GOVERNMENT INTRODUCES DRAFT LEGISLATION FOR THE NEW VEHICLE EFFICIENCY STANDARD
MTA QUEENSLAND hosts quarterly industry meetings for:
› AUSTRALIAN AUTOMOTIVE DEALER ASSOCIATION (NEW CAR DEALERS)
› AUTOMOTIVE ENGINEERS DIVISION (MECHANICAL REPAIRERS)
› AUTOMOTIVE PARTS RECYCLERS DIVISION (PARTS RECYCLERS)
› AUTOMOTIVE REMARKETING DIVISION (USED CAR DEALERS)
› ENGINE RECONDITIONERS ASSOCIATION OF QUEENSLAND (ENGINE RECONDITIONERS)
› NATIONAL AUTO COLLISION ALLIANCE (PAINT & PANEL / TOW TRUCKS)
› QUEENSLAND FARM & INDUSTRIAL MACHINERY DEALERS DIVISION (FARM & INDUSTRIAL MACHINERY)
› QUEENSLAND MOTORCYCLE INDUSTRY DIVISION (MOTORCYCLES)
› RENTAL VEHICLE INDUSTRY DIVISION (RENTAL VEHICLES)
› SERVICE STATION & CONVENIENCE STORE ASSOCIATION OF QUEENSLAND (SERVICE STATIONS)
› TYRE & UNDERCAR DIVISION OF QUEENSLAND (TYRES, BRAKES, SUSPENSIONS)
The Agenda topics include:
› robust discussions around the priorities of the Division,
› issues that need to be directly presented to government and submissions,
› skilling needs,
› membership representation,
› technical and educational updates, and
› innovation opportunities.
The industry meetings can be attended in-person at MTA Queensland or online. The meetings are open to members and non-members, but we strongly encourage membership to ensure all member benefits are available.
HELLO AND WELCOME to the April edition of Motor Trader.
The past couple of months have been important for the automotive industry. The Australian Government's move on the New Vehicle Efficicency Standard (NVES) provoked a flurry of activity as industry worked to understand what the ramifications might be of the initial proposal and the government's favoured plan. MTA Queensland worked hard - together with its fellow MTAs and the national body, the MTAA - to encourage the easing of some tough targets and requirements and after a few weeks of consultation, draft legislation has now been revealed. You can read what it asks of industry and what lies ahead from page 14.
the legendary Italian designer Marcello Gandini who passed away last month. Iconic cars which he helped create include the Lamborghini Countach, the Bugatti EB110, and the Maserati Khmasin. That's quite a legacy.
We also have our regular MTA Q&A feature, which this month sees Motor Trader meet up with RGM Maintenance in Cairns, and we put a spotlight on Dodge and its newest muscle car, the all-electric Charger Daytona.
We must not forget to mention that nominations for MTA Queensland's 2024 Industry Awards are now open. Five business-related awards - Small Business Award, Large Business Award, Community Award, Innovation Award, and Women in Industry Award - are up for grabs and winners will be announced at the Association's annual awards gala, to be held this year at the W Brisbane on 23 November. Check out page 12 for more information.
I hope you enjoy this month's edition, and if you have any news to share, please contact me.
Also this month we take a look back at some of the wonderful car designs from BUSINESS
Cheers
Jonathan Nash, Editor
jonathann@mtaq.com.au
MTA Queensland welcomes the following new members
SETTING THE STANDARD: GOVERNMENT INTRODUCES NEW VEHICLE EFFICIENCY STANDARD DRAFT LEGISLATION
announcement of the introduction of a new vehicle fuel standard (NVES) with less than six weeks notice has certainly galvanised our industry. The poorly thoughtout plan had not considered the capacity of the OEMs to introduce new zero and low emission vehicles quickly. After more than 40 meetings with government between MTA Queensland, the MTAA, and our interstate counterparts over six weeks, the Federal Government has now laid out its revised draft legislation of the NVES.
With stakeholders from right across the automotive and political spectrums having their say, we believe that the amendments that have been made are sensible for the automotive retail sector and remain ambitious but more achievable - though it is hardly perfect.
Amendments include:
• Re-categorisation of a limited number of 4WD models built on a ladder frame chassis from passenger car to light commercial vehicle.
• Smoothing the emissions trajectory for light commercial vehicles.
• Staging implementation which includes the introduction of earning credits and penalties after 1 July 2025, and a review of the NVES in 2026.
These concessions demonstrate the industry’s ability to convince Government of the very real challenges being experienced internationally in the electrification of transport, and while the emissions trajectory has eased slightly, it will still by no means be a smooth transition here in Australia. The effects of the NVES will reverberate across the automotive landscape and impact every sector, and businesses will have to be prepared.
To support businesses in understanding what an electrified future means for them, MTA Queensland is hosting a free online business transition workshop on Tuesday, 23 April from 7:00am – 9:00am. Following the success of our regional roadshow late last year, the online workshop will enable all members to access the latest data and information and map out their future. Register HERE.
KELLIEDEWAR
DEPUTY CEO | GENERAL MANAGER MEMBER SERVICES
FIRST quarter for 2024 in the books, we now move into an exciting time of year here at MTA Queensland - the opening of nominations for our Industry Awards!
Over the last 12 months, we have seen some incredible achievements from our members and, as an industry, it is important that we celebrate and highlight these successes together. Nominations are open for our five award categories – Community, Innovation, Women in Industry, and Small and Large Business Awards for Excellence – which can be easily completed online HERE with a 500-word submission. All finalists will receive two tickets to the 2024 Industry Awards Gala in November in Brisbane, which is a night of entertainment, live music, food and drink, dancing, and celebrating, not to be missed.
.
. . WE HAVE SEEN SOME INCREDIBLE ACHIEVEMENTS FROM OUR MEMBERS AND, AS AN INDUSTRY, IT IS IMPORTANT THAT WE CELEBRATE AND HIGHLIGHT THESE SUCCESSES TOGETHER.
In partnership with the MTAA, Auto Parts Recyclers Association of Australia, and Auto PARTnered Solutions, we will be hosting the 2024 AAPRA Conference from 29 – 31 August on the Gold Coast. Featuring an impressive lineup of industry experts and influencers from around the world, this is your chance to hear about the future of the auto recyclers sector. Early-bird tickets are now available and can be purchased HERE.
Finally, MTA Queensland, together with Capricorn Society, will be hosting a Careers Networking Expo at the Brisbane Capricorn Trade Show on Wednesday, 22 May. Taking place directly before the show from 4:30pm – 5:30pm, this is your opportunity to connect with high-school students and jobseekers who have shown an interest in learning more about a career in the automotive industry. If you are attending the Trade Show, come along early and promote your business to the next generation of our workforce. You can learn more about the event and get involved HERE.
Auto Women is a supportive group that:
Raises the profile of women in the automotive industry
Advocates for women in the automotive industry on key issues to government
Promotes career opportunities for women and the advantages of diversity to employers
Hosts virtual and in-person networking and social events that educate, connect and support women
Is led by a diverse mentor team
Provides career enhancement courses and scholarships
Motor Trader visited the Cairns branch of RGM Maintenance recently to talk to the woman in charge, After Sales Manager Tammy Perazza.
WORDS & IMAGES :
HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN ESTABLISHED?
TP: RGM Maintenance opened its doors in Brisbane in 2002. The business quickly expanded throughout Queensland and the Northern Territory. In June of 2017, the Cairns Branch was
opened when the business bought out WestCo Trucks and became the Daimler Trucks Sales, Service and parts Dealership.
TELL US ABOUT THE PRODUCTS AND SERVICES?
TP: The Cairns branch of RGM Maintenance focusses on new truck sales and sales of
parts for Freightliner, Fuso and Mercedes trucks. We also provide a comprehensive workshop for repairs and servicing with a 24-hour breakdown assistance service for our clients. Our clients range from Government Departments such as the Queensland Ambulance Service, to the Australian Defence Force, to local commercial businesses. We run a fleet of 17 trucks with Qube at the Arriga Sugar Mill outside of Mossman for MSF Sugar. The maintenance of the fleet involves having a full-time mechanic on site and providing a 24-hours-a-day, 7-days a week mechanic service on call.
TP: Born and bred in Cairns, I have spent my career working with the large heavy vehicle industry. I began my career in the mines, spending 10 years in Mount Isa working with Caterpillar. During those 10 years I
“IN JUNE OF 2017, THE CAIRNS BRANCH WAS OPENED WHEN THE BUSINESS BOUGHT OUT WESTCO TRUCKS AND BECAME THE DAIMLER TRUCKS SALES, SERVICE AND PARTS DEALERSHIP.”
did a little bit of everything from special projects through to service advisor.
ARE YOU STILL HANDS ON IN THE BUSINESS TODAY?
TP: I began my role at the Cairns branch of RGM Maintenance six years ago and I love working for the company. We are a small team and so when someone is away it is all hands on deck. I am very much engaged in a hands-on capacity across all facets of the business, stepping in when I am needed. The only job I don’t step into is when a trade-qualified mechanic is required.
TP: We have a close-knit team in the Cairns branch with only one RGM Maintenance branch that is smaller than ours. We have eight heavy vehicle fitters / mechanics. Three of our mechanics are currently completing their apprenticeships. We have three salesmen and two people in parts. There are two staff providing admin support and then myself as the After Sales Manager.
Our staff work closely together and feel more like family than co-workers. For example, our admin lady Marisa owned the business with her husband in 2009 before selling it to WestCo Trucks, who then sold it to RGM Maintenance. Marisa still works in our office and is considered to be everyone’s mum. Today, her son Scott also works in the business as a mechanic. Scott did his trade in our workshop 13 years ago as a 16-year-old and is now an integral part of our team.
TP: Freightliner, Fuso and Mercedes provide training in Melbourne and Sydney for mechanics to get hands on in their brandspecialist workshops to learn the latest
“OUR STAFF WORK CLOSELY TOGETHER AND FEEL MORE LIKE FAMILY THAN COWORKERS. FOR EXAMPLE, OUR ADMIN LADY MARISA OWNED THE BUSINESS WITH HER HUSBAND IN 2009 BEFORE SELLING IT TO WESTCO TRUCKS, WHO THEN SOLD IT TO RGM MAINTENANCE.”
techniques on their vehicles. We send staff there for a week or more where they can work in a state-of-the-art workshop. We do that as much as possible because then those staff bring that knowledge back and share it with everyone else.
TP: The greatest challenge I have is finding quality staff, in particular trade-qualified mechanics. It can be hard to compete with the mines for great people, but we believe that our work culture will often make up for salary. When I am looking for staff, I will always choose people who fit our culture and team. If I can’t find people who
fit, we will run short-handed until we do. It is critical to us that we find the best people to suit our team.
WHAT DO YOU SEE AS THE GREATEST ADVANCEMENT IN TECHNOLOGY FOR YOUR BUSINESS?
TP: Electric trucks are going to be a massive gamechanger for our industry. Both Fuso and Mercedes have electric trucks about to hit the market in our area. I have
doubts about the technology and access to charging stations for long-distance freight vehicles, but for those staying close to base electric advancements will be staggering. For example, we are working with Coles to deliver the first fully electric fleet in Far North Queensland. Both Freightliner and Mercedes have sent electric trucks to us to learn on and we are enrolling our staff in all of the training available.
Left to Right: Back row: Elinoe Beauvois, Grant Chapman, Dave Ward, Geoff Gillam, Mace Courtney, Scott Jamieson, Ben Musumeci, Liam Sallaway, and Jayce Hudson. Bottom Row: Marisa Jamieson, Tammy Perazza, and Karly Watsonip
HOW MUCH IMPORTANCE DO YOU PLACE ON SOCIAL MEDIA FOR YOUR BUSINESS?
