Motor Trader e-magazine, December 2022 to January 2023

MTA QUEENSLAND

DIVISIONAL COMMITTEE MEETINGS

MTA QUEENSLAND hosts quarterly Divisional Committee 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 Committee 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.

From the Editor

Official Publication of the Motor Trades Association of Queensland

HEAD OFFICE

Building 8, 2728 Logan Road, Eight Mile Plains, Qld 4113

P.O. Box 4530, Eight Mile Plains, Qld 4113

Tel: 07 3237 8777

Fax: 07 3844 4488

Toll Free: 1800 177 951

Email: publications@mtaq.com.au

Website: www.mtaq.com.au

EDITOR

Jonathan Nash

ART DIRECTOR

Marco Ilinic

INDUSTRIAL RELATIONS

Evangeline Kannis

Ian Naylor

POLICY

Kellie Dewar, General Manager MTA Queensland

ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES

Email: jonathann@mtaq.com.au

EDITORIAL

Editorial submissions are welcomed but cannot be guaranteed placement. For more information email the Editor at publications@mtaq.com.au

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MOTOR TRADER PUBLISHING POLICY

Motor Trader is the official publication of the Motor Trades Association of Queensland. The role of Motor Trader is to inform members of current issues and legislation affecting the industry. As such it can be regarded as the business magazine for the Queensland motor industry. The role of Motor Trader is not to be in competition with the technical magazines already on the market. It will advise of new vehicles being released and of the latest technology incorporated into them; it will advise of latest technology affecting members in each of the MTA Queensland Divisions; it will keep members abreast of the latest in motor industry training and industrial affairs; and it will keep members informed of the latest technical aids available through MTA Queensland Member Services, which will assist members in staying ahead of the technological revolution presently being encountered within the motor industry. The publisher reserves the right to omit or alter any advertisement and the advertiser agrees to indemnify the publisher for all damages or liabilities arising from the published material.

MTA QUEENSLAND ABN: 74 028 933 848

CORPORATE PARTNERS

WELCOME TO THE final Motor Trader edition for 2022.

Toward the end of every year, MTA Queensland brings together members, industry stakeholders, government representatives, special guests, and apprentices at its Industry Awards Gala to celebrate the year gone by and highlight the achievements of the industry through the presentation of the MTA Queensland awards.

As always, the finalists for those awards - the Community Award, the Innovation Award, the Women In Industry Award, and the Apprentice of the Year Award - were all outstanding, and any one of them would have made a worthy winner. However, only one name could claim the prize in each category, and congratulations go to The

Garage Miami (Community Award), Benzina Zero (Innovation Award), Skid Control (Women In Industry Award), and Britain Leotta (Apprentice of the Year). You can find out more about the awards night by checking out our wrap-up story from page 12.

Also in this edition, we catch up with members of the Skid Control team to talk about the initiative they introduced that won them the Women In Industry Award.

Skid Control offers training events for drivers of all levels and, after recognising that some women found it intimidating to take to the track, introduced a women-only event called She's In Control to encourage them to get involved. The event has been very successful and you can read more about it from page 28.

As always, we have plenty of news from across the automotive world, including new product launches and innovations, and MTA Queensland member news.

I wish you all a memorable and jolly Christmas and New Year. See you in 2023!

Jonathan Nash, Editor jonathann@mtaq.com.au

MTA Queensland welcomes the following new members

JONATHAN NASH EDITOR

WOMEN ON TRACK AND IN CONTROL WITH AWARD-WINNING DRIVING INITIATIVE

CELEBRATING THE AUTO INDUSTRY AT THE 2022 MTA QUEENSLAND INDUSTRY AWARDS GALA

THE AMB 001 PRO SUPERBIKE GENESIS

MTA Q&A: MALANDA MOWERS AND MECHANICAL

MTA INSTITUTE TRAINER CONFERENCE

From the Desk of Management

HIS YEAR HAS flown by and we are now, unbelievably, only a few short days away from Christmas. I applaud all of our members on their successes this past year. Navigating the so-called disruptors of COVID-19, supply constraints, and labour shortages has been a significant achievement in itself.

ROD CAMM CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER MTA QUEENSLAND

That said, 2023 looks to be no different. The businesses that are flourishing are those focused on customer service, innovation, and culture. MTA Queensland looks forward to assisting members to grow in these areas, and already has plans in motion to bring new and exciting programs to market. These include:

• Emerging Building Business Capability Program of strategy and planning workshops across Qld to help businesses prepare for electric and hybrid vehicles.

• Developing and delivering micro-credentials to automotive businesses on a range of issues, including:

- HEV/BEV Driver/Operator Safety

- BEV Micro Mobility and Outdoor Power Equipment Technician Safety

- HEV/BEV Light/Commercial Vehicle Technician Safety; and

- HEV/BEV Heavy Vehicle and Mobile Plant Technician Safety.

• Industry Workforce Advisory Program to support employers to identify workforce challenges and possible solutions to improve workplace culture and diversity.

Through these roles, MTA Queensland hopes to engage with employers, small business, and industry stakeholders to provide sector-specific advice on current and emerging trends, skilling needs and training requirements, as well as business opportunities. We will be releasing more information about these programs in the new year.

I wish everyone a happy and safe Christmas, and I look forward to a prosperous 2023!

TFOLLOWING ON FROM Rod’s column, 2023 will also see MTA Queensland “on the road” again, delivering a comprehensive series of member forums across the state. We will be visiting Bundaberg and Hervey Bay in February, followed by Townsville, Cairns, and Emerald in March. These meetings are an important avenue of communication with our members and provide us with a greater understanding of industry concerns at a local level. I encourage all to get involved. For more information and to RSVP, click HERE.

KELLIE DEWAR DEPUTY CEO | GENERAL MANAGER MEMBER SERVICES

We have also scheduled the first round of our divisional meetings, opening with ERAQ on Wednesday, 1 February. Meetings are open to both members and non-members, and can be attended online. Email info@mtaq.com.au to register your interest!

On this topic, MTA Queensland is calling on all Service Station member businesses to have their say on the Transport and Resources Committee’s Inquiry into the Liquid Fuel Supply (Minimum Biobased Petrol Content) Amendment Bill 2022. A detailed explanation of the objectives of the Bill can be found HERE.

Finally, as we head into the Christmas break, we are unfortunately faced with an increase in cyber attacks. Understanding the digital capabilities of your business is the first step to determining your strengths and weaknesses. Perform a digital health check on your business via the Business Queensland website.

2023 will be a big year for everyone, so let’s make sure we are in a position to take full advantage of that opportunity. I wish all members a safe and joyful festive season.

MTA QUEENSLAND IS CALLING ON ALL SERVICE STATION MEMBER BUSINESSES TO HAVE THEIR SAY ON THE TRANSPORT AND RESOURCES COMMITTEE’S INQUIRY INTO THE LIQUID FUEL SUPPLY (MINIMUM BIOBASED PETROL CONTENT) AMENDMENT BILL 2022.

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MTA |Q&A

Hot, wet, summer weather makes the grass grow and business boom for Malanda Mowers & Mechanical in Far North Queensland. Motor Trader dropped in to see Hannes Du Plessis and the team to learn more about how this unassuming small business is taking off in leaps and bounds.

WORDS & PHOTOS: LARA WILDE

Hannes Du Plessis, owner of Malanda Mowers and Mechanical

Malanda Mowers & Mechanical has been around for a long time. Can you tell us a little about how the business began?

HDP: The workshop first opened about 20 years ago. It was just one bay in the garage of Marano’s Fuel and Oils service station. Over time the business grew and expanded to take over the workshops behind the service station and the building next door. Have you always had a passion for lawn mowers and the mower business?

HDP: Not at all. I started my trade as a fitter in South Africa in the family business. Since moving to the Atherton Tablelands, I have worked for a number of local businesses. At the start of this year, when the chance came up to be my own boss, I took it.

What is your main role at Malanda Mowers and Mechanical? On the tools, selling stock or something else?

HDP: I really enjoy working hands-on with our customers. I get out and do demonstrations in their yards, I pick up mowers for servicing and I deliver the new machines. It is great to have a chat with them and to meet their neighbours.

“THERE ARE EIGHT OF US IN THE TEAM AT THE MOMENT. COMBINED, WE HAVE MORE THAN 65 YEARS OF INDUSTRY EXPERIENCE.”

Who is in your team to look after the shop while you are out and about on the road?

HDP: There are eight of us in the team at the moment. Combined, we have more than 65 years of industry experience. My manager is Michael Wagner. He has been working in the business for a lot longer than me and he is fantasticsuper friendly with our customers, very professional and he is across all of our products and services with a strong background in sales, assembly of products and office administration.

Helping Michael out in the office is Melissa, providing administration support a few days a week. Alex backs up Michael with sales and customer service. Dean and his apprentice Keanu take care of the automotive mechanical repairs and maintenance. Ben and Alan take care of our small engines providing repairs and maintenance to all of the mowers, chainsaws and similar-sized machines.

What is the core offering of products and services at Malanda Mowers and Mechanical?

HDP: At our core, we are a one-stop shop for sales and service of domestic and

professional outdoor equipment. We sell a wide range of brand-new mowers and related power equipment such as blowers, chainsaws, pressure cleaners and brush cutters. We stock high-quality brands including Hustler, Gravely, Greenfield, Husqvarna, Bush Ranger, Bar Pressure Cleaners and Bobcat.

Our customer service is complete, delivering new purchases to the home, on-site servicing and maintenance, repairs and servicing in the workshop with a pick-up and delivery service, and detailed product advice.

We also have an automotive workshop that provides mechanical repairs, logbook servicing and roadworthy certificates for passenger and small commercial vehicles. Those mechanical repairs can include everything from tyre fitting and wheel alignments through to diagnostics and

“AT OUR CORE, WE ARE A ONE-STOP SHOP FOR SALES AND SERVICE OF DOMESTIC AND PROFESSIONAL OUTDOOR EQUIPMENT.”

Alan Cook

Apprentice Keanu Bowen Wilson and technician Dean Hapgood

ECU remapping and engine rebuilds. As I said, we are truly a one stop shop. Who is your main type of Malanda Mowers and Mechanical customer?

HDP: In all honesty we have a little bit of everyone. Ma and Pa customers who want domestic equipment to use at home; farmers and primary producers looking for heavier duty machinery; and commercial clients such as schools, councils, landscapers and small

businesses who need reliability and consistency from their equipment. What is your Malanda Mowers and Mechanical marketing strategy?

HDP: We have a website and a Facebook page that I manage. We also print brochures and flyers, and we advertise on the radio. By far our best marketing is word of mouth. The majority of our customers find us because a friend or family member recommended us. We are very proud of our reputation locally.

Michael Wagner

Alex Greaney Ben Edward

When you say locally, how far do you reach?

HDP: We go everywhere. From Cooktown in the North through to the southern reaches of the Atherton Tablelands heading into the Gulf. A lot of our customers - like farmers and councils - take in a big footprint so we have to follow them where they need us.

What has been your biggest business challenge in 2022?

HDP: Without a doubt the biggest challenge has been sourcing stock. Covid, floods, rising fuel costs, and high consumer demand have all taken a toll. We are slowly securing our supply lines. While we might secure stock, we have also been hit with costs and unreliability in freight. Increased fuel costs, delays in delivery and unpredictable freight charges have made it hard to maintain our high level of customer service.

What changes do you see in the industry that will impact you?

HDP: We are really excited about developments in the industry. Technology is taking big steps and the mower and mechanical industry is keeping pace. We are stocking a lot more products that are battery operated and the range

of Husqvarna battery-powered robotic automatic mowers is really revolutionary. They don’t need nearly as much mechanical maintenance and they suit our climate here where the grass grows fast. We make sure our staff are trained and up to speed to maintain and repair the newest offerings.

What are your plans for the business moving forward?

HDP: We are beginning to stock a lot more four-wheelers and side-by-side vehicles for farm use. The other big development for the business will be the implementation of systems and processes to reduce our turnaround times. Currently we get very busy and it can take our team up to two weeks to turn repair jobs around. We want to reduce that and streamline our systems so customers can get their machines back to work faster.

“WE ARE REALLY EXCITED ABOUT DEVELOPMENTS IN THE INDUSTRY. TECHNOLOGY IS TAKING BIG STEPS AND THE MOWER AND MECHANICAL INDUSTRY IS KEEPING PACE.”

Melissa Cook

It

takes a real workmate to ask another how they’re feeling. A conversation could change a life, so start one today.

Celebrating THE AUTO INDUSTRY

INDUSTRY AWARDS

Celebrating INDUSTRY AT THE 2022

AWARDS GALA

THE MTA QUEENSLAND 2022 Industry Awards Gala was held at the Emporium Hotel in Brisbane on November 19. More than 200 guests from across the state were in attendance, including MTA Queensland members, industry stakeholders, corporate partners of the Association, and political representatives, as well as friends, family, and colleagues of the MTA Queensland awards finalists. Hosted, as it was last year and in 2019, by Channel Seven’s Ben Davis, special guests included Olympic Swimming Coach Dean Boxall; James Martin MP, Member for Stretton where MTA Queensland’s head office is based; and the Hon Dianne Farmer MP, Minister for Employment and Small Business and Minister for Training and Skills Development.

An evening during which the talent, professionalism, innovative thinking and achievements of individuals and businesses were recognised via the presentation of the Community award, the Innovation award, the Women In Industry award, and the Apprentice of the Year award, the Gala kicked off with an inspirational Welcome to Country ceremony performed by Thomas Coghill of Tribal Experiences, before MTA

Since becoming CEO in 2020, Mr Camm has introduced a number of initiatives aimed at delivering across-the-board improvements to members, and he commented on the development of some of these during 2022 in his address, including the training options through programs such as online micro-credential courses; the frequent member meetings and workshops held across the state; and the launch into regional Queensland locations of the Auto Ready: Introduction to Automotive program for school students.

