Automobil August 2017 by Future Publishing

AUGUST 2017

INDUSTRY

Sasol backs its clean fuel

AUTOMECHANIKA JOHANNESBURG 2017 Innovation Awards jury appointed

Time for a new collection model? MPEA: BACK TO THE FUTURE RMI UPDATE: MOTOR DEALER LABOUR REPORT; GUD ANNOUNCES NEW CEO; www.automobil.co.za RMI AT TRUCKX & FLEETX; FBC JOINS FORCES WITH SAMBRA; PARTINFORM IN MTHATHA; AUTO SECTOR HOLDING ITS OWN; INNOVATION AWARDS JURY APPOINTED

AUGUST 2017

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22 -AUGUST NOVEMBER 2014 2017

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CONTENTS – AUGUST 2017 COLUMNS

P24

5 Driver’s Seat: Jakkie Olivier, CEO of the RMI 7 Editor’s Letter: Wynter Murdoch 9 Hot Stuff! New product showcase 56 Dealing with AIDS/HIV 58 Frequently Asked Questions: Answers from RMI experts 74 Tailpiece: Commemorating Women’s Month UPDATES

Editor: Wynter Murdoch wynter@thefuture.co.za

12 News 30 Back to the Future

Sub-editor: Peggy Lendrum peggy@thefuture.co.za Design and layout: Heinz Bawa heinz@thefuture.co.za

P30

Reporters: Ryan de Smidt ryan@thefuture.co.za

Reuben Van Niekerk reuben@thefuture.co.za Publisher: Richard Lendrum richard@thefuture.co.za Production: Mabel Ramafoko mabel@thefuture.co.za

P42

Advertising Sales Executives: Enver Lawangi, Greg Surgeon, enver@thefuture.co.za greg@thefuture.co.za Future Publishing (Pty) Ltd 247 Jan Smuts Avenue, Dunkeld West, Johannesburg PO Box 3355, Rivonia, 2128 Tel: +27 (11) 803-2040

P48

Automobil is the official journal of the Retail Motor Industry Organisation (RMI) which hosts 14 constituent associations: ACRA (component remanufacturers); ERA (engine re-builders and automotive engineers); MDA (motorcycle, scooter, quad and jet-ski/outboard engine dealers); MIMA (Motor Industry Manufacturers’ Association); MIWA (the full spectrum of workshop operators); MPEA (wholesale and retail part dealers); NADA (new and used car and truck dealers); NAZA (number plate association); VTA (vehicle testing); SADFIA (diesel pumproom operators); SAPRA (Fuel resellers, convenience store and car wash operators); SAMBRA (collision repairers and automotive refinishers); SAVABA (vehicle body builders) and TDAFA (tyre dealers and fitment centres).

Motor dealer labour report; GUD announces new CEO; RMI at TruckX & FleetX; FBC joins forces with SAMBRA; Partinform in Mthatha; Auto sector holding its own; Innovation Awards Jury appointed

COVER STORY 34

Oil recycling: Issues raised

The business model involving the collection of used oil may make it unsustainable for collectors to continue to operate, warns Bubele Nyiba, CEO of the Rose Foundation

TruckX 2017: Embracing change

One of South Africa’s premier automotive events – the TruckX & FleetX Conference and Expo – took place last month at Kyalami

Automobil is available to purchase from the publishers at R25 a copy. Automobil is produced and published monthly by Future Publishing (Pty) Ltd for the Retail Motor Industry Organisation. The views and opinions expressed in the publication are not necessarily those of the publishers or the Retail Motor Industry Organistion. While precautions have been taken to ensure the accuracy of advice and information contained in editorial and advertisements, neither the publishers nor the Retail Motor Industry Organisation can accept responsibility for errors, misrepresentations or omissions, or for any effect or consequence arising therefrom. Permission to republish any article or image or part thereof must be obtained in writing from the publishers.

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RMI Review

FEATURES

RMI Automobil’s Editorial Sub-Committee: Chairman: John Ellmore; Gary McCraw, Gideon de Klerk, Denice Grobler, Shamika Singh, Danelle Van Der Merwe, Wynter Murdoch, Greg Surgeon, Jakkie Olivier, Jan Schoeman

In these times of change, business owners and managers will need to embrace employee development as much as employees will need to embrace a culture of learning, says the recently appointed Director of the MPEA, Hedley Judd

The mobility challenge

Though new automotive technologies threaten to make everything we thought we knew about cars obsolete, in South Africa the dawn of the new age will be a long time coming

The art of measurement

An engineer will tell you that man has to measure up in order to make mass production possible

A manual for all your clutch needs

In order to achieve excellent driving performance, focus should be placed not just on the engine and brakes, but on the clutch as well

Is there a stipulated retirement age?

Employers should consider the question of an employee’s retirement with much greater care than may be anticipated

Transfering a property

In order to not become unduly frustrated by the seemingly endless time-wasting that occurs in a property transfer process, it is essential to understand the steps involved

Business Management

Millennial car chase

AUGUST 2017 -

BENEFITS OF BELONGING A short summary of the benefits of RMI membership

The RMI has represented the retail motor industry and its members for more than 100 years. With more than 7 500 member businesses, our unity is our strength. RMI representation at often volatile and disruptive centralised wage negotiations. Professional industrial relations advice by expert specialists, ensuring procedural and substantive fairness when disciplining staff. Industry labour relations seminars focused on the rules, agreements and industry-specific topics that affect retail motor industry businesses. Chairing of disciplinary hearings and AUTOMATIC entry and representation at the CCMA, DRC and Labour Court. Representation at various MIBCO and Industry-related Boards and committee structures.

Affiliation to reputable organisations recognised by Government, big business, consumers and relevant stakeholders like Business Unity SA (BUSA). Protection against one-sided legislative changes or new laws and regulations. Exceptional CPA support and member assistance during defence cases at the National Consumer Commission (NCC) and the Motor Industry Ombudsman of South Africa (MIOSA). Facilitation of a business-to-business complaint where both parties are RMI members, with a complaint resolution rate in excess of 95%. Quality and Standards function â&#x20AC;&#x201C; representing the retail industry at various South African Bureau of Standards (SABS) committees and working groups. Representation at the National Regulator for Compulsory Specifications (NRCS), defending our industry when compulsory specifications and standards are compromised.

The informative Automobil magazine and weekly web letters that facilitate two-way communication and create consumer and industry awareness. The RMI is regularly invited to comment on industry topics by both print and broadcast media, and participates in and hosts numerous conventions and shows. Associational accreditation ensures ongoing development and implementation of commercial value propositions specific to the association. Training needs and representation via merSETA and W&RSETA. We actively drive industry-wide training and apprenticeship issues through our position on the merSETA Board and our involvement with the Technica manuals. Representation at the Moto Health Care Fund, Industry Provident Funds and the Sick, Accident and Maternity Pay Fund. The RMI offers industry-specific products like RMI4BEE / RMI4LAW / RMI4OHS /RMI4SURE.

Need to get hold of the RMI? Turn to Page 8 of this issue for all the contact details

4 AUGUST 2017

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DRIVER’S SEAT

Time to stand together As we pass the midpoint of 2017, Jakkie Olivier, CEO of the RMI, explains why it’s important for members of the Organisation to stand together as a collective

e all lead such busy lives, but if we stop to consider the fact that we’ve reached this year’s halfway mark, we would realise how quickly time passes. Reaching this particular point of the year allows us the opportunity to look back on the first six months and reflect on the challenges overcome and victories attained.

Following the successes achieved during the June 2016/2017 financial year, it seems we are perfectly poised for the implementation of the New Thinking Model from 1 July 2017. This concept, which I discussed in the May 2017 issue of Automobil, aims to establish a more commercially driven Organisation while retaining a very strong labour focus.

Looking back does not necessarily mean moving forward, so we, as members and the Organisation, should also take the time to think very seriously about the objectives and aims we would like to accomplish by the time that December rolls around.

This year presents ongoing challenges for the business community with ongoing legal battles against important business principles, heightened consumer demands and more onerous legislation, and of course, the robust political arena. As South Africans we have learnt to be flexible and proactive, and it shows as a nation, we can stand together for a better future for all.

The month of July is also the start of the new financial year and loyal members of the RMI will once again be confronted with a decision regarding the renewal of their RMI membership based on the value they have received from belonging to the RMI and being represented by a collective voice in the retail motor industry. From the RMI’s point of view, we are grateful to report another successful period - we have improved our financial status and reserve levels, and we have increased our membership.

When faced with trying situations, the value of a united front becomes even clearer. Now is the time for us to stand together as a collective in order to influence decision-making at various forums for improved business conditions. The RMI and its constituent associations will continue to be effective only if we remain strong in numbers – that’s why your support is critical.

In addition to our collective influence for your protection and value-added products, superior member service and quality communication remain our top priorities for the year ahead. This builds up the reputation of not only the RMI and Associations, but also the reputation of you our members, which is a critical aspect to ensure sustainable business success. As a business, a solid reputation among stakeholders (RMI members or your customers) allows all of us to weather the storms, achieve our objectives more easily, enjoy growth and enhance economic stability. To you, our loyal member, I would like to extend my sincere thanks for your support during the past year. The RMI has experienced a good year financially, although we are always trying to increase our membership numbers, to be completely representative of the Industry. I strongly urge you to actively participate in the activities of your Organisation by attending meetings and events as communicated to you by our various offices.

For information on the RMI and its workings, visit www.rmi.org.za or call 011 886 6300

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AUGUST 2017 -

CONSTITUENT ASSOCIATIONS Who do they represent and what are their objectives?

he RMI is a proactive, relevant, retail and associated motor industry organisation recognised as the leading voice in South Africa’s automotive aftermarket, serving the daily needs of its members and playing a key role in enabling motor traders to deliver top class service to motoring consumers. Here are the associations which fall under its umbrella… ACRA (Automotive Component Remanufacturers’ Association) ACRA represents component remanufacturers involved in the remanufacture of safety-critical components and radiators, an ever-growing industry in which keeping abreast of change is crucial for business owners. ERA (Engine Remanufacturers’ Association) ERA represents motor engineers who re-machine, rebuild and remanufacture engines in South Africa. ERA members promote the reuse of engines, parts and components in a manner that is green and sustainable. ERA members create employment and skills development opportunities, directly in their own machine shops and indirectly through suppliers to the industry and component manufacturers. MDA (Motorcycle Dealers’ Association) MDA represents members who are motorcycle dealers – these members benefit from an extensive array of value-add services and products such as commercial insurance, labour legal assistance and representation, consumer dispute resolution, and a strong relationship with the Association of Motorcycle Importers and Distributors. MIMA (Motor Industry Manufacturers’ Association) MIMA members are Parts, Equipment and Component Manufacturers and suppliers to Original Equipment Manufacturers and the automotive aftermarket that exports into Africa and other countries in the world. MIWA (Motor Industry Workshop Association) MIWA, the largest association within the RMI, strives to keep its members informed about the ever-changing auto repair industry, thereby ensuring that vehicles are repaired to acceptable standards designed to make them perform better and safely on South African roads.

NAZA (Number Plate Association of South Africa) NAZA supports the imposition of a national standard for number plates, as well as for legislation to govern their manufacture, embossing practice and protocol. NAZA members adhere to a strict code of ethics in ensuring their part in eradicating corruption within the sector. TA

Vehicle Testing Association

VTA (Vehicle Testing Association) The VTA represents private vehicle testing stations that are committed to operating within the law in accordance with the Road Traffic Act and the relevant SANS standards. In this highly regulated environment, the association represents the interests of its members at government working groups and is committed to enhancing the reputation of the industry in all the spheres. SADFIA (South African Diesel Fuel Injection Association) SADFIA members operate fully equipped pump rooms aimed at providing cost-effective service solutions for owners of diesel powered vehicles seeking fuel injection system testing, repair or replacement. SAMBRA (South African Motor Body Repairers’ Association) SAMBRA is an active leader in the motor body repair industry and consolidates, communicates and regulates repair standards in the motor body repair industry. SAMBRA ensures the provision of technical and business skills training that meets the demands of the industry and instils confidence in consumers and industry stakeholders. SAPRA (South African Petroleum Retailers’ Association) SAPRA represents and promotes the interests of petroleum retailers in South Africa and fosters strong relationships with the Department of Energy, oil companies, banks, financial institutions and other stakeholders that have an impact on the sustainability of the service station industry.

MPEA (Motor Parts and Equipment Association) MPEA represents South Africa’s auto part traders, including wholesalers, retailers and independent operators in the replacement motor parts industry. Genuine replacement parts are available at accredited MPEA spares outlets at affordable prices, backed by the manufacturer’s warranty.

SAVABA (South African Vehicle and Bodybuilders’ Association) SAVABA members are professional, certified and regulated vehicle body builders in South Africa who manufacture commercial vehicle body applications (tanker, coal, refrigerated trucks and trailers) and bus bodies (commuter and tourist type). Members manufacture using the latest equipment and highly trained staff to ensure strict compliance with SABS standards and other legal specifications.

NADA (National Automobile Dealers’ Association) NADA represents the interests of business people who own or operate new vehicle franchise dealerships and qualifying used vehicle outlets. NADA is committed to the image enhancement of the retail motor business, facilitating the interface between dealers and OEMs/ distributors, building relationships between dealers and customers and bringing relevant industry issues to the attention of government.

TDAFA (Tyre Dealers' and Fitment Association) The TDAFA is the only representative body for tyre dealers nationally. The association works on all issues relevant to tyres and the fitment industry. Strategically, the TDAFA is positioned as an intermediary between government, the tyre industry and consumers and is recognised by government and industry leaders as the legitimate voice representing tyre dealers.

6 - AUGUST 2017

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Oil in the spotlight

ighlighted in this edition of Automobil is one of the challenges faced by the country’s oil recycling industry – the problem of sustainability. At present collectors of used oil pay suppliers for the privilege of taking away the waste before selling it on to recyclers. The difference between what they effectively pay for the used oil and what they receive from the recyclers constitutes their profit. The system has evolved over time and complies with the country’s waste regulations. In the beginning, supplying outlets were only too glad to be paid to have quantities of used oil taken off their premises for safe disposal but, according to Bubele Nyiba, recently appointed chairman of the ROSE Foundation, the value of the product has since increased significantly.

