NOV 2022
MTAQ APPRENTICE OF THE + YEAR TASTES LIFE IN THE SUPERCARS FAST LANE WITH TRIPLE EIGHT
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OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE MOTOR TRADES ASSOCIATION OF QUEENSLAND
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
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From the Editor Official Publication of the Motor Trades Association of Queensland HEAD OFFICE Building 8, 2728 Logan Road, Eight Mile Plains, Qld 4113 P.O. Box 4530, Eight Mile Plains, Qld 4113 Tel: 07 3237 8777 Fax: 07 3844 4488 Toll Free: 1800 177 951 Email: publications@mtaq.com.au
JONATHAN NASH
Website: www.mtaq.com.au
EDITOR
EDITOR Jonathan Nash
W
ELCOME TO THE November 2022 edition of Motor
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
20221130
CORPORATE PARTNERS
Trader. It's a big month for MTA Queensland as the Association celebrates the successes and outstanding achievements of the industry and its members at the Industry Awards Gala to be held on November 19. Over the past couple of editions, we have highlighted the finalists in the various award categories. There are three awards for industry businesses - the Community Award, the Innovation Award, and the Women in Industry Award - plus there is the Apprentice of the Year Award which will see one of 12 outstanding student finalists receive that prestigious honour. The Awards Gala is always a terrific night and we will have a wrap-up of the event in our December edition. Talking of Apprentice of the Year finalists, the 2020 award winner - Gabrielle Clift - has finally been able to claim a part of the prize she won along with that accolade but which
had been denied her thanks to the COVID-19 pandemic. That prize - two weeks work experience with the Triple Eight Race Engineering/ Red Bull Ampol team and a spot in the pit garage at the GC 500 - was, of course, a tremendous opportunity and one that Gabrielle thoroughly enjoyed. In fact, it got just a little bit better than that too, with Gabrielle able to join the team at Mount Panorama for the Bathurst 1000 - the greatest race on Australian motorsport's calendar. It was quite a ride, and you can read all about Gabrielle's experience from page 16. As always, we have plenty of other news - from industry innovations to new vehicle launches - in Motor Trader this month, including a summary of October's Federal Budget as it relates to the auto industry; a report on the latest recipients of the Auto Women scholarships; news of an innovative Tuk-Tuk vehicle being brought into the country for last-mile delivery applications; and news of what is probably the most luxurious electric vehicle to date, the Rolls-Royce Spectre. I hope you enjoy this edition and please do reach out if you have some interesting news to share. I look forward to hearing from you. Cheers Jonathan Nash, Editor jonathann@mtaq.com.au November 2022 Motor Trader | 1
Contents
16
MTAQ APPRENTICE OF THE YEAR TASTES LIFE IN THE SUPERCARS FAST LANE WITH TRIPLE EIGHT
04 FROM THE DESK OF MANAGEMENT 06 MTA Q&A: FRANK RASO OF TYREPOWER CAIRNS 12 MTA QUEENSLAND FEDERAL BUDGET BRIEF 2022-23 16 MTAQ APPRENTICE OF THE YEAR TASTES LIFE IN THE SUPERCARS FAST LANE WITH TRIPLE EIGHT 24 NATIONAL ASSESSING & ENGINEERING 28 AUTO INNOVATION NEWS 42 CLASSIC CAR: ROLLS-ROYCE SPECTRE EV 50 AUTO NEWS 72 WORKPLACE RELATIONS 75 MTA INSTITUTE NEWS 76 APPRENTICE OF THE MONTH: OCTOBER 2022 80 CHRISTMAS GIFT GUIDE 82 CONCEPT CORNER 2 | Motor Trader October 2022
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VEHICLE ASSESSMENT COMPANY EMBARKS ON NATIONAL EXPANSION PROGRAM
Search for MTA Queensland
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ROLLS-ROYCE SPECTRE EV
12
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MTA QUEENSLAND FEDERAL BUDGET BRIEF 2022-23
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MTA Q&A: FRANK RASO | TYREPOWER CAIRNS
ALPINE ALPENGLOW
November 2022 Motor Trader | 3
From the Desk of Management
F
A
OLLOWING THE RELEASE of the Federal Government’s National Electric Vehicle Strategy consultation paper, discourse around how the nation will support the uptake of, and ROD CAMM CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER benefit from, electric vehicles MTA QUEENSLAND is now front of mind for many stakeholders across the automotive industry. MTA Queensland has remained firm in the belief that a nationally consistent plan must be introduced for us to achieve anything of real substances, a plan which considers: • Reducing emissions across the entire fleet • CO2 emission standards to encourage cleaner, zeroemission vehicle choices • Comprehensive public and private charging infrastructure • Incentives to address affordability • Support for the motor industry to make the transition • Improved fuel standards; and • Maximising the use of renewables in charging infrastructure.
N INCREASINGLY ALARMING trend that has taken rise over the last 24 months is the rise in reports of odometer tampering. An illegal act involving the alteration or KELLIE DEWAR DEPUTY CEO | GENERAL even resetting of a vehicle’s MANAGER MEMBER SERVICES odometer to suggest the vehicle has less mileage on it than it has done, potentially thousands of unknowing customers are being taken for a ride each year and sold a vehicle with a misrepresented odometer. This issue is not just limited to Queensland either. Conversations with other state MTAs indicate this is a pressing issue nationwide, and one that needs immediate attention and action. Looking to tackle this practice head-on, we have developed an online reporting platform where anyone who has been impacted by odometer tampering can submit any evidence and details. This will allow us to report valuable information to the Office of Fair Trading who can then act and prosecute offenders. All evidence is welcome!
BASED ON TRENDS OVERSEAS, THE FOCUS OF THE STRATEGY SHOULDN’T JUST BE ON DRIVING THE RAPID UPTAKE OF EVS BUT ON TARGETING THE REDUCTION OF EMISSIONS ACROSS THE ENTIRE FLEET.
FOR TOO LONG SMALL BUSINESSES HAVE BEEN CORNERED INTO UNFAIR NEGOTIATIONS BY BUSINESSES WHO HAVE GONE UNPUNISHED FOR UNFAIR CONTRACT TERMS.
Based on trends overseas, the focus of the strategy shouldn’t just be on driving the rapid uptake of EVs but on targeting the reduction of emissions across the entire fleet. We must also ensure businesses in the automotive industry, who will play a pivotal role in the transition, are not left behind and are heavily engaged in understanding and supporting the strategy. Engagement, buy-in, and support from the Government for the industry’s transition and aligning the goals of the framework to business sustainability will be key in helping reduce emissions. We will be submitting a response to the consultation paper addressing these points and more and are in the process of organising a series of sessions to meet with members and discuss the strategy and subsequent impacts in detail.
Businesses should also be made aware of changes passed in Parliament regarding the introduction of penalties for businesses who install unfair terms in their standard form contracts with small businesses. For too long small businesses have been cornered into unfair negotiations by businesses who have gone unpunished for unfair contract terms. These new laws, however, will put an end to such practices and give small businesses renewed trust when negotiating. We are in the process of working with our national counterparts to understand the impact these changes will have on members and develop strategies for supporting small businesses moving forward.
4 | Motor Trader October 2022
Compare your merchant service today. With Commonwealth Bank, MTAQ members can receive special discounts on EFTPOS solution. We can also offer a customised comparison^ of your current merchant service to Commonwealth Bank’s merchant solutions, to help you discover which product is right for you. We have flexible terminal and pricing options to suit your needs today and that can change with you in the future. To find out how much you could save with Commonwealth Bank, contact contact MTAQ by email info@mtaq.com.au or call 07 3237 8777 and they’ll put you in touch with a Commonwealth Bank Relationship Manager.
Things you should know: ^Commonwealth Bank merchant cost comparison is available to compare all fee types & competitors.
As this advice has been prepared without considering your objectives, financial situation or needs, you should, before acting on the information, consider its appropriateness to your circumstances. Different assumptions and estimates could result in materially different results. On this basis, no representation or warranty, expressed or implied, is made as to the accuracy of the information or projections contained in this example. Fees, charges, terms and conditions apply. Please view our Merchant Agreement, Financial Services Guide and Operator and User Guides at commbank.com.au/merchantsupport. MTAQ may receive a referral fee from Commonwealth Bank of Australia for each successful referral (excludes existing customers) on eligible Business Banking products and services.
November 2022 Motor Trader | 5
The target market for this product will be found within the product’s Target Market Determination, available at commbank.com.au/tmd. Commonwealth Bank of Australia ABN 48 123 123 124 AFSL and Australian credit licence 234945.
Image from Lara Wilde
MTA |Q&A
When a Certified Practicing Accountant employed at the local council decides to embrace his love of tyres and take a leap into business buying his local tyre and mechanical shop, the results could go either way. Motor Trader recently caught up with Frank Raso to talk about his venture into the automotive trade and the lessons learnt along the way. WORDS: LARA WILDE
6 | Motor Trader October 2022
Frank Raso and the team from Tyrepower Cairns
Before owning a tyre and mechanical shop, what did you do? FR: I am a local, born and bred in Far
North Queensland. I studied and followed a career as an accountant and I had a job at the Cairns Regional Council. It was all OK but it didn’t really make me happy.
Do tyres make you happy? FR: I realise it sounds odd but I really do
love tyres. My family has a tyre business in Mareeba and I was always curious and wanting to know more. I asked a lot of questions about the Mareeba store and how it was run and I learnt all I could about tyres.
How did you come to be the Managing Director of a Tyrepower store in Cairns? FR: For a while I did consider resigning
from Council to go and work in the family business at the Mareeba store. Dad had always wanted to open a second store in Cairns. In 2015, I bought Cairns Pit Stop from Lance Nicholas. When Lance opened the shop in 1990 it was mostly a mechanical workshop but it also sold and fitted tyres. When I took over, I put my love of tyres in front so that today we are mostly a tyre business providing some mechanical servicing and repairs. Just before Covid struck we took on the Tyrepower brand. November 2022 Motor Trader | 7
MTA | Q&A What is the breakdown of your core service offering currently? FR: Our primary business is to sell, fit
and repair tyres, wheels, and associated products for retail and commercial vehicles. We also provide servicing and repairs for light vehicles. Lance built a solid reputation over 25 years and we have many loyal customers who keep coming back for their regular servicing. Lance is still on the tools in our mechanic section three days per week but will be retiring soon.
How far has the business come in the last 7 years since you took over? FR: It has been huge and it has been built
through hard work and sweat. I never could have predicted how fast we have grown. In 2015, we were a four-person team and, as I said, mostly mechanical. I was front of house and I was hands-on dealing with every customer. Today, there are 16 in the team and we are mostly about tyres. I have four sales staff to work with our customers and we have expanded our office space. We are very busy with the mechanical side alone - often booked out for weeks in advance.
“SINCE THE DAY I STEPPED IN, I HAVE MADE OUR CUSTOMERS THE NUMBER ONE FOCUS.” with easier access. We are turning part of the front car park into additional work bays, as well as creating an undercover area for us to work on trucks and improving the workflow so it is more functional.
What has been your biggest challenge in growing the store? FR: Finding the right people. There is
a shortage of trained tyre fitters and mechanics in the region. We have a really great team here now but we are always looking for new staff who can add to our business and our customer’s satisfaction. Tyres are critical to the safety of a vehicle and we insist that our staff put the safety and satisfaction of our customers first.
What has been the secret to your business success? FR: Our customers. Since the day I stepped in I have made our customers the number one focus. We will go above and beyond
It sounds like you are still growing, how will you accommodate that? FR: We are quickly outgrowing
our space but the location is fantastic. We are only a few blocks from the CBD so our customers often walk down to Cairns Central and have lunch or do some shopping in the air conditioning. I have no intention of giving up our location and so we need to make the space work better for us. The plan is to make the store more customer friendly 8 | Motor Trader October 2022
Lance Nicholas owned the previous shop on the Tyrepower Cairns site, and still works there today. // Image from Lara Wilde
Images from Lara Wilde to make sure our customers are satisfied and feel safe. We answer their questions, we take the time to chat with them and we give them the very best service we can.
Do you think customers have changed at all over time? FR: Very much so. Customers now
spend a lot of time on social media and YouTube and they often think they know everything. Unfortunately, there is a lot of
misinformation out there and they only have half the story. I also think there needs to be a lot more consumer education that is accurate and relevant. Customers are very passionate about the size or colour of their wheels, but they seem to take care and maintenance for granted. Tyres are very important and they can determine if your car is safe. Simple tasks like regularly checking tyre pressure are often overlooked by customers.
How do you find new customers, what is your marketing strategy? FR: We joined Tyrepower about three years
ago and through that arrangement they take care of our advertising, so I don’t focus on doing any ads. Instead, I focus on supporting our community by sponsoring different projects. We have provided money to the local sporting teams such as cricket, speedway, soccer, football, as well as stray dog rescues, and the hospital foundation.
every one of its stores is a member of MTA Queensland and we have really found our membership to be invaluable. We rely on MTA Queensland for professional advice when dealing with staff and HR issues.
If you could go back to 2015 and give Frank advice, what would you tell him? FR: I wouldn’t change anything I have done
in that every step has been a valuable lesson. Having said that, there are a few tips I would give him. Firstly, to make sure that work doesn’t become your life. I have Have you always been an MTA Queensland member? two young children now and I have missed some moments in their life because I was FR: Lance was a member of MTA working. These days I am very clear about Queensland when he first opened the family time and setting boundaries at Pit Stop in 1990. At some point after I work so I can be at home with my young bought the store, I let the membership lapse. Tyrepower, however, insists that family. Secondly, I would tell 2015 Frank to ask for help sooner. Often, we think that the struggle is necessary, but I am not sure it is. If we ask for help, we can get to the solution faster and move on to the next thing without suffering unnecessarily. Finally, I would tell me to replace me earlier as a manager. By employing the right staff and giving them the opportunity to make decisions and drive the business you can remove a lot CLICK TO VISIT of the stress and heartache THE TYREPOWER you incur when you try to do CAIRNS WEBSITE everything yourself.
