Ignition Magazine Australia | November 2021

NOVEMBER MARCH 2021

MEMBER RIDE

1968 PONTIAC FIREBIRD

Win a $500 Holiday Hamper

WITH WOOLWORTHS AT WORK & CAPRICORN APP-Y DAYS! Get an even better deal via the new Wex Motorpass Driver App.

AAAA'S CAR PARC 10 ways it can revolutionise your business.

REFINING YOUR SERVICE PROCESSES Where to start and what to do.

Over 2,000 Capricorn Members told us what they really think about the automotive industry.

Find out what they said and how your business compares.

State Of The Nation

Available now at

capricorn.coop/SoN

CONTENTS NOVEMBER 2021

David Fraser Group CEO

CEO’s message

Whether we like it or not (and many don’t) and whether we’re ready for it or not (and most of us aren’t), our industry is on the verge of a permanent change, led by the switch to electric vehicles (EVs).

EVs are going to forever alter the way our workshops look, the equipment we need to operate, and the training our people need to do their jobs.

According to a recent major analysis of the automotive aftermarket for light vehicles by McKinsey , electric vehicles will make up between 18 and 26 per cent of the global car parc by 2030. I acknowledge it’s easy to dismiss that figure. After all, we’re probably talking about less than a quarter of the market, we’re talking eight years away, and it’s a global figure when Australia (in particular) is moving at a snail’s pace on electric vehicle adoption. But it’s the indicators from the car manufacturers that matter. They’re providing the pipeline of vehicles that will eventually emerge onto the aftermarket, and many of them are all-in on electric.

It’s going to take a new generation of workshops to service this new generation of cars. Earlier this year less than 20 per cent of Members told State of the Nation they either were, or would be, ready to service EVs. While only one in four Members said EVs were a challenge for this industry, that’s up on last year, so there is clear evidence of a growing anxiety about the potential for EVs to disrupt our business models. If you’re looking at the horizon and you’re worried, and you’re not doing anything about it, then you’re right to worry. EVs are a game changer. As McKinsey & Co points out, “electrification means a whole new suite of car components, requiring technical competencies and capabilities. At the same time, some conventional parts will become increasingly marginal and ultimately vanish. EVs have fewer moving parts, less wear and tear and, thus, significantly lower maintenance costs.”

But there’s still plenty of opportunity for workshops to make money servicing the vehicles of the future. EVs will still need tyres, suspension systems and wiper blades, but the next generation of workshops will need less motor oil and fewer spare clutches, transmissions and exhausts, and more expertise with HV and LV batteries. The services we charge for, what we charge and the way we charge might change, even though customer service costs are projected to stay the same. This change is also seen in the equipment and training we need to do our jobs.

It might all still seem a long way off, but as business owners we need to have one eye on the horizon now, to make sure we make the right investments for the future. If we don’t we’ll be left playing catch-up with our competitors who have embraced the challenge of becoming a next-generation workshop.

You can find out more from the McKinsey & Co "Making every part count" report by visiting mckinsey.com Yours in cooperation,

4 Lifetime

Achievement National Collision Repairer Lifetime Achievement Award

4 App-y Days for

Fuel Card Holders

5 Capricorn Risk Services

Over 40% of Members are protected with Capricorn Risk, what about you?

6 AAAA Car Parc Tool 10 ways AAAA’s Car Parc can revolutionise your business

10 Future Ride

The Emira is Lotus’ new supercharged 3.5-litre 289 kW power (400 hp) V6

12 Automechanika

Automechanika Frankfurt, finally returned in 2021

14 Member Ride 16 Advanced Driver Assistance Systems

How they operate – both individually and collectively

22 Change your workshop life

David Fraser

With these tools and resources

Group CEO CAPRICORN IGNITION NOVEMBER 2021 3

NEWS

CAPRICORN’S LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT RECIPIENT

CONGRATULATIONS ROB MILDENHALL Capricorn’s National Panel Manager, Rob Mildenhall, was recently awarded the National Collision Repairer Lifetime Achievement Award.

The National Collision Repairer Lifetime Achievement Awards are held every year to recognise key industry influencers who have helped to shape, build and disrupt the collision repair industry since the second half of the twentieth century.

Rob was inducted for his commitment to the collision repair industry across multiple nations for over 20 years. He has championed safe and proper repairs, building the bridge between manufacturers, suppliers and independent body shops and raising the profile of the industry.

2019 Futures Collide Forum. In his nomination, David Newton-Ross (a 2009 inductee) spoke highly of Rob’s knowledge, commitment and passion for developing a stronger, better collision repair sector.

From everyone at Capricorn, we would like to wish Rob a big congratulations on his welldeserved achievement.

To find out more about the National Collision Repairer’s Lifetime Achievement Awards, visit nationalcollisionrepairer.com.au

Rob continues to represent his Members at a wide variety of industry events, has contributed to numerous industry publications and led the

APP-Y DAYS FOR CAPRICORN FUEL CARD HOLDERS Capricorn Members can now get an even better deal via the new Wex Motorpass Driver App. This new app features exclusive content for Capricorn Fuel Card holders, with the best fuel prices at your fingertips.

KEY BENEFITS FOR MEMBERS INCLUDE: • • •

Receive live fuel price updates to always get the best deal Easily find stations enroute Get special offers for Capricorn Members

•

(Excluding LPG) at participating PUMA service stations.

Get more rewards. Adding a fuel card is an easy way to earn more rewards points every month.

Get the app here

The Wex Motorpass Driver App is available now for iPhone and Android users. Simply download the app and enter your Capricorn Fuel Card number to register as a Capricorn Member and get started.

For Members yet to apply for a fuel card, it only takes a minute to do and could end up making a big difference with Member benefits such as: •

•

Make business simpler. The more you use your trade account to pay all your expenses, including fuel purchases, the easier it is to run your business.

Save on fuel. Capricorn Members save 3 cents per litre off fuel purchases (excluding LPG) at participating Ampol and Caltex stores*. Members also save 4 cents/litre off fuel purchases

For more information on how to apply for a fuel card or get the most out of the new app, email csl@capricorn.coop or speak to your Area Manager.

*Ampol Limited, through a subsidiary, is a licensee in Australia of the Caltex trademark, but is in the process of transitioning its network to instead trade under its own Ampol trademark. Applications and use of the Capricorn WEX Motorpass Fuel Card are subject to the AU – Capricorn WEX Motorpass terms and conditions which can be found at www.capricorn.coop/terms-conditions. The WEX Motorpass app is offered by WEX Australia and may be subject to separate terms and conditions.

4 CAPRICORN IGNITION NOVEMBER 2021

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Over 40% of Members are protected with Capricorn Risk, what about you?

Earlier this year, we surveyed a range of Capricorn Members to discover what they thought of insurance, protection, and Capricorn Risk Services. Here’s what we found.

Capricorn Risk Services was established to provide Capricorn Members with access to mutual protection, an alternative to traditional insurance. Today, more than 9,000 Capricorn Members (approximately 40%) are part of Capricorn Risk Services, meaning the Capricorn Risk division is owned and run by the same auto repairers it protects.

As part of Capricorn, Capricorn Risk Services puts Members at the heart of everything they do. Whether it is providing business and personal coverage designed for the auto industry, returning profits to eligible Members through Capricorn Mutual or supporting you with your very own dedicated Account Manager, Capricorn Risk Members always come first.

level of coverage and products available.

your Risk Account Manager today, or visit capricorn.coop/risk.

When asked what were the top three things they would like protected, both Risk Members and non-Risk Members noted business disruption, mechanical failure on vehicles serviced, and staff injury or illness as the most important risks they faced. Importantly, all of these, and more, can be protected through Capricorn Risk Services.

Did you know?

Both Members and non-Members felt it was important to choose a provider that understands their industry and has a reasonable premium or contribution cost and easy-to-understand coverage.

To ensure we are meeting expectations, we asked a range of Capricorn Members what they thought of insurance, protection, and Capricorn Risk Services.

Capricorn Risk Account Managers were also highly rated according to Risk Members.

70% of Members rated their Risk Account Manager as providing an excellent service.

Members liked their professionalism, their understanding of Capricorn Mutual and the automotive industry, and their trustworthiness.

Receiving such recognition is not only an outstanding achievement for the Capricorn Risk team, but recognition of Capricorn Risk’s commitment to keeping their Members at the heart of their business.

Capricorn Risk Services continued to receive excellent Member feedback in the survey, with Risk Members rating Capricorn Risk Services an 8.3 out of 10. Capricorn Risk Members appreciated the high-quality customer service,

Capricorn Risk Services provides protection and insurance specifically designed to protect Members and their businesses. Not currently with Capricorn Risk Services?

To request a quote for protection, call

Fun facts about Capricorn Risk Services • In addition to protection and insurance for businesses, Capricorn Risk Services offers personal lines products too such as home & contents and motor vehicle, domestic home and contents, and personal accident and illness cover.

