One-on-one with new fitment group, Tyres and More New Bridgestone Ecopia EP200 unveiled Tubestone launches ‘Tyrehouse’ fitment centre
Focus on nEW BEE LEgisLation
Goodyear brings Sava truck tyres to SA market
Vol 19 • December 2013
New BEE legislation promises penalties for non-compliance
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Introduction • 1
Contents
A
the
one-on-one with Alex Taplin and Fred Scheepers – Tyres and More ......................3
Focus on BEE Legislation New BEE Legislation calls for swift action, Promises new penalties for Non-Compliance! ..................................11
Manufacturing Bridgestone Unveils Ecopia EP200 ................................................... 21 Michelin Truck Service Centres arrive in South Africa ...................... 21 Apollo Tyres South Africa wins KZN Exporter of the Year 2013 ....... 23 New Bridgestone tyre slashes fleet admin ........................................ 23
Distribution New Tyre and Fitment Franchise – Tyrehouse – Sees the light ........ 24 Tiger Wheel & Tyre Wins Fifth Consecutive ‘Times And Sowetan Retail Award’ ................................................... 24 Tiger Wheel & Tyre voted tops in KZN ............................................. 25
industry news New era for Wheelquip ..................................................................... 25
talking tyres Tyre pressure monitoring – Keep the pressure On! ......................... 29
goodyear news Goodyear launches new Sava truck tyres for cost-conscious operators ...............................................................3
World news The world’s largest agri tyre from Michelin ....................................... 35 Continental to launch its tyre pressure monitoring system in Europe ............................................................ 35 French say Non to tyre labelling? ..................................................... 35 Brazil to impose five-year anti-dumping duty on Chinese tyres ....... 35 Pirelli celebrates in retro-style as its 50th Anniversary Calendar is launched ............................................ 35
competition, subscription, Website ................................... 36 Front Cover: www.istockphoto.com Editor
Liana Shaw
technical consultant
Wray Shaw
Reproduction
Diane van Noort
Printing
Tel: T YPO – Colour Printing Specialists Fax: Cell: Prestige Bulk Mailers E-mail: Liana Shaw Website:
Distribution advertising
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Publishers
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editor
This year, much like any other, has seen its fair share of developments within the industry, some unexpected. The first quarter of the year was dominated by discussion around waste tyre management and in particular, Redisa’s role and our legal obligations to this project. In this, the fourth quarter of 2013, and following newly implemented legislation on 11 October, we bring you the newly implemented BEE Amended Codes as we examine their effects on your business going forward. By all accounts, any speculation that government was easing off on its stance on black economic empowerment, was just that, sheer speculation. Conversely, at a recent Summit held in Johannesburg, President Jacob Zuma made his intentions expressly clear when he addressed the audience, pointing out that rather than putting BEE on the back-burner, government was about to adopt a bullish approach to the matter. He promised more stringent requirements for business entities in South Africa, coupled with a greater level of policing to ensure that companies are meeting their social obligations in this regard. The most important step to the process is the amendment of the BEE Codes, and these our outlined in our feature story on page 11 Gazetted on 11 October 2013, companies effectively have 12 months in which to comply with the new requirements, or face heavy penalties. And speaking of developments, the distribution trade is welcoming two new players. The first is Tyres and More, which made its debut in Woodmead, Johannesburg on 26 August. A member of the TiAuto Group, which also owns Tiger Wheel & Tyre, in this issue we bring you a dedicated interview with Alex Taplin and Fred Scheepers who outline their vision for the new fitment chain. We also introduce you to the new Tyrehouse stores, which are mushrooming across the country. A long-realised vision of Pieter Kruger, the founder and MD of Tubestone South Africa, Kruger believes that with the inception of Tyrehouse, the company is now well placed to service its growing customer base. What is more one lucky winner stands the chance to win a set of the new Bridgestone Ecopia EP200 tyre, featuring the company’s proprietary Nano ProTech technology that is said to increase the density of silica molecules in the tyre’s compound, thereby reducing heat generation and energy losses while driving, and providing lower rolling resistance. The new tyre was launched in South Africa in October, and the prize is valued at R5 000.00! So as we approach year-end, we wish everyone happy times with friends and family and urge you to take extra care on our roads this festive season. Till we meet again in 2014……
One-on-One • 3
TYRES & MORE
SET TO REDEFINE RETAILING one-on-one with alex taplin and Fred scheepers The industry is abuzz with the news of yet another emerging player in the fitment trade. Tyres & More opened its doors to the motoring public on 26 August in Woodmead, Johannesburg, with another two pilot stores in Edenvale and Bruma duly following on 9 and 16 September. And on 1 November, the fourth
Alex, Fred, thank you for taking the time to chat with us. Please describe the rationale behind
store opened in Sasolburg. Just why
TiAuto has always had a disciplined and proactive approach to growth. Our current retail business
and who is behind the birth of this new distribution group made for an interesting interview recently with Alex Taplin, Chief Operating Officer of the TiAuto Group and Fred Scheepers, newly appointed Managing Executive for Tyres & More.
the formation of Tyres & More. (Tiger Wheel & Tyre) is very successful courtesy of a very specific customer profile and market niche. So whilst we were not looking to change the product line up or business model of our existing retail business customer experience, we still wanted to create an opportunity for future growth. Plus, as our existing retail model does not lend itself to smaller satellite town expansion which requires a larger product range and diversification in order to be sustainable, we saw a niche in the market. Tyres & More, is especially designed to appeal to a burgeoning middle class clientele. South Africa’s car park is more than 10 years old. This, combined with market growth in this economic segment, will ensure growth opportunities for well-placed brands that add value to the consumer and business owner alike. Was it of some concern that the market is said to be reaching saturation levels? We do not subscribe to the notion that there is saturation or for that matter, that there are not significant growth opportunities within South Africa or even sub-Saharan Africa. The emerging
4 • One-on-One
middle class phenomenon is real, and it needs to be acknowledged responsibly.
