motor trader
motor trader queensland | vol. 82 | issue 7 | aug 2011
Automotive engineering awards
Choice of Repairer Salary Packaging End of life vehicles Operation Turner
Ag Show
New Australian Consumer Law Motor Traders Beware • Lay–by Agreements – Do your agreements comply with the new Australian Consumer Law? Can your customers ‘walk away’? • Consumer Guarantees – Are you aware of what automatic guarantees your customers may have? • Multiple Pricing – What price is your customer paying? • Extended Warranty – Does your extended warranty offer anything over and above the statutory consumer guarantees? • Promises by sales staff – What your business may have to remedy if a problem results. • Demonstration model – What you need to tell your customers.
Don’t become a queensland test case make sure you are up to date on the new australian consumer law Bennett & Philp Lawyers are here to help you. We look forward to your call 07 3001 2999
Official Publication of the Motor Trades Association of Queensland
Head Office 1000 Wynnum Road, Cannon Hill, Qld 4170 P.O. Box 560, Morningside, Qld 4170 Tel: 07 3237 8777 Fax: 07 3844 4488 Toll Free: 1800 177 951 Email: publications@mtaq.com.au Website: www.mtaq.com.au Managing Editor Kellie Dewar
Editor in Chief Michael Taylor
Art Director
Peter Richardson
Advertising Enquiries
Jeff Dunlop Jillian Anfield Mobile: 0414 075 0422 473 007 944 Facsimile: 07 3844 4488 Email: jilliana@mtaq.com.au jeffd@mtaq.com.au
Editorial
Editorial submissions are welcomed but cannot be guaranteed placement. For more information telephone the Editor 07 3237 8777
Subscription Rates (including GST) Australia: $72.60 annually Overseas: $110 annually Motor Trader Publishing Policy Motor Trader is the official publication of the Motor Trades Association of Queensland. The role of Motor Trader is to inform members of current issues and legislation affecting the industry. As such it can be regarded as the business magazine for the Queensland motor industry. The role of Motor Trader is not to be in competition with the technical magazines already on the market. It will advise of new vehicles being released and of the latest technology incorporated into them; it will advise of latest technology affecting members in each of the MTA Queensland Divisions; it will keep members abreast of the latest in motor industry training and industrial affairs; and it will keep members informed of the latest technical aids available through MTA Queensland Member Services, which will assist members in staying ahead of the technological revolution presently being encountered within the motor industry. The publisher reserves the right to omit or alter any advertisement and the advertiser agrees to indemnify the publisher for all damages or liabilities arising from the published material. MTA Queensland ABN: 74 028 933 848
Corporate Partners
contents 2. From the editor Policy/Viewpoint Personal Property Securities Register Australian Consumer law (ACL) check the fine print on Repair Orders Choice of Repairer Promotion MTA Q helps to cut red tape with the formation of a National Business Name Registration System 5. The Commonwealth Consumer Affairs Advisory Council (CCAAC) – sharing of repair information in the automotive industry 4.
Industrial Relations 6. Further changes to workplace health and safety laws from 1st January 2012
Industry Update 8. Funding supports innovative ventures The strength of cash 9. Carbon tax forces rethink in manufacturing 10. Trucks crashes reduced; room for improvement 11. Accountability focus for safe driving 12. European brands’ satisfaction survey Concours d’Elegance finds new home, gears up for October event 13. Hefty fines for duping customers
Features 14. Effective salary packaging 18. Management of end of life vehicles needs overhaul 26. Overwhelming support for bull bars
Automobile news 16. Optimal recognition More for less 5-stars for electric vehicle 17. HiLux upgrade The magic ‘million’ approaches Aventador the magnificent
MIT news 20. A Super outcome 21. MIT apprentice finalist for Harry Hauenschild Award 22. All systems GO for Father’s Day
Innovation 23. SAE-A Automotive Engineering Excellence Awards 25. Massive funding for biofuel research
Health 30. Getting the magic back
Sport 31. ASBK loses a legend Germans race to electric speed 32. Seamless gear changing motor trader queensland
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from the editor
Michael Taylor, Editor
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t’s coming fast: the annual Heritage Building Society Ag Show in Toowoomba in early September (see Inside Back Cover for information). Last year I attended for a day and regretted not being able to stay for the full three days. If you can swing it, try to go. Peter Erwin and his team put on a fantastic event.
There are thousands of scientists in this country who work tirelessly to find solutions to the challenges that our ever-changing industry faces and its good to see the cream of the crop being recognised.
Richard Payne’s Policy/ Viewpoint section starting on page 4 is packed full of important information that could have a direct impact on you. In particular, the forthcoming Personal Property Securities (PPS) Register will nationalise the information on whether there is any registered debt or other interest in a vehicle in any State or Territory. Motorcycle enthusiasts would be interested in the Motorcycle Concours d’Elegance (‘French’ for ‘a parade of cars or other vehicles, prizes being awarded to the most elegant, best designed, or best turned-out’) that is going to be held at the Cleveland Show Grounds on Sunday, the 9th of October. Club Laverda QLD has been hosting the event every year since 1988, which,
Our Association’s new facility at Eight Mile Plains is “progressing well” according to MTA Institute of Technology managing director, Brett Dale. “We are working with Skills Tech in the Paint and Panel set up and our aim is to have the entire fit out completed before the end of October, giving us a fully operational centre at the start of the New Year.”
up until this year, had been held at Captain Burke Park at Kangaroo Point. The massive crowds forced a relocation of the event, which was meant to be held in July, but due to rain, is being postponed until October. Have a read of the article about it on page 12. A very thought provoking article supplied by the National Motor Vehicle Theft Reduction Council (NMVTRC) that starts on page 18 is about the management of end of life vehicles. I came across this article because I subscribe to the NMVTRC’s online newsletter, Theft Torque – always a good read. You’ll find some interesting facts and
figures in that article. The annual Automotive Engineering Excellence Awards winners have been announced by the Society of Automotive Engineers (pages 23 to 25). There are thousands of scientists in this country who work tirelessly to find solutions to the challenges that our ever-changing industry faces and its good to see the cream of the crop being recognised. I wonder how many secret inventors in backyard sheds are coming up with brilliant inventions and nobody knows about them. If you know of any, please contact me at 1 800 177 951.
Queensland’s Automotive Centre of Excellence INST IT UT E OF T ECHNOLOGY
Queensland’s Peak Automotive Industry Body
Automotive Training Specialists
One Stop Industry Support for:
Specialising in:
• Government and Media Representations
• Light Vehicle Mechanical Technicians
• Industrial Relations Advice
• Motorcycle Mechanical Technicians
• Technical Information
• Automotive Electrical Technicians
• Professional Business Conduct within a
• Parts Interpreting
Strict Code of Ethics
• Management Courses
• Consumer Assurance • Legal Advice • Industry-specific Publications and Stationery
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Free call 1800 177 951
• Specialist Automotive Technicians
policy/viewpoint Personal Property Securities Register The Personal Property Securities (PPS) Register is scheduled to be introduced by the end of October 2011 (advance Information for members) The PPS Register will provide national information on whether there is any registered debt or other interest in a vehicle in any state or territory in Australia. A search of the PPS Register will also create a request for vehicle information from the National Exchange of Vehicle and Driver Information System (NEVDIS). Depending on the information NEVDIS holds, this will include written off and stolen status information in addition to make, model, colour and other information. In the case of Queensland, NEVDIS does hold this information and it will be transferred to the national Register. The search function will be via the VIN and there will be a nominal fee (likely to be a few dollars for an on-line check); specific details of which are yet to be confirmed. Further information on the role of the PPS Register in regard to “securities” as it affects members will be advised as details are made available. In the meantime, general Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) relating to the PPS Register, and in particular, covering questions such as - I run a small business, what’s in it for me? - and - if I buy a motor vehicle what do I have to do? .... may be accessed via www.ppsr.gov.au 4
motor trader queensland
Richard Payne, Principal Policy Director
Australian Consumer law (ACL) check the fine print on Repair Orders Your attention is drawn to the following section of the ACL: Under section 24 of the ACL: (1) a term of a consumer contract is unfair if: (a) it would cause a significant imbalance in the parties rights and obligations arising under the contract; and (b) it is not reasonably necessary in order to protect the legitimate interests of the party who would be advantaged by the term; and (c) it would cause detriment (whether financial or otherwise) to a party if it were to be applied or relied on. Members are again urged to review all standard form contracts, including RIO’s to ensure that consumers have not been asked to signaway any rights of liability e.g. for damage incurred while the vehicle is in for repair or any other “unfair contract” terms according to the provisions of the ACL, and seek independent legal advice regarding compliance.