•

Consolidate all of your protection in one place, on your Capricorn Trade Account (and earn more rewards points too!*).

•

Capricorn Mutual is a discretionary mutual, allowing greater flexibility to accept claims, and return profits to eligible Members.

•

Capricorn Mutual recently returned $6 million to eligible Capricorn Mutual Members by way of Capricorn bonus points. The return of profits to Capricorn Mutual Members is discretionary and made in accordance with the Capricorn Mutual Constitution.

•

88% of Members choose Capricorn Risk Services because they specialise in the automotive industry.

•

Capricorn Risk Division offers protection and insurance.

Contact Capricorn Risk Services 1800 007 022 I info@capricornrisk.com I capricorn.coop/risk *Participation in the Capricorn Rewards is subject to the Capricorn Rewards Terms and Conditions which can be found at www.capricorn.coop/terms-conditions.

Products sold through Capricorn Risk Services Pty Ltd (ABN 93 111 632 789) are: (i) discretionary risk protection products issued by Capricorn Mutual Ltd; and (ii) general insurance products issued by a range of insurers and brokered through Capricorn Insurance Services Pty Ltd. Before deciding to acquire any product you should consider the Product Disclosure Statement available from Capricorn Risk Services Pty Ltd to see if the product is appropriate for you. Capricorn Risk Services Pty Ltd is a Corporate Authorised Representative (No. 460893) of Capricorn Mutual Ltd (AFSL 230038) and Capricorn Insurance Services Pty Ltd (AFSL 435197).

10 WAYS AAAA’S CAR PARC CAN REVOLUTIONISE YOUR BUSINESS (AND YOUR BOTTOM LINE) When you’re in business, every decision you make either makes you money or costs you money.

especially older models.

We all do our best to keep our decisions on the right side of the ledger, but how often are those decisions based on a best guess? Sometimes, you just have to take a punt, right? You have to spend a dollar to make a dollar.

And the next slide tells you those Toyotas are mostly Corollas.

Here’s the mix of top models for 6053, according to Car Parc’s data.

When you make any decision — from taking on a new technician, to increasing your labour rate, to sending the team for extra training, to buying a new hoist — you want to be as sure as possible it’s the right one; that it will contribute to the success and profitability of your business.

It tells you today if your market is changing tomorrow

The Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association’s Car Parc is a tool that can provide that reassurance. At the click of a button, it can give you a whole raft of real-world data, specific to your local area, that you can use to inform every decision you make.

Here are 10 ways Car Parc can help you make business decisions.

The data specific to your local government area Car Parc generates a customised report, specific to your locality, using actual statewide and national demographic data. It’s as simple as entering your postcode. Car Parc then generates a series of easy-to-read and interpret graphical reports with detailed and useful data.

Let’s look at an example of the data available, using the postcode for Bayswater in Western Australia — 6053.

The first screen tells us how many vehicles there are in the local government area. It provides two snapshots — one from 2015 and one from 2020.

The data allows you to work out the long-term trend in your area. By looking at the number of vehicles less than five years old, you can get a good idea of the mix of vehicles you’ll be seeing in five years’ time.

If you look at the data for Bayswater, you’ll see there are still plenty of Toyotas, but Hyundais have dropped out of the top 10 completely.

You can also see the top models for all the top makes in your area.

That’s all incredibly useful information that can affect the investment decisions you make in your business.

It gives you time to onboard the right skills and training

It also tells us how old the vehicles are, which gives us a very clear picture of how many vehicles on local roads are likely to be out of the manufacturer’s service warranty and, therefore, are more likely to visit an independent workshop for service. In Bayswater, that’s a very healthy 67,875 vehicles.

It gives you a clear picture of your pipeline of vehicles The data also shows you how many vehicles are less than five years old. That’s your long-term trend — and the pipeline of vehicles that could be visiting you in the future. In the case of 6053, it’s a not insignificant 17,061 cars.

But the information available doesn’t stop with age. Car Parc also gives you a breakdown of makes, so you can see exactly what’s out there.

Bayswater, as you can see, is chock-a-block full with Toyotas – 6 CAPRICORN IGNITION NOVEMBER 2021

Being able to see the five-year pipeline of vehicles in your area gives you time to get your team appropriately trained, so you’re never turning away a vehicle or sending it to a dealership because you don’t have the expertise in-house.

On the flip side, it could also stop you investing in training you’re unlikely to need, or that presents a less worthwhile investment. A workshop in Bayswater, for example, might not

bother keeping up their Hyundai skill set, but might want to make sure the team knows their way around a Mitsubishi ASX. Capricorn Member Ricky Monserrat, from Blackwood Dyno Tune & Service in South Australia, said he uses Car Parc to decide which training his team needs.

“Toyota is the biggest make here… Any training that comes up with those cars, especially the hybrid Camry and Prius, we’ve sent the boys out to do,” he said.

“It means we can make sure we’re up to scratch and not have to second-guess or say ‘no we haven’t been trained, so we don’t want to take that job on’. We’re ready to go.”

It ensures you invest in the right tools and equipment Similarly, the five-year picture gives you a clear idea of the scan and diagnostic tools and other equipment you’re most likely to need and which might represent the best possible investment.

“It has saved me money,” Ricky said. “After referring to Car Parc I’ve hesitated on buying a scan tool that I would otherwise have bought, and everything has been absolutely fine. We didn’t need it.”

It helps you get the right spare parts in stock Do you know what spare parts you need to keep in stock to serve your customers as efficiently as possible? Capricorn Member Daryn Brims does. Daryn owns six automotive businesses between Brisbane and Bundaberg in Queensland, including a Pedders outlet and the Repco-authorised Maryborough Service Centre.

“I use (Car Parc) to know what vehicles are in the area, what kilometres they’re at, and what is likely to fail in particular,” Daryn said.

“Then I can make sure our businesses have got all the stock needed to support those vehicles and, even more so, make sure we’ve got all the go-to scan tools.

“I don’t want a customer to turn up and have to say ‘sorry, sir, I can’t help you’.

“I also use it to analyse what’s coming and try to stock our warehouses and our stores with the right parts, in the right spot.”

It’s an essential tool for long-term business planning Director of Government Relations & Advocacy, Lesley Yates says Car Parc data is a valuable tool for medium- and long-term business planning.

“It’s one thing to have the data, to look at the data and to be challenged; the next step is to use the data as an asset,” she said.

“Workshop owners should be leveraging the data for profit.”

She encourages Members to use the data during their usual business planning sessions, to both supercharge the efficiency of their businesses and to futureproof them.

It allows you to better target your advertising and marketing Car Parc doesn’t just tell you what cars are in your area, it tells you who is driving them, too.

Capricorn Members Darren and Cathy Shaw, from Bentleigh Automotive Services in Bentleigh East in Victoria, use Car Parc to do just that.

“I go into it when I review our marketing, quarterly, with our website people,” Cathy said. “We use it to decide our SEO keywords and we use it for the demographics for our Facebook marketing.”

That’s not only boosted business, it has also helped Darren and Cathy successfully expand into the auto-electrical market.

It provides valuable intelligence for tweaking your sales strategy National Alliance Manager for Membership, Matt Gledhill said Car Parc’s data could be leveraged effectively by Members who are also Preferred Suppliers, to everyone’s benefit.

“It’s especially useful for those smaller businesses that maybe they don’t have an entire team of people looking out for what procurement they need to do and what’s happening,” he said. “They need to know what the workshops are going to be ordering, so it can be really handy.

“It also gives the suppliers the advantage of knowing the customer’s business, which then makes the customer feel the suppliers have actually done a bit of research on the area. So, it improves that relationship.”

It can save you money As Ricky said above, Car Parc has saved him money. He’s made better and more efficient decisions about what his business needs.

Leveraging Car Parc’s data can also help you make money. As Cathy said above, it’s helped her and Darren better target their advertising and expand into an entirely new area of business.

A last word on advertising and the Car Parc tool Car Parc’s data is an invaluable tool for understanding your local market, growing your business and planning for the future. But, as Matt said, it only works if you actually use it.

“It’s an important tool that is probably under-utilised in the industry,” he said.

“My big recommendation would be to just have a look at it. You might be surprised at what you learn. In fact, I almost guarantee it.

“But overall, it’s a tool to help run your business — and you wouldn’t try and run your business without a hoist or without diagnostic tools or without qualified mechanics. So why would you try and run it without the correct data?”

Want to learn more about the Car Parc tool but not a AAAA member, go to https://bit.ly/AAAA-CPD or email info@aaaa.com.au This article was published November 2021 and the content was current as at the date of publication.

That information is invaluable when it comes to targeting your advertising and to getting your marketing messaging right.

CAPRICORN IGNITION NOVEMBER 2021 7

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The insurance protection you need, and you might not have yet If you thought cyber criminals took a break throughout Covid-19, it might be time to think again.

bank accounts. They had even managed to set up a false bank account in Alltorque Diesel’s name, making them seem legitimate.