It is now perceived to be an income generating commodity, and Nyiba believes its price will soon reach a point where collection is threatened, diminishing recycling supply and, inevitably, leading to irresponsible disposal when no-one turns up to fetch the waste and cart it off for recycling. “The fewer used oil collectors there are, the less the amount of oil collected – meaning a much larger volume will be left to possibly make its way into our environment,” he cautions. He has urged all automotive workshops – and used oil generators in general – to consider their roles in the responsible collection of used oil, with his views reflected in a report which appears on P34 of this edition. Talking of oil, both Sasol and Shell make headlines this month, the first for

EDITOR’S LETTER announcing that its soon-to-be acquired fleet of Euro 6 compliant MAN trucks will be fuelled by the same diesel you or I could buy at the petroleum company’s forecourts, and Shell for announcing the introduction of a new, cleaner formula for its V-Power brand. Reports relating to these initiatives appear on P12 and P22 respectively. These are just some of the highlights in an edition which attempts to offer insights and information regarding a wide variety of automotive subjects of pertinence to the retail motor industry. As always, I trust that you will enjoy the magazine Wynter Murdoch Editor

Head Office: Tel: (011) 466 6619 Fax: (011) 466 1034 Address: 40 Monte Carlo Crescent, Kyalami Business Park Durban: Tel: (031) 569 4141 Fax: (031) 569 2506 Address: Unit 7 Constantia Park, Chris Hani Road, Redhill, 1415 Cape Town: Tel: (021) 552 5569 Fax: (021) 552 5584 Address: Unit 2, 14 Esso Road, Montague Gardens, Cape Town Web Site: www.eurospares.co.za E mail: accounts@eurospares.co.za

www.automobil.co.za

AUGUST 2017

NEWS

SPEAK TO US RMI EXECUTIVES

RMI PARTNERS

hief Executive Officer: C Jakkie Olivier jakkie.olivier@rmi.org.za

RMI4Sure 0860-104-202 RMI4Law 0861-668-677 RMI4BEE 0861-764-233 RMI4OHS 012-998-7139

Chief Operations Officer: Jan Schoeman jan.schoeman@rmi.org.za Financial Director: Renee Coetsee renee.coetsee@rmi.org.za Company Secretary: Gary McCraw gary.mccraw@rmi.org.za

RMI BOARD MEMBERS

Jeánne Esterhuizen (President) Barry Canning (Vice-President) Ferose Oaten Jakkie Olivier Bruce Allen Lindsay Bouchier

DIRECTORS MIWA Pieter Niemand pieter.niemand@rmi.org.za NADA Gary McCraw gary.mccraw@rmi.org.za VTA Joy Oldale joy.oldale@rmi.org.za SAMBRA, SAVABA Edwin Martin edwin.martin@rmi.org.za SAPRA Vishal Premlall vishal.premlall@rmi.org.za

RMI HEAD RMI HEADOFFICE OFFICE

RMI REGIONAL OFFICES

Danelle van der Merwe Brand and Communication Manager danelle.vandermerwe@rmi.org.za

Highveld: Randburg: 011-886-6300

Neo Bokaba HR Manager neo.bokaba@rmi.org.za Julian Pillay Regulatory Compliance Manager julian.pillay@rmi.org.za 011-886-6300 | www.rmi.org.za Surrey Square Office Park 330 Surrey Avenue Ferndale Randburg 2194

8 - MAY 2015

TDAFA, MPEA, MIMA Hedley Judd hedley.judd@rmi.org.za TRAINING Louis van Huyssteen louis.vanhuyssteen@rmi.org.za SADFIA, ACRA, ERA Attie Serfontein attie.serfontein@rmi.org.za NAZA Julian Pillay julian.pillay@rmi.org.za MDA Gary McCraw gary.mcraw@rmi.org.za TRANSFORMATION Joy Oldale joy.oldale@rmi.org.za

Facebook.com/AutomobilSA

Northern: Pretoria: 012-348-9311 KwaZulu-Natal: Durban: 031-266-7031

@AutomobilSA

Eastern Cape/Border: Port Elizabeth: 041-364-0070 Western Cape: Cape Town: 021-939-9440

www.rmi.org.za

Free State/Northern Cape: Bloemfontein: 051-430-3294

Vehicle Testing Association

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HOT STUFF Gates expands aftermarket range Gates Corporation has announced the addition of 414 new part numbers to its line of Original Equipment (OE) quality automotive aftermarket products. Highlights include: Updated DriveAlign Laser Tool for misalignment detection (pictured). The tool is designed to detect misalignment in serpentine drive systems. The two-piece kit contains a laser tool and a target piece, both of which are anodized red for high visibility in dark engine compartments. Additionally, both pieces feature specially designed magnetic feet to sit perfectly in K-section Micro-V pulleys. The laser beam itself is a large vertical line, and when coupled with the precisely etched groove in the target piece, can be used to easily identify misaligned pulleys and components. GC16XD Mini Crimper and Pump, the company’s first portable crimper. The device is said to combine the performance and speed of a powered pump with the convenience of a hand pump. Battery-operated, the pump features a sealed bladder reservoir to prevent contamination. Heavy-Duty Turbocharger Reducer Hose. Fitting popular Navistar/International applications, the heavy-duty hose features silicone coated meta-aramid fabric with stainless steel pressure retention rings. Meta-aramid reinforcement provides flexibility and strength for long life in demanding high temperature applications, while the high quality silicone cover is said to provide superior service life. In addition, Gates is adding 41 belts to its Racing Performance Muscle belt line, all of which are precisely designed for forced induction and high-output engines. Featuring a nylon-fibre reinforced undercord, high-modulus, low stretch Aramid cord, and dual adhesion gum layers, the belts are said to offer increased durability, improved power transmission and unsurpassed boost. “One of our main focuses at Gates is meeting the needs of professional technicians by offering valuable products and tools that make their jobs easier,” says spokesman Lou Rosen. “As vehicle systems become more complex, it’s crucial that these professionals are wellequipped in order to minimise comebacks and ensure customer satisfaction.”

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NEW PRODUCTS

Cranking up performance Federal-Mogul Powertrain is extending its crankshaft bearing portfolio with a new high performance polymeric coating, IROX 2. The product will debut next month at the 2017 IAA Show in Frankfurt, Germany.

She says while both IROX and IROX 2 provide reduced friction and greater wear resistance, the new product features enhanced seizure performance, so customers can be offered optimum formulations for specific applications.

The newly developed product provides enhanced seizure performance with steel crankshafts. IROX 2 joins FederalMogul’s family of IROX technologies which reduce friction and improve the wear resistance and the fatigue limit of bearings used in today’s highly evolved downsized engines.

“By reducing friction, the innovative bearing coatings also help to lower fuel consumption and CO2 emissions,” she says.

“IROX was developed for crankshafts with a standard surface finish, whereas IROX 2 is intended for crankshafts with extra smooth finish running with thinner oils,” says Gian Maria Olivetti, Federal-Mogul Powertrain’s Chief Technology Officer.

The bearings have a polyamide-imide (PAI) resin binder that contains a number of additives. Developing IROX 2 involved modification of the binder system on a molecular level and changes to the coating’s composition. For example, compared to IROX, IROX 2 contains no silicon carbide particles and has a higher content of a synergistic mixture of solid lubricants.

James Hunt remembered To commemorate what would have been the 70th birthday of former world champion racing driver James Hunt, watchmaker Omologato has launched the official James Hunt Chronograph – a limited edition watch dedicated to telling the story of the British sporting legend. Born in 1947, Hunt won the F1 championship in 1976 – a season showcased in the 2013 film, Rush. With a reputation as a playboy, James was renowned for delivering plenty of off-track entertainment and close wheel-to-wheel action. He died in 1993. Crafted in collaboration with the James Hunt Estate, the commemorative watch is available with either a leather strap or a nylon/leather bonded bracelet. Each of the models features a matt black dial; red, blue and yellow stripes across the face – the colours that appeared on Hunt’s race helmet – and his signature. Cases are either stainless steel or IP coated. In a statement, Omologato says it is dedicated to delivering timepieces globally that give enthusiasts the opportunity to feel a part of motorsport’s success stories. For information log on to https://omologatowatches.com/.

AUGUST 2017 -

YOU DO LIFE.

WE CARE FOR IT.

10 - SEPTEMBER 2017

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FROM CRADLE TO THE GOLD YEARSâ&#x20AC;Ś No matter your age, we have 7 options exclusively available to all those employed in the South African Retail Motor Industry.

We take care of our own! Call 0861 000 300 to arrange a face-to-face consultation to discuss the healthcare needs of you, your family and staff members; or visit www.motohealthcare.org.za.

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SEPTEMBER 2017 -

NEWS

Sasol backs its clean fuel

fleet of more than two dozen Euro 6 compliant MAN trucks purchased by Sasol will be operational soon on South Africa’s roads – fuelled exclusively by the company’s low-sulphur diesel. Making the announcement last month at the TruckX Conference and Expo held at Kyalami, Adrian Velaers, Sasol’s Senior Technical Advisor, said the company was confident that the purple-coloured fuel – sold at the pumps as Turbodiesel ULS – was more than clean enough to power the fleet’s Euro 6 compliant engines without causing technical problems.

“The company’s concern for a cleaner environment and increased efficiency has driven the decision. We are so confident of the quality of our fuel that we believe that the gases emitted from the exhaust pipes of our trucks will be cleaner than the air that’s sucked into the engines for combustion purposes,” he said. According to Velaers, Turbodiesel ULS – a synthetically produced fuel – contains advanced detergent and lubricity additives that help to keep engines and fuel injection systems clean and well protected.

“We guarantee that Turbodiesel ULS’s sulphur content – which is advertised at 10ppm or less – is so low that it can be used to power Euro 6 compliant engines without causing any damage,” he said.

“The fuel allows latest technology vehicles fitted with exhaust after treatment devices to operate freely. The development is a step forward in moving South Africa closer to cleaner fuel specifications in line with international standards,” he maintained.

“In combination with Ad Blue – an aqueous urea additive that is injected into the exhaust system – we believe the fuel will make it possible to cut tailpipe emissions to the point where only harmless gases are released into the atmosphere.

Velaers added that the clean-up effect of performance additives contained in the fuel helped to improve economy even in older generation engines. “We’ve conducted tests which show how, over a period of time, the removal of deposit build-up allows engines to operate

12 - AUGUST 2017

at optimum efficiency and sustain optimum fuel consumption,” he said.

Adrian Velaers

Christopher Kabosha, Senior Manager for Corporate Affairs and Marketing at Sasol Energy, said the company was excited about putting its new tanker fleet into operation. “It will bring significant advantages to our business and our customers,” he said. “We’re proud to be at the cutting edge of industry-leading technology. Our premium diesel offers significant advantages to our customers through enhanced fleet efficiency and environmental sustainability responsibility. It’s a significant milestone.” According to Kabosha, Sasol was the first company locally to operate a fleet of MAN Euro 6-compliant trucks. “It will be one of the most efficient commercial truck fleets in South Africa,” he promised.

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Technical Components, MAN Euro 6 Compliant Engine 1. Exhaust Gas Turbocharger: The two-stage turbocharger increases the engineâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s efficiency, thereby ensuring lower fuel consumption and clean low-particulate combustion. 2. Exhaust Gas Recirculation: Decreases the temperature at which fuel combusts in the cylinders, resulting in lower nitrogen oxide emissions. 3. Exhaust Manifold: Exhaust gas from the engine passes through the heat-insulated exhaust pipe into the exhaust muffler for after-treatment. 4. Diesel Oxidising Catalytic Converter: By means of a platinum coating, the oxidising catalytic converter transforms the polluting carbon monoxide and hydrocarbons into nontoxic CO2 and water. 5. Particle Filter: The particle filter captures up to 99% of all soot particles from the exhaust gas flow. A chemical process enables the filter to continually re-clean itself. 6a. AdBlue Tank: The aqueous urea solution is stored in the AdBlue tank and is used as a reduction agent for the exhaust gas after-treatment in the SCR catalytic converter. 6b. AdBlue Line: The urea solution passes through a heated line from the AdBlue tank to the AdBlue mixer. 6. 7. 7. AdBlue Dosing Module: The electronic dosing module uses sensors to determine the quantity of AdBlue required for nitrogen oxide reduction and injects it into the AdBlue mixer. 8. AdBlue Mixer: In a hydrolysis section in the AdBlue mixer, the injected urea solution turns into

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ammonia, which is required for the reaction in the subsequent SCR catalytic converter. 9. SCR Catalytic Converter: By the princliple of selective catalytic reduction, the SCR catalytic converter turns most of the nitrogen oxide into harmless nitrogen and oxygen.

10. Ammonia-Blocking Catalytic Converter: The blocking catlytic converter prevents excess ammonia from being emitted. 11. Exhaust Tailpipe (Or Outlet): The purified exhaust is discharged from the tailpipe. Sensors continuously monitor the nitrogen oxide values.

AUGUST 2017

NEWS

VVT market on the up

he variable valve timing (VVT) and start-stop system markets are projected to grow at a rate of 5,28% and 18,86% respectively from 2017 to 2022, according to a report published by US research house Markets & Markets. The report says the global market for VVT systems is likely to be worth $46,36-billion (about R616-billion) by 2022, while the stop-start system market will grow to about $11,10-billion (about R147-billion). It attributes the increases to a rise in demand for performanceoriented, fuel-efficient vehicles as well as to stringent emissions regulations in developed countries. The report says while Europe will witness moderate growth for VVT systems due to saturation of the market in Germany, France, and Spain, countries such as China, Japan and South Korea will continue to adopt the technology at a high rate.

According to the report, Asia-Pacific formed the largest market for VVT and start-stop systems in 2017 thanks to the increasing number of vehicles produced in China and India. “The Indian market is growing at a rapid pace because of increased preference for diesel-powered vehicles, which has resulted in a demand for VVT system for these types of engines. “In addition, improving socio-economic conditions in countries such as India, Thailand and Indonesia have resulted in a growth in demand for premium segment passenger cars, which in turn has accelerated the market for VVT and start-stop systems in these countries.” The report says many automotive brands have focused on the Asia-Pacific region as a manufacturing hub because of benefits such as easy availability of labour, access to advanced technology, lenient regulations for environment and safety and growing domestic demand for vehicles. The report covers all the major players in the global VVT and start-stop system markets, including Continental AG (Germany), Denso Corporation (Japan), Delphi Automotive, PLC (UK), Robert Bosch GmbH (Germany) and Magna International Inc. (Canada).

Saving the rhino In 2016, Black Rhino Wheels has handed over £19 418,63 (about R323 566,87) to Londonbased charity organisation Save the Rhino International (SRI). The company had pledged R5 for each wheel sold in 2016 until July 31, and thereafter R1 a wheel until December 31. All of the money has been put toward funding the efforts of SRI’s teams of rangers which work in the Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park in KwaZulu-Natal. The teams conduct antipoaching and rhino monitoring programmes, exercise law enforcement, and conduct aerial surveillance of the combined area of two game reserves, Hluhluwe and iMfololozi. “The donation by Black Rhino Wheels has helped to enhance the capacity of the park’s rangers to respond to poaching incidents,” said SRI’s Partnership Development Manager, Josephine Gibson. “As the Southern African distributor of Black Rhino Wheels, we are immensely proud to have played a part in this fundraising,” said Joe du Plooy, marketing executive for the Ti Auto Investments Group. “Conservation is the key to prevent the extinction of these magnificent animals.”

