Auto Channel 37 by Via Media

ISSUE 37 JULY 2021

THE VOICE OF THE NEW ZEALAND AUTOMOTIVE INDUSTRY

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Fuchs’ ‘Magnificent 7’ range is riding into town FUCHS LUBRICANTS IS RAMPING UP ITS PROFILE IN NEW ZEALAND, BUILDING ON ITS UNDERSTANDING OF THE NEEDS OF NEW ZEALAND WORKSHOPS uchs is best known in New Zealand for its Titan range of high-spec lubricants for demanding modern petrol and diesel engines as often found in European vehicles. The Australian-made lubricants range is now aiming to expand its reputation by providing total workshop solutions tailored to New Zealand workshop needs. The German brand — which is pronounced fooks, if you are wondering — will align with Kiwi workshops by addressing three workshop priorities. These are: offering a comprehensive and targeted range that makes for cost-effective purchasing; addressing sustainability and efficiency; and, finally, supporting local industry — and Fuchs lubricants has a unique proposition in this area.

THE RANGE To make things easier for the workshop, Fuchs has introduced what it calls the ‘Magnificent 7’— its range of high-volume oils and lubricants that meet the

demands of the vast majority of cars in New Zealand. Stocking those, or most of them, would cover a large proportion of customer needs. They are available in steel 205-litre and 60-litre drums, still one of the most ecologically sustainable packaging options. 1. Fuchs Titan GT1 Flex 23 has BMW, MercedesBenz, and VW approvals. However, as it covers ACEA C2 and C3 and API SN requirements in one product, it’s also suitable for volume petrol/diesel vehicles such as Toyota’s Land Cruiser and HiLux through to HiAce fleets. 2. The Titan Syn SN is even more versatile. This semi-synthetic lubricant is available in a broad range of viscosities, meeting ACEA A3/B3 and A3/B4 and API SN/CF requirements, making it suitable for use across petrol and diesel fleets. 3. The Titan Supersyn F Eco-DT SAE range meets Ford diesel specifications, as well as ACEA A5/B5 and API SL, and has Jaguar Land Rover approval. It covers the majority of Ford Rangers and a

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broad range of Hyundai and Kia vehicles. 4. The GT1 Pro C-3 meets most Volkswagen Audi Group requirements and has BMW, MercedesBenz, Porsche, and VW approvals. 5. Titan ATF 4400 transmission fluid. 6. Titan ATF 6400 transmission fluid. Between them, the Titan ATF 4400 and the Titan ATF 6400 transmission fluids cover millions of vehicles in the global fleet for automatic transmissions. 7. Titan Supergear LS 80W-90 meets limited slip, manual transmission and standard type API GL5 grades in one, meaning there’s no need to also stock standard 80W-90 gear oil.

SUSTAINABLE PACKAGING Fuchs is tailoring its service to workshop needs by expanding the range of product packs, including more sustainable options.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 4

simply the

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Contents

From the Ed.

26 Fuchs is workshop-focussed, and local

Cover / 4

Eurosurgeon’s winning formula

Corvette gets closer

Hayman Reese goes visual

Future fuel scenarios

Big future in future-proofing

The gold rush is on

Wolfchester is here

Car news

Feature car: Mäkinen’s grandma special

Tech feature: Building a midget

Right to repair breakthrough

New Snap-on scanner

Product profiles

he government has announced an updated version of its electric vehicle (EV) incentive scheme which was stymied pre-election by opposition from coalition partner New Zealand First. The scheme aims to be tax neutral, lowering the cost of EVs by up to $8600 and loading that cost onto gas-guzzling vehicles. Farmers and businesses predictably argued they don’t have an EV ute option yet, so hiking the cost of their favourite utes by about $3000 was unfair. But as I understand it, unlike private buyers, they can set that extra cost against their taxable income, a point that didn’t get as much publicity. Meanwhile EV vans, however, are coming on stream. The government hopes the move will help catch up on other countries’ EV conversion rates. Apart from anything else, it will keep more of the $4 billion we hand over to oil companies each year in Kiwis’ pockets. This move, particularly incentivising fleet purchases which displaces oil-burning vehicles in heavy use — as well as speeding the supply into the crucial second-hand market due to their fast turnover — makes more sense than allowing EVs into bus lanes. That policy failed in Norway. It only worked for commuters near bus lanes (who could be on the bus), plus it slowed normal traffic lanes as the EVs cut in and out around buses. However, rapidly increasing global demand for EVs, which exceeds supply, will likely push prices the other way and blunt the impact.

Ian Parkes, Editor

Auto Channel is distributed 11 times per year. To receive your free copy or to change your address, simply visit autochannel.co.nz.

Identification Logo variants

The logo as a brand-relevant element can be used in a variety of versions. It is always shown on the logotag in its positive variant

Fuchs’ 25,000 square metre manufacturing plant, opened in Beresfield, NSW, in 2018 Adding new reusable and recyclable 60-litre steel drums alongside the 205-litre size increases the more sustainable packaging options, and reduces plastic use. However, plastic still has its place, and in fact Fuchs has expanded its range of plastic pack sizes. This is a deliberate move to meet specific workshop and customer needs, because ‘right sizing’ improves efficiency, which also reduces waste. Fuchs’ channel marketing manager, Anthony Ficarra, says improving efficiency improves sustainability. As the new 7-litre and 10-litre pack sizes are better matched to modern sump sizes than traditional packs, one 7-litre pack can, for example, be used instead of two 5-litre packs. That means less plastic use overall. He says customers are increasingly taking an interest in their suppliers’ environmental credentials. “Our customers are interested in improving sustainability but it’s fair to say that’s a bit more of a priority among New Zealand customers,” he says.

LOCAL MANUFACTURE Anthony says Fuchs has recognised the commitment of New Zealanders and Australians to local manufacture and their desire to support local industry and communities. Fuchs has deliberately gone in the opposite direction to most oil suppliers, which have moved production offshore and transitioned to an import strategy. Fuchs has a history in this region that spans 100 years and Anthony believes that history and commitment is important to customers here. In February 2018, company chairman Stefan Fuchs opened the door to a purpose-built plant in Beresfield, NSW, that tripled the capacity of the plant it is replacing. That plant is closer to the centre of Newcastle, in an area that is being rezoned, but

the relocation nearby meant existing staff could easily transition to the new facility. Built at a cost of A$35 million, the new 25,000 square metre facility maximises efficient technologies and has an extensive solar array, making the most of the Aussie sunshine to provide 25 to 30 percent of the plant’s energy needs. Other moves towards carbon neutrality include more efficient practices that reduce the need for pipe flushing, for example. The plant manufactures on-site and has a laboratory as well as sales and customer service departments. The new facility is in addition to Fuchs’ primary lubricants manufacturing facility, which hosts one of Australasia’s largest R&D and quality assurance laboratories at Sunshine in Victoria. Fuchs continues to update the Sunshine plant. The company’s 230 employees at the two world-class production plants and laboratories in Australia work for the only Australian manufacturer to produce lubricants, coolants, greases, and additives for the automotive, industrial, and agriculture sectors. The company offers 1700 lubricants and related specialties. “One hundred percent of our business is lubricants. We are the lubricant people, and we manufacture 95 percent of our products here in Australia,” said Anthony. “Think of us as Australian made, with German technology.” For more information, Channel marketing call 0800 382 476 or see manager fuchs.co.nz. Anthony Ficarra

The decision on whether the logo should b used with or without the claim is far from straightforward. Communication and marketing materials were nevertheless defined with a binding obligation to use the logo with or without the claim.

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BUSINESS DIRECTOR

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CONTENT DIRECTOR Isobel Simmons PRINTING Ovato

NOTICE TO ADVERTISERS Parkside Media uses due care and diligence in the preparation of this magazine, but is not responsible or liable for any mistakes, misprints, omissions, or typographical errors. Parkside Media prints advertisements provided to the publisher but gives no warranty and makes no representation to the truth, accuracy, or sufficiency of any description, photograph, or statement. Parkside Media accepts no liability for any loss which may be suffered by any person who relies either wholly or in part upon any description, photograph, or statement contained herein. Parkside Media reserves the right to refuse any advertisement for any reason. The views expressed in this magazine are not necessarily those of Parkside Media, the publisher, or editor. All material published, gathered, or created for Auto Channel is copyright 2021 Parkside Media Limited. All rights reserved in all media. No part of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without the express written permission of the publisher.

Auto Channel is the best way to reach the wider automotive industry. The publication is direct mailed to 11,306 New Zealand businesses in the following automotive sectors: Automotive workshops, parts importers and distributors, transmission specialists, automotive recyclers, towing operators, panel beaters and painters, crash repairers, tyre dealers, suspension and underbody repairers, steering specialists, towing operators, auto-electrical repairers, newand used-car dealers, air-conditioning repairers, heavy-machinery dealers, trucking and transport. Production in the new Beresfield facility has already ramped up

Auto Channel Issue #37 July 2021

nt can always e variant.

hould be ar from nd less o use

PACK SIZE

1 Logo with claim

2 Logo with claim and

3 Logo without claim

4 Logo withou

LUBRITECH lettering

With an ever-evolving car parc in New Zealand, FUCHS have introduced additional pack sizes for their vehicle lubricant portfolio to suit

LUBRITECH l

servicing needs. The new 7L and 10L packs across a selection of the FUCHS TITAN vehicle lubricants range is proudly ‘Australian made with German technology that pays back’ and delivers a flexible and reliable solution for the New Zealand automotive industry.

The logo is used with the claim when the purpose is to explain the company and recharge the FUCHS brand. In the initial contact with the customer and in markets with low levels of awareness in particular, the claim provides the observer with important information and must always be included if possible. The logo must always be used with the claim on the following materials:

The logo is used without the claim when for functional reasons (concerning longdistance impact or a small image size), the claim is not legible or there is a high level of information or sender competition, as is the case with, for example, product labels. The logo must always be used without the claim on the following materials:  Product labels and packaging units

 Business equipment (letterhead, business cards, etc.)  Printed material / brochures  Presentations  Websites  Identification of FUCHS buildings PRODUCT

SPECIFICATIONS

TITAN GT1 FLEX 23 SAE 5W-30

Broad application for diesel (with DPF) and petrol engines across many manufacturers

TITAN GT1 PRO C-3 SAE 5W-30

Designed particularly for VW / Audi engines including petrol and diesel

TITAN GT1 SAE 5W-40

Suitable for GM/Holden diesel vehicles requiring a SAE 5W-40 specification oil

TITAN SuperSyn D1 SAE 5W-30

Designed to provide broad dexos 1 approval for all GM petrol vehicles

TITAN SuperSyn F Eco-DT SAE 5W-30

An essential engine oil for use in Ford DuraTorq-Diesel engines

TITAN SuperSyn F Eco-B SAE 5W-20

Extreme fuel-economy engine oil especially developed for Ford Ecoboost engines

TITAN SuperSyn F Eco-FE SAE 0W-30

Especially developed for modern Ford diesel engines

TITAN SuperSyn Longlife SAE 5W-40

A high performance product for use in a broad spectrum of European vehicles

PH 0800 382 476

www.fuchs.co.nz

10L

Don’t leave your customers stranded this winter BATTERY TESTING PROVIDES CUSTOMER CARE AS WELL AS DRIVING BATTERY SALES n winter, when ambient temperatures are at their lowest, automotive batteries go through changes that can begin to affect vehicles’ starting performance. Colder temperatures can increase the friction between engine components, and an increase in oil viscosity means that additional cranking power is required to start the vehicle.

COLDER CRANKING AMPS To add more stress to the situation, while a fully charged battery at 25⁰C has virtually 100 percent of its power available to crank the engine, at 0⁰C the battery’s power output can be reduced by as much as 35 percent as the cold will also slow down the chemical reaction inside the battery. Century Yuasa’s Australasian marketing manager automotive, Andrew Bottoms, says the combination of the vehicle’s operating conditions and a decrease in available CCA (Cold Cranking Amps) is a big factor behind an increase in battery failures leading into the colder months.

COLD HARD FACTS “However, research has also proven the correlation between the more batteries you test, the more replacement batteries you will sell,” says Andrew. “This is particularly pertinent when we consider that approximately 110,000 battery sales are lost each year to roadside replacements because of people waiting until their batteries fail before replacing them.”