What will determine future expansion and the location of future stores? And
There is a great deal of business out there. What do you believe that Tyres &
do you foresee any cross-over between Tyres & More and the Tiger Wheel
More will be able to provide that may currently be lacking in the marketplace?
& Tyre stores?
This is a great question. As mentioned before, there is a strong argument for a more and more empowered South African consumer that is looking for a full service offering. With this in mind, Tyres & More is a multi-brand approach that focuses on what the consumer value requirements are whilst also providing reliable back-up support, consistent pricing nationwide courtesy of a centralised debtors and creditors system and products that carry a certifiable warranty.
TiAuto has a Head Office support structure that has been cultivated for over 40 years in the business, which of course Tyre & More will harness to ensure best of breed access to HR support, a MERSETA Accredited Training Academy, a full integrated IT system which links all stores to each other and provides world class data that is critical to running a sustainable business. To further ensure store success, a full marketing suite is available. Future expansion will be determined by market requirements, geographic
And what do you intend doing differently?
location as well as whether opening a new store or converting an existing one
We believe that we offer a fun and funky alternative. We have all the best loved
to the Tyres & More structure is feasible and sustainable.
brands in tyres, wheels, brakes, batteries and shocks, as well as a string of other product lines aimed at offering a one-stop shop solution to customers looking for more value thatthey can trust. We also have some new service and product offerings for our customers which we are testing market response on. That being said, like all things within the TiAuto Group, we are not aiming
As for your question relating to Tiger Wheel & Tyre, some cross-over is inevitable of course, but the two brands are set up to operate separately and independently from one another. As I mentioned earlier, the Tiger Wheel & Tyre brand appeals to a different market and Tyres & More is not actively looking to compete in this market segment.
to reinvent the wheel, only to improve on what is currently out there at the moment. Motorists relate to brands that they can identify with, together with
So, Tyres & More will not be competing directly against TWT?
consistent service, knowledgeable product support, fair value and choice that
In some cases, it will. In fact, we have specifically chosen our three pilot stores
is geared towards their needs. Fitment centres are often dark, depressing little
(all company-owned) in close proximity to a TWT store in order to prove the
workshops, and there is almost no consistency across the various options out
theory that the Tyres & More stores have the wherewithal and customer appeal
there. We aim to provide a consistent customer experience, that is that little bit
to compete directly. Those who know us will tell you that we never focus on
‘Zaney’ and not too serious.
what our opposition does, but rather on what our customers want.
What are your preferred tyre brands? TiAuto has always recognised its suppliers as one of the vital pillars of our success, so we obviously want to ensure support for the most loyal of these suppliers. That being said, the ultimate decision will be made by the customer and we do not want to limit our opportunities by doggedly focusing on existing suppliers in isolation. We have received a very warm reception from a few historically atypical TiAuto suppliers and we intend continuing these conversations in a manner that ensures a ‘triple win’ – supplier, customer and Tyres & More alike.
Retailers have been copying us forever, and we see it as a compliment as we know that this has helped to lift the general quality of fitment centres in South Africa. Tyres & More will set its own benchmark, and create its own customer base and brand identity. Of course it will compete with TWT, but then again this is no different to any other brand. Tyres & More has its own management team which will need to create their own place in the sun, just as TWT has done before them. With TiAuto support, we expect that Tyres & More will have a giant leapfrog advantage over market, as what has taken us 40 years to develop, will instantly be enjoyed by the Tyres & More team in developing their business.
Aside from the supply of local and international tyre brands, Tyres & More
What would you like the ratio between tyre sales and affiliated services such
will also be offering the consumer our new budget brands – the Unigrip and
as shocks, brakes etc. to be?
Gripmax ranges– are aimed at the passenger and 4x4 value conscious markets.
These ratios are traditionally defined by the market and geography of a
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One-on-One • 7
African retail landscape for a long time. If you nail your colours to the mast and allow us to do the rest for you, then there is no need for a multi-brand/ multi-channel approach for fitment centre owners. This will be a limiting factor, but we know that the slow, steady and brand loyal approach wins out every time. Are you looking to source suitable people from within the industry? TiAuto employs nearly 2 000 people across our businesses, and as such, we have a wealth of experience that is unrivalled in the industry. Of course we always look for new talent, and would welcome any person to the team that can add value to our business and customers. We also run extensive learnership programmes as it is almost a social Simon Fox, Fred Scheepers, Joyce Zwane and Alex Taplin.
responsibility to develop talent and give homes to the multitude
particular site, not by us. Typically, tyres command the ‘lions’ share of total
of unemployed South Africans. We intend growing and expanding
turnover, in any fitment centre, but we are guided by demand, and not by some
employment opportunities in all levels of our business, and the mandate for
pre-determined ratio. We abide by strong benchmark best of breed ideals and
Tyres & More will be no different.
the focus will be on how to ensure the best mix and best profit outcome for every store. With 40 years of retail data at our fingertips we are quite confident
Why did you choose Woodmead to position your first store?
that we will be well ahead of the demand curve.
