Motor Trader e-magazine, February 2021

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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

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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.

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ELLO AND WELCOME to the February 2021 edition of Motor Trader.

In past years, we have used the February issue to report on the Detroit Motor Show (aka the North American International Auto Show). For many years, that show - one of the auto industry’s biggest - was held in January and was the spot at which many manufacturers chose to show off their latest products and technological achievements.

However, the pace at which digital and electric/connected vehicle tech has developed has seen carmakers just as keen to be present at technology shows.

And with the Detroit Motor Show shifting its event date to later in the year, January is now dominated by the Consumer Electronics Show (CES).

CES is still an event at which all manner of household gadgets and gizmos are demonstrated, but the vehiclerelated business on display is significant, and while the 2021 edition was an online-only event, there was plenty of interesting stuff to see. In our cover story, we’ll take a look at

some of the automotive-related technology and innovations that were unveiled this year, and you can check those out from page 20.

Talking of innovations, MTA Queensland is proving once again that it is at the forefront of auto industry thinking with its decision to deliver courses on ADAS systems. As we all know, ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems) is ubiquitous technology in today’s vehicles and every new model now comes to the market loaded with sensors that allow for such options as lane-keep assist, adaptive cruise control, collision avoidance, and a myriad of other fantastical safety features.

Maintaining and calibrating the sensors to ensure those safety features are always working perfectly will become an important skill for many in the industry, and MTA Queensland has responded by launching three training courses aimed at helping the independent sector adapt to the requirements of this technology.

The courses will launch in March and you can find more information about them on pages 40-45.

I hope you enjoy this edition, and if you have any news to share or have a classic vehicle you’d like to see featured in Motor Trader, please contact us.

Cheers Jonathan Nash, Editor jonathann@mtaq.com.au February 2021 Motor Trader | 1

Contents

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THE ROAD AHEAD | AUTOMOTIVE TECHNOLOGY AND THE CES SHOW 2021

04 08 14 20

FROM THE DESK OF THE CEO POLICY/VIEWPOINT MTA |Q&A THE ROAD AHEAD | AUTOMOTIVE TECHNOLOGY AND THE CES SHOW 2021 34 AN EYE ON INNOVATION 36 AUTO INNOVATION NEWS 54 FERRARI F40 (1987-1992) 60 AUTO NEWS 77 INDUSTRIAL RELATIONS 79 TRAINING GM'S PROFESSIONAL CIRCLE PERSPECTIVE 83 APPRENTICE OF THE MONTH: DECEMBER 2020 85 APPRENTICE OF THE MONTH: JANUARY 2021 86 PROFESSIONAL CIRCLE TRAINING 92 CONCEPT CORNER 96 MARKET WRAP

2 | Motor Trader February 2021

MERCEDES-BENZ LAUNCHES THE EQA EV

36

Search for MTA Queensland

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FERRARI F40 (1987-1992)

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MTAI TRAINERS CONFERENCE

NISSAN GT-R (X) 2050 CONCEPT

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MTA | Q&A: BRUCE MCROBB | PROFESSIONAL MOTORCYCLES AND MOWERS

92 February 2021 Motor Trader | 3

From the Desk of the CEO and testing ideas with members, divisions and ultimately our Board.

THE REVIEW

ROD CAMM CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER MTA QUEENSLAND

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IKE YOU, I took a deep breath at the end of 2020 and thought ‘I’m glad that’s over!’. It was also an opportunity to think about all that we (you) achieved in response to the challenges of COVID 19, even using it as a stimulus to innovate.

Put simply, the future is in our hands.

My learning already is that we as an Association win every time we talk to and listen to our members. That will be my mantra for 2021, so be warned I will want to talk to you.

Of course the challenges of 2020 are not quite behind us. However, COVID-19 has exposed what the role or raison d’etre of our Association must be: to provide genuine support to members, keep them informed of all things relevant (e.g., government and industry information) and provide quality services and solutions.

Based on this, MTA Queensland has embarked on a fundamental review of the services we offer. This will not be a review in name only. We are genuine about redesigning our services, communications and engagement. We can use virtual technology to offer regular opportunities to engage and learn.

This won’t be a ‘build it and they will come approach’. We are committed to finding out what members are looking for 4 | Motor Trader February 2021

The review provides an opportunity to reflect on what works, what doesn’t and to identify what members really need to prosper. At a minimum this can be expected to include: • Review of key services and development of opportunities where we can add value in areas such as workplace relations, workplace health and safety and environmental compliance • Development of digital e-products to better meet needs • Regular member webinars and Zoom sessions across the state on key areas of interest, breaking industry news and repair solutions, including external speakers • Regional visits incorporating sharp and short workshops on critical topics (such as workplace dismissal) and opportunities to engage on key issues impacting on the industry We look forward to discussing improvements, changes and services with members.

TRAINING The Productivity Commission has released its final report on the vocational education and training (VET) sector.

There have already been major skills policy developments. These include the Heads of Agreement for Skills Reform setting out high-level directions for a new National Skills Agreement and the $1 billion JobTrainer package jointly funded by all governments, which provided from September 2020, low fee, or no fee, training to support about 340,000 additional places. It is expected to

credentials to be delivered flexibly to meet immediate skills needs. They will be quality, industry-endorsed, non-accredited short courses focusing on members real needs. The idea being to add the skills your employees need when you need them.

MTA Queensland will be contacting members regarding micro-credentials that will meet immediate skills needs

MTA QUEENSLAND HAS EMBARKED ON A FUNDAMENTAL REVIEW OF THE SERVICES WE OFFER. THIS WILL NOT BE A REVIEW IN NAME ONLY. WE ARE GENUINE ABOUT REDESIGNING OUR SERVICES, COMMUNICATIONS AND ENGAGEMENT. continue to December 2021.

While the report did not find that the sector was in crisis, it did call for a serious overhaul of VET’s confusing and underperforming aspects, providing an important evidence base for the reform road ahead. In my view, many of the current structures of the VET sector are obsolete and are no longer serving the students’ needs or industry’s requirements.

The fundamental building blocks of reform need to include genuine industry engagement, targeting of funding to industry and job needs, a qualification system that keeps pace through recognising stackable micro-credentials and nationally consistent pricing and contractual terms.

For us, we will be talking to members very soon about a suite of micro-

TECHNOLOGY ADVANCEMENT

A major issue for industry is technology advancement and its acceleration. The pace of technological development is ever increasing, and it is now deployed much faster due to innovations around things like Apps.

While it is certainly disruptive, it is also the future. The top ten skills identified by the World Economic Forum largely relate to tech, problem solving and other softer types of skills (problem solving, as an example). This fourth industrial revolution, driven by transformative technologies, will both increase productivity and will change the nature of work. A key is that automation will affect, but not replace, all jobs, so we all need to improve our understanding and skills.

Our Carmageddon IV on 22 July 2021, will have on its agenda technological advancement, automation and all aspects of innovation connected to the automotive and mobility industries.

Knowledge experts will deliver keynotes and participate in a panel to answer questions. Current trends driving change include advanced automation and robotics; machine-to-machine and human-to-machine communication; artificial intelligence and machine learning; and sensor technology and data analytics. The impact of these changes has the effect of transforming February 2021 Motor Trader | 5

entire systems of production, management, and governance.

MEETINGS I have been meeting with other industry associations to discuss common issues, share experiences on service delivery and to identify where we can do better. Like us, during COVID-19 most associations stepped up communications and provided clear and timely information to members.

My assessment is that our opportunity is to continue that service model at all times, not just during a crisis.

MTAiQ is part of a project researching the recycling of I have had some very informative automotive parts for additive (3D printing) manufacturing discussions with the Queensland University of Technology (QUT) through the Australian Research Council I have also begun discussions with our Training Centre for Multiscale 3D Imaging, interstate counterparts to discuss matters of Modelling and Manufacturing, regarding our mutual interest and particularly the agendas research project in motor vehicle recycling. they have for informing members of new We have direct input to the research innovations and technological changes. through our MTAiQ Innovation Hub THE LAST WORD which has QUT’s PhD candidate Sarfraz Ali in residence working on his Recycling of A Commonwealth government automotive parts for additive manufacturing initiative that members may not be thesis. There is much for our industry to across is the development of a scheme consider as we progress this initiative. for the automatic mutual recognition of Industry divisions will commence their occupations across states and territories. quarterly meetings in the coming month.

The scheme allows a person who is I’m looking forward to hearing members’ registered for an occupation (approvals/ views about sectoral and automotive registrations) in their home jurisdiction issues in general. These now can be faceto be considered registered to perform to-face, but we have the technology for or trade in the same activities in another state or territory, without further members to participate remotely. application or additional payment of It will be an ideal opportunity to test my fees. Our Deputy Chief Executive Office thinking outlined above.

Kellie Dewar and I are scheduled to meet Office of Fair Trading, State Treasury and Department of Transport personnel shortly to discuss its application. It is pleasing that an issue identified through our divisions has now progressed to real change – that is why we are here.

As we progress into the 2021 Year, best wishes to you and your endeavours as we push past the pandemic.

I HAVE BEEN MEETING WITH OTHER INDUSTRY ASSOCIATIONS TO DISCUSS COMMON ISSUES, SHARE EXPERIENCES ON SERVICE DELIVERY AND TO IDENTIFY WHERE WE CAN DO BETTER. 6 | Motor Trader February 2021

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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.

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Policy/Viewpoint

KELLIE DEWAR DEPUTY GROUP CHIEF EXECUTIVE GENERAL MANAGER MEMBER SERVICES

T

HE NEW YEAR is underway with all its promise and challenges to be revealed along the way. Whatever comes your way, I hope you will prevail and achieve positive outcomes for you personally and for your businesses.

Happy New Year.

During the festive season, our corporate office kept a ‘vigil’ for any COVID-19 related happenings that may need to be communicated to members. The lockdown of Greater Brisbane from 6pm on Friday 8 January to 6pm on Monday 11 January, arising from the diagnosis of a mutant strain of COVID-19 in the community, did cause anxiety about health and economic safety. The changing border restrictions relating to parts of New South Wales were closely monitored.

In this period the Weekly Industry Bulletin was distributed and member’s with technical or workplace relations issues were able to access key advice.

ADVOCACY Unusual for this time of the year is the steady stream of advocacy duties. These started with the Australian Treasury’s Options for mandatory adoption of electronic invoicing by businesses.

8 | Motor Trader February 2021

I mentioned this in last month’s Viewpoint in Motor Trader and do so again as it is a digital issue that members need to consider in terms of their operational systems. The Government’s intention is to mandate that all Commonwealth Government agencies must be able to receive e-Invoices by 1 July 2022. The Government will also work with the States and Territories on how state and local governments can also quicken e-Invoicing adoption. This will be followed by accelerating the adoption of e-Invoicing in the private sector.

By way of background, e-Invoicing allows the digital exchange of invoices between a supplier’s and a buyer’s software or systems. E-Invoices are exchanged using a secure network and a common proven standard such as Pan-European Public Procurement OnLine (Peppol) framework. It allows different software or systems to communicate with each other, similar to being able to make a phone call to another phone, regardless of either phone’s model, brand or carrier.

The purpose of e-Invoicing includes efficiencies, improving payment times to suppliers and combating the black economy and tax evasion.

At this time of the year, the Australian Government calls for priorities for the 2020-21 Budget. We submitted a pre-budget submission detailing the significant automotive industry issues for consideration. It is on the website for members perusal.

A crucial submission on behalf of our Queensland’s Automotive and Engineers Division (mechanical repairers) and the Australian Automotive Dealers Association ( franchised dealers) has been the response to the Exposure Draft (Mandatory Vehicle Service Repair Information Sharing

Scheme) Bill (the Bill). The intent of the Bill is to promote competition between Australian motor vehicle repairers and establish a fair playing field by mandating access to diagnostic, repair and servicing information for motor vehicles covered by the Bill to all repairers on fair and reasonable commercial terms.

Registered Training Organisations are also included similar to repairers. The devil is in the detail having provisions that should be amended in the legislative process to meet the Bill’s objectives. It is envisaged that the Sharing Scheme will take effect from 1 July 22, which gives time for assessment and further advocacy. We have carefully consulted with members in preparing our response and it is on our website.

Another submission of interest to members is the Productivity Commission’s Issues Paper on Right to Repair (the Paper). The Paper is not focused on the ‘right to repair’ and motor vehicles; rather it acknowledges and highlights the Australian Government’s proposal for a mandatory scheme for sharing motor vehicle repair information. Predominantly, the attention is on the products with sophisticated technology which has increased exponentially over the past decade. It is commonplace for mobile

THE PRODUCTIVITY COMMISSION IS ASSESSING THE COSTS OF A RIGHT TO REPAIR IN AUSTRALIA AND THE IMPACT THAT REGULATORY OR POLICY CHANGES COULD HAVE ON MARKET OFFERINGS FOR REPAIR SERVICES AND REPLACEMENT PRODUCTS.

phones, refrigerators, coffee machines to have software and computers embedded in them, and even vacuum cleaners and electric kettles have sophisticated technology.

A key right-to-repair issue is how to balance the benefits and costs to consumers, supplier and manufacturers.

The Productivity Commission is assessing the costs of a right to repair in Australia and the impact that regulatory or policy changes could have on market offerings for repair services and replacement products. We have interest in this Issues Paper, especially from the perspective of recycling and e-waste. Our response is on the website.

Group Chief Executive Officer Rod Camm in his From the Desk of the CEO referred to a briefing with Queensland Government Officers on the automatic mutual recognition of occupations across states and territories. I’ve now received the consultation paper which includes exposure draft legislation to which we will respond. I’ll provide further information next month.

INDUSTRY NEWS An issue that I hear from our franchised car dealers, apart from slow new vehicle sales, is the lack of stock to supply purchasers, some of whom have had to wait up to four months.

The background is that manufactures anticipated plunging sales, misjudged the pandemic and associated lockdowns and other restrictions and reduced orders for computer chips. At the same time, semiconductor makers shifted production lines to meet surging orders for chips used in products like laptops, play stations computers, webcams, tablets and 5G smartphones. Businesses also upgraded February 2021 Motor Trader | 9

Policy/Viewpoint their digital infrastructure to handle online meetings and employees working from home, while telecommunications companies invested in broadband infrastructure, further fueling demand for semiconductors.

The demand for new vehicles at the end of 2020 surprised manufacturers.

The shortages of chips that ensued is expected to last well into 2021 because it can take semiconductor makers six to nine months to realign production and new vehicles can have more than 100 semiconductors. The absence of a single component can cause production delays or shutdowns.

Research by Moody’s Analytics indicates that slow new-vehicle sales, and even the late delivery of ordered new cars, has been offset during 2020 by the demand for used vehicles - the wholesale prices of which grew by 35 per cent, with the price of popular light trucks, SUVs and utilities rising by 46 per cent. The price of used cars increased by more than a third as Australians consumers traded in for either a cheaper or safer option. Prices are not expected to be maintained through 2021.

It is timely to reflect on the national compulsory Takata airbag recall in March 2018. I remember it vividly - the Australian Competition and Consumer advices and the briefings to members.

Since then, the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries reports that Australians have made over 12 million vehicle checks on the industry’s Takata airbag compulsory recall website. These checks identified more than two million vehicles equipped with faulty Takata airbag inflators having the potential to kill or seriously injure vehicle occupants.

The 12 million milestone represents more than 67 per cent of the 17.8 million 10 | Motor Trader February 2021

passenger cars and light commercial vehicles on Australian roads.

FINALLY Over the next month or so, I’ll be attending the quarterly meeting of our industry divisions. The initial feedback is for a schedule of industry and policy issues to be raised to which I’m keen to hear and follow up.

Until next month, take care and stay safe.

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SUPPORTING MTAQ MEMBERS THROUGH THE SMALL BUSINESS DIGITAL CHAMPIONS PROJECT

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HE SMALL BUSINESS Digital Champions Project is an Australian Government initiative intended to educate and equip Australian small businesses to thrive in the digital economy.

The project aims to show small businesses how to become more effective and competitive through the adoption of and engagement with digital technology As part of the project, 15 industry associations were selected to participate over a two-year period, providing advice to their organisation’s members. MTA Queensland was selected as one of these industry associations and has continued to provide guidance on digital adoption.

The Association has worked with more than 600 members, delivering advice for free, assisting the launch of the 2mota asset sharing platform, as well as introducing a cost-effective website building and maintenance platform for members.

