August 2011

The latest global news

AIS pays out R584 M

A

total of R584 million has been paid out by government in the past few months to the local automotive industry, through the Automotive Incentive Scheme (AIS), part of the new Automotive Production and Development Programme (APDP). Most of the incentives were paid in the Eastern Cape, with the Ford Motor Company of Southern Africa (FMCSA), a major beneficiary.

Francois Truter, Director of Investment Projects at the DTI, said the AIS payouts followed investment commitments in terms of the scheme of R13 billion from original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) and component suppliers, supporting 20 000 jobs.

The investment incentive in terms of the AIS is 20% of a company’s investment within SA, and is tied to certain performance criteria, including volume growth, employment growth, new technology and localisation. An additional incentive of 10% is tied to performance. Duane Newman, a partner at Deloitte, said earlier this year that most OEMs would struggle to get the 30% incentive.

However, Jeff Nemeth, FMCSA’s President and CE, confirmed that it had applied for the full

PAGE 10

- Roy Cokayne

30% incentive available in terms of the AIS, and had already received the first instalment comprising 16% of its investment. He added that not all but the majority of FMCSA’s recent R3.4bn in South Africa qualified for the AIS incentive.

FMCSA’s investment was used to upgrade and expand production facilities at its engine plant in Port Elizabeth and its assembly plant in Silverton in Pretoria, which has increased its annual production capacity to 110 000 vehicles. The investment was made in preparation for domestic production of the new Ford Ranger pickup. The first units for distribution will be produced in FMCSA’s Silverton plant from September 1. Apart from being distributed in SA, the vehicle will be exported to 148 countries, largely in Africa and Europe.

FMCSA recently officially opened its upgraded engine plant in Port Elizabeth. Speaking at the function, Truter said the automotive sector was a critical one to any economy, in any country, because it linked several industries and services. He said the automotive sector was the leading manufacturing sector, contributing 4.8% to GDP in 2009, and employed at least

Roy Cokayne is a senior financial reporter for Business Report.

129 000 people in the manufacturing of systems, components and vehicles.

Truter continued that the new APDP strengthened and broadened the automotive products and medium and heavy commercial vehicle sectors. He said the twin objectives of the DTI was to raise the volume of automotive products production to 1.2 million vehicles by 2020, and substantially deepen and diversify the component supply chain.

However, Truter admitted the medium and heavy commercial vehicle sector had not received adequate policy attention. He believed there was an opportunity to resuscitate bus production in South Africa as well as the medium and heavy commercial vehicle segments. This was despite the industry facing a number of challenges, which included economies of scale in this segment and the fact that the depth of domestic component manufacturing was not yet internationally optimal.

E-Cell on show in Stuttgart

M

ercedes Benz recently became part of a sustainability tour at Stuttgart airport in Germany - entitled Fairport STR - which highlights how the site addresses environmental and sustainability questions.

The “Emission-free Mobility� station on the tour was created by Mercedes-Benz and features its Vito E-Cell van.

The latter is the world’s first emission-free, electric motor powered van available as standard ex factory.

The electric motor generates an output of 60 kW and 280 Nm of torque, and in the interests of achieving the greatest possible battery range, the top speed of the van is limited to 80 km/h.

The ultra-modern, particularly powerful and durable lithium-ion batteries are housed under the load compartment floor, which saves space, and boast a total capacity of 36 kWh, enough for an operating range of around 130 kilometres.

NEWS FORUM

AutoForum - August 2011

Online reviews tops for SA buyers

T

he results of research conducted in June this year by the DMMA (Digital Media & Marketing Association) South Africa and Effective Measure has shown that people prefer online research when it comes to buying a new or used car.

According to the report, car shoppers choose online research over visits to dealerships and car lots, reading print reviews or asking friends and family for advice.

Using in excess of 300 websites and more than 1,100 surveys completed by South African Internet users, the research asked respondents the following questions: what car the person drove, how often they were planning on replacing their car, and what price range their next car would be in. At the same time, it also looked into what key criteria were used in selecting a vehicle, and finally, how respondents would go about researching the purchase of a vehicle.

The responses showed an overwhelming preference for online research (71,77%), with respondents using websites to check prices and specifications as well as for obtaining unbiased reviews and opinions.

In terms of selection criteria when considering the purchase of a new vehicle, price (73.72%) was key overall, closely followed by fuel economy at 72.39%. For females, fuel economy is the single most important criteria in comparison to males who indicated that price is the most important. Features (44.78% ) and design (40.35%) were far lower down the list than one might expect.

According to the research, men prefer driving a VW with 18.35% of the total, whilst Toyota was the most popular amongst women, with a driver base of 16.5%. Overall, VW tops the list in terms of chosen brand with 17.26%, and Toyota with 14.96% followed by Opel, Mercedes, BMW and Hyundai.

Most respondents plan to replace their vehicle every 3-5 years (53.01%), with the most popular price category being cars between R100,000 to R200,000. As the price range of a car increases, the pool of buyers decreases, with only 5.58% of people planning to spend over half a million Rand on their next car.

What car brand do you currently drive? (select one only) Alfa Romeo

0.18%

Audi

3.63%

BMW

4.42%

Chevrolet

1.50%

Chrysler

0.53%

Citroen

0.35%

Daihatsu

0.80%

Fiat

2.21%

Ford

3.89%

GWM

0.09%

Honda

3.36%

Hyundai

4.34%

Kia

1.06%

Land Rover / Range Rover

0.62%

Lexus

0.62%

Mazda

2.30%

Mercedes

6.11%

Mini

0.27%

Mitsubishi

1.15%

Nissan

4.96%

Opel

6.46%

Peugeot

1.42%

Renault

2.04%

Subaru

0.88%

Suzuki

0.80%

TATA

0.97%

Toyota

14.96%

Volvo

0.80%

VW

17.26%

Other

12.04%

How often do you plan to replace your vehicle? (select one only) Every 12-24 months

2.83%

Every 2-3 years

12.57%

Every 3-5 years

53.01%

Never

31.59%

What price bracket will you be likely to be considering for your next purchase? (select one only) Under R100,000

26.64%

R100,001 - R200,000

31.50%

R200,001 - R300,000

20.44%

R300,001 - R500,000

15.84%

R500,001 - R700,000

3.01%

R700,001 +

2.57%

What are the most important considerations in your car purchase? (select all that are relevant) Brand name

45.58%

Fuel economy

72.39%

Design

40.35%

Performance

51.15%

Features

44.78%

Price

73.72%

How do you research what car you want to buy (either new or used vehicle)? (Select all that are relevant)

PAGE 12

Going around to dealers and car lots

51.68%

Reading online reviews, checking models prices and specifications

71.77%

Reading print reviews checking models prices and specifications

45.13%

Asking friends or family

44.07%

AutoForum - August 2011

NEWS FORUM

FMCSA's new diesel engine up and running - Roy Cokayne

T

he Struandale engine plant of the Ford Motor Company of Southern Africa (FMCSA) has officially began production of a new diesel engine, that it expects will make it a global hub. The engines will be fitted to the new Ford Ranger pickup truck to be produced at the automaker’s assembly plant from September this year, as well as exported to 148 countries worldwide.

Wallace Yearwood, Struandale engine plant Manager, said the plant was the only Ford facility that shared both component machining and engine assembly for the Duratorq TDCi diesel engine programme, supporting the Ford Ranger. He explained that the machined components were used for engine kits, which were exported to other Ranger assembly plants, while the fully assembled engines will be used in the domestically produced Ranger.

“The diesel engine programme represents

PAGE 14

an entirely new era for the Struandale engine plant, which through Ford’s stringent global quality standards, has undergone a complete transformation, to ensure it competes with the best in the world.”

Yearwood added that there are currently 568 employees in the plant compared to 372 employees previously. He said however, that the plant had an annual capacity of 75 000 engines and 220 000 engine component kits, and that employment levels would be set according to market demand.

Production of the new Duratorq TDCi engine locally is part of the R3.4 billion export investment programme by the FMCSA. The investment programme included the upgrade and expansion of production facilities at the company’s engine plant in Port Elizabeth and its assembly plant in Silverton in Pretoria, which

has increased its annual production capacity to 110 000 vehicles.

employees, in the country and in their joint future.

The new Ford Ranger will be exported from SA to 148 markets around the world

According to Booth, ambitious global goals for the middle of the decade had recently been laid out for the FMC worldwide. Among these was a commitment to increasing its sales to 8-million units annually, which was about a 50% increase on what it was sold in 2010.

“Within that, Asia Pacific and Africa will play a key role in this plan, providing an increasing amount of production and customers to fuel Ford’s growth and increase our market share.”

Lewis Booth, Ford’s Executive VP and CFO, said the engine would help drive the company’s transformation in SA and was a key reason the all-new Ranger pickup truck was a class leader in such a globally competitive segment. “The new Ford Ranger will be exported from SA to 148 markets around the world, solidifying SA’s role as a key operation in Ford’s global manufacturing footprint.”

Booth continued that these engines would not only power the new Ranger, but also the transformation of Ford in SA as well as internationally, and at the same time, power economic growth in Port Elizabeth. He expressed confidence on behalf of FMCSA, in its

“By 2020, 32% of Ford’s sales will come from the region, up from 15% today.

That means the importance of operations in places like Port Elizabeth can only continue to grow.”

Jeff Nemeth, FMCSA’s President and CE, said the project was approved in 2009 at a time when a couple of its competitors in the US had filed for bankruptcy. Ford was fighting for its

survival at the time because of the global economic downturn, and money was not available from banks. It was against this backdrop that the board of directors had the confidence to support the investment of R3.4bn in the engine plant and the assembly plant in Silverton, he said.

