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COLUMNS

CONTENTS – JUNE 2016

Driver’s Seat

Jakkie Oliver, CEO of the RMI

7 9 56

Editor’s Letter: Wynter Murdoch Hot Stuff: New product showcase Frequently Asked Questions Answers from the experts

66 Tailpiece

P16

UPDATES Editor: Wynter Murdoch wynter@thefuture.co.za Sub-editor: Peggy Lendrum peggy@thefuture.co.za Reporters: Pritesh Ruthun pritesh@thefuture.co.za Ryan de Smidt ryan@thefuture.co.za Kieran Rennie kieran@thefuture.co.za Reuben Van Niekerk reuben@thefuture.co.za Publisher: Richard Lendrum richard@thefuture.co.za Production: Mabel Ramafoko mabel@thefuture.co.za Design and layout: Heinz Bawa heinz@thefuture.co.za Advertising Sales Executives: Enver Lawangi, Greg Surgeon, Kieran Rennie enver@thefuture.co.za greg@thefuture.co.za kieran@thefuture.co.za Future Publishing (Pty) Ltd 1 Cecil Avenue, Melrose Estate, Johannesburg PO Box 3355, Rivonia, 2128 Tel: +27 (11) 268-6297

10 News

VW Suppliers’Day hailed a success; Kia issues a recall for Cerato models; New head for Hyundai’s Africa region; Checking up on tyres; Another milestone for Kyalami; Doing away with maintenance pain; Sewells speeds up transformation; New CEO for Fiat Chrysler; New tyres from SAVA; Single units from Textar; New Mini for Goodwood; Ford launches SA training initiative

Keeping the wheels turning

RMI Update

P20

The RMI’s Tyre Dealers’and Fitment Association (TDAFA) is maintaining its impetus for change where dealer member participation is the most effective way of making a difference, says director Hedley Judd Annual Golf Day success; Right to Repair gets mixed reaction; SAAW to highlight tool, die and mould making; New prices for Technica guides; WorldSkills entry date extended; Make contact with Tukela

COVER STORY 20

P32

Mighty muscle

Four turbochargers and a common-rail, direct injection fuel system that generates maximum pressure in excess of 2 500 bar have helped BMW to create what it claims is the world’s most powerful six-cylinder diesel engine

FEATURES

P46

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

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).

Automobil is available to purchase from the publishers at R25 a copy. Automobil is published by Future Publishing (Pty) Ltd and produced for the Retail Motor Industry Organisation. Opinions expressed in Automobil are not necessarily those of the publishers or the Retail Motor Industry Organisation. Permission to republish any article or image or part thereof must be obtained in writing from the publisher. © Future Publishing (Pty) Ltd.

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Automotive's road to 2035?

The right stuff

Stretching the limits

Small looms large

Surety agreements

Ins and outs of sick leave

Staying on top

The Bill of Rights

One thing critics of the APDP and its forerunner, the MIDP, can’t deny is that these initiatives have to provide long-term certainty for South Africa’s automotive industry – without which investors would have stayed away It’s not all about money… human resources specialist Amanda Kirk offers some guidelines aimed at retaining staff on a tight budget Continental’s SportContact 6 is an all-new super sports tyre aimed at the ultra-high performance vehicle segment Motor manufacturers have embraced the engine downsizing trend. Jake Venter examines the rise of the three-cylinder unit Many of us will, at one stage or another, be asked to stand surety for another person’s or entity’s debt. Before binding yourself as a surety, you should have an understanding of the nature and consequences of a suretyship agreement Illness in the workplace is unavoidable and sick leave is recognised in South Africa’s Basic Conditions of Employment Act. Douw Breed, a director at Barnard Incorporated Attorneys, examines some of the issues Now, more than ever, businesses can’t afford to burn money. Business coach Fergus Ferguson offers seven tips for savvy management practices Managing HIV/AIDS in your workplace

JUNE 2016 -

BENEFITS OF BELONGING The RMI has represented the retail motor trade for over 100 years. Our 7 500 members across 14 trade associations are serviced out of six offices around the country, manned by a staff of 74. Through MIBCO structures, we represent members on the board of Moto Health Care and the motor industry pension funds. Handling labour negotiations on your behalf through the centralised bargaining forum removes the nightmare of possible shop floor negotiations. We actively drive industry-wide training and apprenticeship issues through our position on the MERSETA Board and our involvement with the Technica CDX training manuals. Unparalleled industrial relations support, with highly qualified specialists at each regional office; free phone advice on employment issues; low-priced on-site advice and assistance; representation at the CCMA and labour courts; seminars on labour-related matters; and free

industrial relations kit on joining. Exceptional support with regard to the CPA is also provided, including free online and DVD training material and telephonic legal advice on CPA-related matters. Advertising on national radio stations and local newspapers, urging motorists to do business with RMI-accredited members, profiling the RMI and its constituent associations. A consumer complaint resolution rate of 95%. A quality and standards function that works to reduce and eliminate the marketing of substandard parts and goods. A personal and professional focus on road safety. The RMI is regularly invited to comment by both print and broadcast media and participates in and hosts numerous conventions and shows. Effective communication, including Automobil magazine, which facilitates two-way communication to a far greater degree and delivers greater levels of consumer awareness. Ongoing new developments.

There are also our products: RMI4BEE: assistance on B-BBEE matters, with an accreditation service and the compilation of a National B-BBEE Register. RMI4Car & Home Insurance – car and household insurance, personal accident cover, car rental and vintage car insurance; RMI4Emergency – emergency transport and trauma room cover; RMI4Insurance – CPA, labour, liability and fuel deposit insurance; RMI4Life – Key-man, funeral, accident and life insurance, coupled with a savings and education-provider product; RMI4Law: our 24-hour legal advisory service. RMI4OHS: occupational health and safety (OHS) assistance. RMI4Recruit: recruitment and placement assistance. RMI4Sure: our own best-value short-term insurance.

NeedNeed to get hold of of the Page10 8 of forall allthe thecontact contact details to get hold theRMI? RMI?Turn Turn to to page of this this issue issue for details.

December/January 2015/16

CAPITAL INJECTION BMW sets SA investment record

Vehicle Testing Association

VEHICLE TESTING ASSOCIATION –

Addressing fraud and corruption in the industry

APDP IN REVIEW Government policy shifts gear

RMI BULLETIN: RMI – THE EMPLOYER OF CHAMPIONS; FRANK MAC NICOL RECEIVES ERA EXCELLENCE AWARD; ACCOLADES FOR MOTOR LAB BUSINESSES; www.automobil.co.za DECEMBER/JANUARY 2015/16 - 1 NEW STAFF MEMBERS AT THE RMI; MIBCO AND THE LEC, OUTCOMES OF THE AGMs

JUNE 2016 64 MARCH 2016

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DRIVER’S SEAT

Acting in best interests

With negotiations relating to employment conditions in South Africa’s retail motor industry about to commence, the RMI is perfectly positioned to provide a powerful collective voice, says CEO Jakkie Olivier

t is a widely known and accepted fact that the RMI is an employers’ organisation that, as part of its core strategic objectives, is responsible for negotiations with trade unions in pursuit of changes in wages and other conditions of employment. The RMI plays a leading role in protecting the best interests of business during these negotiations, which becomes even more pivotal during tough economic circumstances. June/July 2016 marks the beginning of another round of negotiations since the current three-year collective agreement, concluded during 2013, comes to an end on August 31. The RMI is by far the major employer representative and stakeholder at the Motor Industry Bargaining Council (MIBCO) that facilitates collective bargaining in the industry. That’s why the RMI is perfectly positioned to provide a powerful collective voice that gives members considerable clout in negotiating better trading conditions. Centralised collective bargaining in an industry as diverse and complex as the retail motor industry, with in excess of 19 000 registered businesses employing more than 300 000 employees, places a huge responsibility on the leadership of both employers and trade unions.

The negotiating parties need to thrash out an agreement that not only protects the future viability of the industry, but also reflects the unique character of the industry and the South African economy in the global environment. The negotiators should be well acquainted with the challenges facing the local economy and the retail motor industry. Currently, the economy remains under pressure with high unemployment, high interest rates and rapidly-shrinking consumer disposable income. The impact of the prevailing tough economic climate is clearly visible in the steep decline in year-on-year vehicle sales in South Africa and the increasing tendency of businesses initiating retrenchment programmes. Against this background, the RMI is concerned about the stance that the trade unions have adopted in preparation for the upcoming negotiations in the MIBCO arena. Our concerns are due to the demands we have received from the trade unions. As the biggest trade union within the MIBCO ranks, NUMSA alone has submitted 15 demands, most of which would have a profound financial impact on employers. Among the demands, the

following would best explain why we are concerned: • A one-year agreement (as opposed to the current three-year agreements); • An industry minimum wage of R30 an hour; • An increase of 20% on actual rates of pay across the board for all employees earning in excess of R30 an hour; • An 80% employer subsidy towards medical aid contributions; and • A R5 000 monthly housing allowance. From the above, it becomes clear that such demands would not be sustainable and would certainly have a huge negative impact on the economy, job creation and retention, economic growth and, last but not least, for businesses to keep their doors open in the future. While unrealistic demands create expectation among the workforce, the hard truth is that they are not possible and in fact, quite irresponsible. The RMI would like to assure the industry and its members that the forthcoming negotiations will be approached with a sense of great responsibility and keen interest of what is good for the economy and the business world at large – all of which will be aimed at creating a platform for a profitable and sustainable retail motor industry.

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

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JUNE 2016 -

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 - JUNE 2016

www.automobil.co.za

EDITOR’S LETTER

FIXING WHAT’S BROKEN

s the president of the RMI, Jeánne Esterhuizen, remarked in an interview published in last month’s edition of Automobil, technology changes within the automotive industry are rippling through the collision repair business. Now John van Alstyne, CEO of the US-based I-Car organisation, has pointed out in an interview with the Fixed Ops Journal that, from a material perspective, the collision repair process is becoming much more complex. “You cannot weld some material using the same techniques you used last week or last year or five years ago. Some of these materials you can’t even weld at all,” he says.

www.automobil.co.za

According to Van Alstyne, the burgeoning use of electronics in vehicles has also posed a problem for repairers. “The move by automakers into accident avoidance has brought a lot of sensors and cameras and radar into play and they are all linked up through control systems. “Reinstalling those, positioning all of that precisely, is hypercritical to the ongoing performance of safety systems, and the repair work is complicated by the fact that many of the components are situated in areas that are vulnerable to collision damage.” Until recently, the repair industry hadn’t had to deal with a complicated array of electronics at the front or rear ends of cars – now it does. Says Van Alstyne: “With the demand for new collision repair techniques increasing, hands-on training is likely to make a comeback.” He points out that, since May 2014, the I-Car organisation has certified almost 5 200 students who, through

a Ford Motor Company resource programme, have received training in GMA welding – a technique applied to repairs related to one of America’s best-selling vehicles, the aluminium intensive Ford F-150. Opportunely, Ford Southern Africa announced last month that it would be establishing a new job training and entrepreneurial development centre near its Silverton plant outside Pretoria as part of a $4,0-million investment by the philanthropical Ford Fund in community building projects across Africa. Modelled on the original Ford Resource and Engagement Centre in Detroit, the Silverton facility is scheduled to open in October, with the company pledging to invest more than R2,0-million annually in job training. I have it on good authority that the curriculum will include aspects of high-tech collision repair.

Wynter Murdoch Editor

JUNE 2016

NEWS

SPEAK TO US RMI EXECUTIVES

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

SAMBRA Edwin Martin edwin.martin@rmi.org.za SAPRA Vacant

Chief Operations Officer & Human Resources Director: Jan Schoeman jan.schoeman@rmi.org.za

TDAFA, ACRA Hedley Judd hedley.judd@rmi.org.za

Financial Director: Renee Coetsee renee.coetsee@rmi.org.za

TRAINING, TRANSFORMATION & ENTERPRISE DEVELOPMENT Marwaan Davids marwaan.davids@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 Pumza Gcanga Les McMaster George Nyabadza

RMI PARTNERS

SADFIA Louis van Huyssteen louis.vanhuyssteen@rmi.org.za ERA Pieter Niemand pieter.niemand@rmi.org.za

@AutomobilSA

www.rmi.org.za

NAZA Julian Pillay julian.pillay@rmi.org.za MPEA, MIMA Erwin Stroebel erwin.stroebel@rmi.org.za MDA Jeff Molefe jeffrey.molefe@rmi.org.za

RMI4Sure 0860-104-202 RMI4Law 0861-668-677 RMI4BEE 0861-764-233 RMI4Recruit 0860-772-222 RMI4OHS 012-998-7139

RMI HEAD RMI HEADOFFICE OFFICE Danelle van der Merwe Brand and Communication Manager danelle.vandermerwe@rmi.org.za

DIRECTORS

Neo Bokaba Transformation Manager neo.bokaba@rmi.org.za

Q&S, SAVABA, FRICTION STANDARDS Vacant

011-789-2542 | www.rmi.org.za

MIWA Vishal Premlall vishal.premlall@rmi.org.za

Surrey Square Office Park 330 Surrey Avenue Ferndale Randburg 2194

NAAASP EMPOWERMENT Marwaan Davids marwaan.davids@rmi.org.za NADA Gary McCraw gary.mccraw@rmi.org.za

RMI REGIONAL OFFICES Highveld: Jeff Molefe jeffrey.molefe@rmi.org.za Randburg: 011-886-6300

VTA Joy Oldale joy.oldale@rmi.org.za

8 - MAY 2015

Facebook.com/AutomobilSA

Vehicle Testing Association

Northern: Pieter Niemand pieter.niemand@rmi.org.za Pretoria: 012-348-9311 KwaZulu-Natal: Julian Pillay julian.pillay@rmi.org.za Durban: 031-266-7031 Eastern Cape/Border: Erwin Stroebel erwin.stroebel@rmi.org.za Port Elizabeth: 041-364-0070 Western Cape: Joy Oldale joy.oldale@rmi.org.za Cape Town: 021-939-9440 Free State/Northern Cape: Louis van Huyssteen louis.vanhuyssteen@rmi.org.za Bloemfontein: 051-430-3294

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HOT STUFF Protecting eyes and ears Snap-on has introduced to South Africa a range of safety glasses that incorporate earplugs, ensuring that wearers are always compliant with regard to hearing and eye protection.