Through MTA Queensland, members can learn about technology trends and adoption, hardware, software, digital training, online content development, online digital planning, and receive coaching and support.

Due to the economic consequences of COVID-19, MTA Queensland is also offering general business advice to support its small business members.

One member, Carline Enoggera, went through a digital transformation due to a change in ownership. The business was provided with several face-to-face sessions where MTA Queensland provided extensive feedback, advice and digital support in

order to attract additional customers and expand into new markets. The resources provided enabled Carline Enoggera to embrace their social media presence as well as take charge of their new website.

MTA Queensland has shared their members’ success stories through Member Digital Journeys.

As part of the project, numerous video resources have been made available to MTA Queensland members who are looking for digital advice. These videos cover the core web vitals for 2021, social media for automotive businesses and technology adoption through the pandemic.

During one of the most recent workshops, participants were given insight into how digital technologies could benefit their business operations. Covering topics such as securing online business and data, leveraging cloud services to reduce risk, and implementing software services to optimise operations. The workshop provided information for business owners at all stages of growth.

In addition to the Digital Champions project, MTA Queensland hosts the Carmageddon symposium, at which experts deliver keynotes and participate in panels discussing the impact of technology on the future of mobility. Carmageddon will be held on 22 July 2021 this year.

CLICK TO VISIT THE SMALL BUSINESS DIGITAL RESOURCES PAGE

February 2021 Motor Trader | 13

Bruce McRobb

MTA|Q&A Professional Motorcycles and Mowers in Atherton, North Queensland, is a well-established business with an excellent reputation for quality workmanship and attention to customer satisfaction. Owner Bruce McRobb took the time to chat about his business with Motor Trader.

WORDS AND PICTURES: LARA WILDE 14 | Motor Trader February 2021

Have you always been passionate about motorcycles?

BM: I began my career with motorcycles

as a young man racing motocross and I was fairly successful, competing at the State Championships. I went on to study motorcycle engines, completing my qualification as a small-motor mechanic.

I still enjoy riding motorcycles today, with Yamaha as my daily transport, and over the years I have ridden bikes on many trips to the Cape and Phillip Island.

Sitting pride of place in the front of the shop is my 600cc Honda track bike which I always keep ready to race.

“AFTER A LIFETIME OF ENJOYING AND WORKING ON MOTORCYCLES, I FOLLOWED MY PASSION AND OPENED THE DOORS TO PROFESSIONAL MOTORCYCLES AND MOWERS IN DECEMBER 2007.”

How did Professional Motorcycles and Mowers come to be?

BM: Throughout my 35-year career,

I had spent time repairing motorcycles and small engines in a lot of different dealerships. I worked within those February 2021 Motor Trader | 15

businesses not only as a mechanic but also in sales, customer service and operational management. After a lifetime of enjoying and working on motorcycles, I followed my passion and opened the doors to Professional Motorcycles and Mowers in December 2007.

Had you run a business before?

BM: No, Professional Motorcycles and

Mowers was my first time ever owning and operating a business. I was hands-on doing a lot of the business operations in my previous job and I felt I could create a better business. I decided to put my money where my mouth was and started my own business so I could run it my way.

Did you do any business-specific training to prepare for business ownership?

BM: I had studied business principles at

school but that wasn’t quite enough to give me the confidence I wanted. I understand and appreciate the value of training, so I enrolled and completed a Certificate

16 | Motor Trader February 2021

III in Business. That training has been invaluable in successfully managing my first business.

What services do you provide at Professional Motorcycles and Mowers?

BM: We offer motorcycle roadworthy

inspections, motorcycle servicing, repairs, maintenance, tyres, batteries, spare parts and accessories. We also provide repairs and maintenance for small engines such as those on mowers and chainsaws.

The business title includes motorcycles and mowers. Are motorcycles or mowers the core focus of the business?

BM: While my first passion is motorcycles,

the balance of the work depends on the season. During the dry season when the riding weather is perfect in the north of Queensland, 90 per cent of the business is focussed on the repair and maintenance of motorcycles. During the wet season when it is too wet to ride and too wet to mow, 80 per cent of the business is the

maintenance and repair of mowers.

How many are in the Professional Motorcycles and Mowers team?

BM: The team is small

“THE TEAM IS SMALL WITH JUST MYSELF AND MY MECHANIC GLEN. I HAVE FOUND THAT BY KEEPING THE TEAM SMALL I CAN MAKE SURE THAT THE QUALITY OF WORK PRODUCED AND OUR ATTENTION TO DETAIL IS EXCEPTIONAL.”

with just myself and my mechanic Glen. I have found that by keeping the team small I can make sure that the quality of work produced and our attention to detail is exceptional.

This delivers exceptional customer service and reinforces our reputation in the community.

How did Glen come to be your mechanic?

BM: Glen came to me as a keen young man who was passionate about motorcycles, and I signed him on as an apprentice.

He completed his apprenticeship with Professional Motorcycles and Mowers and now works with me as a fully qualified

February 2021 Motor Trader | 17

mechanic. Through my career I have put two apprentices through their qualification, and I may consider putting another apprentice through their trade in the future.

Do you place a lot of value on training for yourself and staff?

BM: Professional

development is key to the business. We are always keeping up with new technology and participating in on-the-job training to stay at the forefront of the industry as it develops. One of the benefits we are looking forward to receiving as a new MTA Queensland member is access to the latest developments in training and innovation within the industry.

What plans do you have for Professional Motorcycles and Mowers in the next few years?

BM: The business has just relocated to

new, larger premises. With the extra space I plan to increase the amount of stock I 18 | Motor Trader February 2021

“THE FOCUS OF OUR MARKETING IS HEAVILY PLACED ON WORD OF MOUTH. WE ARE PROUD OF OUR REPUTATION WITHIN THE REGION AS A PROFESSIONAL, RELIABLE AND QUALITY PROVIDER OF MOTORCYCLE AND MOWER REPAIRS AND MAINTENANCE.”

keep on hand. We are already the largest specialist supplier of motorcycle tyres on the Atherton Tablelands but with the new space we will expand the range of tyres. We will stock additional spare parts and new accessories for riders providing fitting and customisation as required.

How do you market your business?

BM: The focus of our marketing is heavily

from the electric vehicle market.

Personally, I think it will be a long time until we do see any impact.

What strategies have you put in place to address the impact of COVID-19 for you and your customers?

BM: So far, we have been lucky with no

impact from the Coronavirus that has upset so many businesses in metropolitan areas. We have still been cautious and put strategies in place, installed signage and drawn markers to indicate social distancing boundaries within the shop.

placed on word of mouth. We are proud of our reputation within the region as a professional, reliable and quality provider of motorcycle and mower repairs and maintenance.

The motorcycling community in You are a new member of MTA Queensland. particular is close-knit and word of our What made you sign up? work spreads quickly. When the doors BM: There seems to be a lot of advantages first opened, I did advertise in the local to being an MTA Queensland member. newspaper but that has since shut down.

We do have a Facebook page, but it is fairly I look forward to engaging with the network and staying up to date with the inactive. I might get around to doing latest advancements in the industry. something with the Facebook page CLICK TO one day.

What advice would you give a young

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

BM: We haven’t seen any impact

VISIT THE PROFESSIONAL MOTORCYCLES AND MOWERS FACEBOOK PAGE

Bruce McRobb starting out in the industry?

BM: Don’t stress too much.

It will work out!

February 2021 Motor Trader | 19

RO THE

AHE

AUTOMOTIVE TECHNOLOGY

20 | Motor Trader February 2021

AD

EAD

Y AND THE CES SHOW 2021

February 2021 Motor Trader | 21

THE ROAD AHEAD | AUTOMOTIVE TECHN

I

N RECENT YEARS, events, exhibitions, and trade shows that focus on technology have become important events on the calendar for many a vehicle manufacturer.

With cars now increasingly packed with technological wizardry and becoming more like computers and communications hubs on wheels, it is no surprise that this is the case.

At these technology expos, manufacturers show off their own technological achievements. They also, no doubt, check out the myriad of other technologies, developed by others, that can be absorbed into their vehicles or that herald a new direction in mobility solutions.

MOTORSPORT OUT IN FRONT IN RACE FOR AUTONOMOUS VEHICLES WE KNOW THAT a fully autonomous, self-driving car is a goal of many in the automotive industry. While the sight of such vehicles on public roads may be some time off, the technology is gaining much more traction under the controlled conditions that govern track racing and motorsports.

Case in point is this, an autonomous racecar from Italian company Dallara.

Dallara is the sole racecar supplier of the Indy Lights series race series in the U.S., and the company has modified its IL-15 racecar for the Indy Autonomous Challenge (IAC), an event to be held at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway on October 23, 2021.

The IAC is a $US1.5 million prize competition among universities, each 22 | Motor Trader February 2021

THE 2021 CES WAS, THANKS TO THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC, AN ONLINE EVENT, BUT THERE WERE STILL A MYRIAD OF AMAZING PRODUCTS AND CONCEPTS BEING PRESENTED. Perhaps the best known of these events, and the largest and most influential, is the Consumer Electronics Show (CES), run every year in January.

Traditionally, the show is held in Las Vegas, and it is a massive event - in 2020, 4400 exhibitors showcased innovations of which will run a modified, autonomous, Dallara. The teams will compete head-to-head at Indianapolis and, according to organisers, more than 500 undergraduate and graduate students, PhDs and mentors who excel in artificial intelligence software have responded to the challenge, representing 39 universities in 11 countries on four continents and 14 U.S. states.

The primary goal of the IAC is to advance technology that can speed the commercialisation of fully autonomous vehicles and deployments of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS).

VIDEO: DALLARA IL-15

NOLOGY AND THE CES SHOW 2021 to some 170,000 attendees across 11 official venues - and companies use the opportunity to showcase a bewildering array of advanced tech that will trickle down to become part of our everyday lives over the next few years.

The 2021 CES was, thanks to the COVID-19 pandemic, an online event, but there were still a myriad of amazing products and concepts being presented.

There were televisions and phones with rollable display screens; evolutions of smart glasses technology that allows for smartphone compatibility; the usual array of high-tech home entertainment concepts and products; and an array of evermore

practical robot assistants – from those fitted with ultraviolet light technology to disinfect rooms, to a robotic pet that uses artificial intelligence to learn and develop ‘emotional capabilities’.

For the automotive industry, there was plenty to get excited about too, with new digital interfaces, new mobility and delivery concepts, autonomous vehicles, and new electronic control systems all getting a guernsey.

Oh yes, and there was a flying pod concept unveiled too!

Over the next few pages, we’ll have a look at just some of the automotive-related technology that caught our eye.

Dallara IL-15 IAC racecar

The modified Dallara is retrofitted with hardware and controls to enable automation.

Components include on-board computing, vehicle-to-vehicle communications, perception systems, high-end graphics processing units, drive-by-wire, and artificial intelligence acceleration and central processing units to run IAC teams’ software and algorithms.

“The Dallara-built IAC racecar is the most advanced, fastest autonomous vehicle ever developed,” stated Paul Mitchell, president and CEO of Energy

Systems Network - co-organiser of the IAC. “Our IAC sponsors are providing radar, lidar, optical cameras and advanced computers, bringing the value of each vehicle to $US1 million.”

Teams will be running identical cars, so the challenge is in software development. The focus, organisers said, is on developing new generations of software that can ensure precision control of vehicles at high speeds during the competition and reduce fatalities on public roadways afterwards.

February 2021 Motor Trader | 23

THE ROAD AHEAD | AUTOMOTIVE TECHN GM LAUNCHES NEW EV DELIVERY BUSINESS UNIT GENERAL MOTORS ANNOUNCED at CES that it is to launch a new business called BrightDrop.

The new business will, GM said, ‘offer an ecosystem of electric first-to-lastmile products, software and services to empower delivery and logistics companies to move goods more efficiently. These BrightDrop solutions are designed to help businesses lower costs, maximise productivity, improve employee safety and freight security, and support overall sustainability efforts’.

The company estimates that by 2025, the combined market opportunity for parcel, food delivery and reverse logistics in the U.S. will be over $850 billion ($AU1 trillion) and that demand for urban lastmile delivery is expected to grow by 78 per cent by 2030.

To help meet this demand, while

VIDEO: INTRODUCING BRIGHTDROP, AN ELECTRIFIED AND CONNECTED DELIVERY ECOSYSTEM

reducing environmental impact, BrightDrop is GM’s effort at delivering an integrated set of solutions for first-to-lastmile delivery. These include:

BRIGHTDROP EP1 The EP1 is an electric pallet developed to move goods over short distances – for example, from a delivery vehicle to a customer’s front door.

Electric motors power the EP1 and give it walking-pace mobility, and features include a payload capacity of 90kg.

BrightDrop EV600

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BrightDrop EP1

NOLOGY AND THE CES SHOW 2021

BRIGHTDROP EV600 GM says BrightDrop’s second product will be the EV600 — an electric light commercial vehicle purpose-built for the delivery sector.

Powered by the company’s Ultium battery system, the EV600 is targeted to have a range of up to 400km on a full charge and be able to receive 275km of EV range per hour via 120kW DC fast charging.

Decent cargo space, (17 cubic metres), a full suite of safety features – including Front and Rear Park Assist, Automatic Emergency Braking, Forward Collision Alert, Rear Cross Traffic Braking, Blind Zone Steering Assist, Reverse Automatic Braking, HD Surround Vision, Rear Pedestrian Alert, Enhanced Automatic Emergency Braking, among others, is to be fitted. There will be motion sensor security for the cargo area too.

Front sliding pocket doors, wide cabin walkways and a large auto-open cargo bulkhead door mark the EV600 out as a delivery vehicle.

GM say customer interest in the EV600 has already proven strong with the first vehicles to be delivered by the end of 2021.

Additionally, BrightDrop will offer an integrated, cloud-based software platform

offering customers visibility and access to their BrightDrop products, while built-in connectivity will deliver data and insights for operational purposes.

Connectivity will allow for mobile asset management –including location monitoring, battery status, remote commands to lock and unlock, and overthe-air updates of the EP1 – while a fleet management system will allow operators of the EV600 to have remote access and realtime location information, offer battery and charging management, and allow for incident recording, remote diagnostics, safety alerts and predictive maintenance insights.

GM says that the EP1 and EV600 will be joined at some point by other products, with a medium-distance vehicle that transports multiple EP1s, and a rapid load delivery vehicle concept under consideration.

“BrightDrop offers a smarter way to deliver goods and services,” said Mary Barra GM Chairman and CEO. “We are building on our significant expertise in electrification, mobility applications, telematics and fleet management, with a new one-stop-shop solution for commercial customers to move goods in a better, more sustainable way.”

February 2021 Motor Trader | 25

THE ROAD AHEAD | AUTOMOTIVE TECHN

Archer’s planned electric aircraft

CADILLAC AND FCA BETTING ON FUTURE OF MOBILITY BEING UP IN THE AIR FLYING CARS HAVE, for decades, been a science-fiction staple and part of the chatter about transportation of the future.

Over the past few years, that chatter has morphed into something a bit more concrete, with several major companies from the manufacturing, logistics and transportation sectors, as well as a host of start-up and smaller research firms, all giving the idea some serious thought and putting their money into developing concepts and working prototypes.

The idea of short-distance, city-centric air travel has evolved in step with developing concepts regarding mobility, and the idea of flight in an urban setting now includes Vertical Take Off and Landing (VTOL) ‘air taxis’ - electric aircraft that ditch the on-road driving part in favour of delivering short-hop flights across and between ‘smart’ towns and cities of the future.

Whether they are true flying cars or VTOL air taxis, the idea of using flight as a means of getting about town has staying power, and at this year’s CES, both FCA (or Stellantis, as it is now known following 26 | Motor Trader February 2021

Cadillac eVTOL

its merger with PSA Group) and General Motors (under its Cadillac brand), revealed their interest in the area.

FCA announced an agreement with the California-based company Archer, which is developing an electric VTOL aircraft, while Cadillac announced it too was developing an electric passenger aircraft concept.

Cadillac’s effort, a luxury, singlepassenger electric VTOL drone, is designed for a speedy (up to 90km/h) commute from roof top to roof top.

FCA’s agreement with Archer will see the manufacturing of Archer’s electric VTOL aircraft – a 240km/h small multi-passenger aircraft with a range of about 100km.

Archer said the partnership will see the companies work on significantly reducing costs of production, making the end-product more affordable, and that it will look to start production in 2023.

