August 2017
Vol. 08. No. 07
MAKING LEARNING FUN Logistics takes the VR route
UD TRUCKS Locally built Croner unveiled
REVOLUTIONISING ONLINE TRUCKING
IMPROVED DRIVING PERFORMANCE Boost fleet efficiency with predictive real-time driving advice that empowers employees to improve driving behaviour. With petrol costs shooting through the roof, the good news is that companies can improve their fuel consumption with OptiDrive 360 from TomTom Telematics. The next generation of WEBFLEET OptiDrive now includes predictive real-time driving advice. Pre-trip, OptiDrive 360 provides motorists with best practice advice on how to drive more safely and fuel efficiently. Direct feedback and driving advice is offered in real-time during the trip to actively coach the driver. The system uses vehicle and map data to advise drivers when to take their foot off the accelerator or shift gear and what their optimum speed should be. After the trip a snapshot analysis is available to review the trip statistics. All information is displayed via the driver terminal. OptiDrive 360 scores drivers based on a total of eight performance indicators - speeding, driving events, idling, fuel consumption, green speed, coasting (where you release the accelerator pedal in gear), gear shifting and constant speed - which can be used as the basis for performance reviews, training and driver benchmarking. WEBFLEET provides managers with dashboards that allow them to highlight trends in driving behaviour. A series of in-depth reports then enables them to drill deeper for greater analysis and to compare the whole fleet. BENEFITS OF OPTIDRIVE 360 • Reduced costs Can help to reduce fuel, maintenance and insurance costs, lowering the total vehicle ownership costs. • Increased sustainability Can contribute towards proving your environmental responsibility by demonstrating your effort to reduce fuel consumption and CO2 emissions. • With increased driver safety in mind Real-time feedback and advice on safer driving contributes towards fewer accidents and maintenance downtime. • More relaxed drivers With a better driving style drivers will arrive at the customer relaxed and ready to work. HOW OPTIDRIVE 360 WORKS OptiDrive 360 helps drivers adopt a responsible driving style. It provides valuable insights to both the fleet manager and the driver — delivering direct feedback to drivers before, during and after their trip. Responsible driving helps you to lower fuel, maintenance and insurance premiums, thus helping to reduce the total costs of vehicle ownership for your business. DRIVING PERFORMANCE INSIGHTS OptiDrive 360 actively provides real-time feedback and advice to improve driving performance. Fleet managers and drivers get tailored driving insights on up to eight OptiDrive performance indicators. SPEEDING Information about what the speed limit is, and if drivers are driving within it. DRIVING EVENTS Reports on harsh steering and sudden breaking. IDLING Information on idling time and associated fuel waste. FUEL Real-time and average fuel consumption. CONSTANT SPEED Reports on speed fluctuations in driving performance. COASTING (WHERE YOU RELEASE THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL IN GEAR) Drivers can be advised to release the accelerator when approaching a coasting zone. GREEN SPEED Get an advised speed, based on fuel efficiency and the speed limit. GEAR SHIFT Advice on how appropriate gear changing can optimise vehicle efficiency. ABOUT TOMTOM TELEMATICS TomTom Telematics is a Business Unit of TomTom dedicated to fleet management, vehicle telematics and connected car services. WEBFLEET is a Software-as-a-Service solution, used by small to large businesses to improve vehicle performance, save fuel, support drivers and increase overall fleet efficiency. The company services drivers in more than 60 countries, giving them the industry’s strongest local support network and widest range of sector-specific third party applications and integrations. More than 40 000 customers benefit every day from the high standards of confidentiality, integrity and availability of its ISO 27001:2013 certified service, re-audited in November 2015.
COMPANY: TomTom Telematics TWITTER: @TomTomWEBFLEET VISIT: business.tomtom.com/en_za/
Contents COVER STORY 14
Revolutionising the online trucking industry William Miller and Renaldo de Jager are two visionary entrepreneurs who, many years ago, had the foresight to investigate how the local vehicle market would develop in the next decade, using their expertise to start an online auction platform, Dealers Online
The future of trucking J
ournalists were given a fascinating insight recently into trucking’s future when Cummins demonstrated to media representatives in the US the company’s new and future technologies designed to provide environmentally friendly, cost effective transport.
NEW MODELS
18 Locally built Croner unveiled UD Trucks has launched in South Africa its new Croner Heavy Commercial Vehicle range. Featuring 13 variants, the line-up offers up to 21 customisable configurations aimed at maximising productivity and uptime
Low emission, natural gas engine technology, super-efficient diesel engines and even a fully electric truck were unveiled as the company showcased some of its solutions for evolving global markets.
DEALER AWARDS 20
Daimler honours top dealers It was an event to remember as Daimler Trucks & Buses and Mercedes-Benz Vans honoured their top dealers at a function in Zanzibar
CUSTOMER SERVICE 22
Volvo Trucks on the up Volvo Trucks South Africa’s commitment to vehicle uptime is beginning to pay dividends, according to latest customer satisfaction index (CSI) results released by Scott Byers
LOGISTICS 24
Packing the goods Virtual Reality turns work into a video game for trainee component packers in Audi’s Logistics centre in Ingolstadt
PRODUCTION 26
New Hino 500 set for launch November will see the first of a new series of wide body Hino 500s roll off the brand’s assembly line in Prospecton, Durban
TECHNOLOGY 28
Cummins unveils new tech In a demonstration of new and future technologies designed to provide environmentally friendly, cost effective transport, Cummins recently unveiled in the US its latest energy-diverse products
INSURANCE 30
Use safety to improve profits Road freight’s steady growth trajectory looks set to continue, but it is paralleled by a troubling rise in accidents so drivers and fleet owners alike need to adopt a safety-oriented mindset to improve profitability
During the event, which included a tour of the Cummins technical centre, company representatives highlighted examples of innovation as well as developments in analysis-led design capability, virtual reality, alternative fuels and digital solutions. Rich Freeland, Cummins’ president, said the company would leverage its deep industry and customer knowledge – and its scale advantage – to pursue new markets. “Over the past century, our ability to innovate and adapt has fuelled our success and we are confident we are on the right path to do it again,” he said. Turn to P28 to read how Cummins intends to offer sustainable solutions to accommodate the ever-increasing demands of trucking’s evolving world. On the local front, UD Trucks recently unveiled its locally built Croner HCV range. Featuring 13 variants, the line-up offers up to 21 customisable configurations aimed at maximising productivity and uptime. Specifically developed for UD Trucks’ growth markets, the new Croner HCV range zeros-in on the Japanese brand’s legacy of building trucks the world needs. Models for local distribution will be assembled at the company’s plant in Rosslyn, Pretoria, and will be rolled out to other African markets within the next year. For detailed information, turn to P18. In another local development, Hino South Africa announced that its Hino 500 – which has been on sale locally for the past 14 years and is a mainstay of many fleets – is being replaced by an all-new model. The new derivative will go into production in November at the company’s factory at Prospecton, near Durban, assembled from kits exported from Japan. Already, several pre-production tests utilising prototypes are underway. You can read about the development on P26 of this edition. As always, I trust that you will enjoy the contents of this month’s Future Trucking & Logistics. Until next time…
Ryan de Smidt Editor
MANAGEMENT 32
Isuzu restructures its management team Isuzu Motors South Africa has announced a number of key leadership appointments in support of its purchase of Isuzu related assets from General Motors South Africa
UPDATES
6 News 12 Products 34 People Moving Up Design & Layout Heinz Bawa Publisher Richard Lendrum heinz@thefuture.co.za Editor-in-Chief Wynter Murdoch Production Mabel Ramafoko Advertising Enver Lawangi Editor Ryan de Smidt ryan@thefuture.co.za enver@thefuture.co.za Cell: 083 300 6003 Sub-editor Reuben van Niekerk reuben@thefuture.co.za
Future Trucking & Logistics is published monthly by: Future Publishing (Pty) Ltd 247 Jan Smuts Avenue, Dunkeld West, Johannesburg P O Box 3355, Rivonia, 2128 011 803 2040
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NEWS >>
Ford and DHL take the green route Ford and the Deutsche Post DHL Group subsidiary StreetScooter have rolled out the first of their jointly produced electric delivery vans, the StreetScooter Work XL. The Work XL is based on a Ford Transit chassis fitted with a battery-electric drivetrain and a body designed and built to Deutsche Post’s DHL specifications. The company plans to build 150 of the e-vans at the StreetScooter plant in Aachen, Germany, which DHL will run to support its urban parcel service in Germany. The two companies plan to build 2 500 e-vans by the end of 2018 for sale to third-party customers. The new e-van will have stowage space for more than 200 packages and a range of up to 200km. “The new StreetScooter Work XL expands our e-fleet in the commercial vehicle segment. It is the perfect vehicle for parcel deliveries in major cities and large urban areas, and will enable us to cope with rising parcel volumes in an even more environmentally friendly and quieter manner,” said Jürgen Gerdes, a member of the Deutsche Post DHL Group management team. “With this commitment, we are also underlining our claim of being the market leader in green logistics.”