TrenTyre steps up B-BBEE status

renTyre has announced that it has attained B-BBEE Level 3 Contributor Status under the Amended Codes of Good Practice. “We are committed to furthering the imperatives of Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment in South Africa. Our commitment to

14 - AUGUST 2017

transformation remains focused on contributing meaningfully towards the socio-economic development of the country and ensuring our position in the marketplace by providing our customers with the required levels of compliance,” said a company statement. According to Stephen Smith, Operations

Director at TrenTyre, transformation has always been a pillar of the company’s operations. “After attaining a Level 4 contributor status last year, this motivated the company to invest even more in its transformational imperatives, striving to be a front runner in our sector in order to remain competitive in the marketplace,” he said.

www.automobil.co.za

ALL-NEW DISCOVERY

TO PREVENT CREW MUTINY ALL 7 SEATS ARE FULL-SIZE

7 SEATS

LOWER CO2 EMISSIONS 207g/km

In the All-New Discovery, all three rows have full-size adult seats. So there’s no need to squabble over where you want to sit. Even if you’re seven large sailors. Which will be good news to Sir Ben Ainslie, skipper of the Land Rover BAR America’s Cup team.

HIGHER FUEL ECONOMY 6.91 l/100km 0-100 KPH 8.1 sec

Contact your nearest Fleet and Business Centre for Corporate offers. landrover.co.za/fleetandbusiness

Land Rover Centurion 012 678 0044 Land Rover Bedfordview 011 621 6300 Land Rover Umhlanga 031 571 2620 Land Rover N1 City 021 595 7100 www.automobil.co.za

Land Rover Sandton 011 548 0500 Land Rover The Glen 011 682 5400 Land Rover Constantiaberg 021 710 0900 NOVEMBER 2017 -

NEWS

Merc’s X-Class launched in Cape Town

ercedes-Benz Vans last month launched its new X-Class bakkie in an unveiling in Cape Town. The much anticipated model is scheduled to make its debut in Europe in November and will go on sale in South Africa, Australia and New Zealand early next year. Sales in Argentina and Brazil will begin in 2019. Mercedes-Benz’s CEO, Dieter Zetsche, said in a statement that the model opened the bakkie segment to new customer groups. “Our pick-up convinces as a workhorse just as much as a family and lifestyle vehicle,” he said. A spokesman for Mercedes-Benz Vans said the high level of interest and anticipation in the lead up to the unveiling reflected how engrained dual cab bakkies had become in motoring culture. “The fact is we love bakkies and we are showing a desire to incorporate this type of vehicle into our lives in more ways than we did in the past – not just for work, but also increasingly for private use,” she said. According to a statement released by the company, the X-Class had been designed with a view to finding perfect balance between the stylish design expected of a Mercedes-Benz and the uncompromising robustness and functionality demanded of a bakkie. “As a result, the model effectively provides solutions for trade and fleet customers, while also satisfying the needs of private customers who require a vehicle to support their active lifestyles,” the statement said. The model will be available initially with two diesel engine options as well as a petrol-fed unit. A top-of-the-line V6 diesel will be available from mid-2018.

16 AUGUST 2017

Judging by activities at the launch, Mercedes is targeting the mid-sized pick-up at wealthy customers who like quad biking and sailing. Taking on a new segment far removed from opulent models like the S-Class sedan shows how far the world’s biggest maker of luxury vehicles is prepared to go to capture new sales.

The X-Class, which cost “a high threedigit million euro sum” to develop, will be produced as part of Daimler’s cooperation with the Renault-Nissan alliance. Vehicles for Europe will be assembled at a Nissan plant in Barcelona, while models for Latin America will be built at a Renault factory in Cordoba, Argentina.

Though it plans to stay clear of America’s competitive truck market – which is dominated by utilitarian vehicles like the Ford F-150, the world’s biggest selling derivative – introduction of the mid-sized X-Class gives Mercedes-Benz an edge over rivals such as BMW and Audi, which do not contest the bakkie market.

“The X-class is the first genuine pickup with convincing passengercar characteristics,” said Volker Mornhinweg, head of Mercedes-Benz Vans, which developed the vehicle. “As a result, the X-class pushes the boundaries of the classic pick-up.”

The company anticipates that demand for mid-sized pick-ups will grow by 43% over the next decade to around 3,2 million units. While that proposition might be attractive, observers believe that moving into new segments can be a risk, especially for a brand that trades on its image for elegance and performance.

He said the model had been specifically developed for changing requirements in the bakkie market. Demand for midsized pick-ups with typical passenger car characteristics and comfort features had risen steadily for years while, at the same time, the number of bakkies for private use had increased. “These vehicles are no longer viewed purely as workhorses,” Mornhinweg said.

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NEWS

When the bakkie goes on sale, three design and equipment variants will be on offer, incorporating four and six-cylinder engines, rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive, sixspeed manual transmissions or seven-speed automatic gearboxes. The bakkie is built on a ladder-type frame with a solid axle at the rear, coil springs all round and independent front suspension. The basic X-Class variant, called Pure, is described as being ideal for rugged, functional use. “It fulfills all the demands of a workhorse but at the same time its comfort and design make it perfect for visiting customers or suppliers and for private activities,” the statement said. The Progressive derivative is aimed at people who seek a rugged bakkie with extra styling and comfort features, the vehicle designed to act as an advertisement for their own businesses while also being a comfortable yet prestigious vehicle for private use. The X-Class Power encompasses the highend design and equipment line. “It is aimed at customers for whom styling, performance and comfort are paramount,” the statement said. “The X-Class Power is a lifestyle vehicle beyond the mainstream – suitable for urban environments as well as for sports and leisure activities off the beaten track. “Through its design and high level of equipment it reflects an independent and individualistic lifestyle.” X-Class Dimensions Length 5 340mm Width 1 920mm Height 1 819mm Wheelbase 3 150mm Load bed length 1 587mm Load bed width 1560mm Load bed height 474mm Payload 1 042kg Braked towing capacity 1 650kg – 3 500kg

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Microsoft partners with Baidu

icrosoft and Baidu Incorporated have announced plans for a partnership aimed at taking the technical development and adoption of autonomous driving worldwide. As a member of Chinabased Baidu’s Apollo alliance, Microsoft will provide a platform for the Apollo network outside of China using its Azure cloud. “We’re excited to partner with Baidu to take a giant step in helping automotive manufacturers and suppliers fully realise the promise of autonomous driving,” said Kevin Dallas, Vice President of Microsoft’s Corporate Division. “Today’s vehicles already have an impressive level of sophistication when it comes to their ability to capture data. By applying our global cloud AI, machine learning and deep neural network capabilities to that data, we can accelerate the work already being done to make autonomous vehicles safer.” With up to 15% of new cars sold globally in 2030 expected to be fully autonomous, Dallas says that an ecosystem of partners is necessary for collaboration in support of a common goal. Announced by Baidu in April this year, Apollo is an open platform that provides a comprehensive, secure and reliable solution that supports all major features and functions of an autonomous vehicle. The project, named after the historic lunar landing programme to illustrate

its scale and complexity, consists of cloud services, an open software stack, reference hardware and vehicle platforms. More than 50 partners from a wide range of sectors have joined the Apollo alliance, including global navigation and mapping service provider TomTom, tierone suppliers Bosch and Continental, and Southeast Asia’s leading ride-hailing platform, Grab. “We are excited to have Microsoft as part of the Apollo alliance. Our goal with Apollo is to provide an open and powerful platform to the automotive industry to further the goal of autonomous vehicles,” said Ya-Qin Zhang, president of Baidu. “By using Azure, our partners outside of China will have access to a trustworthy and secure public cloud, enabling them to focus on innovating instead of building their own cloud-based infrastructure.” Microsoft has already been working with leaders in the automotive industry to help manufacturers ingest huge volumes of sensor and usage data from connected vehicles and apply that data to deliver actionable intelligence. Companies such as BMW, Ford, RenaultNissan, Toyota and Volvo are all using or have announced plans to adopt Microsoft’s intelligent cloud technology to help with services like driver assist, predictive maintenance and voicecontrolled media.

AUGUST 2017

NEWS

Continental reaffirms Vision Zero commitment

s partners to Global NCAP’s Stop the Crash campaign, automotive technology company Continental has reaffirmed its commitment to the drive for greater road safety and fewer road fatalities through its Vision Zero initiative. On the tyre front, the company is highlighting the importance of sufficient tread depth and correct inflation pressures while, on the chassis side, it is concentrating on the safety roles played by driver assistance systems such as ESC, Emergency Brake Assist and motorcycle ABS. “In critical situations, it is the level of technology in the tyres – the vehicle’s only point of contact with the road –

that ultimately determines stopping distance or whether grip can be maintained when cornering,” says Nikolai Setzer, head of the company’s tyre division. Though the increasing presence of accident prevention technologies in vehicles on Europe’s roads has already led to a marked reduction in road fatalities since the 1970s, Setzer says efforts to further reduce the death toll need to be intensified if the EU’s goal of cutting the number of road deaths globally by 50% is to be achieved by 2020. “From Continental’s perspective, the simple fact of equipping more vehicles

with driver assistance systems, along with the use of premium tyres with adequate tread depth and regular monitoring of tyre pressures, will be a massive help in reaching the ambitious target,” he said.

Going electric! France turns on green bias Presenting the country’s Climate Plan in Paris, Hulot said France would offer tax incentives to replace diesel vehicles that were more than 20 years old and gasoline vehicles made before 2001. The government would also end oil and gas exploration on French territory, eliminate coal-fired power plants by 2022 and encourage home owners to produce their own energy. “The target is a tough one,” said Hulot. “But France wants to become the No 1 green economy.”

Nicolas Hulot

rance plans to end the sale of gasoline- and diesel-powered vehicles by 2040 in a bid to become a carbon-neutral nation, Energy Minister Nicolas Hulot said last month, effectively promoting electric cars.

18 AUGUST 2017

Though electric cars have been around since the 1800s, they still make up just a fraction of the overall market as drivers balk at high prices and limited driving ranges. Battery-powered vehicles made up about one percent of sales in the US, Europe and China last year. However, according to a New Energy finance

forecast circulated by Bloomberg, they will outsell fossil-fuel powered vehicles within two decades as the cost of batteries plunges. Volvo has become the first major manufacturer to say it will start phasing out vehicles powered solely by fossil fuels. The Chineseowned Swedish automaker plans to offer only hybrid or full-electric powertrains on every new model launched in 2019 or later, and it expects to have five fully electric vehicles in its lineup by 2021. And the French PSA Group has plans to offer an electric version of 80% of its models by 2023 – but isn’t going fully electric anytime soon. “Nicolas Hulot only speaks for France – but we are a global company and most of the world still runs on combustion engines,” said a company spokesman.

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Volkswagenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Dealer of the Year, Venerson Sinivasan of Barons Bruma (centre), with Stefan Mecha, sales and marketing director of VWSA (left) and Thomas Schaefer, chairman of the Volkswagen Group South Africa

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NEWS

What it really costs to run a car!

ew data from WesBank shows that the overall cost of motoring in South Africa remains on the rise, despite recent cuts to interest rates and fuel prices, as well as a slowdown in vehicle price inflation. The finance house’s monthly mobility basket – which comprises installments, fuel, insurance and maintenance fees – has increased 24,2% since July 2013. In a statement, WesBank said that while the South African Reserve Bank’s recent cut in interest rates would have a positive effect on household budgets, stronger oil prices and a weaker rand pointed to an increase in the fuel price. The finance house includes all of these factors in its Mobility Calculator, a tool that tracks monthly installments, fuel costs, insurance premiums and maintenance fees. The data is regularly updated to include latest vehicle prices, inflation, interest rates, as well as other factors, based on the cost of ownership

20 - AUGUST 2017

of an entry-level vehicle that travels 2 500km a month.

the same period, the monthly cost of insurance premiums grew by 38,6%.

“Our calculator gives consumers an idea of the total costs associated with vehicle ownership. Seeing how these costs increase over time really helps people identify how important it is to budget properly to plan for the future,” said Rudolf Mahoney, Head of Brand and Communications at WesBank.

Though the calculator is based on pricing for an entry-level model, WesBank’s data also indicated that consumers were spending far more on new and used vehicles, influenced by vehicle price inflation.

For July 2017, the calculator reflected that the average cost of motoring had risen to R7 119,80 a month – 6,1% higher than the figure for July last year, when the cost was R6 709,53. In July 2013, the total cost of motoring a month amounted to R5 732,64. While vehicle installments and fuel spend accounted for the biggest portions of the monthly budget, insurance premiums and maintenance costs had also risen considerably, mainly as a result of vehicle price inflation. Mahoney said an entry-level car that cost R100 000 in 2007 today sold for more than R183 000, with running costs also increasing. Between 2013 and 2017, rising interest rates and higher new vehicle prices had seen monthly installments increase by 43,8%. Over

In June, the average new vehicle financed through WesBank cost R300 181, while the average used vehicle cost R202 796. Data from TransUnion suggested that new vehicle price inflation was slowing down, yet the effects wouldn’t be seen immediately in sales figures. While installments, fuel, and maintenance costs had increased consistently, average monthly fuel spend had actually declined over the last two years. When viewed as a portion of the monthly motoring budget, the amount spent on fuel accounted for only 31% in July this year, according to the mobility calculator, against 34% in July 2016, and 39,7% in July 2013. “Fuel prices are influenced by the exchange rate and the international price of oil, with general inflation playing a far smaller role,” said Mahoney. “In 2013 and 2014, fuel prices were on the rise and the monthly fuel spend was roughly

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Martlé Keyter, MISA’s CEO for Operations equal to a small vehicle’s installment. This is no longer the case, but it doesn’t mean the cost of motoring is lower.” For this reason, he suggested that motorists would be wise to take a longer-term view when planning a car purchase, to ensure that their budgets were able to absorb higher maintenance costs and insurance premiums four to five years down the line. “Interest rate cuts and lower fuel costs are always welcome, but this shouldn’t influence a vehicle purchase,” he said. “If you’ve budgeted properly, these windfalls should be welcome surprises, not financial lifesavers. The smartest move is to plan for rising costs over the duration of your finance contract, and take advantage of price cuts when they happen.”

Hino SA makes history

ino South Africa made history when it won a platinum award in the National Automobile Dealers’ Association (NADA) dealer satisfaction index (DSI) for 2017, placing top of the commercial vehicle category as well as overall. The results were announced at a recent NADA awards function in Johannesburg. This is the first time that a platinum award – for scores of over 85% – has been made in the annual survey. Compared with the results for 2016, Hino increased its score by 1,8% to achieve a leading 85,4%.