The evolution of the industry continues to influence MTA Queensland’s work,

Queensland Chairman Paul Peterson and CEO Rod Camm addressed the guests.

Thomas Coghill from Tribal Experiences performing during the Welcome to Country ceremony

. . .THE GALA KICKED OFF WITH AN INSPIRATIONAL WELCOME TO COUNTRY CEREMONY PERFORMED

BY THOMAS COGHILL OF TRIBAL EXPERIENCES, BEFORE MTA QUEENSLAND

CHAIRMAN PAUL PETERSON AND CEO ROD CAMM ADDRESSED THE GUESTS.

and Mr Camm also mentioned his trip to Europe with leaders of other Motor Trade Associations from across the country to research the transition to electric mobility in nations including Germany, France, the Netherlands, Sweden, the UK, and the country that has most readily embraced electrification, Norway. The findings of that trip helped shape the MTA Queensland submission to the federal government on its National Electric Vehicle Strategy Consultation Paper.

2022 was also the first full year for MTA Queensland’s Auto Women initiative, established to enable women working in the industry to connect and network with others; share experiences, advice, and news; and receive a level of mentorship from those with experience and knowledge from across all industry sectors

and across all levels of employment, from apprenticeship to CEO level. The Auto Women initiative also provides scholarships to leadership programs run by Women & Leadership Australia. Four such scholarships have been awarded so far.

The Auto Ready and Auto Women programs form part of MTA Queensland’s mission to encourage young people and women to consider an automotive career path and grab the tremendous opportunities available. Like many other industries, automotive is anxious to find, develop and retain skilled workers, and the drive to assist businesses with that challenge will continue to be an important aspect of MTA Queensland’s work.

While commenting on these and other programs that have been developed, launched, and expanded upon over the last 12 months, Mr Camm also gave a

VIDEO: MTA QUEENSLAND'S 2022 YEAR IN REVIEW

Rod Camm, MTA Queensland Group CEO

Paul Peterson, MTA Queensland Chairman

preview of what members can expect from the Association in 2023. Top of the list was more interaction with members through regional workshops; responding to members’ needs and requests with rapid, focused action; and working with the Queensland Government and the department overseen by Minister Farmer both in the development of training programs in areas of expected growth such as electrified vehicles and other new technologies, as well as the development of programs aimed to tackle skills and labour shortages.

“I’ve been working with government pretty much my whole career, and over the next year we’ll be coming to you with a plethora of services that is only possible because of Minister Farmer’s department,” said Mr Camm. “You’ve been telling us that you’re experiencing unprecedented shortages of people, of skills shortages and challenges in the labour market, which means the people you are starting to encounter need more support. We are working with Minister Farmer’s department to connect the community with you but ensure there are support programs in between.

“You’ve also been telling us that you’re looking for more skills across the state

and, again, working with Minister Farmer’s department, we’ll be rolling out electric vehicle and a range of other emerging technology courses.

“You told us that you need help around workplace relations, around how to create a diverse workplace, so we are rolling out an industry workforce advisor program whose role it will be to come out and sit with you in your workshop and ask, ‘What do we need to change here?’, ‘What are you thinking about in changing your arrangements?’ It will also be a model that can help you with skilled migration for the gaps that we can’t fill.

“And you’ve talked to us about skilled work transition and, yes, we are rolling out more programs in Queensland schools, working once again in partnership with Minister Farmer's department.

“We are turning over every stone to rejuvenate our approach to industry, and we are absolutely committed to it.”

A WORD FROM THE MINISTER

FOLLOWING MR CAMM to the speaker’s podium was Minister Farmer, who commented on the challenges

the automotive industry faces, its development and evolution, and the satisfaction of seeing the industry move to encourage women into its ranks. She also talked warmly of the working relationship with MTA Queensland.

“I want to congratulate everyone here who is running their own business,” said the Minister to guests. “I was really interested to see in the figures when I was getting ready for tonight that there are 16,000 auto businesses in Queensland. We have communities everywhere – rural, remote,

regional communities – and there are a few things that every community really cannot do without, and one is actually you – it’s hard for a community to function without you.

“We know there is so much happening in the electric vehicle space, in hydrogen, hybrid vehicles, and it is happening so quickly . . . and we all know that if you don’t have the skills to fix and maintain those cars, then this industry is not going to work,” she added. “So I want to thank MTA Queensland as amazing partners in working with us to make sure that wherever you are across Queensland, you have the skills, you’ve got the training, have people who have been in the industry for a long time and new people coming through. We are putting our money where our mouth is as a government saying we are going to make sure we support you.”

Regarding the effort to encourage women into the industry, Minister Farmer praised MTA Queensland, and its members, on the work undertaken thus far.

“There is lots happening in this space,” said Minister Farmer. “We know you need a workforce – it’s a problem in every region and every sector – and we are working closely with you to see how we can help you with finding people and take them on and retain them. People you might never have looked at before. And I want to call on MTA Queensland - the work you do around getting women into your industry is second to none . . . These days, when you are so short of workers, you cannot afford to ignore women who are 51 per cent of the population . . . I went out earlier this year and I said to all those maledominated industries that you’ve got to have a women’s policy, you’ve actually got to be doing somethingthis is not going to happen by itself. And the first industry to go out was

“WE ARE PUTTING OUR MONEY WHERE OUR MOUTH IS AS A GOVERNMENT, SAYING WE ARE GOING TO MAKE SURE WE SUPPORT YOU.”

Dianne Farmer MP, Minister for Employment and Small Business and Minister for Training and Skills Development

yours . . . and I know you are going to be successful.”

THE AWARDS

PRECEDING THE PRESENTATION of the awards, guests were treated to a highly entertaining conversation/interview between Ben Davis and Dean Boxall. Boxall, you may recall, became globally famous during the 2021 Tokyo Olympics when, as coach of Australian swimming phenomenon Ariarne Titmus, he was caught on video celebrating wildly as Titmus completed the swim of a lifetime to beat American icon Katie Ledecky to the 400m freestyle gold. The footage of Boxall’s celebration went viral, and a star was born.

Of course, Boxall’s actions were not just a reaction to the 3 minutes 56.69 seconds it took for Titmus to complete that race, but also the months and years of dedicated practice that the pair put into preparing for the Olympics. Boxall’s description of the effort required to challenge Ledekcy over the two years leading up to the Olympics was a testament to the hard work, tenacity, and dogged commitment it takes to be the best at what you do – a good lesson for everyone.

And what did he think when he saw the moment that made him a viral star?

Refreshingly, the outburst of pure joy

was just that, spontaneous and personal, without a thought for social media or what it might mean if caught on camera.

“I think of the incredible hard work that went into that race,” Boxall said of his feelings at that moment. “I never thought I was on TV . . . there was nobody in the stadium at Tokyo except for, basically, the competitors who went to watch. I needed to disappear from the Australian swimming team – I was like a caged animal - so they let me go and I snuck away and watched the race unfold. I’m not on social media, and neither was Arnie, but I heard at one stage that there were 320,000 TikTok memes going around. Is that good? No idea!”

As entertaining as Boxall was, however, the highlight of the evening was the presentation of the MTA Queensland awards and the focus they put on the

VIDEO: DEAN BOXALL LEGENDARY REACTION TO ARIARNE TITMUS GOLD MEDAL WIN

Dean Boxall, Andrea Boxall and Ben Davis

remarkable achievements of businesses and individuals working and training across Queensland’s automotive industry sectors.

COMMUNITY AWARD

THE COMMUNITY AWARD

finalists were The Garage Miami, Southeast Auto Mechanical, and Jeeepart Recyclers. The Garage Miami, located on the Gold Coast, was named the winner with owners Nathan Brookes and Andrew Whiteway accepting the award from Jason Murray, CEO of Spirit Super. The Garage Miami, which offers a range of mechanical services - including comprehensive 4x4 upgrades, and wheel and tyre services – was established in 2017 and has focused on building strong links throughout the local community. The business sponsors a number of organisations including sports clubs such as the Bond Pirates Rugby Union, the Magic United Soccer Club, and MNM Boardriders, as well as the Miami Nippers SLSC. Also supported is the Palmy in Pink Dinner Fundraiser for Breast Cancer, as well as the endeavours of the local Miami State High and

Miami State School. The business encourages the next generation of automotive workers by offering work experience placements to local young people and also works closely with other highquality local businesses, building a community that supports each other

“I DON’T THINK THAT NORMALLY A COMMUNITY AWARD IS PROBABLY SOMETHING WE ALWAYS CHASE – I THINK IT IS SOMETHING THAT EVERY BUSINESS THAT CAN AFFORD TO, SHOULD DO.”

Community Award Winner, The Garage Miami

Dean Boxall was an energetic and highly entertaining guest

with referrals and recommendations.

“I don’t think that normally a community award is probably something we always chase – I think it is something that every business that can afford to, should do,” said Nathan Brookes on receiving the award. “We like to see the fact that the Miami Boardriders Club has a new trailer, that the Bond Pirates have a new scrum machine . . . we like to see the fact that the Miami State School can sponsor a technology program or whatever those things might be. I’m not sure it is an award-worthy thing, but it is something that definitely anyone in business should be doing.”

INNOVATION AWARD

THE INNOVATION AWARD recognises businesses that support or are

implementing innovative practices and/or products into the automotive and mobility industry, and the 2022 award finalists included two businesses – Benzina Zero and EMoS Australia – that provide worldclass electric vehicles, such as scooters and mopeds, designed to transport goods and people easily and efficiently. The third finalist – researcher, entrepreneur and academic Sarfraz Ali Kyani – works on finding and creating sustainable opportunities for the automotive recycling industry with his innovative research leading to ways of utilising plastic recycling and additive manufacturing to create, amongst other products, 3D-printed car parts.

This year’s winner of the Innovation Award was Benzina Zero, and the award was presented by Neil Pike, Supply Operations Manager of Capricorn, to company founders Joe D’Ercole and Ben Silver.

Benzina Zero has come a long way in a short time. Motor Trader was proud to interview Joe and Ben

in 2021 as the business was close to launch and, since then, the company has its range of scooters available through 10, mainly Queensland-

“. . . WE ARE REALLY PROUD OF WHAT WE DO, AND WE DO BELIEVE WE ARE MAKING A DIFFERENCE. WE LOOK FORWARD TO 2023 –IT IS GOING TO BE A VERY EXCITING YEAR.”

Innovation Award Winner, Benzina Zero

based, outlets with the aim to grow to more than 25 outlets by the end of the 2023 financial year. They have also launched into Europe, where they are based in Italy, and have agreements to commence distribution in 18 countries across Europe and Asia.

The company’s products are, of course, environmentally friendly electric vehicles, but Benzina Zero’s mission to be protective of our natural surroundings goes beyond that, with Joe and Ben developing - in partnership with the not-for-profit organisation Greenfleet - an initiative called the ‘1m2 Project’ which ensures that for each vehicle sold globally, one square metre of land will be regenerated in Australia. The company has also signed up to the B-Cycle Battery Stewardship program, a government-backed battery recycling scheme.

“I’d just like to say thank you to everyone who has supported us along our way,” said Ben Silver after collecting the award. “We officially launched this year, and it has been a very long journey. We’ve obviously dealt with a few things like COVID, and shipping issues, but

we are really proud of what we do, and we do believe we are making a difference. We look forward to 2023 – it is going to be a very exciting year.”

WOMEN IN INDUSTRY AWARD

THE WOMEN IN Industry Award was introduced by MTA Queensland in 2019 to

recognise a female leader achieving success through their commitment to driving change in the automotive or mobility industry, and to encourage more women to consider the industry as a career option.

The finalists for the award were Hatice Hutchinson of All Car Engine Reconditioning Services; Tania Meli of Frizelle Sunshine Automotive Group;

The Women in Industry Award Award went to Skid Control, an advanced driver training business that created She's In Control, a women-only event aimed at encouraging women to get involved and develop their driving skills. Pictured are Hannah Busch, Kass Brumley, Zara Waller, Michelle Van Der Wilk, Kaylin Duffield, and Skid Control founder Dylan Cothill.

“WITH SKID CONTROL, WE SAW SO FEW GIRLS COMING ALONG, AND THOSE THAT DID WE HEARD SAYING ‘I’M TOO SCARED TO GO ON TRACK WITH THE GUYS . . . AND WE SAID THAT’S NOT ON . . .”

and the team from Skid Control – a Brisbane-based driver training business.

Skid Control was named the winner and the award was presented to representatives Hannah Busch and Zara Waller by Alan Abbott, Regional Manager for Busy At Work.

Skid Control, which was founded by professional racer Dylan Cothill in 2016, has been running driver training events – focused on performance driving - for more than seven years. Recognising that female participation in these events was often small, the business launched a new concept called ‘She’s In Control’, run by women and aiming to empower others to get involved and participate in performance and track driving.

The result of this program has been significant, with the program seeing female participation rising and feedback revealing a truly positive experience for participants. That positive response

has, Skid Control says, resulted in ‘a community being created, where ladies are supporting each other, they are bringing their girlfriends along for a new experience, and Dads are bringing their daughters to learn new skills.’

“With Skid Control, we saw so few girls coming along, and those that did we heard saying ‘I’m too scared to go on track with the guys’ . . . and we said that’s not on, we are sick of hearing that, this is something everyone can do, life skills people can learn,” said Hannah Busch when accepting the award with Zara Waller. “And now we see dads bringing their 16-year-old girls who have just got their licence, and they’re coming out enjoying and learning from the experience.”