Nemeth said Ford had been building this engine since 2001 and had spent 10 years refining it, to make it best in class, in power and fuel economy. It had a towing capacity of 3 300 kg, which was also best in its class.

According to Nemeth, the engine plant was a global one and would compete with any plant in the company. “It’s now not only the South African economy that drives our plant and our future. We are now part of the global economy and the ‘One Ford’ system. What that means is that we have a sustainable future and we are going to be here for a long, long time. That is important for all of us.”

PAGE 15

NEWS FORUM

AutoForum - August 2011

Dr. Etienne Human, CEO of the SATRP Company

Waste tyre collection plan gaining traction - Robert Kaiser

T

he 12 year research project undertaken by most tyre suppliers to the SA market - such as importers, retreaders and tyre manufacturers - in finding a way to effectively manage the environmentally threatening and unending stream of waste tyres, is still gaining traction.

The South African Tyre Recycling Process Company (SATRP), a section 21 company established by the project supporters, submitted a comprehensive waste tyre processing plan to the Department of Environmental Affairs.

In terms of the National Environmental Management Waste Act of 2008 and the Waste Tyre Regulations, 2009, all tyre producers are required to submit an integrated industry waste tyre management plan to the Minister of Environmental Affairs for approval. Tyre producers, dealers and importers have the option to submit their own plan or to align themselves with an existing plan.

The SATRP plan was published by the Department in the Government Gazette for general comment in early 2010.

All comments received by the Department in response to the Plan’s publication in the Gazette were addressed and the next step is for the SATRP Plan to be formally gazetted, to enable implementation. I caught up with

PAGE 16

Robert Kaiser has been intimately involved in the motor industry for the past 25 years.

He established Retail Motor Consultants in 2002, a consultancy providing relationship management, marketing and staff recruitment services as well as apprenticeship management programmes and through an associated company, unique Black Economic Empowerment transformation programmes for both large and SME businesses.

Dr. Etienne Human, CEO of the SATRP Company, to get an update on where matters stand.

Affair’s desk for final approval to gazetting.

RK: Why the delay in promulgation of the SATRP?

RK: Why has the waste tyre situation been allowed to reach crisis proportions?

Eh: It has been a very long haul from 2001 until now to work through all the stakeholders and organs of state. By contrast, it took the French Government only 18 months to approve similar plans earlier this century. We in SA obviously still have a lot to learn in order to create waste tyre industries and jobs. The waste tyre problem has been recognized as a serious environmental issue for the last 30 years and has reached near crisis proportions, which prompted the SA tyre industry to invest millions of Rands, in fact, close to R10 million to date, in research and development to come up with a workable solution to the problem. All we need to do now is to make it work but we cannot proceed without the Plan being promulgated.

It is on the Minister of Environmental

Eh: There are many reasons. Firstly, it must be understood that waste tyres and the processing thereof cannot be regarded in the same light as that of other waste materials such as glass, paper, plastic or metals which are readily recyclable and have commercial value. Waste tyres have no commercial value at all and can only be processed at great cost. The steel content of a tyre cannot be readily extracted for recycling because it is an expensive process, the cost of which exceeds the value of extracted product. It can only be done as part of a holistic waste management programme that requires substantial capital investment. It must be borne in mind that tyres are not bio-degradable and are not suitable for dumping on landfill sites.

The only way to deal with waste tyres is through a proper waste management process. There are a number of options available, such as the manufacturing of rubber crumb which can then be applied in various ways, the most known option being mixing it with bituminous compounds for tarring of roads. Another viable option is using waste tyres to help fuel kilns at paper, brick or cement factories. There are other options, but the bottom line is that every waste management option requires considerable investment to process waste tyres. Tyres have to be shredded and processed for the rubber crumb option, whilst the kiln energy extraction option, apart from a shredding process, requires considerable capital investment to modify kilns to accept the waste, along with special systems required to capture harmful gases. The irony is that there are numbers of processors who have spent millions of Rand to complete environmental impact assessments (EIAs) and the associated project plans in anticipation of a guaranteed supply

PAGE 17

NEWS FORUM

AutoForum - August 2011 of waste tyres. This cannot commence until waste tyre plans are gazetted.

There is a further aspect about the processing of waste tyres that poses perhaps the single biggest challenge and that is the issue of logistics. Tyres are bulky and heavy and the geographical distribution of tyres throughout the country makes collection and transport a complicated and costly exercise. I can go on and on about the challenges but I believe these points sufficiently demonstrate the uniqueness of the problem and why we spent so many years and invested so much in research to find the optimal solution for this growing environmental hazard.

RK: Briefly explain the SATRP please Eh: Logistically speaking, the SATRP Waste Tyre Plan depends on the implementation of an effective system of collection of waste tyres and the delivery thereof to waste processing facilities. The latter still have to be created and to an extent partly subsidised for a limited period by the SATRP - processing facilities are hardly ever financially sustainable on a selffunding basis during the startup years. Then there is the management and administration of the system, which needs to be impeccably independent to guard confidential market information and to steer clear of anti-competitive legislation.

RK: It sounds as if a great deal of work will be required to get this off the ground. Who is going to fund it?

Eh: Quite right, it is a huge organizational challenge but we already have everything in place and can commence with implementation immediately, once the SATRP Plan has been promulgated. The SATRP will be funded by a waste tyre management fee per tyre category, which will ultimately be paid by the consumer.

The collection of the fee is suggested to be implemented at manufacturer/importer level and be passed on through the supply chain, as a separate environmental cost item so as not to inflate product prices. The collection of the waste tyre management fee will be outsourced to independent accountants, to ensure complete transparency and to protect competitive producer/importer information.

PAGE 18

RK: Yet another burden on the consumer; something which will not exactly be welcomed in this overtaxed country.

Eh: Yes it is indeed unfortunate but essential.

There is no doubt in anyone’s mind that we need to deal with the waste tyre problem, if we don’t want to leave the current and future generations with a polluted wasteland. The government will not apply tax revenue to address the issue and the ‘user pays’ principle is the only viable manner in which this matter can be dealt with. This is a principle applied widely in other instances, both locally and abroad, as it is internationally accepted as the fairest manner for users of a product to shoulder responsibility for the cost of managing environmental hazards which may be caused thereby. A waste tyre management fee, which is not included in the pricing of the product is preferable as it will not lead to product price inflation, can easily be identified in the supply chain and prevents operators from deriving financial benefit through shrewd accounting.

RK: Do you believe the SATRP is sustainable in the long term?

Eh: Absolutely! It is however a reality that the lack of commercial value of waste tyres poses a serious challenge in terms of the financial sustainability of processing plants. Not all waste tyres can go the energy recovery kiln route and it will be incumbent upon the SATRP to establish and financially support the operation of processing plants to, for instance, manufacture rubber crumb or for energy extraction.

The SATRP is therefore a holistic beginning-toend approach that will really solve a problem, instead of passing the environmental buck to create other problems.

RK: Is there a precedent for this approach?

Eh: Indeed! Successful waste management systems exist in the United States, the Far East and Western Europe. Perhaps the best example is the Aliapur system in France which bears the closest resemblance to the SATRP, because we took a whole bunch of leaves out of their book to develop the SATRP Plan.

France has literally been moving mountains of tyres using the SATRP modus operandi and has set a benchmark for the successful management and execution of waste tyre processing, used by over 65% of countries in the EU.

RK: Will the implementation of the SATRP mean more employment opportunities in our job-starved economy?

Eh: We are talking about the development of a whole new industry here and we envisage that similar to other international plans, approximately 700 to 800 employment opportunities will be created throughout the entire chain, from logistics to processing and at all skills levels.

RK: Are there any other plans that you know of that may be in the pipeline for Government consideration?

Eh: Yes, we believe that there are other waste tyre plans developing, which is good as long as they apply good corporate governance and practical economical business plans. However, the fact that the SATRP’s 72 member subscriber list reads like a who’s who in the motor industry and includes all the major tyre manufacturers, importers, tyre retreading groups and vehicle importers, says a lot.

It seems that it’s all systems go with the SATRP Waste Tyre Plan as soon as the plan gets gazetted. Investors are waiting with bated breath for the process to start.

Trend of fee in France since the introduction of the Regulation in 2004

120 100 80 60 40 20 0

2004

2005

2006

2007

2008

2009

2010

2011

Heavy truck

100

98

96

94

92

90

88

85

Light Vehicle

100

96

89

85

81

77

73

69

Truck

100

99

98

97

96

95

94

93

Heavy Truck Light Vehicle Truck

BENEFITS FOR SOUTH AFRICA Sustainable, controlled collection will benefit all South Africans and the environment by creating a recycling industry with exporting possibilities of recycled products, reducing pollution (smoke in air and illegal dumping)and improving road safety by reducing the risk of road accidents and health hazards.

NEWS FORUM

AutoForum - August 2011

New generation C-Class

Dr Martin Zimmermann, CEO of the local Daimler AG representative company, Mercedes-Benz South Africa

Out-going model

Merc C-Class Nip/Tuck

W

hat struck us most on our first peek at the new generation Mercedes-Benz C-Class, when we viewed it at its launch in East London, was the blend of familiar style - it truly is a good compromise between the existing model and the latest models in the Mercedes stable.

The distinctive headlights are the most noticeable change of the mid-life of this model, fitting in with the “family” style started with the previous shape CLS model. The update is more than cosmetic though, with customers now having the option of bi-xenon headlamps with Intelligent Light System (ILS).