Choice of Repairer Promotion In order to support the launch of the “Choice of Repairer” Campaign on the MTA Q website, as announced in the July edition of Motor Trader, we are making Posters and Flyers available to National Auto Collision Alliance members. These
Control Your repair Fate you choose who will repair your car if you have a crash
details at: www.mtaq.com.au
promotional aids convey the very strong message that MTA Q endorses insurers who offer 'choice of repairer’ in their product disclosure statements and espouses the benefits of choosing an MTA Q member in the event of a crash: The use of high tech componentry in modern cars such as alloy steels / crumple zones, SRS airbags / sensors and electronic systems means having the right equipment and trained technicians in order to repair vehicles according to the manufactures’ technical specifications in keeping with the Code of Conduct. MTA Queensland (MTA Q) “National Auto Collision Alliance” (NACA) members, not only work to the Motor Vehicle Insurance and Repair Industry “CODE OF
CONDUCT”, but also abide by MTA Queensland’s strict “CODE OF ETHICS”. Promotional materials are available by contacting MTA Q or via the website www. mtaq.com.au
MTA Q helps to cut red tape with the formation of a National Business Name Registration System MTA Q has been the only automotive body to participate in the consultation process relating to a national new system that will give the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) national responsibility from mid-2012 for registering, renewing and administering business names for all Australian
businesses. Currently all business names have to be registered in each state or territory that a business trades in, which results in multiple registration costs. The key benefits of the new national system are as follows: • Business names will be registered nationally, thus there will no longer be a need to register in each state that a business trades in • There will be lower fees for registration and renewal (except in the Northern Territory where there will be a small increase) and options for one year or three year registration periods • Businesses will be able to apply to register a national business name online and receive confirmation of their registration at the same time
• The business name registration will also be available as a joint online registration in conjunction with the Australian Business Number (ABN) registration, with pre-filling from one registration to the next • There will be information on, and links to, trade mark and domain name searches • New businesses will need to have an ABN or be in the process of applying for an ABN and not have been refused an ABN in order to register a business name. Following the consultation process, we are pleased that our voice has been heard and recommendations have been adopted into the Exposure Draft of the Business Names Registration Bill 2011 and related Bills. Details of
our Submissions are on our website and further information regarding the National Register maybe accessed via www.asic.gov. au
AMIF - the “Australian Motor
The Commonwealth Consumer Affairs Advisory Council (CCAAC) – sharing of repair information in the automotive industry
Chamber of Automotive
As announced in “Industry Update” of last month’s Motor Trader Magazine, the CCAAC has formulated an “Issues Paper” on the above subject, which will be of great interest to many members. The Issues Paper may be accessed via www. treasury.gov.au MTA Q, in conjunction with all other State automotive affiliates, is in the process of preparing a submission, which will be submitted through our national body,
Industry Federation”. The manufacturers have previously provided information to the Federal Industries on the availability of “Repair and Technical Information”, which may be accessed via the MTA Q website by following the link under: Member Services Member Benefits - Technical Information. The link details the scope of technical data, source and referenced web address, where applicable, for 35 vehicle and motorcycle manufacturers. Pending the outcome of the Federal Enquiry, members are urged to make themselves familiar with the availability of technical information via this medium.
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industrial relations
Ted Kowalski, Industrial Relations Manager
Further changes to workplace health and safety laws from 1st January 2012
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n the June Motor Trader we told you that from 1st January 2012 there would no longer be a legal obligation to have a qualified Workplace Health and Safety Officer (WHSO) in a business employing 30 or more employees. This month we will outline a number of other significant changes that will come about from next year with the national “harmonisation” of workplace health and safety laws. • Change in jurisdiction for prosecutions – all prosecutions will be heard before a Magistrate rather than before an Industrial Magistrate and appeals will go to the District Court rather than to the Industrial Court of Queensland. • Removal of strict liability to ensure health and safety – the requirement to ensure workplace health and safety will now be to the extent that it is “reasonably practicable”, thus allowing more scope for defending prosecutions. • Privilege against self incrimination to be removed
MTA Queensland member Kiwi French Automotive of Slacks Creek won the 2011 Business Achiever Award in the Motor Vehicle Sales & Service category, sponsored by the Quest Community Newspaper group. Owners Michelle Robinson and Geoff Ketland surpassed their 2010 position in this category when they were one of the top finalists.
– the current ability to refuse to answer questions during an investigation, on the basis that it could incriminate you, will no longer apply. • Definition of “worker” to be expanded – persons conducting a business or undertaking will have added responsibilities because labour hire persons, contractors and subcontractors will be included in the definition of “worker”. • Due diligence obligation for company officers – company officers will
have to take a more active involvement on health and safety within the business to ensure blame cannot be attributed to them in the case of an injury to an employee. • Increased consultation obligations – there will now be a legislative requirement for employers to consult with their workers and other duty holders on issues of workplace safety. • Health and Safety Representative retained – While Workplace Health and Safety Officers will no
longer be required, Health and Safety Representatives will be retained under the new laws and will be given expanded powers including the ability to direct unsafe work to stop. • Tougher penalties – there will be a substantial increase in the penalties for breaches of the legislation, so that, for example, the present maximum penalty against a company, where multiple fatalities occur, will increase from the present $1 million to $3 million.
MTA Queensland welcomes the following new members
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Business Name
Principal/s
Street/Postal Address
C E Automotive
Colin Lunn
10A Gurney St Garbutt QLD 4814
AED
Action Automatics Townsville
Michael & Dawn McPhail
15 Gurney St Garbutt QLD 4814
AED
Somer Automotive
Steven Harry
5 Crowder St Garbutt QLD 4814
AED
Westside Collision Centre
Brett Cooper & Craig Cooper
9 Turley St Ipswich Qld 4305
NACA
South East Smash Repairs
Lingarnarthern Vythilimham
768 Beaudesert Road Coopers Plain Qld 4108
NACA
motor trader queensland
Division
Stationery for the automotive industry ogue l a t a C ct Produ 2011
• General Office Stationery Supplies • Motor Vehicle Sales Stationery • Job/Time Cards • Service Station Supplies • Signage • Approved Inspection Station Signage and Decals • Accessories • MTA Queensland Member Signage • Technical Publications Our Stationery Catalogue is available online at www.mtaq.com.au Telephone: 07 3237 8781 Toll free 1800 177 951
industry update Funding supports innovative ventures
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he automotive industry is innovating to create lighter cars that will help us reduce greenhouse gas emissions and become a richer, greener and fairer nation. Announcing four Green Car Innovation Fund grants in mid July, Innovation Minister Kim Carr said the new projects would bring new technologies, skills and job creation to Australian manufacturing. “Over $6.2 million is being awarded to component manufacturers CFusion, Toyoda Gosei Australia, Composite Materials Engineering and Hirotec,” Senator Carr said. “The components being developed to retool our automotive industry will help cars that are friendlier on the environment and the pocket — in this case, we expect the four projects will reduce greenhouse gas emissions by around 133,000 tonnes and significantly reduce fuel consumption.”
first one-piece carbon fibre automotive wheel, at about half the weight of aluminium wheels.
innovative product design to significantly reduce the overall weight of passenger motor vehicles.
Toyoda Gosei is using funding of over $2.3 million to introduce and refine technologies for manufacturing lighter components, namely body sealing products and safety system products, such as air bag modules and plastic interior trim products.
Senator Carr said the Government’s $5.4 billion New Car Plan, which includes the Green Car Innovation Fund, was transforming the Australian automotive industry and ensuring significant coinvestment from around the world.
CME is using funding of $797,399 to develop a high strength, lightweight sandwich panel to be used in the load floor of Australian vehicles. This product will significantly reduce the weight of the load floor whilst meeting all of the performance requirements for this component. Hirotec is using funding of over $1.6 million to produce lighter automotive components including aluminium hoods and deck lids using
The strength of cash
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hinese buyers would snap up the car-making assets of Ford Australia or Holden if their US parents abandoned their Australian operations, an automotive industry analyst says.
A Treasury Asia Asset Management investment analyst, Tan Eng Teck, said there were already cashedup Chinese investors casting around the edges of the Australian car-making industry as the fast-moving industrial giant attempts to ramp up its domestic production. ‘’For car parts, they are looking at direct takeovers,
There are already cashed-up Chinese investors casting around the edges of the Australian carmaking industry as the fast-moving industrial giant attempts to ramp up its domestic production.
but for other things they’re generally looking for joint ventures. But if it is for internal parts, they will prefer a direct takeover,’’ Mr Tan said. CFusion is using funding of around $1.4 million to commercialise the world’s
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Chinese money has already flowed into the Australian car components industry, with the car maker Geely
picking up the assets of the struggling gearbox maker DSI in 2009. Since the takeover, Geely has started to build gearboxes in China using intellectual property acquired from DSI - a fact not lost on Mr Tan. ‘’The Chinese don’t respect intellectual rights that well. The Chinese are more about practicalities - why spend five years developing it when you can just go out and get it?’’ Mr Tan said Chinese investors would also cast around for more car makers showing signs of trouble - the formerly Ford-owned Volvo has already fallen into Chinese ownership, with the once GM-owned Swedish brand Saab now facing a reverse takeover by the Chinese car distribution business Pang Da. Ford, Holden and Toyota have all warned they could abandon car-making operations in Australia after the federal government dumped its $1.3 billion Green Car Innovation Fund, designed to keep local car manufacturing competitive with imports, just over two years’ into the fund’s 10-year timeline. The chief executive of Holden, Mike Devereux, warned that the government’s move designed to help pay for a string of natural disasters in Queensland and Victoria threatened the future viability of the car maker. ‘’It’s actually scary for a lot of [international car makers],’’ he said. ‘’A lot of governments actually impose rules that say [Chinese investors] can’t take this technology outside the country when they acquire it - Sweden did it with Volvo. But the Chinese will take it anyway.’’ From a 7th July article in the e-SMH, Barry Park’s ‘Cashed-up Chinese buyers waiting in the wings: analyst
Carbon tax forces rethink in manufacturing
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armakers face a bill of more that $30 million a year as a result of a $23 carbon price, the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries (FCAI) has warned. The FCAI said a carbon price comes on top of other factors, like the high Australian dollar, and puts an additional drag on the sector. “Our analysis indicates that the initial carbon price of $23 a tonne will result in increased costs to local automotive manufacturers of more than $30 million a year,” FCAI chief executive Andrew McKellar said in a statement. “A cost increase of this magnitude will further undermine the competitive position of local manufacturing, making it hard to secure investment,” he added.