NEW PRODUCTS Imported from Taiwan, the glasses have been designed for comfort and ease of use. Features and benefits include: • A hearing protection system that’s integrated within the safety glasses; • Earplugs that retract easily into the temple pieces; • An ergonomic comfort fit; • Anti-fog and anti-scratch lenses; • ANSI impact rated lenses that also absorb ultraviolet rays; • A NRR 25 rating. The glasses are available in three styles – Construction, Fashion and Sport – and offer a choice of frame and lens colours. Snap-on is running a promotion on the items during June. For more information log on to www.snapon.co.za.

One stop filtration Yamaha in your wardrobe GUD Filters has expanded its product range offering by introducing filter kits for South Africa’s popular bakkies and taxis. The kits comprise air, oil and fuel filters conveniently packaged together to provide a complete filter fitment solution for the LCV market.

“We are excited about the launch of the kits. They were developed to offer our customer base a convenient filter fitment package,” says Ian Law, Group Sales & Marketing Director for GUD Holdings. The filter kit for the Toyota Hilux and Fortuner is currently available from AutoZone, Diesel-Electric and other leading distributors. Filter kits for the Ford Ranger and Toyota Quantum are scheduled to be released in coming months. All GUD filters are manufactured to OEM specifications and are backed by the company’s comprehensive warranty.

You’ve watched the Yamaha Factory Racing team on TV and, as a megafan, you’ve probably always aspired to own that team t-shirt or jacket as worn by the team’s technicians on the grid. Well, now you can. Yamaha has released the new 2016 MotoGP Factory Racing Team Authentic Wear collection from sports clothing manufacturer and team sponsor Descente. The collection is identical to garments as worn by the team and is manufactured using the latest material technology for durability, temperature and moisture control, superior fit and finish. For details of the complete collection log on to www.yamaha-motor.eu/uk/accessories.

30 Years of experience Specialising in automatic transmissions with expertise on the premium brands

083 449 0747 011 609 4484 / 2752 mike@executivetransmissions.co.za www.executivetransmissions.co.za www.automobil.co.za Address - Unit 1, 9 Fountain Rd, Eastleigh, Edenvale, Gauteng

MAY 2016 -

NEWS

VW Suppliers’ Day hailed a success economic transformation. “Volkswagen takes the issue of procurement from black-owned suppliers as a priority from both a moral and legislative compliance perspective,” he said.

Head of Purchasing at VWSA Tom Loafman, (left) with Trade and Industry Minister Rob Davies, and on the right, Michael Pfaff, Head of Quality Assurance VWSA and Thomas Schaefer, chairman and MD of VWSA

olkswagen South Africa recently hosted its first ever Black-Owned Suppliers’ Day in Uitenhage. The event – which was attended by the Minister of Trade and Industry, Rob Davies – provided a platform for 45 black-owned companies to profile themselves to the local automotive industry. In his opening address, Thomas Schaefer, Chairman and Managing Director of VWSA, said the event’s concept originated from Volkswagen’s determination to expand its business to black-owned suppliers in support of

The company contacted over 100 organisations, ranging from industry associations, organised businesses, business support bodies and government agencies, to request assistance in compiling a list of potential suppliers. As a result of the initiative, Volkswagen has assembled the first ever database of potential black suppliers to the industry. “Compilation of this list motivated us to organise the event. Today is the start of a new beginning that will allow us to increase the spread of our own and the industries’ supplier base, as well as grow the number of suppliers that meet BBBEEE criteria for the Enterprise and Supplier Development element,” Schaefer said. A total of 430 companies applied to be part of the event, albeit mostly in the services sector. Applications were assessed against a set of criteria and finally only 45 companies were approved to be exhibitors.

ia Motors South Africa has issued a recall involving 180 Cerato vehicles from the 2011 model year to replace cooling hoses in automatic transmissions.

vehicles may display abnormal shifting. Depending on the amount of transmission fluid lost, reduced vehicle mobility may occur.

The hoses carry hot fluid from the transmission to a cooler and back to the transmission. There is a possibility that they may have been improperly cured during the manufacturing process and that, over time, may leak.

The affected vehicles were assembled in Korea between August 27, 2010 and November 11, 2010. Only 180 units from the production run were shipped to South Africa. Owners of affected vehicles will be notified by Kia Motors South Africa. Replacing the hoses is said to take less than an hour, with costs covered by the company. More information on the recall cam-

According to a statement issued by the company, in such instances the malfunction indicator lamp illuminates and some

10 - JUNE 2016

In his speech Davies took the opportunity to compliment and thank the Volkswagen team for its vision in showing a commitment to transformation through action, and for providing insight into the challenges that the automotive industry faces in securing relationships with blackowned suppliers. One of the highlights of the day’s programme was a ministerial roundtable that discussed how black industrialists and black-owned suppliers could be assisted to be part of the automotive sector. The participants were: Davies; the CEO of the Black Business Council, Mohale Ralebitso; CEO of the Automotive Industry Development Centre, David Masondo; and Philisiwe Mthethwa, the CEO of the National Empowerment Fund. Other high profile guests included chief executives of Toyota, Ford and Mercedes in South Africa, who used the opportunity to visit the exhibition and familiarise themselves with the potential future suppliers exhibiting on the day. See David Furlonger’s Inside Line column on P24

paign, as well as an extensive list of frequently asked questions, will also be available to customers at www.kia.co.za, which features a menu option that allows Cerato owners to enter their vehicle’s VIN number into a search function. The function is particularly helpful for customers who are not the original owners of the vehicle or who, for whatever reason, are no longer on the Kia Motors South Africa database. Additionally, queries can be lodged with the company’s Call Centre on 010 596 2000.

www.automobil.co.za

New head for Hyundai’s Africa region

yundai Motor Company has appointed Mike Song as the new head of its Africa and Middle East Region. Based in Dubai, Song will oversee the brand’s activities in North and Sub-Saharan Africa, the Canary Islands and the Middle East. “It is both an enormous challenge and a great privilege to take on such an exciting role,” he said. “Hyundai is a leader in passenger car sales in several markets in the region, with a committed network of distributors, and a growing number of satisfied customers. I look forward to playing a vital role in the company’s continued success.” Song joined Hyundai in 1993 and has worked for the company in various positions in South Korea, the US, Canada and

the Asia-Pacific region. He joins the Africa and Middle East Regional Headquarters during an important period for the carmaker and will work to drive Hyundai sales in what are difficult market conditions through much of the region. “Looking ahead, there is considerable uncertainty in many markets, from the

impact of low oil prices in the GCC and other petroleum producing countries, through to falling currencies in the two largest African markets – South Africa and Egypt,” he said. Song replaces Jin (James) Kim, who returns to a senior management position in Korea.

Checking up on tyre safety “This was Tyre Check’s second visit to Irene,” said Bridgestone PRO, Kelly Fester. “Our 2015 survey revealed low rates of serious tyre damage or under-inflation, and the latest survey showed a similar good standard.” Information on the tyres on each vehicle inspected was recorded on a standardised data sheet. Each tyre’s pressure and condition was noted, including excessive wear or damage perceived to render the tyre unsafe.

ridgestone South Africa’s Tyre Check project conducted its second survey of 2016 with a visit to Irene Village Mall, south-east of Pretoria. The long-running project, which has monitored tyre condition and pressures on South African vehicles since 2007, gathered information on 1 276 tyres in the shopping centre’s car park.

www.automobil.co.za

Bridgestone’s tyre specialists had some volunteer help for the Irene event thanks to Carolyn Baldwin of Pageants SA and 15 of her participants and their families who assisted the Bridgestone team. The visitors included Mrs Queen of the World and Miss Tiny South Africa, and the volunteer support helped the tyre specialists check many more tyres than the average of 800 to 900 which are sampled on typical Tyre Check events. Eighty-nine percent of the tyres inspected were considered to be in the “fine” bracket

inflation-wise – a slight drop on the 92% recorded in the 2015 survey. There was also an increase in the number of over-inflated tyres from 1,2% in 2015 to 1,8% in the most recent survey. “In addition we noted a small rise in underinflation, but we were pleased to find that the percentage of tyres in the ‘dangerously low’ bracket, dropped from 0,7% in 2015 to 0,55% this year,” Fester said. “This is the second-lowest figure in the history of Tyre Check.” The rate of unsafe or worn out tyres also dropped, from 3,0% in 2015 to 2,0% this year. Fester said that the most recent survey tended to confirm data from the 2015 survey, which showed a reasonable standard of tyre care in the Irene area. “Overall we’re satisfied with this year’s survey but we remind all motorists to check their vehicle’s tyre pressures at least every two weeks with a good quality pressure gauge,” she concluded.

JUNE 2016 -

NEWS

Kyalami crosses another bridge

efurbishment of the Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit and International Convention Centre near Johannesburg took a step closer to completion last month when a 34-metre pedestrian and vehicle access bridge was hoisted into position. The bridge, which leads from a car park to the second level of the Convention Centre and Pit Building, weighs 32 tons and is supported 4,7 metres above the ground on four concrete columns. Its installation was managed by design engineer Danie Steyn.

When completed, the bridge will feature a 3-metre ceiling height and will be enclosed in glass. Also, its 5,4m width will allow delivery vehicles access to the Convention Centre. A spokesman for Kyalami said in the statement that installation of the bridge served to mark another milestone in the iconic track’s revival.

Doing away with maintenance pain 12-volt battery. If anomalies are detected, the system will notify the driver to take the vehicle in for service, reducing the threat of unexpected repairs. Steve Holland, chief technologist for Vehicle Health Management at General Motors, says Proactive Alerts take the guesswork out of vehicle maintenance. The system collects a small batch of data each time the car is started, and monitors it on an ongoing basis. Then, sophisticated systems analyse and refine billions of pieces of data, accumulated across a fleet of vehicles. If the data indicates a particular vehicle’s component is not performing as expected, the system automatically sends the driver a message through an in-vehicle notification, and either an email or text message based on customer preference. Sophisticated systems analyse and refine billions of pieces of data, accumulated across the fleet of vehicles. If the data indicates a particular vehicle’s component is not performing as expected, the system will automatically send the driver a message

hevrolet is introducing predictive technology to enable a vehicle to warn drivers about a potential maintenance need before it occurs. The technology is similar in concept to that used by aircraft company Boeing on its 787 jetliner, which can send in-flight messages to ground crews alerting them of parts needing inspection before the plane arrives. Though the system is not yet available in South Africa, it has been introduced in countries where General Motors’ OnStar Service Plan is marketed and is accessible as an option to subscribers who own particular models. For drivers who opt-in, the Proactive Alerts system continually monitors the health of the vehicle’s starter motor, fuel pump and

12 - JUNE 2016

“Accuracy is the key to our prediction algorithms,” Holland says. “We will be able to inform dealer service departments so they can spend less time testing for a condition we have already diagnosed. They can replace the necessary part quicker and minimise the amount of time a customer’s vehicle is at the dealership.” Proactive Alerts is offered with all OnStar Service Plans on eligible models, including the OnStar Basic Plan that comes standard for five years on new Chevrolet vehicles. In the future, plans are in place for Proactive Alerts to monitor additional vehicle components and expand to other Chevrolet models. “A few companies are doing limited in-vehicle diagnostics, but none have yet demonstrated the capability we offer,” says Paul Krajewski, director of the Vehicle Systems Research Laboratory at GM. “As we keep expanding the parts of the vehicle we cover, we hope to continuously enhance our customers’ experience, saving them time and money.”

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JUNE 2016

NEWS

Sewells speeds up transformation Happy smiles from the Sewells’ 2015 Advanced Dealer Management group at their graduation ceremony.

anaging a retail motor dealership is a tough challenge, involving a combination of distinct lines of business such as vehicle sales, parts sales, service, finance and human resources. Further, dealerships are growing in complexity in terms of product technology as well as in a need for transformation in staff complements, while customers have ever higher expectations of their vehicles and levels of service. The Sewells Group’s Advanced Dealer Management (ADM) training programme – introduced in 2007 – aims at overcoming these challenges by producing well qualified senior management. Initially the year-long programme was aimed mainly at second or third generation motor dealer families whose members chose to make a career in the family business. While the course continues to attract members of dealer families, it is also proving successful in accelerating progress and improving skills of talented people in local and international retail motor dealerships as well offering benefits in speeding up staff transformation in South Africa. Several OEMs and dealer groups have had special ADM programmes tailored to suit their transformation needs. One of these

14 - JUNE 2016

companies is Volkswagen which recently held a graduation ceremony for its Optima Group of dealerships. Sibabalwe Mlungwana, of Lindsay Saker, received a special award for compiling the most outstanding business plan out of a group of 15 delegates from the Optima Group while Martin Taverner, of the Tavcor Group, came out tops for his business plan in the Open Group. “Though the ADM programme dates back to 2007, we continue to adapt it to cater for the latest trends and developments in the local retail motor industry,” said Warren Olsen, CEO of Sewells Group SA. “We now have a much broader view and a focal point is to assist in the transformation process.” The programme is overseen by senior Sewells consultant Mike Paxton, who ensures that each delegate gets individual attention and coaching. The programme is aimed at people who are potential general managers or dealer principals, as well as at encumbered dealer principals who wish to further develop their skills and knowledge. Each ADM intake consists of approximately 12 delegates. Sometimes there is more than one intake in a year, depending on demand. The ADM programme consists of 150 contact hours of focused management

instruction made up of approximately five modules. The various modules take place every two months over a 12 month period. Lecture room sessions are interspersed with business visits, case studies and assignments. At the end of the programme each delegate has to present a proposed, sustainable business plan for his or her dealership and is judged on the presentation in addition to assignments completed during the course of the year. Special coaching is provided to those who find difficulty reaching the required high standards. “Almost 50 different companies or organisations have participated in our ADM programmes over the years, including a significant number from subSaharan African countries, which serves to underline the ongoing high standing of our offering,” said Olsen. “We are also very proud of the achievements of our delegates once they return to their dealerships and many have risen to be top-ranking general managers and dealer principals in some of the most successful dealerships in Southern Africa.” The next intake is scheduled for August 2016.