Work XL’s load area is fitted with shelves and is accessible from the driver’s cab. The vehicle can be loaded via the tailgate and a curbside sliding door. With a charging capacity of up to 22kW, the average charging time is three hours. Steven Armstrong, president of Ford Europe, Middle East and Africa, said the company was proud of the project and of the strong partnership it had developed with the Deutsche Post DHL Group and StreetScooter. “This joint project will be Europe’s largest manufacturer of emission-free, medium-sized e-vans, and it doesn’t come a moment too soon. Buses, cars, and of course, delivery vans play vital roles in our daily lives, but we have to find a way to make them cleaner. This project is a great step along this path.”
New Cape Town oil terminal opens The Port of Cape Town’s new fuel storage facility is fully operational. The terminal received its pilot consignment of diesel aboard the tanker Marlin Ammolite in the first week of July.
The website adds that Burgan’s state of the art truck loading facility will allow for efficient and swift distribution to end-users with limited impact on surroundings.
Located on approximately 37 273 square metres of land at the port’s Eastern Mole, the facility – which focuses on the storage and distribution of clean fuels – is aimed at helping South Africa to achieve greater security of supply.
In a statement, Cape Town Port Manager, Mpumi Dweba-Kwetana, said: “With an estimated investment of R890-million, the awarding of this contract to a 30% black owned entity in partnership with an international operator speaks strongly of Transnet’s commitment to creating capacity ahead of demand and unlocking South Africa’s ocean economy.”
Construction of the facility, which is operated by Burgan Cape Terminals, began in late 2015 after Transnet’s National Ports Authority awarded the company a 24-year lease. Burgan Cape Terminals is owned by Netherlands-based VTTI (70%) and black economic empowerment companies Thebe Investment Corporation (15%) and Jicaro (15%). According to VTTI’s website, anchor tenants include Gulfstream Energy – a 100% black female owned company which has a three-year agreement to store 120-million litres of fuel per annum – and Shell.
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Future Trucking & Logistics / August 2017
Boasting a total capacity of 121 908 cubic metres from 12 tanks, the terminal’s product portfolio includes diesel, petrol, FAME (fatty acid methyl esters) and ethanol. Government has included the facility as a strategic project under Operation Phakisa. The terminal is perceived to have accelerated transformation of the energy sector thanks to its inclusion of emerging black-owned, independent fuel suppliers.
NEWS >>
Accolades for Speed in a Suit challenge When the CEO of the South African Express Parcel Association (SAEPA), Garry Marshall, was deciding on whether to participate in TruckX 2017, he knew he wanted to something which was different and exciting. Thus the Speed in a Suit challenge was born – and it was a resounding success. The premise of the challenge was to bring a number of executives together to compete against each other on a race track. While speed was an important judging criterion, the executives would also be judged on their handling of the vehicles. Ctrack by Inseego would use their technology to judge this aspect. Each contestant drove a test lap in a Hyundai H1 van with an instructor in the vehicle to provide them with some pointers before setting off on the lap which determined their place in the rankings. Everyone involved in the event thoroughly enjoyed it. “It was a great experience. Following the event, not a single negative comment was received. Everyone had fun and was completely in the spirit of the challenge. We are keen to make it an annual experience,” says Marshall.
The inaugural event provided everyone involved with opportunities to improve the experience even more. “We used the first challenge to identify our strengths and weaknesses and we are going to use these to make the event even bigger and better next year. “I am looking forward to Speed in a Suit becoming an annual event at TruckX that everyone can look forward to,” says Marshall. The event ended off with a prize giving where the winner was announced. Marshall organised a number of consolation prizes for other participants. These included a prize for the slowest driver and prizes for female drivers.
Right to Repair rallies support Right to Repair South Africa (R2RSA) has been rallying motor industry support over the past months – and a number of stakeholders have stepped up. Richard Clarke, chairman of the non-profit Section 21 company, says more and more industry players are realising the importance of the campaign and the change it will bring to the automotive industry. “We are now active in the press and marketing the campaign so we can get sponsors on board to assist us in aggressively driving the process forward. The response so far has been very positive and we expect more and more support as the campaign progresses,” he says. The RMI’s Motor Industry Workshop Association (MIWA) – which initially championed the Right to Repair campaign – and GUD Holdings, which includes brands such as Safeline, Indyoil, Fram and GUD, have pledged the bulk of the sponsorship to date, but brands such as Mahle, Bosch, Tenneco, Bilstein, AAAS, Autoboys, Goldwagen, Samuels Service Centre and Alert Engine Parts have recently joined as Tier 1 sponsors. “The Right to Repair campaign directly affects consumers who are being denied the right to have their vehicles repaired at workshops of their choice. We
believe now is the time to give consumers and industry stakeholders a voice and a way to get involved,” says Clarke. “Our objective is to raise awareness and ultimately bring about legislative change.” Along with ensuring that consumers are given the right to choose where to have their vehicles serviced, R2RSA is also championing the rights of aftermarket workshops to information essential for the servicing and maintenance process. “Denying workshops the chance to repair vehicles because of warranties and access to information has allowed Original Equipment Manufacturers to monopolise the automotive industry. That will change,” says Clarke. “We are still approaching potential supporters. We will face many challenges over the coming months but, with industry stakeholders coming together to fight for change, we believe it must happen. In our view, it is only a matter of time before we see legislative progress.” Clarke points out that Europe, the UK, America and Australia have adopted similar Right to Repair initiatives. “We have seen change in those countries. South Africa’s time is now,” he says.
August 2017 / Future Trucking & Logistics
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NEWS >>
UD Trucks dealership opens in Harrismith Opening UD Trucks Harrismith… Director of the Morgan Group, Hugh Morgan (left) and Gert Swanepoel, Managing Director of UD Trucks
UD Trucks has announced the opening of a new dealership in Harrismith, Free State. Strategically located inside the Highway Junction truck stop off the busy N3 highway, the dealership – part of the Morgan Group, which also owns the UD Trucks dealership in Welkom – aims to offer convenient sales, service and maintenance support. “Our partnership with UD Trucks spans over 12 years and during this time, we have come to appreciate everything the brand stands for and aspires to,” said Dicky Roux, dealer principal of UD Trucks Harrismith. “UD Trucks truly knows South African customers and local operating conditions, and therefore offers exceptionally built quality and durable products. We are happy to continue our investment in the UD Trucks brand.” Gert Swanepoel, managing director of UD Trucks Southern Africa, said the company was pleased to continue its partnership with the Morgan Group. “With the N3 being the main corridor between Gauteng and the port of Durban, Harrismith is crucial to our objective of being there for our customers whenever they operate,” said Swanepoel. “We have every confidence in the ability of the Morgan Group and their Harrismith team to go the extra mile for UD fleet owners, and to
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provide them with a level of service that surpasses expectation.” Apart from scheduled maintenance and after-hours servicing (by appointment), the Harrismith dealership is also able to assist in case of an emergency breakdown in the area – a crucial service to get fleet owners’ assets back on the road as soon as possible. There are also sleeping facilities available for drivers’ when their trucks are being serviced. The Highway Junction truck stop also offers an onsite clinic, restaurants and even a laundromat. The dealership keeps a full parts department with daily deliveries directly from UD Trucks Southern Africa, and boasts accredited technicians and apprentices. “We value our investment in the UD Trucks brand, thus all our staff are fully qualified for their respective positions. “As an ever-expanding company, we also offer additional skills development opportunities to our staff to provide our customers with the best possible service,” said Roux. “This goes a long way in building quality partnerships with our customers and ensuring that we meet their trucking needs into the future.” UD Trucks currently has 36 dealers in South Africa.
