Motor Trader - February - Online Edition

motor trader

motor trader queensland | vol. 83 | issue 1 | Feb 2012

Best cars awards 2011 sales results International Rally of QLD Global price fixing inquiry

R&D Tax Incentive

Workplace Health & Safety laws Top ten 4x4s

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                       

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Official Publication of the Motor Trades Association of Queensland

contents

Head Office 1000 Wynnum Building 8, 2728Road, LoganCannon Road, Eight Hill, Mile Qld Plains, 4170 Qld 4113 P.O. Box 4530, 560, Morningside, Eight Mile Plains, Qld 4170 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

2. From the editor 4. Policy/Viewpoint Industrial Relations

Managing Editor

Industry Update

Kellie Dewar

Editor in Chief Michael Taylor

Art Director

Peter Richardson

Advertising Enquiries

Jeff Dunlop Jillian Anfield Mobile: 0414 075 0422 473 007 944 Facsimile: 07 3844 4488 Email: jilliana@mtaq.com.au jeffd@mtaq.com.au

Editorial

Editorial submissions are welcomed but cannot be guaranteed placement. For more information telephone the Editor 07 3237 8777

Subscription Rates (including GST) Australia: $72.60 annually Overseas: $110 annually Motor Trader Publishing Policy Motor Trader is the official publication of the Motor Trades Association of Queensland. The role of Motor Trader is to inform members of current issues and legislation affecting the industry. As such it can be regarded as the business magazine for the Queensland motor industry. The role of Motor Trader is not to be in competition with the technical magazines already on the market. It will advise of new vehicles being released and of the latest technology incorporated into them; it will advise of latest technology affecting members in each of the MTA Queensland Divisions; it will keep members abreast of the latest in motor industry training and industrial affairs; and it will keep members informed of the latest technical aids available through MTA Queensland Member Services, which will assist members in staying ahead of the technological revolution presently being encountered within the motor industry. The publisher reserves the right to omit or alter any advertisement and the advertiser agrees to indemnify the publisher for all damages or liabilities arising from the published material.

MTA Queensland ABN: 74 028 933 848

Corporate Partners

6. New Workplace Health And Safety Laws commenced 1st January 2012 8. Queensland’s police driving four new HSV’s Bentley sales surge in 2011 New HSV’s for Queensland Police, p. 8 9. Motorcycle sales achieve growth in 2011 10. ‘Parkour’ urban vehicle wins design award 11. Backstroke champion drives Suzuki Swift Digital radios becoming standard 12. Zero Emission Centre in Paris open to public New funding bolsters Ford through 2016 13. Novice drivers have high road incidents 14. Global price fixing investigation 15. Hat trick for Monash Uni Top ten best buys

Features 16. Australia’s Best Cars Awards 2011 24. Financial support for the automotive sector

Apprentices 20. Multiple award-winning apprentice shines on Gold Coast

Global price fixing investigation, p. 14

Health 22. Men’s body image issues

Sport 28. High profile drivers coming to Sunshine Coast 29. Book now for Phillip Island Superbike event Reed starts strong in 2012 opener 30. Land Rover sponsors Gold Coast’s biggest surf event

Automobile News 31. Opel Mokka Hexa Space FJ Cruiser wins 4x4 of the year award 32. Scirocco R is sporty and precise Wraps come off Toyota 86 Peugeot 4008 SUV

Sunshine Coast to host International Rally of QLD, p. 28 motor trader queensland

1

from the editor

Michael Taylor, Editor

W

e welcome our Association’s new policy and media director, Greg Milne, who takes over the role that Richard Payne held for three years before his retirement in early January. Greg’s column on page 4 covers the 2011 new vehicle industry results.

Before Richard retired, he reminded us in recent editions of this magazine (as well as via ‘Members Bulletins’) of the Personal Property Securities Act that at the time of this writing were to take effect as from 31st January. See the Bennett & Philp advertisement on the inside front cover of this edition for further information and contact details should you require assistance.

BDO has contributed an extensive article (page 24) on the new R&D tax incentive that will have a significant impact on the automotive sector. If ‘R&D’ activities apply to you and you need some help figuring it all out, BDO has a group of specialists who can help you. Their telephone number is at the end of the article on page 26.

Although there’s a slew of

MIT’s latest student of the month - Bradley Thornton of Kirra Mechanical on the Gold Coast – is a shining example of what can happen via the school-based apprenticeship scheme.

Bradley originally went to the shop to gain work experience but was quickly snapped up by the employer due to his eagerness to learn and do as much as possible. organisations that name the ‘best cars’ of 2011, we’ve printed Australia’s Best Car awards as presented by the AAA (Australian Automobile Association) beginning on page 16. Executive Director Andrew McKellar points out that the results are what they are because consumers are “increasingly tech-savvy, and they expect new cars to offer the latest in consumer technology to

complement their busy social and work lives”. European vehicles dominated the awards, winning 10 of the 15 categories.

Ted Kowalski outlines (beginning on page 6) the new workplace health and safety laws that started on January 1st this year. Have a read of this and keep this information handy because there are some important changes that will have an effect on everyone.

MIT’s latest student of the month - Bradley Thornton of Kirra Mechanical on the Gold Coast – is a shining example of what can happen via the school-based apprenticeship scheme (page 20). Bradley originally went to the shop to gain work experience but was quickly snapped up by the employer due to his eagerness to learn and do as much as possible. Only 18 years old, Bradley greatly values his now permanent full time job where he is not only increasing his automotive skills, he is also learning a great deal about running a business.

Queensland’s Automotive Centre of Excellence INST IT UT E OF T ECHNOLOGY

Queensland’s Peak Automotive Industry Body

Automotive Training Specialists

One Stop Industry Support for:

Specialising in:

• Government and Media Representations

• Light Vehicle Mechanical Technicians

• Industrial Relations Advice

• Motorcycle Mechanical Technicians

• Technical Information

• Automotive Electrical Technicians

• Professional Business Conduct within a

• Parts Interpreting

Strict Code of Ethics

• Management Courses

• Consumer Assurance • Legal Advice • Industry-specific Publications and Stationery

2

motor trader queensland

Free call 1800 177 951

• Specialist Automotive Technicians

Board Members David Fraser President Chairman, Queensland Farm and Industrial Machinery Dealer Division (QFIMIDD)

Steve Eaton Vice President Representative, Far North Queensland region

Mark Bryers Vice President Chairman, Engine Reconditioners Association Qld (ERAQ)

Paul Peterson Secretary/Treasurer Chairman, Queensland Motorcycle Industry Division (QMID)

Len Daddow President, Australian Automobile Dealers Association (Qld) (AADA(Q))

Glen Ford Chairman, Auto Parts Recyclers Division (APRD)

Tim Kane Chairman, Service Station & Convenience Store Association Qld (SSCSAQ)

John Ruddick Chairman, Tyre & Undercar Division of Qld (TUDQ)

Charlie Serchen Chairman, Automotive Engineers Division (AED)

Daryll Searle Chairman, Used Car Division (UCD)

Mark Brady Chairman, National Auto Collision Alliance (NACA)

Chris Ching Chairman, Rental Vehicle Industry Division (RVID)

Rod Pether Representative, North Queensland region

Graham Winter Representative, South West region

Les Anderson Representative, Central Queensland region

Dean Turner Representative, South East (North) region

policy/viewpoint 2011 Full Year – New Vehicle Industry Results

Q

ueensland was the only Australian state or territory to record an increased volume of new vehicle sales in 2011.

Although the national new vehicle industry exceeded one million sales (1,008,437) for only the fourth time in its history, total sales across the country were down by 2.6% (or 27,137 sales) on the previous year, reflecting the ongoing challenging market conditions.

Queensland bucked the trend in other states, recording a 1.4% increase in sales volumes to 210,876 (see graph below).

This compares to results in NSW (down 0.6%), Victoria (down 4.7%), South Australia (down 5.5%), Western Australia (down 6.8%) and Tasmania (down 13.4%).

The 2011 results reflect a

Greg Milne, Policy and Media Director

tough year for the industry.

Economic uncertainty and natural disasters at home and overseas impacted heavily on sales.

52,137) with significant increases in sales to business (10.3%) and the Rental sector (80.5%).

Queensland continues to play ‘catch-up’ in terms of results and sales volumes in 2011 have still not returned to pre-2008 levels. Further steady improvement is anticipated in 2012.

Of the volume segments, sales of SUV Compact vehicles were up 15.1%, while Small Passenger Vehicles sales were up 8.3%. Conversely, Medium Passenger Vehicle sales were down 9.7%, and Large Vehicles Sales down 29%.

Other trends to note in 2011 included: • Sales of Passenger vehicles were down overall by 3.7% (on volumes of 105,102) mainly due to the Government (down 15%) and Rental (down 15.3%) sectors.

• Sales of SUVs were up by 8.2% (on volumes of

• Sales of ‘diesel’ Passenger vehicles fell by 1.8% to 6.4% of total Passenger sales, reversing the gains seen in 2010.

• Sales of ‘hybrid’ Passenger vehicles increased by 27.3% (volume of 424).

• Sales of PU/CC 4X4 were up 15.2% (29,546).

• Sales of locally manufactured vehicles were down 7.3% (23,436), while sales of imported vehicles were up 2.6% (187,463).

The table (opposite top) provides a graphical representation of volume segments: Congratulations to all dealers for their efforts in 2011 in what was a difficult trading year. The tables opposite below reflect results by Marque and Model.

Queensland New Vehicle Sales 240,000

230,000

220.000 210,000

200,000

190,000 180,000 NVS 4

2007

2008

2009

2010

2011

2012 Proj.

234,551

214,870

199.306

207.919

210,876

215,000

motor trader queensland

Although the national new vehicle industry exceeded one million sales (1,008,437) for only the fourth time in its history, total sales across the country were down by 2.6% (or 27,137 sales) on the previous year, reflecting the ongoing challenging market conditions.