"The industry is also concerned about future costs when proposed arrangements for the treatment of air conditioning gases are taken into account and if a move to a fully traded scheme is too quick." He said the industry is also concerned about future costs when proposed arrangements for the treatment of air conditioning gases are taken into account and if a move to a fully traded scheme is too quick. While the industry supports the objective of reducing carbon emissions, it is disappointed that the government has failed to ensure trade-exposed industries like automotive manufacturing are adequately compensated for increased costs. He urged the government to
rethink its approach to this policy. “If Australia wants to maintain a diverse economy with a high-tech automotive industry, we need to secure ongoing investment in future automotive design, engineering and production programs,” McKellar said. “Australia needs to take an internationally competitive approach to policy that supports industry and government co-investment, and not penalise companies that invest in automotive capability in this country,” he said. The Government however, claims that the Clean Energy Future will support Australian jobs by assisting businesses to transform industries to prosper in a low carbon economy. “The low carbon economy is a chance to rejuvenate Australian manufacturing and generate new Australian jobs. It will complement other important reforms like the new R&D Tax Credit,” Innovation Minister Senator Kim Carr said. motor trader queensland
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industry update “Manufacturers will respond to the carbon price by improving their production and resource efficiency and by innovating to develop low carbon products and technologies to maintain competitiveness in a changing global environment,” the Minister added.
Trucks crashes reduced; room for improvement
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he fatal crash rate for articulated freight trucks like semi trailers has improved more than 60 per cent since 1982, the Australia Trucking Association (ATA) Chairman David Simon said recently at the release of a major new report on heavy vehicle road safety from the Centre for Automotive Safety Research (CASR) at the University of Adelaide. Mr. Simon stated that the report confirmed the industry was steadily getting safer. “The number of fatal crashes involving articulated trucks has remained relatively constant since 1991, but there has been a huge increase in the number of trucks on the road at the same time,” he said “When the figures are adjusted to take this increase into account, they show a 60 per cent improvement in the fatal crash rate involving articulated trucks since 1982,” he added. The report concludes that the most significant gains in truck safety during this period were due to broad road safety initiatives that have improved safety for 10
motor trader queensland
all road users, particularly improvements to the Australian road network, reduced speed limits and improvements in vehicle design. The study brings together a host of information from many diverse studies over time so as to provide definitive conclusions to the research. “This research has been published in a host of different academic journals, reports and studies. It is often difficult to find, particularly for people in the
the figures show a
industry who need guidance about how to make their businesses safer,” Simon said. “The report consolidates 280 publications from CASR’s extensive road safety library and a series of academic databases. It is a single, ready reference guide to truck safety research, and the ATA is releasing it for everyone to use as our contribution to the UN Decade of Action for Road Safety,” he explained. According to the CASR report there are four key areas that the organisation is recommending receive priority research: fatigue, seat belts, road design and traffic management, and vehicle design and technology. Within these areas, the CASR recommends more research into the therapies
and treatments for sleep apnoea, a suspected major cause of driver fatiguerelated accidents; further research into road design and traffic management, including an assessment of the safety benefits of the truck-only lanes and speed restrictions that are now being put in place on some routes; and further improvements in the crashworthiness of truck cabins and to truck designs to reduce a vehicle’s impact on other road users in a crash. In addition, the report refers to estimates that only four to 30 per cent of truck drivers wear seat belts. Increasing their seat belt use would prevent 37 per cent of truck occupant fatalities, 36 per cent of serious injuries, and 22 per cent of slight injuries. “The report recommends further research into the effectiveness of installing seat belt reminder warning lights in trucks, as well as seat belt interlocks,” Simon said.
60 per cent improvement in
the fatal crash rate involving articulated trucks
“There also needs to be more work done on seat belt comfort. We know that many drivers do not wear seat belts because they are uncomfortable and feel restrictive, particularly when not integrated into the seat.” The ATA states that they will continue to work closely with members of the trucking industry, government and vehicle developers to continue to reduce fatalities in freight vehicle crashes. “Although the industry’s safety record has improved markedly, it won’t be good enough until every truck driver and motorist gets home safely after every trip,” Mr. Simon said.
Accountability focus for safe driving
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oyota Australia in July launched a new phase of its driver safety program for its 4,700 employees and their family and friends. The Toyota Safe Driving Program: Looking Out For You has been developed to help Toyota employees and their family and friends recognise risky driving behaviour and take action to improve their safety. The campaign features employee driver training, the latest edition of Toyota’s Safe Driving Handbook and changes to the company’s vehicle insurance excess and traffic infringement processing fees. Toyota Australia Company Fleet Business Manager Sam Rigopoulos said the program would give employees the knowledge and skills as well as a cost incentive to arrive safely at work or home everyday.
Toyota Australia’s John Rowan and Sam Rigopoulos (right) with a Hybrid Camry in front of a safe driving sign.
"By arming employees and their family and friends with the latest information on how to drive safely, combined with the new skills they pick up during driver training, and by placing a cost on unsafe driving behaviour we hope to see a reduction in employee and family injuries and vehicle accidents,” “There are almost 5,000 Toyota owned vehicles on Australia’s roads and as the nation’s number one automotive company, Toyota must lead the community in safe driving behaviour,” Rigopoulos said. “Toyota Australia launched the Looking Out For You driver safety program in 2008. After some early improvement in accident rates, no further
significant reductions have occurred and we want to change this,” he said. He said that from 2008 to 2010 Toyota Australia employees or their family and friends were involved in 6,200 vehicle accidents, 153 employees were injured in vehicle accidents and more than 4,900 red light and speeding traffic infringements were issued. “Nationally, on average, four people die and around 80 are seriously injured everyday, meaning that almost everyone has, at some stage, been affected by a road accident,” Rigopoulos said. “Toyota Australia’s biggest asset is its people and one of the company’s goals is zero harm, which applies to driving a vehicle as much as it does to the workplace. “That’s why Toyota Australia has abolished its first free insurance excess for ‘at fault’ accidents and introduced a variable cost incentive one. These changes aim to remind drivers that they are responsible for all aspects of their driving behaviour
including any infringements or insurance excess that result from putting themselves or others at risk on the road through unsafe driving,” he explained. Mr. Rigopoulos said that under the new insurance scheme unsafe driving resulting in at fault accidents and red light and speeding infringements would attract points, which would be allocated to a driver’s profile and used to determine how much they must pay when submitting a vehicle insurance claim. Toyota Australia will also charge an administration fee through payroll for every traffic infringement noticed processed. “We want all employees to arrive home safely every day. By arming employees and their family and friends with the latest information on how to drive safely, combined with the new skills they pick up during driver training, and by placing a cost on unsafe driving behaviour we hope to see a reduction in employee and family injuries and vehicle accidents,” Rigopoulos concluded. motor trader queensland
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industry update
European brands’ satisfaction survey
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here are currently an estimated 14.9 million drivers on Australian roads today. Approximately 1 million of these drivers are in European cars, an increase of 45% over the last 5 years. Volvo and Renault drivers are the most satisfied with their current vehicles, according to the most recent Roy Morgan Automotive Currency report. For the 12 months to March 2011, 94% of Volvo drivers said they were satisfied with their current vehicle. This is 4% points above the European average and moves them from equal fourth place 5 years ago to the top of the group. Norman Morris, Industry Communications Director at Roy Morgan Research said that with only three European brands making gains over the last 5 years, this is an excellent result for Volvo who has also decreased their total driver dissatisfaction figure over the same time frame. Morris said that also doing well is niche importer Renault, moving from equal 2nd overall in 2006 to now sit equal with Volvo in top spot. “With almost two thirds of all European cars on Australian roads coming from German owned companies, it is interesting to note that only Mercedes-Benz have made gains over the last 5 years,” said Morris. “Of the remaining German brands, Audi has experienced the strongest percentage point drop,
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moving from the top of the overall list 5 years ago to currently sit equal 5th. BMW is also down, falling marginally under the 90% mark, with both brands total dissatisfaction figures also increasing over this same time frame. “At the other end of the scale, Citroen and Saab round out the list, with both brands experiencing large declines in driver
automotive intentions for the different vehicle types, including intentions to purchase new vehicles, future intentions and recent sales, loyalty and satisfaction, brand health, automotive attitudes, car servicing and use of the internet for vehicle related content.
third Sunday in July – with 2010 being the last year that the Show took place at this location, as the event outgrew the modest area of the “park under the bridge”. The traffic and parking issues of an estimated 12,000 visitors to Concours on the day forced the issue of seeking a new
94%
of Volvo drivers were satisfied with their vehicle satisfaction over the last 5 years. This is a concerning result for Saab who are currently launching a range of new models into the Australian marketplace. Included in this launch is the new flagship Saab 9-5, which will be going head to head with the already well established Mercedes-Benz E-Class and new BMW 5-Series, with both models returning driver satisfaction figures of over 90%. “With vehicle satisfaction being one of the key drivers of brand loyalty, this is a very important measure for manufacturers to be aware of,” Morris concluded. The Roy Morgan Automotive provides information on
Concours d’Elegance finds new home, gears up for October event
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lub Laverda Queensland Inc. (CLQ) is a motorcycle enthusiast club. The Italian Laverda motorcycle marque produced machines between 1949 and 1986. Every year since 1988 CLQ has hosted the Motorcycle Concours d’Elegance and Bike Show (Concours) at Captain Burke Park, Kangaroo Point on the
venue. For 2011 onwards, the Show’s new location is at the Cleveland Show Grounds, Long Street, Cleveland. Unfortunately, rain leading up to the event that was meant to be held in July, forced postponement until Sunday, October 9th 2011. The venue change also heralds the introduction of $5.00 cover charge per person over 15 years and includes on site motorcycle parking. As in previous years, the event will still be held on the third Sunday in July (except for this year as explained above), still
supports the Make a Wish Foundation, is still the premier Concours d’Elegance in Australia (now with $2000 for “Best in Show), and still is host to the widest variety of motorcycle club and trade displays of any motorcycle event in the country.