Auto Channel Issue #37 July 2021

That happens simply because most people have no idea their batteries are close to failing until they are stranded at the roadside. Century Yuasa’s data shows more than 70 percent of those vehicles would have visited a service bay or retail outlet within the last six months. Those owners in particular could have potentially benefited from receiving a free battery test during that visit. Andrew says this is particularly interesting when you factor in that approximately one in every 20 batteries identified with a ‘chance of failure’ leads to a battery sale.

ADDED VALUE CUSTOMER SERVICE This conversion rate could be improved by reminding customers that waiting until their battery fails could leave them stranded and running late. It will most likely be on the coldest mornings at home, or on the roadside, but always when they really want to use the car. They simply won’t learn the battery has failed until the car is needed. Andrew says this perspective may help customers appreciate that the workshop is effectively on their side; it is not suggesting they buy a battery before it’s needed. Proactive battery testing using a hand-held tester like the DHC BT521A from Century Yuasa provides accurate, on-the-spot test results in minutes. It can help identify suspect batteries before they fail and highlight problems with the vehicle’s starting and charging system. But more importantly, it helps your customers avoid the financial and emotional costs

associated with a flat or faulty battery. This will translate into increased battery sales, but it’ll also help build or maintain a business’s reputation for offering good customer service, which will further cement that business in the local community. Contact a Century Yuasa representative on 0800 93 93 93, or visit www.centurybatteries.co.nz for more information on Century Yuasa’s extensive range of battery testing and diagnostic equipment.

PEACE OF MIND

WITH FORD GENUINE PARTS Transit 2006 - 2014 TRADE PRICE1

GETGENUINE POINTS2

PART NUMBER

PART

APPLICATION

6C112K478BE

Brake master cylinder with ABS

2006 -2008

$ 322

6C112005BE

Brake booster

2006 - 2011

$ 480

6C112078AC

Front brake hose

2006 - 2014

$ 33

BK3Q2A451FC

Vacuum pump 2.2 litre engine

2011 - 2014

$ 365

547 pts

7C162A451BB

Vacuum pump 2.4 litre engine

2006 - 2011

$ 273

409 pts

8C1R7003BE

Transmission 6-speed

2006 - 2011

$ 5,355

8,032 pts

BK3Q6006EA

Long engine 2.2 100PS

2006 - 2014

$ 4,874

7,311 pts

BB3Q6011EA

Short engine 2.2 155,125,100PS

2006 - 2014

$ 3,917

5,875 pts

BK2Q6K682GB

Turbocharger 2.2 155PS

2006 - 2014

$ 2,736

4,104 pts

BK3Z6K682T

Turbocharger 2.2 155PS

2006 - 2014

$ 1,973

2,959 pts

CC119L440BF

Intercooler 2.2 155PS

2006 - 2014

$ 303

454 pts

CC119L440AF

Intercooler 2.2 125PS

2006 - 2014

$ 383

574 pts

BK3Q6B624CD

Oil cooler 2.2 rear drive

2006 - 2014

$ 292

438 pts

BK3Z8501H

Water pump 2.2

2006 - 2014

$ 326

489 pts

YC1W4684AA

Driveshaft coupling short wheelbase 5-speed

2006 - 2014

$ 237

355 pts

2L1W4684AA

Driveshaft coupling short wheelbase 6-speed

2006 - 2014

$ 247

370 pts

CC114826AA

Driveshaft hanger bearing short wheelbase 5-Speed

2006 - 2014

$ 91

136 pts

1C154635DA

Drivesharft universal joint

2006 - 2014

$ 184

276 pts

94BB7A624AA

Brake/clutch pedal pad

2006 - 2014

$ 22

4M5T14A664AC

Rotary coupling (for steering wheel air bag)

2006 - 2014

$ 148

8C113200DF

Power steering rack

2006 - 2014

$ 669

1,003 pts

RECC1T10300CD

Alternator 2.2

2006 - 2014

$ 404

606 pts

97GP18A886A1B

Aerial mast

2006 - 2013

$ 30

483 pts 720 pts 49 pts

33 pts 222 pts

45 pts

Call your local Ford dealer today 0800 FORD NZ (0800 367 369) Prices are recommended only and are net after discount and exclude GST. Recommended prices were correct at the time of printing. 2 GetGenuine reward points are awarded only to trade customers registered under the GetGenuine GetRewards Programme. Some exclusions apply. Images shown are example parts only. For full warranty terms and conditions ask your authorised Ford Dealer. Promotion ends 31 July 2021.

Eurosurgeon goes back to the source WHEN EUROSURGEON NEEDED TO FIT OUT A NEW WORKSHOP IT APPLIED A TRIED AND TRUE FORMULA urosurgeon, which services and tunes European cars, has been on a steady growth path since Joe Clifton founded the business from the back of a former St John ambulance eight years ago. He established his first workshop in 2016 in Mt Wellington, Auckland. Just two years later he set up a dedicated performance workshop and dyno centre in Patrick St, Onehunga, to meet the growing demand for tweaking and tuning high-performance European cars. Now Eurosurgeon is opening a third workshop, across the road from its original premises, dedicated to straightforward vehicle servicing. Joe says he has around 80 cars onsite at any one time and the new facility will allow him to grow the business, and free up space in the original workshop which has four hoists. Moving out the service work means that can now be dedicated to engine rebuilds and other intensive projects. The new service workshop has eight hoists and doors front and back to facilitate efficient one-way traffic. When it came to selecting the hoists, Joe went straight back to equipment supplier Automaster. As heavy vehicles aren’t on his radar, Joe knew twopost hoists would fit the bill. A clear floor design

was also important for low clearance performance cars. Automaster recommended five Automaster AM-6246Rs, one Automaster AM-7130 full rise scissor (with another on order), and an Automaster AM-8250TXD-R alignment scissor, plus a Vamag 3D aligner. “Service and flexibility and just ease of dealing with people is important to me,” says Joe. “Good service, price of course, and solid reliability. We got Automaster hoists five years ago and they are still performing well.” With reliability proven, Joe had no hesitation in going back to a trusted team. “They made life very straightforward,” he says. “They were good and simple to deal with.” The 4.5-tonne, two-post hoists have a low arm height design which is also important for low cars and the high motor position means they can be sited in narrow spaces. They also have high or low crossbar heights to suit different height ceilings. The 5-tonne alignment scissor lift is wide and long to suit both large and small vehicles. It has two rolling centre jacking beams and full floating rear slip plates. The Italian-made Vamag 3D aligner will do a complete 3D geometry check in under 30 seconds.

Lighting is adjusted automatically to compensate for changing conditions and cameras acquire targets automatically. Its patented measuring system means run-out checks can be skipped, saving working time. For more information call Automaster on 0800 214 604, or see automaster.co.nz.

AUTO EQUIPMENT BUILT TO PERFORM 323 7+( +22' $1' 7$.( $ /22.

:RUNVKRS HTXLSPHQW FDQ RIWHQ ORRN PXFK WKH VDPH %XW ZH NQRZ LW¶V DOO DERXW WKH TXDOLW\ RI FRPSRQHQWV LQVLGH &RUJKL LV D ZRUOG OHDGHU WKH $XWRPDVWHU UDQJH LV EXLOW XVLQJ RQO\ WKH KLJKHVW TXDOLW\ FRPSRQHQWV (LWKHU ZD\ \RX ZLQ *Delivery, installation and GST not included

G R E AT D E A L S - S U P R E M E S E R V I C E - H U G E R A N G E

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25*

OUR VICE-GRIP GUARANTEE NO DEPOSIT LEASE-TO-OWN TERMS

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IF YOU’RE NOT HAPPY, WE REPLACE OR REFUND IN FULL.

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WWW.AUTOMASTER.CO.NZ +HQGHUVRQ 9DOOH\ 5G, Henderson, Akl - 6 Gerald Connolly Place, Hornby,Chch Call toll-free: 0800 214 604 / Email: info@automaster.co.nz PATCH RUBBER TYRE AND TUBE Everything for the tyre dealer

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24,095

Hella gets creative with light pipes HELLA USES LIGHT-PIPE TECHNOLOGY TO ADD POSITION TO DRIVING LIGHTS or the first time, Hella has used LED light-pipe technology to create a statement-position light integrated into a powerful high-beam light bar. This new light bar also offers much greater longterm durability and reliability than traditional high heat tungsten technology. Hella’s range of award-winning LED light bars provide additional light and are approved for use in New Zealand and Australia with ECE compliance (two lamps). The low-profile housings are designed and manufactured using durable materials to ensure long life and value for money.

Hella’s multi-volt circuitry means the dualfunction lamp can be used with 12V or 24V power, and consumes just 36W on high beam. Any input between 9 and 33V offers optimum brightness. The adjustable mounting system offers easy installation and flexibility for any orientation, although they must be mounted according to New Zealand Transport Authority (NZTA) regulations covering high beam and position lamps. Built-in Hella durability and long-term reliability through unmatched corrosion resistance and toughness are provided by a thermally conductive polymer housing. They are also built to withstand all adverse

weather conditions. The light bar is hermetically sealed, making it completely dust- and waterproof (IP6K7). The housing is precision moulded using a revolutionary non-corrosive, thermally conductive material. This eliminates any potential issues like rust or powder coating flaking off. The scalloped contour design is also extremely easy to clean, as there are no cavities that can be clogged with dirt, unlike traditional light bars with thin heat fin designs. These light bars are designed and manufactured in New Zealand for fit-and-forget peace of mind and to withstand prolonged exposure to our aggressive UV. The completely sealed Hella LED Light Bar series is covered by a five-year warranty. For more info, visit hella.co.nz.

Technology with Vision

LUMINATOR 3.0 LED High Beam Driving Lamp

Designed with style, built for performance - the perfect lighting choice for taking your on and off road adventures to the next level. The new distinctive position lamp function is made possible by HELLA’s innovative Edge Light technology. Must be mounted according to local installation regulations for high beam and position lamps

0800 4 HELLA (0800 443 552) for your nearest HELLA stockist Luminator Half Page 220x156.indd 1

www.hella.co.nz 18-Mar-21 10:15:03 AM

GM announces pricing for RHD C8 Corvette ORDERING FOR THE NEW RIGHT-HAND-DRIVE CORVETTE OFFICIALLY OPENS AND PRICING IS ANNOUNCED FOR THE TOP-OF-THE-RANGE CARBON EDITION eneral Motors Special Vehicles (GMSV) has confirmed the final step in the C8 Corvette ordering process, announcing the recommended retail price for the highly sought after Carbon Edition. “The long wait is over,” said GMSV director Joanne Stogiannis. “The books are open and our dealers are ready to place orders.” She says that “excitement and anticipation” had been building since the reveal of the C8 right-handdrive programme almost two years ago, and only accelerated when it released recommended retail pricing for 2LT and 3LT (different trim levels) models in late March. The offering is now complete with the release of the pricing and specification of the Carbon Edition. The Carbon Edition is exclusive to Australia and New Zealand and celebrates the long-awaited arrival of Corvette down under. Only one of the limited-production vehicles will be allocated to each GMSV dealer. The Carbon Edition, a 3LT available only as a coupé, comes equipped with an option package handpicked by GMSV. The Carbon Edition pack consists of: • carbon-fibre interior package with carbon-fibre inserts on the dash and door panels • Trident wheels in Spectra Gray with a machined face • colour-coded brake calipers • carbon-fibre roof • engine-appearance lighting package with carbonfibre close-out panels • unique Carbon Edition build plate • exclusive Carbon Edition customer welcome pack.

Auto Channel Issue #37 July 2021

The carbon-fibre elements along with the Trident wheel package are limited to the Carbon Edition as part of the MY22 production run. One person who has already had the opportunity to drive the all-new C8 Corvette in Australia and experience some of its sensational performance attributes, albeit in a left-hand-drive version, is Supercars legend Craig Lowndes. “It’s stunning. The weight distribution is really nice, especially now that it’s mid-engined,” said the three-time Supercars champion and seven-time Bathurst winner. “It was supposed to be a demonstration run at The Bend, but I gave it a workout. The paddle shifts worked extremely smoothly.

