Motor Trader e-magazine, December 2020 to January 2021

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MTAQ 2020 STATE BUDGET BRIEF MTA |Q&A: MATCHPORT MATERIALS HANDLING MTAQ RACING TEAM READY FOR A FRESH START MTA I APPRENTICE OF THE MONTH

3D

PRINTING

FUTURE

RECYCLING OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE MOTOR TRADES ASSOCIATION OF QUEENSLAND

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MTA QUEENSLAND WELCOMES ROD CAMM AS CEO

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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 Website: www.mtaq.com.au EDITOR Jonathan Nash ART DIRECTOR Marco Ilinic INDUSTRIAL RELATIONS Evangeline Kannis Ian Naylor POLICY Kellie Dewar, General Manager MTA Queensland ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES Marc Wilson // Gypsy media & marketing services

M: 0419 107 143 Email: advertising@mtaq.com.au

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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

20200913

CORPORATE PARTNERS

ELLO AND WELCOME to the December 2020/ January 2021 edition of Motor Trader.

It is with a some happiness shared, I suspect, by many - that we get to say goodbye to 2020.

With vaccines now becoming available for COVID-19, there truly is light at the end of the miserably dark tunnel we have found ourselves in, and while we may have to wait a handful of months for them to be available here in Australia, 2021 does hold out promise for a fresh start, a revitalised economy, and an environment for business to flourish.

Into that environment, MTA Queensland will be guided by new leadership. At the end of this year we have said goodbye to Dr Brett Dale as CEO and welcome Rod Camm to take the reins of the Association.

A seasoned business leader with many years of experience working with governments and across various industries, Mr Camm comes on board at a challenging but exciting time and brings with him with a great deal of enthusiasm for the

automotive sector. Motor Trader caught up with Mr Camm as he prepared to take the CEO role and you can read more about his thoughts on the future of the Association and the automotive sector from page 12.

Also in this edition, we take a look at the work of Sarfraz Ali Kyani, a doctoral candidate from the Queensland University of Technology who is researaching the recycling of automotive parts for additive manufacturing (aka 3D Printing).

This area of research is an important one for the automotive industry - recycling material from end-of-life vehicles and then using that material as a manufacturing resource offers obvious benefits - and MTA Queensland is supporting it, and providing a base for Sarfraz Ali to work, through a partnerhsip with the Australian Research Council.

You can read more from page 26.

We also catch up with David Wood from the MTAQ Racing Team as another season comes to an end and an exciting new adventure beckons for 2021, and we have our regular Q&A feature and plenty of news from around the automotive world.

I hope you enjoy this edition of Motor Trader and that you have a terrific holiday break as we prepare for what will be, hopefully, a bumper 2021.

Cheers Jonathan Nash, Editor jonathann@mtaq.com.au

December 2020/January 2021 Motor Trader | 1

Contents

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MTAQ RACING TEAM READY FOR A FRESH START AS FLAG FALLS ON 2020 SEASON 04 FROM THE DESK OF THE CEO 08 POLICY/VIEWPOINT 12 MTA QUEENSLAND WELCOMES ROD CAMM AS NEW CEO 16 MTA QUEENSLAND 2020 STATE BUDGET BRIEF 20 MTA |Q&A 26 MTA QUEENSLAND WELCOMES SARFRAZ ALI KYANI TO RESEARCH 3D PRINTING TECHNOLOGY 30 MTAQ RACING TEAM 40 AN EYE ON INNOVATION 42 AUTO INNOVATION NEWS 58 THE AZNOM PALLADIUM 64 AUTO NEWS 76 INDUSTRIAL RELATIONS 79 TRAINING GM'S PROFESSIONAL CIRCLE PERSPECTIVE 83 APPRENTICE OF THE MONTH: OCTOBER 2020 85 APPRENTICE OF THE MONTH: NOVEMBER 2020 88 CONCEPT CORNER 94 MARKET WRAP

2 | Motor Trader December 2020/January 2021

MTA QUEENSLAND WELCOMES ROD CAMM AS NEW CEO

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Search for MTA Queensland

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THE AZNOM PALLADIUM

26 MTA QUEENSLAND WELCOMES SARFRAZ ALI KYANI TO RESEARCH 3D PRINTING TECHNOLOGY

CONCEPT CORNER: THE MINI VISION URBANAUT

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MTA | Q&A: MATCHPORT MATERIALS HANDLING

90 December 2020/January 2021 Motor Trader | 3

From the Desk of the CEO

ROD CAMM CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER MTA QUEENSLAND

I

AM VERY EXCITED and humbled at the opportunity the MTA Queensland Board has entrusted to me. The chance to lead the Association in its role as peak industry body for the Queensland automotive industry is a challenge indeed.

In doing this, I’ll be guided by you, the members, your advice and needs and of course the priorities detailed in 2019-2021 Strategic Plan. I thank the Board for their confidence in me to perform the task of the Group Chief Executive Office. Having been here for a short time, I have already noticed that our corporate office is well resourced with high calibre professional staff and, together, we’ll work to deliver the quality services and provide the advocacies in the best interests of members and the automotive industry.

My immediate priority has been to engage with the divisional Chairs to identify the highest concerns and issues for action. Watch this space, as I will begin reporting back to you in future editions on how we can repackage what we offer to better meet members’ and industry needs. Put simply, we want to represent the entire industry so we need an organisation and membership approach that can achieve that. I’m committed to working with our divisions 4 | Motor Trader December 2020/January 2021

and the broader industry on identifying the support needed to position MTA Queensland into the future.

My first official activity was the Annual General Meeting of Members and Board of Directors held on 3 December 2020.

Members will recall it was delayed on advice from the Australian Election Commission due to the pandemic restrictions limiting opportunities for members to engage in the election processes. This meeting was important to comply with our Rules and governance obligations. The audited financial statement, the annual reports from the Chair, executive officers, MTA Queensland senior management team and the Chairs of the 11 motor trades’ divisions were agreed.

I am committed to ensure that we deploy support strategies that worked through COVID-19 to help you with your recovery plan. We do really care how you are going and want to hear from you and support your business in any way we can.

To date, the feedback is ‘Yes, economic recovery is happening, but we are fearful of what will happen when JobKeeper ends’. It is though, great to see the upswing in new car sales after some two and half years (to be precise 31 months) in the doldrums.

November new motor vehicle sales in Queensland increased by 19.5 per cent over the corresponding period last year.

The value of the Federal Government’s economic stimulus measures has proved to be vital in sustaining businesses.

Members do need to be aware of the Australian Taxation Office’s advice that registrations are open for the JobMaker Hiring Credit. Eligible employers can access the payment for up to 12 months for each eligible additional employee they hire between 7 October 2020 and 6

apprenticeships for Queenslander under 25 in priority areas initiative; and the additional $200 million for skills investment.

THE YEAR AHEAD

I AM COMMITTED TO ENSURE THAT WE DEPLOY SUPPORT STRATEGIES THAT WORKED THROUGH COVID-19 TO HELP YOU WITH YOUR RECOVERY PLAN. October 2021. They will be able to claim up to $200 a week for each additional eligible employee they hire aged 16 to 29 years, and up to $100 a week for those aged 30 to 35 years. More advice maybe accessed at JobMaker Hiring Credit guide.

Following our Priorities for the 2020-21 State Budget submission to the Queensland Treasury, I participated in the pre-budget briefing by Treasurer Cameron Dick. An overview of the State Budget as it relates to the automotive industry was included in a recent Weekly Industry Bulletin. Budget highlights include the creation of the Big Plans for Small Business Strategy supported by an initial $100 million Business Investment fund to advance small to medium sized business that have significant growth potential and create state-based jobs. There is too, the $30 million of investment to increase skills and capability. The investment in training is welcomed, particularly the funding for Pre-Apprenticeship support; the Free

We are no doubt pleased that 2020 is almost behind us but acknowledge the impact will extend to 2021 for industry, business, households and individuals alike. The automotive industry awaits the New Year with the hope for an effective vaccine to be available to restore optimism and the entrepreneurial spirit needed to rebuild businesses and the economy. In the coming year there’ll be ongoing Federal reform policy issues to addressed. These include skills, the digital economy, the tax system and deregulation. We’ll be active contributors in the reform areas relevant to the automotive value chain as has been our long-held practice.

One of the first matters to be addressed in the New Year is the response to the Productivity Commission’s ‘Right to Repair’ Issues Paper. In the first instance, its focus is on the broad range of products with sophisticated technology e.g., motor vehicles, mobiles, refrigerators etc. that require repair. The second is the impact of waste (especially e-waste generated from the disposal of consumer electronics and household goods) on the environment and community, and the current arrangements for the disposal and management of e-waste. Deputy General Manager Member Services Marcello Riotto will discuss the Paper with industry divisions and seek their input for our response.

The Association has been involved December 2020/January 2021 Motor Trader | 5

in the motor vehicle ‘right to repair’ advocacies from 2017 arising out of the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission’s (ACCC) New Car Retailing Industry market study. Following that Study, and on the recommendation of the ACCC, the Australian Government in 2019 agreed to establish a mandatory code of conduct under the Competition and Consumer Act 2010, which would specify standards for Original Equipment Manufacturers to share vehicle service and repair information on commercial terms with independent repairers.

Our view is that before a mandatory code of conduct can be implemented, further consideration is still required on intellectual property, pricing and a fair representation of all stakeholder views.

The Paper’s focus on waste and e-waste aligns with our emphasis on recycling and waste reduction initiatives. From an industry perspective, we’ve been proactive through the Association’s investment in the Australian tyre recycler, Green Distillation Technologies Corporation.

It has developed a world-first process that turns end-of-life car and truck tyres into high value oil, carbon and steel. I encourage you to look up the corporation and learn more about what it can do.

Additionally, Sarfraz Ali Kyani, a PhD candidate at the Queensland University of Technology, is also our research scholar in residence at our Innovation Hub (MTAiQ).

His thesis is on ‘Recycling of automotive parts for additive manufacturing’ and he is working with the Chair of the Automotive Parts Recyclers Lawrie Beacham and his division’s members.

Sarfraz Ali’s research has wide and positive implications for the auto recycling sector. 95 per cent of end-of-life vehicles can be ‘repurposed’ and our members are in discussions with the Department of Environment on the classification of resource regeneration to include the repurposing of end-of-life vehicles. It 6 | Motor Trader December 2020/January 2021

95 PER CENT OF END-OF-LIFE VEHICLES CAN BE ‘REPURPOSED’ AND OUR MEMBERS ARE IN DISCUSSIONS WITH THE DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENT ON THE CLASSIFICATION OF RESOURCE REGENERATION TO INCLUDE THE REPURPOSING OF END-OF-LIFE VEHICLES. is timely to note that Australia has its first national recycling legislation. The Australian Parliament has passed the Recycling and Waste Reduction Bill 2020.

This legislation will permanently ban the export of waste - including plastics, paper and tyres - beginning on 1 January 2021.

THE LAST WORD Thank you to the MTA Queensland and staff for making me feel so welcome.

To the industry I have every intention of ensuring we continue our role leading the automotive industry into the future. I thank too my predecessor Dr Brett Dale, for his fantastic support and leadership of MTA Queensland over the last five years – they are big shoes to fill.

I wish each of you a Christmas of good cheer and a New Year that brings economic confidence and good health.

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To Þnd out how CommBank can help your business move forward, contact MTAQ on (07) 3237 8777 or email info@mtaq.com.au and theyÕll put you in touch with a CommBank Relationship Manager.

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

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

Policy/Viewpoint IN THE NEW YEAR, MEMBERS CAN BE ASSURED THEY’LL CONTINUE TO RECEIVE UPDATES THROUGH THE WEEKLY INDUSTRY BULLETIN TO KEEP UP-TO-DATE AND INFORMED ON GOVERNMENT AND INDUSTRY DECISIONS AND ADVICES. KELLIE DEWAR DEPUTY GROUP CHIEF EXECUTIVE GENERAL MANAGER MEMBER SERVICES

C

HRISTMAS IS A time for reflection on happenings of the past year and hope for a New Year that ushers in economic recovery and health across the nation. It was unthinkable last Christmas, that a virulent virus would infect more than 63 million people globally, cause some 1.5 million deaths and severe financial stress to many of the world’s economies. In this light, we can only reflect on this nation’s good fortune to have the leadership and the financial means to safeguard citizens, industry, and business from the ravages of the pandemic’s onslaught occurring elsewhere.

Here at MTA Queensland’s corporate office, throughout the rigors of the pandemic, our entire focus was to support members. Over 40 daily briefings were provided to members advising on government measures to protect and manage their businesses through the health emergency restrictions.

Supplementing the briefings was the one-on-one contacts with members through the ongoing Member Engagement Strategy. This was an important feedback tool on the direct implications for businesses. In the New

8 | Motor Trader December 2020/January 2021

Year, members can be assured they’ll continue to receive updates through the Weekly Industry Bulletin to keep up-todate and informed on government and industry decisions and advices.

ADVOCACY With the state election resolved and coronavirus currently relatively suppressed, some normality is being restored to the advocacy routine. As is the practice, congratulatory letters were forwarded to Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk on her election success and her ministers with whom we will engage on policy or industry issues. Group Chief Executive Officer Rod Camm has commenced reaching out to the new ministers and staff with portfolios relevant to the motor trades. Congratulatory letters were also sent to the Leader of the Opposition David Crisafulli and his shadow ministers’ team with responsibilities that align to the motor trades. A letter of congratulations was sent to all successful candidates at the poll and informing them of MTA Queensland as the peak industry body, its role in the industry and contributions to the state’s economy.

In anticipation of an April 2020 State Budget, we provided to the State Treasurer a submission detailing the Association’s priorities for the next financial year. With

the Budget delayed to December 2020, a further submission was forwarded outlining the issues and priorities for consideration.

In recent Weekly Industry Bulletins, members’ attention was drawn to two pending submissions. The first being the response to the Productivity Commission’s ‘Right to Repair’ Issues Paper as detailed in the CEO report in this edition. You can view the issues paper here.

The second, an Australian Treasury consultation document: ‘Options for mandatory adoption of electronic invoicing by businesses.’ We’ll be responding, and Deputy General Manager Member Services Marcello Riotto will consult with industry divisions for their views. It is a matter that members should adopt as part of streamlining their digital systems. By way of background, in 2019, Australia adopted the Pan-European Public Procurement OnLine (Peppol) framework. This is an internationally recognised framework for e-Invoicing

and e-Procurement, used by over 30 countries in Europe, Asia and North America. As part of the Federal Budget 2020-21, the Government announced that it will seek to accelerate the adoption of Peppol e-Invoicing, starting with the public sector. The Government will mandate that all Commonwealth Government agencies must be able to receive Peppol e-Invoices by 1 July 2022.

The Government will also work with the States and Territories on how state and local governments can also accelerate e-Invoicing adoption.

This paper consults on further actions that the Government can take to accelerate the adoption of Peppol e-Invoicing in the private sector, including options for mandatory adoption by businesses. Such a mandate could be effective at increasing adoption by businesses, but it could also impose a significant regulatory burden on some businesses. The paper also seeks to consult on how a Peppol e-Invoicing mandate for businesses can reduce payment times from large to small businesses.

Deloitte Access Economics estimates that every time an e-Invoice replaces a paper invoice, it can deliver up to $20 in cost savings to the businesses involved.

There are some 1.2 billion invoices being exchanged in Australia annually, and 89 per cent of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) are still processing paper-based invoices.

December 2020/January 2021 Motor Trader | 9

Policy/Viewpoint THE 2021 EVENTS CALENDAR The first year of the third decade for this century, in terms of events, can be summarised in one word – cancellations.

And so, we look forward to 2021 with much optimism. MTA Queensland has three major automotive events planned for the coming year and I encourage members to diarise them. These are special, aimed at bringing members together to inform, enjoy and celebrate.

The first is Carmageddon on 22 July 2021 which was to be held earlier this year but, like many events, as cancelled due to the pandemic. The initial planning indicates this symposium will inform members and stakeholders on current and future technologies and the future of mobility; waste management and recycling innovations; and clean energy as a fuel source. It is envisaged there will be an exposition of hydrogen and electric vehicles from the leading manufacturers and other exhibitors.

The 72nd Annual Motor Trades Golf Tournament, is set for Friday 3 September at the Virginia Golf Club, Banyo. This is popular with members and stakeholders for networking opportunities as well as competing for the prestigious Motor Trades Cup and other prizes.

The Industry Awards Gala will be held on Saturday 20 November at the Emporium Hotel, South Bank. The anticipation is that it will be extra special, in view of the cancellation of this year’s Awards Gala. Members who have made exceptional community contributions and MTA Institute students who have excelled across the year are recognised, as are contributions from the industry’s innovators and stand-out women. The highlight again will be the announcement of the Apprentice of Year.

10 | Motor Trader December 2020/January 2021

MTA QUEENSLAND HAS THREE MAJOR AUTOMOTIVE EVENTS PLANNED FOR THE COMING YEAR AND I ENCOURAGE MEMBERS TO DIARISE THEM. THESE ARE SPECIAL, AIMED AT BRINGING MEMBERS TOGETHER TO INFORM, ENJOY AND CELEBRATE. The charity auction is another feature, with all the funds going to Youngcare, the Association’s Charity Partner.