5 years alone CLQ has given some $32,500 to this worthy charity.
Concours judging is done by respected motorcycle enthusiasts from a variety of backgrounds including motorcycle journalists. The judges’ decision is final.
Q
With ready access via the Gateway Motorway from the North and South, and the Logan Motorway from
Hefty fines for duping customers ueensland car buyers will be safer on the roads after a Gold Coast man and his auto repair company were fined and convicted of misrepresenting the mileage on used cars in the Southport Magistrates Court in July.
and 38 counts of false representation about mileage and fined $50,500 following an extensive investigation. Smith’s business, A1 Nerang Auto Care, was convicted of unlicensed motor dealing and 35 counts of false representation about mileage and fined $118,750. Fair Trading Executive Director Brian Bauer said all odometer tampering was dangerous, but the scale of the offences committed by Mr Smith showed a flagrant disregard for people’s safety. “The problem with
CONCOURS 2010 was a tremendous success attracting over 12,000 bike fans with 189 motorcycles entered in a variety of categories. As witnessed last year, this highly visible and successful event raised more than $7000 for The Make-a-wish Foundation. All in all Concours is a great day for participants, enthusiasts and the kids that the money goes to help. The event is alcohol free and as such is a charity family day raising funds for the Make a Wish Foundation. Over the past
“If you’re not expecting to need a major service or replace vital parts of your car then the car can fail quite unexpectedly. “The last thing anyone wants is to have something go horribly wrong while they’re driving down the highway with their kids in the back. “This prosecution follows a series of wins for the Office of Fair Trading’s Operation Turner which was created to tackle the problem of backyard motor dealing and odometer tampering in Queensland,” he added. Bauer said there was a number of checks people could perform when buying a car to help ensure they were getting what they paid for:
the West, CONCOURS 2011 will be the first of a new era with more space available for trade and club displays. CONCOURS 2011 will commence at 8am sharp culminating at 2:30pm with trophy presentation for all category winners.
amount of wear and tear on a car and the expected level of servicing required to keep the car safe and functioning well.
The court heard that between 24 August 2008 and 6 July 2010, Paul Smith of Nerang replaced the odometers on 38 used cars, effectively hiding more than four million kilometres, or an average of 108,000 kilometres per car. He then illegally sold the cars to unsuspecting motorists, telling buyers the cars were part of a corporate fleet he had serviced since new when in reality they were repairable write-offs he had bought at auction and fixed up. The Office of Fair Trading convicted Smith of unlicensed motor dealing
“This prosecution follows a series of wins for the Office of Fair Trading’s Operation Turner which was created to tackle the problem of backyard motor dealing and odometer tampering in Queensland.” odometer tampering, aside from warping the perceived value of a used car, is that it puts lives at risk,” he said. “Odometer readings indicate to buyers the
• Make sure you have an independent mechanic inspect the vehicle prior to purchase. • Carry out a Register of Encumbered Vehicles (REVs) check with the Office of Fair Trading to ensure the car hasn’t been used as security for an outstanding loan. • Carry out a Transport and Main Roads Vehicle Check (Vcheck) to determine the history of the car. • If buying from a car yard, make sure the dealer is licensed by doing a free on line check at www. fairtrading.qld.gov.au or call 13 QGOV (13 74 68). motor trader queensland
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With the imminent release of the 2011 BDO Automotive Executive Salary Survey it is timely to consider what contributes to an effective salary package. By Randall Bryson, Associate Director, Automotive, BDO
effective
T
he most important asset in your dealership is your people. Dealerships rely on people interacting with each other to generate sales. Every sales dollar that comes into the dealership is as a result of someone selling or doing something, so how do you remunerate your people to maximise performance now and into the future? Generally an effective salary package is one that aligns the goals of the employees with those of the dealership. This is somewhat complicated when we consider the five departments of a dealership and the different personalities and skill sets required to be successful in each. Some may assume people are entirely motivated by money, however most are also motivated by non-monetary factors such as
culture, work/life balance and working conditions. Another obstacle is that the goals of the dealerships need to have some consistency with those of the manufacturer(s), however these are often competing. While the strategic goals of each dealership owner will vary, high on everyone’s agenda will be the goal to generate acceptable financial returns. For that reason, key drivers for profitability is what your people should be rewarded to achieve, not only for the dealership, but also for themselves. The paradox here is that increased profitability is achieved through increasing sales while decreasing expenses, so how do you motivate your people to sell more at the same time as containing employee costs? An effective way to do this is to achieve the right balance between the employee’s base
salary pa
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wage, or retainer, and the commission component. The commission component is the ‘at risk’ component and should be structured to reward your people for achieving results that are consistent with the strategic (i.e. long term) goals of the dealership. It is our view that the retainer is compensation for the process (e.g. completing paper work, introductions, tidiness, personal presentation, etc) and the commission reward for the result (e.g. the number of new and used sales, the level of gross profit and CSI score). Often we see employees being commissioned for process. Dealerships with strong leadership and culture don’t provide incentives to their people for process, or for doing their job; they reward people for achieving outstanding results. They train their people to appreciate that
the process is best way for them and the dealership to achieve results. The balance between the retainer and commission will be dependant on the dealerships circumstances, such as geographic location, franchises and labour market forces however the ‘at risk’ component should reflect these circumstances. It is essential that the commission component has the right balance in rewarding both sales volume and gross profitability, and also incorporates the strategic goals for the dealership. For example, it would be easy to incentivise service advisors to increase sales and gross profit, yet this may promote behaviour that erodes customer satisfaction and retention.
below are consistencies in all effective salary packages: • The right balance between the retainer and commission component • The right balance in rewarding each of sales volume and gross profit • The ‘at risk’ component rewards the result not the process • Considers strategic goals (e.g. CSI, Factory Targets, Retention and Dealership Growth) • Is easily understood and measured • Has employee buy-in • Is achievable with the right amount of effort A dealership is a complex business, characterised by high turnover and low margins. Employee expenses represent on average 45-50 per cent of a dealership’s
packaging While there is no ‘one size fits all’ salary package, listed
gross profit, so it is important that these costs are controlled but effective. A successful salary package serves to motivate employees towards greater financial returns for themselves and the dealership, while ensuring that the employee costs are comparable to market in an industry with very little ‘margin’ for error. Effective salary packages need to also consider non-monetary incentives available subject to the application of Fringe Benefits Tax (FBT).
There is no ideal salary package template suitable for application across all dealerships. While the goal of maximising financial returns is consistent, the focus points to achieve this will vary to some extent, and the salary package should reflect that. For assistance with developing effective salary packages for your dealership, or details regarding the BDO Automotive Executive Salary Survey 2011, please contact Randall Bryson or Mark Ward, BDO Automotive on (07) 3237 5799.
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automobile news Optimal recognition Kia’s Optima has come away with a Design Award at the 2011 Australian International Design Awards (AIDA), which recognises excellence in design and functionality in a number of categories, as judged by a panel of industry experts. Priced from $36,990, the Kia Optima’s feature packed pricing is now matched with an equally impressive design accolade.
More for less Volvo’s XC90 seven-seat SUV now has more equipment as well as a price cut. For MY12 the XC90 line-up has been streamlined with four variants in the range – the 3.2 R-Design, 3.2 Executive, D5 R-Design and D5 Executive. The 3.2 R-Design opens the XC90 range at $69,990 – a drop of $4460 – however, now comes with Volvo Navigation System (VNS) standard (previously a $4175 option) as well as a rear park camera (previously a $795 accessory) for a total of $9340 worth of added value.
5-stars for electric vehicle ANCAP recently announced the first 5-star safety rating for an electric vehicle, the Nissan Leaf. The 2011 Leaf comprises a full suite of air bags, anti-lock brakes, electronic brake distribution and electronic stability control and intelligent seat belt reminders among other standard features. It performed very well in crash testing, with the passenger compartment holding its shape and thus offering superior protection for the occupants. 16
motor trader queensland
HiLux upgrade Substantial styling and safety upgrades for the Toyota HiLux will be available in September. New life-saving anti-skid brakes will be standard across the range that tops with the .HiLux SR5 4x4 turbo-diesel double-cab. The SR5 styling upgrade incorporates changes from the A-pillar forward, including a new front bumper, revised over-fender flares and a restyled bonnet with - in turbo-diesel versions - a relocated air scoop. The biggest visual change is the addition of a bolder three-bar grille flanked by a pair of new twin-element wrap-around headlights.
The magic ‘million’ approaches A leading W.A. security company has a high-tech crime-fighting weapon - a fleet of Toyota Prius hatches, including one that has clocked up over 788,000km. M.I.G. Security relies on its nine-strong Prius fleet for security patrols around Mandurah and surrounding areas, approximately 75km south of Perth. M.I.G. Security operations manager Paul Hiron said the longest-serving Prius, on patrol since 2005, was still going strong after 788,411km. Mr Hiron said reliability was vital to their business as clients depended on the company to give them peace of mind.
Aventador the magnificent Lamborghini launched its all-new Aventador LP700-4 onto the Australian market with only its third global showing at the Australian International Motor Show in Melbourne. The pinnacle of Lamborghini’s range of super sports cars, the Aventador boasts brutal power, outstanding lightweight engineering, and phenomenal handling precision to deliver an unparalleled driving experience. It is powered by a clean-sheet-design Lamborghini designed and developed 60-degree V12 engine punching out an immense 515kW of power at 8,250 rpm and 690 Nm of torque at 5,500 rpm. motor trader queensland
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management of
end of life The dramatic increase in scrap metal prices in the lead up to the global financial crisis saw the number of players in the end of life vehicle (ELV) collection business grow significantly and also led to a surge in older cars being stolen off the street for their scrap value.