“I would like to say thank you to Dylan,” added Zara,

2022 MTA Queensland Apprentice of the Year Finalists.

Left to right: Mitchell Johnson, Todd Marshall, Andrew Shepherd, Britain Leotta, Emily Hodda, Grace Campbell, Jack Farraway, Timothy Louden, Nathan Faggotter, Lucas Giacoboni, and Phoenix Ah-Toon

speaking of Skid Control’s founder. “He won’t put his hand up, but he has given us a platform to do something that we love and to share it with so many other people.”

APPRENTICE OF THE YEAR

THE HIGHLIGHT OF the evening was the announcement of the MTA Queensland Apprentice of the Year award winner.

12 outstanding apprentices, some who have now qualified as tradespeople, were up for the award, but it was Britain Leotta, a 20-year-old, third-year auto-electrical apprentice with Mackay Transit Coaches who took home the honour.

All the finalists received a 3.8’’ Drive 56pc ratchet and socket set courtesy of Milwaukee Tool while Britain, as the winner, also received a Milwaukee 218-piece Automotive Starter Toolkit.

12

SOME WHO HAVE NOW QUALIFIED AS TRADESPEOPLE, WERE UP FOR THE AWARD, BUT IT WAS BRITAIN LEOTTA, A 20-YEAR-OLD, THIRD-YEAR AUTO-ELECTRICAL APPRENTICE WITH MACKAY TRANSIT COACHES WHO TOOK HOME THE HONOUR.

More importantly, perhaps, was the honour of being named Apprentice of the Year, a remarkable achievement when considering the MTA Institute trains more than 2300 students across Queensland.

For Britain, winning the award did come as quite a shock, as it did to his

OUTSTANDING APPRENTICES,

partner and parents who had come down from Mackay to share the experience with him. However, and in what is a sign, perhaps, of why he won, Britain did come prepared with a speech, just in case.

“I couldn’t believe it. I was amazed,” he said of his win. “I wouldn’t say I was confident, but I was very excited at the opportunity to get it, and so did write down something to say.”

Actually, Britain only got through twothirds of his speech before applause from guests made him pause and decide to stop things there. While that meant he had been able to thank many for their help on his auto-electrical apprenticeship journey, he took the chance when speaking with Motor Trader to read those missing last few sentences. And so here is his

acceptance speech in full:

“To receive such a prestigious award is truly a dream come true, especially to receive this award among all these amazing peers beside me. I have taken enjoyment every month reading everybody’s articles and being amazed by the accomplishments being achieved by my fellow peers. From my first day of work experience as an auto electrician, I realised this is the job for me. Waking up every morning and going to a dream job is something not many people get to do and I am truly thankful for that.

“I’d like to say a few quick thank-yous –firstly to Jason who originally nominated me for this award, and to Gareth, my MTA Institute trainer who has taken me on. I’d also like to thank Mackay Transit Coaches. They took me on as an apprentice and they have helped me achieve things I could never even dream of. I’d also like to thank my parents, for being there for me from day one, taking me to work experience, helping me with

“I WANT TO SAY THANK YOU TO MTA QUEENSLAND FOR THE HONOUR OF PRESENTING ME WITH THE AWARD. I HAD A WONDERFUL EXPERIENCE WITH THE FASCINATING HANDS-ON LEARNING MTA INSTITUTE HAS TO OFFER, AND TO BE PRESENTED WITH SUCH AN AMAZING AWARD IS TRULY REMARKABLE.”

2022 MTA Queensland Apprentice of the Year Award Winner, Britain Leotta

job interviews, really doing everything, and also my girlfriend, who has helped me in many many ways, listening to me when I've got new ideas and when I want to talk about work – just everything.

“I want to say thank you to MTA Queensland for the honour of presenting me with the award. I had a wonderful experience with the fascinating hands-on learning MTA Institute has to offer, and to be presented with such an amazing award is truly remarkable – especially at a time of automotive transition to electric and biofuel. It is an honour I can’t put into words.”

A terrific acceptance speech on a night that was a highlight of a career just getting rolling was followed by more good news when Britain returned to work at Mackay Transit Coaches, where the reaction from colleagues and his employers was especially pleasing.

“The reaction was unreal,” said Britain. “I came in and they had a little breakfast set up and gave me a $1000 gift card for more tools! Not sure what I am going to spend that on, but I’ll find a way!”

The Apprentice of the Year award recognises the skill, determination, and commitment an apprentice brings to their work, and can – and certainly should – give every finalist confidence in their ability and in their decision to work in the automotive industry, as wellas give them the belief that the career path they are on is limited only by their own ambition. That holds true for Britain, who also had some words of encouragement for those apprentices just starting the automotive career journey.

“I wouldn’t say this has changed my outlook, but it has definitely broadened where I want to go,” he said. “I’m looking

further ahead and a lot bigger now.

“The best advice I can give is to make sure it is something you want to do,” said Britain. “That is where it worked out really well for me. I don’t go home and not look forward to coming back to work – I go home and think about wanting to learn more about what I did that day. I think also that a lot of what deters young apprentices is the money, but you’ve got to look further than that – once you’re done training it’s good money and great job opportunities . . . the starting money really means nothing.”

According to Paul Kulpa, General Manager of the MTA Institute, the quality of the 2022 Apprentice of the Year finalists was, once again, tremendously high.

“Every year, the judging panel finds it a tremendous challenge to pick one apprentice out of so many worthy finalists,” he said. “The quality of apprentices that the MTA Institute trains is terrifically high, and we continue to be amazed by the effort and commitment they show to developing the skills they need to be successful in this rapidly changing industry.

“However, while the judging was difficult, Britain is a very worthy winner, proving to be very skilled, committed, and with a quick-thinking and innovative mind.

“The MTA Queensland Apprentice of the Year award is a prestigious honour. With more than 2300 students being trained by the Institute, it is no small thing to be nominated and to become a finalist, and it is a distinction recognised throughout the industry. I’d like to thank our trainers and employers who take the time to consider and nominate their apprentices.

“I’d also like to mention how pleasing it is to see the diversity of this year’s nominees. They come from across industry sectors –from light vehicle to refinishing, from auto electrical to heavy commercial – and from right across urban and regional areas of Queensland. This year we had three female finalists. That is a very encouraging sign for

CLICK TO VISIT THE MACKAY TRANSIT COACHES WEBSITE

an industry that must move to become a more attractive career option for women.”

RAISING FUNDS

ANOTHER IMPORTANT PART of the Industry Awards Gala is the fundraising auction on behalf of Youngcare, MTA Queensland’s official charity partner. Youngcare is a not-for-profit organisation spearheading change to create a future where every young person with high care needs has the choice and dignity to live the lives we all deserve. MTA Queensland is proud to offer its support. Each year, the generosity of guests – and of those who donate items to the auction – ensures an outstanding sum is raised for Youngcare, and this year that number hit a very respectable $12,000.

The auction was, as always, lively and fun, as guests bid on items such as Triple Eight Racing/Red Bull Ampol supercar car body components - including a framed front grille signed by Jamie Whincup and Shane Van Gisbergen, a framed rear bumper signed by Shane Van Gisbergen and Broc Feeney, and a framed rear guard panel signed by Shane Van Gisbergen and Broc Feeney – a holiday to Mooloolaba, a getaway at the Emporium Hotel, a 2014 bottle of Penfolds Shiraz, and a 2017 Queensland State of Origin jersey signed by rugby league great Kevin Walters.

MTA Queensland thanks Triple Eight Race Engineering, Mark Dodge Motoring,

the Emporium Hotel, Peter and Cathy Hyne, and Jeeepart Recyclers for the generous donation of auction items.

MTAQ Queensland thanks its guests, friends, and sponsors for making the 2022 Industry Award Gala so memorable. As always, it was tremendous celebration of what makes the automotive industry so exceptional.

See you next year!

EACH YEAR, THE GENEROSITY OF GUESTS – AND OF THOSE WHO DONATE ITEMS TO THE AUCTION –ENSURES AN OUTSTANDING SUM IS RAISED FOR YOUNGCARE, AND THIS YEAR'S NUMBER HIT A VERY RESPECTABLE $12,000

The evening's auction raised $12,000 for the Youngcare charity, with bidding helped along by the always dynamic Dean Boxall

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WOMEN ON TRACK AND IN CONTROL WITH AWARD-WINNING DRIVING INITIATIVE

IT IS COMMON knowledge that women are woefully underrepresented in the automotive industry. From the boardroom to the workshop only a handful of women can be found, but things are beginning to change and across all the automotive sectors there is work being done to encourage women to look at careers in the auto trades.

MTA Queensland does its bit here with initiatives such as the Auto Women project, via its Women’s Career Guidance Officer, and through its championing of the achievements of women with the

FOUNDED IN 2016 BY DYLAN COTHILL, A SOUTH AFRICAN-BORN RACING PROFESSIONAL WHO MOVED TO AUSTRALIA A DECADE AGO, SKID CONTROL RUNS A WHOLE SERIES OF EVENTS THAT ARE AIMED AT ENABLING PARTICIPANTS TO LEARN TO CONTROL THEIR CAR IN ALL CONDITIONS . . .

She's In Control is a driver training event that is run by women for women

PHOTOS COURTESY OF SKID CONTROL AND ZED PHOTOGRAPHYY

Women In Industry award, presented each year at the association’s awards gala event. At this year’s event, that Women In Industry award was won by Skid Control, a Brisbane-based business that offers a range of driver training courses and events held regularly at Queensland Raceway, Lakeside Raceway, and Willowbank Raceway motorsport circuits, as well as the RACQ Mobility Centre at Mt Cotton, south of Brisbane. A new location near Warwick that offers 10km of dirt tracks across 400 acres will be on the events schedule from the beginning of 2023.

Founded in 2016 by Dylan Cothill, a South African-born racing professional who moved to Australia a decade ago, Skid Control runs a whole series of events that are aimed at enabling participants to learn to control their car in all manner of conditions and learn about steering, vision, vehicle set-up, controlling a slide, track racing, rallying, understanding understeer and oversteer and much more.

Events are all about learning to drive confidently and safely, while having barrels of fun in the process.

There’s Skid Pan, where you learn what a car does in wet and slippery conditions and how to recover from a slide; Rally Days, a grassroots introduction to rallying; Track Race Training, run in conjunction with Time Attack Queensland, where participants do sprint sessions, learn racing lines, braking points, and apex and exit points; Khanacross, aimed at enabling drivers to develop their driving in timed tests; High-Performance Driving, that includes teaching on advanced driving

VIDEO: SKID CONTROL - SKID PAN

techniques, high-speed braking, oversteer and understeer and more; Test ‘n’ Drive, where drivers have a full day of track time; and Grip ‘n’ Slide, which includes skid pan training and a day of track time.

And then there is She’s In Control – the driving initiative established in 2021 for which Skid Control won the MTA Queensland award (see page 21).

An event in which only women participate, She’s In Control takes elements from other events (particularly popular is the Skid Pan training) and is organised and run by women from the Skid Control team. The instructors are women, as is the team that administers it, takes the photos, and promotes it.

That team includes instructor Hannah Busch, a mechanical engineer by trade, a seasoned photographer, and a performance car and motorsport enthusiast; Zara Waller, a 20-yearold photographer and social media administrator; Michelle Van Der Wilk, an instructor and accomplished driver who competes in the Queensland Rally Championship; and Kass Brumley, Michelle’s rally co-driver and also a photographer who snaps shots for the Supercars series. Kaylin Duffield, Dylan Cothill's wife, was instrumental in setting up the event and is an instructor too.

Establishing She’s In Control was a reaction to what the Skid Control team

Skid Control founder, Dylan Cothill

had witnessed at their regular, open, events. With as many as 15 events held each month and more than 250 people taking part, the team noticed that the

number of women participants was disappointing. Sometimes one or two women would participate but, most often, those who did attend stood on the sidelines just observing the men having all the on-track fun. Reaching out to these women, it became clear to Skid Control that they just did not feel comfortable sharing the track with the men.

“We'd be at the track and there'd be these guys on the skid pan and these girls all standing around,” said Hannah. “I said, “Are you going to have a go?” and the answer was, “Oh, no, I can't do that in front of the boys” or “I'm too scared to be on track with the boys” or “Oh no, this is a boys thing.” And we were like,

“. . . I SAID TO DYLAN THAT WE'VE GOT TO DO SOME MORE STUFF WITH WOMEN. WE'VE GOT TO START OFFERING THESE LADIES EVENTS, MARKETING IT TO THE LADIES AND GETTING THE GIRLS INVOLVED ON THE INSTRUCTOR SIDE OF THINGS.”

Michelle Van Der Wilk competes in the Queensland Rally Championship and is an instructor at the She's In Control events

Hannah Busch has been part of the Skid Control team since 2017 and is also an instructor at the She's In Control events

“No, it's not. It's an everyone thing!

“And so, about two years ago, I said to Dylan that we've got to do some more stuff with women. We've got to start offering these ladies events, marketing it to the ladies and getting the girls involved on the instructor side of things.

“The thing is, there was a perceived barrier and we had to break that barrier and go, “Okay, you’ve got girl instructors, you’ve got girl photographers, you've got only girl participants, what's your excuse now?”

The result of launching She’s In Control has been outstanding. In the year since it began it has moved from having around 10 participants to more than 30 enjoying the monthly events. And there is a community building as women - now confident in their abilities and in taking their spot on the track - move on to challenge themselves in the other events and even try their hand at competitive motorsport.

