ENDORSED BY
Intraregional supply chain soluƟons from producer to consumer
Commercial Vehicles
The truck market in 2014
Legislation New customs laws
Logistics Operating
in sub-Saharan Africa
Volvo Trucks’ brake specialist, Mats Sabelström
““We We had a plan and we worked our plan.” Craig C r a Uren, Isuzu Trucks SA
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ISSN 1684-7946 January/February 2014 Vol.Mar/Apr 12 No. 12013 / R40.00 incl.No. VAT2 / R40.00 incl. VAT ISSN 1684-7946 Vol. 11
ENDORSED BY
Intraregional
Commercial
The truck
Vehicles
mar ket in
2014
Legislation
customs laws New
supply chain
soluƟons from
producer to
consumer
Logistics
in sub-Sah Operating aran Africa
Intraregional supply chain solutions from producer to consumer onsumee r
COVER STORY TOR RY Volvo Trucks rucks boosts safety ty on slippery roads oads
INSIDE
Volvo Trucks brake specia ’ Mats Sabels list, tröm
P4 P 4 ““W We e ha d a pla n an d we Cra ig Ure n, Isu zu Tru wo rke d ou r pla n.” cks SA
THIS ISSUE E
ISSN 1684-7
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946 January /Februa ISSN 1684-7 ry 2014 946 Vol.Mar/Ap 12 No.r 12013 / R40.00 Vol. 11 incl.No. VAT2 / R40.00
REGULARS
Izuzu – Cost savings for the customer
Editor’s comment Exciting road ahead
Trailers – Operating advice
FESARTA Growing credibility and stature Cover story Volvo Trucks boosts safety on slippery roads Regional news
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Trailers – Increased output, improved times New codes in BEE
Logistics in sub-Saharan Africa
Scania’s Driver of the Year
No cash! No problems!
Ensuring swifter delivery to customers Investing R4.8 million to train staff and community Company values need to be a drivers values as well Pinpoint your cargo through Africa Ctrack – First rank ratings UD – 2013 defied expectations
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8 10 12 13 14 16 17 18
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SUPPLY CHAIN LOGISTICS
COMMERCIAL VEHICLES New vehicles – Outlook for the 2014 truck market
incl. VAT
SAAFF offers international diploma New legislation facilitates trade Proposed changes to the SA international shipping tax The Port of Durban Multibillion rand fuel deal Developing the copper railway IATA – Global Standards for Africa
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EDITOR’S COMMENT
Exciting road ahead
D
Editor in action
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UE TO DEMAND from the market place, Transport World Africa is increasing its circulation both in South Africa and in sub-Saharan and East Africa. Our online stats have grown phenomenally over the past year, Transport World Africa has seen a 203% increase in unique visits to its website; pages viewed grew by 164%. The transport and logistic industry is reading and finding value in our relevant and original content! As a result of this demand, we are increasing our distribution by 35%. The combined circulation will now be 13 600, including 5 500 printed and 8 100 digital magazines. Distribution into Africa will also increase by 83%, with 700 copies going to nine African countries. Can you afford not to be part of this significant growth? • Your target market is reading our unique content as proven by the online statistics. • Widely increased distribution offers you more exposure and value for your money. • The increased reach into Africa gives your brand the necessary presence in these markets. Grow with us, share in our success and increase your company’s brand exposure! I am optimistic that 2014 is going to be an exciting year in Africa as business continues expanding operations on the continent. In this issue, Scania expands its driver competition to include all truck drivers irrespective of the vehicle they drive. Isuzu tells us how its plans are paying dividends, MAN opens its world class distribution centre and we also look at transportation into sub-Saharan Africa. UD Trucks explains how 2013 defied expectations and what their outlook is for 2014, we look at the new BEE codes as well as what 2014 has in store in both the trucking and trailer markets. Looking at supply chain logistics we find out how Customs is changing business, the international shipping tax regime, the Port of Durban and Transnets’ multibillion rand fuel deal. As always, a varied read – enjoy!