The opportunity arose to acquire the business which had been well run for many years. It was a good location, and its proximity to TWT was a
How many stores do you hope to launch within the next 18 months?
vital ingredient that was required to prove the theory of whether Tyres &
We will be guided by demand as opposed to a ‘pins on maps’ strategy. It is
More and TWT could co-exist. I am happy to report that they are – TWT
not about creating a distribution chain for a tyre manufacturer; it is about
customers are TWT customers but there are many other folk that shop
creating a sustainable and profitable business.
elsewhere. We are focussed on them. The proximity of our Head Office was
We have the entire country’s geography at our disposal and we will focus on each opportunity as it comes along. Our initial budgeting allows for 30% of the stores to be company-owned with the balance being franchised. However, this is not cast in stone and we will respond to opportunities as they present themselves. We should have five to six stores by year end, and we have a few more in the pipeline for 2014.
another important factor in the equation, so that we could implement the brand and tweak things on the run, so to speak. It has worked well and the outcome has been quite pleasing. Who do you perceive to be your greatest competition? There are approximately 1 300 tyre/fitment centres out there, each with its own identity. Everyone who operates under another brand is a potential
TiAuto also has a fully-fledged property department which will support
competitor. There are some manufacturers trying their hand at retailing
the growth and expansion of the brand. We will also look to expand our
now too, which is always something interesting to watch.
acquisition strategy where it makes sense to do so. There are many well run fitment businesses out there where the owners are nearing retirement
Would you please outline your vision for this new auto fitment chain.
age, or where owners simply want to try something else. These are all
As mentioned before, the chain will consist of a combination of company-
opportunities.
owned stores and franchise stores across South Africa. We don’t want to let too much out of the bag at this stage, but suffice to say that we envisage a
What type of franchisees/owners would make ideal candidates?
national footprint supported by a dedicated team of business development
To succeed in the fitment retail industry we believe you need to focus on
managers, IT experts, marketing gurus and seasoned industry professionals
three things – cash flow, staff and customers – no one element being
working together to uplift the fitment centre standard, do better business
more important than the other. So the ideal franchisee would be one who
and provide sustainable opportunities for all South Africans. We want our
responds well in these key elements. They must have a passion for hard
franchisees to know they belong to something important and valuable, and
work (it isn’t easy out there).
have fun building a new brand identity and to contribute to theirs as well as
Equally important to mention is that we are not looking for multi-fitment
their children’s futures
centre brand owners. We are always concerned about the ‘which hat do
Look out for these new striking stores sporting a bright orange and purple
you wear to work today’ syndrome that has been a landmark of the South
image.
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Focus on BEE Legislation • 9
new BEE Legislation calls for swift action, Promises new penalties for Non-Compliance!
Black Economic Empowerment (BEE), the familiar, if somewhat controversial buzz-word in South Africa in recent years, is about to create new waves throughout the business community with new legislation being passed and gazetted on 11 October 2013. Following the initial hype around its implementation a decade ago, one could
Fronting, the practice of companies fraudulently misrepresenting their
well be mistaken for surmising that the government had grown apathetic in
BEE status in order to get business, came under heavy criticism, and
its attempts to actively implement their BEE strategy. But any such allegations
was identified as an obstacle to transformation that would be dealt with
were laid to rest recently when President Jacob Zuma addressed the BEE
through new legislation. To deal with this, a BEE Commissioner, due to
summit held in Johannesburg in October, where he emphatically stated that
be appointed, will prioritise fronting and impose severe penalties on those
creating a significant black industrialist class was the next big priority for
who misrepresent their status.
South Africa. This was said in light of his former comment which alluded to the country still being faced with unacceptable levels of poverty, inequality
To assist the new Commissioner in this task, as well as to intensify the process
and unemployment, despite strides being made with regard to black
of transformation, it was also felt that the Codes were in need of re-amendment,
empowerment and the growth of the black middle class.
hence the re-gazetting of the new Amended Codes of Good Practice in October.
10 • Focus on BE E Legislation
Described as substantially more challenging than the old Codes, they mark the
Three elements namely, Ownership, Skills Development and Enterprise and
government’s resolve and determination to make the process of transformation
Supplier Development are now termed Priority Elements.
more effective, and although effective immediately, businesses are being granted a 12-month period during which to use the old Codes, after which the
Failure to achieve certain thresholds (generally 40% of target), will result in
Amended Codes will have to be used.
discounting of an entity’s BEE status level.
summary of important aspects of the amended codes
For example, entities using the Generic scorecard need to achieve the minimum
According to Dijon de Jager, of mPower Ratings, the number of elements in the
thresholds on all three elements, as failure to do so will result in their BEE status
BEE scorecard has been decreased from seven to five, with the Management
being reduced by one level, e.g. a Level 4 entity will drop down to Level 5.
Control element now including Employment Equity to form a single element, and Procurement and Enterprise Development having been combined under the heading of Enterprise and Supplier Development.
Similarly, Qualifying Small Enterprises will need to achieve the minimum threshold on Ownership and any one of the remaining two Priority Elements, as failure to do so will result in their BEE status being reduced by one level.
In addition, Qualifying Small Enterprises (entities with an annual turnover of between R10million and R50 million) will be required to score on all five
What’s more certain elements require the overall black compliance targets to
elements of the scorecard. Previously, this category was set at between R5 million and R35 million and QSEs could score on any four out of the seven
be broken down into sub-targets for different ethnic groups (Blacks, Asians and
elements).