“For me to have had the opportunity to showcase it at Tailem Bend was fantastic.” The car is powered by a new naturally aspirated 6.2-litre V8 driving through an eight-speed DCT auto. The recommended retail prices include GST but exclude on-road costs, such as dealer-delivery and statutory charges. The 2LT Coupe is priced at $154,990, the 2LT Convertible at $169,990, the 3LT Coupe at $169,990, and the 3LT Convertible at $184,990. The Carbon Edition, coupé only, is priced at $197,990. The C8 Corvette is the eighth generation of the Corvette and the first mid-engined car in the lineup. Also, for the first time since the C1 was launched in 1953, a Corvette is being offered in righthand-drive configuration direct from the famous Bowling Green, Kentucky, factory. GMSV hand-picks only the most iconic General Motors (GM) vehicles for the Australian and New Zealand markets. GMSV also offers Silverado trucks, which are converted to righthand-drive in Australia by GMSV trusted partner Walkinshaw Group, a name synonymous with success both on and off the track. The group has been an affiliate of GM for the past 30 years. More information on GMSV models can be found at gmspecialtyvehicles.com.

WIPER BLADES, REFILLS & OPTIKLEEN

FOR A CLEAR VIEW, THE CHOICE IS ACDELCO ACDELCO WIPER BLADES & REFILLS There is an ACDelco Wiper product for most makes and models on the road. Once you experience the quality, effectiveness and ease of installation, ACDelco will become your brand of choice for automotive wiper products. The ACDelco range includes modern Beam Blade wipers, Exact Fit Hybrid blades as well as traditional wiper blade assemblies and refills. Part No.

Twin Rail & Hybrid Wiper Refills

Price $

Part No.

Wiper Blade Assemblies

Price $

AURT6

Twin Rail Refills 6mm x 600mm Box of 20

$62.00

M400ME

Conventional Blade 16" x 6mm

$7.40

AURT8

Twin Rail Refills 8mm x 600mm Box of 20

$68.00

M450ME

Conventional Blade 18" x 6mm

$7.40

AURT8L

Twin Rail Refills 8mm x 700mm Box of 10 (19376262)

$49.00

M475ME

Conventional Blade 19" x 6mm

$7.40

M525ME

Conventional Blade 21" x 6mm

$7.40

AURH8

Hybrid Refills 8.5mm x 700mm Box of 20 (19376263)

$124.00

M550ME

Conventional Blade 22" x 6mm

$7.40

M600ME

Conventional Blade 24" x 6mm

$7.40

M650ME

Conventional Blade 26" x 6mm

$7.40

ACDELCO OPTIKLEEN You can't go past ACDelco Optikleen, all-seasons advanced formula screen wash concentrate. Optikleen offers safe, smear-free cleaning all year round. 5 Litres of concentrate makes 500 Litres - clearly great value.

Part No.

Optikleen

92140005 ACDelco Optikleen 500ml bottle 92140006 ACDelco Optikleen 5 litre bottle

GM Trade Parts Prices exclude GST and are valid until 31/7/2021

Available from: Your local Holden & GM Trade Parts Outlet

www.gmtradeparts.co.nz

Price $

$5.00 $28.00

Free Narva Automotive Globe Cabinet NARVA LIGHTING DISTRIBUTORS GRIFFITHS EQUIPMENT IS OFFERING THIS PRACTICAL BULB STORAGE UNIT TO HIGH-VOLUME WORKSHOPS stylish Narva Automotive Globe Cabinet is now available to workshops and other high-volume bulb users with the qualifying globe pack purchase. The units feature steel construction, finished in Narva Blue, and are designed to meet the rigours of constant workshop use. “Storing small items such as globes can prove difficult among numerous other parts in a busy workshop,” says Tim Paterson, Griffiths Equipment’s national sales manager. Griffiths Equipment distributes Narva products throughout New Zealand. “When technicians need to put their hands on a fast-moving part such as a lighting globe, they need to do that speedily and easily, so the Narva cabinet has been designed with these factors in mind.” The Narva cabinet is fronted by a tough, clear Perspex screen making all available stock easy to

This handy storage cabinet is available free for high-volume Narva customers for storing Narva bulbs spot on the shelves. The Perspex front face takes up most of the door and is lockable, adding to security and stock control for bulbs, other consumables, and related tools. It has a hidden shelf to keep higher value items secure and out of sight, if required, while the large clear screen allows workshop staff to keep tabs on stock levels of the five drawers at a glance. The tool chest also uses quality drawer runners designed to provide reliable and smooth drawer operation for the life of the unit. The new Narva Automotive Globe Cabinet includes rubber floor stoppers to elevate and

protect the base if positioned on a shelf or floor, or it can be wall-mounted using pre-drilled holes. Applicable globe packs that qualify for the free Narva Automotive Globe Cabinet offer are: 12V Automotive (part No. 47100), 12/24V Premium Automotive (part No. 17100), 12/24V Automotive (part No. 47110), and 12/24V Premium and HeavyDuty Globe (part No. 17110). The globe packs that qualify for a free new Narva Automotive Globe Cabinet can be purchased from automotive outlets throughout New Zealand. More information is available at narva.co.nz.

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Hayman Reese likes what it sees HAYMAN REESE WANTS TO SEE PHOTOS OF CUSTOMERS MAKING THE MOST OF ITS TOWBARS ON SOCIAL MEDIA ayman Reese NZ spokesperson Darryl Maslin is planning to give customers who are pleased with their Hayman Reese gear a way to share their satisfaction. The towbar and accessory manufacturer, which developed a range of products geared to tough Australian market conditions, now available in New Zealand, wants to see customers’ photos of their products in action, and the more action the better. Hayman Reese’s X-bar is designed to complement the rugged looks of modern 4x4s, and the red recovery points are a standout for serious 4WD enthusiasts. With three dedicated recovery points built in and rated up to 8000kg, the X-Bar provides more options for awkward recoveries. The forged ball mount, the increased thickness of the heavy-duty side plates, and the forged rated recovery points are engineered specifically for the demands of both towing and recovery. It is the only 8000kg-rated recovery tow bar on the market. The brand is currently running a promotion for New Zealand users of any Hayman Reese product seeking photos that it will share on social media. Darryl says Hayman Reese NZ’s marketing strategy is now being directed to grow its online

presence, building on the lessons learned by necessity during lockdown. He says engagement with customers through Facebook was greater than expected so that pointed the way forward. “We hadn’t given it too much effort but our posts have proven to be popular. It’s also been a great way for end users to contact us should

they have a product or application query. “That suggests it will in turn grow business through our retail and installer network that we set up during lockdown in 2020.” Darryl says that supporting its Facebook presence, its Instagram profile is “almost ready to roll”. “But I’m not sure our brand has the right fit for TikTok,” he says. “We have also rolled this out to our installer network. We’d love to see our hard working installers submitting photos of their installs and happy customers.” Darryl says Hayman Reese is also planning interactive content that will come out over the next 12 months. For more information contact Hayman Reese directly on 0800 MY T BAR (0800 698 227) or email info@haymanreese.co.nz.

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Hydrogen, e-fuels, biofuels, or electricity?

Discussion moderated by director of Automechanika Olaf Mußhoff

KEY PLAYERS IN DECIDING THE WAY WE WILL DRIVE IN THE FUTURE GOT TOGETHER TO TALK DIGITALLY COURTESY OF ONE OF THE WORLD’S BIGGEST MOTOR SHOWS, AUTOMECHANIKA FRANKFURT laf Mußhoff, director of Automechanika Frankfurt, moderated the discussion on 14 April. He drew together representatives from major vehicle manufacturers and manufacturers of alternative fuels, and industry associations, to talk about the fuels of the future. Participants included Pierre Olivier Calendini, chief representative of the Aramco Fuel Research Center, Frank Müller, director of the Capital City Office of the German Federal Association for eMobility (BEM e.V.), Dr Isabel Kundler, project coordinator at Dechema e.V., Alain Mathuren, communication director at FuelsEurope, Mark Freymüller, CEO of Hyundai Hydrogen Mobility, and Dr Axel Koblitz, managing director of the German Federation for Motor Trades and Repairs (ZDK). A majority of the guests agreed that it would be necessary to use all the available technologies, including hydrogen-powered fuel cells, electric drive systems, and synthetic fuels such as e-fuels and renewable fuels (‘re-fuels’) to make mobility as climate-neutral as possible. Mark Freymüller said: “We need to find and use every possibility we have to reduce CO2 emissions. CO2 emissions are our enemy, and we need to join together to combat these.” The participants were unanimous in their belief that our rapidly changing climate makes it essential that we slash CO2 emissions as quickly as possible — emissions that are being driven by the use of fossil fuels to power cars, trucks, planes, and ships. Aramco’s Pierre Olivier Calendini commented: “Unfortunately we don’t have a single technology that is able to cover all the sectors, so we need to develop each of them, and we have to create

Auto Channel Issue #37 July 2021

an equitable legal framework that allows these technologies to find a market.” Dr Isabel Kundler also left no doubt about the importance of being open to different technologies today: “We cannot ignore any opportunity, so I believe we need each of these three pillars, and we must be open to a certain amount of diversity in the technologies used.” Dr Axel Koblitz agreed saying: “I think we should accept that different purposes require different solutions. And one of these solutions is certainly the battery electric vehicle for short distances, such as when travelling to and from work. But for longer distances, transporting goods — heavy loads in particular, for ships and aircraft — we need different solutions, such as hydrogen and e-fuels.” One point that was made repeatedly was that even existing car fleets could be converted to run on e-fuels or renewable fuels to reduce CO2 emissions or make their operation climate neutral. Frank Müller added: “E-Fuels make sense if we are talking about the fleets that are already on the road. But if we’re talking about the future, we need to shift towards electric vehicles, or maybe hydrogen for trucks, ships, and planes.”

On the other hand, FuelsEurope’s Alain Mathuren does not think that conventional combustion engines are a thing of the past: “Because internal combustion engines are not the problem, but rather the fuel we use. We can decarbonise internal combustion engines by using synthetic e-fuels or renewable fuels made from biomass, waste, and recycled CO2.” Another argument that was discussed involved the possible social impact of an across-theboard electrification of personal transport. To ensure that less well-off EU citizens are not left behind, they should be able to power their personal vehicles with e-fuels or renewable fuels so that they could also enjoy sustainable mobility. The participants were largely in agreement that electromobility would win out in the sphere of urban mobility, but felt that it was still an open question as to which technologies would come out on top in other areas, such as aviation, truck transport, and shipping. Mark Freymüller summed it up like this: “At the end of the day, the decision will be made by the users. Any alternative needs to be financially attractive for both the operator and the end user. I think each technology has certain advantages and disadvantages, depending on the sector and usability, but we need to do something, and we need to do it quickly. That means we should start off with whatever can have the quickest impact.”

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Autoblast sets the franchise standard NATIONWIDE DEMAND FOR A UNIQUE RUST PROTECTION SERVICE AND A GOLD STANDARD FRANCHISE PROCESS ENSURE BUSINESS SUCCESS he fame of Autoblast’s ‘Autolast’ system has spread nationwide. Owner David Kirkham says vehicles are shipped into his Glenfield, Auckland, business from around the country on a daily basis. Autoblast’s Autolast treatments are different to the wax/oil solutions offered elsewhere. These treatments are usually just sprayed inside chassis members and settle. The Autolast coatings cover the underside and they dry out, harden, and stay in place. They also self-heal which means if they are struck by a stone they soften, remould, and harden again. There’s also a ‘gold standard’ galvanising option in the Autoblast portfolio. David says even vehicles only two or three years old suffer extensive rusting in New Zealand’s mostly coastal environment. The country has different building standards for coastal properties and vehicles operating in salt-laden environments also need extra protection. Many areas of the country have moist air that condenses on cold steel parts overnight. “Add in salty coastal air, and it turns that moisture into salt

water — so essentially it’s the same as driving in the sea,” says David. “We’ve hardly scratched the surface of what’s out there.” David says he could have opened new branches but, as an owner-operator himself, he knows having people personally invested in the success of their business is the best way to ensure that the quality needed in a specialist operation is upheld. David has invested heavily in setting up a franchise system that will lead to a turnkey operation, but he admits he is being picky about pre-qualifiying potential franchisees. “Some franchises succeed by signing people up. We will succeed by signing up successful people,” he says. “We are not in a hurry. We will have a lot more behind the product and the brand if the person answering the phone is invested in the business.” He says the group will be strengthened by having the right people at the very start. David says several staff in his own business are keen to set up on their

own and they are working towards meeting the criteria. One experienced staff member keen to see the country has offered to get new workshops up and running smoothly and he is prepared to move to other centres for six months or a year to do that. Marketing, including social media, is also set up and ready to go — it can go live, area by area, as soon as each new business is ready to go. For more information on Autoblast’s products or franchise opportunities, contact autoblast.co.nz, or call David Kirkham on 09 443 6574.