Pass Light

Pass Small

2Pass Medium

Pass Large

SUV Compact

SUV Medium

PU/CC 4X2

PU/CC 4X4

25.0%

20.0%

15.0%

10.0%

5.0%

0.0% 2005

2006

2007

2008

2009

2010

2011

Pass Light

10.3%

12.9%

12.6%

13.1%

12.7%

13.6%

13.3%

Pass Small

20.5%

20.8%

19.9%

19.9%

20.8%

21.0%

22.4%

Pass Medium

7.9%

7.8%

7.7%

7.2%

6.7%

6.9%

6.1%

Pass Large

14.9%

11.7%

10.9%

9.2%

8.5%

8.1%

5.6%

SUV Compact

7.5%

8.6%

8.8%

9.0%

9.5%

11.2%

12.8%

SUV Medium

7.0%

6.2%

7.1%

7.6%

8.1%

8.4%

7.9%

PU/CC 4X2

10.2%

9.2%

8.9%

9.4%

9.1%

6.9%

6.4%

PU/CC 4X4

8.7%

9.7%

10.9%

11.8%

12.8%

12.3%

14.0%

Queensland Market

Full Year 2011

Queensland Market

+/Full Year.

2010

Full Year 2011

%

Market Share %

-4,045

-8.9%

19.6

22,618

-988

-4.2%

10.7

Mazda

19,104

1,509

8.6%

9.1

4

Hyundai

18,612

1,316

7.6%

8.8

12.7%

5

Ford

17,495

-1,168

-6.3%

8.3

5,702

19.3%

6

Nissan

17,080

2,863

20.1%

8.1

Holden Commodore

5,545

49.8%

7

Mitsubishi

16,110

1,059

7.0%

7.6

8

Mitsubishi Lancer

4,726

10.4%

8

Volkswagen

7,052

1,205

20.6%

3.3

9

Toyota Camry (4 cyl)

3,990

38.6%

9

Subaru

6,051

-94

-1.5%

2.9

10

Mazda2

3,678

13.2%

10

Kia

5,749

338

6.2%

2.7

210,899

2,980

1.4%

100.0

Rank

Model

Sales

1

Mazda3

8,100

2

Toyota Corolla

3

Segment Share %

Full Year 2011

Rank

Marque

Sales

Sales

17.8%

1

Toyota

41,389

7,331

16.1%

2

Holden

Toyota Hilux 4X4

6,840

23.2%

3

4

Hyundai i30

6,169

13.5%

5

Holden Cruze

5,780

6

Nissan Navara 4X4

7

TOTAL

210,899

Total

motor trader queensland

5

industrial relations New Workplace Health And Safety Laws commenced 1st January 2012

F

rom 1st January 2012, new national workplace health and safety laws took effect and take the place of existing State legislation. It’s important to familiarize yourself with the main changes as shown below: • Change in jurisdiction for prosecutions – all prosecutions will be heard before a Magistrate rather than before an Industrial Magistrate and appeals will go to the District Court rather than to the Industrial Court of Queensland.

• Removal of strict liability to ensure health and safety – the requirement to ensure workplace health and safety will now be to the extent that it is “reasonably practicable”, thus allowing more scope for defending prosecutions.

• Privilege against self-incrimination to be removed – the current ability to refuse to answer questions during an investigation, on the basis that it could incriminate you, will no longer apply.

• Definition of “worker” to be expanded – persons conducting a business or undertaking will have added responsibilities because labour hire persons, contractors and sub-contractors will be included in the definition of “worker”.

6

motor trader queensland

Ted Kowalski, Industrial Relations Manager

• Due diligence obligation for company officers – company officers will have to take a more active involvement on health and safety within the business to ensure blame cannot be attributed to them in the case of an injury to an employee.

• Increased consultation obligations – there will now be a legislative requirement for employers to consult with their workers and other duty holders on issues of workplace safety.

• Health and Safety Representative retained – While Workplace Health and Safety Officers will no longer be required, Health and Safety Representatives will be retained under the new laws and will be given expanded powers including the ability to direct unsafe work to stop.

• Tougher penalties – there will be a substantial increase in the penalties for breaches of the legislation, so that, for example, the present maximum penalty against a company, where multiple fatalities occur, will increase from the present $1 million to $3 million.

Due diligence requirement The new workplace health and safety legislation imposes a duty on officers of corporations to exercise due diligence to ensure that the company is meeting its health and safety obligations.

To demonstrate due diligence officers will have

to show that they have taken reasonable steps to: • Acquire and update their knowledge of health and safety matters • Understand the operations being carried out by the persons conducting the business in which they are employed, and the hazards and risks associated with the operations • Ensure that the person conducting the business has, and uses, appropriate resources and processes to eliminate or minimise health and safety risks arising from the work being done • Ensure that the person conducting the business has appropriate processes in place to receive and respond promptly to information regarding incidents, hazards and risks

found on the Safe Work Australia website http:// www.safeworkaustralia. gov.au) • Investigating current industry issues through conferences, seminars, information and awareness sessions, industry groups, newsletters etc.

• Acquiring up to date knowledge of workplace health and safety management principles and practices • Ensuring that workplace health and safety matters are considered at each corporation board meeting.

Understanding operations and associated hazards and risks can be met by: • Developing a plan of the operation that identifies hazards in core activities

• Ensure that the person conducting the business has, and uses, processes to comply with duties or obligations of the health and safety legislation.

• Ensuring that information is readily available to other officers and workers about procedures to ensure the safety of specific operations that pose health and safety risks in the workplace

Demonstrating due diligence

• Continuously improving the safety management system

Shown below are suggestions on how to meet the criteria listed above.

Acquiring knowledge of health and safety issues can be met by: • Acquiring up to date knowledge of the Workplace Health and Safety Bill, regulations and codes of practice (Queensland legislation can be found on the WHSQ website at http:// www.worksafe.qld.gov. au/workplace and model WHS legislation can be

Ensuring that appropriate resources and processes are used to eliminate or minimise risks to health and safety can be met by: • Establishing/maintaining safe methods of work • Implementing a safety management system • Recruiting personnel, including safety personnel, with appropriate skills • Ensuring staffing levels are adequate for safety in operations

• Giving safety personnel access to decision makers for urgent issues • Maintaining/upgrading infrastructure Implementing processes for receiving and responding to information about incidents, hazards and risks can be met by: • Employing a risk management process • Having efficient, timely reporting systems • Empowering workers to cease unsafe work and request better resources • Establishing processes for considering/responding to information about incidents, hazards and risks in a timely fashion • Measuring against positive performance

indicators to identify deficiencies (for example, percentage of issues actioned within an agreed timeframe) Establishing and maintaining compliance processes can be met by: • Undertaking a legal compliance audit of policies, procedures and practices • Testing policies, procedures and practices to verify compliance with safety management planning

Accessing up-to-date safety information As part of due diligence requirements, officers need up to date knowledge about safety issues. They must also ensure that their

employer and workers have ready access to information that will help then to avoid risks and hazards in the workplace.

Change to requirement to have Workplace Health and Safety Officer Under the previous Queensland Workplace Health and Safety Act, a business having 30 or more employees was required to have a qualified Workplace Health and Safety Officer (WHSO).

Businesses will no longer be legally obliged to have a qualified Workplace Health and Safety Officer after 31st December 2011. As an interim measure, any WHSO whose recertification

date fell on or after 13th May 2011 will automatically have his/her certification extended to 31st December 2011 and will have a new WHSO licence card posted out him/her.

While a business will no longer be obliged to have a qualified WHSO after 31st December 2011, those that do currently have such a person on staff would be well advised to retain the knowledge and expertise of their WHSO beyond that date. The requirement to exercise due diligence in matters of workplace health and safety will continue under the new legislation, and, retaining the services of a person trained in workplace health and safety would be one useful way to address that obligation.

MTA Queensland welcomes the following new members Business Name

Principal/s

Street/Postal Address

Division

Car Craft Group

Dean Taylor

3 Wepham Court, Arundel QLD 4214 Dean.taylor@car-craft.com.au

NACA

Currumbin Autobody Repairs

Stephen Bryant

4 Leonard Parade, Currumbin QLD 4223 steve@currumbinautobodyrepairs.com.au

NACA

Crackin Customs

Mr Mark Hill

Unit 4/10 Pacific Avenue, Miami QLD 4220 crackincustoms@hotmail.com

NACA

Silkstone Auto Centre

Dimitrios Spiliotopoulos

134 Blackstone Road, Silkstone QLD 4304 bp_silkstone@hotmail.com

SSCSAQ

Sommerville Smash Repairs

Chris Agnew

12 O’Shea Drive, Nerang QLD 4211 chris@sommervillesmashrepairs.com

NACA

A1 Panel & Paint

Wayne Pothecary

19 Saville Street, Emerald QLD 4720 a1panel@westnet.com.au

NACA

Miners Mate Mechanical

William McKenzie

46 Marian Street, Mt Isa QLD 4825 wmc40604@bigpond.net.au

AED

Graham Taylor Automotive Repairs

Bradley Elms

42 Dawson Highway, Biloela QLD 4175 b.m.contracting@bigpond.com

AED

Bissell’s Paint and Panel

Mr Iain Kippen

33 Rene Street, Noosaville QLD 4566 info@bissellspaintandpanel.com

Caltex Woolworths Carindale

Timothy Cowan

1055 Creek Road, Carindale QLD 4152 t.cowan@hotmail.com

Southern Beaches Smash Repairs

Ramiz Kapur

2/44 Kortum Drive, Burleigh Heads QLD 4220 sbsmash@optusnet.com.au

Tranfers NACA SSCSAQ

motor trader queensland

NACA

7

industry update Queensland’s police driving four new HSV’s

A

t the launch in early December of their Christmas Road Safety Campaign, the Queensland Police Service unveiled four unique Holden Special Vehicles that are now playing a very visible role in the fight to make the roads safer.

In conjunction with the Queensland Police Fleet Management Branch, Holden Special Vehicles (HSV) developed the unique, high performance vehicles that are now being used extensively as highway patrol vehicles in Queensland Police enforcement operations.

Based on the popular ClubSport R8 model, the “SV-R” model (short for Special Vehicle Response) was developed

by HSV’s engineering team exclusively for the Queensland Police Service.

The four ClubSport R8 SV-R vehicles feature a unique engine and suspension package and are emblazoned with prominent livery to promote the “Fatal 4” message – that is, don’t drink and drive, don’t speed, don’t drive when fatigued, and always wear a seatbelt.