“BY EMPLOYING THE RIGHT STAFF AND GIVING THEM THE OPPORTUNITY TO MAKE DECISIONS AND DRIVE THE BUSINESS YOU CAN REMOVE A LOT OF THE STRESS AND HEARTACHE YOU INCUR WHEN YOU TRY TO DO EVERYTHING YOURSELF.”
10 | Motor Trader October 2022
New MTAQ members
MTA QUEENSLAND WELCOMES THE FOLLOWING NEW MEMBERS BUSINESS NAME Proserpine Auto Repairs & Towing Service Auto Masters - Labrador Dusty’s Heavy Diesel National Assessing & Engineering Alexander Body Works AMA Group Solutions QLD Pty Ltd - H/O Capital S.M.A.R.T Repairs - Archerfield Capital S.M.A.R.T Repairs - Darra Capital S.M.A.R.T Repairs - Nerang Lawrence Capital S.M.A.R.T Repairs - Nerang Lawrence Plus Capital S.M.A.R.T Repairs - Tingalpa Capital Smart Repairs - Banyo Capital Smart Repairs Murarrie City Crash Repairs Domroy Prestige Autobody Gemini Accident Repair Centre - Burleigh Heads Gemini Accident Repair Centre - Geebung Gemini Accident Repair Centre - Rockhampton Gemini Accident Repair Centre - Townsville Gemini Ashmore Gemini Caloundra Gemini Enoggera Gemini Group Solutions - Eagle Farm Gemini Mackay Gemini Nerang Gemini Southport Gemini Wacol H Harvey Prestige Mark McHugh Body Works Recar Brisbane RPM Tingalpa Shipstone Accident Repair Specialist Viking Mechanical (Qld) - MACKAY Viking Mechanical (QLD) Paget Wells Smash Repairs Johnsons 4WD Repair Shop Spencey's Auto Repairs & Engine Reconditioning Central Tyre Service FNQ Pty Ltd - Atherton Central Tyre Service FNQ Pty Ltd - Malanda Central Tyre Service FNQ Pty Ltd - Mareeba Central Tyre Service FNQ Pty Ltd - Mossman
ADDRESS 135 Main Street Proserpine Qld 4800 Australia 1/197 Brisbane Road BIGGERA WATERS QLD 4216 Australia 32 Bowen Street ROMA QLD 4455 Australia 5/41 Ferry Road SOUTHPORT QLD 4215 Australia 30 Mackley Street GARBUTT QLD 4814 Australia Level 13/484 St Kilda Road MELBOURNE VIC 3004 Australia 6 Parkview Drive ARCHERFIELD Qld 4108 Australia 1, 2840 Ipswich Road DARRA, QLD 4076 57 Lawrence Drive NERANG Qld 4211 Australia 28 Brendan Drive NERANG, QLD 4211 4 Proprietary Street TINGALPA Qld 4173 Australia 56 Depot Street BANYO Qld 4014 Australia 73 Alexandra Place MURARRIE Qld 4172 Australia 1-3 Auscan Crescent GARBUTT, QLD 4814 21 Baldock Street MOOROOKA, QLD 4105 28 Fremantle Street BURLEIGH HEADS, Qld 4220 24 Kingtel Place GEEBUNG Qld 4034 Australia 3/57A Alexandra Street PARK AVENUE QLD 4701 Australia 9 Vesuvius Street GARBUTT, QLD 4814 8 Kamholtz Court MOLENDINAR, QLD 4214 8 Sydal Street LITTLE MOUNTAIN QLD 4551 Australia 105 Pickering Street ENOGGERA, QLD 4051 25 Savage Street PINKENBA QLD 4008 Australia 13-15 Corporate Drive PAGET, QLD 4740 20 Jaygee Court Nerang, QLD 4211 2/20 Hinde Street ASHMORE, QLD 4214 652 Progress Road Wacol, QLD 4076 3-7 Sierra Place Upper Coomera QLD 4209 Australia 14 Strathaird Road BUNDALL, QLD 4217 76 Colecard Street East ACACIA RIDGE QLD 4110 Australia 16 Propietary Street TINGALPA QLD 4173 Australia 112 Bowen Street WINDSOR, QLD 4030 16 Peel Street MACKAY Qld 4740 Australia 185 Boundary Road PAGET, Qld 4740 3/354 Brisbane Road ARUNDEL, QLD 4214 61 Lucas Street BERSERKER QLD 4701 Australia 20 Bent Street GYMPIE, Qld 4570 9-11 Robert Street ATHERTON QLD 4883 Australia 21 Catherine Street MALANDA Qld 4885 Australia 8 Hort Street MAREEBA QLD 4880 Australia 15 Mill Street MOSSMAN QLD 4873 Australia
November 2022 Motor Trader | 11
KEY INITIATIVES IMPACTING MTA QUEENSLAND MEMBERS AND MTA INSTITUTE BACKGROUND
THE FEDERAL LABOR Government elected in May 2022 announced its 2022-23 Budget on 25 October 2022. This follows the previous Coalition Government’s budget that was announced in March 2022, ahead of the May federal election. This October Budget seeks to respond to the Government’s election commitments and priorities, but also to respond to the current economic circumstances. As has been flagged in the lead-up to the Budget, there are considerable fiscal pressures arising from rapid cost increases in disability, aged and health care, defence and servicing the national debt. 12 | Motor Trader October 2022
WHILE ECONOMIC GROWTH IS EXPECTED TO REMAIN RELATIVELY STRONG IN 2022-23 AT 3.25 PER CENT, IT WILL SOFTEN TO 1.5 PER CENT IN THE FOLLOWING YEAR . . .
The Budget provides $1 billion over five years to support 480,000 fee-free learning in vocational education places in industries and regions experiencing skill shortages While these cost pressures will build over the forward estimates, the current financial year (2022-23) is expected to record a deficit of $36.9 billion, an improvement of some $41.1 billion over that previously projected. This improvement is due in large part to windfall tax receipts as a result of record natural resource prices and to five-decade low levels of unemployment (and the associated reduced welfare payments). While economic growth is expected to remain relatively strong in 2022-23 at 3.25 per cent, it will soften to 1.5 per cent in the following year, partly in response to global circumstances and domestic (especially monetary) policies aimed at reducing inflation that is expected to peak at 7.75 per cent later in 2022. Unemployment is expected to edge up slightly from 3.5 per cent now to 4.5 per cent in 2023-24. On the back of widespread concern with
chronic skill shortages the Budget moves to implement the Government’s skills election commitments articulated in its Future Made in Australia Skills Plan. The key focus is a boost to free training in skill shortage areas and regions. The Budget also provides incentives (announced before the Budget) to boost the uptake of electric vehicles.
ISSUES FEE-FREE VOCATIONAL EDUCATION PLACES To meet its election commitment, the Budget provides $1 billion over five years to support 480,000 fee-free learning in vocational education places in industries and regions experiencing skill shortages. In 2023, 180,000 of these fee-free places (120,000 existing and 60,000 additional places) will be delivered through a National Skills Agreement with states and territories. This commitment is in the context that in 2021, 4.3 million students enrolled in nationally recognised VET, of which 1.4 million were government funded. It is worth noting that the recent Skills Priority List published by the National Skills Commission includes several automotive occupations. November 2022 Motor Trader | 13
Changes to Fringe Benefits Tax will see savings of $9,000 on a $50,000 EV or $4,700 for those using salary sacrifice arrangements
AS WAS ANNOUNCED WELL BEFORE THE BUDGET, THE GOVERNMENT HAS INTRODUCED A $345 MILLION PACKAGE OF TAX REFORMS THAT WILL REDUCE THE COST OF ELECTRIC VEHICLES. APPRENTICESHIP INCENTIVES The Budget did not contain any other new or adjusted initiatives to support the uptake of apprenticeships. The cessation of the Boosting Apprenticeship Commencements initiative in June 2022 (a COVID-19 initiative that provided up to a 50 per cent wage subsidy) means the much more modest incentive arrangements through the Australian Apprenticeships Incentive System remain (up to 10 per cent wage subsidies for first and second-year apprentices). Changes to employer incentives have traditionally had a significant impact on apprenticeship commencements. Any impact of this change is likely to be partially offset by the significant skills shortages across the industry.
CHEAPER ELECTRIC VEHICLES As was announced well before the Budget, the government has introduced a $345 million package of tax reforms that will reduce the cost of electric vehicles (EV). Changes to Fringe Benefits Tax will see savings of $9,000 on a $50,000 EV or 14 | Motor Trader October 2022
$4,700 for persons using salary sacrifice arrangements. The elimination of the five per cent import tariff is expected to see savings of around $2,500. In view of the price differential for electric vehicles, this level of subsidy is unlikely to have a major impact for some time.
DRIVING THE NATION FUND The Budget responds to the government’s Driving the Nation policy commitment with $275.4 million over six years. This includes $146.1 million over five years to support projects that reduce road transport emissions, $89.5 million over six years for the Hydrogen Highway initiative (hydrogen refueling stations) and $39.8 million over five years for the National Electric Vehicle Charging Network of 117 fast charging stations on major highways.
ON-ROAD EMISSIONS TESTING $14 million will be provided to the Australian Automobile Association over four years from 2022-23 to conduct onroad emissions and fuel consumption testing of light vehicles sold in Australia.
DIESEL EXHAUST FLUID MARKET In response to the recent concerns about the shortages of diesel exhaust fluid, the Government will invest $45 million over four years from 2022-23 to ensure a fiveweek supply stockpile.
HOW TO STAY SAFE ONLINE AS CYBER-CRIME and spam become more sophisticated, it’s important to be on your toes when you’re interacting online.
GENERAL TIPS TO KEEP YOUR PERSONAL INFORMATION SAFE It can be hard to keep up with all the latest online threats and scams, but there are some simple steps you can take to help keep yourself safe. 1. Never open attachments or click on links in emails or social media messages from unknown senders. 2. Be cautious when answering calls from unfamiliar numbers or talking to or following instructions from someone you do not know. 3. Refrain from sharing any personal information until you are certain about who you are sharing it with. 4. Change your passwords regularly. Passwords should be long and complex and you should not recycle or reuse passwords across services. 5. Don’t store your passwords in your email account, or in documents. Consider using password management software. 6. Enable multi-factor authentication for your online accounts wherever possible. 7. Ensure you have up-to-date anti-virus software installed on any device used to access online accounts. 8. Visit oaic.gov.au/privacy/databreaches/respond-to-a-data-breachnotification for further guidance about protecting your identity.
STAY SMART ONLINE Stay Smart Online is the Federal Government’s cyber security education portal. Learn how to improve your personal cyber security at cyber.gov.au.
WHAT CAN I DO TO PROTECT MYSELF? Spirit Super has anti-fraud controls and monitoring services in place on all account transactions. Our processes accommodate the threat of identity fraud and the risk of fraud attempts that may come from a data breach. We have systems in place that monitor all accounts for unusual activity, changes in details, and changes in typical operation. You can protect your identity by: • Not sharing personal details like your date of birth publicly • Being suspicious of any requests for personal details or government identification • Being wary regarding any email, letter or text message from your financial institution that refers to an action (like a password or email change) or transaction you don't recognise. If this happens, call your financial service provider via their publicly listed phone number.
OTHER RESOURCES
• S camWatch - consider subscribing to their alerts • Stay Smart Online Service - for the latest tips
on remaining safe online • IDCARE’s Community Online Newsletter Cyber Sushi - for the latest trends and advice • OAIC - resources on data breaches, your rights, and response options. • Moneysmart - for information on how to protect your personal information in the event of identity theft. If you believe your identity may have been compromised, please contact us to discuss options available to you. For more about how we keep your information safe, see our Privacy Policy at spiritsuper.com.au/privacy.
Advice on Spirit Super is provided by Quadrant First Pty Ltd (ABN 78 102 167 877, AFSL 284443) and issuer is Motor Trades Association of Australia Superannuation Fund Pty Ltd (ABN 14 008 650 628, AFSL 238718), the trustee of Spirit Super (ABN 74 559 365 913). Consider the PDS and TMD at spiritsuper.com.au/pds before making a decision. 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.
MTAQ APPRENTICE OF THE YEAR TASTES LIFE IN THE SUPERCARS FAST LANE WITH TRIPLE EIGHT
B
ACK AT THE beginning of 2020, Motor Trader interviewed Gabrielle Clift, then a third-year light vehicle apprentice at Highfields Mechanical and Offroad at Highfields, near Toowoomba. Gabrielle had just been presented with the Apprentice of the Month award, and it would kick off an incredible prize-winning few months for the then 21-year-old, who would go on to pick up the Capricorn Rising Stars Apprentice of the Year award and, to cap off an amazing year, the 2020 MTA Queensland Apprentice of the Year award. Part of the prize for winning that MTA Queensland award was the opportunity - thanks to Spirit Super and Triple Eight Race Engineering - to enjoy two weeks of work experience with the legendary, Supercar championship-winning Triple Eight team (also known as Red Bull Ampol Racing) and be part of the crew at the Gold Coast 500 Supercars event. Unable to live any of that experience last year thanks to COVID-19, it was in September this year that Gabrielle
“I GOT A VERY GOOD LOOK AROUND AT WHAT GOES ON BEHIND THE SCENES AND WHAT IT TAKES TO GET A RACE CAR READY.” was finally able to step into the team’s workshop at Banyo on the eastern fringe of Brisbane and spend a fortnight learning just what it takes to be part of a top-class racing outfit. Triple Eight/Red Bull Ampol is, of course, the home to a few of Australian motorsports most famous drivers – Jamie Whincup, Broc Feeney, Shane Van Gisbergen, Garth Tander, Craig Lowndes and Declan Fraser are driving for the outfit this year – and being a part of the workshop team that has been a dominant force in the Supercars series for so long was, said Gabrielle, a very special experience. Especially so as her time at the team’s Banyo HQ coincided with preparations for the biggest race of the
Gabrielle Clift (right) with some of the Triple Eight/Red Bull Ampol team at Bathurst, including drivers Broc Feeney (second from right) and Jamie Whincup (third from right) year, the Bathurst 1000. “I got a very good look around at what goes on behind the scenes and what it takes to get a race car ready,” said Gabrielle. “I saw the new Gen3 Camaro and got to do a little bit of work on it as well, which was very exciting. “A lot of the time I was watching what was going on, but I was able to help in the preparations for Bathurst,” she added. “I assisted on the service of their rattle guns, for example, getting their air-lines
ready and testing them, making sure that they were good to go. “I’ve also gained quite a lot of experience in sticker work! You might think stickers are nothing important, but when you know the sponsors are paying lots of money for them, the sticker work becomes just as important as anything else! “I also got to spend a bit of time with the mechanics for Broc Feeney and Jamie Whincup and got to do a little bit of work on their car and ask a lot of questions.
