Motor Trader e-magazine, May 2022

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WOMEN OF + WILLOWBANK RANGE ALL SET + FORCUPRAAUSTRALIA DEBUT MTA QUEENSLAND REVEAL AUTO + WOMEN SCHOLARSHIP WINNERS

OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE MOTOR TRADES ASSOCIATION OF QUEENSLAND

+ CLASSIC CAR: VOLVO P1800

M TA Q U E E N S LAN D DI V I SIO NA L CO M MIT T EE M EET IN GS

MTA QUEENSLAND hosts quarterly Divisional Committee meetings for:

USTRALIAN AUTOMOTIVE DEALER ASSOCIATION › A(NEW CAR DEALERS) UTOMOTIVE ENGINEERS DIVISION › A(MECHANICAL REPAIRERS) UTOMOTIVE PARTS RECYCLERS DIVISION › A(PARTS RECYCLERS) UTOMOTIVE REMARKETING DIVISION › A(USED CAR DEALERS) NGINE RECONDITIONERS ASSOCIATION OF QUEENSLAND › E(ENGINE RECONDITIONERS) ATIONAL AUTO COLLISION ALLIANCE › N(PAINT & PANEL / TOW TRUCKS) UEENSLAND FARM & INDUSTRIAL MACHINERY DEALERS DIVISION › Q(FARM & INDUSTRIAL MACHINERY) UEENSLAND MOTORCYCLE INDUSTRY DIVISION › Q(MOTORCYCLES) ENTAL VEHICLE INDUSTRY DIVISION › R(RENTAL VEHICLES) ERVICE STATION & CONVENIENCE STORE ASSOCIATION OF QUEENSLAND › S(SERVICE STATIONS) YRE & UNDERCAR DIVISION OF QUEENSLAND › T(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.

CLICK HERE FOR MEETING DATES

20200885

CLICK HERE TO MAKE AN ENQUIRY

From the Editor Official Publication of the Motor Trades Association of Queensland

story about Willowbank Raceway and the women who work there, race there, and who are a vital part of what makes the drag racing track tick. You can read more about them from page 8.

As always, we have plenty JONATHAN NASH of other news - from industry EDITOR innovations to new vehicle ELCOME TO THE May launches to training news inside this edition of Motor 2022 edition of Motor Trader.

Trader.

In last month’s edition, you A reminder, if I may, of MTA may recall we reported on Ford’s decision to sell the F-150 pick-up Queensland’s ongoing marketing campaign. Its goal is to let the truck in Australia. Immensely public know that they will be popular in the US, the F-150 looked after best, and to the is one of the F Series family of trucks, all of which are members highest standards, when they use the services of MTA Queensland of a category of big, powerful members. pick-ups that Americans love Members should take and which includes the likes advantage of the campaign and of the Chevy Silverado and the advertise they are part of the Dodge Ram. Association. MTA Queensland The popularity of these graphics, posters, logos and other trucks is growing in Australia, material can be downloaded and in this edition we talk to from our website member portal.

Mark Ritson, owner of the Click HERE to access them.

Tough Trucks dealership on I hope you enjoy this edition the Gold Coast, who specialises and do reach out if you have in delivering modifed versions some interesting news to share. of these vehicles to customers I look forward to hearing across Australia. They are pretty from you. special and you can read more Cheers about them and the business Jonathan Nash, Editor from page 18. jonathann@mtaq.com.au Also this month, we have a

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

W

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 SUBSCRIPTION RATES Subscribing to the Motor Trader e-magazine is free.

Click here to subscribe 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

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MTA Queensland welcomes the following new members BUSINESS NAME

ADDRESS

DIVISION

GMW Mechanical & Towing Hunt's Wholesale Cars Pty Ltd Mcclure Refinishing Pty Ltd Palm Automotive Peugeotech & Scooter Society

3/50 Hanson Rd, Gladstone Central QLD 4680 730 Boundary Rd, Coopers Plains QLD 4108 12 Reardon St, Townsville QLD 4812 27 Hamill St, Garbutt QLD 4814 14 Holland St, Northgate QLD 4013

AED ARD NACA AED AED

May 2022 Motor Trader | 1

Contents

18

MTA|Q&A: BIG IS BETTER AT TOUGH TRUCKS AUSTRALIA

04 FROM THE DESK OF MANAGEMENT 06 MTA QUEENSLAND REVEAL AUTO WOMEN SCHOLARSHIP WINNERS 8 WOMEN OF WILLOWBANK 18 MTA|Q&A: BIG IS BETTER AT TOUGH TRUCKS AUSTRALIA 30 AUTO INNOVATION NEWS 42 CLASSIC CAR: VOLVO P1800 49 AUTO NEWS 84 WORKPLACE RELATIONS 87 MTA INSTITUTE NEWS 88 APPRENTICE OF THE MONTH: APRIL 2022 90 MTA INSTITUTE GRADUATES 92 CONCEPT CORNER 2 | Motor Trader May 2022

8

WOMEN OF WILLOWBANK

Search for MTA Queensland

CLASSIC CAR: VOLVO P1800

42

6

MTA QUEENSLAND REVEAL AUTO WOMEN SCHOLARSHIP WINNERS

CUPRA RANGE ALL SET FOR AUSTRALIAN DEBUT

DEUS AUTOMOBILES DEBUTS THE 2,200HP VAYANNE HYPERCAR

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May 2022 Motor Trader | 3

From the Desk of Management

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E ARE RAPIDLY approaching the Federal Election, which will take place on 21 May and decide the directions of our nation for the next ROD CAMM three years.

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER MTA QUEENSLAND While both sides of the political fence have remained quiet regarding specific policies for the automotive industry, MTA Queensland has nonetheless been active in asserting what our expectations are. As an industry that employs some 380,000 individuals nationally across some 72,000 businesses, our priorities are real and material to the ongoing prosperity of the economy.

I have spent considerable time in discussion with our members over the past few months, ascertaining their priorities to determine the issues on which we must push hard. Highlighted issues include: • Increased access to skilled migration pathways in areas of skills shortage • Continued incentives for employers to train the next generation of skilled workers • Collaborating with industry on the implementation of business friendly zero-emission strategies • Addressing the issues related to Australian Consumer Law, ensuring manufacturers are responsible for repairs • Abolition of luxury car tax • Reducing red tape and simplifying tax systems across federal and state boundaries As an industry-backed association, the views of our members are crucial in determining our priorities, and I thank all those who have contributed to these priorities. Remember, all members can attend their regularly scheduled Division committee meetings and put forward their views on issues, and I encourage all members to get involved.

4 | Motor Trader May 2022

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ITH ALL THE talk about the upcoming Election, MTA Queensland are in the first stage of our own Election process, with our KELLIE DEWAR newest Committee DEPUTY CEO | GENERAL MANAGER MEMBER SERVICES Members to take up their positions in the coming months.

It has been enlightening speaking to members recently as we ramp up our consumer-focused campaign. However, it has become apparent that some members are not capitalising on the full range of benefits at their disposal. Whether it is an insurance review, workplace health and safety audit, an EFTPOS comparison, or any other benefit, our Member Services team is available to assist you and can be contacted at info@mtaq.com.au.

We have also heard of a recent rise in enquiries related to uncollected goods.

Specific legal requirements are in place to deal with vehicles left at your business with payment outstanding and thanks to our Legal partners Bennett and Philp, we have an updated summary for members to help you navigate this process.

In other news, Queensland recently passed legislation determining a digital Licence will be recognised as an equivalent form of identification to the physical version. Following a successful trial on the Fraser Coast, which recorded a 94 per cent satisfaction rating, Digital Licencing will be expanded to Townsville later this year, before being launched state-wide in 2023.

And finally, I am happy to announce that we have completed our search for the new Women’s Career Guidance Officer. Leanna Tucker will commence with us in May and will take responsibility of steering our Driving Auto Women’s Career project!

t of your From the Commonwealth Bank embership?

A COMMBANK BUSINESS RESTARTER LOAN COULD HELP YOU KICK-START FY23

members have access to a onwealth Bank Relationship ger who can arrange for you to e information on:

ryday banking solutions including business ounts and eftpos terminals.

your eftpos – a Commonwealth Bank WHAT IScan THEprovide BUSINESS RETARTER LOAN? ationship Manager information he Least Cost Routing options.^ CommBank has designed this business

loan to address the Credit unpredictable ding options including Business ds, Car and Equipment Finance environment SMEsand have been facing, by iness Loans. looking past the short term impacts of the

pandemic and recognising your businesses solutions may help you manageIt’s a loan to help individual circumstances. ow andyour expand yourrestart¹. business. business • Secured loans, from 3.29% p.a. for eligible* d out howapplications Commonwealth Bank available until 17th June, 2022. lp your business move forward, • Flexible loan terms and security options, with zero t MTAQ on (07) 3237 8777or establishment, service or commitment fees. nfo@mtaq.com.au.

• Part of the Government’s SME Recovery Loan scheme, for businesses adversely affected by the coronavirus pandemic and with a valid ABN. • An optional repayment holiday of up to 12 months.

• Refinance existing debt, purchase a commercial property or equipment for your business.

• Choose a variable rate and you’ll only pay interest on the funds you use, plus - you could pay your loan off quicker with extra repayments.

Insert hero image about you and your business to streamline and speed up your application process.

When you apply for a Business Restarter Loan, if you’re eligible you could receive a conditional approval within 24 hours of submitting your application², and have funds in your account in a few business days. That’s less time spent on paperwork and more time to focus on the year ahead.

If eligible, you can borrow up to $5m, with terms up to 10 years¹. And you have the option of up to a 12 month repayment holiday, so you can really restart before you need to make a repayment.

HOW DO YOU APPLY? To find out how Commonwealth Bank can help your business move forward, contact MTAQ on (07) 3237 8777or email info@mtaq.com.au. and they will put you in touch with a Commbank Relationship Manager.

HOW DOES IT WORK? We use the information we already have

uld know: As this information has been prepared without considering your objectives, financial situation or needs, you should, before acting on this information, consider its appropriateness to ces. Eligibility criteria and other conditions applies. Applications are subject to credit approval. Full terms and conditions will be included in our loan offer. Fees and charges may be payable.

Things you should consider them beforeismaking any decision aboutCost these products and services. Full Terms and uting is also known as Merchant Choiceknow: Routing. A reference in the Merchant Agreement dated 1 April 2020 to Merchant Choice Routing also a reference to Least Routing.

Conditions are included in the Loan Offer. Bank fees and charges may apply.

For current interest rates, visit Business banking rates and fees. Rates are subject to change.

Fees, charges and Terms & Conditions apply. ² A lending decision within 24 hours is subject to the Bank’s eligibility and suitability criteria.

Your association may receive a referral fee from Commonwealth Bank of Australia for each successful referral (excludes existing customers) on eligible Business Banking products and services.

This communication is prepared for distribution to Commonwealth Bank Alliance Partners and contains important information or updates about your service and as such you cannot unsubscribe from these types of messages. To contact us or if you have a complaint, please visit the contact us section of our website or call 13 1998.

Commonwealth Bank of Australia ABN 48 123 123 124, AFSL and Australian credit licence 234945.

general information purposes only.

It has been preparedavailable withoutatconsidering your et for this productThis willisbefor found within the product’s Target Market Determination, commbank.com.au/tmd.

financial situation or needs.

Yousuccessful should consider the appropriateness of this ve a fee from theobjectives, Commonwealth Bank of Australia for each referral. information to your circumstances acting credit on it. licence 234945.

Bank of Australia ABN 48 123 123 124 AFSL andbefore Australian

Credit provided by the Commonwealth Bank of Australia. ¹ These products are only available to approved business customers and for business purposes only. Customers need to meet eligibility criteria of the Government SME Recovery Scheme: small to medium sized businesses with up to $250 million turnover, those selfemployed, and not-for-profits and have an ABN. This offer cannot be used to purchase residential property or financial products, or to provide loans to associated entities.

Applications for finance are subject to the Bank’s eligibility and suitability criteria and normal credit approval processes. Applications can be submitted to 16 June 2022 and must be approved by 30 June 2022. You can view the Business Lending Terms and Conditions our Financial Services Guide and the Electronic Banking Terms and Conditions and should

May 2022 Motor Trader | 5

MTA QUEENSLAND REVEAL AUTO WOMEN SCHOLARSHIP WINNERS

M

TA QUEENSLAND IS thrilled forward to today, Sarah is as passionate to announce the recipients of and hard working as ever. From mechanic the inaugural Auto Women and supervisor to customer service, Scholarships. Sarah Gale, from Rego’s invoicing, and inventory manager, Sarah Mobile Mechanical in Atherton North continually goes above-and-beyond in her Queensland, has been awarded the duties. Now branching into a supervisory Leading Edge Scholarship (valued at and training role, she hopes to use the $3,490) and Andrea McCarthy, from Leading Edge course to enhance her McCarthy Panel Works in North Mackay, leadership skills and accelerate her career. has been awarded the Executive Ready “I believe that the more women move Scholarship (valued at $7,990). into leadership roles, the closer we The scholarships, sponsored by MTA will get to equality,” said Sarah. “These Queensland, Spirit Super and Women & scholarships will go a long way in Leadership Australia, aim to support the achieving this, and I am extremely grateful career advancement of women working to be presented this opportunity.” in the automotive industry through highThe second course, Executive Ready, impact training opportunities. is designed to stretch mid-level leaders The first course, Leading Edge, is and propel them towards executive-level designed to assist women in early-career positions, bolstering skills and mindsets. positions transition into confident, This scholarship has been awarded to capable, and Andrea McCarthy, motivated leaders. the owner and This scholarship has operator of been awarded to Sarah McCarthy Panel Gale, a qualified light Works. vehicle mechanic who Andrea is an has worked at Rego’s outstanding Mobile Mechanical for businesswoman and the past 10 years. role model within Back in 2014, the automotive Sarah was the first industry. She female to win the holds the Chair prestigious title of position of the MTA Queensland MTA Queensland Apprentice of the Year National Auto for her skill, attitude, Collision Alliance Gale, from Rego’s Mobile Mechanical has Sarah and work ethic. Fast Division and is a Scholarship been awarded the Leading Edge

6 | Motor Trader May 2022

Director on the MTA “A core purpose of Auto Women is Queensland Board. to raise the profile She is also a mentor of women in the on the Association’s industry and see Auto Women an increased initiative. She places presence in business high importance on and community life-long learning leadership roles,” and hopes to use said Kellie Dewar, the knowledge from Deputy CEO at the Executive Ready MTA Queensland. course to drive future “The Auto Women direction for her Scholarships business and the thy, from McCarthy Panel Works has McCar Andrea provide the perfect industry as a whole. d the Executive Ready Scholarship awarde been opportunity to “I am always looking recognise those for ways to develop who are striving to make a difference new skills, both professionally within my and I applaud both Sarah and Andrea team as well as myself personally,” said for their commitment to building Andrea. “I am excited to be awarded the Auto Women Executive Ready Scholarship skills for the future. I hope to see many more individuals seize this fantastic - it is a fantastic opportunity to grow and opportunity in the future.” give back to this amazing industry.”

Supporting career advancement Both the Leading Edge and Executive is just one part of MTA Ready courses, run by Women & CLICK FIND OUT MORE Queensland’s Auto Women Leadership Australia, are an exceptional ABOUT THE initiative, which was established opportunity to assist women in the SCHOLARSHIPS at the beginning of this year to automotive industry to reach their career provide a supportive environment aspirations. The Scholarships are available for women working across the twice per year, with the next round opening automotive industry. on 1 September 2022.