“Our engineers worked closely with the Queensland Police Fleet Management Branch to get a clear appreciation of their critical safety and operational requirements” said Darren Bowler, HSV’s General Manager Sales.

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Holden developed the

unique, high performance vehicles that are used

extensively as highway patrol vehicles

“After an extensive period of evaluating their needs, and testing by the Queensland Police, the SV-R is the best possible outcome,” he added.

The vivid yellow “Fatal 4” vehicles are highly visible and designed to stand out on the roads as a reminder to all Queenslanders that driver and passenger safety should always be a priority.

The ClubSport R8 SV-R is unique with its 325kW power output (the same as its GTS model) and “SV Enhanced” Performance suspension to handle the load carrying requirements.

Bentley sales surge in 2011

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entley bounced back to pre-recession levels of demand during 2011, with strong growth in all major markets.

Globally, sales were up 37% to 7003 for the calendar year with sales accelerating as the year progressed.

December sales were 1059 (up 69% on the same month in 2010), the best month since Bentley’s pre-recession record of 2007 and the second best month ever.

The US continues to be Bentley’s number one market with 2021 cars sold in 2011, an increase of 32%. For the first time ever, however, China took second spot with sales for the region virtually doubling to 1839 and surpassing the previous year’s record before the end of July. This achievement is even more remarkable considering Bentley has been present in Mainland China for less than ten years.

Other regions have also performed very well.

Continental European sales rebounded to 1187 (an increase of 53%) led by strong demand in Germany

where sales have increased by a remarkable 88%. The UK proved to be extremely challenging over the past months, but still saw an increase of over five per cent with 1031 cars sold. Indeed, all major markets are up including the Middle East despite the political instability that has beset certain markets.

Bentley’s Chairman and Chief Executive, Wolfgang Dürheimer, said that it had been a tremendously good year for Bentley.

“The dramatic sales growth reflects a global strength to the Brand and a recognition of the quality, craftsmanship and engineering excellence of our cars,” he said.

“It is also testament to the work of the entire Bentley Team whose passion and daily commitment has delivered this outstanding result.

Right: Honda’s CBR250R Below: The Bentlewy Continental GTC

“It has been particularly pleasing to see renewed interest in Bentley in established as well as and new and emerging markets, all of which contributed to a positive operating result for 2011.

over a third of Bentley’s

“We want that success to continue and, with a new Continental V8 set to attract new customers in 2012, gives us ambitious but realistic plans that reflect global economic conditions as much as our new product line up,” he added.

received fantastic reviews

The strong performance was the result of strong demand across the range, with the new Continental GT unsurprisingly proving the most popular Bentley with 2404 GTs delivered

total sales volume. Sales were boosted significantly in December with the first deliveries of the new soft-top Continental GTC, a new model that has from media and customers alike. Together with the Bentley Mulsanne, which continues to maintain a healthy order bank that is constantly replenished as more customers get to drive the flagship Bentley, sales growth is expected to continue unabated during 2012.

Motorcycle sales achieve growth in 2011

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otorcycle sales in Australia continued to grow significantly in the final months of 2011, according to official figures released by the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries (FCAI).

A total of 109,067 new motorcycles, all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) and scooters were delivered to customers during the full year 2011, an increase of 3226 motorcycles (or growth of 3.0 per cent).

31,938 motorcycles were delivered in the fourth quarter alone (between October and December), compared with 26,750 in the third quarter.

FCAI chief executive Ian Chalmers said the recovery of motorcycle sales was encouraging given some recent years of soft sales nationwide.

“While sales of road and off-road motorcycles have remained reasonably static throughout the year, scooter and all-terrain vehicle segments have continued their impressive growth again this year,” he said.

“The 18.4 per cent growth in ATV sales is somewhat indicative of the recovery of rural economies nationwide, where these motorcycles are most popular.

“8.9 per cent growth in scooter sales continues to highlight the popularity of these modes of personal continued on next page

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industry update transport, as motorists seek to avoid high petrol prices and increasingly congested metropolitan roads,” he said.

A total of 22,428 ATVs were sold in 2011, up 18.4 per cent (or 3486 units).

More than one in five motorcycles sold last year was an ATV. The scooter segment finished the year with 11,374 sales, up 8.8 per cent (or 929 scooters).

Sales of road bikes recovered strongly in the fourth quarter, finishing the year 1.4 per cent ahead of 2010 with 38,628 sales.

The only segment not to grow in 2011 was off-road motorcycles, with sales volumes declining 4.5 per cent (1735 sales).

Mr Chalmers said despite the decline in off-road segment sales, seven of the top 10 motorcycles remain off-road dirt bikes.

“Australians continue to embrace motorcycling as a favoured recreational activity, and off-road motorcycles fill this role particularly well.

“The off-road segment remains the second largest, accounting for 36,637 sales, almost 34 per cent of the total market,” he said.

Motorcycle sales in Australia peaked in 2008, with 134,279 motorcycles delivered to customers that year.

Japanese manufacturers continue to dominate sales.

Honda was the number one brand, delivering 24,024 motorcycles to the end of December.

Yamaha was in second position with 20,152 sales, 10

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followed by Suzuki (13,671), Kawasaki (9745) and Harley Davidson (6427).

Honda’s CRF50F was the most popular single model (2982 sales), followed by long-time favourite the Honda CT110 model, sold almost exclusively to Australia Post as a delivery bike.

Honda’s CBR250R was the country’s most popular conventional road bike with 2172 sales.

Mr Chalmers said the industry was looking forward to 2012, with an optimistic outlook for both sales and wider industry issues.

“With favourable conditions continuing across regional areas, coupled with stable economic outlook, we see sales growing further in 2012,” he said.

‘Parkour’ urban vehicle wins design award

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ar designers have been competing to create “Hollywood’s Next Hottest Movie Car”.

The Design Challenge competition was the focus of the Design Los Angeles Conference at the recent LA Auto Show and attracted entries from Honda, Hyundai, Maybach, Mercedes-Benz, Smart and Subaru.

Smart took the award for its 341 Parkour urban vehicle - a fantasy car conceived to drive, fly and climb up the walls of skyscrapers.

Conference co-sponsor Dassault Systèmes says the Design

Challenge demonstrated that the best designs are the result of collaboration among diverse players.

“The best ideas don’t surface in isolation, and an event like the Design Challenge - which encourages competitive creativity - syncs perfectly with our goals,” said Anne Asensio, VP design experience, Dassault Systèmes.

“As the leading provider of engineering design software to the automotive community, we aim to enable innovation by opening up the creative process to all stakeholders - from designers through to consumers.”

The majority of vehicles on sale today have been designed using Dassault Systèmes’ CATIA software.

Dassault Systèmes is widely used by manufacturers in the Australian automotive industry at both an OEM and supplier level.

Emerging US carmaker Fisker Automotive used CATIA for virtual design Left: The Smart 341 Parkour.

Below: The Karma sedan.

and ENOVIA for product data management and collaboration in the development of its Karma and Surf hybrid-powered models.

“We are proud to have successfully delivered highly-stylised vehicles while achieving all our ecorequirements,” said Mikael Elley, director of Fisker IT. With numerous suppliers involved in the design and manufacture of the vehicles, ENOVIA allowed the company to integrate and manage its information among its supply base, while tracking design changes and capturing best practices.

Backstroke champion drives Suzuki Swift

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uzuki Queensland has dived in and thrown its corporate weight behind Olympic and Commonwealth Games gold medalist, Emily Seebohm, signing her as a brand ambassador.

The outstanding Queenslander who collected a haul of eight medals at last year’s Commonwealth Games in Delhi, will now drive to her nine training sessions each week in a Suzuki Swift, as well as

“CATIA’s functionality in both solid and surface modelling has enabled Fisker to develop a more efficient product development process where all design elements are integrated through one model, eliminating nonvalue added mathematic conversion time,” said Paul Houghton, Fisker’s director of operations.

“This allows us to focus more on creativity so that we can deliver vehicles with unique styling in shorter timeframes.”

Emily is one of Australia’s youngest current Olympic champions and a perfect ambassador for Suzuki’s Way Of Life strategy which includes encouraging people to live an active and productive lifestyle.” market – it just oozes style,” Emily said.

“It’s also the perfect size for me to manage as a young driver as well as having every comfort and convenience feature you could wish for.”

“The standardised collaborative design methods enabled through CATIA and managed

by ENOVIA SmarTeam help to save us time and money, as well as encourage innovation and sharing of labour among our globallydispersed teams,” said Mr Elley.

This approach helped the company to quickly launch its second model vehicle, the Surf, the first example of which was not a prototype, but a full production model.

“At 19 years of age,

As an ambassador, Emily will assist to promote the Suzuki brand and its interface with community activities.

having the car for her own personal use.

“Emily has acquitted herself with grace, courage and humility in achieving medal winning performances around the world including a gold at Beijing,” said Suzuki Queensland General Manager, Mr. Adam Le Fevre.

Emily is Suzuki’s second brand ambassador in Queensland alongside surf reporter, weather presenter and television personality, Liz Cantor.

Digital radios becoming standard

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igital radios are slowly becoming standard in Australian cars as Toyota includes a DAB+ digital radio in its Melbourne-built Camry Atara SL this year.

The Atara SL is now the cheapest car in the country to come stocked with a DAB+ digital radio as standard, fitted into a console that combines the radio with a 7-inch touch screen, CD player and reversing camera, all hooked to a JBL sound system.

The move follows Hino Australia’s more dedicated push to make digital radio standard in all of its trucks.

European carmakers like BMW and Audi are also taking up digital radios, but as an optional extra rather than stock.

Australian broadcasters running on digital see the gradual move by car manufacturers as a plus for the format as a third of Aussie listeners are in their cars while listening to the radio. continued on next page

“At 19 years of age, Emily is one of Australia’s youngest current Olympic champions and a perfect ambassador for Suzuki’s Way Of Life strategy which includes encouraging people to live an active and productive lifestyle,” he said.

“The Swift is one of the funkiest, fun cars on the motor trader queensland

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industry update The commercial radio industry’s digital radio broadcasts first began in Australia in 2009, but a greater switch has been seen across other sectors.