The rear-end appears almost the same as the previous model other than the addition of LED tail lights.

The biggest changes to this model however, are what customers can’t see.

PAGE 20

A total of more than 2000 new components have been changed and updated.

In the cabin, a new dashboard, decorative trim, new colour display instrument cluster, while sporty three (available in the AVANTGARDE model), and fourspoke steering wheels which Mercedes will no doubt be hoping will make it a leader in its segment.

A nice add-on is the new generation of telematics, which connects the C-Class with the internet via the driver’s cellphone, allowing access to the mobile’s phone book and text message display.

The new “Cover Art” function shows title images of the music albums currently being played if their data is stored in the audio file. The colour display screen has a diagonal of 14.7 cm and navigating the system seems extremely intuitive.

Mercedes claim a fuel consumption improvement of up to 29% on the new C 350 BlueEFFICIENCY model. Other efficiency-enhancing measures include new engines and an improved 7G-Tronic Plus automatic transmission. Also new is the Eco start/stop function, while safety is enhanced thanks to the nine new driving assistance systems such as Attention Assist, Drowsiness Detection, and Distronic Plus proximity control.

Of course, standard on all C-Class vehicles is the MobiloDrive 120 (120 000km) maintenance plan.

The manufacturing plant itself is also a point of pride for MBSA. It is currently up to the standards being achieved out of Bremen in Germany, with only 31 defects per 100 cars, and which qualifies the plant for a 2011 Gold award from JD Power & Associates.

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PAGE 21 CH638

AutoForum - August 2011

NEWS FORUM

Government drive to localise taxi production - Roy Cokayne

T

he government is driving a process to localise mini-bus taxi manufacturing in SA – a move that has resulted in Toyota SA Manufacturing (TSAM) entering into discussions with the DTI and Nissan SA, indicating it will re-enter the taxi market.

The government drive follows recent Cabinet approval of amendments to the procurement policy framework regulations, which will allow the DTI to designate sectors and sub sectors of the economy for domestic production, at specified levels of local content.

Francois Truter, DTI Director of Investment Projects, confirmed part of the department’s discussions with TSAM related to conditions for the company to manufacture taxis locally.

Truter believed standards, including emission control and safety standards, would “start playing a big role” in assisting local companies to manufacture taxis. “There is a big issue around safety standards on some taxis. We need to ensure safety standards are adhered to.”

Truter believed Toyota would “most probably” be a significant player in local taxi manufacturing and “assumed” they would be followed by Nissan, while some Chinese manufacturers were also possible. He continued that research was currently being undertaken to designate the range of sectors for domestic production at a specified level of local content, in line with the procurement policy framework regulation amendments.

He confirmed that one sector, for example, could be the taxi industry, adding that the first designation for local procurement would be done in a few months, without specifying which sector that would be. According to Truter, this was “a great breakthrough” because procurement had been very challenging for government. He referred to the acquisition prior to the 2010 FIFA World

PAGE 22

Cup of more than 1 000 buses manufactured in Brazil, stressing that these buses could have been manufactured in SA. Truter said the DTI was: “very serious in seeing how it could take this forward.”

He continued that the Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) had been asked to review its business model, and had identified R66bn over the next five years for investment in the new growth model and the Industrial Policy Action Plan (IPAP2) sectors.

According to Truter, the department was intent on ensuring taxis were produced in SA, and this would be achieved through “government pressure” with the first taxis produced here from the middle of next year.

Johan van Zyl, President and CE of TSAM, confirmed it was in an advanced stage of discussion with the government and various other stakeholders to localise the production of the Ses’fikile and Quantum in South Africa. He stressed however, that these discussions were still dependant on “certain conditionalities and the finalisation of a viable business case”.

“If completed successfully, we will be in a position to make a public

announcement.” Van Zyl said he was unable to comment on the “conditionalities” and TSAM was waiting for the DTI to come back to it, but did not have any “timeline” on when this would happen.

Annual sales of mini bus taxis peaked a few years ago at about 20 000 units, which is insufficient to make local production viable, however, Van Zyl said the mini bus was extensively used as taxi’s in Africa, and there “definitely is a market for them” in Sub Saharan and North Africa.

Mike Whitfield, Nissan SA’s MD, confirmed it would be re-entering the taxi market and was currently studying opportunities in this market. He said the decision on whether it will be through locally assembled or fully imported vehicles was “still under study internally”.

But he confirmed one of the objectives of the DTI was to promote local production. “We are not in the taxi market at the moment, but with our product offering will enter the taxi market in about a year and a half. Right now it does not make sense to assemble [taxis] locally.”

Whitfield confirmed in March this year that Nissan SA aimed to more than double production at its assembly plant in Rosslyn to 100 000 units a year, by 2015.

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Cleans carburettor systems inside and outside Cleans brake systems without disassembly

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PAGE 23

NEWS FORUM

AutoForum - August 2011

Road markings key to safe roads

R

ecently, EuroRAP (the European Roads Assessment Programme) and safety testing authority, Euro NCAP, joined forces to call on the motor industry and the highways sector to work together to ensure that safety technologies reach their potential of saving thousands of lives.

The condition of road signs and markings could be the greatest hurdle in reaping the benefits of new in-car safety technology In a newly released consultation document issued jointly by the safety organisations, and which is entitled ‘Roads That Cars Can Read’, they assert that the condition of road signs and markings could be the greatest hurdle in reaping the benefits of new in-car safety technology. While the report is based on European roads and technologies, its findings and recommendations are as true for SA roads, and SA municipalities and road authorities would do well to take heed.

The report continues that technologies currently available in new cars in the European market are expected to increasingly assist in preventing accidents and injury. Among these technology breakthroughs are cameras and sensors that are used to read the road ahead and help the vehicle react early if drivers are heading into danger. This

PAGE 24

however is not possible where signs and road markings are obscured or faded. The document includes a survey of six countries to probe how signing and marking practice still varies around Europe after more than half a century of international conventions.

John Dawson, Chairman of EuroRAP says: “Huge sums have been spent developing technology that is revolutionising the safety of our vehicles. Little attention has been given to the quality of basic signing and marking with which drivers currently have to cope. We’ve found no country which systematically measures the quality of signing and marking being achieved. A century after the cat’s eye was invented, technology is again driving this rethink of how the road ahead can be read safely. The key lesson is that what is good for humans is good for machines.”

‘Roads that Cars can Read’ recommends that those responsible for the roads should work together with the motor industry to create new designs and focus on helping drivers with two early technologies now offered in new cars, ‘Lane Support’ and ‘Speed Alert’.

The former works by reading lane markings to determine the position of the vehicle within the lane and steers drifting vehicles back on path, a common origin of crashes. ‘Speed Alert’ allows drivers to choose warnings when exceeding posted roadside speed limits.

According to Michiel van Ratingen, Secretary General Euro NCAP: “The roadsides of Europe are littered with flowers and shrines. More than a quarter of road deaths involve running off the road. ‘Lane Support’ gives the driver a warning that’s as physical as hitting a rumble strip on the road. It is estimated more than 2,000 European deaths annually can be prevented with this technology.”

“The consequences of missing a change of speed limit have become more serious as more nations have adopted a points system and enforce limits rigorously. The ‘Speed Alert’ system protects the drivers from missing a speed sign, not least when limits chop and change.”

The report also recommends that both the roads and motor industries should use this decade to target improved signing and marking on the 10% of Europe’s roads where the majority of travel and the majority of deaths are concentrated involving higher speed crashes.

“We now need a full survey of the quality of road signs and markings to measure the real-world variation in signing and marking across borders and define the working tolerances that are acceptable.”

NEWS FORUM

AutoForum - August 2011

NAPA breaks new ground by transcending R1 billion in turnover in 2010/2011

- Robert Kaiser

T

he National Automobile Parts Association (NAPA) celebrated a milestone event this year by exceeding R1 Billion in turnover for its 2010/11 financial year. Considering that NAPA, with its 107 members, achieved this in purchases from the Association’s 54 South African suppliers in the fast moving parts sector, the huge volumes achieved can be appreciated.

NAPA really got off the ground in 1976, with only 12 members and a handful of suppliers at that stage, and experienced zero to hero growth in just 34 years. All expectations are that the Association will continue with its track record of stable growth, remaining a significant strategic force operating under the Midas Group umbrella.

It isn’t everyone who can lay claim to have been part of a highly successful enterprise right from ground zero, and then leading it from strength to strength through three and a half decades.

Such a man is Rolf Gudegast, wellknown professional in the replacement parts sector who immigrated to South Africa from Germany in the mid-sixties.

He joined the MIDAS Group in 1976, and together with Derek Riley, identified a procurement opportunity in the replacement parts sector. NAPA was founded to service and expand on this

opportunity, and the rest as they say is history.

Currently serving as Chairman of the Association, Gudegast explained the Association’s early days: “When we started the Company with the 12 initial members, our main product line supplied through NAPA was protective sheepskin seat covers for cars, which, you may recall, was very fashionable and popular in the replacement parts market in those years.”

“The concept we brought to market was an innovation in the supply chain and whilst we encountered opposition from many quarters to our concept of bulk procurement, the benefits to members, as well as suppliers, soon became evident.” According to Gudegast, early success with the implementation of the business model soon resulted in acceptance of the value proposition in the industry, and set NAPA on a steady growth course.