TWA | Jan/Feb 2014
Publisher Elizabeth Shorten Editor Simon Foulds • simon@3smedia.co.za Head of design Frédérick Danton Senior designer Hayley Mendelow Designer Kirsty Galloway Contributors Barney Curtis, Sue-Marie Winshaw, Hester Hopkins, Eric Stuttaford, James Milne, Sarah O’Carrol, Craig Parker Chief sub-editor Claire Nozaïc Sub-editor Beatrix Knopjes Client services & production manager Antois-Leigh Botma Production coordinator Jacqueline Modise Marketing manager Hestelle Robinson Digital manager Esther Louw Distribution manager Nomsa Masina Distribution coordinator Asha Pursotham Financial manager Andrew Lobban Administrator Tonya Hebenton Printers United Litho JHB • t +27 (0)11 402 0571 Advertising sales Hanlie Fintelman • h.fintelman@lantic.net t +27 (0)12 543 2564
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www.3smedia.co.za Annual subscription: R290 (incl VAT) subs@3smedia.co.za ISSN 1684-7946 © Copyright. All rights reserved. All articles herein Transport World Africa are copyrightprotected and may not be reproduced either in whole or in part without the prior written permission of the publisher. The views of contributors do not necessarily reflect those of the publishers.
FESARTA COMMENT
By Barney Curtis, chief executive officer, FESARTA
Growing credibility and stature FESARTA’s credibility and stature in the East and Southern African region are growing steadily.
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T HAS ALWAYS had a good working relationship with SSATP (Africa Transport Policy Programme), funded by the World Bank. This is because SSATP was one of the first international organisations to recognise the importance of the private sector in the process of improving the efficiency of transport in Africa. SSATP used to be the acronym for Sub-Saharan Africa Transport Policy Programme, but the closer working relationship between SSATP and the AU resulted in the AU calling on SSATP to develop transport policy for the whole of Africa and not just sub-Saharan Africa. The full acronym was retained, since the board felt that it was well known and should not be changed. FESARTA participates in most of the SSATP meetings. FESARTA has carried out three projects for SSATP: Monitoring Beitbridge border, monitoring Chirundu border and assessing the HIV/AIDS interventions in our region. Recently, FESARTA was invited to submit its application for a position on the SSATP Board. At the time of writing, we are likely to hear the outcome of this application at the SSATP Annual Meeting, held in Dakar on the 12 December.
IRU The International Road Transport Union (IRU) has also shown its interest in closer cooperation with FESARTA. FESARTA has in the past tried to become a member of IRU, but financial constraints have prevented this. Now there is an opportunity to achieve this goal, through the IRU Regional Committee for Africa (CRIPA). A cooperation agreement has been drawn up and signed in Abidjan on the 13 December; after the SSATP Annual Meeting in Dakar. Whilst FESARTA may not receive direct benefits from this cooperation with the IRU, it is sure to have long-term indirect benefits such as the two-way flow of useful information and the opportunity to introduce IRU systems and schemes into Africa. As there are virtually no costs to FESARTA in entering into such an agreement, it makes sense to at least try it.
Infrastructure consortium FESARTA was a panellist at the recent AfDB’s Infrastructure Consortium for Africa (ICA) annual meeting, held in Arusha early in December 2013. While the same tired issue were discussed, some progress has been made. In addition, there was good networking with some of the international cooperating partners. FESARTA will be circulating a report on this meeting.
NTBs Four Non-Tariff Barriers (NTBs) affecting the road transport industry have been recently added to the Tripartite system. They are: • NTB605 – Unrest on the DRC side of the Kasumbalesa border. The unrest has been temporarily halted, but the underlying causes still remain. • NTB606 – Security problems for transporters as they enter the port of Beira. The Mozambique police have intervened and we will watch this closely. • NTB608 – Zambia is to toll all vehicles using its roads. This is in addition to the tolls that foreign transporters pay at the borders. There is work to be done to resolve this problem. • NTB609 – Transporters being harassed for overall length in Botswana. The limit is 22 m, plus a bullbar, but this is not being accepted by the authorities.