Ernie Trautmann (second from left), Vice President of Hino SA, proudly displays the Platinum Award certificate presented to him at the recent NADA Dealer Satisfaction Index prize giving. Others in the photograph (from left) are: Ghana Msibi, Sales General Manager, WesBank Motor; Mark Finlayson, CEO of WesBank Motor; and Greig Pringle, Vice Chairperson of NADA.

The NADA survey tracks dealer satisfaction relationships with their respective OEMs – manufacturers or distributors. A total of 40 independently tracked brands formed part of the overall survey, which included passenger and LCV brands. There were 1 319 completed responses, with 173 of them emanating from the 10 truck brands surveyed.

Trautmann, Vice President of Hino SA. “Achieving the number one position was one of our objectives. The result is truly a team effort – testimony to our One TeamOne Pledge approach and an outflow from the international Hino Total Support philosophy we employ in all we do.”

“The improvement over the past few years – Hino was only fifth in 2013 – did not happen by accident,” said Ernie

Trautmann said the achievement – which measured Hino’s relationship with its dealers – together with the brand’s

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recent first place in the latest Scott Byers Comparative Customer Satisfaction Monitor for the 10th successive quarter, added impetus to the nameplate’s quest to become the country’s leading truck brand. “The latest performances are proof of the way we are building a culture of trust between our various stakeholders using the Hino Total Support philosophy,” he said.

AUGUST 2017

NEWS

Built in South Africa

ercedes-Benz South Africa has celebrated production of the first Mercedes-AMG C 43 4MATIC to roll off the assembly line at its East London plant. Building of the car was completed on July 11. The model, which is powered by a 3,0-litre twin-turbo V6 engine that produces 270kW, joins flagship C63 and C63 S derivatives to complete the brand’s C-Class line-up, all variants of which are built in East London. “With the Mercedes-AMG C 43 we present a sporty and emotionally expressive vehicle to our product line. It combines the power of a strong twinturbo V6 engine with a high level of emotional expressiveness, and avails itself of the technical DNA of the new C 63,” says Selvin Govender, Marketing Director of Mercedes-Benz Cars.

Workers at Mercedes-Benz’s East London plant with the first Mercedes-AMG C43 to roll off the assembly line The derivative – available in sedan or coupé form – is based on the most powerful production model in the C-Class line-up, the C 400 4MATIC, though engineers have revised many technical features to promote agility and sportiness in accordance with AMG values.

The car is said to complete the zero to 100km/h sprint in 4,9 seconds and boasts a combined fuel consumption figure of 7,6 litres/100km. Drive programmes can be selected to adjust the suspension, steering and powertrain as desired. The sedan version is priced at R858 400.

Shell launches V-Power with Dynaflex designed to keep new engines clean and revitalise old ones by getting rid of deposits. He says the fuel enables increased torque and load-pulling power.

hell South Africa has launched the company’s next generation fuel for its V-Power brand – adding what it calls Dynaflex technology to the mixture. Yaasier Abrahams, the company’s retail marketing manager, says the new formula – which he describes as a complex blend of powerful cleaning agents – is aimed at enhancing engine performance and protecting parts from combustion contaminants to maintain efficiency. For diesel engines the formula incorporates dual-detergent molecules

22 AUGUST 2017

“Ultimately, this fuel is designed to help customers get more out of their vehicles’ engines with lower operating costs.” Ashley Abrahams, Shell’s national sales manager for commercial fuels, says Dynaflex technology will help fleets to maximise return on investment by saving up to 3% on fuel costs. “Increased efficiency and better performance is guaranteed,” he says. The new formula was developed to keep pace with evolving engine technology. Shell has more than 100 years of fuel

innovation heritage, powered by its long-standing technical partnership with Italian motor manufacturer Ferrari. In statement the company says V-Power petrol is the only fuel co-engineered with and recommended by Ferrari. “With thousands of hours of research and testing, this is the fuel with the best track record. The fuel that powers Scuderia Ferrari on the racetrack contains 99% of the same components as Shell V-Power petrol.” The statement adds that V-Power is also recommended by BMW’s M Division, the Bavarian motor company’s performance branch. Both diesel and petrol versions of the new V-Power formula were scheduled to have been available at forecourts from August 2.

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With MISA at your side, you have all the support you need We all need a little support at times. With the Motor Industry Staﬀ Association (MISA), it’s always just a phone call away.

Expert advice, support and assistance in labour-related matters When you reach a bumpy stretch in your career, such as a retrenchment, dismissal, or unfair labour practice, the MISA Legal team of experts will be there to support you all the way. MISA provides professional advice and representation at disciplinary hearings, retrenchments, Conciliation, Arbitration, Labour Court and Labour Appeal Court, where required, at no additional cost to members. We also assist members with disputes on Collective Agreement contraventions by their employers, disciplinary hearings and grievance processes. The full amounts obtained through settlement negotiations and/or awards are paid to the respective member(s).

MISA is always just a phone call away

Study assistance and education support MISA bursaries for children of MISA members | MISA study assistance for members to enhance their careers in the motor retail industry | Financial support for members who complete their Matric certiﬁcate.

Health and other important matters Health bonuses for members who meet certain criteria | FREE support on drawing up a Last Will and Testament or a Living Will | FREE contracts and UIF registration for domestic workers | Sound advice on Retirement Planning.

With MISA at your side, you always have access to telephonic advice on labour-related matters. When in doubt, give MISA a call.

For a full list of beneﬁts of belonging to MISA, please visit www.misa.org.za.

OTHER BENEFITS OF BEING A MISA MEMBER

What you need to do

Financial peace of mind when you need it most

If you are not yet a MISA Member, download the membership application form on www.misa.org.za today. A membership subscription is only R20.50 per week.

MISA Benefit Fund: Death cover of R31 000 | MISA Funeral Fund: Benefit of up to R9 000 | Retrenchment Benefit to the value of R2 500 | Maternity Benefit to the value of R2 500 | Ill-health/disability Benefit to the value of R2 500 | Retirement Option exclusively for MISA members.

If you are already a member, please ensure your membership remains up to date by checking that your member contributions are being deducted from your salary.

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@MIStaﬀAss

misasa01

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JUNE 2017 -

TRUCKX

Truck 2017

TruckX 2017: Embracing change Conference & Expo

One of South Africa’s premier automotive events – the TruckX & FleetX Conference and Expo – took place last month at Kyalami. Wynter Murdoch reports on some of the highlights

outh African society was rapidly being transformed by digitalisation and, from a business perspective, operators in the automotive sphere who chose to ignore the technology faced the prospect of losing competitiveness. That was one of the key messages delivered at the fourth annual TruckX and FleetX Conference and Expo held last month at the Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit in Midrand. More than 1 400 delegates attended the two-day event – sponsored Standard Bank and Ctrack by Inseego –

24 AUGUST 2017

which provided a premier information opportunity for the transport, logistics, materials handling and fleet industries. Topics discussed by a high-powered line-up of experts included trends in the commercial fleet industry, the importance of truck safety compliance, the benefits of clean fuel to the transport industry (see P12), and the value of good leadership. In a keynote address at TruckX, the executive head of IoT Solutions at Vodacom SA, Tony Smallwood, said digitalisation was beginning to affect

facets of all industries in South Africa. “Competitiveness will have a direct correlation to digitalisation, and traditional industries will need to transform to compete in 2020. Data, platforms and innovation will disrupt the norm. The Uber, AirBNB and Kindle of your industry will happen – and you need to be in a position to either be the change agent or be ready to adapt,” he said. According to Smallwood, transformation was already evidenced in next-generation supply chains. Based on a survey

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BRAND PRETORIUS Retired Chief Executive McCarthy Limited

CRAIG PARKER

Head of Mobility Frost & Sullivan Africa

conducted for the materials handling, logistics and supply chain industry, executives polled defined emerging supply chains as digital, on-demand and always-on.

MORNÉ JANSE VAN RENSBURG CEO VSC Solutions

HEIN JORDT

Managing Director, Ctrack Fleet Management

TONY SMALLWOOD

Executive Head of IoT Solutions Vodacom SA

now available to them from mobile devices in the cab,” said Morné Janse van Rensburg, CEO of VSC Solutions.

“There are global evolutionary concepts out there that are quickly transforming the logistics and trucking industries.

About 80% of respondents said they expected digitalisation to become the predominant global model within five years, while 16% indicated that systems had already embraced the technology.

“The cost of hardware and connectivity has dropped significantly in recent years, while cloud processing has become affordable and accessible to all sizes of businesses. All this is driving the IoT and opens up the possibility of connecting just about anything.”

“Today, trucks have already become a mobile node in the Internet of Things, with trucking companies and drivers benefitting from IoT logistics data that’s

Hein Jordt, MD of Ctrack South Africa, agreed that fast development of technology was increasingly changing the way fleet owners did business.

“The implication of the Internet of Things is that telematics is able to perform at a whole new level. Among this is automating business process for improved quality and lower costs, applying analytics to the entire logistics value chain, and optimising how systems, assets and people integrate to work together.

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“Now more than ever, fleet owners should embrace the advancements

AUGUST 2017 -

Truck 2017

Conference & Expo

in telematics technology in order to be fully prepared when the wave of digitalisation fully hits,” he said. Brand Pretorius, former CEO of McCarthy Retail – who delivered the keynote address at the FleetX Conference – spoke of the real value of good leadership, not only in business, but also in politics. Basing his address on his experiences of helping to turn around a company from bankruptcy to profitability in three years, Pretorius said he had learnt a lot about faith, himself and leadership within that time. “Lack of leadership can be equated to darkness, with little engagement.

26 AUGUST 2017

Quality leadership, on the other hand, results in the lights suddenly being switched on – where before there was a void, now there’s inspiration and positivity, loyalty and commitment.” Pretorius stressed the importance of co-responsibility, shared values, a sense of belonging and a unifying vision in the art and science of leading well. “Lessons I learnt included the fact that if you want to lead effectively, you have to master the art of leadership of self,” he said. In his view good leaders displayed a high degree of moral and emotional intelligence, a lot of self-discipline and had an ability to manage their egos. “Leadership is not a right – it’s a

privilege. Honour and respect is earned – it cannot be demanded. “Leadership has not so much to do with power or authority – it’s more about influence and of having the courage to go first, to inspire and to motivate. I learnt to invest more time in leading people – and less time in managing them. The difference between the two is that leaders focus on tomorrow, while managers focus on today,” he said. By Pretorius’s reckoning, ethical behaviour was a prerequisite for effective leadership. “It’s all about character, rather than charisma,” he said. “Ethical behaviour trumps everything – trustworthiness is at the

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Fleet

2017

Conference & Expo

core of good leadership. Leaders need to anchor their principals.” In the South African political context, he said, promises had the tendency to turn into lies and trust had a habit of evaporating. “A leader who loses his influence can no longer lead,” he warned. “Real leaders must be the light switch, turning weakness into strength, obstacles into stepping stones, despondency into hope…” Leading was also one of the themes in an address by Craig Parker, Head of Mobility at Frost & Sullivan Africa. He pointed out that the country’s telematics industry had helped to pioneer the global swing towards vehicle connectivity and the trend towards big data through the introduction

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of real time communication between vehicle and infrastructure, not only in the tracking sphere, but also in terms of vehicle prognostics and maintenance scheduling. He said the automotive industry was now entering a new era, with artificial intelligence and computer vision helping to propel the concept of self-driving machines. He said by 2030 at least a million autonomously driven vehicles were expected to be on the world’s roads, with companies such as Daimler, Volvo, Volkswagen and BMW at the forefront of transformation. In delivering his update on AARTO legislation, Ben Theron, Vice Chairman of the Organisation Undoing Tax Abuse

(OUTA), said he believed the new traffic laws were unlikely to be introduced. Describing them as contradictory, convoluted and cumbersome with little chance of being enforced, Theron said his perception was that AARTO was dead – even if its administrators didn’t know it yet. Similarly, he believed that, by March next year, e-tolls would no longer be in operation. “While there are a lot of legal steps that still need to be taken, OUTA believes that the courts will rule in our favour. We are handling 160 cases – and our view is that SANRAL will not win one of them. Our aim is to stop all litigation by SANRAL, with the first test case due to heard in January or February next year.”

AUGUST 2017 -

O&M CAPE TOWN 95785/E

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ASSOCIATION OF THE MONTH

hange is a constant in the lives of all of us – nothing ever really remains the same. In keeping with this philosophy, the Motor Parts and Equipment Association (MPEA) is – as of July 1 – part of a coalition of associations that includes the Tyre Dealers’ and Fitment Association (TDAFA) and the Motor Industry Manufacturers’ Association (MIMA).

Hedley Judd

30 - AUGUST 2017

Benefits of the coalition are considered a medium-term proposition where synergies between supply and demand relating to activities between the associations will be better understood, and from which enhancements to all members are expected to flow. The synergies will be vested in areas such as spares stockholdings, range development, range availability, service response times and, above all, in the

relationships between members of the coalition. Further change effective from the same date relates to my appointment as director of the MPEA. I have taken over from Erwin Stroebel, who held the reigns in recent years and who has now been appointed regional manager of the RMI in the Eastern Cape/Border region. One of the most problematic areas related to sectors of the automotive aftermarket remains staffing – with specific reference to the availability of competent or trained staff. There are essentially two major fields in the sectors – technical and soft skills. Each is currently hampered by the number of potential employees available in the market.

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The problem raises two issues. The first is an apparent lack of willingness on the part of some businesses to train people who, once qualified, tend to demand higher wages or who decide to leave the company. The second – which follows on from the first – relates to increased demands from employees who have been formally trained or who are experientially qualified. These two issues affect both the technical and soft skills segments. At present there are a significant number of courses, programmes, skill sets and learnerships available which focus on technical areas of expertise – in my view worthy of consideration since how often do we hear the cry:

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“There are no qualified journeymen available in the market?”

and developments will be reported on a regular basis.

In the soft skills sector, a major staffrelated area of concern revolves around a forward facing and most central part of the business, the salesperson. Historically, there has been no defined learning path available for salespeople to upskill in specific fields relating to automotive parts, accessories or tyres.

Broadly, it is envisaged that the level of change will bring about to participants numerous and varied levels of improvement in the businesses they manage. In this sense trained staff members remain – and always will remain – the biggest assets any business can have.

This fact has been noted in the past by the MPEA’s National Executive Committee, which has subsequently focused on developing a qualification that will address all levels of sales processes with a view to delivering a full business management level of expertise. This is a very new project which has only just been launched, and progress

Accordingly, business owners and managers will need to embrace employee development as much as employees will need to embrace a culture of learning. Tools that will be used facilitate training programmes will include e-Learning platforms – where desktop computers, tablets or even smart phones can be used.