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New CEO for Fiat Chrysler

and development of the Fiat Chrysler Group and its dealer network within the challenges of a competitive landscape in South Africa.

In a statement he said he was thrilled to have joined the team at such an exciting phase of the company’s life cycle. “I remain committed to the growth

“The exciting prospect of new model introductions in the near future will see the company enter into new vehicle segments, the focus will be on ensuring that we continue to provide our customers with vehicles that speak to their unique and individual lifestyles,” Melani said.

he Fiat Chrysler Group in South Africa has announced the appointment of Marco Melani as its new CEO. A 14-year veteran with the Group, Melani succeeds Trent Barcroft, joining the local operation following an assignment as head of marketing for the Middle East/Africa region.

Sava introduces two new truck tyres

ava, a leading brand in Goodyear’s product portfolio, has launched two new truck tyres in South Africa – the Sava Avant 4Plus steer tyre and the Orjak 4Plus drive tyre.

The Sava Avant 4Plus steer tyre range is available in seven sizes, the widest of which – 385/55R22.5 and 385/65R22.5 – features six ribs compared with the previous tyre’s five-rib design.

Sourced from factories in Germany, Poland and Turkey, the tyres feature latest generation tread designs and are aimed at cost-conscious fleet operators. Their benefits are said to include improved mileage compared to their predecessors.

The new Orjak 4Plus drive tyre range comprises five sizes and has a tread pattern that features increased tread depth and enhancements to the shoulder area to improve handling and stability. Like the Avant range, the Orjak counterparts are said to offer up

to 10% higher mileage compared with their predecessors. The tyres, which complement Sava’s Cargo 4 range, will become available progressively from this month in the following sizes – Sava Avant 4Plus steer: 315/80R22.5; 295/80R22.5; 315/70R22.5; 385/55R22.5; 315/60R22.5; 295/60R22.5 and 385/65R22.5; Sava Orjak 4Plus drive: 315/80R22.5; 295/80R22.5; 315/60R22.5; 315/70R22.5 and 295/60R22.5.

Single units from Textar

raditionally packed in pairs, Textar brake discs are now available as single units to address local demand from retailers and consumers, although it still recommends brake discs be installed in pairs to maintain performance, comfort and safety. The company’s brake pads cover more than 90% of the vehicle car parc in South Africa, including major brands such as BMW, Mercedes, Audi, Toyota, Nissan, Renault, Hyundai, Mazda, Ford, Kia and Honda. Textar branded products are manufactured by TMD Friction in Germany – which claims to be the world’s largest manufacturer of brake friction products. The group produces over one million brake friction products daily across 13 production sites in eight countries. All part numbers carry a 60 000km warranty. Making history… Vivian Mohohlo, dealer principal at Lexus Centurion

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JUNE 2016 -

NEWS

Mini Seven set for Goodwood reveal

ini will unveil the first design model of its current generation of derivatives, the Mini Seven, at this month’s Goodwood Festival of Speed in the UK. Taking its name from the very first Mini, the 1959 Austin Seven, the Mini Seven is said to have been styled to fuse the brand’s classic heritage with modern design and technology. The model joins the current Hatch range in five-door or three-door form and features specially designed exterior and interior looks. The car, which will also feature an option pack called Mini Seven Chili, will be unveiled at Goodwood’s Moving Motor Show on Thursday, June 23. Also featured at the event will be a new John Cooper Works Challenge Edition which is scheduled to compete in the Festival of Speed’s hillclimb.

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FEBRUARY 2016 -

NEWS

Ford Resource and Engagement Centre (FREC)

Ford launches SA resource initiative

s part of a five-year, $4,0-million investment in community building across Africa, Ford has announced the creation of a new job training and entrepreneurial development centre near its Silverton, Pretoria, plant which aims to assist about 200 South Africans a year.

Future Families, a South Africa-based non-profit organisation that provides services to families and orphans affected by HIV and AIDS. The organisation will create a range of training packages designed to help students find jobs after graduating from the centre.

Called the Ford Resource and Engagement Centre, the facility is the second of its kind to be created by the Ford Fund, a philanthropic branch of the Ford Motor Company, and is modelled on the original Ford Resource and Engagement Centre in Detroit. It is scheduled to open in October, with the company pledging to invest more than R2,0-million annually in job training.

Courses will include career guidance and presentation skills, financial literacy, business and entrepreneurial skills, as well as training for vocational and technical jobs such as plumbing, caregiving, computing and office work.

“The Ford Fund has a proud tradition of strengthening the communities that are home to our employees, dealers, suppliers and customers,” says Jim Vella, president of the fund. “As our company expands throughout the African continent, we are bringing our innovative community investment programmes to new regions to create a better world.” To operate the new centre, Ford has joined forces with

18 - JUNE 2016

Since opening in Detroit three years ago, the original Ford Resource and Engagement Centre has assisted more than 80 000 local residents through a range of social and cultural services. In total, the facility has returned $3 in services to local community members for every $1 invested by Ford and its partners. The Ford Fund works globally by making strategic investments focused on building communities, improving education and promoting driving safety as part of its Operation Better World initiative. In South Africa, Ford

Fund programmes add to economic investments the company is making. “Our Ford Better World philosophy is more than just a series of projects - it permeates everything we do as a company,” says Jeff Nemeth, president and CEO of Ford’s SubSaharan Africa region. “Social, environmental and economic sustainability are all interlinked and cannot be taken in isolation from one another. We are proud of this investment in our community and, ultimately, our people. Education plays a significant role in our lives and these projects will allow the community to benefit from our contributions to the economy.” The Ford Fund’s investment in the centre will total R11,5-million (about $750 000) over five years. It is the latest development in Ford’s growing community presence across Africa. Over the next five years, the Fund will expand its signature education scholarships, grants and training programmes across the continent, as well as bring additional Driving Skills for Life, Volunteer Corps and other community improvement projects to Africa.

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JUNE 2016

COVER STORY

MW claims that it has fitted the world’s most powerful six-cylinder diesel engine into its justreleased 750d xDrive and 750Ld xDrive derivatives. The in-line unit, which displaces 3,0 litres to generate 294kW and 760Nm, is coupled with eight-speed Steptronic transmission and a four-wheel drivetrain. It is said to capable of delivering combined cycle fuel consumption figures as low as 5,7 litres per 100km, with CO2 emissions rated at 149g/km. Secrets of the engine’s success are attributed to BMW’s TwinPower Turbo technology – which includes multi-stage boosting through four turbochargers – as well as a common-rail, direct-injection

20 JUNE 2016

fuelling system that generates maximum pressure in excess of 2 500 bar. “These and other technological highlights allow significant improvements to the already exceptional power delivery, pulling power and efficiency achieved by the outgoing engine on which the new unit is based,” says a statement released by the company.

According to the specification sheet, the 750d xDrive accelerates from zero to 100km/h in 4,6 seconds – a tenth of a second faster than the long wheelbase derivative –representing an improvement of 0,3 seconds over the time achieved by the predecessor.

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COVER STORY

“Much credit for the sharper dynamic edge can go to the new form of multistage turbocharging, which now brings together four turbochargers in place of the previous three. This enables boost pressure to be built up even more quickly at lower engine speeds and therefore prompts incredibly swift responses to throttle applications from idle,” says the statement.

1 000 revs/min and puts its maximum 760Nm on tap between 2 000 and 3 000rpm. “The large and sustained wave of thrust and the eight-speed Steptronic transmission – which has been tuned to make the most of it – together ensure that instant and ferocious bursts of pace can also be achieved under throttle inputs at higher speeds.”

The engine develops its maximum output of 294kW – 400 horsepower – at 4 400 revs/min. Its optimised performance characteristics are said to be reflected most prominently in torque development that gathers pace rapidly from low engine speeds.

While the specification sheet lists top velocity of each of the derivatives at an electronically limited 250km/h, it also reflects a balance of brawn and fuel efficiency for the models unmatched by rivals in the segment.

According to the statement: “The engine serves up over 450Nm of torque at just

“A 14kW (5,0%) increase in output and peak torque up by 20Nm are

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accompanied by an 11% reduction in average fuel consumption and emissions over the predecessors,” the statement says. “The derivatives record combined fuel consumption figures of between 5,7 and 5,9 litres per 100km, while CO2 emissions are 149 and 154g/km based on results achieved in the EU test cycle.” Claimed to perform best when under high pressure, the engine features numerous technological highlights – from cylinder head to exhaust treatment – and, in the words of a BMW spokesman, represents a masterful example of engineering art that provides further evidence of the company’s expertise in drive system development.

JUNE 2016

COVER STORY

According to the statement: “A host of innovative features in the engine’s construction have enabled the signature benefits of diesel engines in terms of power delivery and efficiency – underpinned by the principle of combustion under extremely high pressure – to be showcased at the highest level. “Essential foundations had already been put in place in the development of the base engine, but specific solutions were found to address both the thermal and mechanical loads that come with extremely high outputs and the increase in maximum combustion pressure – up from the previous engine’s 200 bar to 210 bar.”

Additionally, exhaust treatment technology includes not only a diesel particulate filter and NOX storage catalytic converter positioned in a combined housing close to the engine, but also a Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) system that works with AdBlue injection.

As with the outgoing unit, the cylinder head and crankcase have been manufactured using a special highpressure compression process. Hot isostatic pressing (HIP) has ensured that the aluminium castings are particularly strong. Further, assembly of the main bearing caps and cylinder head have been based on a tie-rod concept that features a central screw with a view to providing additional strength.

Another new feature not present in the outgoing engine is exhaust gas recirculation for the low-pressure stage of the turbocharging system as well as the high-pressure stage, which has been added to increase the effectiveness of the turbos and therefore of the engine as a whole.

Other special features include a five-layer cylinder head gasket, cylinder bores with a twin-wire arc-sprayed coating and pistons made from an aluminium and silicon alloy with re-melted bowl rims, bronze liners in the pin eyes and centrally controlled cooling. BMW’s latest generation of common-rail direct injection technology takes care of the fuel supply. The piezo injectors, whose maximum injection pressure has been increased to over 2 500 bar, are said to enable extremely precise metering and fine atomisation of the fuel. “As a result, the engine’s efficiency has increased and its emissions have been reduced,” the statement maintains.

22 - JUNE 2016

“In this way, levels of nitrogen oxide emissions under high loads are also reduced. To enhance efficiency, the engine also employs an indirect system of charge air cooling with higher capacity than that used by the outgoing engine, as well as additional compressor back-plate cooling for the low-pressure turbochargers,” says the statement, adding that the key to the latter is a separate low-temperature circuit – independent of the engine’s cooling system – which includes heat exchangers and an electrically operated coolant pump. While the addition of a fourth turbocharger represents a first for BMW, the company spokesman maintains that performance and efficiency characteristics of the engine are determined largely by the precisely coordinated interplay of all the components in the turbocharging system.

“As with the outgoing engine, the performance-boosting flow of compressed air into the combustion chambers is generated by multi-stage turbocharging. The high-pressure stage revolves around two compact turbos with variable turbine geometry integrated into a single housing, while the single, very large, low-pressure turbocharger used in the previous unit has been replaced by two smaller – and therefore faster-responding – units. “The latest-generation Digital Diesel Electronics (DDE) responsible for engine management adopt a precisely defined deployment strategy to coordinate the activity of the individual turbochargers, the position of the high-pressure system’s variable vanes, and the regulation of the change-over and bypass flaps, the exhaust gas butterfly valve, the waste gate and the intercooler in response to the operating situation and throttle inputs.” According to BMW’s assessment, this means that, generally speaking, the two low-pressure turbochargers and one of the two high-pressure turbos will be active on a permanent basis. Only under hard acceleration from idle will the two low-pressure turbochargers be bypassed by means of a flap control system, an arrangement that allows boost pressure to be built up quickly, with the second highpressure turbo brought into play at an engine speed of about 2 500 revs/min. According to the statement, each of the derivatives is scheduled to go on sale in international markets from next month.

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JUNE 2016 -

INSIDE LINE

The road to 2035? One thing critics of the APDP and its forerunner, the MIDP, can’t deny is that these initiatives have provided long-term certainty for South Africa’s automotive industry – without which investors would have stayed away. David Furlonger reports

ad news for critics of the Automotive Production and Development Programme (APDP). In one form or another, it looks as if the government-driven policy is set to continue until 2035 – that’s another 19 years of investor-friendly clarity. But who should be most pleased? Companies which have already sucked up billions of rands in taxpayer-funded incentives, or others who have not yet been invited to feast at the table? In the space of five days early last month, Trade and Industry Minister Rob Davies played a central role in two events that will shape the future of South Africa’s automotive sector. Let’s look at the second one first. In presenting the latest version of government’s overall industrial policy action plan, Davies announced that his department was ready to start discussions on a successor to the APDP, which expires in 2020. Ken Manners, former president of the National Association of Automotive Component and Allied Manufacturers (Naacam) and a member of the team nominated by Davies to shape strategy,

24 - JUNE 2016

revealed that they had been asked to look ahead to 2035. Not everyone in the motor industry has applauded the APDP and its predecessor, the 1995-2012 Motor Industry Development Programme (MIDP). But one thing critics can’t deny is that these policies have provided long-term certainty, without which investors would have stayed away. It’s been estimated that the APDP alone has already attracted about R50-billion in investments – either spent or committed. According to Davies: “A post-2020 master-plan will create a framework to secure even higher levels of investment and production.” Four days earlier, however, he had highlighted a core weakness of government’s incentives-based programmes of the last 20 years – almost all the incentives have gone to foreign corporations. South Africa’s vehicle manufacturers are wholly foreign-owned, as are nearly all components suppliers which deliver parts direct to assembly lines. They are the ones putting in the big bucks, so they get the paybacks –

up to 30% of production-related investments. For example, Ford will recoup nearly R700-million of its recent R2,4-billion investment in the updated Ranger and its new Everest SUV spin-off. Davies said last month: “People ask me why all this money is going to foreign companies. We can only justify that if we also bring in more South African skills and localisation.” He was speaking in Uitenhage, in the Eastern Cape, at Volkswagen SA’s

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almost need a matchmaker, a dating agency. Since no one else has taken the initiative, we decided to.” That was the purpose of the black supplier event: to bring the two sides together. Schaefer reckons the industry will eventually need up to 500 black suppliers, though few will start at the top of the food chain. Companies delivering major parts direct to vehicle manufacturers are known as Tier One suppliers. Enterprises providing them with subcomponents are known as Tier Two. They, in turn, get parts from Tier Three suppliers. Nearly all of the blackowned newcomers will start in the bottom two levels. Even though government agencies have over R20-billion available to launch and support black industrialists, Davies admitted little was known about companies wanting to enter the auto sector – there was no list of interested participants. He said: “I hope we start to develop a serious register. Refer them to us and we can develop them through our black industrialist programme.”