The Western Australian Police recently awarded digital radio contracts to Motorola to the tune of $40 million to push its metropolitan emergency services broadcasting into digital. The move follows a plan that has been under way since 2005.

While commercial digital radio allows typical listeners to access song listings and an electronic program guide, police use allows improved voice clarity and new methods of encryption.

Zero Emission Centre in Paris open to public

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enault has opened the Renault Z.E. (Zero Emission) Centre in an outer suburb of Paris, France - the first electric vehicle education and experience centre to be opened in Europe by a vehicle manufacturer.

The Renault Z.E. Centre was officially opened in late December by Carlos Tavares, Chief Operating Officer of Renault, and Pierre-Christophe Baguet, Mayor of BoulogneBillancourt.

Its aim is to share the Z.E. experience with the general public in order to demonstrate the credibility of Renault’s offering and the relevance of Renault’s leadership ambitions in electric vehicles.

The Renault Z.E. centre is 12

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The Renault Z.E. (Zero Emission) Centre in an outer suburb of Paris, France - the first electric vehicle education and experience centre to be opened in Europe by a vehicle manufacturer. based on the concept of a customer journey. Visitors enter the reception area and are given a comprehensive briefing on the electric vehicle world; including the vehicle, battery, charging infrastructure and new services. This is followed by an educational tour of the showroom and an opportunity to test drive Kangoo Z.E., Fluence Z.E. and Twizy (pre-production) on a test track dedicated to electric vehicles.

New funding bolsters Ford through 2016

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he Australian and Victorian governments on January 10th announced new funding to boost the performance of the Ford Falcon and the Ford Territory produced here in Australia.

The Commonwealth will provide $34 million towards a total investment of over $103 million to boost the fuel efficiency and emissions performance in both models.

This funding will also see the Falcon produced at Broadmeadows in Melbourne to at least the end of 2016.

The Prime Minister Julia Gillard said the announcement was great news for the future of the automotive industry in Australia.

“With a rising dollar and fierce competition from other countries in our region, we need to be investing in manufacturing products that are innovative and competitive,” she said.

“This is exactly the type of investment we identified at the Future Jobs Forum and the PM’s Manufacturing taskforce to help shore up the future of our manufacturing sector.

“It’s smart, it’s competitive and best of all it will secure jobs, not only in Victoria but also across the nation,” she added.

Making the announcement with Ford Asia Pacific and Africa President Joe Hinrichs and Ford Australia President and CEO Bob Graziano, the Federal Minister for Manufacturing, Senator Kim Carr, said it was an exciting new initiative for the Falcon and Territory.

“It will boost the fuel efficiency and emissions

performance of the Falcon by more than 5 per cent with the use of new improved aerodynamics and transmission technology,” Senator Carr said.

manufacturing sector and the Ford 2014 upgrade represents a significant vote of confidence in Victoria’s automotive manufacturing sector”, Mr Dalla-Riva said.

“We are working with the company to ensure its future in Australia.

This announcement is an important step in our ongoing commitment to strengthen the sector,” he added.

Senator Carr made the announcement at the Detroit Motor Show, and Victorian Acting Premier Peter Ryan and Minister Dalla-Riva made the announcement at Ford’s Geelong plant.

Victorian Acting Premier Peter Ryan said the Victorian Coalition Government was also providing financial support to Ford’s 2014 upgrade project that will deliver a new and better Falcon and further strengthen Geelong’s position as a major automotive centre.

Novice drivers have high road incidents

Victorian Minister for Manufacturing, Exports and Trade Richard Dalla-Riva

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PhD researcher Mrs. Bridie Scott-Parker, from QUT’s Centre for Accident Research & Road Safety - Queensland (CARRS-Q), said research showed car ownership and high mileage led to increased rates of crashes, traffic offences and risky driving for newly independent drivers.

“We found 78.4 per cent of young drivers with less than six months of independent driving experience had their own car despite being our newest drivers on the road,” she said.

Queensland University of Technology (QUT) survey, published in the international journal Traffic Injury Prevention, found that nearly 80 per cent of inexperienced, new drivers aged 17 to 19 had primary access to a vehicle.

“The first six months is the most dangerous time for new drivers. We would prefer they get experience driving in shared vehicles with parents monitoring their driving as much as possible.”

Mrs Scott-Parker said while graduated driver licensing programs had reduced the number of young novice

young novice drivers said this investment would deliver a significant boost to Geelong’s economy and flow-on benefits for businesses right across the State.

“Ford is at the centre of Victoria’s and Australia’s automotive sector and a major provider of high value jobs, both directly and through supply chains.

drivers involved in crashes, they continued to be over represented in crash statistics.

Queensland Department of Transport and Main Roads figures from 2010 showed 6 per cent of drivers held a provisional licence in Queensland in 2008, but they represented 11.8 per cent of drivers fatally-injured in crashes.

“Unfortunately this problem is not unique to Queensland - young novice drivers around the world are at greatest risk when they first begin driving by themselves,” Mrs ScottParker said.

“The learner licensing phase could include an additional education component for both parents and young drivers, making them aware of the risks of having primary access to a vehicle when they are at highest risk of crashes.”

Mrs Scott-Parker’s survey about pre-licence and learner experiences involved more

continue to be over represented

continued on next page

in crash statistics

“The Victorian Coalition Government is committed to strengthening Victoria’s position as a competitive and innovative manufacturing base for world-class vehicles.

“Manufacturing is a major contributor to Victoria’s economy and is the state’s largest employer.

“The automotive industry is a vital driver of our overall

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than 1030 Queenslanders, aged 17 to 19, who obtained a provisional licence between April 1 and June 30 last year.

A follow-up survey of 355 provisional drivers six months later examined the percentage of participants who owned a car, average weekly mileage, and self-reported risky driving behaviours including crash and offence involvement.

Other major findings included: • Nearly 10 per cent of P-platers said they were involved in a crash within the first six months of independent driving; • 18 per cent of young male P-platers, compared to 10 per cent of young women, said they had been detected for a driving offence.

Mrs Scott-Parker said young novice drivers with their own car reported driving an average of 175 km a week, nearly twice as much as drivers without their own car.

She said more driving was associated with more selfreported offences and more risky driving behaviour.

The age of vehicles young drivers owned was also a concern for QUT researchers.

Mrs Scott-Parker said younger drivers tended to own cheaper, older cars that lacked the latest safety features that could help prevent crashes, such as electronic stability control, and protected the driver in the event of a crash, such as airbags.

“Parents generally own newer, safer cars, which is another reason why we would encourage parents to share access to family vehicles with newly independent drivers,” she said.

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Global price fixing investigation

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ustralian officials have joined an international investigation into alleged price fixing of automotive parts that spans four continents.

US Department of Justice director of criminal enforcement in the antitrust division, John Terzaken, said the investigation is the most widespread in US history and involves six automotive component sectors.

“This is a very broad investigation and there is much more to come,” Terzaken said.

“In terms of the breadth of the investigation and the

scope of the commerce involved, there’s certainly nothing on the record that parallels this,” he added.

Australian officials are assisting those from the US, Japan and the European Union. The parts under investigation were sold direct to car manufacturers as well as in the aftermarket industry.

Nineteen companies have been involved in the investigations into anti-competitive behaviour across the EU, the US and Japan. So far no Australian-based companies have been investigated.

There has been one corporate conviction so far, with Japan’s Furukawa Electric Co. fined $200 million and three company executives incarcerated,

currently awaiting sentencing.

Terzaken said the investigation is a very high priority because of its significance to the economy.

“It will remain a very significant interest of the division until the end and all of its just conclusions have been reached,” he said.

Antitrust expert Valerie Suslow said that convictions in global cases were often difficult to achieve.

“You need evidence that the companies communicated to fix prices or allocate customers or market shares or geographic areas - often it means that they met face to face,” Ms. Suslow said.

“In terms of the breadth of the investigation and the scope of the commerce involved, there’s certainly nothing on the record that parallels this.”

Top ten best buys Independent Australian automotive news and car reviews website, The Motor Report, has announced the Ford Ranger/Mazda BT-50 twins as the ‘Best Buys’ for 2011, heading a list of ‘Top Ten Best Buys’.

“In a surprisingly good year for sales for the Australian market, and with more models than we’ve seen for many years, the best new car release of 2011 is not a conventional passenger car, but a dual-cab ute,” The Motor Report’s Managing Editor and Industry Analyst Tim O’Brien said.

“We are very pleased to announce the Ford Ranger Double Cab 4X4 and the Mazda BT-50 Dual Cab 4X4 as ‘the best of the best’ for 2011.

Hat trick for Monash Uni

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he Monash University Motorsport Team stamped its authority on the Formula SAEAustralasia competition in mid December by scoring its third successive outright victory in the competition.

Famous for its winged Formula SAE-A car designs developed in the Monash University wind tunnel, the 2011 Monash University Motorsport team performed consistently across the nine scoring events to take the win with 829.3 points to beat University of Western Australia with a total score of 754.1 and Edith Cowan University on 739.5 points.

Organised by the Society of Automotive Engineers - Australasia (SAE-A), the international competition is run over the academic year and the scoring events were held at the Victoria University Werribee campus training track near Melbourne from 15 to 18 December.

Now in its 11th year, this engineering education experience in a racecar is part of a prestigious international series of Formula SAE competitions held throughout Asia, Europe and the USA. The Formula SAE-A host company for 2011 was GM Holden and Executive Director Engineering Greg Tyus welcomed 23 teams from universities in all mainland Australian states and from India, Japan, and New Zealand. He said the Formula SAE-A education experience is unique because students work in a team environment facing deadline challenges, while optimising their design, just like it happens in industry. He said Australia needs the best talent in its automotive sector, which is a

cornerstone for many other key industries.

Now in its 11th year, this engineering education experience in a racecar is part of a prestigious international series of Formula SAE competitions held throughout Asia, Europe and the USA. Competing teams of engineering students design, build, test and compete in small racecars designed to a specific formula and a $50,000 budget limit.

A bonus for the top placing Formula SAE-A teams will be an on track appearance during the Formula 1 Australian Grand Prix in Melbourne. Australian Grand Prix Corporation Motorsport and Entertainment General Manager Craig Fletcher announced the Formula SAE-A addition to the Grand Prix program as part of an education initiative to encourage young Australians to consider high technology careers in vehicle design, engineering, manufacturing, and service and repair.