AUGUST 2017 -

ASSOCIATION OF THE MONTH It is only by developing new ideas that we constantly challenge the status-quo of life, business and leisure. The training concept highlighted above will be styled to suit and attract ever needed youth to our industry – the millennial generation. I believe the MPEA will, in the revised structure of the RMI and through the benefit of the coalition, be in a position to expand its staff footprint by sharing resources within the cluster. It is envisaged that this will position additional staff right at the member interaction level. For years and years there has been a call by members of the RMI for direct engagement. So this time of change will also provide opportunities for members to be heard, and for their requests to be dealt with by dedicated staff.

32 - AUGUST 2017

At time of writing, the new appointments have yet to be announced – but an action plan is in place and the roles will be filled by experts with a view to delivering and advising on broad areas of the businesses we deal in and cherish. In the final context of the changing scenario, it would be a mistake not to mention the RMI’s appointment of Julian Pillay as the manager of a very new regulatory compliance portfolio within the organisation. In his new role, Julian will the link between associations and various statutory organisations to which, as businesses, we must be aware, since it has over the years become increasingly difficult to remain legally compliant given the intensity and number of changes made to regulations.

Herein lies Julian’s expertise. He will sift through the volumes of evolving legislation to provide pertinent and relevant guidance to members of the RMI. The role encompasses the Departments of Labour, Transport, Environmental Affairs, SARS, Energy, Trade and Industry (including ITAC), the SABS, the NRCS, BUSA, NEDLAC and others. In my view, his appointment amounts to a very significant value add for all members of the RMI. By being a participant in the affairs of the MPEA, TDAFA and MIMA, you will be integral to the bank of knowledge that is shared continuously within the RMI. Belonging is Better Business, because it brings together the industry and guides those ever changing needs that can trip up the unsuspecting businessman. I look forward to a fantastic time of change.

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JULY 2017 -

COVER STORY

Time for a new model? The business model involving the collection of used oil may make it unsustainable for collectors to continue to operate, warns Bubele Nyiba, CEO of the ROSE Foundation While major workshops are generally compliant regarding requirements of the country’s Waste Act, a problem exists in the pricing structure for used oil, says Bubele Nyiba, CEO of the ROSE Foundation. “There is a system in place whereby collectors of used oil have to buy the product from those who are disposing of it. The model – which was pro-actively adopted many years before legislation was introduced governing the responsible recycling and pricing of waste – has been successful up until now in that it has given value to used oil, thereby helping responsible collection. “However, we are beginning to see a situation where generators of used oil regard the waste as an income source – and this is driving up its price to unsustainable levels.” Nyiba says that in other countries, generators of used oil pay collectors to take away the waste. He fears that here, where the boot is on the other foot, the price of used oil will be driven to a point where it becomes unsustainable for collectors to operate.

ith nearly 11-million vehicles on the road in South Africa – which are serviced by over 3 000 registered workshops, not counting back-yard mechanics – a significant volume of used oil is generated daily in the automotive sector.

34 - AUGUST 2017

“The fewer used oil collectors there are, the less the amount of oil collected – meaning a much larger volume will be left to possibly make its way into our environment through irresponsible disposal,” he cautions. “Collectors are in a most difficult position in the used oil value chain. They work extremely hard and under difficult

circumstances – and we have to help them to be sustainable while driving compliance.” From this perspective he urges all automotive workshops – and used oil generators in general – to consider their roles in the responsible collection of used oil. “I ask them to reconsider the approach to the waste and the price they are demanding per litre. The ROSE Foundation has set the increased collection of used oil as a priority. We do not want to see the current volumes dwindling due to unsustainable business models that drive out collectors and other industry players.” Nyiba says used oil generators should use ROSE Foundation registered collectors to dispose of their oil waste. “This ensures that the collection, transportation, storage and re-refining of used oil is managed in a sustainable, ethical and responsible manner that is compliant with all current legislation. “ROSE Foundation collectors can also safely remove related wastes such as used oil filters, oily rags, and oil soaked sawdust for responsible disposal and recycling. These added value services allow automotive service centres to ensure they remain compliant with waste legislation.” He adds that the ROSE Foundation would like to see workshops becoming places where the public can dispose of small volumes of oil that result from the selfservicing of vehicles. “There is a workshop in every town in South Africa and this means that we would not need to invest

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DON’T LET THE WEATHER KEEP YOU IN THE DARK

in additional facilities for the public to drop off their used motor oil. The workshops should be ambassadors of used oil collection. “Finally, the ROSE Foundation and workshops need to work closely together to correctly channel the direction of used oil. In this respect we are encouraged by our ongoing discussions and interactions with the Retail Motor Industry Organisation (RMI) to forge together a common approach to managing the issue.

Everyone knows there is nothing more frustrating than a piece of equipment that won’t start on a cold winter’s night. Spanjaard Quick Start contains high vapour pressure hydrocarbons to give instant ignition in cold, damp conditions.

“Our combined efforts should leave a lasting legacy on avoiding the harmful effects of used oil to our environment.” • Generators of used oil in South Africa – and of waste in general – are required by law under the Waste Act to ensure that their waste is responsibly managed. • Entities which generate more than 20kg of hazardous waste per day are required to register on the National Waste Information System (SAWIS) and to report on volumes generated and taken away for recycling. • Those who fail to comply with legislation face penalties such as fines or jail time. Nyiba says it the legal obligation of South African businesses that generate waste to ensure it is responsibly collected and taken away to a registered facility for processing and recycling. • He adds that used oil is a hazardous substance – with one litre capable of contaminating a million litres of water – and so generators also face a moral responsibility to ensure their used oil does not end up in the environment.

Spanjaard Quick Start also contains upper cylinder lubricant and can be used for all petrol and diesel engines.

If only everything was this easy!

For more information contact the ROSE Foundation on (021) 448 7492 or visit www.rosefoundation.org.za.

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AUGUST 2017 - 35 www.spanjaard.biz

RMI UPDATE

Partinform in Mthatha Mthatha’s automotive business community turned out in force to witness a Partinform roadshow at the Hotel Savoy. Greg Surgeon reports

he City of Mthatha hosted last month a successful Partinform roadshow at the Hotel Savoy and Conference Centre, with more than 75 automotive business owners and employees attending the event. Great interest was shown at the various stands with members answering questions about their brands and products. The evening quiz show was, as always, great fun as contestants were asked various questions about the brands and products on display. Prize sponsors for the evening were GUD, Fram, Gabriel and Federal Mogul, with the overall winner of the quiz receiving an invitation to attend Partinform’s end of the year go-kart race organised by MCP Rental Karts. Partinform’s members went to great lengths to ensure that their stands were attractive and well laid-out. Judges had a hard time deciding which was the best display of the night, but in the end the prize went to Gabriel for its array of shock absorbers and other equipment. Moving around the country, Partinform shows are proving to be popular with the automotive business communities at which they are aimed. The events are deemed to be informative, with the focus on promoting the advantages of utilising quality brands in service, maintenance and repair work. The RMI display usually attracts attention with visitors asking questions about the organisation and staffers at the stand explaining the benefits of belonging. The next Partinform show is scheduled for Port Shepstone on the KwaZulu Natal South Coast. The event will take place at the town’s Civic Centre on August 16.

36 - AUGUST 2017

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AUGUST 2017 -

RMI UPDATE

Motor dealer labour rate report Labour rates that customers are charged at South Africa’s major dealerships have been highlighted in a survey conducted by Lightstone Consumer

ightstone Consumer recently undertook an independent study among dealerships which represent all of South Africa’s major automotive manufacturers and distributors to determine labour rate charges. Interviews were conducted telephonically with service managers. The survey covered retail labour rates, warranty labour rates and, where relevant, maintenance or service plan labour rates. Almost 900 dealerships in the passenger car and LCV sectors – representing 37 brands – were canvassed. Many new car brands sold today have maintenance plans and, in most cases, vehicle owners rarely get to see the maintenance/service plan rate or warranty labour rate, these being the rates at which dealers are reimbursed for carrying out work on new or nearly new vehicles. Of most relevance to consumers is the retail labour rate – the rate charged for work on a vehicle that doesn’t have a maintenance or service plan or which is out of the maintenance/service plan period. The survey findings revealed that there can be a wide range of labour rates charged – from R300 to R1 000 an hour, depending on vehicle brand or dealer location. The survey also revealed that, in terms of retail labour rates, the most expensive brands to service and maintain – once they are no longer covered by a maintenance or service plan – were Land Rover, Mini, BMW, Jaguar and Audi. The cheapest were GWM, Cherry, TATA, Foton and Mahindra. The chart appended below shows the lowest, highest and average retail labour rate for each of the passenger and LCV brands in South Africa, as revealed by the survey.

38 - AUGUST 2017

www.automobil.co.za

GUD announces new CEO Red Shuttleworth (left) congratulates GUD Holding’s new CEO, Chris Haworth, on his appointment

ne of South Africa’s top automotive companies, GUD Holdings, has announced the appointment of Chris Haworth as its new chief executive. Chris joined the company in 2001 and became general manager of its

manufacturing site in Prospecton, Durban, four years later. In 2012 he assumed responsibility for all of the Group’s operational functions when he was appointed chief operating officer. Announcing the new appointment, Red Shuttleworth, outgoing CEO, said he had full confidence in Howath’s abilities. “Chris is an exceptional leader who, as CEO, will add value to GUD Holdings. “I would like to assure both our internal and external stakeholders that we value their support and will continue to offer excellent service and premium products.”

RMI at TruckX & FleetX

he South African Diesel Fuel Injector Association (SADFIA) proudly represented the RMI at last month’s TruckX and FleetX event held at Kyalami, which the organisation had endorsed.

According to Attie Serfontein, one of the SADFIA officials who manned the stand, opportunities for networking were advantageous, creating tight business ties among exhibitors and industry representatives. “It’s always great to be part of RMI-endorsed events,” he said. “TruckX and FleetX proved a great success in that a lot of interest was shown by both the motoring public and business owners regarding the RMI and SADFIA. “We offered expert advice and guidance regarding all manner of diesel fuel injection systems and, in response to queries from show-goers, provided much-needed information on the RMI. Interest was high over the two days the event ran – we congratulate the organisers on a job well done.”

Shuttleworth will continue his involvement with GUD Holdings, serving as a non-executive director. The company’s presence within the automotive industry has transformed over the past four years following a decision to expand and diversify its product offerings. Acquisition of several leading companies such as Safeline Brakes, Indy Oil and Precision Press has seen GUD grow rapidly in South Africa, while expansion beyond the country’s borders has been achieved through the establishment of a dedicated Africa division.

FBC joins forces with SAMBRA

alse Bay College (FBC) has partnered with South Africa’s Motor Body Repair Association (SAMBRA) to develop opportunities regarding active involvement of members in the training of apprentices, and to ultimately have its premises assessed as an accredited training facility in terms of the association’s grading criteria. The aims are in line with SAMBRA’s 2017 strategic objectives that focus on skills development, the upskilling of existing staff, and the training of apprentices. SAMBRA’s director, Eddie Martin, says the association recently held exploratory talks with potential partners to assess tooling and other requirements for FBC’s panel and paint shops. “This is the first of many such meetings, and SAMBRA will audit FBC workshops later in the year using our grading criteria to help the college mirror our SAMBRA accredited shops,” he said.

www.automobil.co.za

AUGUST 2017 -

RMI UPDATE

‘Auto sector holding its own’ The spotlight at Automechanika Johannesburg 2017’s launch last month focused on South Africa’s automotive sector – and, despite the country’s economic downturn, much of the news was positive

hile South Africa works its way through the impact of the latest economic headwinds, the automotive sector is holding its own in a volatile market, Econometrix director and chief economist, Dr Azar Jaminne, said in a keynote address last month at a breakfast to launch Automechanika Johannesburg 2017.

translates into an improvement in the automotive industry’s share of gross domestic product.” Jaminne said South Africa remained easily the biggest vehicle market in Africa – accounting for 37% of passenger vehicle sales and 56% of commercial vehicle sales in 2016 – followed by Egypt and Morocco.

Jaminne said despite an expected contraction in domestic vehicle production and sales for this year, the automotive sector would remain a significant contributor to the country’s exports, with ample opportunities for further growth in Africa opening up opportunities for the components and parts sector. He said it was expected that new passenger vehicle output would contract this year by 2,9%, that of light commercial vehicles (LCVs) by 1,9%, medium commercial vehicles (MCVs) by 1,2% and heavy commercial vehicles (HCVs) by 0,7%. However, by 2018, he believed production would swing back into the positive, with passenger vehicle production growing by 2,9% along with increases of 0,4% and 0,8% respectively expected for LCVs and MCVs. According to his reckoning, there would be no growth in the HCV sector. Further, the downward trend in sales, following a hammering of the new vehicle sales market over the past few years, would positively benefit the

40 AUGUST 2017

The automotive export share as a percentage of South Africa’s total mechanise export had risen to an all-time high at 15,6% and the country’s export markets – including Germany, Belgium and the UK – remained strong, with the European Union accounting for 50% of the country’s exports.

Dr Azar Jaminne… “Production will swing back” parts and components sector in the medium term. “Given the fact that there is traditionally a three- to fiveyear lag between new vehicle sales and replacement parts, this suggests that, by 2020 or so, we could see quite a boom in the parts industry, both for LCVs and HCVs,” he said. In addition, the automotive sector was experiencing growth within the overall lacklustre manufacturing industry. “While manufacturing itself is going nowhere fast at 0%, the share of the automotive industry within overall manufacturing keeps rising. Including parts, this

However, exports to Africa were also rising, the continent currently accounting for 18% of the country’s automotive exports. “There are outstanding export prospects immediately to the north of us, as other African economies, particularly East Africa, boast attractive economic growth over the next few years,” Jaminne said. Further, South Africa’s trade balance had also improved, contracting from a deficit of R42,3-billion in 2012 to R32,9-billion in 2016. Automotive imports were up 48,7% from 2012 to 2016 and exports up 80,3% over the same period. “So, relatively speaking, the automotive sector is holding itself well in terms of trade with other countries,” he commented.