Trade and Industry Minister Rob Davies, centre, visiting a display of Volkswagen's Black-Owned Suppliers Day

Black Suppliers Day. Just under 50 black industrial companies hoping to break into the motor industry were given space in an exhibition area to show off their products and skills. Though the event was held under Volkswagen’s banner, several other motor companies were represented and voiced their support for the initiative. The purpose, said Thomas Schaefer, managing director of Volkswagen SA, was to give fledgling supplier businesses exposure to the whole industry.

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Established vehicle and components companies have had a lot to say in the past about broadening black participation in their industry – but little has been done to turn words into action. As Mohale Ralebitso, CEO of the Black Business Council and a participant in the debate that accompanied the black supplier exhibition observed: “Industry action has been haphazard, piecemeal.” According to Schaefer: “You have people with the right skills but they aren’t put in touch with the people who can help them develop. You

Naturally, there is more than plain goodwill behind the move to develop black supply companies — even though Schaefer says: “It is a moral imperative as well as an economic one.” Evolving black empowerment rules require big companies to provide supplier and enterprise development. Davies said: “All over the world, it’s been shown that a symbiotic relationship between big and small companies makes the difference.”

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

JUNE 2016 -

INDUSTRY

26 JUNE 2016

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JUNE 2016

RECRUITMENT

The right stuff It’s not all about money… human resources specialist Amanda Kirk offers some guidelines aimed at retaining staff on a tight budget

or many businesses, the beginning of each month brings with it staff resignations. Managers don’t have the time to figure out why staff members are constantly leaving, focussing instead on finding replacements in time to allow for a handover and to try to ensure continuity of operations. It’s often assumed that salaries and benefits are the reason staff leave, but there are many other factors that affect a person’s decision making when it comes to taking up a new role somewhere else. Employees commit to their employer at a variety of stages in their employment. Responsible business owners and managers are aware of this and are successful in retaining staff even in tough times.

Recruit right It all starts when a vacancy arises. Don’t assume a one-size-fits-all approach – think carefully about what the role entails and what the person needs to bring to the position to be successful. Too many businesses fall foul of knee jerk decisions based on past staffing structures or as a response to a situation without giving proper recruitment planning enough headspace. Adverts are placed that are carelessly worded, screening of applicants isn’t properly done, interviews aren’t competency based and selection decisions are often made on a best-of-a-bad-bunch basis without reference checks.

28 - JUNE 2016

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Slow down when recruiting. Be intentional in every action you take. If you don’t find the right person, don’t appoint someone and hope that he or she will somehow turn out to be the star you’re looking for. When recruiting, be honest with applicants. Don’t gloss over business challenges, long working hours or a difficult client base. When recruiting, you’re looking for a person who not only meets the basic criteria in terms of skills and experience but who also provides insight into what he or she expects from a job. Being open with candidates will assist you in assessing whether they are being honest in return. Competency based interviewing skills are essential in today’s market. Learn to ask open ended questions, and learn to listen for statements that don’t ring true or sound manufactured. Check references and make sure you know who you’re talking to when taking the reference. Once you’ve found your future employee, contract with them properly. The BCEA came into effect in 1997 and there are enough guides available for free to make sure you never issue a dodgy employment contract again. Make sure your work practices are in line with legislation. Employee engagement and retention often fails as a result of a poor take on practices. Design a suitable employee on-boarding process that allows a new staff member time to get a quick grasp of all aspects of your business. Handle introductions properly and make sure the role scope is clear. Manage performance If you apply probation periods to new employees, manage them appropriately. Probation review meetings provide both you and the employee with

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an opportunity to identify issues of concern and recognise achievements. If conducted properly, you’ll know if the employee should stay or go by the end of the probation period – or earlier. Once staff members have been engaged, regular checks are essential to creating a shared sense of belonging. Many businesses I work with hold lots of meetings but never spend any time on individual staff reviews. Don’t leave staff floundering, assuming all is well because they aren’t complaining. Make it part of your job to check in and offer guidance and support.

If this happens in your business, you run the risk of ending up with the core of your work-force comprising people who haven’t worked anywhere else in ages, and who might no longer buy in to what you’re trying to do and chase others away. This isn’t a bad thing for continuity of operations, but isn’t conducive to allowing new approaches. When you hear stories about so-and-so is leaving because she doesn’t fit in, don’t always assume it’s the new staff member who is the problem. What have you created as a business culture? Share the workload

Consider the individual – and offer flexibility where operational requirements allow. For example, if staff members can work from home at certain times, let them. Don’t start from the basis that every employee must be up to something or not working when they aren’t at their desks – allow them some freedom and rein them in as and when you notice breaches. Consider flexible start and end times based on individual preferences – provided operations don’t suffer. If you hold any kind of annual business review or strategy session, make sure it includes individual staff reviews. Focus on development areas and possibilities to tweak roles to suit individual skills – without losing sight of the work you need done by that person. Hold staff accountable for behaviour and performance standards. I’ve often seen businesses struggle because they don’t manage misconduct (behaviours) or incapacity. Don’t allow different behaviour and performance standards to apply to employees who have been around longer, as this often causes newer staff members to give up and leave because the old school staff get different treatment and are allowed to underperform or behave inappropriately.

Lead from the front – moody, stressed overworked managers and directors don’t inspire confidence in staff. Think about how you impact your staff and do something about it where necessary. If staff members see you shouting and rushing around, they’ll assume it’s okay for them to behave the same way. You might have always done everything yourself, but as your business grows and you need additional resources, so you need to learn to interact with and manage those resources. If you can’t, stay small and stay the jack of all trades. Don’t make staff members victims of your success. If this means you have to trust staff to act in the best interests of your business because you can no longer do everything yourself, so be it. Set the boundaries, teach staff what they need to know and then step away. If you don’t, you’ll always be surrounded by people who have learnt to hide their strengths to avoid conflict with you. Look forward Figure out what comes next. When you do strategic planning, don’t forget to talk to staff about future aspirations. Be reasonable in promising future promotions – if it isn’t going to happen,

JUNE 2016 -

INSIDE LINE RECRUITMENT say so. There are ways to enhance roles horizontally instead of vertically within businesses, so do it. If you are fast tracking staff members into management roles, be blunt about what they need to demonstrate and do for you to assess them as competent and ready. This might involve formal studies, job shadowing, special projects or personal development – style, coping with stress – or something as simple as enhanced computer literacy. Follow through on your career pathing promises, otherwise don’t make them! Listen up! Communicate! Keep staff informed of business performance and financial matters, new products and services, and supplier changes.

Be realistic about why staff stay – it’s not ideal to have employees who stay because they don’t have other options or who are too exhausted to even think about looking for other work. Some staff turnover is okay, so let people go to experience different things. Who knows? Maybe one day they’ll come back to you and be able to add more value than before. Don’t be dramatic when a staff member resigns – employment contracts aren’t unbreakable. Listen carefully to the reasons for the decision to see if there’s something to be done to improve the situation for other employees or to pre-empt other staff members from experiencing similar issues.

In summary • Recruit properly; • Contract honestly (employment, vision/ mission/ values alignment and future plans); • Integrate new staff members properly and allow them to work to their strengths within reason; • Talk to staff (both generally and specifically); • Give feedback on performance; • Consider non-monetary ways to improve their work experience; • Be clear on performance and behaviour standards and don’t tolerate deviations; • Make future plans; • Watch for deadwood and find ways to reinspire them or move them on.

Amanda Kirk has been a professional human resources practitioner for 20 years and has been honing her writing skills for the past five years.

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JUNE 2016 -

TYRE TECH

Stretching the limits Continental's SportContact 6 is an allnew super sports tyre aimed at the ultra-high performance (UHP) vehicle segment. Wynter Murdoch reports

ontinental's SportContact 6 is said to have established elevated benchmarks for handling, steering precision and high-speed performance, and succeeds the proven and highly-rated Conti SportContact 5P as the rangetopper in Continental Tyre SA's passenger car tyre portfolio. The tyre is available in 41 sizes for rims with diameters of 19 to 23 inches, and has been introduced to meet growing demand for large wheel and tyre combinations. "With the new SportContact 6, Continental continues its proud legacy of producing cutting-edge high-performance tyres," says Shaun Uys, Managing Director of Continental Tyre South Africa. Speaking at the launch of the product last month at the Zwartkops Race Track near Pretoria, Uys said that while the Conti SportContact 5P had been awardwinning, the SportContact 6 raised the bar through the use of several innovative new technologies. “It's our sportiest and most dynamic road tyre yet, delivering exceptional

performance and maximum safety at speeds of up to 350km/h," he maintained. According to Uys, in bringing the improvements to the road Continental's technicians reformulated the chemical composition of the tyre’s tread as well as refining the casing’s design and structure. The aim was to achieve marked increases in grip, particularly in the wet, matched by unparalleled dynamic performance. He described the SportContact 6 as being ideally suited to thoroughbred sports cars and top-end performance cars. Interestingly, in recently setting a new lap record for front-wheel drive cars at Nürburgring’s famous Nordschleife track in Germany, Honda chose the tyre for its Civic Type R. In a demonstration of the SportContact 6’s prowess at the Zwartkops facility, an array of Mercedes-Benz AMG models shod with the tyre were put through their paces on wet and dry surfaces. In all tests – from a gymkhana course that involved hairpin corners, sweeps and a number of slalom sections on a skidpan to high

speed acceleration, cornering, braking and a double lane change at 120km/h on the race track – grip levels remained extremely high, the tyre tending to live up to claims that it delivered superior performance. Ryan Visagie, brand manager for Continental Tyre SA, said that, to achieve the aim, the company’s technical engineers in Germany had virtually reinvented the chemical composition of the SportContact 6’s tread strip, as well as redesigning the tread pattern and the tyre’s construction. “Black Chili technology with special grip resins patented by Continental already provided the SportContact 5P with optimum micro-flexibility and exceptional grip in the dry,” he said. “For the new tyre, the rubber compound was chemically finetuned to make it mesh more closely with the road’s surface. “At the same time, particles in the contact patch act have been engineered to act like suction pads to ensure high adhesion between rubber and road. Together, How global demand these two factors provide maximum for aluminium is grip expected to grow from now until 2020

32 - JUNE 2016

www.automobil.co.za

in all directions when braking, cornering and accelerating, regardless of whether conditions are wet or dry.” Visagie added that another innovation related to the tyre’s Force Vectoring technology. “This involves different tread elements for the inside, outside and centre of the tyre,” he explained. According to Visagie, depending on tyre size, three or four central ribs and the inner shoulder are responsible for maximum transmission of lateral forces. “As the forces acting on the tyre during cornering are greater on the outside than on the inside, the rib edge design is asymmetrical, allowing for greater stability and enabling higher forces to be transferred,” he said.

specially designed for the SportContact6. This synthetic textile fibre, in which two yarns of high-strength aramid are twisted together with a yarn of flexible nylon, is embedded in the rubber. “Located beneath the tread, this endless cap ply acts like an additional steel belt, providing extra stabilisation to help deal with the enormous centrifugal forces that act on the tyre at very high speeds,” Visagie explained.

When creating the outer shoulder, designers interlinked various block elements into a larger macro block unit.

The SportContact 6 features an additional safety feature in the tread design. A new two-stage UHP tread wear indicator (TWI) allows the driver to see when the remaining tyre tread has reached a depth of 3mm – Continental's recommended replacement point in the interests of maximum safety. A further tread depth indicator emerges when the tyre has only 1,6mm of tread remaining.

The large tread blocks on the outside are connected to interlinked elements in a second row of blocks to provide mutual support during fast cornering, enabling high lateral forces to be transferred with ease.

According to Continental’s tests, the SportContact 6 represents significant performance gains over the predecessor, which itself won top marks in numerous tyre tests.

“The third significant development step was the use of a new reinforcing material, called Aralon 350, which was

“As the new tyre to beat in the prestigious ultra-high performance tyre segment, steering precision has been increased

www.automobil.co.za

by 14% that provided by the 5P, while handling performance in the dry is 11% up,” says a statement. “The grip level on a race track has been improved by 4% and, when it comes to wet-weather properties, overall the new SportContact 6 has a 2% edge over its predecessor's high performance. On top of which, mileage and comfort each rack up a 7% improvement in performance characteristics.” For me, one of the most pertinent characteristics of the tyre relates to its ability to curtail squirm at the nose of the car under severe braking, as well as reducing squeal when cornering at high speed.

JUNE 2015 -

Audi Genuine Parts Audi, inside and out

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* Prices are recommended retail exclusive of VAT and are subject to change without notification. Part applicability dependent on chassis number. Valid from 3 May – 3 November 2016.

34 - MAY 2016

www.automobil.co.za

Genuine Parts

MAY 2016 -

KEEPING THE WHEELS

c u r re

fit Accr m e en

eb W

e sit

ts c e

elopment v e d

t P r o j

36 - JUNE 2016

TDAFA National Council Some changes already implemented are manifest in the manner in which the hugely supportive National Council of the TDAFA operates. Each member of the council has adopted a leadership role that covers a specific portfolio, namely: • Technical (equipment and product); • Marketing (of the association); • Compliance (guidelines to members); • Communication (association to members); • Training (for all levels of staff); • Finance (of the association).

In short, the TDAFA dealer member represents the “collective” that will mould the future of the association, determining what members need and want as deliverables. Therefore, a participative approach will be fundamental to success of the initiative and to the future of the association.