NOLOGY AND THE CES SHOW 2021 MANDO CORPORATION WINS INNOVATION AWARD FOR STEERBY-WIRE TECH MANDO CORPORATION, THE Korean auto parts manufacturer, won the Innovation Award at CES 2021 in Vehicle Intelligence & Transportation (VIT) category for its Steer-by-Wire (SbW) Steering System.

Steer-by-Wire is a pure electronic system. Turning the steering wheel sends signals to a control unit that adjusts the angle of the wheels and this allows for the traditional mechanical steering systems – and the various columns, gears and joints that they use – to be discarded.

Steer-by-wire offers packaging and weight reductions and opens up design opportunities for manufacturers. It is also considered important for the development of fully autonomous vehicles.

VIDEO: MANDO STEER-BY-WIRE

Mando’s system allows for the steering wheel to be ‘freely located according to the purpose of the vehicle’ and can also be designed with an ‘Auto Stow’ (take out and use when needed) function.

With the steering wheel gone, cabin space can be maximised.

The core components of Mando’s SbW are designed as the ‘Dual Redundant Safety System.’ The company says that even with a single system failure, the entire system will continue to operate normally.

Mando’s SbW is expected to be massproduced for the first time in the world in North America next year.

Mando Steer-by-Wire (SbW) system

February 2021 Motor Trader | 27

THE ROAD AHEAD | AUTOMOTIVE TECHN MERCEDES UNVEILS MBUX HYPERSCREEN DASHBOARD MERCEDES PRESENTED ITS impressive, one-piece dash screen at CES. It will be found on the incoming EQS electric sedan.

The huge screen stretches almost the entire width of the cabin - it is 141cm and has a display area of 2432.11cm2 - but while it uses OLED technology and is all digital, analogue air vents have been integratedat each end.

The MBUX hyperscreen is powered by artificial intelligence (AI) software, with the display and operating concept able to adapt to its user and make personalised suggestions for numerous infotainment, comfort and vehicle functions.

Thanks to what is called a ‘zero layer’, the Hypercscreen can be tailored to display the most relevant applications at the top level, meaning users don’t have to go digging through multiple sub-menus, and numerous operating steps are removed.

Over 20 functions – from an active massage program through birthday reminders, to suggestions for the to-do list – are automatically offered with the aid of AI when they are relevant to the customer.

‘Magic Modules’ is the in-house name the developers gave to these suggestion

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VIDEO: MBUX HYPERSCREEN

modules, which are shown on the zero-layer.

While the driver is well served by the hyperscreen, the passenger also has their own display and operating area, and with up to seven profiles, it is possible to customise the content. However, that entertainment function is only available when the passenger seat is occupied.

If the passenger seat is not occupied, the screen becomes a digital decorative

NOLOGY AND THE CES SHOW 2021 GENTEX DASHCAM MIRROR SYSTEM CATCHES IT ALL

part. Also, the entertainment functions of the passenger display are only available during the journey within the framework of the country-specific legal regulations.

The display appearance contains graphics styled in a blue/orange colour scheme throughout. The classic cockpit display with two circular instruments has been reinterpreted with a digital ‘laser sword’ in a glass lens.

We often talk about the computing power of modern cars, and the hyperscreen is an example of what can be done with that power. Its specifications are also an example of the type of information that mechanics ad technicians will likely have to come to grips with as the industry evolves - it has eight CPU, has 24-gigabytes of RAM and delivers 46.4 GB per second RAM memory bandwidth. Got that?

GENTEX CORPORATION – a U.S. company that manufacturers autodimming rear-view mirrors and camera-based driver assistance systems – displayed its Digital Video Recorder (or dashcam) system at CES. The system is built into the company’s Full Display Mirror (FDM), a digital rearview mirror that uses a custom camera and mirror-integrated video display to optimise the rearward view.

The company says the mirror is the ideal location for the DVR system, as it eliminates windscreen clutter and the need to manage power chords.

Recording is enabled through buttons located on the underside of the mirror and once enabled, the system continuously records using the vehicle’s front and rear cameras. The system overwrites older video files once the microSD card becomes full. In the event of vehicle impact, the DVR system protects the video file and saves it for viewing on a computer.

Drivers can also manually trigger the system to record and protect short clips or photos with a single button push.

That’ clever.

VIDEO: GENTEX DIGITAL VIDEO RECORDER (DVR)

February 2021 Motor Trader | 29

THE ROAD AHEAD | AUTOMOTIVE TECHN Sony Vision-S EV

SONY COMMENCES VISION S ROAD TESTING SONY CORPORATION REVEALED more details on its Vision-S EV at CES 2021, announcing it had completed the prototype and moved into the testing phase, evaluating the EV on public roads in Europe.

Revealed at last year’s CES Show, the Vision S was something of a shock to the automotive world – the giant Japanese company is best known for its consumer electronics products – but the high-tech car, in retrospect, seems like a natural extension of the company’s work.

Sony says that by bringing together its cutting-edge technologies, it ‘intends to contribute to the evolution of mobility by contributing safety, security, and incar entertainment that generates new excitement.’

The Vision-S is packed with sensors to provide driving assistance features that include advanced cruise control, selfparking and auto-lane change functions and other semi-autonomous driving features.

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NOLOGY AND THE CES SHOW 2021 VIDEO: VISION-S | PUBLIC ROAD TESTING IN EUROPE

Inside the cabin, entertainment, visuals and audio quality will be top notch.

A series of panoramic screens span the entire width of the car up front, and rear seats feature 10.1-inch screens. Audio quality comes via Sony’s 360 Reality Audio

system. Updates to vehicle systems will be over-the-air and the Vision-S is set up for 5G connectivity.

Below the high-tech cabin sits an EV platform that Sony says is compact and flexible, and can be used for other vehicle types, including SUVs and MPVs. There are two 200kW motors – one up front and one at the rear – and all-wheel-drive. Sony claims acceleration comes in at a tasty 4.8 seconds for 0-100km/h, and top speed is 240km/h.

The only info on the battery is that it uses ‘ultrathin’ battery packs, but with the Vision S coming in at a hefty 2350kg, it suggest a sizeable battery system will be the go with decent ragne on offer.

PANASONIC INTRODUCES NEW AUGMENTED REALITY HEAD­UP DISPLAY PANASONIC AUTOMOTIVE SYSTEMS of America unveiled its new Augmented Reality (AR) HUD at CES, delivering a system that combines imaging tech with artificial Intelligence (AI).

The AR HUD system projects 3D, AI-driven key information into the driver’s line of sight and key features include: • Eye tracking technology – information is projected at driver’s level of sight based on the driver’s eye position; • Navigation accuracy - AI-driven AR navigation technology detects and provides multi-color 3D navigation graphics that adjust with the moving vehicle’s surroundings, displaying information like lane markers and

GPS arrows where turns will occur; • Vibration control - Panasonic’s proprietary camera image stability algorithm enables AR icons to lock onto the driving environment regardless of the bumpiness of the road; • Real-time situational awareness Driving environment updates occur in real-time; and ADAS, AI, AR environment information updates in less than 300 milliseconds; • 3D imaging radar - Sensor-captured full 180-degree forward vision up to 90 metres and across approximately three traffic lanes.

February 2021 Motor Trader | 31

MTAA Super Scholarships offer new opportunities in the auto and related industries Industry super fund MTAA Super has named four NSW auto and related industries workers as recipients of the MTAA Super Scholarship, a sub-fund of the Australian Communities Foundation.

The scholarships — each worth up to $5,000 and funded through personal donations from the MTAA Super Board members and the CEO — are designed to help individuals in the automotive and related industries pursue further education and training.

With over $50,000 awarded to fifteen recipients across Australia, the fund will support studies in business, technology, innovation, communication, and more.

Jamie Firebrace, a Senior Technician at Jayco Albury Wodonga, said that winning the scholarship would help him complete a Certificate III in Recreational Vehicle Service and Repair at TAFE NSW.

“The scholarship brought me a smile from ear to ear. It’s going to help me develop my skills and to move up in the world,” said Firebrace.

After 13 years of building trailers from the ground up, Firebrace is keen to work towards securing a management role.

“As an Indigenous Australian, I strive to be a leader in my community. I want to be a role model to young kids and teach them that there is always something out there for you to do and you don’t know it yourself unless you give it a go.”

Scholarship recipient Jamie Firebrace (R), pictured with MTAA Super board member Geoff Lowe.

32 | Motor Trader February 2021

Firebrace said further training would also help extend the leadership skills he picked up during the COVID-19 border lockdown between NSW and Victoria.

Scholarship recipient Tara Absolom (L), pictured with MTAA Super board member Peter Savige.

“During the lockdown, we had technicians from Victoria who could not come to work due to the border closure,” said Firebrace. “I took on extra duties and did my best to help other staff. Further education will help me provide greater service to teammates and the community as a whole.”

For Tara Absolom, Service Manager at Frankston Toyota, the scholarship will provide financial security as she undertakes a Graduate Certificate of Business — a pursuit that was delayed because of COVID-19.

“The restrictions in Melbourne not only hindered and put pressure on businesses but impacted wages and the ability to earn,” said Absolom.

Her ultimate goal is to complete a Master of Business Administration, which she believes will open new career pathways in the years ahead.

“There are a lot of opportunities in the industry and a lot of room for growth,” said Absolom. “I think the great thing about this scholarship was it was open for people who wanted to be able to better themselves and be able to accelerate their career. I want to make a difference, and this scholarship is fantastic for people like myself to be like, ‘You know what, there are avenues to do it.’”

MTAA Super board member Geoff Lowe said that the calibre of applications for the scholarships was exceedingly high.

“We were blown away by the quality of the applicants from across the country. From vehicle mechanics to students to marketers and business owners, they all had a clear vision for their future and were deeply committed to and passionate about this industry.”

However, the selection process also highlighted the challenges many auto workers currently face.

“Like many industries, Australia’s automotive has been seriously impacted by the pandemic and now the recession. Many auto workers have had their working hours reduced or lost access to important training opportunities. This adds a lot of pressure to businesses, workers, and their families.”

Lowe said former Victorian Premier and current MTAA Super Chairman John Brumby was the brains behind the scholarship program.

“Very early in the pandemic, he raised the issue of the potential impacts COVID-19 might have in terms of hardship,” Lowe said. “The purpose of the scholarship was to make a small sacrifice that would help support people in our industry for whom study or learning opportunities might be impacted.”

Lowe hopes the MTAA Super Scholarships will help individuals take further steps along their automotive career pathway.

“I hope the recipients genuinely grab hold of this opportunity. Whether they’re using it to help with their studies or adding additional skills, there are many, many pathways in this industry. That’s why it plays a multifaceted role in the Australian economy for hundreds of thousands of people daily.”

Below is a full list of the MTAA Super Scholarship recipients: Changco Quelino (Vic), Claire Dunne (Vic), Daniel Purtle (Vic), Darren Rapsey (Vic), Edward Maddock (Vic), Flynn Grace (Vic), Joel Terpstra (Vic), Mitchell Douglas Lambert (Vic), Tara Absolom (Vic), Emily Munro (NSW), Gavin Brauer (NSW), Jamie Firebrace (NSW), Scott Parkes (NSW), Macauley Taunton (NT), David Wylie (SA).

“John has always been very keen for MTAA Super to actively support and promote the auto industry and its workers — both within the super system and outside of it.”

1300 362 415 mtaasuper.com.au

An Eye on Innovation

PAUL KULPA GENERAL MANAGER TRAINING & INNOVATION

T

HE PAST COUPLE of months have been very interesting for the automotive industry.

Amongst a host of eye-catching announcements (think Hyundai’s acquisition of robot-maker Boston Dynamics and where that may lead!) two of the bigger stories were that of the formation of Stellantis, a new company established by the merger of FCA and PSA Group, and the continued evolution of General Motors (GM).

GM made a host of announcements that can be placed under the ‘innovation’ banner at January’s online-only Consumer Electronics Show. Its Cadillac brand announced two adventurous electric and autonomous concept vehicles. One was a box-shaped Personal Autonomous Vehicle (PAV), while the other was a very futuristic single-passenger flying drone concept. The company also teased a bunch of future EVs. Perhaps most notable though for those who look beyond the individual products was GM’s announcement of BrightDrop, a new business unit established to offer ‘an ecosystem of electric first-to-lastmile products, software and services to empower delivery and logistics companies to move goods more efficiently’.

Two products were unveiled that plug

34 | Motor Trader February 2021

directly into the BrightDrop concept – the EP1 electric-powered pallet that is designed to help operators move up to 90kg from the delivery vehicle to the customer’s home, and the EV600 – an electric light commercial delivery truck with a range of up to 400km.

The company also announced a BrightDrop cloud-based software platform offering customers the ability to track items and for business users to have visibility and control over their fleet, and also revealed potential new vehicles in the form of a medium-distance vehicle and a rapid-load delivery vehicle.

BrightDrop looks to offer an efficient, allelectric, end-to-end solution for transport and delivery services, and that is quite a statement of intent from GM. The company clearly believes that the logistics market is going to be a monster and that urban lastmile delivery is a sector into which it must dive. It may well prove to be a winner.

If all that wasn’t enough, a few days after CES, GM made a whopper of a statement about its future, saying it had plans to be carbon neutral in its global products and operations by 2040 and that to achieve that, it will ‘eliminate tailpipe emission from new light-duty vehicles by 2035’.

The company has been talking up its electrification strength for some time - its Ultium battery technology will underpin its foray into the sector - and it said that it will offer 30 all-electric models globally by the middle of this decade, and that 40 per cent of the company’s U.S. models will be battery electric by the end of 2025.

GM was the first carmaker of recent times to take on the all-electric vehicle challenge when it designed and built the excellent EV1 in the mid-90s. While it abandoned that direction for a time, it has fully embraced it now and it is amazing to

IT’S AMAZING TO THINK THAT, IN LESS THAN 15 YEARS FROM TODAY, ALL NEW CARS FROM THIS MANUFACTURING BEHEMOTH WILL BE ELECTRIFIED. think that in less than 15 years from today, all new cars from this manufacturing behemoth will be electrified. The transformation of the company to being a champion of the clean mobility era is well underway.

Meanwhile the merger of FCA and PSA Group to form Stellantis has created the world’s fourth-largest carmaker the company has more than 400,000 employees and sales are somewhere near 8 million vehicles a year.

Stellantis will be the new home for some great automotive names – Maserati, Dodge, Alfa Romeo among them – and if the statement released after the merger is to be believed, the company will push hard to be a player in the EV space.

The company statement read that Stellantis is ‘uniquely positioned to capture the exciting opportunities of a global industry undergoing rapid and profound change’ and that its ‘portfolio is uniquely suited to offer distinctive, sustainable mobility solutions to meet its customers’ evolving needs, as they embrace electrification, connectivity, autonomous driving and shared ownership. As the electrified market continues to grow, Stellantis is well positioned today with 29 electrified models available and plans to introduce ten additional vehicles by the end of this year.’

Stellantis said it will also work towards carbon neutrality across all products, assembly plants and other facilities. Its CEO, Carlos Tavares, would go on to say at a press conference that for each new model launched between now and 2025 there would be an electrified version.

Like the other majors, Stellantis clearly sees a future that will be, in large part, electric. Its a difficult position to argue against - electrified vehicle sales are growing, the technology is improving, all the big players are getting on board, and let’s not forget that the world’s most valuable car company, Tesla, makes only battery-electric vehicles.

Stellantis does have work to do and some hurdles to clamber over – most notably its presence in China, the world’s largest car market. Tavares acknowledged that results in China had been ‘disappointing, to say the least’ and that he had set up a team tasked with creating a new strategy for its business there. We’ll have to wait and see what that strategy may be, but let’s hope it is a successful one.

TRAINING INNOVATION A quick note on automotive training.

One aspect of the evolution of the automotive industry has been the incredible rise of the Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS). Just about every new model of car is packed with clever features such as Forward CollisionAvoidance, Lane Keeping Assist, Smart Cruise Control, and Speed Limit Assist - to name just a few.

All these features rely on a system of sensors and cameras to work properly and their maintenance and calibration is vital to ensure the safety of the vehicle, its driver and passengers.

It’s new technology and an area that must be embraced by workshops and servicing businesses. In March, MTA Queensland– whose brief is, in part, to assist automotive businesses to prepare and adapt to change – will launch a range of courses to deliver ADAS training to Queensland’s servicing and repair sector.