FINALLY MTA Queensland’s corporate office welcomes Rod Camm to the leadership role of Group Chief Executive Officer. He inherits the position at a time when industry challenges are significant. Emerging technologies will continue to impact public and private mobility; business operations and systems and skills will have to compete with new demands; and waste management and recycling will be key agenda items to meet the requirements of industry and the community. There will be too, the need to continue to support members as they recover from the pandemic’s continuing impact. We look forward to Rod’s leadership on these challenges and to progressing the Association and the automotive industry into the coming year and beyond.

This Christmas and New Year will be special to celebrate, and to enjoy the freedom to travel to be with family and friends. My best wishes to all members and staff for a joyful Christmas and a New Year that brings good health, happiness, achievement and prosperity.

Until next year, to all, take care and stay safe.

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Rod Camm, CEO of MTA Queensland

MTA QUEENSLAND WELCOMES ROD CAMM AS NEW CEO

R

OD CAMM HAS been appointed as CEO of MTA Queensland, replacing Dr Brett Dale who has taken the CEO role at AMA Queensland (Australian Medical Association).

Mr Camm comes to the role with vast experience in organisational leadership.

He has led government agencies, statutory bodies, government-owned companies, member-based organisations and has worked closely with international bodies such as the OECD and UNESCO across areas of education, training, and industry engagement including in such areas as focusing on how skills

12 | Motor Trader December 2020/January 2021

development can be better recognised across international boundaries.

Most recently he was involved with establishing of the National Skills Commission – an organisation tasked with providing intelligence to the Australian government on future education, skills and jobs, as well as driving improvements across the skills system and Vocational Education and Training (VET) sector.

Mr Camm said that bringing this broad range of experience in delivering training, business and engagement solutions and channelling it into the automotive industry was an exciting opportunity and

a tremendous challenge. There are few industries, he said, that will be affected more by the speed of technological developments and face such tremendous disruption, and MTA Queensland’s role would be essential to the industry’s development.

“The opportunity to work in an industry that is genuinely and fundamentally changing is remarkable,” he said. “There is a lot of talk about technology disruption

“ANY INDUSTRY ORGANISATION LOOKING TO THE FUTURE CANNOT CONFRONT OR HOLD BACK TECHNOLOGICAL CHANGE. WE MUST HELP MEMBERS EMBRACE IT AND HELP THEM EXPLOIT IT TO THEIR ADVANTAGE, AND SO WE WILL CONTINUE TO BE A KEY PLAYER.” and digital disruption, but it is really happening in this industry and it is going to change all of us and everything we do.

“Any industry organisation looking to the future cannot confront or hold back technological change. We must help members embrace it and help them exploit it to their advantage, and so we will continue to be a key player. Brett has built a tremendous legacy for the industry and I want to build on that.”

Assisting businesses to develop the skills and knowledge to adapt to the industry’s evolution will be an important part of what MTA Queensland will deliver, and there will, said Mr Camm, be a sustained focus on developing training programs that reflect future skills requirements; on engagement that will enable businesses to embrace and prosper from technological advances; on committing to seeking out and helping new ideas and concepts get off the ground and encouraging the

next generation of industry leaders to get a foothold in the industry; and of continuing with investments of time and resources into researching and developing technology via partnerships with other organisations, industry and government.

“We must try and help start-ups in this industry and assist them to connect across industry and government,” he said. “That is where the action is and doing so also helps us inform what we do in the training room and enables us to give people the skills to be adaptable.”

The speed of the industry’s technological development demands that training programs adapt along with it, and delivering automotive training relevant to the new environment will lead to significant changes in that sector, said Mr Camm.

Most notable amongst these training ideas is the concept of ‘micro-credentials’ – new skills delivered via short but rigorous courses that enable technicians to gain expertise in a targeted area.

The MTA Institute already delivers a number of these courses – including those on battery electric and hybrid electric vehicle inspection and servicing – but they will play a much bigger role in the training environment in years to come.

“The real challenge is that technology is designed and deployed very quickly, and that is why there is talk around the concept of micro-credentials,” said Mr Camm. “All of the major technology firms and all of the car manufacturers develop their own training products because it is based on today’s technology. That is the future of the training system and we must be in that space.”

The need to embrace new technology has, he added, never been clearer than in the past year as the nation tackled the COVID crisis, and the opportunities that digital technology has revealed - grim though the circumstances have been that illuminated their potential – should be December 2020/January 2021 Motor Trader | 13

embraced, even as the economy emerges from the effects of the pandemic.

“It has been an awfully difficult time, but what has happened? Things have moved online,” said Mr Camm. “The idea of digital disruption and the notion of transacting online has been around a long time but suddenly, this year, the industry had no choice but to accept it.

And they have been fantastic at it. So how do we now use technology that has come to the fore in this crisis to keep our own businesses more efficient? My biggest message to industry would be ‘Don’t waste the crisis’.”

For MTA Queensland’s members, Mr Camm said his aim was to deliver on this ‘don’t waste the crisis’ message by offering even greater engagement and support as the situation eases and a sense of normality returns, and he encourages members to engage with MTA Queensland as it reaches out to offer its support as the industry continues its relentless technological progress.

“MTA Queensland has probably never been more effective at engaging with members,” he said. “We have reached out to them constantly, have given daily updates on the COVID situation, and they loved it. We must not lose that intimacy 14 | Motor Trader December 2020/January 2021

“WE WANT MEMBERS TO BE INVOLVED, AND I AM LOOKING FORWARD TO MEETING THEM. THEY ARE AT THE COALFACE. THEY ARE THE ONES WHO CAN GIVE US THE INFORMATION ABOUT WHAT IS IMPACTING THEM, AND WE INTEND TO TOTALLY REVITALISE OUR ENGAGEMENT STRATEGY WITH THEM.” now we are coming out of the crisis.

“We want members to be involved, and I am looking forward to meeting them.

They are at the coalface. They are the ones who can give us the information about what is impacting them, and we intend to totally revitalise our engagement strategy with them.

“We are going to be out there talking to them both virtually – because that is a technology that we know works! – and face to face. The opportunities are tremendous.

It is an exciting time and I am looking forward to working with the industry, the board, with government and our members.”

DR BRETT DALE BIDS FAREWELL TO MTA QUEENSLAND FOR OUTGOING CEO Dr Brett Dale, term, and we can see that now. who now moves on to take up And that is something I am most the role of CEO with the AMA proud of achieving – the support Queensland, the past four years we have given to help industry at the helm of MTA Queensland get ready and to bring new have been years of significant entrants into industry.” challenge and success.

Dr Dale’s immediate future His appointment in 2016 lies with AMA Queensland, and was a turning point for the the healthcare sector is one Association as he initiated a that is close to his heart. As a shift in its focus, balancing the medic in the Australian Defence traditional role of support and Force, he served in Bougainville, Dr Brett Dale advocacy while acknowledging Papua New Guinea and Iraq, that significant technological and in a time when COVID-19 “FOR THE BUSINESSES THAT MOVED FIRST, is dominating our lives, leading disruption to the automotive THE MESSAGE WAS THAT THEY WOULD an organisation that seeks to industry was imminent.

The result of this shift was BE THE WINNERS IN THE LONGER TERM, represent the state’s doctors and the creation of the MTAiQ AND WE CAN SEE THAT NOW. AND THAT medical students, and campaign Innovation Hub – the first such IS SOMETHING I AM MOST PROUD OF for the rights of patients, is a automotive-focused organisation challenge that was hard to resist.

ACHIEVING – THE SUPPORT WE HAVE GIVEN in the country and one aimed at “When I think about business, TO HELP INDUSTRY GET READY AND TO helping foster new concepts and health is really home,” he said.

BRING NEW ENTRANTS INTO INDUSTRY. ” start-up businesses – as well as “It is what I grew up with as a the establishment of the Carmageddon symposiums, technician in Army and I understand it more than any and the involvement of MTA Queensland in research other industry. I understand the challenges and, in and development projects, including those looking light of COVID-19, I think what matters most to the into the potential of vehicle-to-infrastructure Australian community is health. communication and 3D printing. Investments in “I really want to do similar things as I have done technology businesses would also feature during here at MTA Queensland. I want to be looking after Dr Dale’s tenure – notably in the tyre recycling the profession in a way that creates an appeal for company Green Distillation Technologies (GDTC), new doctors and that will cater for health consumers and sharing-economy marketplace technology of the future.” enterprise Block2.

Dr Dale leaves MTA Queensland in robust shape The speed of technological development in the and, he said, in very good hands with Rod Camm. automotive industry is remarkable and now well “Members can be very confident in Rod’s accepted, so it is easy to forget that just a few years leadership,” he said. “You have someone who has ago, the thought of the industry being at the point it led member-based organisations, has worked with is now was deemed somewhat fanciful by many. government, and truly gets education and training – “At the beginning, there were businesses telling and that’s MTA Queensland’s portfolio. me that EVs wouldn’t be here for 30 years,” said Dr “He is extremely capable, a great guy, and he Dale. “However, from my perspective, change was will fit in with the team. The Board have made a the one definite that was on its way, and I felt I had a great choice. responsibility to say, ‘Let’s get ready and captilise on “I care about the automotive industry and MTA what is coming’.

Queensland. The team there is amazing, and I think “For the businesses that moved first, the message what we have done we have done exceptionally well. was that they would be the winners in the longer And for that I am very grateful and extremely proud.”

December 2020/January 2021 Motor Trader | 15

MTA QUEENSLAND 202

October saw the delivery of the federal budget and, not surprisingly, it was a budget aimed at tackling the severe strain inflicted upon the nation’s economy by the COVID-19 pandemic. At the beginning of December, it was the Queensland Government’s turn to reveal the state of Queensland’s finances and its budget plan for recovery.

16 | Motor Trader December 2020/January 2021

ECONOMIC STATISTICS Deficit: Estimated 2020-21 Budget deficit of $8.633 billion, which is projected to go down to $1.389 billion by 2023-24.

Total debt: $129.7 billion by 2023-24 General government sector net debt – excluding borrowings by governmentowned corporations – $50.7 billion in 2023-24, with interest payments reaching nearly $2 billion in that financial year.

20 STATE BUDGET BRIEF

BIG PLANS FOR SMALL BUSINESS STRATEGY WILL SUPPORT PRIVATE INVESTMENT. THIS INCLUDES: AN INITIAL $100 MILLION BUSINESS INVESTMENT FUND FROM THE $500 MILLION BACKING QUEENSLAND BUSINESS INVESTMENT FUND . . .

GDP: The Queensland economy is forecast to return to marginal growth in 2020-21 (up one-quarter of one per cent) but lower than the pre-COVID forecast of 2.75 per cent. Gross state product growth is forecast to significantly improve next financial year in 2021-22 when it is expected to reach 3.5 per cent.

Unemployment rate: The unemployment rate is forecast to be 7.5 per cent for 2020-21, before reducing December 2020/January 2021 Motor Trader | 17

to 7 per cent in 2021-22. It is forecast to improve steadily to be 6.5 per cent by June 2024.

Public Service Expenses: Frontline job increases will engender employee expenses to rise 3.2 per cent to $26.47 billion, an increase of $810 million to the public service wages.

Revenue: Revenue estimated to be $56.24 billion in 2020-21 – down from $59.82 billion in 2018-19.

State Taxation Revenue: Taxation revenue will decline from $14.585b in 2019-20 to $14.3b in 2020-21.

Vehicle transfer duty in 2019-20 returned $533 million and is projected to increase by 2.8 per cent to $548 million in 2020-21.

The low 2019-20 result aligns with the fall in new car sales.

Motor vehicle registration in 2018-19 returned $1,910 million and is projected to increase to $1,948 million in 2020-21.

Payroll tax in 2019-20 raised $4,211 million and is projected to fall to $3,896 million in 2020-21 (decline of 7.5%).

Royalties: Royalties in 2019-20 raised $4,686 million and are estimated to fall to $2,631 million or by 45.2 per cent in 2020-21.

Waste disposal levy: The levy is paid by landfill operators on wastes disposed to landfill. The levy commenced at $75 per tonne for general waste and is regulated to increase by $5 per tonne per annum for the first three years. The first annual increase of $5 per tonne commences on 1 January 2021. 70 per cent of proceeds from the waste levy will be used for resource recovery and other programs that reduce the impact of waste and protect the environment and local communities.

Revenue from the waste disposal levy totalled $295 million in 2019-20. Revenue is forecast to grow by around 3.4 per cent in 2020-21, and 9.4 per cent in 2021-22.

18 | Motor Trader December 2020/January 2021

Capital Works Program: $14.8 billion capital program for 2020-21, with 58 per cent to be spent outside of Greater Brisbane estimated to directly support around 46,000 jobs across the state.

Business: The $500 million Backing Queensland Business Investment Fund will target investments in businesses that: • are based in Queensland and will create Queensland-based jobs • have a proven product and defined market opportunity but require significant capital to aggressively build scale or grow market share • are relatively mature, well beyond proof-of-concept and are profitable or approaching profitability • are seeking capital to expand or restructure operations, enter new markets or finance significant acquisition • have well-established and reputable owners who are committed to growing the business from and in Queensland.

The fund will be managed between Queensland Treasury and QIC. To increase the skills and capabilities of small businesses, $30 million will be invested to focus on priority industry sectors, market development and mentoring.

Small Business: A target of 25 per cent of all government purchases to be from Queensland small and medium size businesses from July 1. This will be extended to 30 per cent by June 2022.

Big Plans for Small Business strategy will support private investment. This includes: An initial $100 million Business Investment Fund from the $500 million Backing Queensland Business Investment Fund to invest in small to medium-sized businesses that have significant growth potential and will create Queenslandbased jobs. $30 million of investment to increase skills and capability including: Small business grants focusing on priority industry sectors; Grants to assist regional

A TARGET OF 25 PER CENT OF ALL GOVERNMENT PURCHASES TO BE FROM QUEENSLAND SMALL AND MEDIUM SIZE BUSINESSES FROM JULY 1. THIS WILL BE EXTENDED TO 30 PER CENT BY JUNE 2022. exporters to develop new markets; The development of a Business Ready Website; Continuing Small Business Month and the Mentoring for Growth programs; A study to link government procurement of new fibre networks with increased access for small businesses to high speed broadband in the regions; A Summertime Taskforce to support businesses to be more COVID-safe and move outdoors; $10 million of investment to make the Small Business Commissioner permanent, and to reinvigorate the Small Business Advisory Council.

The strategy includes $25 million in small business grants with a focus on regions as well as young Queenslanders, women, social enterprises, culturally and linguistically diverse people and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders.

Training: Free TAFE and free apprenticeships will be extended to all Queenslanders under 25. It is a $21 million initiative to create free training opportunities for more young Queenslanders in priority areas including: • health services • hospitality • engineering • aged and disability support • early childhood education A further $200 million will be invested in the skills of the future, with a suite of initiatives, including: • $32.4 million over two years for the TAFE Priority Skills Fund • $25 million over two years for PreApprenticeship Support

• $8 million over four years for a Digital Professional Workforce Plan • $8 million over two years for the Social Enterprise Jobs Fund • $5 million over two years for the First Nations Training Strategy • $5 million in 2020-21 for the Workforce Transition Support Program.

Delivering the Job Trainer Fund in partnership with the Australian Government to prioritise no- or low-fee training places for job seekers, school leavers and young people to get them into jobs.

Targeting critical skill needs and new skills for existing jobs, and emerging opportunities brought about by technology advance.

Extending the Regional Jobs Committee to bring industry groups, training providers, local and major employers to help plan local training investment so it matches local skills needs.

Transport: Continued implementation of The Future is Electric: Queensland’s Electric Vehicle Strategy, including delivery of the Zero Net Emissions Roadmap that will outline how the Department of Transport and Main Roads will lead the transition of Queensland’s transport sector to a low carbon economy.

Specialising in delivering technically difficult and hard to scope projects and providing end to end management of transport solutions through integrated business streams including civil construction and maintenance, structures, electrical, Intelligent Transport Systems and line marking.

Energy: Continuing to regulate and provide strategic oversight of Queensland’s electricity and gas supply industries, and biobased petrol and diesel mandates.

Continuing to maintain the system for fuel price reporting to help motorists shop around and save at the bowser.

December 2020/January 2021 Motor Trader | 19

Ron and Wilmy Kloprogge, owners of Matchport Materials Handling

MTA|Q&A Ron and Wilmy Kloprogge began dealing in forklifts and pallet jacks from their Cairns based business, Matchport Materials Handling, in January of 1997. Providing a fullservice business for customers throughout the Far North Queensland region, they have seen Matchport Materials Handling grow from strength to strength.

WORDS AND PICTURES: LARA WILDE 20 | Motor Trader December 2020/January 2021

Matchport Materials Handling, Cairns

Ron, how did you get started in the Automotive Industry?

RK: I completed my trade as an electrician

and truck mechanic in Europe as a young man. Upon arriving in Australia, I converted my qualifications to become a qualified Diesel Fitter Class III. My work to date has been mostly on trucks and large machinery.

How did Matchport Materials Handling come to be?

RK: In 1997, my wife Wilmy and I saw a

need for a business in Cairns to service the region with machinery sales, service and repair. We decided to open Matchport Materials and Handling, establishing it in the Far North Queensland region from scratch. Our focus has always been

“OUR FOCUS HAS ALWAYS BEEN ON CUSTOMER SERVICE WITH COMPLETE ACCOUNTABILITY FOR EVERY ASPECT.” on customer service with complete accountability for every aspect.