Garth Tander (left) and Shane van Gisbergen were victorious at Bathurst
I definitely got a very good insight into what it takes to be a motorsport mechanic. It was very interesting because while we all enjoy Bathurst and watching the race, I don’t think anyone realises how much work is involved.” Which brings us to the Mount Panorama race circuit and the real ‘race that stops a nation.’ Working with Triple Eight/Red Bull Ampol for the Bathurst 1000 was not part of the original work experience plan, but on the advice of Craig Baills, her boss at Highfields Mechanical, Gabrielle approached the Supercars team to see if there might be a spot available for her to join them at the big weekend of racing. “The team seemed quite happy with the work I was doing - even Roland Dane had something to say about my performance! and my boss said to me that I should ask if they would be willing to have me at Bathurst,” said Gabrielle. “So, that’s what I did. And they said they’d love to have me along. You can imagine how stoked I was to be there!” Being part of a top team at the nation’s most prestigious race meeting meant that this was no ordinary assignment, and while it may have been tempting to take a peek at what was happening on the track,
“RED BULL AMPOL HAVE SUCH A GOOD SYSTEM THAT THEY HAVE EVERYTHING READY TO GO. EVERYTHING IS PREPPED AND EVERYONE IN THE PIT CREW IS VERY CALM.” Gabrielle’s attention, along with everyone else’s on the team, was put into making sure the pit garage ran smoothly and efficiently. For Gabrielle, this meant making sure everything was neat and tidy, tools were where they should be and in fine working order, and new, fresh tyres were always on hand. To work on the Red Bull Ampol race cars themselves was more than she could have expected, but Gabrielle even got a chance to do that too. “I was there to help where needed, so a lot of it was to do with the presentation of the garage,” she said. “Red Bull is obviously a major sponsor of the team so even the fridges had to be stacked perfectly. And I don’t say it had to be done perfectly for just any reason. If the TV cameras were there, they had to be perfect.
“I did know the guys working on Car 88, and they asked if I would like to give them a hand when prepping for practice and qualifying. The fact they let me do a couple of little mechanical things, along with making sure that the car was squeaky clean, was fantastic. I was very lucky and stoked with that.” As one might expect, during the heat of the main race everyone was busy and always on edge, ready to leap into action when required. Despite the pressure, however, Gabrielle said that the professionalism of the team meant everything worked like a welloiled machine. “It was busy, and I didn’t really get to see a lot of the race because I was one of the people doing tyre runs down to the Dunlop tent,” she said. “Doing that was probably the most exercise I have done in a long time because the tent was located more than halfway down pit lane and there was a slight climb. You really felt that when pushing tyres! “Red Bull Ampol have such a good system that they have everything ready to go. Everything is prepped and everyone in the pit crew is very calm. In fact, it’s amazing how calm they are,” she added. “They’ve been doing this for years and they know what to do and what to expect. It was cool to watch.” The icing on the cake of Gabrielle’s Bathurst experience was, of course, to be part of the winning team. The driver
“I’D NEVER BEEN TO BATHURST, EVEN AS A SPECTATOR, AND THAT ATMOSPHERE, THAT JOY, THAT FEELING TO BE A PART OF IT WAS PRETTY SURREAL. THERE IS NO FEELING LIKE IT.”
pairing of Shane van Gisbergen and Garth Tander took the chequered flag after completing 161 laps of the Mount Panorama circuit, with the Car 88 duo of Broc Feeney and Jamie Whincup finishing fifth. Craig Lowndes and Declan Fraser also finished in the top ten, claiming 8th spot. A brilliant result for the Triple Eight team, it was, said Gabrielle, an amazing feeling to play even a relatively minor role in such a result. “I didn’t think I would be full of emotion, but I thought I was going to cry for a minute!” she said. “I’d never been to Bathurst, even as a spectator, and that atmosphere, that joy, that feeling to be a part of it was pretty surreal. There is no feeling like it. November 2022 Motor Trader | 19
“At first, I thought I really didn’t do much, but then I realised that while preparing their rattle guns and air-lines and doing the sticker work may not seem like much, it took the pressure off Victory at the Gold Coast 500 saw Gabrielle wrap up her fantastic someone else. And at such a big race, with so much riding on it and where so experience with the Triple Eight/Red Bull Ampol team much needs to be done, the fact that I could be there assisting them makes me feel great and makes me feel like I really accomplished something.” Gabrielle’s amazing month didn’t finish with Bathurst. On the weekend of October 28-30, she was back in action at the Gold Coast 500. The result? Another brilliant weekend, with Red Bull Ampol clinching the teams’ championship “I was thinking the other day about how title and Shane van Gisbergen notching I was just some country bumpkin kid from two race wins and securing the driver’s Moree who became a mechanic because championship. It was another golden my dad was a truck driver, and who had moment for Gabrielle and a grand finale to no real lofty expectations as to where I was her time embedded in the world of topgoing to go. Then I moved to Highfields flight Australian motorsport. Mechanical and they showed me a All in all, she said, it had been a pathway, told me I had potential, and gave brilliant experience. me great opportunities. And then I trained “It has been an adrenaline rush and with the MTA Institute, who not only the experience of a lifetime, and I am so guided me through my apprenticeship, grateful and so blessed to have had the but considered me for apprentice of the opportunity. The guys at Triple Eight are month and then apprentice of the year – lovely, brilliant to work with, and were something I am still as excited about now more than happy to answer my questions as I was two years ago. To journey from and involve me where they could. It where I started to where I am now - I can’t was a very worthwhile experience,” said thank everyone enough!” Gabrielle.
“IT HAS BEEN AN ADRENALINE RUSH AND THE EXPERIENCE OF A LIFETIME, AND I AM SO GRATEFUL AND SO BLESSED TO HAVE HAD THE OPPORTUNITY.”
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AUTO WOMEN SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS ANNOUNCED
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HE RECIPIENTS OF the second round of Auto Women Scholarships for 2022 have been revealed, with Gabrielle Clift from Highfields Mechanical in Toowoomba awarded the Leading Edge Scholarship valued at $3,490, and Kim Siegmann from Cairns Car Brokers awarded the Executive Ready Scholarship valued at $7,990. The scholarships, sponsored by MTA Queensland, Spirit Super and Women & Leadership Australia, Gabrielle Clift from Highfields Mechanical has aims to support the career advancement of women working in been awarded the Leading Edge Scholarship the automotive industry through two, fully funded, high-impact training programs. The first course, Leading Edge, is designed to assist females in early-career positions to transition into confident, capable, and motivated leaders. Gabrielle, who recently qualified as a light vehicle mechanic, receives this scholarship and adds to what had been an outstanding Gabrielle hopes to use the Leading Edge couple of years for the 23-year-old. In course to build her business skills. 2020, she was named MTA Queensland’s “Working in the automotive industry Apprentice of the Year. That same year, she can be hard, but it has so much to offer if also took home Capricorn’s Rising Star you truly embrace it,” said Gabrielle. “If you Award. Two years on, Gabrielle has only are given an opportunity, take it; if you are continued to impress, recently joining given advice, listen to it; and if you have Triple Eight Race Engineering’s Red Bull a chance to do something different, do it. Ampol Racing team at the 2022 Bathurst Never stop learning.” 1000 event in early October (you can read The second course, Executive Ready, more on that adventure from page 16). is designed to stretch mid-level leaders With dreams of one day becoming the and propel them towards executive-level owner of her own mechanical workshop, positions, bolstering skills and mindsets.
“WORKING IN THE AUTOMOTIVE INDUSTRY CAN BE HARD, BUT IT HAS SO MUCH TO OFFER IF YOU TRULY EMBRACE IT.”
22 | Motor Trader October 2022
Kim Siegmann from Cairns Car Brokers has been awarded the Executive Ready Scholarship This scholarship has been awarded to Kim Siegmann, the Owner and Managing Director at Cairns Car Brokers. Kim oversees a range of operations in the business, from accounts, financing, and licensing, to marketing, administration, and customer service. Over her 15 years managing the business, Kim has placed high importance on continual professional development, with plans to use the Executive Ready course to advance her leadership capability and unlock the full potential of her staff. As Vice-President of the Cairns Businesswomen’s Club, Kim would also like to use the opportunity to grow her presence in the community, supporting women across both the greater Cairns region, and the automotive industry as a whole. “Women are woefully underrepresented in the automotive industry, but this is beginning to change,” said Kim. “I want to be a leader in my community and promote the growth of women in business; be an influencer, a mentor, and help others break their glass ceiling. I believe this scholarship will provide me with the tools and resources necessary to do this, and I am grateful to be given this opportunity.” Supporting career advancement is just one part of MTA Queensland’s Auto Women initiative, which was established at the beginning of this year to provide
“I WANT TO BE A LEADER IN MY COMMUNITY AND PROMOTE THE GROWTH OF WOMEN IN BUSINESS; BE AN INFLUENCER, A MENTOR, AND HELP OTHERS BREAK THEIR GLASS CEILING.” a supportive environment for women working across the automotive industry. “We have a long way to bridge the gender imbalance in the automotive industry, but this year has seen the beginning of something new, an initiative that will bring together a community of women,” said Kellie Dewar, Deputy CEO at MTA Queensland. “Women can, and do, bring fresh insights and vision to all levels of business, and seeing leaders such as Gabrielle and Kim use their skills to further themselves in their careers is inspiring to others.” Both the Leading Edge and Executive Ready courses are run by Women & Leadership Australia, who are a sponsor alongside Spirit Super and MTA Queensland. CLICK TO FIND OUT The sponsors agree the MORE ABOUT THE courses are an exceptional AUTO WOMEN opportunity to assist INITIATIVE women in the automotive industry to reach their career aspirations. November 2022 Motor Trader | 23
VEHICLE ASSESSMENT COMPANY EMBARKS ON NATIONAL EXPANSION PROGRAM
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PART FROM BUYING somewhere to live, a vehicle is likely to be the secondbiggest purchase most people are going to make. Not surprisingly then, owners want to know they are buying a vehicle that is not only worthy of their investment but, when the time comes, is maintained and repaired properly, with the work required – be it body repair, paint, electrical, or mechanical - done well, bringing their vehicle back National Assessing and Engineering founder, Frank Cottonaro to factory condition. Of course, most people, rightly, put their faith in the professionalism and knowledge of their service provider or the provider recommended, for instance, by their insurance company. At other times, however, a vehicle owner might seek the help of a company that specialises in examining vehicles, assessing what they are worth, what work may need to be done, or testing what work has been done. One such business is National Assessing and Engineering, based on the Gold Coast. Founded in 2018 by automotive industry preparation of reports regarding warranty veteran Frank Cottonaro, and based and other disputes, pre-purchase at a new, fully equipped assessment inspections, and more. The company’s centre facility, National Assessing & work extends to customers beyond the Engineering offers a wide range of services general public too, with repair shops, fleet that includes not only the independent managers and even the legal system calling assessment of cars - including repair cost on the company’s expertise. “We offer independent assessing of and post-repair assessing - but also offers damaged vehicles, motorcycles, boats drivetrain repairs, diagnostics (including anything that moves,” said Frank. “And ADAS checks), electrical repairs, the
“WE OFFER INDEPENDENT ASSESSING OF DAMAGED VEHICLES, MOTORCYCLES, BOATS - ANYTHING THAT MOVES . . . AND WE EXTEND OUR SERVICES ACROSS THE WHOLE CAR, NOT JUST CERTAIN ASPECTS OF IT.”
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we extend our services across the whole car, not just certain aspects of it. So that includes paint, body, interior, electrics, and mechanical. We cover all those areas. “Our clients range from individuals through to solicitors, from insurance companies to brokers, and companies that are self-insured. “We have even had repairers call and ask for us to inspect cars before they leave their shop so they know the repairs are done well. This might be because they have a vehicle that's outside their scope and they might not have the experience or expertise in quoting it, and they may ask us to help assist them write a quote for the repairs. A lot of new cars are very technical and we can advise on the parameters of a repair scope – for example the type of metals they are working with, whether to use bonding instead of welding, whether they must use rivets and what particular rivets to use. There are a lot of
specifications that we help with.” With modern cars being so technical there is, said Frank, an educational aspect to National Assessing’s work. “We almost feel like we're an educator, a facilitator of all the technologies that are coming out, and we're pre-warning repairers that some things just can’t be ignored,” he said. An example of that technology is ADAS - Advanced Driver Assistance Systems. Designed to provide such safety features as lane keep assist, automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning and a myriad of others, ADAS systems rely on the precise calibration of sensors such as LiDAR, radar and cameras which pass data to the vehicle’s ECUs and computer systems where the information is interpreted and the correct driving action delivered. “Calibrations must be done post-repair,” said Frank. “We sometimes find that cars come in and the owners say it doesn’t November 2022 Motor Trader | 25
The National Assessing and Engineering assessment centre on the Gold Coast is the first of 20 that the company plans to establish across Australia. The centres will allow for more in-depth and comprehensive examination of a vehicle's condition - from body repair and paint, to electrical and mechanical componentry and even ADAS systems.