Coloureds) and weighted in accordance with equitable representation as per the EAP (Economically Active Population) demographics published by Stats SA. These elements include Management Control: specifically the sub-elements
This particular development brings about some relief for micro-enterprises with
Senior Management, Middle Management and Junior Management, as well as
an annual turnover of below R10 million (previously R5 million), as they are
Skills Development.
exempt, whilst still qualifying as Level 4 Contributors. Equally important to note is that for an entity’s scorecard to be of any value, it Plus, Exempt Micro-Enterprises and Qualifying Small Businesses that are at
also has to qualify as Empowering Supplier.
least 51% black-owned qualify as Level Two Contributors, and those that are 100% black-owned qualify as Level One Contributors. This ultimately means that for QSEs that fall outside this category, the score card will be considerably more difficult. Entities using the Generic scorecard (those with an annual turnover above R50 million) will as before, score on all the elements of the scorecard.
comparison of the old and new scorecards the old scorecard: Element 1. Ownership 2. Management Control 3. Employment Equity 4. Skills Development 5. Procurement 6. Enterprise Development 7. Socio-Economic Development
generic 20 10 15 15 20 15 5
QsE 25 25 25 25 25 25 25 total 100 The BEE Scorecard consists of seven elements with a total score of 100 points. An entity will be scored on four (4) elements where annual turnover is between R5 million and R35 million (QSE), or on all seven (7) elements where the turnover exceeds R35 million (Generic). the new scorecard: Element 1. Ownership 2. Management Control 3. Skills Development 4. Enterprise and Supplier Development 5. Socio-Economic Development
All permanent, non-managerial staff at Trentyre have been made beneficiaries of the new Employment Empowerment Trust.
generic and QsE 25 20 20 40 5 total 110
O n e - o n - O n e • 11
12 • F o c u s o n B E E L e g i s l a t i o n
The level of contribution to BEE is determined by the following Table: old codes: B-BBEE score achieved ≥ 100 points ≥ 85 points but < 100 points ≥ 75 points but < 85 points ≥ 65 points but < 75 points ≥ 55 points but < 65 points ≥ 45 points but < 55 points ≥ 40 points but < 45 points ≥ 30 points but < 40 points < 30 points
new codes: B-BBEE score achieved ≥ 100 points ≥ 95 points but < 100 points ≥ 90 points but < 95 points ≥ 80 points but < 90 points ≥ 75 points but < 80 points ≥ 70 points but < 75 points ≥ 55 points but < 70 points ≥ 40 points but < 55 points < 40 points
B-BBEE Level Level 1 Contributor Level 2 Contributor Level 3 Contributor Level 4 Contributor Level 5 Contributor Level 6 Contributor Level 7 Contributor Level 8 Contributor Non-Compliant Contributor
B-BBEE Level Level 1 Contributor Level 2 Contributor Level 3 Contributor Level 4 Contributor Level 5 Contributor Level 6 Contributor Level 7 Contributor Level 8 Contributor N o n - C o m p l i a n t Contributor
Procurement Recognition Level 135% 125% 110% 100% 80% 60% 50% 10% 0%
Procurement Recognition Level 135% 125% 110% 100% 80% 60% 50% 10% 0%
based ownership scheme that has acquired ordinary shares in Trentyre comprising 30% of the total issued share capital of the company. As a result of this, all permanent, non-managerial staff members have been made beneficiaries of the Trust. Nigel Sowerby, Trentyre Operations Director said the chief aim of the new share structure was ‘to drive sustainable and profitable growth
The Codes will affect businesses that deal directly, or indirectly through
together’, in compliance with the country’s
other businesses, with Government or state-owned enterprises and it may
Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment
therefore be prudent to make use of the services of a BEE Advisor.
(B-BBEE) and Mining Charter requirements.
“As an example, a company with a BEE score of 60% would be a level
The deal, which came into effect in October,
5 Contributor and will have achieved a procurement recognition level of
has improved Trentyre’s B-BBEE rating – from
80% under the old Codes,” explained Dijon de Jager. “Under the new
a Level 6 to a Level 4 – which in turn, is good
Codes however, this same entity would be a Level 7 with a procurement
news for its mining, government and other fleet
recognition level of only 50%.”
customers’ preferential procurement policies.
Clearly, the challenge for many businesses will be to understand the full
“The Trust’s income will be used for empowerment projects, including
Nigel Sowerby
implication of the new Codes, what initiatives should be introduced to
education funding and similar investments in personal development. We
achieve the required BEE Status and how to measure performance during
want our people, especially previously disadvantaged employees to feel
the course of a particular measurement period. The level of focus on the
encouraged to achieve higher levels of competence, self-sufficiency and
Codes is what is likely to be the differentiating factor when it comes to
subsequent advancement within the company.”
competing on the basis of BEE.
BEE strides within the industry goodyear Holdings – trentyre and goodyear sa
According to Sowerby, an upfront investment of R250 000 will provide the Trust with a robust foundation and fund its first empowerment initiative, the details of which are still to be finalised.