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Parts Connection Gold Rush second jackpot winner ANOTHER WINNER SCOOPED THE JACKPOT PRIZE IN THE PARTS CONNECTION GOLD RUSH JACKPOT IN JUNE his time the lucky gold nugget was won by Stephen and Denise Noyer and the team at Moselle Panel & Paint in Henderson, who won $15,000 in cash. It was all smiles and excitement when Pam McNickle from Parts Connection and Paul Bayer from the Capricorn Society visited the team at Moselle’s to present them with their winning ‘nugget’, plus donuts for morning tea. Pam McNickle said they were clearly excited by the win. “The winning nugget screen was still showing on the computer. They just could not believe their luck and didn’t want to click away in case it didn’t come back!” Denise at Moselle said the team knew exactly what they would do with their winnings. They were keen to upgrade some of their office computers — and they would have a celebration meal with their staff. Part of their surprise at their luck was that this was not the first time that Moselle Panel & Paint had won with Parts Connection. Last year they won a $1000 nugget in the 2020 Gold Rush promotion. Pam was less surprised as she said Moselle Panel

& Paint are not the only customers that have won more than one nugget in the promotion. She says Denise Noyer and Stephen Noyer hold the Moselle team’s gold that shows that the promotion nugget with Pam and Paul, back row, second and third from the right is working. “It encourages brand loyalty with our customers. With so many parts suppliers out there to choose from for some camera-shy customers. it makes the choice to use Parts Connection easy. The Gold Rush promotion offers a prize pool of a Not only are they purchasing quality parts from minimum of $20k every month, and more if the top parts experts, they are also getting the chance to cash prize of the previous month isn’t claimed. In win cash.” that case, the biggest gold rush nugget jackpots into The multiple wins also highlight that the odds of the next month’s prizes pool. striking gold in this lottery have got to be among the The Parts Connection Gold Rush promotion best in the country. You’ve got to be in to win but in is running until the end of November and is open this lottery you can win twice — by getting the right to all trade customers. All you need to do to get parts and expert service for your expenditure, and by into the gold mine is make a purchase from any winning nuggets. And as Moselle Panel & Paint shows, Parts Connection member, then go online to www. there’s a good chance you can keep on winning. pcgold.co.nz to check your lucky gold nugget cards Pam said she is being kept busy with winners all over to find out if you are an instant winner. New Zealand. She said she likes to deliver the winning For more information on Parts Connection or Parts nuggets personally to all the winners, although they Connection Gold Rush, see partsconnection.co.nz, or are usually accompanied by a few encouraging words call 0800 70 70 40.

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Nono says yes to Treadway Equipped WHEN NONO PELACO DECIDED TO SET UP A NEW WORKSHOP, NONO MAGS N TYRES IN LOWER HUTT, HE TURNED TO TREADWAY EQUIPPED TO HELP SELECT THE RIGHT EQUIPMENT AND PLAN THE SET-UP. ono used to own a courier franchise. He wanted to reduce his hours and decided to start his own tyre shop as a family business and kept working towards this goal. “I really like this type of business,” he said. He used to work in a tyre shop in the Philippines. Nono said Treadway Equipped was recommended to him as a supplier by others in the tyre business. “I really love the products and I’m quite impressed with the service.” Treadway Equipped sales manager Loren Bill says Treadway helped spec the equipment list and assisted with the workshop planning. It then went on to provide the essential equipment and training.

“It’s very fulfilling to be able to share our knowledge and experience and help someone set up a new workshop,” Loren said. “We have bags of experience in new set-ups, and can offer finance and training to make sure a new business gets off to a great start.” Nono Mags N Tyres gave the Steiner brand a

big yes with an ST60 tyre changer, ST240 wheel balancer, and Steiner scissor lift, and then stuck with the European theme by adding a Fasep wheel aligner. Nono Mags N tyres opened in June 2021 at Railway Avenue, Lower Hutt. For more information, see treadwayequipped.co.nz, or call 0800 436 436.

Autoserv launches Wolfchester AUTOSERV LAUNCHES NEW SPECIALTY CONSUMABLE PRODUCT LINE utoserv is launching one of Australia’s favourite ranges of consumables, Wolfchester, into the New Zealand market. Wolfchester offers silicone sealants and glues, engine additives, cleaners, paints, and hardware like nuts, washers, fuses, and connectors, and assorted grab kits. It also offers safety gear and electrical components but the core of the brand is its sealants and lubricants offered under the Wolfchester and Forch brands. Glen Wood, managing director of Wolfchester Australia, says he sees Autoserve as a market leader in the New Zealand marketplace. “Wolfchester has the right product and the technical backup to support them, creating an exciting new opportunity for both companies and the New Zealand automotive sector.” He says Wolfchester offers best-in-class products and service, such as its RTV Silicone range, designed to withstand harsh conditions and prevent engine or gearbox oil and glycol mixture leaks. It is sensor safe and resistant to temperatures from -60°C up to 315°C. It comes in a pressure pack that provides a simple way to dispense the silicone. Its new red hi-temp silicone RTV will shortly offer performance up to 370°C.

Auto Channel Issue #37 July 2021

The Wolfchester and Forch brands offer more than 70 consumable products including silicones, thread lockers, hydraulic pipe sealants, gasket cements, bearing retainers, a battery terminal protector; brake, sensor, and fuel injection cleaners, and other solvents; greases, and even a curtain track lubricant. Other products include transmission, engine, and coolant additives and leak-stoppers, flushes, upholstery cleaners and air fresheners, tyre and glass treatments, and a range of lacquer spray paints. Autoserv New Zealand managing director Andrew Davis says he has chosen to work with a company that delivers quality, integrity, and value for money. “The Wolfchester range of specialty consumables enables an alternative for our customers, and we want to provide best-inclass products and service. And what better way to launch this exciting opportunity than with our industry trusted partner Blackfern Cooperative?” Autoserv New Zealand is launching the new product range during July. A special introductory offer is extended to all Blackfern members. All Wolfchester related purchases will earn triple Blackfern rewards points for July and August. For more information or to check out the

Autoserv general manager Brodie Scott, left, with owner Andrew Davis Wolfchester range, see your local Autoserv area manager or contact Autoserv’s national head office and distribution centre on 09 272 1940, or go to autoserv.co.nz.

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Car news

Cameras key to clean lines

ining up panels and ensuring good fit and finish used to be a semi-manual job, accomplished by eye. Now Seat is using ‘photogrammetry’, or cameras, to measure placement to tenths of a millimetre across millions of data points. Seat says photogrammetry is a process pioneering new levels of efficiency in measurement on the production line. Sets of parts are randomly selected from the assembly line to be thoroughly checked during each production shift. AGVs (automated robots) transport these components to the measuring facilities. There the machines, equipped with cameras, begin the work to ensure that all vehicles leaving the production line have the correct dimensions almost wherever they can be measured. If any deviations are detected, these can then be quickly addressed. Pedro Vallejo, head of measurement technology and meisterbock at Seat, explained:

“Photogrammetry is a non-contact optical measurement technology that enables us to capture millions of points of an object through photos, marking the depth and thickness of each space. “We’re the first manufacturer to roll out large scale, continuous non-contact, automated measurement. We’ve managed to ensure that a car coming off the line has the same level throughout the life of the series, like a perfect prototype.” The process involves taking between 200 and 300 photos per assembly, and 1000 of the entire body, measuring the equivalent of seven million points per assembly and up to 98 million of an entire chassis. The optical technology has saved up to 90 percent of the measuring time of the conventional process. It allows 9000 photos and up to 210 million points to be analysed each day. Head of internal parts measurement at Seat,

Paco Triguero, explained: “This has profoundly transformed the way we’ve been working for the last 20 or 30 years. We’ve trained workers in more highly qualified techniques, and exponentially increased the information we obtain so that the customer receives the best possible car.” This technique is currently being applied on the assembly line of the Seat Leon and the Cupra Formentor. “We’re storing all this data so that a machine learning algorithm can examine the frequency of any deviations,” says Pedro. “Now we’re able to locate them and react, but later on, a programme will act proactively. It will analyse how often deviations are repeated and make predictions to recalibrate the machine that produced the deviation.” Seat is a member of the Volkswagen Group and is the only company that designs, develops, manufactures, and markets cars in Spain.

Actually, it’s a SsangYong evotees of New Zealand’s favourite pickups might need to think again. In the UK, SsangYong’s Musso has been voted ‘Best Pickup’ in Diesel Car magazine’s Car of the Year 2021 Top 50 Awards for the third consecutive year. The go-anywhere SsangYong Musso has already been voted to have the ‘Best Payload’ by What Car? magazine, and ‘Best Value’ and ‘Best Individual Model’ by 4x4 magazine, this year alone. Commentators have been swayed by the Musso’s combination of build quality, space, refinement, comfort, excellent warranty, and value for money. Diesel Car’s journalist judging panel remarked: “The Musso is a highly capable pick-up, with a towing capacity of 3500kg and an impressive load bed.’’ They noted its low price in EX trim and its seven-year/150,000-mile warranty. “An accomplished chassis and 2.2-litre 178bhp

Auto Channel Issue #37 July 2021

turbodiesel engine make it easy to drive, and it can return over 30mpg on a longer run. Clever features like rear cross traffic alerts also take some of the stress out of driving a pick-up in town, while three rear seats and a power socket in the load bed are handy too.” Kevin Griffin, managing director of SsangYong Motors UK, said: “We’re delighted to win the “Best Pick-Up” in Diesel Car magazine’s Car of the Year 2021 Top 50 Awards for three years running. Musso is the pick-up market’s best kept secret but things are about to change. It disrupts the pick-up market and rightly so — it’s a tough, strong, valuefor-money 4x4. Watch this space for the new,

even better Musso launching this summer.” Musso shares its body-on-frame construction with the new Rexton, which has also won multiple awards. SsangYong cars are manufactured in South Korea by SsangYong Motor, which is 75 percent owned by the Indian engineering conglomerate Mahindra & Mahindra.

Land Rover experiments with hydrogen engine aguar Land Rover is developing a prototype hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicle (FCEV) for the new Land Rover Defender. Testing is due to begin this year. The FCEV concept is part of Jaguar Land Rover’s drive to zero tailpipe emissions by 2036, and net

zero carbon emissions across its supply chain, products, and operations by 2039. The company sees FCEVs, which generate electricity from hydrogen to power an electric motor, as complementary to battery electric vehicles (BEVs). Hydrogen-powered FCEVs

provide high-energy density and rapid refuelling, and minimal loss of range in low temperatures, making the technology ideal for larger, longerrange vehicles, or those operated in hot or cold environments. Since 2018, the global number of FCEVs on the road has nearly doubled while hydrogen refuelling stations have increased by more than 20 percent. Forecasts predict hydrogen-powered FCEV deployment could top 10 million by 2030, with 10,000 refuelling stations worldwide. Jaguar Land Rover’s engineering project, known as Project Zeus, aims to understand how a hydrogen powertrain can be optimised to deliver the performance and capability expected by customers — from range to refuelling, and towing to off-road ability. The zero tailpipe emission prototype New Defender FCEV will begin testing towards the end of 2021. Jaguar Land Rover has teamed up with Delta Motorsport, AVL, Marelli Automotive Systems, and the UK Battery Industrialisation Centre (UKBIC) to develop the prototype FCEV. “We know hydrogen has a role to play in the future powertrain mix across the whole transport industry, and alongside battery electric vehicles,” says Land Rover’s head of hydrogen and fuel cells, Ralph Clague. “It offers another zero tailpipe emission solution for Jaguar Land Rover’s world class line-up of vehicles. The project will help us prepare for the next generation of zero tailpipe emissions vehicles.” All new Jaguar and Land Rover vehicle models offer the option of electrification.