Over the last 12 months, a cybercrime report was made every 8 minutes in Australia, an increase of nearly 13% from the previous financial year. Also, one in three New Zealanders have reportedly fallen victim to cybercrime.

Haydn noticed that something was wrong when the customer missed a payment, something that seemed off, as the customer regularly paid on time. When he rang to enquire, the customer explained about the bank account change.

Aside from people feeling shocked that this could happen, cybercrime is causing a big economic impact too, with financial losses now totalling more than AUD$33 billion in Australia and NZD$198 million in New Zealand in the last financial year.

After reports to the cyber fraud squad, and multiple bank claims later, Haydn has had to wear half of the cost of the transaction. He is transitioning away from the old email address, even though it is a Microsoft account and he thought it would be secure.

And cybercriminals aren’t just targeting large businesses. According to the Australian Cyber Security Centre, small businesses made a higher number of cybercrime reports; however, medium-sized businesses had the largest reported losses due to cybercrime, losing on average AUD$33,442 per cybercrime report over AUD $14,000 more than the average loss for large businesses.

Ransomware also remains one of the most disruptive threats to businesses, with an increase of over 15% over the last 12 months.

Peter from BP Tanawha in Queensland discovered just how disruptive ransomware can be.

Why are they targeting small and medium businesses? Often because small to medium businesses don’t have sophisticated IT security systems often found in larger companies.

Haydn from Alltorque Diesel in Western Australia fell victim to a type of cybercrime called ‘business email compromise’ which now accounts for approximately AUD $80 million of all cybercrimes. Two months ago, cyber criminals intercepted emails between Haydn and a customer, allowing the criminals to impersonate Alltorque Diesel.

The criminals sent emails to a customer explaining Haydn had changed the business

Around two years ago, cyber criminals were able to shut down Peter’s petrol station by getting access to his systems through TeamViewer or email. The criminals held two points of sale, back office and petrol pumps hostage through the use of ransomware .

What started as demands for $2,800 soon grew to over $48,000. After receiving support to clear his system on a Friday, Peter thought he was clear, before he arrived to work on Monday and the same smiley face and countdown appeared demanding money again.

As all of his IT systems were integrated, Peter has had to replace all of his hardware and software, as well as wear the cost of the interruption to his business. He was surprised cyber criminals would be interested in hacking

a business like his.

He says he has always been careful when accessing emails and files on the internet, and he checks in regularly with his software partners for updates to security protocols. Nonetheless it really can happen to anyone, and Peter has spoken to a few local businesses who have had similar attacks on their IT infrastructure.

If you don’t have IT security in place, we highly recommend you speak to a specialist as soon as possible to set up your first line of defence.

You may as well make it as hard as possible for criminals to get into your system.

The other step we encourage every Member to take is purchasing cyber insurance. If you do fall victim to a cyberattack it is important to act fast, and having cyber insurance allows you to do just that. Depending on your policy, cyber insurance may cover: • Loss of revenue from interrupted business • Hiring negotiators and paying a ransom • Recovering and replacing records or data • Liability and third-party loss • Defence of legal claims • Preventing further attacks.

Having cyber insurance gives you access to IT specialists who can access your IT system, stop any further damage, and attempt to undo the damage done by the criminals.

The policies are relatively inexpensive, and although they won’t prevent an attack from happening, they can make all the difference in keeping the costs involved in the cleanup under control. It may be a worthwhile investment for your business.

To find out more about cyber insurance, contact your Risk Account Manager today or visit capricorn.coop/risk

Contact Capricorn Risk Services 1800 007 022 I info@capricornrisk.com I capricorn.coop/risk Sources: https://www.cyber.gov.au/acsc/view-all-content/reports-and-statistics/acsc-annual-cyber-threat-report-2020-21 and https://itbrief.co.nz/story/over-a-third-of-new-zealandersfell-victim-to-cybercrime-in-the-last-year Products sold through Capricorn Risk Services Pty Ltd (ABN 93 111 632 789) are: (i) discretionary risk protection products issued by Capricorn Mutual Ltd; and (ii) general insurance products issued by a range of insurers and brokered through Capricorn Insurance Services Pty Ltd. Before deciding to acquire any product you should consider the Product Disclosure Statement available from Capricorn Risk Services Pty Ltd to see if the product is appropriate for you. Capricorn Risk Services Pty Ltd is a Corporate Authorised Representative (No. 460893) of Capricorn CA PRIC O R N Iand G NCapricorn ITION N O V E M BServices E R 2 0 Pty 2 1 Ltd (AFSL 435197).

Mutual8Ltd (AFSL 230038) Insurance

Get your Xmas Gift Cards Give the gift of possibilities

Gift cards and e-vouchers are the perfect way to thank your hardworking staff for their efforts throughout the year. And the easiest way to get your cards is by using your points in the Capricorn Rewards website.

CHRIST M IS COM AS ING!

Make sure you order early! For best chance of delivery before Xmas, all gift cards should be ordered by 26 November. Alternatively, you can order e-vouchers up until 17 December. All other physical items and merchandise should be ordered by 5 November for best chance of Xmas delivery.

Our variety of gift cards available include: Coles Myer, Bunnings, David Jones, Harvey Norman, Kmart, Myer, Priceline.

*T&Cs apply. Products subject to availability.

The dates and times set out in this advertisement are a general guide only. No guarantee of delivery before Xmas is made and Capricorn will not be held liable for any failure to deliver items before Xmas regardless of the date on which they are ordered.

capricorn.coop/rewards

FUTURE RIDE

Enjoy a double date If Lotus, the car manufacturer, was choosing a photo for its Tinder profile, it’d probably pick an image of its next-generation electric endurance racer, the E-R9.

And why wouldn’t they. It’s stunning. Sleek.

Sexy. Dramatic. “It’s partly driven like a car, and partly flown like a fighter jet,” says Lotus chief aerodynamicist, Richard Hill.

How’s that for a profile title? You’d swipe right, right?

The E-R9 isn’t quite here yet. Lotus says it’ll be ready for the racetrack in 2030. Its design builds on technology already integrated into the Evija (Lotus’ “pure electric hypercar”) including an advanced electric drivetrain, enhanced with torque-vectoring, which powers each wheel independently.

1 0 CAPRICORN IGNITION NOVEMBER 2021

The expectation is that by 2030 the industry will have created mixed cell chemistry batteries that provide world-beating energy density and power density, and they’ll have the ability to “hot-swap” batteries during pit stops.

So, that’s what’s under the bonnet (or what Lotus hopes will be under the bonnet). But for the sake of our fantasy automotive Tinder profile analogy, it’s the look of the E-R9 that matters—those aerodynamic sweeps and curves.

Lotus says the E-R9 will have “morphing” body panels, or “active surface that can change their shape and attitude to airflow either at the press of a button by the driver or automatically according to performance sensor inputs”.

These will “deliver minimum drag on the straights and maximum downforce on corners”.

with Lotus’ latest What about the fighter jet part?

“Vertical control surfaces at the rear would generate aerodynamic forces to help the car change direction, without limitations of grip at the tyre control patch,” Lotus claims. So, there you have it: a tail wing, like a plane.

While we might be swiping right on the E-R9, in reality, it’s not swiping right on you. It’s unobtainable. That future you’re imagining together is a pipedream, not a reality. You’re not a match. (It’s probably a catfish, anyway.)

On the other hand, the Lotus Emira could well be a match. It’s every bit as beautiful and has plenty of personality—you’d still swipe right.

The Emira is Lotus’ new supercharged 3.5-litre 289 kW power (400 hp) V6. It comes with a sixspeed manual transmission as standard, with an optional six-speed auto with paddle shift.

It has been developed on a new lightweight bonded aluminium chassis, rides on 20-inch ultra-lightweight V-spoke forged alloy wheels, and has LED lights all round, a titanium exhaust finisher, heated power-fold door mirrors and rear parking sensors.

The seats are heated and it has climate control and cruise control, keyless start and selectable drive modes. It does zero to 100 km/h in 4.3 seconds and has a top speed of 290 km/h.

The Emira is Lotus’ first new series production model in more than a decade and it’s set to rival the Porsche 718 Cayman. It’s being released onto the market next autumn. When you see it, you should probably swipe right. You wouldn’t want to miss out on the Emira if it’s a match.

CAPRICORN IGNITION NOVEMBER 2021 1 1

A VERY DIFFERENT AUTOMECHANIKA IN 2021

By Paul Marinelli

One and a half years after its last scheduled date was cancelled, the world’s largest automotive aftermarket trade fair, Automechanika Frankfurt, finally returned in 2021, albeit in a much smaller physical manner than over the past 25 biennial events.

Normally attracting more than 5,000 global exhibitors, the 2021 event held from September 14 to 16 saw a total of 388 companies take part, with only 53% of the exhibitors taking part personally at the Frankfurt showgrounds. The remainder took part online.