TP: We have a Townsville-based marketing team who take care of the social media for RGM Maintenance state-wide. The Facebook page is fairly active and gives a personal touch to our team and business. We love sharing stories of our people and our clients.
DO YOU SPONSOR ANY LOCAL EVENTS?
TP: We sponsor one off events in Cairns but no regular events. For example, last year we sponsored a vehicle in the Long Drive For Drought. We don’t have a Cairnsspecific marketing plan for Cairns, so we do individual activities that a customer or staff member is passionate about. It isn’t so much a marketing strategy as it is an opportunity for us to give back to our community.
WHAT ARE YOUR PLANS FOR THE CAIRNS BRANCH OF RGM MAINTENANCE IN THE NEXT FEW YEARS?
TP: My goal is to grow the workshop and build the team of staff with at least 10
“MY GOAL IS TO GROW THE WORKSHOP AND BUILD THE TEAM OF STAFF WITH AT LEAST 10 TO 12 MECHANICS IN THE WORKSHOP.”
to 12 mechanics in the workshop. I am recruiting new people and investing in them with training and professional development to onboard them into the team and get them up to speed as soon as possible.
WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO A YOUNG TAMMY STARTING OUT IN THE INDUSTRY?
TP: Learn from the people who know more than you and absorb as much as you can. Don’t be afraid of having a go even if you are a woman in a maledominated industry. If all else fails, fake it ‘til you make it.
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MTA QUEENSLAND IS putting the call out to the Queensland automotive industry’s best and brightest, with nominations now open for the 2024 Industry Awards.
Celebrating the outstanding achievements and contributions of individuals and businesses from across Queensland’s automotive industry over the last 12 months, the Industry Award winners will be crowned at the 2024 MTA Queensland Industry Awards Gala on Saturday, 23 November 2024 at the W Brisbane. Hosted by Channel Seven and SEN Queensland’s Ben Davis, the Industry Awards Gala is the Queensland automotive industry’s night of nights, jam-packed with entertainment, live music, food, drinks, dancing, and a charity auction as we celebrate the outstanding contributions of those from the industry.
Following their successful launch in 2023, the Small and Large Business Awards for Excellence are back this year, with both awards to be presented to a member business that demonstrates excellence and best practice in all aspects of business.
“It has been terrific to see so many of our members get involved and nominate for the new award categories,” said Rod Camm, MTA Queensland Chief Executive. “The quality and quantity of nominations we received last year highlight the incredible level of dedication and commitment to customer service and service excellence delivered day-in day-out by automotive businesses across Queensland, which often goes unnoticed.”
In total, five award categories are open for nominations:
• Small Business Award for Excellence – awarded to a member business that employs 15 or fewer staff and demonstrates excellence and best practice in all aspects of business.
• Large Business Award for Excellence –awarded to a member business that employs 16 or more staff and demonstrates excellence and best practice in all aspects of business.
2023 Small Business Award for Excellence finalists
Sharine Milne from R.H.D Classics, Nathan Brookes and Andrew Whiteway from the Garage Miami, and Craig Baills from Highfields Mechanical, with MTA Queensland Deputy CEO Kellie Dewar.
• Community Award – awarded to an individual or member business who is a role model in their community and this is evidenced in their actions.
• Innovation Award – awarded to an individual or business that is supporting or implementing innovation in the automotive or mobility industry.
• Women in Industry Award – awarded to a female leader achieving success through their commitment to driving change in the automotive or mobility industry.
Additionally, the MTA Queensland Apprentice of the Year will also be crowned to an MTA Institute (RTO. 31529) apprentice who represents the future of the automotive industry through their commitment and dedication to learning the trade.
“Nominating for the MTA Queensland Industry Awards is a fantastic opportunity to recognise a person or business in your community for the wonderful value they bring. There is significant media attention attached to the finalists and winners, and it can bring an increased sense of trust and credibility for customers, knowing that the business has been recognised as a leader in the Queensland automotive industry,” said Mr Camm.
Nominations for the Industry Awards will close at 4:30 pm, Friday, 28 June.
Awarded to an individual or member business who is a role model in their community and this is evidenced by their actions.
Awarded to an individual or business that is supporting or implementing innovation in the automotive/mobility industry.
Awarded to a female leader or business achieving success by their commitment to driving change in the automotive/mobility industry.
Awarded to a member business with 15 or less staff (full or part-time) who demonstrates excellence and best practice in all aspects of business, including customer service, training and employee development, and marketing activities.
Awarded to a member business with 16 or more staff who demonstrates excellence and best practice in all aspects of business, including customer service, training and employee development, and marketing activities.
NOMINATIONS WILL CLOSE FRIDAY, 28 JUNE 2024.
WINNERS WILL BE ANNOUNCED AT THE INDUSTRY AWARDS GALA ON SATURDAY, 23 NOVEMBER 2024.
ONLY 500 WORD SUBMISSION REQUIRED
FOLLOWING WEEKS OF consultation, and some very public arguments between supporters and opponents of its favoured plan, the Australian Government has released its draft legislation of the New Vehicle Efficiency Standard (NVES).
That draft legislation is slightly less demanding on carmakers than the Government’s original plan but the amendments, while tackling some of the major concerns of some in the industry, do leave many with lingering concerns.
For its part, MTA Queensland, as a member of the Motor Trades Association of Australia (MTAA), has consistently advocated for reasonable adjustments to the scheme and is pleased that the Government has noted its advice.
For background, an NVES of some sort has been discussed for many years with the aim of obliging carmakers to supply vehicles that deliver lower emissions –expressed as grams of carbon dioxide per kilometre (CO2 g/km).
To do this, an NVES standard requires that a carmaker sells a range of new vehicles that, collectively, lowers their fleet’s average emissions. They can sell any vehicles they wish, but those that emit more than permitted under the NVES will have to be offset by zero- and low-emission vehicles. If they beat the required average target, they receive credits. If they do not, they pay a penalty. In its initial preferred option standard, the Government
split the vehicle fleet into two categories – Passenger Vehicle (PV) and Light Commercial Vehicle (LCV) – and set a goal of a total CO2 intensity reduction from 2025-2029 of 61 per cent and 62 per cent respectively. In terms of the emissions standard, this broke down over the five years as:
With a penalty rate of $100 per g/km; heavy SUVs included in the Passenger Vehicle category; a starting date of January 1, 2025; and a number of other challenging requirements, this initial proposed plan met with pushback from many in the industry. Arguments put forward included a headline-grabbing announcement that some vehicle prices would rise by thousands of dollars as carmakers that could not meet the NVES might raise prices to pay for penalties. There were even suggestions that some manufacturers may leave the Australian market completely.
The short period of consultation that the government held was a busy one for MTA
Queensland, its fellow state and territory MTAs, the Motor Trades Association of Australia (MTAA), carmakers and other organisations such as the Australia Automotive Dealers
Association (AADA) as they sought to engage with government and impress upon it that its favoured proposal was asking too much.
While the government, on announcement of the NVES, said clearly they were committed to their ambitious plan and would not be swayed easily, the industry was able to mount a very strong evidencebased campaign on what could be achieved and the implications of getting it wrong.
Discussions will continue on lingering issues but the result of this consultation process has seen several important changes included in the NVES draft legislation released on March 26. Key amongst these amendments are:
• Recategorisation of 4WDs: A limited number of heavy and capable 4WDs have been recategorised from passenger cars to light commercial vehicles. This acknowledges that some off-road SUVs use similar ladder-frame chassis, and have comparable towing capacity above 3 tonnes, to dual cab utes. The models shifted into the LCV category are Toyota Landcruiser, Nissan Patrol, Ford Everest, Toyota Fortuner, Mercedes-AMG G-Class, Lexus LX, Toyota Prado, Mitsubishi Pajero Sport, LDV D90, Ssangyong Rexton, GWM Tank 500, and the Isuzu MU-X.
• Smoothing Emissions Trajectory for Light Commercial Vehicles: The emissions trajectory for light commercial vehicles (such as utes, vans, and 4WDs) has been smoothed. This aligns with adjustments announced by the US EPA to its vehicle standard, ensuring a more gradual transition for these vehicle types.
While emission targets for the PV category remain unchanged from the Government’s original proposal, those for the LCV category have been adjusted:
• Weight-Based Relative Emissions Limits: The break point for weightbased relative emissions limits has been adjusted. Heavier vehicles are allowed slightly higher emissions levels while lighter vehicles have stricter limits. This adjustment recognises that heavier vehicles emit more. Under the Government’s original proposal, the LCV break point was 2200kg. It is now 2400kg.
• Staged Implementation: The NVES will commence on January 1, 2025. However, manufacturers will not begin earning credits or penalties until July 1, 2025. This staged implementation allows for preparation and testing of essential data reporting capabilities.
• Boosting EV Charging Infrastructure:
As part of the transition, the Australian Government will provide $60 million to enhance EV charging infrastructure at Australian dealerships through the Driving the Nation fund. This investment aims to accelerate the adoption of electric vehicles and support the overall goals of the NVES.
The Bill will also be accompanied by a range of measures to support the automotive retail sector’s transition. These may include reforms to the Franchising Code of Conduct, addressing the shortages in EV mechanics, skills and training support, financial assistance for charging infrastructure for the automotive retail sector, as well as reviewing the Australian Design Rules (ADR) and aligning them with EU, US, Japanese and Korean standards so there are no hurdles – and subsequent delays – for carmakers wishing to bring vehicles into Australia.
At a press conference announcing the draft legislation, Chris Bowen, the Minister for Climate Change and Energy noted the positive consultative process that had taken place in the preceding weeks and that the legislation was a compromise that would help to move things forward.
“ . . . we announced our preferred model in February, we said we'd consult with parties with good faith on implementation details, on the finer details; we said we'd take on board sensible, good-faith suggestions, and that's exactly what we've done,” he said.
“Not everybody here has got everything they've asked for. Some people wanted us to go harder and faster; some have concerns - had concerns and wanted us
to slow. But everybody here today has had a say, everybody today's had genuine concerns taken on board, and everyone today recognises that Australia can now move on, implement these standards, and Australian motorists can get access to these standards.”
The MTAA, which has been working with MTA Queensland and others on the NVES, said in a media release that the changes should benefit the Australian consumer – reducing the very real risk of price rises and reduced access to the vehicles they want and need – while placing the country on a CO2 trajectory similar to other comparable nations.
“MTAA commends the Australian Government for their approach and appreciates the seat at the table throughout these critical discussions,” said Matt Hobbs, CEO of MTAA.
“Working side-by-side with the Government has provided MTAA members with a leading voice into this policy – the result being a program that better reflects the country’s love of utes and SUVs while preparing for an EV future.
“The next few years, however, are critical for the automotive industry, and we all intend to do our part in decarbonising the country’s transport sector. But consumers must come first, and we believe the adjustments to the policy strikes this delicate balance.
“The proposed standard is still ambitious and challenging for the many car brands
in the Australian market. It is important to note that the changes to the standard that the MTAA secured has ensured it is workable.”
On future action that would be required, Mr Hobbs said the MTAA would continue to work with the Government on all the issues surrounding NVES.
“This whole-of-industry approach is critical – consumers need more than just the cars, they need access to charging, properly trained repairers – the recyclers need to be ready as well. We look forward to further detail in relation to these policies.”
• A review of how the NVES is working is scheduled to be conducted in 2026.