A 230-mile range Zoe EV goes 475.4 miles

he Renault Zoe electric vehicle set a new ‘ hypermiling’ record of 475.4 miles after its team drove the all-electric supermini for more than 24 hours at the Thruxton race circuit in England. The original record of 351 miles for the Zoe was set in France in 2018 on the Paris Périphérique, but the Mission Motorsport team, consisting of Royal British Legion veteran beneficiaries, military spouses, and a hypermiling expert, took the record on 10 June after an excellent display of deft driving on the UK’s fastest racetrack. Using its endurance motorsport experience, the team managed to achieve 9.14 miles per kilowatt hour, while averaging a remarkably restrained optimum speed of 19mph. Mission Motorsport is the Forces’ Motorsport Charity for those affected by military operations. Two Renault Zoes were used for the record attempt, both of which were supplied by Hendy Renault. Both were standard, but one was running on Enso range extending tyres. With its original OEM tyres, the first Renault Zoe achieved 424.7 miles on a single charge to smash the existing record. It set off at 9.40am on Wednesday, 9 June, finally coasting to a stop at 11.45pm on Thursday, 10 June, having been driven for more than 22 hours. However, the identical Renault Zoe, fitted with Enso’s proprietry EV tyres, went further still, achieving 475.4 miles. It started at the same time, but finished at 2.57pm the next day, after lapping Thruxton circuit in excess of 25 hours. The feat betters the official WLTP range of the Renault Zoe by 230 miles, which has a recognised range of 245 miles on a single charge. Its standard specification has a 52kW battery being able to be charged to 80 percent in just 80 minutes. Mission Motorsport CEO James Cameron was thrilled with the result: “The Zoe was a perfect choice for us — but to cover such an extraordinary

distance frankly blew us away. It was important to set a record with an absolutely standard car, and we’ve all been charmed and astonished by the little Renault’s character and tenacity.” Congratulating the charity on its record run, Tom Barker, Renault UK’s electrification manager, added: “Everyone at Renault UK sends a huge well done to them. Not only is it testament to how far it’s possible to go on a single charge in a Zoe, even taking into consideration the optimum conditions and low speed, but it’s a great illustration of just how comfortable and usable it is, too. There’s no doubt this was pretty extreme, but it’s further evidence that the Renault Zoe really does go the extra mile.” The Renault Zoe E-Tech is the best-selling electric car in Europe. All new Zoe models come with a five-year/100,000-mile warranty, plus an eightyear/100,000-mile battery warranty.

Europe enters the battle of the batteries olkswagen has just upped its investment in Northvolt AB, a new battery-making plant in Skellefteå, northern Sweden, to help fund its planned expansion from a promise of 40GWh in batteries to 60GWh. Volswagen has added US$620million (about NZ$900million) in Northvolt’s latest round of fundraising to maintain a 20 percent share. That’s on top of its initial investment of €900million (NZ$1528million) in Northvolt in June 2019. In its first phase Northvolt aims to make enough batteries to power almost 300,000 electric vehicles a year but that could increase to a million. Its latest funding round raised an additional US$2.75bn (NZ$3.94bn) to fund its expansion. The company has already received a US$14bn (NZ$20bn) order from Volkswagen to produce its batteries for the next decade, and has plans for a long-term partnership with Swedish truck and bus maker Scania. Production of cells in Skellefteå is due to start in 2023. VW board member Arno Antlitz said: “With this investment, we are strengthening our strategic partnership with Northvolt as a supplier of sustainable battery cells which are produced using renewable energy and are comprehensively recyclable.”

TOTALLY NEW INDUSTRY Northvolt was co-founded by two former Tesla executives. It is hoping to provide a quarter of Europe’s electric batteries as demand for electric vehicles surges amidst the global race to cut carbon emissions. According to a forecast by investment bank

Auto Channel Issue #37 July 2021

UBS, by 2030 40 percent of all new cars sold will be electric, rising to almost 100 percent of the new car market by 2040. Plant manager Fredrik Hedlund said: “We are building a totally new industry that hasn’t really existed, especially in Europe, at this scale. A lot of people think that this is the coolest project in Europe right now.” Volkswagen’s Thomas Schmall, group board member for technology and CEO of Volkswagen group components, says batteries are one of the key success factors in VW’s electric offensive. “In the major area of green battery cells, we are assuming a pioneering role in Germany and Europe together.”

HOMEGROWN AND GREEN The company is no doubt hoping it will help put distance on the ‘diesel-gate’ scandal involving the software faking of its previous generation of cars’ emissions performance. It will also see huge value in developing homegrown European tech, given the criticism of the carbon footprint of the transport miles involved in importing batteries from Asia which are generally produced using coal-fired power generation. But the Europeans are playing catch-up and the competition from Asian battery makers is fierce. Several of them, including LG Chem, have already set up their own gigafactories in the EU. LG’s is in Poland, and Samsung SDI and SK Innovation have built factories in Hungary. They have the knowhow, the market, and deep pockets. It is likely European makers will need practical support from national and regional governments

as well as investors to thrive. Northvolt is aiming to distinguish itself by making ‘the world’s greenest battery’, by ensuring its production techniques are as climate-friendly as its product.

VIRTUOUS CIRCLE Hydroelectric power from the Skellefte River was one of the main attractions to siting the plant there, fuelling the battery-making process on the site which involves mixing lithium, cobalt, and other metals, and drying out active material in rows of industrial ovens. Local access to raw materials and plans for an on-site battery recycling plant will also keep down the plant’s own carbon footprint. Clearly, in the future — and in stark contrast with traditional fuels which have to be dug out of the ground for a single use — a major source of new batteries will be old batteries. Norwegian energy company Freyr is planning a gigafactory fuelled by wind and hydro energy in Mo i Rana, a remote coastal town close to one of the country’s most popular ski resorts. Daimler and BMZ have already set up energy-efficient gigafactories in Germany. French start-up Verkor is planning a facility north of Toulouse. The UK is also planning to set up its own gigafactory by late 2023. Volkswagen also has another gigafactory in Salzgitter that will produce standard cells from 2025. It is also expected to reach an annual production volume of up to 40GWh and will also use electric power from renewable energy sources. Volkswagen expects to commission six cell factories in Europe by 2030 together with its partners with a view to safeguarding the ramp-up of electric vehicle production. After Skellefteå and Salzgitter, possible locations and partners for the next cell factories are already being considered.

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Tucson takes top prize he new Hyundai Tucson SUV was today named ‘Car of the Year 2021’ by the UK’s Diesel Car & Eco Car Magazine. Commenting on the Tucson’s ‘Car of the Year 2021,’ and ‘Best Medium SUV’ accolades Diesel Car & Eco Car Magazine editor Ian Robertson said: “The Hyundai Tucson ushers in a new design language, taking it from ‘handsome’ to ‘trend-setting’. Its interior is a big step up, with great materials, a mature design, and an excellent infotainment system with an attractive instrument display. The hybrid model serves up plentiful performance and near-50mpg economy. We found the Tucson refined and capable, with excellent handling and

plenty of traction. All in all, we not only think the Tucson perfectly fits the bill for buyers, but it also goes above and beyond the segment expectations, making it a very worthy winner.” Hyundai Motor UK managing director Ashley Andrew said: “The all-new Tucson has already proven very popular with our customers. Of course, experts such as the professional road testers at Diesel Car & Eco Car Magazine can be even more demanding, so for the Tucson to receive the top award is extremely pleasing.” The Hyundai Tucson SUV has Hybrid, Plug-in Hybrid, and Mild Hybrid models.

Making a start on ethical mining

everal companies have got together to create a ‘Responsible Lithium Partnership’ for natural resource management in Chile’s Salar de Atacama. This cross-industry partnership is funded at its inception by Volkswagen Group, BASF, Daimler AG, and Fairphone. The partnership intends to foster a dialogue among local stakeholders, build scientific knowledge, and seek solutions in a participatory manner. The demand for lithium — a common mineral — for batteries is certain to grow. The world’s

largest lithium reserves and large parts of the total production are located in the Salar de Atacama. The region’s ecosystem is fragile and there is a lack of consensus on the impact and risks of lithium mining and other economic activity in the region. Potential risks include water and brine table shifts. The companies want to build a multistakeholder platform among all relevant actors in the Salar watershed including indigenous communities, government institutions, mining companies, and beyond.

Polestar to make cars in the USA olestar, Volvo’s electric car co-brand will make its first all-electric SUV in the United States. The forthcoming Polestar 3 will be manufactured alongside new Volvo vehicles at the Volvo Cars’ production centre in Ridgeville, South Carolina, for sale in the United States. The move transforms Polestar into a global brand with industrial capacity in the two largest

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single markets for electric vehicles in the world — the US and China — alongside its headquarters in Europe. The manufacturing announcement also underlines Polestar’s commitment to the rapidly expanding American retail market. Polestar will open around 25 retail ‘Spaces’ across the country in 2021 offering home test drives, free pick-up

The platform aims to develop a shared vision for the future of the Salar de Atacama watershed and develop a joint action plan to improve longterm integrated natural resource management. The Responsible Lithium Partnership shows responsible business conduct is not just about collaborating with business partners, but also relies on constructive engagement with governments and civil society. Auto Channel looks forward to oil companies matching or bettering this initiative.

and delivery servicing, and a mobile service for consumers in places without Spaces. Polestar was launched in 2017 by Volvo Cars and Geely Holding. “Production in the USA reduces delivery times as well as the environmental impact associated with shipping vehicles around the world. It will even have a positive impact on the price of Polestar 3,” says Polestar chief operating officer Dennis Nobelius. “All of this makes the brand even more competitive in the critical American sales market.” Production of Polestar 3 is expected to begin globally in 2022.

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Gravel, street, or the race track — the GR Yaris really seems to be able to do it all, with a decent factory ride-height, capable dampers, and very grippy Michelin Pilot Sport road tyres. With coilovers, larger semi-slicks, and uprated track pads, this will be a weapon around New Zealand’s B-roads or race tracks!

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For $54,995 as the advertised window price, we know what you’re thinking — that buys you a serious ’90s car. But think, in a few years time the price will come down, the market will be full of aftermarket support and you’ll be flying around in a tuned GR Yaris in no time — get planning!

DENNIS THE MENACE TOYOTA IS BACK IN THE GAME WITH A MÄKINEN-DESIGNED ALL-WHEEL DRIVE, THREE-CYLINDER TURBOCHARGED HOT-HATCH — AND IT’S A TRUE BADASS! WORDS AND PHOTOS: RENÉ VERMEER oyota you mad lads — are you having a laugh? A Yaris? With a bodykit? When we first heard of the Gazoo Racing (GR) Yaris some time ago, it did seem a touch strange, having a large corporation such as Toyota announce the souping up of their eco-friendly, econobox, grandma-carting hatchback. However, when the first render dropped we became believers. It seemed as though Toyota just needed a badge to throw on the back of what would be a specialised, backward-engineered, road-going

weapon, designed and built to homologate their WRC rally car. Ah, we get it now … With flashbacks to spritely homologation specials of the good ol’ days, we couldn’t wait to get our greasy mitts on the latest offering from Toyota — chuck us the keys would ya? When you’re first in the same room as the GR Yaris, it takes you by surprise. You’re expecting a normal Yaris with larger wheels and some flares, but what you actually get is a hot-hatch, draped in wide arches with an incredibly aggressive and

large front end. The wheels, measuring 18x8.5inches are subtle being that they’re darker, and they’re wrapped in 225/40R18 Michelin Pilot Sport tyres — a road tyre that needs no introduction. Peeping through the front wheels, you’ll notice the Yaris is stopped by ginormous 356mm twopiece front discs, with four-piston motorsportinspired calipers. At a first glance, you’d think the chief designer of this weapon had attended a motorsport event or two — and you’d be correct, as that gentleman is the one and only Tommi Mäkinen. Interestingly, before driving the GR Yaris, the reviews we had been seeing compared the new platform to the last 4G63-powered Mitsubishi Evo: the Evo IX. Considering who the man behind the production of this vehicle is, this now makes complete sense. We’re going to be straight up with you. If you’re a larger, taller human, the Yaris might not be for you. It’s still, after all, a Yaris, and some would still struggle with headroom after climbing into the cabin with the seat position at its lowest. However, all of that is soon forgotten as you put your foot on the brake pedal and hit the ‘start’ button — with the three-cylinder, turbocharged, direct-injection, 1600cc G16E-GTS engine roaring to life. How punchy can a small engine such as this be? When we heard it runs around 22–23psi of boost pressure, it all started to make sense. 200kW at the flywheel and 370Nm of torque is the result of this production car wizardry. What is instantly evident when you begin driving the Yaris, is the quality of the interior; it feels built to a much higher specification than the standard Yaris offering.