Gr oup in

National w i t h Jo ntool d n e s w eal a y

Participation is KEY to success The association’s drive will place dealer members at the forefront of the road to change. From a delivery perspective, a dealer member is instrumental in providing the requirements for – and meeting the demands of – the myriad activities in which the association is engaged. Instruments employed by the association to deliver will be determined by the elected National Council, which comprises dealer members.

unde y l r nt

velopm

The primary goal of the initiative is focussed on the success of dealer members, through which the association aims to find fresh ground for the future.

Comp for fi l i a n c tme e nt g u wo

he TDAFA is changing and so is the weather, not only with winter coming. Many people remark that seasons appear to be different to what they were and that the country’s climate is altering. Far-reaching statements, perhaps, but be aware that the TDAFA as an association is just as hard at work moving the seemingly impossible to provide a new path for success.

for s n tio kshop a t r di wo t

s ine e l ops id ksh r

The RMI’s Tyre Dealers’ and Fitment Association (TDAFA) is maintaining its impetus for change, where dealer member participation is the most effective way of making a difference, says director Hedley Judd

li c y o p e suranc

This is an extra commitment from the team to improve delivery from the association to members, where sensible and measurable values provide meaning to the line “belonging is better business.” I believe the association needs to commend each of the members of the National Council for their unfaltering commitment to improvement: Frans Maritz (National Chairperson), Morne Viviers (National Vice-Chairperson), Corrie Taljaard (Highveld Region), Leon Jonker (Northern Region), Wayne Clarke (KZN Region), Mervyn Jevon (Border Region), Ian Vrey (Eastern Cape Region) and Robert van der Merwe.

www.automobil.co.za

TURNING LEADERSHIP ROLES: NATIONAL COUNCIL

ut tat

ory

Finance

Training

Communication

Compliance

Marketing

Technical

g in in Tr a

Dif

fer

ent

iat

ion

Role players

Development

Role Players While every effort is being made to bring the fitment centre industry together as a whole – involving franchisors, franchisees, suppliers and independent dealers alike – Rome wasn’t built in a day. Changing perceptions within a mature industry will take time. On this point, building a new structure is always easier than changing an existing one, mostly because whatever is under the foundation is not known until the excavator digs. Differentiation South Africa is facing difficult times

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economically but the fittest businesses will survive, according to a number of economists. So what constitutes fitness for a business? In the TDAFA, the concept is regarded as being the ability to differentiate when times are tough. This means making sure there is a reason why a consumer should choose one product above another, based not only on price but on the total package experience. Training Over the past few months, the association has made numerous strides in developing

methods to provide technical training to workshop staff, one of the most significant being a commitment by the merSETA to allow the extraction of skill sets that are recognised by the industry. This in itself is hugely exciting in terms of addressing compliance issues faced by all members. Statutory The TDAFA spends a vast amount of time and expends a considerable amount of energy in this sector. The association represents the industry in a variety of roles involving organisations such as the SABS, NRCS, SARS, ITAC, MIOSA, the DEA and others.

JUNE 2016 -

RMI ASSOCIATION Our primary focus concerns acting in the best interests of members and ensuring fair and equitable outcomes, whether they relate to the setting of standards, maintaining a presence in the import arena or ensuring fair management of It’s been a busy start to the expectations from an environmental year for the RMI in KwaZuluperspective.

Natal, says Regional Manager Julian ProjectsPillay and Developments

During the past year the association evaluated its position before taking a giant leap forward following a decision to become more commercially oriented and business focussed. Input regarding strategy was received from numerous role players from inside and outside the TDAFA. In this regard, major brands from within membership ranks played a significant part in the process and the association acknowledges Christo Janse van Rensburg (Divisional Head of Bridgestone Retail – Supa Quick); Sean Harrison (Managing Director of Hi-Q Automotive); and Ria Bronkhorst (Human Resources Director, TrenTyre Retail), for providing insight and valuable guidance. In this area of activity, excitement continues to grow as projects aimed at delivering benefits to all participating members begin to take shape. In fact, many initiatives have taken on lives of their own in preparation for launch later this year. In my view, the commercial aspects that these projects promise will more than adequately answer the question “What does the RMI do for me?” by showing tangibly how the association provides paths to significant value propositions. Projects currently under development include: • Accreditation for fitment workshops: A new, Internetbased process will include an online evaluation tool designed to provide a dataset that can be used to differentiate legitimate dealers from the rest, thus providing valuable

38 - JUNE 2016

measurements of expected quality and workmanship in line with the RMI’s Code of Conduct. • Compliance guidelines for fitment workshops: In a similar process, an online tool on the TDAFA website will allow for continuous and meaningful measurement of compliance as well as offering suggestions on how to remedy non-compliance by following helpful guidelines. • National tool deal with Jonnesway: One of the challenges of running a fitment workshop is to ensure that hand tools are retained in a condition that instils confidence in the consumer and delivers a message of quality. Jonnesway Distributors will be providing not only an on-site toolbox audit service, but a finance model option and a preferential discount to TDAFA members only – a REAL discount, according to Carel Venter of Jonnesway. • Group insurance policy: Our dedicated product for members of the TDAFA, issued under the RMI4Sure banner, offers many benefits. Additionally, representatives call on members to provide insight into options available. The product has had a very detailed risk analysis assessment done for TDAFA type businesses which allows for financial savings in various areas due to limitations of risk. • Website development: The new and revised TDAFA site is scheduled to be launched by the end of June or, at the latest, the end of July. The website will have numerous exciting options for different levels of interaction within the industry. Emphasis will be placed on informing and educating not only fitment workshop staff, but also consumers.

Why we do it, and why you should participate The objectives of the TDAFA are straightforward: To be the association that sets and maintains standards of compliance in the tyre and fitment industry to the best quality benefit of customers, employees, suppliers and dealer members.

There are other projects scheduled which have not as yet reached a point of sufficient maturity to be able to add them to this list. However, rest assured that the pipeline is full and flowing in a most productive manner.

REDISA, an organisation established by an Act of Parliament to collect waste tyres nationwide, can be contacted via e-mail at customersupport@redisa.org.za, or by telephone at 087 357 3873.

Through dealer member participation, collective delivery aims to provide a network of knowledge, experience and opportunity to guide towards profitability, as well as offering insight covering a range of portfolios managed by dedicated dealer members. In addition, through collective participation the TDAFA will: • Unravel the complexities of the industry and make it easier for fitment centres to comply with all requirements; • Build a knowledge and experience network for communications, providing a member competitive edge; • Assist in an efficiency programme for member profit building. Waste Tyre Collections As promised following the release of the results of the TDAFA’s initial Waste Tyre Survey conducted in the first quarter of 2015, a further survey document was circulated to all members on April 6 this year. To date, the volume of responses received has been low and, without further detail at hand, the National Council of the TDAFA has surmised that the majority of dealers are currently satisfied with the service.

www.automobil.co.za

Visit vw.co.za and find us on facebook.com/VWSA

Quality, filtered down to the last detail.

RMI UPDATE

Genuine Filters Did you know that a good filter can ensure the smooth running of your Customers’ engines and even decrease fuel consumption? That’s why it’s so important to stock high-quality filters that fit precisely. Not only do Genuine Filters protect their engines, and give them peace of mind while driving, but they are now more affordable than ever. Offer your Customers the best protection for their engines with Volkswagen Genuine Filters. Part Number

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Air Filter Element

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Fuel Filter

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2006 - 2012

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2003 - 2012

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1995 - 2003

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1996 - 2007

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R399.91

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www.automobil.co.za

O&M CAPE TOWN 88331/E

JUNE 2016

RMI UPDATE

SAAW to highlight tool, die and mould making

outh Africaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s tool, die, mouldmaking and precision engineering sectors are set to take centre stage at the fifth edition of South African Automotive Week (SAAW) to be held in October at the Tshwane Events Centre in Pretoria.

VDWF and Moulding Expo International Trade Fair, through which international tooling experts had been invited to address conference delegates.

needs was essential for South Africa's manufacturing growth. He urged manufacturers to get involved in issues pertaining to the sector.

The chairman of the National Tooling Initiative Executive, Bob Williamson, recently reinforced the need for greater collaboration between tool and die makers and automotive manufacturing sectors.

"Local tooling must be developed to provide industry with options to make products more efficient," he said.

Organiser Andrew Binning said the sectors would be showcased alongside the automotive supply chain as part of a co-hosted conference and exhibition, TDM Africa.

Speaking at the launch of the Eastern Cape Tooling Initiative (ECTI) in Port Elizabeth, he said: "There is no such thing as manufacturing without tooling. Sixty percent of the efficiency of a manufactured product is based on the selection of tool used."

He said the event had the support of the Toolmakersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Association of South Africa (TASA) and had developed a strategic alliance with German Tooling Association

Williamson said the ability to develop bespoke tooling for specific manufacturing

Binning said given the importance of new business (diversification) and the direct relationship of volumes (economies of scale) on quality, cost and delivery of manufactured components manufacturing supply chains across various sectors had much to gain from synergy. That was why, he said, synergy had been chosen as one of the key themes for SAAW. For information log on to www.saaw.co.za

New prices for Technica guides The new prices are: CDX Light Vehicle Level 1-LV R1 238,52 Level 2-LV R1 213,22 Level 3-LV R1 303,23 Level 4-LV R1 288,35

ew prices have been agreed for Technica CDX guides. The guides, which have been designed to comply with automotive motor and diesel mechanic apprenticeship training through the Competency Based Modular Training (CBMT) system, contain information about myriad automotive vehicle components, structures and repair processes and can therefore be used for an array of other artisan development models and systems, or by anyone who enjoys working on motor vehicles.

40 - JUNE 2016

CDX Heavy Vehicle Level 1-HV R2 045,59 Level 2-HV R1 896,82 Level 3-HV R2 157,17 Level 4-HV R2 082,78 The content of Technica CDX guides is benchmarked against international standards and technology and is updated on a regular basis. Training material has been designed by automotive instructors to meet the needs of modern students, with the following companies assisting in compiling the content for South African editions: Barloworld Motor Retail, Bidvest Automotive, Imperial Technical Training Academy, MerSETA, NMI Durban

South Motors, the RMI and Sandown Motor Holdings. Through the RMI, the Technica CDX guide for light vehicles is also available on a fully aligned e-learning interactive online system. The new prices are: CDX Light Online Level 1-LO R955,21 Level 2-LO R955,21 Level 3-LO R955,21 Level 4-LO R703,84 All of the modules can be purchased via an e-commerce portal using PayPal on the RMI website. Once payment has been authorised and automated registration has taken place, the subscriber is able to access the purchased course material immediately.

www.automobil.co.za

he closing date for applications to compete at provincial level in WorldSkills SA 2017 has been extended to June 30, according to notification received from Lebese Mosoma, Administrator of Stakeholder Management in the office of National Artisan Development. Finalists selected at regional level will then compete at a national competition to determine the winners who will represent South Africa at the international finals to be held next year in Abu Dhabi. Participants in the national competition must not be older than 22 years in 2017. Only electronic entry forms – available for completion via the Department of Higher Education and Training’s website, www.worldskillssa. dehet.gov.sa – will be accepted. The WorldSkills competition provides a chance for young artisans to grow their careers by participating in a sponsored journey of a lifetime to represent their country at the internationals. Skills relating to the automotive sector – which forms part of the competition – include auto body repair, welding, car painting and automobile technology.

“We have a considerable talent pool of young artisans in South Africa, and the World Skills South Africa competition is both about celebrating that talent as well as communicating how key the artisanal sector is to the country’s economy,” says Raymond Patel, chairman of the WSSA.

Abu Dhabi: Location of World Skills 2017

WorldSkills entry date extended WorldSkills South Africa National Skills Challenge January 2017

Enter now! Do you want to get to the WorldSkills international welding competition in Abu Dhabi 2017? Then go to www.worldskillssa.dhet.gov.za and enter the competition. The first part of the competition will be countrywide regional events organised by the Technical Vocational Education Training Colleges (TVETS) and the Further Education Training Colleges (FETS). The top 20 or so candidates will then make their way to Johannesburg from 21-25 November 2016 for the SAIW Youth Welding Challenge. The top 3 candidates from the SAIW Youth Welding Challenge will compete in the WorldSkills SA competition in Durban in January 2017. The winner of this – Abu Dhabi! For more information and entry form go to:

www.worldskillssa.dhet.gov.za

SAIW Youth Welder in 2015 SAIW Challenge

South Africa’s participation in the WorldSkills 2017 event was officially announced last month by the Minister of Higher Education and Training, Mduduzi Manana, who said the first part of the competition would consist of countrywide regional events organised by Technical Vocational Education Training Colleges (TVETS) and Further Education Training Colleges (FETS). SAIW A5.indd 1

Southern African Institute of Welding

4/26/16 2:42 PM

Top candidates would then be selected to compete in the WorldSkills SA competition in Durban in January next year, with the winners going on to represent their country in Abu Dhabi. For more information and the entry form visit www.worldskillssa.dhet.gov.za

Make contact with Tukela

ollowing Automobil’s report last month on RMI member Tukela Mtembu’s community initiatives near Port St Johns in the Eastern Cape, readers have been in contact to find out how they can contribute to his projects. Tukela can be contacted on 071 676 4841 (mobile) or 081 765 9549 (office). His e-mail address is: tmtembu@gmail.com. Over the past four years, he and his partners have

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donated thousands of books to over 20 schools in the Eastern Cape area. “If there are any contributions fellow RMI members or businesses would like to make, I can get a particular school or beneficiary involved and take it from there. I would like to add that if people need me to participate in community projects that they are running, I would be glad to help where I can,” says Tukela.

JUNE 2016 -

RMI UPDATE

Annual Golf Day deemed a hit!

ne of the annual highlight events on the RMI calendar is the RMI Highveld Region’s Golf Day, which was held last month at the Kyalami Country Club near Johannesburg. The event gave the RMI the opportunity to invite RMI members and potential new members to enjoy the spectacular golf course in its beautiful and friendly environment. To get the day off to a swinging start, a great goodie bag containing caps, pens, mints, water bottles, lanyards and many more gifts were presented to participants as registration took place. Turnout was excellent with abundant support from sponsors who have participated previously, as well as new sponsors and followers who showed amazing interest in the event. We also had a mixture of clients and guests from all areas of business within

the Highveld region. “Our golf day provides an excellent opportunity for us to strengthen relationships with existing members and also allows potential members to understand a little more about what the RMI has to offer. “In turn, this enables our continued growth and success within the retail motor industry,” says Jeffrey Molefe, regional manager of the RMI Highveld Region. Golfers were privileged to have had beautiful weather which ensured that the day was enjoyed immensely by all who played. The course was abuzz with energy and enthusiasm as 140 players took turns to tee off. As always, the players battled it out for some great prizes and also for the glory of being the top regional four-ball. There was no shortage of fun and laughter along the course, provided by various sponsors who pulled out all the stops.

