Automotive Refinisher January-February 2014

COLLISION REPAIR ASSOCIATION 2_Layout 1 2014/03/19 11:25 AM Page 1

Enjoy the recognition you deserve.

In the last two decades the South African collision repair market has really come of age as right across the country top independent repair concerns have moved forward to embrace the changing technology of todays complex modern vehicles.

One of the foremost concerns in recent years has been the constant bottom line profitability erosion partially due to the lack of standards which has lead to a over-traded repair environment.

Top class independent shops have been left with only policies of a reactive nature and much difficulty in finding a proper return on their investment through a lack of recognition of the standards needed to run a professional repair facility.

The Collision Repairers Association has adopted an entirely new approach to the industry and some of its challenges by recruiting the cream of the crop of the repair industry who have invested in standards and continue to put out quality repairs with the aim to please customers. The vast knowledge of the officials and staff will drive forward a strategic plan to improve repairer profits and gain recognition for the vast number of independent key role players in every area of activity in collision repair in South Africa.

The CRA over the past year have worked closely with some major insurers in putting together guidelines to progress the needs of both the insurance and repair sectors. The time has come for major structural repairers and the smaller nonstructural repair shops to have a dedicated voice at the negotiating table. Not only do we have to understand the insurance industry and some of their unique challenges, but we need to also offer long term sustainable solution to problems that have existed over the past 3 decades.

The CRA is also driving a recognizable legislated standard via the DTI that will become compulsory for any repairer to trade in South Africa. This should see the repairers that have already invested in standards gain the recognition they so rightly deserve.

The industry has certainly been begging for change and change has arrived in the form of the CRA. So call us soon to gain your place on the road forwards with the new trade organisation of the future in collision repairs.

JOIN THE CRA AND GET THE RECOGNITION YOU DESERVE!

T he

benchmar k

of

quality

Call us on 0861 726 272 or Visit www.crasa.org.za

CONTENTS JAN - FEB 2014_Layout 1 2014/02/10 9:28 AM Page 1

5

Contents

10

JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2014

CRA UPDATE

Expanding Membership

DETROIT Car Show

DEVILBISS Smart Pumps

54

CUSTOMS DECLARED SEMA Las Vegas

17 22

FUTURE TECH

34

Peugeot 308

FOCUS ON SAFETY Air Fed Masks

TOP SHOP N6 Panelbeaters

COLOUR YOUR WORLD PPG

NEW PRODUCTS Review

CUSTOM CORNER Mazda RX7 On Steroids

72

80

TRAINING SCHEDULES 2014

4 10 17 22 34 40 48 54 72 74 81

Front Cover: The Toyota FT-1 concept.

Below: 2014 Imperial Toyota Hilux, Dakar Challenger.

AUTOMOTIVE R E F I N I S H E R

3

AR JAN-FEB PG NAT_Layout 1 2014/02/10 11:39 AM Page 21

LATEST NEWS FROM CRA LOCAL UPDATE

TWO YEARS OF SUCCESS

T

he Collision Repair Association (CRA) recently racked up their second year of body shop membership progress.They remain a focused operation and have attained the membership of approximately 300 top shop operations.

“These business owners are committed to the implementation of quality standards The CRA is set on a new path to uplift and drive a more equitable deal for their members with both insurance companies and motor manufacturers as well as importers.There are innovative concepts like the E-Procure system that will see the CRA membership profile being placed on the digital platform and accessible to all work providers will surely see a competitive advantage being gained by any repairer carrying the CRA badge.

“Successful operating systems have delivered a much more streamlined approach to our members and has shown them how to rapidly increase their vehicle turnaround time based specialist repair technology.

Highlights The CRA achieved an industry first when last year Mi-way Insurer signed up to a protocol of best practice on such difficult matters as general charge out rates and other agreed fair trade parameters used in the repair cycle. Net Assess, representing companies like CIB, Iwyze and Discovery was signed up for a similar protocol arrangement for CRA members in the last year’s business cycle. It will, in the long term, deliver a better trade parity for

repairers and insurers leading to a healthy constructive partnership.

Senior board members are pushing this initiative for a more equal relationship with other major insurers in the South African theatre of operations.

Growing Interest With an expanding membership, the CRA are driving the platform on which they want to get the recognition and rewards for progressive collision repair concerns who are looking to belong to a more professional and focused body into the 2014 year ahead.

CRA would like to more progressive like minded members in 2014 as the CRA body gains the critical mass of body shop repair membership. It is certain with the latest innovations of the EProcure platform for members, this will be achieved.The E-Procure platform gives a visual backup on the website of all our members shops and services, to educate clients and consumers with damaged vehicles, their closest and most professional repairer’s across the country.

The Board are confident in the way that CRA has and will further develop in the best way forward to ensure that this body is linked to top service delivery and a consumer focus that is very much needed in this ever changing industry of collision repairs.

If you think you have what it takes to join this progressive grouping of repairers contact lisa-marie on 0861726272 today and “get the recognition you deserve”.

WHAT’S HOT?

CRA MOVES REPAIR INDUSTRY INTO THE DIGITAL AGE

T

he CRA has been hard at work in putting innovative solutions together to give its members the competitive edge in what is said to be an overtraded market. The new system created and imported by the CRA will see all of the accredited CRA members having their full company profile populated onto a web-based platform. For a long time now information has been difficult for work providers and the common public to access. With so many repairers in the market that don't have the standards to safely repair vehicles with new enhanced technology there is no form of compliance vetting prior to authorising a job by an insurer, or a customer knowing the credentials of a particular repairer. The new E-procure system now delivers this service to both insurance work providers and the general consumer in order to make an informed decision when choosing a repairer.The profiles of the shops will include the specific standards and equipment of each facility, the qualifications of their staff, capacity of vehicles that can be repaired and their BBBEE credentials. All of this information and more will have supporting documents stored online that can be downloaded and accessed at any time either by insurers or manufacturers wanting this important information.

Further to this the system that is accessible via the CRA website can serve as a very important marketing tool for CRA members.

Members can also update contact information as and when it changes ensuring they are always accessible to clients.

From the association side it gives us a lot more information surrounding the information of our members that also serve as a good marketing tool when approaching insurers and work providers. Reports such as the BBBEE levels of members can now be done from a group perspective making the CRA an attractive association of repair facilities to deal with.

The system is in its infant stages and there are plans to add features such as email and sms capabilities to it. Customer survey 4

indexes via KA Smart will also be incorporated into the system displaying the scores of individual shops.

Members are certainly bound to reap the benefits of the CRA moving the industry into the use of this electronic platform which makes CRA members an automatic choice to anyone in the market to have their vehicles repaired.

AUTOMOTIVE R

E

F

I

N

I

S

H

E

R

AR JAN-FEB PG NAT_Layout 1 2014/02/10 11:38 AM Page 6

NEWS FROM THE ZOO by Roger Houghton REGULAR BITS

SILLY SEASON, YES, STRIKE SEASON, NO.

M

ost people who follow sport will know all about the socalled “silly season”, which usually occurs at the end of a season as sports teams – including Formula 1 and MotoGP teams – start looking for new talent for the following season. It is an interesting time of rumour and counter rumour, heated discussion by fans and strong denials by those involved in switching teams.

However, here in South Africa we have developed something which I have not heard of occurring elsewhere in the world and that is a so-called “strike season” when workers and trade unions tend to go on the rampage and disrupt the economy as they trash property, burn tyres, barricade roads and march in red shirts through towns and cities as the union leaders get into protracted and often confrontational negotiations with employer organisations.

The problem is that the season keeps getting extended each year and many sectors of the economy – particularly mining – are devastated by the effect of these work stoppages – often illegal too.

The motor industry strikes, which usually occur on a three-year cycle, but could happen more frequently in the future, are among the “grandstand events” for the union bosses due to it being such a high profile industry which directly affects many employers, employees and consumers.These strikes also garner embarrassing international media coverage.

However, they are actually a “lose-lose” for all concerned and impact devastatingly on the balance of trade account and on the pockets of the workers; it takes years for them to recoup the wages lost during strike periods, even if they get an increase in pay.

The most recent industry strike, which started with three weeks of no work at the vehicle manufacturers and was followed by four weeks of industrial action at the component makers and retail motor industry, was the worst in history in terms of its effect on the economy and the reputation of the local industry as a reliable supplier to export markets. The latter is very important in an industry where South African companies face extremely tough competition, often from lower cost and more reliable suppliers.

In fact, BMW Germany has already, reportedly taken off the table a possible contract to assemble a niche model here in the future, although the Rosslyn plant will continue with the manufacture of certain 3-Series models.

The president of NAAMSA, Dr Johan van Zyl, who also heads up Toyota SA, said the local industry was on track to reach record production levels of 336 000 export units and 610 000 units built in SA, but this was no longer possible.

NAAMSA was particularly scathing in its media release after the strike saying: “Ultimately the industry’s trade union would have to accept responsibility for any lasting negative consequences from the

AUTOMOTIVE R

E

F

I

N

I

S

H

E

R

prolonged strike. South Africa’s turbulent industrial relations environment was undermining the interests of the country, the automotive industry and official industrial policy.”

The Retail Motor Industry (RMI) was also strong in its condemnation of the damaging strike action, calling it a Pyrrhic victory for the union.

The president of the RMI, Barry Canning, said: “The RMI stood firm during the tough negotiations with NUMSA, whittling the demands down from a staggering 64 to only one.” The CEO of the RMI, Jakkie Olivier, said: “One thing is for sure: a repeat of 2013 should never happen or be allowed again.”

I was fortunate to visit Britain recently to see how its once muchmaligned motor industry has recovered and is now operating at world-class levels.

Firstly I watched the most impressive Top Gear television programme where the organisers achieved what must be almost a miracle by assembling examples of all the vehicles made in the UK today: from tractors and forklifts to premium sports cars and Formula 1 racers all in one place on a single day.

It was amazing to see F1 cars driving on the roads near their factories, ostensibly on the way to the meeting point, which was The Mall in London. The number and variety of vehicles assembled was a true eye-opener and an emotional sight for a person like me who grew up at a time when British cars and motorcycles were dominant in many markets as well as in the world of motor sport.

Those heady days disappeared in a flurry of strikes and inefficient production and more and more vehicle and component manufacturing plants were moved away from the UK. Virtually all the famous name companies went into bankruptcy, with many disappearing completely, while others were sold to foreign buyers.

However, what really hit me is the wonderful job Nissan has done in developing its European manufacturing base in Sunderland, England.

The reason for my most recent trip to the UK was to attend the unveiling of the new Nissan Qashqai crossover, which is the mainstay of production at the Sunderland facility, and goes on sale from early next year, arriving in SA at the end of the second quarter.

The Nissan story is almost like a fairy tale as it has risen to be the biggest vehicle manufacturing facility in British history, with an annual capacity of more than 550 000 units.

It is a model of high quality, outstanding productivity and overall efficiency and has won numerous international awards to attest to its level of excellence. This is an excellent example of management and workers cooperating for the common good and a model for industrial relations which should serve as a wake-up call to the unions causing so much damage to the SA motor industry.

5

AR JAN-FEB PG NAT_Layout 1 2014/02/10 11:38 AM Page 3

LATEST NEWS FUTURE TECH

WILL DRIVERLESS CARS END THE BODY SHOP REPAIR BUSINESS?

M

uch of the reporting about Google’s driverless car has mistakenly focused on its science-fiction feel. In fact, the driverless car has broad implications for society, for the economy and for individual businesses. Just in the US, the car puts up for grabs some $2 trillion a year in revenue and even more market capital. It creates business opportunities that dwarfs Google’s current search-based business and unleashes exponential challenges to market leaders across numerous industries, including carmakers, auto insurers, energy companies and others that share in car-related revenue.

Driverless car technology has the very real potential to save millions from death and injury and eliminate hundreds of billions of dollars of costs. Google’s claims are: 1. We can reduce traffic accidents by 90%.

2. We can reduce wasted commute time and energy by 90%.

3. We can reduce the number of cars by 90%.

Google is claiming its car could save almost 30 000 lives each year on US highways and prevent nearly two million additional injuries. Google claims it can reduce accident-related expenses by at least $400 billion a year in the US. Even if Google is wide of the mark, the improvement in safety will be startling.

The driverless car could reduce the need for cars by enabling efficient sharing of vehicles. A driverless vehicle could theoretically be shared by multiple people, delivering itself when and where it is needed, parking itself in some remote place whenever it’s not in use.

A car is often a person’s second largest capital expenditure, after a home, yet a car sits unused some 95% of the time. With the Google car, people could avoid the outlay of many thousands of dollars, or tens of thousands, on an item that mostly sits and, instead, simply pay by the mile.

The driverless car might also save developing countries from ever having to replicate the car-centric infrastructure that has emerged in most western countries. This leapfrogging has already happened with telephone systems: Developing countries that lacked land-line telephone and broadband connectivity, such as India, made the leap directly to mobile systems rather than build out their land-line infrastructures.

The fact is that a driverless car would slash hundreds of billions of dollars of annual revenue, or even trillions, from all sorts of entities: car makers, parts suppliers, car dealers, auto insurers, auto financiers, body shops, emergency rooms, health insurers, medical practises, personal-injury lawyers, government taxing authorities, roadconstruction companies, parking-lot operators, oil companies, owners of urban real estate, and on and on and on.

At the same time, the driverless car will create enormously lucrative business opportunities to serve new customer needs.

While car sales might initially boom, as the fleet shifted to driverless cars, sales would then fall off a cliff – and new and used car sales add up to a $600 billion-a-year business in the US. Any drop in sales would also affect auto finance companies, which write loans for almost 70% of new car purchases and half of used car purchases. Many parts would disappear from cars: Who needs airbags if you aren’t going to crash, or backup assistance when the car parks itself? The amount of steel used in cars would drop, because 6

cars wouldn’t need to be as massive and sturdy. Body shops would mostly disappear for lack of business.

Auto insurers, which collect more than $200 billion in personal auto premiums each year in the US, would initially see profits rise as accidents declined and payments to customers dropped.They would, however, eventually see something like 90% of premiums disappear.

In fact, the US model of mandatory personal auto insurance might become archaic.

Lots of opportunities to coordinate use of cars would also appear. Companies could provide services to organise those platoons on highways or to share cars as part of a fleet – all while charging hefty fees. One study found, for example, that an average two-mile taxi trip in New York City costs $8 to $13, depending on traffic conditions. It estimated that a fleet of 9 000 driverless cars could replace the city’s fleet of Yellow Cabs and operate for an average of 80 cents for a two-mile trip. A more than 10-fold difference leaves a lot of room for profit!

Blanketing the roads with Google cars will also provide incredibly detailed, up-to-the second information to the “cloud” about road conditions, traffic and travel times. Each car will draw on that information and know to be extra careful at dangerous intersections or know, say, that black ice was felt at a certain spot 15 minutes earlier.

With progress so rapid, the technology in the Google car has miles and miles of open road in front of it. Even skeptics seem to believe that the question about the timing of the driverless car is less “if ” than “when.”

But the social, political and economic systems that could act as a limiting function on “when” are significant. Consider some of the commonly voiced hurdles: The car will cost too much. Estimates are that each Google research car costs more than $300 000. Prices anywhere near these levels will keep the car out of reach for mass adoption.

Customers won’t buy it. There is a widespread sense that most customers would never give up their spot in the driver’s seat, or trust a driverless car.

There’s too much liability. In the US’s litigious society, car makers would never offer products that took the human out of the loop and thus shifted the liability for accidents to themselves. Legal liability for car makers could be huge if a malfunctioning car injured or killed people.

The car violates current business models. The driverless car has enormous ripple effects across a number of industries – some of which are quite dire. It could be in car makers’, car dealers’, insurers’, taxicab associations, etc., best interests to delay driverless technology as long as possible.

Also, in the short term, it might be more prudent for car makers to market driverless technology as expensive options to existing designs, rather than to take Google’s disruptive approach.

The transition could take decades. But will it?

This article was published in Forbes. For the full article please follow this link: http://www.forbes.com/sites/chunkamui/2013/01/22/fasten-yourseatbelts-googles-driverless-car-is-worth-trillions/

AUTOMOTIVE R

E

F

I

N

I

S

H

E

R

AUDATEX AD J-F 2014_Layout 1 2014/02/06 11:11 AM Page 1

AR JAN-FEB PG NAT_Layout 1 2014/02/11 3:22 PM Page 27

LATEST NEWS ROAD SAFETY

TOP 10 TIPS FOR HOLIDAY ROAD TRAVEL THIS SEASON

M

idas, the leading automotive parts and travel accessories store shares some insights into what local motorists should be looking out for. The World Health Organisation (WHO) regards South Africa as one of the world’s worst countries for road safety, with approximately 1 280 fatalities occurring between December 2012 and January of this year. Forty percent of those deaths are as a consequence of drunken pedestrians walking on our roads, with other catalysts being excessive road speeding, dangerous overtaking, and no seatbelt wearing – or as a result of vehicles that are simply not roadworthy.

So, it comes as little surprise that holiday road users should be taking extra precautions this season, by reminding themselves of the basics when planning any future road trip. Midas, a store synonymous with quality automotive spares, travel accessories and general lifestyle travel products, recommends some easy-to-remember tips when travelling: 1. Plan ahead: Plan your holiday route before leaving home, giving yourself enough time on the road to reach your destination without speeding. Use a GPS tool to guide you, making your trip stress-free by planning where to refuel, rest stops – and try to avoid driving after dark.

2. Have your vehicle serviced: To avoid the inconvenience and expense of a mechanical breakdown, especially on a long trip, have your vehicle checked and serviced by a reputable motor mechanic or car dealership. An option to consider is visiting your nearest Auto Care & Diagnostics (ACD) Workshop, a national network of independently owned workshops specialising in vehicle service, maintenance and repairs, while providing the latest in automotive diagnostics solutions.

Visit http://www.acdworkshop.co.za to locate the one closest to you.

3. Install child safety seats: Research has shown that hospitalisation time for children from birth to four years who are involved in road accidents is reduced by up to seventy percent if they are seated in a booster child safety seat.They are specifically designed to securely hold a child in place, preventing them from being thrown forward towards the windscreen, or other parts of the vehicle, in the event of a motor vehicle accident.

4. Buckle-up: Safety belts are 99% effective in preventing occupants from being ejected from the vehicle in a crash. Passengers who are

seated at the back of a vehicle and are not wearing a seatbelt can inflict serious harm on those seated in front, as the sheer impact and sudden force can catapult passengers within a split second. The same applies to a driver and passenger sitting up front. Always wear a seatbelt to prevent being thrown through the windscreen.

5. Don’t talk on your cellphone while driving: Even though you may be using a hands-free device, try to avoid taking or making calls while driving. Being distracted from the road can prevent you from making quick, life-saving choices to avoid a hazard or potential accident.

6. Keep your distance: Give yourself room to react to an obstruction on the road by following the two-second rule. Pick a fixed object like a sign or tree on the road ahead and when the vehicle in front of you passes it, start counting one one-thousand, two onethousand … If you reach the object before you count to two, you are following too closely. You will need that distance to safely avoid a collision.

7. Back to basics – obey speed limits and always signal your intentions to change lane. Allow extra time to travel without the need to speed or hurry, and always demonstrate your intensions by signalling, to give others a heads-up when you are changing direction.

Switch on your indicators at least five to eight seconds before your turn, giving other motorists, pedestrians and cyclists adequate time to respond.

8. Scan your environment: Continually be aware of upcoming intersections or decision points. Being able to spot a traffic sign early allows one to make the appropriate choices to prevent disasters.

9. Watch out for fatigue on a long trip: Turning up the radio, rolling down the car window, or having trouble keeping your eyes open and focused on the road may be signs that you are struggling with fatigue.

Pull over and take a 15-20 minute nap. On a long trip, stop every two hours for a break. Ensure that you have at least eight hours’ sleep the night before undertaking a long trip, so as to feel energised and alert when driving.

10. Don’t use cruise control when the roads are wet: Wet roads become more dangerous and challenging to navigate, especially when oil residues may be found on the road, smooth road surfaces or bald tyres are thrown into the equation.

INTERNATIONAL UPDATE

IBIS 2014 GAINS MOMENTUM

T

he line-up for the IBIS 2014 – the International Bodyshop Industry Symposium – is entering its final stages as support for the event continues to gather pace. The IBIS global summit, which has confirmed Thatcham Research as its 10th official partner, has already received huge interest with only a limited number of delegate places still available. IBIS conference director, David Lingham, said: “The theme for IBIS 2014 is ‘Best Practice’. The programme is now almost complete with contributions already secured from Canada, France, Germany, Holland, Middle East, UK and the US. “We will hear from a cross section of the industry including training organisations, bodyshops – both single site and networks, standards bodies, vehicle manufacturers, industry experts and accident management companies.”

David continued: “We will look at planning your people strategy for the future, examples of best practice across the globe, why accident management is so important to a vehicle manufacturer, the impact of telematics on the industry, what a body shop of the future might look like and more.The IBIS team and I, along with our 10 official partners, are very much looking forward to this year’s summit in Barcelona, Spain.”

IBIS 2014 takes place at the spectacular Hotel Arts Barcelona, Spain on 19-21 May 2014. The 10 partners already to have pledged 8

their support to the event include 3M, AkzoNobel, Audatex, Automechanika, Axalta, EMM, Enterprise, Innovation, Quindell and Thatcham Research.

For more information on the IBIS 2014 or to make any bookings contact Nicola Keady on nicola@ibisworldwide.com or +00 44 1296 642826.

AUTOMOTIVE R

E

F

I

N

I

S

H

E

R

AR JAN-FEB PG NAT_Layout 1 2014/02/11 2:21 PM Page 25

LATEST NEWS PRODUCT PROFILE

DE BEER HAS A GREAT FOUNDATION OFFER AT COWLEY AUTO

O

ne of the most important system refinish advantages that any spray painter looks for is an ability to produce a perfect job every time. Cowley Automotive, the South African distributor for the De Beer Refinish brand has showed solid growth across South Africa since the product’s introduction.

“Primer surfacers are always so important,” says Andre Coetzee, CEO of Cowley Automotive products, who operate from the Vanderbijlpark head office, is upbeat about the brands solid ability to deliver every time. “There are a host of preparation solutions available to increase cycle time and get a first time successful paint job. Right from MS Primer, wash primer, Ik Primer to HS Surfacer our regular users get great results.

“These products are all backed-up by silicone remover, panel cleaner and other special thinners to be seen to complete basic components for an excellent end result. De Beer also has a high build, non-sanding primer on offer.”

De Beer Refinish is a brand of Valspar bv, formerly De Beer Lakfabrieken BV. The company was founded in 1910 and has been manufacturing car refinish paints since 1951.The present production site at Lelystad was opened and they now deliver to more than 100 countries worldwide from there. 1982 saw the launch of their colour mixing systems, followed by the first water-based products around the middle of the year 2000. With the introduction of VOC legislation for EU member states from the state of 2007, the Waterbase 900 Series system, in combination with the HS420 3000 Series, has now grown into a complete VOC compliant product range. Since 2004 the company has been part of the Valspar

Corporation US, and this represents a major advance in terms of global coverage.

The Valspar Corporation, one of the largest paint manufacturers in the world, was founded in 1806 and is based in Minneapolis in the US. With over 9 500 employees at more than 80 locations, Valspar is in the unique position of being able to satisfy the need for a wide selection of paints and coatings for many different applications.