What services do you offer through Matchport Materials Handling?

RK: Matchport Materials Handling

provides sales, service, repair, and rental for machinery, particularly forklifts and excavators. I like our customers to know that from the moment they need a piece of equipment, Matchport Materials Handling will take care of them - from finding the perfect machine, to finding December 2020/January 2021 Motor Trader | 21

the right rental or purchase plan, through to the servicing of the plant item and any repairs they need. We are also a dealer for Caterpillar and Mitsubishi.

Do you specialise in any particular products or services?

RK: Our focus is very much on the light

industrial plant. Machines like forklifts and pallet jacks are our bread and butter.

We provide a hands-on customer service that focusses on tailoring solutions to meet our clients’ unique needs.

Who is currently in the Matchport Materials Handling team?

RK: The team consists of myself, my wife

Wilmy, and Aaron, Josh and Zac. We are lucky to have a small, dedicated team who understand that ours is a family business.

What is the greatest advantage to having your wife Wilmy working by your side in the business? “Our focus is very much on the light industrial plant. Machines like forklifts and pallet jacks are our bread and butter.�

22 | Motor Trader December 2020/January 2021

RK: We are on the same team, so it

stops any misunderstandings or arguments at home. We both know what pressures the other is under at home and work so we can work together to support each other.

How important is training and professional development for your staff?

RK: We place a lot of value on training for

our staff. Any opportunity to upskill them is grabbed quickly. We are very proud that we have put seven staff members through their apprenticeships.

Matchport Materials Handling sponsors a lot of local motorsport. Is this a key part of your marketing strategy?

RK: We are sponsors for race teams

and for motorsport venues such as Springmount Raceway. We like to believe that any marketing will help our business

by making people aware of who we are and what we do.

What importance do you place on social media for Matchport Materials Handling?

RK: We are still a little old

“WE PLACE A LOT OF VALUE ON TRAINING FOR OUR STAFF. ANY OPPORTUNITY TO UPSKILL THEM IS GRABBED QUICKLY. WE ARE VERY PROUD THAT WE HAVE PUT SEVEN STAFF MEMBERS THROUGH THEIR APPRENTICESHIPS.”

school. Social media is something we are learning and slowly embracing.

Our customers from the older generation will still find us through word of mouth and trust us if they receive a referral from someone they trust. Meanwhile our customers from the younger generation will search for us on social media and will seek reviews and evidence of our work. So, while it does not come naturally to us, we must still cater for social media as a marketing platform.

December 2020/January 2021 Motor Trader | 23

What do you consider to be the greatest advancement in technology for Matchport Materials Handling?

RK: The internet has been

a gamechanger for our business. We rely heavily on parts sourced from overseas and the internet has allowed us to provide a better service for our customers.

The ability to easily and efficiently communicate Ron Kloprogge has meant that we can more effectively research, get custom advice and source parts from anywhere in the world.

Do you consider that the advancements in electric vehicles will have an impact on your business and if so how?

RK: We regularly deal with very sophisticated electric forklifts. A number of years ago our machines featured re-gen, solid state electronics, and very sophisticated chargers and battery packs.

24 | Motor Trader December 2020/January 2021

“WE FIRST JOINED MTA QUEENSLAND IN JULY 2015. SINCE THEN WE HAVE BENEFITTED FROM THE UP-TO-DATE INDUSTRY INFORMATION AND THE AUTOMOTIVE BUSINESS EXPERTS WITHIN THE MEMBER NETWORK.�

“We began upskilling and training our staff years ago to meet our customer’s demands. I believe that our fitters are far more advanced with electric vehicles than many car mechanics in the region”

We began upskilling and training our staff years ago to meet our customer’s demands. I believe that our fitters are far more advanced with electric vehicles than many car mechanics in the region.

When did you become a member of MTA Queensland?

RK: We first joined MTA Queensland in July 2015. Since then we have benefitted from the up-to-date industry information and the automotive business experts within the member network.

Has Covid-19 had an impact on your business?

RK: Very much. Covid has impacted our

RK: We have adopted several protocols

and implemented them through all elements of Matchport Materials Handling. An example of one of those protocols is disinfecting machinery before and after we start working on them both in the workshop and on site.

We place stickers on the steering wheel to indicate that the protocol has been completed.

Do you have any major plans for the business in the future?

RK: No, we intend to keep doing what

we are doing. We take great pride in customers and their business and that providing a full service for our customers has had a flow-on impact for us. We have and we plan to continue doing that. survived the pilot strike, the recession we had to have, and the global financial What advice would you give a young Ron crisis. Matchport Materials Handling Kloprogge starting out in business today? is well established in the Cairns CLICK TO RK: Believe in yourself. Be honest community and we believe we VISIT THE and stand up and own any MATCHPORT will survive the Covid crisis too.

MATERIALS faults or mistakes you make.

HANDLING What strategies have you put in place Be prepared to back yourself WEBSITE and remember that no one to address the impact of Covid for you is perfect. and your customers?

December 2020/January 2021 Motor Trader | 25

MTA QUEENSLAND WELCOMES SARFRAZ ALI KYANI TO RESEARCH 3D PRINTING TECHNOLOGY

I

N LATE 2019, MTA Queensland corporate and not-for-profit sectors. He is partnered with the Australian Research also the founder of Maskan charity school Council (ARC) on a five-year project, for underprivileged children in Pakistan. titled the ARC Training Centre for Through his 15 years of experience in social Multiscale 3D Imaging, Modelling and entrepreneurship, business coaching, and Manufacturing (M3D). The focus has been event management, he has continued to placed on two key subprojects, with the work in roles that have an impact. aim of developing a sustainable additive Sarfraz, driven by these experiences manufacturing model for Australia’s and motivated to make an impact on the automotive industry. environment, now brings this passion To research the first area of the to explore new business practices to the project, MTA Queensland has welcomed Sarfraz Ali Kyani, a doctoral candidate from the Queensland University of Technology (QUT), to explore the ‘recycling of automotive parts for additive manufacturing’.

Sarfraz Ali’s work experience covers several roles across both academic and corporate sectors.

He possesses an undergraduate degree in finance, an MBA (double majors in finance and marketing), followed by an MS Sarfraz Ali Kyani in Entrepreneurship. Prior to coming to Queensland for his PhD research, Sarfraz was working as an Assistant Professor and cluster head of Marketing and Entrepreneurship department at FAST National University Islamabad, Pakistan.

Providing entrepreneurial and financial advice, his focus was to prepare young adults to start their own ventures.

Further to academia, Sarfraz is the CEO and co-founder of Deventions, a fullspectrum event production and training company that provides a wide range of services to individuals, government,

“I WILL BE VERY HAPPY IF I COULD ACHIEVE A VIABLE SOLUTION AT THE END OF MY RESEARCH THAT WILL ASSIST THE AUSTRALIAN AUTOMOTIVE SECTOR BECOME MORE SUSTAINABLE.”

26 | Motor Trader December 2020/January 2021

automotive industry in his investigation of end-of-life processes for vehicles.

In Australia, around 80 per cent of a vehicle can be recycled. This includes the metal, glass, fluids, batteries, and tyres. The remaining 20 per cent is called ‘automotive shredder residue’ (ASR) which is non-recyclable and, due to its complex composition, usually ends up in landfill, posing a significant environmental threat.

This contrasts with Europe, where European Union member guidelines require the reuse and recycling of at least 95 per cent of the vehicle parts.

These figures highlight the inefficiency of Australia’s recycling process and provide a call to action for better environmental performance.

The M3D project hopes to garner a deeper understanding of 3D technology, and how it can be used against conventional automotive parts to create a financially and environmentally sustainable manufacturing method which can recycle/reuse ASR materials.

To do this, the project will outline the Australian landscape of end-of-life vehicle management and ASR handling in comparison to the international standard, explore the current sources of waste in the automotive industry, and investigate the feasibility of additive manufacturing.

Once the preliminary research stage on 3D printing has been completed, the project will then conduct dimensional, microstructure, general characterisation, and mechanical testing on the

manufactured parts, as well as perform a root analysis for process optimisation.

The final stage of the subproject will work with industry partners to develop national standards that promote the recycling of end-of-life vehicle parts.

Technological advancements in additive manufacturing bring significant environmental benefits. 3D printing allows the creation of lightweight vehicle parts which utilise less energy to produce, as well as a reduction in material waste. The resulting lighter vehicles also increase fuel economy, reducing the amount of carbon dioxide and monoxide released by the exhaust system.

Further to environmental benefits, additive manufacturing provides a cost-efficient alternative to conventional manufacturing methods, ease in designing and producing customised parts, and time-saving benefits through the ability to test and amend prototypes in shorter timeframes.

Within the luxury and motorsports market, companies such as Porsche, Bugatti and BWM are already trialling 3D technology in their vehicles.

While the emergence of 3D printing has led to significant advancements in the manufacturing process, it also presents a risk for dishonest manufacturers to introduce unsafe and potentially harmful products to drivers and occupants.

To combat this risk, part of the M3D project involves creating a standard for automotive part producers that will December 2020/January 2021 Motor Trader | 27

ensure consistency through both materials and processes.

Further to this, many vehicle wreckers have concerns regarding the lack of skills and experience to use 3D printing technology. Since additive manufacturing is a relatively new concept, training employees for design and production may present challenges for some manufacturers.

For Sarfraz Ali, this is one area where he believes his research will be able to offer some useful insights and potential solutions.

“The project hopes to explore the international methods and create a comparative analysis to bring that technology to Australia through a viable business model.”

While only five months into the project, Sarfraz has identified the main ASL materials that creates automotive waste, through visiting vehicle wreckers and recyclers and reading relevant literature in this domain.

“It gives me a chance to bring the theory into practice, whereby I can meet industry partners such as MTA Queensland and vehicle wreckers, who are the principal stakeholders in the project, and add value into what they do.” said Sarfraz Ali. The next step of the project includes selecting suitable materials and testing those to be used in the additive manufacturing process. Following this, Sarfraz aims to establish a national framework to help mould the future development of the addictive manufacturing industry.

Whilst not directly part of the subproject, he has also recently created a sculpture for the QUT BizArtX exhibition that sought to highlight the wider issues he saw in his preliminary research. The sculpture is a representation of a crumpled car.

Aluminium foil was used to signify the steel and metal parts of a vehicle, which are finely wrinkled, ready to be converted into 28 | Motor Trader December 2020/January 2021

Sarfraz Ali with the crumpled car sculpture he created for a QUT art exhibition

“FOR MANY PEOPLE, THE ART PIECE WAS ABSOLUTELY A NEW AWARENESS OF THE ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES CREATED BY AUTOMOTIVE WASTE.” recyclables. The tail-light (mainly composed of plastic and fibre) is shown in its present condition as it becomes part of landfill.

“For many people, the art piece was absolutely a new awareness of the environmental issues created by automotive waste,” said Sarfraz Ali. “I collaborated with MTA Queensland to supply the vehicle parts to be used in the sculpture.”

Whilst it is only early days in the M3D project, Sarfraz Ali is optimistic of the research and the benefits it will bring to the industry, “I will be very happy if I could achieve a viable solution at the end of my research that will assist the Australian automotive sector become more sustainable.”

MTA will continue to support Sarfraz Ali and the M3D project, in the hope that we can bring the Australian industry standard for ASR materials to a more environmentally sustainable level.

MTA Queensland Comment

OPPORTUNITY LOST IN PROTECTING INDUSTRY

O

N FRIDAY 11 December, the Australian Government announced six principles to be used to guide contract negotiations between car dealers and manufacturers. These changes form a separate schedule to the Franchising Code of Conduct for the automotive industry and were intended to improve transparency and communication and fix the significant power imbalance between the two parties.

As the peak industry body for the automotive industry in Queensland, the Motor Trades Association of Queensland (MTA Queensland) strongly sides with the position of car dealers in that the principles are completely unsatisfactory.

The principles do nothing to protect car dealers as they are not mandatory. When Holden manufacturer, General Motors, was asked to engage in voluntary arbitration in relation to their abandonment of the brand in Australia, they chose not to participate.

This voluntary code will not work as it allows manufacturers to permanently opt out due to the lack of accountability or consequence.

Without a clear framework through a mandatory code, Australian dealers will struggle to strongly bounce back from

the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. If Government truly wants a fast economic recovery and maximum job growth, they must correct the imbalance by mandating a fair set of rules for everyone.

“The voluntary principles do not clear the air and provide automotive businesses with confidence to invest and grow,” said Rod Camm, Group CEO for MTA Queensland.

“The automotive value chain generates more than $20 billion annually with the dealer division alone employing 60,000 staff.

The Government has a responsibility to protect and support this industry.

“It is also very disappointing to see that the principles will not be reviewed for another two years. Australia has lost many dealerships this year, directly related to the actions of manufacturers, so this is a long time to continue witnessing the power imbalance and the inevitable results which will impact the price consumers pay for vehicles and the economy.

“Australia has done so well through the pandemic due to strong decision making and government leadership, and we now need that strength to cut through the noise and help create business opportunities for new car dealers.”

December 2020/January 2021 Motor Trader | 29

MTAQ RAC 30 | Motor Trader December 2020/January 2021

December 2020/January 2021 Motor Trader | 31

Photo: Trapnell Creations

CING TEAM

T

HE 2020 MOTOR racing season has come to an end for the MTAQ Racing team as the Hyundai Excel X3 Series Queensland championship wrapped up at the end of November with the final round of racing at the Morgan Park circuit in Warwick.

The 2020 championship season has been a truncated one - slashed to just two rounds and a handful of races because of the COVID-19 pandemic restrictions.

Those few racing opportunities meant that a host of teams and drivers went into the final weekend’s meeting with a shot at the title. It also meant that the always feisty and boisterous nature of Excel racing would be even more so than usual, and that a large portion of luck would likely be required for a team to record a trophywinning year.

32 | Motor Trader December 2020/January 2021

While the MTAQ Racing Team was certainly in the mix of title challengers, alas, it was not to be as the gremlins that have plagued the team in races past made another frustrating appearance.

“Coming into the last round, we were well in contention to win the championship,” said David Wood, team manager and driver. “Naturally, excitement was high within the team and we doubled our efforts to ensure that the car was in top shape for the grand finale.

“Unfortunately, during one of our final checks on the Wednesday evening before the event, we discovered our engine had a stress crack in one of the major components. With no time to rebuild the engine, we had to switch to a back-up unit. We swapped out the damaged engine with the help of the guys at PJR Racing

Photo: Trapnell Creations

“OUR CAR WAS FIRED OFF THE ROAD WITH HEAVY DAMAGE. THE FRONT AND REAR DRIVER’S SIDE SUSPENSION COPPED THE BRUNT OF THE HIT, BENDING ALL THE SUSPENSION ARMS AND MOUNTING POINTS, WHILE THE STEERING RACK, ARMS AND MOUNTS WERE ALSO DAMAGED. THE REAR QUARTER AND DRIVER’S DOOR ALSO TOOK A POUNDING.”

on the Gold Coast and managed to complete the prep.

“Despite losing our primary engine, I was fairly confident that we had the speed to do what we needed to clinch the championship trophy but then, during Friday’s practice, the weekend took a very disappointing twist.”

That ‘twist’ would be something of a shocker. Rather than a mechanical fault that one might have expected of a car with a hastily replaced engine, it was a humdinger of a collision that signalled that luck was, once again, not on the side of the MTAQ Racing Team.

“As I rolled out onto the circuit on our first exploratory lap of the weekend, we were involved in a major incident,” said David.

“At Morgan Park, the pit lane feeds out onto the circuit at the end of the main

straight and around the exit of Turn 1, which is taken at quite a high speed. As I made my way into Turn 1, we were hit by another competitor at high speed in the driver’s side. Whilst the impact was largely side-to-side contact, the speed was enough to pitch the other competitor into a series of barrel rolls – eventually landing back on its wheels broadside to the track.

“Our car was fired off the road with heavy damage. The front and rear driver’s side suspension copped the brunt of the hit, bending all the suspension arms and mounting points, while the steering rack, arms and mounts were also damaged. The rear quarter and driver’s door also took a pounding.

“As a result, we lost all of our critical practice and fine-tuning time. However, of more concern was the damage and how we were going to fix it without the correct equipment trackside. On initial inspection, the damage looked too great to repair for the weekend. However, we didn’t give up and the team set about seeing what we could do to at least get the wheel’s pointing somewhat straight!”

A long night followed as the team worked hard to repair what damage December 2020/January 2021 Motor Trader | 33

they could and make the car at least somewhat fit for the track.

One team member was dispatched back to the Gold Coast to retrieve all spare suspension and steering components, while the rest of the crew went to work bashing the car back into some sort of shape.

“By nightfall Friday, we had the wheels back on and everything to a state that we could at least work with, and we started to adjust the suspension geometry to account for the bent mounts,” said David.

“We did the best we could and while it was not ideal, it was good enough to at least put the car on the track and running, which was a huge relief.

“The suspension geometry in Excels is critical - even a millimetre out of geometry can transform a car. Our rear suspension was out 6mm at its maximum adjustment and 6mm in the front the opposite way. Without proper wheel alignment equipment, the rest was just a ‘best guess’. The car’s steering rack was also off centre due to it being damaged. It was a bit of a mess.”