NEWS >>
MAN reaches for the sky The Volkswagen Truck & Bus Group is set to offer an open cloud-based solution for the transportation sector as a whole in the form of its new digital brand RIO, which pools digital services for the entire transportation and logistics ecosystem. This means, for the first time, all supply chain players will be networked with one another via a standardised information and application system with forecast functions. In the recent past, transparent data usage within the transportation sector often was not possible because of the number of diverse, stand-alone software systems in operation. For the first time, RIO is offering a shared solution and, as such, one which can be used irrespective of vehicle brand or telematics system, with existing stand-alone systems able to be integrated on RIO. The RIO Box has already been included as standard equipment on new MAN Euro 6-series trucks in Europe. “Equipping our MAN trucks with RIO is an important first step that brings us closer to our vision of a fully networked transportation and logistics supply chain. At the same time, it serves as a basis whereby customers can access digital added value services. In assuming this pioneering role in the sector we are actively shaping the
logistics of the future in the interests of our customers.” says Joachim Drees, CEO of MAN Truck & Bus AG. The RIO Box is compatible with all systems and manufacturers. It is designed specifically so it can be used in mixed fleets, thereby offering small and medium-sized logistics companies the chance to become part of Logistics 4.0. RIO Box retrofits for vehicles with an FMS interface will be possible in future, too. Current users of the MAN Telematics system have the option of securely transferring their collected data to RIO.
Taxi initiative from Toyota As the largest supplier of taxis to the industry, Toyota has taken a number of steps to contain the price inflation of the Ses’fikile, given the deteriorating value of the rand and high local inflation rate.
Toyota South Africa Motors (TSAM) has increased its support of the country’s taxi industry through the introduction of a complimentary three-year/60 000km service plan for all new Ses’fikile taxis sold from this month. With the service plan, taxi owners and operators are assured of free safety inspections and comprehensive services with Genuine Toyota parts for the taxi’s first 60 000km. The service plan is intended to support industry viability and ensure the safety of taxi commuters. Andrew Kirby, President and CEO of TSAM, said the service plan would give taxi owners and operators the opportunity to keep their vehicles in perfect running condition for longer and would support their efforts to operate profitable and sustainable businesses.
For example, when the Ses’fikile was introduced in 2007, it was the first fully compliant taxi under the South African government’s Taxi Recapitalisation Plan. Since then, Toyota has upgraded the vehicle’s seating, introduced more cost-effective, locallysourced components; kept the vehicle compliant with all regulatory requirements and subsidised Ses’fikile service/repair parts to the value of R5-million a year. In addition, Toyota has invested more than R550million to date in the Quantum Plant at its production facility at Prospecton in Durban. Production of the Quantum was first localised in 2012 with a SKD (Semi Knock-Down) facility which was then upgraded to a full CKD (Complete Knock-Down) site in 2015. A further R11-million was invested in upskilling staff working specifically at the Quantum Plant. Toyota has also subsequently implemented an aggressive localisation plan for the majority of parts and components, with the aim of mitigating the weakening rand/yen exchange rate.
August 2017 / Future Trucking & Logistics
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NEWS >>
Encouraging road safety MiX Telematics has introduced a monitoring service that allows motorists to report the driving behaviour of fellow road users. Aimed at improving road safety, the Report My Driving initiative encourages fleet owners to improve the behaviour of company drivers through the feedback of other motorists.
“The success of the MiX Report My Driving programme is based on a combination of factors, including the simple, yet effective placement of safety hotline stickers on vehicles, the 24/7 MiX Journey Management Centre that operates the hotline, and the incident investigation process that follows.
In a statement, MiX says studies indicate a host of benefits linked to a driver monitoring service, including a 52% reduction in accident related costs, and 20% fewer accidents in vehicles displaying safety hotline stickers.
“Once an incident is reported via the hotline 0861580580 or www.reportmydriving.co.za, a driver’s manager is notified of the incident and receives a system-generated report. If the client also has a MiX Fleet Manager solution in place, additional vehicle and driver data will be used to investigate the driving incident.
“MiX Report My Driving is an affordable and efficient driver monitoring service. It assists fleet owners in improving their driver’s behaviour through the feedback of other motorists. Drivers will be more considerate on the road because they know that other road users can report them. Driving behaviour thus improves, with vehicles involved in fewer accidents and drivers involved in fewer traffic infringements,” the statement says. It adds that the initiative aims to identify high risk drivers who require additional training or counselling. “Recognition can be given to good drivers. Driver and fleet profiling enables training and safety processes to be enhanced. This helps a business to manage and mitigate on-road risk, and reduce expenses relating to accidents, insurance and fleet maintenance.” According to the statement, by displaying the MiX Report My Driving sticker, companies show that they take risk management responsibilities seriously. “It helps to protect your company’s brand and enhance your public image. It improves the safety of your fleet and drivers on the road.” The system works as follows: • All calls to report incidents are routed to the 24/7 MiX Journey Management Centre and details are captured into the company’s database. • Calls are answered by trained security officers. All calls are recorded and logged for quality control and verification purposes. • A nominated manager at the company alleged to have committed the infringement will be notified of the incident. • A report is generated which includes all available details from any linked MiX solutions, including driver IDs, location information and video footage. • Managers are then in a position to intervene and engage drivers based on the facts.
“The telematics information can determine which driver identification tag was used for the vehicle involved in a reported incident, thus confirming the responsible driver. The telematics data will also confirm that the vehicle was at the reported location, and provide additional information such as the speed at which the vehicle was travelling at the time. “If a MiX Vision in-cab video solution is in place, the video and audio footage at the time of the reported incident will provide additional information to analyse the event in detail.” The cost of the service ranges between R14 and R18 a vehicle a month, depending on the size of the fleet to which the stickers are attached. We’ve got you covered 297 X 210.pdf
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10 Future Trucking & Logistics / August 2017 solutions, MiX Telematics is mindful of the fact that safety is an ongoing process. We design and deliver a combination of consultancy, training and monitoring tools for
saving lives with technology
Volvo Trucks has always led in vehicle safety, and now we’re using advanced technology to save more lives. Our Active Safety systems use an understanding of the state of the vehicle to avoid collision, or to minimise the effects if one is unavoidable. Adaptive Cruise Control, Collision Warning with Emergency Brake, Lane Keeping Support, Lane Changing Support, and Driver Alert Support are just some of the ways we’re moving towards our goal of zero accidents involving a Volvo Truck.
ACTIVE SAFETY
Trucks. Driving Progress Volvo Volvo Trucks. Driving Progress
PRODUCTS >>
It’s a dog’s life
Rawlplug’s easy solution
Rawlplug has introduced to its range a selection of applicationspecific solution kits designed to make the installation of common appliances easy. From sinks, toilets and shelves to mirrors, curtain rods and TV sets, the kits include plugs, screws and even a drill bit. The hanging plastic packs – available from selected hardware stockists countrywide – are clearly branded, spelling out the specific use and job for which they are intended. For information, contact Vermont Sales on 011 314 7711 or log on to www.vermontsales.co.za
Ray-Ban
teams up with Ferrari Wear the look of a champion! Ray-Ban has teamed up with Ferrari to offer of variety of different sunglass styles adorned with the legendary Italian brand’s Prancing Horse motif. From original Aviators and Wayfarers to the striking Scuderia Ferrari RB 4228M, the glasses encompass steel or carbon fibre frames, classic green, crystal or mirror lenses and include Ferrari red or yellow detailing on temples and nose pads. For information log on to https://onlinestore.ferrari.com
12 Future Trucking & Logistics / August 2017
Nissan has announced the launch of a Paw Pack which is aimed at making the brand’s X-Trail SUV dog-friendly. The accessory kit – which comprises six carefully chosen components – is said to transform the boot an X-Trail into a comfortable and welcoming travel space for canines. The kit includes a dog guard boot separator, a ramp for smaller or less mobile animals, a luxurious machine washable dog bed, a nonspill water bowl, a boot liner and an organiser in which to store leads, treats and waste bags. A Nissan spokesman says: “We’re delighted to release this innovative Paw Pack as we believe strongly that pets are important members of the family, as well as excellent travelling companions for those outdoors adventures.” For information contact a Nissan dealer.