You can find out more about these exciting training opportunities in the pages of this edition of Motor Trader, and at our website by clicking HERE. February 2021 Motor Trader | 35

Auto innovation news

MERCEDES-BENZ LAUNCHES THE EQA EV

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ERCEDES-BENZ HAS UNVEILED the EQA – the first of its six, planned EQ-branded electric vehicles (EV) that intends to launch over the next two years.

The first model, the EQA 250, is a small SUV, and is pegged as its ‘entry-level’ EV. Power comes via a 66.5kWh, highdensity, lithium-ion battery. A single asynchronous electric motor is used at the front axle and delivers 140kW and 375Nm. Performance stats come in at 0-100km/h in 8.9 seconds and a top speed of 160km.

The all-important range number is 486km on the NEDC (New European Driving Cycle) test. That number is a bit tighter at 426km under the WLTP (Worldwide Harmonised Light Vehicle Test Procedure) test.

Longer-range, more powerful, and allwheel-drives models are on the cards.

Using the Mercedes-Benz Wallbox, or at public charge points, an on-board charger provides a way of recharging the EQA with 36 | Motor Trader February 2021

VIDEO: THE NEW EQA: WORLD PREMIERE | TRAILER

up to 11 kW using alternating current (AC). Mercedes says a charging time of 5 hours and 45 minutes ( from 10-100 per cent) can be expected via this method. DC fast charging at 100kW is available and that will see a recharge from 10-80 per cent come down in time to just 30 minutes.

Underpinning the EQA on the front axle is a MacPherson suspension with spring strut and transverse control arm, coil springs, twin-tube gas-filled shocks and a stabliser bar. At the rear axle there is a multi-link system, coil springs, gas pressure shocks and a stabiliser. Steering is

Mercedes-Benz EQA EV

an electrically assisted rack-andpinion power steering system.

The battery sits within a specially developed frame made out of extruded sections that is also structural. A battery guard in the front area of the battery is able to protect the energy storage unit from being pierced by foreign objects.

The standard specification of the EQA includes features such as LED High Performance headlamps with Adaptive Highbeam Assist, the EASY-PACK tailgate with electrically operated opening and closing, 18-inch light-alloy wheels, ambient lighting with 64 colours, luxury seats with four-way adjustable lumbar support, a reversing camera, and a multifunction sports steering wheel in leather.

Also included as standard are the MBUX infotainment system and the Navigation with Electric Intelligence system. This calculates the fastest route to the given destination. On the basis of continual range simulations, the system makes allowance for any necessary charging stops as well as for numerous other factors, such as the topography and the weather. It is also able to react dynamically to changes, for instance in the traffic situation or personal driving style.

The new model can be personalised with the two design and equipment lines Electric Art and AMG Line - as well as with the Night Package (offering plenty of black trim features).

The EQA features a range of intelligent driving assistance systems. The Driving Assistance Package (optional equipment varying according to country and equipment level) includes: Active Distance Assist, Active Steer Assist, Active Emergency Stop Assist, Active Speed Limit Assist, Evasive Steering Assist, Active Lane Keeping Assist, Active Blind Spot Assist, Traffic Sign Assist, and Active Brake Assist with turning manoeuvre and cross-traffic function. The Pre-Safe Plus system can detect a potential rear impact and, if the danger of a collision persists, can apply the brakes of the stationary vehicle, minimising the risk of whiplash injuries by reducing the forward jolt caused by an impact from the rear.

Mercedes-Benz says the EQA 250 will be available in Germany from â‚Ź47,540.

That would convert to a Australian dollar price of $AU74,210. We’ll see where that ends up when it hits our shores later this year.

February 2021 Motor Trader | 37

Auto innovation news

HYUNDAI LANDS CONTROLLING INTEREST IN BOSTON DYNAMICS

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YUNDAI MOTOR GROUP is set to acquire a controlling interest in Boston Dynamics – the U.S. engineering and robotics design company famous to most for developing robots with incredibly fluid movement and that are the stars of many an online viral video.

The deal value values Boston Dynamics at $US1.1 billion ($AU1.42 billion) and Hyundai will hold a stake of about 80 per cent of the company.

Boston Dynamics produces highly capable mobile robots enabling automation in difficult and dangerous,.

The company launched sales of its first commercial robot, Spot, in 2020 and has sold hundreds to a variety of industries, such as power utilities, construction, manufacturing, oil and gas, and mining.

The company is also entering the logistics automation market with the Pick - a

VIDEO: BOSTON DYNAMICS - DO YOU LOVE ME?

computer vision-based depalletising solution - and says it will introduce a mobile robot for warehouses in 2021.

Boston Dynamics possesses multiple key technologies for high-performance robots and Hyundai says this deal will establish it as a leading presence in the robotics field and marks ‘another major step for Hyundai Motor Group toward its strategic transformation into a Smart Mobility Solution Provider’.

Boston Dynamics produces highly capable mobile robots with advanced mobility, dexterity and intelligence, enabling automation in difficult, dangerous, or unstructured environments

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The company said that the robotics market has potential for significant growth and it plans to invest not only in logistics robots to enhance efficiency and establish logistics automation, but also service robots, which have potential beyond commercial use in areas such as public security and safety. In healthrelated public services, robots can be used to offer freedom of mobility for the disabled or the elderly. The company plans to expand its presence into the humanoid robot market with the aim of developing robots for services such as caregiving in hospitals.

“We are delighted to have Boston Dynamics, a world leader in mobile robots, join the Hyundai team. This transaction will unite capabilities of Hyundai Motor Group and Boston Dynamics to spearhead innovation in future mobility. The synergies created by our union offer exciting new pathways for our companies to realise our goal - providing free and safe movement and higher plane of life experiences for humanity,” said Euisun Chung, Chairman of Hyundai Motor Group.

“We will also contribute to the society by enhancing its safety, security, public health amid global trends of aging society and digital transformation.”

NISSAN-BACKED WHITE PAPER HIGHLIGHTS BENEFITS OF V2G TECH NISSAN, IN COLLABORATION with Imperial College London and e-mobility solution provider E.ON Drive, has released a White Paper report in the UK on how bi-directional charging capability of electric vehicles (EVs) could contribute to lower emissions and help achieve long-term goals in relation to climate change.

The White Paper offers supporting recommendations and calls for the introduction of incentives to accelerate widespread adoption of vehicle-to-grid (V2G) charging systems, enabling potential benefits to be unlocked.

It also addresses some of the challenges that will be faced in the early days of V2G, particularly around creating a reliable business case in the context of evolving energy markets and regulation.

Key insights of the report indicate that V2G could deliver the following benefits: • An overall power system cost saving of £410m-£885m ($AU718m-$AU1.5b) per year during the next decade from offsetting capital and operational expenditure.

• Electricity system operation cost savings of up to £12,000 ($AU21,000) per annum per EV and CO2 reduction of approximately 60 CLICK TO tonnes per annum READ MORE AND DOWLOAD per EV. THE WHITE • Annual fleet V2G PAPER charging benefits could range between £700-£1,250 ($AU1225$AU2185) per vehicle.

February 2021 Motor Trader | 39

Auto innovation news

GM TO DROP PETROL AND DIESEL LIGHT-DUTY VEHICLES BY 2035

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ENERAL MOTORS HAS announced plans to be carbon neutral in its global products and operations by 2040, and that it will ‘eliminate tailpipe emission from new light-duty vehicles by 2035’.

On the road to that ambitious goal, the company said it will offer 30 all-electric models globally by the middle of this decade, and that 40 per cent of the company’s U.S. models will be battery electric by the end of 2025.

GM is investing $US27 billion ($AU35.5 billion) in electric and autonomous vehicles in the next five years – up from the $20 billion ($AU26.1 billion) planned before the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The investment includes the continued development of its Ultium battery technology and updating manufacturing

Mary Barra, GM Chairman and CEO

facilities. More than half of the company’s capital spending and product development team will be tasked to electric and electric autonomous vehicles programs.

GM said it will work with all stakeholders to build out the necessary charging infrastructure and promote consumer acceptance while maintaining high-quality jobs, and will offer zero-emissions vehicles across a range of price points.

To address emissions at its operations, it will source 100 per cent renewable energy

“GENERAL MOTORS IS JOINING GOVERNMENTS AND COMPANIES AROUND THE GLOBE WORKING TO ESTABLISH A SAFER, GREENER AND BETTER WORLD.”

to power its U.S. sites by 2030 and global sites by 2035.

“General Motors is joining governments and companies around the globe working to establish a safer, greener and better world,” said Mary Barra, GM Chairman and CEO. “We encourage others to follow suit and make a significant impact on our industry and on the Hummer EV economy as a whole.”

This carbon neutral/all-electric vehicles announcement by GM comes at an interesting time. The company has spent mightily in moving in this direction - for example in its Ultium battery technology, the massive investments in new electric vehicles such as the Hummer EV, and the BrightDrop business unit reveal at the CES show earlier this year. Even its new logo brings to mind an electric power plug.

And the timing of this announcement also paired up well with that from U.S.

President Joe Biden, who just one day earlier had revealed that he would commit to converting the U.S. government’s fleet to U.S.-built electric vehicles. That government fleet is gigantic – reportedly around 650,000 vehicles – and GM will surely be looking to take a juicy slice of it.

On a side note, that decision by President Biden does once again show how other nations are embracing the idea of an EV future. Australia must be careful it isn’t left behind.

The Ultium battery platform will be the foundation of GM’s move into EVs

February 2021 Motor Trader | 41

Auto innovation news

PRODUCTION NEARS FOR TOYOTA’S NEXT-GEN FUEL-CELL ELECTRIC HEAVY-DUTY TRUCKS

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OYOTA’S NEXT- The new fuel-cell electric system in the GENERATION latest prototypes has been adapted FUEL-CELL to a Kenworth T680 chassis technology is now in use and powering a set of U.S.-based Class 8 heavy-duty trucks.

Using the same fuel cell system as the new 2021 Mirai sedan, Toyota Motor North America Research and Development developed a set of production-intent prototype trucks that are being prepared to run drayage (short distance shipping) “This is an important step in the transition routes in California to validate their to emissions-free heavy-duty trucks,” said performance, efficiency, and drivability.

Andrew Lund, chief engineer, Toyota Motor The new fuel-cell electric system in the North America Research and Development. latest prototypes has been adapted to a “Our first prototype trucks proved that a Kenworth T680 chassis. A more compact fuel-cell electric powertrain was capable of hydrogen storage cabinet behind the cab hauling heavy cargo on a daily basis. These houses six hydrogen tanks with the same new prototypes not only use productioncapacity as previous prototypes while a intent hardware, they will also allow us to new, more powerful lithium-ion battery start looking beyond drayage into broader applications of this proven technology.” delivers power to the electric motors. In Toyota’s Environmental Challenge 2050 this configuration, the second-generation aims to almost eliminate CO2 emissions fuel cell system delivers over 480km miles completely from its vehicles, operations, of range at a full load weight of 80,000 lbs., and supply chain by 2050.

(36,287kg).

42 | Motor Trader February 2021

FORD OFFERS EXTRA SECURITY VIA ‘GUARD MODE’

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ORD IN THE UK has introduced Guard Mode for commercial vehicles, a new security system to monitor vans in real time via smartphone.

Guard Mode notifies owner-operators and drivers of potential security breaches through a smartphone app for commercial vehicle operators called FordPass Pro. When activated, Guard Mode employs sensors to detect when someone enters the vehicle, opens the bonnet or load compartment, or starts the engine. It then sends a notification to the owner’s smartphone using the vehicle’s FordPass Connect modem.

The Guard Mode screens in the FordPass Pro app highlight the times the vehicle was accessed, the reason for alarms, when trigger actions occured and the vehicle’s last known location. Ford says users will also soon be able to schedule when Guard Mode is activated.

The Guard Mode feature builds on existing alarm notifications in FordPass Pro, including Trailer Theft Alert, which sends an alert if it detects an attached trailer is being unhooked while the vehicle is locked.

VIDEO: GUARD MODE: REAL-TIME SECURITY FOR FORD VAN OWNERS

“Our vans help keep our customers moving and the tools inside keep them working”, said Mark Harvey, director, Enterprise Connectivity, Ford of Europe.

“FordPass Pro and Guard Mode help owners protect their vehicles – and their businesses – by keeping them one step ahead of the criminals. And this is just the start. As all new vehicles now come connected, we see huge potential in developing additional security features to help our customers’ businesses thrive.”

Guard Mode is the first feature that Ford will activate with an over-the-air (OTA) software update via FordPass Connect, which is fitted as standard across the vast majority of Ford commercial vehicles.

Ford UK has introduced Guard Mode for commercial vehicles

February 2021 Motor Trader | 43

Auto innovation news

MTA QUEENSLAND TO LAUNCH ADAS TRAINING COURSES

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TA QUEENSLAND, IN collaboration with ADAS Solutions Australia, is launching a suite of training courses aimed at delivering skills in Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS).

The series of non-accredited courses are the first of their kind in Australia for the automotive industry and will play an important role in developing pathways for new skill sets necessary to support the future evolution of the industry.

Three courses are to be introduced, each exploring different features of ADAS. The ADAS Awareness course is a oneday program aimed at those working in the automotive industry who require an overall understanding of ADAS and their importance in modern vehicles.

The ADAS Technician course is a twoday intensive program for automotive professionals with prior ADAS diagnostic experience, who are required to understand, diagnose, and calibrate ADAS systems in light-vehicles.

The ADAS Vehicle Glass course is a one-day program aimed at automotive glazing specialists, who are seeking an understanding and awareness of ADAS front camera (windscreen) diagnostics and calibration.

Paul Kulpa, MTA Institute General Manager, said, “With ADAS becoming increasingly common and complex in modern vehicles, it is imperative that individuals working in the automotive

44 | Motor Trader February 2021

industry are equipped with the necessary skills to install, maintain and repair such systems.

“MTA Queensland is proud to offer stateof-the-art training in an area of growing need for the industry and look forward to joining ADAS Solutions Australia in delivering the courses.”

Adrian Parkes, Director of ADAS Solutions Australia said, “We are delighted to be collaborating with MTA Queensland to be the first in the market in Australia with this much needed training. The coming together of the two brands ensures a high quality, award-winning training platform through which we can deliver our expert, technically competent training modules.”

The ADAS training courses will commence in early March 2021 at the Sir Jack Brabham Automotive Centre of Excellence, Eight Mile Plains.

CLICK FOR MORE INFORMATION & TO REGISTER

Right training.

Right place.

Right way.

Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) Awareness Course Overview The ADAS Awareness course is aimed at individuals currently working in the automotive industry, who have a workplace requirement to identify and understand ADAS components and the operational characteristics of the various Systems commonly featured in today’s modern light vehicles.

Estimators, Assessors, Service Advisors and Parts Advisers, etc, will gain an awareness and understanding of the fundamentals and features of ADAS, the code of practice, interdependencies of ADAS with other safety related systems… and much more.

Information Time:

8:30am to 4:00pm | 1 day duration (morning tea provided, kitchen and café facilities available)

Dates:

2 March | 23 March | 6 April (class size 6-12)

Location: MTA Queensland, Building 8, 2728 Logan Road, Eight Mile Plains, Qld Cost: MTAQ Member: $400 (inc. GST) | Non-Member: $600 (Inc. GST)

Prerequisites • Prospective learners should be working in the automotive industry and have a basic understanding of vehicle technology.

COURSE INFORMATION » Description » Venue » Length of course » Training delivery » Services » Fee information » Consumer rights » How to enrol

• Standard workshop attire is required, ie. enclosed shoes, jeans/trousers, work shirt. (Other personal protective equipment will be supplied.)

Enrol Should you wish to enrol, or require further information, please go to www.mtaq.com.au or contact one of our friendly staff on (07) 3722 3000.

www.mtaq.com.au

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

20160431

MTA Queensland

Auto innovation news

HYUNDAI INTRODUCES ‘DAL-e’ ROBOT FOR AUTOMATED CUSTOMER SERVICES

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YUNDAI’S RECENT PURCHASE of Boston Dynamics highlights the company’s interest in a robotic future, and it recently unveiled an advanced customer service robot called DAL-e – which stands for ‘Drive you, Assist you, Link with you-experience’.

The company says the DAL-e is equipped with artificial intelligence technology for facial recognition as well as a communication system based on a language-comprehension platform. The robot has commenced its pilot operation at a Hyundai Motor showroom in Seoul.

Hyundai says the DAL-e can engage in automated and smooth dialogue with customers and provide information on products and services by responding to verbal and screen-touch commands.

DAL-e

46 | Motor Trader February 2021

It can also move freely on omni-directional wheels, allowing it to escort customers to designated spots, and connect wirelessly to a large display screen at the venue.