The achievement of breaching the R1 Billion mark, especially in an environment where industry trading conditions are tough and competition is really stiff, bears testimony to the loyalty of NAPA member. “This is made possible by excellent service delivery by our South African suppliers and the passion and dedication of our young and

From left to right: Megan Naiker, Deva Naidoo, Justin McKnight and Rolf Gudegast

PAGE 26

Rolf Gudegast

dynamic management team, now led by Managing Director Megan Naiker.”

Asked what he would single out as a key factor in the success story of NAPA, Gudegast responded without hesitation: “Building and managing relationships and maintaining quality communication with our members and suppliers. It is the foundation on which our business is built.” These principles are widely recognised as critical success factors for any business, but are not always afforded the attention they deserve.

Gudegast insists that NAPA’s business culture is built around these principles as tenets of the way they do business without compromise.” I believe that this has been a major contributing factor in the exceptional level of member loyalty experienced by NAPA. Long may that continue!”

And what about the future? “We are confident that NAPA will continue on its growth path into the future”, he says.

“We already have members in Namibia and elsewhere in Southern Africa and have identified significant opportunities for growth in the SADEC and East African Regions which we are addressing at present. We believe that these initiatives will be important factors in underpinning our expansion efforts going forward.”

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Behr Hella Service keeps you “Cool, Calm and Collected” at all times.

Behr Hella Service Components and their functions are optimally matched to the comfort demands of car drivers.

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Contact details: Hans Soonalal 011 538 7500 • Cell: 082 888 3648 • Dial: 0861 CAR AIRCON www.behrhella.co.za PAGE 27

NEWS AFRICA

Body repair insight

AutoForum - August 2011

NEWS AFRICA

In association with BodyShop News Asia and Australian BodyShop News

Contents 29

Workshop Essentials and Supplies ADAM'S WATERLESS WASH - R295 ex VAT - 5L

0860 10 13 17 ADAMS POLISHERS

A&M Launch Flagship Refinish Range Adam’s Premium Car Wash R245 ex VAT - 5L

30

AER-O-NEWS

PPG takes over Ducol 31 Coatings

MICRO FIBRE CLOTHS

R17.50 ex VAT each

R9.65 ex VAT each

Kansai appeals Commission condition

Discovery Insure 36 Hosts New Consultant, Rory Byrne

R52 ex VAT each

Adam’s Detail Spray R355 ex VAT - 5L

R17.50 ex VAT each

R29 ex VAT each

36

SEAT COVERS R1.75 ex VAT each

PAPER AND PLASTIC FLOOR MATS From 79c ex VAT each

KEY CABINETS AND SAFES Model SKC35 R795 ex VAT

STEERING WHEEL COVERS 90c ex VAT each

BOOSTER PAC

START-UP KIT MOBILE FLOOR SYSTEM R2595 ex VAT

CAR TOP HAT R58 ex VAT each

Model SSKS49 R2850.00

WORKSHOP ESSENTIALS

Super V.R.T Vinyl, Rubber &Tire Dressing R795 ex VAT - 5L

R39 ex VAT each

Yellow, Red, Blue, Orange

ES3500 (12 volts) Petrol and Diesel R2995 ex VAT

PAGE 28

Leather & Interior Cleaner R365 ex VAT - 5L

ES6000 (12 volts) Petrol and Diesel R4850 ex VAT

TEL 0860 10 13 17 JHB Head Office EMAIL: mike@motormerchandise.co.za Unit 7, 368 Oak Ave, The Oaks, Ferndale, Randburg. Open 8 - 5.

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www.motormerchandise.co.za

AutoForum - August 2011

A&M Launch Flagship Refinish Range

I

Brent Strydom, Klingspor National Sales Manager, reviewed the wide range of abrasive products available to the South African market, and reiterated his company’s support to the industry through A&M Abrasives.

n early July, A&M Abrasives launched their flagship refinish products to the industry, with a dinner function at The Johannesburg Country Club.

The trade and press were introduced to the company and its products by Marketing Manager, Bev Dicks, who welcomed the attendees and officially opened the proceedings. She highlighted the company’s commitment to partnering with various suppliers, both locally and globally, to ensure that their customers have access to leading brands and available technology. Guests were then entertained and further enlightened about the range and launch specials, by Azeez Choonara, A&M’s National Sales Manager and renowned industry personality.

HB Body’s newly appointed National Technical Manager, Momcillo Srvic is another recognizable face in the local industry, and he too gave an overview of his company and its extensive array of products.

With quality brands and anchor support from Kapci Coatings, Klingspor Abrasive Technology and HB Body auto refinishing products, the A&M Abrasives team, are confident they can deliver the right product, at the right price, to the trade.

s Sales brasive A&M A chnical Team and Te

al

National Technic Momcillo, Srvic dy Bo HB Manager

Bev Dicks, Ma rketing Ma A&M Abrasives nager

Brent S Sales Mtrydom, Natio na anager Klingsp l or

Azeez Choonara, National Sales Manager A&M Abrasives

PAGE 29

BODYSHOP NEWS

AER-O-NEWS logy and meeting the latest in techno A great example of quality part of installation at Value Truck, design, is Aer-O-Cure’s new Isando.

Value Logistics Limited in ent and the sts state of the art equipm The new turnkey project boa ovative roller design, which includes inn latest in truck spraybooth rough truck booth. shutter doors for the drive-th new commercial vehicle Some of the highlights of the ete Aer-O-Cure 18m truck driv bodyshop include a comple Cure -Oooth oven; a separate Aer through combination sprayb ted gra spraybooth oven, with inte waterbourne combination ck specific Tru p Pre -OAer five m; and Aer-O-Mix paint mixing roo and with under floor extraction preparation bays, complete addition, In – all custom built for trucks. overhead vacuum system and small ndard Aer-O-Prep vehicle there are two complete sta overhead latter feature computerised parts preparation bays. The parts. vacuum systems for small infrared and dry flattening

s tion bay prepayrastem and k c ru T s O-Preepad vacuumaction 5 Aer-o xtr erh with v under floor e

0 bench tures a Car-O-Liner BR550 The panelbeating area fea system.

Vision electronic measuring rack, complete with Car-Otem, sys d to include a compressor The new shop also decide droppers. complete with airlines and tnered -O-Cure is proud to have par Walter Lenaerts, MD of Aer y vehicle ioning this leading heavy dut with Value Truck in commis repair centre.

Car-O-Liner BR5500 bench rack complete with Car-O-Vision elect ronic measuring system

PAGE 30

tion re combintead Aer-O-Cuith ra e g rn te u in o rb Wate ybooth oven w g room spra paint mixin Aer-O-Mix

Front, rear and side vie ws of the 18 metre drive-through combinatio Truck spraybooth ove n Aer-O-Cure n, showing the innovative roller shu tter doors

PPG takes over Ducol Coatings In June, New York stock exchange-listed PPG Industries announced that it had acquired Krugersdorp based Ducol Coatings, an importer and distributor of PPG’s automotive refinish products in the SA market since 2003.

Formed in 1990, Ducol Coatings has operations in both SA and Namibia. As John Outcalt, PPG VP, Automotive Refinish explains: “PPG now will be able to directly serve customers in the region with our high-quality, innovative automotive refinish products and our customer service, technical support and training programmes.”

He said that it will continue to use the Ducol brand, as well as Ducol Coatings’ former franchisee and distributor network, giving it access to a solid, proven distribution network in the growing South African and surrounding markets.

0018058

AutoForum - August 2011

PAGE 34

BODYSHOP NEWS

AutoForum - August 2011

Discovery Insure Hosts New Consultant, Rory Byrne

D

iscovery Insure have partnered with Rory Byrne - current consultant to, and ex Chief Designer on, the Ferrari Formula 1 team - as a consultant on its new package. Byrne will be part of the team analysing the telematics generated by the DQ-Track system.

This system provides telemetry that measures a driver’s behavioural characteristics, such as acceleration, braking, cornering, speed vs speed limits and so forth, whilst operating the vehicle. This data can then be analysed by the actuaries and engineers to provide key measures, which are weighted and applied to the points system that then effects the insured driver’s portion of their cash-back bonuses.

According to Anton Ossip, CEO of Discovery Insure, this history of driver characteristics will not result in penalities to the insured, unless it applies to a specific claim incident. When queried, he also said that in instances where the insured regularly operated different vehicles, the DQ systems would be fitted to the various vehicles in order to monitor each driving event.

Kansai appeals Commission condition Kansai announced recently that it has requested the Competition Tribunal to reconsider the divestiture condition imposed by the Competition Commission earlier this year – in essence appealing the Commission’s decision. The Japanese paint manufacturer attempted a hostile takeover of local company Freeworld Coatings’s Automotive Paints Division earlier this year. The appeal will however be limited to the divestiture condition only and does not affect any of the public interest conditions.

The appeal is based on the company’s belief that the manner in which the Commission imposed this structural remedy was flawed, and that it did not fully appreciate the underlying characteristics of the automotive coatings market. The company believes that the divestiture condition may have a negative impact on the broader business of Freeworld and its wider stakeholders.

Following the brief welcome by Ossip, guests were then treated to a face to face interview with Byrne. He provided some interesting insight into the world of Formula 1, the teams and drivers, having worked at both Benneton and Ferrari amongst others, with the likes of the late Ayrton Senna, Nelson Piquet and Michael Schumacher, to name but a few. When asked who he thought was the currently the best F1 driver, Byrne replied that in F1, 80% of any success was attributable to the car and 20% to the driver, however he believes that currently Alonso, Hamilton and Vettel stand out from the rest.