Photos: Trapnell Creations

34 | Motor Trader December 2020/January 2021

“WHILE WE WERE ABLE TO QUALIFY 5TH, THE CAR’S HANDLING WAS HORRENDOUS . . . IT WAS ‘CRABBING’ DUE TO THE ALIGNMENT PROBLEMS, THE BRAKING PERFORMANCE WAS TERRIBLE AND LOCKING WHEELS EASILY DUE TO THE ALIGNMENT IMBALANCE . . .”

The result of this unfortunate state of affairs was that the team missed all practice sessions and had to jump straight into qualifying in a car that had been all but written off and that was powered by an engine that had yet to be run at full speed.

Given all that, the fact that David was then able to pilot the car to a 5th spot in qualifying - less than a second off pole position - was rather remarkable.

Unfortunately, a stunning effort that gave the team half a chance to pull off a miracle would not end with a dream result.

“While we were able to qualify 5th, the car’s handling was horrendous,” said David.

“It was ‘crabbing’ due to the alignment problems, the braking performance was terrible and locking wheels easily due to the alignment imbalance. And because of the steering rack damage, the steering weight was all over the place. We made some further adjustments for Race 1, but there was not much we could do. Sadly, we had pulled the last rabbit from the hat.”

A creditable 6th place in Race 1 was followed by the same result in Race 2, but the car just was not up to snuff. Tyres were

being horribly punished and the speed was lacking - the car was running more than a second off the pace it had been setting at the Warwick track at previous meetings.

“With our two 6th-place finishes on Saturday, our championship hopes were all but done,” said David. “In Sunday morning’s Race 3, the car was again difficult, was wearing heavily on its tyres, and with the engine temperature climbing, we decided to retire a few laps from the end whilst running a distant 8th. It wasn’t worth damaging a good engine when we had no hope of keeping pace with the leaders.”

It was, said David, a deeply disappointing end to a racing season that saw the MTAQ team finish 7th in the final championship standing.

“It was a sad way to end the year, but ultimately our championship hopes were dashed with that accident on Friday,” he said. “It was a freak accident not of our doing. As the old saying goes, it was a case of ‘wrong place, wrong time’, but that is the sort of luck that has dogged us throughout our Excel journey.

December 2020/January 2021 Motor Trader | 35

David Wood

“However, we will pick ourselves up and look forward to 2021.”

In fact, next year should be a very interesting and exciting one. While the Hyundai Excel championship has been a fantastic category in which to compete, is supported by great people and great competitors, and has offered up plenty of exciting racing and thrills and spills, the MTAQ Racing Team will be taking on a new challenge in 2021.

“We have achieved some great things in Excels, against some incredible competition, but it is time for a new challenge and the team are chomping at the bit for a new adventure,” said David. “And so we are aiming to move out of Excels, complete the build that is underway on our new car – a 1999 Subaru WRX Sti – and move into the exciting Improved Production car category.

“Improved Production is one of the largest, most spectacular, fastest growing and diverse touring car categories in Australia,” he added. “As the name suggests, the class is modelled on production-based cars that have been 36 | Motor Trader December 2020/January 2021

“WE HAVE ACHIEVED SOME GREAT THINGS IN EXCELS, AGAINST SOME INCREDIBLE COMPETITION, BUT IT IS TIME FOR A NEW CHALLENGE AND THE TEAM ARE CHOMPING AT THE BIT FOR A NEW ADVENTURE.” ‘improved’ for racing purposes. The category regulations are concise yet allow for quite a high level of modification and technical freedom, which is something we are looking forward to after the super-tight Excel regulations.

“This gives the category a foundation that allows both the racer and designer ample opportunity to create a fast and exciting form of racing car – and this brings in a whole new spectrum of opportunities and challenges.

“The class is exciting because of its variety – if the car was sold in Australia, it can race – and we’ll be going up against a really wide variety of cars with all manner of engines

MTAQ RACING TEAM

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Photo: Darin Mandy at digitalrealism.com.au

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and drivetrains. There’ll be rotary-powered Mazdas, six-cylinder BMWs, turbocharged Toyotas and, of course, big V8 Commodores and Falcons to name a few!”

The team will compete in the Queensland Championship for the Improved Production category and, as in past years with the Excel competition, there will be interstate race meetings too.

It will be an exciting and fresh experience for most of the MTAQ team and a test of their skills as they work to get a classic sports car ready to take on some very tough competition. For David, it will be a return to a category that he first competed in two decades ago.

“It is 20 years since I won the championship in this class in a raucous Mazda RX3, so it will be nice to return and try and do it all again with the MTAQ team in a genuinely classic car that is packed with cool tech,” he said.

“The 1999 (GC Series) WRX is the car that really put Subaru on the map – primarily because of its exploits in the World Rally Championship and the team’s legendary driver, Colin McRae. The car

is an icon, and this model was the first and most famous of the WRX family. It is instantly recognisable, has street cred to the maximum and is a fan favourite. We hope that it will be a ‘giant killer’ against the horde of V8s we will come up against!”

Follow the MTAQ Racing team on Facebook as they build and prepare the Subaru WRX for the 2021 Improved Production season.

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December 2020/January 2021 Motor Trader | 37

Advertorial

NEW AEROKLAS SHOWROOM AND FITMENT CENTRE OPENS IN QLD

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NEW, PURPOSE-BUILT FITMENT centre dedicated to providing complete light commercial vehicle fitouts for dealers, fleets and sole operators has opened in Brendale QLD. The new Aeroklas Fitment Centre features products from Flexiglass, Aeroklas and Bocar for viewing, purchase and fitment with services offered including fleet and dealer vehicle fitouts, tailored packages, modification, compliance and GVM upgrades. The amalgamation has roots stretching as far back as 1949 and brings together over 150 years of aftermarket auto accessories innovation experience. The centre was the first of its kind in Australia with a modern state-of-the-art facility opening on Brisbane’s north side in early 2020.

“Our Aeroklas Fitment Centres broadened range of product categories include vehicle protection, storage solutions and general

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AEROKLAS AUSTRALIA HAS INVESTED SIGNIFICANTLY IN MARKET-LEADING AUSTRALIAN BRANDS TO CREATE A PREMIUM SERVICE-BASED DESTINATION DELIVERING A WIDE RANGE OF AFTERMARKET AUTO ACCESSORY SOLUTIONS TO CUSTOMERS. vehicle upgrades. Our combination of quality brands, products, services provided by experienced staff forms the perfect destination for all light commercial vehicle fitment needs,” said Matt Logan, Aeroklas Australia’s head of customer experience.

“The Flexiglass brand is one of the oldest in the automotive industry and this

transition is the next chapter in a long and storied history,” said Matt. “By combining Flexiglass’ deep product range with Aeroklas Australia’s growing footprint and vision for the future, the Flexiglass brand and our customers will have an enhanced service experience moving forward,” he said.

Aeroklas has been producing premium plastic automotive The Aeroklas Fitment Centre, Brendale QLD accessories for over 35 years and boasts a leading manufacturer and exporter of a great history in developing innovative high-end automotive accessories. products to service a growing retail General Manager Greg Kelly stated: network in Australia as well as enjoying “Our brands are strong and the investment a global brand presence. Flexiglass was in R&D, product innovation, IT and an established in Western Australia and efficient distribution footprint and vision created the first fibreglass vehicle canopy for the future, the Flexiglass brand and our way back in 1956. Since then, Flexiglass customers will have an enhanced service has grown to become a true powerhouse experience moving forward. Our premises of the industry. Bocar was established have been specially designed to provide on Queensland’s Gold Coast in 1970 and staff with the best working conditions and boasts a long proud history of working include a modern R&D laboratory, new with OEMs, specialising in aluminium tray manufacturing equipment, paint booths solutions, and recently launching a brandand modern staff amenities,” he said. new Stockade series of bull bars, designed Globally Aeroklas distributes products for tough working conditions. in over 100 countries and its international Aeroklas Australia has invested customers include some of the largest significantly in market-leading Australian OEM manufactures in the world brands to create a premium service-based including Ford, Honda, Isuzu, Mazda, destination delivering a wide range of Mitsubishi, Nissan, Toyota, GM, and aftermarket auto accessory solutions to Volkswagen. Aeroklas and its portfolio of customers. With a core brand portfolio brands bring innovation, research consisting of Aerokals, TJM, and development, expertise and a Flexiglass and Bocar, Aeroklas CLICK global OEM pedigree to the light Australia aims to be the leading TO VISIT commercial vehicle market. aftermarket accessories and THE AEROKLAS WEBSITE Visit the new showroom situated at fitting destination for the light 1 Hinkler Ct, Brendale QLD 4500. commercial vehicle market in The Aeroklas fitment centre Brendale is Queensland. Globally, Aeroklas began operations in 1996 and is now open from 8am until 5pm Monday to Friday.

December 2020/January 2021 Motor Trader | 39

An Eye on Innovation

PAUL KULPA GENERAL MANAGER TRAINING & INNOVATION

A SHOCK TO THE SYSTEM: EV ROAD-USER TAX PROPOSALS

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LECTRIC VEHICLES HAVE been in the news quite a bit in the past few weeks. Much of this flurry of coverage stems from the announcement by the South Australian (SA) government in November that it would introduce a roaduser charge for electric vehicles (EV).

In its 2020 Budget, the SA government announced it intended ‘. . . to introduce a road user charge for plug-in electric and zero emission vehicles. The charge will include a fixed component (similar to current registration charging) and a variable charge based on distance travelled.’

By the end of the month, the Victorian government had joined the party, and was proposing that from July 1, 2021, ‘a new distance-based road-user charge will be introduced for Victorian registered zero and low emission vehicles (ZLEVs). These charges will apply to light vehicles not predominantly powered by a fuel source subject to Commonwealth Government fuel excise, such as petrol, diesel or LPG.’ The proposed charges in Victoria are 2.5 cents per km for electric, other zero emission vehicles and hydrogen vehicles, and 2.0 cents per km for plug-in hybrids.

NSW too, was reportedly making 40 | Motor Trader December 2020/January 2021

noises about introducing a similar tax system. Not surprisingly, this surge of announcements came as a big disappointment to many, with plenty of voices suggesting such moves would likely act to stifle the uptake of EVs. In response to the Victorian announcement, Tony Weber, CEO of the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries (FCAI) put out a statement that read in part: ‘Once again, we have a state government in Australia trying to destroy the path to a greener and cleaner motor vehicle fleet for this and future generations.”

He added later in the statement that: “The FCAI recognises that the decline in excise, the taxation of motorists and their vehicles, is a long-term issue that needs to be addressed. We also understand that road user charging may play a role in Australia’s future tax regime.

“However, such a transition needs to be undertaken in a holistic and nationwide manner, recognising the importance of EVs and other low emission vehicles. Let’s not kill EVs in their infancy.”

Strong stuff.

Others to voice their irritation included the leadership of the Australian Electric Vehicle Association, and the Electric Vehicle Council CEO Behyad Jafari who, in a media release that highlighted research suggesting that the road-user tax position will prevent states from reaching their goal of net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050, stated: “You don’t need advanced economics to understand that applying a big new tax on something discourages its consumption. These proposed state taxes will badly stunt Australia’s electric vehicle uptake before it even had a chance to get started.

“These taxes are like replacing declining

. . . FLAGGING TO POTENTIAL EV BUYERS THAT THERE IS A NICE CHUNKY TAX COMING THEIR WAY DOES INDEED SEEM TO BE COUNTER-PRODUCTIVE. tobacco excise with a new tax on nicotine patches. They are madness. And that’s why a few Australian states are so far the only jurisdictions in the world silly enough to flag this policy approach at this point in global history.”

While there probably is little argument that EV owners must contribute to the upkeep of infrastructure, flagging to potential EV buyers that there is a nice chunky tax coming their way does indeed seem to be counter-productive.

As a nation, Australia is already way behind the curve on EV uptake. While 2019 might have been a banner year for sales 6718 fully electric and plug-in hybrids were sold - that makes up only around 0.6 per cent of total sales.

That number is pretty feeble in comparison to other developed nations.

According to EV automotive data provider evvolumes.com the sector is booming in Europe, with sales reaching a 7.5 per cent market share in 2020.

Impressive growth figures in other nations come via, amongst other interventions, very attractive incentives for buyers. For example, in Germany, there’s up to €9,000 ($AU14,700) of subsidies available. In France, subsidies of up to €7,000 ($AU11450) are available for households buying EVs below €45,000 ($AU73,425). There are all manner of other incentives and packages available across European nations.

It should be noted too that in the U.S. under a new presidential administration - incentives to stimulate EV take-up, such as the federal EV program that provides a

tax credit as high as $US7,500 ($AU10,100), will likely remain on the books.

And then there is the extra inducement to change thanks to the declarations from many nations that will see them phase-out fossil fuel-powered vehicles altogether. The UK, Sweden, Norway, Germany and France – and a host of others - have plans in place to do so at various points before 2040.

And then there is California – the most populous state in the U.S., and whose every move on these matters has ramifications well beyond its borders – that has declared it would do the same by 2035.

In November, China and Japan announced that they were aiming for carbon-neutral economies by 2060 and 2050 respectively – goals that obviously will have a profound effect on what type of power drives the vehicles used there.

To all of this must be added the actions of the vehicle manufacturers themselves – who are pumping billions of dollars into the research, development and production of an ever-growing range of EVs. For them, clearly, that is where their futures lie.

Which brings us back to Australia and those proposed road-user taxes.

Our EV numbers are small now but the appetite for them is growing and, at some point, we have to recognise that the days of fossil fuel-powered vehicle dominance are coming to an end. Australia is a small nation in terms of its vehicle purchasing power and we cannot sputter on alone as the rest of the world moves on.

We should, as a technologically advanced nation looking to reduce its emissions, be jumping all over EVs and not only backing the development of the technology to make them better and more efficient; but be assisting Australian companies to establish manufacturing capability and, of course, be helping to encourage the uptake of EVs through incentives. The automotive industry is changing and evolving so quickly, we don’t want to be left behind.

December 2020/January 2021 Motor Trader | 41

Auto innovation news

EV HOME CHARGING TECHNOLOGIES TO BE TESTED IN NATIONAL TRIAL

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HE AUSTRALIAN RENEWABLE Energy Agency (ARENA) and AGL Energy Services (AGL) are set to undertake a large-scale electric vehicle (EV) charging trial across New South Wales, Queensland, Victoria and South Australia.

As part of the $8.25 million trial, AGL will recruit 300 EV owners to demonstrate a range of smart and managed charging solutions including: • 200 smart chargers will be installed at EV owners’ homes where they will be remotely monitored and controlled to help move charging to off-peak times when cheap renewable energy is available or to respond to constraints on the grid.

• A software based smart charging trial involving 50 EVs to test the ability of EV charging to be controlled by communicating directly with the car without the need for separate smart charging hardware.

• 50 EVs will participate in a vehicle to grid (V2G) trial to assess the ability and commerciality of EVs to become a source of energy storage and provide energy back to the grid when required.

AGL is contributing $5.3 million towards the trial which also involves project partners JET Charge, Chargefox and FlexCharging and a cohort of distribution networks.

ARENA’s $2.9 million of funding will support charging hardware costs, installation costs and software development.

The project will be the first time V2G EVs will be deployed in a residential context

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THE PROJECT WILL BE THE FIRST TIME V2G EVS WILL BE DEPLOYED IN A RESIDENTIAL CONTEXT IN AUSTRALIA. IT WILL ALSO BE THE FIRST TIME THAT SMART CHARGING HAS BEEN DEPLOYED IN AUSTRALIA VIA SOFTWARE . . . in Australia. It will also be the first time that smart charging has been deployed in Australia via software, potentially removing the need for additional smart charging hardware in the future.

The mix of alternative charging types was selected on the basis of current technology readiness, with smart chargers being the most mature technology and the main focus, while V2G and software based smart charging are less mature but offer considerable potential for the future.

AGL says that it aims to accelerate the commercialisation of the orchestration of EV charging by examining the key sources of uncertainty and investment risk such as the commercial model, technology approaches, customer behaviour and market structure.

The trial also will help to inform electricity retailers, customers and DNSPs (Distributed Network Supply Provider) of the potential for EV charge management and how those benefits can be recognised.

The project will provide insights into

REMOTE TYRE PRESSURE MONITORING FOR AUTONOMOUS VEHICLES

“As more Australians switch to EVs, it will be important to manage and orchestrate EV charging to avoid potentially costly impacts on peak demand, associated network charges and grid security issues.”

customer behaviour to inform how best to maximise customer participation and value for the customer.

“As more Australians switch to EVs, it will be important to manage and orchestrate EV charging to avoid potentially costly impacts on peak demand, associated network charges and grid security issues,” said Darren Miller, ARENA CEO. “EVs also provide economic opportunities for consumers through the potential of reduced electricity costs through higher network utilisation and the potential to generate revenues that would reduce the cost of car ownership.

“We hope trials like this will provide valuable insights into how EVs can provide value for money for consumers, but also help to transition our electricity network going forward.”

Sumitomo Rubber Industries (SRI), has begun proof-of-concept testing for its new tyre pressure management solution that it says enables the remote monitoring of tyre pressures and temperatures – a feature the company says will be crucial for the safe operation of autonomous vehicles.