The tyre industry has exhibited a level of pro-activeness in this area. Recent strides towards BEE that are worthy of mention include Trentyre’s new
It would seem that BEE remains an important and a key strategic issue
Employment Empowerment Trust which comes in the form of a broad-
for the Goodyear Holdings company and its subsidiaries. Trentyre is the
• • • • •
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Focus on BE E Legislation • 15
Group’s key channel to the commercial, earthmover and OTR markets, hence the rationale to become Mining Charter compliant. As for the consumer market, Goodyear reaches this segment through the Hi-Q franchisee network, where each store is individually owned and responsible for its own BEE status. Goodyear SA is a solid Level 5 contributor but the company said it retained its goal to work towards achieving a Level 4 accreditation, despite not being able to participate in the ownership element. Goodyear SA also focuses strongly on the Corporate Social Investment element, through forging strong and lasting relationships with organisations within its key areas of operation. Since 2001, Goodyear SA has been supporting the Oosterland Youth Centre in Despatch, which is home to 120 youngsters placed in their care by the Childrens’ Court. “We run several initiatives with the Oosterland Youth Centre including environmental
apollo tyres sa
projects, road safety awareness and tuition support,” said Ann du Toit, PR
Similarly, Apollo Tyres SA sports a dedicated Enterprise Development (ED)
and Marketing Co-ordinator for Goodyear.
Department which is based in Durban. In line with the National Government’s
Allegedly, Goodyear Group’s BEE progress is reviewed and measured
entrepreneurial opportunities, this Department concentrates its efforts on
call for corporates to ‘get involved’ with SMME’s and promote the country’s monthly by means of a Group compliance score card presented at
qualifying black-owned, start-up businesses interested in breaking into the
Executive Committee meetings.
massive tyre distribution industry, or existing small traders looking to expand their business profile, with assistance from Apollo Tyres.
❝
The programme focuses on, amongst other things, skills development
We run several initiatives with the
through specific and relevant training, as this enables the recipients to enter
Oosterland Youth Centre including
the mainstream tyre distribution market with absolute confidence.
environmental projects, road safety
In addition, the ED Department provides information to those on the programme with regards to BEE requirements and its advantages, as well as
awareness and tuition support
possible funding avenues and opportunities to further develop their business
❞
and personal skills. Ultimately, the ED Department is targeted with creating sustainable, profitable businesses, strong enough to offer employment opportunities in their local communities. And according to Apollo Tyres SA, there are a number of exciting projects currently in the pipeline which the company plans to launch in 2014. That the local tyre sector is making an endeavour to meet its responsibilities with regard to becoming BEE compliant, is evident to some degree. However, the implementation of the Amended Codes on 11 October, together with the assurance of tighter measures to ensure effective policing, calls for swifter action on the part of Qualifying Small Enterprises (companies with a turnover exceeding R10 million per annum), as well as entities using the Generic Scorecard (companies with an annual turnover of more than R50 million), to ‘get their affairs in order’, before the 12-month grace period expires.
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M a n u f a c t u r i n g • 17
BRIDGESTONE UNVEILS ECOPIA EP200 Bridgestone South Africa has announced the
The centre tread blocks are moulded in the shape of a reversed Z,
release of the Ecopia EP200 which replaces
providing more stable road contact. The blocks include a high angle lug
the previous generation Ecopia EP100A. The
groove that enhances wet weather roadholding. The reversed Z design
new tyre features Bridgestone’s proprietary
has allowed Bridgestone’s designers to widen the three straight grooves
Nano ProTech technology, a new technology
in the tread, significantly reducing the risk of aquaplaning when driving
that increases the density of silica molecules
on wet roads.
in the tyre’s compound. Nano ProTech reduces heat generation and energy losses while driving, giving lower rolling resistance. “In tests carried out at the Gerotek testing facilities in Pretoria, the Ecopia EP200’s rolling resistance was 78 metres better than its main competitor,” said Bridgestone Promotions Manager, Jan Maritz. “In the same tests, a 195/65R15 Ecopia returned 4.3% lower fuel consumption than its non-Ecopia equivalent,” he added. Bridgestone says these benefits have been obtained without compromising treadwear or roadholding, and the Ecopia EP200 includes numerous advances which give the driver better control under all driving conditions. One of these advances is high-stiffness shoulder tread blocks which have a square profile
The Ecopia EP200 is an asymmetrical tyre which is optimised to improve straight-line stability by absorbing forces imposed by uneven and undulating roads. The sidewalls are uniquely shaped on each side of the tyre and this means that, as with other asymmetrical tyres, the Ecopia EP200 should be mounted so that that “outside” marking on the tyre’s sidewall faces away from the vehicle. Bridgestone says that the tyre is aimed at upper B-segment and C-segment passenger car market, which typically includes vehicles like the Ford Fiesta and Focus, Toyota Corolla, VW Golf and Mercedes-Benz C-Class. The Ecopia EP200 covers the majority of common tyre sizes for these vehicle segments, from 175/65R14 to 225/50R17.
instead of the rounder profile of conventional tyres. This improves directional
The new Ecopia is covered by Bridgestone’s Tyre Damage Guarantee under
stability while reducing rolling resistance. Bridgestone says that the square
which a motorist only pays for the tread which has already been used if a
profile shoulders also provide greater resistance against irregular wear.
tyre is damaged beyond repair and must be replaced.
MICHELIN TRUCK SERVICE CENTRES ARRIVE IN SOUTH AFRICA World leaders in tyre technology, Michelin, have partnered with Multi Tyres
have fitted the centre with state of the art tyre and mechanical equipment
to open South Africa’s first Michelin Truck Service Centre (MTSC) in Villiers.
and can cater for all types of trucks and buses, including 22m interlinks.