“We've seen a huge number of girls come through now who are willing to come and have a go,” said Zara Waller. “I have just seen one of the ladies, who I saw at her first ever skid pan event just three months ago, out and competing in Time Attack events with all the boys. And she is having a blast!

“And that is great because motorsport

is one of those communities that is so open and welcoming. Everyone is willing to help you. It’s one of those communities that is amazing to be part of, and for us to be able to share that with other people, I think, is amazing.”

The She’s In Control initiative will continue to grow, with its program rotating through the different disciplines Skid Control offers but, ironically, its success may, at some point in the future, see it lose its place on the company’s

“THIS IS ABOUT LIFE SKILLS AS WELL. THERE ARE WOMEN OUT THERE WHO ARE MISSING OUT ON LEARNING HOW TO BETTER CONTROL THEIR CARS, OR MISSING OUT ON MAKING SURE THEY ARE SAFER ON THE ROAD, BECAUSE THEY THINK IT’S A BLOKES’ ENVIRONMENT.”

event schedule. However, you won’t see anyone too upset about that. After all, for it to become completely normal and unquestioned that women can jump in a car and feel comfortable participating against, and with, the men is the whole point.

“I did actually say that a few months ago,” said Hannah with a chuckle. “I said that our biggest problem was that we were going to do ourselves out of a job!

“And that is a good thing. It’s not like

they won’t be coming to Skid Control events, it’s just they won’t feel they have to come to girls’ events.”

Driver education will always be a vital service and She’s In Control is a great way for young women to develop the skills they need to stay safe on the road.

“I really want to make this program highlighted to Year 12 students around the Brisbane and Gold Coast area,” said Hannah. “This is about life skills as well. There are women out there who are missing out on learning how to better control their cars, or missing out on making sure they are safer on the road, because they think it’s a blokes’ environment. The whole idea of She’s In Control is to create that ladies environment, where girls can network with other girls. Confidence when driving on the road is such an important thing.”

Zara Waller, Kass Brumley, and Michelle Van Der Wilk of the She's In Control team

HYUNDAI ROLLS OUT DELIVERY PILOT PROJECTS USING AUTONOMOUS ROBOTS

AT THE BEGINNING of 2022, at the CES Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas, Hyundai Motor Group debuted some nifty technology concepts, including something called Plug & Drive (PnD) – a single-wheel robotics platform that combines intelligent steering, braking, in-wheel electric drive and suspension hardware, as well as LiDAR and camera sensors to allow it to move autonomously.

The company has now started two pilot delivery service programs in Seoul - one at a residential-commercial complex and one at the Rolling Hills Hotel - using autonomous robots based on this PnD modular platform, with the robots fitted with storage units to carry goods and screen displays for customer interaction.

The robot in service at the hotel uses a deep learning-based algorithm to recognise the surrounding environment and people. When it arrives at a room it recognises the opening of the door and, once it perceives the recipient, automatically opens the storage unit.

In the residential-commercial complex pilot program, the company partnered with a delivery company operating a food delivery app and, in this case, the robot is being used for door-to-door food services. After a customer places an online order, the robot finds the item at a shopping centre connected to the complex and delivers it to the customer’s front door.

Hyundai says this technology enabling service robots to move autonomously indoors and outdoors and deliver food without human assistance has created a last-mile delivery innovation that is attracting significant attention from the logistics and retail industries.

Based on the results of these pilot programs, the company says it plans to upgrade its PnD-based delivery robot services and expand the number of robots and their operating hours. It also plans to expand its business into commercial areas that require delivery services to connect with customers.

VIDEO: AI-BASED SELF-DRIVING HOTEL DELIVERY ROBOT

GENESIS EUROPE INTRODUCES FACE RECOGNITION TECH ON 2023 GV60

GENESIS MOTOR EUROPE

is introducing a number of new state-of-the art biometric features to the GV60, the brand’s first electric SUV. Amongst them will be face recognition technology for keyless entry.

Called Face Connect, the feature enables owners to access their car using their face alone via a sensor with a deep-learning image processing controller. To set things up, owners need only to access the car with a physical key once and then create their profile for face recognition entry. Starting the car involves setting up and using a fingerprint scanner.

An LED indicator, located on the B-pillar, provides visual feedback on the status of the car and the face recognition system. The company says all information is stored securely via encrypted software in the vehicle and at no point is biometric data uploaded and stored remotely. This combination of face and fingerprint recognition allows owners to access and use their vehicle at any time, keys or no keys.

While this technology being used in a car may seem a little science-fiction, it’s not as if it is unusual - many people use just such tech on their smartphones. Using it with a car may take a little getting used to but being able to do so could well be useful in some scenarios – Genesis suggests such examples might include outdoor activities such as swimming or

running where carrying a physical key might be inconvenient.

As well as the face recognition tech, the 2023 GV60 in Europe will also be available with a new Digital Key feature. This allows owners to access the vehicle and lock or unlock the car using their smartphone or smartwatch. The Digital Key feature also allows the owner to share access to the car with up to 3 additional users with the owner able to set limits on the amount of time the digital key is available.

Genesis GV60

60 ELECTRIC TRUCKS TO BE BASED AT ‘DEPOT OF THE FUTURE’

ONE OF AUSTRALIA’S busiest logistics providers is set to embark on the nation’s largest vehicle electrification project at its western Sydney depot.

Team Global Express – whose transportation and logistics operations span Australia and New Zealand - is to deploy 60 batteryelectric delivery vehicles and associated charging infrastructure within its ‘Express Parcels’ fleet at its depot in Bungarribbe.

The 60 electric trucks comprise of 24 Daimler Fuso eCanters (Light Rigid Vehicles) and 36 Volvo eFLs (Medium Rigid Vehicles). Both trucks are designed for urban distribution work, with the eCanter sporting six lithium-ion batteries delivering 82.8kWh of electricity and offering a minimum 100km of range fully loaded, while the Volvo eFL uses four 66kWh battery packs delivering a range of up to 300km.

Funding for the $44.3 million ‘Depot of the Future’ project includes $20.1 million from the Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA) - the Australian Government agency created to support the transition to net zero emissions.

The project plays a critical role in Global Express’ decarbonisation strategy and will see one-third of its western Sydney fleet transition to BEVs and operate under a ‘back-to-base' model, with the trucks travelling from distribution centres to customers in urban areas, then returning to the depot for charging.

Daimler Fuso eCanter

The trucks will be powered and charged on-site at Bungarribee using both on-site solar generation, the installation of a battery energy storage system and the use of renewable energy from the grid. The depot will begin receiving the 60 vehicles from early 2023.

The project is expected to generate significant insights on the impact on fleet management, delivery routing and infrastructure requirements.

“This is the first project of its scale in Australian logistics, as such we are in a unique position to work closely with ARENA to share the knowledge we gain and provide this vital information for the benefit of the entire transport and logistics sector,” said Christine Holgate, Group CEO of Team Global Express,

“This trial will not only reduce emissions, it will also give our valued employees at Bungarribee the opportunity to be trained on charging, driving, and optimising the electric vehicles of the future. For Team Global Express, it’s an important milestone in our vision to be Australia’s most sustainable logistics company.”

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Right now, we have hundreds of job seekers and students from all over Queensland looking to gain an apprenticeship or traineeship in the automotive industry.

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AUTONOMOUS PARKING SERVICE APPROVED FOR USE IN GERMANY

GERMANY’S FEDERAL MOTOR

Transport Authority has approved a highly automated parking system developed by Mercedes-Benz and Bosch for use at Stuttgart Airport.

The system enables a vehicle fitted with Mercedes-Benz automotive technology to interact with ‘intelligent’ infrastructure supplied by Bosch and take over driving and manoeuvring. For the driver, the system allows them to arrive at the parking garage, exit the vehicle, and then send it to pre-booked parking space by tapping in a smartphone app – there is no need for a driver.

Bosch sensors in the parking garage monitor the driving corridor and its surroundings and provide the information needed to guide the vehicle. The technology in the vehicle converts the information it receives from the infrastructure into driving manoeuvres. The companies plan to gradually roll out the driverless parking service in the APCOA P6 parking garage at Stuttgart

Airport. From the day it is released for operation, the first customers with S-Class and EQS models built since July 2022 whose vehicle variants feature the Intelligent Park Pilot 2 service as part of Mercedes me connect app, and who have activated this service, will be able to use the function at the parking garage.

“The world’s first approval for customer use of our highly automated and driverless parking function, developed together with our technology partner Bosch, shows that innovation leadership and ‘Made in Germany’ go hand in hand,” said Markus Schäfer, Member of the Board of Management of Mercedes-Benz Group AG, Chief Technology Officer, responsible for Development and Procurement.

“Following the market launch of our Drive Pilot Level 3 system, we will soon be offering a Level 4 system for parking with our Intelligent Park Pilot – all of that this year. We really are showing our customers how technology can make life easier and give back precious time.”

VIDEO: BOSCH AUTOMATED VALET PARKING

NEXT-GEN RANGER RAPTOR OFFERS EXHAUST SOUND CONTROL

THE NEXTGENERATION RANGER Raptor will be powered by a 292kW/583Nm, 3-litre twin-turbo V6 engine, offering a decent step up in performance over the current model’s 2-litre bi-turbo diesel powerplant. That upgrade in power brings with it an increase in noise and Ford has fitted the next-gen Raptor with a new active valve twin exhaust system and drive modes designed to enable owners more control of their Raptor’s exhaust note.

The active valve system can be controlled by the driver using an ‘Exhaust Mode’ button, or automatically according to the drive mode they’ve selected. Those modes are Quiet, which sets the exhaust to its quietest setting; Normal, which provides a balance of comfort and feedback; Sport, for louder than normal and spirited driving; and Baja, offering the maximum exhaust noise.

There’s even the ability to schedule a ‘quiet start’, which allows owners to set the Raptor to always start in Quiet mode or set a quiet time (with start and end times).

Manual control comes via a button on the steering wheel that displays a pop-up message on the digital instrument cluster of the selected exhaust mode and allows for a change in selection.

“For the next Ranger Raptor, we wanted to really make the character of the car come alive, to emphasise the power and define the presence of the vehicle, but not make the car tiring when it didn't need to be. We spent hundreds of hours tuning and developing the sound of the vehicle and really think we have something that sounds right for the truck,” said Justin Capicchiano, Ford Performance and Special vehicle engineering manager.

VIDEO: NEXT-GEN RANGER RAPTOR ACTIVE VALVE EXHAUST

Next-Gen Ranger Raptor

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TOYOTA DEVELOPING HYDROGEN FUEL-CELL HILUX

TOYOTA IN THE UK is set to research and develop a hydrogen fuel-cell prototype of the company’s legendary HiLux.

The project will see Toyota Motor Manufacturing (UK) collaborate with a number of specialist UK firms – including Ricardo, ETL, D2H, and Thatcham Research – in the development of the prototype. A team from Toyota Motor Europe R&D will provide technical support, while funding is to come from the UK Government via the Advanced Propulsion Centre (APC) for zero-emission vehicle development. Funding from APC specifically supports later stage R&D that takes a product from proof of concept to prototype vehicles.

The project’s aim is to adopt secondgeneration Toyota fuel-cell components (as used in the latest Toyota Mirai) for the transformation of a Hilux into a fuel-cell electric vehicle.

“The UK is one of the key markets for pick-up trucks and is an important market for Toyota,” said Matt Harrison, President & CEO of Toyota Motor Europe. “This funding represents a tremendous opportunity to develop a zero-emission solution in a critical market segment. We would like to thank the UK Government for the funding that will enable the consortium to investigate the development

of a fuel cell powered powertrain for the Toyota Hilux, supporting our carbon neutrality ambition."

The HiLux is the biggest selling vehicle in Australia – so far in 2022 (January to November), more than 60,000 units have been sold. To 2021, it had been the bestselling vehicle for six years in a row. No doubt Australian buyers would be very interested in a hydrogen fuel-cell model.

VIDEO: HYDROGEN TOYOTA HILUX PROTOTYPE ANNOUCEMENT

ELECTRIC CAR DISCOUNT BILL RECEIVES PARLIAMENTARY TICK OF APPROVAL

THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT’S Electric Car Discount Bill passed through Parliament in November. Designed to encourage greater uptake of electric vehicles as part of the Government’s broader climate action agenda, the Bill passed with amendments from the independent Senator David Pocock and the Greens.

Those amendments saw changes to the bill that will limit the support for plug-in hybrids and instead prioritise full electric vehicles. They include sunsetting support for petrol-based plug-in hybrids on April 1, 2025 and prioritising zero-emission EVs in the Australian government fleet procurement policy by removing plug-in hybrid vehicles except in exceptional circumstances.

The legislation provides a fringe benefits

tax (FBT) exemption for eligible cars made available for employees by employers. Eligible vehicles must have a value at first retail sale below the luxury car tax threshold for fuel efficient vehicles – currently $84,916. The five per cent import tariff will also be removed on eligible vehicles.

For a model valued at about $50,000, the government says it means a $9,000 benefit to an employer or a $4,700 benefit to an employee using a salary sacrificing arrangement. The Government will apply the exemption retrospectively to eligible cars first used on or after 1 July 2022. Eligible plug in hybrid electric vehicles will also

“THIS IS A TAX CUT WHICH WILL MAKE EVs CHEAPER. MORE AUSTRALIANS WILL BE ABLE TO GET BEHIND THE WHEEL OF AN ELECTRIC CAR THANKS TO THESE CHANGES WHICH WILL REDUCE UP FRONT AND ONGOING COSTS.”

be FBT exempt when provided under arrangements entered into before 1 April 2025.

The removal of the five per cent import tariff has already been introduced.