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Innovation Awards: Jury appointed

Gideon de Klerk

The jury that will evaluate automotive products entered into Automechanika Johannesburg’s Innovation Awards 2017 has been announced

ix experts who represent various segments of South Africa’s automotive industry have been appointed to evaluate products entered into Automechanika Johannesburg’s Innovation Awards 2017. The jury members are: Jakkie Olivier and John Ellmore of the Retail Motor Industry Organisation; Renai Moothilal of NAACAM; Norman Lamprecht of NAAMSA; David Furlonger of the Times Media Group and Gideon de Klerk, chairman of Partinform. While many of the representatives have served on previous Innovation Award juries, Moothilal and De Klerk represent new blood, said convenor Wynter Murdoch. As before, the jury’s collective focus will be to find the best automotive OE or aftermarket products in South Africa, scoring items considered ground breaking from a variety of perspectives. According to Murdoch, jury members will look to uncover products that hold the promise of performing beyond expectation, that are innovative and promote efficiency, are perceived to represent good value for money, are of excellent quality and which bring fresh perspectives to the OE or aftermarket segments in which they compete. “Functionality, practicality, styling, and benefits to users, environmental friendliness and other perceived pioneering qualities are among the

specifics that jury members will be searching for,” he said. In the lead up to August 10, when entries for the competition will close, a number of products had been entered across a broad spectrum of categories. Initial judging will begin this month, based on the photographs and descriptions submitted, which includes information relating to the technical characteristics and OE or aftermarket relevance of each product. A second round of judging will follow, with items that have been selected as finalists on the basis of highest marks scored undergoing physical examination by jury members. Following that evaluation, the winners will be determined on the basis of highest marks scored on a collective basis. The organisers of Automechanika Johannesburg 2017 have arranged for exhibits of the winning products to be highlighted in a display at the show, which takes place from September 27 to 30 at the national Exhibition Centre at Nasrec. Presentations will be made during the course of the exhibition to winners at an official prize-giving ceremony.

Norman Lamprecht

Renai Moothilal

Jakkie Olivier

John Ellmore

If you have any queries or require more information regarding the initiative, please contact Wynter Murdoch, at 011 803 2040 or via e-mail at wynter@ thefuture.co.za. David Furlonger

www.automobil.co.za

AUGUST 2017

INSIDE LINE

The mobility

CHALLENGE

Though new automotive technologies threaten to make everything we thought we knew about cars obsolete, in South Africa the dawn of the new age will be a long time coming, predicts David Furlonger

o Volvo intends to phase out the internal combustion engine from 2019 and tie its future to electric powertrains. Yawn!

more evident than in the motor industry, where new technologies threaten to make everything we thought we knew, ultimately obsolete.

France has joined other nations in declaring its intention to ban traditional vehicles from its roads, in favour of hybrid and electric. Double yawn!

It’s not just about what’s under the skin of the car or truck; it’s about the whole concept of transportation and mobility. Electric and self-driving vehicles are just the tips of this change.

And, of course, the whole motor industry is in a race to produce driverless cars, flying cars, vehicles reliant on artificial intelligence and other forms of automotion that will make existing science fiction look like prehistoric history. Multiple yawns!

So how can this be boring? Why am I yawning? Actually, I’m not. But I suspect many South Africans are. For them, the challenge of mobility is getting up at 3am to get to work at 8am through an inefficient transport system.

The world is engaged in what has been termed the Fourth Industrial Revolution – the fusion of physical, digital and biological worlds – which is transforming everything we know, including economies and industries.

Forget autonomous or electric cars, they dream of a coughing old engine that will give them at least a hint of independence. They don’t care about something that relieves them of the responsibility of driving. They long for that responsibility.

So frenetic is the pace of change that it’s hard to keep up. Nowhere is this

For them, what is happening in other countries might as well be happening

42 AUGUST 2017

on another planet. It’s irrelevant to their immediate existence. But what about tomorrow’s existence? For, as Toyota SA CEO Andrew Kirby points out, the quest for autonomous driving is ultimately about safety. Selfdriving vehicles might be a goal but not the only one. Some young car-owners have not experienced vehicles without powersteering, or airbags, or ABS brakes, or many of the other features that most of us take for granted. Many of them started life as features on luxury cars then made their way down to everything else as volume production made it cost-effective to share the technology. This cascade effect is continuing today. Cruise control is becoming standard. It’s only a matter of time before the adaptive kind – which stops you getting too close to the vehicle in front – follows suit. Ditto lane-changing technology and other potential life-savers.

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When most people talk of autonomous cars, they mean self-driving. But it’s a measure of the safety improvements that are happening beneath our noses, that all of us already drive autonomous cars. A vehicle is defined as autonomous the moment it includes driver-assistance systems. Only at the very top of the techno-pyramid, defined as Level Five, do we get to full self-drive with no need for human involvement. Most of us are in cars defined as Level Two, meaning they contain multiple assistance systems to support us and, in some emergency situations, even override us.

www.automobil.co.za

So does this mean that eventual full autonomy is a given? No. We have some problems here in South Africa that we show no signs of overcoming: motorists who ignore traffic rules, badly maintained roads, temperamental traffic lights and municipalities that like road closures or repairs to be a surprise and don’t warn motorists in advance. For full, effective autonomous driving, cars must be in permanent contact with each other through satellite or digital technology, sharing information about what they encounter on the roads. They must also “talk” to a central traffic database. But what if that database doesn’t know where car-swallowing potholes are located? Or if lanes are so badly marked that sensors can’t identify where they begin and end? And let’s not forget that over 80% of South Africa’s roads are unpaved, making them unsuitable for hands-free driving.

It’s a measure of the country’s detachment from overseas automotive technology trends that, while the rest of the world snaps up electric and hybrid cars, local motorists don’t want to know. Neither, one should say, does government. Remember, four years ago, when trade and industry minister Rob Davies announced an electric-vehicle “roadmap” to make SA a global production hub and encourage South Africa’s consumers to buy electric cars? Nothing has been heard of the plan since. So enjoy the debate about self-drive cars and an electric future and the demise of the internal combustion engine. But enjoy it as an observer. Don’t expect it to transform your life any time soon.

David Furlonger is the industrial editor of Business Day and Financial Mail

AUGUST 2017

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TECH TALK

The art of measurement

An engineer will tell you that man has to measure up in order to make mass production possible. Jake Venter explains why

ass production of parts requires that millions of so-called identical items match each other as closely as possible – a feat which became possible only when computers were introduced to manufacturing processes a few decades ago. In earlier years, parts such as universal joints, piston and cylinder assemblies, as well as gudgeon pins, to name just a few, were assembled by means of colour, letter or numerical codes. The machining processes of the day produced parts whose dimensions varied in the last decimal. You could not just put any piston into any cylinder. Most motor manufacturers graded piston diameters and cylinder bores from A to F, with diameters increasing as they went down the alphabet. If you fitted an A-piston into an A-bore it would give the correct clearance, but an A-piston in a B-bore would have double the clearance (this was sometimes allowed). However, a B-piston fitted into an A-bore cylinder was never allowed – it would seize up. These days, most modern factories employ machining and quality control techniques that produce parts whose

46 AUGUST 2017

dimensions vary so little that selective assembly is no longer needed. The production of a modern engine may require as many as 200 000 separate measurements on the factory floor as well as by metrology technicians in the laboratory. Instruments used in the measuring process are calibrated and serviced either daily, weekly, or at some other period depending on how fragile the instrument is, as well as how critical the accuracy of the readings are. INCORRECT MEASUREMENT PROCEDURES If a metrology technician had to visit the average automotive workshop he would see one or more of the following measuring mistakes being made while using a precision measuring instrument: • Not cleaning the instrument before use. • Not checking it for damage. • Not checking the zero setting. • Measuring incorrectly by not holding the instrument in the correct position. • Taking only one measurement instead of taking at least five and then averaging all the readings. • Misunderstanding the scale and units. • Not being able to read the instrument correctly. MEASUREMENT ACCURACY When one has completed a measurement

one should be able to answer the following questions: • Do you know how accurate your measurement results are? • Is the measurement accurate enough? • How strongly do you trust the result? These factors should be at the back of your mind while you are doing the measuring. The questions can only be properly answered if you understand the difference between precision, accuracy and uncertainty. I’m using a dart-player’s results as an example. • Precision is about how close measurements are to each other. If the results of five throws are close together but far from the target then it is a high precision but low accuracy result. • Accuracy is about how close measurements are to the true answer. If the darts are close to the target but not close together the result is accurate but the precision is low. • If all the darts are close together and near the target the result is accurate and precise. The uncertainty of a measurement can be determined by answering the question; “How wrong could I have been?” A likely answer can be obtained by looking at the measurement mistakes mentioned earlier.

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will for incremental comparisons. Some devices can also send the reading to a printer or recorder, by means of a cable, or change the reading from imperial to metric at the press of a button, and even send an error message if the scale surface is dirty.

The accuracy or precision of a measurement can be the result of the following conditions: • Changes in temperature that will not only cause material to expand or contract but also affect the measuring equipment. • Using inferior measuring equipment or using the wrong equipment for the accuracy required. • Poor measuring techniques, as detailed above. • Inadequate training or employees not willing to learn or take advice. MEASURING INSTRUMENTS Every measurement is a comparison between a quantity we want to know about and a standard amount of that quantity. Using the correct instrument for any particular measuring job is very important. You should know enough about measuring instruments to realise that measuring cylinder bore wear with a school ruler is as daft as measuring the length of a piece of sausage with a micrometer. The main measuring instruments used in the motor trade are the following: 1. A steel rule or tape can measure to the nearest millimetre, but any sizes smaller than that are pure guesswork.

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If you have to measure in a space that is difficult to reach, you may use inside or outside callipers to transfer measurements to a ruler or measuring tape. 2. For readings to the nearest tenth of a millimetre, one needs a vernier calliper, which uses the vernier principle to read the normal one-millimetre markings on the ruler part of the gauge more accurately. 3. Readings to the nearest one-hundredth of a millimeter can be done with an inside or outside micrometer. 4. A dial gauge is mainly used to measure very small movements. 5. Many measuring instruments are now available in electronic form with a digital read-out. This dramatically reduces the level of skill needed to read the instrument, but the operator still has to make sure that the correct dimension is being measured by having the instrument in the correct physical position. A digital calliper tracks the slider position from the origin point and can hold the reading at the press of a button, even if the slider is moved. Further, the zero point can be set at

Digital dial gauges are also replacing the traditional analog dial gauge, with features similar to callipers and micrometers. On more expensive models, tolerance values can be set on each side of a datum value by means of arrows in the window, making batch checking easier. These high-tech instruments are, unfortunately, priced at three to four times the equivalent mechanical model, and are not as robust, but they are certainly impressive. 6. Feeler gauges are used for checking valve clearances, distributor points gaps and any other gaps that cannot be checked with the above instruments. A spark plug gap is often measured with a feeler gauge, but the measurement should really be done with a special round spark plug gauge, because the electrodes wear in such a way that a flat surface cannot measure the gap correctly. 7. An interesting measuring technique is the use of plastigauge, which comes in the form of plastic strips that are manufactured to a close tolerance, to measure the clearance between crankshaft and con-rod journals and bearing caps. A factory uses many more specialised measuring instruments, far too

AUGUST 2017

TECH TALK numerous to mention, but they have no place in a workshop. TOLERANCE Reading a measurement on a drawing or on a chart that specifies allowable wear limits involves knowing some dimensioning conventions. Many dimensions include tolerance – usually indicated by permissible high and low values. This is easy to interpret, because you simply add and subtract the high and low values from the datum figure to get a range of permissible measurements. For example: • 45,00 (-0,02; +0,01) means that any measurement between 44,98 and 45,01 is acceptable • 45,00 (- 0,00; + 0,02) means the range of values becomes 45,00 to 45,02. If no tolerance is given, the way a measurement is written provides a clue to the permissible values. For example,

there is a difference between 40,0mm and 40mm, because the first number is measured accurately to the first decimal place, which means that it can refer to any number that can be rounded off to 40,0 – that is, any dimension equal to or bigger than 39,95 but smaller than or equal to 40,04. On the other hand 40 is only measured accurately to the second digit, so that it can only refer to any number between 39,5 and 40,4 inclusive. In the first case, the range of possible values is 40,04 39,95 = 0,09mm, whereas in the second case the range of possible values is 0,9mm. This indicates that writing a dimension as 40,0 limits the range of possible values to only one-tenth of what it could be if the dimension was written as 40. The same convention applies to even more accurate numbers such as 40,00 and 40,000. The existence of dimensional tolerance is due to the variations inherent in a

manufacturing process, and has nothing to do with measurement accuracy, which depends on the instrument used and the skill of the measurer. UNITS FOR SMALL CLEARANCES Older mechanics still think in terms of one thousandth of an inch (0,001 inch – called a thou), but these days toolmakers talk of microns – one millionth of a metre. A micron is also one thousandth of a millimetre, so one can say that ten microns are equal to one hundredths of a millimetre or 0,01mm, which is a quantity mechanics will come across. You can convert by knowing that 0,1mm is about four thou (0,004) and one thou is about 2,5 hundredths of a millimetre (0,025mm).

Jake Venter has worked as a mechanic, as an engineer in an engine assembly plant and as a lecturer, but now prefers journalism.

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TECH TALK

A manual for all your CLUTCH KIT NEEDS

What’s the Buzz?

03 • 2017

uality motoring is important to all motorists and, in order to achieve excellent driving performance, focus should be placed not just on the engine and the brakes, but on the clutch as well.

Clutch discs are reasonably durable compared with other d in order automotive components. However, they are still prone to wear us should and life span depends to a large degree on driving s, but the With this in mind, SACHS – a tear. ZF brand,Their a 03 • A manual all your leading name in the global clutch market diagnostic skills of for workshops and in of what is incorporated in each clutch kit styles and conditions of use. In order to work safely, they must be a leading – proudly presents its 2017 Clutches particular, supports discussions with – as well as a unique offer on clutch kits clutch kit needs installed, and operated withsuitable the for correct care. its ‘2017 Catalogue for Passenger Vehicles, Vansmaintained, customers. LuK dual mass fly wheels, the uality driving is very important to all motorists and in order Clutch discs are reasonably durable compared w and Pickups. catalogue provides the components. best aftermarket to achieve excellent driving performance, focus should automotive However, they are still pron Pickups’. Clutchbediscs are reasonably durable regarding placed not just on theideal engine and go-to-guide the brakes,guidelines but the and tear. brand Their lifeselection, span depends to a large degree o SACHS’s catalogue is the for your clutch clutch as well.with With other this in mind, SACHS - a brand of ZF, aclutch leadingwarranties, styles and conditions use. In order to work safely, the The latest edition of the renowned SACHS compared automotive fitment and of installation brand in the global clutch market, proudly presents its ‘2017 installed, maintained, and operated with the correct ca selection, with the most comprehensive LD Clutch kit range on provides catalogue provides workshops with components. However, they are still prone procedures, a buyer’s guide, part number Clutches Catalogue for Passenger Vehicles, Vans and Pickups’. SACHS’s catalogue is the ideal go-to-guide for yo important informationoffer, about the design to and tear. Their life span replacements, service information, fault Thewear latestis edition of the renowned catalogue with the offer most comprehensive stating what included inSACHS adepends kit as provides well as aselection, unique on LD Clutch kit perations youawith important about the design offer,SACHS stating what is included and operations of the brand’s powertrain to large degreeinformation on driving styles and and operations diagnostics and clutch tools. in a kit as well as a uniqu of itssuitable powertrain products. InLuK addition,dual the catalogue provides clutch kits onlytherefore, suitable for LuK dual mass fly wheels, kits only fly wheels, provides products. In addition, clutch the catalogue conditions of use. for In order to work safely,mass diagnostic illustrations and explanations designed to help you providing you with the best aftermarket brand selectio and must be installed, maintained, andetc. Knowledge power – fitment and this catalogue identify potential faults in clutch kit installation, and installation guidelines, a buye providing youthey with the best aftermarket brandiswarranties, selection, clutch helpprovides you diagnostic illustrations part number replacements, service information, fault di explanations designed to help technicians operated with the correct care. packs a proper punch. By making this knowledge readily available to you, the catalogue and clutch tools. warranties, and installation guidelines, a SACHS buyer’s guide, enhances your diagnostic skills and in particular, support your identify potential faults regarding clutch fitment discussions with customers. ‘Knowledge is power’ and this catalogue packs a prop kit installations. SACHS’s catalogue is theservice ideal go-to- information, fault diagnostics part number replacements, guide for any workshop’s clutch selection. Email: marketing.grm@zf.com catalogue marketing.grm@zf.com webcat.zf.com | Web Address: www.zf.com/za andreadily SACHS clutch tools. By making this knowledge With theEmail: most comprehensive LD Clutch| Catalogue: Catalogue: webcat.zf.com port available, your the catalogue enhances the kit range on offer – which include a listing Web Address: www.zf.com/za ‘Knowledge is power’ and this catalogue packs a proper punch.