LEFT: Frank Cottonaro's project '58 Corvette currently has a spot in the National Assessing workshop. It's for sale if anyone has the time and skill to bring such a classic back to life! drive straight. That's because the lane assist is not calibrated and it's actually throwing them across the lines. Other times we have had cars come in where the assisted braking is not coming on or it's coming on too early. Whatever the issue, we diagnose the problem but don’t calibrate. Instead, we create a report and push for the car to go back to the same location where it was repaired.” Quite a lot of National Assessing’s work involves assessing vehicles which are at the centre of a dispute, often between the owner of the car and an insurance company. The reason, said Frank, is that non-accident-related damage, perhaps caused from an older incident, can be included in quotes and the clients have only CTP insurance, which covers personal injury but not property damage. “An individual might have hit someone in the back and that could have been just a small tap,” he said. “They then get a bill from the insurer for an excessive amount which includes other damage not related to that incident. We look at it and report, for example, that it couldn't have been part of the new accident because that damage is too far away. “A lot of times we play mediator, and 26 | Motor Trader October 2022
probably 95 per cent of the assessments that we do result in the resolution of a dispute," he added. "And that gives us tremendous job satisfaction because we are independent and not on any particular side but governed by a wish for cars to be repaired properly.” Having started his career in the automotive industry as a panel beating apprentice back in the early 1980s, Frank has built up a vast wealth of knowledge through owning his own panel shops, working as an assessor for major insurance companies, and running a business that oversaw the management of more than 40,000 claims. His insights are valuable enough that he is regularly engaged as an expert witness in legal cases. All of these experiences combined over the years for Frank to realise that establishing a bricks-and-mortar facility was the best way forward for a truly world-class assessment business. While National Assessing still offers its services nationally utilising the skills of mobile assessors, a workshop environment allows for a much more detailed examination of a vehicle, and the company’s headquarters in Southport, on Queensland’s Gold Coast, is where the
“OUR FIRST SHOP HAS BEEN LIKE A TEST AND BECAUSE OF THE SUCCESS WE’VE HAD HERE WE ARE CONFIDENT TO ROLL THIS OUT AND WE’RE NOW IN THE PROCESS OF OPENING CENTRES ACROSS AUSTRALIA.”
you're being specific about what you want to look at – checking underbody measurements and welds, for example – it means you can't go past having a centre where you can hoist the car up and have the proper equipment to test it. Here, in our new environment, we have the right tools to do the correct reports.” Opening just a couple of years ago, the centre has been a marked success, with clients from across the country willing to transport their vehicles to the Gold most complex work is done and is the blueprint for the company’s expansion plans. Coast to be assessed. And the success of the facility has driven the development of “What was happening is that people a plan to expand the assessment centre were asking us to inspect vehicles, but concept across the nation. a lot of things couldn't be done because “Our first shop has been like a test and you're on the road,” said Frank. “You because of the success we’ve had here we couldn't lift the car up, you couldn't bring the equipment with you, and I realised this are confident to roll this out and we’re now in the process of opening centres across left a gap in the market. Australia,” said Frank. “When I set it up the business in 2018, “We've done a lot of research into the I was running it similarly to most other sustainability of it and found that not assessors, but it became pretty obvious only is there a demand, but there's a that there was such a bigger demand requirement for it. The next stage is to for our service and there was a lot CLICK open in at least one of these centres of things that I wanted to do that TO VISIT THE NATIONAL in every capital city and in places I couldn't physically do because I ASSESSING such as Cairns. We estimate we'll was on the road. & ENGINEERING WEBSITE have 20 shops up and running in “Simple assessments can be about three years.” done in that fashion, but when November 2022 Motor Trader | 27
Auto innovation news CLICK TO VIEW THE STATE OF ELECTRIC VEHICLES REPORT
STATE OF ELECTRIC VEHICLES REPORT SHOWS INCREASE IN SALES BUT AUSTRALIA STILL LAGGING BEHIND
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LECTRIC VEHICLES (EVS) now represent 3.39 per cent of all vehicle sales, a 65 per cent increase on 2021, according to the Electric Vehicle Council's (EVC) new State of EVs report. The ACT leads the nation on sales, with 9.5 per cent of all new vehicles sales being EVs. It is followed by New South Wales (3.7 per cent), Victoria (3.4 per cent), Queensland (3.3 per cent), Tasmania (3.3 per cent), Western Australia (2.8 per cent), South Australia (2.3 per cent), and the Northern Territory (0.8 per cent). According to the report, 26,356 EVs were sold from January-September this year, with the Tesla Model 3 leading the way, accounting for 33 per cent of this sales. While the uptake is of note, the EVC noted that Australia was far behind other nations, particularly in Europe, in EV sales, with a national EV strategy crucial for the EV sector to gain momentum. Currently, Australians have a choice of 45 models and 95 variants – 60 battery electric vehicles (BEV) and 35 plug-in hybrids (PHEV). As a comparison, the report notes that in the UK, consumers can choose from approximately 140 BEV variants and 40 PHEV variants. "It's great to see so much momentum behind EV sales in Australia, but to put our 3.4 per cent in context - Germany sits 28 | Motor Trader October 2022
at 26 per cent, the UK at 19 per cent, and California at 13 per cent. The global average is 8.6 per cent so Australia has a long, long way to come,” said Dr Jake Whitehead, Electric Vehicle Council Head of Policy. "We know from all the research that Australians are keen to get behind the wheel of an EV, but they just aren't getting the access that other markets get. Because our governments have lagged the world on EV policy, Australia is still something of an afterthought for global EV manufacturers. So Australian consumers have a smaller range of EVs to choose from and they are also being forced to wait for many months or even years to take delivery of new vehicles. "The good news is the new federal government understands the opportunities of EVs and is working on a genuine EV strategy. Although that strategy will need include a range of measures, high on the list must be fuel efficiency standards. "If Australia does not introduce fuel efficiency standards on par with the EU and the US, we will continue to lag the world by a huge margin. Given transport makes up 19 per cent of Australia’s emissions we also can't say we're serious about achieving our 2030 emission reduction target without fuel efficiency standards."
TRACKING THE EV REVOLUTION AND THE EUROPEAN EXPERIENCE IN SEPTEMBER 2022, MTA Queensland Group CEO Rod Camm, together with colleagues from other state motoring associations, travelled to Europe to investigate the electric vehicle (EV) sector across the continent.
The group visited several countries and met with representatives of repair shops, dealerships, automotive organisations, government departments and more with the aim of understanding their journey to electrification and how their experience might help shape that transition in Australia. Upon his return, Mr Camm joined Motor Trader for a conversation about that trip, sharing his insights and observations. Listen to the interview by clicking below:
VIDEO: MOBILITY MATTERS THE PODCAST | EUROPE, AUSTRALIA & THE EV TRANSITION WITH ROD CAMM
November 2022 Motor Trader | 29
Auto innovation news
GM TO SOURCE BATTERY RAW MATERIALS FROM QUEENSLAND
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ENERAL MOTORS (GM) is taking a stake in Queensland Pacific Metals (QPM) and will source nickel and cobalt for its Ultium battery cells from the Australian company. GM is expected to invest $US69 million ($AU106 million) for the development of QPM’s Townsville Energy Chemicals Hub (TECH), a battery metals project where high-grade nickel laterite ore will be imported from New Caledonia for processing. The TECH facility, using a patented refining and recycling process called the DNi Process, will produce high-purity nickel and cobalt sulphate and other metals from the ore. The DNi Process is a more environmentally friendly refining process, which the company says allows for ‘more than 98 per cent nitric acid recycling, no tailings dam requirements, and less waste than traditional extraction processes.’ GM says the nickel and cobalt from QPM will help power a broad portfolio of its trucks,
30 | Motor Trader October 2022
SUVs, vans and luxury vehicles, including the Chevrolet Silverado EV, GMC HUMMER EV Pickup and SUV, Cadillac LYRIQ, Chevrolet Blazer EV and Chevrolet Equinox EV. "The collaboration with Queensland Pacific Metals will provide GM with a secure, cost-competitive and long-term supply of nickel and cobalt from a freetrade agreement partner to help support our fast-growing EV production needs," said Jeff Morrison, GM vice president, Global Purchasing and Supply Chain. "Importantly, the agreement demonstrates our commitment to building strong supplier relationships and is aligned with our approach to responsible sourcing and supply chain management.” GM will join Korean companies LG Energy Solution, one of the world’s largest battery manufacturers, and Posco, one of the world’s largest steel producers, as investors in QPM. The TECH Project is expected to begin construction in 2023.
The GM Hummer EV Ultium battery platform
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ELECTRIC TUK-TUK DEBUTS IN LAST-MILE DELIVERY INITIATIVE
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AST-MILE DELIVERY – the final step in a product’s journey from a warehouse/hub to the customer's location – has been a topic of discussion for some years in electric vehicle circles. The efficient and emissions-free nature of light EVs makes them ideal for such a role, particularly in an urban setting, and the idea is beginning to take off as retailers and delivery companies look for an efficient and more environmentally conscious way to get goods to the customer. Earlier this month, Australia got a taste of what last-mile delivery might look like with the announcement of
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strategic partnership between freight delivery company ANC and EMoS, the award-winning, Queensland company that specialises in providing smart, light electric vehicles for both delivery and personal transport applications. The agreement will see EMoS provide three-wheeled, allelectric Tuk-Tuks to ANC. Manufactured by Biliti Electric, a sustainable mobility brand that designs smart, efficient and compact electric vehicles, e-TukTuks are designed specifically for last-mile delivery and are being used for such work in delivery operations in Asia, Europe and, soon, in the US.
In Australia, the e-TukTuk model, known as BUDDe, will offer a payload of 625kg (minus the rider), will be able to reach 50km/h, and have a 9kWh battery offering a range of up to 100km. That battery can be charged via a standard 240v power outlet and, importantly, the BUDDe comes with Biliti Electric’s SmartSwapp technology that allows for the battery to be changed for a fully charged one – a process that takes around two minutes. The BUDDe Tuk Tuk is produced by Biliti Electric That battery charging and and is fitted with swappable battery technology battery-swap technology is absolutely crucial for freight and delivery businesses. With realising our sustainability objectives,” charging able to be done via a standard said Joe Sofra, ANC CEO. “It’s a functional wall plug and batteries easily and swiftly electric delivery vehicle that’s easy to replaced, there is effectively no down time charge and has plenty of cargo space for the BUDDe. despite its smaller size. And their low price For ANC, which completes more than point allows rapid EV fleet expansion. We’re five million deliveries every year, the proud to be leading the way in Australia.” BUDDe is a nice fit in its electrification Brisbane-based EMoS is the exclusive plans as its clients, notably Swedish importer of the e-TukTuk for Australia retailing giant IKEA, look to lower their and New Zealand. For company Director emissions footprint. In IKEA’s case, that Harry Proskefalas, the ANC partnership goal is to provide all its customers with and growing interest in small electric zero-emission deliveries by 2025. ANC vehicles for last-mile delivery applications will initially deploy two of the BUDDe is both exciting and proof of the e-TukTuks to deliver goods from IKEA viability of a concept that he and EMoS Australia’s Tempe store in Sydney on a founder Wolfgang Roffman have been three-month trial. championing for years. “The introduction of these batteryThe company already offers the CTpowered e-TukTuks to our EV fleet is Kargo, CT-Kargo Kool and CT-Kube an integral milestone in our journey to models – all three-wheeled delivery
“IT’S A FUNCTIONAL ELECTRIC DELIVERY VEHICLE THAT’S EASY TO CHARGE AND HAS PLENTY OF CARGO SPACE DESPITE ITS SMALLER SIZE. AND THEIR LOW PRICE POINT ALLOWS RAPID EV FLEET EXPANSION.”
vehicles, albeit with smaller load-carrying capability than the BUDDe. “We could see the opportunity and that is why initially went down the path of the CT range,” said Harry. “For the last five years we’ve been educating the market, getting in front of all the national courier services with these products. But there was always a bit of pushback. They would say they liked the idea but their distribution models were not set up for it
November 2022 Motor Trader | 33
EMoS director Harry Proskefalas with the BUDDe. EMoS is the exclusive importer of the er-TukTuk into Australia and New Zealand
Left: Harry flanked by Joe Sofra, CEO of ANC, and Behyad Jafari, CEO of the Electric Vehicle Council
“IT IS THRILLING BECAUSE THEY UNDERSTOOD EXACTLY WHAT WE HAVE BEEN SAYING FOR THE LAST FIVE YEARS.” quite yet – their distribution centres were at the forefront of this new technology; it’s too far away from the city, for example. But great to establish a strong partnership and collaborate in supporting optimised and in our conversation with ANC, we found efficient electric last-mile delivery needs. that we were quite literally finishing each ANC has committed to work with us for other’s sentences. They said, ‘We get it’. a dedicated small parcel pilot and we’re “Talking to them was refreshing looking forward to seeing the results of because we were on the same page and their deployment.” they wanted to invest to be the first EMOS are finalists for the 2022 MTA movers. It is thrilling because they CLICK TO Queensland Innovation Award. The winner understood exactly what we have THE EMOS WEBSITE will be announced at the Association's been saying for the last five years. Industry Awards Gala on November 19. “Together with ANC we’re really 34 | Motor Trader October 2022
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Auto innovation news
AUDI URBAN PURIFIER AIMING TO CLEAR THE AIR IN OUR CITIES
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UDI , WORKING with supplier Mann+Hummel, has been running a pilot project to develop a particulate filter for electric cars that collects matter - such as dust from brake or tyre abrasion - from the surrounding environment. Audi says the filter functions similarly to stationary systems that are already in use in some cities, but its mobile version ensures not only are the car’s own particulate emissions are absorbed, but those of other vehicles can be absorbed as well. The filter is integrated into the vehicle’s existing airflow in front of the radiator. While driving, it passively filters by means of the movement of the vehicle. During stationary charging, a fan that is already built into every electric vehicle, and which moves air through the radiator, is used to move air through the filter too. So far, the filter has been used in Audi's e-tron test vehicles, assessing not only the effectiveness of the filters, but also whether the technology affects overall vehicle usage. After more than 50,000km of endurance tests, Audi says it found the filters had no negative effect on the operation of the electric vehicle, including on hot summer days or during fast charging. The filter is also easy to maintain and must only be replaced when the regular service interval has been reached. A lifecycle analysis of the entire filter 36 | Motor Trader October 2022
VIDEO: AUDI URBAN PURIFIER
system has shown that it will account for 14.9 kilograms of CO2 equivalents. Audi says that the pilot project, which was actually launched in 2020, will run for four years. “This particulate filter is an example of our pursuit of innovation for everyone’s benefit and a successful collaboration with specialised suppliers,” said Fabian Groh, Project Manager in Attachment System Development at AUDI AG. “We are already doing a lot today on our own initiative. We anticipate it will also become a legal requirement in the future.”