“This is a win for motorists, a win for businesses and a win for climate action,” said Treasurer Jim Chalmers in a joint media release with Chris Bowen, Climate Change and Energy Minister. “This is a tax cut which will make EVs cheaper. More Australians will be able to get behind the wheel of an electric car thanks to these changes which will reduce up front and ongoing costs.”

The Bill has met with support from automotive organisations, with the Electric Vehicle Council (EVC) positive on its passage through parliament.

“This is a landmark moment for EV policy in Australia. It's a powerful demonstration of how far we've come in just a few short years," said Behyad Jafari, CEO of the EVC.

"This bill will allow thousands more Australians to get behind the wheel of an EV where they can access the benefits of lower fuel bills, cutting pollution, and an enjoyable driving experience.

"Making new EVs easier to buy will turbocharge the creation of a strong second-hand market for EVs, which is vital for affordability.

"If the federal government combines this bill with new fuel efficiency standards we will soon see a market develop in Australian through which everyone will be able to enjoy the benefits of EVs.

"By achieving stronger EV uptake, we will significantly lower Australia's carbon emissions and reduce our precarious dependence on foreign oil.

"On behalf of the electric vehicle sector I congratulate the government, and the crossbench senators, for striking this deal in the national interest."

SWISS START-UP DEVELOPS ULTRA-FAST CHARGING BATTERY-HYBRID TECH

ONE OF THE question marks that hangs over electric vehicles (EVs) is the time it takes to charge the battery pack. Powerful ultra-rapid chargers can give an EV a decent shot of juice provided the vehicle itself can accept high input capacity – for example, while some top-end EVs have 800-volt battery systems, can accept charging at more than 200kW and can, therefore, be charged to 80 per cent in less than half-an-hour, most EVs accept charge at a much lower, and slower, rate.

However, Morand, a Swiss technology start-up company, has launched an energy storage solution that might shorten charging times dramatically.

The company has developed a system, called Morand eTechnology, that it says combines the characteristics of an ultracapacitor with that of a traditional chemical battery and results in some truly lightning-quick charging times.

These hybrid ultracapacitors (HUC) cells, in combination with advanced controllers, achieve very high performance, and Morand says it has independently tested a 7.2kWh set-up, achieving recharging to 80 per cent in 72 seconds and 100 per cent in 2.5 minutes at up to 900A/360kW.

Morand also says that its system is more durable than traditional batteries with testing demonstrating its ability to complete more than 50,000 cycles, with the longest-running test unit approaching 70,000 cycles.

Classic Bike

THE AMB 001 PRO

PRO SUPERBIKE

HERE IS SOMETHING a little special –the prototype AMB 001 Pro superbike from Aston Martin and Brough Superior. Yes, that’s right, Aston Martin.

The legendary luxury sportscar manufacturer – which has an outstanding motorsport legacy too, of course – has teamed up with the equally legendary motorcycle manufacturer to build the AMB 001 Pro, although this is not the first time the two companies have collaborated.

AMB 001 Pro

Unveiled at the EICMA Milan Motorcycle Show in November, the AMB 001 Pro, like its predecessor, is a track-only monster, also powered by a 997cc V-Twin (although no word on the turbo). However, the Pro has received plenty of tweaks. Apparently inspired by Aston Martin’s Valkyrie AMR Pro hypercar, the AMB 001 Pro sports an aluminium frame, carbon fibre body and wheels, and gets a 25 per cent power

increase over its predecessor, with its 168kW (225hp) and featherlight weight of 175kg (dry) delivering a power-to-weight ratio similar to that of a Formula One car.

Aston Martin says that power increase comes courtesy of a new engine, which has been fully machined from an aluminium billet. The properties of the material improve the stiffness of the structural engine, whilst a new cylinder design with wet cylinder liners helps to improve cooling. Aerodynamic tweaks help performance too, with downforce increased via the front spoiler and side wings, and the front cowl fixed to the bodywork to manage

the downforce at the front end. A tunnel effect air blade directs air over the rider.

Offered in a single specification, the AMB 001 Pro’s livery combines Aston Martin Verdant Jade with satin finished carbon fibre and black Cerakote engine and suspension. These are highlighted by Photon Lime accents - a nod to Aston Martin’s winning race cars.

“We are excited to reveal the AMB 001 Pro at EICMA today,” said Thierry

Henriette, Chief Executive Officer of Brough Superior, at the bike’s unveiling. “The success of its predecessor, coupled with the incredible Aston Martin Valkyrie AMR Pro, inspired us to get together again to create a new superbike; one that we know will excite our customers. We are particularly proud of the new engine type, with a crankcase fully machined from solid billet aluminium, which is a unique feature for a production motorcycle. With

the marked increase in power this takes AMB 001 Pro into the hyperbike sector.” Just 88 of the AMB 001 Pro bikes will be built at the Brough Superior factory in France, and Aston Martin says initial orders have already been taken. Those buyers are, of course, not short of a penny as, according the AMB 001 Pro brochure (view it HERE), the bike comes in at €148,900 ($AU231,400). First deliveries are scheduled for the fourth quarter of 2023.

“THE SUCCESS OF ITS PREDECESSOR, COUPLED WITH THE INCREDIBLE ASTON MARTIN VALKYRIE AMR PRO, INSPIRED US TO GET TOGETHER AGAIN TO CREATE A NEW SUPERBIKE; ONE THAT WE KNOW WILL EXCITE OUR CUSTOMERS.”

2023 MAZDA 6 GETS UPDATES AND SPECIAL EDITION MODEL

THE MAZDA 6 sedan will receive design and connectivity updates and a new, special edition 20th Anniversary model is to make its debut in 2023.

The commemorative variant of the flagship passenger car will be available in either the newly developed Artisan Red metallic or Rhodium White metallic body colours and will feature a 20th anniversary badge on each front fender, alongside a high-gloss silver grille, and high-gloss silver 19-inch alloy wheels.

On the inside is a tan colour trim of Leganu synthetic suede and nappa leather with the front seat head rests also embossed with the 20th anniversary logo.

Power comes from the Skyactiv-G 2.5 litre turbo-petrol engine with improvements lifting power output to 173kW at 4,250pm. Peak torque remains at 420Nm at 2,000rpm, but torque at 4,250rpm has increased by 8Nm.

For turbo models, the Skyactiv-Drive 6-speed automatic transmission has been updated and the reactive force of the accelerator pedal has been increased.

Mazda says that across the range, models will benefit from improved dynamic performance with updates to the electric power assisted steering. The active safety suite on GT SP and Atenza models is also enhanced with the addition of Cruising and Traffic Support (CTS), while

Touring models and above will get new Qi wireless charging as well as wireless Apple CarPlay.

The GT SP grade will receive black gloss signature wings front and rear, while the wagon also gets black gloss roof rails. All Atenza model will come standard with black nappa leather.

Pricing for the 20th Anniversary Edition and the updated Mazda 6 will be available closer to vehicle arrival in early 2023.

Mazda 6 20th Anniversary Edition

MTA QUEENSLAND IS AN INDUSTRY SKILLS ADVISOR TO THE QLD GOVT.

MAKE YOUR VOICE HEARD. CLICK HERE

As an Industry Skills Advisor we engage with employers, small business and industry stakeholders to provide high quality, evidence-based industry advice and intelligence about current and emerging industry direction, regional skills needs and training solutions, job growth and employment opportunities.

HONDA EXPANDS HYBRID RANGE WITH CIVIC E:HEV LX

HONDA HAS LAUNCHED its new hybrid model, the Civic e:HEV LX hybrid, into Australia. The new model joins the 1.5-litre VTEC Turbopowered VTi LX and will be followed in 2023 by a high-performance Type R variant.

The Civic e:HEV LX hybrid slots in with Honda’s HR-V and Accord models as having hybrid options and will be fitted with Honda Connect, the company’s mobile app and server platform that allows customers to access vehicle information and interact with their vehicle through a

THE CIVIC E:HEV'S POWERTRAIN COMBINES A LITHIUM-ION BATTERY AND TWO ELECTRIC MOTORS WITH A 2-LITRE ATKINSON-CYCLE PETROL ENGINE.

Telematics Control Unit (TCU). The system enables owners to control and monitor plenty of features from their smartphone – including the remote control of climate control, lights, and the locks; the status of

the vehicle and its components, including fuel range, trip log, and battery voltage; and offers notifications and alerts for a variety of circumstances, including a geofence alert that signifies when the vehicle has entered or exited a pre-set region.

The Civic e:HEV's powertrain combines a lithium-ion battery and two electric motors with a 2-litre Atkinson-cycle petrol engine. Combined maximum motor output is 135kW and 315Nm. The hybrid is frontwheel drive and has an eCVT transmission set-up. Honda says the powertrain can shift ‘seamlessly’ between Electric drive, Hybrid drive and Engine drive, and there are four drive modes – Eco, Normal, Sport, and a new Individual mode which allows separate control of the engine, transmission and cluster gauge display.

The Civic e:HEV LX features Honda’s

latest generation SENSING suite of advanced driver-assist and safety technologies which now includes Traffic Sign Recognition, and an Intelligent Speed Limiter which recognises traffic speed signs and sets the speed limit. There are 11 airbags too, including knee airbags for the driver and front passenger along with new side airbags for the rear seats and a new front-centre airbag.

Along with these and other safety and tech features, the Civic e:HEV LX has a customisable 10.2-inch high-definition full colour digital driver information display and a digital instrument cluster, panoramic glass sunroof, leatherappointed seat trim, heated steering wheel, 8-way power adjustable and heated driver seat with electric lumbar support, 4-way power adjustable and heated front passenger seat with electric lumbar support, Active Noise Control, two USB charge ports at the rear, and front and rear parking sensors.

The Civic e:HEV LX hybrid will launch with a national drive away price of $55,000 and be available with a choice of three paint colours –Platinum White pearlescent, Premium Crystal Red metallic and Premium Crystal Blue metallic.

Civic e:HEV LX

LDV ET60 ELECTRIC UTE NOW AVAILABLE

EARLIER THIS YEAR, LDV revealed it was to introduce three new electric vehicles to the Australian market – the eDeliver 9, an electrified version of the company’s large van; the Mifa 9 luxury people mover; and the eT60 dual cab ute.

All three vehicles are now available and, as with the initial announcement, the headline-grabber is the eT60 – the first all-electric ute available in Australia.

Power for the rear-wheel-drive eT60 comes via an 88.5kWh battery and 130kW/310Nm motor.

LDV says the battery can be charged via an 11kW charger in approximately 9 hours, while DC fast charging enables a charge from 20-80 per cent in approximately 45 minutes. Regenerative braking feeds power back into the battery for extra range and LDV claims that range to be 330km (WLTP). Top speed is 120km/h.

The eT60 rides on 17-inch alloy wheels and features a heavy-duty suspension set-up with double independent wishbone up front and a leaf spring rear, specifically calibrated for Australian conditions, with ventilated disc brakes all round.

POWER FOR THE REAR-WHEEL-DRIVE ET60 COMES VIA AN 88.5KWH BATTERY AND 130KW/310NM MOTOR.

Weighing in at 2300kg, the eT60 has a braked towing capacity of 1000kg. A spray-in tub liner keeps the bed protected from wear and tear, while four tie-down points help secure loads. Payload is 1000kg.

The eT60 looks tough enough (as do all utes really) and, on the inside, tech includes a multi-function steering wheel, Bluetooth connectivity, six-way electrically adjustable front seats, a 10.25-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay connectivity, a 220V power outlet and two USB ports. Safety and driver assistance features include,

amongst others, Electronic Brake Assist, Hill Descent Control, Hill-Start Assist, Roll Movement Intervention, Traction Control, Vehicle Dynamics Control, Rear Parking Sensors, and a Reversing Camera.

New vehicle warranty is 5 years/ 160,000km (whichever occurs first), while the battery warranty is 8 years/160,000kms (whichever occurs first). There is also 5-year/130,000km roadside assist.

Servicing intervals are once every two years or 30,000km (whichever comes first).

Comparing the eT60 with the T60 Max Pro internal combustion engine (ICE) variant upon which it is based raises some interesting comparisons. Top of that list is the price. The eT60 comes in at a whopping $92,990 – about twice the price of its ICE sibling. The Pro ICE's 73-litre tank and fuel consumption of 9.3 litre/100km

LDV eT60 Dual Cab Ute

will give you decent range too. Its 2-litre bi-turbo diesel delivers 160kW/500Nm and Braked towing capacity is 3000kg. The ICE T60 variants also have a 5-star ANCAP rating, while the eT60 is currently unrated.

While the electric vehicle revolution does appear to be underway, with public and state and federal government support growing, it will be interesting to see the reception that the eT60 receives.

It is, LDV says, being aimed at ‘large corporate entities, all three levels of Government and fleet businesses who’ve committed to emission reductions targets, and private early adopters.’

That makes sense, given its capabilities.

“We’re an OEM offering Australia’s first electric ute and everything that comes with that fact: a nationwide dealer network, factory-backed servicing and warranty, and a significant spare parts operation to manage our fast-growing carpark,” said Dinesh Chinnappa, LDV

General Manager. “And now we have Australia’s first electric ute – and this is why we’ve secured fleet agreements with major global and Australian companies, Federal, State and Local governments and fleet operators who are committed to running their businesses in a more environmentally-sound manner.

“There is an undoubted appetite for commercial application EVs,” he added. “40 per cent of Australian businesses surveyed recently by Small Business Loans Australia said they would purchase an EV in 2023 if Albanese’s Electric Car Discount Bill goes through Parliament. These Australian businesses know the eT60 isn’t going to cross Nullarbor – but that its 330km range is more than adequate for their everyday requirements.