The solution is designed to remotely view data collected via the cloud by the vehicle’s Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), helping to ensure tyre pressures are maintained to safe driving levels and optimised for fuel economy, as well as supporting predictive maintenance.

Testing will be conducted on 530 vehicles in Japan to evaluate the effectiveness of SRI’s solution. The trial will also evaluate the overall quality and convenience of the service through customer feedback.

“Insufficient tyre pressure is a common cause of punctures and flat tyres, and also leads to a decline in fuel efficiency and driving performance,” says Sumitomo Rubber Europe’s Dr Bernd Löwenhaupt. “As such, maintaining the optimum tyre pressure is extremely important. However, as mobility becomes increasingly autonomous, there will be a greater need for maintenance-free services. By enabling the remote monitoring of tyre pressures, SRI’s new service will deliver greater safety as well as peace of mind in the era of autonomous driving.”

The tyre pressure management solution is one of a number of technologies SRI is developing in response to CASE (Connected, Autonomous, Shared, Electric) transformation in the automotive industry.

December 2020/January 2021 Motor Trader | 43

Auto innovation news

HYUNDAI AND INEOS TO COOPERATE ON HYDROGEN ECONOMY

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YUNDAI MOTOR COMPANY and British chemical giant INEOS are set to explore new opportunities to accelerate the global hydrogen economy.

The companies will investigate opportunities for the production and supply of hydrogen as well as the worldwide deployment of hydrogen applications and technologies. Both companies will initially seek to facilitate public and private sector projects focused on the development of a hydrogen value chain in Europe.

The agreement also includes the evaluation of Hyundai’s proprietary fuel cell system for the recently announced INEOS Grenadier 4x4 vehicle. Hyundai’s modular fuel cell system, which evaluation vehicles will use, is already used in the

VIDEO: INEOS GRENADIER

Hyundai NEXO SUV. INEOS currently produces 300,000 tons of hydrogen a year mainly as a by-product from its chemical manufacturing operations.

Through its subsidiary INOVYN, INEOS is Europe’s largest existing operator of electrolysis, the technology that uses

The companies will investigate opportunities for the production and supply of hydrogen as well as the worldwide deployment of hydrogen applications and technologies

44 | Motor Trader December 2020/January 2021

renewable energy to produce hydrogen for power generation, transportation and industrial use.

“The agreement between INEOS and Hyundai presents both companies with new opportunities to extend a leading role in the clean hydrogen economy,” said Peter Williams, Technology Director INEOS. “Evaluating new production processes, technology and applications, combined with our existing capabilities puts us in a unique position to meet emerging demand for affordable, low-carbon energy sources and the needs of demanding 4x4 owners in the future.”

In 2018, Hyundai Motor Group announced its mid- to long-term roadmap, Fuel Cell Vision 2030, to increase annual production of hydrogen fuel cell systems to 700,000 units by 2030.

The INEOS 4x4 Grenadier is due to be available in Australia in late 2021. Built on an all-new platform, the Grenadier will have a box-section ladder frame; live axles; multi-link suspension with separate coils and dampers; diff lockers front, rear and centre; and will be powered initially by a choice of BMW TwinPower Turbo petrol or diesel engines.

Hyundai NEXO SUV

MICHELIN LAUNCHES A TYRE THAT IS CARBON NEUTRAL AT THE POINT OF PURCHASE MICHELIN HAS LAUNCHED the e.Primacy, the first tyre in the world, the company says, to be carbon neutral at the point of purchase.

Environmental responsibility was central to the design process from day one, Michelin says, resulting in a tyre with the lowest rolling resistance in its category, reduced CO2 emissions and fuel savings for the customer.

Michelin-commissioned tests show that drivers using e.Primacy save around 0.21 litres of fuel per 100kms, and about 80 euros ($AU130) over the life of the tyre.

The company says that the low rolling resistance of the e.Primacy equates to 174kg less CO2 emitted over the life of the tyre, and an increased range of up to seven per cent for electric cars.

The tyre includes technology such as ‘energy passive’ high elasticity compounds, improved elastomer-filler coupling, thinner top belts, coolrunning sidewalls and a hermetic belt to reduce energy loss, and was was engineered to be carbon neutral at the point of purchase, taking into account emissions from raw material extraction to delivery to the customer.

To achieve this, in addition to efficient manufacturing processes, Michelin says it has invested in projects that avoid, absorb or offset carbon emissions, including tree replanting and the installation of less energy-intensive cooking equipment in various countries.

The Michelin e.Primacy will be available in 56 sizes, from 15 inches to 20 inches.

December 2020/January 2021 Motor Trader | 45

Auto innovation news

RUBBER MEETS ROAD AT LAUNCH OF SURFACING PRODUCT MADE FROM RECYCLED TYRES

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NEW ASPHALT PRODUCT has been unveiled that could lead to the recycling of millions of tyres each year.

The asphalt, known as Carbonphalt, has been developed

by Gold Coast companies Austek Asphalt Production and Pearl Global.

Pearl Global’s manufacturing process sees used tyres, from cars Gary Foster, Executive Chairman of Pearl Global with to massive mining vehicles, broken Peter Ozoux, Managing Director of Austek Asphalt down to produce carbon char, reusable steel and fuel oil.

The carbon char, which after replace 1.3-1.6 million litres of fossil fuel thermal treatment is 75 per cent pure (diesel) with tyre-derived oil provided from carbon and takes the form of a fine the tyre-recovery process. powder, is provided directly to fellow Gold The Carbonphalt product was unveiled Coast-company Austek Asphalt to create at an event held at the Norwell Motorplex the Carbonphalt mix. in southeast Queensland and the new The companies say that while material will eventually be used to re-pave Carbonphalt costs marginally more than the facility’s 2.2km track. That will involve conventional asphalt, it offers superior approximately 2500 tonne of Carbonphalt durability, improved stiffness and – meaning that 25,000 tyres will be increased scuffing resistance. Additionally, recycled in the process. approximately 10 vehicle tyres will be The Pearl Global/Austek Asphalt saved from landfill for every tonne of partnership has also created a second Carbonphalt produced. product called Carbonmastic which is In total, the companies say more than another form of asphalt that can be applied 1.6 million tyres will be recycled annually in thinner layers from 20mm to 50mm. for Austek Asphalt through the Pearl This means that it can be overlayed Global facility at Stapylton on the Gold on surfaces where cracking and minor Coast. In total the plant will recycle more deformation has occurred to prevent than 2 million tyres at full capacity. further damage and greatly increase the Austek Asphalt Production will also life expectancy of the pavement.

46 | Motor Trader December 2020/January 2021

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20200885

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Auto innovation news

JAGUAR LAND ROVER TO DEVELOP A SMART CITY HUB TO TEST SELF-DRIVING VEHICLE TECHNOLOGY

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AGUAR LAND ROVER (JLR) is partnering with global software, mobility and telecoms companies to create a smart city hub that the company says will allow real-world testing of connected technology where self-driving vehicles share the streets with cars, pedestrians and cyclists.

The Future Mobility Campus Ireland (FMCI) will be a collaborative testbed spread across 12km of public roads, providing the facilities and expertise to harness valuable sensor data, simulate a variety of road environments and traffic scenarios and trial new technologies. As part of the trials, the all-electric Jaguar I-PACE will be deployed for testing.

48 | Motor Trader December 2020/January 2021

JLR says the testbed will advance its research into autonomous, connected, electrified and shared vehicles.

The FMCI facility will be equipped with sensors throughout the site, along with location systems, a data management and control centre and self-driving prototype vehicles. It will feature smart junctions, connected roads, autonomous parking and electric vehicle charging as well as links to a 450km stretch of connected highway and a managed air traffic corridor for unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs).

JLR will collaborate with a host of other global technology companies to develop the FMCI, including Cisco, Seagate, Renovo, Red Hat, Valeo and Mergon.

HYUNDAI TO LAUNCH NVIDIA DRIVE INFOTAINMENT AND AI PLATFORM

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YUNDAI AND TECHNOLOGY company NVIDIA have announced the roll-out of the NVIDIA DRIVE ‘connected car’ platform across all new models from Hyundai, Kia and Genesis from 2022 onwards.

All future models will feature in-vehicle infotainment (IVI) systems powered by NVIDIA DRIVE as standard.

NVIDIA DRIVE includes a hardware and software stack, enabling IVI systems to combine audio, video, navigation, connectivity and artificial intelligence (AI)-based ‘connected car’ services.

The partnership with NVIDIA will enable Hyundai to roll out its new ‘connected car operating system’ (ccOS) in future models.

The new ccOS will bring together the large amount of data generated by the vehicle and its network of sensors, as well as external connected car data centres.

Hyundai says that using the advanced NVIDIA DRIVE platform for its future models will allow the Group’s brands to

offer customers a feature-rich experience that can be continually updated.

The NVIDIA DRIVE platform already underpins the advanced IVI systems found in the Genesis GV80 and G80. The companies have also been collaborating on an advanced digital cockpit, due to be launched in late 2021.

“At Hyundai Motor Group, we are committed to delivering greater value, safety, functionality and enjoyment over the lifetime of the car,” said Paul Choo, Senior Vice President of Electronics Tech Unit at Hyundai Motor Group.

“The NVIDIA DRIVE platform is proven - it is scalable, energy-efficient and has the performance to support our next generation of software-defined vehicles.”

From entry-level to premium vehicles, all future models will feature in-vehicle infotainment (IVI) systems powered by NVIDIA DRIVE

December 2020/January 2021 Motor Trader | 49

Auto innovation news

NEXT-GEN TOYOTA MIRAI CONFIRMED FOR AUSTRALIA

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OYOTA AUSTRALIA WILL deliver the next-generation hydrogen-powered Mirai sedan to select business and government fleets from the first quarter of 2021.

The initial allocation involves 20 examples of the fuel-cell electric vehicle (FCEV), and first deliveries are expected to coincide with the commissioning of a solar-powered hydrogen production site and refuelling station supported by ARENA at Toyota’s Centre of Excellence in the Melbourne suburb of Altona.

The company says the secondgeneration Mirai FCEV introduces performance and efficiency improvements to the fuel-cell system and expanded on-board hydrogen tank capacity that substantially increases driving range.

There’s a new look for the Mirai, a new rear-wheel-drive layout and packaging of the three hydrogen tanks (previously two) allows seating capacity to be increased to five ( from four).

Toyota’s next-generation hydrogen-powered Mirai sedan

50 | Motor Trader December 2020/January 2021

“Toyota is committed to accelerating the popularity and diversity of electrified vehicles that reduce CO2 emissions and air pollution,” said Sean Hanley, Toyota Australia Vice President Sales and Marketing.

“The best way to demonstrate the longterm viability and environmental benefits of hydrogen-powered fuel-cell electric vehicles is to supply cars to local industries and governments that share our vision of a zero-emission future.”

GM TO ADD 3000 JOBS AS FOCUS SHIFTS TO EVS AND AUTONOMOUS TECHNOLOGY

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ENERAL MOTORS SAYS it will hire 3000 new employees across engineering, design and IT as development of autonomous and electric vehicles and advanced platforms like the Ultium battery system continues.

Highlighting the skills that are now important to the automotive industry, the job openings GM is looking to fill “As we evolve and grow our software expertise and services, includes those for electrical it’s important that we continue to recruit and add diverse talent.” system engineers; infotainment software engineers; developers for Java, Android, iOS and other platforms; controls engineers; and others that will help to build on GM’s current software foundation.

Software expertise, the company says, is core to its Vehicle Intelligence Platform, which brings more electrical bandwidth and the capability to support new active safety, infotainment, connectivity and the Super Cruise driver assistance feature, as well as over-the-air updates.

“As we evolve and grow our software expertise and services, it’s important that we continue to recruit and add diverse talent,” said GM President Mark Reuss. “This will clearly show that we’re committed to further developing the software we need to lead in EVs, enhance the customer experience and become a software expertise-driven workforce.”

December 2020/January 2021 Motor Trader | 51

Auto innovation news

LOTUS ENGINEERING LAUNCHES NEW EV BATTERY TEST FACILITIES

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OTUS ENGINEERING IS launching a pilot containerised battery testing facility to assess energy storage solutions for the EV sector.

The goal is to enable the company to carry out various battery cell, module and pack characterisation tests, performance evaluations, and component and lifetime testing under controlled conditions. Early feasibility study support and validation of mature designs for implementation into new vehicles will also be available.

The ‘containers’ - each the size of a 40ft shipping container - are walk-in laboratories and can be packed up and transported as a mobile testing unit. Lotus has three operational units as part of the pilot scheme.

For clients, Lotus Engineering says it will offer an EV safety-compliant workshop facility with specialist staff experienced in testing batteries. The company says that clients new to the EV field, and those who would otherwise need to invest in additional test facilities, will have access to a fast, efficient and cost-effective solution to develop new technologies and speed up their route to market.

For Lotus itself, 52 | Motor Trader December 2020/January 2021

the new technology will support plans to launch a new range of performance vehicles.

Services available include capacity determination, resistance mapping, current and power mapping, open circuit voltage determination and heat capacity.

Lifetime testing is comprised of low-voltage cycling, high-voltage cycling, self-discharge determination, storage ageing, cycle ageing, drive cycle ageing and orientation. One of the three Lotus containers features an ambient chamber, the temperature of which can be raised or lowered to replicate climatic extremes around the world.

The pilot project will conclude in spring 2021. Lotus Engineering is the consultancy division of Lotus and provides a range of technical services to automotive manufacturers and suppliers.

Lotus Engineering battery testing facility

December 2020/January 2021 Motor Trader | 53

Auto innovation news

HYUNDAI DETAILS THE E-GMP DEDICATED EV PLATFORM

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YUNDAI MOTOR GROUP has unveiled its new Electric-Global Modular Platform (E-GMP), a dedicated Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV) platform that the company says will serve as the core technology for its nextgeneration BEV line-up.

From 2021, the E-GMP will underpin a range of dedicated new BEVs, including Hyundai’s IONIQ 5, Kia Motors Corporation’s first dedicated BEV to be revealed in 2021, and other models.

E-GMP will, Hyundai says, provide various advantages compared to the Group’s existing platforms, including increased development flexibility, driving performance, increased driving range, strengthened safety features, and more interior space.

The platform is designed to reduce complexity through modularisation and standardisation, allowing for swift

development of products which can be used across most vehicle segments and enable the company to enlarge its EV line-up over a relatively short period.

The platform has a five-link rear suspension system, and an integrated drive axle (IDA), which combines wheel bearings with the drive shaft to transmit power to the wheels. There’s a low centre of gravity thanks to a low-mounted battery pack and the platform secures battery safety via a support structure made of ultra-high strength steel. Hotstamped steel components surround this structure for additional rigidity. There are energy-absorbent sections of the body and chassis, effective energy load paths, and a central section of the battery pack tightly bound to the vehicle body.

Hyundai says that by strengthening the structure of the load support section, located in front of the dashboard,

Hyundai Electric-Global Modular Platform 54 | Motor Trader December 2020/January 2021

engineers have been able to minimise collision energy to the power electric system and battery. The A-pillar’s load distribution structure is also designed to prevent deformation of the passenger cell.

The battery pack - mounted between the front and rear wheel axles - will be Hyundai’s most power-dense system. This, the company says, is partly thanks to its enhanced cooling performance, a result of a new separate cooling block structure which helps make the battery pack more compact. With energy density enhanced by around 10 per cent compared to existing EV battery technology, the battery packs are lighter, can be mounted lower in the body, and liberate more cabin space.

The E-GMP’s power electric (PE) system consists of a motor, EV transmission and inverter. These three components are integrated into a single module. The highspeed motor is smaller than other motors

THE PLATFORM IS DESIGNED TO REDUCE COMPLEXITY THROUGH MODULARISATION AND STANDARDISATION, ALLOWING FOR SWIFT DEVELOPMENT OF PRODUCTS WHICH CAN BE USED ACROSS MOST VEHICLE SEGMENTS . . .

while providing comparable performance, enabling efficiencies in both space and weight. With a standardised battery system, Hyundai says it can tune the system to offer performance appropriate for a specific vehicle segment, to maximise range, or to meet various customer needs.

The motor is controlled by the inverter power module, which adopts silicon carbide (SiC) semiconductors. This motor can enhance system efficiency by around 2-3 percent, which means the vehicle can be driven for approximately 5 per cent longer on the same battery energy.

Customers will be able to choose between rear-wheel and all-wheel drive configurations and models with the latter equipped with an additional motor. The all-wheel drive system includes an EV transmission disconnector, which can control the connection between the additional motor and front wheels, and switch between two-wheel and all-wheel drive modes.

Hyundai says the E-GMP offers 800V charging capability as standard and enables 400V charging without the need for additional components or adapters. It further claims a BEV based on E-GMP is capable of a range over 500km with a fully charged battery, can high-speed charge up to 80 per cent in 18 minutes and can add up to 100km of driving range in five minutes.

And the E-GMP’s charging system is flexible too. Hyundai says that its Integrated Charging Control Unit (ICCU) enables a new vehicle-to-load (V2L) function, allowing a BEV based on the E-GMP to operate other electric machinery (110 / 220V) anywhere.

The system can even be used to charge another EV. The E-GMP will underpin the Group’s plans to introduce a total of 23 BEV models, including 11 dedicated BEV models, and sell more than 1 million BEVs worldwide by 2025.