As a result of high levels of efficiency throughout all our operations, we are able to supply a worldwide range of compact, complete and high quality vehicle repair paints at competitive prices.This ensures an ideal balance between price and quality.Their vision is to develop products that enable their customers to offer a cost-effective service thereby improving their own profitability.

Consistent quality of both products and working methods, combined with a responsible approach towards the environment, is guaranteed through the use of an integral “Health, Environment, Quality and Safety” system. This system is based on ISO 9001 (working processes) and ISO 14001 (environment) and is controlled and certificated by Lloyds Register Quality Assurance.

From these certifications, awarded in 1996 and 1999, it is clear that their objectives include controlling and guaranteeing the highest quality standards on the one hand, and minimal environmental pollution on the other.

For more details on the De Beer brand call +27 (0)16 931 2367.

PRODUCT NEWS

AUTOGLYM THE PROFESSIONAL CHOICE

A

utoglym has returned to its roots in refocusing its trade range with a new Professional identity, a complete range refresh and a new customer support programme. The British-based car care expert was originally established in 1965 as a supplier to the trade. It was only later in 1986 that its awardwinning consumer range was brought to market.

The change is much more than just a new name. The Letchworthbased company has looked at how its trade customers purchase, understand and use its products to enhance its expert status and provide it with the platform to be the number one supplier to the trade.

Beyond the name change and the obvious visual changes to the design of the packaging, Autoglym has reassessed the support tools and training available to both its sales force and trade customers.

Autoglym Professional will provide its sales force and franchises with the knowledge and data they need to sell its products with total confidence. Autoglym has restructured its training programme and revamped its extensive support package with improved product videos and clear demonstration guides.

As well as the new brand identity, the Autoglym Professional range now includes a number of new detergents, with the highly versatile Advanced Traffic Film Remover and powerful new Heavy Duty Traffic Film Remover.

New initiatives to help its franchises attract new business have also

A UTOMOTIVE R

E

F

I

N

I

S

H

E

R

been introduced including in-depth product demonstration videos and detailed product usage data to effectively demonstrate the unbeatable realworld value provided by the Autoglym Professional range.

Changes have also been introduced to help its trade customers use its products, such as wireframe images on the labels to clearly highlight the areas of the vehicle on which the product should be used, helping to avoid any mistakes made by picking up the wrong bottle when working under tight time pressures.

Paul Caller, CEO of Autoglym, said: “Autoglym’s retail range has helped it to become the world’s leading car care expert, but being the choice of the professional is equally important. Our Autoglym Professional range is easy to understand and use, as well as looking even more attractive for our franchises and customers.”

For more information on Autoglym’s range, please contact your local country distributor on +27 (0)11 908 5446 or e.mail: ezecare@mweb.co.za 9

AR JAY JAN FEB PGS_NOV/DEC 2005 paganation 2014/02/11 2:06 PM Page 1

DETROIT 2014

DETROIT MOTORSHOW 2014 VW Beetle Dune

D

Volvo Concept XC Coupé

Lexus RC F Sport Coupé

Audi SQ5 Utility Vehicle

Toyota FT-1

Kia GT 4 Stinger Concept

Mercedes-Benz CLA Class

espite typical low January temperatures outdoors, more than 100 000 people enjoyed perfect 25°C weather inside the Cobo Centre, where the mood was upbeat and more than 500 new vehicles shined brightly on Detroit's world

stage.

"Extending the celebration of new cars and one of Detroit's most exciting weeks ever is a surprise to no one," said Bob Shuman, chairman, 2014 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS).

"People want to be a part of the positive vibe that's been evident here all week."

10

Shuman said the show floor was packed all day, as enthusiasts photographed beautiful vehicles and participated in dozens of entertaining and interactive exhibit activities. He said this year's opener of 106 560 represents an increase of 3 434 people over the 2013 opening day, and was the strongest in five years.

"Everyone feels good about where the auto industry is today," he added. "The auto show is a reflection of the industry as evidenced by the fabulous automotive technology, amazing new exhibit architecture, and tremendous confidence on display inside Cobo Centre. Look around – you can see it and you can feel it."

AUTOMOTIVE R E F I N I S H E R

EN AD NEW J-F 2014_Layout 1 2014/02/06 10:13 AM Page 1

OUR ENTOURAGE UNIVERSAL LIGHTWEIGHT BODY FILLER BRUSHABLE SEAM SEALER STOPPER FINE FIBRE PUTTY SOLVENT BASED STONE- CHIP

PAINT REMOVER BUMPER PUTTY HS ANTI-SCRATCH CLEAR COAT HS HARDENER HS PRIMER 4 :1

XTRA LITE WEIGHT BODY FILLER

(CAN BE USED DIRECT ON PLASTIC)

Call us on +27 (0)31 902 7666

A Division of BASF Coatings. For further information please contact vicus.herbst@basf.com

GENERAL New AD_Invoice TOYOTA 16-8-05 2014/02/07 11:41 AM Page 1

General paints have a very successful track record and supply over 56 countries across the globe with a full range of 92 toners - 39 standards, 16 pearls, 6 xyralics and 29 2K. These high cover toners ensure a perfect result everytime.

General Paints also offer a complete colour support package with their colour box of 8000 colour formulas backed-up by GPC pro computer software which has close to 70 000 international car colour formulas in different variable shades. The General refinish range includes rapid primers and high solid clearcoats which have been extensively researched to provide you with a ‘One Stop Shop’ philosophy. General paints are designed to improve body shop profitability and shorten process times.

Unit No.1B Plumbago Bussiness Park Cnr Spier & Monument Road Kempton Park Johannnesburg

For dealer opportunities in your area or nearest stockist call us on +27 (0)11 663 0300 Email us at info@kanyevimba.co.za Visit us on www.kanyevimba.co.za

AR J-F 2014 CLAIRE_NOV/DEC 2005 paganation 2014/02/10 10:35 AM Page 13

INTERNATIONAL NEWS TRAINING INFO

AUTO INDUSTRY CONSULTING LAUNCHES EZI-METHODS FOR 2014

M

uch anticipated, the new vehicle repair data system from Auto Industry Consulting (publisher of Auto Industry Insider.com) has taken off like a scalded cat! From the small scale pilot system developed in 2013, the company has taken about 20% of the UK collision repair market for 2014. Their first day (2nd of January) they got 40 requests, which climbed on the second working day

by Andrew Marsh to 100 and has in the second week of January risen to 150 per day.

What is it? A way of accessing vehicle repair data, aimed at the collision repair market.

How easy is it to use? The system is web based, and just three clicks takes the user from the home page (selection of make) through to the model specific repair documents.

Does it include times? No. We feel there are plenty of time systems out there across the globe, so we prefer to concentrate on the ‘how’ rather than ‘how much time’.

Does the company intend to export this beyond the UK? Certainly, yes.

Can the system cope with models sold in South Africa? The short answer is yes.

Initially the system will carry models sold in the UK, but many of these same models are sold all over the world. Further, we can easily add models specific to South Africa.

Where does the data come from? The

source is vehicle manufacturer repair information. They do not simply push that out, but write the method into their system (front, side, rear). For example, typically manufacturers will spread the suspension, steering rack, steering column and brake system across many locations inside their system. They integrate that into one document – one document with the torques and if the fasteners should be new or reused. They apply the same logic to the door strip and the airbag system.

“You can see that because of the way we work, as long as data was made available somewhere we can process it into our system,” said Andrew Marsh.

“What are the plans for this in South Africa? We are in discussion with some parties already, but it is likely the launch will take place around the middle of 2014.”

Contact Andrew Marsh on 0044 7753 231404 or email for more information at andrew.marsh@autoindustryconsulting.com

LOCAL FUNDRAISER

MIDAS DONATES CAR SEATS FOR KIDS

A

utomotive parts and lifestyle travel equipment store, Midas has donated 200 Booster car seats to Imperial I-Pledge Car Seats For Kids, a road safety campaign, highlighting the critical need to reduce an escalating mortality rate in road accident deaths in South Africa, particularly when it comes to children.

The handover was done on the 1st of November at the Wheel Well store in The Brightwater Commons Shopping Centre, Randburg. The Wheel Well is an NPO that promotes road safety and focuses exclusively on children.

With a fatality rate of 27,5/100 000, significantly higher than the estimated world average of 18,8/100 000; and a road fatality being recorded every 38 minutes, civil society, the general public and private sector groups are faced with the challenge of keeping its road users, and children in particular, safe.

“The responsibility lies not only with civil society or government, but with business, too – ensuring that we put words into actions, and pledge our support, not only to public-private road safety education campaigns like Imperial I-Pledge, but that we actually commit tangible resources to them to enable the campaign to really take effect,” says Stefan le Roux, marketing and franchise director for Midas.

Tapping into a network of 145 companies, 51 000 employees and interests in logistics, automotive distribution and retail, car rental and financial services, multinational Imperial has partnered with the Department of Transport to prompt South Africa to assess their awareness of and commitment to road safety by visiting the campaign’s website and, through a click-through process, committing to concrete actions, such as wearing a seatbelt at all times, crossing the street only on a zebra crossing, keeping to the speed limit and not talking on

AUTOMOTIVE R E F I N I S H E R

Two hundred booster car seats were handed over by Midas to the Imperial I-Pledge Car Seats For Kids road safety campaign. A critical need in the fight to make our roads a safer place for all. a cell-phone while driving.

“From a global perspective, roads are the biggest killer of young people over the age of 10, with road traffic deaths constituting a global health epidemic. Locally, three children under the age of 15 die on our roads daily – so the importance of strapping a child into a car seat cannot be overlooked,” comments Le Roux.

Designed to hold children in place during a crash and prevent them from being thrown into the instrument panel, windscreen or other parts of the vehicle, car seats have been scientifically proven in the

US to reduce the need for hospitalization by 69% in cases between birth to four years.

Further, the US fatality rate is reduced by 70%, has been attributed to seatbelt use by children between the ages of one and four years if a car seat is used.

With October having been national transport month, awareness had been heightened around the issue of safe road use, and specifically keeping our kids out of harm’s way. Imperial I-Pledge has encouraged road users to donate used car seats as a means of achieving this goal.

13

AR JAN-FEB PG NAT_Layout 1 2014/02/11 2:18 PM Page 24

LATEST NEWS INDUSTRY NEWS

SA INSURANCE COMPANY SURVEY

W

hich insurance Company will give you the best service for your wheels? A study conducted by Carinfo.co.za which provides free online car insurance quotes and reviews about insurance companies, showed some interesting trends.

Momentum and Auto and General jointly hold the crown for 2013 according to information collected through the year by carinfo.co.za which looked at 22 insurance firms offering vehicle insurance in South Africa and compared their overall rating based on customer reports filed on the hellopeter.com website. “These reports that are filed by everyday people about the various insurance companies that gave them service, and we therefore believe that these reports are a fair indication of the level of service provided by each company,” said the online firm in a statement.The research took into account both overall complaints and compliments filed by customers.

Auto and General came out tops from the 22 firms for having the highest percentage of compliments (82%), while AIG Insurance, FNB Insurance Brokers and Hollard all were at the bottom of the log with 91% of the reports being complaint-related. The results were then divided into two groups.Those firms with more than 500 reports were classified as the bigger insurance companies, and those will less than 500 reports as the smaller ones.

The study then looked at the nature of the complaints, giving points to the best five companies in each category.

The five categories were: Feedback/response, Repairs/servicing, Billing/accounts, Call centre, Breach of contract.

From the small companies group: the results were:

14

Momentum ranked the best in the feedback/response category with the least (13%) complaints filed.

AIG Insurance, Alexander Forbes and Sanlam all took first prize in the repairs/servicing category with 0% of complaints.

Alexander Forbes also came top of the log in the billing/accounts category with only 5% of complaints.

In the Call Centre category, PPS was the best with 0% complaints.

The Breach of Contract category saw FNB Insurance Brokers, Mutual & Federal and Sanlam all in the winning seat with only 5% of complaints each.

From the Big companies group: the results were: Virgin Money Insurance came out tops in the category of the feedback/response, receiving the lowest level of complaints (17%).

Old Mutual was number one in repairs/servicing category, receiving the least complaints (1%). Old Mutual was the winner in the Call Centre category, receiving the least complaints (3%).

The top firm in the billing/accounts category was Outsurance, with 8% of complaints.

The Breach of Contract category again saw Old Mutual take top spot with the least (2%) complaints.

The final results for the best insurance companies were based on the lowest percentage of complaints, as well as on the percentage of compliments they received.

Carinfo.co.za, describes itself as an online authority with its main aims being to provide readers with useful information. The company decided to take up the challenge to find out which insurance firms in South Africa are the best because it was a question on everyone’s lips – yet no information was available.

“In all fairness, we can’t say that our research is 100% scientific, but it gives our users a good understanding of the level of service offered by each of the insurance companies and helps them make a more informed decision,” reckons Carinfo.co.za

AUTOMOTIVE R

E

F

I

N

I

S

H

E

R

IBIS AD J-F 2014_Layout 1 2014/02/06 1:30 PM Page 1

DE BEER CLEARCOAT M-A 2013_Layout 1 2013/07/15 12:31 PM Page 1

The Clear Coats of De Beer Refinish are the crown on your work. These excellent products will give your car a glossy look. All De Beer Refinish Clear Coats are based on the most modern hydroxyacrylate resins. This gives a high quality varnish in terms of durability, chemical resistance and UV protection. This productline consists of both VOCcompliant and non VOC-compliant clear coats. The application of the clear coat, depending on object size and temperature, can be tuned by mixing the clear coat with the right De Beer Refinish hardener.

Call for distribution opportunities in your area.

Sole Importer Cowley Automotive Products Tel: (016) 933 2233 email: sales@cowleysa.co.za COWLEY AUTOMOTIVE & INDUSTRIAL COATINGS (PTY) LTD

AR JAN-FEB PG NAT_Layout 1 2014/02/11 2:17 PM Page 23

LATEST NEWS TECHNICAL UPDATE

DEVILBISS SMART PUMPS

A

new development from DeVilbiss on material handling sees the latest technology being incorporated into a compact design for pumping both paints and solvents.

Its biggest plus is the fact that when purging or cleansing existing colours in use there are now some drastic savings to be had in both time taken to complete the exercise, plus the amount of cleaning solvent used to complete the entire cleansing process. It is now absolutely minimal.

Design A vertical mould AC inductor electric motor drives the fluid section via a mechanical gearbox. The speed is controlled by an AC frequency inverter that can hold power frequencies between 20 and 80 Hz. It can be adjusted by manual operation where the frequency of the motor is directionally proportional to the fluid output. The direct gearbox is directly coupled to a drive shaft and as the cam is rotated one of the two diametrically opposed fluid pistons is pushed along by a connecting rod that produces the

AUTOMOTIVE R

E

F

I

N

I

S

H

E

R

The Tunzi team of Rene Roux (left) and Bernie Davenport are seeing great interest in the new DeVilbiss E2-30 for motor makers and other bulk paint users. They come in a full range of performance pump sizes to enable big cost savings on time and materials. pressure stroke. special cam profile reduces fluid pressure By using conventional electrical hardware fluctuations to an absolute minimum. to achieve an optimum operating The pumps specific target market for performance a lower cost is achieved with users will be motor assembly production operating costs being much lower than those lines, large vehicle and trailer makers and of compressed air driven models. general industrial coating concerns.

This can now all be achieved because the It’s available nationally from DeVilbiss equal thrust on each stroke together with a distributors right now.

17

CELETTE DPS N-D 2013_Layout 1 2014/02/06 11:13 AM Page 1

CELETTE DPS N-D 2013_Layout 1 2014/02/06 11:13 AM Page 2

AR JAN-FEB PG NAT_Layout 1 2014/02/10 11:39 AM Page 18

LATEST NEWS

by John Yoswick

US UPDATE

AN INDUSTRY IN NEED OF STANDARDS

N

ew air quality rules impacting automotive refinishing that were finalised by the Environmental Protection Agency late last year are generally being viewed positively by the collision repair industry. “We believe that the EPA has adequately met the necessary elements of three important pieces in the proposed regulation, equipment, training and enforcement,” Bob Redding, Washington DC representative for the Automotive Service Association (ASA) said.

Redding said he believes that many shops are already in compliance with the proposed new rules, but that the regulations will raise the bar for those not adequately protecting the environment.

“We know there are people out there painting who are not doing it in a spraybooth with proper training, for example,” Redding said.

“We’re hopeful this will lift them up and raise the industry standard.”

The new regulation is a result of the Clean Air Act of 1990, which requires the EPA to identify sources that emit one or more of the 188 listed toxic air pollutants. Specifically included in the regulation are stricter requirements for “area sources” engaged in paint stripping or various surface coating operations, including autobody refinishing.

“Area sources” are defined as those that have the potential to emit less than 10 tons per year of a single toxic air pollutant or less than 25 tons per year of any combination of toxic air pollutants.

Area sources that would be affected by the rule will need to implement equipment and management practises to comply with the new standards, if they have not already done so. But the practises are designed to reduce overall toxic material consumption, which generally results in a savings to the business as well.

The regulation places a number of requirements on collision repair shops. In terms of training, shops will be responsible for ensuring all painters have completed hand-on training in the proper application of surface coatings.The training must cover specific items such as spray gun setup, surface prep, spraybooth and filter maintenance, transfer efficiency, and environmental compliance. Painters must be certified within 180 days of hire and recertified every five years.

In terms of equipment, all painting of vehicles must be done in a spraybooth (or, in the case of painting of some vehicle parts, a prep station), to meet the regulation’s requirements. The booth, for example, must be fully enclosed with four complete walls and a full roof, and use a filter system fitted with polyester fiber or fibreglass (or the equivalent) that capture at least 98% capture of paint sprayovers.

Compliance for spraybooth filter efficiency can be satisfied through data provided by the filter manufacturer.

Prep stations must have a full roof, at least three complete walls or complete side curtains, and must be ventilated so that air is drawn into the booth.

The new EPA regulation also requires that all spraying of coatings be done with a high-volume, low pressure (HVLP) spray gun (or in

some way that has an equivalent transfer efficiency).The requirements were changed just before being finalised to allow the use of airless or air-assisted spray guns without having to demonstrate that they are equivalent to HVLP guns in transfer efficiency.

All paint spray gun cleaning must be done either with solvents that do not contain the hazardous air pollutants, or within a fully enclosed spray gun cleaner. Hand cleaning of parts with solvent is permitted but spraying solvent through the gun is prohibited.

The EPA estimates that the regulation will require about 5 000 shops to purchase an enclosed gun cleaner, and that a similar number will have to install new spraybooths.

“Unfortunately, technology now provides ‘miniature spray guns’ that are being used in open areas,” Redding wrote in ASA’s letter to the EPA. “This allows air brush specialists and others to expand the area subject to automotive refinishing products. ASA requests the EPA to consider tightening the final regulation to ensure that any exception, if critically necessary, to the spraybooth requirement exclude ‘miniature spray guns’ or similar technologies. Those persons or business entities using ‘miniature spray guns’ should be required to have a spraybooth.

The EPA responded by saying the regulation is intended to cover mobile vehicle refinishing operations, and only exempts from the paint booth and other requirements those applying coatings from a spray gun with a cup size of three ounces or less. Hobbyists are also exempted.

Redding said although ASA believes that the most effective method for enforcing automotive refinishing regulations is controlling the paint product at ‘the point of sale’ any such regulations on who can purchase automotive refinish products is strongly opposed by paint distributors.

“So although not optimum, ASA believes the enforcement for this regulation will be sufficient,” Redding said. “The EPA spent a great deal of time researching this issue and visiting collision repair facilities. The agency also listened to what collision repairers had to say about regulating the use of these products.”

HIGH DEFINITION

WAX JHB: 011 908 5446 CT Tonie: 083 458 0699 KZN Andre: 082 850 5056 ezecare@mweb.co.za

The trusted name in body shop products just got better 20

AUTOMOTIVE R

E

F

I

N

I

S

H

E

R

STANDOX J-F 2014_Layout 1 2014/02/06 11:05 AM Page 1

AR JAY SEMA_NOV/DEC 2005 paganation 2014/02/10 9:21 AM Page 1

SEMA SHOW 2013 2013,

CUSTOMS DECLARED

A

massive space expansion of over 25% saw the Las Vegas based SEMA show for refinish segments take up over 88 000 square feet in the North Hall at the Las Vegas Hotel last year. It took care of the fast growing interest of both buyers and exhibitors in the market segment and with the addition of specialised conferences from the CIC National Autobody and the Society of Collision Repair Specialists among the industry related bodies on hand. The new thinking on business management and growth strategies is now well taken care of.

With the increasing levels of activity on hybrid cars and their related battery pack conditioning for HEV’s, a new system which can restore hybrid batteries up to 95% of their original power and energy was on show from the hybrid shop.

Elektron unveiled a new line of collision repair equipment for aluminium vehicle components. The new line includes MIG and MAG welders, aluminum stud welders and an aluminium repair station, complete with dent puller and dedicated accessories.

Elektron said the MultiMig 511 and MultiMig 522 can be used for welding and brazing aluminium alloys, galvanised sheet metal, stainless steel and high-strength steel. The company said the MultiMig 522 can also be equipped with two separate torches simultaneously to increase the versatility of the welder.

The MultiTool Aluminium Dent Repair Station includes a work area and comes with the MultiSpot M22 AL stud welder, anodised aluminium pulling bar kit, anodized aluminium pulling system, hammer kit with four anodised aluminium hammers, heat gun, infrared thermometer, heat shield gel, angled air die grinder and a started kit of aluminium studs and zinc-plated steel eye-bolts.

The keynote opening address came from Mike Anderson who said the future is not cast in stone. “We in this industry get caught up in what things cost in cycle time and often forget what matters most. It’s how we get to fix the cars and when the industry gets a black eye, it affects every single person. Changing things to accommodate a good shop culture is of vital importance and it’s all part of the culture of ongoing change that affects all shops in body repair.

22

AUTOMOTIVE R E F I N I S H E R

AR JAY SEMA_NOV/DEC 2005 paganation 2014/02/11 12:57 PM Page 2

AUTOMOTIVE R E F I N I S H E R

23

AR JAY SEMA_NOV/DEC 2005 paganation 2014/02/10 9:21 AM Page 3

SEMA SHOW 2013

“With insurers getting ever more interested in entering the repair cycle with us we all have to come to expect there will be a whole raft of changes in heavy duty vehicle repair, body shop repairs and recreational vehicle units going forwards because often people involved in body repair need help as in some cases don’t even have any training available to them.”

The hottest vehicle for trending vehicles came from four categories. The winner of these outstanding show cars on which vehicles speciality equipment custom products were best used in accessorising the show case the coolest products went to the following winners: • Ford Mustang was named the hottest car • The Scion FR-S won hottest sport concept car • The Ford F Series ran off with the hottest truck • Jeep Wrangler won the hottest 4x4 SUV award.

With around 2 400 exhibitors on show all manufacturing thousands of aftermarket products designed to improve performance.

Safety and process improvement of safety and convenience, also came under the spotlight plus a full day everyday conference sequence which concentrated efforts on helping auto related business’ succeed in social media and on-line marketing which also included workshops and lectures from leading industry experts.