LAWS PROTECTING AGAINST HARASSMENT
A positive duty already exists under model WHS laws for employers to ensure
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.
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 PEOPLEworkplace. DIRECTLY INVOLVED IN THE This will help to increase MOTORING INDUSTRY POSITIVE DUTY ALREADY EXISTS awareness (website or e-magazine options)of the duty to manage
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
Auto innovation news
JAGUAR LAND ROVER UNVEILS FUTURE SKILLS INITIATIVE
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AGUAR LAND ROVER (JLR) is going on a global upskilling drive, announcing it is to launch a program to train 29,000 people in the next three years on its connected and data capabilities, and to support a rapid transition to electrification. The company’s Future Skills Program will see more than 10,000 JLR and franchised retailer employees in the UK, and nearly 19,000 across the rest of the world, trained in skills vital to electrification, digital and autonomous cars – a move the company says highlights its commitment to developing its future engineering and manufacturing skills, and its goal of making its cars available in pure electric form by the end of the decade. Currently, the company says around 80 per cent of nearly 1,300 franchised Jaguar Land Rover retailers around the world offer electric vehicle servicing. To tackle the skills gaps, the company says it is ensuring the majority of servicing technicians will receive electrification training this year. As well as technicians, JLR plans to retrain thousands of automotive engineers and production employees, who previously worked on the development of internal combustion cars, to specialise in electrification, digital and autonomous cars. “Our plans to electrify our product portfolio are running at pace, and we are rapidly scaling up our future skills
38 | Motor Trader October 2022
. . . WE ARE RAPIDLY SCALING UP OUR FUTURE SKILLS TRAINING PROGRAM TO ENSURE WE HAVE THE RIGHT TALENT TO DELIVER THE WORLD’S MOST DESIRABLE MODERN LUXURY ELECTRIC VEHICLES. training program to ensure we have the right talent to deliver the world’s most desirable modern luxury electric vehicles,” said Barbara Bergmeier, Jaguar Land Rover Industrial Operations Executive Director. “Developing the skilled global workforces needed to design, build and maintain the vehicles of the future is foundational. I’m proud to say we are committing to help plug the electric and digital skills gap with a comprehensive, global training program, which will power charge electrification both here in the UK and abroad.”
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Auto innovation news
HYUNDAI MOTOR GROUP EMBRACES SOFTWAREDEFINED VEHICLE TECH FOR ENTIRE RANGE
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YUNDAI MOTOR GROUP unveiled a new global strategy last month to transform all its vehicles to Software-Defined Vehicles (SDVs) by 2025. The initiative will, the company said, ‘deliver an unprecedented era of mobility, giving customers the freedom to remotely upgrade the performance and functionality of their vehicles anywhere at any time.’ A ‘software defined vehicle’ is any vehicle that has features and functions managed by software and which can be ‘upgraded’ – that is, receive new features,
Hyundai SEVEN electric SUV concept
even performance enhancements – through software. Perhaps a comparison to technology we are already used to would be a computer in which the physical systems inside remains the same but the notifications to ‘upgrade the operating
A ‘SOFTWARE DEFINED VEHICLE’ IS ANY VEHICLE THAT HAS FEATURES AND FUNCTIONS MANAGED BY SOFTWARE AND WHICH CAN BE ‘UPGRADED’ . . .
system’, or similar prompts, are something we are all used to seeing. Hyundai is not alone in this SDV adventure - Tesla is the most obvious example of a manufacturer whose vehicles have features that are updated via overthe-air (OTA) software updates – but the Hyundai Motor Group is fully committing to the transformation, saying that from 2023 all newly launched vehicles from the Group (that includes Hyundai, Kia, and Genesis) will be able to receive OTA updates and all will evolve to be truly software-defined by 2025. This will apply not just to the Group’s electric models, but its combustion engine models too. To achieve this, Hyundai is developing something called Connected Car Operating Systems (ccOS) - a software platform that can be applied to all controllers and ‘can maximise hardware through extremely high computing power.’ That computing power will come from NVIDIA, the chip design and manufacturer, that Hyundai has been collaborating with and which has been developing system-on-a-chip systems such as NVIDIA DRIVE and the recently announced NVIDIA THOR which have been built to service the increasing demands of ‘intelligent’ vehicles. The ccOS operating system will support the software technology required to analyse and process data ultra-rapidly - data collected capabilities sensors within the cameras, radars, and LiDARs mounted on the vehicle. All this work and tech will enable customers to remotely upgrade the performance and functionality of their vehicles anywhere at any time, without any need to take them to a service centre. By 2025 all Hyundai Motor
Group vehicles will be equipped to receive OTA software updates, but the company will also offer Feature on Demand services from next year, enabling owners to select and purchase functions and features they want. Constantly upgradeable vehicle software ‘will bolster Hyundai Motor Group’s ability to secure diverse and stable revenue streams by providing fresh vehicle features and functionality and leveraging selected data to offer personalised services for each customer’, the company said. Hyundai also said that such technology – that enables the vehicle to be constantly updated – would result in better resale value. The move to SDV vehicles will be accompanied by an 18 trillion won ($AU20 billion) investment from Hyundai Motor Group into its Global Software Centre and R&D headquarters by 2030. The company says it expects 20 million vehicles to by registered to the Group’s Connected Car Services worldwide by 2025.
Find out more
November 2022 Motor Trader | 41
. Classic Car
42 | Motor Trader October 2022
November 2022 Motor Trader | 43
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S
OMETHING A LITTLE different this month. Instead of a classic car from our past, in this edition we take a look at something new from one of the automotive industry’s great names. This is the Rolls-Royce Spectre, the first fully electric car from the venerable British luxury marque. With a reputation of producing some of history’s very best cars, and with the intention of having its entire product portfolio be electric by 2030, Rolls-Royce has plenty riding on the Spectre, and the company has put in the hard yards into ensuring it meets its own high standards - the Spectre, it says, has been put through more than 2.5 million kilometres of testing. You’ve got to think all that effort will result in something of the finest quality and, on first impressions, the 4444| Motor | MotorTrader TraderOctober October2022 2022
WITH A REPUTATION OF PRODUCING SOME OF THE HISTORY’S VERY BEST CARS, AND WITH THE INTENTION OF HAVING ITS ENTIRE PRODUCT PORTFOLIO BE ELECTRIC BY 2030, ROLLS-ROYCE HAS PLENTY RIDING ON THE SPECTRE. Spectre does not disappoint. It looks spectacular for a start. The huge grille upfront stamps the Spectre as a Rolls-Royce, and the long front leading to an equally long fastback sloping rear gives the two-door, four-seat luxury coupe a very tasty and powerful-looking design. Those two doors are hinged at the back – ‘suicide’ doors – and deliver a bit of extra luxury flavour, as do the whopping 23-inch wheels. The design looks tremendous, but there’s practicality to that design too -
November 2022 Motor Trader | 45
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Rolls-Royce claims the aerodynamics of the Spectre are good enough to deliver a drag-coefficient of just 0.25, making it the most aerodynamic car the company has ever produced. An all-aluminium spaceframe architecture has been tweaked to be 30 per cent stiffer on the Spectre than that found on its sibling Phantom, Ghost, and Cullinan models, with the battery pack integrated into the structure of the car. Inside, you’d expect no less than the absolute best, and here the Spectre delivers too. Illuminated surfaces – including the famous star headliner - dot the interior and digital displays sit up front, but as with all top-end Rolls-Royce vehicles, the personalisation and bespoke options available to owners mean almost any combination of designs, fabrics, materials and colours are available. Underneath whatever interior is
46 | Motor Trader October 2022
VIDEO: ROLLS-ROYCE SPECTRE
chosen, however, lives the digital heart of the car, and that, Rolls-Royce says, means the Spectre is equipped with a completely redesigned digital architecture named SPIRIT, which manages the car’s functions and seamlessly integrates with the marque’s WHISPERS application enabling owners to interact with the car remotely. This digital architecture can also be tweaked to the whims of the customer with, for example, the colour of dials being able to complement the interior of the car.
The Spectre is fitted with the company’s Planar suspension system which, via the latest in hardware and software developments, is designed to respond to driver inputs and road conditions and deliver Rolls-Royce’s hallmark ‘magic carpet ride’. Leveraging the Spectre’s high-speed processing capabilities, the Planar system can decouple the car’s anti-roll bars allowing each wheel to act independently, preventing the rocking motion that occurs when one side of a vehicle hits an undulation in the road. This also reduces highfrequency ride imperfections caused by shortcomings in road surface quality.
November 2022 Motor Trader | 47
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THE SPECTRE IS AVAILABLE FOR COMMISSION NOW, WITH ROLLSROYCE SAYING DELIVERIES WILL BEGIN IN Q4 2023. Once a corner is identified as imminent, the Planar system recouples the components and stiffens the dampers. The four-wheel steering system is then prepared for activation to ensure effortless entry and exit. Under cornering, 18 48 || Motor Motor Trader Trader October October 2022 2022 48
sensors are monitored, and steering, braking, power delivery and suspension parameters are adjusted so that Spectre remains stable. While details are yet to be fully revealed, RollsRoyce says that Spectre will be loaded with driver assistance systems and other infotainment features, including an ‘intelligent companion’ called ‘Eleanor’ that can assist with tasks such as temperature adjustment or locating the nearest charging station. Specifications of the powertrain are not yet confirmed, but the company says that the Spectre is expected to be good for a 520km range (WLTP testing), offer 430kW and 900Nm, and deliver a 0-100km/h time of 4.5 seconds – pretty good for a car weighing in at 2,975kg.
The Spectre is available for commission now, with RollsRoyce saying deliveries will begin in Q4 2023. Pricing will, the company adds, slot in somewhere between the Cullinan and Phantom models, meaning you’ll have to be ready to stump up around $800,000 to own one.
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MTA Queensland has been publishing a magazine for its members and the wider industry since 1934. Today, that magazine is known as Motor Trader and it is a digital publication, easily accessible to anyone with access to the internet. There are about 8 years’ worth of digital magazines – starting from 2014 that are currently accessible via the MTA Queensland website Archive pages. However, there are hundreds more in our printed archive that stretch back nearly 90 years and which offer a unique insight into the Queensland automotive industry. MTA Queensland is now working to digitise these back issues and make them accessible too. Our digital Historical Archive will grow over time, and can be accessed HERE. NovemberARCHIVE 2022 Motor Trader | 49 CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE HISTORICAL
Auto news
BMW TO UNLEASH SECOND-GENERATION M2 IN AUSTRALIA IN 2023
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HE ALL-NEW BMW M2 will launch in Australia next year. Available with eight-speed M Steptronic automotive or six-speed manual transmission, the pocket rocket two-door, rear-wheel-drive (RWD) M2 will be powered by a 3-litre M TwinPower Turbo 6-cylinder inline petrol engine developing 338kW and 550Nm enabling a 0-100km/h sprint of 4.1 seconds for the auto and 4.3 for the manual. Top speed is limited to 250km/h, though this can be raised to 285km/h by specifying an optional M Carbon Experience package. An M-specific exhaust system has electrically controlled flaps and there are two pairs of 100mm diameter tailpipes. An M Carbon roof will be offered for the first time on a series production M2 and will feature as standard equipment on Australian specification vehicles. The standard M Traction Control function allows for setting individual intervention thresholds for wheel slip limitation, with a choice of 10 stages. Also fitted as standard, the Active M
Differential generates a locking effect of up to 100 per cent whenever required. This is designed to optimise traction on road surfaces as well as improving power transfer when accelerating hard out of corners. Standard equipment for the new BMW M2 is extensive, and includes adaptive M suspension with electronically controlled dampers, M Servotronic steering with variable ratio, DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) including M Dynamic Mode, and a M Compound brake system that comprises 380mm discs with six-piston fixed-calipers at the front and 370mm diameter discs with single-piston floating-calipers at the rear. The new M2 comes with 19-inch M lightalloys at the front and 20-inch wheels at the rear, with double spoke designs in either black or bi-colour styles. On the inside, the M2 cabin has a 12.3inch information display and a 14.9-inch Control Display as part of the BMW Curved Display. A Head-Up Display, fitted as standard=, also features M-specific readouts and specific graphics.