How awesome does that front-end look? Peeping through the lower grille is a large front-mounted cooler. The front-end is all WRC-inspired, though, with design aspects taken directly from the WRC car.

COME ON, TELL US — WHAT IS IT LIKE TO DRIVE? We could bore you with details such as how much luggage it can fit, what the fuel economy is like, and what it’s like to parallel park. However, this test was done for NZ Performance Car, and you want us to ring its neck, so here we go. With no performance ‘modes’ for the engine, you’re left to experience

what is next described as an old-school mechanicalfeeling power delivery. Torque is what you can expect before the boost arrives, then it surges hard into the powerband around 3500–4000rpm, with torque slowly tapering off around 6500rpm — however, not noticeably so. When the boost comes on, you’re hit by the initial surge, but it is running around 23psi of boost pressure. Therefore,

a split-second later, you can feel the full force when the turbo is up to speed — and the Yaris absolutely rockets forward. Guys and girls, we can confirm if your eyes were closed, you would feel as though you were in an Evo or WRX STi. In fact, something more closely comparable in our personal experience would be a GRB hatch WRX STi. With a six-speed manual gearbox being the only

With a new engine code to learn thanks to the Toyota team, the G16E-GTS is a direct-injection (woo, lots of scope for more power!), three-cylinder, turbocharged engine designed specifically for this platform and outputs 200kW and 370Nm of torque — rad

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The interior heads-up display is a cool piece of kit, and means that you don’t need to look down at the analogue gauges to keep an eye on the rev-limiter when rowing through the gears — how thoughtful, Toyota!

option (thank you!), you have the ability to switch between three differential-split options. In theory, the electronically controlled multi-plate clutch could send 100 percent of the power to either the front or rear. Instead, however, you have three predetermined options gifted to you by the GR team. ‘Normal’ mode is a 70:30 torque split with a front bias, ‘Track’ mode is a 50:50 even torquesplit, and ‘Sport’ mode is a 30:70 split, with the rear getting a large majority of the output. Switching between modes is taken care of easily and in no time; you’re able to control the balance, turn-in, and overall fun-capabilities of this little menace. Covering back roads is done with such a pace, you forget completely that you’re in a Yaris. From a standstill, the Yaris needs to be launched the

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old-school way: bring the revs and the handbrake up, side-step the clutch with a controlled slip, and mash the gas. The result is a 0–100 in the mid five-second range, but when you pluck third gear it’s eager to continue the train-ride, until you either select the next gear, or get off at the next station — it just doesn’t stop. Handling is flat, turnin confident, and we’d buy one in a heartbeat. As tuning enthusiasts, we can’t wait to see what people do to the Yaris. Already, HKS have tuned their demo car with an unopened engine to 475hp with 39.6psi of boost pressure — and nitrous oxide. Once more of them are delivered in 2021, we can’t wait to see how the local GR Yaris community grows — thank you Toyota for keeping the internal combustion, turbocharged fun going!

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PORTED, POLISHED, THEN COVERED IN MUD! KIWI ROTARY DRAG RACING LEGEND BRENT CURRAN TRIES HIS HAND AT DIRT RACING — IN A ROTARY-POWERED MIDGET NO LESS! WORDS AND PHOTOS: AARON MAI ‘Thinking outside the box’ for some is too passive; it’s the ‘doing outside the box’ that really counts. Truly taming the clay requires a special recipe of inch-perfect development and mechanical harmony that has been finely tuned to a tee. Modern speedway midgets have a very similar mechanical likeness; however, there is one car that

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has a set-up, sound, and presence unlike any other, and that car belongs to Brent Curran. Now Brent needs no introduction to the readers of NZPC. A Kiwi rotary drag racing stalwart and driver of the record-smashing Castrol RX-2 quadrotor, Brent has long harbored a love for speedway, and fond childhood memories of spectating at

Western Springs have stuck firmly at the forefront of his mind. A few particular memories particularly resonated, mostly the ones that had an aural ‘braap braap’ exhaust note, which got Brent thinking: none of the rotary machines he had witnessed really ever reached their full potential. Fast forward an itch that needed to be scratched, and here we are with a simply stunning race car. “I like doing things you aren’t supposed to do,” Brent laughs.

While many might see adjusting the tried and tested recipe as madness, there is indeed some brilliant method to this midget and the rigours of speedway competition. “The biggest positive to this set-up is how cost-effective it is. The rotary is relatively cheap compared to the traditional Toyota set-up, which can push $120,000 for an engine.” With the traditional four-cylinder set-ups producing big power down on the throttle at lower rpm, the rotary has a great power curve, which meant it was good for putting the power down and also makes it less sensitive on throttle. While the base of the car is a 2012 chassis with all the traditional speedway trimmings, you would be forgiven if you wandered right past it in the pits. It fits in so perfectly, dressed in a silky black hue, except for the large filter that hangs out the side hinting at what lurks beneath the panels. Brent sourced the chassis from Peter Huijs, and then proceeded to give this one a real point of difference. The motor set-up is fully custom made to achieve the right type of power and delivery, allowing the car to perform on the clay. The existing rules stated a twin-rotor set-up was within regulations, so Brent adapted a 13B peripheral port drag racing engine. First and foremost he would be needing 261kW (350hp) at the wheels to foot it with the traditional

Photo: Nigel Swan

four-cylinder midgets — producing power is easy; getting it to the ground is the true art form. In order to do so Brent has taken a peripheral ported 13B consisting of OEM parts, and a stock RX-8 crank. The series 4 block was coupled up with Ianetti ceramic apex seals and dual 55mm throttles. A Peterson dry sump oil system keeps the motor lubricated with the high G-forces, eliminating any oil starvation. For the ignition requirements, there was only one option: a FuelTech FT600 with smart coils. Once the car was running, the biggest trick was getting fuel to the motor, and obtaining a fuel curve with which Brent would be happy. This proved tricky, so he decided to go back to the drawing board and create his own bespoke mechanical injection system that would satisfy the motor’s hunger for methanol. With methanol burning cool, a stock small radiator and stock series 6 13B water pump with no fan keeps the car cool while Brent hammers the loud pedal, pumping out 400hp at 12,500rpm. The distinctive angry exhaust note comes courtesy of an in-house handcrafted

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short 2-1 exhaust coated by High Performance Coatings (HPC) with a four-inch AdrenalinR muffler to comply with noise restrictions. For Harrisville, however, the meeting had no noise restrictions; therefore, the muffler was dropped in favour of a straight pipe! With a brilliant start to the car’s racing life, it is a surprise that more rotary set-ups haven’t been attempted — I guess many people are scared to be the first to try something new. However, this doesn’t deter Brent at all. “I know how to make power; we just need to make the right power for the dirt,” he exclaims. To date, the recipe has proven to be good, but Brent claims the car’s biggest handicap is his inexperience behind the wheel. “Before driving the car, my speedway experience was a couple of fun laps here and there,” he says. Yet adjusting from driving on the drag strip to the dirt oval is a challenge that Brent relishes. “Driving the car is addictive; I just don’t want to get out!” he laughs.

While many would think at a glance there aren’t many similarities between the disciplines, Brent doesn’t quite see it that way. “Drag racing and dirt racing are all relative; fundamentally it’s all about applying power in order to obtain maximum grip.” The biggest challenge of driving the midget is fighting your instincts — “My brain lifts my foot off the gas; I need to fight it to go back down on the loud pedal”. The driving experience is truly a harmony of driver and machine; once you are belted in you are very much one with the car. “You have the exhaust right there, the accelerator is all-steel from the throttle shaft to my big toe, all rods and no cable. You feel and hear every little movement in the engine.” Adding to the driving experience are the flames the car belches at night out of the exhaust — perhaps a brilliant way to keep other competitors at arm’s length. Another huge bonus of this project is that it is

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an all-encompassing one for Brent; not only is he driving, he’s also spannering and building his own motor from scratch — not many can claim to know their car inside out on such a scale. It is this aspect that Brent finds the most fun. “Getting the engine running right and perfecting the tune-up has been the most fun as there is simply no recipe for what I am doing.” The rotary is peaky which gives the car superb straight-line speed, and with the phenomenal grip levels on offer, the car can easily carry that speed through the corner. The grip levels on dirt are something that Brent is still fully wrapping his mind around. “The grip is insane; I just think to myself: How can that happen?” So far the mix is a hard one not to love, right? It certainly seems that way with the punters as well. “I have speedway fans who have been going all their lives coming up to me in the pits telling me how awesome it is to have something with a point of difference.” It is hard to argue with that reception. So what is next for the car? “The next evolution will be a nice lightweight chassis and engine package to really dial the car in,” Brent tells us.

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Now that Brent has shown just what the car is capable of, we are excited to watch the development — as we’re sure the local speedway fans of Matamata are too!

SPECS Engine: 1300cc, Mazda 13B twin- rotor, lightweight rotating assembly, OEM parts, stock RX-8 crank, Ianetti ceramic apex seals, series 4 OEM block, Peterson oil system (dry sump), dual 55mm throttles, full race lumpy cams (haha) Exhaust: HPC-coated short 2-1 headers, four-inch AdrenalinR muffler Fuel system: Mechanical fuel system for methanol — class restriction on fuel delivery; must be mechanical Ignition system: FuelTech FT600, Smart coils, ECU only controls ignition Cooling: Small radiator, stock Series 6 13B water pump Differential: SCS quick change Shocks: Unknown cheap shit Brakes: Wilwood front and rear Tyres: Hoosier and American Racer Performance: 298kW (400hp) 12500rpm

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Right to repair vehicles becomes law in Australia AUSTRALIAN MOTOR INDUSTRY EMERGES VICTORIOUS IN A LONG LEGAL BATTLE TO ACCESS VEHICLE DATA FROM OEMS ollowing nearly a decade of campaigning by the Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association (AAAA), the new law will make it illegal for car companies to withhold information from qualified independent mechanics. Original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) have long been tightening their grip on the repair industry, seeking to lock car buyers into dealership service and repair under warranty and beyond. There’s also a corollary effect of making cars, and other electronically controlled equipment, harder to repair after the warranty period and driving customers to replace rather than repair. It’s been a hot topic in the industry for years in the US, which has also introduced legislation. The new Australian rules resulted from the Australian senate passing the Competition and Consumer Amendment (Motor Vehicle Service and Repair Information Sharing Scheme) Bill 2021. The CEO of the AAAA, Stuart Charity, said the mandatory scheme will require all motor vehicle service and repair information to be made available for purchase by independent repairers at a fair market price.

MAJOR WIN Charity said it is a major win in keeping the cost of replacement parts, vehicle maintenance, and repair affordable. “It has been a long time coming but will be welcome news for the automotive industry. We started campaigning for this law a decade ago and have been through two government enquiries and even through a voluntary agreement in 2014, which was a complete failure,” he said.

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In Australia, the motor vehicle servicing and repair industry involves nearly 35,000 businesses employing more than 106,000 Australians. Charity explained that around 1 in 10 motor vehicles taken to repair workshops are affected by a lack of access to service and repair information. “This can often lead to higher service costs for consumers. What this law means is that the service and repair information that car manufacturers share with their dealership network must also be made available to independent repairers.” Charity singled out the Federal Assistant Treasurer Michael Sukkar. “He has personally steered this through government, and we thank him for his leadership.”