The perfume of speed Many motorsport enthusiasts are likely to have heard about the great and famous aroma associated with Castrol R – the perfume of speed as it was once described. Used in two- and four-stroke engines in pre- and post-war years, the oil was as much revered for its smell as for its lubricating properties. “We’ve had so many calls to bring back the original Castrol R – the very same oil that was so popular all those years ago,” says Giovanni Schule, spokesman for SA Wholesale Import & Exports, official agents for Castrol Classic. He’s committed to a large order of Castrol R 40 SAE 40 4T Racing Engine Oil and stocks are available. The oil is castor based – hence its distinctive aroma – and can be used for classic car or motorcycle applications. It is said to offer superior oiliness compared with conventional mineral oils. According to Schule, it is used in racing engines, gearboxes and as a twostroke mix. “Castrol R40 provides the ultimate in lubrication for both car and motorcycle engines under race conditions. It offers the best possible performance coupled with reliability and safety at ultrahigh engine speeds and temperatures,” he says. For information call Giovanni on 011 465 8294 or 082 786 3044, or log on to www.castrolclassic.co.za
Future viability also means a repair shop service that’s aimed at developing a more skilled workforce.
More than just spare parts—we deliver end-to-end solutions in OE quality for increasingly complex systems.
YOUR PARTNER FOR TURBOCHARGERS, COMPLETE WITH ACCESSORIES AND SERVICE.
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More quality: We develop and manufacture in original equipment quality. And we have the right accessories to go with it: mounting kits, oil lines, as well as air and oil filters.
More market coverage: Our product range is being systematically extended: the right product, at the right time, at the right location.
More service: Our service for repair shops includes installation training, courses in damage diagnosis, and the latest practical tips.
DIGITAL SOLUTIONS >> INTERVIEW >>
Revolutionising the online trucking industry
DealersOnline is an innovative company started by two visionary entrepreneurs who, 10 years ago, had the foresight to examine how the South African vehicle market would develop in the next decade. They used this expertise to start the online platforms DealersOnline and OnlineTrucks. DealersOnline currently inspects 500 000 assets and sells in excess of 50 000 vehicles per year.
T
he natural progression during the growth of the business was to digitise processes. This led to the invention of various online and mobile applications which make a substantial difference in the fleet inspection, valuation and disposal process. Managing your fleet has never been easier. The company was extended to include OnlineTrucks in 2014, thanks to an introduction to Volvo Southern Africa. This market leader immediately saw the value in taking what the parent brand, DealersOnline, had achieved in the passenger market, and started implementing a highly customised process for the commercial vehicle market that now includes trucks as well as bus applications. Stakeholders were impressed with how OnlineTrucks was able to simplify the traditional, paper based inspection into a digital process that provided realtime fleet and management information.
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DealersOnline have developed an innovative electronic inspection application that allows their clients (OEMs, Corporates, Dealer Groups and Independent Dealers) to complete this procedure quicker, easier and with greater uniformity. The inspection process is linked to an online auction platform which assists in maximising the profits on disposal of your fleet. The results speak for themselves with a 100% sales ratio for corporate clients over the past three years. One of the major advantages is the fact that this application captures the greatest level of detail ever achieved in the industry, and thus supplies the client with an exceptionally clear, transparent and unbiased view of the vehicle. OnlineTrucks is the only online company in South Africa that offers independent fleet compliancy and auditing services, including health and safety checks.
s.co.za
www.onlinetruck
Inspections can be carried out using any IOS or Android compatible device, and the application generates consistent, auditable inspections every time. OnlineTrucks employs a team of highly skilled appraisers who achieved the relevant qualifications within the commercial vehicle workshop environment, and their combined experience gives the platform credibility and accuracy. The OnlineTrucks inspection platform is without a doubt the most effective and user friendly inspection platform on the market. Testimony to this is an ever increasing customer base, which was recently expanded to include Scania Southern Africa. To take advantage of these innovative services, visit www.onlinetrucks. co.za or call John Mulder on 074 284 6035.
August 2017 / Future Trucking & Logistics
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DIGITAL SOLUTIONS >>
Digital Inspections OnlineTrucks dispatches agents nationwide along with the advanced valuation and inspection application, putting a mobile workforce at the customer’s fingertips. This service combines mobility plus manpower to serve as feet on the ground, delivering real-time, efficient solutions customized to fit specific business needs.
If you are unsure about the condition of your fleet, or have any Health and Safety concerns, this fully customisable framework will be the solution for your business!
Results of these inspections are available immediately after completion of the physical inspection by the agent, for the customer’s perusal and feedback.
This platform assists in maximising the profits on disposal of your fleet. Since inception of this business in 2007, it has perfected the art of a successful and unbiased online auction, using the best available technology. This process is coupled with a thorough understanding of sales, marketing, logistical and operational requirements.
In addition to the key features outlined above, due to the fact that our application provides a greater level of detail than ever possible before, the following other benefits provide a unique opportunity for your business to stand out from the crowd and enjoy more efficient business management: • A uniform inspection process which addresses corporate governance issues. • Effective records kept of all transactions, in a paperless environment. • Electronic customer signatures and information including driver’s license. • Opportunity to take multiple photographs of the vehicle. • Integration to M&M Trade Pricing for realistic and accurate information. • All these features are also available in Offline mode. • Location verified by image data (Geotagging).
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Online Auctions The OnlineTrucks auction portal is designed to revolutionize the way fleet owners and corporates source and dispose of fleet assets.
Corporate clients have consistently enjoyed a 100% sales ratio, with favourable returns when compared to traditional disposal channels. Selling over 50 000 vehicles per year, we are the undisputed leader in the online auction business. We’ve been around for a while We have been providing online fleet services and technology for over 10 years! We know how fleet operations and dealerships work and we are passionate about making great technology. To take advantage of these fully customisable innovative services, visit www.onlinetrucks.co.za or call John Mulder on 074 284 6035.
NEW MODELS >>
Locally built Croner unveiled UD Trucks has launched in South Africa its new Croner Heavy Commercial Vehicle range. Featuring 13 variants, the line-up offers up to 21 customisable configurations aimed at maximising productivity and uptime
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pecifically developed for UD Trucks’ growth markets, the new Croner HCV range zeros-in on the Japanese brand’s legacy of building trucks the world needs. Models for local distribution will be assembled at the company’s plant in Rosslyn, Pretoria, and will be rolled out to other African markets within the next year. In a statement the company says that through an understanding of the specific requirements and business needs of local customers, the Croner has been engineered to help fleet owners stay ahead through the simple concept of saving time. While longer service intervals, smart aftersales support and quick access to spare parts help to ensure faster turnaround times, the line-up’s new GHE engine series – coupled with automatic transmission, a built-in fuel coach and an aerodynamically improved cab – is aimed at increasing economy. Less downtime and less on-road cost – while maintaining the quality and reliability standards
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for which the brand is renowned – are said to be the hallmarks of the new models. According to the statement: “The Croner is one of UD Trucks’ most fuel-efficient vehicles ever. Development has been carried out with quality and reliability at the forefront, right from the start of the design, through engineering, testing and manufacturing. “Durability testing was conducted over an equivalent of three million kilometres, putting the Croner through its paces in the toughest weather conditions and terrains around the world. “In addition, 1,4 million kilometres of field tests in actual customer operations were carried out across six countries and three continents over a period of 18 months, including South Africa. The result is a vehicle that boasts robustness, reliability and durability.” The range features three GVM models from 9,5 to 17 tons: MKE, LKE and PKE. The range of wheelbase variants can be configured to suit specific needs, with flexibility in choices for cabs, drivelines, axles and suspensions.
Models MKE GVW 9,5 – 11 tons Compact-sized HCV trucks specifically optimised for urban usage. The GH5E Euro 3 engine produces between 136kW and 157kW depending on configuration. The vehicle is available with either six-speed manual or six-speed auto transmission and features a 2,1-metre day cab. LKE GVW 12 – 14 tons The multi-purpose model has in-city and city-tocity distribution in its sights. It features a 2,1-metre day cab and is powered by a GH5E engine which produces 157kW. Like the MKE version, it is available with either six-speed manual or six-speed auto transmission.