Beit bridge border post on the Zimbabwean side
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COVER STORY
VOLVO TRUCKS
Boosting safety on As one of the world’s leaders in safety technology, Volvo Trucks has introduced Stretch Brake, which is a new innovation that will minimise the risk for trucks travelling on slippery roads.
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OR TRUCKS with trailers, slippery roads and downhill gradients represent a tough challenge for even the most skilled drivers. There is always the risk of the rig becoming unstable and – in the worst-case scenario – starting to jack-knife. Volvo Trucks’ new system, called Stretch Brake, automatically retards the trailer and straightens up the rig on slippery downhill stretches.
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Mats Sabelström, brake specialist for Volvo Trucks, says: “Even if the truck driver ultimately manages to control the situation, it can be extremely unpleasant for both oncoming road users and the truck driver if a rig suddenly veers off its intended course on a downhill gradient.” Even though South Africa is currently in the midst of summer, countries in the northern hemisphere are experiencing some extremely challenging winter conditions. Carl Johan Almqvist, the director of Traffic and Product Safety at Volvo Trucks, adds: “Every year, approximately 15 % of the 30 000 serious road accidents in Europe
TWA offers advertisers an ideal platform to ensure maximum exposure of their brand. Companies are afforded the opportunity of publishing a two-page cover story and a cover picture to promote their products to an appropriate audience. Please call Hanlie Fintelman on +27(0)12 463 2564 or e-mail her at h.fintelman@lantic.net to secure your booking.
COVER STORY
slippery roads involve trucks. Although this is a declining trend, however, with more effective brakes, stability systems and collision warning systems already helping drivers avoid risky situations in difficult conditions. Stretch Brake is yet another important part of our long-term drive to increase traffic safety and minimise the number of accidents involving trucks.” Stretch Brake is a complement to the rig’s electronic stability programme – yet another system that Volvo Trucks was the first truck maker in the world to introduce. While ESP is at its most effective at higher speeds, Stretch Brake is only operational at speeds below 40 km/h. Both systems contribute to better stability and easier steering. Sabelström states: “One might call Stretch Brake a kind of low-speed electronic stability programme. As the rig approaches a downhill slope, the driver manually activates the system. When the driver then releases the accelerator, the brakes on the trailer are automatically applied in a pulsated mode all the way down the hill until the gradient levels out and speed can once again be increased.”
In Europe, Stretch Brake was introduced in 2012 on Volvo FH trucks pulling drawbar trailers and in 2013 on Volvo FM trucks pulling drawbar trailers. In 2014, it will also become available for Volvo FH and FM semi-trailer rigs there. Concludes Almqvist: “Drivers who have tested Stretch Brake came away very impressed with the system. As we now also introduce the system on tractor-semitrailer rigs, even more drivers will be able to negotiate difficult downhill gradients both more simply and safely.”