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AUGUST 2017 -

LABOUR

Is there a stipulated retirement age? Employers should consider the question of an employee’s retirement with much greater care than may be anticipated, warns Douw Breed, a director at Barnard Inc Attorneys, Centurion

etirement within the workplace is a common phenomenon. It might, at the outset, seem to be a simple principle dependent on basic requirements and which process is executed by adhering to only a few minor procedures. However, this approach is an oversimplification. The “normal retirement age” is a concept that employers often accept to be the age which the particular industry in which they operate has assumed it to be. However, there is no pertinent determination – the Basic Conditions of Employment Act and other authorities are silent on what exactly constitutes a normal retirement age. There are a number of guidelines through which a normal retirement age could be established: • Normal practice within the workplace; • Determined in the employment contract; or • Set out in a company policy.

52 AUGUST 2017

Section 187 (1) (f) of the Labour Relations Act has to be considered carefully when retirement is contemplated. The section states as follows: (1) A dismissal is automatically unfair if the employer, in dismissing the employee, acts contrary to Section 549 or, if the reason for the dismissal is: (f) That the employer unfairly discriminated against an employee, directly or indirectly, on any arbitrary ground, including, but not limited to, race, gender, sex, ethnic or social origin, colour, sexual orientation, age (own emphasis), disability, religion, conscience, belief, political opinion, culture, language, marital status or family responsibility. Considering the provisions of the above section, it is clear that the employer

may be confronted with an unfair labour practice if it considered that the employer unfairly discriminated against an employee regarding his or her age. Such a dismissal will be viewed automatically as an unfair dismissal. Consequently, the compensation that may be awarded to the employee could be for an amount equal to a total salary of 24 months in circumstances of an automatic unfair dismissal. In certain instances, however, discrimination based on age may be considered as fair. Section 187 (2) reads as follows: (2) Despite subsection (1)(f): (a) A dismissal may be fair if the reason for dismissal is based on an inherent requirement of the particular job; (b) a dismissal based on age is fair if the employee has reached the normal or agreed retirement age for persons employed in that capacity.

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LABOUR

Section 187 (2)(b) makes it clear that there should be a normal or agreed retirement age for a person in the specific “capacity.” In such consideration, another authority of paramount importance is the Employment Equity Act, with specific reference to Section 6. This section provides that, for an employee’s dismissal based on age not to be unfair, the employer must prove that age was an inherent requirement for the particular position and concomitant job description. In ARB Electrical Wholesalers (Pty) Ltd v Hibbert, the court confirmed that, without an agreed retirement age, dismissal of an employee was automatically unfair.

The rules of a retirement fund, when applicable, also give an indication of an agreed retirement age. Normal Retirement Age: This criterion can be determined by past practice. Past employees retiring at a certain age will set the normal retirement age. The court in this matter held that the period in which employees in a specific industry retired at a certain age, should be of an extensive nature. It can be argued that employees reaching a certain age, within the industry, are set to retire. If the period is not long, but the number of employees retiring at a certain age is significant, a normal retirement age will have been established.

Section 6 of the Employment Equity Act was also considered in this matter and the court held that the dismissal might even be viewed as unfair discrimination against the employee based on age.

Another relevant case is the matter between Kirsten and Southern Cross Manufacturing Co Ltd, t/a Southern Cross Industries. In this matter, the employee was asked to retire at the age of 65, the company alledging that that was the normal retirement age.

The court in Rubin Sporstwear v SA Clothing and Textile Workers Union and others held that dismissal of an employee based on age could be considered justifiable in two instances –the employee had reached normal retirement age or an agreed retirement age.

The employee’s defense was that she was the only company employee to ever retire at the age of 65 – the only other employee she was aware of retired at the age of 70 after an agreement had been reached.

The difference between the two can be summarized as follows: Agreed Retirement Age As the name suggests, the dismissal should be based on an age of retirement that was agreed by the parties – normally so agreed in an employment contract or a policy.

The court held that the termination of the employee amounted to discrimination based on her age. Furthermore, the court found that the “termination of the applicant’s employment constituted an automatically unfair dismissal in terms of section 187(1)(f) of the LRA.” Essentially, retirement has to be considered with much greater care than may be anticipated. Employers are urged to cautiously consider all statutory requirements and other prevailing authorities in setting a normal retirement age within their businesses. Company policies, retirement fund rules and retirement clauses within the employment contracts of employees will provide employers – and employees – with the prerequisite certainty in determining the normal retirement age which, in turn, will afford the required protection when contemplating and executing processes pursuant to retirement.

The employer in turn argued that the Board adopted a resolution which clearly stated that the normal retirement age within the company was 65. The court, however, found that the resolution was not properly communicated to all staff members and that the newly joined retirement clause was not contained in the employee’s contract of employment.

Douw Breed (BCom (NWU) LLB (NWU)) is a director at Barnard Incorporated Attorneys , Centurion www.automobil.co.za

AUGUST 2017

LEGAL EAGLE

TRANSFERING a property In order not to become unduly frustrated by the seemingly endless time-wasting that occurs in a property transfer process, it is essential to understand the steps involved, says Johané Janse van Vuuren, an associate at Barnard Incorporated Attorneys in Centurion

ime is a constraint when you are the prospective owner of a property or, similarly, a seller – be it a residential or a commercial property. Unfortunately, the property transfer process requires patience as it may take longer than expected. It is essential to understand the registration process to avoid any unpleasant surprises. On average, the registration process takes roughly three months from the date of signature of the sale agreement until the property is registered in the new owner’s name. Many aspects of the registration process – which the transfer attorney is assigned to coordinate – is dependent on the co-operation of several institutions and authorities –

54 AUGUST 2017

for example, city councils, financial institutions, revenue offices and the Deeds Office. In most instances, three different attorneys are involved in the registration process: 1. Transfer Attorney – once the sale agreement is signed by both parties, the seller appoints the transfer attorney who is responsible for the registration of the transfer of the property; 1. Bond Attorney – the bank that is financing the purchase of the property may appoint the bond attorney who is responsible for the registration of the bond over the property; and

1. Cancellation Attorney – the attorney who represents the bank which is involved in cancelling the seller’s home loan, who is also appointed by the bank. The transfer attorney will request cancellation figures from the cancellation bank, obtain the rates, lights, water and refuse removal clearance figures from the local authority and, if applicable, levy clearance figures from the relevant body corporate or home owners’ association. On receipt of the clearance figures the seller needs to pay the amounts outstanding to obtain a clearance certificate for lodgment in the Deeds Office.

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The Financial Intelligence Centre Act No 38 of 2001 (FICA) is applicable to all property transfer transactions and the transfer attorney is obliged to obtain FICA documentation from the seller and purchaser. The documents provide proof of the parties’ identity, residential addresses and tax registration numbers. Once the transfer attorney has these documents, he or she will draft the transfer papers and request supporting documentation from the seller and purchaser. Also, the transfer attorney will request guarantees from the purchaser’s bond attorney and will supply a draft title deed to him or her to enable preparation of the purchaser’s bond documents and the issuing of guarantees. The purchaser must attend to the signature of the bond documents as soon as possible in order to facilitate the registration process and avoid delays. The next step is for the seller and purchaser to sign the transfer documentation, with the purchaser paying the transfer duty as well as the transfer attorney’s fees and expenses. On receipt of the guarantees, the transfer attorney will forward the information to the cancellation attorney and, in return, receive the property’s original title deed. The transfer attorney will arrange for the simultaneous lodging of the title deeds and bond documents in the deeds office. The deeds office will examine the documents – a process which usually takes between six and

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eight working days. Thereafter, the deeds are taken to the “prep room” and the transfer attorney has an opportunity to finalise outstanding matters. The transfer attorney may then register the deeds and ownership passes from the seller to the purchaser. At the same time, the purchaser’s new bond is also registered and the seller’s existing bond is cancelled.

The finalisation of finances will usually be completed the day after registration takes place due to the fact that the purchaser’s bond payment only reflects in the transferring attorneys trust account the day after registration. In conclusion, in order not to become unduly frustrated by the seemingly endless time-wasting that occurs in a property transfer process, it is essential to understand the steps involved.

RMI4law members enjoy the benefit of legal advice from an attorney 24 hours a day. If you would like to join RMI4law, kindly contact 0861 668 677.

AUGUST 2017

RMI UPDATE

Managing HIV/AIDS in your workplace Planning an effective HIV/AIDS communications strategy

policy and strategy says and why the changes are being made. 3. Education and training on HIV/ AIDS prevention and care – for example, skills development and training on basic knowledge of HIV/ AIDS, awareness of stigma and discrimination, and the negative effects on productivity and morale could form the basis of a series of communications. 4. HIV/AIDS related reports relevant to general employees or management – for example, reports released by UNAIDS or the South African Department of Health could provide valuable insights into how the world and South Africa is managing the pandemic; these reports not only provide accurate HIV/AIDS-related information but can also be used to support management decision-making. Similarly, your communication campaigns

could talk about issues such as: values and traditions that may be fuelling the epidemic, gender inequality, discrimination against HIV infected employees, employee fears and concerns, and so on. These are a few examples of the types of information you could include in communication campaigns linked to your HIV/AIDS strategy. The Department of Labour’s Code of Good Practice on HIV and AIDS and the World of Work states in its introduction that: “Every person should take personal responsibility in relation to HIV and AIDS to educate themselves, prevent transmission, seek available treatment and treat others with dignity and respect.” Carefully planned and well-executed workplace communication campaigns can assist in seeing this and other goals of the code become a reality. Contact Redpeg for accredited HIV/AIDS workplace training, consulting and research. tim@redpeg.co.za | 0861 REDPEG or (011) 794 5173 | www.redpeg.co.za)

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o increase the chances of success of your company’s HIV/AIDS prevention strategy it’s a good idea to have an effective approach to what you communicate. This article looks at some topics you could focus on: 1. Communication to provide information on workplace activities and services – for example, your company is planning to provide its employees with access to a clinic at the workplace once a week. Launch a communication campaign to make employees aware of these services and potentially increase uptake. 2. Communication about company policies and HIV/AIDS strategies – for example, while you could communicate any changes made to policies and strategies to employees to keep them up to date, the communications could also serve as a great opportunity to present a brief outline of what the company’s

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AUGUST 2017

FAQs The RMI’s Motor Industry Workshop Association (MIWA) has, through the years, been inundated with requests for clarity on the subject of a workshop’s rights to vehicles contracted in. To set the record straight, the association has obtained legal advice Q. Are workshops entitled to charge storage fees for vehicles not collected? A. A workshop is entitled to charge storage fees in the event that a vehicle is not collected and for the period that it remains uncollected. There seems to be no guideline on what is to be charged and, for the sake of cautiousness with regard to the provisions of Competitions Legislation, we will not endeavour to provide advice thereon by mentioning amounts. We can only state that such amounts should be reasonable and should endeavour to remain within the

parameters of the accepted price charged within the industry.

determined by way of a trial, which poses long lapses in time.

However, a contentious issue that remains with regards to the issue of storage costs is whether such costs may be the subject matter that gives rise to a right of retention. While a lien can only be exercised in terms of a contract, it is of utmost importance to ensure that the aspect of storage costs be a term to such a contract.

Should the aspect of storage costs – together with the amount to be charged per day – not be agreed in writing, a workshop will be well advised to release the vehicle to the owner upon demand to avoid court applications for an order to direct the workshop to deliver the vehicle.

Although a contract need not be written to be one that is lawful and binding upon the parties, the terms of unwritten (or oral) agreements are always much harder to prove and usually result in disputes being

However, in the event that such storage costs are a substantial amount and the parties – the workshop and the vehicle’s owner – have agreed in writing to storage costs per day at a certain amount, being reasonable, it seems to be accepted that such storage costs alone can form the basis of a right of retention.

CHRIS AUTO ELECTRICAL

58 AUGUST 2017

212 Soutter Street, Pretoria West Tel : (012) 327 5404/6504 Fax : (012) 327 6211 Email : info@caelex.co.za www.caelex.co.za www.automobil.co.za

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AUGUST 2017

BUSINESS MANAGEMENT

Millennial car chase From an automotive retail perspective, how do you better understand a millennial? Pieter Scholtz of ActionCoach offers some clues

illennial: a word synonymous with a generation that’s impossible to satisfy and even more difficult to sell to. These 20- and 30-somethings pose great challenges for businesses, including the motor industry, but it might still be possible to decode their purchasing habits and get ahead of the millennial car-chase. A good starting point is to gain a better understanding of millennials themselves. Here are a few qualities that might be ascribed to this target group: 1. Millennials come across as entitled and narcissistic. This is illustrated in their use of social media, though the trait isn’t always a negative and can be misinterpreted. It may be an indication of a deeper self-knowledge – a valuable attribute in the motor industry, as it’s always better to have customers who know what they want. 2. Millennials tend to be detached from institutions and rather opt for being part of a network. Therefore their

loyalties lie elsewhere to those of their parents – millennials tend to buy a brand for its product value rather than merely its brand value. 3. Balance between professional and personal life is non-negotiable. Millennials frequently swop jobs in their search for balance, and value job satisfaction more than a higher income. 4. Millennials are trend-setters. These trends, however, often seem to take a step back rather than forward, for instance a love for vintage or vintageinspired modes and styles. With this in mind, how can the motor industry go about navigating the millennium minefield? It all comes down to combining knowledge with information regarding purchasing habits. Here are some of the key points I have picked up in my recent research and experience: 1. Millennials are unlikely to make a purchase based on convenience –

they focus on value. In the motor industry this may be applied to fuel consumption; the average millennial would consider buying a car based on a comparatively low fuel consumption rate, rather than on dynamic drive features. 2. About 80% of millennials (more than 60 million) will become parents in the next decade. This means that an entirely new market is opening within their generation, just waiting to be explored. 3. The average millennial would apparently rather invest in an exotic vacation than a car or a house; thus, experiences trump assets. Selling a car as an experience may be a very smart way of convincing a millennial to buy. The challenge that millennials pose to the motoring industry can easily be seen as an opportunity to grow your business within a highly influential and consumer-savvy market.