BMW M2
TOP SPEED IS LIMITED TO 250KM/H, THOUGH THIS CAN BE RAISED TO 285KM/H BY SPECIFYING AN OPTIONAL M CARBON EXPERIENCE PACKAGE. Both the BMW Curved Display and the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant form part of the latest-generation BMW iDrive. The iDrive system enables full personalisation with the BMW ID and My BMW App, while smartphone integration for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto is also included as standard, as well as a 5G antenna system for connectivity. M Carbon bucket seats, which are available as part of the M Carbon Experience package, use carbon fibrereinforced plastic (CFRP) in the structural
elements of the seat cushion and backrest. The M Carbon seats are 10.8kg lighter than the standard M Sport seats. The M Carbon seats are trimmed in ‘Merino’ leather. Comfort features fitted as standard include three-zone automatic climate control, BMW Live Cockpit Plus, ambient lighting and a Harmon/Kardon surround sound system. Automated driving and parking systems include Front Collision Warning, Speed Limit Display with no-overtaking indicator, Lane Departure Warning and Parking Assistant. The Setup button on the centre console provides direct access to full settings options for the engine, chassis, steering, braking system and M Traction Control, as well as the Gear Shift Assistant if the sixspeed manual gearbox is selected. Besides M Traction Control, the standard-fit M Drive Professional also includes the M Drift Analyser and M Laptimer. In addition, the M Mode button on the centre console can be used to adjust both the level of driver assistance and the content shown in the information display and Head-Up Display, with a choice of ROAD, SPORT and TRACK settings.
Available in Australia in the first half of 2023, the new BMW M2 will have a starting price of $199,900 (RRP). November 2022 Motor Trader | 51
Auto news
ISUZU UPDATES D-MAX AND MU-X FOR 2023
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SUZU UTE AUSTRALIA is to introduce significant updates to the 2023 model year D-MAX range with new features, new variants, and a refreshed exterior design and colour palette. Three new variants – the SX Crew Cab Chassis 4x2, the SX Crew Cab Ute 4x2 auto, and the SX Crew Cab Ute 4x4 - will join the 23MY Isuzu D-MAX range, bringing the number of available variants to 27. All three will be availabel with Isuzu’s RZ4ETC 1.9-litre turbo-diesel engine, paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. Isuzu’s 3.0-litre turbo-diesel engine remains available in all grades and styles. Amongst the upgrades and updates, Isuzu says it has simplified the towing setup process by automatically disabling Blind Spot Monitoring and Rear Cross Traffic Alert when a trailer is hitched and detected via the genuine trailer wiring harness. Exterior updates include a new two-tone grille design, rear LED combination lights trimmed in dark grey metallic, and new wheel designs, ranging from 17-inch, sixspoke alloys to 18-inch machined alloys.
ISUZU UTE AUSTRALIA IS TO INTRODUCE SIGNIFICANT UPDATES TO THE 2023 MODEL YEAR D-MAX RANGE WITH NEW FEATURES, NEW VARIANTS, AND A REFRESHED EXTERIOR DESIGN AND COLOUR PALETTE. LS-U, LS-U+ and X-TERRAIN variants each feature a new Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS). New Ute variants will feature Tailgate Assist – a gas-strut system that allows for one-hand operation of the tailgate. New colours available include Neptune Blue Mica, Granite Grey metallic (available on the X-Terrain) and Moonstone White Pearl (available on LS-U, LS-U+ and X-Terrain). On the inside, there’s an updated selection of seat upholstery trims – highgrade cloth on LS-M and LS-U, and leather-
Isuzu MU-X LS-T
Isuzu D-MAX 4X4 X Terrain accented trim on the LS-U+ and X-Terrain, with the X-Terrain also getting red stitching. The SX Crew Cab Ute and Crew Cab Chassis both get an additional 2.1amp USB port in the second row, matching the range’s other grades. Pricing for the 2023 D-Max family ranges from $32,300 ($31,990 special driveaway price) for the SX Single Cab Chassis 4x2 manual 1.9-litre turbo diesel, to $67,500 ($64,990 special driveaway price) for the flagship X-Terrain 4x4 3-litre turbo diesel. Isuzu has also revealed it is updating its MU-X SUV range for the 2023 model year, including new features, finishes, and a ‘darker design aesthetic’. Available in three grades - LS-M, LS-U, and LS-T - in either 4x2 or selectable
4x4, all 23MY Isuzu MU-X variants will be powered by Isuzu’s 3-litre turbo diesel generating 140kW/450Nm. There are new grille designs available across the range, with the LS-M variant getting new six-spoke alloy wheels and allterrain rubber, dark grey accents instead of chrome on the LED rear combination lights, and the simplified towing system that will automatically disable Blind Spot Monitoring and Rear Cross Traffic Alert when the trailer it hitched and detected via the genuine trailer wiring harness plug (available across the range). The LS-U gets a Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), receives the darker Magnetite shade grille, fog light trim, sidesteps, roof rails and rear bumper. The LS-U (and LS-T) also gets a handsfree tailgate system. The LS-T gets the same tweaks as the LS-U with the addition of Magnetite treatment across the lower front bumper and a new set of 20-inch machined alloy wheels. All MY23 MU-X variants will be available with a new Galaxy Blue Mica paint. On sales from December, the MY23 MU-X models range in price (excluding on-roads) from $48,900 for the LS-M 4x2 model up to $67,400 ($65,990 Special driveaway price) for the LS-T 4x4. November 2022 Motor Trader | 53
Auto news
ALL-NEW SUBARU CROSSTREK CONFIRMED FOR AUSTRALIA
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UBARU’S ALL-NEW SYMMETRICAL AllWheel Drive Crosstrek SUV is coming to Australia. Replacing the previous XV model, the Crosstrek is based on the latest Subaru Global PLatfrom and will come powered by either a 2-litre, four-cylinder Boxer engine, feeding an AllWheel-Drive (AWD) set-up Subaru Crosstrek via a Lineartronic CVT transmission with 8-speed paddle shift manual mode, or a e-Boxer hybrid system which is yet to be detailed. Subaru says it has taken ‘a humancentred design approach’ to the Crosstrek, and that its designers even worked with medical schools, studying ‘the structure and movement of the human body to design a small SUV that delivers advanced comfort, sound ergonomics and an intuitive connection between driver, vehicle and road’. The Subaru Global Platform, it adds, delivers ‘a refined inner frame that increases cabin strength and delivers a quieter and more comfortable ride’. The Crosstrek will receive top-notch safety and infotainment features, including the latest generation EyeSight Driver Assist system and Driver Monitoring System, 9 SRS airbags, an 11.6-inch infotainment touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity and wireless smartphone charging.
54 | Motor Trader October 2022
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Auto news
MAZDA CX-60 MODELS TO BE HYBRID ONLY
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AZDA’S CX-60 SUV, due to arrive in Australian showrooms at the beginning of next year, will be available with a hybrid-only powertrain line-up. There will be three options from which to choose. Leading the range is Mazda’s first production plug-in hybrid model, using a 2.5-litre inline four-cylinder Skyactiv-G engine mated to a 100kW electric motor and 17.8kWh lithium-ion battery. System power output totals 241kW with peak torque of 500Nm, making it the most powerful Mazda road car ever produced. Two new straight-six engines featuring M Hybrid Boost technology – Mazda’s 48V mild-hybrid system – will also debut on Mazda CX-60.
Mazda CX-60
56 | Motor Trader October 2022
The first is a 3.3-litre e-Skyactiv D turbodiesel, producing 187kW and 550Nm. There's also a turbocharged petrol unit available, again with a 3.3-litre capacity, delivering 209kW and 450Nm. Each powertrain employs the rearbiased i-Activ All-Wheel Drive system and the new eight-speed Skyactiv-Drive automatic transmission, which uses a multi-plate clutch with an integrated
THREE MAZDA CX-60 MODEL GRADES WILL BE OFFERED IN AUSTRALIA – THE EVOLVE, THE GT AND THE FLAGSHIP AZAMI SPECIFICATION.
electric motor/generator. Three Mazda CX-60 model grades will be offered in Australia – the Evolve, the GT and the flagship Azami. All grades will be fitted with an array of equipment including wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, wireless phone charging, a powered tailgate, exterior powered mirrors with auto-folding, heating and auto-dimming function and advanced keyless entry. Alloy wheel sizes will range from 18- to 20-inches, and Rhodium white metallic, a newly developed paint finish, can also be specified regardless of model grade. “The CX-60 represents a whole
new chapter for Mazda and introduces a series of firsts for the brand: an all-new platform; full plug-in hybrid technology; rear-biased all-wheel drive and stateof-the-art longitudinal powerplants,” said Vinesh Bhindi, Mazda Australia Managing Director. “All of this is wrapped in our beautifully restrained Kodo Design evolution, and as we draw closer to the local introduction of this authentically premium vehicle, the 14,500+ expressions of interest we have already received are a clear indication of the level of anticipation that already surrounds Mazda CX-60.”
Full specifications and pricing for the Mazda CX-60 range will be confirmed later this year.
November 2022 Motor Trader | 57
Auto news
POLESTAR UNVEILS NEW ALL-ELECTRIC SUV
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OLESTAR HAS REVEALED its Polestar 3 electric performance SUV. The smart-looking SUV, which is expected to begin deliveries toward the end of 2023, launches with a dualmotor configuration with the standard car producing a total of 360kW and 840Nm of torque. With the optional Performance Pack, total output is 380kW and 910Nm. Top speed for the Polestar 3 is 210km/h with the standard model reaching 100km/h in five seconds and the Performance Pack variant reaching the mark in 4.7 seconds. An 111kWh battery pack delivers a driving range of up to 610km (WLTP). A heat pump is included as standard, which Polestar says helps the Polestar 3 use ambient heat for climate and battery preconditioning. Polestar 3 is also equipped for bidirectional charging, enabling the potential for vehicle-to-grid and plug-and-charge capabilities in the future. Battery charging can be up to 250kW DC and 11kW AC. Adjustable one-pedal drive is included, as well as an electric Torque Vectoring Dual Clutch function on the rear axle. A decoupling function is also available for
58 | Motor Trader October 2022
Polestar 3 the rear electric motor, allowing the car to run only on the front electric motor to save energy under certain circumstances. Advanced chassis control is provided by dual-chamber air suspension, allowing Polestar 3 to adapt between comfort and dynamic suspension characteristics. The list of standard equipment in Polestar 3 is extensive. All versions include air suspension, a full-length panoramic glass roof, all-LED lighting inside and out, retractable door handles with proximity sensing, and 21-inch alloy wheels. The standard-fitted Plus Pack and Pilot Pack include a raft of features including a 25-speaker audio system from Bowers & Wilkins with 3D surround sound and Dolby Atmos capability, soft-closing doors, a head-up display and Pilot Assist. The optional Pilot Pack with LiDAR will add an additional control unit from NVIDIA, three cameras, four ultrasonic sensors and cleaning for the front- and rearview cameras, designed to provide accurate real-time data about the car’s surroundings especially in the long-range field. The optional Performance Pack is designed to sharpen driving dynamics
TOP SPEED FOR THE POLESTAR 3 IS 210KM/H WITH THE STANDARD MODEL REACHING 100KM/H IN FIVE SECONDS AND THE PERFORMANCE PACK VARIANT REACHING THE MARK IN 4.7 SECONDS. and adds 22-inch forged alloy wheels and additional signature ‘Swedish gold’ details. Polestar 3 has aerodynamic touches including a front aero wing integrated into the bonnet, an aero wing integrated into the rear spoiler, and rear aero blades. Active and passive safety technology includes interior radar sensors that can detect sub-millimetre movements in the car to help protect against accidentally leaving children or pets inside. The system is also linked to the climate control system to avoid heat stroke or hypothermia.
As standard, the Polestar 3 features five radar modules, five external cameras and twelve external ultrasonic sensors to support numerous advanced safety features. Inside, there’s eye-tracking technology that monitor the driver’s eyes and can trigger warning messages, sounds and even an emergency stop function when detecting a distracted, drowsy or disconnected driver.
At launch, the Polestar 3 Long range Dual motor (360 kW, 840 Nm) is slated to be available with an indicative launch price of $135,000. November 2022 Motor Trader | 59
Auto news
NISSAN JUKE GETS UPDATES FOR MY23
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ISSAN’S JUKE SUV is getting some updates for the 2023 model year, with new design elements and cabin technology to be introduced. The JUKE will continue to be offered in five grades – ST, ST+, ST-L, ST-L+, and the flagship Ti – with the ST and ST+ models getting new 17-inch alloy wheel designs, while ST-L models debut new black interior elements, along with leather-accented seats with detailed white stitching.
Nissan JUKE
THE MY23 JUKE WILL BE POWERED BY A TURBOCHARGED 1.0-LITRE, THREE-CYLINDER ENGINE THAT PRODUCES 84KW AND 180NM . . . The JUKE ST-L, ST-L+ and Ti grades introduce a new luggage board to help make the most of the boot storage, with ST-L, ST-L+ and Ti grades also receiving new Intelligent Key with proximity locking and unlocking. The premium Bose stereo system in the JUKE ST-L+ and Ti grades gains an additional two rear speakers, bringing the total to 10. The MY23 JUKE will be powered by a turbocharged 1.0-litre, three-cylinder engine that produces 84kW and 180Nm, and which is paired with a seven-speed DCT as standard. Combined cycle fuel economy figure is 5.8L/100km.