The Auto Women initiative is offering scholarships for management courses delivered by Women & Leadership Australia.

This is an exciting opportunity to further your knowledge and advance your career.

Click HERE to find out more.

Click HERE to join the Auto Women Facebook Page & be kept up to date on courses, virtual events, networking events & more.

SCHOLARSHIP SPONSORS

May 2022 Motor Trader | 7

THIS IMAGE COURTESY OF DRAG PHOTOS

WOMEN OF W 8 | Motor Trader May 2022

WILLOWBANK

May 2022 Motor Trader | 9

Michelle Davies - Cancer survivor and trophy-winning driver with her Pro Slammer Mustang

WORDS: LARA WILDE PHOTOS: JESSE DONOGHOE, SWEET SPOT PHOTOGRAPHY

S

INCE THE MID-1980s, Willowbank Raceway, just half-an-hour west of Brisbane, has been hallowed ground for drag racers of all stripes and hosts a legion of events throughout the year in which high-powered monsters from a multitude of categories – from Pro Slammer to Funny Cars, from Pro Stock to Top Bikes – roar off down the quarter-mile strip.

This is a high-octane, full-throttle environment, and you might expect it to be high-testosterone too, but from trackside to the office, from pit lane to the commentary tower, from the media crew to the cockpit, women play a mighty role in being the driving force behind the facility and the sport itself. The automotive

10 | Motor Trader May 2022

industry and the world of motorsport is often considered to be male dominated, but I can see the tide is changing.

At Willowbank Raceway 60 per cent of the staff and officials are women, 70 per cent of the volunteers at the track are women, 30 per cent of the pit crews are women and one of the board members is a woman.

Every bracket of racing now has at least one female driver, while in the junior dragsters there are just as many girls driving as there are boys. Willowbank Raceway CEO Peter Beaumont enjoys working with women at the track and recently commented, “Drag Racing now has a very high number of women in influential positions of management. Our sport is benefiting

Sally Verrall (left) and Jacqui Thomas (right) are part of the team that keeps Willowbank Raceway ticking

Willowbank CEO Peter Beaumont with Lara Wilde

“DRAG RACING NOW HAS A VERY HIGH NUMBER OF WOMEN IN INFLUENTIAL POSITIONS OF MANAGEMENT. OUR SPORT IS BENEFITING THROUGH THE INPUT OF WOMEN THROUGHOUT THE MANAGEMENT AND RACER BASE.” through the input of women throughout the management and Racer base.”

I recently spent the weekend at Super Thunder, the 400 Thunder drag racing event at Willowbank and met a lot of very impressive women whose dedication ensures the sport of drag racing is the ear-splitting, bone-shaking, awe-inspiring

sport that it is. Let me introduce you to the Women of Willowbank and the many roles they play to support the automotive industry and motorsport specifically.

Sally barely looks old enough to own a car and yet she is a driving force in the Willowbank raceway office keeping the staff organised, the spectators catered for and the competitors happy. Sally leads a team of up to 65 people, including 21 women on race day, ranging from administration to stewards to officials to fire and rescue.

Joining Sally in the office is Jacqui. Jacqui manages the finances of Willowbank making sure that everyone has paid their dues and has collected their winnings.

When it comes to the numbers behind Willowbank, no one is more across those figures than Jacqui.

May 2022 Motor Trader | 11

Selina is not a race car driver. She is not a promo girl. She is a mother of two junior drag racers focusing her time on making sure the two lads are on the start line ready to safely do battle behind the wheel. With an accounting background, Selina not only manages the race team finances but also uses her love of numbers to tune her husband Darren’s Pro Alcohol drag racing car. With Selina’s attention to detail, Darren produces winning results every meet.

Janey looks like she should be in a punk rock band, but she doesn’t sing when she picks up the mic on race day. Janey is one Rissa Newman attends every event at Willowbank, snapping shots for Drag Photos

Janey Smith is one of three women who commentate on the racing at Willowbank

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of three women who provide commentary for racing at Willowbank. Janey has a spot in the tower because she knows the sport inside and out and she has the skill required to entertain and educate the crowds of hardcore enthusiasts.

Rissa is a contract photographer for Drag Photos, attending every event at Willowbank. Rissa will spend all weekend

“I LOVE DRAG RACING, I HAVE THE BEST JOB IN THE WORLD.”

in the sun, inhaling tyre smoke and fuel fumes to get the perfect shot on the start line. A front wheel lifting, a rear wheel wrinkling, the eyes through the helmet visor as the driver drills focus and determination through to the finish line. After a long day lugging a huge camera, Rissa is all giggles and smiles as she tells you, “I love drag racing, I have the best job in the world.”

Rissa is not the only female photographer at such events, of course. Jesse Donoghoe, who took the images you see on these pages, does plenty of work shooting at track events, as well as for a range of outlets

publishing automotive feature stories.

For more than 50 years, Dale has volunteered her time to her passion for drag racing. Dale is an IHRA steward and before she trained to know the IHRA rule book, Dale was an ANDRA steward. From the early days at the Lowood track through to the premier venue now at Willowbank, Dale works tirelessly, involving her whole family at every meet. She rarely sees the cars she loves race as she spends all weekend in the scrutineering shed, triple checking every machine to make sure it is safe and ready for speed.

Selina Fry spends her time at the track getting her two sons ready to battle it out in the junior drag racing events.

Her husband Darren runs in the Pro Alcohol series and Selina backs everyone up managing the race team’s finances

May 2022 Motor Trader | 13

Lorelle McCarthy with husband Tim

Fiona Reed (left) is joined by her mum and her children when she heads to the track to race in the Super Charged Outlaw category

Kirsty lives in the deep end of the track.

Her job is to be a human radar judging the speeds of cars as they head down the track to judge if they can safely turn or need to use the catch net. “There is a real sense of family at Willowbank and I love that I can help the show to go on,” she says.

Kirsty has been on the team for more than a decade and loves spending her weekends keeping drivers safe.

Chanel is just one of the boys on the fire truck, but she takes her role very seriously. While Chanel is quick to break into a smile and a joke with the lads, she knows the stakes and is all business at 14 | Motor Trader May 2022

the top fuel race car safety briefing. If the speeding race car hits the kitty litter in the deep end, Chanel’s training can be all that stands between a driver having the ride of a lifetime or a ride in an ambulance.

Monique is just 22 but is already a wellknown smiling face in the pits. Having grown up at a track, Monique loves all aspects of the sport and has fashioned her life to constantly be surrounded by fast cars. A sheet metal fabricator by trade, Monique spends her weekends working on the big cars to make sure their bottom end is performing at its best.

Monique is learning the art of engine

Monique Ambruosi is a sheet metal fabricator by trade, is learning the art of engine tuning and will soon be joining the other racers on track in her own drag car

Dale Jones is an IHRA steward and has volunteered at drag racing meets for more than 50 years

“THERE IS A REAL SENSE OF FAMILY AT WILLOWBANK AND I LOVE THAT I CAN HELP THE SHOW TO GO ON.” tuning and has unveiled her own race car at Melbourne Motorplex last month.

Michelle survived cancer and at the suggestion of her husband Gareth, took up winning races behind the wheel of a Pro Slammer Mustang as her recovery therapy.

Fiona manages two small girls while also steering a Super Charged Outlaw to the

finish line. Katie drags the whole family from Mackay as she races her Modified dragster along the East Coast of Australia. Tiana is 14 years old and a serious contender in the Junior Dragster competition.

Fiona spends her weekdays working in a bank but on the weekends, she is chasing new speeds.

“Growing up in the drag racing scene I knew early on I wanted enjoy it with my family,” she says. “I loved everything about the racing, from weekends in the shed to being at the racetrack. I love having the kids with me, and I’m lucky they love racing with me. A good luck May 2022 Motor Trader | 15

Georgie Taylor (below), Debbie Phillips (right) and Ros Kiprios (below right), along with Lorelle McCarthy (previous page), work to look after everybody at the track

kiss on the helmet from the girls before I get in the car makes my weekend.”

Lorelle, Ros, Georgie, and Debbie all spend their time being mother hen to their family of racers. From drivers to pit crews, from grandchildren to adopted orphans, from hugs and tut tuts on bruises and boo boos, to full gourmet catering spreads, these women cook and clean and take care of their racing family’s every need.

Georgie isn’t fond of the spotlight, but And then there is me. I am one of the she runs a camp kitchen in the pits that slowest drivers you will ever meet but I would shame the defence force, feeding spend my weekends at the track providing nearly 13 pit crew for the Mad Professor live coverage for Fox Sports and Kayo while Pro Slammer race car 3 meals per day plus noting the interesting stories for publications snacks over a race weekend. Georgie takes such as Motor Trader magazine. great pride in her delicious, wholesome The automotive industry and motorsport meals and no matter who you are, are not the man’s world they used to when you enter the tent you are be. Women play a role in all aspects CLICK greeted by a smile from Georgie now and motorsport facilities TO VISIT THE WILLOWBANK and “Are you hungry? Of course such as Willowbank Raceway RACEWAY you are hungry. Let me get you play a key role in making them WEBSITE something to eat.” feel welcome.

WOMEN PLAY A ROLE IN ALL ASPECTS NOW AND MOTORSPORT FACILITIES SUCH AS WILLOWBANK RACEWAY PLAY A KEY ROLE IN MAKING THEM FEEL WELCOME.

16 | Motor Trader May 2022

YOU ARE INVITED TO JOIN AUTO WOMEN Auto Women is a supportive group that: Raises the profile of women in the automotive industry Advocates for women in the automotive industry on key issues to government Promotes career opportunities for women and the advantages of diversity to employers Hosts virtual and in-person networking and social events that educate, connect and support women Is led by a diverse mentor team Provides career enhancement courses and scholarships

FOLLOW AND LIKE @AUTOWOMEN JOIN THE GROUP @AUTOWOMEN 20221042

READ MORE AT WWW.MTAQ.COM.AU/AUTO-WOMEN

MTA | Q&A

BIG IS BETTER AT TOUG 18 | Motor Trader May 2022

GH TRUCKS AUSTRALIA

May 2022 Motor Trader | 19

MTA | Q&A

The Ford F Series F-250, F-350 and F-450 trucks

A

MERICANS LIKE PICK-UP trucks.

You probably already know this.

In fact, Americans like them so much that the best-selling vehicle in the USA for the past 40 years is a truck - the Ford F-150.

Here’s another fact: The F Series family of trucks – of which the F-150 is a member and which includes the F-250, F-350, and F-450 – has been the biggest selling line of trucks in the US for the past 45 years and in 2021 Ford in the US sold an astonishing 726,000 of them.

That is a very big number, and the word ‘big’ nicely describes not only that sales figure, but the size of the trucks too. They are, as things in and from the US often seem to be, very large indeed.

Take the F-250 Platinum Crew Cab model, for example. Part of Ford’s Super Duty line of F-Series pick-ups, it is 6.76 metres long, over 2 metres in height and

20 | Motor Trader May 2022

THE F SERIES FAMILY OF TRUCKS – OF WHICH THE F-150 IS A MEMBER AND WHICH INCLUDES THE F-250, F-350, AND F-450 – HAS BEEN THE BIGGEST SELLING LINE OF TRUCKS IN THE US FOR THE PAST 45 YEARS . . . width (2.7 metres wide if you include the mirrors), and can weigh in (depending on engine choice) at over 3200kg. Its maximum payload is over 1,360kg and it can tow, depending on the engine and the towing set-up (including heavy duty gooseneck or fifth-wheel hook-ups), anywhere from 5600kg to nearly 9000kg.

Maximum Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) or Gross Combination Mass (GCM) - which is the maximum allowable

combined weight of the truck and everything and everyone it is carrying and towing ranges from 8,800kg all the way up to 19,700kg.

The engines that power these trucks are powerful sizeable too, of course - they have to be - and Ford makes Ford F-250 Black Widow sure there’s plenty of grunt under the bonnet in the form of a leather and chock full of enough gadgetry, 6.2-litre petrol V8, a 7.3-litre petrol V8, or a tech and safety features that it would make 6.7-litre Power Stroke diesel V8. a European luxury sedan blush.

Like we said, ‘big’ is the word to use So, if you are looking for something that here. ‘Luxurious’ works quite well too. If can haul some serious weight, and want to you’ve ever had the chance to see one up do that in serious style, then this could be close, the cavernous interior of the F-250 the truck for you.

Platinum - which is one of the top-spec But where do you go in Australia to get your hands on something like the F-250? models - is covered in nicely stitched May 2022 Motor Trader | 21

MTA | Q&A The Gold Coast is home to one such place. Opened in 2019, the award-winning Tough Trucks dealership offers a range of Ford pick-up trucks. Those trucks include factory stock models such as the F-250 XLT, but also an Overland variant - that is fully prepped for those off-road, outback camping trips - and even the absolute workhorse/towing behemoth that is the F-450.

And Tough Trucks offers a range of services and products to support these vehicles. As well as the necessary importing and right-hand-drive conversion services, they can deliver bespoke customisation to the customers’ requests, VIDEO: TOUGH TRUCKS SHOWROOM TOUR

AS WELL AS THE NECESSARY IMPORTING AND RIGHT-HAND-DRIVE CONVERSION SERVICES, THEY CAN DELIVER BESPOKE CUSTOMISATION TO THE CUSTOMERS’ REQUESTS, AS WELL AS AFTERSALES SERVICE AND SUPPORT . . . as well as aftersales service and support and a vast number of accessories.

But Tough Trucks is really making its name thanks to the modified, performance variants of the trucks it offers.

Thanks to its partnership with the renowned SCA Performance outfit of Alabama in the US – for whom it is the Australasian distributor – Tough Trucks offers the high-end, modified and lifted performance trucks that SCA builds, most notably its signature Black Widow brand.

What does ‘Black Widow’ mean with regard to these trucks?

Let’s look at a 2022 F-250 Black Widow.

F250 Lifted Overland Edition

On top of an already pretty comprehensive equipment list, there’s a 4-inch Suspension Lift System, 37-inch Mud or All-Terrain Tyres, 20-inch SCA Black Widow Wheels, Custom Stitched Headrests and Black Widow fittings and gauges, fender flares and, if optioned, Fox Coilover and rear

shock upgrades, a Fox steering stabiliser upgrade, colour-matched hard lid for the tray, a heavy-duty trailer tow package, remote start system, a hood protector . . . the list goes on. But you get the idea - this is no ordinary pick-up.

SCA Performance create Black Widow

Tough Trucks offers a range of American performance pick-ups that are lifted and modified with the Black Widow set-up from US company SCA Performance

MTA | Q&A

modifications for the trucks of other manufacturers too, so while Tough Trucks focuses on importing the Fords, you can find a Chevy Silverado or Jeep Gladiator Black Widow edition here too, and if you already have a stock variant of one of those, then Tough Trucks can give it an in-house, full Black Widow upgrade treatment.

To top it all off, Tough Trucks’ vehicles Ford F-250 Black Widow

VIDEO: 2021 F-250 BLACK WIDOW

Mark Ritson, founder and owner of Tough Trucks

“WE CURRENTLY HAVE 130 DEPOSITS ON NEW TRUCKS AND OVER 200 ON ORDER . . . OF THOSE, ABOUT 35 ARE BLACK WIDOWS, AND ANOTHER 20 OR SO ARE THE OVERLAND BUILDS.” are modified to right-hand-drive by Performax International, the company based in Gympie that has a reputation built on the quality of their conversion technology.