For the show goer SEMA delivered all that was new in refinishing, preparation, welding and efficiency with new products too many to mention rolling out from the major aftermarket producers to make SEMA a must-attend exposition.

24

AUTOMOTIVE R E F I N I S H E R

AR JAY SEMA_NOV/DEC 2005 paganation 2014/02/10 9:22 AM Page 4

AUTOMOTIVE R E F I N I S H E R

25

AR J-F 2014 CLAIRE_NOV/DEC 2005 paganation 2014/02/10 10:36 AM Page 18

LATEST NEWS FUEL CELL TECH

THE DEBUT OF THE FUEL CELL VEHICLE - CAN THEY TOPPLE BATTERY ELECTRIC CARS?

T

here are simultaneous world debuts of fuel cell cars for Honda in Los Angeles and Toyota in Tokyo. Honda’s fuelcell electric vehicle, or FCEV, will grab the industry’s attention in Los Angeles in what Honda says is a preview of an automobile that will appear by 2015. Curiously, that same date is what Toyota has in mind for its FCV, also a hydrogen fuel cell car operating with an electric motor.

Toyota currently has the best selling battery electric vehicle on the market in the Prius line, which is the overall sales leader in California. It’s not insignificant to note that California is the largest auto market in the US. By signalling it has more than a casual interest in fuel cell cars, Toyota is acknowledging both the viability of the technology and its own role in advancing fuel cell vehicles to market.

The fuel concept is a marriage between internal combustion engine vehicles powered by gasoline and electric vehicles propelled by large packs of lithium-ion batteries, the most famous of which is Tesla’s Model S. Instead of taking the time to charge batteries, drivers can fill up hydrogen tanks and head back on the road, which greatly expands the range of fuel cell cars.

Unlike combustion vehicles, the hydrogen tanks generate electricity and produce water as the vehicle’s only emission.

Proponents see the savings in time and superior range as huge advantages over lithium-ion batteries as a power source for EVs. While companies such as Toyota are bullish on the potential for fuel cells, there is plenty of pushback from the world of batterypowered electric vehicle manufacturers. Tesla CEO, Elon Musk, famously referred to the word “bullsh*t” during an October appearance in Germany. Musk sees inherent dangers in putting hydrogen vehicles on the road.

However, Toyota has been hard at work proving the opposite.

According to a report in the L.A. Times, Toyota engineers fired rifles

The Tesla on display at Automechanica. at hydrogen tanks to see if they would explode. No explosions occurred. As reports of fires in the Tesla Model S continue to circulate in the media, proof of this nature looms large. Numerous automaker giants are putting their eggs in the fuel cell vehicle basket.

Mercedes, Detroit follow the Japanese General Motors has made no secret of its intention to tap into the burgeoning electric vehicle market, but there has been no indication that it is betting exclusively on lithium-ion batteries. In fact, GM filed the most fuel cell patents between 2002 and 2012 and is developing a project with Honda.

Ford has teamed up with both Daimler AG, parent of MercedesBenz, and Nissan in a fuel cell project slated for completion in 2017.

Nissan continues to lead with the Leaf – the bestselling electric car on the market – that will get a style upgrade at the Tokyo Motor Show and join several other daring vehicles from the Japanese automaker. For Mercedes, heading in the direction of fuel cells is also a challenge to BMW, which has bet big on lithium-ion batteries in its all-electric i3.

The superior range of fuel cell vehicles powered by hydrogen solves one of the biggest dilemmas for electric vehicle makers. The race to production will begin following these auto show debuts, and up for grabs is a chunk of the industry’s future.

PRODUCT NEWS

TOYOTA PLAYS IT SAFE

T

oyota has revealed two new integrated safety systems designed to reduce the risk of pedestrian collisions and deliver safer driving in traffic. Both will be brought to market in the next few years. The vehicle manufacturer has developed a new auto-steering function for its Pre-Collision System, which works in conjunction with automatic braking to help the driver avoid an impact, and Automated Highway Driving Assist, a system that keeps the car on an optimum driving line and a safe distance from the vehicle in front.

Both innovations advance Toyota’s commitment to developing safety technologies that can help eliminate traffic fatalities and injuries.

Toyota has been researching automated driving technologies since the second half of the 1990s, and has been conducting public road tests in the US for a number of years. It has also been road testing its next generation intelligent driver support system in Japan for around two years.

Professional Portable Sprayer Now you can aerosol just about any paint finish for instant touch-ups.

Use with acrylic, basecoats, dyes, enamel, epoxy, inks, primers, polyurethane, varnish and solvent based and water based coatings.

EPT Systems Tel: 021 556 1991 083 488 1593 26

AUTOMOTIVE R E F I N I S H E R

WIELANDER AND SCHILL AD

1/31/12

11:21 AM

Page 1

Contact: Deon on 083 628 2288 or Andre on 072 463 9570 www.hurricaneauto.co.za

HURRICANE AD N-D 2013 B_Layout 1 2013/11/06 9:57 AM Page 1

AR JAN-FEB PG NAT_Layout 1 2014/02/11 2:09 PM Page 2

INDUSTRY NEWS WHAT’S HOT?

CLAIMS PROCESS MAKE OR BREAK RELATIONSHIPS

H

ow well auto insurance providers handle claims may make or break the relationship with their customers, according to the JD Power 2013 Study.

The inaugural study measures customer satisfaction with the claims experience for auto physical damage loss. Depending on the complexity of the claim, a claimant may experience some or all of the following factors that are measured in the study, first notice of loss, service interaction, appraisal, repair process, rental experience, and settlement. Settlement is the most important factor of overall satisfaction among both total loss and repair claimants.

Although settlement is the most important factor, the first notice of loss (FNOL), the first phone call a customer makes to their insurance provider after they have been in a vehicle accident or experienced damage to their car, sets the tone for the rest of the claims process. The first phone call averages 18 minutes, according to the study.

“The first call to notify the provider of damage is critical to customer satisfaction with the entire claims process,” said Jeremy Bowler, senior director of the insurance practice at JD Power. “If that initial call goes well, odds are good that the claims process will go well and also bodes well for the long-term relationship with the customer.”

Bowler notes that anyone involved in an accident or experiences damage to their vehicle should contact their insurer or agent as soon as possible after the incident, even if the damage is not their fault.

Before calling their provider, it’s a good idea to write down any questions regarding the claim and keep notes on the answers received.

Additionally, overall satisfaction is higher when insurers are able to answer all claimant questions during the first call than when they are not able to answer all the questions. Satisfaction among claimants who have all of their questions answered during the first call averages 810, compared with an average of 651 among claimants who do not get all of their questions answered during this call.

“Filing a claim can be a stressful situation, so it’s easy to forget to ask key questions or get confused about the information the insurer provides during the call,” said Bowler. “Insurance is a product people buy because they have to, but hope they never need to use,” said Bowler. “They really see the value of their investment if they need to file a claim. If the appraisal of damages comes in higher than what they expect, they are naturally going to be disappointed.”

The settlement process focuses on identifying the expenses the insurance company will cover, including damage to the vehicle, the facility where repairs will be made, and, if needed, a tow truck and rental car.

Managing claimants’ expectations regarding the settlement, and avoiding surprises, is critical to a satisfying settlement experience. The study finds that, overall, 90% of claimants are satisfied with the settlement, which is the largest contributor to overall satisfaction, with the claims process.

However, when expectations are not met, settlement satisfaction declines dramatically, by more than 250 index points on average.

“Communication between the provider and the claimant is critical during the settlement phase,” said Bowler. “The claimant wants to know what is and isn’t covered by their policy, the extent of the damage to the vehicle, and how and when it will be repaired or replaced. It’s really about settling claimants’ expectations and then meeting them.”

US NEWS

PROBLEMS AHEAD FOR BODY SHOPS

M

ore use of weight saving materials such as aluminium, carbon fibre and high strength steel are boosting gas mileage in new cars, but also are complicating and adding cost to repairing them after accidents. Automakers are under intense pressure both to save weight for gas mileage and to meet stricter crash-test standards. But the sometimes exotic materials needed to meet those goals mean replacement parts not only cost more, but often require elaborate repair techniques that are taxing skills in some body shops.

They also raise concern about dangerous repair shortcuts or substitution of cheap steel parts instead of costly ones that came with the car.

“The consumer needs to understand the new vehicle they bought has specific requirements that need to be met to be as safe when they get it back from repair as it was before the accident,” says Doug Irish, president of VeriFacts Automotive, which monitors and advises body shops.

As automakers strive to meet federal mandates, more have turned to lighter metals including: • Aluminium. Automakers will increase aluminium in cars from an average of 327 kgs in 2009 to 550 kgs by 2025, the Aluminium Transportation Group says. The weight savings are dramatic: Replacing steel with aluminium in doors of the 2014 Cadillac CTS sedan, for instance, saved 55 kgs.

• Carbon fibre. As the cost of carbon fibre drops, the composite is showing up in more parts. While already a preferred material in

AUTOMOTIVE R

E

F

I

N

I

S

H

E

R

Audi A8 high-end sports cars, it's moving down-market. BMW will use a carbonfibre body for its i3 small electric car.

• High-strength steel. Lighter for the same structural strength, it's being used for more body parts to cut weight and still meet roof crush and front-impact rules.

But beyond the cost of the new crash parts, each material requires special methods and tools for the repairs. Special equipment – from highstrength drill bits to new frame racks – also is adding to repair costs.

All this is also creating haves and have-nots among body shop businesses based on whether they can afford costly new equipment. "It's something that's going to differentiate our industry," says Darrell Amberson, the vice president for LaMettry's Collision with seven shops in greater Minneapolis.

Some of the materials can't be repaired, only replaced. Workers often can't just weld in new steel or straighten out damaged sections when high-strength steel are involved.The heat of welding can weaken the part.

"Where before you could cut a small piece in," says Bob Keith, training director for Carstar, a network of more than 400 body shops, today "you might have to replace the whole thing."

29

AR JAN-FEB PG NAT_Layout 1 2014/02/11 2:17 PM Page 22

INTERNATIONAL NEWS PRODUCT NEWS

PPG MATT GIVEN DAIMLER AG WORLDWIDE APPROVAL

O

ver the years, the long association between Daimler AG and PPG has seen a number of highlights, including the development of the revolutionary PPG CeramiClear mark and scratch resistant clearcoat which coats the vast majority of Merceds-Benz models. Now Daimler AG has issued approval for PPG matt clearcoats, D8115 Matt Clearcoat and D8117 Semi-Matt Clearcoat, to be used on all Daimler AG matt finished passenger cars worldwide. In addition, Mercedes-Benz has also validated PPG’s unique new ‘Dual Clear Repair Process’ which was developed in collaboration with the vehicle maker to provide an efficient and effective repair solution.

Over recent years, full OEM matt paint finishes have increased in popularity. In the refinish sector, they have often proved technically complex to repair with the perfect level of matt effect, especially when dealing with black and other very dark colours. Often that’s meant minor damage has had to be repaired by painting full panels in basecoat and clearcoat or even by painting the entire side of the vehicle. The beauty of PPG’s Dual Clear Repair Process is that the basecoat can be blended which significantly reduces the required repair area and brings it back to a more conventional process. PPG is first to recommend this process together with its market leading matt clearcoats for repairing a wide range of gloss levels on matt and semimatt full body colours.

As part of the approval process, PPG demonstrated the Dual Clear Repair Process to Daimler AG on a matt black bodyshell. It starts with a first layer of glossy clearcoat which is immediately followed by a second coat based on a blend of D8115 and D8117. This gives refinish technicians the ability to match the original colour while providing an

even matt level across the repair area. The two-matt clearcoats (onesemi-gloss and one fully-matt) were specially developed to provide full flexibility in blending the clearcoats together to achieve a perfect match to original matt finishes. This method can be used on all colours and is a key step in the efficient repair of darker colours, such as Black MB Nachtschwarz. It’s a considerable benefit to collision centers because this combination of PPG products and process makes application and blending significantly easier and more efficient, says Ron Thomas, PPG Product Platforms Manager EMEA. The two new clearcoats were developed to provide the basis for the concept and then, in collaboration with Mercedes-Benz, the process was further developed to create a perfect result on darker colours and matt blacks. Renato Liano, Front End Evaluation Manager at PPG, originally developed the ‘dual clear’ concept and followed up in c lose collaboration with Daimler AG to validate the overall process.

This ultimately led to the approval from Mercedes-Benz who is extremely pleased with the technical results.”

BITS & PIECES

DENZA EV MODEL ON SHOW IN BEIJING

T

he Auto China 2013 in Beijing hosted the world premiere of the Denza electric vehicle, the first production model of the jointventure between Daimler AG and its Chinese partner BYD. Called Shenzhen BYD Daimler New Technology (BDNT), the JV is dedicated exclusively to electric vehicles. To prepare for

the market introduction of the Denza EV, BDNT is currently carrying out intensive testing of pre-production. So far, the Denza has been tested in dusty, summer conditions in the South of China, with winter tests to being soon in the freezing cold of northeastern China.

The plant in Shenzhen is also running production tests in order to start building what BDNT calls “the safest and most reliable electric vehicle,” designed and engineered in China for the local market.

Previewed by a concept car at the 2012 Beijing Auto Show, the Denza EV may be

based on the Mercedes-Benz B Class Electric Drive, judging from the shape of the development prototype.

Following the car’s premiere in Beijing, the first Denza dealership will open in the Chinese capital by mid-2014, with further dealerships being built simultaneously in Shanghai and Shenzhen.

Mercedes isn’t the only German maker to create a new brand for electric cars in China as BMW has done the same with Zinoro, which has already released its first model, the E1.

CAR SALES

JAGUAR AND LAND ROVER AND TATA MOTORS SALES ARE UP

B

ritish luxury carmkers Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) reported strong sales in 2013/2014 with retail sales increasing by 21% year on year to 102 600 units. JLR said in its quarterly results that the strong global sales volumes resulted in the company’s revenues of £4.6b stirling, for the three months to September, rising 40% over the same period last year.

“Our unrelenting focus on design, technology, innovation and quality has seen Jaguar Land Rover reach global consumers in more markets than ever before thanks to its most engaging product line-up,” said JLR chief executive officer Ralf Speth. Meanwhile, Tata Motors also issued its quarterly results showing that its net profit rose by a surprise 71% as driven by the strong sales by its British unit JLR. JLR after-tax profit for the three months to September rose by 66.2% to £507m.

Figures show that deliveries of Jaguar car rose 56.5% to 20 024 30

units, and Land Rover sales increased 14.8% to 82 620 vehicles.

JLR strong performance has been driven by the new and refreshed Jaguar and Land Rover line up and also sturdy demand from China.

Operating profit reached £1.49bn in H1, representing a growth of 47.9% over the corresponding last frame year.

AUTOMOTIVE R

E

F

I

N

I

S

H

E

R

DEVILBISS AD N-D 2013_Layout 1 2013/11/06 9:42 AM Page 1

PHOENIX EXCHANGE AD M-A 2013_Invoice TOYOTA 16-8-05 2013/03/18 1:38 PM Page 1

AR JAN-FEB PG NAT_Layout 1 2014/02/11 2:15 PM Page 17

LATEST NEWS INTERNATIONAL BODY SHOP SYMPOSIUM

IBIS MIDDLE EAST CONFERENCE REPORT

I

BIS Middle East 2013, the first International Bodyshop Industry Symposium to be held in the region, took place from 10-11 December 2013. Here, we provide a snapshot of the event staged in a rapidly developing region. Bringing a new dynamic to the IBIS regional programme, IBIS Middle East 2013, supported by lead partners AkzoNobel and Audatex, along with partners Audi, Axalta, Ford and TTi Global, hosted 172 leading decision makers from across the region and around the world.

David Lingham hosted Taking place at the Sofitel Dubai Jumeirah Beach, the the inaugur al Middle event got underway with a VIP drinks reception on Tuesday East IBIS Confer ence. evening, followed by a full day’s conference programme and post conference networking event.

Opening conference proceedings, IBIS conference director, David Lingham welcomed attendees and said, “IBIS has been to many parts of the world, but few match the dramatic expansion and scale of the business which exists here. The size of many body shops in the region dwarfs others around the world but some of the challenges that exist elsewhere are just as prevalent here too.”

David suggested there is a ‘mismatch’ of views around the world between repairers and insurers and hinted that vehicle manufacturer involvement within the industry was greater than ever before. David asked, “Do you as a repairer specialise or generalise?”

A familiar face to take the stage was Thatcham’s Peter Shaw, who discussed the ‘Importance of Safe Repair’. Peter spoke of how vehicle structures and electronics are becoming more sophisticated and will continue to do so in the future. He pointed towards there being 10 global vehicle platforms forming the basis for 30 million vehicles by 2018. Peter suggested “Early action and good planning will be key to the success of body shops for the future, only the fittest will survive.”

Patrick McDonnell of Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) was next to take the stage with his session, “Where is it all going? An OEM view.” Patrick focused on JLR’s vision for the future and the emphasis it has placed on training and education. Patrick said: “If you don’t train, don’t blame,” He suggested that the technology on today’s vehicles is beyond mass current repair capabilities and outside of insurers risk assessment parameters.

“Today’s vehicles are very different than before, but is today’s body shop any different?” questioned Patrick.

“The view of an insurer and a perspective on estimating systems’ with Steve Watson of Audatex and Ricardo Arroyo Herrero of Axa Insurance (Gulf) explored the Middle East market and some of its unique characteristics.

On the subject of estimating, Steve shared his views on the importance of training.

Although he felt a move to accreditation could be met with issues, he speculated, “Whilst accreditation would eliminate a lot of mistrust and inconsistency, the reality is it may only come through regulation.”

In discussing the ideal body shop, Ricardo said, “I want to work with body shops who understand our wants.They can identify and implement the correct repair process, perform on cycle time, quality and service, whilst delivering at the right cost.”

Kevin Jones of Al Futtaim Auto Centres focused his session on “Process and Cycle Times”. Kevin recalled when he arrived in the United Arab Emirates, he witnessed lead times of 12 weeks, something he pleaded must not be allowed to happen again. Kevin discussed how he had implemented Kaizen to improve processes within his business and has proved hugely successful. Repairs are now categorised but all follow the same seven step process.

The “Complete Package” was the focus of the session for Audi’s Paul Hayes. He opened by claiming the Middle East was a great opportunity for collaboration between all stakeholders and ‘there is no reason to have conflict between insurers and repairers.”

He said “The core focus for Audi currently in the region is customer satisfaction, service excellence and parts performance.”

“People are our greatest asset, and also your biggest investment,” said Tim Marshall of TTi Global during his presentation, “Importance of People.” He suggested the human resource strategy starts with sourcing and recruiting people, “get the best people, then train them well,” said Tim. The concluding session of the day, “Where now?, saw Graham Threlfall of IBIS and Kevin Jones of Al Futtaim Auto Centres take to the stage to debate the future of the local market. Discussion centered around the expected introduction of standards through an initiative with the Abu Dhabi Police which will see repairers categorised and graded relevant to the scope of their safe repair capabilities.

AUTOMOTIVE R

E

F

I

N

I

S

H

E

R

AR J-F 2014 CLAIRE_NOV/DEC 2005 paganation 2014/02/10 10:35 AM Page 1

FUTURE TECH PEUGEOT 308 - by Andrew Marsh

ALL NEW WITH A CARRY-OVER NAME

H

ere is a sector of the automotive world that was invented by the Honda CR-V and the Toyota RAV4 – the off roader that is rather good on road too. Nissan took this theme and crossed high fashion and some SUV ‘ruggedness’, whilst aiming the range firmly at the mass market with front-wheel drive along with a few variants with four-wheel drive.

The Nissan Qashqai/Dualis/Rogue achieved success after many other vehicle manufacturers had tried this formula. Nissan then introduced the Juke, based on the Renault Clio3 platform – and hey presto success followed again.

EMP2 is not quite on the scale of the ground breaking modular kit from Volkswagen, but has cost (so far) €630 million for the design development and manufacturing investments. That investment shows the EMP2 has been delivered on a relatively modest budget, given the Volkswagen group MQB platform cost at least €50 000 million to bring to market. The platform does have some interesting attributes: • Around 140 kg shaved off the base vehicle weight, thanks in the

main to the adoption of a three-cylinder engine to replace the previous version’s smaller four cylinder petrol engines.

• Greater use of high strength and ultra-high strength steel in the body.

• The first thermo-plastic tailgate assembly for Peugeot – this is not the same as thermo-set or fibre reinforced thermo-set tailgates.

This component alone saved 3 kg compared to the same part made from steel.

• A huge number of bug fixes – such as the HVAC module being re-engineered to give the same front footwell space on both sides of the car, so finally allowing drivers equal access for LHD and RHD. The cleverness is all over the car, resulting in 15 model specific patents for 308 alone. The base structure is made from a common front structure, two-wheelbase length related centre sections and a gaggle of rear sections covering MPVs, SUVs, estate, hatches and saloons.

In this sense EMP2 is identical to long established PSA practise which we have seen before with Platform 2 and Platform 3. Just as Volkswagen engineered all possible ways to power the MQB platform, so PSA have done the same for EMP2 – petrol, diesel, diesel electric hybrid, pure electric – and one more. Set to appear in 2015, there is a powertrain version called ‘HybridAir’.

Before we get into the technical detail it is worth reflecting how the new 308 appears to be so much more solid than the previous 308 – indeed it reflects the complete review PSA undertook to take the 307/308 and finally place the product performance square on with the segment class leaders. Further, in an interesting twist, the partnership with GM (the ultimate on/off relationship) is supposed to take vehicles like this with suitably altered skin panels and offer them globally as Opel/Vauxhall/Holden products. In other words the great attributes of 308 are complemented by fixing the niggles and pitching the result more seriously at a global market.

Model Range

308 will offer a full range of powertrains from improved conventional petrol or diesel engines, to StopStart, to hybrid and – in 2015 – HybridAir. This system uses hydraulic power from the transmission to compress air inside a tank during braking, and then releases that energy to the front wheels when either starting from rest or accelerating. The result? Reduced tail pipe emissions and improved fuel economy. Oh – and not a high voltage battery in sight. A real prospect? A dead cert, given the technology partners include Bosch. © Peugeot SA 34

In the UK there are four trim packs – the base vehicle comes with LED day time running lights, LED rear lights, manual air conditioning, electronic stability control (ESC), cruise control and six airbags – two front, two side (built into the front seat back rests) and two full length curtain units. The next trim level up (Active) adds a DAB radio with touch screen control along with 16-inch alloy

AUTOMOTIVE R E F I N I S H E R

AR J-F 2014 CLAIRE_NOV/DEC 2005 paganation 2014/02/10 10:35 AM Page 2

wheels and fog lights. The ‘Allure’ trim pack adds switching for the fog lights to illuminate corners as the steering wheel is turned, LED interior ‘mood’ lighting, folding heated electric door mirrors, dual zone automatic climate control and the all-important traction control.

The top line ‘Feline’ trim adds a panoramic glass sunroof, 17-inch alloy wheels and SatNav. There are many options that include an automated parking system, which can park both parallel as well as at right angles.

The initial body shapes will be the five-door hatch and an estate – the latter makes it’s first public appearance in the metal at the 2014 Geneva show. We can expect the architecture to appear under the 308 CC, 3008 as well as 5008 (perhaps 3008 Plus next time?) replacements. The 5008 replacement investment of an additional €90 million was announced at the end of 2013, with production set for mid-2016 – the same vehicle that will also be sold by Opel.