N
otwithstanding the sudden fall in prices in late 2008, the gradual return to historical values has seen the number of players in the scrapped vehicle field stay largely unchanged and competition for vehicles remains fierce. The scrap metal industry is characterised by three tiers. At the top of the tree there are a small number of tier one corporations that operate capital intensive metal shredding and waste sorting facilities. The second tier is made up of a larger number of small to medium enterprises that buy all types of scrap metal, including whole or crushed cars and who on-sell to a tier one processor or export directly to overseas markets. Tier three is made
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up of a very large number of independents who collect cars and other scrap metal direct from the public and includes auto recyclers who sell the remains of dismantled cars to tier one and two metal recyclers. With an estimated 600,000 ELVs processed each year, Recycling motorcars is a substantial national business that also delivers important environmental benefits when vehicles are processed using best practice recycling methods. Unfortunately, there are two main problems with the ELV recycling system as it currently operates. The first concerns the negative environmental impacts associated with the very Iarge percentage of vehicles that are scrapped without first being de-commissioned in an environmentally responsible way. The second is that there is presently no practical means for metal recyclers in any tier to verify the provenance or even record the identities of the cars they receive. Once a car is crushed and shredded its identifiers and any potential criminal evidence such as fingerprints and DNA are lost forever. The NMVTRC estimates the number of cars stolen in ‘theft for scrap’ rackets at around 3,500 per year although it could easily
exceed that number. There is a strong likelihood that a significant proportion of the body shells of a further 9,000 stolen and stripped cars also end up in metal shredders. In 2010 the NMVTRC commissioned a report to examine the structure and day-to-day functioning of the Australian metal recycling industry and how the vehicle identity issue might be addressed. The report took a pragmatic approach when examining possible means of addressing the current problems. It concluded that given the volume of vehicles that are processed each year and the industry structures that currently exist, measures such as simply extending the written-off vehicle notification requirements to all ELVs by themselves would not be sufficient tto deter criminal activity. There are no simple fixes to these problems and the ultimate solution lies in a significant re-alignment of the end of life vehicle process, most probably along the Iines of the UK vehicle scrappage scheme. This may ultimately include introducing the concept of the last registered operator having ongoing financial responsibility for a vehicle
untiI they can demonstrate that it has been delivered to an accredited treatment facility (ATF). The ATF would be legally responsible for, and have the faciIities, to verify the Iegal status of the vehicle, properly de-commission it, and notify their state transport agency
600 that the vehicle has been recycled before it could be processed as scrap.
The current policy and industry settings present significant challenges to introducing such a scheme here in Australia however the NMVTRC is committed to working with relevant agencies and industry groups to find practical responses to these challenges. This article was reprinted with permission from Theft Torque (no. 44 June 2011), a publication of the National Motor Vehicle Theft Reduction Council – www.carsafe.com.au
e vehicles
needs overhaul
0,000
end of life vehicles processed each year
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MIT news A Super outcome
S
everal outstanding MIT students in Townsville were awarded free passes to attend the V8 Supercars event in July, compliments of MTAA Super. The initiative was driven by MTAA Super’s Diedre Bell - who, with colleague Peter Jones, attended the apprentice’s Townsville workplaces to present the coveted awards.
(l to r) Ultra Tune franchisee owner, 'Blue'; Hayden Sanders, Glenn Baynes
(l to r) Dean Stockwell, Dahle Adams
(l to r) Glenn Baynes, James Addison and Stuart Drive Autocare’s Brett Foord.
(l to r) Harry Liaros, Peter Jones, Gregory Liaros
(l to r) Glenn Baynes, Hayden Franklin
(l to r) Bradley Samuelson, Diedre Bell, Dean Stockwell
The winners had been chosen by their respective MIT technical trainers, Dean Stockwell and Glenn Baynes. Ms Bell said the offer was motivated by a desire to see the apprentices gain recognition for their efforts and reward them for their dedication to the industry. “We really want these young people to stay in the automotive industry, and this was one way we were able to encourage that,” said Ms Bell. “Being recognised for their achievements will hopefully fuel them to persevere and become leaders in this industry in years to come,” she added. Identical twin brothers Harry and Gregory Liaros of Townsville Mechanical Service were selected by MIT technical trainer Dean Stockwell because of their overall enthusiasm for the industry. “Their father owns the shop and these boys are cut no slack at all,” said Stockwell. “They cop it hard yet they remain focused, enthused, keep up to date with their 20
motor trader queensland
Ms Bell said the offer was motivated by a desire to see the apprentices gain recognition for their efforts and reward them for their dedication to the industry.
book work, and they are very keen on staying with the trade,” he added. Another of Stockwell’s students, Bradley Samuelson of Future Sports Motorcycles, was selected for his unmatched enthusiasm as a student. “Bradley attacks everything with pure joy and it is a pleasure to train him,” said Stockwell.
Dahle Adams of Townsville CV Shafts was selected because he is working in a niche part of the industry that can be very challenging for any automotive student. “Dahle has to work very hard as he is in a specialist environment, working with CV shafts and steering components,” said Stockwell. MIT technical trainer, Glenn
MTA Institute of Technology (MIT) brought together all of the state wide technical trainers and Brisbane-based staff for the annual 2-day conference at Head Office in Cannon Hill. MIT Board Chairman Tom Barton and Learning & Development Consultant Joe Newbery gave presentations, whilst MTAQ CFO Kathy Winkcup joined Consultant Pranesh Deo for an IT overview. (Left to Right) Row 1: Judy Margison, Leigh Joy, Kathy Winkcup, Kathleen Selfridge. Row 2: Leoni Mordue, Marcello Riotto, Paul Tugwell, Don Lerm, Kerry Cook. Row 3: Alex Fletcher, Joe Newbery, Graham MacMillan, Ian Carman, Brett Dale, Tom Barton, Darryl Shiels, Roger West. Row 4: Neil Walsh, Andrew Bellars, Terry Palfrey, Roy Pietzner, Dough Fleming, Ted O’Brien . Row 5: Richard Pope, Paul Darwin, Anthony Bonaccorso, Neil Bovey, Rob Thompson, Tony Wilson, Steve Hudspith, Gerry Connolly. Row 6: Scott Buckley, Lloyd Cross, Zak Zuiderduin, Ken Rahley, Dean Stockwell, Glenn Baynes, Jeff Mann.
Baynes, chose three of his students – Hayden Franklin, James Addison and Hayden Sanders, for their exceptional attitudes and commitment to their workbooks. “Hayden Sanders will be on the phone to me at any given time, pushing me for more workbooks, he is that keen to stay on top of his learning,” said Baynes. “Hayden Franklin is focused on performance work, carburettors, etc. – he knows what he wants to do and he is doing everything he can to get there. “James Addison is solid as a rock; he has natural automotive instincts and will
always be successful in his career,” concluded Baynes.
MIT apprentice finalist for Harry Hauenschild Award
M
IT-trained Stephen Delzoppo of Bustech in Burleigh Heads was a top three finalist in the prestigious Harry Hauenschild Apprentice of the Year category of the Queensland Training Awards (South East region) for 2011. Delzoppo, under the
tutelage of MIT technical trainer Paul Tugwell, was named the 2010 MIT Student of the Year, which was covered in this past February edition of Motor Trader magazine. Harry Hauenschild was a well known Queensland training advocate and mentor, which sprung from his belief in the value of apprentices. He joined Queensland Railways in Rockhampton in 1948, working
as a lad porter and later was accepted as an apprentice within the close-knit brotherhood of boilermakers. He steadily moved up through the ranks of the state’s union movement.
Stephen Delzoppo
motor trader queensland
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MIT news
All systems GO for Father’s Day
M
IT has offered its assistance in an initiative to support young indigenous people to participate in a Billy Cart race day in early September. The Springfield Community Billy Cart Race will be held on Father’s Day, Sunday 4 September 2011 at the USQ Springfield campus from 8:00 a.m. The races will run down the big hill on Sinnathamby Boulevard and there will be three different categories that competitors can enter: • Junior Flash Harry’s Sinnathamby Race
(ages 5-12)
getters will receive a trophy and a $30 movie voucher.
• Senior Flash Harry’s Sinnathamby Race (ages 13+) • Dare Devil Race (ages 5-17)
There will also be prizes given to: • The slowest Billy Cart
There is a cash prize of $300 for the winner of each race.
• Most innovatively designed Billy Cart
Runners-up will receive a trophy and a $50 movie voucher and third place
• Best presented Billy Cart and team (This is based on the presentation of the
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Entries close on Friday 26 August and for information on rules and guidelines for each category, please visit www. usq.edu.au/springfield/life/ billycart A man owned a small automotive repair business in outback Queensland. The Government Industrial Inspector claimed the owner was not paying proper wages to his help and sent an agent to interview him. “You just give me a list of your employees and tell me how much you pay them,” said the agent. “All right,” said the owner.
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“I have a mechanic. Been with me for three years. I pay him $25 an hour, plus room and board. I have an apprentice. He’s been here six months. He gets $16 an hour plus room and board,” he added. “Anybody else?” asked the agent as he scribbled on a note pad. “Yeah,” the owner said. “There’s a half-wit here. Works about eighteen hours a day. I pay him ten dollars a week and give him some tobacco,” he said. “Aha!” the agent roared. “I want to talk to that half-wit!” “You’re talkin’ to him now,” said the owner.
innovation SAE-A Automotive Engineering Excellence Awards
I
nnovations to reduce engine emissions and fuel consumption and to increase manufacturing efficiency were among the winners of the 2011 Automotive Engineering Excellence Awards presented in Melbourne in July by the Society of Automotive Engineers Australasia (SAE-A) as part of Australian Automotive Week. The number and quality of entries increased this year as the shadow of the GFC has passed over local vehicle engineering and new projects are again moving forward. In addition to entries received from component suppliers and vehicle manufacturers, entries were also received from the recreational and safety equipment sectors. SAE-A Judging Panel Chair Bill Malkoutzis said the innovation and passion that was evident in the 2011 Awards entries was reassuring. “We know the face of the vehicle industry is changing with local manufacturing shrinking and imports increasing to over 80% of Australia’s one million vehicle sales a year,” said Malkoutzis. “Even imports of components
have now increased to 44% of all parts used in Australian made vehicles.