Byrne also explained how safety technology and parameters originally implemented in F1, have been mirrored in our modern road vehicles, helping make the vehicles safer to operate. The interview concluded with an open question forum and lunch.

Kansai has also applied for interim relief to suspend the condition, pending the outcome of the appeal. If the interim relief is granted, no further steps will be taken by Freeworld to divest of its automotive coatings business until the outcome of the appeal is known, a process that is anticipated to take 3 to 5 months to complete.

Sasha Martinengo

PAGE 36

Rory Byrne

How much do batteries cost your business?

“Green luxury” is not an oxymoron. Ecological thinking and action is recognised and widely accepted. This type of connection can also be observed among the colours of this trend world in Europe.

B

atteries are not something that most workshops spend that much time worrying about, but the replacement of batteries can seriously cut into a business’ profits. The average dealer buys 5 replacement batteries per month, at an average cost of R750 per battery, which amounts to around R3500 per month. Looking long term, that adds up to a whopping R42000 per annum.

Of course the better you look after a battery, the better it will serve you - making proactive and preventative battery management an essential workshop process.

The 3 main causes of shortened battery life are: 1 sulphating due to undercharged batteries 2 acid stratification due to deeply discharged batteries 3 drying out and harmful overcharging which ‘boils off’ battery fluids Vehicle electronics have come a long way in recent years, resulting in higher demands being placed on batteries – even when a vehicle is parked. At the same time,

modern batteries have greater requirements themselves, such as modern chargers and charging methods. A 3 Amp charger of today is the equivalent to a 10 Amp charger of a few years ago - and those chargers of the past used more power than current technology requires.

Ctek offers a truly modern product to keep up with the current demands, by offering a charger with a patented 8-step charging system. This means not only more efficient charging, but also ensures that charging is carried out correctly, preventing early failure of the battery. The range of chargers is ideal for maintaining and charging the diverse, maintenance-free, lead-acid technologies currently available.

Vehicle alternators alone may not be able to satisfactorily re-charge the battery, especially if a vehicle is only being driven short distances every day. Ctek boasts a 3 in 1 service - it systematically reconditions, services and charges. What this means for the car dealer or fleet owner, is a radically reduced number of monthly replacement

batteries. As a result, the unit will often pay for itself in 1-2 months.

The Ctek range of battery chargers boast greater safety for users thanks to its foolproof connection, its being spark proof and reverse polarity protected. There is also no need for the battery to be disconnected. It also boasts greater safety for vehicles, as the units regulate voltage to protect sensitive electronic and audio equipment.

The chargers provide fully automatic charging, maintenance and battery care. The patented desulphation function revives drained batteries and extends battery life, while float/pulse charging allows ‘set and forget’ for months at a time without harming the battery.

All commercial Ctek Battery chargers carry a 2 year warranty. The range includes: MXS10-10 Amp 12volt charger, MXS25 25 Amp 12 volt charger, MXT14 (14 Amp) 24 Volt charger and recently released, the all new MXTS70 - an extremely powerful industrial model suitable for the heavy duty trucking, mining and military markets.

Tel: 0860 10 13 17, E-mail: mike@motormerchandise.co.za or visit our Website: www.motormerchandise.co.za

The new MXS 10

The MXTS 70 (12V/24V)

This series of technical articles is supplied by Motor Merchandise.

PAGE 37

AutoForum - August 2011

PAGE 38

Business Forum

AutoForum - August 2011

Business insight

Gear up for regulated waste management - Dave Scott

T

he Govt. Gazette No. 34417 dated 1 July 2011 carries draft waste classification and management regulations to give effect to the Waste Act, 59/2008.

The latter was passed in March 2009 and promulgated in July 2009. It’s the standard 30-day window of invitation to submit written comments or objections.

But just to get your attention, let’s start with punishment listed under paragraph 14 – ‘Offences and penalties’:

• Imprisonment for a period not exceeding 15 years • An appropriate fine • Both a fine and imprisonment So who is going to be involved in all this regulation of rubbish? The ROSE Foundation leads the charge, ROSE being Recovery of Oil Saves the Environment.

According to a presentation delivered to the SA Institute of Tribology by ROSE Foundation CEO, Raj Lochan, a ‘Waste

Generator’ in terms of the Act is anyone who generates more than 20kg of waste per day. Judging by loaded skips with used oil filters and other harmful waste standing around truck workshops, it’s easy to reach a daily 20kg target.

The ROSE Foundation heads the used lube recovery charge and estimates South Africa generates approximately 120 million litres of used oil a year. Info on its website states that around 80 to 90 million litres are being recovered for recycling. At least 30 to 40 million litres – 25% to 33% - are however, unaccounted for! One litre of used oil can pollute one million litres of water, so the multiplying effect is horrendous.

Oil contaminated waste comes under scrutiny in the new Act too – its an area in which we have all been too casual. Empty oil and grease containers are

PAGE 40

Dave Scott is a member of the S.A. Guild of Motoring Journalists, and is a monthly contributor to the press on transport and trucking related subjects. In 2002 and 2003 Dave Scott was the S.A. Guild of Motoring Journalists winner of the category ‘Business Motoring’.

As a member of the S.A. Institute of Tribology he takes a keen interest in the application of lubricants to road transport maintenance and the cost of ownership. His key writing focus is on fleet management including the technology of trucks and road transport.

often heaped alongside used filters and oil rags. But now the Regulations will require us to start classifying and streaming waste.

Lochan points out: “A ‘Waste Generator’ must keep accurate and up to date records of the management of the waste they generate, and which must reflect classification of the wastes and the quantity of each waste generated, expressed in tons per month. In addition, the records must contain the quantities of each waste that has either been re-used, recycled, recovered, treated or disposed of and where, and by whom, each waste was re-used, recycled, recovered, treated or disposed of. Records must be retained for a period of at least 5 (five) years and made available to the Department upon request.”

And how are we going to classify waste? The Regulations refer to SANS 10234 - Globally Harmonized System of classification and labelling of chemicals (GHS) – and safety data sheets where waste must be classified within 90 days

of generation. There’s also a ‘Waste Manifest System’ where all waste generators, transporters and managers must retain copies of the waste manifest documentation for a period of at least 5 (five) years. This legislation is not confined to waste generators – the solid waste transport segment is also drawn into the net of compliance.

It all sounds onerous, but being green is not a ‘waste’ of time. Legislation is not the problem – it’s the lack of will to enforce the law that’s a problem and destroys our environment. The law sets you free, but only if one respects this - and judging from the way minibus taxis drive, get serviced and kill people, there’s little respect for the law.

Lochan reports: “There are also timelines and limits. All wastes previously classified must be re-classified and assessed within two (2) years. Waste not classified to be disposed to landfill, must be re-classified and assessed within ninety (90) days”

That’s why the ROSE Foundation is a success story – it’s self-regulatory and requires no enforcement. But if Raj Lochan and his team – NORA, The National Oil Recycling Association – want to collect the missing 40 million litres of used oil, then they will need the law and enforcement. Let’s have this piece of legislation and start the process.

Someone in the organisation will have a new job description, or the task may require a separate portfolio and assigned responsibility. This will require assessment and training and sounds like an opportunity for a whole new consulting industry to give advice to confused truckers and everyone else entrenched in the culture of throwing waste on the ‘big heap’.

Acknowledgement and reference sources: SA Institute of Tribology - Used Oil Management in a Regulatory Environment – Rose Foundation Presentation 5 July 2011 ROSE Foundation: www.rosefoundation.org. za DEA Websites:www.sawic.org.za, www.sawis.org.za, www.wastepolicy.co.za

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AutoForum - August 2011

The “ideal” customer-focused employee - Graham Bush

I

was in a retailer recently and was once again amused by the framed picture of the ‘Employee of the Month’.

How many times do retailers use this as a ‘motivational tool’ for their employees – as opposed to a genuine award? I can just imagine management chatting amongst themselves trying to remember who hasn’t received the award: “Let’s give it to Fred this month - it will make him happy.”

I’m sure it will – but what about the consumer, will it make him happy? I am all for staff awards, appraisals and incentives, but as long as it is for all the right reasons. In a service environment, staff need to be customer focused – not nosing for an award!

I recently spoke at a conference for a chain of supermarkets that give discounts to pensioners on a specific day

ALL ALL ALL

of the week. “Why that particular day?”

I asked, to which the response was that it was the quietest day of the week!

So for whose benefit are we giving pensioners a discount? Do we ask all the local retirement villages and old age homes if that day suits them?

Probably not.

Another chain of retailers whom I had the pleasure to address, have invested in a Customer Service Liaison Officer for each branch. This is a brilliant idea; except that this employee seems to be the store’s best kept secret. He or she is rarely seen on the shop floor. I also noticed that these employees are often about a generation younger than the average shopper, posing the question.

‘Do you really know what I want?’

So what are the characteristics of an “ideal” customer-focused employee?

Who are the best people to let loose on your customers? Who makes the best customer service employee? It’s probably naïve to try to make a list of characteristics, because there is nobody in the world that will ever match the description. But maybe the following checklist will help.

Which of your employees can: • List at least ten specific reasons why it is so important to “delight” customers?

• Tell the difference between a delighted customer versus a satisfied one?

• Explain what leads to customer loyalty, and understands that highly satisfied customers are not always

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PAGE 42

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•

•

•

•

•

loyal, while some unhappy customers can be loyal?

List at least two good reasons why having unhappy customers is not always a bad thing?

Define every single moment of truth for which he or she is responsible, and is clear about what customers like, and dislike, about these moments of truth?