Pieter Scholtz is the Co-Master Franchisor in Southern Africa for ActionCOACH, the fastest growing and largest business coaching company globally. Pieter and his partner Harry Welby-Cooke developed ActionCOACH across Southern Africa, which now boasts over 40 franchisees. He is also a certified, leading business and executive coach. He has successfully assisted countless business owners to significantly grow their profits and develop their entrepreneurial skills. www.actioncoach.co.za / 012 665 1015

60 AUGUST 2017

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AUGUST 2017 61 A Division of Imperial Group Limited

MEMBERUPDATE

The RMI welcomes these new businesses into membership

Mem Trading Name Street City A AA Windscreen Exhaust & Service Centre Ulundi AB Tyres Port Shepstone ACD Panelbeaters Welkom ADT Tyres Harrismith Alf Auto Port Shepstone ALR Auto Clinic Pretoria Ashley & Kenan Paarl Athlone CV Joint & Steering Rack Centre Cape Town Auto Dimention Panel Beaters Pinetown Auto Don Motors Greytown Auto Mack Panel Beaters Klerksdorp Auto Paint Express Parow Auto Pro Motors Queenstown Autobility Pongola Autocare and Diagnostics Ferndale Randburg B Bagpro Motors Kimberley Banda Car Service Pretoria Bessie Bester Motors Brackenfell BMX Towing and Recovery Butterworth Bothlabatsatsi Trading and Projects 11 Pretoria Brentwood Park Service Station Benoni Buyisani Repairs and Contracting Projects Pretoria C C A R S Pretoria Car Care Clinic Northcliff 1 Johannesburg Car Care Doctor Pretoria Centlube Strand Coles Autobody Repairs Parow D Danmar Autobody - Benoni Benoni Danmar Autobody - Meadowdale Edenvale Danmar Autobody - Ophirton Johannesburg Danmar Autobody - West Rand Randburg DBS Auto clinic Strand Duneden Service Station Olifantsfontein E Efficient Car Service Centre Johannesburg Engen Great North Benoni Erickson Autobody Repairs Nelspruit F Fangio Automotive Services Randburg Fedauto Ford Bethlehem Bethlehem Fit It Welkom Welkom FM Auto Pretoria G Gabengz Panel Beaters Sterkspruit GG Motors Blackheath

Mem Trading Name Global Auto Gregs Spraypainters H H Brian Customs Mag Rim Repairs Hassan Ottery Motors Hassans Arcadia Motors Hiway Workshop Hyundai - Harbour View Durban Hyundai N1 City I Iconic Service Interfix 1 Investment Auto J JAS Motors JBS Auto care K Kathu Auto Body Repairs Kellco Investments Khans Tyre & Tube Centre Kia - Alberton Koketso Rebone Transport & Projects L LLB Car Service Loren & Chuck Trading & Projects M Marks Auto Mazda South Africa McIntosh Parts Centre Merc Boyz Mkhwanis Auto Centre Mortimer Toyota Matatiele Mr Auto Limbro Mtech1 Motors MTM Auto Mechanic and Projects MTS Workshop Musical Cars N Namaqua Herstelwerke NF Apprentices Noordkaap Auto Services NTT - GM Tzaneen O Oil Change Centre Onelogic Auto Repair Centre P Phedmerc Services and Repairs Phileza Tyres Platinum Auto

Street City Potchefstroom Richards bay Pretoria Cape Town Cape Town Rustenburg Durbanville Goodwood Kuilsriver Pretoria Sandton Centurion Benoni Kathu Nelspruit Kroonstad Alberton Ga-Rankuwa Roodepoort Pretoria Randburg Midrand Pinetown Germiston Newcastle Matatiele Johannesburg Pietermaritzburg Krugersdorp Bela-Bela Cape Town Strand Midrand Hartswater Tzaneen Empangeni Rail Camperdown Pretoria Midrand Polokwane

Mem Trading Name Street City Powerstar Ermelo Ermelo Pre-Owned Sandton Sandton Pro-MasterMechanical Pretoria Professional Fleet Services Cape Town R Randwest Nissan Randfontein Razman Auto Panelbeaters Pretoria RGT Ladybrand RTYT Auto Fit Johannesburg S SDL Auto Johannesburg Sea Side Auto Repairs Port Shepstone Silverton Spraypainters & Panelbeaters Pretoria Sky Power Motors Ulundi Smart Lions Trading Enterprises Burgersfort SR Radiators Paarl Supa Quick Tyre Experts Carnival Mall Brakpan Supa Quick Tyre Experts Kibler park Johannesburg Supa Quick Tyre Experts Manguzi Ingwavuma Supa Quick Tyre Experts Plettenberg Bay Plettenberg bay Supa Quick Tyre Experts Shelly Beach Margate Supa Quick Tyre experts Tulbagh Tulbagh Supreme Brake & Clutch Bloemfontein T Tafita Car Dealers Mokopane Tempe Trading and Projects Hectorspruit The KDV Motor Group Boksburg Tiger Wheel & Tyre Mokopane Mokopane Top Care Auto Clinic Modderfontein Town Centre Motors Durbanville Transformd Sandton Transmission & Propshaft Rebuilders Cape Town Tubatse Panelbeaters Burgersfort Tyres & More Silverton Pretoria Tyre Choice Brackenfell U Uni-Auto Pretoria Unitrans Ford Modimole Nylstroom V Vaal mall Tyres Vanderbijlpark Volks City Motor Specialist Pretoria Vorsprung Mechanical and Auto Electrical Randburg W Watson Panelbeaters Cape Town West Rand Motors Krugersdorp WG Propshaft Repair Cape Town William Simpson Cars - Nissan Newlands Cape Town William Simpson Cars - Jeep Tokai Cape Town Yellowline Corporation Paarl

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64 AUGUST 2017

CLIENTS Aer O Cure Africa Automotive Aftermarket Solutions Audi Parts Autocosmos Biz (Electrolog) Automechanika Johannesburg Automobil Association Technical College Ctrack Eurospares GUD Holdings Highveld Garage Equipment Integrated Marketing Kigima Auto Electrical Training Centre Land Rover Fleet & Business Moto Health Care Motor Industry Staff Association NUS Trading Robert Bosch Spanjaard Silver Falcon Trading Snap On Africa Trysome Auto Electrical Volkswagen Parts ZF Services South Africa

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HEAD OFFICE merSETA House, 95 7th Avenue, Cnr Rustenburg Road Melville Johannesburg, 2092 Tel: 010 219 3000 Fax: 086 673 0017 EASTERN CAPE

What is a learnership?

What is an apprenticeship?

A learnership is a structured learning process for gaining theoretical knowledge through an accredited training provider and practical skills in the workplace leading to a qualification registered on the NQF. A learnership is outcomes-based and not time-based and allows for recognition of prior learning. Learnership duration varies but the average is about 12 months.

The apprenticeship system is a well-known technical training system, which covers both practical and theoretical components offered in listed trades. Once you have completed your training, you will need to pass a trade test to qualify as an artisan.

Who is eligible to enter a learnership programme? Any person, employed or unemployed, may apply to register for a learnership: Ÿ If you are employed, you may register for a learnership

programme within the sector where your company or organisation operates; or

Ÿ If you are unemployed, you may register for placement in a

learnership programme at your local labour centre or with employers in your area.

The Department of Labour refers unemployed individuals, who meet the minimum criteria, to employers looking for learners. How does one apply for a learnership programme? Ÿ If you are employed, find out which learnerships are

available in the sector in which you work. Upon deciding which learnership programme is appropriate, you will need to enter into an agreement with your employer stating your rights and responsibilities as a learner; or

Ÿ If you are unemployed, you must register your profile at the

nearest Department of Labour office, after which you may be referred to employers who may be looking for learners to enter learnership programmes.

Who is eligible for an apprenticeship programme? Any South African citizen, 16 years or older. There are different admission requirements for the various trades. Competence in Maths, Science and English will enhance your chances of selection. How does one apply to enter an apprenticeship programme? Ÿ If you are unemployed, you may apply to a company that is

offering an apprenticeship programme; or

Ÿ If you are employed, consult with your employer as to the

requirements and correct procedures to be followed to enter an apprenticeship programme.

WE CARE

It’s about caring for people we render services to

WE BELONG

It’s about working together with colleagues

w www.merseta.org.za merSETA Social @mersetasocial

14-20 Pickering Street Newton Park, Port Elizabeth, 6045 Tel: 0861 637 734 Fax: 041 363 0144 GAUTENG SOUTH merSETA House, 95 7th Avenue, Cnr Rustenburg Road Melville Johannesburg, 2092 Tel: 010 219 3000 Fax: 086 673 0017 GAUTENG NORTH & NORTH WEST Automotive Supplier Park, 30 Helium Road Rosslyn Ext. 2 Pretoria, 0200 Tel: 0861 637 731 Fax: 0866 700299 FREE STATE & NORTHERN CAPE 46 Second Avenue Westdene Bloemfontein, 9300

WE SERVE

It’s about going beyond the call of duty

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LEADERS IN CLOSING THE SKILLS GAP www.automobil.co.za

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AUGUST 2017

TAIL PIECE

Commemorating Women’s Month South Africa commemorates Women’s Month in August as a tribute to the more than 20 000 women who marched to the Union Buildings on August 9, 1956, in protest against the extension of Pass Laws

he Government has declared August Women’s Month and August 9 is celebrated annually as Women’s Day. Great strides have been made since 1994 to improve the status of women. Prior to that, South Africa’s Parliament had a mere 2,7% representation of women, and following the first democratic elections, women representation in the National Assembly stood at 27,7%. In 1999 the figure increased to 30% and then to 32,7% in 2004. After the 2009 national elections, women representation reached 42%. Currently women ministers comprise 41% of the Cabinet, women deputy ministers make up 47% of the total number of deputy ministers and women represent 41% of the National Assembly.

the Presidency to steer the national gender programme and champion the development of the National Policy Framework for Women Empowerment and Gender Equality that was approved by Cabinet in 2000. Subsequently, similar structures have been established in the Premier’s offices. In May 2009, the President pronounced on the establishment a Ministry of Women, Children and People with Disabilities (DWCPD). In May 2014 the President evolved the structure to a dedicated Ministry for Women in the Presidency as a way of elevating women’s issues and interests to lead, coordinate and oversee the transformation agenda on women’s socio-economic empowerment, rights and equality through mainstreaming, monitoring and evaluation.

Since the advent of democracy, South Africa has seen a number of women taking up leadership positions in areas previously dominated by men. One of the success stories of the country’s democracy is that of the representation of women in political and decision-making positions. Involving women in governance processes constitutes one of South Africa’s globally 17-QA/0874/13 ELECTRICAL acclaimed success stories.

Furthermore, government policies and programmes have been aimed at improving the living conditions of women. In 1997 the Office on the Status of Women (OSW) was established in

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According to a Government statement, the election of Dr Nkosazana DlaminiZuma in July 2012 as the first woman in Africa to chair the African Union Commission; the appointment of

Dr Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka, former Deputy President of the country as the Under-Secretary-General and Executive Director of UN Women; and the positioning of other South African women in many global organisations is an indication of the impact that women in decision-making have in winning the trust and confidence of citizens in South Africa, on the continent and internationally. Prior to 1994, South Africa had only one woman judge, whilst today women judges make up almost 28% of the judiciary. Women are making inroads into business leadership and heading up global giants. Women also can be found as chairpersons of corporate boards in the country, while others are entering and leading in previously male dominated territories, for example, the head of the Palaeontology Department in the University of Cape Town is a woman, and the South African Airways (SAA) now has women pilots, some flying international bound flights. Women are in the defence force, navy and air force in South Africa. In fact women make up almost 40% of the Senior Management Service in the public sector and overall women comprise more than 50% of employees in the Public Service. Women have even entered previously male dominated areas in the corporate world, and currently constitute 3,6% of CEO positions, 5,5% of chairperson positions, 17,1% of directorships and 21,4% of executive management positions.

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Coming to the South African Whether heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s playing in his jazz band or IAMa manual in September writing for a new brake pad, Guido wants every audience to enjoy the 2017! same thing: a great performance. Tests This is Guido Orth-Gauch, Technical Author at TRW.

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AUGUST 2017

Aer-o-cure provides an air-tight solution for refinishing professionals. Aer-o-cure’s Combination Downdraught Spraybooths are designed for automotive refinishers that demand a reliable, high quality paint process with minimum running costs. The powerful downdraft ventilation system guarantees a healthy working environment and optimal conditions for painting, removing all vehicle overspray immediately and ensuring a mirror-perfect finish after baking. Minimising energy usage during both the painting and baking cycles is a high priority and is achieved through precisely controlling the motor’s speed via the Microprocessor control. Energy-saving neon lighting is utilised to provide uniform conditions allowing for correct colour tones to be achieved with absolute precision. For a complete Aer-o-cure Spraybooth and Mixing Room solution, visit our website or call now for more information.

10 Reasons why you should choose an Aer-o-cure Combination Downdraught Spraybooth: • Microprocessor controlled, energy efficient • Manufactured in South Africa • OEM Approved • SABS Certified • Lower maintenance costs • Lower operational costs • Easily movable • Established in SA since 1980 • Proven after-sales service and support • Over 2000 spray booths produced since inception

STANDARD MIXING ROOMS MODELS: AM – 30 / 40 STANDARD SPRAYBOOTHS MODELS: AC60- 2800, AC75 – 2800 / 3400, AC90 – 2800 / 3400 OPTIONAL EXTRAS: Extraction • Waterborne Blowing System • Lights • Windows • Gas Burners

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Automotive Bodyshop Equipment Aer-o-cure PTY (Ltd) • SADC Registered Manufacturer and Exporter 8 Lees Street, Wynberg, 2090, Johannesburg, South Africa. PO Box 137 Strathavon, 2031 GraphicWerx • AOC_Ad5_AutoMobil_3042

Tel: +27 11 444 6454 Fax: +27 11 444 5677 e-Mail: info@aerocure.co.za * Product / Colour may vary from image provided, subject to stock availability. (E&OE)