Normally this big daddy of global automotive aftermarket exhibition events would use more than 13 multi-level exhibition halls along with many large outdoor areas, welcoming more than 160,000 visitors from all over the world across five days.

Known as Automechanika Digital Plus for 2021, the pandemic-affected event saw Automechanika merged with Hypermotion, the world-leading technology, urban logistics and mobility concepts, intelligent supply chains and alternative drive technologies expo.

This year’s event saw 10,000 visitors take part from 70 countries, both in person and online.

More than two-thirds of all registered visitors made use of the many new Automechanika digital features including live streams, intelligent matchmaking events between suppliers and distributors, and one-on-one video calls.

This new way of running trade shows saw a total of 25,000 online interactions take place over the shortened three-day event, with 21,000 views of exhibitor streams and 1,600 video calls made. While representing a mere fraction of the business-generating activities that these industry events are world famous for, it did herald the return and the resilience of the global automotive aftermarket business despite the major disruptions placed in front of it by the pandemic.

1 2 CAPRICORN IGNITION NOVEMBER 2021

"Automechanika Frankfurt plans to return to its world-leading live exhibition format from September 13 to 17, 2022" According to Detlef Braun, Member of the Executive Board of Messe Frankfurt, organisers of Automechanika, “Finally, exhibitors and trade visitors had the opportunity to get together in person again and make new contacts, both onsite at the exhibition grounds and by using the digital event platform with international industry players.

“Following a long dry spell, the familiar trade fair feeling was quickly established, only this time it was with masks and a requirement that people be vaccinated, tested or recovered. It was a good warm-up for Automechanika Frankfurt next year,” Mr Braun said.

The concept behind this year’s Automechanika, an in-person trade fair supplemented by the ability to participate digitally, was well-received by exhibitors and visitors alike. The hybrid format enabled participation by international visitors who were unable to travel and for those who were able to attend, to deal face to face with manufacturers, marketers and distributors after being forced apart for such a long time.

Automechanika 2021 has also accelerated the trend towards digitalisation in the global automotive aftermarket. Although this was a forced situation, the clear effect of it is that digitalisation is making huge strides in the operation of independent automotive repair workshops across Europe and the world. As the response that the online component of this trade fair proved, more

workshops are taking advantage of opportunities that are made available to them online.

Christian Schwer, National Sales Manager of Liqui Moly, sums up the effectiveness of this year’s Automechanika Frankfurt, “During these unusual pandemic times, this year’s smaller Automechanika presented us with a chance to reopen communications with our customers, to be on location and make our presence felt as we resume in-person encounters. After all, business is done between people, and we believe that communication is everything. Without it, nothing is possible and that will remain true in future. Automechanika is the platform for the innovations and new technologies that we must all come to grips with not only as suppliers, but also as customers and as an industry. That was Automechanika’s role in the past, and that is what Automechanika continues to represent for us today.”

Automechanika Frankfurt plans to return to its worldleading live exhibition format from September 13 to 17, 2022. Australia’s major automotive aftermarket industry exhibition, the Australian Automotive Aftermarket Expo, is scheduled to return to Melbourne from April 7 to 9, 2022, after a similarly long absence.

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HOLLYWOOD ending for Geoff and his dad’s old Firebird If you haven’t yet seen Once Upon a Time in Hollywood, you’re missing a trick: the cars are very much the stars of this Quentin Tarantino film. They by far outshine Brad Pitt, Leonardo DiCaprio and even Margot Robbie.

Among those starring cars is a stunning 1968 Pontiac Firebird, painted in a yellow hue called “Mayfair Maize”.

But even Hollywood couldn’t have come up with a story and a starring role for a Firebird that matches the one we’ve been told by Capricorn Member Kim Licari of Knoxfield Automotive Repairs, in Wantirna South, Victoria.

Her husband, Geoff, has been a motor mechanic for more than 30 years and the couple have owned the Knoxfield workshop for 23. Geoff grew up in the automotive industry: his father, Vic, was a motor mechanic and owned various service stations and workshops around Geelong.

And it’s a scene starring Geoff and his dad where our movie opens.

“When Geoff was around five years old, his dad had a 1968 Pontiac Firebird Convertible,” Kim said. “Geoff has many fond memories of this car — mostly of sitting on his dad’s lap ‘driving’ the car.

“Geoff also says that the love and memories he had for that car is what made him want to become a motor mechanic.”

But like any good Hollywood script, what really sets our story in motion is a shocking incident that turns everything on its head.

“Back in the 1970s when Vic owned the Firebird, he had it parked on the nature strip out the front of his

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house in Geelong,” Kim said. “Unfortunately, one night a drunk driver crashed into the back of the car and pushed it into a tree. This accident caused some very extensive and expensive damage to the Firebird and the driver did not have any insurance, so Vic did not get any payment to fix the car.

“Vic tried to have some of the panel damage repaired, but between work commitments and financial reasons was never able to afford to get it fixed properly and get the Pontiac back on the road.”

The Firebird was all there, but it was in pieces. Parts and panels were in boxes where it sat, with a cover over it, in Vic’s garage for many years. But Geoff was determined it wouldn’t stay that way.

“Geoff always wanted to get that Firebird, his dream car, back on the road,” Kim said. “When Geoff and I were in our early twenties, Geoff asked his dad if he could buy the Firebird off him so he could restore it.

“As Vic never had the money or time to do this himself, he agreed for Geoff to purchase the car on the proviso that when he restored it, he would then sell it to use the money to buy our first house.” So, in 1994, the couple purchased the car for $5000.

With the help of a couple of mates — one a panel beater, one a spray painter — and with Geoff a motor mechanic, they spent endless hours in Geoff’s cousin’s garage restoring the Firebird. Once restored it had a rebuilt engine, new paintwork, a new interior and a new convertible roof fitted.

“This rebuilt car was such a dream come true for Geoff and his dad. It was so great to see all of Geoff’s hard work pay off.”

The couple kept the car for a couple of years, during which time Geoff took it to car shows and it played a key role in several weddings. But then, in 1996, the inevitable day came. Geoff and Kim wanted to buy a house — and Geoff needed to keep his promise to his Dad. The couple sold the Firebird, raising almost $30,000 for a deposit on their first home.

MEMBER RIDE

“Geoff has always regretted that sale,” Kim said. “He always missed that car — to the point that he purchased another Pontiac Firebird at one stage. It was not the same, so he only hung onto it for a short period of time and sold it.”

But fear not, movie buffs — here comes your Hollywood ending!

It’s the year 2020. The Covid-19 pandemic is causing chaos around the world.

Businesses are shuttered thanks to lockdowns. At home, in Victoria, Geoff is scrolling through Facebook and various car websites when he spots the very car he’s been pining for all these years — his dad’s old Firebird.

It’s in South Australia, and it’s for sale.

Geoff immediately messaged the seller and confirmed by checking the VIN that it was, in fact, the same vehicle. They then spent hours sharing information about the car before Geoff told the seller he wanted it and he’d pay the asking price of $45,000.

But this Hollywood script still had one last twist for Geoff and Kim: the pandemic meant borders were closed. Geoff couldn’t collect the Firebird without having to self-isolate for two weeks in South Australia and then another two weeks in Victoria when he got home.

In the end, he organised for a freight company to pick up and deliver the car.

Finally, Geoff and his Firebird were reunited. Since he’d last seen her, she’d had a new crate motor installed. Other than that, she looked just as she had when Geoff last saw her. She had only done about 15,000 miles in the intervening 25 years.

“The key was still on the same Pontiac keyring that Geoff had given to the original buyer who had purchased it from us,” Kim said.

Since having the car back, Geoff has rebuilt and upgraded the motor, updated the rims and tyres, and replaced the bonnet.

“He wants to do a total body restoration at some stage, but for now he is just so happy to have it back in the family, where it will continue to stay — as he has no intention of ever selling it again!” Kim said.

Now that is a “happily ever after” worthy of a Hollywood film.

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Advanced Driver Assistance Systems While we are all familiar with the term ADAS, it is likely that there are still a great many of us who are not fully across the entire suite of systems and how they operate – both individually and collectively.

Advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), as the name suggests, are installed to assist the driver in the safe operation of a vehicle. Of course, there are various definitions of driver assistance. The U.S. Society of Automotive Engineers provides a succinct summary highlighting the progression from driver assistance to driver automation as the systems become more complex. This is shown in Figure 1.

If you’re thinking that the driver assistance system “won’t affect me” – it probably already has, as these interconnected systems are well and truly operational. The latest estimate is that ADAS is installed in more than 300 models from various manufacturers currently operating in our market.

ADAS is, of course, not just a feature of luxury vehicles; it is now standard equipment on base model, everyday family cars and its use is growing daily. As a consequence, the calibration of ADAS is becoming an increasingly important factor for collision repairers and we need to understand some of the key points and our responsibilities when dealing with these systems.