Being big, powerful, luxurious, and capable of doing the hard work asked of them, means these trucks don’t come cheap. For example, that F-250 Black Widow with all the trimmings comes in at a smidge under $220,000.

That is a lot of money, but there is, it seems, no shortage of customers.

“We currently have 130 deposits on new trucks and over 200 on order,” said Mark Ritson, founder and owner of Tough Trucks. “Of those, about 35 are Black Widows, and another 20 or so are the Overland builds.

“Our customers come from all over the country and if we could get more trucks faster, we could sell them.

“The demand is, in part, because of COVID and people wanting to see their own country more. They want the right tow vehicle for their caravan, and they know their GVMs [Gross Vehicle Mass], payload requirements, and so on. They want the stability on the road and to know that, legally, they can tow that weight without getting into strife. They are savvy

The Black Widow modifications include a tasty instrument cluster upgrade complete with the brand’s graphics

Chevy 1500 Black Widow

buyers, and our trucks suit that market.

“We also have a lot of small business owners as customers. The trucks are over a tonne, so they are a commercial vehicle and customers can write the whole lot off and there’s no luxury car tax.”

BUILDING THE BRAND For Mark, establishing and building the Tough Trucks business and brand had its genesis, as many successful businesses do, in finding a solution to a problem.

An electrician by trade, he had moved from Melbourne to Queensland in 2008, establishing a successful electrical Mark Ritson with the Retail, Wholesale & Distribution Award won by Tough Trucks at the Gold Coast Business Awards in 2021

business over the next few years. It was on trips back to Victoria that his interest in the big American trucks was piqued.

He had been on the lookout for something which could haul his Malibu boat without difficulty and that would ensure a trip down south would be easy and comfortable.

“I needed a truck to tow my boat, and the Navarra, the HiLux, and the Ranger just weren’t big enough,” he said.

“Boats were getting bigger, and the cars weren’t getting any more powerful, and that’s when I went over to the States, found my first Dodge Ram and did the whole process myself of importing it and so on.”

Spotting a niche in the local market, Mark began importing the Dodge Rams, and what had begun as a search for a powerful and fit-for-purpose truck for his own needs blossomed into an increasingly busy and profitable enterprise.

By 2015, he was selling about 15 Dodge Rams per year, but then American Special Vehicles – a joint venture between Walkinshaw Automotive Group and Ateco

Automotive – began to bring VIDEO: WHO IS SCA PERFORMANCE? over the Dodge trucks officially and converting them to righthand-drive.

“I thought that was going to be it for me because I wouldn’t be able to compete with the big boys,” said Mark.

But instead of writing off his importing venture as something that had run its course, Mark’s enthusiasm for what he was doing saw him swap over to the big Ford into a new, modern, plush home – with an pick-ups and the securing of a partnership exterior modelled on the desert geography with SCA Performance as the Australasian distributor of their modified truck variants of Arizona – on the Gold Coast’s Ferry Road, a hot spot for car dealerships and and accessories. the home to, amongst others, Porsche and From there, things moved rapidly.

Bentley dealerships. A prime location.

Setting up a couple of workshops for While Tough Trucks’ modified and further modifications, fitting of accessories lifted Ford trucks come from SCA and servicing gave things a solid Performance, the team are trained to do foundation, but with interest strong, and the modifications locally if required. the deal with SCA Performance on the That skill comes in handy. The industry cards, a showroom quickly became a is still grappling with long lead times for must-have consideration. deliveries thanks to component supply “We were doing the work on the trucks delays, and that has meant the Tough at another facility, but when we hooked Trucks team focuses on what modifications up with SCA, I realised we needed the can be delivered, and when, and is always showroom,” said Mark. working to be a few steps ahead.

And so, in 2019, Tough Trucks moved May 2022 Motor Trader | 27

MTA | Q&A “We’ve got to be ahead of the game, especially with all the suspension stuff, for example, as the Fox coilovers are really hard to get,” said Mark. “Also, there can be delays for things like Warn winches and the custom equipment - the extras - that we offer for our Overland truck. We Ford F-150 Black Widow have to have that stuff ordered well ahead of time.

“We’ve been over there and had training it has received an astonishing 200,000 at the SCA factory in Alabama,” he added. reservations for the Lightning and for an “We talk to them all the time and know electrician like Mark there is no concern how to fit all the gear. So if we get a truck about taking on trucks with this new from another source and need to get it technology. done faster than can be done by it going “We’ll embrace those too,” he said. into the SCA build line, then we can bring “We have an ‘expression of interest’ page on it straight here and put all the gear on. our website and have had a lot of demand And that goes for the Chevy Black Widow on there. People want more information trucks too. We fit those kits to trucks we and have put their name down for them acquire from our suppliers here.” when they get here. I think they will be a hit. The range on them may not be ideal for THE FUTURE everyone, but for the right people it will be Ford Australia recently announced it will a great truck.” begin selling the F-150 through its local The automotive industry might well be dealership network and while it is not one heading towards a more electrified future, of Tough Trucks most popular models, but the need for big, powerful trucks the influx of them through official Ford isn’t likely to be going anywhere soon. channels, and the enthusiasm of owners to Businesses will need them, no matter how modify them (or buy one already modified) they are powered, and in this era in which Australians are rediscovering the delights that will almost certainly follow, will likely of travelling in their own vast country, the see more business flow Tough Trucks way. interest in them continues to grow.

“We’ll acquire those F-150s locally and What started as the solution to a do exactly what we do with the Silverados personal problem has, for Mark, grown into and the Rams,” said Mark. “They’ll be something pretty special.

Black Widows – our HSV-type truck – “Back when I was doing the Rams, people and they’ll be available if someone wants would say to me, ‘Are they too big?’,” he said. something better than the stock F-150 “But since then, people have opened from the dealer. There’ll be a market their minds to the idea. The more we there for us.”

CLICK TO VISIT THE saw on the road, the more people There is also, of course, TOUGH TRUCKS got used to them and realised they the F-150 Lightning electric AUSTRALIA weren’t too big. These trucks really truck that has just started WEBSITE are awesome vehicles.” production in the US. Ford says 28 | Motor Trader May 2022

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Auto innovation news

AMPOL UNVEILS NATIONAL EV CHARGING PLAN

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USTRALIAN FUEL COMPANY Ampol has launched electric vehicle (EV) charging brand AmpCharge and has revealed plans for the initial roll out of fast chargers in what will become a national charging network.

Ampol says AmpCharge will service customers at home and at forecourts and destinations, using existing Ampol infrastructure. At-home branded charging

infrastructure is also expected to be developed under AmpCharge, with offers to be made available to consumers as part of a broader home energy offer.

The AmpCharge rollout will commence with five pilot sites at Ampol service stations in Carseldine QLD, Alexandria NSW, Northmead NSW, Altona North VIC, and Belmont WA, coming online in June and July 2022.

These sites will feature AmpCharge chargers supplied with renewable energy, or covered by green certificates, and will be capable of delivering charge to a BEV at up to 150kW, with each site having the capacity to charge at least two BEVs concurrently.

“I’m pleased to today unveil our fullservice electric vehicle fast charging ecosystem, AmpCharge, leveraging our existing network, skills and infrastructure to provide a diverse and comprehensive charging network that can minimise range anxiety and support the uptake of BEVs in Australia,” said Matt Halliday, Ampol Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer in a statement.

“We’ve been keeping Australians moving for over 120 years. Today, as energy needs evolve, our vision is to become Australia’s leading distributer of energy, providing mobility solutions for any of the vehicles our customers drive, anywhere and anytime they need it.

“As we begin to evolve our national network, consumers will see AmpCharge in Ampol service stations, depots and terminals right across the country. For the first time, we’ll also be entering homes, workplaces and shopping centres as we seek to deliver simple and efficient charging solutions at convenient locations to keep people moving.”

The five pilot sites form part of an initial roll out to approximately 120 sites by October 2023 as part of an agreement with the Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA) announced in July last year.

SURVEY SHOWS FUEL CONSUMPTION NOW NO. 1 FACTOR FOR UK CAR BUYERS SOME INTERESTING NEWS out of the UK, where the result of a survey commissioned by used car marketplace CarGurus has shown that the number one priority for UK car buyers is fuel consumption, with 57 per cent declaring it as one of their most important factors when considering their next vehicle purchase.

The survey, which asked questions of 2,000 UK drivers who own a car (excluding EVs), saw fuel consumption relegate reliability (55 per cent) to second on the list of buyers’ concerns, ahead of road tax (25 per cent).

When considering which factors would be most likely to push them toward a more eco-friendly or fuel-efficient car, 43 per cent cited increased fuel prices, with 31 per cent referencing the fight against climate change.

Just 57 per cent of respondents said they would still have bought the car they own had fuel prices been the same today.

Almost a quarter (23 per cent) would have chosen a model that was cheaper to run, and 8 per cent said they would have either purchased an EV or nothing at all.

May 2022 Motor Trader | 31

Auto innovation news

AUDI TO TEST RECYCLED GLASS FOR Q4 E-TRON EV

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UDI HAS LAUNCHED a project to recycle damaged vehicle windows and use them on the Q4 e-tron series electric vehicles (EV).

Together with its partner companies Reiling Glas Recycling, Saint-Gobain Glass, and Saint-Gobain Sekurit - Audi has drawn up a multi-stage process for that purpose.

The car windows are first broken into small pieces, then non-glass impurities like glue residue are eliminated. The resulting glass granulate is melted down and turned into new plate glass. That plate glass is then turned into a new car window.

If this pilot project is successful, Audi says the windows that are produced this

32 | Motor Trader May 2022

way will be used in models in the Audi Q4 e-tron series in the future.

The plan is part of Audi’s circular economy strategy with the company looking at its products over their entire life cycle. To the greatest extent possible, the company says, the raw materials that are involved are to be reintroduced into the production process once they are no longer being used. Aluminium scraps from Audi’s press shop have been introduced into a similar closed circuit since 2017.

“Our goal is to use secondary materials everywhere it is technically possible and economically reasonable to do so. We’re working on introducing materials we have direct access to into closed circuits,” says Marco Philippi, Head of Procurement Strategy. “As of now, for example, old car glazing is not being used to produce new car windows. We want to change that.”

The project will go through a one-year test to determine material quality, stability, and costs.

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Auto innovation news

NISSAN DEVELOPING NEW AUTONOMOUS DRIVER ASSISTANCE TECH

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ISSAN HAS ANNOUNCED a new driver-assistance technology, called Ground Truth Perception, is currently in development. The company says it uses highly accurate, real-time information about the vehicle’s surrounding environment to enhance collision avoidance. In April, the company demonstrated the technology and how it can automatically perform collisionavoidance manoeuvres.

The technology fuses information gleaned from next-generation highperformance LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging), radar, and cameras, and,

34 | Motor Trader May 2022

VIDEO: NISSAN ADVANCES TECHNOLOGY TOWARD AUTONOMOUS DRIVING WITH GROUND TRUTH PERCEPTION

Nissan says, it can detect the shape and distance of objects, as well as the structure of the area surrounding the vehicle, in

ZF LAUNCHES NEW COLLISION MITIGATION SYSTEM FOR CITY BUS APPLICATIONS

real time with a high degree of accuracy.

Using this information, the vehicle can instantly analyse the situation, judge and automatically perform required collisionavoidance operations.

The technology can also detect slowed traffic and road obstacles in the distance and execute lane changes accordingly, and provide increased support to drivers in areas where detailed map information is not available.

“Nissan has been the first to market a number of advanced driver assistance technologies. When we look at thefuture of autonomous driving, we believe that it is of utmost importance for owners to feel highly confident in the safety of their vehicle,” said Takao Asami, senior vice president, leading global research and development. “We are confident that our in-development ground truth perception technology will make a significant contribution to owner confidence, reduced traffic accidents and autonomous driving in the future.”

Nissan says it aims to complete the development of its ground truth perception technology by the mid-2020s. It will first be available on select new models, and on virtually every new model by 2030.

ZF, THE GERMAN auto parts manufacturer and engineering company has announced it is to launch a Collision Mitigation System (CMS) for city buses. Offering active braking to help avoid frontal collisions with other road users - including vehicles, bicycles and pedestrians - the system will also help counter the adverse impact of braking momentum on passengers.

Helping reduce the risk of accidents and injuries both inside and outside of the bus, the solution is, ZF says, the industry’s first OEM-independent CMS specifically engineered for city bus applications. The system is compatible with both electric and internal combustion engines. ZF will initially launch its City Bus CMS in Europe with plans to roll the system out worldwide.

The City Bus CMS draws on its latest OnGuardMAX technology for heavy trucks – with specific features and functionalities tailored for city bus applications. Combining the data from its camera and radar provides continuous analysis of the traffic situation. If an impending collision is detected, the system can issue a Forward Collision Warning and automatically apply the brakes to help mitigate or avoid an accident.

The interaction between ZF’s ADAS and braking system sees brake pressure carefully applied, making passengers less likely to be jolted and put off-balance.

Auto innovation news

VINFAST ANNOUNCE BATTERY SUBSCRIPTION PRICING FOR US

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HE COST OF replacing an electric sees it take on ‘the risks related to vehicle’s (EV) battery pack can be the vehicle’s battery and ensures a pretty sizeable. They are the biggest reasonable price for its products, whilc fixed cost in an EV and even with the price providing customers with peace of mind coming down as technology improves about the battery’s quality during use.’ and the EV market grows and matures, VinFast says it also commits to provide the cost of swapping over to a brand-new a lifetime battery warranty covering all pack once a battery system is out maintenance and repair costs and will of warranty and no longer replace the battery for free when VF 8 interior delivering the capacity charging capacity dips below required to effectively 70 per cent. power the vehicle can be The company will in many thousands of offer customers two dollars (depending on mandatory subscription the size of the battery plans - the Flexible and pack).

Fixed packages.

Vietnamese The Flexible Plan, carmaker Vinfast – the designed for customers manufacturer of some very who travel infrequently, smart-looking EVs – is taking offers a monthly battery a new idea to the US market, subscription fee of $US35 revealing battery subscription plans ($AU47.50) for the VF 8 and $US44 for its VF 8 ( formerly branded as the e35) ($AU59.80) for VF9. This is a monthly fee and VF 9 ( formerly the e36) medium and for 310 miles (499km) of travel. From that full-size SUV models. point on, the battery subscription fee per It’s a solution that sees a customer mile is about 11 cents (15 cents Australian) buy the vehicle and effectively ‘rent’ the for VF 8 and 15 cents (20 cents Australian) battery, and which the company says for the VF 9.

Vinfast VF 9

36 | Motor Trader May 2022

Vinfast VF 8

Rates for the monthly fixed subscription, which allows unlimited range, are $US110 ($AU150) for the VF 8 and $160 ($AU217) for the VF 9. The policy is also automatically transferred to any new owner after the vehicle is sold.

Pricing in the US for the actual VF 8 vehicle itself ranges from $US40,700 ($AU55,300) up to $US48,000 ($AU65,225) with the larger VF 9 starting at $US55,500 ($AU74,740) and the top model priced at

$US61,000 ($AU82,890).

The 100 per cent battery subscription plan will be the only option available initially, but VinFast says it plans to adjust it at the end of 2023 at which point there will be a split where 50 per cent of models are sold with the subscription option and 50 per cent will be available to purchase with the battery.

It will be interesting to see how successful this plan will be.