List at least five clear ways in which your business differentiates itself from your competitors to delight customers?

Define and describe at least ten different expectations of service delivery which your customers probably hold, and use to evaluate their service contact List at least ten reasons why customers get upset, based on complaints recently received?

List the reasons why your customers quit your business, and approximately what % of customers quit for each reason?

• Effectively and successfully deal with customer complaints, and knows exactly how to behave to calm someone who is upset AND keep themselves calm when things are getting tough, and when other people get abusive?

• Come up with a list of new and innovative ways for adding value to the customer’s experiences in your business.

Staff should be employed based on their attitude and personality, as opposed to only selecting candidates due to previous experience and skills. Skills can be taught – but try teaching attitude and personality – it’s easier to herd cats!

So what you ideally need are staff that can demonstrate at least two thirds of the following attributes:

• Good listener and great empathy skills • Forgiving even when attacked, but not weak, can laugh off personal insults, and handle stress effectively • Friendly, polite, respectful and courteous demeanor • Cheerful and enthusiastic, and a good sense of humour • Able to stay focused on problems • Happy to compromise rather than win • Persuasive, and can sell advantages • A sense of fairness and justice • Can balance a few balls in the air • See that doing the right thing is more important than being right • Can easily see an innovative “third option” • Efficient and responsive.

How many of these are present in your business?

• Assertive, self-confident, tactful and firm, rather than aggressive

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PAGE 43

AutoForum - August 2011

What that traffic jam just cost you

L

ast month, traffic and navigation provider, TomTom, released its 2011 South African Traffic Survey results, which found that traffic jams are far more than simply a nuisance in SA. According to the report, SA companies lose billions of Rands every year, thanks to time wastage and demotivation caused by sitting in traffic. It found that 78% of the 3.8 million drivers on Johannesburg roads experience ‘severe traffic jams’ everyday on their work commute.

Of these, 10% are forced to cancel meetings, and in excess of 40% are late for work, while 75% of this group experienced “high levels of stress during time spent in traffic.”

Across the country, 25% of drivers experience 45 minutes or more time in traffic. Not surprisingly, Gautengers have it worse. The report found that 33% of drivers in Gauteng experience at least 45 minutes of traffic.

Companies lost around R 1.1 Billion per month due to time wasted in traffic on a daily basis Using this data, the researchers calculated that companies lose R291.00 per employee per month, due to time wasted in traffic on a daily basis - around R1.1 Billion per month*.

But its not just the time out of the office that is problematic. The report found that workers exposed to traffic on a daily basis, experience a 64% increase in general stress levels. Respondents surveyed rated ‘hatred’ as their most experienced emotion during a period of being stuck in a traffic jam (28%), which was followed by ‘irritation or frustration’ (14%) and ‘tension or stress’ (13%).

And, depending on your gender, you might be more at risk of feeling stressed by traffic. Independent tests quoted

by TomTom, measured physiological stress markers in participants’ saliva, to determine gender differences in traffic related stress. Interestingly, women suffered an 8.7% increase in stress from

PAGE 44

driving in traffic, whilst men suffered a staggering increase of 60%. In the same tests, 67% of women and 50% of men reported not feeling stressed 20 minutes after driving in traffic, when physiologically, they still were stressed.

The research goes on to suggest that the effects of long-term exposure to stress chemicals include suppressed immune function, raised blood pressure and elevated blood sugar levels. All of which points to unhappy employees and could impact on future health – meaning more sick days.

The study also found that in order to deal with traffic-induced stress, drivers have developed a number of coping strategies. 82% of drivers surveyed listen to music, whilst 21% talk to other passengers in order to pass the time and ease the tension. And coping strategies vary by country and gender.

The Americans (38%) and the Swedish (39%) tend to talk on the phone to make better use of their time, whilst the Dutch prefer to comfort eat (14%).

English speakers in general, prefer to sing to themselves to reduce stress (US: 20%, UK: 19% and SA: 16%).

And then there is the environmental cost. When respondents were asked what they thought the environmental impact would be if traffic was reduced by 15%, researchers found that: 96% of drivers thought this would have a positive effect and reduce air pollution; 81% thought this would have a positive effect on noise pollution and 74% of

drivers thought it would have a positive effect on global warming.

So how can all of this research help you? TomTom believes that with its products and services that allow realtime traffic information updates, drivers

can avoid jams as far as possible. The collective effort of multiple drivers doing so, they explain: “will be able to help roads flow more effectively, reducing the journey times for all commuters.”

The 2011 TomTom Traffic Survey includes the participation of 962 respondents over the age of 18, all of whom currently live in South Africa. The results were accumulated over the months of November 2010 to January 2011.

*Note: 1.) Rounding applied to figures displayed. 2.) According to AMPS 2010B, there are 3,808,644 owners/users of vehicles who work full or part-time.

3.)No responsibility will be accepted for consequential losses if reliance is made on these figures. Only for illustration . Limitations possibly include: Sampling error (all samples have a certain amount of error – see the reported margin of error) and the assumption that the % of respondents late on any one work day can be used to estimate the probability of any one individual being late.

PAGE 45

AutoForum - August 2011

How to comply with the Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) Act - John Hempel

Part 2 - Emergency evacuation procedures in the workplace

A

fire or explosion can be a very traumatic and costly experience, and every employer must realise that it could happen at any time, due to usage and storage of flammable liquid, smoking, cartons, paper, electrical overload etc. All of which can usually be predicted by an onsite Hazard Identification and Risk Assessment.

Step 1: Draw a plan of your building, floor, and /or work area and identify all of the evacuation routes with arrows.

Identify on the drawing, the Assembly Point, where all employees, visitors and contractors must assemble should they need to evacuate.

Step 3: Ensure you have enough fire extinguishers, and affix the proper red signage to identify the location of the fire extinguishers, keeping a 1 square metre area in front of it unobstructed at all times, so that you can reach the fire extinguisher when needed.

Put up the correct green and white emergency escape signage on the wall above the doors that form part of the plan, and ensure that the signs are visible from all work stations and in passages, showing the direction of the emergency exit.

Step 4: Identify on the plan (revert back to step 1) the type and number of fire extinguishers and their exact location.

Step 5: Attach the plan and procedures to notice boards, reception areas and at visible points around the building, so that everyone can see what the plan looks like.

Whilst there are many different emergencies that can occur, OHS service providers are able to advise businesses based on one of the most common of them all – that being fire.

In terms of the requirements for the SA ‘Emergency Evacuation Plan and procedure’ a company’s plan must be available and visible, and the proper information signage (as per South African National Standards ) must be affixed in visible areas to easily guide staff, contractors and visitors to safety. Of course before you can make it available, you have to ensure that you actually have a plan in the first place.

Here are some tips on how to put your business’ Emergency and Evacuation Plan together:

PAGE 46

Step 2: Draw up a simple 6, 7 or 8 step procedure, which must be affixed to the wall below the chart, identifying the method of raising the alarm, calling the emergency services, roll call, etc.

Here is an example of such a procedure: 1) If you notice a flame, first attempt to extinguish it using the nearest fire extinguisher or, If you notice a flame, alert the trained fire fighter on the premises.

2) If the flames become unmanageable, raise the alarm.

(It is important to note that you should have trained fire fighters, and a fire alarm on the premises)

Step 6: Train all of your employees on the site specific plan, and hold a practice drill (practice drills should be held annually).

The employees should know what the alarm sounds like, otherwise they will think it is the siren for tea time, lunch and so forth, and not realise that it is an emergency. Evaluate the results, and discuss any non adherences to the plan with your Health and Safety Committee.

Step 7: Test your fire alarm regularly.

For more solutions and assistance with ensuring you have correct procedures and comply with the national OHS Act, find a specialist OHS service provider who can guide you through the process.

Take action today – waiting can spell disaster.

John Hempel is a Director of Compliance South Africa (Pty) Ltd, and has worked extensively within the Manufacturing and Motor industries. He has been instrumental in the start up of the SEIFSA Health and Safety division and RMI4OHS Joint Venture, which was launched with the core focus of assisting companies to comply with legislation. His company is accredited with the HWSETA.

Some stabilisation at last

I

n July, TransUnion Auto Information Solutions released their latest Vehicle Pricing Index (VPI), which is published quarterly and measures the year-onyear price inflation of a market weighted basket of new and used vehicles.

The latest report held some good news for browbeaten consumers, indicating that new and used car inflation remained behind the Consumer Price Index (CPI) in the second quarter (Q2) of this year. The VPI puts new car inflation at 4% for the period April – June 2011, marginally up from 3.7% in the first three months of the year.

At the same time, used car price inflation slowed from 3.4% in the first quarter of the year to 3.1% in Q2 - the slowest rate of increase since 2009, when used car price deflation was a regular occurrence.

The CPI on the other hand climbed to 4.6% in May from 4.2% the month prior.

At the time of the report’s release, June CPI statistics had not been released.

Mike von Höne, TransUnion CEO, explained that despite the disruption of the Japanese vehicle manufacturing sector following the earthquakes and tsunami, this had no impact on local new vehicle sales or pricing. He continued: “There have been some delays in component availability, which affected local manufacturers’ ability to produce new vehicles, but this situation is not expected to continue for much longer.”

The report does however see continued pressure on the used vehicle market, thanks in large part to the drop in new vehicle sales in 2009 and 2010. This resulted in lowered numbers of one and two-year-old models available for resale.

Concurrently, new car inflation rates have fallen from over 10% in 2009 to under 5% last year and into the first half of 2011. This resulted in a narrowing of the price gap between new and used cars.