December 2020/January 2021 Motor Trader | 55

Auto innovation news

AWS AND BLACKBERRY PARTNER ON INTELLIGENT VEHICLE DATA PLATFORM

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MAZON WEB SERVICES (AWS) and BlackBerry Limited have announced an agreement to develop and market BlackBerry’s Intelligent Vehicle Data Platform, IVY. BlackBerry IVY is a scalable, cloudconnected software platform that has been designed to allow automakers to provide a consistent and secure way to read vehicle sensor data, normalise it, and create actionable insights from that data both locally in the vehicle and in the cloud.

Automakers can use this information to create responsive in-vehicle services.

The companies say that BlackBerry IVY addresses a critical data access, collection, and management problem in

VIDEO: BLACKBERRY IVY - INTELLIGENT VEHICLE DATA PLATFORM

the automotive industry. Modern cars and trucks are built with thousands of parts from different suppliers, with each vehicle model comprising a unique set of proprietary hardware and software components. These components produce data in unique and specialised formats,

BlackBerry IVY vehicle sensor input/output

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and the skills required to interact with this data, as well as the challenges of accessing it from within contained vehicle subsystems, limit developers’ abilities to innovate quickly and bring new solutions to market.

BlackBerry IVY will, the companies claim, solve these challenges by applying machine learning to that data to generate predictive insights, making it possible for automakers to take action based on those insights.

The system will support multiple vehicle operating systems and will run inside a vehicle’s embedded systems but be managed and configured remotely.

It will enable automakers to deliver new features, functionality, and performance to customers over the lifetime of their cloud-connected vehicles, as well as unlock new revenue streams and business models built on vehicle data.

An example of this capability is that drivers of electric vehicles could choose to share their car’s battery information with third-party charging networks to proactively reserve a charging connector and tailor charging time according to the driver’s current location and travel plans.

In addition, the companies say BlackBerry IVY will make it easier for automakers to deliver improved vehicle performance, reduced costs for maintenance and repairs, and added convenience. By analysing real-time performance data, automakers could recognise the first signs of potentially faulty CLICK TO parts, deploy code FIND OUT MORE to identify affected ABOUT AWS AND BLACKBERRY vehicles, notify impacted drivers, and perform targeted recalls.

DONE

MCLAREN UNVEILS ALL-NEW, INNOVATIVE LIGHTWEIGHT VEHICLE ARCHITECTURE

MCLAREN AUTOMOTIVE IS to introduce a new flexible, lightweight vehicle architecture which will underpin its next generation of electrified supercars.

The company says the new flexible vehicle architecture utilises world-first processes and techniques to strip out excess mass while also further improving safety attributes.

Designed specifically to accommodate new hybrid powertrains, the architecture has been engineered, developed and produced in-house in the UK at the McLaren Composites Technology Centre (MCTC).

The first new McLaren hybrid supercar to be based on the all-new architecture will launch in 2021.

“The new ground-breaking vehicle architecture is every bit as revolutionary as the MonoCell chassis we introduced with the company’s first car, the 12C, when we first embarked on making production vehicles a decade ago,” said Mike Flewitt, Chief Executive Officer, McLaren Automotive, in a statement.

“Our advanced expertise in lightweight composites processes and manufacturing combined with our experience in cutting-edge battery technology and high-performance hybrid propulsion systems means we are ideally placed to deliver to customers levels of electrified highperformance motoring that until now have simply been unattainable.

“For us, light-weighting and electrification go hand-in-hand to achieve better performance as well as more efficient vehicles,” he said.

December 2020/January 2021 Motor Trader | 57

THE AZNOM 58 | Motor Trader December 2020/January 2021

PALLADIUM December 2020/January 2021 Motor Trader | 59

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HIS IS THE Aznom Palladium – a ‘hyper-limousine’ designed and manufactured in Italy.

Beauty, as they say, is in the eye of the beholder, and while the Palladium’s unique styling and beefy presence certainly makes it stand out in the luxury SUV segment, whether you’d want to be seen in one or not is a matter of taste. Either way, there are some nifty features here that give it some extra spice beyond its looks.

On the inside, the Palladium is completely covered (ceiling included) with Foglizzo leather, there are two independent air conditioning systems for the front and rear passengers, and a touch display on the driver’s door panel allowing for control of the interior lights, air conditioning, on-board refrigerator, the opening and closing of all drawers and compartments, the curious slideout boot, as well as the windows and doors. A handmade clock is available in the lower central position at the rear which can be removed and become a piece of

60 | Motor Trader December 2020/January 2021

WHILE THE PALLADIUM’S UNIQUE STYLING AND BEEFY PRESENCE CERTAINLY MAKES IT STAND OUT IN THE LUXURY SUV SEGMENT, WHETHER YOU’D WANT TO BE SEEN IN ONE OR NOT IS A MATTER OF TASTE. home furniture, and Aznom provides a full set of luggage, manufactured with the same leather and stitching as the vehicle’s interior.

For the passengers in the rear, there are even two Microsoft Surface X PRO

tablet computers!

That is all very nice, of course, but equally important is what is pushing all this luxury along.

For that job, the Palladium has a 5.7-litre V8 biturbo delivering 530kW and 950 Nm of torque.

There’s an optional eTorque mild-hybrid system that can be installed and paired to the engine.

Top speed is limited to 210km/h and the 100km/h sprint time is good, with the chunky beast reaching it in 4.5 seconds.

The braking system features 408 x 34 mm ventilated discs with 6 piston Brembo GT calipers at the front. The rear brakes feature smaller discs, 380 x 28 mm with 4 piston calipers.

The parking brake is electronic.

The Palladium is completely covered (ceiling included) with Foglizzo leather

There are two independent air conditioning systems for the front and rear passengers

22-inch wheels are solid aluminium and an original Anzom design, and are fitted with Yokohama Advan Sport 285/45ZR22 tyres.

When the engine is started, the Palladium is rear-wheel drive, but the driver can switch to four-wheel drive through mode selection. An electronic automatic locking differential splits the For the passengers in the rear, December 2020/January 2021 Motor Trader | 61 there are even two Microsoft Surface X PRO tablet computers

THAT INTERESTING BODY IS MADE OF HIGH RESISTANCE STEEL WITH CERTAIN DETAILS MADE OF ALUMINIUM IN ORDER TO REDUCE WEIGHT. The Palladium comes with a suite of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems

Forward and rear bumpers are made of composite materials

62 | Motor Trader December 2020/January 2021 Slide-out boot!

torque between the forward and rear axles to maximise traction on each wheel.

The system also allows the driver to lock or unlock the differential manually.

That interesting body is made of high resistance steel with certain details made of aluminium in order to reduce weight. The bonnet and roof are carbon fibre while both forward and rear bumpers are made of composite materials.

On the rear section of the chassis’ frame, there’s a steel cage to help improve torsional stiffness.

The Palladium comes with a suite of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems including Advance Brake Assist, Hill Descent Control, Adaptive Cruise Control, Blind-stop Monitoring and Park Assist. Several cameras combine for a 360-degree view.

It’s all very modern and what you’d expect from a top-of-the-line luxury machine. But would you want to be seen driving one . . . or be seen being driven in one? You’d certainly be the centre of attention. And maybe that’s the point.

December 2020/January 2021 Motor Trader | 63

Auto news

VW UNVEILS THE NEW GOLF R, THE MOST POWERFUL PRODUCTION GOLF EVER

V

W HAS REVEALED the new Golf R – the most potent version ever of the famous compact model.

With a 2-litre turbocharged engine under the bonnet, the Golf R can pump out 235Kw and 420Nm, with VW claiming performance numbers of 0-100km/h in 4.7 seconds and a top speed limited to 250km/h. However, the Golf R can also be ordered with an optional R-Performance package, which enables the top speed to be increased to 270 km/h.

The new Golf R includes a new torque vectoring 4Motion all-wheel-drive system and a Vehicle Dynamics Manager.

The 4MOTION system with

THE NEW GOLF R’S SETUP WAS FINETUNED ON THE NÜRBURGRING AND WHEN COMBINED WITH THE R-PERFORMANCE PACKAGE, THE GOLF R COMES WITH A DEDICATED NÜRBURGRING DRIVING PROFILE, KNOWN AS ‘SPECIAL’.

R-Performance Torque Vectoring distributes the engine’s output to the four wheels, and power is distributed not just between the front and rear axles, but also variably between the two rear wheels.

VW Golf R

64 | Motor Trader December 2020/January 2021

The all-wheel drive is also networked via a Vehicle Dynamics Manager (VDM) with other running gear systems such the electronic differential locks (XDS) and adaptive chassis control.

The new Golf R’s setup was fine-tuned on the Nürburgring and when combined with the R-Performance package, the Golf R comes with a dedicated Nürburgring driving profile, known as ‘Special’. As part of this profile, all key drive parameters are geared towards the legendary racetrack.

VW says the results are measurable, with the Golf R up to 19 seconds quicker per lap around the Nürburgring than its predecessor.

The exterior design of the new Golf R includes a new front bumper featuring a motorsport-style splitter and R-specific air intake grilles, with high-gloss black elements. At the top of the radiator grille, there features a blue crossbar which lights up as an LED strip as soon as the engine starts and stretches all the way into the

fenders to act as daytime running lights.

The five-door R has a sunroof as standard, and includes 18- or 19-inch aluminium-alloy wheels, and matt chrome exterior mirror caps. Blue brake calipers peek through the wheels and there are chrome-plated twin tailpipes for the standard sport exhaust system.

Inside, there is a Discover Pro infotainment system with 10-inch touchscreen display and the Digital Cockpit configurable instrument panel.

Top notch sport seats are up front that feature Nappa leather, and there is a multi-function leather sport steering wheel with DSG paddles, blue contrast stitching and an R button for direct selection of the various driving profiles.

Other standard equipment includes carbon-look dash panel, R-specific door trim, brushed stainless steel pedal caps and driver footrest, and 30-colour ambient lighting for the dash panel and doors.

December 2020/January 2021 Motor Trader | 65

Auto news

THE NEW BOLD-LOOKING NISSAN NAVARA ON ITS WAY VIDEO: NISSAN NAVARA

N

ISSAN HAS UNVEILED the new Navara, and the latest version of the company’s rugged ute comes with a new look and many top-notch technologies, including an array of Nissan Intelligent Mobility features and safety systems.

The latest Navara has a new, ruggedlooking exterior - that features an oversize grille, new high-tech C-shaped quad LED projector headlamps, signature LED tail lamps at the rear, a new rear bumper with integrated step, and new side-step finishers – and will be available in eight exterior colours, with two new colours (Forged Copper and Stealth Grey) developed for the top PRO-4X grade.

On the inside, the new Navara features increased amounts of sound deadening insulation, a new steering wheel and improved styling of the instrument panel highlighting the 8-inch navigation screen and a 7-inch higher resolution TFT screen.

Rear seats have been upgraded, and passengers in the back can also now use Nissan Navara

66 | Motor Trader December 2020/January 2021

the new rear armrest with built-in cup holders.

The newly introduced PRO-4X grade comes with its own styling, with a black Nissan emblem, a black front bumper and black grille, door handles, roof racks and running boards accented by 17-inch black wheel and all-terrain tyres. The PRO-4X also has red accents throughout the interior and exterior.

Driver assistance and safety technology is pretty comprehensive, and includes Intelligent Forward Collision Warning, Intelligent Emergency Braking, Intelligent Driver Alertness, Lane Departure Warning, Blind Spot Warning, and Intelligent Lane Intervention.

Additionally, there is Intelligent Around View Monitor, which uses four mounted cameras to help drivers notice people and cars surrounding and approaching the vehicle.

The system also features an off-road monitor to confirm surrounding obstacles at low speeds

TOYOTA CONFIRMS GR YARIS RALLYE PRICING TOYOTA’S SPECIAL-EDITION GR Yaris Rallye performance car will be launched in Australia in March with an introductory offer of $56,200 driveaway.

That introductory offer price will apply to the first 200 cars, after which the price will move to the official recommended retail price of $54,500 plus on-road costs.

GR Yaris Rallye builds on the recently released 200kW GR Yaris, with the special-edition model equipped with upgrades that make it a pretty formidable performance package.

It features circuit-tuned suspension, Torsen limited-slip differentials on the front and rear axles and 18-inch BBS forged alloy wheels with Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tyres.

Power will come from the 200kW/370Nm 1,6-litre turbocharged three-cylinder engine carried over from the GR Yaris model, as is the all-wheel-drive system and six-speed manual gearbox.

Toyota has also confirmed that any future stock of GR Yaris, potentially arriving in the second half of 2021, will be priced at the recommended retail price of $49,500 plus on road costs.

when in four-wheel drive.

The ute is equipped with the new Nissan Connect infotainment system, allowing customers to connect their smartphone and enable features such as Bluetooth streaming audio, voice recognition, and satellite navigation.

There are multiple USB ports throughout the vehicles to charge devices and ensure continued connectivity.

Other features include a rain-sensing wiper with wiping speed adjustment, and a speed-sensing door lock that switches on as soon as vehicle speed exceeds 25km/h.

Power comes from a 2.3-litre intercooled twin turbo diesel developing 140kW and 450Nm. Payload is improved payload to up to 1.2 tonnes dependent on grade with 3,500kg towing capability. When in four-wheel drive mode, the Navara activates its Active Brake Limited Slip Differential system (ABLS), which manages power delivery and wheel braking between the front and rear axles, and between the left and right of the vehicle, depending on traction and speed.

Working with the Vehicle Dynamic Control system (VDC) and ABS brakes, this system is designed, Nissan says, to enable drivers to be more confident when towing large payloads and driving through muddy terrain with less acceleration and brake operation.

A new Trailer Sway Control system helps the vehicle to maintain stability on the road when towing a trailer.

The latest Navara will be available Toyota GR Yaris Rallye in Australia in early 2021.

December 2020/January 2021 Motor Trader | 67

Auto news

LUXURIOUS MERCEDESMAYBACH S-CLASS REVEALED WHILE ITS DEBT TO THE MERC IS OBVIOUS

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HERE ARE FEW cars more luxurious than a Mercedes S-Class. Except, that is, one from within the Daimler Group itself. And this is it – the MercedesMaybach S-Class, a car that combines the style and technology of the big Merc with the exclusive touches of the ultra-luxury Maybach brand.

The Merc-Maybach is available with a Chauffeur package, which gives an indication of just how high up the exclusivity ladder the car is pitched, and there are all manner of tweaks, touches and features that make this sedan a pretty special vehicle.

While its debt to the Merc is obvious in its appearance, there are plenty of indications - the grille, the distinctive bonnet, wider rear doors, illuminated 68 | Motor Trader December 2020/January 2021

IN ITS APPEARANCE, THERE ARE PLENTY OF INDICATIONS . . . THAT THIS IS NOT YOUR RUN-OF-THE MILL S-CLASS.

brand logos and an optional two-tone paint finish - that this is not your run-ofthe mill S-Class.

And while the interior takes its cues from the new S-Class interior design too, there’s more exclusive touches here.

Available features include the Seating

Mercedes-Maybach S-Class

Comfort package Rear which includes multi-contour seats, various massage programs, and neck/shoulder heating.

There are tables and footrests too, and an optional, removable, refrigerated compartment in the rear armrest plus a stowage compartment to hold silverplated champagne goblets.

Technology via the MBUX Interior Assist system means the Maybach can recognise the intentions of occupants - including, the company claims, eye direction, hand gestures and body language – with the help of cameras.

Given the ultra-luxury nature of the Maybach, the potential for irritating road noise has been tackled via extended NVH (noise, vibrations, harshness) measures that include additional absorbent foam in the rear wheel arches, fixed quarterlights in the C-pillars with thicker laminated

glass, and noise-optimised tyres with foam absorbers. Active road noise compensation is also being used for the first time. The system reduces low-frequency noise by using ‘counter-phased sound waves’ that cancel out unwanted sound waves.

Improved safety comes from advanced driver assistance features that can adapt the vehicle speed and control distance, steering and lane-changing and also includes features such as Attention Assist.

There are airbags just about everywhere – seat cushion airbags; kneebags; side and window airbags; and inflatable belt straps that spread the incoming force over a wider area - and a Pre-Safe system that can move seats to more favourable position during ‘critical driving situations’.

What will power the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class is not certain as yet. The company says only that the engines will ‘comes from the Mercedes-Benz portfolio’, but that does mean the monster 6-litre V12 may be in the mix.

Whatever the case, the big names that populate the very top end of the uber-luxury market have got a serious competitor on their hands.

December 2020/January 2021 Motor Trader | 69

Auto news

FULL-SIZE GM TRUCKS TO BE AVAILABLE THROUGH AUSTRALIAN GMSV NETWORK

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USTOMERS IN AUSTRALIA and New Zealand will be able to access some of GM’s full-size trucks – beginning with the Chevrolet Silverado – through the newly established General Motors Specialty Vehicles (GMSV) network.

The Silverado 1500, remanufactured to right-hand-drive

by Walkinshaw Automotive Group, is Silverado 1500 the first entry in the GMSV portfolio, with the Silverado 2500 and the C8 Corvette to follow in late 2021.

The 2021 Chevrolet Silverado is powered by a 6.2-litre EcoTec3 V8 petrol engine paired with a 10-speed auto transmission.

Towing capacity is 4.5 tonnes with Tow/ Haul mode, Trailer Sway Control, Hill Start Assist and Auto Grade and Cruise Grade Braking.