The big news is the platform will stretch much further than the Citroën and Peugeot ‘C’ segment ranges – it will cover the bigger C5 and 508 replacements too. In addition the vehicles using this technology will be built in Russia, China, Argentina, Spain and France – the first plant to build 308 will be Souchaux in France.

Trim packs and equipment The base vehicle pack in the UK has LED day time running lights, LED rear lights, manual air conditioning, electronic stability control (ESC), cruise control, DAB radio and six airbags – two front, two side (built into the front seat back rests) and two full length curtain units.

The next trim level – Active- the largest touch screen in the sector (9.7 inches) control and two zone climate control. The ‘Allure’ trim pack adds full LED headlights which have 31 LED units each, whilst the top ‘Feline’ package adds a full length glass sun roof along adaptive cruise control with autonomous braking. Options include blind spot detection, the adaptive cruise control system, and the telematics based emergency call system.

Conclusion Peugeot 308 has to finally deliver the major sales success that to a certain extent eluded the previous 308. It has to combine the product strength and face strengthened competition from other vehicle manufacturers who are in many ways in better financial shape than Peugeot SA are right now. Effectively, 308 must not be anything other than a major success.

The 308 has been very clearly upgraded compared to the previous model and in many ways is right on pace with the best of the competition. The push by ‘premium’ brands downmarket which gave Peugeot and others so many issues in the past is effectively spent in that as long as the vehicles are attractive, not over priced and are reliable – they will sell anyway – just as Hyundai-Kia and others found out some time ago. For Peugeot everything is in place.

Success may well follow.

A bout A uto Industry Insider *A uto Industry Insider is an independent so urce o f intelligence info rmatio n fo r the glo bal vehicle co llisio n repair business.

Subscriptio n to A uto Industry Insider co sts fro m just £35 per mo nth!

This w ill give yo u full access to A uto Industry Insider’s Repo rts, Video s, Repair Info rmatio n, New Techno lo gy, New Mo dels, etc.

W hy no t co ntact them to subscribe o r to set up a free trial?

W hy no t call them o n 044 7923 563 260 o r email: ben.cardy@auto industryinsider.co m Fo llo w them o n Tw itter @auto insider, Like us o n Facebo o k and subscribe to their Y o uTube C hannel, here yo u can find Vehicle Techno lo gy Review video teasers, full versio ns are in their video s sectio n o n the w ebsite. If yo u w ant to kno w mo re, see: A uto IndustryInsider.co m

Powertrain and suspension That 2008 ‘A94’ platform is a version of a PSA global small car platform which has appeared under the DS3, C3, 208 and more to come. The engine choices include five turbo diesels (three versions of the 1.6-litre unit and two versions of the 2.0-litre unit) with the very latest particulate trap technology as well as StopStart via a super capacitor system for the ‘1.6 e-HDi’ versions. In addition there are three petrol engines – a 1.2-litre threecylinder unit which first appeared in the 208, the brand new turbocharged version of the same engine and a 1,6litre unit co-engineered with BMW. The three cylinder turbocharged 110 and 130 bhp engines weigh 12kg less than the out-going naturally aspirated 1.6-litre petrol engine.

Suspension is via MacPherson struts at the front with aluminium used for the front hubs, disc brake dust shields, lower control arms and front brake callipers. The hydroformed torsion beam assembly at the rear has aluminium brake callipers and rear disc brake dust shields too.

Body engineering The T9 platform first appeared with the Citroën C4 Picasso in 2013 and is directly linked to the Peugeot 208 ‘A9’. Peugeot use some code for steel grades, which means the 140 kg overall weight saving comes down to: • Platform (EMPs) – 70 kg (including 27kg from steel selection, 10 kg from joining/forming) • Tailgate – 3 kg • Windscreen – 2 kg (screen thickness was reduced from 4.46mm to 3.91mm) • NVH material – 9 kg • Other optimisations – 56 kg.

AUTOMOTIVE R E F I N I S H E R

The weight reduction is right across all systems. The aluminium bumper beams, brake callipers, lower front suspension arms and front hubs contributed to the 27 kg weight reduction, as did the fibre reinforced plastic spare wheel well. © Peugeot S.A.

The weight reduction due to how the parts are put together – 10 kg! © Peugeot S.A.

35

AR J-F 2014 CLAIRE_NOV/DEC 2005 paganation 2014/02/10 10:35 AM Page 5

TRAINING UPDATE TRAINING

INDUSTRY TRANSFORMATION THROUGH APPRENTICESHIPS

W

hen Ntuthuko Foundation (NF) was founded two years ago, it set in motion a vision that would not only offer opportunities to high potential youth from disadvantaged backgrounds, but would also play a critical role in bridging the ever widening skills shortage gap in the automotive repair industry.

Ntuthuko Foundation recruits and places apprentices in partner body repair shops throughout Gauteng. Apprentices are registered with MerSETA and follow the Competancy Based Modular Training (CBMT) programmes in spray painting and auto body repairing. Once placed, the foundation ensures that apprentices are given the necessary support to successfully complete their training within a set period.

Identifying the right apprentices is one of Ntuthuko Foundation’s key success factors.

Sibusiso Tolo is a first year apprentice who was placed at Auto-Body Specialists, one of NF’s partner shops in February 2013. He completed matric in 2012 scoring an impressive B in Mathematics in spite of the circumstances he found himself in when his father and only parent was arrested when he was 12 years old, leaving him to fend for himself with some help and assistance from concerned community members and teachers.

Through NF’s tailored assessments, the foundation was able to ascertain that Sibusiso was good with working with his hands and would be able to cope with the theoretical and practical aspects of the CBMT programme. Sibusiso’s ultimate goal is to one day run a successful repair centre in his community.

Busiswe Maile, managing director of Ntuthuko Foundation says that their goal is to empower young people and build a talent pool of highly qualified spray painters and auto body repairers for the industry through partnerships with industry players.

Repair centres that sign up with the foundation will be given access to screened candidates. The foundation also works closely with the centres’ mentors and administrators to ensure the proper facilitation of the CBMT programme. “We understand the business pressures and demands that repair shops are faced with on a daily basis,” says Ms Maile. We promise our partner shops smoothly run apprenticeship programmes provided they are MerSETA workplace accredited and have qualified journeymen who are willing to mentor apprentices.

36

The foundation recently facilitated a successful mentors’ workshop with journeyman from different repair shops.

The workshop focused on breaking barriers and building bridges between mentors and apprentices; helping mentors find solutions and practical methods to impart knowledge and skills to the youngsters placed under their wings.

Most of the mentors, having come from challenging backgrounds themselves, were excited about the prospect of playing a life changing role in a young person’s life. Simon Singo, a seasoned journeyman from Cornright Motors said that if his knowledge and skill can help another person put food on the table and build a home for their family, it is his responsibility to pass on what

he knows to the best of his ability.

The foundation’s Non-Profit Organisation status and black (previously disadvantaged) beneficiary base also makes it the perfect conduit for BBBEE compliance through Socio-Economic Development (SED) and Skills Development. Businesses can donate their SED contributions to help fund some of the foundation’s programmatic activities. Through training of apprentices, businesses are also able to meet their Skills Development quotas.

For more information on Ntuthuko Foundation and how you can get involved, contact them on +27 (0)11 805 3867 or email them at busi.maile@nf.org.za , you can also visit their website on www.nf.org.za

Mentor workshops are proving successful at the Ntuthuko Foundation. This is a practical way of developing skills and improving knowledge in the industry.

AUTOMOTIVE R E F I N I S H E R

PEUGEOT AD J-F 2014_Layout 1 2014/02/06 1:35 PM Page 1

AR JAY PGS _NOV/DEC 2005 paganation 2014/02/10 9:35 AM Page 1

BASF DESIGN EUROPE, MARK GUTJAHR

Green is Gold

M

eet BASF’s head of design Europe, Mark Gutjahr. We were fortunate enough to meet Mark at R-M’s Best Painter Contest last year, while he was judging entries in the ‘VIP colour task’. This was a task where entrants sprayed model cars employing the latest OEM colour trends. Mark has a decorated past with experience from giants like Swatch and Vodafone under his belt.

Since Mark’s arrival at BASF the company has put together a global design team of young creative prodigies. These designers are using groundbreaking formulas to analyse where social psychology is headed – looking for patterns to determine BASF’s future colour trends. We asked Mark why he thinks green is the next big thing, and how the BASF’s global design team comes to these colourful conclusions. “The global BASF design team starts with intense research in all regions. We look at changes in society, political influences, lifestyle as well as technological progress. We then analyse the impact of these trends on a long-term influence and derive an automotive colour scheme to best suit these conditions”.

GREEN LEAVING ITS ECO-IMAGE BEHIND The fact that the green colour range is securing its position in the automotive future does not stem from its logical connection to ecology and the image of a pristine nature. The new greens that will be applied to cars in the coming three or four years are making a point of leaving their eco-image behind. “We are not finding answers to questions about societies value shift in a romanticising ‘back to nature’ vision, but instead in intelligent solutions and technologies,” said Mark. In this context, green stands for new values such as straightforwardness, responsibility and individuality, as well as for harmony and balance, which are becoming increasingly important factors in society.

GLOBAL TREND WITH REGIONAL COLOURS The global context is lending ever more importance to questions of individuality. Green is setting the trend for bold automotive colours and is reinforcing a move toward more colourbased differentiation. On the other hand, in its research, BASF’s global design team has identified clear regional differences. Even if the green theme is globally relevant, its manifestations in Asia Pacific, North America and Europe are highly varied. The design language in Europe is characterised by soberness and quality, which translates into colours in the portfolio which are balanced and detailed yet bold. Dark green and emeralds exhibit highly intricate structures and moderately used effects. Rich greens are refined by golden highlights. While Europe is experiencing the quest for new values, in Asia, topics such as nature, relaxation and harmony have a strong impact on this colour range. In Asia, subtle but multifaceted automotive colours are anticipated. For instance, vibrant pastels serve to offset the grey of the big cities. The wide range of the trend colour is clearly demonstrated by the colour portfolio in North America. Clarity and directness characterise the colours used there. In addition, the green-yellow colour range is playing an increasingly important role with colours such as ‘lemon’.

TIME FOR COLOUR The wide variety of the new greens also clearly demonstrates that automotive colours now have more room for flexibility. New effect categories and topics such as haptics (the touch and feel) and matt coatings will make this even more possible in the future.

At the same time, they will also pose new requirements, in terms of both technology and design.

Gutjahr recognises the opportunity afforded by the complexity.

“New methods and pigments will allow us to implement innovations such as BASF’s new “XSpark” effect category. Here, the use of new effect pigments ensures a striking glitter that makes a clearer, cleaner and more intensive impact than all previous effects. The distinct sparkle is particularly effective in light, which has an elegant impact without being overbearing. “XSpark” has a lot of potential,” explained Mark, sharing his positive view of the future. “So it’s about time for us to have more colour!”

38

AUTOMOTIVE R E F I N I S H E R

R-M AD N-D 2013_Layout 1 2013/11/06 10:06 AM Page 1

AR J-F 2014 CLAIRE_NOV/DEC 2005 paganation 2014/02/11 12:56 PM Page 6

FOCUS AIR FED MASKS 3M 6000 SERIES FULL FACE RESPIRATORS

The 6000 Series Full Face Respirators are used with twin lightweight filters which are fitted by a simple bayonet attachment system, providing an economical and flexible choice.

The respirators can also be used with the 3M S-200 SuppliedAir System for increased convenience and flexibility.

Main Features: • Lightweight and well balanced • Flexible system (gas/vapour and/or particulate filters plus Supplied-Air option) • Silicone facepiece material • Easy to use • Wide field of vision and impact resistance with a polycarbonate lens • 3 sizes (6700 : small, 6800 : medium, 6900 : large) • Low maintenance • Economical • Spectacle kit available For more information call Peilin Zuo on +27 (0)11 806 2347.

WHY AIR FED MASKS?

I

socyanates are highly reactive chemicals used widely in a variety of industrial products, such as apolyurethane foams, coatings, adhesives, laminations, plastics and two-pack paints.

Exposure to Isocyanates can occur through inhalation and possibly through contamination of the skin. The main effects of overexposure to Isocyanate vapours, spray mists, and dusts are occupational asthma and other lung problems, as well as irritation of the eyes, nose, throat and skin.

Working with Isocyanates can lead to (allergic) sensitisation to Isocyanates. Once someone is sensitised, further exposure to even very small amounts of Isocyanates can start an asthma attack.

40

Early signs of sensitisation may be runny/itchy eyes or nose, developing later into a wheeze, chest tightness, and breathlessness or coughing.

Isocyanates are classified as potential human carcinogens and are known to cause cancer in humans and animals.

The odour threshold of Isocyanates is higher than the Threshold Limit Value, which means that it is difficult to detect breakthrough when using treated Carbon filters for Organic Vapour. The worker is already exposed to levels of Isocyanates above the exposure limit, before they can detect that the filters are saturated.

AUTOMOTIVE R E F I N I S H E R

AR J-F 2014 CLAIRE_NOV/DEC 2005 paganation 2014/02/11 12:56 PM Page 7

ANEST IWATA’S BREATHING SET

Get clean air with Anest Iwata’s breathing set.

Anest Iwata’s air breathing set is very easy to wear and highly functional. It complies with European Regulations for compressed air light equipment for throat protection.

From the development of our first spray gun in 1925 to our latest spray guns, Anest Iwata has been the pioneer in spray technology for over 75 years. Anest Iwata’s commitment to quality, innovation and service is unparalleled.

For more information contact Ayumi on +27 (0)11 463 2169, or Neil on +27 (0)84 703 5926.

DEVILBISS PRO VISOR Pro Visor has been specifically designed for the paint sprayer and for use in spray booths. The technically advanced design provides the perfect combination of safety and comfort, with excellent freedom of movement. With the three dimensional adjustment for perfect ergonomics the Pro Visors flexibility allows the user to adjust the head circumference by using the rear

AUTOMOTIVE R E F I N I S H E R

adjustment knob. Head height can also be adjusted at the top of the headband, while head width is adjustable using a set of three spacers that are included within the pack. *The Pro Visor is fitted with a comfortable, elasticated face seal and just to prove that the DeVilbiss team tries to think of everything, the visor air supply hose is anti-static and anti-kink too!

Air dispersal within the visor is fed gently and quietly around the lightweight visor at a positive pressure to eliminate misting or discomfort, ensuring every sprayer can work at their best. The wrap around visor provides excellent visibility for the sprayer with a clear, wider peripheral vision than they may be used to and there is also plenty of room to cater for sprayers who wear spectacles.

A removable peak also comes with the kit helping reduce glare from spray booth lighting. *For operator comfort the waist belt regulator is shaped to the body and the waist belt is fitted with an ergonomic, quick action fastener that can be clipped on and adjusted in seconds, even when using gloves. The regulator and filter unit ensures optimum sprayer comfort and safety through constant regulation of air pressure and flow, over a range of input pressures and also comes fitted with an integral whistle to warn the sprayer if the visor supply pressure is too low.

Replacing the activated carbon odour removal filter is quick and easy, while the Y piece swivel connector on the air supply hose means the waist belt unit can be worn on the sprayer’s left or right for unrestricted movement and superb spray dynamics.

For more information on Pro Visor, contact BASF on 086 110 0173, Tunzi Automotive Supplies on +27 (0)31 205 2246/3094, or Hurricane Equipment on +27 (0)83 628 2288.

41

AR JAN-FEB PG NAT_Layout 1 2014/02/11 2:12 PM Page 12

LATEST NEWS

T he Chemspec Gr oup car r y the AkzoNobel br and Sikkens in South Africa and have full tr aining on product use av ailable.

WHAT’S HOT?

AKZONOBEL NEW DESIGN CENTRE

A

kzoNobel Speciality Finishes has opened a new Design Centre in Offenbach, Germany, the business’ fourth specialist facility dedicated to serving customers around the globe.

The new premises in Germany adds to the business’ existing Design Centres in Seoul, Korea, Beijing, China and South Carolina in the US. Company experts at all four locations work closely with customers to provide a wide range of coatings solutions for products such as smartphones, tablets, laptops, car components, home appliances, golf balls, cosmetics and personal care packaging.

“In today’s market our ability to deliver

made-to-order innovative coatings solutions represents an important competitive advantage,” said Speciality Finishes business director Peter Brenner. “One of our goals with the new Design Centre is to help our customers be first to market with new colours and effects.”

An added advantage of the German facility is that it shares premises with one of the Speciality Finishes business’ Solutions Labs.

This means that technicians are able to immediately translate colour and coatings concepts into samples for customers to see actual components and products.

“Our link to the Solutions Lab is vitally important,” explained global design manager

Stephie Jijssens: “In the Design Centre, we are not just talking about trends and working from our colour library, but we are also working together with the lab to create precisely the colours the customer needs.

“We want out customers to feel that we are a partner in their design process, so we hope they will take advantage of the new centre,” added Stephie. “It’s a place where we can come together, where customers bring their product ideas and we present our coatings, colour ideas and effects. Together with our labs, we then translate the ideas into solutions so they can go home with a finished product.”

NACE NEWS

NACE UNDER NEW MANAGEMENT

A

fter 13 years of organising and running NACE, Hanley Wood Exhibitions will pass the show to Houston-based Stone Fort Group for 2014 and beyond. The show will also drop the Auto Service and Repair Week (ASRW).

The management change was a mutual decision by Hanley Wood and the Automotive Service Association (ASA), which sponsors the show. The company and ASA had been in talks for years about the potential shift, as the show has changed significantly during the last three years. Hanley Wood Exhibitions, which typically owns the shows it runs, does not own NACE or its counterpart for the auto service industry, CARS, which makes involvement financially challenging, says Lindsay Roberts, show manager for the company. Though she says it’s hard to let go of the show because of all the relationships that we have made, Hanley Wood recommended Stone Fort Group, which she says is well suited to manage the show.

The 2014 show is planned for Detroit in July 2014, creating three months of separation from SEMA in November. NACE has typically been held weeks apart from SEMA, which organisers say has created attendance issues because of its proximity to SEMA and the perception that attendees need to choose between events.

42

Dan Risley, executive director ASA says the goal for next year’s event is to create a unique experience. The show will be a ‘true industry week’, involving partnership with the Collision Repair Industry Conference, I-CAR and the Collision Repair Education Foundation.

Additional events, such as potential tours of auto plants and museums are also in the works.The auto manufacturer presence in Detroit, and the desire for their involvement in the show, was a motivating factor for the location.

NACE and CARS 2014 will take place July 29-August 2 at the Cobo Centre in Detroit, Michigan.

AUTOMOTIVE R

E

F

I

N

I

S

H

E

R

SAGOLA NEW_Invoice TOYOTA 16-8-05 2013/01/30 12:12 PM Page 1

NEW GENERATION

4500 XTREME

Is At The Forefront of Design, Technology, Ergonomics & Quality Advantages: Ultra Fine Pattern Large Spray Pattern Excellent Results Technology: No internal rubber O rings or gaskets Single piece self adjusting packing gland No service kits or maintenance required Ergonomics: Perfect ergonomics reduces stress on painter’ s arm and hand

Sole importer Visit our website

www.vermontsales.co.za For trade enquiries (011) 314 7711

AR JAN-FEB PG NAT_Layout 1 2014/02/11 2:13 PM Page 13

LATEST NEWS TRAINING UPDATE

ARVATO SOUTH AFRICA INNOVATIVE TRAINING SOLUTIONS

A

rvato is an international outsourcing service provider. Every day over 63,000 arvato employees in more than 35 countries are helping customers to achieve success in their markets. Arvato design and implement solutions for a wide diversity of businessprocesses in various industries.

The services include everything from the production, preparation and distribution of printed materials and digital storage media (like DVDs and Blu Rays) to data management, customer care, CRM services, supply chain management, digital distribution, financial services and professional and individualized IT services.

In over 40 years of partnering with customers in the automotive industry, arvato have developed a broad portfolio of automotive services − customized solutions that go far beyond the mere distribution of marketing brochures, repair shop information, promotional items or vehicle manuals. Arvato provide support for dialogue-campaigns and long-term customer relationship management (CRM) programs; they design, compile and edit owner’s manuals, repair instructions and marketing brochures; procure print- & advertising materials; and distribute information of all kinds through digital / online channels, as well as non-digital channels. Last but not least, arvato is providing a range of technical and non-technical training to various OEMs in South Africa and around the globe.

Since 2006, arvato has offered vehicle specific body repair training for approved motor body repairers in South Africa.Various major OEMs have appointed arvato as their official training partner, in order to benefit from their technical expertise, gained from 40 years of experience in technical documentation and technical drawing services for the automotive industry.

Vehicle technology has advanced drastically in recent years and will continue to do so at an even higher pace in the near future, hence appropriate training measures and thorough new model introductory trainings for the body repair industry remain very crucial. Also the major vehicle insurance companies have felt the need to up-skill their vehicle assessors throughout the last 5 years and frequently are sending training delegates to the model-specific arvato courses. It became evident quite quickly that sometimes 44

tension is created during an insurance damage-claim between the insurance assessor, the respective body repair shop and ultimately the end-customer, which can create a great deal of frustration and client dissatisfaction. Hence arvato made it their mission since 2011 to also implement a training course, specifically aimed at insurance assessors, independent assessors and body shop estimators, in order to give them a broad technical background and understanding of general vehicle technology.

These courses were rolled out throughout South Africa the first time in 2013.They are not model-specific, in order to provide the attendants with more generic and universal information and to make training more affordable for everyone. As an assessor or estimator, now you only need to visit one comprehensive course instead of various model-specific ones, which are aimed more at the body shop staff actually repairing

the cars. The arvato assessor and estimator training usually includes information on body structure and -materials, vehicle identification, occupant protection, paint systems and defects, vehicle electronics, running gear and suspension, common issues in the assessing process, etc.

The training actually tries to create mutual understanding amongst all parties involved in a damage claim, by giving the assessors and estimators a great deal of technical information, in order to grasp and understand the necessary repair-procedures and repair times correctly in each case. This will then help to cut down the claims approval time and shorten entire repair process, ensuring that clients are happy.

If you would like to find out more about the training on offer you can contact arvato via email at info@arvato.co.za or telephonically at +27 (0)41 995 5200. or visit the website on www.arvato.co.za

AUTOMOTIVE R

E

F

I

N

I

S

H

E

R

ARVATO J-F 2014_Layout 1 2014/02/06 10:08 AM Page 1

AEROCURE DPS M-A 2012

3/14/12

12:39 PM

Page 1

AEROCURE DPS M-A 2012

3/14/12

12:39 PM

Page 2

AR JAN-FEB PG NAT_Layout 1 2014/02/11 2:10 PM Page 8

TOP SHOP N6 PANELBEATERS AND TOWING

BIGGER AND BETTER THAN EVER Story and pics by Ian Groat

All par ts ar e binned in specailly mar ked stor age ar eas.

A

liwal North is a town that’s steeped in history and plays an important role in the rural area of the Eastern Cape bordering the Free State on the banks of the Orange River.

It’s probably the last place you would expect to find a stateof-the-art collision repair centre, but the latest all new facility of N6 Panelbeaters would prove otherwise.