“But they also know government EV policy and EV infrastructure is onthe move and they want to be ahead of the transition. And the LDV eT60, Australia’s first electric ute, is here to help.”

HYUNDAI’S SANTA FE HYBRID JOINS SUV RANGE IN AUSTRALIA

HYUNDAI’S SANTA FE hybrid has joined the company’s fleet of vehicles in Australia.

The large SUV is also available with petrol V6 and turbo-diesel powertrains across the four-grade trim range, with the new petrol/ electric hybrid option available in the Elite and flagship Highlander variants.

That hybrid option comes in the form of a 1.6-litre, 4-cylinder turbo-charged engine

with a 44.3kW electric motor drawing power from a 1.49kWh lithium-ion battery. The all-wheel drive, six-speed automatic hybrid has a combined output that reaches 169kW and 350Nm. Fuel economy is a claimed 6.0L/100km and Hyundai says the hybrid’s 19-inch aero-type alloy wheels offer some aerodynamic and fuel efficiency benefits.

The top-of-the-range Highlander hybrid is available as either a seven- or six-seater

– with the six-seater offering captain’s seats in the second row – with the Elite available only as a seven-seater.

The Highlander gets all the trimmings when it comes to luxury touches and technology. While the whole Santa Fe range comes standard with plenty of features - including the Hyundai Smartsense system that includes Forward collision avoidance assist, Lane following assist, Blind spot collision avoidance assist, Rear cross-traffic collision avoidance assist, smart cruise control, a wireless charging pad, tyre pressure monitoring system and more – the Highlander gets a head-up display, blind-spot view monitor, remote smart parking assist, and surround view monitor while sharing features such as electro-chromatic rear-view mirror, power passenger’s seat, heated front seats, four USB charging ports, and solar glass with the Elite model. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are featured too.

Trim-wise, the Highlander gets a Nappa leather interior, a panoramic sunroof, a 12.3-inch LCD instrument cluster and, along with the Elite, a 10.25-inch infotainment display and premium, 10-speaker, Harman Kardon audio set-up.

The Santa Fe range comes with Hyundai’s 5-Year Unlimited Km vehicle warranty and 8-Year 160,000km highvoltage battery warranty.

Pricing for the Santa Fe range starts at $46,050 (MLP) with the Elite hybrid going for $63,000 (MLP) and the Highlander for $69,550 (MLP).

GWM LAUNCHES FLAGSHIP CANNON VANTA UTE

GWM HAS INTRODUCED a new flagship variant of its Cannon ute range – the Cannon Vanta.

A number of styling enhancements mark the Vanta from its Cannon siblings with plenty of black fitments enabling it to stand out.

There are 18-inch alloy wheels finished in black, as are the exterior mirrors and door handles. The GWM front grille is now also black. A new black sports bar extends further down the side of the rear tray and blackedout badging completes the Vanta’s tough appearance.

With the exception of roof rails, the Cannon Vanta adopts all other features of the Cannon-X, on which it is based, including heated front leather seats, wireless phone charging, 360-degree camera, 7-inch colour instrument cluster, automatic anti-glare rear view mirror and three selectable power assist steering modes. Power comes from a 2-litre turbo diesel engine delivering 120kW and 400Nm.

Safety and driving assistance tech includes, amongst others, Autonomous Emergency Braking with pedestrian and bicycle detection, Forward Collision Warning, Lane Departure Warning, Lane Keep Assist, Adaptive Cruise Control and Traffic Sign Recognition. The Vanta ute is available in five exterior colours –Pearl White, Crystal Black, Blue Sapphire, Scarlet Red and Pittsburgh Silver – and is available at $46,490.

RANGER GETS LUXURY TREATMENT WITH PLATINUM MODEL

FORD AUSTRALIA HAS unveiled a top-spec Ranger model, the Platinum, offering new styling and features. Available exclusively in five-seat, double cab specification, the Ranger Platinum is powered by a 3-litre V6 turbo diesel engine, producing 184kW and 600Nm. Power is delivered through an electronically

controlled, fulltime, four-wheel drive system, combined with Ford’s 10-speed automatic transmission. Maximum braked towing weight is 3,500kg.

On the outside, enhancements include a unique grille, 20-inch alloy wheels, ‘Platinum’ hood badging, Silk Chrome trims, Matrix LED headlamps, a damped tailgate, and Ford’s mew Flexible Rack System (see page 68). Ranger Platinum will also be available in the Equinox Bronze paint colour

Ford Ranger Platinum

previously available only on Everest.

On the inside, Ranger Platinum boasts quilted leather accented seats and a heated steering wheel. The front seats are heated and ventilated with 10-way power adjust and with memory function for the driver. There’s a 12.4-inch digital instrument cluster, 12-inch colour multifunction touchscreen, B&O Premium Audio System, and ‘Platinum’ branding on front seats, mats and upper glovebox.

Options available are exterior paint colours and the no-cost option of a body-coloured roof in lieu of the standard black painted roof.

Ranger Platinum will go into production from April 2023, with first arrivals due in May 2023. Manufacturer List Price is $76,990.

MAZDA REVEALS DETAILS OF THREEPHASE ELECTRIFICATION STRATEGY

MAZDA IS TO invest heavily in the development of electrification of its vehicle range over the coming years. The Japanese company, during the unveiling of its mid-term management plan update and management policy up to 2030, will spend a reported $AU16 billion over a three-phase plan as it moves to a full-scale launch of battery-electric vehicles at the end of the decade.

Phase One, from 2022 to 2024, will see the company strengthen technology development in R&D and manufacturing area while maximizing use of its current assets for growth and strengthening supply chains and cost reduction efforts.

Phase Two, from 2025 to 2027, will be a transition phase to electrification, including introducing a new hybrid system, with Mazda saying it will commence the launch of battery-electric vehicles (BEV) towards the end of that period.

Phase Three, from 2029-2030, will see a full-fledged launch of BEVs, and the company will consider investing in its own battery production during this time.

Mazda estimates that EVs will represent 25 to 40 per cent of its global sales by 2030.

VIDEO: ALL-NEW RANGER PLATINUM FROM FORD PRO

Mazda vision study model

NEW NISSAN X-TRAIL SUV ARRIVES IN AUSTRALIA

THE FOURTH GENERATION of the Nissan X-Trail SUV has landed, with the new model, built on Nissan’s CMF-C platform, gaining new active and passive safety features, a revised cabin layout with premium features and materials, and tech that includes Nissan’s ProPilot driver assist system and more additions to the Nissan Intelligent Mobility suite.

The X-Trail has a 2.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine that lifts power by 9kW to 135kW, and torque by 18Nm to 244Nm. Towing capability rises by 500kg over the previous generation, to 2000kg braked. A Trailer Sway Control program is standard.

The CMF-C platform makes use of more lightweight material, as well as advanced stamping and welding techniques to increase strength and reduce weight. Nissan says the use of ultra-high-strength steel has risen from 19 per cent in the previous model to 35 per cent, while torsional stiffness has increased by 27 per cent.

There’s an updated Macpherson strut set-up at the front, while rear suspension is a multi-link set-up. Power-steering set-up has been upgraded too.

There's a revised and upgraded interior too across all models. Top models are

fitted with a 12.3-inch TFT instrument cluster, a 12.3-inch touchscreen display and a 10.8-inch Head-Up Display.

The X-Trail ST gains a 7-inch TFT instrument cluster and an 8-inch central display with DAB+ digital radio and six speakers, upgraded to a 10-speaker Bose audio system on the Ti-L and above.

There’s wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with wireless CarPlay integration on the Ti and Ti-L models. The console box offers front and rear USB charging connections. There’s also a wireless charge pad for smartphones in Ti and up models.

The driver’s seat on the entry-level ST has a 6-way manual adjustment with power lumbar support, with synthetic leather trim and 10-way power adjust featuring on the ST-L. The same power adjust control is provided to the front seat passenger, together with leather accented trim, on the Ti version.

The X-Trail Ti-L gets Nappa leather accented seating and a memory function for the front seats, as well as heating for the rear seats. Ti and Ti-L models also get tri-zone climate control.

Available is a third row of passenger

Nissan X-Trail SUV

seating. From the ST-L model upwards, a modular luggage board system can be configured in up to 16 different ways, with the X-Trail offering 585 litres of boot space when the two rear seats are not in use. The ProPilot system, which offers features such as Lane Keep Assist, comes in models ST-L and up, while the Nissan Intelligent Mobility suite of active safety features includes standard functions such as Predictive Forward Collision Warning, Intelligent Cruise Control with Traffic Sign Recognition, Lane Departure Warning and Prevention, Rear Cross Traffic Alert and Rear Auto Emergency Braking (with pedestrian and cyclist calibration), Junction Assist, and Driver Attention Alert. A seventh airbag, protecting the space between the front seat passengers, has been added to the X-Trail six-airbag passive safety system.

Pricing (MRSP) for the new Nissan X-Trail range from $36,750 for the ST 2WD model to $52,990 for the range-topping Ti-L 4WD model.

MAZDA CX-5 GETS TECH UPDATES

THE MAZDA CS-5 SUV will receive some technology updates across all grades from next year.

All models will adopt the newgeneration 10.25-inch Mazda Connect infotainment system offering faster processing and enhanced image and sound quality. For Maxx Sport and above models, the system includes Mazda’s seventh-generation navigation system too. They will also get wireless capability for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

The centre console will house two new USB-C ports, and the CX-5 will also be the first Mazda to incorporate a remote window function into the key fob.

The newly developed Rhodium White metallic paint, which debuted on Mazda’s CX-60, will be added to the nine-strong body colour line-up.

Service intervals for 2.0-litre, 2.5-litre and 2.5-litre turbo petrol variants will increase to 12 months or 15,000km, whichever comes first.

Mazda CS-5 SUV

RAM TRUCKS CLAIMS ANOTHER RECORDBREAKING MONTH

AUSTRALIA SEEMS TO be falling for big, powerful, fullsize American pick-up trucks. That rend has been clear enough for Ford to bring its F-150 to our shores in 2023, and for Toyota to research the option of bringing its Tundra model here at some point in the near future. But it’s RAM Trucks Australia that is making waves at the moment, announcing another record-breaking month of production and retail sales in November.

The company is a RAM-authorised manufacturer of right-hand-drive RAM trucks and has already responded to the increased interest in its model range by revealing in October that it was to expand its Melbourne Manufacturing Facility. At the time, the company noted it had notched 604 sales for September. That number increased to 657 in October and reached 710 in November with 900 full-size pick-up trucks produced at the Melbourne facility in the same month.

“The records keep on falling at RAM Trucks Australia,” said Jeff Barber, National Manager of RAM Trucks Australia.

“The expansion of our production facility, the partnership we have with our colleagues at RAM Trucks International and our dedicated dealer network should all be proud of the continuing hard work when it comes to delivering the very best full-size pick-up trucks in Australia. With what’s coming down the line over the next few months and years, the future is certainly

very bright for RAM Trucks in Australia.”

All RAM Trucks Australia vehicles are international-spec vehicles, uniquely coded for the Australian market and the local build process. Its range starts with the RAM 1500 Express Crew and Warlock models in the original DS variant, followed by the 1500 Laramie and 1500 Limited in the recently launched DT model range, and the Heavy Duty 2500 Laramie and Heavy Duty 3500 Laramie.

Rounding out the range is the 523kW/882Nm, 6.2-litre Supercharged Hemi V8-powered RAM TRX.

“WITH WHAT’S COMING DOWN THE LINE OVER THE NEXT FEW MONTHS AND YEARS, THE FUTURE IS CERTAINLY VERY BRIGHT FOR RAM TRUCKS IN AUSTRALIA.”

RAM TRX

Right training. Right place. Right way.

Get Your Trade Skills Recognised

Do you have trade skills and experience but no formal qualification?

Trade Recognition

Trade Recognition is the process of having your skills and work experience formally assessed against industry and educational requirements for the purpose of gaining a formal trade qualification.

MTA Institute offers a Government

Subsidised Trade Skills Assessment and Gap Training Program for the following qualifications:

• AUR30320 – Certificate III in Automotive Electrical Technology

• AUR30420 – Certificate III in Agricultural Mechanical Technology

• AUR30620 – Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology

• AUR30720 – Certificate III in Outdoor Power Equipment

• AUR30820 – Certificate III in Motorcycle Mechanical Technology

• AUR31020 – Certificate III in Automotive Sales (Parts Interpreting)

• AUR31120 – Certificate III in Heavy Commercial Vehicle Mechanical Technology

• AUR31220 – Certificate III in Mobile Plant Technology

• AUR32120 – Certificate III in Automotive Body Repair Technology

• AUR32420 – Certificate III in Automotive Refinishing Technology

• AUR32518 – Certificate III in Automotive Underbody Technology

Eligibility

Applicants must meet the following eligibility criteria:

i) Aged 21 years or over

ii) Have not completed a trade qualification in the same industry area

iii) Permanently reside in Queensland

iv) Be an Australian or New Zealand citizen, or hold an eligible visa as identified by the Department of Employment, Small Business and Training; or

v) Meet any additional eligibility requirements identified through this Initiative and:

a. Individuals assessed as demonstrating substantial competency in a prospective trade qualification, who require gap training in no more than 40% of the funded competencies of that Priority Trade Qualification; and

b. Express a commitment to gain the entire qualification.

Fee information

This program is mostly subsidised by the Queensland Government; however, mandatory student co-contribution fees are applicable for all units requiring gap training.

Course length

The course duration will depend upon individual circumstances and the amount of gap training required.

The duration and applicable fees will be advised upon a successful application.