Launching on Friday 14 June and opening its doors to the public on
Our services include: alignment, balancing, fleet inspections, stripping,
Saturday 15 June, the Villiers MTSC will offer truck and bus owners a one-
fitting, tyre repairs, regrooving, pressure, surveys at the point of sale and
stop shop for maintenance, tyres, and repairs.
on-site services. With products including tyres, batteries, rims, valves and
Jaco Venter, Partnership Program Manager at Michelin Tyres South Africa,
extensions, nitrogen and stock retreads.
says, “We are very excited about the first MTSC opening in South Africa.
We would like to thank Michelin for this partnership opportunity and are
Truck and bus owners are under constant pressure to supply and run on
passionate service, offering extensive product knowledge and the highest
time at the best price. This resultsin them having to choose products, tyres and maintenance services that carry the lowest prices. Often increasing their cost per kilometre (CPK), exposes them to lower quality products which can, ultimately, compromise safety.” Anyone pulling into the Villiers MTSC will be given the right advice, offered the best products and service, and experience the fastest turnaround times – less downtime means more deliveries! This will increase your efficiency, and allow you to remain competitive in the market with the lowest CPK. Sean Smith, co-owner of the Villiers MTSC with his brother Mark: “We
looking forward to providing customers with an efficient, professional and quality range of tyres and quick services.” MTSCs already operate in other countries around the world, including India, Thailand and Saudi Arabia with more than 40 Point of Sales. Looking ahead, Michelin Tyres South Africa plan to extend the MTSC network across the country and offer a complete breakdown service. Concluding, Jaco says, “We are sure that the MTSC network will help decrease the total cost of ownership for the end users, making them more profitable. The centres will also increase the level of professionalism within the South African truck and bus tyre service industry.”
Tyrecor (Pty) Ltd 771 Cincaut Cresent, Saxenburg Business Park Blackheath, Cape Town
Tel: 0861 TYRECOR Fax: 086 530 2118
20 • One-on-One
Manufacturing • 21
APOLLO TYRES SOUTH AFRICA WINS KZN ExPORTER OF THE YEAR 2013
NEW BRIDGESTONE TYRE SLASHES FLEET ADMIN
Apollo Tyres South Africa (Pty) Ltd (ATSA) has won the KZN Exporter of the
said to eliminates a major fleet tyre management headache – rotating tyres
Year 2013 award, in the category of Exporter into Africa at the annual KZN
Bridgestone has unveiled an advanced new truck and bus tyre which is among drive wheel positions on a vehicle.
Exporter Awards ceremony hosted by the Durban Chamber of Commerce
“Tyre rotation is a common fleet management practice to increase average
at the Durban ICC on October 30th 2013.
tyre lifespan, but it comes with drawbacks,” explains Shaun Wustmann,
“This is the first time that ATSA has entered the awards,” says CEO, Riaz Haffejee, who collected the award on behalf of the company from Zamo Gwala, CEO of Trade & Investment KZN. “I wanted the opportunity to put the company in the spotlight and remind people of the rich heritage the
Managing Director of Bridgestone tyre distributors, Max-T Solutions. “One of those drawbacks is the amount of monitoring needed to manage rotation. With up to eight drive axle tyres on a single heavy vehicle, a big fleet can generate a lot of tyre rotation admin. This is where the new R-Drive
organisation has in the province.”
001 comes to the rescue,” he explained.
Previously known as Dunlop International, the company was bought out by
As the name suggests, the new R-Drive 001 tyre has been optimised for
the Indian tyre manufacturing giant, Apollo Tyres Limited (ATL) in 2006. The name then changed to Apollo Tyres South Africa. The company has been in the country for over 70 years, having opened its first factory in Sydney Road, Congella in 1935 and the second in Ladysmith in 1973. ATSA employs 1700 people and it is estimated that the company utilises about 45 000 tonnes of rubber each year. In addition, the company manufactures three and a half million passenger and SUV tyres from its Ladysmith plant and 400 000 truck and bus tyres from its Durban plant annually, which are used in a wide variety of vehicle applications. The company is currently undergoing an acquisition by Japanese, Sumitomo Rubber Industries (SRI), who have entered into a US$60m deal with Apollo Tyres, whereby SRI will purchase some of the company’s assets in South Africa. ATSA currently exports to 32 African countries and the whole of South America. Last year, the company exported more than R200m worth of Regal tyres to the Latin continent. International Business is headed up by A. Govind Ram, who together with his team, work tirelessly at increasing the company’s international footprint. “African exports are growing, especially in Kenya, Nigeria and Tanzania. We are consolidating our efforts to grow retail operations and distributors, who we will support with our exports,” says Govind Ram, who goes on to elaborate, “we are seeing a whole new tyre consumer in Africa. Until recently, quality tyre fitment did not exist. However, as more hightech vehicles have been made available in African countries and with the
drive axle positions and is available as a 315/80R22.5. The newcomer is a ‘fit-and-forget’ directional tyre which can spend its entire lifetime in the wheel position it was fitted to when new. Apart from reducing tyre admin, this also eliminates rotation-related downtime – the only time an R-Drive 001 need be removed is for puncture repairs or at the end of its tread life when it is sent for re-treading. Wustmann explained that the tyre’s directional tread pattern includes special tie bars between the tread blocks which increase tread stiffness to optimise traction and reduce tyre noise. “Better control of the tread pattern stability also gives a longer service life,” he explained. Other benefits of the more stable tread pattern are lower rolling resistance which translates to increased fuel economy and lower heat buildup, whether the tyre is used in regional haulage or a highway-type role. “The key attribute of this tyre is its ability to deliver all these benefits without needing to be rotated from one wheel position to another,” Wustmann said. “Consistent wear and resistance to irregular wear in particular were also important design targets,” he added. Bridgestone says these benefits have been proved by comparative tests in which the R-Drive 001 was pitted against a major competitor. The Bridgestone tyre matched its competitor in dry traction, wet-weather performance and casing durability, while offering significant reductions in treadwear, rolling resistance and irregular wear. The new tyre is available from selected Max-T Solutions outlets across the country and is backed by Max-T’s Total Tyre Management service which assists
development of better infrastructure, there is now a greater demand for a
hauliers in achieving the lowest-possible cost per kilometre for their tyres.
completely different level of service – which we are more than ready to
“For hauliers who are looking at replacements for their drive axle tyres, the
supply.”