Following the pilot operation, the company says it is expects the DAL-e to be used in various fields that require everyday interactions with customers, including in other Hyundai and Kia showrooms.

Right training.

Right place.

Right way.

Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) Vehicle Glass Course Overview The ADAS Vehicle Glass course is aimed at individuals currently working in the automotive glazing industry, who have a workplace requirement to understand, diagnose and successfully calibrate the ADAS front camera, commonly featured in today’s modern light vehicles.

Auto Glazing and Windscreen Technicians will learn about ADAS components and operational characteristics, as well as gain an understanding of the calibration requirements and processes; dynamic and static calibration of front camera (windscreen); completing and storing documentation relating to ADAS calibration... and much more.

Information Time:

8:30am to 4:00pm | 1 day duration (morning tea provided, kitchen and café facilities available)

Dates:

3 March | 24 March | 7 April (class size 4-8)

Location: MTA Queensland, Building 8, 2728 Logan Road, Eight Mile Plains, Qld Cost: MTAQ Member: $600 (inc. GST) | Non-Member: $850 (Inc. GST)

Prerequisites COURSE INFORMATION » Description » Venue » Length of course » Training delivery » Services » Fee information » Consumer rights » How to enrol

• Prospective learners should be working in the automotive industry and have a basic understanding of vehicle technology.

• Standard workshop attire is required, ie. enclosed shoes, jeans/trousers, work shirt. (Other personal protective equipment will be supplied.)

Enrol Should you wish to enrol, or require further information, please go to www.mtaq.com.au or contact one of our friendly staff on (07) 3722 3000.

www.mtaq.com.au

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

20160431

MTA Queensland

Auto innovation news

TOYOTA AUSTRALIA AND BHP TO TRIAL CONVERTED ELECTRIC VEHICLE

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OYOTA AUSTRALIA IS to hold a local electric-vehicle pilot trial with mining and resource company BHP. The small-scale trial involves a LandCruiser 70 Series single-cab ute that has been converted to a battery-electric vehicle by Toyota Australia’s Product Planning and Development division in Port Melbourne.

The converted vehicle - equipped for underground mine use - will operate under full battery power. The trial will take place at a BHP mine in Western Australia.

“This partnership is another step in our ongoing studies into how we can

48 | Motor Trader February 2021

“THIS PARTNERSHIP IS ANOTHER STEP IN OUR ONGOING STUDIES INTO HOW WE CAN REDUCE THE EMISSIONS INTENSITY OF OUR LIGHT-VEHICLE FLEET.” reduce the emissions intensity of our light-vehicle fleet,” said Edgar Basto, President, Minerals Australia. “Reducing our reliance on diesel at our operations will help achieve our medium-term target of reducing operational emissions by 30 per cent by 2030.”

Right training.

Right place.

Right way.

Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) Technician Course Overview The ADAS Technician course is aimed at individuals currently working in the automotive industry, who have a workplace requirement to not only understand ADAS components and operational characteristics, but diagnose and successfully calibrate the various Systems commonly featured in today’s modern light vehicles.

Technicians and Auto Electricians, etc, who have a good level of ADAS diagnostic skills and experience, will learn about ADAS components and operational characteristics, as well as gain an understanding of the types of ADAS repair and calibration equipment; ADAS diagnosis, live data, measurement, fault finding techniques; the risks associated with incorrect repair methods… and much more.

Information Time:

8:30am to 4:00pm | 2 day duration (morning tea provided, kitchen and café facilities available)

Dates:

4-5 March | 25-26 March | 8-9 April (class size 4-8)

Location: MTA Queensland, Building 8, 2728 Logan Road, Eight Mile Plains, Qld Cost: MTAQ Member: $1,200 (inc. GST) | Non-Member: $1,600 (Inc. GST)

» Description » Venue » Length of course » Training delivery » Services » Fee information » Consumer rights » How to enrol www.mtaq.com.au

Prerequisites • Prospective learners should be working in the automotive industry and have a good understanding of ADAS diagnostics and vehicle technology.

• Standard workshop attire is required, ie. enclosed shoes, jeans/trousers, work shirt. (Other personal protective equipment will be supplied.)

Enrol Should you wish to enrol, or require further information, please go to www.mtaq.com.au or contact one of our friendly staff on (07) 3722 3000.

MTA Queensland

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

20160431

COURSE INFORMATION

Auto innovation news

Volkswagens Mobile Charging Robot

VOLKSWAGEN REVEALS PROTOTYPE ROBOT CHARGING SYSTEM

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T WAS JUST over a year ago when Volkswagen revealed its plans for a robotic charging concept that was designed to offer fully autonomous charging of vehicles in restricted parking areas such as underground car parks.

12 months on and Volkswagen Group Components has given a glimpse ofthe real prototypes of this mobile charging system.

The robot – started via an app of car-to-x communication – operates autonomously and can communicate with a vehicle, enabling the opening of the charging socket flap, to connecting and decoupling the charging plug. The entire process takes place without human intervention.

To charge several vehicles at the same time, the mobile robot moves a trailer – essentially a mobile storage unit – to the vehicle, connects it up and uses it to charge the vehicle’s battery. The energy

50 | Motor Trader February 2021

TO CHARGE SEVERAL VEHICLES AT THE SAME TIME, THE MOBILE ROBOT MOVES A TRAILER – ESSENTIALLY A MOBILE STORAGE UNIT – TO THE VEHICLE, CONNECTS IT UP AND THEN USES THIS ENERGY STORAGE UNIT TO CHARGE THE VEHICLE’S BATTERY. storage unit stays with the vehicle as the robot moves on to other vehicles. Once the charging service has ended, the robot collects the energy storage unit and takes it back to a central charging station.

The advantage of such a system, Volkswagen says, is that it enables operators of parking bays and

PILOT PHASE BEGINS FOR VW DC WALLBOX TECH

VIDEO: VOLKSWAGENS MOBILE CHARGING ROBOT

underground car parks to quickly and simply ‘electrify’ every parking space, reducing construction work that might otherwise be needed, at the same time as reducing the potential cost.

Volkswagen says the intention is to integrate the charging robot into an overall concept that will focus on the longterm success of electric mobility.

“Establishing a charging infrastructure is a fundamental prerequisite for this. But it needs to be demand-led and efficient,” said Thomas Schmall, CEO of Volkswagen Group Components. “Our developments do not just focus on customers’ needs and the technical prerequisites of electric vehicles. They also consider the economical possibilities they offer potential partners.”

VOLKSWAGEN GROUP COMPONENTS has launched its DC wallbox product for EV charging. The wallbox can be charged with direct current (DC) up to 22kW and works at double the speed of a typical wallbox working with alternating current (AC).

In charging technology based on direct current, the electricity flows directly into the lead traction battery, provided that the electric vehicle features a combined charging system (CCS) charging port. Charging the lead traction battery with a direct current increases the potential charging capacity when compared with alternating current and shortens the charging process.

VW says the DC wallbox will be prepared for bi-directional charging – an increasingly talked about technology for feeding power back into an EV owner’s home or the electrical grid.

Volkswagen Group Components has started the pilot phase at its own factory sites in Germany as part of a pilot phase. The company says its goal is to gather practical experience prior to then move into series production.

VW DC wallbox

February 2021 Motor Trader | 51

Auto innovation news

JAGUAR LAND ROVER REASEARCHING ADVANCED COMPOSITES FOR ELECTRIC VEHICLES

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AGUAR LAND ROVER (JLR) is researching advanced light composites as it looks to deliver electric vehicles (EV) with increased range and improved performance.

The company is leading a consortium of academic and industry partners on a project called Tucana which JLR says will allow it to develop lightweight vehicle and powertrain structures by replacing aluminium and steel with composites capable of handling the demands of EVs. The aim is to increase vehicle stiffness by 30 per cent, cut weight by 35kg and further refine the crash safety structure through the use of tailored composites, such as carbon fibre. Reducing the vehicle body weight will allow the fitting of larger batteries with increased range – without impacting CO2 emissions.

JLR says it expects to have developed a fleet of prototype Tucana test vehicles by 2022.

The Tucana project, and another UKbased program, has received funding via the Advanced Propulsion Centre – a joint venture between the UK government and the country’s automotive industry.

“THIS PROJECT WILL ALLOW THE TRUE ENVIRONMENTAL CREDENTIALS OF ELECTRIC VEHICLES TO BE REALISED BY ENABLING WIDER ADOPTION OF THE TECHNOLOGY...”

“The development of new lightweight body structures to complement the latest zero-emissions powertrains will be key as the electrification of our vehicle range continues,” said Marcus Henry, Research Manager at Jaguar Land Rover. “This project will allow the true environmental credentials of electric vehicles to be realised by enabling wider adoption of the technology and will propel Jaguar Land Rover and the UK supply chain into a world-leading position in lowcarbon technology.”

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FERRA 54 | Motor Trader February 2021

( 1987 -1 992 )

ARI F40 February 2021 Motor Trader | 55

( 1987 -1992)

FERRARI F40 D EBUTING IN 1987, the mid-engine, rear-wheel-drive F40 was built as a celebration of Ferrari’s 40th anniversary. It was also the last car that the company’s legendary founder, Enzo Ferrari, would personally approve before his death in 1988.

So, even before you delve into the specifications, it is already something a bit special.

However, it was also the most-powerful and fastest car Ferrari had ever developed to that point (another big tick of approval).

And it looked like it too, with a presence that suggested it could be a real track monster if pushed.

The mid-engine, rear-wheel-drive F40

56 | Motor Trader February 2021

. . . BUILT AS A CELEBRATION OF FERRARI’S 40TH ANNIVERSARY. IT WAS ALSO THE LAST CAR THAT THE COMPANY’S LEGENDARY FOUNDER, ENZO FERRARI, WOULD PERSONALLY APPROVE BEFORE HIS DEATH IN 1988.

Its construction confirmed that feeling. The body was ultra-light and made from tough Kevlar and carbon fibre that was integrated with a tubular steel platform chassis. Lifting the rear and front bonnet/engine cover exposed the entire tyre and wheel set-up, revealing that the F40 was, for all intents and purposes, an open-wheel race car that someone had thrown a body over.

The engine – nicely protected by a clear material known as Lexan that

February 2021 Motor Trader | 57

also acted as the rear window – was a 2.9-litre, twin-turbo V8, that kicked out 352kW and 578Nm. A derivative of the engine powering Ferrari’s 288 GTO Evoluzione, the engine was tweaked and modified to make it lighter and more potent and together with the car’s excellent aerodynamic characteristics (that included the famous, monster rear wing) the F40 could deliver sparkling performance figures of 0-100km/h in 4.1 seconds and a top speed of 324km/h.

The racing car feel carried over into the interior that was – when compared

58 | Motor Trader February 2021

THE ENGINE – NICELY PROTECTED BY A CLEAR MATERIAL KNOWN AS LEXAN THAT ALSO ACTED AS THE REAR WINDOW – WAS A 2.9-LITRE, TWINTURBO V8, THAT KICKED OUT 352KW AND 578NM.

to its contemporary supercar rivals – pretty spartan. There was no audio system, no carpets, no leather, no power steering or electronic devices, and doors opened via a latch on the outside and a pull-cord on the inside. It was fitted with wind-down windows, a rudimentary climate control system and . . . well, that’s about it.

Initially, just 400 of the F40 were and were on sale for $US400,000 each. Demand was strong though, and production eventually reached more than 1300 units.

If you’re interested in getting your hands on one now, you’ll need a good deal more than $US400,000 but, perhaps surprisingly, not as much as you might think. With so many being made (it’s all relative of course, as 1300 barely qualifies as ‘mass production’) they are not as rare as some of their supercar brethren.

You’ll still have to dig deep and expect to pay something approaching $2million or more depending on the car. While that is certainly a big bucket of coin, for a spectacular F40, it might just be worth it.

February 2021 Motor Trader | 59

Auto news

MAZDA MX-30 HYBRID AND EV MODELS TO ARRIVE THIS YEAR

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AZDA WILL BE the latest manufacturer to introduce an electric model into its Australian line-up in 2021 after confirming the allnew MX-30 crossover is on its way.

The MX-30 will come with two powertrain options, the e-Skyactiv G with mild hybrid technology, and the fully electric e-Skyactiv system.

The e-Skyactiv powertrain combines a 35.5kWh lithium-ion battery pack with a 107kW/271Nm electric motor. The electric motor, inverter, DC-DC converter and junction box are integrated into a single high-voltage unit mounted towards the front of the vehicle.

Mazda says the all-electric MX-30 is good for 224km of range and incorporates a specific Electronic G-Vectoring Control Plus (e-GVC Plus) system that leverages Mazda MX30 Electric Skyactiv

60 | Motor Trader February 2021

ALONG WITH A NEW DESIGN THAT INCLUDES FREESTYLE DOORS THAT REFERENCE THE RX-8 SPORTS CAR - COLOUR SCHEMES INCLUDE A SINGLE-COLOUR OPTION OR A THREE-TONE CONTRAST. the electric motor’s torque and actively alters the front axle torque split.

The hybrid model will be powered by a 2.0-litre, four-cylinder petrol engine paired with Mazda’s ‘M Hybrid’ system, and is good for combined outputs of 114kW and 200Nm and a 6.4L/100km fuel economy.

The hybrid model’s GVC Plus uses the braking system to manage traction and aid

directional stability.

Along with a new design - that includes Freestyle doors that reference the RX-8 sports car - colour schemes include a singlecolour option or a three-tone contrast.

On the inside the MX-30 is designed to integrate with a connected and environmentally conscious lifestyle.

There are surfaces made from sustainable raw materials and leatherette upholstery created from non-animal materials and manufactured with water rather than solvents. Upper door trims are finished in a breathable fabric that is created from recycled plastic bottles while Fabric seat trim elements use up to 20 per cent recycled thread.

Tech-wise, there’s a new, floating centre console which features several controls including a rotary dial, and a 7.0-inch touchscreen display that sits on the central console. An 8.8-inch widescreen central

display acts as an information centre.

Safety features are broad, and the MX-30 has received a five-star Euro NCAP rating.

Mazda’s i-Activsense system introduces a Turn-Across Traffic functionality to the Smart Brake Support System, which helps prevent collisions when turning ‘across traffic’ at, for example, an intersection.

Road Keep Assist, and Emergency Lane Keeping with Blind Spot Assist, are also included. For the EV, the high voltage electric power flow is shut down the instant a collision occurs, and the battery module is covered with high-strength steel and a rigid surrounding frame for solid impact protection.

Ten airbags are included as standard: front, curtain, front-side, rear-side, front far-side (driver) and a driver’s knee airbag.

The MX-30 M Hybrid will arrive in the first half of 2021, with the MX-30 Electric to go on sale in the middle of the year.

February 2021 Motor Trader | 61

Auto news

STELLANTIS CREATED FROM UNION OF FCA AND PSA GROUP

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WO OF THE world’s big automotive manufacturers – FCA (Fiat Chrysler Automobiles) and PSA Group – have merged to create a new company called Stellantis.

The new entity brings together under one roof some of the automotive industry’s great brands with Fiat, Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Maserati, Alfa Romeo, Lancia and Ram coming from FCA, and Peugeot, Citroen, DS Auto, Opel and Vauxhall coming from PSA. The new company will be led by CEO Carlos Tavares, formerly CEO of PSA Group, and Chairman John Elkann, formerly Chairman of FCA. Although the company will carry the name Stellantis – which, apparently derives from Latin and means ‘to brighten with stars’ – the individual brands will remain as they are and be built and sold under their current names.

Alfa Romeo Stelvio Veloce Ti Stellantis will be the world’s fourth-largest carmaker by volume (behind Toyota, Volkswagen, and Hyundai), with annual sales somewhere around the 8 million mark.

The company will have

VIDEO: WE ARE STELLANTIS

STELLANTIS WILL BE THE WORLD’S FOURTH-LARGEST CARMAKER

BY VOLUME (BEHIND TOYOTA, VOLKSWAGEN, AND HYUNDAI), WITH ANNUAL SALES SOMEWHERE AROUND THE 8 MILLION MARK.

The new company will be led by CEO Carlos Tavares, formerly CEO of PSA Group, and Chairman John Elkann, formerly Chairman of FCA

Grand Cherokee L

Citroen C3 Aircross

more than 400,000 employees, have industrial operations in 30 countries and a commercial presence in more than 130 markets.

The company expects to leverage this heft and economies of scale to target annual synergies of more than €5 billion ($AU7.9 billion).