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combinations of the two, plus the need for diagnostic tools to access the system to perform the calibration. Recalibration of these systems is required following — amongst other processes — the repair of the body that mounts the radar, changing the windscreen, changing and/or repairing the suspension, chassis repairs that may have changed the geometry in any way, sensor replacements, and even adjusting the wheel alignment can all impact the performance of ADAS,” added Erickson.

In a similar vein, Hella Gutmann points out that it’s always essential to refer to the vehicle manufacturer’s instructions, and they too provide some scenarios when radar sensor calibration or adjustment is necessary: after radar sensor replacement or dismantling/installation, after post-accident repairs to the body geometry, after changes to the vehicle level at the front or rear axle, after a suspected impact on the sensor, if the electronic control unit (ECU) detects exceeded tolerance levels for the measuring field, or after the impact carrier has been dismantled.

It is of critical importance to understand the difference between “adjustment” and “calibration” of these sensors.

According to Gutmann, adjustment of many radar sensors can be done vertically and horizontally using two screws, similar to headlamp adjustments. This is purely a manual adjustment.

However, the CU needs to be taught the new adjusted position, which automatically calibrates the ADAS. David Erickson of Bosch Automotive Service Solutions outlines some of the components: forward-facing stereo camera, rearview cameras, long- and medium-range radar, lidar, surround cameras and ultrasound. All of these sensors input data for functions such as adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, lane keeping assist, automatic emergency braking systems, intelligent headlight control and more. Figure 2 shows that these various systems are positioned throughout the vehicle.

“The initial set-up for these systems requires a levelling device that attaches to the radar, use of a three-position radar reflection mirror, and targets to calibrate the cameras.

The processes include static and dynamic calibration,

Other generations of radar sensors are not equipped with mechanical adjustment features. If the system detects an error, or after any of the above-mentioned repairs/changes, the measuring field must be calculated again, and a compensation value configured in the ECU. In this case, calibration via the vehicle’s software and diagnostic tool is required.

I’m sure by now you’re getting the picture: returning ADAS to manufacturer specifications is critical to the safety of the vehicle and its occupants. What could possibly go wrong?

Well, according to a recent study by the U.S. Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), curves in the road are posing a

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challenge to advanced driver assistance features like adaptive cruise control (ACC) and more sophisticated partial automation systems, limiting their potential safety benefits.

manipulates the steering wheel or uses the indicator, or when the system’s sensors cannot detect the lines painted on the road.

ACC deactivates when the driver applies the brakes.

ACC and more advanced partial automation that combines ACC with lane centring are often disabled on some of the sharper curves present on limited-access roads, either because drivers switch the features off or they deactivate automatically. “We know that advanced driver assistance features may help prevent crashes, but obviously they can only do so if drivers use them,” said Wen Hu, IIHS Senior Research Transportation Engineer. “The study suggests that these technologies will only be able to reach their full potential if drivers trust them to handle the curves.”

Hu highlighted: “The fact that Pilot Assist was frequently inactive on the sharpest curves is an important limitation, since the kinds of crashes lane centring could help prevent are more likely to occur on curves than on straight roads.”

ACC works like conventional cruise control, but it automatically slows the vehicle to maintain a preselected following distance from the vehicle ahead, so the driver doesn’t need to repeatedly brake and reset the system. Lane centring provides automated steering assistance designed to keep the vehicle in the middle of the lane.

Interestingly, in a separate IIHS study, police-reported crashes showed that front crash prevention cuts rear-end crash rates in half and reduces rear-end crashes involving injuries by 56%. In addition, the appropriate use of ACC could further improve these figures since it typically results in greater following distances, giving drivers more time to react to an emergency ahead.

So, there is little doubt that the introduction and application of ADAS has had a significant impact on road safety when it operates in the manner in which it was intended.

All that being said, what is the takeaway?

Hu and her co-authors used data collected by the Massachusetts Institute of Technology’s advanced vehicle technology consortium. Onboard data-acquisition systems collected information from two 2016 Land Rover Range Rover Evoques and two 2017 Volvo S90 vehicles driven by 39 drivers over four weeks. The Evoques were equipped with ACC, and the S90s were equipped with both ACC and Volvo’s Pilot Assist partial automation system, which combines ACC and lane centring.

The data revealed that ACC and Pilot Assist were less likely to be active as curves became sharper. In the Evoque vehicles, drivers were 72% less likely to use ACC on the sharpest curves than on straight roads. In the S90 vehicles, drivers were 75% less likely to use Pilot Assist and 66% less likely to use ACC on the sharpest curves.

However, the researchers did not determine whether the driver switched off the system or it deactivated automatically. Lane centring can automatically become suspended when the driver

For more information on the vehicle autonomy levels, scan the QR code

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Essentially, it’s the repairer’s responsibility to return the vehicle to pre-accident condition and ensure that the safety systems are fully operational. How the driver uses the technology is a separate matter.

In summary, as ADAS technology continues to develop and vehicles begin to make the transition to partial autonomy, the challenge becomes even greater. Fortunately, there are several global organisations that operate in this space and can provide you with advice, solutions, equipment and training to help you navigate what appears to be an ever-increasing technology minefield.

MEMBER PROFILES

Colin’s Cee Bee Motors notches up half century It’s not every day a Member celebrates 50 years in business but Colin Borthwick, of Cee Bee Motors in Preston, Victoria, has done just that.

When Colin opened the doors on his first workshop in 1970, John Gorton was Prime Minister, the Beatles’ Let It Be was at the top of the pop charts, and Ford’s XY Falcon was rolling onto showroom floors across the country for the first time.

Colin had started his career in 1962 at the age of 17, joining the automotive industry because he’d always had an interest in motor vehicles as a kid.

Over the years Cee Bee Motors has moved premises a number of times, all within the Preston area, in Darebin in the northern suburbs of Melbourne. “We are now in the largest workshop we have had, due to the increase in our clientele over the years, and also feature a showroom for our used car sales,” Colin said.

The advice and opinions of anyone who has run a successful business for half a century are always worth hearing. So, what’s been the secret to Colin’s longevity in business?

“Work hard, be honest, and be polite,” he said. It’s a simple policy that’s clearly served him well. Cee Bee Motors offers a wide variety of mechanics’ services, including log book services, tuneups, road worthy certificates, air conditioning and VACC repairs.

Colin has been a Capricorn Member for decades and says he enjoys the benefits of being part of a large buying group, including having access to a wide range of suppliers, getting one monthly statement, and “being rewarded for what we spend”.

He likes to spend his rewards points on gift cards for his staff and family.

Colin’s promise to customers is “we are committed to delivering exceptional value and service from the moment you enter our centre”.

Participation in the Capricorn Rewards is subject to the Capricorn Rewards Terms and Conditions which can be found at capricorn.coop/terms-conditions

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Refining your automotive service processes - by Jeff Smit

Every recurring task in an automotive workshop should have method and order to it. The kinds of vehicles being serviced in aftermarket workshops are changing all the time, but are your processes changing at the same pace? This implies that recurring tasks need to be evaluated regularly if a workshop hopes to keep up to date and run at peak efficiency.

Have you ever seen the service process involved with the servicing of an aircraft engine? It’s extremely detailed and every step is documented, for obvious reasons.

We don’t need to go to that extreme, but a position somewhere in the middle would be ideal.

Revising service processes might seem like a time-consuming chore, but doing it in an orderly fashion will be worth the effort. Workshop efficiency will improve and any recurring service issues will be resolved. As a by-product, and a real bonus, the quality of work will rise, and training new technicians will become infinitely easier.

Where to start In considering what basic service processes need to be improved, start with the jobs that irritate you the most. It might be a task that takes longer than it should or one in which mistakes consistently occur. It doesn’t really matter if at first you don’t know exactly why it bothers you – the fact that it does is enough to indicate that something isn’t working as well as it should be.

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Involve your team

Start putting together a new process

As a workshop manager or owner, you may not be directly involved with everything that happens on the workshop floor, so process improvement needs to involve your team. Those doing the work will have the best knowledge of the specifics, so you should involve them in any refinement of the job process.

Simply rearranging the task order doesn’t help. Think about the process from the start and frame it without thinking too closely about how it has been performed in the past. New approaches to the job will often emerge and could lead to significant improvements.

Workshops should never be satisfied following the same process over and over if there is a better way to do the job. Routinely ask your team members to let you know if they think a job can be done better, because staff see things from a different perspective.

You can often pick up new processes through the networks you have joined or ones that you follow.

Networks can be a good source of information. The best information comes from those who have made changes and have reported great improvements by doing so.

Something measured is more likely to be improved To make sure any new process is worth adopting, you need measurements and statistics, such as the time taken for the job and the quality of the finished job. The reasons you are thinking about refining the process will give you a clue about what to measure.

By measuring routine jobs, and tracking progress on each one, patterns will emerge that will lead to the changes that will have the biggest impact on efficiency.