DOMINANT POSITION Speaking in support of the bill in the Australian parliament, Fremantle Labour MP John Wilson said, “It essentially takes away what could be rightly described, up to a point, as a monopoly. It’s probably better to describe it as an ineffective and obstructive kind of vertical integration. We essentially had a situation where car manufacturers and related dealers ... denied the ability for independent repairers to undertake that work.” Wilson quoted a member of the industry as saying: “The modern motor vehicle is just basically a computer on wheels. Even simple things like changing a tyre, changing a component on that vehicle, checking the oil level, and what have you is all now computerised. The car companies are controlling the computer gateway into and out of the vehicle and how you communicate with that vehicle. And at the

moment, they’re shutting independent local mechanics out. “It started off with intermittent issues on older vehicles, but as each model year has come out, the situation is getting more and more dire. Our industry is having to use workarounds. Sometimes it might take them four, five hours to find the information for an issue they should have got in 10–15 minutes. That’s a loss of productivity and a loss of profitability.” Wilson also said that properly effective and fair markets don’t naturally occur. “If you want fair, open, and competitive markets, you need to have carefully, rigorously, and properly overseen markets.” The new scheme will be monitored for compliance by the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission. New Zealand is going to follow the lead set overseas on this issue. The right to repair is an issue that’s much wider than motor vehicle repair. It applies to everything from phones to vacuum cleaners. Former chief executive of Consumer NZ, Sue Chetwin, told Stuff in 2019 that Consumer supported ‘right to repair’ rules as too many appliances were being thrown out because there was no way to repair them. “We have been saying for some time that appliances should be repairable rather than having to be scrapped before the end of their useful life,” Chetwin said. “Those who are authorised to do repairs should be broadened so that consumers don’t lose their rights if an ‘unauthorised’ repairer does the work.” Commerce minister Kris Faafoi said in 2019 the potential for longer lasting products could only be a good thing for New Zealand. “Bringing consumers longer lasting products and reducing costs by enabling an aftermarket for repairs would benefit many New Zealanders, and the effect on the environment is another positive,” Faafoi said. “However, as a small country it makes sense to see how these developments are working in jurisdictions ahead of us in implementation and to learn from that.” Faafoi said as New Zealand was at the end of the global supply chain, consumers were likely to benefit from business moves towards new international requirements.

How to repair PUR bumpers URETHANE-BASED BUMPERS DO NOT MELT AND RESET. FOLLOW THESE FIVE STEPS WHEN WELDING THIS OLDER-STYLE BUMPER MATERIAL umpers made from PUR, or thermoset polyurethane, are less common today but the material was common on car bumpers from the ’70s through to the ’90s. Most plastic bumpers today are made of polypropylene (PP) blends, which are ‘thermoplastic’, or meltable plastics. Technicians are less familiar with the ‘thermoset’ plastics, such as polyurethane, which are not meltable. They form a solid through a chemical reaction and, if you try to melt this, it breaks down chemically leaving a sticky liquid. Plastic welding rod peels right off the liquid.

plastic with a coarse sandpaper disc, then blow it clean. Since thermoset PUR is not meltable, the only way to repair it is with an adhesive, preferably a two-component adhesive, although a thermoplastic urethane is available as a hot melt adhesive filler option. 3. Using a urethane rod Set the airless plastic welder to the ‘urethane’ setting to avoid overheating and destroying the plastic. Holding the welder’s tip slightly off the surface of the plastic, melt the rod into the V-groove. Don’t overheat the base material; simply

melt the rod onto the surface. Again, don’t try to melt the rod and the bumper together; the bumper material is not meltable! Lay down no more than 5cm of welding rod into the V-groove at a time. Remove the rod from the welder tip and, before the melted rod has time to cool down, go back over it with the hot welder tip and smooth out the well. You can touch the bumper with the welding tip, but keep the tip moving so you don’t overheat the base material. 4. V-groove and weld the opposite side After the first weld cools, repeat the V-groove and welding process on the opposite side. 5. Grind, flush, and apply flexible filler Using coarse sandpaper, grind the weld to a smooth contour. The urethane welding rod will not feather very well, so it will need to be covered with a flexible epoxy filler to refinish completely. Grind the weld slightly below flush so that filler can cover the welded area completely.

1. Identify the plastic If the base material is yellow, you know it’s a urethane (PUR). However, some urethanes are light or dark gray. If you can find the ID symbol, it should say PUR or RIM. If you can’t find the symbol, press a hot welding tip into the back side of the bumper. If it’s a urethane, the plastic will liquefy, bubble, and smoke. After the heated area cools off, it will remain gummy or tacky. That’s PUR. 2. Prep the plastic for repair Clean the plastic, then grind in a V-groove about halfway through. Put a good sand scratch in the

New diagnostic tool from Snap-on NEW SNAP-ON TRITON-D10 DIAGNOSTIC TOOL INCLUDES SCAN, COMPONENT TEST INFORMATION, AND LAB SCOPE CAPABILITIES nap-on says its new Triton-D10 scanner and scope tool is rugged, fast, and equipped with the latest scan, component test information, and lab scope capabilities. It allows technicians to dig deep into the systems of a vehicle and evaluate performance against known good results and a database of previous fixes to make accurate and efficient decisions on every complex repair. “Our latest scan tool allows technicians to act quickly when a vehicle comes into the workshop and needs a diagnostic evaluation. This new superfast intuitive scan tool doesn’t bog you down by showing unrelated data but only what you need to know for the job,” says Paul Lynch from Snap-on Tools diagnostics team. “Using Fast-Track Intelligent Diagnostics, the Triton-D10 filters data and delivers smart shortcuts to allow technicians access to information directly related to the diagnostic trouble code. The Snap-on Triton-D10 takes the guesswork out of automotive fault diagnosis.”

HARDWARE, SOFTWARE, AND DATABASE The Triton-D10 features a large screen in a durable, streamlined chassis with thin, rugged handgrips. It has a 255mm or 10-inch colour touchscreen display. It also has an integrated scope with enhanced memory for capturing intermittent glitches. The Triton-D10 has an industry-leading two-second boot-up time, as well as a super-fast full system code scan, aimed at getting technicians to work right away. As well as reading codes, the scanner offers sophisticated verification and testing. The key to efficiency is getting the answers that technicians need without distractions. Fast-Track Intelligent Diagnostics works

with Smart Data for relevant vehicle and codespecific PIDS to set up pre-filtered functional tests. It delivers advanced graphing features and OEMlevel data, plus a guided component test meter/ scope for verifying component failures against known good results, and it has guided component tests to verify repairs. The Triton-D10 comes standard with Snap-on Customer Care, plus 24/7 online training and support, industry-focused national online training, flexible financing, and exclusive access to the Snap-on Cloud. To learn more about Triton-D10 or any of the Snap-on diagnostic solutions, talk to a franchisee representative or visit diagnostics.snapon.com.

Redarc launches next-gen trailer battery charger POWER IN PLACE WITH A 12-VOLT, 12-AMP LIMITED INPUT CURRENT ON-TRAILER BATTERY CHARGER edarc has developed the BCDC1212T battery charger for trailers with electrical equipment and accessories onboard such as hydraulic pumps, winches, or fridges. It is suitable for boat trailers, car trailers, liftgate trucks, and camper vans. The 12-volt, 12amp input limited charger is smart enough to work with both 12V and 24V vehicles. The BCDC1212T charges standard lead acid, calcium content, Gel, AGM, or LiFePO4 batteries. Its input current is limited to ensure the current rating of the trailer plug is not exceeded. This DC battery charger keeps the secondary battery charged while driving to a proven 100 per cent state of charge. It allows users to save time by powering the battery throughout the day. It removes the dependence on AC mains charging, ensuring accessories are always charged and ready to work. Designed for fast and easy installation, the BCDC1212T comes with a customised wiring harness designed for smaller trailermounted auxiliary battery box installations. It is supported with the release of new 23-amp and 30-amp fuse kits, and a battery-to-fuse cable. The BCDC1212T can be installed in the nose cone of a trailer and allows use of the existing 12V auxiliary

Auto Channel Issue #37 July 2021

power available on many trailer plugs to charge an auxiliary battery installed on the trailer, making it the easiest solution for onboard DC charging. Redarc’s general manager of Aftermarket Sales ANZ, Ben Marsh, explains: “No longer do you need to charge your trailer’s battery overnight or in between jobs. You’ll always have battery power for your dump, RV, utility, or landscaping trailer. Pull the plug and give yourself the freedom to travel and work where you want, for as long as you want. The Redarc BCDC1212T will become your most powerful, compact, and reliable trailer accessory.” The BCDC1212T is moisture, dust, and mud resistant, designed and built in Australia by Redarc to be the highest quality and most reliable battery charger of its kind. Like all Redarc products, the BCDC1212T comes with nationwide support, including a two-year hassle-free warranty and aftersales service to answer any questions. For more information, see redarc.com. au/12a-light-duty-trailer-dc-battery-charger.

New and improved Redarc fixed solar panels edarc’s new range of fixed solar panels are up to 21 per cent lighter than their previous generation panels. They are available in 50, 80, 120, and 180-watt power ratings. The new 180-watt panel replaces their popular slimline 150-watt panel, offering more power in the same form factor. Fixed solar panels are typically found in arrays on the roofs of caravans, RVs, and motorhomes, as well as camper trailers and 4x4 vehicles. They’re the perfect set and forget, no-fuss solution for seasoned adventurers. With the size reductions across the range, there are options to suit all roof types. In addition to lower weight and size, on a dollar-per-watt basis, Redarc’s new solar range offers up to 30 per cent improved value. That’s more power for less money. Customers will get the most out of the new Redarc solar panels by pairing them with the Manager30 battery management system, or BCDC in-vehicle charger. Both feature MPPT solar regulators and green power priority, ensuring that the system draws solar power first. Check out Redarc’s whole off-grid power solutions for power generation, storage, charging, management, and conversion at redarc.co.nz/solar.

45 Rennie Drive, Mangere parts@1stparts.co.nz (09) 638 6439

RUST REMOVAL + RUST PROTECTION

Vehicles with high exposure to our marine environment are susceptible to premature rust and structural corrosion from sea spray and salt. Autoblast specialise in vehicle underbody rust removal and protection.

If you’re wanting to protect your vehicles, contact us today for a FREE APPRAISAL. FRANCHISES AVAILABLE, ENQUIRE TODAY.  (09) 443 6574 • Glenfield, Auckland  @autoblastnz • www.autoblast.co.nz

Supplying to the Trade

New Zealand Wide - Wholesale Only Warehouses in Auckland, Christchurch, Geraldine and Invercargill

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Quality brands Prices to the trade Premium and budget tyre options available Excellent profit centre for tyre shops and garages Online ordering 24 hours

FREE PHONE: 0800 80 90 96

EMAIL: blairs@blairs.co.nz WEB: www.tyreorder.co.nz

REDARC’s innovative range of 12V solar solutions are backed by their legendary quality, service and local support to help your customers realise their off-grid dreams.

Auto Channel has unsurpassed reach into the wider Automotive trade, direct mailed to over 11,306 business owners in New Zealand. Call me to today to discuss ways I can help you grow your business through NZ’s highest circulating automotive trade publication! Mark Everleigh - 09 222 1729

Products Sachs shocks to the max ZF in Oceania has taken Sachs to the max, expanding its offering of heavy-duty Max shock absorbers for four-wheel-drives, off-road vehicles, and utes. Sachs Max shock absorbers feature larger pistons and cylinders, delivering increased durability and safety. This big bore design results in a reduction of heat and improved consistency with heavy loads in rough terrain, especially when towing. Sachs Max units will suit suspensions raised by up to 50mm, depending on the make and model. For more information, see sachsmaxshocks.com.au.

New aligner tech from Corghi The premium Corghi Exact Linear Plus 3D Aligner comes with latest generation high-resolution HI-Q cameras with nano anti-reflection coating. All readings are live, simplifying adjustments. The system also has a global vehicle database, chassis measurement, and an easy-to-follow, built-in tutor for less frequent users. It has compact, high-resolution targets with ultralight 10-26” carbon wheel clamps, and robust Italianmade turntables. See www.automaster.co.nz for more information, email info@automaster.co.nz, or call 0800 214 604.