O Opposite Jackknifing occurs k when the trailer w sslides forward and swings out a L Left The driver c can activate tthe Stretch B Brake system Below Mats B Sabelstrom, S brake specialist b ffor Volvo Trucks
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REGIONAL NEWS
Read more on www.transportworldafrica.co.za
SOUTH AFRICA
10 ppm diesel launched SASOL HAS LAUNCHED its new fuel, the TurbodieselTM ULS 10 ppm, which is the lowest sulphur content diesel available in South Africa. According to Sasol, the fuel has advanced detergency and lubricity properties to keep the engine and fuel injection system clean and well protected, plus it is ideally suited to complement modern day fuel to enable these engines to run efficiently, while producing less harmful exhaust emissions. This development is a step forward in moving South Africa closer to cleaner fuel specifications in line with international standards and this new fuel already complies with the sulphur and cetane requirements. Mohamed Carrim, retail manager at Sasol Oil, says: “We are continuously looking for ways to enhance our products to enable the latest technology vehicles to be introduced in South Africa and ultimately benefit the general consumer. It is indeed a huge milestone for Sasol and South Africa. “The Sasol TurbodieselTM ULS 10 ppm is suitable for all diesel vehicles, from the latest technology to older generation models, with or without turbocharging.“ He adds: “A key part of the Sasol TurbodieselTM ULS 10 ppm is its advanced detergency. This prevents or removes deposit build-up in the engine and fuel system, allowing the engine to operate at optimum efficiency and sustain optimum fuel consumption over time. Continued use will maintain new fuel systems as well as clean up dirty fuel systems.” It will initially be available at 78 forecourts in Gauteng and Mpumalanga and then will be selectively rolled-out to other areas in 2014 and 2015. Mohamed Carrim, retail manager at Sasol Oil
LIMPOPO
Delivering 6 million school books THE TASK OF distributing six million school books to 5 000 schools in Limpopo and the Northern Cape has been awarded to Imperial Logistics group company, Imperial Truck Rental, by the South African Post Office (SAPO). Johnny Wright, MD at Imperial Truck Rental, says: “We believe our job is not just about providing trucks – it’s about giving our customers the solutions and support they need, to help them drive their business’s competitiveness and success.” Imperial Truck Rental is providing a total of 70 vans to undertake these deliveries. The 35 eight-tonne and 35 four-tonne vehicles are all driven by professional drivers.
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SOUTH AFRICA
Inclusion of new data in trade statistics SOUTH AFRICA’S TRADE statistics will now include trade data with Botswana, Lesotho, Namibia and Swaziland (BLNS countries). BLNS trade statistics have previously not been included in the trade statistics, due to the free flow of trade from a customs-duty point of view within the Southern African Customs Union (SACU). BLNS merchandise trade does have a material impact on South Africa’s trade balance. South Africa exported R103.8 billion to and imported R21.5 billion from BLNS countries. In 2012, this resulted in a positive trade balance of R82.3 billion for trade with BLNS countries. South Africa’s total trade deficit for 2012 was R116.9 billion. Had the BLNS trade data been included, the deficit would have been R34.6 billion, therefore showing a more accurate trade statistic. SARS’s customs modernisation programme has resulted in its systems moving to new technologically enhanced platforms that enable better electronic capturing of trade data that was previously done manually. The modernised system greatly improves the accuracy of trade data and allows the reporting and analysis of trade data to be done in real time. Although SARS is confident of the accuracy of the BLNS trade numbers, it intends to approach the United Nations to review the treatment of South Africa’s trade data that will now include BLNS trade numbers. In addition to the inclusion of the BLNS trade figures, SARS is also contemplating certain other revisions to improve the reporting of trade statistics in the future. Some of these include the following: • publishing of imports on both a Free On Board and a Cost Insurance Freight basis to align it with UN principles • compiling statistics on the dates when the goods are actually released into or from South Africa’s economy, rather than using the dates on which the goods entered the customs’ system for ultimate release from or into the South African economy • publishing gold exports as recorded on the SARS system reflecting the physical export movement of gold as opposed to the current practice of reporting the SARB gold export data on the IMF change of ownership basis. These changes will, however, only be finalised and implemented after consultation with international experts and other relevant stakeholders.