After 18 holes, scorecards were in and golfers made their way to the clubhouse for the next part of proceedings. The evening’s entertainment included a prize giving dinner where golfers were thanked for their support and attendance, and rewarded with some attractive prizes. The razor sharp wit and natural exuberance of popular MC and auctioneer, Tobie Mostert, kept guests entertained, the auction he conducted raising funds for the RMI’s charity of choice for the Golf Day – Meals on Wheels. A representative from the organisation, Erika Botha, gave an informative address on the wonderful work Meals on Wheels does on a national basis. The RMI extends its thanks to all sponsors and companies which took part in the event, helping to make the day such a swinging success. We hope to see you again next year!

Right to Repair gets mixed reaction

growing number of organisations, spearheaded by the Motor Industry Workshop Association (MIWA), are challenging the existing power the dealer network and Vishal Premlall, Original Equipment Director of MIWA Manufacturers (OEMs) exert over the South African public when it comes to car repairs and warranties. As part of a global drive, the Right to Repair Campaign (R2R) lobbies for consumers to have the right to select where their vehicles are serviced,

42 - JUNE 2016

maintained and repaired at competitive prices in the workshop of their choice. The campaign, which was launched in South Africa in 2013, rekindled interest and support last year when it was highlighted at Automechanika. Vishal Premlall, Director of MIWA – which represents 2 500 independent aftermarket dealers – said since then meetings have been held with some OEMs including Nissan SA, the AMH Group (TATA head office) , Suzuki SA, BMW SA and Ford SA. MIWA has also interacted with a number of different associations including the Tyre Dealers’ and Fitment Association (TDAFA), the National Association of Automobile Component and Allied Manufacturers

(NAACAM), the National Association of Automobile Manufacturers of South Africa (NAAMSA), the Original Equipment Manufacturers’ Technical Committee, the National Automobile Dealers’ Association (NADA) and the National Consumer Commission (NCC). On the component side meetings have been held with Bosch SA, Mahle and Grandmark SA. Premlall says reactions have been mixed with some organisations having a clear understanding of international Right to Repair developments – especially on the legislative front – to some having little knowledge of the campaign as a whole. “In support of South Africa’s existing consumer and competition laws, our

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RMI UPDATE

1st PLACE (96 points): Car Service City represented by Patrick Denga, Guy Taitz, Jonathan Barnard and Paul Ntuli

2nd PLACE (95 points): Tracker represented by Ian Adendorff, Mark Fletcher, Rian Swart and Brett Nel

3rd PLACE (90 points): MFC Sales represented by Clifford Holthausen, Alvin Reddy, Julian and Deon Greyvenstein

legislature needs to follow international Right to Repair trends,” he maintains. “There is a need for a fair and competitive regulatory environment that enables freedom of choice for consumers and that gives small and medium enterprises in the aftermarket a chance to stay in business.” Premlall says it is important for all parties to collaborate during the lobbying phase and, while it is positive to see Right to Repair gaining traction in some areas, it is disappointing that despite many efforts to engage with other OEMs, representatives have resisted all attempts to meet. “It remains an imperative for MIWA that we engage and collaborate with all OEs and importers that may be affected by R2R in South Africa,” he says.

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The RMI’s four-ball (from left): Richard Robert, Raoul Spinola, Gary McCraw and Twala Boco

Jeff Molefe, General Manager, Highveld

Erika Botha from Meals on Wheels

RMI team: Raoul Spinola, Danelle van der Merwe and Jeff Molefe

“Access to information is increasingly important in an era of technological advancements. Not having access to certain information has allowed OEMs to monopolise aspects of the automotive industry by refusing to disclose to independent aftermarket dealers requisite codes for security systems, diagnostic systems and telematics systems.

Going the distance

or over 65 years GUD filters have been keeping engines running optimally, ensuring great engine performance and protection. A true testament to this is the N3TC Route Patrol Ford Ranger which recently clocked 1-million kilometres. The feat was achieved with the fitment of GUD filters during regular service interval changes conducted by the Toll Care Workshop team. The N3TC patrol vehicle responds to road accident emergencies and vehicle breakdowns between the 428 km N3 stretch from Heidelberg, Gauteng to Cedara, KZN. “We are very pleased about the N3TC patrol teams’ achievement. They play a crucial role in helping motorists on the N3 and we’re proud that our premium filters have contributed to keeping them on the road to respond to emergencies,” says Ian Law, GUD’s sales and marketing director.

Above: The odometer shortly before it clicked over to one million kilometres

“We believe that the lack of access to information and the stringent framework surrounding warranty, maintenance and service plans, minimises, if not destroys, the consumer’s right to choose and places OEMs and their franchise dealers in exclusive control of that segment of the market. This imbalance needs to be addressed in South Africa as it has been in other parts of the world.”

JUNE 2016

RMI UPDATE

Partinform wows Makhado

eep in the heart of the Limpopo Province, Makhado (Louis Trichardt) represents an important grass-roots market for members of Partinform. The highly effective and popular trade show continues to reach out and touch as many different parts of the South African aftermarket landscape as time and logics allow. The show brings suppliers and manufacturers into direct contact with their most important customers: representatives of fitment centres, spares outlets and workshops. The event’s format incorporates product displays, a fun and informal game-show and meet-and-greet networking sessions. Platters of snacks are provided, a bar-tab is bravely established and sizable prizes are on offer, including participation in a track day in a Legends Racing Car. Towards the end of the year, game-show winners from each of the shows around South Africa will meet at a race track and be given the chance to drive highperformance, lightweight Legends race cars around the circuit. Winner at Makhado was Lee Dippenaar of the local Kia dealership. The night truly did favour the ladies with three of the top four finalists belonging to the fairer sex. It goes without saying that evenings like these would not be possible without sponsorship and various Partinform members take turns in footing the bill. The most recent event was sponsored by ATE, SKF, Gabriel and Denso. When asked why these road-shows are so important and why Partinform is putting so much effort into making

44 JUNE 2016

these connections, chairman Gideon de Klerk replies: “Business success is about trustworthy partnerships.

Representatives of the automotive aftermarket in the Far North came out in force to attend last month’s road show in Makhado (Louis Trichardt). Kieran Rennie reports

“Also, in this sector of our industry, it’s about quality product. That is why Partinform exists. Our members are determined to keep putting the quality over cut-price message to the industry. These road-shows are a very effective way of doing just that.” The organisation was established in 1985 as the Component Manufacturer's Association. Its first chairman was Des Erasmus of Holt-Lloyd. By 1997 it had evolved into Partinform which, in 2008, spawned the Automotive Aftermarket Manufacturers' Association (AAMA) for which it is now the marketing arm. Says De Klerk: “Partinform is an association of local companies that represent major quality brands in the Southern African automotive component aftermarket. It was established as a means of sharing and enhancing trade day impact and costs, but over time it has evolved with a definite focus and greater mission. “In a nutshell, Partinform's primary objective is to address the need for skills development and training at fitment level, in spares shops and workshops. This is all about teaching people who sell and fit car parts about the importance of using reputable, guaranteed safety-critical brands.” Partinform’s next event will be held even further north on June 22 when it moves to Bulawayo, Zimbabwe. For more information log on to www.partinform.co.za

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TECH TALK

Small looms large Motor manufacturers have embraced the engine downsizing trend. Jake Venter examines the rise of the three-cylinder unit

e are in the midst of one the fastest shifts in technology the automotive world has ever seen. Just about every new model brings technology with it that was unheard of when its predecessor was released, mostly in pursuit of reducing fossil fuel usage, fuel consumption and carbon dioxide emissions. The last two measures are linked via a conversion factor, which means that a vehicle’s fuel consumption can be used to calculate CO2 emissions. Multiply the fuel consumption in litres per 100km by 23,3 for a petrol engine and 26,2 for a diesel engine to get the CO2 emissions in g/km. We’ve seen hybrids, stop-start technology, lean-burn combustion, direct fuel injection and a host of smaller improvements, but downsizing is the big news at the moment. Just about every company is working feverously to reduce engine sizes, dropping the number of cylinders from eight to six, or from four to three, or even two, as Fiat has done. The move has put three-cylinder engines in the spotlight. Are they smooth enough or does the removal of one cylinder result in an unacceptable degree of roughness? The truth is that four-cylinder units can only be really smooth if they are equipped with twice-engine-speed balance shafts – though modern triples can be silky smooth with or without balance shafts. A separate panel explains why this is so. Next question to ask is why have three-cylinder engines not entered the

46 - JUNE 2016

mainstream before in vast numbers? Daihatsu has been building such units for well over 15 years and others brands have tried to make them popular. I believe the main reason stems from the fact that they were not fashionable. Many people still think that engines with more cylinders are better, and this used to be true in the days before balance shafts, sophisticated engine mountings and scientific NVH-control. However, modern engines are in a different league. Current government clean-air regulations are pressurising manufacturers to such an extent that they can no longer be bothered with fashion. Three-cylinder engines have a number of interesting advantages: 1. They offer complete primary and secondary force balance plus manageable primary and secondary moment balance. 2. Fewer cylinders for the same swept volume means fewer exhaust strokes per revolution and hence less energy lost per revolution. 4. Cooling capacity is reduced.

5. Less power pulses per second means the turbocharger has an easier time. 6. One less cylinder means that internal engine friction is reduced by about 22%. Examples of three-cylinder engines Ford’s 1,0-litre EcoBoost engine was designed at the company’s Dunton Technical Centre in the UK. It has been voted Engine of the Year three times since its launch and is fitted to a range of different vehicle types. Though turbocharged, turbo-lag has been all but eliminated thanks to the fact that power pulses produced by a three-cylinder unit cannot interfere with one another. Further, the evaporative effect of direct fuel injection into the combustion chambers has allowed the compression ratio to be increased to a value that is not normally associated with turbocharged engines. Also, since the cambelt runs in oil, its working life has been extended and friction has been reduced, resulting in a claimed 1,0% improvement in fuel consumption. BMW’s similarly configured 1,5-litre engine retains a traditional enginespeed balance shaft in the sump

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to achieve remarkable mechanical refinement. The unit is essentially one half of the company’s iconic 3,0-litre sixcylinder plant and uses a similar directinjection fuel supply system combined with valvetronic variable valve control. The engine is regarded as the quietest of all the threes. I’ve driven Toyotas and Fords fitted with 1,0-litre, three-cylinder engines and can report that they’re both remarkably smooth and effortless right up to the red line, helped by their low displacements as well as very short, stiff crankshafts. The sad part of this story is the fact that most of the threes on the market have not shown a major improvement in fuel consumption compared with four-cylinder units they have replaced. This is most likely due to the fact that fuel-saving devices tend to work better at part-throttle operation so, if you’re going to drive fast, you’re going to use more fuel. After all, a 1,0-litre engine revving at 6 000rpm sucks in approximately as much fuel as a 2,0-litre unit running at 3 000 revs/min. The future The emergence of balance shafts and hydraulic or electronically-controlled engine mountings has made it possible to reduce the number of cylinders even further. Fiat started the trend by introducing the TwinAir, a 900cc, parallel-twin turbocharged unit that employs the company’s MultiAir valve timing technology. An engine-speed balance shaft is employed to dampen vibrations that have plagued similar motorcycle engines and performance is claimed to be equivalent to that of a 1,4-litre unit – but with a 30% improvement in fuel consumption. Which begs the question: Which manufacturer will be the first to market a car powered by a 1,0-litre singlecylinder engine? ENGINE BALANCE FOUR CYLINDER ENGINES In inline engines, pistons are supposed

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to balance each other with regard to the forces that arise from piston movement. This means that pistons have to move in such a way that the sum of all upwards forces is equal to the sum of all downwards forces. In addition, clockwise movements created by some of the forces must be equal to anticlockwise movements created by the rest of the forces. Note that for the following analysis we have to ignore forces arising from the combustion process because they are not part of the balancing process – they’re damped by the flywheel. When the crankshaft on a vertical engine drags number one piston down the bore the crank journal feels the opposite force – an upwards pull (F1+S in the sketch) – in the same way that you would feel a pull on your hand if you drag a box along the ground. This will cause a clockwise moment – another word for torque when it’s not causing motion – to act around the vertical centre line through the central main bearing. Number four piston is also being dragged downwards on the other side of the centre line and this creates an equal, upward pull that produces a similar moment – but in an anticlockwise direction. The result is that the sum of the two moments is zero – they balance each other.

This implies that a piston’s downwards movement is not the same as the upwards movement and also that the upwards pull is not the same as the downwards push. It can be shown that these forces consist of components F (primary force) and S

(secondary force) where the upwards pull is F1+S and the downwards push is F2-S. Note that all the F-forces are the same size and all the S-forces are the size. Since their sum F1 - F2 + F1 - F2 = 0 we conclude that the primary forces are in balance. For the secondary forces we have S+S+S+S =4S (all in the same direction) so that the secondary forces are not in balance. This introduces a high-frequency vibration that shows itself at 2 500 and 4 000 revs/min. It can only be reduced by employing two balance shafts with masspieces on them that create opposing forces of the correct dimension when they rotate at twice engine speed. GRAPHICAL PICTURE OF PISTON MOVEMENT

At the same time pistons number two and three move upwards but cause downwards pushes (F2-S) on the crank journal, creating similar opposing, balancing moments. The force balance is complicated by the fact that a downwards moving piston gets to its maximum speed not halfway down the bore but at some crank-arm degree between 70 and 80 due to the sideways movement of the conrod. To understand this you have to realize that if the conrod was infinitely long there would be no sideways movement and the piston would reach maximum speed halfway down the bore with a crankshaft arm angle of 90 degrees.