As von Höne explains: “The shortage of quality, late model used cars on the market, combined with the many excellent ‘deals’ that are available from manufacturers on new cars, has led to declining demand for used vehicles.”

It was for this reason that the ratio of used to new cars financed has dropped from 1.95 used cars for every new car financed in Q1 this year, to just 1.63.

Despite this, the number of used vehicles financed in Q2 was up 24% from Q1.

PAGE 47

AutoForum - August 2011

INNOVATIONS

The latest automotive technology

Delphi’s Automotive’s awardwinning electronically scanning radar is now available on the Ford Focus in Europe.

New ESR makes even non premium vehicles safer

D

elphi Automotive’s electronically scanning radar (ESR) was recently added to the European Ford Focus line-up, enabling Adaptive Cruise Control with Forward Alert, and thus widening the range of vehicle segments offering advanced safety features.

Ford claims that it is the first vehicle manufacturer to go beyond offering advanced features on only its premium vehicles, and extend the benefits of ESR to a broader market.

ESR uses proven solid state technology to help automakers offer an adaptive cruise control system that not only enhances safety and convenience, but is affordable to more buyers. The system boasts long-range coverage that provides accurate range and speed data with effective object discrimination, enabling audible driver warnings when there is potential for a collision.

The system also pre-charges the brakes

PAGE 48

so that they react more quickly when engaged.

Delphi’s highperformance electronically scanning radar, including electronics and mounting features, is just 173.7 x 90.2 x 49.2 millimetres

Earlier solutions made use of multiple-beam radars with mechanical scanning or several fixed, overlapping beams to attain the required view. Unlike mechanically scanning radars, electronically scanning radars have no moving parts, resulting in improved performance. Another benefit of the new system is its small size - the complete radar module, including electronics and mounting features, is just 173.7 x 90.2 x 49.2 millimetres.

“By offering this innovative product on the Focus, a whole new segment of drivers will benefit from the safety

advantages of Delphi’s ESR,” said Diedrich von Behr, Managing Director of Delphi’s Electronic Controls product business unit in Europe.

Despite its promise to benefit a wider range of drivers however, South Africans will not be enjoying it anytime soon. The technology is at present only available in Europe, the US and Asia.

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INNOVATIONS

AutoForum - August 2011

Bosch gasoline direct injection makes car engines more powerful, with greater torque and lower fuel consumption. Apart from the engine control unit, the system comprises HDEV5-series injection valves and the HDP high-pressure pump.

Bosch celebrates production milestones

I

n our last issue, we covered the Bosch international press briefing, where the company unveiled its strategy for development over the next few years. In the same month, Bosch also celebrated two production milestones: the manufacture of 25 million HDEV5-series fuel injectors and five million HDP-line high pressure pumps within its ‘Gasoline Systems’ business division.

Both products went into largescale series production in 2006, with the HDP line first featured in GM’s Ecotec engine, while the HDEV5 series was initially applied in PSA/BMW’s Prince engine. The company produces high-pressure pumps and fuel injectors at its lead plants in Nuremberg and Bamberg (both in Germany) as well as in Turkey and China. The high-pressure pumps and fuel injectors are part of its Motronic Electric Engine Management system, which - combined with turbocharging - reduces fuel

PAGE 50

consumption and CO2 emissions of internal-combustion engines with petrol direct injection, by 15%.

With increasing focus from automakers on engine downsizing, the company believes the international market for petrol direct injection systems will only rise. “Bosch expects the share of gasoline direct injection to triple by 2015, to 18% of global car production,” says Dr. Rolf Bulander, President of the Gasoline Systems division.

The HDEV5 high-pressure injection valve works by virtue of up to seven individually positioned injection holes that enable the spray pattern to be adapted to each engine. The highpressure injection valve and pump are designed for system pressures of up to 200 bar, yet remain compact and light, weighing in at just 780 grams.

The use of stainless steel means that the current components of the petrol direct injection system are designed for worldwide use and thus for great fuelquality tolerance.

PAGE 51

AutoForum - August 2011

A severe case of trucking ‘acronymia’ Safer driving Late last month, Heavy Commercial Vehicle Underwriting Managers sent a release to the automotive media, reminding us of some of the key tips to keeping drivers safe on the roads. The tips are by no means new, but they offer some basic rules that are all too often glossed over, to the detriment of all road users. They include: don’t drink (or drug) and drive; stay hydrated – drink lots of water; make frequent stops to eat healthily and stretch; buckle up at all times; limit speed to 80km/h; reduce speed in wet weather, turn on headlights and increase following distance; and finally, check tyres and regularly service your vehicle.

The release also highlighted an Arrive Alive web page that show the most dangerous stretches of SA roads, by province, and with sobering crash statistics per section – arrivealive.co.za/document/hazardousroutes.pdf.

The company provides free in-cab driver training for its policy holders which is aimed at equipping drivers to react appropriately to hazardous situations.

PAGE 52

00_AutoZone_Top_Quality_Strip_Advert.indd 1

- Dave Scott

T

here’s no doubt the digital age has introduced a language of its own. The problem is, it’s bound up in acronyms that are coming fast from different directions and original equipment manufacturers (OEMs – here’s the first one.) One of the prime acronym inventors, WABCO, even publishes an acronym table in six languages with close on 50 terms that range from 4W ETC – 4 Wheel Electronic Transmission Control – through to VCS – Vario Compact System. It’s an alphabet soup of note!

The 2005 January/February issue of Auto Engineering & Spares carried an article ‘Safety & operating acronyms need standards’ and six years down the line, the views in that article remain valid: ‘ in the world of vehicle electronic management systems…acronymic terminology is accelerating to create a Tower of Babel effect for vehicle specifications.’

But now we have the CPA (Consumer Protection Act) in place from 1 April 2011 and this covers product interpretation as viewed by a reasonable man. The danger, it would seem, comes from implied promises. According to Advocate James Clark: “It is advised that product and service providers must, as far as possible, stay away from implied trade descriptions, as they are susceptible to the reasonable man’s interpretation and imagination as well as to those entity’s that may have a warped imagination. The negative of the implied will always be prone to interpretation beyond and far from the actually implied trade descriptions supplied by the product and/or service provider.”

2011/07/11 8:59 AM

A good example is, what is offered by ABS? Does EBS – Electronic Brake System – include ABS or is this the other way around? And how far does ESC – Electronic Stability Control – extend over EBS and ABS? Is ASR – Anti-Spin Regulation and more aptly described as Acceleration Skid Control – part of an EBS or ESC package? Apparently ATC – Automatic Traction Control – is the acronym used in the USA for ASR while ETC is Electronic Traction Control, and how does this interface with ASR and ATC? But an EPS is an Electro-Pneumatic Gearshift, just when you thought that you were getting the hang of it. It’s all very confusing.

An acronym one sees more often in conjunction with Anti-Lock Braking Systems (ABS), is EBD. The term in Wikipedia is defined as follows: ‘Electronic brake-force distribution (EBD or EBFD), Electronic brake-force limitation (EBL) is an automobile brake technology that automatically varies the amount of force applied to each of a vehicle’s brakes, based on road conditions, speed,

loading, etc. Always coupled with ABS, EBD can apply more or less braking pressure to each wheel in order to maximize stopping power while maintaining vehicular control. Typically, the front end carries the most weight and EBD distributes less braking pressure to the rear brakes, so the rear brakes do not lock up and cause a skid. In some systems, EBD distributes more braking pressure at the rear brakes during initial brake application before the effects of weight transfer become apparent.’

I am staring at an ExHCV (over 16t GVM truck) OEM brochure that offers ACC – Adaptive Cruise Control. The promo-blurb states that ACC ‘helps the driver to keep a safe distance in front by automatically operating in sequence the engine brake, the Intarder and the service brake’ – does this mean that ABS and ESP are all part of the ACC? Eishhh!

summarised in three or four letters.

Each truck OEM also tries to brand for exclusivity – after all, strategic marketing is about differentiation and who wants their model line-up plastered with exactly the same acronyms as their competitors?

It’s not just a South African problem, it’s an international issue. After six years the appeal in 2005 January/February issue of Auto Engineering & Spares still rings true: ‘It’s time that standards authorities took control of this situation and developed an acronym lexicon that has universal acceptance so we know what we are getting in passenger vehicles or trucks.” Perhaps the SAE (Society of Automotive Engineers) can step up to the plate.

In the meantime, vehicle dealers better make sure that their sales people are not offering more than the acronym can support.

And it won’t stabilise. Rapid advances in software and hardware will mean even more technology that must be

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PAGE 53

COMMERCIAL VEHICLES

AutoForum - August 2011

MAN on a hybrid drive

M

AN Truck & Bus recently announced that it is consolidating all its R&D activities in the field of hybrid technology, at its newly created Centre of Competence. As Bernd Maierhofer, Director of R&D and Purchasing explains: “We are convinced that hybrid technology will play a fundamental role in the future of all commercial-vehicle segments, from the city bus to the longhaul truck, in the continued increase of efficiency and conservation of resources, thus smoothing the path to E-mobility. The new Centre of Competence will concentrate on hybrid technology from research right up to series production in the various product segments.”

The company launched its first seriesproduction commercial vehicle with serial hybrid drive late last year, and believes that the introduction of hybrid drives for commercial vehicles is a major challenge for all manufacturers, due to users’ vastly different requirement profiles.

The new centre will also form the interface between the heavy duty automaker and its partners and suppliers as well as to further experts, such as universities.