Frank Will (foreground) Below: OVER7 heat exchanger
“Growth in demand for more environmentally friendly vehicles presents opportunities and challenges for Australian automotive engineers. The correlation between the consumers’ demands and the engineering projects entered in the Awards this year was clear to see. “Equally important, we welcomed entries based on projects designed to increase the flexibility and productivity of Australian manufacturing processes. This reflects Australian engineers’ ability to adapt to the increasingly
competitive global vehicle manufacturing landscape. “Australians should be proud to be one of the few nations capable of building new vehicles from concept right through component manufacturing to vehicle production. Through these Awards, the SAE-A recognises the skill and experience of our component and vehicle manufacturing industry, which contributes about $7 billion a year to the economy and employs more than 50,000 people,” he said. Industry guest speaker at the Awards dinner, Richard Marshall, Director of Energy, Environment and Technology at GM Holden, emphasised the need to ensure that Australian automotive
manufacturing continues to gain the support of governments, particularly in terms of maintaining a level playing field compared to other nations.
Winners of the 2011 SAE-A Awards included: Gold Award - Frank Will, Senior Lecturer, Deakin University, for the OVER7™ – Waste Heat Recovery System. The OVER7™ technology reduces the frictional losses of engines by redirecting exhaust heat and by increasing heat transfer into the engine oil. This modification of the lubrication system includes simple piping, a valve and a new heat exchanger, and will pay back the investment in less than one month if
installed in the factory. Because this system greatly reduces engine warm up time, it reduces engine wear by more than 96%. Two patent applications have been filed for OVER7™. One car manufacturer has adopted it for its next generation of engines, and other leading global vehicle manufacturers are reviewing it. Tests conducted in a certified laboratory using the legal drive cycle confirmed fuel consumption reduction of over 7% and emission reductions of up to 30%. If the system is implemented in only 1% of the Australian passenger car fleet, 15 million litres of fuel will be saved every year and CO2 emissions will be reduced by over 36,000 tons per motor trader queensland
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innovations year. This system works even better as power trains become more efficient, for example with hybrids, diesel engines, down sized turbocharged direct injection engines, etc. Silver Award - SMR Automotive Australia and the University of South Australia, for a lightweight integrated plastic rear vision mirror.
Linke, Manager, Virtual Manufacturing Engineering, GM Holden, for his Bottleneck Indicator Tool (BIT) software system for manufacturing optimisation. This innovative manufacturing tool builds on the known “Theory of Constraints” concept to identify bottlenecks in complex manufacturing processes. The BIT algorithm and processing methodology is based on real time
This market ready lightweight rear vision mirror is expansioncompression moulded polycarbonate with a multi-layer nano-engineered thin film coating system creating the reflective surface. Elimination Gregory Linke of the glass reduces mirror reflector weight by 50% and results in a computer reduction in green house analysis of the workflow gases emissions of up to through the system’s 400,000 tonnes of CO2 over workstation buffer areas five years, and reduces (where one process is overall mass of the mirror completed and another assembly by 15%. begins). Developed through a partnership between SMR Automotive, the University of South Australia and the AutoCRC, this technology reduces the number of components in the mirror assembly and simplifies the mirror manufacturing process, while enabling greater freedom of mirror design. It improves safety in a crash situation, because the polycarbonate does not shatter like glass.
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During the initial three month deployment at Holden’s Elizabeth, South Australia Vehicle Assembly Plant, volume increased by 60 units a day. The BIT software has been identified as Best GM Practice and is being considered for global deployment.
a fully moulded fibreglass caravan combining lightweight, strength, and aerodynamics with the interior and outer shells bonded to create a rigid, frameless semi-monocoque unit. Advanced composites are used; including carbon fibre to add rigidity is some sections, and synthetic fibre to increase impact resistance in others. Exterior design enhances aerodynamic stability and reduces drag and the tapered plan and profile shape directs the slipstream to enhance yaw stability and reduce draginducing turbulence at the rear. The high gloss interior gel coat finish inside as well as outside, and marine
Certificate of Commendation Vaughan Bolwell, MDesign, for the Bolwell Edge Caravan. The Bolwell Edge is Vaughn Bolwell
This integrated plastic mirror is now approved by a North American customer for launch in 2012 and is being marketed to SMR customers in Asia-Pacific, Europe and the USA. Bronze Award - Gregory
The BIT requires only easily validated buffer contents data, which makes data acquisition and calibration readily achievable. The benefits of BIT are far reaching, including accuracy, ease of calibration, low deployment cost and negligible ongoing maintenance. The BIT package identifies “hidden” bottlenecks missed by other systems and includes a toolbox of reports that deliver high levels of detail in a user-friendly web browser visual format.
Bolwell Edge Caravan
Stephanie Radion
grade carpets and electrical equipment, allow hose-out cleaning of the interior when soft furnishing are removed. Vaughan Bolwell was lead designer on the Australian Institute of Sport - RMIT SupaRoo track bicycle, which won gold at the 1994 Commonwealth Games. Young Engineer Award Stephanie Radion, Senior Engineer, Seating, GM Holden. Stephanie Radion was Lead Seating Engineer on the GM Holden Chevrolet Police Vehicle Export program and demonstrated excellent performance
Christopher Ebeje
in both the engineering and program management aspect of the role, well above that expected of an engineer with only four years experience. Her extensive research on
the performance of existing seats and the customer needs fuelled the design, including the application of heavy-duty seat fabric used in the defence industry. The project was completed in half the usual time for a seat project, including late program requests. Stephanie Radion demonstrated strong commitment to continual learning for both herself and her team. Her work to ensure information was shared with other GM regions was recognised by GM seating experts in Germany and the USA. Young Engineer Award Runner up - Christopher Ebejer, Team Leader Reliability Testing, Automotive and Body Electronics Division, Robert Bosch Australia. Christopher Ebejer was responsible for the design, development and validation of a unique testing methodology and associated equipment for the electrostatic discharge testing of electrical automotive-based components. He applied a six-axis robotic arm fitted with a purpose built electrostatic discharge head system allowing complete automation of the discharge testing. This improved the test procedure by shortening the test cycle, increasing the accuracy and repeatability of the results, and was achieved within his designated delivery time.
Awards Judging Panel An independent panel of judges from the automotive industry and engineering academia judged the entries. The 2011 Judging Panel included Chair Bill Malkoutzis, an engineering consultant; retired Ford Motor Company international executive engineer David Ford; DVExperts Director Dr Shane Richardson; RMIT University Prof Simon Watkins; and Melbourne University Prof Harry Watson. SAE-A Automotive Engineering Excellence Awards entries are invited from all organisations and individuals, who directly or indirectly provide products, processes or services to the vehicle and related industries.
Massive funding for biofuel research
O
ur cars, trucks and airplanes could soon run on fuel made from sugarcane waste thanks to the world-leading work of Queensland University of Technology (QUT) scientists at the Mackay Renewable Biocommodities Pilot Plant. Visiting the Plant a year after he launched it alongside Queensland Premier Anna Bligh, Innovation Minister Senator Kim Carr said access to cost-effective renewable energies such as biofuel would help the transport industry thrive in a clean energy future. “The work being done in Mackay is an outstanding
example of Australian ingenuity and the Gillard Labor Government is pleased to be providing over $5 million for the Plant under the National Collaborative Research Infrastructure Strategy and Super Science Initiative,” Senator Carr said. “Labor understands that the climate is changing. We trust the science and we trust our scientists. We will support them in their quest to help protect our world and create a low-carbon economy. I am pleased that this plant is not only working to create biofuels from waste, they are committed to helping Australian industries access and utilise the renewable energy. “That is why QUT will partner with industry to assess the commercial viability of the biofuels they create and become advocates for the uptake of this technology in Australia,” he added. QUT Professor James Dale said researchers at the Plant had been focused on the most challenging stages in the process of converting sugarcane waste (or ‘biomass’) into ethanol. “We have developed and demonstrated the pretreatment process required to modify biomass so that it is more amenable to processing into fermentable sugars and other higher value biocommodities,” he said. The new Australian Renewable Energy Agency will administer $3.2 billion in existing Government grants for research and development into renewable energy technologies and initiatives to bring them to market. The Agency will be part of the Resources, Energy and Tourism portfolio. motor trader queensland
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A
national survey of bull bar users conducted by the Australian 4WD Industry Council has revealed that 97% of respondents believe that their safety would be compromised if they were unable to fit a bull bar to their vehicle. Accessible on the 4WD Industry Council website from January to March 2011, the survey was conducted to help gather accurate information
and remote areas. “To my knowledge, a survey of such size and scope on bull bars has never been done,” said Stuart Charity. “This huge survey response was fuelled by a ground swell of opposition to the Federal Government’s proposed adoption of United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE) Regulation GTR-09 on pedestrian safety. This proposal was withdrawn in February 2011.
respondents had experienced an animal strike on their bull bar equipped vehicle in the past five years. That is 22,088 people. 59% of them, or 17,852 people, had experienced one to three strikes in the past five years. 7%, or 2118 people, had experienced between 11 and 20 strikes in the past five years. 2%, or 605 people, had experienced more than 100 strikes in the past five years. “These incredible animal strike
communications equipment 58% fitted winch equipment Proof of the effectiveness of bull bars in protecting vehicles was dramatic with respondents reporting the vehicle damage consequences of their most severe animal strike in the past five years: With bull bar = 33% no damage, 54% minor damage, 12% major damage, 0.5% vehicle immobilised. With no bull bar = 4% no damage, 29% minor damage, 46% major damage, 20%
overwhelming support for
bull bar about the public’s experiences with the use of bull bars and nudge bars in Australia. The Council is a non-competitive, specialist council of the Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association (AAAA). The online survey had an overwhelming 42,600 individual responses. As 9004 respondents did not answer the whole survey, analysis of the study was based on the 33,620 respondents that completed all questions. Council spokesperson and AAAA Executive Director Stuart Charity said the bull bar user survey vindicated the industry position that bull bars are vital to vehicle and occupant safety, particularly in regional, rural 26
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“The flood of responses was a spontaneous reaction from the people who have personal experience of the safety benefits of bull bars. There were no telephone calls or door knocking to promote this study. The only incentive was the Council’s commitment to pay a dollar per survey response to the Royal Flying Doctor Service up to a maximum of $22,000.