R-Drive 001 is the best solution on the market,” said Max-T’s Wustmann.
“Doing business in Africa is a complicated environment,” explains Haffejee, “partnerships with reputable organisations, patience and determination have been key to our success.”
“We predict that the cost benefits of single-position directional drive tyres are going to become a major factor in tyre management in the next few years,” he concluded.
OTR RADIALS es ll OTR Machin a r fo le b a it u lS 25” to 35” in e g n ra e iz s l Full e Radials ‘E’ and ‘L’ typ ial el Belted Rad te S t s u b o R l construction sistant tread l Abrasion re compound ed tread area rc fo in re lt e l Steelb ad patterns l Modern tre lity standard l Global qua rer Warranty l Manufactu Hour
er
= Low Cost P
TESTED & PROVEN
FOR ORDERS & INFORMATION Contact: Ken Martin or Marlin Pillay Tel: 031 764 6451 | Ken: 083 387 8403 | Marlin: 071 880 9247 | Fax: 086 558 8382 Email: ken@tafrica.net or marlin@tafrica.net OnLy AvAILABLE fROm
Transafrica Tyre & Wheel Exclusive
Distributor for RSA, Lesotho, Swaziland and Botswana
Distribution • 23
New Tyre and Fitment Franchise – Tyrehouse – Sees the light Tubestone, the importers and suppliers of BKT, Nankang and JK tyres in South Africa and neighbouring countries – have launched their very own franchise of tyre and fitment shops under the name Tyrehouse. The stores are the vision of the company’s MD, Pieter Kruger which was realised in 2012 when the first Tyrehouse store opened in Lichtenburg in the North West Province. After the success of the first Tyrehouse store in Lichtenburg three more stores have been opened in 2013. These stores are located in the Limpopo region in the towns of Groblersdal and Nylstroom and in Mpumalanga. During the course of 2014 more stores will be opening their doors in Mkuze in Kwazulu-Natal as well as in Middelburg and Balfour (Mpumalanga). All Tyrehouse branches will be participating dealers for the Tubestone Loyalty Club, a programme that was designed with the sole purpose of giving back and showing appreciation to loyal customers.
China – is said to be leading the way in terms of quality, reputation, research and development. Nankang is a complete passenger tyre range which carries an extended guarantee against any road hazard in the Free Your Way Guarantee campaign, something which Tubestone is extremely proud to offer to its customers. Amongst other brands that Tyrehouse will supply is a truck tyre
How the Loyalty Programme works is that all TLC members receive points
range from JK Tires and forklift tyres from Nexen. Tyrehouse will also stock top
that will be allocated to their personal TLC cards when purchasing any BKT
notch rims from Jantsa, the largest wheel manufacturer in Turkey.
products. These points can be used to buy BKT as well as Nankang products at any participating branches and dealers. BKT is the agricultural tyre known worldwide for its excellent work and durability, and is used as original equipment by the likes of John Deere, New Holland, JCB and many more, whilst Nankang – manufactured in Taiwan and
To find out more about Tyrehouse, The Tubestone Loyalty Club, the Free Your Way Guarantee or any of our products, contact your nearest Tubestone Branch. All contact details available on our website: www.tubestone.co.za.
Look out for the next Tyrehouse opening in your area soon!
Tiger Wheel & Tyre Wins Fifth Consecutive ‘Times And Sowetan Retail Award’ For the fifth year running, consumers from every nook and cranny of the
once again held fast to its first place in the Tyre Fitment Centre category.
country have voted Tiger Wheel & Tyre the Top Retailer in the Tyre Fitment Centre category in the Times And Sowetan Retail Awards 2013.
“This award is a powerful endorsement of Tiger Wheel & Tyre by the people who matter most – South African consumers,” said TiAuto Group Marketing
The nationwide survey was conducted by independent research
Executive, Joe du Plooy. “We thank our loyal customers for this resounding
agency TNS and measured consumers’ brand loyalty, shopping habits
vote of confidence and promise to continue innovating and finding new
and preferences across 25 different retail categories. While certain
ways to better serve them, while still providing them with the same high
categories welcomed new favourites to first place, Tiger Wheel & Tyre
quality products, service and positive experience that they expect from us.”