The company started around 12 years ago and is driven by organic in-house growth to be able to draw vehicles in that have been damaged in accidents from areas as far as Queenstown, Colesburg, Middleburg, De Aar, Barkly East and as far afield as Bloemfontein.

General manager, Riaan Oelofse, who was part of the group who started the original company, has an IT communications background and will openly tell customers it’s all about the quality of the final repair.

The N6 Panelbeaters philosophy is one of getting all their vehicles back to their original condition. That has powered N6 – part of the Lie Bro Group – a family business, forward to complete their recent impressive upgrade.

48

T he ne w pr oduction shop featur es huge wor k ar eas and calm r ur al atmospher e.

Most of the staff have many year s of ser vice at N6 Panelbeater s.

Situated on the very busy N6 arterial road between Bloemfontein and East London, the demand for a dynamic expansion was brought on by the previous operation that reached levels of overcrowding. This made it tough to continue business and resulted in a demand for a larger building.

Christo Liebenberg from Lie Bro Group, has a magic touch in property development and they moved quickly to buy an old cheese factory. This is a new, revitalised work station for N6 Panelbeaters and the company carry out a large number of vehicle repairs every month.

What sets the company apart is that systems are in place to manage every aspect of the car in repair. Output on each day’s production is set everyday on the computer production list.There is also a large electronic screen in the production hall so everyone can see what’s got to be finalised.There is also a regular updating system for staff training that sees the whole team of some 30 staff in a state of complete understanding what the company’s objectives are.

AUTOMOTIVE R

E

F

I

N

I

S

H

E

R

AR JAN-FEB PG NAT_Layout 1 2014/02/11 2:10 PM Page 9

Using the latest approved equipment is par t of the N6 quality drive.

This all new paint shop swallowed up a big slice of the upgr ade investment at N6 Panelbeater s, but efficency is gr eatly improved.

A pair of ne w w aterbor ne Zenith spr aybooths show gr eat lighting and over spr ay extr action.

Glasurit w aterbor ne r efinish now power s the paint shop.

T he fr ont line team of fer a gr eat welcome at N6 Panelbeater s.

Riaan Oelofse is the gener al manager and systems fundi at N6 Panelbeater s.

Wor king mainly on bakkies, the Chief EzLiner is har d at it ever yday.

To prove this, the reception area has a list of approvals for approved repairs from over 15 major motor manufacturers.

The company operate a Doctor Smash management system, with an Audatex system for vehicle quoting and assessment. The saying ‘n boer maak ’n plan’ even extends to N6 via the Lie Bro Group, being builders and property developers. They made their own sandstone bricks for the construction of the new building. Anyone can quickly see that no expense has been spared in the new building and operation standards.

The BASF team of Herman van Eeden, the refinish consultant, Hendrik Griesel, branch and sales manager and Graham Smith, technical consultant, have for the past 12 years been the BASF team looking after N6 Panelbeaters and the Glasurit waterborne system is in full use. The company also boasts double output special Zenith high work rate spray booths.

On the gala opening evening in normal rural business fashion, nearly 300 local dignitaries, clients and insurers all came to the launch of the new venture in fine style. Hyundai were there to present N6

AUTOMOTIVE R

E

F

I

N

I

S

H

E

R

Panelbeaters with their latest annual manufacturer’s approval certificate where they reached 98.5% satisfaction. This really says it all about their dedication and service delivery. They operate a type of process partnership within the Eastern Cape with a host of insurance companies too.

So with all things being equal, it’s not difficult to see why N6 Panelbeaters are posting record business levels. Their attention to detail also sees the towing operations bringing back vehicles for repair from as far as Lesotho with a 7-ton roll back and a 4x4 recovery specialist tow unit on offer. They also employ four specialised qualified panelbeaters to effect that perfect repair.

N6 Panelbeaters are now in their 2500 m2 repair centre. They have a link to the front offices and assessment bays and really do look the part of arguably the most professional collision repair shop in the country.They are there for their clients on call 24-7 for collision repairs in this distant road going repair market in the turnkey, self planned and newly built premises in Olivier Street, Aliwal North.

49

AR JAN-FEB PG NAT_Layout 1 2014/02/11 2:39 PM Page 10

N6 GRAND OPENING CONTINUED

There is something great about repair in the rural areas of South Africa. The grand opening saw the whole town’s dignitaries, trade clientele and customers all come to see the R12 million investment in the state-of the-art collision repair centre in Aliwal North.

2

3

4

5

With ample front and rear parking available, N6 Panelbeaters have gained the vital space the company needed in the new body shop design.

1 2. Customers and staff can see the digital display of where each repair has progressed.

3. Christo Liebenberg (left), receives their certificate of success from Neil Schluter, from Hyundai for almost 100% score on quality and service.

4. Aliwal North’s mayor was complimentary about N6 Panelbeaters professional status.

5. With customers and friends it seemed the whole Northern Cape turned up to wish the new venture the best for the future. The company has come a long way towards achieving the new world class facility in Aliwal North.

6. The BASF team refinish experts travelled from Bloemfontein for the festive evening. From left to right are Herman van Eeden, refinish consultant, Hendrik Griesel, branch/sales manager and Graham Smith, technical consultant.

7. The refurbishment of the N6 Panelbeaters building was done in record time.

7

6 50

AUTOMOTIVE R

E

F

I

N

I

S

H

E

R

GLASURIT J-A 2013_Layout 1 2014/02/06 10:11 AM Page 1

A Division of BASF Coatings.

For further information please contact vicus.herbst@basf.com

AR JAN-FEB PG NAT_Layout 1 2014/02/10 11:38 AM Page 11

LATEST NEWS INDUSTRY NEWS

CAN THE TOYOTA HYDROGEN CAR CHANGE THE WORLD?

T

oyota have released the first photos of its latest concept car, called the FCV Concept, which will be on show at the Tokyo Motor Show.

It's a "concept car", meaning that it's just for show, but you'll be able to buy something very similar in a couple of years. Toyota says that it will begin selling a car like the FCV-R in 2015 – or thereabouts.

But the FCV Concept isn't an ordinary electric car. It doesn't have a battery pack.

Instead, it has a system that makes its own electricity, right on board – from hydrogen.

Electric cars without the batteries? That system is called a fuel cell, and Toyota is just one of several automakers that have made heavy bets on fuel cells, and hydrogen – as a way to power the automobiles of the future.

Fuel cells convert the energy in hydrogen to electricity by oxidising it. That means the hydrogen atoms are combined with oxygen atoms. The result is electricity – along with water, or water vapour. That water vapour is the only "exhaust" emitted by a fuel-cell car.

Fuel-cell cars have all of the advantages of electric cars. Electric cars are clean and quiet, and Tesla Motors and its hot Model S sedan have shown that they can be stylish and fun to drive, too.

But electric cars like the Tesla, are powered up by batteries, special lithium-ion batteries encased in a big battery pack.Those batteries have proven to be a big challenge for engineers and car designers.

Right now, those special batteries are heavy, bulky, and expensive. That means that an electric car that has the range of a conventional gasoline-powered one is also going to be heavy and expensive. Tesla's Model S is sleek and fast, but "heavy and expensive" also describes it pretty well.

Just a few years ago, many analysts believed that electric-car batteries would be getting a lot lighter and cheaper by now. But battery technology hasn't advanced as quickly as electric-car enthusiasts have hoped.

That has led automakers to look for alternatives, and fuel cells might be the pick

of the bunch.

But where will fuel-cell cars get "gas"? Of course, a fuel-cell car can't be recharged. It requires a tank of hydrogen in order to make electricity.That means you'll still have to refuel your fuel-cell car, at a "gas" station that sells hydrogen.

There aren't very many of those, at least not yet. But researchers are betting that they'll quickly become common if fuel cells show promise. Hydrogen can be made from natural gas, which is both cheap and abundant. It can also be made from water, using a process like a fuel cell in reverse.

Toyota is far from the only automaker investing in fuel cells. Ford, General Motors, and Hyundai all claim that they have fuel-cell vehicles coming to market in the next few years. And Honda already has one, though it's expensive and sells in tiny numbers.

Right now, nobody knows whether fuelcell cars will catch on with consumers. But it's clear that we'll have the chance to kick the tyres on a few before too long.

LAUNCH NEWS

FORD ROLLS OUT NEW TECH

F

ord has developed technology to enable drivers to park at the touch of a button from inside or outside the car, as well as a prototype that combines automatic steering and braking to avoid collisions with vehicles or pedestrians. Ford’s Research and Advanced Engineering division harnessed developments made with existing Ford technologies – Active Park Assist and Ford PowerShift transmission, to produce a Ford Focus equipped with the prototype Fully Assisted Parking Aid system.

Ford has also unveiled Obstacle Avoidance technology on the Focus, which issues warnings if it detects slow-moving objects, stationary obstacles or pedestrians in the lane ahead. If the driver fails to steer or brake following the warnings, the system automatically steers and brakes to avoid a collision.

Ford’s futuring experts have identified an increasing consumer demand worldwide for technology along with features that make life a whole lot easier and safer.

WHAT’S HOT?

NISSAN NOTE HITS PRODUCTION LINES

P

roduction of Nissan’s Note has now begun at its biggest European manufacturing plant in Sunderland. The Note comes with a full suite of advanced technologies and Nissan has already taken more than 14 000 pre-orders for the vehicle. The new model is expected to sell more than 100 000 cars per year in Europe. Geraldine Ingham, chief marketing manager for Nissan in Europe said: “The new Note fulfils a really important role in our new product portfolio, combining smart design with purposeful technology. We’ve used design and engineering innovation to make premium technologies accessible to everyone.”

52

AUTOMOTIVE R

E

F

I

N

I

S

H

E

R

VERMONT 4 PRODUCTS J-F09

2/13/09

2:23 PM

Page 1

AR J-F 2014 CLAIRE_NOV/DEC 2005 paganation 2014/02/10 10:36 AM Page 14

PPG AUTOCOLOUR ONE STEP AHEAD

54

AR J-F 2014 CLAIRE_NOV/DEC 2005 paganation 2014/02/10 10:36 AM Page 15

COLOUR YOUR WORLD WITH PPG Story & pics by Ian Groat

I

t could be said that in today’s ever changing refinish market that the one great feature that every spray painter looks for in a system is the accuracy of colour formulations. Integrating convenience for the spray painter globally has become a key part of an immediate solution for the paint shop.

“Colour”, says Andrea Petroli, marketing and development manager for Middle East and Africa, “is gathered globally, drawing from PPG’s huge online supply with the world’s top motor makers. We are pulling actual line supply panels in most cases, plus any derivative shades for formulation in the brands that we produce: PPG, MaxMeyer® and Nexa Autocolor®.”

The Refinish Division has four dedicated colour labs globally, assuring that all new colours and variants are accurately matched. These labs are based in the US, the UK, Italy and Asia. All new colours from around the world are matched accurately and with the utmost efficiency.

PPG is one of the world’s leading OEM paint suppliers, with unrivalled access and relationships with the OEM plants in order to obtain all standard as well as variant colour panels. Today and for several years, two out of three cars produced worldwide are benefiting from PPG coating technology.

They also have a special team visiting car import centres around the whole of Europe and regularly check current matches against cars in the car park in order to identify variants that might have ‘slipped the net’.

The OEM styling group suggests future colours to the OEM’s that enables early warning for the types of colours entering the markets. This process ensures PPG stays on top of pigment trends enabling the procurements teams to have all future pigments available in paint form before new colours hit the streets.

The colour labs also stay in close contact with pigment manufacturers worldwide, insisting on consistent quality of pigments. In some cases, where pigment suppliers tell us consistency is difficult, PPG obtains large amounts of one batch of pigment (sometimes enough for 10 years!) to ensure the production is consistent.

The Stowmarket operation, based in the UK, has a phenomenal group of colour experts. With team leader Dave Rossiter, they efficiently deal with the current colour explosion within the market. With a host of new xirallics and metallic pearl effect toners, they are sure to have formulas available for all new OE colours entering the market. The use of these special effect toners is becoming increasingly popular with the OE’s as they rely on eye-catching finishes as an aid to selling new vehicles. To keep up with the increased demand for colour formulas, they also work in close partnership with their colour lab based in Milan, Italy.

An approximate number of 6 000 new shades, plus their variants, are developed in the PPG colour labs on an annual basis with the most stringent colour tests conducted to ensure accurate colour matches.

PPG has also harnessed their colour development into their variable paint management system that is a holistic body shop management tool where colour formulas can be updated on a daily basis through internet updates.

These updates include formulas on prime, variant and also special field formulas.

PPG’s colour IT team has also recently announced a colour mobile software application whereby this application will allow users to remotely utilise smartphones and or tablets to view a required formulation.

“We are all very excited about the new colour mobile application,” said Dave. “It’s taken a great deal of hard work to assist all our technical representatives with this technical colour information where they frequently need an answer to colour questions at any time of the day, while they are on the road and away from desktop computers. Now we have made colour information quicker and more accurate than ever before, which has an added bonus of anytime convenience. “ With its streamlined search mode to see a formulae pop up on the users screen full of information about the colour right away, this type of innovation is what PPG is all about.

The dedicated and focused colour team in Suffolk, England, is a key part of the company’s ongoing success in colouristics and backup that contributes to the global upliftment of the PPG refinish brands.

PPG strongly believes that their stringent quality control testing is the tightest in the world, and that their colour identification methods are the most thorough, allowing for accurate colour matches, every time.

In conclusion we can say that PPG is a real leader in painting cars – from the OE to the aftersales.

55

AR JAN-FEB PG NAT_Layout 1 2014/02/10 11:38 AM Page 4

REGULAR BITS by Roger McCleery

T he ne w GTC r acing c lass pr omises c lose and spectacular r acing for South Africa with affordability.

DID YOU HEAR?

T

he medium term outlook for the motor industry in South Africa this year will continue to be affected by the overall performance of the economy with new vehicle prices continuing to rise, thanks to the weaker exchange rate.

So vehicle sales in 2014 should be a little bit lower than sales achieved in 2013. Not only sales, but exports as well, which really is the reason our motor assembly plants exist.

2013 was a good year for the motor industry, despite the length of the labour strikes, seven weeks, which was unprecedented in the history of the local motor industry.

Government and labour, together with NAAMSA are going to address the issues that contributed to the industrial action. I think NUMSA happily continues to think that they go on their arrogant merry way, demanding more and more all the time but this is not the reality of the world. BMW, and this is a fact, lost a contract for building more export cars and if this snowballs we could become a market for imported cars only. Mexico, Thailand, Brazil, Vietnam, India are all looking for more and more investment and the opportunity to build cars.

Our automotive industry has a goal to produce 1.2 million vehicles by 2020 on a sustainable basis.

Minister of Trade and Industry, Dr Rob Davies, said he was thrilled that Nigeria is going to assemble motor cars for the first time because we can sell car components to them. We only hope that all the red tape that Africa installs into any project is cut down so this can happen.

Tel: 011 425 4062 Franz: 082 463 6284 Email: info@specialheat.com 1 Madeley Street, Rynfield, Benoni 36

Fiat has just introduced a 500L with a 1.6 litre turbo-diesel motor and 1.4 petrol, which is a joy to drive. It has got a six-speed manual gearbox and a lot of power. A full five-seater, it should appeal to young drivers. Its competition comes from the likes of the KIA Soul, Mini Countryman, Opel Meriva and the Citroën C3. Storage space for luggage is unbelievable. All this comes with a three-year warranty.

TATA has introduced a 2.2 litre turbo-charged double cab to the market with a 110 kW engine and lots of pulling power at 320 Nm. South Africa is the first market to see this new Xenon X5.TATA comes over well when parts pricing is taken into consideration. Vehicle prices range from R229 000, a bit more for the diesel version, though.

Peter Schreyer, the head of design for KIA and Hyundai, has come out with another winner. The KIA Cerato five-door hatch has been joined by a sedan version with all the bells and whistles. As we go to press a turbocharged 1.6-litre coupé (Koup) version is ready for market.

Six models are offered at the moment, starting from R230 000. The competition is the Chev Cruze, the Auris,Volkswagen Golf, Focus, Mazda 3 and the Hyundai i30. The Cerato should be able to live in this company. It’s a beauty.

Not to be outdone, Mitsubishi has upgraded their ASX that has become a popular addition to their range. Five models are offered, starting from R284 000.

Recently restyled, Porsche has brought out eight different models of Panamera. Every one is a winner. Included is a hybrid that amazingly does 0-100 in 5.5 seconds. Pricing for the diesel, which they reckon will

Supercure Spraybooth Rail System

Procure Mobile Infra-Red

Hotbox Colour Matching Dryer With Timer AUTOMOTIVE R E F I N I S H E R

AR JAN-FEB PG NAT_Layout 1 2014/02/10 11:38 AM Page 5

Listen to Roger McCleery every Tuesday on Radio Today (1485 AM) at17h30 for everything about SA motoring. be the highest volume, starts at R900 000. A performance version is priced at R1 946 000.

2013 was like a continuous car show. One of the stars was the new, superb looking Opel Astra saloon that was launched on a ride-and-drive from Port Elizabeth to Cape Town. They come with automatic or manual gearboxes. Engines fitted are a 1.4 turbo or 1.6 normally aspirated or 1.6 turbos. Also at the Astra launch was Opel’s Nurburgring version, a 1600cc pocket rocket of note, producing 154 kW. There is a new product on the market called “Motor Check-up” which allows you to check the health of the engine by merely taking out a drop of engine oil or brake fluid, power steering fluid, transmission oil or hydraulic fluid and dropping it onto paper. The special paper absorbs it and you can analyse it as per the supplied chart. It is the cheapest way to find out the condition of your motor. It is similar to testing blood in humans and is available through motor spares shops.

The new Renault Duster SUV has joined the Renault line-up as one of the volume sellers in the line-up, as is the Sandero. It is already taking sales of Renault to way over 1000 each month. Clio is another winner, having gone up to 500 per month. Renault genuinely uses Formula 1 technology in their motors. A total of 189 400 Dusters have been sold worldwide since launch. Well worth a look if you want a well-priced, capable SUV. Husqvarna Moto-X motorcycles now based in Austria want to be a major player in the 2014 World Moto-X Championships. In the big class South African Tyla Rattray from KZN will wear “Works” Huskie colours. Rattray won the 250 World Championship with a Red Bull KTM Factory Team a few years ago.

Ford and Mazda are going their own ways overseas and here in South Africa. Ford will continue to sell and service Mazda products until the transition period is over with the Mazda BT50 Pick-Up truck still being produced at Ford’s Silverton plant. Mazda will set up their own national sales company within South Africa.

Toyota in South Africa prepared heavily for this year’s Dakar since July 2013 with weeks of testing in Namibia. With their experience and despite the heavy competition expected, Giniel de Villiers and Leeroy Poulter managed to finish fourth in this ultra tough event which is probably the equivalent of doing an entire Formula 1 season in just two weeks.

Our competitors are doing well overseas. Kelvin van der Linde (16) won the Volkswagen Scirocco Cup in Germany. Hudson Kennaugh won the Pirelli Superstock Racing Championship in the UK – both titles achieved against really good competition.

LOCAL MOTORSPORT

GTC V8 RACING ARRIVES

L

aunching at Zwar tkops raceway the new concept of high performance V8 racing has much to offer. It is built around a Ford Focus chassis that was prototyped in Australia. The all-new quad cam V8 motor is squeezed into a very well built and thought out chassis.

It is designed to make the franchise racing concept both affordable for SA racing enthusiasts and also provide plenty of driver excitement.

“It is hoped the series will develop into an 18-place grid size and because it is designed to go with other grand touring racing car countries like Brazil, Argentina and Australia in its format the chances are that invited top drivers will be eligible to contest the local racing series,” says Vic Maharaj.

Gary Formato gave the invited guests a big treat as he demonstrated the fire-breathing prototype on the track. The car exhibits all the noise and excitement expected of it. It’s hoped this will provide a step change increase in expected race track fans, as the GTC V8 formula drives forwards across the country.

AUTOMOTIVE R

E

F

I

N

I

S

H

E

HD KOREK

An all new straightening system for heavy duty vehicles Fully approved

by Mercedes-Benz Commercial Vehicles

The compact Korek HD floor frame features a double layer ground frame for robust performance and easy set-up. The flexible tower assemblies are highly mobile. It offers extended cab tower pulls with traction pulls of 20 tons per basic tower.

The towers are simple to fix as they operate on rollers and are fixed to the HD Korek frame by four wedges with three main stands on offer.

This is coupled to 30 ton composition hydraulic sets. The options for a perfect chassis cab and frame straightening job are endless as well as painless.

As far as speed of output and profitability are concerned, the HD Korek offers major profitability at a reasonable entry level cost. It is ideal for both CV repairers and large fleet operators as an investment in Truck repair.

30 Ton Stand

Hydraulic Stand

Mobile High Lift Stand

FOR COSTS AND INFO CONTACT ANDREW MACKIE ON 083 628 6639

R

63

HENKEL LOCTITE AD N-D 2013_Layout 1 2013/11/11 3:18 PM Page 1

AR J-F 2014 CLAIRE_NOV/DEC 2005 paganation 2014/02/11 1:08 PM Page 17

LATEST NEWS INDUSTRY UPDATE

FORD’S FULL SIZE PICK-UP RELEASED

A

fter an extensive research and development programme the 2014 release of Ford’s full size pick-up truck made is debut in America. According to multiple reports, Ford Motor Company showcased its new aluminium F-150 at the Detroit Auto Show, debuting a dramatic new approach to the popular pick-up line.

With aluminium the metal of choice, hundreds of kilo’s are expected to be removed from the new truck model, making it able to comply with the new Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) fuel economy standards beginning in 2016.

The new Ford F-150 is available with best-in-class payload capability with close to 1500 kilos in weight handling ability.

Ford have also developed a vehicle with outstanding towing capability, including integrated trailer brake control, and electric locking, rear differential and an all-new Ford tough body frame.

Using fully boxed hydro formed high strength steel this makes the new vehicle almost 150 kg lighter than the outgoing model. It also has outboard mounted rear shocks, a much more refined ride will be delivered to the driver.

More than ever, with today’s high prices at the fuel pumps, you need to operate as efficiently as possible – but never at the expense of power. That’s why the Ford F-150 offers the 3.5L EcoBoost® V6 engine, designed with direct-injection technology and twin turbocharging to optimise power and fuel economy. The impressive

F-150 engine lineup also includes the standard 3.7L Ti-VCT V6, posting a highway rating of 23 miles per gallon, plus potent 5.0L TiVCT and big-bore 6.2L V8 power.

The Ford F-150 offers class-exclusive box side and tailgate steps that make it easy to access the bed. There’s an F-150 offers classexclusive box side and tailgate steps that make it easy to load.

There’s an LCD productivity screen that provides important fuel economy information, towing and off-road data. And, of course, there’s available SYNC® and all the time you’re kept connected and informed with intuitive touch controls or simple voice commands.

It’s all about innovation, creating ways to help you do things more conveniently, more productively. Ford hope to carry on being a big winner for small business owners, contractors and the recreational buyer.

EURO NCAP

BEST OF 2013

E

ach year, Euro NCAP identifies the models tested that have achieved the highest scores in their respective class. In 2013 a total of 33 cars were tested in seven different categories.

The top achievers gained the highest overall scores, calculated from the results achieved in adult, child pedestrian protection and safety assist tests.