Connect to the grid Having won the Korean Excellence award for 14 consecutive years, Delkor Enhanced Flooded Batteries (EFB) are a premium choice for modern vehicles. Designed to support more than 150 electrical accessories commonly found in today’s vehicles, Delkor EFB batteries are suitable for stop-start vehicles without regenerative braking. Delkor’s ‘powerframe grid’ technology has helped Delkor batteries last up to twice as long as standard flooded batteries. Delkor batteries are exclusively distributed by R&J Batteries. For more information call 09 636 5980 or see rjbatt.co.nz.

More halogens equals more light LEDs get the headlines but Plus 150 bulbs are still the best way to maximum light volume. Older design halogens had a shorter life, sometimes half that of standard bulbs. Narva’s new upgraded Plus 150 globes provide up to 40 percent more life and Narva says they are the longest lasting Plus 150 bulbs in the market. Narva’s range has expanded to include H1, HB3, HB4, and H11 types, in addition to the popular H4 and H7 formats. The 150 designation comes from a claimed 150 percent more light on the road, which can extend the beam up to 60 metres. They are ADR approved and street legal. They are available from automotive and hardware stores. Contact stockists for pricing.

Auto Channel Issue #37 July 2021

Goodride and performance The makers of the Goodride SA07 Performance Tyre say it combines lowprofile performance with a quiet ride and its silica compound technology makes it a good option for wet weather and suitable for New Zealand’s changeable conditions. Goodride is a brand of ZC Rubber which is in the top 10 of the world’s largest tyre manufacturers. Forty sizes are available from leading tyre retailers, offering real value. The popular 215 45R17 has a recommended retail price of $115 plus GST. For more information, call Blairs Supertyre on 03 693 8122 or see blairs.co.nz.

Setting up with Steiner Steiner’s ST410 wheel balancer is a feature-rich, entry level wheel balancer that comes complete with laser indicator, hidden weight capability, and auto measurements of rim for simplified accuracy to 1g. It will handle rims from 8” to 28”, and wheels up to 1110mm in diameter. It comes with a two-year Steiner warranty. For more information contact treadwayequipped.co.nz, or call 0800 436 436.

Style, day or night The latest revolutionary Hella driving lamp, the Luminator 3.0 LED, now features a distinctive position lamp function. Hella’s new ‘edge light’ technology is now available in the Rallye 4000 metal body, proven in rally cars and heavy machinery. They offer low power consumption as well as high efficacy, delivering nearly 600m of light for only 2x15W of power. The robust LED design allows for a long life, supported by a fiveyear Hella warranty. Recommended retail price is from $520. See hella.co.nz for stockists.

ACDelco knows filters With more than 100 years of experience, ACDelco knows filtration. ACDelco can filter almost anything, from engine oil filters that capture particles one-third the size of a human hair, to cabin air filters that block odours and viruses. ACDelco filters offer very wide vehicle coverage of the New Zealand vehicle fleet. They are competitively priced and backed by the best warranties and technical support in the business. RRP from $10 plus GST. For more information, see acdelco.com.au/our-range/ filters/ or contact your local Holden dealer.

Snap up Sices on sale The fully automatic Sice FL44A tilt-back tyre changer for cars and light transport vehicles is supplied in 3-phase power with multi-function helper arm and digital tyre inflator. The helper arm has a bead roller, bead pressing arm that rotates while fitting the tyre, and a tyre lifting arm. It is designed to cater for a wide variety of passenger vehicle rims and tyres and comes with protectors for mag wheels. It offers wheel clamping for rim diameters of 11” to 26”, tyre widths from 3” to 14”. It will handle a maximum wheel diameter of 1100mm, and the 15,000N bead breaker will open to 380mm. New stock has arrived so centurydistributors.co.nz is offering four units on sale at $4499 plus GST, saving $1000. Call 04 567 1405.

Supplier directory

PA R Be TS

a S ra ring UP di s P at , d LY or iff s, s, en al SE gi ter RV ne n O IC co ato ils E ,g C m rs, po br re O as N ne ak e, S nt e c co UM s, om ol A W ba p an B O tte o L t R ,t E rie nen Ra K S r an s ts gs SH , s cl , lu O flu ea b P id ne ric C , rs an O b u , c ts N lb SU ar , P SU s, flu ca PE M S re , a AB sh Ti PE ,a e L e N es r irc os ES bu rod SIO on ol sh s, N s, es ba A ab , b ll j N ra ea oin D siv AF rin ts ST es TE , E gs ra E , Au R , s ck R di M I h oc en NG dr o, AR ks ds es pe K , s rf ET up or , p m AC W ai an C nt ce ES O /w p S D RK ra ar O ia S p, ts, RI gn H ha o O dr bo ES nd sti P iv d el yk to cs, EQ in it ol ho U e s, s, is IP RE sp ts M PA ec , e E N Au IR ia lec T lis t to t s ric en e SER er s, gi lec V vi po ne tr IC ce w i re cal E eq er bu , g W ui to ild ea pm ol IN r s b ,s o W DS en s, u in C t sp xes d m sc RE en , c irr re E sio yli or en N n n s, s S , c der w , c AN oo h ip hi D W er p lin ead H s, re G g s, E LA O E p c a us i EM LS S r to s, S re re A m s pa p ND fit ide irs lac T m gl , c em Y en as R o t s, ns en ES AU um t, TO t Re ab yre s R le s, s, fit su tora EFI in tin pp ti N ne g lie on ISH r t /b s, , sm E ub ala sp a R es nc ra sh S in y g, pa rep in ai te rs rs , a ,p u ai tont b co od rre y ct io n

YOUR GUIDE TO NEW ZEALAND'S LEADING AUTOMOTIVE TRADE SUPPLIERS

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0800 472 787 0800 200 100 0800 445 889 0800 333 125 aecs.net 06 874 9077 bntnz.co.nz 09 414 3200 hcb.co.nz or 0800 422 228

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precisionequipment.co.nz 0800 246 478

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jasoceania.co.nz or 0800 527 335

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dieseldistributors.co.nz or 09 265 0622 09 836 6673

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autolign.co.nz or 09 574 2288 tatp.co.nz or 0800 268 266

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smitsgroup.co.nz or 0800 227 422

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griffithsequipment.co.nz or 09 525 4575

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parts@1stautoparts.co.nz or 09 638 6439 mountshop.co.nz or 0508 866 686

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bmw.co.nz or 0508 269 727 cyb.co.nz or 09 978 6666

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0800 465 855 0800 549 429

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automaster.co.nz or 0800 214 604 centurydistributors.co.nz

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patchrubber.co.nz or 0508 837 248 dtm.co.nz or 0800 621 233 penriteoil.co.nz or 0800 533 698 nzmotoroils.com or 0800 942 645

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0800 383 566 06 306 8446 or blackfern.coop redarcelectronics.co.nz 0800 757 333 or fenixautoparts.co.nz

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smitsgroup.co.nz or 0800 227 422

crc.co.nz or 09 272 2700 rjbatt.co.nz or 09 636 5980

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Auto Channel Issue #37 July 2021

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treadwayequipped.co.nz 0800 436 436 sales@advancefc.co.nz 0800 538 058 holden.co.nz/dealers

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07 850 5240

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mmnz.co.nz or 0800 54 53 52

cooldrive.co.nz or 0800 327 868

ryco.co.nz or 0800 838 222

ford.co.nz or 0800 367 369

tyreorder.co.nz or 0800 80 90 96

moreyoil.co.nz or 09 813 9200

gearwrench.co.nz

Napa.co.nz or 0800 800 073

0800 698 227

fuchs.co.nz or 09 828 3255

bendix.co.nz

09 636 5428 or sales@clutchindustries.co.nz

nz.macnaught.com or 0800 023 510

The Auto Channel supplier directory is your easy reference for sourcing a range of automotive products and services.

This directory is a paid service for businesses who supply to the New Zealand automotive trade. To secure your inclusion, contact Mark Everleigh on 09 222 1729 or mark.everleigh@parkside.co.nz.

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a S ra ring UP di s P at , d LY or iff s, s, en al SE gi ter RV ne n O IC co ato ils E ,g C m rs, po br re O as N ne ak e, S nt e c co UM s, om ol A W ba p an B O tte o L t R , rie nen ES Ra K t r an s ts gs SH , s cl , lu O fl ea b P ui ne ric C d, rs an O b u , c ts N lb SU ar , P SU s, flu ca PE M S re , a AB sh Ti PE ,a e L e N es r r ir os ES bu od SIO co o sh s, l N n s, es ba A ab , b ll j N ra ea oin D siv AF rin ts ST es TE ,r E g , s, ac ER Au R sh k d M oc en ING dr io, AR ks ds es pe K , s rf ET up or , p m AC W ai an C nt ce ES O /w p S D RK ra ar O ia S g p, ts, RI ha no HO dr bo ES s nd ti P iv d el yk c E to s, Q in it ol ho U e s, s, is IP RE sp ts M PA ec , e E N Au IR ia lec T lis t to t s ric en e SER er s, gi lec V vi po ne tr IC ce w i re cal E eq er bu , g W ui to ild ea pm ol IN r s b , W DS en s, o s u x in C t sp es d m sc RE en , c irr re E sio yli or en N nd n S s, s , c er w , c AN oo h ip hi D W er p lin ead H s, re G g s, E O E pa LA c u EM LS st irs SS om , s re re A pa p ND fit ide irs lac T m gl , c em Y en as R o t s, e ns n E S AU um t, TO t Re ab yre s R le s, s, fit su tora EFI in tin pp ti N ne g lie on ISH r t /b s, , sm E ub ala sp a R es nc ra sh S in y g, pa rep in ai te rs rs , a ,p u ai tont b co od rre y ct io n

PA R Be TS

Carmakers sue to overturn US right to repair rule AUTOMAKERS’ LAWSUIT TO OVERTURN MASSACHUSETTS’ VEHICLE DATA ACCESS LAW GOES TO TRIAL he US Auto Care Association is reporting on moves to reverse legislation that required carmakers to make vehicle information available to repairers. All eyes in the auto care industry will once again turn to Massachusetts as the trial begins in Federal Court to hear the challenge brought by the vehicle manufacturers against the voters of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts on the data access law. Approved by voters on 3 November 2020 by an overwhelming 75–25 percent margin, the new law would require manufacturers to provide vehicle owners with both access to and control of the diagnostic and repair data generated by their vehicles. The lawsuit, filed by the Alliance for Automotive Innovation, the car companies’ trade group, asks the court to overturn the data access ballot question based on a host of allegations, including cyber security concerns, insufficient time to comply with the new data access requirements, and their contention that the ballot initiative is preempted by federal law. The trial is expected to last about a week. “Auto Care is carefully following the trial as well as the verdict, which likely will occur sometime later in the summer. Obviously, we hope that the court will uphold the will of the people of Massachusetts. However, no matter the result, the association is

Auto Channel Issue #37 July 2021

committed to continuing the campaign to ensure that car owners nationwide have the ability to directly access their in-vehicle data in real time and to have that data available to the repair shop of their choice,” stated Bill Hanvey, President and CEO of the Auto Care Association. For information on new Australian legislation in this area, see page 38.

Auto Channel is the best way to reach the wider automotive industry. The publication is direct mailed to 11,306 New Zealand businesses in the following automotive sectors: Automotive workshops Parts importers and distributors Transmission specialists Automotive recyclers Towing operators Panel beaters and painters Crash repairers Tyre dealers Suspension and underbody repairers Steering specialists Towing operators Auto-electrical repairers New- and used-car dealers Air conditioning repairers Heavy machinery dealers Trucking and transport

Auto Channel Issue No. 38 distributed 27 July Editorial: editor@autochannel.co.nz Advertising: Michael White michael.white@parkside.co.nz All other enquiries to: autochannel.co.nz Auto Channel is produced by Parkside Media, publishers of NZ’s three biggest-selling automotive magazines NZ Performance Car, New Zealand Classic Car, and NZV8.

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Auto Channel 37

Articles inside

New Snap-on scanner

Right to repair breakthrough

Future fuel scenarios

Hayman Reese goes visual

Feature car: Mäkinen’s grandma special

Big future in future-proofing

Fuchs is workshop-focussed, and local Cover

Car news

Wolfchester is here

Eurosurgeon’s winning formula