This estimate will be achieved, the company says, through implementing smart purchasing and investment strategies, optimising powertrain and platform use, applying cutting-edge R&D developments and a focus on manufacturing and tooling efficiencies.

Mergers can often result in some form of downsizing – be it across products or staffing levels – but Stellantis says that these ‘synergy estimates are not based on any plant closures resulting from the transaction’.

The company also looks to be focusing on a future that is electric, saying in a statement that its portfolio ‘ . . .is uniquely suited to offer distinctive, sustainable mobility solutions to meet its customers’ evolving needs, as they embrace electrification, connectivity, autonomous driving and shared ownership. As the electrified market continues to grow, Stellantis is well positioned today with 29 electrified models available and plans to introduce 10 additional vehicles by the end of this year.”

What happens next will be interesting. Neither FCA or PSA Group had managed to grab a major foothold in China – the world’s largest car market and an essential one for any major carmaker - and PSA had almost no presence in North America, so what steps the company will take to address these and other issues, such as overlap between brand models, will be important for its future.

February 2021 Motor Trader | 63

Maserati Ghibli GranSport

Auto news

Hyundai Santa Fe SUV

HYUNDAI’S NEW SANTA FE SUV

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YUNDAI’S SANTA FE sevenseater SUV has been upgraded and restyled for 2021 and comes complete with extra luxury touches, upgrades to standard technology, additional safety features, and significant powertrain improvements.

The four-variant line-up continues with a base model, Active and Elite variants, and the flagship Highlander.

Power choices are two SmartStream engines - a 3.5-litre petrol V6 and a 2.2-litre turbo diesel four, available for each variant.

The V6 consumes 10.5L/100km, while the common-rail direct-injection fourcylinder, which is is paired with a new 64 | Motor Trader February 2021

STANDARD FEATURES INCLUDE AN 8.0-INCH MULTIMEDIA SYSTEM WITH APPLE CARPLAY AND ANDROID AUTO CONNECTIVITY, A COLOUR INSTRUMENT CLUSTER DISPLAY, AND WIRELESS (QI STANDARD) SMARTPHONE CHARGING. eight-speed twin-clutch DCT automatic, uses 6.1L/100km.

The new Santa Fe features Hyundai’s HTRAC Advanced All-Wheel-Drive system which features an electronic, variable-torque-split clutch with active torque control between the front and rear axles. The AWD system delivers drive based on wheel and vehicle-speed inputs.

Standard features include an 8.0-inch multimedia system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, a colour

instrument cluster display, and wireless (Qi standard) smartphone charging.

Also standard are a rear view camera, a rear park distance warning system, tyre pressure monitoring system, LED headlights and daytime running lights.

Standard safety systems are strong.

SmartSense technologies include Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist with Junction Turning (FCA-JT), Driver Attention Warning (DAW) and Blind-Spot Collision Avoidance-Assist (BCA) systems. There’s also Lane Following Assist (LFA) and Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist (RCCA) systems, and Smart Cruise Control (SCC) with Stop & Go. A Remote Smart Parking Assist System is available on Highlander variants.

The Santa Fe Active model includes leather appointed seats and dashboard, a front park distance warning system and dual-zone climate control.

The Elite introduces a 10.25-inch

navigation unit featuring DAB+ digital radio, premium audio by Harman Kardon, a hands-free Smart Power Tailgate, and 20-inch alloys.

The flagship 2021 Highlander introduces a 12.3-inch LCD instrument cluster, a Surround View Monitor, Nappa leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, heated outboard second-row seats, heated steering wheel, body-coloured wheel arch cladding and 20-inch alloys.

In addition, Highlander features HeadUp Display, Blind-Spot View Monitor, panoramic glass sunroof, Parking Collision-Avoidance Assist and Remote Smart Parking Assist systems.

Eight mica and metallic paint colours are available.

The 2021 Santa Fe is on sale from $44,700 and leads Hyundai’s ‘18 models in 18 months’ campaign which will include seven SUVs by the end of 2021, encompassing EV, FCEV and Hybrid powertrains.

February 2021 Motor Trader | 65

Auto news

MAZDA AUSTRALIA BRINGS TRACK FOCUS TO UPDATED MX-5 MODEL RANGE

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AZDA AUSTRALIA HAS announced updates to the MX-5, headed by a new, performancefocused variant - the Mazda MX-5 GT RS - that will be available in Roadster and RF forms.

The updated Mazda MX-5 range went on sale in January with the GT RS models available with the 135kW Skyactiv-G 2.0-litre, four-cylinder engine and SkyactivMT six-speed manual transmission.

There’s a Brembo brake package installed up front, alongside Bilstein gas-pressurised dampers, 17-inch forged alloy wheels by BBS, and Bridgestone Potenza S001 tyres measuring 205/45/R17.

Rigidity and steering response are improved by a solid alloy strut tower brace linking the front suspension struts.

Technology and personalisation

THE UPDATED MAZDA MX-5 RANGE WENT ON SALE IN JANUARY WITH THE GT RS MODELS AVAILABLE WITH THE 135KW SKYACTIV-G 2.0-LITRE, FOURCYLINDER ENGINE AND SKYACTIV-MT SIX-SPEED MANUAL TRANSMISSION. updates have also been made available as part of the MX-5 range.

Wireless Apple CarPlay has been added as standard equipment connecting to a 7.0-inch touchscreen display. This supports the existing wired access to Apple CarPlay and Android Auto systems.

A new Deep Crystal Blue paint finish joins Snowflake White Pearl, Jet Black, Machine Grey Metallic, Soul Red Crystal Mazda MX-5 GT RS Metallic, and Polymetal Grey Metallic as options. On the inside, Pure White nappa leather upholstery is available on the range topping Mazda MX-5 RF GT Black Roof model.

PRICING • MX-5 Roadster GT RS,

2.0-litre manual, $47,020

• MX-5 RF GT RS, 2.0-litre manual, $51,100.

SPECIAL EDITION TOYOTA LANDCRUISER ON THE HORIZON

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OYOTA HAS GIVEN its range-topping LandCruiser 200 Series Sahara a tweak and announced that just 400 examples of the resulting 2021 Horizon special edition will be available from March.

Design modifications include a unique grille with a dark finish, black headlight surrounds, and smoked chrome foglight surrounds. At the rear is a “Horizon” badge.

Inside, there are premium black Toyota LandCruiser 200 Series Sahara semi-aniline leather-accented seats with unique stitching and ‘LandCruiser’ embossed into the backrest.

Additional features include a heated black leather-accented steering wheel, black interior trim and headliner with chrome accents, and premium stitching in the leather-accented door trims.

A further special touch is the LandCruiser logo illuminated in the front and rear puddle lamps.

The new Horizon special edition is powered by LandCruiser’s 200kW/650Nm 4.5-litre V8 twin-turbo diesel engine that drives through a six-speed automatic transmission with sequential shift function. with a 9-inch touchscreen display, rear seat A full-time four-wheel drive system with a DVD player and satellite navigation.

A comprehensive suite of Toyota Safety full set of low-range ratios and Multi-Terrain Sense features includes a pre-collision Select offers proper off-road capability, and safety system with pedestrian detection, there is fully independent suspension.

In addition to the styling enhancements, active cruise control, automatic high beam, reversing camera, front and rear the LC200 Sahara Horizon is equipped parking sensors, blind spot monitor and with power-adjustable heated and rear cross-traffic alert. ventilated front seats, four-zone climate The Toyota LandCruiser Sahara Horizon special control, smart entry and start, multiterrain monitor, premium audio system edition is priced from $131,896.

THE NEW HORIZON SPECIAL EDITION IS POWERED BY LANDCRUISER’S 200KW/650NM 4.5-LITRE V8 TWIN-TURBO DIESEL ENGINE THAT DRIVES THROUGH A SIX-SPEED AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION WITH SEQUENTIAL SHIFT FUNCTION.

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Auto news

HONDA UPDATES HIGH-PERFORMANCE CIVIC TYPE R

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ONDA HAS INTRODUCED a significant mid-life update to its Civic Type R. The new version includes upgrades to ride and handling, braking performance and engine cooling; freshened exterior and interior design elements; plus the first performance data-logging application in a Honda vehicle.

The suspension has been upgraded for more responsive and sharper handling with Honda claiming the control software for the Adaptive Damper System (ADS) now able to evaluate road conditions 10 times faster, resulting in improved damper reactions for better response and ride quality.

Suspension upgrades are also designed for improvements in lateral loads and cornering characteristics, and sharper steering feel for better control.

An upgraded braking system includes new two-piece floating front brake discs and Honda Civic Type R

68 | Motor Trader February 2021

new brake pads with a more fade-resistant pad material.

Engine cooling performance has been improved by a new larger grille and thinner grille beam, which delivers a 13 per cent larger air intake opening.

There’s also an updated radiator core for better coolant temperature in high-demand driving situations.

Styling and design tweaks see the Type R receive body-coloured blades featuring on

FOR THE NEW MODEL YEAR, THE TYPE R RECEIVES BODY-COLOURED BLADES FEATURING ON THE UPDATED REAR BUMPER DESIGN, AND A NEW PAINT COLOUR CALLED RACING BLUE.

The Type R retains the 2.0-litre VTEC Turbo engine which produces 228 kW and 400 Nm

the updated rear bumper design, and a new paint colour called Racing Blue. On the inside, a new Alcantara-wrapped steering wheel, and a new shift lever with teardropstyle knob partner up with a revised 7-inch Advanced Display Audio touchscreen with integrated ventilation system controls.

Also new is the addition of Active Sound Control (ASC), which works to enhance the engine sound during aggressive driving in Sport and +R modes, while refining it further in Comfort mode.

Debuting for the first time is a new vehicle performance datalogger. Known as Honda LogR, the new system combines the Type R’s onboard computer and

sensors with a smartphone app to help drivers monitor and record a variety of performance parameters. It features three main functions: a Performance Monitor, a Log Mode and an Auto Score Mode. While driving, all interaction with Honda LogR is through the Display Audio screen.

Under the bonnet, the Type R retains the 2.0-litre VTEC Turbo engine, which produces 228 kW of power at 6500 rpm and 400 Nm peak torque from 25004500 rpm. This is paired to a close-ratio six-speed manual transmission with revmatching function.

The new Honda Civic Type R was officially released at the end of 2020. Price is $54,990.

February 2021 Motor Trader | 69

Auto news

Grand Cherokee L

ALL-NEW 2021 JEEP GRAND CHEROKEE BREAKS COVER

J

EEP HAS UNVEILED the 2021 Grand Cherokee L model, the next generation of its big SUV, and it has gotten a little bigger with seating inside for seven people for the first time.

To be available in the US in the second quarter of this year, the new Grand Cherokee L will be available in four trim versions - Laredo, Limited, Overland and Summit. The new model sits on new vehicle architecture and, in the U.S. at least, will be available with two engine options – the 3.6-litre Pentastar V-6 engine that delivers 216kW and 349Nm, and a 5.7-litre V8 offering 266kW and 529Nm. Power options for the Australian market are yet to be confirmed.

The new underlying architecture is designed, the company says, to deliver on handling, to be quieter, and to reduce weight and improve fuel economy.

There’s a new unibody design along with three available 4x4 systems (Quadra-Trac I, Quadra-Trac II and Quadra-Drive II), 70 | Motor Trader February 2021

plus a Quadra-Lift air suspension and standard Selec-Terrain traction management system.

Jeep reduced weight by mounting the axle directly to the engine, along with a solid-mounted aluminium front cradle, aluminium engine mounts and steering gear, a magnesium cross-car beam, aluminium shock towers and a new electronic master brake booster system.

The body structure employs the latest grades of Generation 3 steel.

The Grand Cherokee L also employs a newly located front virtual ball joint to improve lateral control and a multilink rear suspension. Jeep says that an enhanced engine box with a shock-toshock tower brace improves local lateral stiffness by 125 per cent. A new variablerate air spring suspension continuously adjusts stiffness to loading conditions.

New for the 2021 Grand Cherokee L

THE INTERIOR LOOKS GREAT WITH MODERN TECH MIXING NICELY WITH CLASSIC MATERIALS. is front axle disconnect. If the vehicle senses that road conditions do not require all-wheel drive, the front axle disconnect automatically places the Grand Cherokee L in two-wheel drive. Four-wheel drive automatically re-engages when the vehicle senses it is needed.

The interior looks great with modern tech mixing nicely with classic materials.

That modern tech includes the Uconnect 5 system that offers more connected services and features, rear-seat monitoring

camera, digital rearview mirror, windshield HUD, frameless digital cluster and a 19-speaker premium audio system.

The Uconnect system enables, amongst other features, for five user profiles, wireless Apple CarPlay and Andfroid Auto, connectivity for two Blutoothenabled phones, Alexa ‘Home to Car’ functionality, TomTom navigation, and 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot functionality.

Safety and Advanced Driving Assist features are, as you’d expect, excellent, and includes Active Driving Assist, Night Vision Camera, Intersection Collision Assist, Drowsy Driver Detection, Traffic Sign Recognition as well as Surround View Camera.

Standard across the range are Full-Speed Collision Warning with Active Braking and Pedestrian/Cyclist Detection, Rear Cross Path detection, Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop and Go, Active Lane Management, LaneSense Lane Departure Warning with Lane Keep Assist, Advanced Brake Assist, Blind-spot Monitoring, ParkView rear back-up camera, ParkSense rear park assist, Switch-activated electric park brake, and tyre-pressure monitoring.

The new Jeep Grand Cherokee L should get its Australian launch later this year.

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Auto news

SPECS AND PRICING REVEALED FOR KIA’S NEW CARNIVAL

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IA’S NEW CARNIVAL people mover has arrived in Australia in four specification levels – S, Si, SLi and Platinum – with both petrol and diesel engines.

Both the Smartstream 3.5-litre GDI V6 petrol (216kW and 355Nm) and Smartstream R2.2-litre CRDI diesel (148kW and 440Nm) drive the front wheels through a Kia-developed 8-speed automatic.

Thanks to a new platform and larger body, the fourth-generation Carnival also boasts improved space for up to eight passengers. The new Carnival benefits from a 30mm longer wheelbase and 10mm wider body. Overall length grows by 40mm.

The entry-level S specification comes standard with 17-inch alloy wheels, roof rack, solar glass windshield, 8-inch AV unit with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, 6-speaker sound system, manual temperature control, drive mode select with normal/eco/sport/smart, keyless entry, cloth seats, rear parking sensors, rear view monitor with dynamic guidelines, tilt

72 | Motor Trader February 2021

and telescopic adjustable steering wheel.

The Si adds 18-inch alloys, , 8-speaker sound system, dual zone automatic temperature control front and single zone rear, and front parking sensors.

The SLi brings privacy rear glass, smart key with push button start, surround view monitor, power tailgate with auto close, smart power sliding doors, one-touch power doors and tailgate, eight-way power driver’s seat, Safe Exit Alert and Rear Cross Traffic Collision Avoidance Assist.

The top of the range Platinum adds electronic shift-by-wire, 19-inch black alloy wheels, 12-speaker Bose sound system, rear occupant alert, heated steering wheel, wireless charger, paddle shifters, dual tilting and sliding sunroof, eight-way integrated memory seats with four-way lumbar support and rear heated seats, ventilated front seats, LED interior lamps and second and third row sunshade blind.

Safety and Driver Assist features are comprehensive.

Topping the new technology is the Speed Limit Information Function which reads and displays road-side speed signs. Intelligent Speed Assist uses the speed information to alert the driver to a change in speed limit.

Additional tech includes Multi Collision Braking, AEB Junction Assist, Driver Attention Warning, Safe Exit Alert (SLi and Platinum) and Rear Cross Traffic Collision Avoidance Assist (SLi and Platinum).

There’s also Lane Keeping Assist, BlindSpot Collision-Avoidance Assist, Intelligent Speed Limit Assist, Driver Attention Warning+, High Beam Assist, Smart Cruise Control, Lane Following Assist, and Surround View Monitor (SLi and Platinum).

Safe Exit Assist is available on SLi and Platinum and prevents the power-sliding rear doors from opening if the system detects a car approaching from behind on either side.

In Si, SLi and Platinum trims, cabin tech includes Kia’s latest 4.2-inch digital driver instrument cluster and 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment and navigation system under a single piece of glass. The S level trim has an 8-inch Audio Visual Unit and a 4.2-inch TFT information cluster.