The 2013 best in class cars are: Renault Zoe : Supermini Qoros 3 Sedan : Small Family Lexus IS 300h : Large Family Kia Carens and Ford Tourneo Connect : Small MPV Jeep Cherokee : Small off Road 4x4 Maserati Ghibli : Executive The Qoros 3 Sedan becomes the best performer of any car subjected to Euro NCAP’S crash tests in 2013 and is the first vehicle developed in China to achieve the highest five star rating under the overall rating scheme. The Supermini electric car Renault Zoe and the large family car Lexus IS 300h were the all round performers of the electric/hybrid cars tested by Euro NCAP in 2013. This year, the best in class honour in the small MPV category is shared by the Kia Carens and Ford Tourneo Connect. Finally, the Jeep Cherokee and the Maserati Ghibli also receive the coveted designation from Euro NCAP in the small off road 4x4 and executive categories respectively.

In 2013 Euro NCAP updates its assessment of child occupant protection, giving credit to manufacturers that allow for easy installation of most popular types of child seats which comply with the most recent revised child safety standards. Furthermore, the organisation has started to test voluntary-set-intelligent speed assistant systems as part of the rating.

Michiel van Ratigen, Euro NCAP secretary general, said “Euro

AUTOMOTIVE R E F I N I S H E R

NCAP is continuously evolving in response to industry innovation and consumer expectation, It is very positive that the number of four- and five stars is still significant despite the ever increasing requirements. In 2014, another big step forward is taken by adding crash avoidance systems such as Autonomous Emergency Braking and Lane Keep Assist/Lane Departure Warning tests to the overall star rating.”

Michiel van Ratingen added: “The decision to reward collision avoidance technologies on new cars will encourage more widespread fitment and further improve the safety of all road users in Europe. We hope that this, together with very high levels of occupant protection, will allow consumers to choose the very safest vehicles in 2014 and after.”

59

AR JAN-FEB PG NAT_Layout 1 2014/02/11 2:07 PM Page 1

DRIVEN BMW 4 SERIES CONVERTIBLE

FANTASTIC FOUR

T

he new BMW 4 Series Convertible is the latest entrant to a market segment where BMW has enjoyed widespread acclaim and great success over five generations of premium convertibles.

The design language introduced with the 4 Series Coupé is evident in this, the second model debut in the series. The result is a sporting yet elegant car, roof raised or lowered, that is clearly distinguished from its 3 Series brethren. It’s lower, wider, longer car than the old 3 Series Convertible, with a visibly greater sporting intent.

The BMW 4 Series Convertible has a folding metal roof which can be raised or lowered in just 20 seconds and at speeds of up to 13 km/h. The optional wind deflector can now be stored behind the seats when not in use, and a new Air Collar system blows arm air around the necks of front seat occupants for open-air driving on cooler days. At launch the 4 Series Convertible range will consist of two petrol engines and one diesel engine choice, available across five different trim levels. The range is characterised by a marked increase in the standard equipment level offered, despite the minimal increase in price. Traditionally, BMW Convertibles have dynamic and balanced proportions, when the roof is up or down, and the new BMW 4 Series Convertible is no exception.

The dimensions of the new car differ significantly from the outgoing BMW 3 Series Convertible. The overall length 4 638mm has been extended by 26mm, the wheelbase has grown by 50mm and, together with the wider front track, this gives the car a very athletic stance on the road. The shorter overhangs, long bonnet and set back passenger compartment further accent the graceful silhouette.

Although the BMW 4 Series Convertible is a more overtly sporting car than its predecessor, the design of the front end reflects its close family ties with the kidney grille and twin headlights showing it’s unmistakably a BMW. The optional adaptive full-LED twin headlights, with thier hexagonal design, combine with the slightly forward slanting BMW kidney grille to form a strong stylistic statement. The width of the vehicle is accentuated by a large air intake in the front apron below the headlight line. On the far left and right-hand edges of the air intake are the additional, aerodynamically refined, Aero Curtains.

From the side, the sloping roofline stretches the car’s overall appearance and elegantly accentuates the sporting profile. The moulding at the juncture of the three-piece folding hardtop and the body is available in chrome, black or satin aluminium, depending on the model variant. The shallow side windows, signature BMW 60

Hofmeister kink and the double shoulder line teams up with the striking door sill line, to give the car a dynamic elegance. With the top lowered, the smooth, flowing silhouette is not compromised by radio antennas or rollover bars, which are hidden behind the rear head restraints.

The interior of the BMW 4 Series Convertible blends sporting intent and exclusivity. All of the controls are arranged ergonomically around the driver to provide optimum access to all functions. A sports steering wheel, circular instruments in black panel look and the freestanding flat screen iDrive monitor, controlled by the iDrive Touch Controller when the Professional Media package is specified, epitomises this functional elegance.The completely new design of the front seats includes integrated retractable seat belts, unique in this class, as well as being electrically adjustable as standard. Dakota leather upholstery with Sun Reflective technology is standard on all models.

The new BMW 4 Series Convertible will offer a significantly higher standard specification that the model it replaces. As standard the 4 Series is fitted with front and rear parking sensors, heated electric front seats. Servotronic steering, a Sport-multi-function leather steering wheel and Xenon headlights. DAB radio, Dakota leather upholstery with SunReflective technology. Two-zone air conditioning., Cruise control, Bluetooth, USB, Comfort Go, Drive Performance Control, iDrive Controller and 6.5inch colour screen complete the standard specification of all models across the range.

AUTOMOTIVE R

E

F

I

N

I

S

H

E

R

MIXPLAST ADS J-F 2014_Layout 1 2014/02/06 10:58 AM Page 1

KAPCI J-F 2014 FLAIR_Layout 1 2014/02/06 10:31 AM Page 1

www.kapci.com

The Age Of Technology Emerges

Kapci’s world class tools will give any body shop access to all the latest updated world colour formulas. They deliver excellent colour matching. It’s all part of the philosophy of tailoring their products, training and international back-up to meet local market needs. Kapci provide excellent process benefits with safe and easy working productivity as part of the deal.

Kapci Coatings Tel: +27 11 834 1252 Fax: +27 11 834 1259 Email: info@kapci.co.za

AR J-F 2014 CLAIRE_NOV/DEC 2005 paganation 2014/02/10 12:26 PM Page 11

INTERNATIONAL UPDATE

by Andrew Marsh

UK INSURANCE

WHAT ON EARTH IS GOING ON ?

Y

ou may have heard that the UK has launched a Competition Commission investigation into the UK motor insurance market, specifically to look into possible abuse of clients. What follows is my personal view on the process, having been one of the people involved in submitting views/evidence to the Commission via the UK collision repair trade body, NAB. The headlines that caused the present government to launch this enquiry were all about huge year-on-year increases in premiums. The UK collective motor insurance association, the ABI (representing about 90% of all motor insurance companies) tried for months to fend the pesky questions with lines about how dishonest policy holders were responsible for the increases. Meanwhile, the insurers and some associated banks continued to report year-on-year profit increases.

The Commission has developed a number of theoretical scenarios for how a policy holder may not get the full value of the service, called ‘Theory of Harm’ – ToH. These theories are then tested against evidence gathered from the whole industry

– insurers, brokers, accident management companies, data service companies, paint companies and even repairers. What emerged was a complex picture indeed, one that has proved to be so intricate the final report publication has been delayed from the end of 2013 towards the end of 2014.

Essentially the Commission already knows business deals between different business types (for example, how paint is sold) produces a very complex discount/rebate arrangement. In some cases the logic or reason for accepted way of doing things has been forgotten or simply never understood. Insurers fear loss of market, so no matter how odd the practice, if a few insurers start a scheme of some sort the others join in.

The result was highlighted by one insurance company that set up a ‘shell company’ to handle invoices sent out to other insurers and adding a handling fee in the process. Whilst this specific scheme has stopped, the Commission has found a repair cost is lower if the claim is made with the policy holder’s insurer than if it was via another insurance company. The fault is not purely down to insurers, but runs deep within the whole sector.

The Competition Commission engaged a market survey company to gauge public opinion of motor insurance and then engaged an independent engineering consultancy (MSX International) to assess repair quality. Both reports are free to

KAPCI COATINGS

MEASURE OF ALL THINGS

I

by Dave Fall

t’s a tough world out there selling automotive coatings right now,” says Gizéla Möller who heads up ‘Desert Charm’ right in the heart of panelbeating country in Parow, Cape Town. “Nevertheless, Kapci prices still remain very competitive given the economic climate we are all faced with,” says Gizéla.

“Pure Kapci products – and that’s a fact,” she continues, “we don’t do any intermixing of our products – ever.”

This is certainly one busy paint distributor – so much so that they are seriously considering trading on Saturday mornings shortly. Ably assisted by Granville Williams, who has almost 35 years experience in the business, and with the help of Edward Heuvel (six years experience), having worked his way up from the floor and now helping out in sales and colour matching – whether it be waterbased or solvent products, this upbeat team guarantees to get it right!

“Undertaking deliveries ourselves and offering real personal service is definitely working for us,” continued Gizéla, who reckons her Desert Charm outlet is perfectly situated to serve the panelbeating shops in the area – and further afield if need be.

“We supply Kapci products as far afield to Worcester and Wolseley shops, diversifying if need be to the likes of bath manufacturers Victoria and Albert; cupboard manufacturers – we even supply coatings to a crane company who demand a unique colour combination paint scheme for their wares; then there’s a well-known soft-drink outlet who recently asked us to quote and provide paint coating for their vast fleet of trucks…

“While we are prepared to always ‘go the extra mile’, of late we are quite happy to fetch samples and accurately match back here at the shop and then deliver paint quantities – no matter how small or big,” all part of the charm of dealing with Gizéla and her crew, it seems.

With new signage, knowledgable staff and personal attention to detail it can only bode well for this Kapci paint supplier situated at 11a Railway Street, Parow; and given the tough economic times we are all faced with it’s good to know Desert Charm is there for you.

Phone Granville for all queries and any technical support you might need at +27 (0)83 210 4667; or Gizéla at +27 (0)82 55 082 66.

“

AUTOMOTIVE R E F I N I S H E R

download from the UK Government website. The upshot was a level of dissatisfaction from the public – which is notoriously difficult to translate objectively – and a suspicion that claims system business behaviour contributed to repair shortcuts.

The latter point has not been fully developed, but in mid-January selected bodies including NAB were invited to inspect the MSX International report as well as all the supporting data.

The Competition Commission has been surprised by the ‘depth of passion’ from the entire sector and the complexity and the scale of business. Just before Christmas 2013 they published the interim findings, which outlined that the cost of repair should be the same regardless of a direct claim or a claim via one insurer to another.

What happens next? This debate has raised the profile of the whole sector, and shown repairers need to have a strong trade body to help Government understand issues efficiently. The Competition Commission enquiry will result in a number of recommendations, none of which is legally binding. However, it is clear those recommendations are very probably going to become the basis of future law. The biggest point is the UK is talking about issues that exist across the world, and working through how to change this for the better.

For all concerned 2014 promises to be a very interesting year.

From left to right; Granville Williams, Gizéla Moller and Edward Heuvel. Gizéla has been running the Kapci outlet in Railway Street, Parow for about 18 months now. This upbeat entrepreneur says business is going great guns and is considering opening on Saturday mornings anytime soon.

63

AR J-F 2014 CLAIRE_NOV/DEC 2005 paganation 2014/02/10 10:36 AM Page 16

COLOUR TOOLS BRAND SPOTLIGHT

SPIES HECKER, LEADERS IN REFINISHER TECHNOLOGY

Even with all the latest technology and equipment, there’s no beating the human eye when colour matching. The colour information box helps in identifying manufacturer specific and colour coded colours.

F

or decades, black, silver and white have dominated the automotive colour palette. With the popularity of these shades showing no sign of decline, automotive paint manufacturers have opted to keep these colours modern by giving them a special effect finish. While meeting the expectations of trend setting customers special effect colours, together with an ever growing number of new colours coming off the production line, have created varied refinishing challenges for body shops. Consequently, body shops are becoming increasingly reliant on digital colour management tools for precise colour identification and formulae searches.

Hardware and software for electronic colour analysis is today a standard feature in the workshop and mixing room, and interest in them is growing. In response to these growing demands, Spies Hecker has made concerted efforts to develop state-of-the art systems that are accurate and easy to use.

Colour Searches Via Smart Phones

Traditionally, colour or product data is accessed via the PC-system in the mixing room, but now it can also be accessed via portable smart phones. Allowing for extra flexibility when completing repairs, smart phones give refinishers instant access to the Spies Hecker website, which has been optimised for smart phone use. At www.spieshecker.com/mobile refinishers can access the online service any time, any place and download mixing formulations, technical data sheets and safety data sheets.

The New Improved Spectrophotometer

ColorDialog

Precise, practical and even handier – the improved ColorDialog Spectrophotometer from Spies Hecker simplifies colour identification. Enhancements now include a new multi-correctional mode, which means that the device examines not only the original colour of a vehicle, but also the sample panel produced in each case. In the event of any variations, the measuring instrument corrects the formula, so as to enhance colour accuracy and reduce touching-up – consequently cutting down on time and paint materials needed.

More Digital Colour Management with the CRPlus Software Complementing the ColorDialog spectro is the enhanced interface of the CRplus 64

software, which makes for straightforward and convenient operation – simplifying the search for colour formulas. Regular updates of the software include the latest OEM mixing formulas, as well as current manufacturer information. With extra programme modules, the software also supports the management of paint material in the workshop by generating detailed reports on paint material yield, user management, paint inventory management and ordering procedure.

information on a vehicle’s colour with the aid of a colour code/name on the vehicle, there is often no information for ancillary colours. With over 1 500 colour chips, refinishers can now find the information needed for the exact colour identification of bumpers, mirror housings, roof rails, rims and radiator grilles – inclusive of all textured and effect finishes – thanks to the new “Colour Index Specials” from Spies Hecker.

Online Search Tool Provides Additional Support

Spies Hecker develops optimum and practical paint systems that make body shop work easier. The Spies Hecker philosophy is built on delivering greater efficiency in environmentally compatible vehicle refinishing, using high-grade product systems, competent advice and targeted training to achieve this end. Its close partnership with the vehicle refinishing trade has over 125 years of success behind it. The German company based in Cologne, is one of the world’s leading makers of vehicle refinishes.

In over 60 countries, Spies Hecker supports body shops with modern paint technology and expertise. For all colour related queries, contact the Spies Hecker Colour Lab in Port Elizabeth via the Colour Help Line on 0800 42 42 01. © Kansai Plascon Proprietary Limited.

2014

In addition to the extended versions of the ColorDialog spectro and CRplus software, Spies Hecker also introduced a new colourfinder option to its website – which allows refinishers to view on their computer monitors, colour chips that are true to the original as well as a detailed overview of the variants. Accelerating the way in which refinishers acquire information, the colourfinder enables searches for specific keywords such as vehicle manufacturer, colour name/code and house colours of well-known manufacturers. The new colourfinder option can be viewed at www.spieshecker.com/colorfinder.

Colour Information in a Box Using the Colour Index Variant from Spies Hecker, refinishers now only need to identify the matching variant of the colour and check it against the car body. The colour variant index contains all the widely used colours that have been applied on the production line over the last 10 years.

Colour chips are sorted according to manufacturer and colour code – simplifying colour identification. Additionally, every colour chip is coated with an original Spies Hecker base coat and clear coat, increasing the accuracy that goes into colour matching.

Colour Matching for Ancillaries While

refinishers

can

usually

find

The Spies Hecker Seal of Approval

Use your smart phone to search for data, making it easier and quicker to access information.

AUTOMOTIVE R E F I N I S H E R

SPIES HECKER J-F 2014_Layout 1 2014/02/06 11:03 AM Page 1

AR JAN-FEB PG NAT_Layout 1 2014/02/11 2:14 PM Page 16

LATEST NEWS

Lle welyn Mulder has moved to a huge w ar ehouse in Kempton Par k to keep pace with the Gener al br and. High gr ade quality is the backbone of the Genrock br and.

GENERAL PAINT COMPANY

T

he General Paint Company’s (GPC) success during this past decade is not by accident, it is largely dependent on the top quality and ease of application and time-savings gained through the use of their products. “We have developed our products while concentrating on the most fundamental concepts in the body shop industry, fast turn around and outstanding finish. With GPC as your partner you can be certain to have the product, support and technical expertise to increase your profitability,” said Llewelyn Mulder, Director at GPC. “Despite the challenges associated with penetrating a market controlled by a few, GPC has been able to compete effectively in this segment by developing a solvent base system and a water base system both complete with an up-to-date and accurate data base of over 70 000 colours. This is supported by a hand sprayed colour documentation set, easy to use software and a multi-angle spectrophotometer.

“From start to finish, our process provides the customer with

complete and accurate colour formations. Our GPC Pro software allows the end-user access to a database of over 70 000 colours for all major vehicles and international standards. New colours are formulated daily and added weekly to our on-line colour retrieval software,” said Mulder.

From colour measurement of the original material with the latest multi-angle spectrophotometers to the appropriate software for colour calibration and exact matching, the formula for quality is General. In light of the continuously changing technologies and considering the ever increasing number of car colours being put out on the market, General Paint has tried to stay abreast of the challenges facing the refinisher by providing required training.

Training can be offered either in-house in our own training facilities or it may even be set up in the country where the product is being sold with pre-arrangement with their importer in South Africa. Call +27 (0)11 663 0300 and +27 (0)82 552 5410 or visit www.kanyevimba.co.za

WORLD NEWS

GLOBAL CAR RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT AT RECORD LEVELS

T

he global car industry is spending more on research and development than ever before as manufacturers try to stay ahead of a rapidly shifting market and fierce competition from the technology industry.

Investment in new technologies to make cars more efficient, more interactive, run of new fuels and even begin to drive themselves is growing faster than sales and revenue, amid a period of technological disruption not seen in the industry since the birth of the internal combustion engine.

Research and development has grown at an annual rate of 8% over the last four years. This R&D push will be visible in launches of new vehicles such as Ford’s next-generation F-150 pick up truck, boasting an ultra-lightweight aluminium body, more efficient engine, and radars, cameras and partial-autonomy technology that the carmaker says make the truck its most advanced product on the market.

Today’s vehicles boast in-car entertainment and connectivity controlled by more than 100m lines of software code, and are powered by smaller and more efficient engines, supplemented by electric batteries or hydrogen.

66

Customers demand better connected vehicles and unprecedented competition from technology providers such as Google and IBM, auto industry leaders are attempting to rebrand themselves as innovators rather than manufacturers.

Volkswagen, General Motors and Toyota, the industry’s three biggest R&D spenders, increased their combined spending 13% between 2007 and 2012. Volkswagen, which also owns the Audi and Skoda brands, invests more in R&D than any other company worldwide, outpacing technology groups like Samsung and Microsoft.

GM created a $100 million venture capital fund, GM Ventures, to make early-stage investments in technology developers. Google has rolled out versions of its self-driving car, while IBM recently signed a deal with component manufacturer Continental to develop new technologies.

“Innovation in the automotive industry is retaking centre stage, Consumers want to buy cars from companies that bring new technologies to market and this will be a major factor in individual automakers’ success in the coming years,” said Xavier Mosquest, BCG senior partner.

AUTOMOTIVE R

E

F

I

N

I

S

H

E

R

Hurricane AD N-D 2013_Layout 1 2014/02/10 10:14 AM Page 1

COST EFFECTIVE M.I.G BRAZING IS HERE! THE MIG 5320 FROM HURRICANE. Multifunctional Colour LCD Panel with Advanced DSP control Technology.

One Button Intelligent design stores welding modes for aluminium, stainless steel, copper and Nickel.

IGBT Inverter pulsed technology and soft switching control High quality welding gun included.

Energy efficient.

Fast arch ignition.

Less post weld treatment work required as less welding sparks are created.

GM Approved

R 25 000

Excl

For more information about this product.

Contact: Deon Joubert on 083 628 2288 Email: andrew@hurricaneauto.co.za Email: deon@hurricaneauto.co.za Visit our website: www.hurricaneauto.co.za

MIXPLAST ADS J-F 2014_Layout 1 2014/02/06 10:58 AM Page 2

AR JAN-FEB PG NAT_Layout 1 2014/02/10 11:39 AM Page 14

LATEST NEWS

by John Yoswick

TRENDS

FRESH THINKING, CAN MAKE BETTER PROFITS

O

ne of the key benefits of belonging to an association, attending industry events, stopping by other shops when you’re travelling and even keeping your eyes open when visiting businesses outside the collision repair industry is the chance to get some fresh ideas to try improve your shop.

Here are some ideas that might be just the solution you’re looking for to address a problem in your business.

Alex Carney remembers years ago being

asked by another shop owner at a meeting how she and her husband Dave market their shop, Tualatin Auto Body in Tualatin, Oregon.

She responded by talking about the numerous high school and community sports teams the shop sponsors.

“And he actually laughed at that,” said Carney, a former insurance agent until she and Dave opened a shop in 1986. “But not five years later, they were all marketing that way. Because it works. There’s a loyalty there.”

The walls of the customer waiting room at Carney’s shop are covered with posters and photos of the many teams the shop has sponsored over the years.

“The kids, as they get older, come in and point themselves or people they know, or talk about coaches they remember,” Carney said.

It would be hard to argue that the shop’s marketing efforts haven’t paid off. From its Start with a single employee in a small rented shop Tualatin Auto Body has grown into a 40 000 square foot shop with 35 employees.

The Carneys also are very much involved in their community. Dave Carney belongs to the Tualatin Rotary and Alex Carney belongs six Chambers of Commerce in the communities surrounding the shop.

“I feel good knowing that because of our involvement, because we truly care for our customers and do a lot of things for them that we don’t get paid for to make the job right, that if we weren’t here, they would miss us,” Carney said.

“They are comfortable calling us for recommendations about mechanics about mechanics, tyres, insurance companies, etc.”

GOING GREEN

ON YOUR WAY TO THE PAPERLESS SHOP

A

new tablet-based application for digital inspections sets the pace to the paperless shop. AutoVitals Inc, the automotive industry’s leading provider of integrated solutions for internet marketing, motorist engagement and customer retention, announced the newest addition to the AutoVitals Electronic Inspection Sheet. By leveraging the effectiveness of mobile apps and other devices in the shop environment, independent auto service centres are able to show dramatic gains in productivity as well as customer satisfaction.

Traditionally, auto technicians record the results of their vehicle inspections on pre-printed paper forms and once completed the inspection findings are re-entered into the shop management software application by a service advice. And finally the customer is notified by phone to ask them for authorisation of an estimate based on the inspection. With the release of the AutoVitals EIS, inspection results including high-resolution photos and recorded voice details specific findings are immediately accessible by the service advisor allowing him

SLASH COSTS WITH THE SA STAR SPRAYBOOTH

to easily prepare an estimate in minutes. By simply tapping the screen, snapping an image and talking to the device, the technician increases productivity and accuracy of the inspection process.

Motorists will then be able to review the results including images of affected vehicle systems selected by the service advisor. OEM service recommendations,TSBs and recalls presented to the technician eliminate time needed to look up the information in other software systems. In addition the service history and even recommended jobs for the problem in question are presented to the technician, who then proposes estimate details to the service advisor.

According to Uwe Kleinschmidt, CEO of AutoVitals, “Shops of any size have started taking advantage of the EIS system.The latest edition of presenting the service history to the tech in the service bay, shops can save another 15 minutes per vehicle.”