REGIONAL NEWS
TANZANIA
Strategic intent goes beyond SA borders
A STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIP with the intent of venturing into operations north of South Africa’s borders is being undertaken between Transnet Port Terminals (TPT) and construction and engineering group Aveng. The two companies recently signed a memorandum of understanding that seeks to explore new and existing opportunities
BOTSWANA
of expansion and operating terminals in Tanzania, in East Africa, considered a global growth point. TPT Head of Strategy, Moshe Motlohi, says: “Part of TPT’s intentions include venturing into Africa and expanding our global operations to increase our footprint as a port operator.“ Both TPT and Aveng have submitted an expression of interest to jointly operate seven berths in Mtwara, Tanzania – a city bordering Mozambique. Karl Socikwa, chief executive at TPT, adds: “Transnet’s market demand strategy has enabled us to thoroughly consider and act upon Africa’s regeneration. Seven of ten growth points in the world are in Africa, skills exist and it is up to Africa to convert itself into one of the fastest growing and strongest economies in the world.” It is TPT’s intention to venture into global operations, enhance and grow its skills base and better integrate into the supply chain. The expression of interest precedes the process of requests for proposals. Tanzania is one of seven existing opportunities that will see TPT further its mission to handle commercial import and export of cargo globally.
ANGOLA
Training the driver
Infrastructure growth in Angola
DRIVER TRAINING IS critical for every transport operator and recently, Scania South Africa’s Dirk Koekemoer joined his colleague in Botswana to train six drivers from the Petrologistics Botswana and Choppies companies. Koekemoer has been working with Scania for the past four years and says training is about making sure drivers achieve optimal use of the vehicle. “Basically we need to make sure the drivers get the best fuel consumption and maximum uptime from the vehicle.” During the five-day training the drivers are given a pre-assessment test to determine their level of expertise. Koekemoer adds: “We first test their driving styles and capabilities and once we have determined what their problems or weak areas are, they do ‘corrective training’. In this case we show them what their weakness are and how to rectify them. The training includes both theory and practical sessions. Usually by day three of the training, the driver trainees are able to reduce consumption when driving the vehicle and also to improve their driving scores. Generally, their driving improves.” Koekemoer adds: “Driver training is not just about reducing fuel consumption and improving driver techniques, it is also about preserving the environment. How we drive affects the environment through pollution, so ultimately we need to make sure we save the environment for today and for tomorrow.”
THE ANGOLAN GOVERNMENT, during 2013, opened over 100 railway stations as part of a project to rebuild the country’s rail network, according to a statement issued in Luanda. Angolan news agency, Angop also reported that in Lobito municipality two docks in the port’s city were refurbished and that container and ore terminals were built from scratch. The building project also included a dry dock and buildings to house administrative and technical services, alternative power systems and equipment to process cargo. The statement noted that construction of a channel on the Kuando River to link Angola to neighbouring Zambia as well as port support facilities for cross-border river transport in Kuando Kubango province was under way. Studies have also been carried out for construction of the ports of Dande, Porto Amboim and the deep water port of Cabinda, as well as sea passenger terminals along the Angolan coast. Finally, the Angolan Transport Ministry noted that the Angola Maritime and Port Institute and Secil Marítima in Geneva, Switzerland, signed an agreement to prepare the relaunch of an Angolan flagship sea shipping service. (Source: macauhub)
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COMMERCIAL VEHICLES
TRAINING
Driving competition open to all Driving heavy vehicles, particularly over long distances, requires concentration, dedication and fitness. It is a demanding occupation involving far more than just driving.
O
Ryno Niewoudt, a previous winner
FTEN THE DRIVER is the company’s main face-to-face contact with customers, and he needs to project a positive image and attitude. Not only must he see that his vehicle is roadworthy and safe at all times, he must also ensure that his load is safe, legal, protected, delivered on time and in good condition. While on the road, he is accountable for his actions and must use his own judgement to cope with any situation or emergency that may arise. Apart from the required driving skills, drivers of commercial vehicles have always been expected to be conversant with the various rules and regulations concerning road transport. The driver is the key person to deliver the freight and be responsible for his rig. Driving is job that requires many hours of concentration, dedication and stamina, while remaining within all parameters of safety: driving, vehicle and road.
safety rules on and off the circuit and should a driver ignore one these rules he is severely penalised. Non-compliance to a safety rule could mean coming third or fourth in the competition.