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Auto innovation news

VOLVO CARS TECH FUND INVESTS IN BATTERY TECHNOLOGY COMPANY STOREDOT

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OLVO CARS HAS StoreDot is developing made an investment extreme-fast-charging in StoreDot, an battery technology Israeli company developing extreme-fast-charging battery technology for electric cars, through the Volvo Cars Tech Fund, its venture capital arm.

StoreDot is working on a technology that, according to the company, should result in batteries that can charge to 160km of pure electric range in five minutes.

StoreDot’s battery development is centred around a ‘siliconin our industry and the Tech Fund plays a dominant anode technology and related crucial role in establishing partnerships software integration.’ with future technology leaders,” said The technology aligns with Volvo Cars’ Alexander Petrofski, Head of the Volvo ambition to develop electric cars with a Cars Tech Fund. “Our investment in longer range, quicker charging and lower StoreDot perfectly fits that mindset, and costs, and Volvo says that by working with their commitment to electrification and StoreDot, it aims to accelerate the time to carbon-free mobility matches our own. market for its technology, targeting mass We’re excited to make this a successful production by 2024. collaboration for both parties and work The collaboration between both towards bringing this groundbreaking companies will mainly take place within technology to the market.” the battery technology joint venture that Volvo Cars has committed to all-out Volvo Cars established last year with electrification and aims to sell only pure electric cars by 2030. By 2025, it aims for Northvolt, the Swedish battery maker. half of its global volume to consist of pure Through its investment in StoreDot, Volvo electric cars. Its transition to electrification Cars has secured access to any resulting is part of its ambition to become a climatetechnology from the collaboration. neutral company by 2040.

“We aim to be the fastest transformer 38 | Motor Trader May 2022

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Auto innovation news

MERCEDES-BENZ VISION EQXX EV CONCEPT CLEARS 1000KM ON A SINGLE CHARGE

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T THE BEGINNING of the year, Mercedes-Benz unveiled the Vision EQXX all-electric concept car - a research vehicle which the company touted as being able to do as much as 1000km on a single charge. A few months on, and the Vision EQXX has proven its chops on the road and has indeed demonstrated its incredible range.

In a trip from the company’s Sindelfingen R&D centre in southern Germany, across the Swiss Alps and Northern Italy, to the town of Cassis in southern France, it covered more than 1000km in everyday traffic, on a single battery charge.

The company says the journey started in cold and rainy conditions, and was undertaken at regular road speeds, including prolonged fast-lane cruising at up to 140km/h on the German autobahn and near the speed limit elsewhere.

Mercedes also says the battery’s state of charge on arrival was around 15 per cent, amounting to a remaining range of around 140km, and the average consumption was 8.7kWh per 100km.

The long-distance drive was. Mercedes said, completed with the charging socket sealed and accompanied by an independent expert from certification body TÜV Süd.

The Vision EQXX is at the cutting edge of EV design and technology. It has 100kWh 40 | Motor Trader May 2022

of charge on tap, and all that energy is stored in a pack that has 50 per cent less volume, and is 30 per cent lighter, than that used in the Mercedes EQS full-size luxury EV. This is thanks to some clever engineering and chemistry, and some innovative thinking that has come via Mercedes’ involvement in Formula One. A 900V electrical system should enable lightning fast recharging.

The company says the car’s electric drive unit is compact, lightweight, and highly efficient with 95 per cent of the energy from the battery ending up at the wheels.

There’s a 0.17 drag coefficient of the car to think about too which, along with weight-saving measures, regenerative braking, and low rolling-resistance tyres, add to the range ability of the car.

For extra help, there are even ultra-thin solar roof panels that feed the 12-volt battery which supplies power to auxiliary systems such as the navigation system.

The added value is measurable through the load removed from the high-voltage battery, displayed by the onboard computer. Overall, the solar booster increases the range by more than two percent, Mercedes says, or up to 25km on a journey of over 1000km.

“With our successful road trip to the South of France, we’ve shown that efficiency is the new currency,” said Markus Schäfer, Member of the Board of

Mercedes-Benz Vision EQXX

Management of Mercedes-Benz Group AG, Chief Technology Officer responsible for Development and Purchasing.

“And this success also clearly speaks for our new collaborative development process, incorporating many learnings from the Mercedes-AMG F1 team and its cutting-edge expertise in electric powertrains.

“The Vision EQXX is the result of a comprehensive program that provides a blueprint for the future of automotive engineering. Many of the innovative developments are already being integrated into production, some of them in the next generation of modular architecture for compact and midsize Mercedes-Benz vehicles.”

May 2022 Motor Trader | 41

CLASSIC CAR: 42 | Motor Trader May 2022

VOLVO P1800 May 2022 Motor Trader | 43

44 | Motor Trader May 2022

I

F YOU HAD to name the ‘coolest’ cars of the 1960s, you might very well mention one of (or perhaps a few of) the iconic, and really beautiful, automotive artworks that emerged from European manufacturers across that decade.

From the Jaguar E-Type to the Lamborghini Miura, the Aston Martin DB5 to the Porsche 911, the Alfa Romeo 33 Stradale to the Ferrari 250 GTO to the Jensen Interceptor – and there are plenty more examples - the decade was stuffed with stunning sports cars that would become instant, desirable classics.

But it wasn’t just the vaunted design studios and manufacturers of Italy, Britain and Germany that were churning out these remarkable-looking machines.

Tucked away in Gothenburg, Sweden, and with a reputation for making excellent cars that are safe rather than sexy, Volvo is

NOW CONSIDERED A CLASSIC OF THE PERIOD, THE P1800 HAD A WOBBLY PATHWAY TO PRODUCTION.

almost certainly not the first name you’d whisper in a conversation about stunning sports cars of the swinging sixties, and yet the company did indeed do just that with the sparkling P1800.

In fact, the P1800 - a truly stylish, twodoor, 2+2, rear-wheel-drive sports car - appeared before almost all the other cars listed above, making its first appearance in 1960 at the Brussels Motor Show.

Now considered a classic of the period, the P1800 had a wobbly pathway to production.

In the mid-’50s, the company had revealed the P1900 (also known as the Volvo Sport) - a fibreglass-bodied twoseater that looked the business but failed to catch on with just 68 examples built.

Undeterred, the company decided on taking another stab at the potentially lucrative European and US sportscar markets.

A Volvo consultant, Helmer Petterson, was deeply involved in the planning of the new car and it was his son, designer Pelle Petterson – who was then working for famed Italian designer Pietro Frua – whose design was chosen for the new model.

The new sports car had a fixed roof, a steel body, and a lot of mechanical The P1800 - a truly stylish 1960s classic

May 2022 Motor Trader | 45

Images via Volvo Cars

components lifted straight from the Volvo’s mid-sized car from the mid-’50s – the 121 or Amazon - but with a shorter wheelbase.

A new engine – the B18 – was to power the car, with the 1.8-litre, 4-cylinder unit developing 100bhp (74.5kW).

Power was sent to the rear wheels via a 4-speed manual transmission, a 4-speed manual with overdrive, or a 3-speed automatic, all with a floor-mounted gear lever. Disc brakes were up front with drums at the rear.

Three prototypes were built by Frua in Italy in 1957-1958, but production became an issue. Volvo was busy and didn’t have sufficient in-house capacity to manufacture the new model so the hunt was on for a manufacturing partner.

After considering several companies, they settled for two British firms – Pressed Steel, which would make the bodies, and Jensen Motors (makers of the aforementioned Jensen Interceptor) which 46 | Motor Trader May 2022

PRODUCTION CAME TO AN END IN 1973 WITH 39,414 MODELS BUILT, OF WHICH 5,078 WERE THE ES VARIANT. would paint and assemble the cars.

The first P1800 emerged from the factory in 1961 but production was not smooth sailing. A host of issues meant Volvo looked quickly to move manufacturing back in-house and it managed to do so in 1963 after 6000 had been built in the UK. Subsequent models would have the letter S ( for Sweden) added to their name to differentiate them from those assembled in Britain. However, those early British-built models, or one of them at least, would be key in giving the P1800 an early publicity boost.

In 1961, a new TV show was being produced in the UK. Called The Saint,

Actor Roger Moore as Simon Templer in TV show The Saint, with his P1800

its main character was a suave, spy-like, crime fighter named Simon Templar, and the producers wanted this charming individual – to be played by Roger Moore of future James Bond fame - to drive a suitably stylish car.

Having been turned down by Jaguar in their request to use the new and sparkling E-Type, the producers were more than happy for Volvo to step in with the P1800.

It was a PR coup for Volvo and gave the car much visibility across the world.

Over the next few years, the P1800 coupe received only a few tweaks to its exterior look while underneath the skin, engines would get more powerful – a 2-litre, 115bhp (86kW) variant appeared in 1968; and a fuelinjected, 120bhp (89.5kW) version, called the P1800 E, in 1969 – while disc brakes all round were also fitted to later models.

In 1971, a new body variant was introduced, the 1800 ES - a sporting hatchback with an extended roofline

and an estate car/wagon rear that featured a large glass tailgate. The new version was produced for two model years, 1972 and 1973.

In 1972, both versions, the E and ES, were produced in parallel, but only the 1800 ES was produced in 1973.

Production came to an end in 1973 with 39,414 models built, of which 5,078 were the ES variant.

Today the P1800, in all its variants, must surely be considered a desirable purchase for any collector of beautiful cars of the 1960s. And it is an a relatively affordable one too - a quick flick through carsales.com.au at the end of April showed one on sale in Australia for less than $90,000. That is still quite a lot of money, of course, but in comparison to the hundreds of thousands, even millions, that other classic sports cars of the era can fetch, that seems like an absolute bargain.

May 2022 Motor Trader | 47

Auto innovation news

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VIEW PAST ISSUES OF MOTOR TRADER MAGAZINE AT WWW.MTAQ.COM.AU/PUBLICATIONS

48 | Motor Trader May 2022 CLICK HERE TO ACCESS PAST ISSUES OF MOTOR TRADER

Auto news

NEW STYLING AND TECH FEATURES ADDED TO NISSAN LEAF EV

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NEW-LOOK LEAF IS set to Nissan LEAF arrive in Australia in August, with Nissan’s EV receiving styling and technology updates for the 2023 model year, while continuing to offer a two-model line-up - the LEAF and the LEAF e+.

Key styling changes include new badging, a revised front grille, and a darkened headlight finisher. A new 17-inch alloy wheel design, a new rear diffuser, and sporty-looking rear spoiler and side sills complete the exterior design changes.

The new Leaf will feature Canto sound – an audible safety feature that is designed to be heard, but not alarm, those outside the vehicle,. Activated at speeds of less than 30km/h, the Canto sound varies in pitch when the vehicle is accelerating, slowing, or reversing, helping to alert other road users safe without disturbing the vehicle’s occupants.

The LEAF also features a Smart RearView Mirror, which pairs with a camera installed at the vehicle’s rear. Drivers can The Nissan LEAF range will continue to switch between the standard mirror and be offered with two battery configurations. the digital view at the push of button.

The Nissan LEAF model offers a driving The new equipment joins the LEAF’s range of 270km, delivers 110kW and extensive existing safety functions, 320Nm, and can sprint to 100km/h in 7.9 including Intelligent Cruise Control, front, seconds. It is available for $50,900 (MSRP). front-side and side-curtain airbags, front The Nissan LEAF e+ offers 385km of range, and rear parking sensors, a 360-degree delivers 160kW and 340Nm, and reach Around-View Monitor with Moving Object 100km/h in 6.9 seconds. It is available for Detection, and AEB with Pedestrian Detection. $61,490 (MSRP).

May 2022 Motor Trader | 49

Auto news

SSANGYONG ADDS LIMITED EDITION MODEL TO REXTON SUV RANGE

SsangYong Rexton SUV Black Edition

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SANGYONG AUSTRALIA HAS introduced a limited-edition model to the top of the 2022 Rexton large 7-seater SUV range - the Black Edition.

Based on the Ultimate model, the new Black Edition has some extra exterior touches, including a deep gloss black finish to grille elements and new-style LED fog lights. Other dark touches include black-finish 20-inch alloy wheels and black painted roof rails.

The Rexton Black Edition will be available in two body colours, Space Black or Pearl White.

The Rexton range – the ELX, the Ultimate, and now the Black Edition offers plenty of advanced safety features such as Autonomous Emergency Braking, Forward Collision Warning, Safety Distance Warning, Lane Change-Collision Warning, Blind Spot Warning, Rear Cross Traffic

50 | Motor Trader May 2022

Warning, and Smart High Beam.

Power comes from a 2.2-litre turbo diesel engine delivering 148kW and 441Nm. There’s an 8-speed automatic transmission with steering wheel paddle shift, as well as part-time 4x4 with 4H/4L range and automatic-locking rear differential. There’s doublewishbone suspension at the front and 10-link independent suspension at the rear, and the Rexton rides on 18-inch diamond cut alloy wheels.

Along with the extra touches it receives, the Black Edition model shares all the features of the ELX and Ultimate models, and they are many. Amongst these is a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and 8-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a tyre pressure monitoring system, and front and rear parking sensors.

The Ultimate model receives extras over the ELX, including a power sunroof and tailgate, premium quilted Nappa leather interior with powered front seats, heated leather steering wheel, 360-degree camera, wireless phone charger, third-row A/C controls, and touch-sensing front door locks with walk-away auto-door locking.

Recommended driveaway pricing for the 2022 Rexton model range sees the ELX come in at $47,990, the Ultimate at $54,990, and the Black Edition for $56,585 (with metallic paint). The Black Edition Rexton is scheduled to be on sale from August.

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Auto news

Lexus RZ 450e SUV

LEXUS DEBUTS THE RZ 450E ELECTRIC SUV

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EXUS HAS REVEALED the RZ 450e SUV, the company’s first battery electric vehicle (BEV) built on a dedicated platform and one that, Lexus says, ‘heralds the transition of Lexus into a BEV-centred brand.’

The e-TNGA platform on which the RZ sits uses the same architecture as Toyota’s new bZ4X EV (and the Subaru Solterra EV) and a 71.4kWh capacity battery pack will, Lexus claims, deliver 400km of range.

There’s a dual motor set-up with a front and rear e-axle, each equipped with an electric motor, transaxle and inverter in a compact unit. Output is 150kW at the front and 80kW at the rear.

The vehicle’s DIRECT4 system uses acceleration, cornering-speed and steeringangle information to automatically adjust front-rear torque delivery and braking force to all four wheels.

52 | Motor Trader May 2022

VIDEO: THE NEW RZ PRESS CONFERENCE

From standstill and during straight-line acceleration, the system uses a front-torear drive-force ratio between 60:40 and 40:60 for minimum vehicle pitch.

When the steering wheel is turned, drive force is biased to the front wheels between 50 and 75 per cent. When exiting a corner, torque distribution to the rear wheels is increased to between 50 and 80 per cent.

A new AHB-G (Active Hydraulic Booster-G)

independently controls increased efficiency of the front and rear regenerative braking.

In the cabin, driver control is done via a new yoke-like steering control and steerby-wire which is designed so that there is no need for hand-over-hand operation.

The RZ rides on a front MacPherson strut suspension, while its rear uses a trailing arm double-wishbone configuration. Frequency-reactive

dampers alter the damping force on the extension stroke in response to road surface input.

Equipped with the latest Lexus Safety System +, the RZ features include Proactive Driving Assist which is designed to contribute to safe and secure driving by providing support for a wider range of driving situations.

In addition to the Pre-Collision Safety, May 2022 Motor Trader | 53

Auto news

all-speed radar cruise control and Lane Departure Alert systems, an optional driver monitor provides a warning when it detects the driver is drowsy or looking sideways.