The new AutoVitals EIS will be available exclusively for ASRW in the Apple App Store and Google Play.

ZENITH EQUIPMENT INTRODUCES THE SA STAR SPRAYBOOTH

With improved 50mm steel wall thickness and stateof-the-art colour matching fluorescent lighting and new safety features in the stainless steel burner and heat exchangers. The SA Star Spraybooth also incorporates both front and side doors for easy entry at a very competitive price. The spraybooth meets and exceeds health and safety standards.

CALL HENRY BASSON ON

082 857 5772 Burner with automatic flap control

AUTOMOTIVE R

E

F

I

N

I

S

H

E

R

Improved Lighting

Twin Door Access

New Control Panel

SALES - SERVICE - FILTRATION VISIT OUR WEBSITE www.zenithequipment.co.za

69

AR JAN-FEB PG NAT_Layout 1 2014/02/10 11:39 AM Page 15

LATEST NEWS INDUSTRY NEWS

WHO WILL CONTROL CONNECTED CAR DATA?

P

rivacy concerns, as we’ve seen with our computer software and mobile devices for the past 20 years, are now affecting car owners.

New cars equipped with cellular and satellite connections are posing some controversial questions, particularly as owners are asked to submit personal info such as their location and driving habits.

While consumers have become used to sharing personal data, allowing a grocery store to analyse their shopping habits or social media services tracking locations and interests, the car represents a new and powerful attraction to marketers.

But who will own the data, and who stands to benefit?

“It is a very young industry,” Andrea Mai, director of product management for connected vehicles at Cisco said. “Everyone want to get their hands on the data.

Automakers want to desperately control the data. The insurance industry wants to monitor drivers. But as a consumer, should I not have the right to decide with whom I share this data?”

Roger Lanctot, head of automotive practice at Strategy Analytics, describes the current situation on ownership of connected car data as ‘the Wild West’. But he points to precedents such as the way wireless carriers and social media platforms such as Facebook collect personal information as a model for the car.

“Right now in the car it’s binary. Either you’re in or you’re out,” he says. “You don’t have a settings screen or a menu of what’s collected, like on your mobile phone or on

70

With all the data stored in the “cloud”, who actually owns the data?

Facebook. What’s missing is transparency.

Everybody’s is getting a pass right now. It’s ok until it’s not ok, or until someone takes legal action.”

One potential precedent is with electronic data recorders, aka ‘black boxes’ that capture crash data.The federal government is close to mandating EDRs on all vehicles, and has already standardised what they can record and requires that automakers alert car owners to whether a vehicle contains an EDR. The proposed federal ruling mandating EDRs will also address who can access the data on the devices. But for now, the matter is regulated on a state-by-state basis, which varies widely. And in certain circumstances, the data can be obtained by court order.

Most car owners probably understand more about trading their data and a certain amount of privacy for a service, whether at a supermarket checkout stand or checking in on Foursquare, than they do about automotive black boxes. They may also quickly realise there’s value in sharing connected-car data. “If you give your data, you should get something for free,” Lanctot says.

This is already the case with insurance

companies such as State Farm that offer drivers a discount if they allow certain data to be monitored. Lanctot for example, has opted into State Farm’s Drive Safe & Save programme. “State Farm is empowering customers with access to their own vehicle data,” he says. “I can compare my driving to my wife’s and also that of my two sons.”

While the issue of who owns connectedcar data needs to be resolved, both Mathias and Lanctot say that connectivity could bring an entire new range of services to vehicle owners. And the Cisco survey indicates that most drivers would be willing to opt in if they perceive a benefit. “Automakers, insurance companies, oil change businesses and marketers should be lining up to pay drivers for connect car data,” Lanctot says. He added that this could also help pay for the car’s data connection.

“This could be the foundation for a new breed of business,” Mathais says. “It could create a market for consumers to save money and access services for exchanging data. But first, we as consumers need to own the data and decide which data we’re willing to share.”

AUTOMOTIVE R

E

F

I

N

I

S

H

E

R

YATU NEW AD M-J 2013_Layout 1 2013/07/15 12:50 PM Page 1

Introducing a new and improved formulation system with local and international formulas.

LIFETIME WARRANTY

Contact Suleman Tel (031) 902 7666 info@automotivepaint.co.za www.automotivepaint.co.za

AR J-F 2014 CLAIRE_NOV/DEC 2005 paganation 2014/02/10 10:36 AM Page 20

NEW PRODUCTS SATAMINI JET® 4400B SPRAY GUN FOR HIGH PRECISION WORK The SATAminijet® 4400 B is the perfect compact spray gun if you are looking for superb finishes on areas of difficult access. The special SR nozzles are perfectly suitable for spot repairs on vehicles. It goes without saying that this spray gun allows the application of all modern paint systems - including waterborne paints.

Ergonomics This spray gun is perfectly balanced with its new ergonomically shaped handle. All adjustment elements can be safely operated even when wearing gloves. Furthermore, the design of the round/flat spray control is geared to the SATAminijet® 3000 B. The spray gun is sturdy and longlasting and the spray fan can be exactly adjusted with only a 3/4 turn.

Enhanced durability The spray gun body is equipped with a corrosion-resistant chrome surface. The sturdy air cap is made of chrome-plated brass and paint needle and fluid tip are made of tempered stainless steel. The trigger protects the paint needle from overspray during painting, thus prolonging the lifetime of the paint needle sealing. The air piston rod has been especially reinforced. All these features result in an extended spray gun lifetime.

Large QCC cup connection The SATAminijet® 4400 B allows the use of all three RPS cup sizes with no adapter necessary. Furthermore, the large connection makes the cleaning of the material passages extremely safe and easy.

For more information on the SATAminijet® 4400B Spray Gun and other SATA® products please contact the Bulldog Abrasives Sales Team on +27 (0)11 786-5991 or contact them by email on sales@bulldogabrasives.co.za

DENT PULLER DISTRIBUTOR OPPORTUNITY

PREVAL PROFESSIONAL PORTABLE SPRAYER

Jan Venter is a professional engineer with many years of experience in manufacturing, sales and management. At the end of last year, Jan took over Panel Pro Technologies (PPT) and relocated it to Pretoria.

In essence he will continue with the same business model as previous owner, with emphasis on great customer service. Jan also has plans to expand the product range and his first priority is to make available a locally manufactured Dent Puller for aluminium panels.

He is looking for distributors of Dent Pro in all the major cities in South Africa. Interested companies or individuals can e-mail their appropriate information to support their applications.

You can call Jan on +27 (0)82 452 6631, e-mail: info@panelprotech.co.za or visit www.panelprotech.co.za

One sprayer, countless applications with the unique Preval Sprayer. The pregassed aerosol is ideal for touch ups in bodyshops, DIY use and many more.

Can be used with any automotive, industrial or DIY paints. Just Fill, Attach and Spray!

For more information, contact EPT Systems on +27 (0)21 5561991 or Mike on 083 448 1593.

ARROW TRADING NEW PRODUCTS ON OFFER Mobile Parts Storage This new mobile parts storage bin is capable of holding a complete parts selection from a damaged vehicle. It is both lightweight and well built for excellent durability. It is the ideal answer to misplacing loose parts during the repair cycle.

Spray Stand Arrow Trading have developed a multi-purpose lightweight spray stand which is ideal to hang parts on to be painted in the spraybooth. This unit is adjustable with lengthening extensions designed in on the holding arms. It is designed to hold plastic bumpers, fenders, dome parts and can also be used for commercial bonnets in repair.

For more information call Jan or Hendry on +27 (0)11 793 1251 at Arrow Trading or email them at sales@arrowtrading.co.za 72

AUTOMOTIVE R E F I N I S H E R

AR J-F 2014 CLAIRE_NOV/DEC 2005 paganation 2014/02/10 10:36 AM Page 21

EN PRODUCTS QUALITY BASICS REFINISH PRODUCTS

HURRICANE MIG 5320 BRAZING MACHINE This new multi function machine has advanced DSP control technology with one button intelligent invertor and soft switching control at a very price attractive from Hurricane Equipmet.

Call them on +27 (0)83 628 2288 for more on the MIG 5320 brazing machine.

If you are in the market for high quality basic refinish products EN brands have got you covered right from stone chip primers up to HS clearcoats, manufacturered with European technology.

If you would like details on buying the new range, call Suleman on +27 (0)31 902 7666 or visit www.automotivepaint.co.za for information.

CELETTE IRT INFRA RED SUPERIOR DRYING If you are looking to express dry a small area repair, this is the machine for you.

This new technology comes with a full 12 preset and 3 custom curing programmes that cures paint in a matter of just a few minutes. It is very mobile and stable with a tall reach for dome panels.

Call Celette on +27(0)11 334 1875/6 for more details.

GM APPROVED

VIRGIN PLASTICS This 3 in 1 Kit consist of a steering wheel cover, floor mats and a seat cover which is easy to use. At 25 micron it can be used more than once.

Your ideal protection item to have, it protects your vehicle inside when going for panelbeating and servicing.

For more information call +27 (0)83 251 9442 or office +27(0)11 616 2870 or email them at virgin@mweb.co.za for more information.

HENKEL LOCTITE SF 7800 ZINC SPRAY NEW MIRKA® PROS FOR PROFESSIONAL PERFORMANCE Mirka Power Tools continue to expand its range of advanced sanding and polishing machines with the launch of the new Pneumatic Random Orbital Sander – MIRKA® PROS. This Pneumatic Random Orbital Sander is developed in-house by Mirka’s industry leading design team. It is packed with clever features and attention to detail which has created an efficient and effective sanding tool that is perfect for professional operators. MIRKA® PROS Orbital Sander has been specially developed to produce maximum dust extraction, even at low suction power, thanks to a wider dust suction outlet in the machine housing which substantially improves dust suction efficiency.

The MIRKA® PROS is available in 2.5mm, 5mm and 8mm orbits and is available from Bulldog Abrasives Southern Africa (Pty) Ltd. Contact our sales team on +27 (0)11 786-5991 for more information.

AUTOMOTIVE R E F I N I S H E R

Characteristics The Loctite SF 7800 Zinc Spray provides excellent cathodic protection on ferous metals and resists temperatures of up to 550° C. It can be used as a primer before painting Application The product is used for long term protection of metal assemblies and is especially suitable for protecting welds from corrosion on galvanised parts.

For more information on this product and other lubricants from Henkel call +27 (0)11 617 2400 73

AR J-F 2014 CLAIRE_NOV/DEC 2005 paganation 2014/02/11 2:28 PM Page 12

CUSTOM CORNER

MAZDA RX7 ON STEROIDS

1

W

hen it comes to productivity on rebuilding custom cars to concours condition, often in normal terms it’s not really measurable.

This project street car has been underway in Kevin Campbell’s shop for around three years and just about every single component has come under the increased speed treatment.

The car’s feature laden specification spells out many difficult to source carbon fibre parts, such as the Cobra fenders and boot lid which sees a very special lightweight boot spoiler only obtainable from Japan.

The whole body kit and special bonnet scoops and rear light cluster covers that are also made from carbon fibre, give the vehicle an unbelieveable total weight of under 1 000 kg.

With the single rotor 13B engine that’s capable of pushing out over 450 horsepower its an absolute road rocket. This is coupled to a five-speed, close ratio gearbox R5 -05TI KEN which was sourced from the UK. It’s a formidable car to drive both around bends and in a straight line. Once again the Nitron gas suspension is a capable suspension system to handle the pronounced power curve in acceleration.

Kevin sticks to a proven formula when it comes to the refinishing side of things with his trusty Anest Iwata spray gun and Glasurit colours, clears and hardeners. The Pearl effect multi effect orange colour absolutely jumps off the panels with brilliant colour vibrancy, while copious amounts of special metallic base coat and dark grey match the interior colour to the exterior finished shades of carbon fibre.

“All in all the car’s been a huge mission to get right, but I’m now justifiably proud of this custom Mazda’s final look and overall finish,” said Kevin.

The bluetooth steering wheel assemblies manage all the electronic dash functions on a remote basis.

All this simply makes the mind boggle. It takes a pile of cubic money to make it all happen, on a very unique track day for cars like the RX7.

Phone Kevin Campbell Restorations and Panelbeating on +27 (0)11 432 2255 for information on the company rebuilds and servicing on classic cars.

74

2

3

4

1. With three years of painstaking effort this isn’t an ordinary Mazda RX7 any more.

2. Kevin Campbell, (left) uses the very latest Anest Iwata technology spray gun and is seen here with Neil Butterworth from Anest Iwata.

3. A host of special radiators and cooling systems are present.

4. There is an imported roll cage is that is backed-up by a spartan interior to add to the complete look.

AUTOMOTIVE R E F I N I S H E R

HENKEL AD J-F 2013_Layout 1 2013/01/30 12:04 PM Page 1

AR J-F 2014 CLAIRE_NOV/DEC 2005 paganation 2014/02/11 1:09 PM Page 19

LATEST NEWS LOCAL NEWS

SA’S ECONOMIC POLICIES INCOHERENT

T

here is no common and coherent view in the government’s three major economic policies, the Centre for Development and enterprise (CDE) said. “It’s really important that we see more policy coherence,” CDE executive director Ann Bernstein said in a statement.

“The economy is in trouble and South Africa needs certainty. It’s time to make the tough choices and stick to them,” Bernstein was referreing to the National Development Plan (NDP), the economic development department’s New Growth Path (NGP) and the trade and industry department’s industrial policy action plan (Ipap).

She said a report titled “Policy Gridlock” released by the CDE, noted that the three documents offered contrasting accounts of the constraints South Africa faced.

IPAP and the NGP characterised the economy as being ‘consumption led’, which suggested that the key problem lay with the financial sector, which was starving the productive sector of investment funds. The NDP said nothing about this, Bernstein said.

“More important, the three documents have very different ideas about where the jobs will come from, “IPAP and the NGP talk about jobs in the ‘productive sectors (including) manufacturing, infrastructure, agriculture, and so on, while

the NDP expects most new jobs to be in small services firms serving the domestic market,” she said.

University of Cape Town economics Prof. David Kaplan, who wrote the report, said that according to the IPAP and the NGP a weak rand would be fundamental to the success of their strategies.

However, the NDP said it would not stimulate growth and employment creation, as the economy was not geared to take advantage of a cheaper rand.

In the report Kaplan said the IPAP promised over 2.4 million jobs by 2020, the NGP promised give million, an the NDP 5.9m jobs by 2020 and a further five million by 2030.

Kaplan said the employment numbers were unsubstantiated.

“The NGP talks about substantial growth in employment in mining, manufacturing and agriculture, but all of these sectors have been shedding jobs for years.

The NGP provides no data or calculations that would suggest why these persistent trends should suddenly be reversed. Bernstein said it was not clear which approach the government had chosen from the three documents. “It’s no wonder more and more business leaders are speaking out,” she said.

WHAT’S HOT?

ROAD ACCIDENT FUND PLANS TO ‘DEVASTATE’ SA VICTIMS

M

onthly payments instead of a lump sum, no legal representation, the Road Accident Fund Benefit Scheme has been labelled by one lawyer as potentially having ‘devastating effect on crash victims.” In 2009, a 38-year-old father of three was rendered a quadriplegic following a car crash. The driver instituted a claim against the Road Accident Fund (RAF) for past and future medical expenses, loss of income and general damages for pain and suffering. He was awarded general damages to the total of R2.2 million by the North Gauteng High Court.

Senior Advocate with commercial and property lawyers Adams & Adams, Jean-Paul Rudd, who represented the driver said, “The only issue to be determined by the court was the amount to be awarded to the man for general damages on which the man’s lawyers and the RAF could not agree.”

In light of this case, the RAF is pushing to amend its current system of compensation to crash victims. Changes would deprive victims of the right to claim for general damages and a victim’s loss of income would be paid monthly and not in a lump sum.

Rudd commented, “The implementation of such a scheme would have a devastating effect on crash victims.”

The scheme does not allow for legal representation. Should a victim secure legal representation, it would be at his/her own cost.

Rudd said that this would result in a victim’s compensation being decided by the RAF. “The RAF would become the judge, jury and executioner. The public should be made aware of these concerns.”

76

AUTOMOTIVE R E F I N I S H E R

AR JAN-FEB PG NAT_Layout 1 2014/02/11 2:16 PM Page 19

LATEST NEWS PRODUCT NEWS

NEW IRT HYPERION FROM CELETTE FOR SUPERIOR DRYING

C

elette South Africa recently introduced the latest IRT Hyperion technology which delivers express infra red paint curing times and increased efficiency.

The Hyperion family does not resemble previous IRT products.

Every part in a Hyperion dryer is based on a well thought-out and tested design based on user-friendliness and capacity.

The new smart foot design even allows it to get under low cars and it is possible to place the mobile dryer around a wheel.

Another example of the well though-out design is the stand arm on the larger models. It has acquired the characteristic Hyperion angle in order for the cassettes to reach above the roof of high vehicles or an SUV and still stand steady and stable on the floor.

Moving a mobile Hyperion around the workshop is really easy thanks to its low centre of gravity. It is easy to aim the cassettes at the surface to be cured as the arm is perfectly levelled and balanced.

We are the only company having gold-coated reflectors behind the short-wave lamps. For this reason, our IRT dryers have unsurpassed drying capacity.The new Hyperion FreeForm reflectors provide a more even heat distribution and a larger curing area than conventional reflectors, while they feature reduced power consumption. In turn, this increases productivity and raises the quality of the result of drying.

The Hyperion dryers irradiate the object and do not heat the surrounding air, thereby minimising energy losses. This provides an efficient use of energy and shortens drying times, which is good for the environment.

After 40 years in the industry, we know what is important and what the customer wants. Our most advanced Hyperion models are the easiest ones to handle.

With 12 preset and 3 custom programmes, you can handle all paint materials on the market.

Thanks to the easily understandable and self-instructional menus, programme selection is quick and easy. If you want, you can go one step further and create your own programme settings. You will continuously be able to follow the curing process on the control unit display.

Start the control unit, select a programme, then dry. This is as

AUTOMOTIVE R

E

F

I

N

I

S

H

E

R

difficult as it gets with advanced and user-friendly technology.

For more information call Celette on +27 (0)11 334 1875/6 or email them on info@celette.co.za or visit the website www.celette.co.za

77

AR JAN-FEB PG NAT_Layout 1 2014/02/10 11:39 AM Page 20

REPAIRERS & INSURERS INDUSTRY NEWS

NSW INQUIRY INTO BODY SHOP & INSURER RELATIONSHIPS

T

he New South Wales (NSW) G ove r n m e n t announced last month a Parliamentary Inquiry into the motor vehicle repairer and insurer relationship, contracts and smash repair work in NSW. In 2011 the Department of Fair Trading commenced reforms in the motor vehicle sector in NSW, specifically examining the Motor Dealers Act Anthony Rober ts says we need pr ovisions for this of 1974 and the Motor ne w Vehicle Repairs Act of r elationship to wor k.

1980.

The new consolidated and improved Motor Vehicle Dealers and Repairers Bill 2013 is currently before Parliament.

Anthony Roberts, the Minister for Fair Trading said of one of the issues raised by stakeholders during the consultation process, though not within his scope, was the relationship between motor vehicle smash repairers and insurers.

“The Motor Vehicle Dealers and Repairers Act does not cover the relationship between insurers and repairers. The provisions relating to this relationship are contained in the Fair Trading Act,” Roberts said.

“I have asked the Motor Vehicle Industry Advisory Council to develop the terms of reference for a possible public inquiry. I have been working with stakeholders over the past six months to determine the key issues affecting the industry and how these impact on consumers.”

The terms of reference for the Inquiry to examine and report on are: 1. Smash repair work and whether it is being carried out to adequate safety and quality standards.

2. The current Motor Vehicle Insurance and Repair Industry Code of Conduct, its governance structure and dispute resolution mechanisms and whether it is effective at regulating the relationship between repairers and insurers and in serving consumer interests.

3. Consumer choice, consumer protection and consumer knowledge in respect to contracts and repairs under insurance policies.

4. The business practises of insurers and repairers, including vertical integration in the market, the transparency of those business practises and implications for consumers.

5. Alternative models of regulation including other jurisdictions.

“These comprehensive terms of reference will allow the Inquiry to determine whether the relationship between insurers and repairers meets the principles of consumer choice, transparent business practises, effective dispute resolutions systems, a competitive market place and importantly, the safety and quality of repairs”, Minister Roberts said.

Chief Executive of the Motor Traders’ Association NSW (MTANSW), Greg Pattern, welcomed the inquiry.

78

AUTOMOTIVE R

E

F

I

N

I

S

H

E

R

ANEST-IWATA AD S-O 2013_Layout 1 2013/09/05 11:43 AM Page 1

Bl o ck B, G r o u n d F l o o r, St . A n d r ew s O f f i c e Complex, M e a d ow b r o o k L a n e , Ep so m D ow ns Contact: + 27 ( 0 ) 11 4 6 3 216 9

AR JAN-FEB PG NAT_Layout 1 2014/02/10 12:43 PM Page 26

DRIVEN HONDA CIVIC 1.6I - DTEC

D

ave Fall, our Cape Town correspondent spent Christmas in the UK and sent us this report: Rain and more rain, at this time of the year in the UK it is to be expected, I suppose. After all it is winter – December and almost Christmas to be exact.

To brighten up one particularly gloomy day in London was easy: all I had to do was to journey back past Heathrow and head for Slough, Honda UK’s headquarters to collect one of their Civic press units, RE62 ZKR (pictured alongside), a sleek, turbodieselpowered in EX guise, with an ultraeconomical 1.6-litre i-DTEC motor under the bonnet.

With the promise of returning it in a few days, I had two longish trips in mind – that’s if I could find somewhere to park it off Chiswick High Road – my abode until early January.

Interestingly, the Civic’s i-DTEC motor was the first engine to be launched in Europe under Honda’s flagship Earth Dreams Technology environmental programme which sits well with the European Economic Community and their forward-thinking ideas regarding maximum fuel economy vehicles, coupled to low emissions, yet at the same time offering exciting performance.

“Still, you’ll need a daily parking permit for it at ‘five quid’ (R89) a time,” said my brother Mike. “How about I just park it in one of the shopping centre car parks nearby and then move it around to another one a couple of hours later?” I lamely suggested. “After two hours the registration number would be taken down and after four hours it would be towed, at your expense, to the local pound at (R2 850)… not a good way to start Christmas,” he said.

A fiver a day to park one’s car in the same street one stays in was bad enough and about to punch a huge hole in my South African holiday money. I then remembered that it got worse because a fill-up with fuel was going to cost the princely sum of R24,77 a litre.

Thank goodness for diesel power, at least

80

… and remembering you also have to put the darn stuff in yourself, nogal!

A trip down to Dawlish, near Exeter between Christmas and New Year should have been straightforward. And it was for the Honda but I forgot to allow at least seven hours to cover the 320 km road trip.The main trunk roads, reassuringly and constantly reviewed on the built-in car GPS assured me this was indeed the quickest route. Still, the on-board fuel computer instilled a quiet confidence in me that I was “only” using 5.6 litres of precious diesel per 100 km – rising to figures as low as zero(!) in seemingly unexplained gridlock woes from Basingstoke through to Yeovil.

I haven’t been over in the UK for about five years but was pleasantly surprised what’s it’s like to holiday in a first world country, albeit with its red tape and penchant for everything ’ealth and safety.