The updated Nissan JUKE will arrive in Nissan dealerships from early 2023. 60 | Motor Trader October 2022
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Auto news
JEEP UNWRAPS THE ALL-ELECTRIC AVENGER SUV
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EEP HAS UNVEILED the Avenger, the company’s first battery electric vehicle. Revealed at October’s Paris Motor Show, the Avenger is a small, frontwheel-drive (FWD) crossover SUV with a 400-volt electric system, an electric motor developing 115kW and 260Nm, and a 54kWh NMC (Nickel, Manganese, and Cobalt) lithium-ion battery that delivers a claimed 400km of range (WLTP). Using a 100kW charger, Jeep says the Avenger can be recharged from 20 to 80 per cent in 24 minutes. With an 11kW Mode 3 cable for AC current connected to a Wallbox or public station, charging from 0 to 100 per cent takes 5.5 hours. There is standard Selec-Terrain (that lets the driver adjust traction settings according to road conditions) and Hill Descent Control, and Jeep says that with
short overhangs and 18-inch wheels, the Avenger offers Jeep Avenger the best ground clearance in its category (200 mm), as well as excellent approach (20 degree), breakover (20 degree) and departure (32 degree) angles. The battery, located under the front and rear seats and the central tunnel, is protected by the high ground clearance and underbody skid plates during off-road driving. On the inside, the cabin has a centrally located 10.25-inch infotainment touchscreen, as wellas a 10.25-inch digital display. Wireless Android Auto and Car Play are available as is Wireless phone charging. The central console design allows for 34 litres of frontal storage the central tunnel can be moved to fit
“IT WILL BE THE NEW ENTRY POINT TO THE JEEP RANGE AND WILL ALLOW US TO COMPLETE OUR SUV COVERAGE AND WE EXPECT IT TO BECOME THE BESTSELLING MODEL IN OUR PORTFOLIO BY 2024.” differently sized items, or even be removed to make space for larger objects - and space is also available under the automatic transmission buttons protected by a folding magnetic cover. There’s 380 litres of space at the rear of the Avenger with a
hands-free power liftgate enabling access. Safety features include Adaptive Cruise Control and Lane Centring, Traffic Jam Assist, Traffic Sign Recognition, Automatic Emergency Braking with pedestrian and cyclist recognition, Drowsy Driver Alert, Blind Spot Monitoring, Lane Keeping Assist, 360-degree parking sensors with Active Park Assist; and 180-degree rear camera with drone view amongst others. To be built in Poland, and designed with the European market in mind, the Avenger will, Jeep says, spearhead the introduction of a portfolio of fully electric vehicles aimed for that market, and is a key component in Jeep’s global electrification strategy. “The Jeep Avenger is the first zero emission SUV for the Jeep brand” said Antonella Bruno, Head of Jeep Europe in Stellantis, “It will be the new entry point to the Jeep range and will allow us to complete our SUV coverage and we expect it to become the bestselling model in our portfolio by 2024. Avenger adds another level of electrification to our offering and represents a further step in the Jeep brand’s evolution".
The Jeep Avenger is expected in European showrooms early next year. November 2022 Motor Trader | 63
Auto news
INEOS AUTOMOTIVE BEGINS PRODUCTION OF GRENADIER 4X4
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NEOS AUTOMOTIVE HAS begun production of the Grenadier 4X4 at its facility in Hambach in France. Deliveries are expected to begin in December. In May, the company revealed that the workhorse offroader will be launched with a multiple trim line-up available in two configurations, with prices ranging from $84,500 to $96,495. Power will come from a choice of two straight-six, 3-litre BMW engines, with a turbo petrol engine producing 210kW and 450Nm, and a twin-turbo diesel generating 183kW and 550Nm. Both will be paired with an eight-speed automatic gearbox from ZF. The Grenadier comes 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 heavy duty coil suspension with Brembo brakes.
64 | Motor Trader October 2022
A utilitarian interior includes drain valves that allow for the floor to be hosed, while standard seating upholstery is a combination of hard-wearing cloth and vinyl that is stain, dirt, and water-resistant. The Grenadier’s Central Control System displays information via a 12.3-inch touchscreen and the 4x4 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. “We’ve come a long way since the project kicked off in 2017 and this is a landmark moment for INEOS Automotive as a vehicle manufacturer,” said Mark Tennant, INEOS Automotive Commercial Director. “To get to this point is a testament to the resilience and hard work of the entire INEOS Automotive team, our development partners and our suppliers – for which we thank them all as we now look forward to making our first deliveries to customers.” To support those deliveries, INEOS Automotive has built a network with over 200 sales and service sites worldwide, including 29 in Australia.
Volvo C40 Recharge
VOLVO AUSTRALIA TO BE ALL-ELECTRIC BY 2026
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OLVO CAR AUSTRALIA has announced that from 2026 it will only sell fully electric cars in Australia. That date is a full four years earlier than the parent company’s 2030 global target. It’s a pretty bold move given the company has only two pure electric models available in the local market currently – the XC40 Recharge and recently launched C40 Recharge. However, the weight of movement in the global market is towards electric vehicles and though it will take a few years for Australia to fully embrace the technology (and have the infrastructure and reasonably priced all-electric options available), this move by Volvo will make it a leader in that evergrowing sector. “Volvo Cars has one of the most ambitious climate plans in the car industry which involves consistently reducing the life cycle carbon footprint per car through concrete action,” said Stephen Connor, Managing Director of Volvo Car Australia
in a statement. “Australian consumers are early adopters of new technologies, and they are embracing fully electric cars in increasing numbers as part of a practical response to combatting climate change. “There is no long-term future for cars with an internal combustion engine. So, instead of investing in a shrinking business, we choose to invest in the future, which is fully electric." Mr Connor said by 2025 nearly 80 per cent of Volvo’s Australian sales will comprise fully of electric models. “The decision to sell only electric cars from 2026 makes perfect sense, and we believe it will give us a strategic advantage in the Australian market. The final piece of the jigsaw will be converting the last 20 per cent of our customers to a fully electric future from 2026. “I am very confident we can achieve this, and even go beyond to achieve our aspiration of selling 20,000 fully electric cars every year in Australia.” November 2022 Motor Trader | 65
CAPRICORN RELEASES STATE OF THE NATION 2022 REPORT
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AST MONTH, CAPRICORN, Australasia’s largest automotive cooperative, revealed the results of its third in-depth industry study, the Capricorn State of the Nation 2022 report. The report takes a look at current state, issues and emerging challenges facing automotive industries in Australia and New Zealand and more than 1,900 Capricorn members across the two countries responded to the 2022 survey. According to the 2022 report, maintaining a good work-life balance and finding time to take a break remains a significant challenge for many. Parts shortages and the rising costs of parts have also affected the industry and finding and retaining qualified staff is still a major challenge for many business owners. The report also found that 62 per cent of respondents were “extremely happy” or “very happy” with their career in automotive, and that “making customers happy” was the leading positive of working in the industry. Amongst a series of recommendations, the report suggests that businesses invest in training, invest in technology, charge 66 | Motor Trader October 2022
customers fairly (including for such services as diagnostics), plan for spare parts shortages, take on an apprentice, and get ready for electric vehicles. In a statement, Capricorn CEO of Automotive, Brad Gannon, said that despite whatever challenges and changes might impact the industry, there is a theme of resilience that can be found within the report. “Whether it’s Covid, electric vehicles, diagnosing more complex vehicles — whatever it is — the industry finds a way to adapt to it, CLICK TO to evolve with it, to meet DOWNLOAD that new reality. The THE FULL REPORT industry has shown itself to be a great group of problem solvers.”
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
67 | Motor Trader September 2020
Auto news
ALL-ELECTRIC BMW iX1 TO ARRIVE IN AUSTRALIA IN 2023
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MW AUSTRALIA WILL launch the fully electric BMW iX1 model to the Australian market in the first quarter of 2023. The iX1 xDrive30 will be offered in two grade levels, xLine and M Sport. Power comes via two electric motors. one on each axle. The motors deliver up to 230kW and 494Nm, delivering a 0-100km/h time of 5.6 seconds and a top speed that is electronically limited to 180km/h. A 65kWh battery enables a driving range up to 440km on the WLTP cycle. Using AC power via a Wallbox or public charging station, the BMW iX1 can be charged at up to 22kW. DC or HPC (HighPower Charging) stations enable the battery to be recharged at up to 130kW, enabling a charge from 10 per cent to 80 per cent to be achieved in 29 minutes. The all-wheel drive iX1 comes with A Flexible Fast Charger for charging at home sockets, as well as a Mode 3 charging cable and three-year subscription to the
Chargefox national network of Ultra-Rapid and fast DC chargers. Use of the complimentary My BMW App means owners can schedule and start charging processes, monitor the state of charge, activate control climate control in time for departure and plan routes for destinations with charging solutions along the way. Driving assistance features are plentiful, and include Adaptive LED headlights, BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant, BMW Live Cockpit Professional, BMW Head-Up Display, Navigation system with augmented reality view and Driving Assistant Plus with Active Cruise Control that integrates Stop&Go functionality. There’s also the BMW electric xDrive all-wheel-drive system and Driving Assistant Professional with Steering and Lane Control Assistant. Parking assistant features comprise Parking Assistant Plus with Surround View cameras, Remote 3D view, Reversing Assistant, Drive Recorder, Mirror Package
BMW iX1
68 | Motor Trader October 2022
LDV MIFA with anti-dazzle function and autodipping function and Reversing Camera. A sport leather steering wheel, panorama glass sunroof, harmon/kardon surround sound system, intelligent twozone automatic climate control and a rain sensor with automatic headlight activation all come as standard, as do four USB-C ports and two 12-volt power sockets. There’s a Curved Display up front with 10.7-inch Control Display and 10.25-inch instrument cluster, and infotainment comes via the new generation Operating System 8. Amongst the many other nifty features are a tyre pressure monitoring system, Adaptive M Suspension, remote software updates, wireless phone charging, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and optional 20-inch multi-spoke wheels (19-inch wheels as standard).
Pricing for both the xLine and M Sport variants is $82,900 (RRP).
ALL-NEW LDV MIFA PEOPLE MOVER CONFIRMED FOR NOVEMBER LAUNCH THE NEW LDV MIFA will land in Australia this month. The people mover will be available in three different trim levels – Mode, Executive and Luxe – and be powered by a 2-litre turbocharged petrol engine delivering 160kW and 360Nm via an 8-speed automatic gearbox. Depending on the variant, there will be a choice of seven or eight seats including six-way electrically adjustable Captain’s Chairs in the first and second row which can be configured for ease of access. MIFA models will have safety features including front and rear Autonomous Emergency Braking, Adaptive Cruise Control, Rear Collision Warning, Lane Departure Warning and Speed Assist System. Full details of the all-new MIFA including specification, pricing and more will be available later this month. Last month, LDV announced it is to introduce three new electric vehicles into the local market including the MIFA 9 – the all-electric version of the people mover, which is to be available in three variants, have a 90kWh battery delivering up to 440km of range. Full details on the specs and pricing of the MIFA 9 are also scheduled to be available this month. November 2022 Motor Trader | 69
Auto news
POSITIVE RESULT FOR OCTOBER NEW VEHICLE SALES
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EW VEHICLE SALES in Australia were good in October, with the numbers released by the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries (FCAI) revealing 87,299 were sold for the month – a 16.9 per cent increase over the same month last year. Total sales for the year so far now reach 898,429, which is only a marginal increase on the 890,790 figure that was scored at this time in 2021. Sales across all States and Territories were up over last October with Queensland notching a 16.7 per cent increase with 18,850 sales. NSW was up 10.2 per cent (26,869), Victoria was up by 24.5 per cent (23,283), the ACT increased by 17.3 per cent (1,305), the NT by 13.1 per cent (726), South Australia by 12.4 per cent (5,564), Tasmania by 25.1 per cent (1,652); and Western Australia marked a 22.5 per cent increase with 9,050 sales. Toyota led the market with a total of 18,259 vehicles sold. Ford was second with 7,823, followed by Kia (6,380), Mitsubishi (5,982) and Hyundai (5,289). The Ford Ranger was the highest selling model with 5,628 sales reported. Next was the Toyota Hi-Lux with 4,890, then Toyota’s Rav4 with 3,222. Mazda’s CX-5 comes in next (2,352) followed by MG’s ZS (2,293). Of note in October 2022’s sales results was the preference Australians have for SUV and light commercial vehicles, with the pair making up 80.1 per cent of the new vehicles sold. The Passenger Vehicle segment was 15.3 per cent of monthly sales with Heavy Commercials, at 4.7 per
70 | Motor Trader October 2022
cent, making up the rest. Total electrified vehicle (battery electric, hybrid, and plug-in hybrid) sales were 10.8 per cent (9,422) for the month and 10.6 per cent (95,092) year-to-date, with just over 2,000 in October’s numbers being battery electric. Tesla remained the strongest player in that segment with 1,109 sales. While the increase in sales across the country was solid over last year, the FCAI said the strong increase reflects more on supply issues in October 2021 rather than any substantial market growth in October 2022. “Globally, car manufacturers have been heavily impacted by the Covid 19 pandemic. This October figure is a positive sign that supply chains are recovering and consistency is returning to the marketplace, but we still have some way to go before it returns to normal,” said Tony Weber, FCAI Chief Executive. “It is important to note the continuing, strong preference for SUV and Light Commercial vehicles in Australia. Consumer preference for these vehicles needs to be considered when charting any policy designed to increase the uptake of zero emission vehicles. This is particularly critical given the low availability and high price points of zero and low emission models in these segments. “We look forward to working with governments to provide practical guidance on how emissions from light vehicles can be reduced within this context,” Mr Weber added.