The Australian Government had flagged that it would use the U.S. emissions system as a guide for its own NVES. In mid-March, the U.S. Government and its Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) revealed updated emission rules for light- and medium-duty vehicles in the U.S. market. The updated rules were somewhat relaxed compared to those that had been put forward in 2023 which focused on the uptake of EVs and had projected that BEVs would account for 67 per cent of new light-duty vehicle sales in 2032.
As in Australia, some carmakers and other groups expressed concern that the
proposed standards, which would work through 2027 to 2032, were too ambitious, that the EPA's technical analysis was overly optimistic, and that the levels of BEVs projected would be challenging to reach, especially given uncertainties in the battery supply chain, market demand, and infrastructure buildout.
Labor groups urged a slower transition to EVs as well, to mitigate potential adverse impacts on jobs. Some carmakers supported the 2032 endpoint of the proposal but believed a slower ramp rate was necessary early on to allow for the scale up of supply chains and manufacturing.
The EPA said that after considering public comments and updated technical analysis, the new rules would set a less aggressive pace in the early years, and would look beyond EVs to the emission reduction benefits of other technologies. The standards are, the EPA said, technology neutral and it expects manufacturers will choose to produce a diverse range of clean vehicles under the standards, including cleaner combustion engine vehicles, hybrids (HEVs), and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs), as well as BEVs.
For the light-duty (passenger cars, light trucks, and heavier vehicles designed primarily for the transportation of people) fleet, the standards now aim at an average target of 85 grams of carbon dioxide per mile by the 2032 model year.
For medium-duty vehicles (primarily large pickups and vans that are typically used for work), the standards now aim at an average fleet target of 274 grams/mile of CO2 by 2032.
The EPA said that the standards will avoid more than 7 billion tons of carbon emissions and provide nearly $100 billion ($AU153 billion) of annual net benefits to society, including $13 billion ($AU20 billion) of annual public health benefits due to improved air quality, and $62 billion ($AU95 billion) in reduced annual fuel costs, and maintenance and repair costs for drivers.
IF YOU ARE reading this, you likely have an interest – professional or otherwise –in the automotive industry and a love for the vehicles around which it revolves.
And if that is you, then its probably also true that, as a kid, you spent many an hour doodling away on a pad, scribbling the outline of your dream car or bike, pondering the engine it would have, the speeds it would reach, the interior of the cabin or layout of the dash, the paint job you would
FOR MOST OF US, THE DREAM OF BEING A VEHICLE DESIGNER ENDED THERE, BUT FOR A TALENTED FEW IT WAS JUST THE START, AND THEY WOULD GO ON TO BUILD A CAREER CREATING SOME TRULY WONDERFUL MACHINES . . .
give it, the technology that might make it special . . . and so on and so on.
For most of us, the dream of being a vehicle designer ended there, but for a talented few it was just the start and they would go on to build a career creating some truly wonderful machines – vehicles that are as much works of art as they are a contraption built to get someone from point A to point B.
One such person was Marcello Gandini, the Italian car designer who died last month aged 85 and who built a legacy that is rich with iconic designs.
Born in Turin in 1938, Gandini would make his name while working for the iconic design house Bertone. His work there included collaborations with the equally legendary designer Giorgetto Giugiaro, and
he contributed to, or was responsible for, the design of several notable models.
One of the most iconic of those was the Lamborghini Miura, unveiled in 1966. The Miura was groundbreaking, featuring a mid-engine layout and a sleek, aggressive design that set it apart from anything else on the road at the time. Gandini's innovative approach to automotive design
was evident in the Miura's striking features – it must surely be a strong contender for the title of best-looking car of all timesuch as its low, wedge-shaped profile and dramatic, aerodynamic lines.
Still at Bertone, Gandini went on to design several other models for Lamborghini, including the Espada, Jarama, and the iconic Countach.
The Countach, introduced in 1974, became one of the most iconic cars of
its era, known for its wild design and performance.
Gandini's design language, characterised by sharp angles, dramatic creases, and a focus on aerodynamics, helped redefine the concept of the supercar and cemented his reputation as a visionary. The Countach, with its sharp, angular features, low-slung body, scissor doors, and potent V12 engine would become an instant classic.
Alfa Romeo Montreal
In addition to his work with Lamborghini, Gandini also collaborated with other automakers. As well as Alfa
THE COUNTACH, INTRODUCED IN 1974, BECAME ONE OF THE MOST ICONIC CARS OF ITS ERA, KNOWN FOR ITS WILD DESIGN AND PERFORMANCE.
Romeo - where he also designed the striking Montreal coupe - he worked with Maserati, creating the elegant Khamsin GT, and designed the futuristic and extraordinary Lancia Stratos Zero concept. Bugatti’s EB 110 is one of his too, as is the Fiat X1/9.
Gandini's work extended beyond supercars, as he also designed more mainstream models such as the Renault 5 Turbo and the Citroën BX. His ability to
Lamborghini Countach
Lancia Stratos Zero concept
Maserati Khamsin GT
move from the fantastical to the functional made him one of the most influential car designers of his time.
Being a car designer is, one would imagine, a fiendishly difficult job. There’s only so much that can be done with something that must have four wheels at each corner; be just a few metres long, short and tall; and which must contain all the elements within it that make it move and be controllable by a driver. Those are tough parameters within which to work and be able to come up with something new, inspiring, and pleasing to the eye. But Gandini and a few others were able to do it regularly.
HIS ABILITY TO MOVE FROM THE FANTASTICAL TO THE FUNCTIONAL MADE HIM ONE OF THE MOST INFLUENTIAL CAR DESIGNERS OF HIS TIME.
There’s little doubt there are youngsters out there right, doing just what kids of the automotive age have been doing for decades, scribbling away on the pages of a sketchpad and dreaming of a car of their own. Instead of horsepower and pistons, they might well be thinking of batteries and electric motors, but the next Gandini is out there somewhere.
MTA Queensland will represent you to state and federal governments on BIG issues affecting your business and the industry. We represent service stations, new & used car dealers, tyre businesses, paint & panel, repairers, parts recyclers, engine re-conditioners, farm & industrial machinery businesses, motorcycle sales and rental vehicles, so can actively espouse direct industry perspective.
Receive FREE expert advice on Workplace Relations matters & Consumer Complaint Support. Access a website building service and, through the Member Portal, information regarding wages & awards, health & safety, public holidays and more. There also is a FREE-to-use online Jobs Board platform, and discounted products available through the online MTA Queensland shop.
• Apprenticeships
• Automotive Licensing
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CARMAKERS ARE CONTINUING the research into fully autonomous driving technology and Hyundai recently unveiled its progress with a new film clip showing an Ioniq 5 robotaxi successfully completing a process similar to an actual U.S. driver’s licence test.
Created to convey the safety and trustworthiness of the IONIQ 5 robotaxi’s autonomous technology, the video features the vehicle completing a series of public-level driving tests, including on the road in Las Vegas.
“I’m a DMV Certified Driving Examiner with 25 years of experience. In that time, I’ve failed thousands and thousands of students in the interest of public safety,” says Kandice Jones, the examiner who tested the IONIQ 5 robotaxi, in the video. “It’s going to be the same criteria – just like testing a human. We’ll be monitoring the speed, lane changes. I’m going to grade maneuvers, making a complete stop, left turns, maintaining the lane, and of course reaction time.”
The robotaxi appears to have excelled, and Hyundai says it ‘is the embodiment of transformative technologies in mobility coming together in one vehicle.’
Fully self-driving vehicles – those that are considered to have achieved Level 5 autonomy - are something of a holy grail. Many carmakers and technology companies are working on improving the systems – hardware and software – that are needed to make achieve it and Hyundai has been working with tech developer Motional on its systems.
“As a company that pursues freedom of mobility, we at Hyundai aim to exhibit the safety and trustworthiness of the IONIQ 5 robotaxi through this campaign,” said Sungwon Jee, Senior Vice President and Global Chief Marketing Officer at Hyundai Motor Company. “We will continue our efforts to communicate our AI-based autonomous driving technology, which is set to provide positive changes to our customers’ everyday lives.”
VOLKSWAGEN HAS UNVEILED a device aimed at reducing collisions with kangaroos –accidents that the company says comprise 90 per cent of on-road wildlife accidents in the country.
The device, called the RooBadge, is a circular disc some 17cm in diameter that replaces the current Volkswagen roundel/badge. Connecting to an in-car app, RooBadge calibrates a vehicle's GPS coordinates with kangaroo distribution data and emits a unique audio deterrent for the kangaroo species that inhabits the vehicle’s particular location.
Developed by Volkswagen Australia and the DDB Group in consultation with the University of Melbourne and WIRES (an animal rescue organisation), the system has gone through extensive trials, Volkswagen says, and will now move into Stage Four trials, involving kangaroos in the wild.
“[RooBadge does] something no kangaroo deterrent has been able to do before,” said Melbourne University’s Associate Professor Graeme Coulson.
“It’s difficult to produce a single sound that will deter all kangaroos, because the species are different to each other. Using advancements in car technology we can change the sound deterrent by GPS location.
“We have worked on sounds that will be meaningful to Eastern Grey Kangaroos, things like dingo calls, alarm calls made by birds and the alarm thumps that kangaroos make to warn each other. We will then be able to tweak the sound for other species.”
“WHY IS VOLKSWAGEN INVESTING TIME AND ENERGY IN THIS PROJECT? BECAUSE WE CAN AND IT’S THE RIGHT THING TO DO.”
Such a system could save hundreds of thousands of dollars in damage, avoid many animal deaths, as well prevent fatal accidents for vehicle occupants.
“Why is Volkswagen investing time and energy in this project? Because we can and it’s the right thing to do,” said Director of Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles Ryan Davies.
“A collision with a ‘roo can be devastating. It is not easily forgotten once seen, and certainly not if experienced. Then there’s the possibility of a front-on collision with an approaching vehicle at country road speeds when one driver is trying to avoid striking a kangaroo. These are even more likely to have a fatal human outcome.”
MERCEDES-BENZ HAS
CONDUCTED a crash test using x-rays, enabling the company to record information of the effects of the impact on the vehicle, its components, its structure and on a test dummy at the moment of, and during, the crash test.
Using a C-Class saloon, Mercedes, with its partners the Ernst Mach Institute (EMI) and the Fraunhofer-Institute for HighSpeed Dynamics, performed a side-impact test at 60km/h.
A linear accelerator, suspended above the impact spot, served as an X-ray camera. Mercedes says the device is powerful enough to allow all materials commonly used in vehicle construction to be screened and makes it possible to record deformation processes in the crash test without motion blur.
The linear accelerator generates a stream of X-ray pulses. During the crash test the beams shine through the bodywork and any dummies, and a flat detector, located under the test vehicle, serves as a digital image receiver. When the radiation hits the detector, an electrical signal is generated. The intensity of this depends on how strongly the radiation was previously absorbed by the vehicle and dummy structure. This influences the grey value that is later visible – similar to the X-ray inspection of luggage at the airport or images of this kind taken by a doctor.
In the milliseconds of the actual impact time, the X-ray system shoots around 100 still images. Combined into a video, they
provide insights into what happens inside safety-relevant components and in the dummy's body during a crash.
The company added that the X-ray system does not affect any other analysis tools. Even the interior cameras in the crash test vehicle record without any disturbance.
"This technology demonstration (proof of concept) at the EMI research crash facility in Freiburg has shown that high-speed X-ray technology can be used to visualise highly dynamic internal deformation processes," the company said. "Previously invisible deformations and their exact processes thus become transparent. The numerous, high-resolution images allow precise analysis."
THE
Council (EVC), the national body representing the electric vehicle industry in Australia and which includes a number of carmakers and distributors amongst its members, released its Australian Electric Vehicle Industry Recap 2023 report in March.