At the first coffee shop visited it wasn’t at all necessary to even lock the car parked in a kerbside meter; I could actually leave my cell phone (in the UK they like to call them mobiles), in full view without fear of it being nicked; while observing pedestrians nearby who had complete right of way once they had placed his/her foot on the zebra crossing.

Using public transport was simply brilliant – tube or bus – in the case of the bus, the number 94 from Acton Green to Oxford Circus ran 24 hours a day every 10 minutes, admittedly this was an exceptional service, but nonetheless. Bus fare up to the West End from Chiswick (about 35 minutes, R38), but virtually out of the question by car, ie: congestion charge, no where to park – no, I tell a lie. A pal of mine parked in the Bayswater Road region for business purposes, the cost: R142.50 an hour!

Tube trains are better now than I can ever remember; clean, rapid, safe and comfortable.

Turnham Green, right across London to Woodford Green: a journey of 45 minutes (probably three hours by car out of peak times) cost a reasonable R59.85 each way…

by Dave Fall cheap at half the price!

No car trip is complete without a British motorway journey, fast (if you can call max. motorway speed of 112 km, fast), with disciplined drivers all around you.

Lorries/trucks are strictly banned in the fast lane; overtake and then pull over to the left – even to the nearside lane if space permits.

On a trip up to Leeds not one driver dared to use his/her cell phone while driving that I saw, because the fine is simply huge plus the risk of penalty points: rack up a dozen and you are banned, that’s it. Never a problem in the Honda as it was blessed with an intuitive Bluetooth hands-free device as standard fare.

Moans were few during my short stay – but some things did rattle me just a little – such as the amount of squashed flat chewing gum embedded on pavements seemingly everywhere, especially in London. Yes I know its winter over there but enter a shop – any shop – and a blast of hot air hits one as if back in the Namib Desert, in Africa. Minor observations perhaps, but when things run as smooth as clockwork as they appear to do in the UK, one does look towards the more petty gripes…

The last grumble worth mentioning revolved around queueing, something I must say the Brits are very good at. Don’t get me wrong I didn’t want to jump the queue, more I just wish the cashier/shop assistant didn’t take so long to serve you.They tend to discuss just anything and everything, oblivious of the queue that’s getting longer by the minute. On that note it was good rarely having to repeat myself … a bank call centre and the wife Sue’s diabetic meter problem queries were dealt with competently and assuredly – rarely experienced here in South Africa to the same level of competence. Actually talking to educated people the name of the game, I suppose.

• In the UK the Honda Civic 1.6 i-DTEC on the road (OTR) cost £23 675; here in South Africa a similar model will set you back just R299 900. Definitely recommended!

AUTOMOTIVE R

E

F

I

N

I

S

H

E

R

AR J-F 2014 CLAIRE_NOV/DEC 2005 paganation 2014/02/10 10:35 AM Page 8

FOCUS TRAINING 2014 GLASURIT TRAINING

GAUTENG

• CE 2 (Colour Education) 3 Days • PS2 (Painting of Plastic)1 Day • PS3 (Efficiencies) 2.5 Days

March 3-5 March 6-7 April 1-3 June 2-5 July 1-3 July 21-23 July 24 August 4-6 August 7-8 September 2-4 September 18 September 15-17 November 3-6 December 1-3 December 4

CE1 PS1 PE3 PE1/PE2 PE3 CE2 PS2 CE1 PS1 PE3 PS2 CE2 PE1/PE2 CE2 PS2

Cornright Motors Midrand Cornright Motors Midrand Cornright Motors Midrand Cornright Motors Midrand Cornright Motors Midrand Cornright Motors Midrand Cornright Motors Midrand Cornright Motors Midrand Cornright Motors Midrand Cornright Motors Midrand Cornright Motors Midrand Cornright Motors Midrand Cornright Motors Midrand Cornright Motors Midrand Cornright Motors Midrand

WESTERN CAPE

PE1 (Product Education) 3 Days PS1 (Spot Repair,) 1.5 Days CE1 (Colour Education) 3 Days PE2 (Product Education) 3 Days

February 10-12 February 13 March 10-12 March 17-19 March 20 April 7-9 April 29-30 May 5-7 May 26-28 June 9-11 June 23-25 July 21-23 July 28-30 August 11-12 August 13 August 25-27 September 22-23 September 25 November 3-5 November 10-12 November 13-14

PE1 PS2 CE1 PE2 PS2 PE3 PS1 CE2 PE1 PE2 CE1 PE3 CE2 PS1 PS2 PE1 PS1 PS2 CE1 PE3 PS1

First Car Care College First Car Care College First Car Care College First Car Care College First Car Care College First Car Care College First Car Care College First Car Care College First Car Care College First Car Care College First Car Care College First Car Care College First Car Care College First Car Care College First Car Care College First Car Care College First Car Care College First Car Care College First Car Care College First Car Care College First Car Care College

GEORGE

• • • •

March 4-6 June 3-5 September 9-11 November 25-27

PE1 PE3 PE2 Ce1

Van Van Van Van

Kerwel Kerwel Kerwel Kerwel

School School School School

SIKKENS TRAINING February 4 - 5 February 11 - 12 February 18 - 19 April 8 - 10 April 15 - 17 April 22 - 23 September 3 - 5 September 10 - 12 September 17 - 19 June 3 - 4 June 10 - 11 June 17 - 18 August 5 August 5 August 5

AUTOMOTIVE R E F I N I S H E R

1.

1.

1.

2.

2.

2.

2.

2.

2.

3.

3.

3.

4.

4.

4.

Professional Prep Professional Prep Professional Prep Colour Tinting Colour Tinting Colour Tinting Colour Tinting Colour Tinting Colour Tinting Spot Repair & Welding Spot Repair & Welding Spot Repair & Welding Plastic Painting Plastic Painting Plastic Painting

Gauteng Cape Town Kwa-Zulu Natal Gauteng Cape Town Kwa-Zulu Natal Gauteng Cape Town Kwa-Zulu Natal Gauteng Cape Town Kwa-Zulu Natal Gauteng Cape Town Kwa-Zulu Natal

Training Centre Clayville Training Centre Eipping Traiining Centre Canelands Training Centre Clayville Training Centre Epping Training Centre Canelands Training Centre Clayville Training Centre Epping Training Centre Canelands Training Centre Clayville Training Centre Epping Training Centre Canelands Training Centre Clayville Training Centre Epping Training Centre Canelands 81

AR J-F 2014 CLAIRE_NOV/DEC 2005 paganation 2014/02/10 10:35 AM Page 9

FOCUS TRAINING 2014

KZN

W/CAPE

GAUTENG

SPIES HECKER TRAINING

February February March March April May May June June July July July August August August September October October October November

6-7 17-21 3-6 24-28 7-9 5-8 22-23 3-6 17-19 7-11 22-25 31 1 4-8 25-27 9-12 6-10 20-22 30-31 17-21

Colour College Permahyd Hi-TEC Spray Painters College, Blending Techniques & Painting Plastics Permahyd 280 Tinted Clearcoats Permahyd Hi-TEC Colour College Spray Painters College, Blending Techniques & Painting Plastics Tinted Clearcoats Permahyd 280 Spray Painters College, Blending Techniques & Painting Plastics Colour College Colour College Permahyd Hi-TEC Tinted Clearcoats Spray Painters College, Blending Techniques & Painting Plastics Permahyd 280 Tinted Clearcoats Colour College Permahyd Hi-TEC

January February March May May June July September September October October November

27 - 29 11-13 11-13 20-22 28 12-13 15-17 2-4 17 7-9 29-30 11-13

Spray Painters College & Blending Techniques Hi-TEC Permahyd 280 Permahyd 280 Painting Plastics Colour College Permahyd 280 Permahyd 280 Painting Plastics Spray Painters College & Blending Techniques Colour College Hi-TEC

February March April April May August August October November

10-14 11-13 3-4 9 26-29 12-14 25-28 29-30 10-13

Hi-TEC Spray Painters College & Blending Techniques Colour College Spray Painters College, Blending Techniques & Painting Plastics Permahyd 280 Spray Painters College & Blending Techniques Hi-TEC Colour College Permahyd 280

KZN W/ CAPE

GAUTENG

R-M TRAINING

• TP1 (Efficient Application of ONYX HD) 2 Days • TP11 (Colour Re-production) 2 Days February 10-11 TP11 February 12-14 TP12 March 10-11 TP11 March 12-14 TP12 May 12-13 TP1 May 14-16 TP5 June 9-10 TP1 June 11-13 TP5 July 7-8 TP11 July 9-11 TP12 August 25-26 TP11 August 27-29 TP12 September 1-2 TP1 September 3-5 TP5 October 6-7 TP1 October 8-10 TP5 November 24-25 TP11 November 26-28 TP12

• TP5 (Optimisation of Application Techniques) 3 Days • TP12 (Colorimitry & Colour Adjustment Techniques) 3 Days Cornright Motors Midrand Cornright Motors Midrand Cornright Motors Midrand Cornright Motors Midrand Cornright Motors Midrand Cornright Motors Midrand Cornright Motors Midrand Cornright Motors Midrand Cornright Motors Midrand Cornright Motors Midrand Cornright Motors Midrand Cornright Motors Midrand Cornright Motors Midrand Cornright Motors Midrand Cornright Motors Midrand Cornright Motors Midrand Cornright Motors Midrand Cornright Motors Midrand

March 3-4 March 5-6 June 23-24 June 25-26 August 18-19 August 20-21 October 27-28 October 29-30

TP11 TP12 TP11 TP12 TP11 TP12 TP11 TP12

RSB RSB RSB RSB RSB RSB RSB RSB

Cape Cape Cape Cape Cape Cape Cape Cape

TP11 TP12 TP11 TP12 TP11 TP12 TP11 TP12 TP11 TP12

RSB RSB RSB RSB RSB RSB RSB RSB RSB RSB

Durban Durban Durban Durban Durban Durban Durban Durban Durban Durban

February 3-4 February 5-6 March 31-1 April April 2-4 July 21-22 July 23-25 September 8-9 September 10-12 November 17-18 82 November 19-21

Town Town Town Town Town Town Town Town

AUTOMOTIVE R E F I N I S H E R

AR J-F 2014 CLAIRE_NOV/DEC 2005 paganation 2014/02/10 10:35 AM Page 10

PPG TRAINING - GAUTENG

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

March March March March March April April April May May May June June July July July August August August September September September September October October October October November November November

10-11 12 13 24-25 26-27 7-8 9 10 12-13 14 15 23-24 25-26 7-8 9 10 11-12 13 14 8-9 10 11 29-30 1-2 13-14 15 16 10-11 12 13

Mechanical sanding, primer & top coat application & painting plastics SMART® repair techniques & finishing & polishing PaintManager®, colour mixing system & colouristics Distributor training LIC Selemix Training Mechanical sanding, primer & top coat application & painting plastics® SMART® repair techniques & finishing & polishing PaintManager®, colour mixing system & colouristics Mechanical sanding, primer & top coat application & painting plastics SMART® repair techniques & finishing & polishing PaintManager®, colour mixing system & colouristics Distributor training LIC Selemix Training Mechanical sanding, primer & top coat application & painting plastics SMART® repair techniques & finishing & polishing PaintManager®, colour mixing system & colouristics Mechanical sanding, primer & top coat application & painting plastics SMART® repair techniques & finishing & polishing PaintManager®, colour mixing system & colouristics Mechanical sanding, primer & top coat application & painting plastics SMART® repair techniques & finishing & polishing PaintManager®, colour mixing system & colouristics Distributor training LIC Selemix Training Mechanical sanding, primer & top coat application & painting plastics SMART® repair techniques & finishing & polishing PaintManager®, colour mixing system & colouristics Mechanical sanding, primer & top coat application & painting plastics SMART® repair techniques & finishing & polishing PaintManager®, colour mixing system & colouristics

STANDOX TRAINING 1: 2: 3: 4:

Spraypainters Forum Advanced Spraypainters Forum Painting Plastics Colouristics

• Module 5: Standohyd • Module 6: Standoblue • Module 7: Specialised Training

GAUTENG

Module Module Module Module

Module 1 17-18 Mar 13-14 May 15-16 July 2-3 Sept 21-22 Oct

Module 2 19-20 Mar 15-16 May 17-18 July 4-5 Sept 23-24 Oct

Module 3 3 Feb 19 May 28 July 27 Oct

Module 4 4-5 Feb 20-21 May 29-30 July 28-29 Oct

Module 5 7-11 April 30 June - 4 July 29 Sept - 30 Oct

Module 6 24-28 Feb 9-13 June 11-15 Aug 10-14 Nov

Module 7 25-28 Mar 26-29 May 26-29 Aug 13-16 Oct

KZN W/CAPE

• • • •

21-22 Jan 14-15 Oct

23-24 Jan 16-17 Oct

29 May 18 Sept

10-11 June 27-28 Oct

18-20 Mar 6-8 May 22-24 July 9-11 Sept

18-20 Feb 18-20 Nov

On Request

25-26 Feb 14-15 Oct

4-5 Mar 16-17 Oct

10 Apr

1-2 Apr 27-28 Oct

9-12 June 24-27 Nov

12-15 May 8-11 Sept

On Request

METALUX TRAINING

4-6 March 11-13 March 18-20 March 8-10 October 15-17 October 22-24 October 6-8 May 13-15 May 20-22 May 11-13 November 11-13 November 18-20 November 8-9 July 15-16 July 22-23 July

AUTOMOTIVE R E F I N I S H E R

1. Start to Finish 1. Start to Finish 1. Start to Finish 1. Start to Finish 1. Start to Finish 1. Start to Finish 2. Advanced Colour Tinting 2. Advanced Colour Tinting 2. Advanced Colour Tinting 2. Advanced Colour Tinting 2. Advanced Colour Tinting 2. Advanced Colour Tinting 3. Advanced Blending & Spot Repair 3. Advanced Blending & Spot Repair 3. Advanced Blending & Spot Repair

Gauteng Cape Town Kwa-Zulu Natal Gauteng Cape Town Kwa-Zulu Natal Gauteng Cape Town Kwa-Zulu Natal Gauteng Cape Town Kwa-Zulu Natal Gauteng Cape Town Kwa-Zulu Natal

Training Centre Clayville Training Centre Epping Training Centre Canelands Training Centre Clayville Training Centre Epping Training Centre Canelands Training Centre Clayville Training Centre Epping Training Centre Canelands Training Centre Clayville Training Centre Epping Training Centre Canelands Training Centre Clayville Training Centre Epping Training Centre Canelands 83

AR J-F 2014 CLAIRE_NOV/DEC 2005 paganation 2014/02/10 10:35 AM Page 3

WHAT’S HOT? JOBS, EQUIPMENT, SERVICES AND MUCH MORE

Auto Industry Consulting provide technical information and consultancy to the global collision repair industry. Our subscription based website

www.autoindustryinsider.com includes:

l Vehicle Technology Review Videos l New model introductions l Vehicle manufacturer connections l Technology trend overviews l Vehicle engineering materials l In depth industry reports l Industry news and more.

Ezi-Methods; our vehicle repair methods solution: CRI Tech Reports; a monthly publication providing strategic and practical industry information.

For further information on any of these products and services please contact: ben.cardy@autoindustryconsulting.com or by calling

We weld with over 20 years of experience.

Repairs to aluminium, magnesium components, high strength steel, bronze, pewter, iron, titanium, copper and damaged steel.

PARTS MADE NEW.

Call Mark on 086 100 9353

+44 (0)7923 563 260

NOW IN CHROME & BLACK

DON’ T FEEL LEFT OUT - ADVERTISE HERE & BUILD YOUR BRAND WITH US

A

UTOMOTIVE

January - February 2014 Edition 171

autoref@iafrica.com

www.autoref.co.za 84

R

E

F

I

N

I

S

OFFICE CONTACT DETAILS: Tel: +27 (0)11 949 4091 Fax: +27 (0)11 252 6844 Email: autoref@iafrica.com Publisher: Ian Groat +27 (0)83 290 2967 Editor: Claire Macfie +27 (0)83 260 1826 Accounts: Val Groat +27 (0)83 541 8878 Design: Jay Groat +27 (0)60 501 7450 Assistant: Nataschja Ferreira CT Journo: Dave Fall +27 (0)73 021 3076 European Technical Editor Andrew Marsh Central Africa - Derrick Mwango +260 96 327 5331

H

E

R

The views expressed in articles in Automotive Refinisher are those of the authors and shall not be construed to represent those of the Editor or the Publisher.

Accordingly, Automotive Refinisher accepts no responsibility for claims and statements made by advertisers and independent columnists. Further, the appearance of advertisements herein does not necessarily indicate the approval by Automotive Refinisher for the product and/or service advertised. Material may not be reproduced in any form without the written consent of the Publisher. Automotive Refinisher is dedicated to servicing the business interests of the collision repair industry.

AUTOMOTIVE R E F I N I S H E R

AR J-F 2014 CLAIRE_NOV/DEC 2005 paganation 2014/02/10 10:35 AM Page 4

WHAT’S HOT? JOBS, EQUIPMENT, SERVICES AND MUCH MORE

TEKNIKLOTH WIPES AWAY SURFACE CONTAMINATION

1000 SHEET PACK OF 500 X 260MM INDIVIDUAL PRE-CUT CLOTHS Teknikloth high-tech lint free surface cleaners are an absolute must for all paint shops and provide less wastage and linting than other systems of preparation. Teknikloth is available from: l All BASF Branches l l l l l l l l l l l l

All ABS Branches Auto Colour Matching Centre, DBN Auto & General, Jacobs Auto & Industrial Supplies, PMB All Balco Branches All PPG Branches Cape Auto Paints, Montague Capricorn Parts, DBN Car Spares & Paint, Vereeniging Chem Spec Branches SA Auto Paints, Newlands Car Auto Paints, Primrose

l l l l l l l l l l l l

City Paint & Tool, PE Cape Paint & Panel, Maitland Global Auto Colour, Benoni Herbert Evans, JHB All Intercity Paint Branches Kwalta Paints, Klerksdorp Marouns Auto Colour Branches Mix ‘ n Match, Jacobs All RSB Autogroup Branches Super Auto Paints, Phoenix Auto Paint Centre, Centurion PMB Paint Centre Pietermaritzburg

Neil: 079 888 9675 or 031 262 4365 Suppliers of Automotive Repair Equipment The DENT PRO-PORTABLE DENT PULLER is a rugged locally manufactured electronic dent pulling unit; • Removes dents in body panels without needing to strip panels.

• Will not damage sensitive electronic devices in modern cars.

• Car batteries do not have to be disconnected.

• 1 Year warranty from date of purchase with full service backup.

• Excellent trade-in offers for your old Dent Pullers.

• Call us now for a quote.

• Free Delivery throughout SA. • New Dent Pulling Trolleys now available.

Call them on 082 452 6631, www.panelprotech.co.za

AUTOMOTIVE R E F I N I S H E R

PROTECTIVE SERVICES Bitumen Primer is designed to penetrate and seal porous surfaces, protect bare metal surfaces from corrosion and act as an industrial waterproofing agent.

Lubricants

l

Greases

l

Additives

l

Aerosols

tel: +27 (0)860 772 652 l email: sales@spanjaard.biz l www.spanjaard.biz

85

AR JAN-FEB PG NAT_Layout 1 2014/02/10 11:38 AM Page 7

AFRICAN PANORAMA - PONTA PISS-UP

T

he long awaited year end great trek holiday was under way. This year it was taken by Beyers and Frik, a couple of completely spoilt brats from the nether regions of the Free State.

They had everything organised for the cross border holiday at Ponta do Ouro in Mozambique. With two new wet bikes and a special tent and mobile home, they were ready for anything wet and wild and wanted to leave far behind an increasingly out of step business at home in exchange for some wilderness culture.

To celebrate the 10 day ocean visit they had copious amounts of rum and coke to see them through the seering heat and humidy of the beach life.

On crossing the border any unsuspecting tourist gets the huge holes in the road treatment and often a beached four wheel drive needs up to a dozen pushers to free things up. It’s usually paid for with money for Tipotinto rum and Sparberry juice to lubricate a burst of further mobility for immobile cars.

Soon the lads were installed in the local campsite and went off to the beach to launch the wet bikes. They were being foolish enough to take on more ‘dop’ at the local bar, and the main event at the beach in no time.

86

While an audience of land bound visitors watched on they completed, a crazy test of going flat out over the lagoon’s evening waves. Dicing each other with one spectacular jump after another until it all ended up in a serious disappointment as they both inhaled their navels after a trip over the handle bars on their way to finding out that neither of them could walk on water.

So the first giddy day ended inside the local bar with two dead wet bikes. A pair of barefoot pilgrims from the north side of Mozambique gained a job for the week to hang onto the wet bike ropes and keep them steady in the surf until Frik and Beyers could either pass out on festive rum or get back to the failed wet bikes and repair them.

The fact that they stood guard all night said the rum and coke won that tussle. The next day Beyers, looking like a dog with two heads, set about the repairs gingerly, getting rid of all the unwanted water from inside of the motor, while mocking Frik for his poor driving capabilities.

It took hours to get the bikes started and a couple of more breaks back to the bar for rum and refuelling before another mad dash burst through the surf, only to repeat the whole performance all over again.

Sadly there were no outside experts to

by Ian Groat

help advise or control their antics. They were clearly on a self destruction mission and overdosed on looking outrageously bad, as only brats can.

Their final drunken act later in the week saw the lads knock over a gas lamp and burn the campsite down completely at Ponta.

After that things looked pretty bleak for they were asked to never return to the camp site.

With a holiday week that ended with a dishonorable discharge from the campsite and two broken wet bikes, the pair decided that their attempt at making a go of things in a non-civilisation like Ponta do Ouro were now at an abrupt end.

So with one long slow pass up the less manicured beach at Ponta where they watched the locals throwing themselves haphazardly into the deep blue water they sighed and left the lagoon thinking that in enjoyment terms they had everything covered in the small moments that they could remember.

The holiday was a blast even if they had put the two huge wet bikes into the mechanical grave yard. The overall hum of Ponta do Ouro memories were of its peace and tranquility that hadn’t bothered them one bit as they played out their holiday hooligan macho roles for all to see.

AUTOMOTIVE R

E

F

I

N

I

S

H

E

R

AUTOREF AD J-F 2014_Layout 1 2014/02/05 10:39 AM Page 1

What would you say to a customer who gave you 25 minutes of their time?

Adve

wwwr.tiaseuon our website toref.co .za

Yes, a full 25 minutes to make a pitch for their business. Seem unlikely?

Well on average, a reader will spend 25 minutes with the Automotive Refinisher Magazine. Just as you are now.

As a result, brand loyalty increases by 32% and sales uplift by 8%.

All at a fraction of some other media costs and infinitely more effective than email sent straight to the junk folder.

In today’s climate, it’s important to hang on to customers.

Because when a competitor comes knocking, all that really matters is how much your customers like you.

We can make them know you really well.

The voice of the collision repair industry for over 29 years

AUTOMOTIVE R E F I N I S H E R

To advetise call us on +27 (0)11 949 4091 Alternatively send us an email to autoref@iafrica.com Or visit our website www.autoref.co.za

AEROCURE OBC J-A 2014_Layout 1 2014/07/03 11:56 AM Page 1