These curves show piston acceleration versus crankshaft angle for a single cylinder. The blue curve is the primary acceleration that would have occurred if the conrod was infinitely long. Maximum piston speed occurs when the acceleration is zero – at 90 and 270 degrees.

JUNE 2016 -

TECH TECH TALK TALK a car bounce on its suspension and cause the engine to shake the body torsionally as the engine starts and stops.

The yellow curve is the acceleration component due to the sideways movement of the conrod. The grey curve is the actual acceleration (the sum of the other two curves.) Note that maximum speed (zero acceleration) occurs at about 72 and 288 degrees.

These effects can largely be balanced by an engine-speed balance shaft or a suitably unbalanced front pulley and flywheel.

THREE CYLINDER ENGINES These have crank journals spaced 120 degrees apart and this symmetry results in the upward pull on one journal being opposed by half the downwards push on the other two journals. This results in complete primary and secondary force balance.

Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s interesting to note that that BMW and Opel employs balancer shafts while Ford, Peugeot, Renault and Toyota employ a counterweighted flywheel and crank pulley.

The odd number of cylinders means that neither moments are balanced. The secondary moment is small enough to ignore but the primary moment causes a transverse rocking motion of the engine on its mountings that can make

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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JUNE 2016

LEGAL EAGLE

Surety agreements Many of us will, at one stage or another, be asked to stand surety for another person’s or entity’s debt. Before binding yourself as a surety, you should have an understanding of the nature and consequences of a suretyship agreement

suretyship is an accessory contract by which one person undertakes liability for another’s debt or financial obligations. For example, when a student takes out a student loan, the bank will require his or her parents to sign as surety for repayment. Similarly, when a private company applies for a loan, one or more of the directors usually stands surety for payment should the company fail to meet its obligations. A suretyship agreement usually comprises three parties – the creditor, the principal debtor and the surety. The surety undertakes that the principal debtor, who remains bound to the creditor, will perform his or her obligations and, failing which, the surety will indemnify the creditor. In simple terms the surety agrees to step into the principal debtor’s shoes if and when the debtor can no longer fill those shoes financially. What is a co-principal debtor? In terms of most suretyship agreements the surety binds himself as surety and co-principal debtor. This means that the surety’s obligations are equal to those of the principal debtor and the surety will be jointly and severally liable to the creditor. A creditor can institute action directly against a co-principal debtor without having to first claim from the principal debtor.

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Requirements for a Surety Agreement The General Law Amendment Act, 50 of 1956 provides that a valid suretyship agreement must be embodied in a written document signed by or on behalf of the surety. The existence of a principal obligation is a pre-requisite for a valid surety agreement.

The creditor can claim restitution from the surety only if there is a principal debt and the principal debtor fails to perform in terms of the principal obligation. It must also be the clear intention of the parties to enter into a suretyship agreement and the agreement must clearly identify the parties, the nature

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LEGAL EAGLE

si g n at o ry a , w la se ca t en rr cu f o s In te rm m il ia r fa e b to ed g li b o is t en em to an a g re ent w h ic h m cu o d a f o ts n te n co e th w it h h e o r sh e is si g n in g . and the amount of the principal debt, as well as the extent and period for which the surety can be held liable.

from the principal debtor of the amount that he or she has paid to the creditor.

It is important to note that in terms of The Matrimonial Property Act, 88 of 1984, a spouse married in community of property may not bind himself or herself as surety without the written consent of the other spouse.

Similarly, a co-surety who has paid the debt is, by law, entitled to recover from each of the other co-sureties contributions of their allotted portions of the debt.

If a person married in community of property signs surety without the written consent of his or her spouse, the suretyship will, in most instances, be invalid and unenforceable unless such a suretyship is concluded in the ordinary course of the surety’s profession, trade or business. Rights of the surety Some of the most important rights available to a surety include the Benefit of Excussion, in which the creditor is obliged to first claim and recover from the principal debtor before turning to the surety for payment of the debt or the part of the debt. Further, the Benefit of Division Amongst Co-sureties ensures that in cases where there is more than one surety – and where the creditor claims payment for the whole amount or more than a cosurety’s allotted share – then the surety can demand that the debt be divided between all the co-sureties so that each of them ends up paying only their allotted portions. Where a surety has paid the debt of the principal debtor to the creditor, the surety is entitled to claim payment

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The Effect of the National Credit Act on Surety Agreements A suretyship agreement is an important tool that credit providers use in limiting the risk of granting credit. It is therefore important to establish whether a suretyship agreement is a credit agreement in terms of the National Credit Act (NCA). Whether or not suretyship agreements will fall within the ambit of the NCA depends on whether or not the principal agreement is regulated by the NCA. In a recent High Court decision involving First Rand Bank Ltd v Carl Beck Estates (Pty) Ltd, the court made an obiter remark that the NCA applies to suretyship agreements and in that they clearly fall within the definition of a “credit guarantee” as set out in section 8(5) of the Act. However, it would only apply to a surety to the extent that the NCA applies to the underlying credit facility or credit transaction (principal debt) in respect of which the suretyship is granted. Likewise, where the principal debtor in terms of the underlying credit

agreement is not a consumer as defined in the NCA, the surety – even if he is also a co-principal debtor and, in his own right, constitutes a consumer for the purposes of the Act – would not be able to rely on the protection afforded by the NCA. If the NCA is applicable to a suretyship the surety would be able to rely on various protection mechanisms of the Act, and would be entitled to raise defences such as reckless credit lending, or that the entire underlying credit agreement was unlawful. The credit provider would also have to follow and comply with debt collection procedures set out in the Act if it wished to enforce a credit agreement in which the principal debtor had defaulted. Conclusion You should be wary of signing suretyships since you are taking responsibility for the payment of someone else’s debts. Once you have signed as surety it is very difficult to escape liability on the basis that you were not aware of the suretyship clause in the agreement. In terms of current case law, a signatory to an agreement is obliged to be familiar with the contents of a document which he or she is signing. This confirms the Roman law expression caveat subscriptor meaning “let the signatory beware.” This, however, applies to anyone who enters into a contract – not only to suretyships. It is therefore important that, in order to protect yourself, you should consult with an attorney before you take on the responsibility for someone else’s debts. • RMI4Law members enjoy the benefit of legal advice from an attorney 24 hours a day. If you wish to join RMI4Law, call 0861 668 677.

JUNE 2016

LABOUR

Illness in the workplace is unavoidable and sick leave is recognised in South Africa’s Basic Conditions of Employment Act. Douw Breed, a director at Barnard Incorporated Attorneys, examines some of the issues

ick leave has to be regulated properly in order to ensure operations in the workplace are minimally disrupted. An employee is usually entitled to either 30 or 36 days sick leave per 36-month cycle, depending on the number of days he or she works in a week. Section 22 of the Basic Conditions of Employment Act regulates sick leave and provides as follows: (1) Sick leave cycle means the period of 36 months’ employment with the same employer immediately following: (a) An employee’s commencement of employment; or (b) The completion of that employee’s prior sick leave cycle. (2) During every sick leave cycle, an

54 - JUNE 2016

employee is entitled to an amount of paid sick leave equal to the number of days the employee would normally work during a period of six weeks. (3) Despite sub-section 2, during the first six months of employment, an employee is entitled to one day’s paid sick leave for every 26 days worked. (4) During an employee’s first sick leave cycle, an employer may reduce the employee’s entitlement to sick leave in terms of sub-section 2 by the number of days’ sick leave taken in terms of sub-section 3. (5) Subject to Section 23, an employer must pay an employee for a day’s sick leave: (a) The wage the employee would

ordinarily have received for work on that day; and (b) On the employee’s usual pay day. (6) An agreement may reduce the pay to which an employee is entitled in respect of any day’s absence in terms of this section if: (a) The number of days of paid sick leave is increased at least commensurately with any reduction in the daily amount of sick pay; and (b) The employee’s entitlement to pay for any day’s sick leave is (i) At least 75% of the wage payable to the employee for the ordinary hours the employee would have worked on that day; and (ii) For sick leave over the

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sick leave cycle is at least equivalent to the employee’s entitlement in terms of subsection 2. Note that this chapter of the Act does not apply to employees who work less than 24 hours a month. Where employees are sick on a regular basis, Section 23 of the Act regulates the instances in which they are obliged to provide employers with medical certificates. The section reads as follows: 23. Proof of incapacity (1) An employer is not required to pay an employee in terms of Section 22 if the employee has been absent from work for more than two consecutive days or on more than two occasions during an eight-week period and, on request by the employer, does not produce a medical certificate stating that the employee was unable to work for the duration of the employee’s absence on account of sickness or injury. (2) The medical certificate must be issued and signed by a medical practitioner or any other person who is certified to diagnose and treat patients and who is registered with a professional council recognised by an Act of Parliament. (3) If it is not reasonably practicable for an employee who lives on the employer’s premises to obtain a medical certificate, the employer may not withhold payment in terms of subsection 1 unless the employer provides reasonable assistance to the employee to obtain the certificate. Sub-section 2 is of extreme importance as it clearly depicts the criteria for a medical certificate to be valid. Such a sick or medical note can only be signed by a medical practitioner – or a person who is certified to diagnose and treat patients – who is registered with a professional council. In terms of the Act, if an employee is absent from work for two consecutive

days she or she is not obliged to provide a medical certificate in support of the absenteeism. However, if the employee is absent for more than two consecutive days – and it transpires more than twice in an eight-week period – the employer is under no obligation to pay the employee for the days he or she was absent unless a medical certificate or sick note is produced. After receipt of the medical certificate, it has to be ascertained whether the document is valid. Using guidelines provided by the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA) the following applies: Rule 16. Certificates and reports (1) A practitioner shall grant a certificate of illness only if such certificate contains the following information: (a) The name, address and qualification of such practitioner; (b) The name of the patient; (c) The employment number of the patient (if applicable); (d) The date and time of the examination; (e) Whether the certificate is being issued as a result of personal observations by such practitioner during an examination, or as a result of information which has been received from the patient and which is based on acceptable medical grounds; (f) a description of the illness, disorder or malady in layman’s terminology with the informed consent of the patient: Provided that if such patient is not prepared to give such consent, the practitioner shall merely specify that, in his or her opinion based on an examination of such patient, such patient is unfit to work; (g) Whether the patient is totally indisposed for duty or whether such patient is able to perform less strenuous duties in the work situation; (h) The exact period of recommended sick leave;

(i) The date of issue of the certificate of illness; and (j) The initial and surname in block letters and the registration number of the practitioner who issued the certificate. (2) A certificate of illness referred to in sub-rule 1: (a) Shall be signed by a practitioner next to his or her initials and surname printed in block letters. (b) If preprinted stationery is used, a practitioner shall delete words which are not applicable. (c) A practitioner shall issue a brief factual report to a patient where such patient requires information concerning him or herself. If the medical certificate that has been issued conforms to the guidelines stipulated above, it will be safe to assume that it is valid. Should it not conform, the contrary may be assumed and if it becomes evident that the certificate is fraudulent, proper investigation should be done and appropriate action taken. In addition, employers have to have regard to their respective Bargaining Councils’ main agreement and regulations regarding sick leave as those provisions will further guide employers in the manner in which they consider and attend to an ill employee.

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

JUNE 2016 -

FAQs

RMI UPDATE

Answers by experts to questions received recently by the RMI What do I stand to lose if the RMI is no longer there? • Representation by the RMI at long winded and tiresome wage negotiations. • Professional labour advice by expert specialists, to ensure I am both procedurally and substantially fair when disciplining my staff. • Industrial Relations Seminars focused on rules, agreements and industry specific topics affecting my business. • Chairing of disciplinary hearings and automatic entry and representation at the CCMA, DRC and Labour Court. • Representation at various MIBCO Board and committee structures. • Affiliation to a reputable organisation recognised by Government, big

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business, consumers and relevant stakeholders. • No protection by industry or no lobbying function against one-sided legislative changes or new laws and regulations. • CPA support and members’ assistance regarding paperwork when defending myself against a consumer at the NCC and MIOSA. • Facilitation of a business to business complaint, where both parties are RMI members. • Quality and standards function – working to reduce and eliminate the sales of counterfeit and substandard parts and goods.

• Representation at the SABS and NRCS – who will defend our industry when compulsory specifications and standards are compromised? • The informative Automobil magazine, weekly web letters and newsletters which help to facilitate two-way communication and create consumer and industry awareness. • The offering of industry specific products like RMI4BEE /RMI4LAW / RMI4OHS /RMI4SURE. • RMI associations and specific associational benifits. • Training needs and representation via merSETA and W & R Seta.

BASIC | INTERM ED IATE | ADVANCED AUTO ELECTRICAL

Kigima Auto Electrical Training Centre prides itself in offering students top class Facilitators where focus is placed on individual attention and student support. Thereby giving students the confidence to excel in their skills development. SHORT COURSES ON OFFER : Bench Worker (LD & HD) Basic Auto Electrical (LD & HD) Intermediate Auto Electrical (LD) Advanced Auto Electrical (LD& HD, Plant & E/moving) Sales, Stores & Goods Receiving Trade Test Preparation Credit & Debit Cards Sound & Security Now Accepted Basic Auto Air Conditioning Kigima Auto Electrical Training Centre 212 Soutter Street, Pretoria West, 0183 Tel : +27 (0)12 327 2586 Fax : +27 (0)12 327 6211 Email : irene@kigima.co.za

kigimatrainingcentre

56 - MAY 2016 KIGIMA IS A LEVEL 4 BEE CONTRIBUTOR WITH 100% PROCUREMENT RECOGNITION

www.automobil.co.za www.kigima.co.za

Automotive Supplier Park Prime manufacturing location within Gautengâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Automotive Hub Strategic Location

Close proximity to OEM plants including Nissan, BMW, Tata, Iveco and Ford.

Shared Infrastructure and Facilities

ICT services, centralised security, logistic services, Conference facilities, canteen, healthcare facilities, and Gauteng Automotive Learning Centre.

State-of-the-art ICT infrastructure

IP telephony service, broadband internet and email, server access, ICT support, access control and CCTV monitoring.

World-class production environment

Modern with aesthetically-appealing gardens and common areas.

Turnkey building development

Factories developed to tenant requirements and legislative approvals.

Logistics networks

Access to warehousing and distribution services, a centrally-located container depot, and railway lines.