There’s Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, voice recognition, and built-in SatNav. The infotainment system also enables users to connect two smartphones via Bluetooth.

Pricing starts at $46,880 for the S petrol and rises to $64,680 for the Platinum version of the same engine. The diesel starts at $48,880 for the S trim and tops out at $66,680 for the Platinum.

FORD, MAHINDRA END DISCUSSIONS FOR AUTO JOINT VENTURE IN A STATEMENT released at the end of December 2020, Ford announced that it and Mahindra had mutually and amicably determined they will not complete a previously announced automotive joint venture between their respective companies.

The decision follows the passing of the Dec 31 expiration date of a definitive agreement the organisations entered into in October 2019.

According to the companies, the outcome was driven by fundamental changes in global economic and business conditions – caused, in part, by the global pandemic – over the past 15 months. Those changes influenced separate decisions by Ford and Mahindra to reassess their respective capital allocation priorities.

Ford said its independent operations in India will continue, adding that it is actively evaluating its businesses around the world, including in India.

The company added that its plan calls for developing and delivering high-quality, high-value, connected vehicles – increasingly electric vehicles – and services that are affordable to an even broader range of customers and profitable for Ford.

The company said it is moving quickly to ‘turn around its automotive business . . .’ and ‘grow by capitalising on existing strengths, disrupting the conventional automotive business, and partnering with others to gain expertise and efficiency’.

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Auto news

FCAI REVEAL CAR AND MOTORCYCLE SALES FOR 2020

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OTORCYCLE AND CAR sales figures for 2020 have shown some expected negative numbers but also some positive signs for the industry.

The Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries (FCAI) numbers for the 2020 calendar year showed that a total of 916,968 cars and vehicles were sold across the period, down 13.7 per cent on calendar year 2019.

For the motorcycle and off-highway vehicles (OHVs) sector, the year was much more positive, with total sales for the year recorded at 108,926 units, an increase of 19,727 vehicles and 22.1 per cent on full year 2019 when 89,199 sales were recorded.

The FCAI said that the decline of 13.7 per cent in the new car and vehicle market was not unexpected and is attributed to the financial impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Although 2020 and the COVID-19

74 | Motor Trader February 2021

THE HIGHEST-SELLING BRAND FOR THE YEAR WAS TOYOTA, WITH 204,801 VEHICLES SOLD AND 22.3 PER CENT MARKET SHARE. IN SECOND PLACE WAS MAZDA (85,640), FOLLOWED BY HYUNDAI (64,807), FORD (59,601), AND MITSUBISHI (58,335). pandemic caused significant pain, the organisation added that the market in Australia was now showing positive signs of growth. December 2020 recorded 95,652 sales, a 13.5 per cent increase over the same period in December 2019 when 84,239 were sold. This result follows a similar upturn in November 2020, when sales of 95,205 vehicles, a 12.4 per cent gain

over November 2019, were recorded.

“COVID-19 has brought a health crisis and a corresponding economic crisis to the world during 2020,” said Tony Weber, FCAI chief executive.

“And along with the rest of Australia, automotive brands and their dealer networks have found the last 12 months an extremely challenging period.

“The automotive industry in Australia accounts for more than 60,000 employees, with over 4,000 dealerships across the country. The contribution made by these businesses is critically important to the economic wellbeing of communities across Australia.

“It is therefore with great relief that the industry, along with the general economy, is finally noting some positive signs within the market.”

SUVs claimed 49.6 per cent of the market during 2020, an increase from 45.5 per cent in 2019. A total of 454,701 SUVs were sold during the year. Light Commercial Vehicles claimed a 22.4 per cent market share. A total of 205,597 vehicles were sold, down 8.9 per cent on full year 2019.

Passenger vehicle numbers totalled 222,103 vehicles, down 29.7 per cent on full year 2019.

The highest-selling brand for the year was Toyota, with 204,801 vehicles sold and 22.3 per cent market share. In second place was Mazda (85,640), followed by Hyundai (64,807), Ford (59,601), and Mitsubishi (58,335).

The top-selling vehicles for the year were the Toyota HiLux with 45,176 sales, Ford Ranger with 40,973, Toyota RAV4 with 38,537, Toyota Corolla with 25,882, Toyota Landcruiser with 25,142, Mazda CX-5 with 21,979, Hyundai i30 with 20,734, Mitsubishi Triton with 18,136, Toyota Prado with 18,034 and Kia Cerato with 17,559 sales.

The solid performance in sales for motorcycles and OHVs could well reflect the appeal of personal transport during the pandemic.

Road bikes saw sales hit 34,912 units in 2020 – a 9.2 per cent increase over 2019, while OHV sales were extremely strong with 24,856 sales recorded – an increase of 6,950 units, or 38.8 per cent – over the same period in 2019.

Scooters were the only segment of the 2020 motorcycle and OHV full-year sales to record a decrease. A total of 4,461 units were sold, 553 fewer, or 11 per cent less, than the 5,014 sales recorded in 2019.

February 2021 Motor Trader | 75

Auto news

MTAA SUPER AND TASPLAN TO BECOME SPIRIT SUPER

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UPER FUNDS MTAA Super and Tasplan have announced they will be known as Spirit Super after completion of their merger on 1st April, 2021.

Spirit Super will have approximately $23 billion funds under management and approximately 326,000 members across Australia.

MTAA Super was founded in 1989 to serve those in the automotive trades and allied industries. Tasplan has its foundation in Tasmania but is a nationwide superfund.

MTAA Super CEO Leeanne Turner said the new name perfectly represents the fund’s drive to be a national super fund that offers superior service, value, and member focus.

“What I love about Spirit Super is it captures the energy of what we’re about,” said Turner. “It’s fresh and optimistic and innovative — everything we want to be.”

“The new name also speaks to the past achievements of our funds,” she said. “MTAA Super and Tasplan are both outstanding funds and take great pride in providing historically strong long-term returns, excellent value and service to our members.

As Spirit Super, we will have greater capacity to continue improving our products and service and to really embrace a memberfirst approach to everything we do.”

The merger follows a successful year for MTAA Super and Tasplan, with both funds receiving Platinum ratings by SuperRatings and being named ‘Best Value for Money’ funds for 2020.

76 | Motor Trader February 2021

“That’s what makes this merger so exciting,” said Turner. “This isn’t about a big fund absorbing a smaller fund.

It’s about two successful funds coming together to get even better. It’s a true partnership that will provide a better super experience and outcomes to members across the nation.”

“With MTAA Super’s strong long-term performance history and Tasplan’s superior customer satisfaction rating and awardwinning digital services, we are bringing the best of both worlds to Spirit Super.”

There will be a reduction in administration fees for all Spirit Super members.

“The details are being worked through, but there will be a drop in administration fees when Spirit Super kicks off,” said Turner. “So right off the bat, members will start seeing the benefits of the merger.”

Workplace relations to this as ‘special circumstances’. A reasonable period of time should be allowed to lapse. An employer may have a duty to confirm the intention to resign if, during that time, they are put on notice the resignation was not intended. Not making any further enquiries could be at the employer’s risk.

VERBAL NOTICE BY THE EMPLOYER IAN NAYLOR SENIOR WORKPLACE RELATIONS ADVISOR

IS A VERBAL RESIGNATION OK, OR SHOULD IT BE IN WRITING? DOES THE COMPANY have to accept a resignation provided verbally or does failure to provide written notice of termination mean the worker’s employment has not actually been terminated?

There is nothing to prevent an employer from accepting a verbal resignation, however you should request that it be in writing to avoid any misunderstanding. This may be difficult to obtain from an employee in some circumstances.

Where verbal notice is given by an employee at the workplace it may be prudent for the employer to have a witness to the resignation. This would verify an employee’s resignation and would also avoid any ‘heat of the moment’ decisions that an employee may later regret.

An employer is likely to receive an employee’s resignation via mobile phone text or email. This is considered by the courts as written notice.

HEAT OF THE MOMENT RESIGNATION If the words of a resignation are clear and unambiguous then an employer is entitled to treat them as such.

However, where a resignation is given in the heat of the moment or under extreme pressure, the Fair Work Commission refers

The Fair Work Act (s117) requires an employer to give an employee notice of termination in writing.

Failure to do so is considered a breach of the Fair Work Act. However, it may not necessarily mean a termination of employment has not been effected.

Generally, a termination of employment is considered not to take effect unless and until it is properly communicated to the other party. This could include notice being given verbally (although this would not satisfy the Fair Work Act).

UNFAIR DISMISSAL In the context of an unfair dismissal claim, a dismissal can be effected where the notice is given verbally to an employee. This means the Fair Work Commission can still hear the application as the dismissal has been effected, provided it was properly communicated to the employee.

NOTICE VIA PHONE TEXT OR EMAIL

The Fair Work Act (s117(1)) requires notice of termination by an employer to an employee to be in writing. A question for consideration is whether notice given via email or mobile phone texting is considered to be “written notice” for the purpose of the Fair Work Act. The bottom line: Verbal notice of termination by an employee is legitimate provided it is properly communicated and unambiguous. Conversely, the employer is required by the Fair Work Act to provide written notice when terminating an employee’s employment.

CLICK TO VISIT THE For any further assistance or information MTAQ MEMBER PORTAL please contact the Workplace Relations Advisors on 32378777.

February 2021 Motor Trader | 77

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 & Workplace 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

Innovation Stay ahead of the automotive digital revolution with access to MTAiQ, Australia’s first automotive innovation hub.

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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

E S S E N T I A L S

PAUL KULPA GENERAL MANAGER TRAINING & INNOVATION

2

Preparation is a course designed to give students a basic introduction to the automotive industry.

Students undertaking this course will learn a range of tasks relating to

MEMBERS' ESSENTIALS Contents 83 Apprentice of the Month: December 2020 85 Apprentice of the Month: January 2021 86 Professional Circle Training 90 MTAQ Welcomes New Members

February 2021 Motor Trader | 79

E S S E N T I A L S

. . . THE QUEENSLAND GOVERNMENT HAS IMPLEMENTED A NEW FUNDING PROGRAM – FREE APPRENTICESHIPS FOR UNDER 25s. THIS PROGRAM OFFERS FULLY SUBSIDISED TRAINING FOR ALL OUR AUTOMOTIVE APPRENTICESHIP QUALIFICATIONS.

M E M B E R S

021 IS HERE and we are right back into work and striving for great industry workforce outcomes.

We have seen our enrolments numbers increase over the past 12 months and that is a sign that the industry is looking to put on more apprentices and keep skilling the workforce required to service and repair vehicles for many, many years to come.

What has been great to see is the state government get behind automotive apprentices and support their apprentice co-contribution fees. From 1st January, 2021, the Queensland Government has implemented a new funding program – Free Apprenticeships for under 25s. This program offers fully subsidised training for all our automotive apprenticeship qualifications. However, our automotive traineeship qualifications miss out.

For more details, click HERE. We have our first automotive prevocational training program starting on Monday, 1st February, at our facility in Eight Mile Plains. The AUR20716 Certificate II in Automotive Vocational

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

FOR THOSE AUTOMOTIVE TRADE INDIVIDUALS INTERESTED IN DELIVERING TRAINING IN THE VOCATIONAL EDUCATION TRAINING SECTOR AND GIVING BACK TO THE INDUSTRY, YOU MAY BE INTERESTED IN THE MTA QUEENSLAND VET TRAINER SCHOLARSHIP. identifying and inspecting mechanical and electrical components and systems of light vehicles. For course enrolments please visit HERE. We have our first MTA Institute graduation ceremony of the year coming up on Friday, 19th February 2021. This is always a great event and something special for those graduating apprentices that have completed the hard work it takes to become a qualified tradesperson.

The graduates are all those apprentices that completed for the period 1/7/2020 to 31/12/2020.

For more information on the graduation ceremony, contact events@mtaq.com.au

For those automotive trade individuals interested in delivering training in the vocational education training sector and giving back to the industry, you may be interested in the MTA Queensland VET Trainer Scholarship.

This scholarship is the opportunity for automotive professionals to further their careers by undertaking the TAE40116 – Certificate IV in Training and Assessment course, a course that is valued at over $2,500.

Applications close 1st March, 2021 and for more details please visit HERE. There’s always a lot on, but striving to achieve great results for industry keeps us busy.

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 February 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

13 - 15 April 2021 29 June - 1 July 2021 Click for more information.

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

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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 February 2021 82 | Motor Trader September 2020

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an apprenticeship.

“I spent about 18 months helping out, masking everything up, sanding everything and pretty much doing the jobs a new apprentice would, before Dave offered me the apprenticeship opportunity. Those 18 months were actually a good foundation for when I started training.”

While many of the skills required by those who spray paint boats are the same as for those who are automotive spray painters, there are some differences between the jobs that, said Keith, take some getting used to. While a layperson might EITH FORSTMAN is think painting a boat involves just painting the hull, the Apprentice of the Month for December 2020. there’s a lot more to it.

The 31-year-old, who has worked at Flight Marine “It’s not just the boat body,” said Keith. “There in southeast Queensland for the past four years, has are a lot of parts to consider - including the roofs, now completed his spray-painting apprenticeship, tops, lounges and seats. They are quite big jobs, and and throughout his training he proved to be an the owners want an automotive finish on them. outstanding student.

They want quality.

“Keith has been one of my best apprentices,” said “We have to hop in and out of the boats to do the Alfio Rotolone, Keith’s MTA Institute trainer. “He job,” he added. “90 per cent of boats don’t have can adapt to any environment and task, and always floors when we work on them, so you have to climb performs to the highest standard. His attention to through the framework and be careful not to leave detail is off the chart.” any marks in the paint.

Keith made his move into spray painting after “It can be quite tricky, and it is very satisfying spending a few years as a warehouse storeman. seeing the finished job. When you pull the boat out of While searching for a job that offered more the booth and it’s looking nice, that is a good feeling.” opportunities for him and his young family, he Regarding his apprenticeship, Keith said the MTA learned that Dave Worley, owner of Flight Marine, Institute’s one-on-one training model had been a was looking to take someone on. great experience.

Flight Marine offers spray-painting services “The training method worked perfectly for me and and abrasive blasting services for a wide range of I couldn’t have asked for a better trainer than Alfio,” products, but its focus is predominantly on boats he said. “He helped me every step of the way and I and for Keith, securing a role with the business wouldn’t change anything. It all went really well.” was a great opportunity. However, he did not have Now qualified and taking on the role of head expectations of becoming a tradesman when he painter for Flight Marine, Keith is set on a rewarding first started the job. In fact, he had never really career doing work he really enjoys. And he is considered spray painting as a career. already looking ahead to where that career can “My uncle is a panel beater and spray painter and take him.

I would visit his workshop when I was a child, but it “I have studied at the MTA Institute with some of never crossed my mind as a career option,” he said. the trainers there and, ultimately, I think I would “But I wanted a change, I wanted to challenge like to do that someday – a job where you are CLICK TO myself, and I wanted something better for doing the work you enjoy but are passing VISIT THE my family. Dave gave me a go, but because FLIGHT MARINE on your skills,” he said. “I always think long WEBSITE of my age I didn’t come here thinking about term, and that is my long-term goal.”

APPRENTICE: KEITH FORSTMAN WORKPLACE: FLIGHT MARINE, YATALA APPRENTICESHIP: AUTOMOTIVE REFINISHING TECHNOLOGY

M E M B E R S

Apprentice of the Month: December 2020

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YAN SMOOTHEY is the Apprentice of the Month for December 2020.

The 17-year-old Heavy Commercial Vehicle apprentice has been working for Glen Alexander at East Coast Truck & Trailer in Gympie for the past three years and, according to his MTA Institute trainer Wayne Abrahams, has proven to be a standout student, able to perform a broad range of tasks at a remarkably high level.

Ryan started his career in the industry via a school-based apprenticeship, although that was originally with another business that offered agricultural equipment services. Unfortunately, that business went under leaving Ryan looking for another job and, as is often the case with motivated young people, he found a new employer through persistence - pounding the pavements and knocking on doors of workshops in the Gympie area.

“I went to what I thought was every single one in town, and they all said, ‘We just don’t have the work to take someone on’.” said Ryan. “Then, one day, I was going for a drive with one of my mates and I spotted this shop, East Coast Truck & Trailer, with a few trucks parked outside. I went in, ended up talking to Glen and he said, ‘I’m looking for an apprentice, I’ll see you here tomorrow at 7am’!”

Working for Glen at East Coast Truck & Trailer, and shifting over to a Heavy Commercial apprenticeship, has exposed Ryan to a huge variety of mechanical work. East Coast offers all mechanical services - including engine rebuilds and modifications - on everything from pick-up utes to major mining trucks and everything in between.