“Importantly, Ford Australia engineering and design played a significant and leading role in the development of this very, very fine car.

“With Mazda-developed chassis and underpinnings, a Ford Australia-designed body with a spacious family-friendly cabin, big tub and 3.35 tonne towing capacity (for 3.2 litre DT), plus class-leading dynamic safety features and a quite brilliant Ford drivetrain, the Ranger/ BT-50 twins have the capability, style and ‘liveability’ to redefine the family car.

The Motor Report’s Top Ten Best Buys For 2011: Ford Ranger Double Cab 4X4 / BT-50 XTR Dual Cab 4X4 Kia Rio Ford Territory TDCi Holden Cruze SRi and SRi-V Ford Focus Mitsubishi Challenger 2WD Hyundai i40 Tourer Lexus CT 200h Skoda Yeti BMW 118i hatch

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New levels of standard equipment and technological innovation set by 2011’s Australia’s Best Cars winners are a boon for new car buyers, according to the Australian Automobile Association (AAA).

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ustralia’s Best Cars awards are presented each year by the AAA in conjunction with the seven major State and Territory motorists’ clubs.

European vehicles dominated the awards, winning 10 of the 15 categories, compared to just three (from 10 categories) in the awards’ inaugural year.

The winners are equipped

with class-leading consumer technologies, safety equipment and fuel-efficient drivelines - setting a standard for all vehicles in the Australian new-car market, according to AAA executive director Andrew McKellar.

“Consumers are the real winners when it comes to the value presented by this year’s category winners,” Mr. McKellar said.

Australia’s

“Australian motorists are increasingly tech-savvy, and they expect new cars to offer the latest in consumer technology to complement their busy social and work lives.

“At the same time, a rise in the cost of living has seen consumers trend toward cars that use less fuel compared with equivalent older models.

“Developing safe, efficient and well-equipped new models is a major cost for any automotive manufacturer - one that has been shouldered by the consumer in years past.

“The manufacturers of this year’s winners have delivered models that are particularly well equipped, offer outstanding occupant safety and are efficient to run - while remaining affordable,” he added.

The average fuel consumption of this year’s winners (across all categories) has dropped to 7.37 litres per 100 kilometres

Best Cars Aw (down from 7.4 litres), with small vehicles posting the most significant gains.

performance, with the Rio producing 30kW more power than the previous winner.

As an example, the winner of the Best Light Car Under $20,000 award, the Kia Rio, uses just 5.6 litres per 100 kilometres compared to last year’s winner, the Hyundai i20, at 6.0 litres per 100 kilometres.

Mr. McKellar said the efforts of manufacturers in bringing better valuefor-money vehicles to the Australian marketplace was commendable.

These savings are delivered with a substantial improvement in 16

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“Active and passive safety features - like side curtain airbags and electronic stability control (ESC) - were once exclusive to the most

Awards 2011 expensive luxury models, but are now fitted to even the most basic models.

“With fuel prices trending upward and an intensely competitive new car market, the coming years will see manufacturers working hard to deliver new models that push the boundaries of safety, performance and efficiency even further,” he said.

The Ford Falcon EcoLPi becomes the first LPG-

powered vehicle to win one of the prestigious awards, taking out the Best Large Car Under $60,000 category.

The victory is significant in that the Falcon tackles a number of key concerns facing consumers in the marketplace - especially in the large car segment.

“First of all, LPG is considerably cheaper than regular petrol, which makes it cheaper to run,” said Mark

Borlace, chief judge for Australia’s Best Cars.

“On top of that, LPG burns a lot cleaner than petrol or diesel, which means that the Falcon EcoLPi emits just 203 grams of CO2 per kilometre, compared with 236 in the regular petrol-fuelled Falcon.

“Significantly, it feels exactly like a normal Falcon - if anything it feels slightly better in that it produces more power and more torque

earlier in the rev range.”

Volkswagen was another big winner at the awards, collecting an incredible five categories - exactly onethird of the awards on offer.

The Volkswagen Polo 66TDI Comfortline was named Best Light Car Over $20,000, the Golf 90TSI Trendline took out Best Small Car Under $35,000, the Jetta 118TSI Comfortline was the Best Medium Car Under $50,000, motor trader queensland

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while the Tiguan 103TDI and the Touareg V6 TDI won the Best SUV Under $40,000 and the Best Luxury SUV Over $60,000 respectively.

“The driveline technology on show in the Volkswagen cars is very impressive,” said Mr. Borlace.

“They have done a fantastic job of minimising fuel consumption and emissions output, while maintaining impressive levels of power and torque - both with petrol

and diesel powertrains.

“A great example is the Volkswagen Touareg V6 TDI - it is approximately two tonnes of luxury SUV, and its turbo-diesel V6 propels it from zero to 100 kilometres per hour in just 7.8 seconds.

“However it produces less than 200 grams of CO2 per kilometre and uses just 7.4 litres of fuel per 100 kilometres.

“There is no compromise

with these vehicles - driving enjoyment does not come at the expense of huge running costs and emissions outputs, and vice versa,” Mr. Borlace said.

A number of new models to market in 2011 claimed awards, with the Kia Rio Si named Best Light Car Under $20,000, the Lexus CT 200h Prestige the Best Small Car Over $35,000, and the Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG Coupe taking out the Best

Sports Car Over $80,000 category.

BMW’s 135i coupe remarkably won its fourth Australia’s Best Sports Car Under $80,000 award, while the Audi A6, Hyundai iMax, Kia Sorento and Land Rover Discovery all defended their awards.

Mercedes-Benz snatched the Best Medium Car Over $50,000 from BMW with the C250 CDI Avantgarde taking the prize from last year’s winner.

The winners:

Kia Rio Si - Best Light Car Under $20,000 The Kia Rio sells for $18,990, which is pretty competitive in anyone’s language. For that outlay buyers get five doors, plenty of interior space, a free revving, willing and efficient 1.6-litre petrol engine, and a crisp six-speed manual transmission. If you’re looking for a budget-conscious vehicle that delivers, the Kia Rio Si is as good as it gets.

Lexus CT 200h Prestige - Best Small Car Over $35,000 A perfect 10 is never easy for an Australia’s Best Cars finalist and, at its first attempt the CT 200h achieved this feat not once, but four times, with perfect scores for running and repair costs, fuel consumption, safety and environment. Attracting a nine out of 10 for build quality and finish, and the same for standard features, the Lexus CT 200h could not be reined-in by its rivals.

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Volkswagen Polo 66TDI Comfortline - Best Light Car Over $20,000

Volkswagen Golf 90TSI Trendline - Best Small Car Under $35,000

It’s two in a row for the Volkswagen Polo 66TDI Comfortline. A perennial winner over the years, the Polo punches above its weight in many of the important Australia’s Best Cars criteria, and would give many cars in the next class up, Small Cars Under $35,000, a serious run for their money.

It’s the Golf again. So what gave the Volkswagen victory this year? Solid results in the design and function and on the road areas cemented its unassailable lead. The Golf scored top marks for safety and environment, and almost perfect scores for comfort and ergonomics, while the 1.4-litre four-cylinder inline direct injection turbo-petrol engine is the jewel in the crown.

Volkswagen Jetta 118TSI Comfortline - Best Medium Car Under $50,000

Mercedes-Benz C250 CDI Avantgarde - Best Medium Car Over $50,000

This petrol-powered Jetta combines small displacement (1.4 litres) with forced induction from a supercharger and a turbo to prove a surprisingly sprightly performer. With well-above-average scores in most areas, the deserved the Best Medium Car Under $50,000 title.

Across all manner of driving tests and styles, the combination of C Class body style and brilliant diesel engine is pretty much irresistible. Drive the C250 CDI under any conditions and you’re left feeling that every cent was worth it. This is a brilliantly built vehicle every part of it feels solid and well executed.

Ford Falcon EcoLPi XT - Best Large Car Under $60,000

Audi A6 3.0 TDI Quattro - Best Large Car Over $60,000

Hyundai iMax - Best People Mover

Ford has successfully made the EcoLPi perform like a petrol car while still offering the advantages of LPG has contributed strongly to its victory in this category. What will surprise some is that the LPG-fed powerplant has slightly more power and torque than the petrol version.

The judges’ rated highly for its performance, running and repair costs, safety, comfort, ride, and smoothness and quietness.

showcasing plenty of Audi’s technological innovation and engineering skills, the German sedan delivers sure-footed all-wheel drive grip matched to accurate and consistent, if slightly dull, steering for a top-of-the-class handling score.

Audi’s fit and finish is something of a benchmark, and the A6 has a quality look and feel and attention to detail that should please fussier buyers.

The iMax seats eight adults in relative comfort. Not only can adults sit in the third row without having their legs crushed or bumping their head every time the vehicle hits a pothole, there is still plenty of luggage space - a rarity in most people movers or SUVs. Complementing its strong design and function, the iMax also does well in the value-for-money stakes with affordable pricing, low servicing costs and a reassuring five-year, unlimited kilometre warranty.

BMW 135i Coupe - Best Sports Car Under $80,000

Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG - Best Sports Car Over $80,000

Volkswagen Tiguan 103TDI Best SUV Under $40,000

After this, its fourth consecutive year as champion, we are running out of superlatives for the BMW 135i Coupe. The BMW achieves perfect 10s and nines (and one eight) in all 10 design and function and on the road criteria. BMW has blessed the smartlooking coupe with the ultimate in underpinnings to complement its class-leading performance. Simply put, the BMW 135i Coupe is the complete driver’s car.

With its 6.2-litre Mercedes V8 shoehorned into the mid-size C-class coupe the C63 AMG delivers eye-popping performance, enhanced by the unique AMG seven-speed automatic transmission. The AMG sports suspension and high performance composite braking system are also key to the C63’s brilliant capability. The C63 possesses all the ingredients of a classic collector’s car.

Despite being one of the more expensive vehicles in its category the Tiguan’s quality engineering, comfort and all-round ability, both on and off the bitumen, far outweigh the premium purchase price. A five-star ANCAP safety score, high standard of fit, finish and trim material quality gives the interior a top-class appearance. While quite compact the layout delivers plenty of versatility in seating and load combinations.