Built for medium to heavy-duty usage and equipped with a six-cylinder engine that is said to be suitable for regional, long haul and heavier loads, the model features a 2,3-metre sleeper cab.
While automatic transmissions are available for all models for improved ease of use, safety and less driver workload, the range includes the option of manual six-speed or nine-speed gearboxes which are robust and durable, able to cope with tough demands under various operating conditions.
The power unit delivers between 186kW and 209kW depending on configuration, and is coupled with a choice of nine-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission.
New 5,0- and 8,0-litre engines are said to combine reliability with top class performance and, with torque outputs of up to 1 050Nm, the units are designed to provide significant pulling power and easier driving.
PKE GVM 15 – 17 tons
All models are fitted with a rear axle multi-leaf spring while air suspension is also available on the 16-ton variant, with a mechanical height control valve and dump switch. The Croner’s cabin features a modern, open and ergonomic design which takes into consideration driver well-being and efficiency. Active and passive safety features include S-cam full air brakes with automatic slack adjustment as well as ABS with EBD. The Croner’s steel frame provides strength and safety while the reinforced cabin has been developed according to strict deflection, crash and durability targets.
August 2017 / Future Trucking & Logistics
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AWARDS>>
Daimler honours top dealers It was an event to remember as Daimler Trucks & Buses and MercedesBenz Vans honoured their top dealers at a function in Zanzibar
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aimler Trucks & Buses – comprising Mercedes-Benz Trucks, Freightliner, FUSO Trucks & Buses, Mercedes-Benz Bus & Coach and Western Star – in conjunction with Mercedes-Benz Vans, recently rewarded its most stellar commercial vehicles dealers at a Dealer of the Year event held in Zanzibar. Mercedes-Benz Commercial Vehicles Durban took home the 2016 Daimler Trucks & Buses Dealer of the Year award, cementing its place as one of the most innovative outlets in the dealer network footprint. “Last year proved to be a tough one for the commercial vehicles industry, but our dealers proved their mettle and delivered the type of excellent results we are recognising them for,” said Jasper Hafkamp, Executive Director of Daimler Trucks & Buses southern Africa. Hafkamp said the performance of dealers was measured in terms of deliverables such as customer satisfaction, customer relationship management, new vehicles sales, after-sales and target accomplishment. Mercedes-Benz Commercial Vehicles Gauteng East was awarded the MercedesBenz Vans Dealer of the Year accolade, confirming the outlet’s appetite for increased customer satisfaction. “I am delighted to present this award to all of our Mercedes-Benz Commercial Vehicles Gauteng colleagues, as this is a team effort. From the sales staff to the workshop and the administrative team, they did extremely well last year and I am confident that they will do everything in their power to retain the award next year,” said Nadia Trimmel, Head of Mercedes-Benz Vans Southern Africa. Praise rang through the night as various other awards were presented, including the Mercedes-Benz Financial Services Chairman’s Award – by Garden City Commercial Vehicles – the TruckStore Recognition Award and the Best Overall Performance by a General Distributor.
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Other winners on the evening included: • Best Sales Performance Category for Mercedes-Benz Trucks: De Wit Motors; • Best Sales Performance Category for Mercedes-Benz Buses: Mercedes-Benz Commercial Vehicles Gauteng North and West; • Best Sales Performance Category for Freightliner: John Williams Motors; • Best Sales Performance Category for Fuso: John Williams Motors; • Most Improved Dealer for Mercedes-Benz Vans: McCarthy Kunene Commercial Vehicles; • Most Improved Dealer for Daimler Trucks & Buses: Union Motors South Coast; • Top Brand Performance for Vans Large Volume: Garden City Commercial Vehicles; • Top Brand Performance for Vans Medium Volume: Union Motors South Coast; • Top Brand Performance for Mercedes-Benz Trucks: Large Volume Mercedes-Benz Commercial Vehicles Cape Town; • Top Brand Performance for Mercedes-Benz Trucks Medium Volume: Mercurius Motors; • Top Brand Performance for Mercedes-Benz Buses Overall: Mercedes-Benz Commercial Vehicles Gauteng North & West; • Top Brand Performance for Freightliner Large Volume: John Williams Motors; • Top Brand Performance for Freightliner Medium Volume: Union Motors South Coast; • Top Brand Performance for FUSO Large Volume: Sandown Commercial Vehicles Bellville; • Top Brand Performance for FUSO Medium Volume: Union Motors South Coast.
August 2017 / Future Trucking & Logistics
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CUSTOMER SERVICE >>
VOLVO TRUCKS on the up Volvo Trucks South Africa’s commitment to vehicle uptime is beginning to pay dividends, according to latest customer satisfaction index (CSI) results released by Scott Byers
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heunis Eloff, Commercial Aftermarket Director of Volvo Trucks South Africa, understands the importance of keeping the transport industry’s wheels turning. To this end, he says the company has committed to decreasing the downtime of its customers’ vehicles with the broader aim of reducing the total cost of ownership of all Volvo trucks.
94,69% in the previous quarter – and 96,3% in the latter, a gain of 3,87%.
“This may be a challenging commitment to undertake – but we are convinced that through our connectivity project plan, service contracts, competent workshops and state of the art software, we will deliver on our commitment,” he says.
“This is an incredible achievement for us as the report is a clear indication of our team’s commitment to making sure that our customers achieve optimal running time for their vehicles,” says Eloff.
According to Eloff, the company’s recently implemented vehicle connectivity plan – which focuses on optimising service planning, vehicle efficiency and reduced downtime – will help Volvo in its quest to top South Africa’s customer satisfaction rankings.
“The results of the Scott Byers report are a true and independent reflection of the work that Volvo Trucks has put into the various business areas of its operations. In whatever category, our aim is to ensure that our customers always come first – whether it is in sales, service, parts or business relationships.”
“Customer satisfaction remains our top priority,” says Eloff. “We are confident that the connectivity project will support our efforts in this area.”
Eloff says the company has invested significantly in all areas of staff training as well as in products and parts with a view to ensuring top quality standards across all sections of the business.
Proof of the company’s commitment is perceptible in the gains it has made in the sales category in the most recent Scott Byers CSI, where it achieved a score of 99,20% – the highest rating recorded in the past 16 years. Further, the report reveals that Volvo Trucks ranks second in both service and parts categories, achieving a score of 96,35% in the former – up from
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He says the results are also an indication of how Volvo Trucks South Africa has embraced the global Volvo Way philosophy as its foundation, and used open, clear and effective communication to ensure that customers are always afforded top priority.
“We will continue to strive for excellence and focus on consistently meeting and delivering better than average service for our customers,” he promises, adding that recent introduction of a two-year parts warranty – which is guaranteed when Genuine Volvo Parts are fitted by authorised workshops – acts as further proof of the company’s commitment to add value.
Training with pride R
egistration has opened for the world’s largest service market competition – the Volvo International Service Training Awards (VISTA). More than 18 000 technicians from Volvo Trucks and Volvo Buses global dealer network are expected to participate. Through teamwork and competence development, VISTA aims to attract and maintain skilled technicians to the Volvo network. According to a company statement, even though VISTA is a competition its main objectives are to encourage teamwork, build team spirit and pride, as well as encourage self-improvement and competence development among Volvo Trucks’ staff members. “It’s a way for service market personnel to increase their knowledge and the quality of their work,” says the statement. “In the end, this leads to improved customer service and greater customer satisfaction.”
According to Nilsson, VISTA 2017-18 is expected to attract over 18 000 service market personnel from the global dealer network. “The theme this year is Performance is Everything – recognising that to work for Volvo Trucks and Volvo Buses, performance must be top class at all times,” he says. He adds that VISTA is also a way for Volvo Trucks to address the worldwide challenge of both recruiting and retaining workshop technicians. “With the support of everyone in the team, VISTA is the perfect opportunity to feel like you belong to the world’s best service market family,” he says. The programme started in 1957 and was originally a competition for Volvo technicians in Sweden. By 1977 it had expanded across all continents, attracting authorized Volvo dealers from all over the world.
The statement adds that highly skilled and motivated technicians enable Volvo Trucks workshops to carry out fault diagnosis and fix trucks’ problems right first time, in a timely manner and to high quality standards.