The RZ also features Advanced Drive (traffic-jam support) and Advanced Park (with remote function).

Advanced Drive can, Lexus says, support a driver’s perception, judgment and vehicle operation under certain conditions such as when the driver is looking ahead and operating radar cruise control and Lane Trace Assist during traffic jams (0-40 km/h approx.)

An intuitive Lexus Interface enables features such as Intelligent Assistant integration which allows the driver voice control of most features. Cloud-based navigation offers accurate directions and can provide real-time route information.

Profiles allow different drivers to create personal settings.

The look of the RZ delivers a new visual identity, with the signature spindle grille replaced by a BEV ‘spindle body’.

Aerodynamics and driving stability benefit from a roof spoiler and a ducktail shape on the end of the boot that reduces drag and generates downforce.

The interior is, of course, top quality, if minimalist, and incorporates the 54 | Motor Trader May 2022

company’s tazuna concept in which the cabin is ‘human-centred’ with intuitive controls oriented around the driver.

The yoke-like steering wheel catches the eye, but there is also a Lexus-first dial shift knob mounted on the centre console.

With an eye on the environmentally friendly attributes of EVs, three types of seat materials are used in the RZ, including Ultrasuede, a material that uses 30 per cent bio-based sustainable materials.

An available panoramic roof provides heat shielding, thermal insulation and 99 per cent UV protection and includes a dimming function, which instantly blocks light according to the needs of the occupants.

It was late in 2021 that Lexus (and Toyota) announced a new electrification strategy and Lexus plans a full line-up for BEVs, in all categories, by 2030. The aim is that by 2035 Lexus will achieve 100 per cent BEV sales globally.

MTAQ MEMBER SIGNAGE MTA Queensland has developed a series of posters that can be downloaded free of charge for members only. These are signs commonly asked for, and used, in workshops.

R E PA I R N OT I C E

R E PA I R N OT I C E

R E PA I R N OT I C E

WARNING

RIGHT TO RETAIN

QUALIFIED/TRAINED TECHNICIAN

No admittance into the workshop – Staff Only.

We reserve the right to retain your vehicle until payment is made in full.

A LWAY S C H O O S E A N M TA Q U E E N S L A N D MEMBER

A LWAY S C H O O S E A N M TA Q U E E N S L A N D MEMBER

This automotive business guarantees only qualified and trained technicians will be working on your vehicle.

A LWAY S C H O O S E A N M TA Q U E E N S L A N D MEMBER

R E PA I R N OT I C E

R E PA I R N OT I C E

CUSTOMERS RIGHT TO CHOOSE A REPAIRER

CUSTOMER SUPPLIED PARTS

Please note that you, as a consumer, have the legal right to choose who repairs your vehicle.

This automotive business will not install customer supplied parts because it cannot warrant or guarantee the quality, fitment and/ or the intended outcome of fitting these parts.

Independent repairers can complete log book servicing on your vehicle, even while it is under the warranty period, without affecting the manufacturer’s warranty.

A LWAY S C H O O S E A N M TA Q U E E N S L A N D MEMBER

This business is willing and able to diagnose and assess the vehicle’s problem and supply you with competitively priced, high quality parts in order to fix your vehicle.

This will ensure you are provided with all of the warranties and guarantees in accordance with the Australian Consumer Law. A LWAY S C H O O S E A N M TA Q U E E N S L A N D MEMBER

CLICK HERE TO SIGN-IN OR REGISTER FOR ACCESS TO MEMBER SIGNAGE

A LWAY S C H O O S E A N M TA Q U E E N S L A N D MEMBER

20210946

We hope to build a library of commonly needed signs, so please contact info@mtaq.com.au if you have suggestions.

Auto news

Volkswagen’s T-Roc crossover

VW T-ROC R TO ARRIVE IN AUSTRALIA IN AUGUST

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OLKSWAGEN’S T-ROC CROSSOVER is getting the R performance treatment with the T-ROC R to be available in Australia from August, priced from $59,300 (plus on-road costs).

Power comes from a 2-litre turbocharged TSI petrol engine, delivering 221kW of power and 400Nm of torque, mated to a 7-speed Direct Shift Gearbox (DSG).

0-100km/h is done in 4.9 seconds.

The latest VW technology includes the Digital Cockpit Pro, 9.2-inch Discover Pro navigation, wireless phone charging, wireless App-Connect, voice control and DAB+ digital radio. Keyless Access and an electric tailgate with Easy Open and Close function are also standard.

The T-Roc R gets the Volkswagen IQ.DRIVE system with Travel Assist, Active

56 | Motor Trader May 2022

POWER COMES FROM A 2-LITRE TURBOCHARGED TSI PETROL ENGINE, DELIVERING 221KW OF POWER AND 400NM OF TORQUE, MATED TO A 7-SPEED DIRECT SHIFT GEARBOX (DSG).

Cruise Control, Lane Assist, Side Assist, Park Assist and Rear View Camera - plus IQ.LIGHT matrix LED headlights with Dynamic Light Assist. Standard is the 4MOTION all-wheel drive, adaptive chassis control with Race mode, and progressive steering.

The interior debuts a newly designed soft-touch dashboard with a new fascia incorporating a new dual-zone climate control panel and piano-black inlays.

TOYOTA UPGRADES RAV4 WITH NEW SAFETY AND TECH FEATURES Sports front seats feature Nappa leather and heating, with the driver’s seat also being electrically adjustable. There’s also black rooflining and tinted rear glass, and a sports leather multi-function steering wheel with gearshift paddles.

On the outside, the T-Roc R features an illuminated grille strip with R logo and anodized aluminium trim, matte chrome mirrors, lowered ride height, an exhaust with quad tailpipes, roof spoiler and gloss black rear diffuser.

All colours are standard, including Pure White, Lapiz Blue Premium Metallic, Kings Red Premium Metallic, Pyrite Silver Metallic, Indium Grey Metallic and Deep Black Pearl Effect.

An optional ($1,200) Black Style package includes a black roof paint finish, mirrors, roof rails and roofline decorative trim, plus C-pillar carbon-look trim and black surrounds for the interior air vents and audio.

Other options include a panoramic sunroof ($2,000), a 300W, 6-speaker + subwoofer Beats audio system ($750) and Lapiz Blue matte décor inlays ($250).

TOYOTA WILL UPGRADE the popular RAV4 in the second half of 2022 with a range of enhancements to its multimedia, technology, and safety systems.

Headlining the upgrades will be the introduction of the latest generation multimedia system across the range that incorporates USB-C connection and the addition of Toyota Connected Services.

All models will feature an upgraded Toyota Safety Sense suite of driver assistance technologies, including Intersection Pre-Collision Safety and Emergency Steering Assist.

“Toyota is always keen to provide the latest safety, connectivity and multimedia technologies that customers want and as soon as they are available for our market, we make them available for our customers,” said Sean Hanley, Toyota Australia Vice President Sales, Marketing and Franchise Operations.

“This latest round of upgrades for the RAV4 will make what is already the most popular medium SUV even more appealing.”

Various upgraded features will be applied to certain models and grades within the 2WD and AWD RAV4 range and pricing will be confirmed closer to their introduction.

May 2022 Motor Trader | 57

Auto innovation news

(L-R) Lucid Grand Touring And Grand Touring Performance

LUCID UNVEILS NEW PERFORMANCE SEDAN EV WITH 783KW

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UCID, THE COMPANY behind the Lucid Air range of luxury sedan electric vehicles (EV), has begun deliveries of its Lucid Air Grand Touring model and also announced it will introduce a new variant - the Lucid Air Grand Touring Performance.

The Lucid Air Grand Touring Performance will be an incredibly potent luxury EV, with the All-Wheel-Drive dualmotor model boasting 1,050hp (783kW) and an estimated driving range of 718km from its 112kWh battery pack.

The two electric motors – one at each axle – can punch the Air Grand Touring Performance from 0 to 60mph (96.km/h) in 2.6 seconds.

Both it and the standard Grand Touring model have a 900V charging system, enabling users to add up to 483km of range in 21 minutes at a 350kW DC fast charger.

Both the Air Grand Touring and the Air Grand Touring Performance are stocked full of tasty features.

Standard equipment for both models

includes a glass canopy spanning windshield to roof; intuitive Lucid UX interface with 34-inch floating Glass Cockpit and 5K resolution; over-the-air software update capability; a 21-speaker Surreal Sound immersive audio system with Dolby Atmos compatibility; Intelligent Micro Lens Array LED Headlights; heated and ventilated front seats with massage feature; soft-close doors, power opening/closing boot and frunk; and DreamDrive Lucid Grand Touring interior Pro – Lucid’s advanced driver assistance system, with 30+ features and future-ready hardware. plenty of leather, Alcantara, and wood trim.

Both Grand Touring versions come The Lucid Air Grand Touring models standard with 21-inch wheels and Pirelli aren’t cheap, and the Air Grand Touring tyres specially developed for Lucid with Performance will, the company says, have the Grand Touring Performance featuring an MSRP of $US179,000 ($AU243,0075). a new Aero Sport wheel Customer deliveries in the U.S. are slated design. The Air Grand to begin in June 2022. The Air Grand Touring is also available Touring model is already in production. with 19-inch Aero range Lucid is making its name with these wheels with all-season extremely powerful, luxurious, and tyres. technologically advanced sedan models, Both models are but it does have plans to move into other sectors of the market. A luxury SUV, being available with four developed under the name Project Gravity, interior themes, each is being planned, with a projected launch designed to evoke Lucid’s date in 2024.

California home with May 2022 Motor Trader | 59

Auto news

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The electric BMW i7

NEW BMW 7 SERIES RANGE INCLUDES THE ELECTRIC i7

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MW HAS UNVEILED the new 7 Series range – the flagship of its luxury line-up – and the range includes an all-electric model, the i7 xDrive60.

Other variants that will be available in selected markets include the 760i xDrive powered by a 400kW V8; the 735i with a 6-cylinder, turbo petrol engine with 48V mild hybrid technology; the 740i, also with a 6-cylinder turbo engine; and the 760i xDrive, which has a 4.4-litre V8 producing 400kW. Plug-In Hybrid models and a diesel are expected to join the range in 2023.

The i7 electric will have a dual-motor set-up, with one electric motor at the front axle and one at the rear, and xDrive all-wheel-drive. Output is 400kW/745Nm and performance is a sterling 240km/h top speed and a 0-100km/h sprint of 4.7 seconds. BMW claims a range of up to 615km from a 101.7kWh battery pack.

Fast charging of up 195kW is available, meaning a 10-80 per cent charge time of 34 minutes can be achieved. AC (for home 60 | Motor Trader May 2022

charging) with an 11kW wallbox will see 10-100 per cent charging done in 9.5 hours.

Whatever the model, there’s plenty to be excited about. The exterior is bold, and on the inside, the cockpit is dominated by the BMW Curved Display. The fully digital screen grouping consists of a 12.3-inch information display behind the steering wheel and a control display of 14.9-inches.

Making its debut in the 7 Series is an Interaction Bar – a backlit unit that extends across the full width of the VIDEO: BMW I7 AND 7 SERIES

The BMW 7 Series range interior features include a 31.3-inch display for the rear passengers with 5.5-inch touchscreen displays (below) in the rear doors to operate it.

instrument panel and into the door panel trim, and which houses controls for ventilation and climate control, activating hazard warning lights and other functions.

In the back, there’s a massive 31.3-inch, 8k resolution, touchscreen display that extends down from the roof. With a Bowers & Wilkins surround sound system, and 5.5-inch touch-controlled operation displays in the rear doors, the rear of the 7 Series is a ‘cinema lounge on wheels.’

Newly developed comfort seats are standard, offering extensive electric adjustment, heating, and lumbar support.

An Executive Lounge option includes a reclining and massage function. There’s four-zone automatic climate control, plus panel heating for the armrest in the door

trim and centre console.

All 7 Series models are fitted with adaptive two-axle air suspension with automatic self-levelling as well as adaptive suspension with electronically controlled dampers. Integral Active Steering is an option for all variants and includes rearwheel steering of up to 3.5 degrees. An Executive Drive Pro option delivers an active roll stabilisation feature, and an M-specific version of the Executive Drive Pro system will be included as standard on the M models when they appear.

Safety and driver assistance features are, of course, comprehensive and include features such as Speed Limit Assist, Traffic Light Recognition, Active Lane Change Assistant, and amongst many others. .

May 2022 Motor Trader | 61

Auto news

HYUNDAI ANNOUNCES I30 N DRIVE-N LIMITED EDITION

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YUNDAI HAS ANNOUNCED the i30 N Drive-N Limited Edition, a special version of the high-performance i30 N hatchback.

The new model will be limited to 800 units with 620 going to Hyundai Motor Europe and the remaining 180 units to Hyundai Australia.

Based on the current 2021 i30 N Premium (sunroof) variant, the Limited Edition features the 206kW/392Nm, 2-litre turbo four-cylinder engine and come with either a manual transmission or N DCT - Hyundai’s eightspeed, wet-type, dual-clutch transmission.

The exterior of the Limited Edition will feature 19-inch forged alloy wheels in a dark bronze matte finish; black Hyundai 62 | Motor Trader May 2022

badges; special decals on the side, front and rear; and two dedicated Drive-N badges in dark bronze matte on the side fenders. The badges on the i30 N Drive N Limited Edition also display the GPS coordinates of the home of the N models the Hyundai Motor Europe Test Centre at Nürburgring in Germany.

THE i30 N DRIVE-N LIMITED EDITION IS EXPECTED TO ARRIVE LOCALLY IN THE FOURTH QUARTER OF THIS YEAR AND BE AVAILABLE IN TWO BODY COLOURS PHANTOM BLACK PEARL AND THE NEW SERENITY WHITE PEARL. The interior of each unit will have a unique numbered badge, and Alcantara with red stitching will cover the steering wheel, gear lever, armrest, and handbrake.

All accents decorating the interior will be red. This applies to the seat belts in the front and rear, and the steering wheel N buttons. The i30 N Drive-N Limited Edition also has exclusive floor mats with specific lettering.

The i30 N Premium (sunroof) variant on which the Limited Edition is based has a 10.2-inch multimedia touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, integrated satellite navigation, DAB+ radio, and Bluetooth connectivity. Its 4.2-inch digital instrument/supervision cluster displays data such as speed, torque, turbo boost, g-force meter and lap timer.

Hyundai Smart Sense active safety features include Forward Collision Avoidance Assist, Lane Following Assist, Lane Keeping Assist, Blind Spot Safety features and more.

The i30 N Drive-N Limited Edition is expected to arrive locally in the fourth quarter of this year and be available in two body colours - Phantom Black Pearl and the new Serenity White Pearl.

Of the 180 units reserved exclusively for Australia, 70 per cent will be DCT and 30 per cent manual.

May 2022 Motor Trader | 63

Auto innovation news

INEOS UNVEILS SPECS AND PRICES FOR RUGGED GRENADIER 4X4

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NEOS AUTOMOTIVE HAS revealed the specs and prices for the Grenadier, the new workhorse 4X4 that will launch in Australia this year.

The brainchild of British billionaire and industrialist Jim Radcliffe, the Grenadier will be launched with a multiple trim line-up available in two configurations, with prices for its two-seat Utility Wagon starting at $84,500, and $85,550 for a fiveseat Station Wagon.