“We are delighted to now deliver on that commitment, with Council members funding that $22,000 donation to the Royal Flying Doctor Service,” said Charity.
Survey highlights The survey highlighted some key facts relating to the frequency of animal strikes in Australia: 73% of
numbers must be considered in the context of the total Australian road death toll being about 1500 people a year,” said Charity.
“The figures highlight the fact that animal strike is a very common occurrence for Australian families, particularly those living in regional, rural and remote areas. “They face the constant prospect of animal strike and the trauma of hits or near misses,” added Charity. While 98% of respondents fitted a bull bar to protect the vehicle and occupants from animal strikes, people also reported that bull bars are a stable platform for other important safety equipment, including: 84% fitted auxiliary lighting 80% fitted
vehicle immobilised.
However, the most important survey response was to the question about occupant injury resulting from the most severe animal strike in the past five years: With bull bar = 99.3% no injuries, 0.7% injuries sustained. No bull bar = 80% no injuries, 20% injuries sustained. The results of the survey overwhelmingly defended the positive safety benefits of bull bars. The respondents’ views on whether bull bars: Prevented significant damage to the vehicle in a frontal impact = 99.6% yes. Prevented significant injury to vehicle occupants in frontal impact = 92% yes. The survey results also dispelled the common
rs
misconception held by some that most bull bar equipped vehicles never leave cities, with 94% of respondents spending at least a week each year travelling in remote parts of Australia for recreational purposes.
pole or other solid object, or a roll over,” he said.
Charity said another revelation of the survey was that bull bars give drivers confidence in taking the animal strike as a frontal impact, which greatly reduces the risk of occupant injury.
“An unexpected finding of the survey was that if respondents were no longer able to fit a bull bar to their vehicle, 79% would travel less, or not at all for recreational purposes. Given the wide scope of this national survey, that could translate into many cancelled family driving holidays and have a major impact on regional, rural and remote tourism centres.
“If no bull bar was fitted, 74% of respondents said they were very likely or likely to have swerved, or taken other evasive action. Sudden avoidance action can induce a skid, which could increase the risk of occupant injuries due to side impact into a tree,
“The survey report includes a selection of the many thousands of personal accounts and views received from survey respondents. These include opinions from a range of medical and safety professionals such as doctors, paramedics and police.
Stuart Charity, on right, presents $22,000 donation to the Royal Flying Doctors Service.
“These crucial findings justify the Federal Government’s decision to abandon the introduction of Regulation GTR-09, which if adopted in full, would have effectively eliminated steel and alloy bull bars from Australian roads. While this regulation may be appropriate for European urban conditions, it took no account of vehicle and occupant safety needs in the sparsely populated, rugged open country found across Australia.
“The Council fully supports efforts to improve pedestrian safety. However we were very concerned that the move to adopt Regulation GTR-09 in Australia would have a detrimental impact on overall road safety when taking into account our unique driving environment. “We hope that the findings of this survey help to stimulate constructive and balanced dialogue on the road safety benefits of bull bars in Australia,” Charity concluded. motor trader queensland
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Take action
- make a new (financial) year’s resolution to increase your super balance! Here are some easy steps towards increasing your super balance: et it together – roll over other superannuation account balances into your MTAA Super account.
forgets to let their fund know their new details, or simply forgets that they have an account. After a certain period of having no contact, the super fund is obliged by law to transfer the funds to the ATO or AUSfund.
One of the easiest ways you can increase your account balance, and avoid being charged administration fees for each of your super accounts, is to get all your super together into a low fee account such as your MTAA Super account. Don’t forget that super is your money and you need to keep track of it.
Action: In just moments you can search to see if you have any “lost” super. Visit www. unclaimedsuper.com.au or www.ato.gov.au and go to the Superseeker search engine.
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Before you roll over your super balances, check whether you will be charged any exit fees or will lose any other benefits like insurance cover. Action: Find your other super funds’ details and fill out a “rollover” form which is available on our website – www.mtaasuper.com.au/forms or call us on 1300 362 415.
Find your lost super – online.
Super can become “lost” quite easily, usually when someone moves house and
the fact sheet about making extra contributions at www. mtaasuper.com.au. Action: Ask your employer if you’re eligible to salary sacrifice some of your beforetax income into your super account.
Add up to $1,000 to your super through the government co-contribution scheme
Make extra contributions from your before-tax income Even a small amount added to your super now can make a big difference to the amount you will have when it’s time to retire, and there are several ways you can add to your super. For example, you can ask your employer to take more out of your before-tax income and contribute it to your super account as “salary sacrifice”. This can be very tax-effective because super savings are taxed at a lower, or “concessional” rate of just 15 per cent. There are limits to the amount you can salary sacrifice each year so visit our website and read
The government cocontribution scheme is designed to help you save for retirement and it is very simple. If you earn less than $61,920 (including reportable fringe benefits and salary sacrifice contributions) this financial year, the government will contribute one dollar into your super account for every eligible dollar of voluntary (after-tax) contributions you make to your super account, up to $1,000. If you earn less than $31,920, you will probably receive the full dollar-for-dollar co-contribution up to $1,000. As your salary increases over $31,920, the amount the government contributes reduces. To work out how much you are eligible to receive, visit our
co-contributions calculator in the member education area of our website, there is a video to watch as well. Action: Contribute a lump sum or a series of contributions from your aftertax income into your super account. The Government will automatically add the amount you are eligible for after you file your annual income tax return.
Make a contribution from your after-tax income You can make additional contributions at any time into your super account from your after-tax income.
There are limits on the amount you can contribute, which are set by the government. For example, if you are under 65 you can contribute up to $150,000 a year as after-tax income to your super (across all your super accounts), or a maximum $450,000 over a three year period. Action: Set up a small regular payment from your bank account directly into your MTAA Super account. You may even be eligible for the government co-contribution scheme.
To find out more about MTAA Super, you can contact your local representative: • Peter 0419 655 254 • Diedre 0407 732 660 • Lynne 0409 995 868 Email: mtaasuper@mtaasuper.com.au Phone: 1300 362 415 Visit: www.mtaasuper.com.au. Lynne Wilkinson
Diedre Bell
Peter Jones
This document is issued by the Motor Trades Association of Australia Superannuation Fund Pty Limited (ABN 14 008 650 628, AFSL 238 718) of Level 3, 39 Brisbane This information has been prepared by the Motor Trades Association of Australia Superannuation Fund Pty Ltd (ABN 14 008 650 628,AFSL 238718, FSEL0001069), an Approved Trustee company engaged Avenue Barton ACT 2600, Trustee of the MTAA Superannuation Fund (ABN 74 559 365 913, SPIN MTA0100AU). Motor Trades Association of Australia Superannuation solely in managing MTAA Super for the benefit of its members. All care has been taken to ensure that the information contained in this article is correct at the time of this publication, however, neither the Fund Pty Limited has ownership interests in Industry Super Holdings Pty Ltd, ME Bank Pty Ltd and Superpartners Pty Ltd. Trustee of MTAA Super nor its advisors accept responsibility for any error or misprint, nor for anyone acting on this information. MTAA Super (ABN 74559365913, RSER10004373) The information provided is of a general nature and does not take into account your specific financial needs or personal situation. You should assess your financial position and personal objectives before making any decision based on this information. We also recommend that you seek advice from a licensed financial adviser. The MTAA Super Product Disclosure Statement (PDS), an important document containing all the information you need to make a decision about MTAA Super, can be obtained by calling MTAA Super on 1300 362 415. You should consider the PDS in making a decision.
Does your super fund tick all the right boxes? Low fees No commissions Run only to benefit members
MTAA Super is the Industry SuperFund for the Motor Industry and anyone can join. For more information visit www.mtaasuper.com.au Motor Trades Association of Australia Superannuation Fund Pty Ltd (ABN 14 008 650 628, AFSL 238 718) is the Trustee of MTAA Superannuation Fund (ABN 74 559 365 913). You should consider whether or not MTAA Super is appropriate for you. The MTAA Super Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) can be obtained by calling us on 1300 362 415. You should consider the PDS in making a decision.
health Getting the magic back
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espite his best intentions, a man may have habits that may be undermining the relationship with the woman in his life. The majority of these habitual mistakes are the subtle things that you might not even know you’re doing and changing these habits could make a big difference to your relationship, which can only be good for you. Recognising these mistakes and making efforts to correct them will not only help your relationship, it may also help your health and that of your spouse. Over time, negative feelings in a relationship that aren’t addressed can lead to physical and psychological problems. Stress develops in the relationship for each partner, though for different reasons, which can result in anxiety or depression in one or both of them. The following represent some common mistakes that men make with their partners, how to recognise them, and most important, what you can do to correct them.