The purpose of the competition
Regional
Scania’s Driver of the Year competition takes place every alternate year to stimulate a professional driving culture within the transport industry. Drivers compete for the prestigious status of being the best driver in the country. Achieving a top-ten rank is a great moment for any driver, as it makes a statement about one’s ability to be professional in all aspects of heavy vehicle driving.
The competition is being held in South Africa, Namibia, Tanzania and Botswana between March and October, all under the guidance of Scania South Africa. At the finals in October, all the regional finalists will compete for the title of Driver of the Year. Gideon de Swardt, project manager, says: “This is the first time we are opening up this event to drivers other than those that drive Scania commercial vehicles. We believe in the merits of this event and believe it will benefit all drivers irrespective of the type of truck they drive. “The main objective of the competition is to recognise the best driver in the region based on competence along with safe and economical driving skills. We believe the driver is the single most important factor when it comes to regarding road safety and ensuring operators achieve efficient and economical fuel figures while being a brand ambassador for the company he works for.”
Stretching the limits During the competition, drivers are expected to achieve the best fuel economy and trip time over a predetermined undulating circuit, that takes into consideration various road hazards and obstacles. Drivers are expected to complete an obstacle course that involves precision vehicle manoeuvres while reversing and in forward motion. The competition is governed by
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To enter The event is run under the guidance of Scania South Africa and, for the first time in its history, the competition is open to all truck drivers irrespective of the type or make of truck they drive. Entry forms will be available from the beginning of March. Drivers must answer a number of questions and submit their answers to Scania, which then chooses the drivers who proceed through the next round of the competition. In the second round, drivers complete a theoretical test before heading onto the practical aspect of the competition.
Worldwide This internationally run competition was started by Scania in 2003 and up until 2012 (the last time this event was held) 200 000 drivers have participated, making it the largest driver competition of its kind in the world. The event is run in South America, Sub Saharan Africa, Europe, Asia and Australia.
Get your costs in perspective. Over time, you spend more on fuel than the initial price tag of the vehicle. So isn’t a truck’s fuel efficiency more important than its purchase price? There is a better way.
COMMERCIAL VEHICLES
MARKET PLACE
Outlook for the 2014 truck market What does 2014 have in store for the commercial vehicle sector? Simon Foulds speaks to UD trucks and FAW to find out their views. What new vehicles will be available for the SA market in 2014?
quality through to the new scope of support offered by our regional dealer network.”
surprised with growth of 11.3%; we think the growth rate will slow down in 2014 with only about 4.93% growth on 2013.”
EVDB “With the large capital Jacques Carelse, UD Trucks Jacques Carelse, managing director of UD Trucks Southern Africa: “UD Trucks will launch additional EHCV products into the Southern African market in the last quarter of 2014. Most importantly, we believe our local customers are set to profit from our upcoming product ranges’ positioning in the market, including its level of techJacques Carelse, managing director, UD Trucks nology and
“We have always introduced product to cope with conditions in our markets.” 10
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Eugene van der Berg, FAW Eugene van der Berg, FAW national fleet sales manager: “We are in the developing stages for a new light duty truck and expect it to arrive in South Africa in 2014. This vehicle will come in as a prototype initially and be rigorously tested before being officially launched into our range.”
Are you optimistic about the road ahead for 2014 within your sector? Why? JC “In 2013, the market
injection and the support from our mother company in China as well as with the Coega development reaching completion, we anticipate an incredibly positive future for our company and we are extremely optimistic about 2014. We will be making inroads in the freight carrier market with our successful four and eight tonne vehicles. In the EXHCV sector we will have the majority market share with some of our construction vehicles. We will be able to supply unrivalled financial packages and offer deals that nobody else can do.”