What’s the current process?

Mapping out the current process is the best way to visualise it and break it down into individual steps.

This will give you a benchmark by which future improvements can be measured.

An easy way to do this is to write down every individual step associated with the service process on its own sticky note, then stick them on a whiteboard in the order in which they are performed.

Review each individual step Look at each step in the process and question it. Why is it done this way? Can it be done differently? Is there a better way?

Look at the steps with fresh eyes and no bias. Think differently about what you’re doing and why you’re doing it. Just because something has been done a certain way for a long time doesn’t mean it’s the best way. Sometimes new steps might need to be added to the process, but generally speaking, it's best to cut the process down in size where possible.

Drafting up a new service process independent of the existing process will show any gaps between the two.

Identify those differences so that you can measure the changes that drive the biggest overall improvements.

Time to try the new process New processes developed by using this methodology may not be too different from your current process, and may not even be better. Before adopting it on the workshop floor, run through it with the leading technician.

Any service process should be used at least five times on the workshop floor to prove its value. If it falls short in some way, you will need to revisit the review.

Write it down and roll it out Throughout this process you should be writing down your progress and any revisions. At the very least, the finished process must be documented because this is what will be used to implement the changes on the workshop floor.

As well as being used to apply new processes universally in the workshop, these will be the processes used for training new technicians and will serve as a constant reminder of ‘this is the way it’s done around here’.

Monitor, watch and review Don’t stop at one process. Keep looking for the next process to improve, because technology is changing all the time. Today’s efficient process could be oldfashioned tomorrow.

Re-evaluate all your processes at regular intervals.

The process of change gets easier as the workshop becomes more efficient.

Set a goal to review two service procedures in the next month and team up with a staff member to make sure the project is completed and any changes are implemented.

Don’t assume every process is the right one. Question everything and interrogate the reasons for each step in a process and why it is done that way.

Aiming for consistent improvement within the workshop, no matter how small the improvements, is really a basic management duty for survival. Every improvement you make will deliver savings in time, effort and resourcing.

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BUSINESS BUILDING

Tools and resources that could change your workshop life Sometimes you just need a little hint to find something amazing.

Something to help you overcome a challenge, or a tip to give you the edge to take your workshop one step further.

We’re all about sharing the tips and tricks we’ve learned at Capricorn, so we rounded up four tools or resources you may not have heard of and explain how they can help improve your life.

These are not the only fantastic resources available to you as a Capricorn Member. Check out the full range of Capricorn Preferred Suppliers in the Purple Pages. If it’s in your workshop, it’s in the Purple Pages.

Capricorn Service Data The Motor Vehicle Service and Repair Information Sharing Scheme Bill may have been passed into law, yet between now and 1 July 2022 there are a lot of logistics to work out to begin accessing manufacturer service data.

In the meantime, Capricorn Service Data gives you instant access to the most comprehensive range of online service information covering thousands of vehicles. It includes manufacturers’ service schedules, service illustrations and repair times.

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Powered by Autodata — whose global database features 34,000 vehicles from over 60 manufacturers, 96% of cars-on-road coverage in Australia and 87% in New Zealand, 92,000 diagrams, 600,000 step-by-step procedures and 46,500 updates in the last 12 months — Capricorn Service Data is an exclusive Member service provided at no charge.

AAAA Car Parc Data Tool AAAA’s Car Parc is a simple, interactive tool that uses realworld data to help you find out what vehicles are the most popular in your area.

The tool generates a customised report, specific to your locality, using actual statewide and national demographic data.

At a click of a button, you can get information about the cars being used in any local government area in the country. You simply choose a postcode and Car Parc generates a series of

graphical reports with detailed and useful data.

Over the past 11 months, we’ve shown you how you can get the most out of the AAAA Car Parc Data Tool to help with parts inventory, marketing, and futureproofing in your workshop.

I-CAR Training 31% of Capricorn Members rate changing technology as one of the biggest challenges to running an automotive business, with 44% seeing it as one of the biggest challenges facing the industry.

The I-CAR vision is for every person in the collision repair industry to have access to the information, knowledge and skills required to complete safe and quality repairs for their customers during a time of unprecedented technological change.

I-CAR develops technical training programs and delivers them to professionals in all areas of the collision industry. In addition, I-CAR provides a communication forum for anyone interested in proper collision repair. Funding by student tuition allows I-CAR Australia to remain unbiased in developing programs and services on an industry-wide basis.

Podium In the 2021 Capricorn State of the Nation report, 78% of Members told us they still rely on word of mouth to market their business, and only 27% are encouraging customers to leave online reviews. Online marketing and reviews are an important part of the modern marketing mix; however, it can be a timeconsuming task to obtain numerous customer reviews and manage multiple marketing platforms.

Podium aims to solve this conundrum, which is a common problem for local businesses everywhere, not just in the automotive industry. Soon after creating their platform, Podium realised messaging with customers wasn’t just the better way to get reviews—it’s the better way to do business. They’ve since built a multi-product platform that’s modernising the way local business is conducted.

Their core product makes getting reviews as easy as sending a text. Today, their product suite helps you easily collect feedback in real time, organise SMS campaigns, and connect with your website visitors.

Scan the QR codes for more information on each resource/tool.

CAPRICORN IGNITION NOVEMBER 2021 2 3

Out of the box ideas for your next social event Everyone loves a good get-together or team-building event; here are some ideas to consider for your next event.

If the adverts and catalogues haven’t gotten to you yet, maybe our festive article will! The party season is almost upon us, and if you haven’t started, you’re probably about to start planning your year-end team event.

Apart from being fun (and we could all do with a bit more of that), year-end team events are a fantastic way to promote trust, communication, and relationships between your team members. In the 2021 Capricorn State of the Nation report, 30% of Members told us they host social events and other teambuilding activities to promote a positive work culture.

Whether you have begun to plan your event, or are yet to start, here are some ideas to consider (we’ve even got some ideas for those of us caught in lockdown).

Fun event ideas No longer are team events just a BBQ and beers. Thinking outside the box for events is a great way to get out and experience new things together and create fantastic memories for you and your staff.

Ever heard of experiential activities? These can involve escape rooms, scavenger hunts, cooking classes or learning a skill together. Getting together to do something productive can be fantastic for team building and enjoyable for all.

Don’t forget about the joy of getting out, about and a bit physical.

Take a vote and get out to try something like go-karting, golf, laser tag, the list is endless. Just make sure to consider any team members with physical limitations when planning this type of event.

Got some competitive team members? Get some games going.

We are partial to a very competitive quiz night at Capricorn, 24 CAPRICORN IGNITION NOVEMBER 2021

but you could also get some board games going, plan a murder mystery experience, or have a food challenge (see wine tasting or best curry challenges).

You and the team could also volunteer in your local community.

For the ultimate ‘good feels’ as you head into the silly season, volunteering with your team for a local charity can help boost morale and foster a spirit of giving amongst your team.

Top tip: If you have partners or families attending, don’t forget to begin with an icebreaker activity to get rid of the initial awkwardness.

Sorting out the details We recommend noting down all of the costs involved in the event and setting your budget early. Once your budget is set, revisit it often so you can make sure you stick to it. There are numerous templates for events budgeting online; make sure to pick one that fits you.

As Christmas proves every year, time flies past us very quickly, so start event planning early. Make sure you have given yourself adequate time to complete all of the tasks to make it easier on yourself later on. Starting early will also give you a greater option of dates as calendars are normally emptier the further in the future they are set.

Make sure to match the details to the type of event you are hosting. For example, make sure you have the appropriate venue if you are hosting an event like a cooking class, a games night, or another experience. Making sure details like entertainment, venue and catering match your event type will ensure an enjoyable attendee experience.

Top Tip: Don’t forget the wi-fi! If your attendees will need their phones, or you need to be able to access the internet, make sure to check the wi-fi at the venue.

Top tip: When booking suppliers for your event make sure you check their cancellation policy, especially in relation to any cancellations or amendments due to Covid restrictions.

All events have things which don’t quite go to plan, so make sure to provide some backup plans for the higher risk items.

For example, if you are hosting an outdoor event, make sure to have a backup pergola or marquee in case the weather is poor on the day.

Top tip: Tick the big items off early and get them out of the way. For example, get the venue and entertainment ticked off first, which leaves you free to work on the smaller details.

Organising the people If you need assistance organising the event, enlist some helpers and delegate. Managing bookings like entertainment, furniture hire, and transport can easily be handed over to someone else, allowing you to focus on the bigger items.

Don’t forget to round up some people to help on the day as well. Whether that consists of hiring support staff, or asking some of your team to help, ask a team of people to help with set-up, pack down and cleaning after the event.

Looking to cater your event yourself? Woolworths at Work is now here to allow Capricorn Members to shop for their groceries and everyday essentials using their Capricorn Trade Account*. Earn more Capricorn Rewards Points as you benefit from free delivery on orders over $99**. Woolworths at Work really is the easier, smarter, and healthier way to shop.