Variants on the base versions of these models include a Trialmaster Edition which has, Ineos says, been specified with extreme off-roading in mind. It will be priced at $95,495 for the two-seat model

64 | Motor Trader May 2022

. . . THE GRENADIER WILL BE LAUNCHED WITH A TWO-MODEL, MULTIPLE TRIM LINE-UP, WITH PRICES FOR ITS A TWO-SEAT UTILITY WAGON PRICED FROM $84,500, AND $85,550 FOR A FIVE-SEAT STATION WAGON. and $96,495 for the five-seater.

A further variant - the Fieldmaster Edition – will offer a few more comfort and convenience features and is also

priced at $95,495 for the two-seat model and $96,495 for the five-seater.

There’s a choice of two straight-six, 3-litre BMW engines, with the turbo petrol engine producing 210kW and 450Nm, and a twin-turbo diesel generating 183kW and 550Nm. Whichever engine is chosen, it will be paired with an eight-speed automatic gearbox from ZF. The Grenadier comes exclusively with permanent four-wheel-drive and has a two-speed transfer case with a built-in centre differential which is lockable in both high and low range. Braked towing capacity is 3.5-tonne, and the Grenadier has more than 2,000 litres of load space and 5.5 tonnes of winching power.

Underneath the utilitarian, galvanised steel body, there’s a ladder-frame chassis, solid beam axles, underside protection that includes front and rear skid plates as well as fuel tank protection, and a five-link suspension set-up with Brembo brakes.

The Grenadier’s coil springs are made

by suspension specialists, Eibach, and its brake system - discs, pads and calipers – all come from Brembo.

17-inch steel wheels are standard, with 18-inch steel, 17-inch alloy and 18-inch alloy options available. Bridgestone and BFGoodrich tyres are available.

From launch, Ineos will offer a range of factory-fit options, pre-packaged Rough and Smooth options packs, and a broad range of accessories.

Ineos has considered that owners may want to conduct work on their Grenadier themselves, and the vehicle has been designed and engineered to be easy to work on both inside and out.

The company will provide online 3D interactive manuals and have support available from its technical team for those owners with a desire to get stuck in.

With the idea that the Grenadier will spend much of its time bashing around off road, the interior was designed so that it could be washed down.

May 2022 Motor Trader | 65

Auto innovation news Five interior drain valves mean owners can hose out the floor without damaging interior materials. Eight-way, manually adjustable RECARO seats have been specially designed for the Grenadier and the standard seating upholstery is a combination of hard-wearing cloth and vinyl that are stain-, dirt- and water-resistant.Fullgrain leather seats – in black, or in two-tone black-and-grey – are available as an option.

The Grenadier also remains analogue and mechanical as much as possible. An overhead control panel keeps off-road

switch gear out of the way, while guards provide protection on important switches to avoid inadvertent operation. All information is displayed on one screen.

The Grenadier’s Central Control System, designed specifically for Ineos Automotive, displays all required information via a 12.3inch touchscreen, which can be accessed using the buttons on the multifunction steering wheel or the rotary controller on the centre console. The touchscreen displays information including vehicle attitude, steering angle, system

Ineos Grenadier Trialmaster Edition

temperatures and drivetrain utilisation.

The Grenadier comes with a DAB+ radio, Android Auto and wireless Apple CarPlay. Bluetooth connectivity and voice control allow for hands-free calls. USB-A, USB-C and 12V sockets are standard. Extra outlets can be added as an option.

When off-road, owners can use Ineos Automotive’s Pathfinder navigation system (included as standard). An optional compass and altimeter are included on Trialmaster and Fieldmaster Editions, integrated into the centre console.

The Grenadier is equipped as standard with two front airbags, two curtain airbags,

and two side airbags for driver and front passenger. Also standard are anti-lock brakes, electronic traction control, electronic stability control, automatic hazard warning, tyre pressure monitoring system, Uphill Assist, Downhill Assist, cruise control and Trailer Stability Assist.

Six solid and four metallic body colours will be available, and owners can choose either a black or white contrast roof. Also available is a contrast door wrap and / or a contrast nose wrap. The ladder frame chassis can also be optioned in red or grey powder coat finish rather than standard black.

May 2022 Motor Trader | 67

Auto innovation news

Ineos Grenadier Fieldmaster Edition

Order books and an online configurator go live from 18 May, and Ineos says the price shown on the configurator is the price customers will pay. Once they’ve settled on their configuration, customers will be able to choose their collection location.

A deposit payment of $5,000 – refundable until the vehicle contract is signed – secures a build slot.

For servicing, Ineos says retailers will be the backbone of the network, providing maintenance, repair and parts. Additional coverage will be provided by IneosS-accredited Bosch Car Service and independent 4X4 specialist workshops. The aim is for most customers to always be within a reasonable distance of an authorised service point. Roadside assistance will also be included as standard with every Grenadier.

The Grenadier will come with a three-year paint warranty, a threeyear warranty for accessories, and the ladder-frame chassis and body components will have a 12-year anti-perforation warranty.

68 | Motor Trader May 2022

RTO No: 31529

NEW GOVE LIMITED P RNMENT FUND LACES APP ING LY NOW

Right training.

Right place.

Right way.

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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: • AUR30316 – Certificate III in Automotive Electrical Technology • AUR30416 – Certificate III in Agricultural Mechanical Technology • AUR30616 – Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology • AUR30716 – Certificate III in Outdoor Power Equipment • AUR30816 – Certificate III in Motorcycle Mechanical Technology • AUR31016 – Certificate III in Automotive Sales (Parts Interpreting) • AUR31116 – Certificate III in Heavy Commercial Vehicle Mechanical Technology • AUR31216 – Certificate III in Mobile Plant Technology

• AUR32116 – Certificate III in Automotive Body Repair Technology • AUR32416 – 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.

MTA Institute

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Address Freeway Office Park, Building 8, 2728 Logan Road, Eight Mile Plains, Qld 4113 Postal PO Box 4530, Eight Mile Plains, Qld 4113 Tel (07) 3722 3000 Toll Free 1800 884 137 Email courses@mtai.edu.au Website www.mtai.edu.au

Auto news

NEW FORD EVEREST AVAILABLE FROM AUGUST

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HE 2022 FORD Everest will be available in four variants - Ambiente, Trend, Sport and Platinum – when it arrives in Australian showrooms later this year.

The line-up will feature two engines – a 2-litre bi-turbo diesel, and a 3-litre V6 turbo diesel that will be available in the Sport and Platinum variants.

Both will be backed by Ford’s 10-speed automatic transmission.

The 2-litre engine offers 154kW and 500Nm, while the 3-litre delivers 184kW and 600Nm. All models will have a 3,500kg braked towing capacity.

Everest is offered with two drivetrain options with rear-wheel-drive or 4WD available on the Ambiente and Trend models and full-time 4WD the only choice available to the Sport and Platinum variants.

On the inside, there’s a fully digital instrument cluster and a 10.1-inch or 12-inch centre infotainment display, depending on the model. Additional features include a reach and height adjustable steering wheel. Wireless charging, Apple Carplay and Android Auto, Built-in navigation, and voice assistant are standard, as is a suite of safety features that includes Reverse Brake Assist, Lane Keep Assist, Lane Departure Warning, Driver Alert, Front and Rear Parking Sensors, Blind Spot Info System, Cross Traffic Alert and Trailer Coverage, and Digital Reverse Camera. The Platinum model also gets a 360-degree camera, a tyre pressure monitoring system, and Active Park Assist.

Drive modes across the range include 70 | Motor Trader May 2022

Normal, Eco, Tow/Haul, and Slippery, while the 4x4 Trend, Sport and Platinum variants also gets a Mud/Ruts mode, and a Sand mode.

Trim and comfort features vary across the range, including larger wheels up to 21 inches, with the Platinum picking up a handful of premium tweaks such as leather accented quilted seats, power panoramic roof, Matrix LED headlamps, and heated steering wheel.

There will likely be a long list of accessories available for the new Everest.

Ford joined forces with ARB last year to offer a range of add-ons for the Ranger and Everest, including bull bars and winches, side rails and steps, driving lights, snorkels and more.

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The Cupra Born EV is expected to be available in Australia in 2023

CUPRA RANGE ALL SET FOR AUSTRALIAN DEBUT

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USTRALIANS WILL SOON be getting their hands on cars from Cupra – the Spanish performance brand that is part of SEAT, S.A. and, thusly, the Volkswagen Group. Cupra in Australia will be accepting orders for models from its three-vehicle range in June, while a handful of Launch Edition specials were available to order from earlier this month.

The local line-up will initially include three models – the Ateca SUV, the Formentor crossover SUV, and the Leon hatchback. Plug-in hybrid variants of the Formentor and the Leon will be available, and Cupra Australia has also confirmed that the company’s fully electric Born hatchback will be available locally too from early 2023.

Cupra was launched as a standalone brand in 2018 and has made quite a 72 | Motor Trader May 2022

“AUSTRALIA IS A YOUNG MARKET AND CUPRA IS A YOUNG BRAND. CUSTOMERS ARE LOOKING FOR NEW BRANDS . . . WE ARE CONFIDENT THAT CUPRA CAN BE SUCCESSFUL IN THIS COUNTRY.” splash with its range of stylish vehicles.

In 2021, according to the SEAT, S.A. annual report, Cupra managed 79,327 delivered (with the Formentor making up the great majority of that number), tripling its sales from the previous year.

Globally, the company has announced it will grow its electrified vehicle line-up with a new SUV, scheduled to appear in 2024. A

road version of the company’s UrbanRebel Concept is also expected at some point.

In Australia, meanwhile, the interest in the brand and the soon-to-be-available range has been strong with more than 9,000 expressions of interest registered by the first week of May - the majority for the Formentor range.

“This is a remarkable response to a brand that is entirely new to Australia and which is barely four years old,” said Ben Wilks, Director of Cupra Australia.

It was back in March last year that the decision for Cupra to start operations in Australia was announced, and the brand

clearly sees a solid market here. At the time, the company’s President Wayne Griffiths said, “Australia is a young market and Cupra is a young brand. Customers are looking for new brands, there is a high middle-class income and it is a progressive society. We are confident that Cupra can be successful in this country.”

The company will have agents in NSW, Victoria, Queensland, South Australia, Western Australia and the ACT, and it will be interesting to see the brand’s progress.

In the meantime, here is a rundown of the models that are, and will be, available to Australian customers to order this year.

CUPRA LEON

hybrid, which pairs a 1.4-litre, 4-cylinder turbo developing 110kW/250Nm with an 85kW/300Nm electric motor.

THE LEON HATCH will be available in four variants – the V (which will be available to pr-order later this year) is powered by a 140kW/320Nm 2-litre, 4-cylinder turbo; the VZ, with a 180kW/370Nm 2-litre, 4-cylinder turbo; the VZx, powered by a 221kW/400Nm 2-litre, 4-cylinder turbo; and the VZe

Pricing for the variants is: Leon V: $43,990 (Drive away pricing to come) Leon VZ: $52,590 ($56,990 drive away) Leon VZe: $59,990 ($63,990 drive away in Qld) Leon VZx: $60,990 ($64,990 drive away) Cupra Leon

Cupra Leon

STANDARD SPECIFICATION AND FEATURES FOR THE LEON V • 7-speed wet clutch DSG • 18-inch Sport Black and Silver Alloy wheels (with 18-inch temporary spare) • Tyre Pressure Warning System • Heated power folding mirrors covered in dark chrome • Full LED Headlights and Daytime Running Lamps • Rear LED Lamps • Fog lamps with cornering function • Light Assist (Auto High Beam) • Rear tinted windows • Rear Roof Spoiler • 10.25-inch Digital Cockpit • Navigation System • Wireless Phone Charging • Wired and Wireless Apple 74 | Motor Trader May 2022

Carplay and Android Auto • 2 Front and 2 Rear USB-C ports • Leather heated multifunction steering wheel with paddle shifters • Wraparound ambient interior light (with integrated side assist) • Black headliner • Cloth sports bucket seats • Driving profile selection • Dynamic Chassis Control • Progressive Steering • Keyless entry and start • Auto dimming rear view mirror • 3 zone climate control airconditioning • Illuminated Scuff Plates • Aluminium Pedals • Floor Mats • 10 airbags

• Adaptive Cruise Control • Travel Assist • Front Assist with Pedestrian and Cyclist Detection • Lane Assist • Park Assist • Side Assist with Exit Assist • Driver Fatigue Monitor • Emergency assist • Light and rain sensor • Rear camera • Metallic paint (Nevada White, Magnetic Tech, Urban Silver, Midnight Black, Asphalt Blue) Options • Leather and Sound Package - Leather seats - Heated front seats - Driver power adjustment and memory

- Mirror memory function - Dashboard with copper stitching - Beats premium sound 9 speakers, 350-amp, sub-woofer • Electric Sunroof • Premium paint: Desire Red; Graphene Grey LEON VZ As above except with: • 2.0L turbo 4-cylinder petrol engine 180kW/370Nm • 19-inch Sport Black and Silver Alloy wheels (with 18-inch temporary spare) Options • Leather and Sound Package • Electric Sunroof • Premium paint: Desire Red;

Graphene Grey LEON VZE As above except with: • 1.4L turbo 4-cylinder petrol engine 110kW/250Nm; electric motor 85kW/300Nm • 6-speed wet clutch DSG • Tyre repair kit Options • Leather Package • Electric Sunroof • Premium paint: Desire Red; Graphene Grey LEON VZX Standard specification as per the VZ plus: • 2.0L turbo 4-cylinder petrol engine 221kW/400Nm • 19-inch Performance Sport black and copper alloy wheels

• Side skirts • Quad exhaust • Supersports Leather Steering Wheel with satellite buttons and heating • Petrol Blue dashboard • Petrol Blue leather bucket seats • Heated front seats with driver adjustment and memory • Memory function for external mirrors • Beats Sound System, 9 Speakers with subwoofer and 340w Amplifier Options • Brembo brake package (with tyre repair kit) • Electric Sunroof • Matte Paint: Petrol Blue Matte; Magnetic Tech Matte; • Premium Paint: Graphene Grey May 2022 Motor Trader | 75

Auto news

CUPRA FORMENTOR LIKE THE LEON, the Formentor SUV will be available immediately in four variants, including a hybrid.

The Formentor V will be powered by a 2.0-litre turbo 4-cylinder petrol engine developing 140kW/320Nm; the Formentor VZ gets a 2.0-litre turbo 4-cylinder petrol engine developing 180kW/370Nm; and the VZx receives a 2.0-litre turbo 4-cylinder petrol engine developing 228kW/400Nm. The hybrid VZe pairs a 1.4-litre turbo 4-cylinder petrol engine developing 110kW/250Nm with a 85kW/300Nm electric motor.