Today VISTA is a biennial event and the biggest competition for service market personnel in the world. It is open to all Volvo Trucks and Volvo Buses dealerships. To qualify, participating teams need to complete two parts comprising theoretical and technical questions.
“These skills are key in helping the customers achieve maximum uptime for their trucks,” says Claes Nilsson, president of Volvo Trucks. “VISTA improves skills and gives our technicians the motivation to be the best crews in the world – and to do the best job for the customer.”
The winners in each market qualify for the semifinals, which will be held in Gothenburg, Sweden, in April next year. A total of 240 teams will compete over a period of three weeks, following which the top 40 teams will go through to the world final to be held Curitiba, Brazil, in June. August 2017 / Future Trucking & Logistics
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LOGISTICS >>
Making learning fun… a trainee in the logistics industry learns how to pack components for CKD vehicle kits using a virtual reality programme that turns work into play
Work becomes a video game for component packers in Audi’s Logistics centre in Ingolstadt The exercises are designed like a video game and the teaching equipment is quick and easy to set up anywhere. When employees put on the VR glasses, they see a realistic and true-to-life simulation of their work station in Hall L of the company’s Ingolstadt Logistics Centre. In each hand they hold a controller that is similar to those used for video games, and use them to grasp and move the virtual images of their work equipment, such as vehicle components or the containers into which the parts are loaded.
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he training centre of the future fits in a suitcase – a computer, a pair of virtual reality glasses and two controllers make up the components in a new, interactive learning programme devised by automaker Audi for its packers in the logistics industry. The programme makes it fun for employees to learn the packing and logistics processes for sets of completely knocked down (CKD) vehicle kits.
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Preparing cardboard boxes, placing sun-visors in the correct position, applying labels correctly to the container – step-by-step, employees go through various packing processes just as they would in reality. They learn the required hand movements while also getting familiar with the corresponding IT programmes. Since training no longer requires actual components and containers, the programme can be accomplished flexibly at any location, and the company saves valuable space as well as time and money.
Like a video game, the VR programme has various levels of difficulty. This way, employees can advance and are motivated to immediately put what they have learned to use. Whereas learners receive detailed instructions in the first level, in the second round they must “pack” independently and remember the work steps. The programme immediately gives employees feedback and they can repeat each exercise as often as they wish to perfect their moves. A trainer is available to support learners at all times, overseeing progress by means of an associated app on a tablet, following each step offering help where needed. The new programme also overcomes language and distance barriers – various language versions can be run with little effort, so that employees can now also be trained in Spanish or English as well as German. The system functions across locations: an employee in Ingolstadt can work virtually in an Audi plant in San José Chiapa, Mexico, and vice versa. Programmers used 3D data from the original plans of the plants for the realistic depictions of the various locations.
“The response of employees to virtual training has been extremely positive,” says project head Mirko Göres from Audi’s Brand Logistics Information Process Planning Division. “After a six-month pilot phase, two process training programmes are now in permanent use in CKD logistics centre and we are working with our training centre in Ingolstadt and the Neckarsulm and Ingolstadt Plant Logistics to develop three additional VR training programmes on the topics of pick-by-light, pick-by-tablet and pick-by-voice.” In addition, the Audi locations of San José Chiapa and Brussels will be more involved in the project in the future. Virtual reality is used by Audi in numerous areas of the company – from sales and technical development to production. For instance, the Audi dealers in Europe already offer a VR experience during customer consulting in their dealerships. With this, prospective buyers can configure their virtual dream car and examine a lifelike replica down to the smallest detail. August 2017 / Future Trucking & Logistics
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NEW MODELS >>
New HINO 500 set for SA launch November will see the first of a new series of wide body Hino 500s roll off the brand’s assembly line in Prospecton, Durban
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he Hino truck brand may be 75 years old and Hino’s history can be traced back 100 years – but Japan’s leading heavy and extra-heavy truck manufacturer for the past 44 years is moving ahead strongly in the 21st Century. Production is increasing, exports are growing, a high-tech factory has been commissioned and an important new generation Hino 500 range is being rolled out worldwide. What will be of most interest to South African truck operators is the fact that the current Hino 500 – which has been on sale locally for the past 14 years and is a mainstay of many fleets – is being replaced by an all-new model. It will go into production in November at Hino SA’s factory at Prospecton, near Durban, assembled from kits exported from Japan. Already, several pre-production tests utilising prototypes are underway.
Two of the senior executives from Hino Motors who briefed South African journalists in Japan were (from left): Shuichi Kaneko, senior general manager, regional sales and marketing in North America, Europe, Africa and the Middle East; and Toshiaki Yasuda, managing officer for overseas sales and marketing
and the first concept was presented to management a year later. It then took five years of ongoing development before the truck went into production, with first sales in Indonesia in 2015. Addressing the visiting journalists, the chief engineer of the so-called Wide Body Hino 500, Mamoru Tamazawa, said the design team’s major focus points had been to enhance the brand’s reputation for quality, durability and reliability (QDR); improve engine performance in terms of power and torque while cutting emissions and lowering fuel consumption while, importantly, ensuring the new model provided a better driving experience in all aspects.
A group of South African trucking journalists visited Hino Motors in Japan recently to learn first-hand about this important new model. They had an opportunity to be driven around a test track in the new Hino 500 and were privileged to have a preview tour the modern Koga plant, north of Tokyo, prior to its official opening later in the year.
The Hino 500 model range has been extended to meet customer requirements and, for the first time, includes 6x4 models and, on some derivatives, sixspeed, fully automatic transmission. The new lineup includes 16- to 28-ton payload derivatives, with current 6- and 8-ton models continuing unchanged.
The new range of Hino 500 trucks is the result of many years of intensive research and development in Japan and globally. The project began in 2010
The latest Hino 500 is now in production at a new factory, built on a greenfield site, in Koga, about 120km north of Tokyo. The world-class, state-of-the-
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Hino’s new mother factory is situated at Koga, about 120km from Tokyo
art truck manufacturing facility with a high proportion of robotisation – including 95% of the cab welding and 95% of the painting – to ensure highest quality standards and production consistency. Koga is now considered the “mother factory” for Hino’s various overseas operations and is the export base for Knocked Down (KD) and Completely Knocked Down (CKD) kits for overseas assembly in 22 countries, including South Africa. Many of the 2 000 employees at the Koga plant have been relocated from the Hino City factory in an area of Tokyo which is now mainly residential, resulting in restrictions on factory operating hours and no space for expansion. Accordingly, Hino has decided to shut the plant. Another reason for the move to a new factory is that it marks a major investment by Hino as it ramps up production to cater for demand in more than 90 global markets. In this respect, Hino South Africa – an important member of the Toyota Group – will be looking for increased sales in South Africa while establishing new markets in sub-Saharan countries.
Last year, Hino sold a record 170 000 trucks and buses around the world with the majority – 107 000 units – having been exported outside of Japan. The biggest market for the brand was Indonesia, followed by Thailand and the United States, with Hino South Africa in ninth position. “We are seeing economic growth in many of our markets – though, unfortunately, not in South Africa – and that is the reason we are predicting stronger global sales in 2017 than we had in 2016,” explained Toshiaki Yasuda, the Managing Officer for Overseas Sales and Marketing at Hino Motors. “The new Hino 500 has been well-accepted in markets where it has been launched. As an example, sales of the new model in Indonesia are up 60% compared with those of the previous model over the same period. “We are now looking forward to the launch of the new Hino 500 in South Africa, where it is a very important model in our range and one of the keys to growing sales in the region.”
August 2017 / Future Trucking & Logistics
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TECHNOLOGY >>
Jennifer Rumsey
Cummins unveils its new tech In a demonstration of new and future technologies designed to provide environmentally friendly, cost effective transport, Cummins recently unveiled in the United States its latest powertrain solutions and energy-diverse products
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ow emission, natural gas engine technology, super-efficient diesel engines and even a fully electric truck were recently unveiled by Cummins at a media event in the United States. In a presentation, Jennifer Rumsey, the company’s chief technical officer, said the innovations built on Cummins 100-year legacy of bringing the best solutions to global customers, driving their success and meeting the evolving demands of their industries and markets. “We aim to harness our global technical footprint to continue to develop a wide variety of power technologies to bring our customers the choices and solutions that enable their success and contribute to a sustainable future,” she said.