Kia Sorento SLi - Best SUV Over $40,000

Volkswagen Touareg V6 TDI Best Luxury SUV Over $60,000

Land Rover Discovery 4 SDV6 SE - Best All-Terrain 4WD

Class-leading running and repair costsand a five-year unlimited kilometres warranty provide a solid footing in the value-for-money stakes. The 2.2-litre diesel engine matched to an in-house designed six-speed automatic transmission gives grunt without sacrificing economy.

Off-road performance was equally impressive with the ability to lock-in the all-wheel drive mode and engage hill descent control for steeper slopes.

From the moment you slip behind the wheel there is a high quality look and soft touch feel to the Touareg interior. The 3.0-litre turbo-diesel engine delivers 180kW and 550Nm of torque from around 2,000rpm.

Faster engine and gearbox warm-up, engine stop-start and regenerative braking, result in a significant reduction in fuel consumption and emissions. The new diesel returned a remarkable 7.4L/100km.

So smooth and comfortable is the Discovery 4 that judges had to remind themselves that they were driving an all-terrain, not luxury, category 4WD. ‘All-terrain’ means just that, and Discovery 4 walks the talk thanks to an accomplished Terrain Response system with programs to meet nearly any challenge. Heightadjustable air suspension and hill descent control system add to the impressive off-road capability. motor trader queensland

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apprentices Multiple award-winning apprentice shines on Gold Coast

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ongratulations to MTA Institute of Technology’s (MIT) Student of the Month, first year apprentice Bradley Thornton of Kirra Mechanical on the Gold Coast.

Bradley first came to Kirra Mechanical for work experience whilst attending PBC (Palm Beach Currumbin State High School) at the recommendation of a teacher who had noticed that Bradley performed exceptionally well in the school’s automotive training program.

“I originally had my sights set on the building industry but because of the uncertain fluctuating day to day nature of it, I looked towards the automotive industry because everyone will always have cars that need to be worked on,” Bradley said.

“Besides, my teacher Mr. Keneally noticed that I had a good knack with cars and suggested that I contact Kirra Mechanical for work experience.

“As soon as I started the work experience I was ripping motors out of cars and was offered a job, so I started my formal schoolbased apprenticeship here in November 2010 because I wanted to get my year 12 certificate.

“Now I’ve been working full time here since October and I love coming to work 20

motor trader queensland

“I strongly believe that success lies within

the eagerness

and willingness of the student to embrace his learning opportunity"

because I learn something new everyday,” he added.

that benefit the customers,” Bradley said.

The 18 year old said that the advantages of working in a small automotive mechanical business go beyond just working on cars.

According to MIT Technical Trainer Alex Fletcher, Bradley was Chosen as Student of the Month because he communicates exceptionally well with his boss and work mates, learns quickly, works with gusto and maintains an ever-cheerful nature.

“It’s about running a business. In addition to mechanical work, I participate in answering the phone, quoting and selling additional services

“On our first meeting I was impressed by Bradley’s

eagerness to undertake his school-based apprenticeship specifically with MIT as he had been inspired by the success of his friend and mentor in the workplace, Andrew Hill, who is a previous MIT-trained apprentice and a success story in himself,” said Mr. Fletcher.

“Throughout his school-based term, Bradley displayed an eagerness to do his studies, which he undertook in

conjunction with considerable notes from his school’s automotive teachings.

“His prowess was coupled with possessing a strong practical ability.

“Bradley eagerly undertook whatever service and repair work presented and regularly undertook cam belt replacements and cylinder head repairs along with the general service and repairs,” he added.

Mr. Fletcher said that Bradley’s achievement stands as a testament to the value and effectiveness of the school based apprenticeship scheme.

“So many times I am faced with the misconception from employers that little value is gained from the school based model, and that little is achieved from one day per week spent in the work environment,” he explained.

“I hear on numerous occasions that the vehicle repairs necessary to allow the student practical exposure were not available on the day, and how the student has not been able to use instruments of his trade, or participate

in the tasks that were required as an opportunity was not there, although on inspecting the immediate area it becomes obvious that countless opportunities present themselves to measure components or carry out adjustments, within the discarded parts.

“This never posed a problem in Bradley’s case and instead of waiting for it to happen, he regularly procured the required components necessary to carry out procedures and develop competencies that he has applied since on numerous occasions.

focused culture of the workplace. According to Mr. Fletcher, Kirra Mechanical has become a progressive family business since Mat and Christie Rixon took over the business several years ago.

“The company provides an excellent environment for learning and Mat firmly believes in the benefits of training.

“He implements new policies and procedures towards the development of his workers and maintains a high standard of customer satisfaction,” he said.

“I strongly believe that success lies within the eagerness and willingness of the student to positively embrace his learning opportunity, and that within the school based model, a student can develop strong competencies within the primary modules of an apprenticeship and produce a productive and cost effective worker that can competently undertake vehicle servicing and general repairs,” Mr. Fletcher added.

Bradley credits his own motivation coupled with an ideal work environment to being able to learn everything from changing tyres to replacing engines since joining the team.

Complementing a motivated student is the training-

“They include being selected as a finalist in the 2011

“It has been a major step for me learning the amount that I have as a first year apprentice,” he said.

“Over the past year during my school based apprenticeship period I won 3 major awards.

South East Region School Based Apprenticeship and Traineeship Awards, and winning the Automotive Student of the Year Award at PBC for two years in a row, 2010 and 2011.

“These awards mean a lot to me and I would love to reach higher milestones in my career path.

“It was the school based apprenticeship that got me going, gave me money and allowed me to work towards a career.

“It is so essential for young people to have the opportunities for these types of apprenticeships whilst still at school,” he added.

MIT Technical Trainer Alex Fletcher said that Bradley’s success proves that for a keen and eager student, a lot can be achieved from eight hours of opportunity in a supportive workshop.

Bradley Thornton was presented with an award certificate and given a 4-piece Snap Ring Pliers set, donated by Force Tools, MIT’s ‘Student of the Month’ sponsor.

We come to you!

Certificate IV Frontline Management (Workplace Delivery) enrolments are now open for early 2012.

An MTA Institute of Technology trainer is available to come to your workplace* on a fortnightly basis to see you through to qualification. *Areas available include Gold and Sunshine Coasts, Brisbane metro and west to Toowoomba.

Telephone Anthony Bonaccorso on 1 800 884 137 to register your interest.

motor trader queensland

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health Men’s body image issues Back Hair By the mid-20s, a man will know his back hair destiny: barely there, a few tufts, or full and bushy. Is yours a magnet for women? Or a throwback to the Stone Age? If you want to tame the growth, laser hair removal can thin back hair or remove it all, and the results are nearly permanent.

Cheaper options include waxing, hair removal creams, and razors, with results that last up to a few weeks.

Beer Belly You don’t have to drink beer to get a beer belly. Men are more likely to gain fat around the waist, so anything fattening can pad the paunch.

Unfortunately, belly fat raises the risk of heart disease, especially if your waist size is more than 101 centimetres.

But there is good news: If you follow a weight loss plan, belly fat is usually the first to go.

Excessive Sweating Men have a higher “sweat output” than women. That’s a fact. But if you always need to wipe your hands or often sweat through your clothes, it may be more than a “guy” thing. It could be excessive sweating, called hyperhidrosis. Emotions or heat or nothing at all can trigger the downpour. It usually affects the armpits, palms, or soles of the feet. Effective treatments are available through a health professional.

Unibrow Now here’s a hair problem that affects men of all ages.

The same hormones that make your beard grow can make your eyebrows so thick and bushy that they meet in 22

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the centre. “Unibrow” is the most common reason young men get electrolysis. This procedure uses tiny electric shocks to permanently destroy the hair follicles. Waxing is another way to shape your brows, but it must be repeated every four to six weeks.

Razor Bumps You work hard for that close shave. So it can be exasperating when small bumps mar your otherwise smooth skin. Razor bumps form when hairs curl back on themselves and grow into the skin. They’re most common in men with curly hair. To keep the bumps at bay, take a hot shower before shaving. Apply a thick gel, and always shave in the direction your beard grows.

Rosacea Maybe it’s not embarrassment that’s causing all that blushing.

Rosacea (‘roe-say-sha’) is a condition that causes the face to flush, and symptoms tend to be worse in men. The nose may become thick, red, or bulbous. Pimples and tiny red lines can appear on the cheeks. Alcohol can trigger a flare up, but the distinctive, red nose of rosacea can occur in a teetotaler. Medications can prevent it from getting worse, so be sure to discuss your symptoms with your GP.

Receding Hairline The painful truth is most guys have noticeably thinner hair by age 35 and significant hair loss by age 50. The pattern usually begins with a receding hairline and may progress to bald spots on the top of the scalp. Hair restoration surgery offers a way to reduce bald patches. Or you can talk to your GP about prescription medications for hair loss. But beware of other products that promise the moon.

Snoring Face the music: Snoring is a surefire way to disrupt your bed partner’s sleep, and men are more likely to be the perpetrators. In most cases, snoring is not harmful.

But snoring regularly can chip away at the quality of your own sleep. It can also be a sign of a more serious problem called sleep apnea.

If you feel snoring is disrupting you or your partner’s sleep, consult your GP.

Belching

Burping may not be the picture of politeness in our society, but in some cultures a hearty belch shows appreciation for a good meal.

In either case, burping a few times after eating is normal.

It’s the body’s way of freeing

the air that you’ve swallowed.

Frequent burping combined with other symptoms, such as nausea or belly pain, could be a sign of a digestive disorder.

Check with your GP if the problem continues.

Gas

Perhaps no bodily function has inspired as many jokes as gas. While the sound and smell can be embarrassing, passing gas is harmless. It’s nothing more than air moving through the digestive tract or gas from the breakdown of food by bacteria in your gut coming out. Gas facts: • Most people pass gas 6-20 times a day.

• Beer, soft drinks, beans, and many fruits and vegetables are all likely to gas you up.

your teeth, brush your tongue as well to banish the bacteria that thrive there. If good hygiene doesn’t sweeten your breath, see your dentist and your GP. Gum disease, dry mouth, or acid reflux could be part of the problem.