There’s an Advanced Towing Package with Hitch Guidance, Hitch View, Integrated Brake Controller, Trailer Theft Alert and in-vehicle advanced trailering The Silverado also comes with a Durabed system, and a suite of active safety features tray featuring power up/down tailgate, includes Front and Rear Park Assist, Lane cargo bed camera, LED cargo lighting, Change Alert with Side Blind Zone Alert standard spray-in liner and 12 tie-downs. and Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Forward The GMSV dealer network Collision Alert, Low Speed Forward was announced as open CLICK Automatic Braking, Front Pedestrian for business in early TO SEE THE Braking, IntelliBeam automatic headlamp November and dealers LIST OF GMSV DEALERS control, and Following Distance Indicator. within the group can be found via the new There is also Apple CarPlay and Android GMSV website.

Auto capability

THE SILVERADO 1500, REMANUFACTURED TO RIGHT-HAND-DRIVE BY WALKINSHAW AUTOMOTIVE GROUP, IS THE FIRST ENTRY IN THE GMSV PORTFOLIO, WITH THE SILVERADO 2500 AND THE C8 CORVETTE TO FOLLOW IN LATE 2021.

70 | Motor Trader December 2020/January 2021

Land Rover Defender 110

NEW DEFENDER 110 SCORES FIVE-STAR ANCAP SAFETY RATING

L

AND ROVER’S NEW Defender 110 has earned a five-star review ANCAP (Australasian New Car Assessment Program), Australasia’s independent vehicle safety authority.

The Defender showed strong performance across the four key areas of safety assessment and scored maximum points for adult occupants in the side impact and oblique pole tests, and for child occupants in the frontal offset and side impact tests.

According to ANCAP’S website, the 4X4 scored 85 per cent for Adult Occupant Protection, 88 per cent for Child Occupant Protection, 71 per cent for Vulnerable Road Users, and 76 per cent for Safety Assist.

The Defender comes with an ultra-stiff aluminium-intensive body construction and an impressive range of safety technologies, including Blind Spot Assist, 3D Surround Camera, Adaptive Cruise Control, Driver Condition Monitor

(designed to sense driver fatigue), Lane Keep Assist, Rear Traffic Monitor (designed to warn of vehicles, pedestrians or other hazards approaching from either side), Traffic Sign Recognition, and Wade Sensing (sensors in the door mirrors provide real-time information about the water depth when wading).

“From the moment we started creating the new Defender, we were obsessed with functional safety and the protection of both the occupants and other road users,” said Nick Rogers, Executive Director, Product Engineering, Jaguar Land Rover. “We set out to make a vehicle that is the most capable and durable Land Rover ever made, with safety features that truly enhance the driver’s experience. It’s an incredible honour to receive this recognition from ANCAP who have endorsed our New Defender with their five-star rating.”

•ANCAP tested a right-hand drive Land Rover Defender 110 2.0 diesel SE. December 2020/January 2021 Motor Trader | 71

Auto news

GWM UTE AN IMPRESSIVE NEW ENTRANT IN UTE MARKET

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ITH A FRESH design and engineered from the ground-up, the new GWM Ute line-up looks like a decent option for those in the market for a value-packed dual-cab.

The company – formerly known as Great Wall – has unveiled an initial line-up that will consist of three 4x4 Dual Cab models – the Cannon, the Cannon L, and the Cannon-X - all of which are powered by an upgraded 2.0 litre Turbo Diesel engine and ZF 8-speed automatic transmission.

Improvements to the 2.0 litre Turbo Diesel engine will see it pump out 120kW and 400Nm, offer improved fuel efficiency (9.4L per 100km) and new additions

72 | Motor Trader December 2020/January 2021

include a Variable Geometry Turbo (VGT), variable turbo inlet, and upgraded air intake throttle and camshaft.

The base model Cannon is priced from $33,990 driveaway with a 7-year Unlimited Km Warranty, 5 years Roadside Assist and an impressive list of features that includes: • 4x4 drivetrain with Torque On Demand • Front Double Wishbone and Rear Leaf Spring suspension • Forward Collision Warning (FCW) and Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB) with pedestrian and cyclist detection • Lane Departure Warning (LDW), Lane Keep Assist (LKA), and Lane Change Assist • Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA)

• Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) • Traffic Sign Recognition and Overspeed Alert • Tyre Pressure Monitoring System • Kerbside camera (passenger side) • 7 airbags incl front centre airbag • Collision automatic unlock function • Collision automatic fuel cut function • Hill Start Assist • Hill Descent Control • 18-inch alloy wheels • Fog lamps with auto steering function • Keyless entry • 9-inch LCD touchscreen • Apple CarPlay and Android Auto • 3.5-inch colour instrument cluster • Power outlet for dash camera • 12v power outlet • 2 front USB ports and 1 rear USB port Upgrading to the Cannon-L, priced at $37,990 driveaway, adds more features, including: • Premium 18-inch Alloy Wheel • Spray-in tubliner • Easy up/down tailgate • Cargo ladder • Heated front seats • 6-way power adjustable driver’s seat • Automatic climate control with Rear A/C Vents • Front parking sensors • 360-degree view camera • Roof rack • Privacy Glass • Electric Anti-Glare Rear-view Mirror • 220V power output The top of the range Cannon-X, priced from $40,990 driveaway, adds: • Luxury interior with leather seats • Tilt and slide adjustable steering • 7-inch colour instrument cluster • Wireless charging • 4-way power adjustable passenger seat • Power assist steering modes • Door open warning • Second Row 60/40 seat • Voice Recognition.

MOPAR UNLEASHES THE NEW MONSTER HEMI CRATE ENGINE MOPAR IS TO make the most powerful production muscle-car engine ever available to builders and enthusiasts with the launch of its newest crate engine – the Hellcrate Redeye 6.2-litre Supercharged HEMI V8 engine.

Rated at 807hp (602kW) and 717 lb.-ft. of torque (972Nm), the new Hellcrate Redeye is engineered with proven hardware first seen in the limited-edition 2018 Dodge Challenger SRT Demon,.

The Hellcrate Redeye engine features significant upgrades versus the standard Hellcrate engine, including - and amongst other modifications - a larger supercharger; higher RPM limit; decreased weight Forged highstrength alloy pistons; powder-forged connecting rods; upgraded shank and big end; and oil pan and windage tray optimised for high acceleration.

The Hellcrate Redeye 6.2-litre Supercharged HEMI V8 engine has a U.S. Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of $US21,807 ($AU29520).

You can find out more at www.cratehemi.com December 2020/January 2021 Motor Trader | 73

Auto news

NEW VEHICLE SALES SHOW POSITIVE TURN IN NOVEMBER

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OME GOOD NEWS for the industry as, for the first time in more than two and a half years, sales figures for new vehicles are on the up.

The Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries (FCAI) reported that sales in November numbered 95,205, an increase of 10,497 sales or 12.4 per cent on November 2019 when 84,708 sales were recorded.

On a year-to-date basis, 821,316 sales have been made, marking a 16.1 per cent decrease on the same period in 2019 when 978,628 sales were recorded.

“Recent Australian new vehicles sales have seen 31 months of straight decline.

This has been caused by a number of well recognised factors, including the COVID-19 pandemic, and environmental and financial issues,” said Tony Weber, chief executive of the FCAI. “With the Australian economy showing improvement, it’s good news to see new vehicle sales trending in a more positive direction.

“Why are we seeing an improvement now? We believe there are a few contributing factors, including rising optimism from the Australian public as COVID-19 restrictions ease.

“This increase in consumer confidence is backed by government support programs during the pandemic, the easing of lending restrictions, and the current competitive automotive market.”

During the month, the FCAI reported that 20,711 Passenger Vehicle were sold 74 | Motor Trader December 2020/January 2021

“WITH THE AUSTRALIAN ECONOMY SHOWING IMPROVEMENT, IT’S GOOD NEWS TO SEE NEW VEHICLE SALES TRENDING IN A MORE POSITIVE DIRECTION.” (down 10.1 per cent from November 2019), representing 21.8 per cent of the total market. SUVs claimed 52.5 per cent of the market with a total of 50,016 sales, up 26.5 per cent from November 2019. Light Commercial vehicles claimed 22.3 per cent of the market with 21,252 sales, up 11.5 per cent from November 2019.

Toyota was the top selling brand for the month, with 23,204 sales, followed by Mazda with 9,053 sales, Hyundai with 6,903 sales, Ford with 6,613 sales and Mitsubishi with 5,488 sales.

The top five selling models for the month were the Toyota Hi Lux with 5,038 sales, the Ford Ranger with 4,260 sales, the Toyota RAV4 with 3,800 sales, the Toyota Landcruiser with 2,947 sales and the Toyota Corolla with 2,774 sales.

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2mota.com.au December 2020/January 2021 Motor Trader | 75

Industrial relations

EVANGELINE KANNIS SENIOR WORKPLACE RELATIONS ADVISOR

THIS SUMMARY ARTICLE SHOWS THE NEED FOR GOOD INVESTIGATIONS WITH A VIEW TO PROVIDING A SAFE WORK ENVIRONMENT FOR ALL EMPLOYEES. The Fair Work Commission (FWC) has found an employee’s dishonesty during a workplace investigation into an out-ofhours fight with a colleague was a valid reason to dismiss him.

The truck driver and his colleague were involved in the altercation and both were subsequently dismissed for serious misconduct.

The FWC Deputy President Gerard Boyce upheld the colleague’s unfair dismissal claim and ordered the reinstatement of one of the employees, finding the fight was not sufficiently connected to work for a number of reasons, and there was no evidence the employer’s reputation had been damaged.

However, the other dismissed employee was dishonest and misleading during the employer’s investigation into the fight, and the employee’s version of events was “completely self-serving”. Proving to be untrustworthy, along with the “tokenistic remorse expressed by [the employee] for his misconduct,” led to the conclusion there was a valid reason for the termination of employment.

76 | Motor Trader December 2020/January 2021

This summary is based on Newton v Toll Transport Pty Ltd [2020] FWC 5960 (25 November 2020).

CHANGES PROVIDE CERTAINTY FOR CASUAL EMPLOYMENT After much discussion about the use of casual employees in the workplace, on 7th December 2020, the IR Minister Christian Porter announced an Industrial Relations Omnibus Bill which includes the proposal of ‘Part-time flex’ employment.

Secondly, the Bill proposes to make wage theft a criminal offence (it already is in Queensland), and to extend pandemicrelated flexibilities.

In relation to Casual employees, the change is said to provide for greater operational flexibility, subject to various safeguards and minimum guaranteed conditions that would, according to the Minister, reduce employers’ reliance on casual employment.

Members will be kept up CLICK TO to date with how and when VISIT THE these proposed changes will MTAQ MEMBER PORTAL practically affect employment in their business via the Member Portal.

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

Member benefits include: Advocacy MTA Queensland will represent you to state & federal governments on BIG issues affecting your business & the industry.

Service Receive FREE expert advice on going digital & Industrial Relations matters.

Training Receive 20% discount on MTA Institute’s non-government funded short courses for MTA Queensland members.

Support • Our corporate partners offer substantial savings on EFTPOS fees, electricity & gas bills & business & residential insurance • Library of online business resources & templates • Weekly industry bulletin • FREE Jobs Board • Discounts on stationery & workshop products • Monthly subscription to the Motor Trader e-magazine • Regular specials & discounts

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

GENERAL MANAGER TRAINING & INNOVATION

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HAT A YEAR! I have never been one to wish time away, but this could have been one of those years to do it.

If I have learnt anything from 2020 it is resilience, and by that I mean how the training group acted in the face of adversity and how the students and employers in the industry adapted to a once-in-a-lifetime challenge. So, I say well done to all, and as we get to the Christmas/New Year break it will be well-deserved and a time to put our feet up, have a drink and enjoy the company of family and friends.

At this time of year, I like to reflect on what we have achieved as a training group, which has included: • The MTA Institute maintaining its position as the leading independent training provider in the automotive industry, training a third of all automotive apprentices in Queensland; • The Institute creating training flexibility through COVID-19 and working with students and employers alike to get through these challenges;

IF I HAVE LEARNT ANYTHING FROM 2020 IT IS RESILIENCE, AND BY THAT I MEAN HOW THE TRAINING GROUP ACTED IN THE FACE OF ADVERSITY AND HOW THE STUDENTS AND EMPLOYERS IN THE INDUSTRY ADAPTED TO A ONCEIN-A-LIFETIME CHALLENGE. • Improving on our innovation in training delivery and support services with our learning management system and programs like Auto Camp, Automotive Pre-Voc courses and the HEV/BEV programs; • Maintaining high levels of stakeholder satisfaction through internal and external surveys; • Continuing a student focussed, face-to-face approach to training where all apprentices are trained at their workplaces by a qualified and experienced trainers; • Ongoing active engagement with industry; • Strong internal audit and continuous improvement systems utilising internal and external expertise.

MEMBERS' ESSENTIALS Contents 83 Apprentice of the Month: October 2020 85 Apprentice of the Month: November 2020 86 I-CAR Graduates 86 MTAQ Welcomes New Members

December 2020/January 2021 Motor Trader | 79

E S S E N T I A L S

PAUL KULPA

M E M B E R S

Training GM's Professional Circle perspective

Training GM's Professional Circle perspective

M E M B E R S

E S S E N T I A L S

THE MTA INSTITUTE WILL CONTINUE TO DEVELOP A GOOD PIPELINE OF PEOPLE COMING INTO THE INDUSTRY AND WE WILL BE WORKING HARD ON PROMOTING THE VALUES AND BENEFITS OF WORKING IN THE AUTOMOTIVE INDUSTRY . . .

These are just some of the points that have made us the benchmark of automotive training throughout 2020.

Our training group is looking forward to 2021. We want to continue with this great work and, ultimately, it will be our service to our customers that will determine our success. We also want to continue to have greater engagement

with employers and students to ensure our training services maintain the outcomes that industry expects.

The MTA Institute will continue to develop a good pipeline of people coming into the industry and we will be working hard on promoting the values and benefits of working in the automotive industry as well as enabling people to get get further value from upskilling in our courses.

There’s always work to be done, but everyone needs to take a break, so, from the whole of MTA Institute, we hope everyone enjoys the Christmas break and we look forward to a prosperous 2021 working with you.

NOMINATE FOR THE MTA INSTITUTE APPRENTICE OF THE MONTH AWARD • Are you employing an apprentice who is excelling in the workplace?

• Do you have a high-achieving apprentice colleague?

• Are they training with MTA Institute?

If the answer is 'yes', then nominate them for the MTA Institute Apprentice of the Month award.

CLICK FOR MORE INFO 80 | Motor Trader December 2020/January 2021

SKILL SET GAP TRAINING (3 DAY) 24 - 26 February 2021 21 - 23 April 2021 Click for more information.

SALES/DEALERS/WRECKERS LICENCING COURSES AVAILABLE ONLINE - ENROL NOW Click for more information.

BATTERY ELECTRIC AND HYBRID ELECTRIC VEHICLES COURSE SKILL SET TRAINING (4 DAY)

2 - 5 February 2021 4 - 7 May 2021 Click for more information.

E S S E N T I A L S

AIR CONDITIONING COURSE

RTO No: 31529

M E M B E R S

MTA INSTITUTE COURSES

VOCATIONAL PREPARATION COURSE 1 February - 5 March 2021 26 April - 28 May 2021 Click for more information.

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

MTA QUEENSLAND COURSES MIG WELDING FUNDAMENTALS COURSE 9 February 2021, 8:30am - 12:30pm 11 May 2021, 8:30am - 12:30pm Click for more information.

9 February 2021, 8:30am - 12:30pm 11 May 2021, 8:30am - 12:30pm Click for more information.

AUTO CAMP

9 - 11 December 2020 SOLD OUT 13 - 15 April 2021 29 June - 1 July 2021 Click for more information.

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

20170566

VEHICLE MAINTENANCE COURSE

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

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

82 | Motor Trader December 2020/January 2021 82 | Motor Trader September 2020

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December 2020/January 2021 Motor Trader | 83

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started with the business while he was still at school. A driven young student, he went looking for experience in the mechanical sector and was willing to put in Walden of Waldo’s the time to earn Mower Doctor, with AMIE a spot in the Jamie Lenkeit LENKEIT workshop and an IS the MTA apprenticeship.

Institute Apprentice of the Month “I would come in after school, and did award winner for October 2020. that for about six months,” he said. “When At just 19 years old, Jamie is already school finished, I started working here a closing in on completing his Outdoor Power couple of days a week and then started full Equipment apprenticeship, and according time, and I was here for about six months to his employers at Waldo’s Mobile Mower before I started my apprenticeship through Doctor in Bundaberg, his skills, ability, and MTA Institute.” work ethic have made him ‘a huge asset to That apprenticeship education with our business’, who ‘deserves the recognition the Institute and his trainer Ross Wilson for all his hard work’. has, Jamie said, been just right for him.

The outdoor power equipment “Training with the MTA Institute has been apprenticeship comprises training to very good,” he said. “The one-on-one aspect diagnose, repair and service outdoor of it works really well for me. I respond well power engines, engine components, to it as it allows me to really focus and I cooling and petrol fuel systems, clutch don’t have to leave the shop either.” assemblies and drive management Having rocketed through his systems for lawn mowers, chainsaws, apprenticeship and now closing in on brush cutters, generators and other such completing his qualification, Jamie is fairly equipment, and while Jamie works on relaxed about what his next steps might many of these items, he has also had the be, but his loyalty to the employers who opportunity to work on motorcycles and, took him on and gave him a chance is in his spare time, on rebuilding cars. laudable.