Find out more at capricorn.coop/shop

For those in lockdown We know for some around the country it’s a tough time to discuss events when they are dealing with the struggle of lockdowns. However, it’s important to keep in contact with those we care about and maintain our social connections to look after our mental health and wellbeing.

An online event may not be the same as catching up in person, but it can be a great alternative to celebrate in a socially distant way. We’ve all become familiar with Zoom, Teams and Skype over the last couple of years, so here are some ideas to shake up your next online catch up.

Keeping everyone fed

Team-building and games nights don’t have to stop when you move online. There are a range of fun online games to play together using the wonders of technology. For a fantastic Pictionary alternative, you can check out Skribbl.io or maybe start a new game of Catan with Catan Universe. For the more experienced gamers amongst us, you could even set up an inter-workshop competition on a battle royale like Fortnite or Overwatch or compete in your very own racing series on games like Assetto Corsa Competizione.

The way to people’s hearts is through food, so getting the catering right is incredibly important. Again, it’s important to match the event with the catering. Having a sit-down dinner? A plated meal would be appropriate. Having cocktails in a stand-up venue? Easily eaten finger food will be easier for your guests to manage.

If you are looking for something a little more lo-fi, you could host a quiz night with all your favourite topics, a lip-sync battle with all the golden oldies, a themed dress-up party or an eat-off where attendees try to bring the most interesting food to the event.

Top tip: Get invitations out early so people can organise their calendars and RSVP. There is no busier time than the end of the year, so make sure to communicate your plans early.

Top tip: When inviting people make sure to ask their dietary requirements. This will let you know up front who you need to cater for, and what kind of dietary allowances to ask of your catering vendor.

You can also use Woolworths at Work to create care packages for staff as little ways to thank them for their support throughout the year.*

* Find out more about Woolworths at Work and view the full terms and conditions at Capricorn.coop/shop **Only applicable in non-remote areas where delivery is available; and for an 8 hour window. Bag fees apply.

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PREPARING YOUR FINANCES FOR CHANGE The pace of change in the world isn’t slowing down, making it hard to plan and prepare. Here are our top tips for preparing your finances for change.

The last 18 months have proven how quickly our world can change. Since Covid-19 began we’ve locked down, moved out of the office and maintained this thing called ‘social distancing.’ However, Covid-19 isn’t our first foray into paradigm shifting. For the last few decades, the world has been changing at an exponential rate.

This can make it difficult to plan and prepare for the future because so much is unclear. What’s going to impact us and our businesses? It’s scary to try to financially plan for your business, when it’s hard to keep up with the rate of change.

Being prepared can be a series of small tasks building towards a better tomorrow.

So here are our top tips for preparing your finances for change.

Inventory management

Keeping your parts inventory to the necessities reduces the outlay required for a large amount of stock and allows you to change your inventory easily. Explore your Preferred Supplier options and find ones with great delivery options, allowing you to be lean with the parts you keep in stock.

Inventory management also helps reduce the number of unused parts you keep in your workshop. We all know the ones: the parts we anticipated using but the job never came to fruition, or a superior part became available and now we have a corner of outdated parts we aren’t sure we will ever use.

Keep your parts inventory to just what you need and it will reduce the financial burden a large inventory requires. (It may also make the parts you do have in your workshop easier to find!)

Keep up to date

Everywhere we look there is something new, whether it be in cars, your smartphone or your staff. No matter where you look,

you can probably point to something that wasn’t there last year.

It’s important to try to keep up with what’s changing, even if you only have a summary. Having a general idea of what may be arriving soon will highlight your opportunities and where you need to prepare. Knowing what you may need to invest in for the near future will allow you to start financially planning for it today.

Keeping up to date on new technology will also show where you can upskill your staff. Whether on the tools or on the books, keeping your staff up to date not only helps them complete tasks quicker, but it also means you can start working on your business rather than in it.

Working on your business means you can start preparing for the future and planning how you are going to structure your finances to thrive.

If you aren’t sure where to start, have a chat with your accountant. They can often recommend a financial advisor who can help with planning for the future. You can also check out the Purple Pages for financial advisors in your zone if you would like to chat to someone with automotive experience.

Fine-tune your processes

Most financial management software or accounting suites have a range of addons or plug-ins that can help make getting the paperwork done easier. Make sure to investigate which ones could work for you and start upskilling your staff to use them.

This gives you and your staff time to spend on the tasks which add the most value to your business.

If you’re looking for extra flexibility with your cash flow, don’t be scared to investigate your payment options with different business partners. For example, you could organise to pay some business bills weekly or fortnightly, spreading out the cost and making month end a little smoother. Lots of companies have a range of options, so don’t feel shy to ask for a payment solution

which works for you.

Spend some of that extra time you now have getting comfortable with your Profit and Loss (P&L) or Income Statement. Your P&L can tell you a lot about the health of your business and where you may need to adjust your approach. However, it can take some time to understand, so don’t forget to contact your accountant or financial advisor if you need help.

Keep business purchases as efficient as possible by putting as many purchases as possible through your Capricorn Trade Account. Not only do you get Capricorn Bonus Points, but you save administration time with everything appearing on one statement. To see what else you can put on your trade account, check out the Purple Pages for everything from trailer parts to financial advisors to solar panels. If it’s in your business, it’s in the Purple Pages.

Plan ahead

Some events come around every year, no matter how much we wish time would slow down. Events like tax time and Christmas happen at the same time every year, so factor them into your planning. If you know you are going to be slower over the Christmas period, or your tax will be due in July, make sure to consider this when planning.

If you know you’re going to need to invest in new equipment, make sure to start early.

You can contact Capricorn Finance well before your purchase to find out what you’re eligible to borrow and whether you can be pre-approved. Then you know where you stand before exploring your equipment options.

Capricorn Members have easy access to a range of stress-free finance options to help their business grow. We’re committed to putting our Members first, which is why we strive to simplify the process of investing in new capital equipment.

Visit capricorn.coop/equipment-finance for more information.

This article does not, nor is it intended to, constitute legal, financial or other independent professional advice. Please consult your professional adviser before relying on any information contained herein. Capricorn Finance offers business equipment finance through Capricorn Society Limited (ACN 008 347 313) and brokers business finance through Capricorn Society Financial Services Pty Ltd (ACN 129 134 667). Fees and charges, terms and conditions, and lending criteria apply.

IT’S 9,000 PLUS AUTO REPAIRERS... ...who have each other’s backs

Join us!

Capricorn Members can access mutual protection that unlike profit driven insurance, is owned by and run for, the same auto repairers who are part of it.

Find out how you’re better off with Capricorn Risk Services.

1800 007 022 | info@capricornrisk.com | capricorn.coop/risk Products sold through Capricorn Risk Services Pty Ltd (ABN 93 111 632 789) are: (i) discretionary risk protection products issued by Capricorn Mutual Ltd; and (ii) general insurance products issued by a range of insurers and brokered through Capricorn Insurance Services Pty Ltd. Before deciding to acquire any product you should consider the Product Disclosure Statement available from Capricorn Risk Services Pty Ltd to see if the product is appropriate for you. Capricorn Risk Services Pty Ltd is a Corporate Authorised Representative (No. 460893) of Capricorn Mutual Ltd (AFSL 230038) and Capricorn Insurance Services Pty Ltd (AFSL 435197).

TM

PREFERRED SUPPLIER PROFILES DAIMLER TRUCKS TOOWOOMBA 3

YEARS PREFERRED SUPPLIER

QUEENSLAND dttoowoomba.com.au

For 85 years the friendly staff at Daimler Trucks Toowoomba have been selling and servicing new and used vehicles in Wilsonton & Gatton and the surrounding region of Queensland. As a family owned, multi-award-winning dealer, Daimler Trucks Toowoomba pride themselves on their sales, service and customer satisfaction.

They provide expert after-sales service with courtesy pick-up and drop-off convenience. Daimler Trucks Toowoomba supply genuine parts, accessories, lubricants and chemicals for Mercedes-Benz Trucks, Freightliner, Fuso, New Holland Agriculture and New Holland Construction vehicles.

DISGEN WA disgen.com.au

NEW PREFERRED SUPPLIER

Disgen is proudly WA-owned and operated. Disgen makes it easy for Australian businesses to benefit from low-cost clean solar energy. They achieve this by paying for the up-front and ongoing costs of the solar power system.

This means there is no capital cost to Capricorn Members.

Members pay Disgen a discounted rate which could be as much as 40% cheaper than their existing cost for solar power. Capricorn Members also enjoy regular reporting of both financial and environmental savings.

2 8 CAPRICORN IGNITION NOVEMBER 2021

15+

YEARS PREFERRED SUPPLIER

AMR MANUFACTURING

DRIVELINE SERVICES AUSTRALIA

28

YEARS PREFERRED SUPPLIER

QLD, NSW/ACT driveline.com.au

VIC/TAS amrgas.com

AMR Manufacturing is a high-quality manufacturer and importer of LPG automotive gas conversion parts and kits in Australia.