Key findings in The Recap include:
• EV sales (including both battery EVs and plug-in hybrids) grew by 120 per cent.
• The total Australian EV fleet surpassed 180,000 electric vehicles.
• Charging infrastructure locations increased by 75 per cent on the previous year, with 348 locations added across Australia.
NISSAN AND HONDA have announced they have signed a memorandum of understanding under which they will begin a feasibility study of a strategic partnership in the fields of vehicle electrification and intelligence.
The two companies say they believe it is necessary to combine their strengths and explore the possibility of future collaboration, particularly in efforts around carbon neutrality and zero trafficaccident fatalities.
The scope of the feasibility study includes automotive software platforms, core components related to electric vehicles, and complementary products.
The Recap also contains details on the top 20 EV models sold. The report says that 99 different EV models were available in the Australian market – 56 battery electric vehicles (BEV) and 43 Plug-In Hybrids (PHEV). Not surprisingly, Tesla was the best-selling manufacturer of BEVs (46,116 sales), with the Model Y (28,769) and Model 3 (17,347) leading the way. BYD recorded 12,438 sales and together, the two companies accounted for around two-thirds of all new EVs sold in 2023.
While the ACT remains the EV leader in the nation with 20 per cent of all vehicles sold being EVs, Queensland took third spot (behind NSW) with 8.3 per cent of sales being EVs.
“It is important to prepare for the increasing pace of transformation in mobility in the mid-to-long-term, and it is significant that we have reached this agreement based on a mutual understanding that Honda and Nissan face common challenges,” said Makoto Uchida, Nissan president and CEO. “ We look forward to further discussions and aim to find win-wins for sustainable growth.”
THE DODGE CHARGER. It's a name that, to the car-loving tragics amongst us, brings to mind images of a classic American muscle car and a series of fire-breathing, V8-powered monsters that have has been burning through tyres since first appearing way back in 1966.
HOWEVER, THIS NEW DODGE CHARGER IS A DODGE CHARGER DAYTONA AND SOMETHING QUITE RADICALLY DIFFERENT. FOR THIS DODGE CHARGER IS FULLY ELECTRIC. Dodge Charger Daytona
However, this new Dodge Charger is a Dodge Charger Daytona and something quite radically different. For this Dodge Charger is fully electric.
Kicking off the electric revolution here will be two models – the Charger Daytona
Scat Pack and the Charger Daytona R/T. Built on the STLA large electric vehicle platform from Stellantis, both electric
variants have all-wheel drive, dual motor set ups, with the Scat Pack variant delivering up to a whopping 500kW while the R/T versions gets a still juicy 370kW.
The Scat Pack will get you to 100km/h in about 3.3 seconds and cover the quarter-mile - one of those ‘must-bemeasured’ metrics for any muscle car - in 11.5 seconds.
The all-electric, all-wheel-drive Dodge Charger Daytona models have a 400volt electric architecture. The system incorporates a 100.5kWh battery pack, a dual integrated charge module and both a front and rear electric drive module (EDM). The front EDM employs front wheel end disconnect for range and efficiency, while the rear EDM includes a mechanical limited slip differential. Charger Daytona models also have adjustable regenerative braking.
Features of the Charger Daytona are pretty much geared to bettering performance and include a PowerShot mode which adds an extra 30kW of grunt for 15 seconds. A Track Package option for the Scat Pack includes 16-inch Brembo vented rotors and six-piston front/four-piston rear calipers. That Track Package also includes Adaptive Damping suspension.
There are a range of drive modes – Auto,
Eco, Sport, Wet/Snow, and Track & Drag – that are standard on the Scat Pack, and exclusive to that model are race options including Race Prep - which prepares the car and battery for drag or track racing - and Donut Mode and Drift Mode (no explanation necessary there!).
The Track Package also includes a Drive Experience Recorder enabling drivers to capture and analyse a day at the track.
Both the Charger Daytona Scat Pack and R/T models – and presumably any other future EV variants – have something called a Fratzonic Chambered Exhaust, which is designed to artificially produce a sound comparable to the V8s one might usually associate with a Charger. Sound intensity is tied to higher performance, with a stealth sound mode also available.
Inside, the panel and console of the Charge Daytona are home to a 10.25-inch
instrument cluster in the R/T and 16-inch in the Scat Pack. A 12.3-inch central touchscreen offers access to the infotainment and connected services. There’s also a pistol grip shifter. An optional augmented head-up display (HUD) is available.
When Dodge revealed the new Charger line-up, the electric Scat Pack and R/T versions grabbed the headlines, but the company has not completely given up on combustion engine variants . . . yet. Also unveiled were a 410kW Charger SIXPACK H.O. powered by a 3-litre Twin Turbo Hurricane High Output engine, and the 313kW Charger SIXPACK S.O. powered by a 3-litre Twin Turbo Hurricane Standard Output engine.
Dodge says that two-door coupe versions of the all-electric Daytona Scat Pack and
32 | Motor Trader April 2024
WHEN DODGE REVEALED THE NEW CHARGER LINE-UP, THE ELECTRIC SCAT PACK AND R/T VERSIONS GRABBED THE HEADLINES, BUT THE COMPANY HAS NOT COMPLETELY GIVEN UP ON COMBUSTION ENGINE VARIANTS . . . YET.
Daytona R/T will begin production in mid-2024, and production of all-electric four-door Daytona Scat Pack and R/T models will begin in the first quarter of 2025. Petrol-powered two-door Dodge Charger SIXPACK H.O. and four-door Dodge Charger SIXPACK S.O. models are also scheduled to begin production in the first quarter of 2025.
ISUZU UTE AUSTRALIA (IUA) is set to introduce a 1.9-litre turbo-diesel engine to its MU-X 7-seat SUV range.
Arriving at local dealers this month, the 2024 MU-X range will offer customers the choice of two four-cylinder turbo-diesel engines - Isuzu’s 3-litre 4JJ3-TCX with 140kW/450Nm and the RZ4E-TC 1.9-litre with 110kW/350Nm. Both engines are paired to an Aisin six-speed automatic transmission, with 4x2 or 4x4 drivetrain options available.
ARRIVING AT LOCAL DEALERS THIS MONTH, THE 2024 MU-X RANGE WILL OFFER CUSTOMERS THE CHOICE OF TWO TURBODIESEL ENGINES. . .
Returning combined cycle fuel economy of 7.4 litres/100km, the 1.9-litre engine will be available in three variants: LS-M 4x2, LS-M 4x4, and LS-U 4x4.
Maximum braked towing capacity of MU-X models fitted with the 1.9-litre engine
is 3,000kg, with the Gross Combination Mass (GCM) coming in at 5,500kg. Gross Vehicle Mass (GVM) is dependent on drivetrain, with 4x2 and 4x4 models coming in at 2,700kg and 2,800kg, respectively. The 1.9-litre models have increased payload capacities, with the MU-X LS-M 1.9-litre 4x4 able to carry up to 735kg.
• Isuzu MU-X LS-M 1.9L 4x2: $47,400
• Isuzu MU-X LS-M 3.0L 4x2: $49,400
• Isuzu MU-X LS-U 3.0L 4x2: $55,900
• Isuzu MU-X LS-T 3.0L 4x2: $63,400
• Isuzu MU-X LS-M 1.9L 4x4: $53,400
• Isuzu MU-X LS-U 1.9L 4x4: $59,900
• Isuzu MU-X LS-M 3.0L 4x4: $55,400
• Isuzu MU-X LS-U 3.0L 4x4: $61,900
• Isuzu MU-X LS-T 3.0L 4x4: $69,400 ($67,990 drive away)
Isuzu Motors unveiled the company’s first battery-electric vehicle (BEV) last month. The D-MAX BEV one-ton pickup truck has, the company says, ‘been developed to meet a broad-range of commercial and passenger vehicle needs while retaining the tough underlying performance expected of pickup trucks.’
Boasting full-time 4WD, a 66.9kWh battery, 130kW/325Nm of power from two motors (a 40kW/108Nm front motor and 90kW/217Nm rear motor), the D-MAX BEV has, Isuzu says, a maximum payload of 1000kg, a maximum towing capacity of 3.5 tonnes and can reach 130km/h.
The company announced in a media release that the D-MAX BEV would launch in select mainland Europe markets such as Norway in 2025, and be rolled out to the UK, Australia, Thailand, and other countries based on market needs and the maturity of EV charging infrastructure.
AUSTRALIA LOVES ITS utes. How much? Well, the best-selling vehicle in the country in 2023 was the Ford Ranger (63,356 sales) followed closely by the Toyota HiLux (61,111 sales) with the Isuzu Ute D-Max in third (31,202 sales). So that’s the top three spots on the sales chart taken out by a style of vehicle that was once considered something of a tradie’s workhorse.
And there are many more to choose from than those three models mentioned above. If you are so inclined you could go for a Mitsubishi Triton, a Mazda BT-50, a Nissan Navara, an LDV T60, a GWM Cannon, Jeep Gladiator, Mahindra Pik-Up, VW Amarok, or SsangYong Musso. And if your budget is chunkier, you could decide on something a little (or a lot) beefier, like a RAM 1500, a Ford F-150 or Chevy Silverado.
And those are just the models available to you now. More are coming, and one of the latest comes from Chinese manufacturer JAC Motors.
In March, the company – represented in here by importer and distributor LTS Auto
“THE T9 IS THE PERFECT NEW UTE FOR THE AUSSIE AFTER SOMETHING THEY CAN DRIVE TO WORK THROUGH THE WEEK, BEFORE LOADING UP ALL THEIR GEAR FOR AN OFF-ROAD ADVENTURE ON THE WEEKEND.”
– arrived with its first Australian-delivered vehicle, the JAC T9 Ute.
Available in two trims – Oasis and Haven - on the face of it, the dual range 4x4 JAC T9 looks like a solid entrant to the market. It looks good (and no matter what anyone says, even a workhorse vehicle has to look good) and its rugged and muscular dual-cab appearance is combined with a mechanical set-up that looks pretty decent too.
Power comes from a two-litre, fourcylinder turbo diesel engine paired with an 8-speed automotive transmission and the T9 produces 125kW and 410Nm. JAC
claims it can run at 7.6 litres per 100km (combined cycle). The T9 also features a 3500kg braked towing capacity and a 1000kg payload.
Up front is double wishbone independent with coil spring suspension set-up while at the rear there’s non-independent leaf spring rigid axle suspension.
Inside, a nice set-up includes a 10.4-inch touchscreen infotainment system offering Bluetooth, Apple Carplay/Android Auto connectivity and DAB digital radio. There’s a wireless charger here too and USB charging ports. A host of safety and driver assistance features includes Autonomous
Emergency Braking, Lane Departure
Warning, Forward Collision Warning, Rear Collision Warning, Speed Limit Assist, Rear Autonomous Emergency Braking, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Traffic Jam Assist, Blind Spot Protection, Adaptive Cruise Control, Driver Monitoring System and Hill Start Assist Control. There are front, centre, rear and curtain airbags too.
“The T9 is the perfect new ute for the Aussie after something they can drive to work through the week, before loading up all their gear for an off-road adventure on the weekend,” said Danny Lenartic, Deputy Managing Director of JAC Motors Australia. “We’ve put this ute through its paces, making sure it can handle our harsh climate and rough conditions and the feedback has been fantastic.
“The diesel T9 is just the beginning of what we have in store, so Aussies should keep their eyes peeled for more news soon.”
The JAC T9 Ute top spec Haven has an MSRP of $45,630 and the base model Oasis has an MSRP of $42,662.