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AutoForum - August 2011

Show Time

SAAW Conference this month The next South African Automotive Week is only set for next year, but the associated SAAW Conference will take place later this month, and promises a ‘green’ focus. The conference aims to bring local industry “to a common understanding of the future direction, scope, speed, opportunities and pitfalls of the global green economy on automotive manufacturing,” and in doing so will overview a number of ‘green’ case studies.

Some of the key topics under discussion for the event will include: ‘The present and future of manufacturing’, ‘Who will control the drivetrain?’ and ‘New ways of doing business – how do we read the signs and respond?’ In addition, it will allow attendees the option of registering for site visits to ELIDZ, Mercedes Benz SA, a photovoltaic cell factory and the Makana bio-fuel project, among others.

The conference – themed ‘Green Machines: Opportunity & Risks for the SA Auto Industry’ - takes place between the 25 and 26 August 2011 in East London.

For more information or to book your place, email: saaw@inkanyezi.co.za, or call 0861 101 475.

PAGE 56

Tyrexpo 2012

T

yrexpo 2012 is already gearing up for what promises to be a not-tobe-missed event for the SA tyre and equipment sector. The show will take place from 6-8 March 2012 in Johannesburg, and its organisers recently announced some of the major industry players that have confirmed their participation in the show. These include Tyrecor, Tubestone and Hofmann Megaplan.

Tyrecor Managing Director Charl de Villiers comments: “The Tyrecor brand has grown tremendously in Southern Africa over the past two years and we will definitely make use of the next show to further boost our presence in the market. We have since added more exciting new products to our everexpanding range of Infinity tyres, which will be showcased next year.” He adds: “As in the past, the show gives us the opportunity to meet our loyal customers and also new customers throughout Africa.”

As MD of wheel service specialist Hofmann Megaplan, David Barendse, explains: “This is an important show for us to be able to demonstrate the latest developments in the wheel service equipment market. The sector is becoming increasingly sophisticated as it looks to provide efficient solutions for developments in tyre and wheel technology, such as larger wheel sizes and run-flat technology.

The biannual event launched in 2004, and has since established itself as a key event for domestic and international suppliers specialising in tyre and equipment manufacturing, distribution, retailing, servicing and repair.

Visit www.eci-international.com for more details and information.

The Business of Plugging In

T

he 2010 introduction of mass market plug-in electric vehicles (PEVs) in the US marked a significant milestone for the automotive industry and electric utility sector. The question now is: ‘How will the two industries move forward from early adoption to mass market acceptance?’ The third ‘The Business of Plugging In’ conference hopes to help the industry answer that question and many more, from 11-13 October in Dearborn, Michigan in the US. The three-day event will gather representatives from utility companies, automotive manufacturers and suppliers, investors, regulators, researchers and more to discuss global strategy for the long-term growth and continued success of the market.

“Following last year’s launch of the Chevy Volt and Nissan Leaf, there is now a need for the industry to examine the successes and failures of PEVs and uncover what lies on the road ahead,” said Brett Smith, Conference Chair, Centre for Automotive Research, the host of the event.

For more information visit www.bpiconference.com.

Head Seat and Guide Machine

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IF YOU WANT QUALITY Contact Lawrence at Newclear Pressure Testers on (021) 592 4747/28 or info@newclear.co.za PAGE 57

AutoForum - August 2011

SHOW TIME

Second Afrimold in Gauteng next month

T

he second staging of the AfriMold tooling, die & mould making exhibition will be taking place at the Sandton Convention Centre from 27-29 September 2011. The event’s organisers have already confirmed participation by a diverse range of exhibitors from the UK, Germany, France, Switzerland, Korea, India, and of course SA, as well as many more.

The show is affiliated to EuroMold - one of the most respected exhibitions of its type in Germany, and which was introduced to the market in 1994. According to exhibition Managing Director, Ron MacLarty, significant opportunities are beginning to open up for the SA Tooling, Die & Mould Making industries, following the success of the first exhibition last year. “The recent DieMold India exhibition in Chennai was a real eye-opener for South Africans.

India has more work than it can cope with and industries there are struggling to get parts and components. I see this as a huge opportunity for the South African industry, as we should be supplying India with mould components and services rather than trying to supply an already crowded market in Europe. In these circumstances, visitors from India to AfriMold will be of great importance to the local tooling, die & mould making industries.”

The call for papers for the AfriMold conference, entitled Tooling Technologies 2011 and Beyond, has seen a strong response and has full support from the Toolmaking Association of South Africa (TASA). One of the latter’s major objectives is to encourage more students and apprentices to train and become involved in the industry, and the organisation has already achieved great success on this front through the TDM Powered programme. The

programme was launched last year in partnership with the National Tooling Initiative and the DTI, and will see the 200 students participating in the programme at the AfriMold event.

“The conference is going to play a significant role in imparting knowledge and specialist information to the various industries. I believe it will have a

For more information visit the show website www.afrimold.co.za

afrimold 27 - 29 September 2011, 09h30 to 17h30 daily Sandton Convention Centre AfriMold – the ONLY event in Africa showcasing technology and solutions for the Tooling, Die and Mould-making industries AfriMold exhibition

Plus 3 day Technical Conference running concurrently Materials

Simulation

Visualisation

Design

Engineering Virtual Reality

AfriMold will provide a unique event experience by connecting buyers and sellers from all aspects of the product development life cycle

AfriMold Product Range

Processing & Finishing

Media Partner -

CAD & CAM

Rapid Prototyping & Tooling

Quality Assurance & Automation

Patternmaking & Prototyping

Machine Tools Tools

Moldmaking & Tooling

Our partners -

The AfriMold Conference partnered by TASA:

For further information contact: Pre-register to avoid R50 fee on

www.afrimold.co.za AFRIMOLD 2011-148x210.indd 1

PAGE 58

positive impact and assist in finding a way to overcome the shortage of skilled engineers and tool & die makers,” added MacLarty. “Sales of stands are progressing well and the exhibition is definitely attracting more international attention.”

Ron MacLarty +27 (0) 72 353 6699 ron@afrimold.co.za

Terri Bernstein +27 (0) 83 635 3539 terri@afrimold.co.za 2011/08/04 9:11 AM

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New Releases

AutoForum AutoForum - August - August 2011 2011

www.AutoForum.co.za

World Spares lands new part numbers for August Every month, World Spares - the only authorised distributor for Metelli products in South Africa - lands new part numbers for all the latest vehicles, in order to remain up to date with the growing market. This month is no different and the following new parts have just been unpacked:

• • • • • •

Driveshafts (Complete and all left and right) Renault Clio 2.0 16v; Citroen C4 2.0 Hdi; Citroen C1 1.4; BMW X5 (2000-2008) Outer CV Joints - Fiat Strada; Mini 1.4 / 1.6 Water Pumps - BMW X5 4.4i; Citroen C1 / C2; Hyundai i20 / i30; Opel Movano;Toyota Yaris (3 hole / 4 hole) Brake Discs - VW Transporter: Rear; Mercedes C180-200 (2007 - onwards): Front; Mercedes C280 (2007- onwards): Front; Iveco Daily 2 / 3: Front Brake Pads - New Audi A4 / A5: Front; BMW X5 / X6: Front; Renault Megane 3: Front and Rear Brake Master - Mercedes C-Class (W203)

This is of course just a selection of the freshest parts, but for many other new part numbers, contact Paul or Martin at (011) 622-5405, fax them at 086 689 3148 or e-mail them at: sales@worldspares.co.za

Snap-on blow guns Snap-on recently highlighted its blow gun range, which consists of the AT4101 - a classic 4” blow gun with bent tube, the AT4113 – a classic 19” blow gun with straight tube, and the AT4135 – a silent blow gun with air adjustment.

All the units are used for blowing off, cleaning and drying surfaces, and are ideal in any industry sector where compressed air is used. The units feature a built in valve system for improved trigger control and are made from impact resistant material for long lasting service. They boast a galvanized blow tube for corrosion resistance, as well as a lifetime warranty.

The blow guns originate in Denmark, and also offer a number of optional accessories such as:

PAGE 60

The blow guns originate in Denmark, and also offer a number of optional accessories such as: • AT4116 – Turbo by-pass nozzle – increases air flow by 100% • AT4124 – Rubber Tip – prevents scratching of surface • AT4180 – Chip Fluid Shield fits: AT4101, AT4113 (not AT4135) For more information, contact Snap-on on tel: 0861 762 766 or email: enquires@snapon.co.za.

PAGE 61

AUTOFORUM

DIRECTORY LISTING

After-Marketplace Directory

To advertise your listing in AutoForum After-Marketplace Directory Contact us on 011 466 3733 or Email: info@AutoForum.co.za

AUTO ELECTRICAL Bosch

Parts, Accessories & Batteries

011 651 9600

First National Battery

Industrial & Automotive Batteries

011 741 3600

MED Motor Electro Diesel

Aftermarket Parts & Accessories

021 505 4000

Parts Incorporated Africa

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011 879 6000

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086 111 3507

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011 498 0700

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0861 762 766

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011 444 6454

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083 628 2288

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011 651 9600

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021 945 1419

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012 330 0540

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011 472 7279/5954

Integrated Marketing

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011 974 2203

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012 549 5845

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011 483 3737

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0861 762 766

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Newclear Pressure Testers

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021 592 4747

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0861 762 766

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021 590 8250

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011 608 0801/3

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011 821 3500

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011 402 7085

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011 432 2667

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011 622 5405/6/7

Auto Cosmos - Electrolog

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012 327 6210

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PAGE 62

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