What new elements or technology is being
COMMERCIAL VEHICLES introduced to your trucks to keep them efficient? JC “The future plans of UD Trucks are all about enhancing our customers’ transport and service experience with us. We are committed to supporting our customers in a smart and modern way, and going the extra mile in everything we do. As has always been the case, UD Trucks will provide customers with transport solutions that offer the right balance between features, cost and efficiency. Although UD Trucks are made for Africa – tough, hard-working and dependable – they are also fitted with modern equipment and technology to ensure the best possible lifecycle costs for customers. The future plans of the company also include the introduction of new ranges that are set to change the way Southern African fleet owners think about trucks.”
efficient and easy to maintain. Minor items such as tare weight reduction and better weight distribution can have an enormous impact on fuel consumption. We have also had great success with driver training, which is the largest contributor to efficiency and longevity on any vehicle.”
How are you ensuring that the next generation of trucks keeps moving through the continent? JC “The roads are improving in some instances but in other are deteriorating. At UD Trucks we have always introduced product with the technology and design ruggedness to cope with conditions in our markets. We have recently ‘remapped’ African road conditions as an input into the design of our next generation product.” EVDB “Our development into
EVDB “With each model we are aiming for the most fuel-efficient design and features possible while keeping the vehicle cost
the Coega Zone has been widely publicised for its job creation and infrastructure influence. However, the largest benefit will be to each
“We are in the developing stages for a new light duty truck.”
of our customers who will receive products built Eugene van der Berg, national to the highest fleets sales manager, FAW standards, incredible parts and after-sales to purchase trucks to support from a professional and move goods from Cape prepared dealer network. With Town to Johannesburg this level of product and support, and then up to Harare we will definitely expand rapidly and Lusaka, in order for into the rest of the continent.” them to make a good
How important is the carbon footprint emanating from the next generation of trucks and is this a key factor when fleet operators purchase new vehicles? JC “The carbon footprint is often confused with emission standards. In reality, it relates directly to fuel consumption. For every litre of diesel used, 2 664 kg of carbon is produced. Thus the key remains in lowering fuel consumption and looking towards alternative technology or hybrids to improve the situation.”
EVDB “FAW still believes in simplicity but as demand is increasing the testing of Euro 5 and LPS gas vehicles are in development.”
What advice would you give to a fleet operator who wants
choice when deciding on purchasing a truck? JC “It’s quite simple, for each job or application one needs to understand the circumstances and conditions, the legal issues etc. We at UD Trucks have just such products, knowledge and simulation packages to assist customers to select the correct vehicle for the job in hand. Our dealers are trained and also we cover the major routes so support is never far away.”
EVDB “FAW has entered into a joint venture with the AA, which was developed with the longhaul operator in mind. Across the lengths and breadths of South Africa as well as into the neighbouring countries, the fleet owner can be rest assured that they have the support of not only us, but also of a prestigious company such as the AA behind them.”
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COMMERCIAL VEHICLES
PARTS DISTRIBUTION
Ensuring swifter delivery to customers MAN Truck & Bus South Africa’s new Parts Distribution Centre (PDC) in Germiston, Gauteng, is located just over four kilometres from the company’s Isando headquarters and OR Tambo International Airport. Simon Foulds attended the opening.