GENESIS, THE LUXURY arm of Hyundai, has launched a highperformance brand called Magma. The company revealed the news with the unveiling of the Genesis GC60 Magma Concept - which is reportedly to be headed for productionand three other vehicles in the Magma program: the GV80 Coupe Concept, G80 Magma Special and X Gran Berlinetta Concept.
Genesis said it aims to develop a highperformance Magma model for each production vehicle in its existing line-up.
“Genesis Magma presents an exciting opportunity to push the boundaries of performance and luxury for new interpretations in high-performance vehicles, with the ultimate goal of developing models exclusive to Genesis,” said Luc Donckerwolke, Genesis Chief Creative Officer.
While the GC60 Magma Concept appears headed for production, there isn’t much data regarding what is underneath the sleek exterior. However, Genesis did say that it ‘. . . elevates the design and performance of the existing GV60, Genesis’ first dedicated EV model, with improved battery and motor technology.’
It added further that the car has been widened and lowered, giving it a more dynamic stance and, at the front, a wider
and lower main air intake in the bumper works to cool the batteries, motor and brakes. Air curtains are there to enhance the car’s aerodynamic efficiency and three stamped holes above the main air intake provide additional cooling. Added canards assist in generating downforce on the front axle, while enlarged fenders and integrated wheelhouse outlets help reduce kinetic energy and improve cooling for the brakes. Titanium-coloured, 21-inch wheels feature integrated aero discs, which also help cool the brakes. Fins on the roof control the aerodynamic flow and channel it to the rear wing, generating rear downforce.
Genesis says the GV60 Magma Concept’s distinctive exterior design extends into the luxurious and sporty interior where feature elements including bucket seats with body-coloured seatbacks, upholstered in nappa and suede leather featuring doublediamond stitching patterns in orange and titanium grey.
GWM’S NEW CANNON Alpha is set to arrive in Australia around the middle of the year.
The company says the ute will be available with a choice of hybrid and diesel powertrains and in hybrid guise will be the brand’s sixth ‘New Energy Vehicle’ (NEV), joining the Jolion Hybrid, H6 Hybrid, Tank 300 Hybrid, Tank 500 Hybrid, and Ora EV.
Power for the hybrid will come from a 2-litre turbo petrol hybrid/electric motor system offering combined outputs of 255kW and 648Nm of torque. The 2.4 litre turbo diesel will deliver 135kW of power and 480Nm of torque. Both are mated to a 9-speed automatic transmission.
Maximum braked towing capacity for both powertrains is 3500kg.
The Cannon Alpha features a new intelligent All-Terrain system with three driving modes, offers locking front and rear differentials and Borg Warner 4x4 transfer case.
Also available is a 60/40 split rear tailgate,
which can be opened in two ways. A short press on the button on the rear tailgate provides access to the rear tub via the 60/40 opening while a longer press on the same button opens the full tailgate while being supported by a soft-open feature.
Overall length is 5445mm (35mm longer than Cannon Ute), width is 1991mm (57mm wider than Cannon Ute) and height is 1924mm (38mm taller than Cannon Ute). Wheelbase of 3350mm is also longer than that of existing Cannon Ute (by 120mm).
GWM says these larger dimensions allow for a roomier cabin – a cabin which is fitted with features and technology such as a 14.6-inch infotainment touchscreen, 12.3inch digital instrument cluster, 10-speaker Infinity premium audio, wireless phone charging plus heated, ventilated and massaging front seats in luxurious Nappa leather (grade dependent).
Pricing and full feature list of the Cannon Alpha will be available closer to launch.
KIA’S SPORTAGE HYBRID Electric Vehicle (HEV) has landed. Available in two trims - the SX FWD Auto and GT-Line FWD Auto – the Sportage Hybrid Electric Vehicle is powered by the same 1.6-litre turbocharged petrol-electric hybrid system as the larger Sorento Hybrid, mating a 132kW/265Nm four-cylinder petrol engine with a 44kW/264Nm electric motor and a 1.49kWh battery. Combined petrol and electric output is 169kW and 350Nm.
Paired to the engine is a 6-speed automatic transmission. Power is transferred to the front wheels. Combined Fuel Consumption is 4.9L/100km.
Standard equipment across the two variants includes 18-inch machined alloy wheels, shift-by-wire dial-type gear selector, leather appointed steering wheel, steering wheel paddle shifters, AM/ FM Radio, DAB Digital Radio, 12.3-inch Colour LCD Touch Screen Infotainment, Satellite Navigation Multimedia System, Personalised Profile (for Radio Favourites,
Bluetooth Priority, etc), Bluetooth connectivity, a pair of USB chargers up front, wired Android Auto with Voice Recognition, and wired Apple Carplay with Voice Recognition. There’s also a tyre pressure monitoring system.
The GT-Line gets extra features over the SX variant. While the SX has a 4.2-inch multi-function LCD display, the GT-Line gets a 12.3-inch digital driver cluster. Amongst other extra features, it also gets leather-appointed seats, 8-way power front seats (with lumbar support for the driver), Panoramic Sunroof, Electrochromic Rear View Mirror, privacy glass (rear windows and tailgate), power tailgate, and an extra couple of USB chargers for back seat passengers.
Safety and driver assistance features are comprehensive. Amongst them are Downhill Brake Control; Hill-Start Assist Control; Trailer Stability Assist; MultiCollision Braking; Autonomous Emergency Braking - Car, Pedestrian, Cyclist & Junction; Lane Keeping Assist with Line/ Road Edge Detection; Lane Following
Assist; Blind Spot Collision Warning with Rear Cross Traffic Collision Warning; Blind Spot Collision Avoidance Assist with Rear Cross Traffic Collision Avoidance; Safe Exit Warning; Driver Attention Alert with Lead Vehicle Departure Alert; Intelligent Speed Limit Assist; Rear View Camera with Dynamic Parking
SUBARU AUSTRALIA HAS confirmed details and pricing for the special edition Subaru WRX Club Spec, due in Australia this month.
Just 150 examples of the 2024 Subaru WRX Club Spec are set for the Australian marke, and they will be available in sedan only with six speed manual transmission. The model –powered by a four-cylinder turbocharged 2.4-litre Boxer engine - will be kitted out with a range of enhancements including Recaro front seats, Matte Grey finish 19-inch alloy wheels with Bridgestone Potenza S007 tyres, 6-piston Brembo front brakes, 2-piston Brembo rear brakes, ventilated and drilled front and rear brake
Guidelines; Rear Occupant Alert.
The GT-Line also receives Parking Collision Avoidance Assist – Reverse; Surround View Monitor with 3D Mode; and Blind Spot View Monitor.
The Kia Sportage Hybrid SX FWD Auto is priced at $45,950 (RRP) while the GT-Line FWD Auto is priced at $55,420 (RRP).
discs, and specifically tuned steering and suspension.
Priced at $52,590 (MLP), features on the WRX Club Spec include a prominent STI-style rear spoiler, an exterior rear ‘Club Spec’ badge, and an internal ‘Club Spec’ badge with a unique vehicle number out of the total 150 produced.
The special edition Subaru WRX Club Spec, along with model-year 2024 WRX, is available now for purchase via Subaru.com.au or Subaru retailers.
HiLux range has gone on sale in Australia, bringing with it new V-Active technology.
Available on select 4x4 double-cab SR, SR5 grades as well as the Rogue, V-Active technology adds a motor generator, 48-volt battery and DC/DC converter to the 2.8-litre turbo-diesel four-cylinder powertrain and sixspeed automatic transmission.
The addition of V-Active technology allows for the fitment of a stop-start system to the turbo-diesel engine which Toyota claims can help reduce fuel consumption by up to approximately 10 per cent compared to 2.8-litre engines without V-Active technology.
Fitting a 48-volt system also allows the engine to be switched off for longer than a typical internal-combustion engine when stopped in traffic, with owners able to choose from either a ‘Normal’ or ‘Long’ setting, increaseing the time the engine is switched off while air conditioning is running. Engine idling speed is reduced in V-Active technology grades, reduced from 720rpm to 600rpm.
Braking energy is recovered by the motor generator when decelerating. When accelerating, the motor generator can contribute power assistance in areas of lower engine efficiency.
HiLux variants equipped with V-Active technology add Multi-Terrain Select (MTS), which includes six selectable modes.
The upgraded HiLux range sees all core
HiLux grades with the exception of the WorkMate and SR single-cab and petrol variants gain a new front-end visual refresh which includes new front bumpers and a honeycomb mesh grille.
At the rear, WorkMate, SR, SR5 and GR Sport get a gloss black rear bumper while the Rogue sports a dark grey finish.
SR5 grades add dark-finished LED headlamps, gloss black exterior mirrors, door handles, tailgate handle and powdercoated sports bar for pick-up body styles.
All pick-up grades get a tailgate damper with lift assist. SR double-cab pick-ups with automatic transmissions add front and rear parking sensors.
Double-cab automatic SR5 grades gain a wireless charger which is also applied to the Rogue and GR Sport, along with two rear USB-C ports.
Pricing for the new HiLux range starts from $26,475 (plus on-roads) for the entry-level 4x2 WorkMate single-cab chassis, while V-Active technology is available starting with the 4x4 SR double-cab chassis from $54,130 (plus on-roads).
AUDI HAS REVEALED the Q6 e-tron, its first production model built on the Premium Platform Electric (PPE) – a battery-electric vehicle (BEV) platform developed jointly with Porsche and which will underpin many BEV models from the two companies in coming years.
The Audi Q6 e-tron will be available initially in two variants – the Q6 Quattro and SQ6. Both boast an All-Wheel-Drive (AWD), dual motor, 100kWh battery setup, with the Q6 boasting 285kW of power, while the SQ6 gets 380kW.
The Q6 e-tron can get to 100km/h in 5.9 seconds and reach a top speed of 210km/h. The SQ6 gets to 100km/h in 4.3 seconds, while its top speed is 230km/h.
800-volt technology and a maximum charging capacity of 270kW mean up to 255km of range can be recharged in 10 minutes. Charging from 10 to 80 per cent
THE AUDI Q6 E-TRON WILL BE AVAILABLE INITIALLY IN TWO VARIANTS – THE Q6 QUATTRO AND SQ6. BOTH BOAST AN ALL-WHEEL-DRIVE (AWD), DUAL MOTOR, 100KWH BATTERY SET-UP, WITH THE Q6 BOASTING 285KW OF POWER, WHILE THE SQ6 GETS 380KW.
takes around 21 minutes. Range is up to 625km (WLTP standard) for the Q6 e-tron and 598km for the SQ6.
If a charging station works with 400-volt technology, Audi says the Q6 e-tron can enable bank charging. This mean the 800volt battery is automatically divided into two batteries at equal voltage, which can
then be charged in parallel up to 135kW. AC charging with up to 11kW is possible at standard home chargers.
Audi says that most of the systems and components making up the chassis are newly developed. The company says the driving dynamics of the Q6 e-tron are significantly influenced by the partially redesigned front axle. For the first time in an Audi model, the control arms are positioned in front of the suspensionarms. This results in package advantages for the positioning of the high-voltage battery. The steering rack is now fixed to a subframe,
and Audi says the new front axle improves the steering behaviour. The different dimensions of the electric motors on the rear and front axles
VIDEO: VORSPRUNG DURCH TECHNIK: THE AUDI Q6 E-TRON
enable rear-biased torque distribution even under full load and in order to complement this setp up, the rear tyres of the Q6 e-tron are wider than those at the front.
Futuristic touches include the OLED lighting at the rear which enables the Q6 to ‘communicate’. In addition to the regular taillight graphics, warning symbols in critical driving or traffic situations can be displayed.