Pricing for the variants is: Formentor V: $50,690 ($54,990 drive away) Formentor VZ: $53,790 ($58,490 drive away) Formentor VZe: $60,990 ($64,990 drive away in Qld) Formentor VZx $61,490 ($66,490 drive away) STANDARD SPECIFICATION AND FEATURES FOR THE FORMENTOR V • 2-litre turbo 4-cylinder petrol engine 140kW/320Nm • 7-speed wet clutch DSG • 4Drive AWD • 18-inch Sport Black and Silver Alloy wheels (with 18-inch temporary spare) • Metallic Paint (Nevada White, Magnetic Tech, Magic Black, Asphalt Blue) • Tyre Pressure Warning System • Heated power folding mirrors covered in dark chrome • Full LED Headlights and Daytime Running Lamps • Rear LED Lamps • Fog lamps with cornering function 76 | Motor Trader May 2022

• Light Assist (Auto High Beam) • Rear tinted windows • Rear spoiler • Heated power folding mirrors • Mirror covers in dark aluminium • Welcome light with logo protection • Glossy black roof rails • Front and rear parking sensors • Dynamic chassis control • 10.25-inch Digital Cockpit • 12-inch Navigation System • Wireless Phone Charging • Wired and Wireless Apple Carplay and Android Auto • 2 Front and 2 Rear USB-C ports • Rear cameras • Cloth sports bucket seats • 3-zone climate control airconditioning

• Auto dimming rear view mirror • Light and rain sensor • Leather, heated multifunction steering wheel with paddle shift • Keyless entry and start • Front Assist with Pedestrian and Cyclist Detection • Lane Assist • Park Assist • Side Assist with Exit Assist • Driver Fatigue Monitor • Emergency assist • Adaptive Cruise Control • Exit assist • Traffic jam assist • Pre-crash warning Options • Leather and Power package - Leather sports bucket seats - Heated front seats

Cupra Formentor

- Driver power adjustment and memory - Mirror memory function - Hands free power tailgate • Panoramic glass sunroof • Premium Paint: Desire Red, Dark Camouflage, Graphene Grey FORMENTOR VZ As above except: • 2-litre turbo 4-cylinder petrol engine 180kW/370Nm • Front wheel drive • 19-inch Sport Black and Silver Alloy wheels (with 18-inch temporary spare) Options • Leather and Power Package • Panoramic glass sunroof • Premium Paint: Desire Red, Dark Camouflage, Graphene Grey

FORMENTOR VZE Standard specification as above except with: • 1.4-litre turbo 4-cylinder petrol engine 110kW/250Nm; electric motor 85kW/300Nm • 6-speed wet clutch DSG • Tyre repair kit • Mode 3 cable Options Leather and power Package Panoramic glass sunroof Premium Paint: Desire Red, Dark Camouflage, Graphene Grey FORMENTOR VZX Standard specification as per the VZ and: • 2.0-litre turbo 4-cylinder petrol engine 228kW/400Nm • 19-inch Performance Sport

black and copper alloy wheels • Hands free power tailgate • Quad exhaust • Leather bucket seats (Petrol Blue) • Petrol blue heated front seats with driver adjustment and memory • Memory function for external mirrors • Beats audio with 9 speakers, subwoofer and 340W amp • Supersports leather steering wheel with satellite buttons Options • Brembo brake package with • Panoramic glass sunroof • Matte Paint: Petrol Blue Matte, Magnetic Tech Matte • Premium Paint: Graphene Grey, Dark Camouflage May 2022 Motor Trader | 77

Auto news

CUPRA ATECA THE CUPRA ATECA SUV will, unlike the other models, be available in one top-spec model, the VZx. Power will come from a 221kW/400Nm, 2-litre, fourcylinder turbo engine mated to a 7-speed DSG transmission with 4Drive all-wheel-drive (AWD). Reaching 100km/h will take, the company says, 4.9 seconds.

Pricing for the Ateca VZx is $60,990 ($65,990 drive away) CUPRA ATECA VZX STANDARD EQUIPMENT • 2.Ol turbo 4-cylinder petrol engine 221kW/400Nm • 7-speed DSG • 4Drive all-wheel-drive • Metallic Paint: Nevada White, Graphite Grey, Magic Black • 19-inch Exclusive Sport Alloy Wheels in Black and Copper • 18-inch Temporary Spare Wheel • Tyre Pressure Warning System • Full LED Headlights and 78 | Motor Trader May 2022

Daytime Running Lamps • Rear LED Lamps with Dynamic Indicators • Fog lamps with Cornering Lamps • Light Assist (Auto High Beam) • Driving Profile Selection • Dynamic Chassis Control • Progressive Steering • Hands Free Power Tailgate • Rear Roof Spoiler • Black Roof Rails • Quad Exhaust • Rear tinted Windows

• Gloss Black Highlights • Auto Folding & Heated Mirrors with memory • Welcome Light in Exterior Mirrors • Mirror cases in Dark Aluminium • Light & Rain Sensor Adaptive Cruise Control • Front Assist with Pedestrian and Cyclist Detection • Side Assist with Exit Assist • Lane Assist • Travel Assist • Driver Fatigue Detection

• Proactive Passenger Protection (Pre-Crash) • Park Assist • Front and Rear Parking Sensors • Top View Camera (360 degree) • Petrol Blue Leather Sports Bucket Seats • Heated Front Seats • Driver’s Seat Power Adjustment with Memory • Keyless Entry and Start • 3-Zone Climate Control AirConditioning

• Ambient Interior Lighting • Leather Gear knob with Copper Stitching • Illuminated Scuff Plates • Aluminium Pedals • Floor Mats • 10.25-inch Digital Cockpit • 9.2-inch Navigation System • Leather Steering Wheel with Satellite Buttons and Heating • Paddle Shift • Wireless Phone Charging • Wired and Wireless Apple

Carplay and Android Auto • Beats Sound System, 9 Speakers + Subwoofer + 340w Amplifier • 2 Front and 2 Rear USB-C ports Options • Akrapovic Exhaust • Brembo Brakes • Panoramic Electric Sunroof • Premium Paint: Dark Camouflage May 2022 Motor Trader | 79

Auto news

MERCEDES UNVEILS ELECTRIC EQS SUV

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ERCEDES-BENZ HAS REVEALED the latest addition to its EQ family of electric vehicles (EV) – the luxury EQS SUV. Available with up to seven seats, the EQS SUV shares the same platform as its smaller EQS Saloon sibling and comes in three power option flavours – the EQS 450+, the EQS 450 4MATIC, and the EQS 580 4MATIC - with all variants receiving energy from a 107.8kWh lithium-ion battery pack.

All EQS SUVs have an electric drive train (eATS motor) on the rear axle, and the versions with 4MATIC also have an eATS on the front axle.

The EQS 450+ variant is rear-wheel-drive and delivers 265kW and 568Nm, the EQS 450 4MATIC (AWD) delivers 265kW and 800Nm, and the EQS 580 4MATIC (AWD) kicks out 400kW and 858Nm. While no performance figures have been made available, those will likely be very tasty.

Mercedes claims a range of up to 660km is

Mercedes EQS SUV

VIDEO: MERCEDES EQS SUV

possible depending on the configuration.

A DC fast charging system with a charging capacity of up to 200kW is fitted for fast direct current with a 10-80 per cent charge possible in 31 minutes through this option.

AC charging ( for the home) comes via a standard-fit on-board 11kW charger offering a 10-hour charge time, or a 22kW option delivering the same in five hours.

Regenerative braking, which helps to keep the battery charged, is available in several modes from ‘sailing’ to ‘enhanced’ and there is also one-pedal driving where

the vehicle is decelerated with the greatest possible energy recovery rate – up to 290kW on all-wheel drive models - until it comes to a standstill.

On the 4MATIC models, a Torque Shift function ensures variable torque distribution between the electric motors as needed.

The chassis of the new EQS SUV has a four-link axle at the front and an independent multi-link suspension at the rear. The AIRMATIC air suspension with continuously adjustable damping ADS+ is standard equipment.

In addition to the Dynamic Select modes of ECO, COMFORT, SPORT and INDIVIDUAL, the 4MATIC versions feature OFFROAD for off-road driving. Rear-axle steering with a steering angle of up to 4.5 degrees is standard. Optionally, a version with up to 10 degrees steering angle is available.

The EQS SUV shares the long wheelbase (3210mm) with the EQS Saloon but is over 20cm taller. Headroom in the first row of seats with sliding sunroof is 1035mm, in the second it is 1030mm and in the third – should a third row of individual seats be optioned – 900mm.

With all seven seats fitted, there is 195 litres of space at the rear. With the five-seat option, that expand up to 880 litres, and

with the second row of seats folded, a whopping 2100 litres of space is available.

As you would expect, the EQS comes with all the trimmings when it comes to technology.

Standard equipment is a 12.3-inch driver’s display and a 12.8-inch portraitoriented central display. Available as an option is the MBUX Hyperscreen – the pillar-to-pillar infotainment display that consists of three displays built as one unit and which is the standout feature of the newest Mercedes luxury vehicles.

The MBUX system (Mercedes-Benz User Experience) itself uses adaptive software to adjust to its users and make personalised suggestions for numerous infotainment, comfort and vehicle functions.

MBUX High-End Rear Seat Entertainment Plus comprises two 11.6-inch displays with touch controls on the backrests of the driver and front passenger seats. An MBUX rear tablet is also optionally available.

Other equipment highlights include the head-up displays, available in two sizes with the large Augmented Reality Head-up Display (AR-HUD) showing relevant information and actions threedimensionally in the real driving situation.

Also available is a HEPA filter (High Efficiency Particulate Air), and a Burmester sound system with Dolby Atmos that can deliver ‘Sound Experiences’ for those who want a little enhanced soundscape in their quiet EV. Driver assistance and safety system features and options are legion and include Active Distance Assist, Blind Sport Assist and exit warning function, Active lane keeping assist, Active steering assist, Evasive steering assist, Active brake assist with cross-traffic function, parking assistance options, and much more.

May 2022 Motor Trader | 81

Auto news

NEW CAR SALES HIT THE BRAKES IN APRIL

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EW VEHICLE SALES figures, released by the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries (FCAI), have shown a total of 81,065 new vehicles were sold in Australia in April – a number that brings the year-to-date total to 343,501.

April’s result was 12.2 per cent down on the same month in 2021.

Sales decreased in every State and Territory for the month with Queensland notching an 11.2 per cent fall (-17,424 units) on April last year. NSW fell 12.7 per cent (-25,432) and Victoria was down 11 per cent (-21,339). South Australian sales were down by 6.2 per (-5,459), Tasmania’s by 7.9 per cent (-1,466), the ACT by 14.9 per cent (-1,201), and Western Australia were down 20.4 per cent (-7,896).

The Passenger Vehicle Market was down by 2,620 vehicle sales (-14.5 per cent) over the same month last year; the Sports Utility Market was down by 6,806 vehicle sales (-13.8 per cent); and the Light Commercial Market was down by 2,078 vehicle sales (-9.6 per cent).

The Heavy Commercial Vehicle Market was up by 222 vehicle sales (6.5 per cent) versus April 2021.

Toyota led the market with a total of 17,956 vehicles sold with Mazda taking second spot (7,378), Mitsubishi in third (6,463), Kia in fourth (6,180) and Hyundai in fifth.

The Toyota Hi-Lux was the highest selling model (4,493) with the Ford Ranger in second (3,581). Toyota’s RAV4 was third (3,373), Mazda’s CX-5 in fourth (2,701), while Fifth place went to Isuzu Ute’s D-Max (2,374).

82 | Motor Trader May 2022

Electric vehicles continued to show strong growth. In the passenger, SUV and light commercial sectors, some 866 electric models were sold, up from 286 in April 2021, a 202 per cent jump. EV sales are up more than 500 per cent for the year – currently sitting at 6,363.

FCAI Chief Executive Tony Weber said this the overall downward numbers were a result of global issues affecting new car production and shipping.

“We know this is not a reflection on the demand for new vehicles in the marketplace,” he said. “This is a reflection on the global automotive industry’s ability to supply vehicles to not only the Australian market, but all markets throughout the world.

“Automotive manufacturers continue to suffer from a shortage of microprocessor units which is impacting their ability to ramp up production to pre-pandemic levels. Covid-19 continues to impact manufacturing and supply, particularly where factories have been forced to close and shipping operations are yet to fully recover. This is being reflected in the extended delivery times for new vehicles.”

LAWS PROTECTING AGAINST HARASSMENT RECENT MEDIA STORIES about what may be happening in some parliamentarian’s offices is a reminder to all employers and business owners that no-one is immune from a sexual harassment claim.

The Fair Work Act and Regulations will soon be amended to give employers more power to sack perpetrators of sexual harassment.

The Federal Government has announced it will amend section 387 of the Act to clarify that sexual harassment can be a valid reason for termination when determining whether a dismissal was unfair.

It will also amend the definition of “serious misconduct” in the Fair Work Regulations to include sexual harassment, to clarify that this behaviour can justify summary dismissal.

In addition, education and guidance on unfair dismissal and other workplace rights will be updated. The Act will include a ‘stop sexual harassment order’ by clarifying that a stop-bullying order is available in the context of harassment.

model WHS laws for employers to ensure workers are not exposed to health and safety risks, which includes the risk of sexual harassment. Safe Work Australia guidance recently released specifically describes sexual harassment as a systemic risk employers must approach with a safety mindset.

PSYCHOSOCIAL RISKS CODE OF PRACTICE A code of practice on managing psychosocial risks is currently being

ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS developed by Safe Work Australia, which is to cover sexual harassment in the

TO MORE THAN 13,000 PEOPLE workplace.

This willDIRECTLY help to increase POSITIVE DUTY ALREADY EXISTS INVOLVED IN THE MOTORING INDUSTRY A positive duty already exists under awareness of the duty to manage (website or e-magazine options)

psychosocial health and safety risks and improve compliance, it says, adding it will continue to support this work.

The aim is to create an improved culture of respectful workplace behaviour.

For further information about Policy for your workplace, please contact MTA Queensland.

CLICK HERE FOR MEDIA GUIDE AND COSTS

Workplace relations

IAN NAYLOR SENIOR WORKPLACE RELATIONS ADVISOR

AUSTRALIA: SUPERANNUATION PAYMENT REQUIREMENTS EXTENDED FROM 1 JULY 2022 BY CLIFFORD GOULDSON LAWYERS

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. . . FROM 1 JULY 2022, THE $450 MONTHLY EARNINGS THRESHOLD WILL BE REMOVED, AND THE SUPERANNUATION GUARANTEE WILL ALSO RISE TO 10.5% FROM THIS DATE.

NEW BILL INTRODUCED into federal parliament will see compulsory superannuation payments extended to more workers from July 2022.

Currently the Australian superannuation system requires an employer to make regular contributions, 10 per cent of an employee’s wage, into an employee’s chosen superannuation account.

This means that from 1 July this year, At present, an employee is currently employers will be required to make 10.5 entitled to super guarantee contributions per cent superannuation contributions from an employer if they are 18 years old for their workers earning less than $450 or over and are paid $450 or more (before in pre-tax income per month. However, tax) in a month from a single employer. if an employee is under the age of 18, However, as a result of legislative unless they are covered by a workplace changes introduced by the Treasury Laws agreement that states otherwise, the Amendment (Enhancing superannuation employee will need to work more than outcomes for Australians and helping 30 hours in a week before they become Australian businesses invest) Bill 2021, eligible for superannuation payments. and supported by both sides of This general advice only. Employers the political arena, from 1 July CLICK TO VISIT THE seeking information about any flexible 2022, the $450 monthly earnings MTAQ MEMBER work arrangements should contact the threshold will be removed, and the PORTAL Workplace Relations Advisors on Superannuation Guarantee will also 3237 8777. rise to 10.5 per cent from this date.

84 | Motor Trader December 2021/January 2022

LOOKING FOR WORK? Check out MTA Queensland’s Job Board for all the latest opportunities in the automotive industry.

Visit www.mtaq.com.au today

85 | Motor Trader September 2020

OUR VISION IS TO BE QUEENSLAND’S MOST TRUSTED, INFLUENTIAL & ENGAGED INDUSTRY BODY The Motor Trades Association of Queensland (MTA Queensland) is the peak organisation in the state representing the specific interests of businesses in the retail, repair & service sectors of the automotive industry.