Affordable costs of operations

Dynamically-designed factories that are energy efficient and meet ISO standards.

Automotive Technical Support and Productivity Programmes Enterprise Development and, Skills Development and Training, amongst others.

Automotive Industry Development Centre Your partner in becoming globally competitive

Contact: Monica Kissondath Tel: (+27) 12 564 5033 www.automobil.co.za Cell: (+27) 83 382 5393 Email:mkissondath@aidc.co.za

www.supplierpark.co.za MAY 2016 -

BUSINESS MANAGEMENT

Staying on top Now, more than ever, businesses canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t afford to burn money. Business coach Fergus Ferguson offers seven tips for savvy management practices 3. Watch accounts receivable like a hawk. As always, cash is king and sales mean nothing until the funds are collected. Move quickly when there are delinquencies. The sooner you act, the easier it is to work something out, protecting your revenue and managing the relationship.

hen consulting a business coach, business owners often talk about the challenges they face. Through these conversations, Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve discovered that there are some people who are doing some pretty smart things. Here are the Top Seven savvy business practices observed lately:

4. Measure the marketing. Now, more than ever, there is no money to waste. All new prospects must be asked: "How did you hear about us?" As Jim Rohn says: "The pain of discipline weighs ounces, whereas the pain of regret weighs tons." Religiously keeping track of the number and source of new leads will tell you what is working and, more importantly, what is not. Then it's really easy to make the informed decision to STOP doing what isn't working.

misunderstandings. Consistency is vital: your customers must know what to expect from you (and get it) and you must be clear about what you expect from them (relevant information, feedback and payment terms). Handling this up front with tact and diplomacy fosters great relationships. 7. Never stop prospecting. Many people ride the entrepreneurial seesaw: chase the work / do the work. It's a vicious cycle that perpetuates chaos. If you allow your sales pipeline to dry up, you force a state of panic to refill the appointment schedule. If deal flow is adequate, you can cut back on marketing without turning it off. The benefit is you can be more selective, ideally holding out for the Grade A prospects.

A final tip is to increase productivity 5. Focus on your target. Being crystal by constantly auditing your systems. 1. Persistence pays. Frequently, when clear on your target market and Encourage team members to complain a prospect says "no" it really means aiming at it with laser- like precision about duplication or wasted time spent "not now." A timely follow-up at is a more effective use of your time on paperwork. If feasible, get a third professionally prudent intervals is not and resources. Exploit your niche and party to look after administration so only appreciated, but is often rewarded concentrate on what you do best. your sales team have only one concern: with a sale. Circumstances in business You need not try to be all things to to sell. do change, so your perseverance in all people. Along that same line, have checking back is a smart idea. the courage to decline projects that The challenge is to start today to don't fit with your talents or speciality. implement these techniques. If you learn 2. Refresh relationships. One colleague to do them and do them well, you'll be of mine sums this up as "see the 6. Manage expectations. Proper able to use some of that new found time people." Remember that the number positioning assures there are fewer for some personal and family enjoyment. one reason customers leave (68%) is perceived indifference. Couple that with Fergus Ferguson is a franchisee of the global business coaching the common belief that it's six times company, ActionCOACH. He is an accredited Business Coach who less expensive to retain a customer than assists business owners to significantly grow their profits and develop it is to acquire a new one and it makes their entrepreneurial skills. To find out more about Business Coaching sense to reach out at least once every or to receive a complimentary consult and a business health check, three months. call 082 650 0867 or visit actioncoach.com/fergusferguson

58 - JUNE 2016

www.automobil.co.za

Pole Position!

Just seal it! Victor Reinz速 Sealing Technologies

EXTREMELY HIGH STABILITY AT HIGH TEMPERATURES. Particularly intended for sealing all surfaces in engines, gearboxes, and axles, and also for cylinder liners and synthetic housings. Very suitable for uneven and rough surfaces. All-purpose application for use with all makes of engines and vehicles.

Agent in South Africa Intrade Motor Parts T: 011-432-2667 F: 011-432-3005 E:mail: intrade@iafrica.com

www.automobil.co.za www.victorreinz.com/jsi

JUNE 2016

HEALTH

THE BILL OF RIGHTS Managing HIV/AIDS in your workplace

he Constitution is the highest law of South Africa, and all laws made by national, provincial and local governments must follow it. The Constitution sets out the rules and tells us what powers different branches of government have. Chapter Two of South Africa’s Constitution contains a Bill of Rights, which sets out the rights of all people. The government develops structures to protect our rights, such as courts and commissions, and it may not make a law that is in conflict with any of the rights set out in the Bill of Rights. Why do we need a Bill of Rights? Human rights belong to everyone regardless of race, sex, language, age, class or religion. They are basic values that you find in all different cultures – for example the right to life and dignity – but not all cultures agree on which human rights are most important.

and freedoms that are entrenched. This means that they cannot be taken away from us and, if the government makes laws that go against these rights, the courts can say that the law is invalid.

That’s why we need the Bill of Rights, so that human rights can also be written down in the laws of our country and guaranteed.

Some of the rights set out in the Bill of Rights include the right to equality, the right to dignity, the right to privacy, the right to freedom of expression, the right to access to health care, the right to basic education, the right to vote, the right to fair labour practices, the right to sexual orientation, the right to freedom of movement and the right to freedom of association.

Rights that are given to us by the laws of our country are called legal rights. In South Africa, our human rights are also legal rights – because they are set down in the Bill of Rights. The Bill of Rights contains a long list of rights

Which rights are important for people living with HIV and AIDS? While all rights apply to people living with HIV or AIDS, there is one in particular that stands out as one of the most important – the right to equality.

60 - JUNE 2016

Our Bill of Rights has an Equality Clause which says that everyone is equal before the law and has the right to equal protection and benefit of the law. People living with HIV or AIDS have the right to equality and are protected from unfair discrimination. Other important rights are the right to dignity, the right to freedom and security of the person, the right to privacy, the right to freedom of trade, occupation or profession, the right to access information and the right to fair labour relations.

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)

www.automobil.co.za

Truck Expo

2016

Conference & Awards

TruckX, South Africaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s biggest one day Trucking, Transport and Logistics Expo Get to the Sandton Convention Centre on Tuesday, August 2, for an opportunity to see and interact with all that the trucking, fleet and logistics industry has to offer, all under one roof, right in the heart of Sandton!

FOR THE INDUSTRY ENTHUSIASTS

The TruckX Expo showcases all that the trucking and logistics industry has to offer â&#x20AC;&#x201C; from new products and technologies to skills development, environmental sustainability initiatives and other industry products

FOR THE INDUSTRY PLAYERS

The TruckX Conference facilitates leading panel discussions with a power house line-up of speakers, all ready to tackle issues that affect the trucking and logistics industry

Contact: Ryan de Smidt Cell: 076 500 6676 Email: ryan@thefuture.co.za

www.automobil.co.za

Hosted by Future Group

JUNE 2016

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www.automobil.co.za

JUNE 2016

MEMBERUPDATE The RMI welcomes these new businesses into membership Member Trading Name

City / Town

A A & E Auto Clinic AA Tyres Alfin Upholsterers American Fantastic Anax Logistic Andrew Smith Motors Aspigon 411 Auto Magic East London Auto Magic Pietermaritzburg

Cape Town Durban Kuilsriver Benoni Germiston Durban Eshowe East London Pietermaritzburg

Member Trading Name

City / Town

Member Trading Name

City / Town

H Harry’s Tyres Hi-Q Howick

Potchefstroom Howick

Perfect Drive Tyre & Fitment Centre Phoenix Paneelkloppers Piston Autoshop

Siyabuswa Lichtenburg Alberton

I Isaac Thomas t/a Powertrain

Pietermaritzburg

R Race Tec

Port Elizabeth

J JB Car &Truck Repairs

Uitenhage

S Safe Drive Paarden Eiland Safi Motor Mechanic Siema’s Fleet Solutions Speedy Manaba Springbok Nissan Stikland Testing Station Supa Quick Boksburg Supa Quick Germiston Super Auto Centre SY Cars

Cape Town Centurion Port Elizabeth Margate Springbok Cape Town Boksburg Germiston Durban Durban

B Ben’s Panelbeaters Boygen Exhaust Technology

Pretoria East London

K Kholeka Engineering Westmead Kries Diesel & Car Service George Kwik-Fit Durban

C Cardia Specialists

Durban

L Lejust Trading

Johannesburg

E East Coast Roadside Emergency Services Elegant Auto Body Vereeniging Elegant Autobody Meyerton

Durban Vereeniging Meyerton

F FedAuto Harrismith FedAuto Kokstad FN Diff & Gearbox Repairs

Harrismith Kokstad Pretoria

M Maccy Racing Workshop Mac’s Auto Clinic Makwela & Brothers Motor Services Max Auto Services Mazda-Peugeot-Citroen Somerset West Min’s Breakdown Services MJ Auto Clinic Mobiskim Brake & Clutch Specialists

Pretoria Johannesburg Pretoria Krugersdorp Somerset West Shakaskraal Germiston Parow

T The Automotive Body Inspector Alberton Titan Service Centre Pretoria Titanium Body Works Port Elizabeth Topline Panelbeaters Queenstown TTS Polokwane Turbo City Johannesburg Tyremart Sunninghill Sandton

G Gearbox Technologies Georgas Auto German Motor Tech

Pretoria Cape Town Empangeni

N Nu Wagon Bodyshop

Roodepoort

V V & R Auto Collision Repair Specialist

Port Elizabeth

P Paramount Body Works

Port Elizabeth

Z Zaf’s Fitment Centre

Wonderboom

ADVERTISERS AUTOMOBIL - JUNE 2016 EDITION

BENEFITS OF BELONGING With a membership of 7 500, the RMI provides a very effective collective voice that gives members considerable clout in negotiating better trading conditions. As the lead voice in the motor industry, the RMI is a member-driven organisation that constantly seeks solutions to concerns raised by members in the dayto-day running of their businesses.

- JUNE 2016

CLIENT

CONTACT

WEBSITE

PAGE

Aer O Cure Africa Automotive Aftermarket Solutions Automobil Association Automotive Industry Development Centre Audi Parts Executive Transmissions Gedore Tools Hella Automotive South Africa Kigima Auto Electrical Training Centre MiWay Moto Health Care Probe Corporation Robert Bosch Rose Foundation (NORA) Selago Industries Silver falcon Trading Snap On Africa TruckX Victor Reinz Volkswagen Parts ZF Services South Africa

011 444 6454 011 879 6000 0860 133 3668 012 564 5078 0860 434 838 011 609 4484 031 705 3587 041 996 5700 012 327 2586 011 990 0337 0861 000 300 011 453 0924 011 651 9600 021 448 7492 043 700 6200 083 628 2288 0861 762766 011 268 6297 011 432 2667 0860 434 737 011 457 0000

www.aerocure.co.za www.aaas.co.za www.aa.co.za www.aidc.co.za www.audi.co.za www.executivetransmissions.co.za www.gedore.co.za www.hella.co.za www.kigima.co.za www.miway.co.za www.motohealthcare.co.za www.probegroup.co.za www.bosch.co.za www.rosefoundation.co.za www.selagoindustries.co.za www.hurricaneauto.co.za www.snapon.co.za www.truckx.co.za www.victorreinz.com/jsi www.vw.co.za www.zfsa.co.za

50, 51 & 68 31 49 57 34 & 35 9 7 30 56 67 26 & 27 49 17,19 & 23 13 16 62 & 63 2 & 65 61 59 39 65

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JUNE 2016

TAILPIECE

Beware the hype TU-Automotive’s Susan Kuchinskas explores the hype around autonomous drive vehicles training to maintain their skills. Will drivers be willing to do the same? "The system has to deliver right amount of engagement at right time to keep driver's mind from wandering," Preissner says. It's not only a human-machine interface (HMI) problem. It's also a people problem – and everyone is different. "We can design the tech but how do you tune it to deal with the behaviour of individuals?" asks Mazurek. Now that automakers have firmly planted in everyone's mind that autonomous driving will progress through several levels before true driverless driving, experts have started to talk about skipping Level 3.

utonomous vehicles are at the peak of a hype cycle, says Thilo Koslowski, vice-president, analyst and founder of the Automotive Practice Division at USbased research company Gartner. Right now, he says, consumers have inflated expectations of vehicles that can drive themselves. “We have to reset those expectations,” he warns. “It will be many years before drivers will be able to sleep while their cars get them to work.” He also promises that self-driving cars won't linger too long in the trough of disillusionment. Citing a Gartner consumer survey he says when people were asked whether or not they wanted a car that could drive itself, 27% said they were very interested while 41% said maybe. Koslowski reiterates that fully autonomous vehicles will be on the

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world’s road by 2020, with significant penetration by 2030. "By 2020, 10% of today's vehicle owners in mature markets will give up vehicle ownership for on-demand access," he predicts. While autonomy is a given – you can already see it in action on highways and city streets – it's very easy to forget that really major problems have yet to be solved, one of them being the machineto-human hand-off. "When you tell people we'll drive for you but you have to supervise the car at all times it's unlikely to be perceived as real customer value," says Jim Mazurek, senior vice-president of automotive sales and business development at Neusoft. Olaf Preissner, head of UX automotive and innovations at Luxoft, notes: "When systems get more reliable, takeover skills get worse." This is an established problem in commercial aviation, and pilots are required to take

"Level 3 is the tricky one. You have a thing that encourages you to delegate driving but you can't, because if something happens, it's your fault. Level 2 systems are amazing and will radically improve the commutes of most citizens. We would like to leapfrog from 2 to 4," says Anders Tylman-Mikiewicz, general manager of the Volvo Monitoring and Concept Centre. Meanwhile, Chris Heiser, CEO of Renovo Motors, says the industry should stop dithering. Autonomy may not be perfect; self-driving cars may still get involved in crashes. Yes, there's a level of risk, he says, but they'll still be better than human drivers. Roger Lanctot, associate director of the global automotive practice of Strategy Analytics, posits that fully autonomous vehicles, such as Google cars without steering wheels or pedals, might be best deployed in American cities such as Las Vegas, where automotive and pedestrian congestion are expected to soon exceed capacity.

www.automobil.co.za

JUNE 2016

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