With over 25 years of industry sales and distribution they have one of the largest ranges of LPG auto-gas parts and conversion kits found anywhere in Australia. Based in Oakleigh, Victoria, they have been supplying AMR products to thousands of automobile gas conversion businesses and installer mechanics for decades.

Check out AMR Manufacturing for Australian-made auto-gas parts and conversion kits with competitive prices.

Driveline Services Australia is Australia’s leading family owned and operated underbody and power transmission specialist. In 2022, Driveline will celebrate 40 years, and its 12 branches and over 100 staff are proud be the go-to company for miners, engineers, boat builders, farmers, fleet owners, machine operators and drivers.

As a performance partner they are an engaged team of driveline and power transmission professionals actively partnering with workshops, sites and teams to improve the life, reliability and cost of your drivetrain supply and maintenance. Driveline is unique in offering a ‘whole of drivetrain’ parts and services inventory and experience. Their 12 branches can repair, replace or rebuild your complete drivetrain, from the drive to the driven .

C h a t s nce a L

Order your Gift Cards before Friday, 26 November For the best chance of delivery before Xmas.

E-Vouchers can also be ordered up until 17 December. All other physical items should be ordered by 5 November for Xmas delivery. Participation in the Capricorn Rewards Program is subject to the Capricorn Rewards Terms and Conditions available at capricorn.coop/tc

capricorn.coop/rewards The dates and times set out in this advertisement are a general guide only. No guarantee of delivery before Christmas is made and Capricorn will not be held liable for any failure to deliver items before Christmas regardless of the date on which they are ordered.

CAPRICORN CLASSIFIEDS Classifieds Advertising Guidelines • The Capricorn Classifieds are for Capricorn Members only to advertise. Payment is to be organised between advertiser and purchaser.

• Parts or equipment that relate to your business only may be advertised.

• Businesses for sale may be advertised.

• Cars for sale cannot be advertised.

• Classifieds are on a first come, first served basis.

• Depending on the number received, your classified may not appear immediately.

• No positions vacant.

• No pictures to be submitted.

• By submitting the Online Capricorn Classifieds Ad Form, you acknowledge that the price of any goods or services shown is inclusive of GST.

Mechanical Workshop, Port Macquarie Great opportunity to take successful business to the next level. One of town’s longest serving and best located workshops – four hoists, extremely well equipped, call Maca for more info. 0414 850 365.

Jaguar/Landrover Wrecking Business for sale, in Outer Eastern Melbourne.

Established for 40 years. New and Used parts.

All equipment inc Hoists, Forklift, Ford Ute, Shelving/Racking, Tools, Office Computers. $75,000 plus stock Ph: 0427270542

Mechanical Workshop, Melbourne VIC Est. in 1962 with current owner for 12yrs, located in Bayside, mechanical service & sales, very prominent loc. Owner retiring. Ph: 0411 460 460

Mechanical Workshop, Woodford Qld Fully equip family business servicing the community since 1995. Well established customer base, large 4 bay shed (long lease available) 3 hoists, office, amenities and wash bay. Enquiries 0408767366 or dawnevandriver@hotmail.com

Mechanical & Tyre Service.

79 Woods Street DONALD VIC 3480 Established business of 29+ years. Prominent position in centre of town, covering large rural area. Plenty of area for growth. WIWO. Building not included. Building Leased Owner Retiring. $145,000 plus stock Phone 03 54971 202

Auto Electrical business in Northern Victoria. Well established business with large customer base. Includes service vehicle, tools, air conditioning equipment. Freehold available. $190,000 plus SAV. Contact Lee 03 5452 1813.

Auto Electrical Business For Sale Armidale Northern NSW Long lease or option to purchase strata premises. Currently two auto electricians very busy. Massive potential. $120k + stock.

Owner retiring but available for handover.

Phone Richard 0427 751 703

Mechanical, Radiator Repair and Parts Supply Business For Sale Gold Coast. Long established, RACQ Approved, Strong Client Base, High Turnover with great potential to expand. Currently managed, also fantastic opportunity for owner operator. Call Alex 0459 424 777

Auto Air Conditioning and Auto Electrical business in Central Bendigo area.

Established 30+years. High turnover, long lease available. Plant and Equipment. Owners retiring. Phone Dianne 0438020857

Automotive Workshop Eastern Suburbs Melbourne. Established business of 35+ years.

Mechanical servicing and repairs. Prominent location close to major shopping centre. 4 Hoists & equipment Expression of interest Call Russell 0417339617

Fully Equipped Mechanical Workshop For Sale Established 30+ years. Specialising in Italian cars. Thomastown location. Strong customer base. Long lease available. Phone Sandra 0417392998 Business for sale Clermont Motors Central QLD. Includes commercial and 4wd parts, truck and trailer parts, tyres, windscreens, batteries. Customer base consists of mining, farming, grazing, transport and retail clients Growth potential within the region. 1400m purpose built workshop which includes pits, hoists, 3 offices, warehouse, retail display area Email: reception@clermontmotors.com.au Mechanical Workshop, Alexandra Victoria.

Well established business of 10 years with exceptional turnover and profits. WIWO. Rent or freehold options available. All reasonable offers considered. Contact 0409514502 Mechanical Workshop, Yatala Region, QLD 3 Bay fully equipped workshop. Established 1995 with very loyal customer base & various fleet customers. Excellent reputation. New 5 year lease. Phone Alan Minshull 0407 002 148 Mechanical Workshop for sale, Outer Eastern Melbourne. Specialized in German Cars, Family Business for 30 years, Owner retiring, Huge potential to expand, Long lease available, Call: Klaus 0466527707

Email: ignition@capricorn.coop Publisher's General Disclaimer All information, material and content contained in this edition of Ignition is provided or sourced by Capricorn Society Limited (“Capricorn”) for general information only and is not intended to be advice or comment on any particular matter or subject.

Before acting on any information you should consider the relevance of it to your own circumstances and, if necessary, take professional advice.

Capricorn makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy, completeness or reliability of any material (including, without limitation, any third party supplier advertisement in respect of which Capricorn merely acts as a conduit) included in this edition of Ignition. To the fullest extent permitted by law Capricorn, its officers, employees, agents and representatives disclaim any and all liability to you or any other person for any loss or damage whatsoever connected with: (i) reliance on material in Ignition; or (ii) inaccuracy, error or omission in material in Ignition.

Capricorn, Stronger With Capricorn, Ignition, Capricorn Travel, Capricorn Mutual and the boomerangs device are trademarks or registered trademarks of Capricorn.

If you have any news or information that you think would be of interest to your fellow members, please send the information to Capricorn via email ignition@capricorn.coop.

Capricorn Society Limited ACN 008 347 313 Postal Address: Locked Bag 3003, West Perth WA 6872 Registered Office Australia: 28 Troode Street, West Perth WA 6005 Phone (08) 6250 9500 General Enquiries 1800 999 233 Members 1800 327 437 Suppliers 1800 005 322

N R O C I R P A C

LAST MONTH'S ANSWERS LAST MONTH'S WINNERS 1st Prize - 4,000 points JAC Auto Services 2nd Prize - 2,000 points Naracoorte Truck & Bus

Email your answers to ignition@capricorn.coop before the 25th of November. Winners will be selected by a lucky hat draw of correct entries. Please ensure you include your Member number and email address when submitting your entry.

WORD

Find the 15 words hidden in the jumble. They could be horizontal, vertical, diagonal or backwards. See if you can find them all!

DRIVER

MANUFACTURER

MUTUAL

ALLOY

ELECTRICAL

SENSORS

NATIONAL

BATTERIES

BENEFITS

HYBRID

INVESTMENT

MECHANICAL

ADVERTISING

REPAIRING

HARDWARE

CAPRICORN IGNITION NOVEMBER 2021 3 1

Have a Cracker Christmas Win a $500 Holiday Hamper

Stuff more than your stockings with a hamper full of goodies from Woolworths at Work.

Simply shop with Woolworths at Work in November and December to receive 1 x entry for every $50 spent.

Start Shopping!

capricorn.coop/shop | (AU) 1800 327 437 Competition prizes include 2 x $500 Woolworths at Work Hampers to be given away in separate draws taking place in December and January. Eligible Capricorn Members will receive 1 x entry into the December draw for every $50 spent with Woolworths at Work on a Capricorn trade account between 1 – 30 November. Eligible Capricorn Members will receive 1 x entry into the January draw for every $50 spent with Woolworths at Work on a Capricorn trade account between 1 – 31 December. Hampers will be delivered within 4 weeks of each prize draw. Products displayed in this advertisement are included for demonstrative purposes only and may not be included in the hampers. For full competition terms and conditions please visit capricorn.coop/tc.