Not showing empathy Empathy is the most important part of any relationship. It’s the ability to recognise and share someone else’s feelings. And it’s something that, in general, women are better at than men. Women want their feelings to be understood and validated. Men have to discover this. Rather than simply listening, though, men tend to go into fix-it mode. That’s a mistake. If your partner tells you she 30
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feels ignored, for example, at that moment what she wants is for you to understand her feelings rather than talk about the facts.
Reckless spending Making big purchases such as buying a car without first consulting your partner is a huge mistake. In fact, she ranks it second only to infidelity when it comes to marriage-destroying mistakes. Men tend to do it a lot. Why? Consciously or unconsciously, men frequently assign themselves the leadership role in the relationship. That, too, is a mistake because a couple’s relationship is a shared leadership position.
Being sexually selfish (or clueless) In the bedroom, men forget – or, worse, haven’t figured out – that their wives often need more than they do to get turned on. Affection and making her feel loved and needed is basic for her to feel aroused. Older men usually catch on, but many young men are especially unaware of this. Turning a woman on begins well before the
lights go down. Men tend to perceive sex as a sufficient means of being close, of having a connection. But women want a connection prior to having sex.
leaving her.
Listening the wrong way
Going on a power trip
Listening does not mean nodding along as your partner explains what is bothering her, all the while thinking up ways to fix the problem. What she most often wants is to talk things out, and she wants you to be actively engaged in the conversation, not by trying to be the hero and save the day, but by demonstrating an interest in what she is saying and caring about what she is experiencing emotionally.
Shelving your feelings Listening to your partner talk about her feelings is essential. So is talking about your own. Not sharing your emotions can be a real problem for your partner. The woman feels like she’s missing a close connection that she wants with her partner. When he’s withdrawn, she feels like he is
Getting men to open up can be difficult, but it shows strength, opening up is taking a risk, and that takes courage.
The power position that men often put themselves in essentially negates the relationship, which must be reciprocal, supportive, and caring. Our best selves emerge in the context of our relationships with others and not as an independent entity. If you believe that your relationship has become a three-ring circus with habitual mistakes that are repeated day after day, its time to do something about it. It can be as simple as grabbing a blanket and going together to the beach, or lake, or park – stretching out and having a good long talk and more importantly, a good long listen, which may enable you to remember why you got together in the first place – and perhaps will trigger a deeper appreciation for the one individual who is the most important person in your life.
sport ASBK loses a legend
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he ASBK announced in late July the loss of a legend in the motorcycle racing community with the news that Ken Wootton passed away. IEG Managing Director Yarrive Konsky paid tribute to a personality who has been part of the Australian Superbike Championship paddock for many years. “Rarely in life do we get to be involved with a humble legend; some people come in our lives and quickly go, but those that touch us the most leave footprints on our hearts,” he said. “Ken Wootton, without a doubt loved motorcycle racing, and the charters in it more than anyone I have known. Without prejudice he would help those that were willing to help the riders, sport and industry he entrusted his entire life to and that included my entire staff and me.
“Ken showed his true character and never deferred or neglected those he cared for. His selfless acts of kindness were genuine and untainted. “He will live on in our hearts, minds and in the sport of motorcycling forever. “Ken Wootton, the Australian Superbikes will always be indebted to you, the sport, racers and industry has so much to thank you for - I have so much to be grateful for because of your sheer
“Ken Wootton, without a doubt loved motorcycle racing, and the charters in it more than anyone I have known. Without prejudice he would help those that were willing to help the riders, sport and industry he entrusted his entire life to ."
kindness and generosity. “I will miss seeing you at the track, speaking to you about everything Australian Superbikes, but I promise you, I will never forget you,” Konsky added. Ken’s dedication to motorcycles and racing was second-to-none. He was a successful racer in his own right for many years before pursuing a long and decorated career as a journalist and editor for a host of industry publications. His involvement went far beyond what was asked or required. He was a friendly face in the ASBK paddock and was often the first to arrive and always the last to leave. His sense of humour may have been an equal or greater forte than his knowledge. Few will forget his cheeky grin and quips or his trademark enthusiasm behind the microphone. Ken’s career took him to the furthest reaches of the globe where he developed a rapport with some of the sport’s greatest racers, but he remained equally committed to sharing the stories of Australia’s emerging talents. His passion for motorcycles and racing was rare, and raw. Ken was a true character – a gentleman, a friend and a favourite in the ASBK community and further afar.
Ken Wootton (left) with Valentino Rossi
Sincere condolences are offered to his family and friends at this sad time on behalf of the management, riders, teams and partners at the ASBK.
Germans race to electric speed
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oyota Motorsport Germany (TMG) will attempt to set a new electric vehicle (EV) lap record at the legendary Nürburgring Nordschleife in Germany. TMG has developed a high-performance electric powertrain and this will form the basis of the record attempt, which is provisionally scheduled for the end of August. The TMG 100% electric car, which is based on a two-seater sports car chassis fitted with TMG’s exclusive EV technology, has a top speed of 260km/h and can travel from 0 to 100km/h in 3.9 seconds. This car is ideal for a singlemake EV championship and TMG aims to prove that green-thinking motorsport can generate emotion among fans by using innovative technology to deliver high performance. Its challenge is to break the existing EV lap record of 9min 1.338secs set earlier this year. Already the TMG electric powertrain has bettered this time during unofficial testing and it is expected to make a significant improvement during the official timed laps. Rob Leupen, TMG’s Director of Business Operations, said that they are confident that they can break the record by some distance, which is an indication of how EV performance is continuously improving. “TMG is a leader in highperformance powertrains and we want to show the world motor trader queensland
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sport how far this technology has developed,” said Leupen. “Our mission is to advance this technology, not only in motorsport but in the automotive sector in general, to deliver products with more performance and better durability for our customers,” he added. Ludwig Zeller, TMG’s General Manager Electrics and Electronics, said that TMG has developed a very robust and reliable electric powertrain, which has been proven in several products already. “We have built up a tremendous amount of knowledge about such high-performance powertrains, particularly battery management systems and vehicle control units, during our development programmes,” Zeller said. “Our lap record attempt brings together this knowledge and it should clearly show the great potential of high-performance electric powertrains,” he concluded.
Seamless gear changing
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transmission using Zeroshift’s seamless gear-change technology is helping the new Australian Joss JP1 supercar to set 0-160km/h acceleration times of just 6.0 seconds. Integrated into a supercar transaxle developed by
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high-performance transmission manufacturer Albins, Zeroshift provides a continuous flow of torque during gearshifts that ensures the car’s acceleration is uninterrupted. “Zeroshift’s seamless shifting between ratios helps the JP1 to deliver uncompromised acceleration and a driving experience that is unforgettable,” said Bill Martin, Zeroshift’s managing director. “The uninterrupted flow of torque also improves vehicle efficiency and ensures engine power can flow continuously to the wheels. The technology has a low part-count that makes integration into existing packages relatively
0-160 in just straightforward.” The world’s most powerful supercars compete to produce ever-faster 0-160km/ h acceleration figures with many achieving times in the order of 6.5 to 7.0 seconds. Gear changes
interrupt the power delivery momentarily and this approximately half-second of lost acceleration can represent around 10 percent of the 0-160km/h time. Zeroshift eliminates this delay in the Joss JP1, allowing it to outperform other supercar marques. “After extensive research and technical appraisals, we concluded that no other transmission technology could be applied so readily and deliver such a boost to performance,” said Joss technical director, Matthew Thomas. “With Albins and Zeroshift as technical partners, we have succeeded in making the JP1 a unique supercar that challenges the established order.” Zeroshift’s technology replaces the synchromesh in a conventional manual gearbox with paired interlocking drive rings that change ratio without
6.0
interrupting the torque. The lightweight shift forks that control the rings can be shifted using conventional hydraulics that place minimal parasitic loads on the engine. The gearbox architecture with a single clutch is retained. The Joss JP1 application builds on a successful ongoing relationship between Zeroshift and Albins. Albins is the sole transmission supplier to the Australian V8 Supercar race series from 2013. Zeroshift is also working on developments with a number of other companies, including major motorcycle, passenger car and commercial vehicle manufacturers. Zeroshift is a privately owned British company, specialising in the development and application of power transmission and electronic control solutions across a wide range of transport industries. Its chairman is Bob Dover, former chairman and CEO of Aston Martin, Jaguar and Land Rover. Zeroshift’s main area of intellectual property is an innovative system that replaces the conventional synchromesh in an Automated Manual Transmission (AMT) to provide an affordable, highly fuel-efficient, zero torque interruption fully automatic transmission. The company is also supplying the next generation of transmissions for hybrids and electric vehicles. www.zeroshift.com
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The survey covers management positions and enables dealerships to evaluate how their remuneration packages compare with the wider market. It is recognised as a valuable resource in assisting dealers to manage their human resource function and in turn their profit margins. This survey is the only one of its kind, providing access to independent salary data for more than 700 managers, covering over 55 dealerships ranging from small rural to large publicly listed groups across Queensland, New South Wales, Victoria and Western Australia. Access to the survey will be restricted to dealership owners only. Refer to our article on Effective Salary Packages in this publication.
Darren Crothers, Partner Ph: 07 3237 5990
BDO provides advice to the Automotive sector nationally in the areas of audit, tax, and advisory services. Our relationship driven service style backed by our broad capability and specialist Automotive expertise, provides a distinctively different choice for our clients.
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