Inside, a panoramic display consists of an 11.9inch virtual cockpit and 14.5-inch MMI (Multi-Media Interface) touch display. There’s a 10.9-inch MMI front passenger display too, plus an optional augmented reality head-up display. A new infotainment system uses Android Automotive OS as its operating system.
Audi says content for the new infotainment system is always up to date thanks to over-the-air updates. Apps such as YouTube are available via the store for third-party apps, which is integrated directly into the MMI and does not require a smartphone. Applications from categories including music, video, gaming, navigation, parking & charging, productivity, weather, and news services, are to be available.
A self-learning voice assistant, the
INSIDE, A PANORAMIC DISPLAY CONSISTS OF AN 11.9-INCH VIRTUAL COCKPIT AND THE 14.5-INCH MMI (MULTIMEDIA INTERFACE) TOUCH DISPLAY.
Audi Assistant, can be used to control numerous vehicle functions. The digital assistant with AI support is displayed using an avatar in the central touch display of the MMI and in the augmented reality head-up display. Audi says the new voice assistant understands more than 800 voice commands.
While there are just two AWD variants available at launch, Audi says rear-wheel drive models will become available.
MTA Queensland has developed a series of posters that can be downloaded free of charge for members only. These are signs commonly asked for, and used, in workshops.
No admittance into the workshop – Staff Only.
We reserve the right to retain your vehicle until payment is made in full.
This automotive business guarantees only qualified and trained technicians will be working on your vehicle.
We hope to build a library of commonly needed signs, so please contact info@mtaq.com.au if you have suggestions. CLICK HERE TO SIGN-IN OR REGISTER FOR ACCESS TO MEMBER SIGNAGE
CHERY AUSTRALIA HAS confirmed specifications for its incoming TIGGO 8 Pro Max with the 7-seater launching in May.
The SUV will arrive in three variants – Urban, Elite, and Ultimate and all models come equipped with a 2-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 180kW/ 375Nm. Power is sent to the road via a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. The TIGGO 8 will be available in two- and all-wheel drive.
The engine has a combined fuel rating of 8.1 litres/100km and emits 191g/km of C02 (Urban and Elite 2WD).
The TIGGO 8 ahas a maximum non-braked towing capacity of 750kg while braked is 1,300kg. It sits on 18-inch (Urban and Elite) or 19-inch (Ultimate AWD) alloy wheels, has quad exhaust tips, plus LED head and taillights.
Inside, the TIGGO 8 Pro Max offers synthetic leather seats (heated and ventilated up front); a premium Sony Sound system with 8 speakers in the Urban and Elite variants and 10 in the Ultimate AWD; multi-colour ambient lighting; dual 12.3inch instrument and multimedia screens; an Air Quality System (AQS) feature that will automatically engage a purifying system when it detects polluted air; a ‘Hello Chery’ voice command system; wireless charging, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, offline navigation, and a 360-degree camera.
The Elite model adds a few extra features including a power tailgate, a built-in dashcam, and a retractable cargo blind, while the Ultimate AWD gets even more, including the All-Wheel Drive system, the bigger wheels and extra speakers, and a panoramic sunroof amongst them.
Driver assistance and safety systems include 10 airbags, Blind Spot Detection, Autonomous Emergency Braking, Rear Cross Traffic Braking, Lane Departure Warning, Lane Departure Prevention, Traffic Sign Recognition, Adaptive Cruise Control, a Driver Monitoring System and more.
Available colours include Lunar White, Star Silver, Rhine Blue, Loran Violet, Mercurial Grey, Technical Grey, Aurora Green and Space Black.
Pricing for the TIGGO 8 Pro Max variants will be released closer to launch date in May.
JEEP AUSTRALIA’S FORAY into the world of electric vehicles has begun with the company’s Avenger SUV to arrive in the local market in the fourth quarter of this year.
The five-seater Avenger comes in three trim levels – Longitude, Limited, and Summit – all of which are fitted with a 54kWh battery system and a 115kW/260Nm motor positioned up front. Range is up to 396km. Performance sees the Avenger reach a top speed of 150km/h and reach 100km/h in nine seconds.
Jeep says standard fast charging mode allows a recharge of 30km of range in three minutes, and a 20 to 80 per cent charge in 24 minutes.
The Avenger supports three different charging modes and is equipped with a CCS COMBO Type 2 socket that enables both domestic/public AC, and public DC fast charging, with the latter at a rate of 100kW. The vehicle comes standard with a
Mode 3 charging cable for both public and domestic slow or semi-fast AC charging.
The Avenger is equipped standard with Selec-Terrain (offering different driving modes) and Hill Descent Control, has 200mm ground clearance, a 20-degrees approach angle, and 32-degrees departure angle.
Connected technology sees a 10.25-inch infotainment display across the range combined with 7-inch digital cluster in the Longitude variant and a 10.25-inch digital cluster in the Limited and Summit variants.
JEEP
SAYS STANDARD FAST CHARGING MODE ALLOWS A RECHARGE OF 30KM OF RANGE IN THREE MINUTES, AND A 20 TO 80 PER CENT CHARGE IN 24 MINUTES.
The infotainment system offers wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay smartphone projection, a ‘mix & match’ function to build your own interface, embedded navigation powered by TomTom with enhanced natural voice recognition and over-the-air update. Uconnect Services and the Jeep mobile app enable customers to keep an eye on, and stay connected to, the Avenger. The Limited and Summit variants get a wireless charging pad.
Guidelines, Frameless Auto Dimming Mirror, Automatic High Beam, Hill Descent Control, and Selec-Terrain. The Limited model also gets Satellite Navigation, Hands-Free Power Liftgate, Passive Entry, Power & Heated Exterior Mirrors with Auto Folding Function and Puddle Lamp, Front, Side & Rear Parking Sensors, and Height Adjustable Cargo Floor and more.
Beyond these, the Summit model gets Leather Accented Seats, six-way power driver seat adjustment with two-way power lumbar support, Massaging Driver Seat, Heated Front Seats, Privacy Glass, LED Projector Headlamps, LED Taillamps, LED Foglamps with Cornering Function, Bi-Colour Roof, and sunroof amongst other features.
Driver assistance, comfort, and safety systems include Autonomous Emergency Braking, Traffic Sign Recognition, Lane Keep Assist, Driver Attention Assist, and Rear View Camera with Dynamic
Available colours include Ruby (red), Volcano (black), Stone (sand grey), Lake (light blue) Sun, Granite, and Snow. All colours – except for the Volcano - can be combined with a black roof on certain trim levels.
Pricing for the electric Jeep Avenger starts at $53,990 (excluding on-road costs and dealer delivery) for the Longitude model, $57,990 for the Limited, and $63,990 for the Summit.
THE UPGRADED TOYOTA Yaris hatch has landed in Australia with a hybrid-only line-up.
The three-model range features a new entry-level Ascent Sport hybrid grade, improved Toyota Safety Sense suite of driver assistance features, the latest generation multimedia system, increased technology and styling tweaks.
Alongside the new Ascent Sport grade, there's the mid-range SX version and top-of-the-range Yaris ZR. All models are powered by a 1.5-litre hybrid system generating 85kW that drives the front wheels through a continuously variable transmission (CVT).
Toyota says combined-cycle fuel consumption is 3.3 litres/100km with the car producing 76 grams of CO2 per kilometre on the combined cycle test.
All grades of the Yaris hatch featuring the latest Toyota Safety Sense driver assistance technologies. These include the auto emergency braking pre-collision safety system that now recognises motorcycles and oncoming vehicles in addition to cyclists, pedestrians and vehicles ahead; and enhanced intersection collision avoidance (daylight only) and emergency steering assist (daylight only). The upgraded Yaris hatch also gains enhancements to its active cruise control and lane trace assist functionality. Yaris SX versions gain a parking support brake with front and rear parking sensors while the ZR grade adds safe exit assist in conjunction with the blind spot monitor.
Inside, there is some new technology. The multimedia system uses a larger 8-inch touchscreen display and features wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, cloud-based satellite navigation for the Ascent Sport grade and cloud-based and embedded satellite navigation for SX and ZR variants, and a USB-C audio jack.
For the driver, the Yaris SX and ZR variants feature a 7-inch digital instrument cluster that offers a choice of nine display patterns across three themes.
The Yaris is offered in eight exterior colours – Glacier White, Frosted White, Stunning Silver, Ebony, Atomic Rush, Coral Rose, Bronx Bronze and Massive Grey. Coral Rose, Bronx Bronze and Massive Grey are also available in optional twotone with a black roof on ZR.
Ascent Sport: $28,500 | SX: $31,960 | ZR: $34,530
Options: Premium paint: $575 | Two-tone: $775.
ON MARCH 21, MG revealed it was to move its entire EV range to nationwide drive-away pricing, cutting thousands from the cost of some of its models. The result is some very competitive pricing with the entry-level MG4 51kWh Excite battery-electric vehicle (BEV) hatchback coming in at $39,990 drive away and the entry-level ZS EV Excite SUV BEV now available at $39,990 as well.
MG Motor Australia’s Chief Executive Officer Peter Ciao said the move would help Aussies weather the rising cost of living while also encourage people to make the switch to owning an EV.
"Customers like choices. We want them to be empowered to have the freedom to drive a SUV or a hatch, which is why we are offering both the MG4 51kWh Excite and ZS EV Excite at under $40k drive away. Whenever we are able to pass price reductions like this onto our customers, we will make sure we do.”
Fast forward a couple of weeks to April 3 and MG was at it again, this time dropping
THE APPETITE FOR BEVS AND HYBRIDS IS CLEARLY THERE AND A BATTLE OVER PRICING MAY BE WHAT PUSHES THE SECTOR TO GREATER SALES HEIGHTS.
the drive-away prices on petrol and hybrid models. The price change now means that the MG3 Core hatchback is now $18,990 drive away, and the company’s best-selling vehicle, the MG ZS starts from $22,990. Its plug-in hybrid models – the HS Plus EV Excite SUV and HS Plus EV Essence SUV – come in at $43,690 and $46,690 respectively.
One day later, on April 4, GWM - the maker of the Ora EV hatchback and Jolion, H6, Tank 300 and Tank 500 hybrid models - brought down the price of the Ora BEV, with the range starting at $35,990 driveaway for the Standard Range model. That’s a $4000 reduction and makes it the cheapest BEV currently available in Australia.
BYD Dolphin
BYD, which has the small Dolphin Dynamic BEV model available for $38,890 but with on-road costs to be added, has yet to enter the fray at the time of writing. One can imagine it might flex its financial muscle and join in the fun.
It has been widely reported that other EV makers, from Tesla to Ford, have been cutting the prices of their models too, and all of this bodes well for those looking to get into an electrified vehicle. The most recent new-vehicle sales data from the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries (FCAI) revealed that 23.5 per cent of new vehicle sales in March 2024 were of electrified (hybrid, plug-in hybrid or battery-electric) vehicles, with 9.5 per cent being BEVs (see page 56). The appetite for BEVs and hybrids is clearly there and a
A PRE-PRODUCTION KIA EV5 has been on display in Australia in recent weeks. The soon-to-be-launched, fully electric medium SUV will be sold in Australia in a mixture of variants and is due to launched locally in June.
The range will initially be available in Air and Earth trims only, with the top GT-Line model set to arrive in the fourth quarter. Both standard and long-range batteries along with FrontWheel-Drive (Single Motor) and AllWheel-Drive (Dual Motor) drivetrains will be offered.
Kia says the EV5 will be the first right-hand drive product supplied by the Kia factory in China. Other firsts include a dedicated EV platform called N3 eK, and it also utilises a Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) battery.