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EVANGELINE KANNIS SENIOR WORKPLACE RELATIONS ADVISOR
WHEN EMPLOYEE OUTOF-HOURS BEHAVIOUR GOES TOO FAR
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MPLOYEES ARE ON notice that event and then went on to socialise their “social” behaviour will face afterwards. Based on the evidence, the higher standards than in the past. conduct was clearly unwelcomed, the The Fair Work Commission agreed colleague’s behaviour “did not constitute an with an employer that when a long-term invitation”, with behaviour also found to be senior employee behaved inappropriately offending and humiliating. at an off-site social event, dismissal was The media coverage and social discourse appropriate. in relation to sexual harassment and In the Decision earlier this year, appropriate social behaviour places all it appeared that the now dismissed employees on notice that there are higher employee’s judgement was clouded by standards than in the past. It is important alcohol and thought his actions would not for anyone who feels offended or threatened be unwelcomed. The investigation found to feel safe enough to come forward to that the employee had inappropriately report an incident to the employer in the touched a female colleague at an off-site first instance. social event and had verbally abused MTA Queensland members receive another later on. assistance and advice to create more The employee who was dismissed lodged inclusive workplaces for their employees’ an unfair dismissal claim arguing in part well-being, along with the full suite of that because the conduct occurred in industrial and workplace relations advice. personal time, it had no connection For Business enquiries about wages, salaries, to work and could not form a valid CLICK TO employment contracts, dismissals and VISIT THE dismissal reason. MTAQ MEMBER representation, please contact the MTA Queensland The facts showed that the PORTAL employees had been to a work Workplace Relations team on 07 3237 8777.
72 | Motor Trader October 2022
RTO No: 31529
NEW GOVE LIMITED P RNMENT FUND LACES APP ING LY NOW
Right training. Right place. Right way. A
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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.
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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
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access to information for HEVs, EVs, highvoltage systems and hydrogen-powered vehicles provide documentation to meet the legal requirements for a ‘fit and proper person’. This means completion of AURETH101 (or equivalent) – depower and reinitialise battery electric vehicles. We look forward to supporting industry into the new automotive era. November 2022 Motor Trader | 75
E S S E N T I A L S
ELECTRIFICATION IS COMING, AND TO SUPPORT INDUSTRY THE MTA INSTITUTE HAS LODGED ITS APPLICATION TO ADD AUR32721 CERTIFICATE III AUTOMOTIVE ELECTRIC VEHICLE TECHNOLOGY TO ITS SCOPE.
M E M B E R S
AUTOMOTIVE ELECTRIFICATION is coming, and to support industry the MTA Institute has lodged its application to add AUR32721 Certificate III Automotive Electric Vehicle Technology to its scope. This qualification reflects the role of individuals who service, diagnose and repair battery electric vehicles and components in the automotive, service and repair industry, and who carry out work according to Australian Standards (AS) 5732 Electric vehicle operations - maintenance and repair. In support of automotive businesses requiring Australian Automotive Service and Repair Authority (AASRA) subscription, the MTA Institute will be delivering the AURETH001 – depower and reinitialise battery electric vehicles unit of competency, state-wide and onsite at workplaces that have the correct tool, equipment and vehicles to perform training and assessment. This is a pre-requisite in compliance with the new Australian information sharing law - that all dealer and independent technicians and employees who need
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Apprentice of the Month: October 2022 APPRENTICE: JARED ROGERS WORKPLACE: CCC RURAL APPRENTICESHIP: MOBILE PLANT
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ARED ROGERS IS the MTA Institute apprentice of the month for October 2022. The 16-year-old is a mobile plant apprentice with CCC Rural, a business that runs a number of large cattle properties and is based near the town of Alpha, about 400km west of Rockhampton and 160km west of Emerald. Impressing both his employers and his MTA Institute trainer, Andrew Keys, with his hard work, ability, and developing skills, Jared is getting what might be considered a uniquely Australian experience from his apprenticeship. Working on a huge variety of machinery, both big and small, Jared’s job can see him maintaining and repairing equipment at the CCC workshop or be out and about somewhere on the company’s properties that pepper the vast outback region. You’ve got to be a little bit tough out here as the climate can be extreme, the days can be long, and the work may have to be done in some pretty remote spots. “I work on anything from D11 bulldozers to cars, prime mover trucks, graders, loaders, right down to little Honda pumps and even lawnmowers,” said Jared. “I work on all sorts of stuff, and I love it! “CCC hire out a few machines, so we sometimes have to travel to fix them, or we may have to go out and do that work on their other properties. It’s nearly 400km from one property to another so if something breaks down there, we go and
76 | Motor Trader October 2022
camp down for a couple of nights. It’s a lot of fun. “In the summer, mid-40s is a halfcool day out here and when you wake up at 5 o’clock it can already be 35 degrees,” he added with a chuckle. “In the winter, it gets down to negative 5 or 6. It makes you sweat all summer and you can’t get out of a jumper all winter! “Our biggest issue is getting parts,” he added. “It might take a week for something to come by freight for us to fix something, so sometimes, when we need something in a hurry, we might have to drive to Emerald or even Rocky to get parts.” CCC Rural seemed like a natural place for Jared to do an apprenticeship. His father knew the owner, Jeff Clews, and had worked out there himself, and Jared had also spent time there when he was a youngster, learning about, and developing an interest in, the onsite vehicles and equipment. Today, Jared is part of a small team – Jeff and his son Joshua – that work to maintain the CCC machinery, with Andrew from the MTA Institute travelling to oversee his training. The Institute’s delivery method – of a trainer going to the workplace of the apprentice – obviously works well for an apprentice, and a business, located so far from a major regional centre. “It works out really well,” said Jared. “And Andrew has been a real good trainer.” Born and raised in the region, Jared has no intention of leaving once he completes his trade. Instead, living and working out in the region, and helping more young people gain a trade, is the first thing he mentions when asked about where his future might lie. “Once I am qualified, I think I might like to start my own little mobile business and work in the remote communities out here,” he said. “I’d like to maybe help out other apprentices too when I am qualified.”
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.
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MTA Institute Graduates
CONGRATULATIONS TO THE MTA INSTITUTE’S LATEST GRADUATES THE MTA INSTITUTE is the largest independent provider of automotive apprenticeships and training in Queensland and it is always a proud moment when its
APPRENTICE Corbin Tracey Michael Marshall Mitchell Baker Christian Babsek Callum Askew Wittawat Janthawong Daniel Cooper Jake Callaghan Dylan Rigo Grace Campbell Robert Allardyce Mackenzie Kenny Emily Hodda Davydd Colvin Alister Craike Christopher Rissman Keegan Bricknell Ruan Konik Jacob Fraser Mark Primavera Liyao Shen Marius Paull Sean Carter Jacob Davis Robert Whitmore Brenden Scuderi 78 | Motor Trader October 2022
students complete their trade qualification. Congratulations to everyone who was issued a qualification in October 2022 it is a fantastic achievement!
QUALIFICATION Certificate III in Automotive Body Repair Technology Certificate III in Automotive Body Repair Technology Certificate III in Automotive Electrical Technology Certificate III in Automotive Electrical Technology Certificate III in Automotive Electrical Technology Certificate III in Automotive Electrical Technology Certificate III in Automotive Electrical Technology Certificate III in Automotive Refinishing Technology Certificate III in Automotive Refinishing Technology Certificate III in Automotive Sales (Parts Interpreting) 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 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
TRAINER Shane Palmer Keiran Charters Ross Wilson Antony Joslin Gareth Hartley Antony Joslin Keith Minchin Brett Baker Brett Baker Andrew Keys Ross Wilson Ross Wilson Neville Donaldson Michael De Waard Steve Adams Sol Layland James Dixon Derrick Pratt Scott Buckley Terry Palfrey Jeff Mann Simon Verkroost James Dixon Don Lerm Terry Palfrey Scott Buckley
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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.
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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.
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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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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.
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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
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Motor Trader’s Christmas Gift Guide ❶
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This year has shot by and we are, unbelievably, just a few short weeks away from celebrating Christmas. We are certain that there are plenty of you who have yet to turn your mind to the thought of gifts for the family, so here are a few we’ve found that might help out on your search for those stocking fillers.
❶ FORD MUG & SOCKS GIFT PACK
❸ HARLEY BOOKENDS
Here's something for the Ford enthusiasts - a Ford blue mug and socks set featuring a vintage company logo. The 400ml mug is microwave and dishwasher safe, and the socks are one-size-fits-all.
These could look nice on your bookshelf - metal motorcycle bookends that would make a tasty gift for any Harley (or motorcycle) enthusiast. Both bookends together measure 31cm x 15cm.
Price: $23.99 Available from www.yellowoctopus.com.au
Price: $57.99 Available from www.yellowoctopus.com.au
❷ VW CAMPERVAN CUFFLINKS
❹ PERSONALISED BRASS
Perhaps you're a Volkswagen fan and need something subtle to show off your loyalty? Here's a pair of enamelled cufflinks with a blue VW camper van on a white brick background. Made in die-struck brass with silver finish, the cufflinks come in a gift box and are 1.8cm x 1.8cm in size.
Price: £34.95 ($61.50) Available from www.annabeljames.co.uk 80 | Motor Trader October 2022
TRAVELLER'S COMPASS
This is a nice gift for those who are restless and like to take those long trips out to Woop Woop. Something for the avid traveller, the compass measures 7cm x 7cm x 3cm, is made of brass and comes in a mahogany-stained wooden box which can have initials monogrammed onto a brass plate. The compass can be
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personalised with a message of up to 60 characters engraved around its front.
Price: $69 Available from www.treatrepublic.com
❺ FERRARI DAYTONE SP3 LEGO OK, so this isn't really a stocking filler gift, but who can go past an epic lego model like this?! A 1:8 scale model of the Ferrari Daytona SP3, this Lego standout measures a chunky 14cm high x 59cm long x 25cm wide. It has a high level of functionality
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too, with steering, a paddle shifter, an engine with moving pistons, and butterfly doors. Designed for adult Lego builders (18+), this is a detailed building project and made for display. It's part of the Lego Technic Ultimate Car Concept series, so if you fancy something else, there are other brand models available - including Lamborghini, Ford, Land Rover, and Porsche - from which you could choose.
Price: $699.99 Available from www.lego.com
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November 2022 Motor Trader | 81
Concept corner
ALPINE AL 82 | Motor Trader November 2022
LPENGLOW November 2022 Motor Trader | 83
Concept corner
T
HIS IS THE Alpine Alpenglow, a rather radical-looking concept from Alpine, the French manufacturer famous for its sports cars. A single-seater concept designed with racing in mind, the Alpenglow is hydrogen powered, although not in the sense that many of us have come to think – as in a hydrogen fuel-cell electric vehicle. Instead, Alpine says the Alpenglow gets a ‘hybrid hydrogen internal combustion engine’ which will release ‘practically nothing but steam during combustion.’ That steam is vented via exhaust tips set in amongst those amazing-looking vertical blue lights at the rear.
84 | Motor Trader November 2022
. . . THE ALPENGLOW GETS A ‘HYBRID HYDROGEN INTERNAL COMBUSTION ENGINE’ WHICH WILL RELEASE ‘PRACTICALLY NOTHING BUT STEAM DURING COMBUSTION.’ The hydrogen fuel for this engine is to be stored in two tanks that flank the driver, who sits centrally in the cockpit up front. Elements of the car, such as the rear spoiler and around the cockpit, and part of the engine bonnet, are transparent.
November 2022 Motor Trader | 85
The Alpenglow is five metres long, over two metres wide, but less than one metre high, and the sleek aerodynamics that support performance are helped along by a lightweight structure which Alpine says is comprised of plenty of recycled carbon. On the inside, a geometric steering wheel - inspired by LMP1 (Endurance) racing cars - offers selectors for various functions and mirror the ones in Formula 1 and LMP1 racing cars. They control features including Track Control and Regenerative Braking. The steering wheel also has an Overtake button that unleashes a power boost. While the Alpenglow is a concept car,
VIDEO: ALPINE'S FUTURE STARTS WITH ALPENGLOW
Alpine does say that elements of its design will influence its upcoming all-electric production models which are set to include a compact sports car, a GT Crossover and a replacement for its A110 sports car.
MTA INSTITUTE COURSES
RTO No: 31529
BATTERY ELECTRIC AND HYBRID ELECTRIC VEHICLES COURSE
AUTO READY TO BE ANNOUNCED
AIR CONDITIONING COURSE 30 Nov - 2 Dec 2022
SALES/DEALERS/WRECKERS LICENCING COURSES
15 - 17 Nov 2022 (SOLD OUT) 13 - 15 Dec 2022 (SOLD OUT) 31 Jan - 2 Feb 2023 28 Feb - 2 Mar 2023
AUTOMOTIVE VOCATIONAL PREPARATION COURSE
AVAILABLE ONLINE
TO BE ANNOUNCED
COMMENCES ON ENROLMENT
Enquiries to: courses@mtai.edu.au Website www.mtai.edu.au
MTA QUEENSLAND COURSES MIG WELDING FUNDAMENTALS COURSE 23 Nov 2022, 8:30am - 12:30pm (SOLD OUT)
VEHICLE MAINTENANCE COURSE 23 Nov 2022, 8:30am - 12:30pm
ADVANCED DRIVER ASSISTANCE SYSTEMS COURSES AWARENESS COURSE TO BE ADVISED
VEHICLE GLASS COURSE TO BE ADVISED
POST-TRADE TRAINING
TECHNICIAN COURSE
AVAILABLE ONLINE
TO BE ADVISED
*Course dates subject to change
20170566
Enquiries to: courses@mtaq.com.au Website www.mtaq.com.au
Rhonda Maden Your local Superannuation Adviser
Awarded Best Customer Experience in super Checked on your super lately? Book an appointment with your local Superannuation Adviser to see if it’s on track, call 1800 005 166.
Ranked in 2022 by Customer Service Benchmarking Australia. Consider the PDS and TMD at spiritsuper.com.au/pds before making a decision. Issuer is Motor Trades Association of Australia Pty Ltd (AFSL 238 718, ABN 14 008 650 628). Advice is provided by Quadrant First Pty Ltd (ABN 78 102 167 877, AFSL 284443).