“A lot of the work we do is on things like big highway prime movers, but we also do Moxys and diggers, hydraulic rams and pumps, and I also recently rebuilt a Toyota Prado engine. We do work on quite a few Landcruisers too,” said Ryan. “We do everything here. You name it, we do it!”

Ryan said he was always interested in mechanical work and working at East Coast Truck & Trailer is a tremendously educational and enjoyable experience.

“Since I was really young, I enjoyed pulling stuff apart and putting it back together,” he said. “I started with my pushbikes, then with motorbikes when I was a little bit older, and I then started building motorised go-karts and so on. It went from there.

“And I love it here,” he said. “I was working on clutches and engine rebuilds and all that sort of stuff in my second year, and with only me and my boss Glen working here, there’s lots of opportunity to work on interesting jobs. Glen is really talented and has taught me so much and I now do full engine rebuilds, as well as clutches and gearboxes, by myself.”

Ryan has accumulated a massive amount of experience in a short time at East Coast and, together with the training delivered by MTA Institute, he is well ahead of the normal apprenticeship curve.

“I have a few mates who are apprentice mechanics and who are in their second or third year, and they have only recently started doing basic services,” he said.

“And the one-on-one training works really well for me,” he added. “I didn’t enjoy school, and I don’t think I would do well in a classroom setting. Now, I get to train in the place where I do my job, and that works really well both for me and the business.”

Already in his third year, Ryan will likely be qualified by the time he is 19, and his plans for the future start, he said, with a commitment to East Coast Truck & Trailer.

“Glen has taught me for a while now, so I would like to continue to work for him,” said Ryan. “I have been offered work at the mines, and I think I would like to start my own business one day, but I’d like to work for Glen for a few years if possible. He has taught me everything I know, and I’d like to give a bit back to him if I can.”

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APPRENTICE: RYAN SMOOTHEY WORKPLACE: EAST COAST TRUCK & TRAILER, GYMPIE APPRENTICESHIP: HEAVY COMMERCIAL VEHICLE MECHANICAL TECHNOLOGY

M E M B E R S

Apprentice of the Month: January 2021

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

Professional Circle Training

MTA INSTITUTE TRAINERS GATHER FOR ANNUAL CONFERENCE AND TRAINER OF THE YEAR ANNOUNCEMENT

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S THE LARGEST private provider of automotive apprenticeships in Queensland, the MTA Institute delivers face-to-face, in-the-workshop training to more than 1800 students across the state.

To offer this type of on-site training to apprentices across Queensland - from remote regional areas to major urban centres - requires the Institute’s 28 trainers to work semi-independently, be proactive in the guidance and assistance they deliver to their students, and lean on the cuttingedge hardware, digital technology and communications systems that the MTA

ADAS Scott Daley, from Bosch, offered training on l development systems - par t of the trainers’ professiona 86 | Motor Trader February 2021

IT IS IMPORTANT. . . THAT THE INSTITUTE’S EXPERIENCED TRAINERS DO GET TOGETHER TO DISCUSS DEVELOPMENTS IN THE AUTOMOTIVE INDUSTRY, COMPARE EXPERIENCES, AND UPSKILL THEMSELVES ON THE NEWEST IDEAS, CONCEPTS AND METHODS THAT ARE EVOLVING IN THE TRAINING SECTOR.

tre Sally Healy from the Career Development Cen delivered a presentation on communication

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

Institute champions and that enables such training to be delivered successfully.

It is important, however, that the Institute’s experienced trainers do get together to discuss developments in the automotive industry, compare experiences, and upskill themselves on the newest ideas, concepts and methods that are evolving in the training sector.

As is tradition, this past December the MTA Institute brought together its trainers from across the state to the MTA Queensland head office complex in Brisbane to consider all these issues and more at its annual trainers’ conference.

A lot is packed into the two-day conference each year, and the 2020 edition was no different.

Trainers took part in workshops and seminars that considered Department of Employment, Small Business and Training Quality and Compliance requirements; the application of competency standards; training technology updates; and business development, administration and AUR transition processes. Of particular interest this year – and a sign of the direction in which the automotive industry and the training sector is heading – was a detailed professional development session focusing on Bosch ADAS systems (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems).

It is this sort of gathering and intensive discussion and workshopping process together with regular, remote, webinar group sessions - that enables the MTA Institute to continue to be at the forefront of industryleading, innovative, automotive training.

“It is always good to bring the training team together, in particular this year given the challenging circumstances with COVID,” said Paul Kulpa, General Manager Training & Innovation.

“The agenda was wide and varied,” he added. “Along with the validating and moderating of our assessment tools, the technical professional development with Bosch ADAS Training, and the quality and compliance and competencies presentation, we also had sports dietitian, performance nutritionist and exercise physiologist Angelique Clark talk to us about trainer nutrition.

“There also was a communication workshop by Sally Healy from the Careers Development Centre to assist trainers with strategies to support individuals and apprentices. And, finally, there was a session on Information Technology development designed to support the trainers in the field with all their computer hardware.

“All up, it was a pretty comprehensive couple of days and, as always, extremely valuable and productive.”

February 2021 Motor Trader | 87

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Professional Circle training much as sending their apprentice off-site, A highlight of the and the more personal Trainer’s conference is approach allows the the announcement of the employer to be involved Trainer of the Year award with the training and recipient, and this year the receive and give direct award was presented to feedback, which allows Senior Technical Trainer for customising the Ross Wilson. training to suit all Ross, who delivers involved. I particularly training in all automotive like the on-site model as trades (except panel and I can attempt to relate all Ross Wilson, Trainer of the Year 2020 paint) to apprentices training to the students’ across the Wide Bayworkplace.”

Burnett region said he was With more than 30 years surprised and proud to spent in workshops and have been named the award another decade spent winner, adding that being training apprentices, Ross able to deliver the training has seen plenty of changes could not be done without in the automotive industry the backing and support of and said that the next few the administration team, years would be challenging colleagues, and others. but exciting for everyone.

“I am very honoured to “There are going to be win the award and I really had no idea it some major disruptions to our industry was coming, but it really is a team effort,” with alternative fuels, electric power, he said. and autonomous vehicles,” he said.

Like all MTA Institute trainers, Ross, “Successful long-term businesses will who joined the organisation in 2012, have to pivot at some point to stay across worked for many years in the automotive those developments and we all need to be industry before turning his hand to prepared to roll with the changes.” education. Passing on his skills and According to Paul Kulpa, choosing the knowledge is important to him, and the Trainer of the Year is always a very difficult one-on-one model that the MTA Institute decision, and it was even more so in a year uses to deliver training has proved, Ross that was affected by the COVID pandemic, said, to be a positive for everyone involved. with all the Institute’s staff putting in the “I wanted to teach in some capacity, and hard yards to make sure the apprentices the opportunity through this job was to and their employers received the best level use my real-world experience as a basis for of service possible. teaching to the next generation coming “This was always going to be hard to through. It is very rewarding,” he said. pick because all the trainers put in a “The workplace model we use is, I feel, big effort over the year,” said Mr Kulpa. really appreciated by employers,” he added. “However, Ross performed exceptionally “It doesn’t disrupt their workplace as given his extra responsibilities of

TRAINER OF THE YEAR 2020

“I AM VERY HONOURED TO WIN THE AWARD AND I REALLY HAD NO IDEA IT WAS COMING, BUT IT REALLY IS A TEAM EFFORT,”

88 | Motor Trader February 2021

FAREWELL TO A FRIEND

the students understand what they are learning, putting that into practice, and completing their apprenticeship.”

He was enthusiastic too of highlighting the potential that a career in automotive offered to young people.

“There is so much opportunity in the industry and so many places you can go in your job. It is always changing and provides a great career path,” he said.

“Learn as much as you can – there is always something new!”

Over his years with the Institute, Richard trained hundreds of young people who can look back at their work with him as the starting point of a rewarding career. His loss would, said MTA Institute General Manager Paul Kulpa, be deeply felt.

“Richard was a terrific trainer,” said Mr Kulpa. “He provided tremendous service to his students and employers and was a truly valued member of the MTA Institute team. He was also a great bloke. Nothing was ever too difficult for him, and he was always willing to help out to get things done. He will be sorely missed.”

IT IS WITH a heavy heart that we report on the death in early January of Richard Matthews - MTA Institute Richard Matthews trainer and beloved colleague to us all here at MTA Queensland.

Richard had been with the MTA Institute since 2014, joining the organisation after 20 years working in the automotive industry. His wide range of skills and deep knowledge would see him deliver apprenticeship training across a range of disciplines - including auto electrical, light vehicle, parts interpreting, and motorcycle technology - to apprentices across the Cairns/Townsville region.

He had a real passion for the automotive industry and found training apprentices was fulfilling work, saying in an interview with Motor Trader in 2015 that the most satisfying aspect of his job was “seeing

February 2021 Motor Trader | 89

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Institute’s training operation.

“I’ve never seen a year like 2020, but the training team did a remarkable job in the most trying of circumstances,” he said.

“We navigated COVID-19 through flexibility, through working with students and employers, and we got through the challenge without missing a beat. We improved our innovation in training delivery and support services with our learning management system and programs such as Auto Camp, the Automotive Pre-Vocational courses, and HEV/BEV programs.

“2021 will bring its own set of unique challenges, but we have a strong team and look forward to taking on those new challenges and enjoying the success of the hard work done this past year.”

M E M B E R S

becoming a Senior Trainer.

“He provided quality training delivery, has well established systems in place, his administration is always spot on, and he delivers excellent customer service.

“He has an excellent understanding of our operations and is able to execute work directions with minimal direction. He is also able to assist with feedback around our Learning Management System and is always looking for ways where we can improve our business processes.

“Overall, his commitment to training students and helping employers is second to none and is deserving of the accolade.”

Commenting further on the COVIDaffected year that was 2020, Mr Kulpa acknowledged the phenomenal work done by everyone involved with the MTA

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 December 2020: • Nick Contarino Exclusive Auto Centre • Antony Savva Mangano Body Repairs • Wayne Pacey Suncorp • Greg Pickering Suncorp

• Robert Scott • Mal Main • Richard Kirby • Miseno Lorenzini • Erwin Mirabueno • Macauley Kippen • Rod Nelson • Robert Black • Brett Anderson • Dale Moore • Joshua Cardno • Davide Crivellaro • Charles Cauchi • Mark DeBono • Daniel Greig • Craig Tod

Sowerby’s Crash Repairs Drive Accident Solutions H Harvey Prestige RACQ Insurance O’Brien Body and Paint Bissell’s Paint & Panel Auto & General Insurance Services H Harvey Prestige Auto & General Insurance Services Sowerby’s Crash Repairs Exclusive Auto Centre Exclusive Auto Centre Gold Coast Collision Centre East Coast Paint and Panel Bissell’s Paint & Panel Bissell’s Paint & Panel

MTA Queensland welcomes the following new members BUSINESS NAME

ADDRESS

Barnsey's Trailer and Truck Sales Pty Ltd Big Wheels Truck Alignment Bohle Bumblebee Motors

57 Gladstone Road, Allenstown 4700 53-57 Crocodile Crescent, Bohle 4818 1 Barang St, Kuranda, 4881 14-18 Hay Street, Capella 4723 3/26 Traders Wy, Currumbin, 4223 19 Megan Crt, Thornlands, 4164 43A Egerton St, Southport 4215 92 Eclipse Lane, Springsure 4722 Shop 3, 14 Eclipse Drive, Atherton 4883

CMF Rural Industrial Tyres & Mechanical Currumbin Wreckers Dream Automotive Nizzpro Performance Outback Tyres

Professional Motorcycles and Motors

90 | Motor Trader February 2021

EMAIL john@barnseystrailers.com.au townsville@bigwheels.net.au bumblebeemotors@bigpond.com admin@cmfforklifts.com.au currumbinacc@gmail.com sales@dreamautomotive.com.au nizzpro@hotmail.com admin@obtyres.com.au brucebazz67@gmail.com

DIVISION

AADA TUDQ ARD TUDQ APRD ARD AED TUDQ QMID

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.

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Receive FREE expert advice on Workplace 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.

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

SAVE WITH OUR CORPORATE PARTNERS

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ADVOCACY

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

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Concept corner

NISSAN GT-R (X) 92 | Motor Trader February 2021

) 2050 CONCEPT February 2021 Motor Trader | 93

Concept corner

NISSAN GT-R (X) 2050 CONCEPT

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HEN CAR DESIGNERS are free to let their imagination run wild, some remarkable concepts can leap into life. And this, the GT-R(X) 2050 concept, is a fine example of that.

This particular effort comes from the mind of young designer Jaebum ‘JB’ Choi, an intern at Nissan Design America (NDA) in California.

His project – part of his college thesis and a design that riffs on ‘a future autonomous era when machines can embody a driver’s emotion through a physical connection’ – was interesting and innovative enough for NDA to take more than a passing interest and decide to build a full-size model of the concept.

So, what is it that we are looking at here?

Well, the completed GT-R(X) 2050 runs just over three metres long and sits at just over 0.6 metres high. There’s room only for the driver who lies on their front with limbs extended in an X-shape. The driver wears

94 | Motor Trader February 2021

“EXO-SKELETONS TODAY MAKE PEOPLE STRONGER BY WEARING MECHANICAL STRUCTURES. I TRIED TO FIT THE SIZE OF A PERSON’S BODY AS MUCH AS I COULD, AS IF I WERE WEARING A CAR.” a form-fitting suit and virtual-reality helmet - that resembles a superbike riders’ protective helmet and leathers – with the helmet providing clear vision by plugging into and displaying the vision from a suite of cameras.

Taking a further leap into the future, and the technology that may await, the car is designed to be controlled via brain power. Choi says he envisioned a connection between the human brain and the vehicle’s computer that would provide better performance than ‘ordinary’ self-driving cars. The car is, in effect, a ‘wearable machine’.

“Exo-skeletons today make people

stronger by wearing mechanical structures. I tried to fit the size of a person’s body as much as I could, as if I were wearing a car,” Choi explained about the vehicle’s compact layout. “I wanted to create a new form of machine that is not a vehicle to ride, it is the space where machine and the human become one.”

OK, so this may all sound a bit science fiction, but let’s not dismiss it out of hand.

Let’s remember that a certain automotive business mogul (and recent claimant

of the title of World’s Richest Person) is, through his company Neuralink, researching the potential of brainmachine interfacing, and if there’s one thing we have learned in the past couple of decades it’s that you can’t ignore the musings of one Elon Musk.

Anyway, if nothing else, the GT-R (X) 2050 Concept reveals just where the thinking of the next generation of car designers is headed. And it’s an interesting and pretty exciting direction.

February 2021 Motor Trader | 95

Investment matters

MARKET WRAP

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OMESTICALLY, THE S&P/ ASX 200 Accumulation Index was up 1.21% during the period. Information Technology (+9.4%) was the best performing sector during the period. Large-Caps Afterpay (APT, +24.4%) and Xero (XRO, +13.8%) drove the gains, following a strong lead from U.S technology peers. Materials (+8.8%) continued their strong run, as iron ore prices remain elevated. BHP Group (BHP, +11.5%) and Fortescue Metals Group (FMG, +28.5%) remained the largest contributors to performance.

Utilities (-6.8%) was the worst performing sector, as defensive sectors continue to underperform in the re-opening trade.

AGL Energy (AGL, -11.5%) and APA Group (APA, -6.8%) led declines. Health Care (-4.9%) also underperformed as their defensive nature counted against them in a month that largely rewarded cyclical names. CSL (CSL, -4.8%) was the largest contributor to the sector’s performance, however many of the large cap names were down strongly.

International equities were up strongly in December, with the vaccine rally continuing in to Christmas. The Korean markets (KOSPI +10.9%) posted strong gains again in December as key constituents in the pharmaceutical, technology and renewables space gained.

Its neighbouring exchanges were also strong, with Japan (Nikkei 225 +3.8%) and 96 | Motor Trader February 2021

Hong Kong (Hang Seng +3.4%) trailing China (CSI 300 +5.1%). The United States’ two exchanges were both up, with the NASDAQ (5.7%) outperforming the S&P 500 (3.7%) due to a resurgence in the big technology names. The United Kingdom (FTSE 100 3.1%) ended higher with Brexit negotiations reaching some semblance of conclusion, while the European markets underperformed (Euro Stoxx 50 +1.7%).

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