The Kia EV5 will come with advanced active and passive safety features targeting a 5 Star ANCAP rating and the company says its engineering teams have worked on Kia Australia’s local Ride & Handling Program; its Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) tuning, testing and development; as well as on testing and developing it for Australia’s public charging infrastructure, to ensure the EV5 will be a great choice for Australians.
Full specifications, features and pricing will be announced closer to launch.
NEW VEHICLE SALES records have been tumbling over the past few months, and VFACTS figures released by the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries (FCAI) for March show that streak continuing. 109,647 sales were recorded for the month, surpassing the previous March record of 106,988 achieved in 2018.
The January to March result of 304,452 sales represents the best ever first quarter for new vehicle sales.
Queensland recorded 23,550 sales, a 5.9 per cent rise compared to March 2023. The ACT figures were up by 0.5 per cent (1,584); NSW by 11.7 per cent (33,808); South Australia by 6.9 per cent (6,992); Victoria by 24.9 per cent (30,099); Western Australia by 9.3 per cent (11,074) and Northern Territory by 19.8 per cent (930). Only Tasmania lagged in sales, recording a decrease of 0.6 per cent.
The SUV segment for 58.9 per cent of sales. The Passenger segment was down to 16.1 per cent compared with 2023 at 17.7 per cent. The Light Commercial segment fell to 21 per cent from 22.6 per cent.
Toyota was the market leader with sales of 18,961, followed by Ford (8,776), Mazda (8,246), Mitsubishi (7,866) and Kia (7,070).
The Ford Ranger was Australia’s top selling vehicle with sales of 5,661, followed by the Toyota RAV4 (5,070), Tesla Model Y (4,379), and Toyota HiLux (3,995).
Of note is the continued strength of battery-electric vehicle (BEV) sales, and the electrified vehicle segment in general. BEVs made up 9.5 per cent of new vehicle sales, up from 6.8 per cent in March 2023. Hybrid and Plug-in Hybrid sales increased
compared with March 2023, recording a 14 per cent share compared with 6 per cent in 2023. Sales of electrified vehicles in March made up 23.5 per cent of the total market. Australians appear to be remaining positive about electrified vehicle technology.
The FCAI reports that a total of 19,903 motorcycles and Off-Highway-Vehicles (OHV) were sold from January–March, marking a decrease of 11 per cent compared with the same period in 2023.
Road motorcycles made up 41.3 per cent of total sales with 8,217 - a decrease of 10.2 per cent on 2023 figures.
Off-road motorcycles made up 36.5 per cent of total sales with 7,260 units, a decrease of 11.9 per cent on 2023 figures.
Off-Highway Vehicles accounted for 15 per cent of total sales, with 2,976 vehicles sold - a decrease of 16.1 per cent on 2023.
While sales across most segments fell, the scooter market grew by 1.1 per cent with 1,450 vehicles sold. Scooters represent 7.3 per cent of total sales in the local market.
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MTA QUEENSLAND HAS represented its members in a concerning number of unfair dismissal claims that were readily defended and then peculiarly withdrawn without settlement, much to the relief of the business. A number of these claims were arguably bogus or contained remarkable inaccuracies when a Paid Agent represented the applicant.
In response to the volume of concerns and complaints about the conduct and role of some paid agents the Fair Work Commission (FWC) has received, a review is underway.
Initial submissions to this review have been made by MTA Queensland, as part of the MTAA, supporting rigorous legislation that makes paid agents more accountable.
A Paid Agent is a person who charges or receives a fee to represent a person in the matter before the Fair Work Commission. In settlements, the payment often gets made to them first.
In contrast, a Lawyer is a person who is admitted to the legal profession by a Supreme Court of a state or territory and are bound by a professional code of conduct.
While many paid agents are competent professionals, from time-to-time complaints received by the FWC about others have included them engaging in conduct that may not be in the best interest of their client, that the applicant did not receive all of
WHILE MANY PAID AGENTS ARE COMPETENT PROFESSIONALS, FROM TIMETO-TIME COMPLAINTS RECEIVED BY THE FWC ABOUT OTHERS HAVE INCLUDED THEM ENGAGING IN CONDUCT THAT MAY NOT BE IN THE BEST INTEREST OF THEIR CLIENT.
their settlement monies, fees were believed to have been paid when they had not, the applicant could not contact their agent after settlement, the running of bogus claims, or a non-monetary settlement being presented as a win so expecting a fee to be paid.
Interestingly, Western Australia and South Australia each have legislation which sets the expected conduct for paid agents.
Such representatives are legally distinct from officers of registered industrial organisations such as MTA Queensland, and other MTA’s, which are formally registered so can represent members without first seeking permission in Fair Work Commission matters. Businesses are advised to contact MTA Queensland in the first instance when there is a legal claim made against them. This article contains general information, it is not and does not replace expert or legal advice. For all workplace related enquiries, please contact the Workplace Relations Advisors at MTAQ on 07 3237 8725.
EVENTS & PROGRAMS
• Golf Day
• Auto Women
• Carmageddon
• Industry Awards Gala
INSTANT VALUE
• Workplace Health & Safety Audit
• Workplace Relations Consultation
• Insurance Review
• EFTPOS Comparison
• Energy Audit
BESPOKE MEMBERSHIP FEE
SKILLS EXTENSION & TRAINING
• MTA Institute (RTO31529) provides leading industry training
• Online industry courses
• Webinars
UNLIMITED WORKPLACE SUPPORT SERVICES
INDUSTRY REPRESENTATION TO GOVERNMENT
SEES THE implementation of a powerful learning resource being made available to all MTA Institute students. While students have already had access to their learning and assessment material online via a Learner Management System, the permanent integration of the CDX online platform will greatly enhance their learning opportunities.
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While the integration of this resource represents a significant financial outlay for the Institute, we firmly believe it’s a great investment in our students and ultimately our future business owners and industry leaders, so it’s money well spent.
While our trainer/assessors have had access to the platform for many years and have used it successfully in combination with practical hands-on training, students will now be able to access over 1000 technical videos, as well as hundreds of interactive animations showing the complex inner working of mechanical, electrical, hydraulic and pneumatic systems. All this is available 24/7, 365 days a year while they’re enrolled with the MTA Institute.
We’ve all been there! Pages and pages of technical text, blah blah, words, more words, blah blah, which just don’t sink in. Sorry, no compute, non comprende! I’m not saying videos and animation
. I AM SAYING A GOOD VIDEO OR ANIMATION COMBINED WITH GOOD TRAINING (YOU AND US COMBINED) CAN SEE THE PENNY DROP FOR OUR TRAINEES AND APPRENTICES AND THE ‘AHA!’ MOMENTS BEGIN.
in isolation will solve our skilling and knowledge challenge, but I am saying a good video or animation combined with good training (you and us combined) can see the penny drop for our trainees and apprentices and the ‘Aha!’ moments begin.
I still vividly remember being a first-year apprentice and seeing an animation of the four strokes of an internal combustion engine. That was my first of many ‘Aha!’ moments in an industry that’s forever moving and ever so complex.
It’s our responsibility to provide trainees and apprentices as many learning opportunities as physically possible, allowing them to gain and retain as much knowledge as they can. We’re confident the new platform will aid us in achieving this objective.
APPRENTICE: PETER SLAPE
WORKPLACE:
CAIRNS AUTO SPARK & MECHANICAL
APPRENTICESHIP: AUTOMOTIVE ELECTRICAL TECHNOLOGY
Apprentice of the Month for March 2024. The 39-year-old recently completed his Cert III in Automotive Electrical Technology at Cairns Auto Spark & Mechanical. And he did so quickly, with his hard work and aptitude seeing him finish in a little over three years.
This may be partly due to the fact that Peter has been a ‘car nut’ since he was at school and had already clocked up more than 15 years in the industry by the time he started his apprenticeship.
“For 13 years I worked for a vehicle wholesaler, so I used to do a lot of buying of cars and attending auctions and so on,” said Peter. “I would have easily fixed 200 to 300 power windows before I worked here and did lots of other basic stuff like stereos and so on.
“When my old boss wrapped things up, my current employer, who also owns a car dealership, said there was a job with him if I wanted. So, I went over to his caryard doing similar work, reconditioning used cars and getting them roadworthy and so on. One day he asked how I’d feel about doing an apprenticeship. I had always thought it would be good if I could do a trade before I turn 40, and I started in October of 2020.”
Working at Cairns Auto Spark and Mechanical means Peter gets to work on all manner of jobs, though he does have his favourites.
“If it fits in out driveway, we will work on it,” he said. “We’ve worked on skid-steer bobcats, trucks, buses, motorhomes and we do a lot of air conditioning. We also do a lot of dual-battery systems as well as custom canopies, fridges, stoves, and solar panels, and we work with customers on full fit-out quotes. It has been a really great place to learn.
“We’ve got three workshops and an outside hoist area,” he said. “One workshop is all mechanical jobs; another is a smaller airconditioned workshop where we do longer jobs; and then there’s the main workshop. We are primarily auto electrical so there’s me and another
qualified auto electrician plus two apprentices, and we have a mechanic and an apprentice mechanic as well.
“I do enjoy the fit-out work,” he added. “For a couple of days, you don’t worry about anything else - you’ve just got a canopy, putting in switches and lights and running cables - and when you’re finished and it’s nice and neat, you can stand back and be proud of your work. That’s a great feeling.”
Peter did his entire apprenticeship with the MTA Institute, and it has, he said, been a great experience, especially working with his last trainer, Antony Joslin.
“There were things we might get stuck on, and we would say, ‘Antony will be here tomorrow, let’s pick his brain’, and he wouldn’t just throw the answer at you but run through it and get hands on,” said Peter. “All the trainers really knew their stuff. They had excellent knowledge and we always looked forward to seeing them because they made things easy to understand.”
After recently becoming a father for the first time and already promoted to workshop supervisor, the last few months have been very busy for Peter, both personally and professionally. His efforts made him stand out during his apprenticeship as does his enthusiasm for the job. As his trainer Antony said, “. . . the results he has been achieving with training and work have been outstanding and worthy of recognition . . . he is an inspiration to younger trainees.”
• Are you employing an apprentice who is excelling in the workplace?
• Do you have a high-achieving apprentice colleague?
• Are they training with MTA Institute?
If the answer is ‘yes’, then nominate them for the MTA Institute Apprentice of the Month Award.
THE MTA INSTITUTE is the largest independent provider of automotive apprenticeships and training in Queensland and it is always a proud moment when its
students complete their trade qualification. Congratulations to everyone who was issued a qualification in March 2024. It's a fantastic achievement!
Dustin Holley Certificate III in Automotive Electrical Technology
Jake Knox Certificate III in Automotive Electrical Technology
James Brown Certificate III in Automotive Electrical Technology
Toby Beighton Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology
Joshua Basterfield Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology
Eli Hazzard Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology
Nathan Ingram Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology
Kynan Stanieg Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology
Jack Farraway Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology
Jacob Sturma Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology
Connor Murray Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology
Nicholas Souter Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology
Joshua Howland Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology
Keegan Parter Certificate III in Automotive Sales (Parts Interpreting)
Kody Wall Certificate III in Automotive Sales (Parts Interpreting)
Aaron Morse Certificate III in Automotive Sales (Parts Interpreting)
Michael Brown Certificate III in Heavy Commercial Vehicle Mechanical Technology
Max Robinson Certificate III in Heavy Commercial Vehicle Mechanical Technology
Kallam Hern Certificate III in Heavy Commercial Vehicle Mechanical Technology
Max Beer Certificate III in Mobile Plant Technology (Mobile Plant Equipment)
Kameron Fiamingo Certificate III in Automotive Body Repair Technology
Eli Taylor Certificate III in Automotive Body Repair Technology
Jason Cheeseman Certificate III in Automotive Body Repair Technology
Frank Crause
Andrew Keys
Antony Joslin
Steven Cameron
Andrew Elson
Ross Wilson
Derrick Pratt
Colin Crichton
Jason McCann
Colin Crichton
Scott Buckley
Keith Minchin
Stephen Baker
Lloyd Cross
Damien O'Connor
Roger West
Sol Layland
Damien O'Connor
Terry Palfrey
Andrew Keys
Alfio Rotolone
Shane Palmer
Patrick Cranitch
Providing tailored solutions to small and medium employers; helping to address challenges, diversify their workforce, and support productivity growth.