Enrol

Training and assessment can be arranged at either MTA Institute’s premises or an approved automotive workplace. Please refer to www.mtai.edu.au for full details or for further information contact one of our friendly team members using the contact details below.

NEXT-GEN FORD RANGER TO GAIN NEW FLEXIBLE RACK SYSTEM

SELECT 2023 FORD Ranger models will be available with a new roof-rack system designed to make it easier to carry long items. The Sliding Load Rack and Folding Roof Rack allows owners to load items spanning the length of the roof and load box, and together they’re known as the Flexible Rack System (FRS).

Developed by a team of Ford Australia Special Vehicle Engineers in collaboration with JAC Products, the Sliding Load Rack can be operated by just one person. It slides within a C-shaped channel mounted to the top of the load box sidewalls and can be locked in five different positions allowing for the support of different length items. A pop-up crossbar increases the height of the loading platform to match the Folding Roof Racks.

The Ranger’s Folding Roof Racks feature crossbars that can be adjusted into two different positions and then stowed away within the roof rails when not being used.

Dynamic load limit for the Sliding Load Rock is 80kg, while static capacity is up to 250kg.

“We learned from our customers that they would load things like canoes into the load box and then lean them up against the sports hoop before tying them down. This was awkward and meant the load box couldn’t really be used for storing anything else a customer might want to take with them,” said Danny Trentin, application specialist, Ford Ranger.

“We also learned of their frustrations when it came to carrying items of longer lengths. With an 80kg dynamic load limit, the Flexible Rack System eliminates those frustrations,” he said.

MERCEDES-BENZ EQV LUXURY PEOPLE MOVER READY TO ORDER

THE MERCEDES-BENZ EQV battery-electric people mover is now available to order in Australia. Priced at $155,338 before on-road costs, the latest member of Mercedes-Benz’ EQ electric vehicle family is a seven-seater powered by a single e-motor sending up to 150kW and 365Nm to the front wheels and has a 90kWh battery offering a range of up to 418km (NEDC testing). Top speed for the EQV is 140km/h and it can reach 100km/h in 12.1 seconds.

A DC charging capacity of up to 110kW means the EQV can be topped up from 10 to 80 per cent charge in around 45 minutes. Using 11kW AC (with the Mercedes-Benz household Wallbox), charging from 0 to 100 per cent is done in around 10 hours.

Included with the EQV is a one-year complimentary Chargefox subscription, enabling customers to access unlimited charging at all Chargefox ultra-rapid stations and participating fast-charging stations around Australia.

The driver can choose from four driving programs – E+, E, C, and S, with E+ delivering maximum range by lowering

A DC CHARGING CAPACITY OF UP TO 110KW MEANS THE EQV CAN BE TOPPED UP FROM 10 TO 80 PER CENT CHARGE IN AROUND 45 MINUTES.

output and torque as well as reducing heating and air conditioning, and S delivering at the other end of the scale – a performance mode that puts the emphasis on the best responsiveness.

There are also five levels of energy recuperation that recover energy during deceleration. In the most active mode, D-, deceleration (and therefore recuperation) is at its strongest, requiring less manual braking and maximising driving range. The D, D+ and D++ modes progressively reduce active deceleration. A DAuto mode uses a radar sensor to automatically adjust the recuperation level to the traffic situation.

Designed 'to meet the needs of both family buyers and professional drivers seeking a more environmentally friendly way to transport up to seven people .

the EQV offers space for the driver and up to six passengers, with a standard configuration featuring two armchairs in the second row and a three-berth bench seat in the third row. As a no-cost option, the EQV can be had with four individual leather armchairs for passengers.

As you’d expect from a Mercedes-Benz, quality is top notch and there are plenty of tech and safety features. The driver and front-seat passenger have poweradjustable seats equipped with memory settings, lumbar support and seat heating. There’s also the MBUX infotainment system, which operates audio, telephony, navigation and vehicle settings. All functions, including navigation, can also be accessed via a 10.25-inch central touchscreen. Other features and displays

available via the MBUX system include the charging current, energy flow and consumption data.

The EQV’s offers a configurable space capable of accommodating up to 1030 litres of cargo. A lift-style Easy Pack Tailgate can be opened and closed electrically.

Safety systems include Active Distance Assist cruise control, a 360-degree camera with dynamic guidelines, driver and codriver airbags (front, thorax and window), window bags from the A to D pillars, Active Parking Assist, Active Brake Assist, HillStart Assist, Lane Keeping Assist, Blind Spot Assist, Crosswind Assist, an LED Intelligent Light System with Highbeam Assist Plus, reversing camera and sensors, and rain-sensing wipers.

Other standard features include a Burmester surround sound audio system, automatic climate control with semiautomatic rear air-conditioning, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a leather multifunction steering wheel.

The EQV is covered by a five-year, unlimited-kilometre warranty for private use (5 Years / 250,000km for commercial use), and eight years or 160,000 km for the battery pack. Servicing is recommended once a year or every 40,000km.

Mercedes-Benz EQV

NOVEMBER NEW CAR SALES FIGURES SHOW SOLID GROWTH

A

TOTAL OF 95,080 vehicles were sold in November according to figures released by the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries (FCAI). That result represents a 17.9 per cent increase on the same month in 2021 and brings the 2022 year-todate total to 993,509.

Sales across the entire nation were up, with Queensland notching 28.9 per cent growth with 20,621 sales. New South Wales was up 7.5 per cent (29,545 sales), Victoria 19.1 per cent (25,534 sales), Western Australia 36.5 per cent (9,668 sales), Tasmania 23 per cent (1,783 sales), the NT 14.1 per cent (815 sales), South Australia 12.3 per cent (5,673), and the ACT 2.5 per cent (1,441).

Toyota led the market with a total of 20,107 vehicles sold. Mazda was second with 7,549, followed by Ford (7,165), Kia (6,120) and Mitsubishi (5,559).

The Toyota HiLux was the highest selling model with 5,440 sales reported. Ford’s Ranger followed with 5,073. Toyota’s Corolla was third with 3,732 followed by the MG ZS (3,051) and Toyota Landcruiser (2,296).

Sales of battery electric, plug-in hybrid and hybrid vehicles continue to rise with

a total of 13,415 zero and low emission vehicles sold in November.

Of these sales, 4,457 were battery electric with Tesla once again topping that chart with 2,196 sales, of which 1,805 were of its Model Y SUV. 8,529 hybrid and 429 plug-in hybrid vehicles were also sold.

SALES OF BATTERY ELECTRIC, PLUG-IN HYBRID AND HYBRID VEHICLES CONTINUE TO RISE WITH A TOTAL OF

13,415 ZERO AND LOW EMISSION VEHICLES SOLD IN NOVEMBER.

WORKPLACE LAW REFORMS

RECENT MEDIA COVERAGE

about the new workplace laws bringing substantial changes to the way the Fair Work Commission (FWC) considers improving job security, wage theft, the making of enterprise agreements, gender and pay equity, and the content of employment contracts. These changes officially received royal ascent on 5 December 2022 where they come with various effective dates.

Legislation Amendment (Secure Jobs, Better Pay) Act 2022 involved a massive 240-page document with major changes being made right up to the time it was finally agreed by the Parliament.

EVANGELINE KANNIS SENIOR WORKPLACE RELATIONS ADVISOR

In fact, to cover the many aspects of the changes being made to the Fair Work Act 2009 in the form of the Fair Work

This article briefly touches on the changes to employment laws which are often not felt by many employees and employers until after they have been in place for a while. Meanwhile many industry sectors are preparing for bargaining in a way not felt in many years. There are many interested parties who have high expectations of what the latest changes will bring. However, more experienced experts are predicting their effect will be more long term.

The list of changes being implemented in 2023 includes:

• Compliance action can be taken against

employers for Pay Secrecy clauses.

• Amendments to eligibility for Flexible Work Arrangements, similar to existing modern award provisions, will operate from 6 June 2023 with the right to raise a dispute to the Fair Work Commission about the Reasonable Business Grounds. This includes the need to request, genuinely consult and consider alternatives, and provide reasons for refusal.

• Job Advertisements: Employers will need to carefully consider how they advertise pay rates when jobs have up until now had piece rates such as in the horticultural industry. There is no requirement to include rates of pay in job advertisements under the new amendments.

• Changes to the way Fixed Term Contracts operate in relation to duration and renewal will come into operation on or before December 2023. These will limit fixed-term contracts to up to 2 years, also stopping them being able to be extended or rolled over to do the same work, and the total duration of one or more contracts exceed two years. However, there is a list of exemptions based on the type of job (apprentices, trainees), nature of the projects (funding arrangements), governing rules of the organisation, and conditions in the contract.

• Large claims for underpayment of wages will be more readily accessible when the cap to go to the Federal Circuit Court increases from 1 July 2023.

• Abolishing the Australian Building and Construction Commission with its regulatory powers already referred to the Fair Work Commission. By 1 July 2023 a National Construction Industry Forum will be created.

• Anti-Discrimination provisions are broader to include breastfeeding, gender identity, and inter-sex status.

• Prohibiting Sexual Harassment in connection with the workplace, so that the Fair Work Commission can conciliate such dispute accordingly, issue orders and compensation. Arbitration may be sought if this does not resolve the dispute. Aspects of accountability and accessory liability (third party) are operative from 6 March 2023 or earlier.

• The co-operative workplaces and Enterprise Agreements provisions will mostly operate from 7 June 2023, which will include complex provisions covering:

■ Sunsetting of “zombie” (very old, Collective) agreements operative now.

■ Changes to the agreement approval process.

■ Review of the Better Off Overall test considering reasonably foreseeable patterns or kinds of work that were considered when the FWC approved the agreement, whether undertakings were provided, with concerns of any ‘significant new risk’.

■ Commencing bargaining, bargaining disputes, compulsory

THERE ARE MANY INTERESTED PARTIES WHO HAVE HIGH EXPECTATIONS OF WHAT THE LATEST CHANGES WILL BRING HOWEVER MORE EXPERIENCED EXPERTS ARE PREDICTING THEIR EFFECT WILL BE MORE LONG TERM.

conciliation conferences, and protected industrial action processes, where the relevant majority is in the context of each employer.

■ Good faith and ‘minimum’ bargaining.

■ The process of genuine agreement informing employees of their bargaining rights, opportunity to consider the agreement and ensure free voting.

■ The Supported Bargaining Stream and Multi-Employer Bargaining are complex:

▷ Small business exception if under 20 employees;

▷ Exemptions to building and construction;

▷ Defined anti-avoidance provisions; and

▷ Those business with over 50 employees are to prove they do not fit.

■ Single interest employer authorisations considering whether the employer is distinguished by geographic location, regulatory regime, or nature of the enterprise, and how this is assessed includes a public interest test.

■ Specific circumstances to vary enterprise agreements to remove employers and their employees.

For those businesses that have not previously had enterprise agreements, the breadth of these changes is substantial and very complex. While these

changes to the workplace relations landscape will be implemented during 2023, there is a second tranche that will be announced during 2023.

MTA Queensland will provide timely updates to provide practical information about how these substantial changes may and will affect small and large businesses and their employees.

The above information is provided as general information only, is current at the time of preparation, and should not be relied on. if you have any enquiries about this article and all workplace relations matters, please contact us at the MTAQ to find out if, how and when these changes will affect your business.

For Business enquiries about wages, salaries, employment contracts, dismissals and representation, please contact the MTA Queensland Workplace Relations team on 07 3237 8777.

FOR THOSE BUSINESSES THAT HAVE NOT PREVIOUSLY HAD ENTERPRISE AGREEMENTS, THE BREADTH OF THESE CHANGES IS SUBSTANTIAL AND VERY COMPLEX.

CLICK TO VISIT THE MTAQ MEMBER PORTAL

We wish all our members and industry stakeholders a wonderful festive period and a well-earned break! Looking forward to a prosperous 2023.

MTA Institute News

PAUL KULPA GENERAL MANAGER MTA INSTITUTE

FIRSTLY, THANKS TO all our stakeholders for their support in 2022. Ultimately, without you, we would not be able to provide the training services we do. While we bring down the curtain on another year, we are certainly excited about what’s coming up in 2023, including:

• Working with schools, including programs in schools and the continued rollout of our Auto Ready program across the state;

• Delivering Automotive PreApprenticeship courses to enable businesses to access ready-made employees;

• Continue to deliver high-quality apprenticeship training, including all the automotive retail, service and repair qualifications;

• Development of post-trade qualifications and support, including the AUR40216 Certificate IV Automotive Mechanical Diagnosis, higher level skills sets including HEV/BEV training and a suite of Micro-Credentials for the

automotive industry; and

• Development of the Diploma of Leadership and Management qualification ready to support automotive businesses.

There’s going to be a lot on, so enjoy the break and we look forward to working with you in 2023.

WHILE WE BRING DOWN THE CURTAIN ON ANOTHER YEAR, WE ARE CERTAINLY EXCITED ABOUT WHAT’S COMING UP IN 2023 . . .

Auto Ready program, September 2022

Apprentice of the Month: November 2022

APPRENTICE:

AIDEN ZEMIT

WORKPLACE:

FORMULA AUTOMOTIVE, BRISBANE

APPRENTICESHIP:

LIGHT VEHICLE MECHANICAL

AIDEN ZEMIT is the MTA Institute apprentice of the month for November 2022.

About to start the third year of his light vehicle apprenticeship, the 20-year-old works at Formula Automotive, a mechanical workshop in the Brisbane suburb of Greenslopes, and has impressed his employer and MTA Institute trainer with his enthusiasm, inquisitive thinking, commitment, and growing skill set.