Top Anders Nielsen and Geoff du Plessis cut the ribbon Above Warehouse staff
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HE PDC HAS been designed to house greater inventories of MAN and Volkswagen truck and bus spare parts and to expedite swifter speed-ofdelivery to MAN Truck & Bus South Africa’s subSaharan customer base. This new flagship MAN PDC is equipped with state-of-the-art technologies to meet growing market demand in the subequatorial African region. Anders Nielsen, CEO of MAN Truck & Bus AG, says: “The introduction of new systems for procurement and parts supply-chain management, along with the expansion of our global spare-parts logistics network, is enabling us to progressively meet the needs of our growing African customer base.” At a total investment of R180 million, the new PDC is custom-built to MAN specifications and comprises 17 000 m2
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of warehouse space with 1 000 m2 of office space. The warehouse will operate on MAN‘s advanced parts platform system and features a new racking system, as well as a 1 600 m2, three-level mezzanine area for smaller parts. Networked with other MAN logistics locations, the new PDC improves the supply of spare parts to a growing base of operational centres in sub-equatorial Africa. Geoff du Plessis, executive chairman, MAN Truck & Bus South Africa, adds: “The new facility has been designed to comfortably allow for future expansion of MAN Truck & Bus South Africa into the sub-Saharan region, particularly as MAN’s global strategy gains momentum with the introduction of new models. The new facility will also be geared to comprehensively support existing and forthcoming truck and bus derivatives from MAN and Volkswagen.” “This PDC is fully integrated in MAN’s organisation IT systems, allowing stocks to be centrally scheduled, with MAN’s dealer network given full support in ensuring optimum parts availability for their customers.” To limit its carbon footprint, the new building incorporates a specially designed roof to allow as much natural light as possible into the warehouse. It is also fitted with special lighting and thermal insulation to reduce the building’s overall energy requirements. Du Plessis concludes: “With its close proximity to OR Tambo International Airport and state-of-the-art warehousing technologies, the new facility will enable our Central Parts Division to improve on its already impressive customer service delivery record by being able to fly in urgently needed parts from MAN‘s international production centres and courier them to our customers with greater efficiency and speed, providing our Support Division with an enviable competitive advantage.”
COMMERCIAL VEHICLES
TRAINING
R4.8 million staff investment Over the past two years, UD Trucks Southern Africa has invested more than R4.8 million in training both staff and members of the community in various programmes. Simon Foulds finds out more about the company’s training initiatives.
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ACQUES CARELSE, managing director of UD Trucks Southern Africa, says: “We passionately believe in the vital importance of training and investing in the future of our employees and surrounding community. Our objective is to provide ongoing developmental opportunities that not only allow us as a company to achieve our business objectives, but also to empower and contribute to the overall development of the participating learners.” Through the company’s MERSETA-accredited programmes, UD Trucks continuously aims to address the skills shortage in the transport industry, the surrounding communities and the country as a whole. The company also presents various learnership programmes every year, which provides tertiary students with the opportunity to intern in a variety of departments, including marketing, HR, finance and engineering. UD Trucks recently held a graduation ceremony at its assembly facilities in Rosslyn, Pretoria, for the students who have successfully completed their studies. These included 13 students who gained a National Certificate in Automotive Sale and Support Service, an 18-month course which also saw many existing UD Trucks staff members enhance their skills portfolio. Fourteen students also completed a year-long qualification in Wholesale and Distribution, which provided vital developmental opportunities for some of the company’s existing warehouse employees, as well as for unemployed learners from the community who could potentially fill a vacancy at the company if the business need arises. Telishia Middleton, training manager at the company, adds: “One of the most vital skills at UD Trucks’ region-wide dealer network is that of diesel technician. Ten students successfully completed their diesel technician trade with the assistance of the company and its dealers and are now able to assist UD Trucks customers in a knowledgeable and efficient manner.” The company also trained 33 unemployed learners from the community in Automotive Component and Manufacturing; these learners could also potentially be employed at its assembly plant should production increase.
In addition, 13 disabled learners were given the opportunity to gain qualifications that address the specific needs and requirements of the manufacturing industry, as well as the government’s initiatives in this regard. Middleton says: “The unemployed disabled learners completed 12 months of training, which included modules ranging from numeracy and literacy to production concepts, employer/employee relationships, as well as hand and measuring tools.” Carelse concludes: “Trucking forms such an integral part of the South African economy and it is of great importance to ensure that the wheels of industry continue to turn effectively and productively. One of the sure ways to ensure the vitality of the industry is to empower people through learning and skills training opportunities. As a company, it is a privilege to be able to provide these opportunities to our staff and our community.”
“We passionately believe in the vital importance of training and investing in the future of our employees .” Telishia Middleton, training manager, UD Trucks
TWA | Jan/Feb 2014
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