Rich Freeland
positioned than any other company to win in new and emerging technologies and in new markets,” said Rich Freeland, the company’s president. He said Cummins would leverage its deep industry and customer knowledge – and its scale advantage – to pursue new markets. “Over the past century, our ability to innovate and adapt has fueled our success and we are confident we are on the right path to do it again.” Freeland said the company’s leadership believed that energy diversity was critical to future success, and he cited the following examples as some of the technologies that were on offer or which were being developed:
During the event, which included tours of the Cummins technical centre, company representatives showcased examples of innovation as well as developments in analysis-led design capability, virtual reality, alternative fuels and digital solutions.
Clean Diesel According to Freeland, Cummins believed that for many markets, diesel engines would provide the best transport solution for decades to come. In this respect, the company’s latest products included highly efficient and sustainable heavy-duty units.
“As a global power leader for the commercial and industrial customers we serve, we are better
In a presentation designed to showcase the brand’s innovation in traditional diesel power – highlighted as
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the most commonly used power on the road today – wraps were taken off powerful X15 and lightweight X12 engines said to have been engineered to provide optimal performance and power while offering class-leading fuel economy through the use of advanced air handling and fuel system controls.
dubbed the Urban Hauler EV – Cummins revealed that it had introduced a state-of-the-art 140kWh battery pack which spokeswoman Julie Furber, executive director of the company’s electrification business, said would redefine energy efficiency and density capabilities for the EV market.
However, the company’s work in diesel innovation didn’t end there – according to Rumsey, plans for the next heavy-duty engine for 2022 would affirm the brand’s commitment to providing the most effective power solution for extra heavy duty line-haul trucks.
According to Furber, a lighter, denser design allowed the battery to hold its charge for longer – helping to improve range and making recharging times faster, reducing down time. She said production versions of the powertrain were scheduled to go on sale from next year, while an engine-generator option for extended range capabilities would be introduced in 2020.
She said over the years, Cummins had been at the forefront of environmental shifts, embracing stricter clean air standards, for example, when other manufacturers resisted. It had led the shift from twostroke to four-stroke diesel engines, for example, and was a leader in developing after treatment systems for NOx particulates. Alternative Fuels and Power Solutions According to Freeland, the company had invested in research and development projects to develop products and technology solutions utilising a wide range of fuels. He said Cummins was developing high-efficiency spark-ignited technology designed to deliver diesellike performance and durability across a range of liquid fuels – including ethanol, methanol and petrol – while meeting the most stringent emissions requirements. “The company continues to investigate the viability of alternatives like bio-fuels, synthetic fuels and hydrogen. And, Cummins has also invested in exploratory projects focused on Proton Exchange Membrane and Solid Oxide Fuel Cell technologies,” he said. Natural Gas In revealing details of Cummins’ latest near-zero emission, natural gas engine at the event, Freeland said the company had long been a leader in providing alternatively powered units as one of its sustainable, affordable and readily-available power options. “End-users will find the Cummins near-zero natural gas engines offer equivalent performance options to diesel and, like latest clean-diesel units, emit little or no pollutants.” Electrified Powertrain Solutions With the unveiling at the event of its concept truck –
The latter model would allow users to benefit from Cummins B4.5 or B6.7 engines which, Furber said, would provide a major advantage by offering up to 50% in fuel savings compared with today’s diesel hybrids, with zero emissions. Though the Urban Hauler unveiled at the event was for demonstration purposes only, the vehicle was said to be capable of hauling a 22-ton trailer. With a 160km range, the Cummins electric powertrain would be targeted at urban delivery vehicles – such as a beer truck or food delivery truck – as well as for use for short haul trips in and around ports and other terminals. Furber said that according Cummins’ tests, the battery took about an hour to recharge at a 140kWh charging station, with the company planning to reduce that time to about 20 minutes by 2020. Equipped with a diesel engine to charge the battery, she said the Urban Hauler’s range could be extended to up to 480km. Digital Capabilities, Data & Analytics On the digital front, Freeland said Cummins customers were looking for convenient and responsive interactions, real-time updates and information that made products safer, more productive and easier to use. “The company has offered telematics systems in some markets for many years, but the potential for digital goes far beyond existing technology. Recognising this, earlier this year we formed a new internal organisation called the Digital Accelerator. “The new division aims at streamlining innovation, bringing concepts from the idea stage to commercialisation at an efficient and effective pace,” Freeland concluded.
August 2017 / Future Trucking & Logistics
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INSURANCE >>
Use safety to improve profits Road freight’s steady growth trajectory looks set to continue, but it is paralleled by a troubling rise in accidents involving trucks. Drivers and fleet owners alike need to adopt a safety-oriented mindset, says Morné Stoltz, head of business insurance at MiWay
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rucking and trade go together – like love and marriage as the old song goes. On the back of this marriage, truck sales have grown steadily over the years and even during the current economic downturn, are expected to increase by around 3% for 2017. Around 86% of freight transported in this country goes by road. As cross-border trade in Africa continues to develop, it seems likely that we may see even more trucks on our roads in the not so distant future. As a result, the road freight industry is a major player in the economy. Figures released by the Road Freight Association of South Africa indicate that more than 500 000 commercial vehicles use the country’s roads, while the South African Transport and Allied Workers Union claims that the sector employs some 300 000 people. However, as in love and in marriage, it’s not always plain sailing. Freight weights are directly affected by economic activity, and the current recession is hitting the industry hard, with high levels of retrenchments in 2016 and this year. Many operators are being squeezed out of business owing to competition, price sensitivity and plain lack of business. Rail, too, is making something of a comeback, and this – combined with steps to reduce wear and tear on roads – will place further pressure on the industry. Against this backdrop, it is easy to see how owners can find themselves taking shortcuts by employing cheaper, less qualified drivers, requiring them to work longer hours and even skimping on servicing and maintenance. Such an approach, however, is
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extremely dangerous and is likely to increase the pressures that are holding back the industry. Let’s understand why. The first point to make is that, according to the Automobile Association, human error is the single biggest cause of road accidents. While trucking accounts for only a small percentage of road deaths – 143 fatalities and 136 injured in 2016 according to the Road Traffic Management Corporation – trucks are involved in many more accidents in which there are no fatalities. These accidents, however, have the potential to delay deliveries, destroy goods and cause damage and inconvenience to other drivers. One major impact is on supply chains which, these days, are long, complex and highly time-sensitive. The delays and damage to cargo caused by accidents will slowly but surely cause clients to migrate to companies with better safety records. Those hauliers that invest in proper driver training and stick to realistic schedules that allow for plenty of rest will reap the benefits. In the short to medium term, this approach will help to reduce the impact of accidents on insurance premiums as well as avoid hefty damage claims and penalties for late or partial delivery and possible medical expenses. In the longer term, too, reputation as a responsible employer and business partner will mean attracting top-notch drivers – and retaining clients will become automatic. So, just as in marriage, taking a long-term view is critical to building a profitable, sustainable road-freight business.
DESIGNED FOR NATIONAL & REGIONAL OPERATIONS
MICHELIN X MULTI RANGE
“NEVER STOP DRIVING YOUR BUSINESS FURTHER” MICHELIN Tyre Company South Africa has refined its current 315/70 tyre range by replacing the X MULTIWAY range with the new X MULTI tyre range. The X MULTI range has been designed to assist fleet operators to reduce their operating costs and improve their business efficiency. The tread pattern with the addition of carbion on the X MULTI range significantly boosts mileage performance, and is more resistant to abrasions. The X MULTI range reduces fuel consumption and lowers cost per kilometre. “The MICHELIN X MULTI range has added safety features which provide added safety for the driver, the load and other road users. It has enhanced the braking distance, the grip, traction and handling over the entire lifespan of the tyre. The resistance to shoulder damage has also been improved” says Yoliswa Nkomo, Operations Marketing Manager B2B. Environmental factors were considered when developing the MICHELIN X MULTI tyre range, the tyres are re-groovable and have up to 88% retread acceptance rate, this extends the life of the tyre and saves raw material utilised to produce new tyres. “MICHELIN Tyre Company South Africa believes that this tyre will be a more robust tyre to suite the current road conditions and the temperature range in South Africa” explains Yoliswa Nkomo.