Member benefits include: Advocacy MTA Queensland makes representations to state and federal governments on the BIG issues affecting your business and industry.

Services Our members can utilise free Workplace Relations advice and Consumer Complaint support; access a cost-effective website building service and, through our self-service Member Portal, access information regarding wages & awards, health & safety, public holidays and more. There also is a FREE-to-use online Jobs Board platform to advertise open positions, plus discounted signage & stationery products are available through the online MTA Queensland shop.

Training The MTA Institute (RTO 31529) is the awardwinning, leading provider of automotive training and apprenticeships in Queensland. Course & training options include: • Apprenticeships • Traineeships • Skills Recognition • Automotive Licensing • Short Automotive Courses (including some which attract a 20% discount for members) • Pre-apprenticehips

Support Members can take advantage of a wide range of services & benefits, including: •B anking, insurance, payment options, legal advice and workplace health & safety compliance advice, offered by our Corporate Partners.

• A library of small business resources.

• A Weekly Industry Bulletin containing updates on industry news and events, workplace relations, divisional updates and training courses.

•C omprehensive webinar and micro-credential program (coming soon).

•M onthly subscription to the Motor Trader e-magazine and free business profiling.

•S avings and discounts from a range of industry stakeholders.

• I nvitations to industry signature events Industry Awards Gala, Golf Day, and Carmageddon.

Innovation Stay at the front of cutting-edge information and business solutions connected to the automotive digital revolution with access to events and MTAiQ – Australia’s first automotive innovation hub which is a facility offering an eco-system that supports innovation in the motor trades.

20190801

Freeway Office Park, Building 8, 2728 Logan Road, Eight Mile Plains www.mtaq.com.au | info@mtaq.com.au (07) 3237 8777

M E M B E R S

MTA Institute News

E S S E N T I A L S

PAUL KULPA GENERAL MANAGER MTA INSTITUTE

E S S E N T I A L S

May 2022 Motor Trader | 87

M E M B E R S

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NE PART OF the MTA • AURLTA101 Identify automotive Institute’s educational remit is to mechanical systems and components deliver training opportunities for young people to help them learn some of the basic • AURTTK102 Use and maintain tools and equipment in an automotive workplace skills required in a workshop, to develop In addition to these school courses, an understanding of what working in the we also continue to offer our automotive industry entails, help them determine if pre-vocational and HEV/BEV course at the a career in the automotive industry is for them, and assist them to take that first step Institute in Brisbane.

For further details on these programs, into that career. click on the course title below: For an industry in which skilled workers • AUR20720 Certificate II in Automotive are often in short supply, assisting Vocational Preparation enthusiastic young people to find their footing and recognise the opportunities • AURSS00035 – Battery Electric the industry offers is an important aspect Vehicle Inspection and Servicing & of the Institute’s work.

AURSS00037 – Hybrid Electric Vehicle Currently, the MTA Institute is Inspection and Servicing Skill Sets successfully rolling out its Auto Ready The MTA institute is also the first pilot program – a nationally recognised Registered Training Organisation in VET accredited course that is a tailored Australia to offer AUR22021 – Certificate school program to help students on II in Automotive Accessory Fitting. This their automotive career journey. We will newly created qualification will enable be offering this course over the school individuals to perform a range of tasks holidays in Gladstone and Rockhampton relating to replacing, fitting, installing and and use it promote the automotive industry adjusting automotive accessories in the as a career of choice. The training automotive service and repair industry, outcomes for the week-long as well as carry out work according CLICK FOR MORE program will cover the following to Australian Design Rules INFORMATION three units of competency: compliance and Vehicle Standard ON THE Bulletin requirements. We look • AURETR103 Identify AUTO READY PROGRAM forward to providing this training automotive electrical systems across the automotive industry. and components

E S S E N T I A L S M E M B E R S

Apprentice of the Month: April 2022 APPRENTICE: TIMOTHY LOUDEN WORKPLACE: GMW MECHANICAL & TOWING, GLADSTONE APPRENTICESHIP: LIGHT VEHICLE MECHANICAL TECHNOLOGY

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IMOTHY LOUDEN IS the MTA Institute Apprentice of the Month for April 2022. The “We do pretty much everything here,” said 19-year-old, third-year light vehicle apprentice has Timothy. “And I get to work on all of that – including been working at GMW Mechanical & Towing in the service and repairs of caravans which could be Gladstone since he was 17 and has impressed his brakes, springs, axles, wheel bearings and so on – employers and his MTA Institute trainer with his as well as do engine swaps and cylinder head work. skillset, enthusiasm, and initiative.

“I really like the variety of work we get. There’s According to his trainer, Nev Donaldson, Timothy something different every day,” he added. “I really ‘is very keen with his training, all work is completed enjoy working on the mechanical internals of motors on time, and he researches areas to extend his – swapping cylinder heads over and that sort of knowledge. He will make a great mechanic and is a thing. That is very interesting.” pleasure to train.’

Having trained with the MTA Institute since he Stepping into an automotive apprenticeship began his apprenticeship, Timothy said that the was always something that Timothy had in mind. one-on-one training the Institute delivered was His father is a transport Inspector and a trained proving to be a beneficial way to learn. He also mechanic and, naturally enough, Timothy found added that future training - given the direction the plenty of his childhood was spent helping dad out. industry was heading and the technology involved, “My dad had his own business and I used to go over especially with electrification and electric vehicles there after school and help and watch what he was (EVs) - was almost certain. doing. I used to get stuff, pull it all apart and see how it “I hope there will be more training,” he said. goes back together. I always liked that,” said Timothy. “I don’t think many places know too much about “When I finished Grade 11, I got the job here,” he them [EVs] apart from dealerships, so I will look to added. “My dad knows the owners, John and Libby, do some EV training and it will be quite interesting to and he let them know I was looking for a bit of work learn that aspect of things.” and they asked me to come in for an interview. I went As for his long-term future, while he has an eye on for it, and I haven’t looked back.”

EVs and how the industry is changing, the work he Working at GMW means Timothy gets to work on does now is something he would like to continue to do. a very wide range of vehicles and jobs. The business “I see myself staying here for a while once I have offers maintenance and repairs on all makes and finished my apprenticeship,” he said. “From there, models (petrol and diesel) – including caravans, I wouldn’t mind having my own business one CLICK TO RVs, and motorhomes – and, as a towing day, and try and keep things as we do here – VISIT THE GMW business too and RACQ repairer, just about I enjoy the system that we have and what MECHANICAL any problem can appear at the workshop. we do.” & TOWING WEBSITE

88 | Motor Trader May 2022

N OM IN AT E FOR T HE MTA INS TIT U TE APP R E N TIC E O F T HE MONT H AWARD • Are yo u em p loyi ng a n a p p re nti ce wh o is excelling i n th e wor kp l a ce?

• Do yo u have a hi g h- a chi ev i n g ap p rent ice co lle a g u e?

• Are they t rainin g wi th MTA Ins ti tu te?

If th e ans wer is ‘ye s ’, the n nom i nate th e m fo r t he M TA In s ti tute Ap p re nti ce of th e Mo nt h Awa rd.

C L I CK H E R E FO R M O R E I N FO R M AT IO N

E S S E N T I A L S M E M B E R S

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

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

APPRENTICE

QUALIFICATION

TRAINER

Connor Livingstone Jacob Sheppard Michael Clarke Khobe Weller Douglas Mahoney Liam Cook Zane Browning Jordan Eagles Samuel Noble Andrew Simmons Kris Thomson Ali Hijazi Casey Tiller Scott Hession Harley Edmonds Phillip Beattie Jacob Griffith Grant Marshall Kane Rendall Gaege Iselin-Fahey Tyson Lewis Jayden Dunn Aaron Creighton Bradley Hughes Dane Tilling Daniel Mawhood

Certificate III in Automotive Refinishing Technology Certificate III in Automotive Refinishing Technology Certificate III in Automotive Sales (Parts Interpreting) Certificate III in Automotive Sales (Parts Interpreting) Certificate III in Automotive Sales (Parts Interpreting) Certificate III in Automotive Underbody Technology Certificate III in Heavy Commercial Vehicle Mechanical Technology Certificate III in Heavy Commercial Vehicle Mechanical Technology Certificate III in Heavy Commercial Vehicle Mechanical Technology Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology Certificate III in Motorcycle Mechanical Technology

Luke Cooper Luke Cooper Terry Palfrey Neil Bovey Roger West David Twidale Gavin Jacobs Steve Adams Steve Adams Keith Minchin Keith Minchin Andrew Bellars Neil Bovey Neil Bovey David Twidale Gavin Jacobs Roger West Derrick Pratt Stuart Davies Kevin Ryan Don Lerm Steven Hudspith Andrew Bellars Roger West Dennis Shaw Ivan Aird

90 | Motor Trader May 2022

Can you afford not to be in the circle?

P a r t n e r s

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

illion is the leading independent provider of trusted data and analytics products and services in Australasia. Members are eligible for substantial savings on annual subscriptions.

e

INNOVATION

Safety Help provides the automotive industry with a service dedicated to making your business compliant.

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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

Providing legal services across a number of core areas, Bennett & Philp Lawyers have been providing effective legal solutions to meet the needs of dealers, suppliers, racers, financiers and other motor vehicle professionals for more than ten years.

a

SUPPORT

openpay is a leading buy now, pay later service favoured by the automotive industry. Openpay gives customers longer to pay for servicing and parts through interest-free payment plans, while you get paid the next business day. Not just a payment method, but a smarter way to triple your Average Transaction Value.

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• Apprenticeships • Traineeships • Skills Recognition.

• Automotive Licensing • Short Automotive Courses (including some which attract a 20% discount for members) • Pre-apprenticehips.

Guard Insurance Brokers specialises in insurance and risk management solutions and offers dedicated service to MTAQ members at market leading rates.

o

TRAINING

Capricorn makes it easier for its members buy parts, earn reward points and share in the benefits of being a member of the largest and oldest automotive parts buying cooperatives in Australasia.

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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.

The Commonwealth Bank offers members some of the lowest EFTPOS charges in the country.

Members have saved thousands with CBA.

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SERVICES

Spirit Super is a multi-industry super fund with over 300,000 members and $23 billion funds under management. We put the spirit in your super.

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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.

SAVE WITH OUR CORPORATE PARTNERS

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ADVOCACY

MTA Queensland Address Freeway Office Park, Building 8, 2728 Logan Road, Eight Mile Plains, Queensland, Australia 4113 Phone (07) 3237 8777 Fax +61 7 3844 4488 Email info@mtaq.com.au Website www.mtaq.com.au Postal PO Box 4530 Eight Mile Plains, Queensland, Australia 4113

20150315

Search for MTA Queensland

Concept corner

DEUS AUTOMOBILES D

VAYANNE H 92 | Motor Trader May 2022

DEBUTS THE 2,200HP

HYPERCAR May 2022 Motor Trader | 93

Concept corner

DEUS Vayenne

94 | Motor Trader May 2022

T

HE FUTURE OF the hypercar seems destined to be electric, and after the appearance in recent months of such cars as the Pinifarina Battista, the Lotus Evija, and the Rimac Nevera, here is another claimant to the throne of most potent battery-powered beauty.

. . . THE DEUS VAYANNE HAS SOME SERIOUS CREDENTIALS AND, NOT SURPRISINGLY IN THIS NEW ELECTRIFIED ERA, IT COMES IN WITH SOME JAW-DROPPING POWER AND PERFORMANCE NUMBERS. It is called the Vayanne, and is a production-oriented concept courtesy of DEUS Automobiles, a new Austrian auto start-up. Designed and built in partnership with famed companies Italdesign and Williams Advanced Engineering, the DEUS Vayanne has some serious credentials and, not surprisingly in this new electrified era, it comes in with some jaw-dropping power and performance numbers.

May 2022 Motor Trader | 95

DEUS claims the Vayanne delivers 2,200hp (1,640kW) and over 2,000Nm, can reach 100km/h in 1.99 seconds, and blast to a top speed over 400km/h. Incredible!

The design of the DEUS is indicative of the power – it’s low, wide, sleek and clearly a hypercar – with an interesting back-end design made to represent an ‘infinity loop’ that has an uninterrupted taillight strip.

The sexy exterior is matched by a topnotch luxury interior, with the Vayanne offering a fully digital instrument cluster and control display while also ‘embracing the ergonomic positioning of physical controls that are easy to use and let the driver focus on the most important thing – driving.’

Natural leather has been selected for the upholstery and produced combining sustainable, technologically advanced 96 | Motor Trader May 2022

THE SEXY EXTERIOR IS MATCHED BY A TOP-NOTCH LUXURY INTERIOR, WITH THE VAYANNE OFFERING A FULLY DIGITAL INSTRUMENT CLUSTER AND CONTROL DISPLAY WHILE ALSO ‘EMBRACING THE ERGONOMIC POSITIONING OF PHYSICAL CONTROLS . . . solutions throughout the production process, with strong commitment to zero waste for a circular economy model.

The word is that a production version of the Vayanne will be built, with a limited series run of 99 cars penciled in for delivery in 2025.

MTA INSTITUTE COURSES AUTO READY

RTO No: 31529

BATTERY ELECTRIC AND HYBRID ELECTRIC VEHICLES COURSE

27 Jun - 1 Jul 2022 4 - 8 Jul 2022

7 - 9 Jun 2022 SOLD OUT 5 - 7 Jul 2022 SOLD OUT 16 - 18 Aug 2022

AIR CONDITIONING COURSE 16 - 18 Aug 2022

SALES/DEALERS/WRECKERS LICENCING COURSES

AUTOMOTIVE VOCATIONAL PREPARATION COURSE

AVAILABLE ONLINE

COMMENCES ON ENROLMENT

25 Jul - 26 Aug 2022 (TBA) 26 Sep - 28 Oct 2022

Enquiries to: courses@mtai.edu.au Website www.mtai.edu.au

MTA QUEENSLAND COURSES MIG WELDING FUNDAMENTALS COURSE 3 Aug 2022, 8:30am - 12:30pm

ADVANCED DRIVER ASSISTANCE SYSTEMS COURSES AWARENESS COURSE

VEHICLE MAINTENANCE COURSE

28 Jun 2022 20 Sep 2022

VEHICLE GLASS COURSE

3 Aug 2022, 8:30am - 12:30pm

29 Jun 2022 21 Sep 2022

POST-TRADE TRAINING AVAILABLE ONLINE

TECHNICIAN COURSE 30 Jun – 1 Jul 2022 22 - 23 Sep 2022

*Course dates subject to change

20170566

Enquiries to: courses@mtaq.com.au Website www.mtaq.com.au

Rhonda Madden Your Superannuation Adviser

Book your 7-point super service You regularly service your car to improve performance, but what about your super?

Talk to one of our super experts to find out how your super is travelling. We can help with boosting your super, investment options, insurance, combining super, retirement options and more.

Book an appointment today Call us on 1800 005 166.

Advice on Spirit Super is provided by Quadrant First Pty Ltd (ABN 78 102 167 877, AFSL 284443) (Spirit Super Advice), which is wholly owned by Motor Trades Association of Australia Superannuation Fund Pty. Limited (ABN 14 008 650 628, AFSL 238718), the trustee of Spirit Super (ABN 74 559 365 913). A copy of the Financial services guide for Spirit Super Advice is available at spiritsuper.com.au/financial-services-guide or by calling us on 1800 005 166. You should consider the Product disclosure statement and Target market determination available at spiritsuper.com.au/pds or by calling 1800 005 166 before deciding if the fund is appropriate for you.