“I really enjoy my work. All aspects of it.

“I would like to stay here and help my There isn’t one thing I enjoy more than any boss out and see what happens,” he said. other. It’s all good,” he said. “But I do like “I think I would like to start working on a working on cars too, and I helped my dad few of cars, building them up and selling build his car – an LJ Torana. It had a them on – that is something I really CLICK TO lot of rust and we built it just about enjoy doing. So, I would like to do VISIT THE WALDO’S MOBILE from scratch. It is pretty nice now!” MOWER DOCTOR some more car mechanic work, but WEBSITE Jamie has been working at I don’t want to work for anyone but Waldo’s for about three years and my boss here.”

APPRENTICE: JAMIE LENKEIT WORKPLACE: WALDO’S MOBILE MOWER DOCTOR, BUNDABERG APPRENTICESHIP: OUTDOOR POWER EQUIPMENT Chris and Toni

M E M B E R S

Apprentice of the Month: October 2020

ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS TO MORE THAN 8000 PEOPLE DIRECTLY INVOLVED IN THE MOTORING INDUSTRY (website or e-magazine options)

CLICK HERE FOR MEDIA GUIDE AND COSTS

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AKE KITHER IS the Apprentice of the Month for November 2020.

The 22-year-old light vehicle apprentice has impressed with his dedication to the job and his training, his customer service skills and professional attitude, and is closing in on completing his apprenticeship after three years of hard work.

Jake works for Browns Autobahn in Nambour on the Sunshine Coast. The business is owned by his father Todd, so it might have been expected that Jake would find his way into the automotive industry.

However, while he has always had a passion for cars and really enjoys the work, becoming a mechanic was not the career he initially imagined for himself.

“I actually wanted to be a helicopter pilot,” said Jake. “I enjoy heading out west and thought that I would go for my pilot’s licence and perhaps try heli-mustering on a station out there. However, getting a helicopter licence is an expensive business and I needed to earn some money.”

The answer? Work at dad’s workshop. Not that working at Browns Autobahn would be something new to Jake - he had been helping out at the shop for years.

“I used to come in on my school holidays, from when I was about nine, and I would wash cars and sweep the floors and help dad out,” he said. “And every CLICK TO VISIT THE school holiday I would come in BROWNS AUTOBAHN and I would learn a little more WEBSITE

and do a few more things, and I developed a real passion for cars.

“I love working on them and I love driving them and after working here for a while, I asked dad for an apprenticeship.”

Working directly under the supervision of his dad has, Jake said, been a great experience.

“I thought working with dad might be a bit of a test, but it has been really good,” he said. “We get on well and I learn a lot everyday from him and the other guys here. He puts the pressure on sometimes but that makes you work harder and think more, and that is a good thing.”

Jake has done the entirety of his apprenticeship training with the MTA Institute and he is certain that the Institute’s method of delivering training in the workplace has suited him well.

“The one-on-one training really works for me,” he said. “You learn more that way, I think. You can ask a question and get it answered straight away, and it doesn’t take much time out of work either, so it works well for me and for the business. I’d definitely train like this again.”

And it is possible that may happen soon.

With electric vehicles and hybrids certain to become more popular, Jake said he had considered further training. But whether he takes on another apprenticeship or not, decides to pursue his helicopter licence or not, he would, he said, be sticking with Browns Autobahn for a good while.

“I have thought about doing an autoelectrical apprenticeship at some point,” he said. “The way things are going it might be good to have that qualification.

“And I will definitely stick around and work for dad for a while,” he added. “He gave me this opportunity and has put in alot of time to train me, so I definitely will give him some time back.”

December 2020/January 2021 Motor Trader | 85

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APPRENTICE: JAKE KITHER WORKPLACE: BROWNS AUTOBAHN, NAMBOUR Jake Kither with APPRENTICESHIP: Browns Autobahn LIGHT VEHICLE owner Todd Kither

M E M B E R S

Apprentice of the Month: November 2020

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

I-CAR Graduates

ACKNOWLEDGING THE ACHIEVEMENTS OF COLLISION REPAIR INDUSTRY EMPLOYEES IN QUEENSLAND

I-CAR AUSTRALIA - the organisation that delivers information, training and education to the collision repair industry - is acknowledging the achievements of industry employees from across the country who have achieved I-CAR Platinum Individual accreditation and I-CAR Welding Certification.

The following is a list of Queenslandbased collision repair industry employees who received I-CAR Platinum Individual Accreditation in October 2020: • Greg Jones Auto & General Insurance Services • Harry Steinkamp RACQ Insurance • Paul Stott A&L Smash Repairs • Damian Bailey McCarthy Panel Works • Craig McCarthy McCarthy Panel Works • Wayne Tidman Coastal Collision Repairs • Bryce Petrovic Airport Smash Repairs (ASR) • Reece Williams McCarthy Panel Works • Myles Mitchell Gold Coast Collision Centre • Megan Leishman Gold Coast Collision Centre • Dan Tognolini Airport Smash Repairs (ASR)

• Josh Craig Airport Smash Repairs (ASR) I-CAR Welding Certifications issued in September 2020: • Todd Martinovich Gemini ARC Southport • Ayden Robertson Gemini ARC Nerang • Brent Nealson Cooloola Panel & Paint The following is a list of Queenslandbased collision repair industry employees who received I-CAR Platinum Individual Accreditation in November 2020: • Greg Nicoll Suncorp • Jason Keogh RACQ Insurance • Gavin Armstrong I-CAR Australia • Geoff Mitchell I-CAR Australia • Bradley Dunne RACQ Insurance • Tyler Gregory Auto & General Insurance Services • Daniel Hayes Willmot Smash Repairs • James Bailey Airport Smash Repairs (ASR) • Robert Duffy Willmot Smash Repairs • David Douglas Douglas & Miller Motor Body Repairs • Jamie Ratten Douglas & Miller Motor Body Repairs • Adam Young Willmot Smash Repairs

MTA Queensland welcomes the following new members BUSINESS NAME

ADDRESS

Adventure Charters Hervey Bay Allan’s Automatics Arlie Marine Electrics Cairnstocape 4x4 Pty Ltd

Shed 1, 104 Lower Mountain Road, DUNDOWRAN 4655 177 Lyons Street, BUNGALOW 4870 Shop 5, Able Point Marina, AIRLIE BEACH 4802 116 Aumuller Street, BUNGALOW 4870 193 Lyons Street, BUNGALOW 4870 1 Dickson Road, INNISFAIL 4860 283 Sugarshed Road, MACKAY 4740 2 Palm Avenue, PARRAMATTA PARK 4870 1C Victoria Street, MACKAY 4740 13 Robert Street, ATHERTON 4883 24,30 Smith Street, CAPALABA QLD 4157 81 Belyando Avenue, MORANBAH 4744

Duncan Powersports Frank Lowe & Sons Haber Xcavations Knight's Brake Specialists Macs Engineering Pty Ltd

Stihl Shop Atherton Wilson Auto Xceed

86 | Motor Trader December 2020/January 2021

EMAIL mechanix.charles@gmail.com allansauto@live.com airliemarine@bigpond.com ironman@ctc4x4.com troy@duncanpowersports.com.au plowe@frankloweandsons.com.au hr@haberx.com.au knightsbrakes@bigpond.com Nathan.cameron@macs.net.au brian_pds@hotmail.com steve@scwilson.com.au brad@xceedmbh.com

DIVISION

AED AED AED AED AED AED AED AED AED AED APRD AED

Can you afford not to be in the circle?

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

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

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Specalising in matters such as print solutions, finance, electricity, gas rates and solar; Core SME is a vendor neutral business with one simple objective; reduce costs, increase profits and streamline workflows for your business.

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

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

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INNOVATION

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Our corporate partners offer substantial savings on EFTPOS fees, electricity & gas bills and business & residential insurance Library of online business resources and templates Weekly industry bulletin FREE Jobs Board Discounts on stationery & workshop products Monthly subscription to the Motor Trader e-magazine Regular specials & discounts

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SUPPORT

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 20% off MTA Institute short industry courses, including licensing and management courses.

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TRAINING

The Commonwealth Bank offers members some of the lowest EFTPOS charges in the country. Members have saved thousands with CBA.

p

Receive FREE expert advice on Industrial Relations matters, saving your business thousands on legal expenses!

MTAA Superannuation is the industry’s superfund.

Our superannuation partner has over 200,000 members who enjoy excellent service and returns.

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SERVICES

2mota is a new platform for mechanics and repairers to get their business online. It has many benefits including support of Industry; automatic free 12-month membership subscription for MTA Queensland members; supports the best interest of businesses in getting a fair and reasonable price; allows businesses to temporarily hire qualified mechanics and borrow/share tools; a fraction of the cost of competitor platforms; and a secure and safe environment for businesses and customers to do businesss.

o

MTA Queensland will represent you to state and federal governments on BIG issues affecting your business and the industry. We represent service stations, new & used car dealers, tyre businesses, paint & panel, repairers, parts recyclers, engine re-conditioners, farm & industrial machinery businesses, motorcycle sales and rental vehicles, so can actively espouse direct industry perspective.

SAVE WITH OUR CORPORATE PARTNERS

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ADVOCACY

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

20150315

Search for MTA Queensland

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

ONTRAK DIESEL REPAIRS RECOGNISED FOR CUSTOMER SERVICE EXCELLENCE

S

TEVE AND JESSICA Hagger, owners of MTA Queensland member business Ontrak Diesel Repairs in North Mackay, were recently chosen as finalists for the Ricoh Australia Customer Service Award – one of the categories in the Queensland Community Achievement Awards.

Recognising those who provide customer service excellence, best practice and innovative thinking in customer service, the award nomination is a reflection of just how much effort Steve and Jessica put into creating strong customer relationships, and the couple have developed five key philosophies for delivering that exceptional customer service: 1. Customer-centric culture 2. Communication is key 3. Never taking your customer for granted.

4. Always going the extra mile.

5. Responding promptly to customer issues.

“Our Mantra is to respond, not react,” said Jessica. “By carefully listening to ascertain the issue, we make it a fundamental rule to calmly respond by offering solutions and options that will be acceptable to the customer.”

Approaching customer service in this way mirrors Steve’s style of examining a motor vehicle to find the root cause of any problem. By focusing on this, customers can be assured a more effective solution that addresses their real concerns.

As well as the strong focus on delivering excellent customer service, Steve and Jessica believe in the benefits of continuous improvement, and actively

88 | Motor Trader December 2020/January 2021

Steve and Jessica Hagger

promote training and development for their staff. Through this, they aim to enhance employee performance, improve satisfaction and morale, assess workplace skill shortages and bottlenecks, and ensure consistency for customers, as well as increase productivity.

“Steve is committed to ensure the next generation of mechanics are armed with the skills he has learned,” said Jessica. “ He generously wants to share his professional auto mechanic experience with others and CLICK encourages learning TO VISIT THE ONTRAK from mistakes.”

DIESEL REPAIRS MTA Queensland WEBSITE congratulates Steve, Jessica and the Ontrak team on their excellent customer service and award recognition.

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

CLICK HERE TO ACCESS PAST ISSUES OF MOTOR TRADER

Concept corner

T H E M INI V IS I

90 | Motor Trader December 2020/January 2021

ON U R B AN AU T

December 2020/January 2021 Motor Trader | 91

Concept corner

T HE MINI V ISION UR B A N AU T

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INI HAS UNVEILED the Vision Urbanaut – a concept that the brand has developed to highlight its thinking around a vehicle’s interior space.

Created as an all-electricvehicle with automated driving functions, the Vision Urbanaut is designed to offer what Mini calls ‘moments’ – times in which the vehicle changes configurations of elements such as seating and lighting for different scenarios.

There are three such ‘moments’ or modes.

‘Chill’ is designed for relaxation, ‘Vibe’ for time spent with others, and ‘Wanderlust’ for when someone is driving or when the vehicle is in autonomous driving mode.

These pre-configured ‘moments’ – that include different settings for sound, ambient lighting and even fragrance - can be selected via something called the Mini Token, which can be placed in purposedesigned slots in the table at the centre of the car.

92 | Motor Trader December 2020/January 2021

THE VISION URBANAUT IS DESIGNED TO OFFER WHAT MINI CALLS ‘MOMENTS’ – TIMES IN WHICH THE VEHICLE CHANGES CONFIGURATIONS OF ELEMENTS SUCH AS SEATING SET-UP AND LIGHTING FOR DIFFERENT SCENARIOS. The different interior set-ups are achievable thanks to a flexible four-seat layout. The two front seats are designed to rotate and when the car is stationary, the dashboard lowers and the driver’s area becomes a seating corner. The windscreen can also be opened upwards when stationary.

Features can be comtrolled via a direct touch option in the ‘loop’ that stretches over the rear seat bench and a circular display in the middle of the car that displays relevant information.

Visually, the Vision Urbanuat is striking. Take the headlights and radiator

grille, for example. Positioned under a milled aluminium structure with slotted openings, the headlights are only visible when switched on. And that enclosed grille serves as an intelligence panel for automated driving rather than for cooling purposes (there’s no combustion engine to cool, of course).

The unusual wheels, Mini says, represent another way in which the car communicates with its surroundings.

Illuminated from the inside, their appearance changes according to the selected Mini ‘moment’.

The concept can also make available services designed to make using the car an

‘enriching and seamless experience’. The car can be opened using smart devices and be accessed by anyone within a defined circle of family and friends. Playlists, audio books or podcasts can be explored while travelling, and a journey planner displays tips and points of interest tailored to the individual, as well as recommendations from the Mini Community.

The Vision Urbanaut represents another step in the journey towards mobility becoming more than just traveling from A to B. What may eventuate from these imaginative concepts into our road-going reality is yet to be seen, but it’s going to be an interesting ride.

December 2020/January 2021 Motor Trader | 93

Investment matters

MARKET WRAP

I

NTERNATIONAL EQUITIES WERE stronger across the board in November, as multiple COVID-19 vaccines proved efficacy, sparking a global value and cyclical rotation.

Japan (Nikkei 225 +15.0%) and Korea (KOSPI +14.7%) were the best performers, with what is seen to be an easier road to recovery than that of their Western peers. Europe (MSCI Europe ex-UK +14.1%) and the United Kingdom (FTSE 100 +12.4%) performed better than the American markets (S&P 500 +11.3%, NASDAQ +11.8%) due to their higher exposure to value names over growth and technology companies.

Chinese markets (CSI 300 +5.6%, Hang Seng +9.3%) were the worst performers, having outperformed in previous months.

Domestically, the S&P/ASX 200 Accumulation Index was up 10.21% during the period. Energy (+28.4%) was the best performing sector during the period, as vaccine news caused a market-wide rotation into value and procyclical names.

Oil and gas majors Woodside Petroleum (WPL +29.1%) and Santos (STO +29.4%) led the sector higher as oil prices staged a strong rebound. Financials (+15.2%) also benefited from the value rotation as banks (NAB +23.1%) and insurers (SUN +22.5%) are expected to benefit from a stronger global growth outlook. Consumer Staples (-0.7%) was the worst performer, with investors pulling out of the defensive, 94 | Motor Trader December 2020/January 2021

COVID-19 beneficiaries like Woolworths Group (WOW 4.7%) and Coles Group (COL -0.6%). Utilities (+1.2%) underperformed, with the defensive earnings of APA (APA -1.4%) and Ausnet (AST -7.3%) less favourable in a cyclical rotation.

DISCLAIMER This document has been prepared by DNR Capital Pty Ltd, AFS Representative - 294844 of DNR AFSL Pty Ltd ABN 39 118 946 400, AFSL 301658. It is general information only and is not intended to be a recommendation to invest in any product or financial service mentioned above. Whilst DNR Capital has used its best endeavours to ensure the information within this document is accurate it cannot be relied upon in any way and recipients must make their own enquiries concerning the accuracy of the information within. The general information in this document has been prepared without reference to any recipient’s objectives, financial situation or needs. Before making any financial investment decisions we recommend recipients obtain legal and taxation advice appropriate to their particular needs. Investment in a DNR Capital managed account can only be made on completion of all the required documentation.

MTAQ are a Charity Partner of Youngcare and our staff show support by wearing casual clothes on Friday and donating gold coins.

Please join us and donate to this life-changing organisation!

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MTAA Super is issued by Motor Trades Association of Australia Superannuation Fund Pty Ltd (ABN 14 008 650 628, AFSL 238718), Trustee of the MTAA Superannuation Fund (ABN 74 559 365 913). Motor Trades Association of Australia Superannuation Fund Pty. Limited has ownership interests in Industry Super Holdings Pty Ltd and Members Equity Bank Limited. The information provided is of a general nature and does not take into account your specific needs or personal situation. You should assess your financial position and personal objectives before making any decision based on this information. We also recommend that you seek advice from a licensed financial adviser. You should consider the Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) for MTAA Super in deciding whether MTAA Super is appropriate for you. The PDS can be obtained by calling MTAA Super on 1300 362 415 or visiting mtaasuper.com.au/handbooks