Sexual Dysfunction

If I'd known I was going to live so long,

I'd have taken better care of myself. ~Leon Eldred

• Foods that cause gas differ for each person.

Body Odor

Whether you’re working hard or playing hard, any strenuous activity can result in strong body odor. The culprit is not sweat itself, but the bacteria that use sweaty skin as a breeding ground.

You can fight the bacteria by showering regularly with soap and using antiperspirant.

Also be sure to wash workout clothes often. If body odor persists, try avoiding smelly foods like garlic and onions.

Jock Itch

You don’t have to be a pro athlete to get jock itch. This fungal infection spreads easily at your local gym or from another part of your own body.

Hands, towels, and stepping into underwear are common culprits. The symptoms include a patchy rash on the groin or inner thighs, along with the telltale itching. It’s treated with nonprescription antifungal creams. Keeping the area dry and avoiding tight clothing helps to avoid a repeat engagement.

Athlete’s Foot When the fungus that causes jock itch targets the feet, you have athlete’s foot. Walking barefoot in locker rooms or near pools is the most common way to pick up this infection. Symptoms include itching, burning, blisters, or cracks on the feet and toes.

Athlete’s foot is treated with antifungal cream. If you have both jock itch and athlete’s

foot, be sure to treat them at the same time.

Ingrown Nails Grooming your nails may not be the highlight of your day, but it’s worth your time to get the job done right. Clumsy nail trimming is the top cause of ingrown toenails, which can cause pain, swelling, and infections. The most common mistake is trimming the nails too short. To avoid this, check your chemist for nail nippers that are shaped to follow the natural curve of the nail.

Bad Breath You probably know that smelly foods and smoking can sabotage your breath.

But the most common culprit is bacteria. When you brush

Men may not be eager to discuss sexual troubles, but nearly a third of guys experience problems. This may include a sagging libido, premature ejaculation, or erectile dysfunction (ED). ED means a man is unable to develop or sustain an erection.

Risk factors for ED include diabetes, heart disease, neurological conditions, smoking, circulation problems, and some medications. Talk to your GP if you have ED or other sexual problems to help evaluate the problem and recommend treatment.

Hearing Loss Men are more likely to experience hearing loss than women, and noisy jobs may contribute. Think miners, carpenters, and soldiers. But any loud or continuous noise can damage delicate ear structures, including music piped in through ear buds.

On the job, use special ear protection. Keep personal music players at or below 85 decibels (dB).

Enlarged Prostate Along with wrinkles and gray hair, an enlarged prostate is an unavoidable part of aging for many men. The medical term is benign prostatic hyperplasia or BPH, an enlargement of the gland that surrounds the urethra. This growth causes symptoms in about half of men over age 75.

As the prostate grows, it may squeeze the urethra, making you feel nature’s call more often. There are strategies and medications to help reduce the symptoms. motor trader queensland

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The automotive sector is one of the largest contributors to innovation and Research & Development (R&D) in Australia.

The new R&D Tax Incentive will impact the automotive sector significantly and it is important that businesses conducting R&D gain an understanding of the new requirements and assess how the new legislation will impact their ability to claim R&D tax benefits.

R&D Tax Incentive benefits Under the new R&D Tax Incentive the type of benefit received is dependent upon the company’s annual turnover:

the conduct of R&D, but rather better target rewards to companies undertaking ‘genuine’ R&D. The good news is that automotive companies may expect the same activities that were claimed under the R&D Tax Concession to also be eligible under the R&D Tax Incentive.

Examples of such activities

financial • Companies with a grouped annual turnover of less than $20 million are entitled to a

45 per cent refundable R&D tax offset (assuming no other tax liabilities) equating to a benefit of 15 cents for every dollar spent on R&D. This refundable offset is aimed towards start up companies and SMEs

• Companies with a grouped annual turnover of $20 million or greater are entitled to a 40 per cent non-refundable R&D tax offset, equating to a benefit of 10 cents for every dollar spent on R&D.

Types of activities likely to be eligible for R&D benefits The changes between the R&D Tax Concession and R&D Tax Incentive schemes are not intended to limit 24

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include:

• Developing new or improved products (e.g. improving product quality, improving product attributes, using alternative raw materials etc.)

• Developing improvements to the manufacturing process (e.g. automation of manufacturing steps, increasing plant throughput, increasing the useful life of key assets/consumables etc.)

• Overcoming specific technical challenges that have impeded the manufacturing process.

Scope of activities The new R&D Tax Incentive requires companies to distinguish activities as

for th

either ‘core’ or ‘supporting’ activities. Compared to the R&D Tax Concession, changes to the definitions of ‘core’ and ‘supporting’ activities may restrict the scope of activities able to be claimed by some companies and will particularly affect companies undertaking R&D in a production environment.

The new definition of ‘core’ activities places greater emphasis on experimentation while the scope of ‘supporting’ activities is greatly reduced

support

he automotive sector Automotive companies should take the time to gain an understanding of the new R&D tax requirements, particularly given that the activities currently being undertaken are already within the ambit of the new law. under the new R&D Tax Incentive. ‘Supporting R&D activities’ can only qualify if undertaken for the ‘dominant purpose’ of supporting the core R&D activities.

Given the nature of the automotive sector, the operation of the ‘dominant

purpose’ test may result in the exclusion of some activities from R&D claims going forward. The ability of companies to demonstrate and substantiate the intent of their R&D activities will therefore be key to maximising the available benefit.

Compliance requirements Companies will still be required to register their R&D activities with AusIndustry within 10 months of the end of financial year. Based on the draft guidelines, it is likely that the level of

detail required to register activities will be more than under the R&D Tax Concession.

Due to the increased emphasis between core and supporting R&D activities, claimants will be required to specifically identify and define the motor trader queensland

25

foreign corporations who are Australian residents for tax purposes, or have a permanent establishment in Australia. This represents a great opportunity for companies within the automotive sector, many of which operate as part of a global design, engineering and manufacturing group.

nature and scope of their R&D activities (i.e. as either ‘core’ or ‘supporting’) in the R&D Application form.

Additionally, claimants will need to specifically identify the costs attributable to each of these activities.

Support for entities with foreign ownership The new R&D Tax Incentive aims to broaden the access of the program by extending eligibility to

Augmented feedstock provisions Despite comments made by the Government to the contrary, changes to the Feedstock provisions under the new R&D Tax Incentive broaden the scope of activities caught by the Feedstock provisions. The provisions aim to reduce the benefit associated with R&D activities that produce tangible products. However, the provisions are no longer limited to just saleable goods, but extend to include

items that are produced for the entity’s own use.

Under the R&D Tax Incentive companies will now be required to make adjustments to their assessable income (the lesser of one third of the feedstock revenue and expenditure) when the feedstock output is sold (or otherwise applied by the company).

Where to from here?

With new R&D definitions and classifications introduced under the new R&D Tax Incentive regime, companies should be considering the best way to maximise the value of their R&D spending. The new R&D Tax Incentive scheme has been enacted retrospectively and will apply from 1 July 2011. As such, to ensure maximum benefit from the R&D Tax

Incentive, it is encouraged that automotive companies take the time to gain an understanding of the new R&D tax requirements, particularly given that the activities currently being undertaken (for income years occurring on or after 1 July 2011) are already within the ambit of the new law.

The process of identifying R&D activities and expenditure can sometimes be daunting for the inexperienced or companies lacking time and resources.

To maximise your ability to access these generous incentives, BDO has specialist R&D and Indirect Tax teams who can provide tailored assistance to suit your needs. To find out more information please contact Nicola Purser, Partner BDO R&D or Mark Ward, Partner, BDO Automotive on (07) 3237 5799.

Diploma of Management Earn your Diploma of Management at MTA Institute of Technology’s new, state-of-the-art facility at Eight Mile Plains!

Enrolments are now open for early 2012!

The course is delivered one night per week over a 20 week period, giving you the qualification that provides skills and knowledge required to perform effectively as a manager, team leader or workshop manager.

Alternative to College training, this course is also offered via Distance Learning, giving you the opportunity to obtain this nationally accredited Diploma wherever you live!

Telephone Anthony Bonaccorso today on 1 800 884 137 to register your interest.

26

motor trader queensland

Does your super fund tick all the right boxes?

Low fees No commissions Run only to benefit members

MTAA Super is the Industry SuperFund for the Motor Industry and anyone can join.

For more information visit www.mtaasuper.com.au Motor Trades Association of Australia Superannuation Fund Pty Ltd (ABN 14 008 650 628, AFSL 238 718) is the Trustee of MTAA Superannuation Fund (ABN 74 559 365 913). You should consider whether motor trader queensland 27 or not MTAA Super is appropriate for you. The MTAA Super Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) can be obtained by calling us on 1300 362 415. You should consider the PDS in making a decision.

sport High profile drivers coming to Sunshine Coast

Victorian Justin Dowel showing the style that won him six of the 10 stages of the 2011 Rally.

T

he most powerful rally team in the Asia Pacific region has confirmed it will return to contest the International Rally of Queensland (IROQ) this year and will bring a two-time world champion driver from Sweden to help win the Sunshine Coast event for the first time.

The factory-backed Proton Motorsports team from Malaysia announced it would enter Scotsman Alister McRae and Per-Gunnar (P-G) Andersson from Sweden in the FIA Asia Pacific Rally Championship, which will include their only Australian appearance at IROQ on 25-27 May. Headquartered at beachside Caloundra and covering the Sunshine Coast and Gympie-Cooloola tourist regions, Australia’s only annual international rally will host the third rounds of the 2012 FIA Asia Pacific Rally Championship and Bosch Australian Rally Championship.

The Proton drivers will showcase their skills as highly experienced stars in the world rally scene, while Proton Motorsports returns as Manufacturers Champion, holder of every individual Asia Pacific title and the newest factory entrant in the FIA World Rally Championship.

McRae, who now lives in Perth, is the defending Asia Pacific Champion and 1995 British Rally Champion while 28

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all the fans who can start planning their spectating weekends,” Mr. Bailey said.

Per-Gunnar Andersson

Andersson is the 2004 and 2007 Junior World Rally Champion.