August 2017 / Future Trucking & Logistics
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APPOINTMENTS >>
Who’s who at Isuzu I
suzu Motors South Africa has announced a number of key leadership appointments in support of its purchase of Isuzu related assets from General Motors South Africa, effective from January next year.
Among the appointments are: • Haruyasu Tanishige, Chairman; • Michael Sacke, Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director; • Hiroaki Sugawara, Executive Vice President, Strategy and Business Planning; • Craig Uren, Executive Officer Sales, Service and Marketing; • Mitsuteru Yageta, Group Chief Financial Officer. In addition, the company has announced that the Executive Committee for Isuzu Motors South Africa will be made up of the following people: • Johan Vermeulen, Executive Manufacturing and Supply Chain; • Dominic Rimmer, Executive Technical Services; • Craig Uren, Executive Officer Sales, Service and Marketing; • James Rodger, Executive Finance Operations; • Loren Meyer, Chief Information Officer; • Denise van Huyssteen, Executive Corporate Affairs; • Elvis Hermans, Executive Human Capital; • Chris Jonck, Executive Subsidiaries, Joint Ventures and Commercial Vehicles. Vermeulen currently serves as paint shop manager for GMSA’s Struandale Plant. Prior to this he was head of manufacturing, engineering and facilities. He joined Delta Motor Corporation in 1995 as a maintenance engineer and before that worked in the gold mining industry. In his new role he will manage manufacturing and supply chain operations for Isuzu. Rimmer is currently general manager of planning and programme management at GM Africa. A former motorsport manager for the Opel brand, he has worked for the company in Sao Paulo, Brazil, as engineering group manager, and before that as vehicle performance manager. In his new role he will oversee Isuzu’s planning, engineering and purchasing operations as well as quality control.
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Haruyasu Tanishige
Michael Sacke
Uren currently serves as director and chief operating officer for Isuzu Motors South Africa. He has played an instrumental role in ensuring the brand’s success in the truck business. In his new role he will assume responsibility for sales, service and marketing of light commercials as well as trucks. Rodger is GMSA’s product finance manager. He has served the company in various finance department roles for over 13 years, including stints at subsidiary businesses such as Precision Exhaust Systems and Dupec Electronics. Meyer has served as chief information officer for General Motors Africa since 2014. He joined Delta Motor Corporation in 2002 as an SAP systems analyst and later took on responsibility for sales and marketing of IT operations, playing a key role in implementing the SAP R/3 template across the company’s business. Van Huyssteen currently serves as general manager for GM’s communication and public relations operations in Africa and the Middle East. Her role at Isuzu will see her assume responsibility for corporate affairs incorporating internal and external communications as well as government relations. Hermans, general manager for human resources, government relations and public policy at GMSA, joins Isuzu as manager for human resources, strategy and operations. He has a wealth of strategic and operational knowledge and 32 years’ experience in both human resources and government relations. He spent over 16 years at British American Tobacco South Africa in a combination of human resources, risk management and corporate and regulatory affairs roles. Jonck currently occupies the role of general manager, group finance and planning for Isuzu Trucks South Africa. In his new role he will assume responsibility for the financial operations of the company’s subsidiaries, joint venture businesses and truck finance.
MSS UD CRONER 002
• Lower Maintenance Costs • UD Telematics Services* • Full Automatic Transmission • Longer Service Intervals • More Fuel Efficient • 2 Year Warranty** Product in photograph is for illustration purposes only and is subject to stock availability.
Talk to your UD Trucks Dealer to find out how they can make every moment count. Go to udtrucks.co.za, to locate your nearest dealer. Call our 24-Hour Roadside Assistance 0800 008 800 (in breakdown situations) Going the Extra Mile
* Country Specific
** Relevant to SA supplied product
APPOINTMENTS >>
People moving up...
Recent appointments made within the global automotive sector... GENERAL MOTORS
VOLKSWAGEN
ASTON MARTIN
DAIMLER
GOODYEAR
VOLKSWAGEN
GOODYEAR
EQSTRA
General Motors has announced the appointment of Ian Nicholls as president of the company’s South East Asia division, responsible for markets in Thailand, Indonesia and Vietnam. Nicholls previously served as president and managing director of GM SubSaharan Africa.
Aston Martin has announced the appointment of Joerg Ross as chief engineer for powertrain development. He will be responsible for the advancement of the brand’s engines, transmissions and electrification. Ross joins the company from Maserati, where he served as head of the advanced powertrain division.
Volkswagen has announced the appointment of Jochen Sengpiehl as head of marketing for the company’s passenger cars brand. Sengpiehl started his career in 1995 with Nissan in the Netherlands before moving to BBDO and DaimlerChrysler. In 2006 he joined Volkswagen as head of marketing but left in 2010. He rejoins the company from Hyundai.
Volkswagen has announced the appointment of Xavier Chardon as head of the digitalisation China Project House for the company’s passenger cars brand in Beijing. He will be responsible for key future topics involving the brand in China. He was formerly head of marketing for Volkswagen Passenger Cars. Daimler Financial Services has announced the appointment of Benedikt Schell as chief experience officer. He has also been appointed as a member of the company’s Board of Management. Schell will be responsible for global customer and digital strategy as well as business model transformation.
Goodyear has announced the appointment of Chris Helsel, 52, as vice president and chief technology officer. He currently serves as director, North America commercial and global off-highway technology divisions. He brings to his new position a wealth of experience in key research, development, technology and business departments.
CONTROL COSTS WITH SHELL CARD FOR FLEETS With the economic pressures in South Africa today, fleet managers could use a little help. Look no further than Shellʼs recently launched Shell Card Platform, tailor-made specifically for commercial road transport companies and fleets. With around-the-clock support, fraud control mechanisms, detailed purchase history across categories and an online invoicing service where customers can securely store, view and download invoices, fleet managers have more control than ever. Better yet, the Shell Card Online (SCOL) service enables fleet managers to transact online, order and cancel cards as well as set up customised alerts to notify you of any unusual transactions. The Shell Card provides drivers access to 600 fuel sites nationwide, of which, more than 450 are Shell Card participating sites where you can earn Customer Loyalty Bonuses in the form of savings across the Shell network. Additional services available to Shell card customers include specialised support from the Customer Service Centre; a fraud analyst who monitors card activity and provides support on fraud-related queries; a pricing specialist, who provides monthly pricing information and support on after-sales pricing queries; and a customer promise specialist, who provides support on card and account-related queries as well as training, if necessary. There are two types of cards: Single network cards, which can only be used at participating Shell sites; Multi-network cards, which can be used at any service station in South Africa.
34 Future Trucking & Logistics / August 2017
Learn which card is best for your business today at www.shell.co.za.
GOODYEAR
Goodyear has announced that Chris Delaney has been named president of the company’s Europe, Middle East, and Africa (EMEA) business unit. He has been president of Goodyear’s Asia Pacific business since 2015.
Goodyear has announced that Ryan Patterson has been appointed president of the company’s Asia Pacific business unit. He was previously president of Goodyear’s North America consumer business unit.
Eqstra has announced the appointment of Vivern Pillay as insurance sales manager for Eqstra Financial Services, a division of Eqstra Fleet Management. Vivern has more than 10 years’ worth of experience in the insurance industry and has a qualification in Wealth Management from Inseta. He was previously a business development consultant at Alexander Forbes.
We’re all about keeping your fleet cool & on the go Silverton Radiators has been in the engine cooling business providing quality replacement products for more than sixty years. If there is anybody who understands engine cooling, then it is us. For fast, friendly and efficient service let the professionals help you. There are more than 110 Silverton Radiators dealers spread across Southern Africa, so wherever you are, there is a Silverton Radiators dealer near you. Services offered by Silverton Radiators: - Professional flushing of cooling systems - Radiator and inter-cooler re-coring or refurbishment - Custom-made parts as per customer requirements - Sales of quality replacement parts - Specialised systems and component testing - Expert cooling system troubleshooting, service and repair.
For more information, please visit www.silvertonradiators.co.za
August 2017 / Future Trucking & Logistics A Division of Imperial 35 Group Limited
CH6158
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