Attracting staff from non-traditional cohorts and supporting them into entry-level positions in the automotive industry.
iwa@mtaq.com.au
mtaq.com.au/workforce-solutions
Connecting young Queenslanders with employers into school-based apprenticeships and connecting with students/parents/schools to promote the automotive industry as an exciting career path. These programs are
WORKPLACE DIVERSITY AND inclusion have become increasingly important topics in today’s business landscape. As society becomes more diverse, organisations that embrace diversity and foster an inclusive culture can reap numerous benefits, including increased productivity, improved employee morale and higher levels of engagement.
HC AUTOS in Slacks Creek is one such business that has welcomed this concept. MTA Queensland approached business owners Callum Feron-Farrell and Hughie Kane as part of the ‘Opening Doors to the Automotive Industry’ program, a government funded initiative that supports automotive businesses to connect with new, untapped employment cohorts.
With their business rapidly expanding, Callum and Hughie were eager to bring new members into their team and warmly welcomed Damon Stroud – a young, passionate, autistic, first-year light vehicle apprentice with a love for all things mechanical.
Having completed work experience with Wheelnutz Garage, a supportive learning space for anyone with a disability interested in learning more about automotives, Damon possessed the foundational skills and knowledge required to work in an automotive workshop, making him an instant fit.
Damon enjoys being part of the HC
“WE DON’T WANT OUR APPRENTICES TO COME IN AND SPEND THE FIRST YEAR NOT KNOWING ANYTHING, WE WOULD RATHER TEACH THEM FROM THE FIRST DAY, SO THEY FEEL CONFIDENT AND COMFORTABLE AS WELL AS GIVE THEM A CHANCE TO SHOW THEIR INITIATIVE.”
AUTOS team and remains fully engaged in his job through hands-on learning and mentorship. Callum and Hughie are very supportive of their staff’s needs, offering flexible working hours to fit in with Damon’s schedule and various appointments.
“I love cars and have always wanted to become a mechanic, so getting this opportunity was a dream come true,”said Damon. “I work Monday to Thursday as that is what works best for me, but even when I’m not at work, I’m sad I’m not there. I love working with everyone, they are a great bunch of guys. For my birthday they bought us all lunch, it’s the small things that make a world of difference.”
Damon’s positive attitude and commitment to learning has only continued to impress, with both Callum and Hughie commenting on his speedy progress over the last three months.
“At HC AUTOS, we place a large focus on
the development of our apprentices and couldn’t be happier to have Damon as part of our team. He has quickly adapted to the workshop environment and is honing his mechanical skills,” said Callum.
As part of this commitment to training, HC AUTOS has purchased several vehicles for their apprentices to work on, where they can pull apart and fully explore all the different components from start to finish, at their own pace. This provides a holistic approach to the service and repair process and has helped Damon to get a better understanding of the various makes and models available in today’s market.
“We don’t want our apprentices to come in and spend the first year not knowing anything, we would rather teach them from the first day, so they feel confident and comfortable as well as give them a chance to show their initiative,” added Hughie.
Damon’s success story inspires
other young individuals to pursue their passions, regardless of their differences.
MTA Queensland Workforce Mentors
Bob Grierson and Alicia Welsford, who have supported Damon along his journey, were thrilled to see him flourish under the guidance of HC AUTOS and look forward to assisting others to follow their own path. Through the Opening Doors to the Automotive Industry program, MTA Queensland works alongside various community partners to develop pathways to employment for underrepresented cohorts and prepare them for a career in the automotive industry. Find out how you can get involved HERE.
Opening Doors to the Automotive Industry is a Workforce Connect Fund project funded by the Queensland Government as part of the Good people. Good jobs: Queensland Workforce Strategy 2022-2032.
MILLAR INDUSTRY WORKFORCE ADVISOR
FRANKLIN HIMSELF said failing to plan was planning to fail.
That perhaps has never rung truer than today with the rapid changes that are afoot across the automotive sector. With technology now impacting on all aspects of our industry, everyone from independent repairers, the collision industry and new and used vehicle dealers need to prepare for a future that involves increasing electrification and technology.
For all of us that means from now on the only constant is change itself.
Many businesses I speak to become uncomfortable when we talk about planning. That is something others do. Well, I am very pleased to say MTA Queensland’s Workforce Advisory team can now help you plan for the future. We can help you prepare your business in terms of what people and skills and what infrastructure and equipment you need and how to forecast what your future might be like.
Put simply, business planning does not need to come from a textbook. There are some simple principles that we can guide you through in developing your own business plan:
1. GROWTH:
What are your objectives both in the short and long term? This element should include how and where you want to grow and what it will take to succeed. It is also an opportunity to develop an exit strategy from your business. That is, when and how?
2. UNDERSTAND THE MARKET:
This is about understanding your customers
and competitors. Why do customers choose you and why do your competitors gain traction elsewhere? What can you do to maximise what you are good at to win more business?
Once you think about that, you suddenly have your own environmental scan.
3. THE MONEY:
This is the chance to work with your accountant and financial advisor to assess the feasibility of your plan and identify what revenue and cost it will take to get there. This is often intimidating but it does not need to be. Understanding the need for investment and cash flow are key elements when thinking about the future.
4. ATTRACTING TALENT:
It is hard to find good people. In the current labour market you can no longer assume you will find the ideal employee easily. We all need to work harder at this.
Young people can’t be what they can’t see! That means you and your industry associations need to reach into schools to show off our vibrant careers. Simple online ads may also not cut it. Your business plan is the chance to think about how you will find your future workforce.
5. HOLDING ON NTO YOUR PEOPLE:
Dare I mention the word culture. Well, engaging with your people, staff satisfaction, competitive salaries and performance incentives to name a few are all relevant to keeping your most important resource – people.
My key message is, now is the time to start planning for whatever future you want to drive for. It is quite simple – give me a call.
T
he Industry Workforce Advisor program is funded by the Queensland Government as part of the Good People. Good jobs: Queensland Workforce Strategy 2022-2032.
BMW HAS REVEALED the Vision Neue Klasse X – a ‘Sports Activity Vehicle’ (SAV) concept built on its new Neue Klasse platform.
The concept uses BMW’s new design language, showing what the next generation of core vehicles from BMW will look like, and showcases the technological innovations expected to appear in those future vehicles.
THE NEW BRAND LOOK INCORPORATES VERTICALLY ALIGNED LED UNITS, AND THE FRONT KIDNEY GRILLE HAS GONE FROM THE EXTRAORDINARILY WIDE OF RECENT YEARS TO SOMETHING ALTOGETHER SLIMMER.
On the Vision Neue Klasse X, a pareddown design language and an electric architecture offers increased ground clearance, a more spacious interior, a long wheelbase and short overhangs, plus large window areas and the panoramic glass roof.
The new brand look incorporates vertically aligned LED units, and the front kidney grille has gone from the extraordinarily wide of recent years to something altogether slimmer. It’s now a ‘three-dimensional sculpture with vertically aligned and backlit contours.’
Underpinning the Neue Klasse are improved e-drive units, and new and now round lithium-ion battery cells that BMW says deliver a volumetric energy density more than 20 per cent higher than that of the prismatic cells previously used.
BMW says an 800-volt system will improve charging speed by up to 30 per cent – allowing Neue Klasse vehicles to get
VIDEO: VISION OF THE FUTURE: THE BMW VISION NEUE KLASSE X
300km of charge in 10 minutes. A sixth generation of BMW eDrive (which combines the battery, motor and energy management system) also delivers up to 30 per cent more range. BMW Neue Klasse models are to be equipped with bidirectional charging tech.
BMW says that aerodynamics of the Vision Neue Klasse X sees drag reduced by 20 per cent against a comparable model in the current line-up. New tyre designs and a special brake system for fully electric vehicles help increase overall vehicle efficiency by up to 25 per cent.
Vision Neue Klasse X
THERE’S A LARGE DISPLAY SCREEN FOR INFOTAINMENT, AND THE PANORMAIC VISION SYSTEM – SHOWING RELEVANT VEHICLE AND DRIVING INFORMATIONSWEEPS ACROSS THE DASH THE FULL WIDTH OF THE WINDSCREEN.
Inside, as is common on EVs, the theme is minimalistic. There’s a large display screen for infotainment, and the Panormaic Vision system –showing relevant vehicle and driving information - sweeps across the dash the full width of the windscreen.
A plant-based, mineral-based and petroleum-free surface material called Verdana was developed for the interior, and BMW says maritime plastics (retrieved, for example, from discarded fishing nets) are being used for the first time for injection-moulded parts.
The side skirts and front and rear apron attachments are produced from recycled
mono-materials (composed from a single type of material). BMW says this choice of materials and construction method enable easier disassembly of components and improved recyclability.
BMW says Neue Klasse models will be available by the end of 2025, marking ‘the beginning of a new era for BMW and its customers.'
MTA INSTITUTE ACCREDITED COURSES
Accredited courses are nationally recognised and lead to a formal Vocational Education and Training qualification being issued.
AUTO READY
TO BE ADVISED
AIR CONDITIONING COURSE
19 - 21 June 2024
28 - 30 August 2024
SALES/DEALERS/WRECKERS
LICENCING COURSES
AVAILABLE ONLINE
COMMENCES ON ENROLMENT
BATTERY ELECTRIC AND HYBRID ELECTRIC VEHICLES COURSE
29 April - 1 May 2024
1 - 3 July 2024
AUTOMOTIVE VOCATIONAL PREPARATION COURSE
29 April - 31 May 2024
Enquiries to: courses@mtai.edu.au Website www.mtai.edu.au
MTA QUEENSLAND NON-ACCREDITED COURSES
Non-Accredited courses equip the learner with specific knowledge and skills but do not lead towards a recognised qualification.
MIG WELDING FUNDAMENTALS COURSE
17 April 2024
12 June 2024
POST-TRADE TRAINING
AVAILABLE ONLINE
VEHICLE MAINTENANCE COURSE
TO BE ADVISED
ELECTRIC VEHICLE
SAFETY TRAINING
AVAILABLE ONLINE
HEV/BEV LIGHT & COMMERCIAL VEHICLE TECHNICIAN SAFETY
BEV MICRO-MOBILITY & OUTDOOR POWER EQUIPMENT TECHNICIAN SAFETY
HEV/BEV HEAVY VEHICLE & MOBILE PLANT TECHNICIAN SAFETY
HEV/BEV DRIVER/OPERATOR SAFETY
Enquiries to: courses@mtaq.com.au Website www.mtaq.com.au
*Course dates subject to change
If you’re over 591 and still working, a Transition Pension gives you more options about how and when you retire.
Option
Ease into retirement now
Reduce your working hours without sacrificing your current income for a smooth transition to retirement.
The choice is yours. Scan the code to request a call back from your local super expert or visit spiritsuper.com.au/transition
Option 2
More super later
Keep working and use super’s unique tax advantages to boost your balance before retirement.