Both have extensive World Rally Championship experience representing between them makes such as Mitsubishi, Subaru, Skoda, Ford, Nissan and Suzuki.

International Rally of Queensland Director Errol Bailey said the Proton announcement was a wonderful boost for 2012 preparations.

“To know that we will have the world-class Proton works squad back in action on the Sunshine Coast is great news for the rally organisers, sponsors, supporters and

“Proton Motorsports and its entourage of more than 20 overseas staff and supporters is a high-profile visitor to the Sunshine Coast and makes a big contribution to the rally’s popularity.

“The Proton Satria Neo S2000 cars have been very fast in their past two trips but ultimately unsuccessful in winning the rally, so we will be looking forward to see if the addition of P-G alongside Alister can finally get the job done.

“But the challenge will be tougher than ever. Our course designers will have some new features to test the drivers and with top crews expected to come from India, China, Japan, New Zealand,

Malaysia, Indonesia and New Caledonia, Alister and P-G are not going to have it easy,” he added.

Alister McRae

Mr. Bailey congratulated Proton Motorsports on its simultaneous announcement that it will expand the sixround Asia Pacific program into an entry in the 2012 World Rally Championship for S2000-category cars, that began with the Monte Carlo Rally.

“The International Rally of

Queensland has effectively been part of the WRC development program for the Proton S2000s over the past two years. We’re delighted that Proton and its British-run team not only have been rewarded for their hard work, but also that IROQ spectators in May will be able to see a fully-fledged WRC operation in action with the same drivers and identical cars,” said Mr. Bailey.

“This is a huge bonus for us and a challenge for their rivals that promises a red-hot rally,” he concluded.

Book now for Phillip Island Superbike event

S

uzuki race fans will be able to experience the Phillip Island 2012 Superbike World Championship round in style at the renowned Suzuki hospitality suite.

Located above the pits, the fully catered Suzuki suite has a private viewing area with an expansive view of the circuit and numerous flat-screen monitors inside the marquee, ensuring guests will never miss any of the action on the track.

Guests at the Suzuki facility will be treated to regular appearances across the weekend from Crescent Suzuki riders John Hopkins and Leon Camier, along with local Team Suzuki Superbike riders, including Josh Waters.

The three-day tickets are specially priced at $675 per person and are inclusive of track entry, meals and refreshments and also provide exclusive access to the Superbike World Championship paddock.

The Australian round of the 2012 Superbike World Championship will be held at the Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit on 24-26 February.

Additional information and booking forms are available at: www.suzukimotorcycles. com.au/news/events.html.

Reed starts strong in 2012 opener

A

ustralian Supercross star Chad Reed has made a solid start to the 2012 Monster Energy AMA Supercross - an FIM World Championship finishing second in the opening round of the season at Angel Stadium in Anaheim, California.

The TwoTwo Motorsports owner/rider struggled to get comfortable on the tight track throughout the earlier practice sessions and qualified eighth.

Aggressive changes made to the #22 Honda CRF450 before the heat race paid dividends, with Reed winning his heat race convincingly ahead of Mike Alessi and defending champion Ryan Villopoto.

Reed got a good start in the 20-lap ‘Main Event’ sitting third after the first turn. He

Chad Reed

moved into second on the opening lap and was over seven seconds clear of third place when he went down on Lap 14.

The Australian remounted and retained second place, holding off a late charge from Ryan Dungey over the closing laps of the race.

“This track was totally different to what we have tested on in the lead up to the start of the season,” Reed explained.

“It really only had one line so was very hard to pass on.

“I struggled a little bit through practice but the guys made some aggressive changes to the bike before the heat race which really helped me.

“My starts were good and I was happy to get second tonight in this field of riders.

“I had a small tip over in the race, I was looking for new lines and lost the front,” Reed added. motor trader queensland

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sport

Land Rover sponsors Gold Coast’s biggest surf event

T

he world’s best surfers are again returning to the Gold Coast early this year as the holiday capital hosts the calendar’s two biggest surfing events.

The iconic point break of Snapper Rocks will be the focus of the surfing world when the Quiksilver and Roxy Pro presented by Land Rover will be held from 25th February to 7th March to start the 2012 ASP Men’s and Women’s World Tour.

The 12-day Quiksilver Pro will showcase the world’s best including 11-time World Champion Kelly Slater (USA), and local heroes, World No.2 Joel Parkinson (AUS) and two-time World Champion Mick Fanning (AUS).

The 2012 World Tour also promises to be one of the most exciting with a young brigade including Australian hopefuls Owen Wright (AUS) and Julian Wilson (AUS), South Africa’s Jordy Smith (SAF), John John Florence (HAW), Kolohe Andino (USA) and Brazilian young gun Gabriel Medina (BRA) all determined to make a strong start to their tilts at the World Title.

The Roxy Pro also opens an incredibly exciting Women’s World Tour with defending World Champion Carissa Moore (HAW) facing an enormous challenge from all sides including four-time World Champion Stephanie Gilmore (AUS), World No.2 Sally Fitzgibbons (AUS) and World No.4 Tyler Wright (AUS).

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the iconic point break of

Snapper Rocks will be the focus when the Quiksilver and Roxy Pro is held in March

Boasting a $535,000 prize pool, the event needs six days for completion during the 12-day window. The main event site overlooks the world famous right-hand point break of Snapper Rocks and if a cyclone swell appears, the Gold Coast’s southern points - all within walking distance of each other - will put on a show to remember from Snapper through to Greenmount and onto Kirra.

Each venue allows fans a magnificent view of the world’s best surfers in action and once the day’s competition is over the southern end of the Gold Coast comes alive with a bursting nightlife ensuring the event is also one of the most popular on the World Tour.

Both events will be webcast live on QuiksilverPro.com.

au, RoxyPro.com.au, Youtube, Facebook and the Quiksilver iPhone app as well as exclusively telecast on Fuel TV. For all the action, interaction, heat alerts, competitions and the latest information visit quiksilverpro. com.au or roxypro.com.au.

Important Details: 2012 Quiksilver and Roxy Pro presented by Land Rover is scheduled for 25th February 7th March and will be webcast live on quiksilverpro.com. au, roxypro.com.au, Youtube, Facebook and the Quiksilver iPhone app as well as exclusively telecast on Fuel TV

The Moskova Trials will be held on Friday, 24th February with the winner to join surfing’s elite in the main event

The waiting period for the contest starts on 25th February. A decision on whether or not to run the contest is made on the day after assessing the conditions. The same goes for each day in the waiting period. Surfing action normally gets underway by 8am Get more info at quiksilverpro.com.au or roxypro.com.au

automobile news Opel Mokka A new name and a new segment for Opel: At the start of the New Year and two months ahead of its world premiere at the Geneva motor show on March 6, 2012, Opel is releasing the first photos of its new dynamic, sub-compact sports utility vehicle, the Opel Mokka. With the new Mokka, Opel is the first German manufacturer to launch a contender in the growing sub-compact SUV segment.

The Opel Mokka will be available at international Opel dealerships from end of 2012 onwards, with details and confirmation for Australian release to be confirmed in due course.

Hexa Space Hyundai’s newest concept, a multi-purpose vehicle called ‘Hexa Space’ revolutionizes the use of interior space, featuring eight slim, hexagonally shaped seats that fit together like puzzle pieces, maximizing internal space while minimizing vehicle width. Hexa Space, codenamed HND-7, carries Hyundai’s characteristic “Fluidic Sculpture” design language and is targeted at young urban families in their 30s and 40s. The seats offer multiple configurations for seating – centre seats fold flat for greater comfort, the second row folds flat to create a limousine function, the back row folds flat for light-cargo use.

In addition, seven seats fold flat for heavy hauling and all eight fold flat for camping.

FJ Cruiser wins 4x4 of the year award Toyota’s FJ Cruiser capped off its first year on sale in Australia by winning 4x4 Australia magazine’s 4x4 of the Year title.

FJ Cruiser beat the Jeep Grand Cherokee diesel, Range Rover Vogue TDV8 and Mercedes-Benz G 350 BlueTEC to take the top prize. 4x4 Australia editor Fraser Stronach said FJ Cruiser had finished the competition strongly, winning favour with the six experienced judges.

“Don’t be fooled by the FJ Cruiser’s toy-car styling as, underneath, lies the well-proven and robust mechanicals of Toyota’s immensely popular Prado,” he said. motor trader queensland

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Scirocco R is sporty and precise The Scirocco R has taken out its first Australian award being crowned TopGear Australia’s Car of the Year 2011. The Scirocco R’s sporty design, and firey 2.0-litre engine ensured the car’s top spot amongst a list of high-profile competitors.

Its 188kW TSI engine with 330 Nm summons torque at any speed range and combined with the sophisticated XDL offers driving behaviour that is sporty and precise. The Scirocco R is a head turner with its typical “R” styling and sexy body design. Enhanced by its narrow radiator grille, larger roof edge spoiler, prominent glossy black diffuser and “Talladega” style alloy 19” R-wheels, the Scirocco R not only plays the part, it looks the part too.

Wraps come off Toyota 86 Toyota has taken the wraps off its newest sports car, announcing it will be called Toyota 86 or “hachi roku” in its home market, Japan. Toyota president Akio Toyoda drove a production prototype down the main straight of the Fuji Speedway, south of Tokyo.

Mr. Toyoda said the new rear-wheel-drive sports car was all about “waku doki” - a car that creates excitement and gets your heart racing. The rear-wheel-drive car features the world’s first horizontally opposed D-4S engine, combining “boxer” engine technology with Toyota’s cutting-edge D-4S direct injection technology.

Peugeot 4008 SUV According to Peugeot Automobiles Australia general manager Ken Thomas the company’s stated policy of strengthening the brand beyond the French borders - started in 2010 and growing stronger year by year - points to a big year ahead for Peugeot in Australia. Along with Russia and the Ukraine, Australia in 2012 will be one of the first countries to receive the Peugeot 4008 SUV because of the country’s strength of the SUV market.

Further strengthening Peugeot’s appeal will be the wider introduction of the Peugeot Aftercare Assured Service Plan, delivering remarkably low cost fixed-price servicing charges to owners for their first three years or 60,000 km.

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