“At every appointment, Aiden has all his work completed to a high standard and has his training record book completed,” said Stuart Davies, Aiden’s MTA Institute trainer. “He is always keen to listen and asks some good questions that has us researching answers together. He is one of my keenest students.”

While Aiden’s family has no connection to the automotive industry, he said cars always appealed to him and he began to pursue his dream to work in the industry as soon as he was able.

“No one in my family is in the trade, but ever since I could walk and talk, I’ve liked cars. Since the beginning, I knew this is what I wanted to do,” he said. “I did a pre-vocational Certificate II course in high school and, after finishing school, I went to work as an apprentice at a dealership.”

The dealership experience was not quite what Aiden had hoped, and a few months into his apprenticeship he was able to move to Formula Automotive, a shop that offers a wide variety of services to its customers – from diagnostics and engine tuning to engine replacement, from installation of 4WD accessories to auto electrical services, from air conditioning repairs to roadworthy inspections, and everything in between - on just about any make and model.

It was a bit of good fortune that Aiden found his way to

Formula Automotive. His partner’s father works there as a mechanic, and when Aiden offered to help swap an engine in one of the family vehicles, he found himself at the shop chipping in and making a good impression on the shop owner, Peter Anastasas. That impression was good enough for Peter to offer Aiden a job. It was an offer he gladly accepted.

“It felt pretty good when that happened,” said Aiden. “And it is a welcome change, working here. We get a good variety of work and there is not much that comes through the doors that Peter doesn’t trust me to do now.

“I enjoy it all, but I do particularly like the bigger jobs where you get a bit more variety,” he added. “I’ve done quite a few engine swaps and clutches, and I always enjoy them.””

Moving to Formula Automotive when he was still in the first year of his apprenticeship also resulted in switching his training provider to the MTA Institute, and Aiden said that the training model offered by the Institute is one that finds works well for him.

“It works really well,” he said. “Working one-on-one with my trainer is good. It gives me the opportunity to ask all the questions I have, and I’ve always been more of a one-on-one type of learner.”

While he has a couple of years to go until he finishes his apprenticeship, Aiden has begun to think about what direction his career may go. Aware that electric vehicles are going to play a major role in the industry’s future, there is training in that area to be considered, but for the moment, his interest lies in the 4WD sector.

“I have thought about the future a bit,” he said. “I do think about electric vehicles, I know they are coming, and I have accepted that there’ll be more training for that, but I have considered going into a specialist area like 4WDs. I really like them. So maybe I will look at specialising in that part of the industry.”

The MTA Institute Apprentice of the Month is proudly sponsored by Spirit Super

NOMINATE FOR THE MTA INSTITUTE APPRENTICE OF THE MONTH AWARD

• 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.

MTA INSTITUTE TRAINERS GATHER FOR END-OFYEAR CONFERENCE

THE MTA INSTITUTE is the largest private provider of automotive apprenticeships in Queensland, delivering one-on-one, in-the-workshop training to more than 2400 students across the state.

With trainers working semiindependently across Queensland, the MTA Institute works to bring them together at trainer conferences to discuss their experiences, attend professional development workshops, and be brought up to speed on the latest developments in the vocational education space.

While this has, traditionally, been a

conference held once annually and toward the end of the year, for 2022 the Institute held two such gatherings, including a professional development conference in July which tackled such topics as the AURETH101 BEV depowering and reinitialising of battery-electric vehicles training unit, and workshop sessions focused on Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), as well as presentations on electric motorcycles and a research trip to the Queensland facility of outdoor power equipment maker, Toro.

At the beginning of December, the Institute held a second, less intensive

Leanna Tucker, MTA Queensland's Women's Career Guidance Officer gave the training team an update on the Auto Women initiative introduced by the Association in 2021

conference at MTA Queensland’s Brisbane head office with a number of trainers from remote and regional areas using digital technology to 'dial-in' and attend relevant sessions remotely.

Those sessions included presentations on training delivery, digital delivery, VET emerging industry projects, development of the automotive training sector, IT and digital security, and advice on how to get the best photographs from a smartphone – a necessity in this age of digital living and working.

“The aim of these meetings is to bring the staff together to discuss where we’ve been but also to set out targets going forward,” said Paul Kulpa, General Manager of the MTA Institute. “We’ve successfully delivered quality training to over 2400 apprentices, completed an AUR transition, deployed new IT systems to support student and trainer efficiencies, worked to negotiate COVID, managed a significant amount of trainer changes

and digital challenges, and increased our trainer professional development sessions. But, as always, we want to continually improve, and the digital photography session, for example, is there to support our trainers better understand their work tools – iPads and iPhones – while the IT security session is there to ensure we are all aware of the requirements to look after our stakeholders’ information.”

Mr Kulpa added that holding two trainer conferences through the year had allowed for better coverage of topics that arise in an industry that is changing fast.

“One meeting was never going to be enough time to cover all the topics we want to touch on, so we have an Industry Trainer Meeting in July, which mainly focuses on technical professional development and is where we see all the new tech washing through the industry and hear directly from industry experts on those topics; and this meeting in December – the VET Trainers Meeting –

“THE AIM OF THESE MEETINGS IS TO BRING THE STAFF TOGETHER TO DISCUSS WHERE WE’VE BEEN BUT ALSO TO SET OUT TARGETS GOING FORWARD.”

where we focus on training delivery and get a chance to validate our assessment tools and review our administration practices.

“Both are equally important and we also get a chance to get together more regularly, which is always good.”

TRAINER OF THE YEAR 2022

At the end-of-year conference, the MTA Institute announces the recipient of the Trainer of the Year award, and this year the award was presented to Roger West, who delivers light vehicle, auto-electrical, and parts interpreting training across north Brisbane.

Roger has been working in the industry for nearly 50 years, starting as an apprentice in the era of the XY Falcon and enjoying a treat as a youngster that most of us would relish now – he carried out predeliveries and road tests of the XY GTHO!

After completing his trade, Roger would go on to become leading hand, workshop foreman and service manager, eventually reaching a point where he was also delivering inhouse training for other technicians and apprentices. Realising that being a trainer was something he really enjoyed, Roger

AS WELL AS Trainer of the Year, other awards wer presented to MTA Queensland staff who had performed sterling service to the Association and members throuhgout the year.

Client Services Officer Judy Margison received the Individual Contribution award; Sonja Reeves, an administration assistant with Member Services, was presented with the Service Excellence Award; technical adviser and trainer Russell Sticklen received a Commendation Award; and technical trainer Steve Adams received a Trainer Commendation Certificate for his brilliant work throughout 2022.

joined the MTA Institute in 2005. 17 years on, and the work is clearly something Roger still loves to do.

“I’ve never really worked for the MTA Institute because I am doing something

Trainer of the Year 2022 Roger West with Rod Camm, CEO of MTA Queensland

Sonja Reeves

Russell Sticklen

that I really enjoy. I just happen to be paid for it too!” he said with a smile.

Being presented with the Trainer of the Year award was, said Roger, a terrific honour and one that, given the calibre of his fellow trainers, he was surprised to receive.

“I nearly fell off my chair. I was shellshocked,” he said of the moment his name was called out. “It’s a great achievement. I have seen others receive it over the years, people I respect. It’s a great moment.”

The award recognises Roger’s dedicated and excellent service to the hundreds of students he has trained over the years.

“Roger has been a long-time high performer who consistently hits the mark with his quality, customer service and work ethic,” said Mr Kulpa. “He’s always willing to provide constructive feedback and support new ideas. He’s a trainer who is reliable and dependable and there are not too many automotive businesses in north Brisbane who wouldn’t know about him.”

THE MTA INSTITUTE PLUGS IN TO ELECTRIC VEHICLE TRAINING WITH DELIVERY OF BYD ATTO 3

THE MTA INSTITUTE'S drive to deliver the most relevant and upto-date training received a boost in December with the delivery of its first fully electric vehicle (EV) to be used as a training aid - a BYD Atto 3.

With the push for the electrification of Australia's car fleet now well underway - including from state and federal government (see page 44)such a vehicle is a necessity for future training delivery.

The MTA Institute has received the Extended Range variant of the BYD Atto 3, which is a front-wheel drive four-door, five-seater fitted with the BYD Blade Battery system and a 150kW electric motor. Range is a claimed 480km and 0-100km/h comes in a very reasonable 7.3 seconds. Tech and safety is top quality - the Atto 3 has a 5-star ANCAP safety rating.

First impressions have been very good indeed, with MTA Queensland CEO Rod Camm taking the BYD for a spin and being pretty impressed. You can watch his 'first-impressions' review by clicking on the video link above.

Steve Adams received the Trainer Commendation Certificate for his work in 2022

“I’VE NEVER REALLY WORKED FOR THE MTA INSTITUTE BECAUSE I AM DOING SOMETHING THAT I REALLY ENJOY. I JUST HAPPEN TO BE PAID FOR IT TOO!”

VIDEO: ROD CAMM TESTS THE BYD ATTO 3

MTA Institute Graduates CONGRATULATIONS TO THE MTA INSTITUTE’S LATEST GRADUATES

THE MTA INSTITUTE is the largest independent provider of automotive apprenticeships and training in Queensland and it is always a proud moment when its

APPRENTICE QUALIFICATION

students complete their trade qualification. Congratulations to everyone who was issued a qualification in November 2022it is a fantastic achievement!

Anrich Briel Certificate III in Automotive Body Repair Technology

Eli Pitt Certificate III in Automotive Body Repair Technology

Shaun Dagan Certificate III in Automotive Electrical Technology

Edward Meallin Certificate III in Automotive Electrical Technology

Cory Patteson Certificate III in Automotive Electrical Technology

Ben Pickering Certificate III in Automotive Electrical Technology

Raymish Kumar Certificate III in Automotive Refinishing Technology

Nigel Brayford Certificate III in Automotive Sales (Parts Interpreting)

Braedan Nemec Certificate III in Automotive Sales (Parts Interpreting)

Ryland Williams Certificate III in Automotive Underbody Technology

Bryn Pickering Certificate III in Heavy Commercial Vehicle Mechanical Technology

Oliver Carey Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology

Raymond Chilcott Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology

Thomas Davison Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology

Brock Davison Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology

Kohdi Dikes Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology

Brent Gundrum Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology

Damien Kriel Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology

Baily Lalor Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology

Philemon Langle Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology

Timothy Louden Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology

Aidan Morgan Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology

Jay Odell Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology

Felicity Potts Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology

Jack Richardson Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology

Kieran Schubert Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology

Jesse Stibbe Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology

Scott Sykus Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology

Hayden Winnett Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology

Caleb Ferguson Certificate III in Motorcycle Mechanical Technology

Jason Ralph Certificate III in Motorcycle Mechanical Technology

Adam Eichmann Certificate III in Outdoor Power Equipment Technology

TRAINER

Keiran Charters

Shane Palmer

Andrew Keys

Roger West

Michael De Waard

Andrew Elson

Alfio Rotolone

Neil Bovey

Jason McCann

Jens Puder

Steve Adams

Roger West

Bruce McLeish

Derrick Pratt

Terry Palfrey

Antony Joslin

Stephen Blaauw

Lloyd Cross

Neville Donaldson

Derrick Pratt

Neville Donaldson

Don Lerm

Kevin Ryan

Andrew Keys

Kevin Ryan

Terry Palfrey

Keith Minchin

Ross Wilson

Kevin Ryan

Ivan Aird

Ivan Aird

Ivan Aird

you afford not to be in the circle?

ADVOCACY

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.

SERVICES

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.

TRAINING

• Apprenticeships • Traineeships • Skills Recognition.

• Automotive Licensing

• Short Automotive Courses (including some which attract a 20% discount for members)

• Pre-apprenticehips.

SUPPORT

Our corporate partners offer a wide range of services & benefits, including banking, insurance, payment options, legal advice, and advice on workplace health & safety compliance Library of online business resources and templates

Weekly industry bulletin Webinar and micro-credential program (coming soon). FREE Jobs Board Discounts on stationery & workshop products Monthly subscription to the Motor Trader e-magazine Regular specials & discounts

INNOVATION

Stay ahead of the automotive digital revolution with access to events and the MTAiQ Innovation Hub.

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GENESIS X CONVERTIBLE

CONVERTIBLE

GENESIS – THE luxury arm of Hyundai – has unveiled the Genesis X Convertible concept.

The third concept in its ‘X’ line, Genesis says the four-passenger convertible, which has a hard-top folding roof, shares its architecture and yet-to-be-revealed electric powertrain with the previous all-electric concepts – the X Concept of 2021 and X Speedium Coupe concept also revealed this year 2022. Whatever that powertrain may be, the point behind the concepts appears to be to show the design future of the brand, and that is a very stylish one.

The three concepts share plenty of

features – including the quad lights and two-line design cues – and the X Convertible sports a new EV face which forms an abstract of the Genesis crest grille and incorporates a cooling function for the

WHATEVER THAT POWERTRAIN MAY BE, THE POINT BEHIND THE CONCEPTS APPEARS TO BE TO SHOW THE DESIGN FUTURE OF THE BRAND . . .

powertrain and batteries via lower openings in the front bumper.

The rear end of the X Convertible concept features a concave elliptical duck tail intersected by horizontal quad rear lights – a feature also shared with the X Concept and X Speedium Coupe concepts.

A set of pretty flash wheels are designed not only to look good but to have the

Genesis

practical purpose of drawing heat away from the brakes.

The interior sports a wraparound instrument panel integrated with the centre console – creating a cockpit-like effect replete with digital displays, rotary shift dial, and a steering wheel which looks to provide plenty of fingertip functions for the driver.

X concept trilogy