24 • Industry News
Tiger Wheel & Tyre voted tops in KZN Tiger Wheel & Tyre says it is just as excited now about being voted “Best Place to Buy Tyres in KwaZulu Natal” as it was the first time
New era for Wheelquip
the company won this accolade nine years ago and every year
Wheelquip has become a well-known supplier of equipment to the tyre industry
that followed. This is the ninth consecutive year the company has
in Southern Africa over the past 29 years. Nic Kruger founded the company in
won the award, which is based on votes by Daily News newspaper
1983 and together with his sister, Erika, they have expanded the business to
readers in the “Daily News Your Choice Awards 2013”.
becoming the sole Corghi agency and supplier in Sub-Saharan Africa. With
the head office situated in the Western Cape, Wheelquip has established itself throughout the country with offices and with the use of agents to supply the whole of Southern Africa and Namibia. Because of the ever-increasing need for good and reliable service, Wheelquip became involved in the equipment business as well (originally supplying consumables to the industry). Wheelquip imports from various international suppliers and sells most major international brands. Wheelquip boasts a wide range of tools and consumables which the company says completely satisfies the demand of the tyre industry. New to the team are Jacques Coertze and Pieter Smit who joined Wheelquip in
“We are humbled by this turn of events and want to thank our loyal KZN customers for their continued support and give kudos to our
Johannesburg. Their region extends to Mpumalanga, Gauteng, most parts of North West Province, Limpopo and the neighbouring countries.
KZN staff for representing Tiger Wheel & Tyre as well as they do,”
Jacques has been in consumable sales for the tyre industry for the past 18
said Joe du Plooy, Group Marketing Executive of TiAuto.
years and is well known to many in the industry. “This is the only game I know,”
he says. “It is my goal to make an impact in the market and to add excellence
The August 2013 opening of a Tiger Wheel & Tyre store in
to every customer’s business. We are here to make a difference and to add
Newcastle, KZN, brought the number of stores in the province to
value to the industry,” he adds. “We believe in the right balance between price,
11. In addition to this location, KZN’s “Best Place to Buy Tyres” is
quality and service. The company is moving into a new era and we want to
represented in Ballito; Durban CBD; Empangeni; Pietermaritzburg;
leave a legacy for the future.”
Pinetown; Richards Bay; Shelly Beach; Springfield; Umhlanga
Pieter, on the other hand, manages the Corghi equipment sales which he has
Gateway; and Amanzimtoti Arbour Crossing.
mastered for the past few years and will also spearhead the launch of the new
R.E.M.O compact aligner and other exciting new products.
“Each and every one of these stores and their staff members had a role to play in achieving this ultimate accolade. And if this award proves anything, then it’s that when you consistently deliver topnotch service and treat your customers with kindness and respect, you will receive the same consideration in return,” du Plooy concluded.
Wheelquip has new strategies and products envisaged for the future and looks forward to greater challenges in 2014. With the introduction of these products and the launch of the xTRA SEAL premium product range, the company will be adding enormous value to the industry in terms of skills, training and technology. Wheelquip Johannesburg has recently taken on board additional staff members including representatives for internal, external and export sales and they all share the same passion for service excellence. “We believe we have the necessary skills and expertise in place for the launch of this new era in our company’s history,” says MD Nic Kruger. For further information call: 011-397 4610 or Jacques 061 411 1398
REMO REVOLUTION Industry News • 25
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Bandag News • 27
Making the Intangible ‘Tangible’ As we draw the curtain on yet another tough financial and operational year, we find ourselves asking a multitude of questions… Did we do enough? Did we achieve our organisational goals? Did we get bang for our buck? The questions are endless… However, these are valid questions, especially in the competitive environment
This not only reduces the number of tyres scrapped in your report! No, not
within which we operate, where margins are eroded and customer expectations
only! Take a minute and think of the other benefits…
are high… If you are able to get a grip on tyres, what could easily be your second largest fleet operating cost, you may well be ahead of the wave and able to be more competitive… But just how is this possible? How does one measure servicing and maintenance of tyres? This is where partnering with Bandag delivers the unique opportunity to do just that – making the intangible ‘tangible’.
• the tyre gets another life • one less replacement tyre is required to purchase • one less green fee is paid • one less tyre reaches the scrap pile beforehand
Tyre servicing and maintenance is often looked at as a grudge expense but Bandag is able to justify these costs in a measurable way. A large Blue Chip fleet operating from Gauteng has seen this benefit over a 12 month
The Bandag Proposal to making the Intangible ‘ Tangible’
period by seeing a dramatic reduction in on road tyre breakdowns. This large fleet has seen a reduction of more than 50% in its monthly tyre
Bandag’s value proposition to fleets is not just an empty promise. Put us to
breakdowns. This translates into a saving directly attributed to superior
the test and reap the rewards!
on-site tyre management and preventative maintenance both aided by professional tyre management information. But the measurables don’t just end here… While tyre scrapping is an unavoidable reality, certain failures are avoidable and the very same fleet has benefited from an average reduction of 25 less tyres scrapped per month.
Now that’s what you call Tyre Management DoWn to an aRt… With Bandag, you don’t have to be a tyre expert. You just have to know one! For more information on how you can benefit contact Bandag today on +27 11 439 6000 or visit www.bandag.co.za.
With the reliability you get from Bandag, your fleet can take on anything. 8182 Bandag Strip Ad.indd 3
www.bandag.co.za 5/15/08 4:39:38 PM
Ta l k i n g Ty r e s • 2 9
t YR E P R E ss u R E M o n ito R i n g
Keep the pressure on! Tyres and technology go hand-in-hand,
Tyre care, maintenance and understanding the importance of correct
but there seems to be a missing link –
only wonder if the average driver out there is getting the message …
simple, highly effective and potentially life-saving tyre pressure monitoring systems seem to be the exception instead of the rule
tyre pressures has been a common theme on these pages, but we can
Certainly initiatives such as the Bridgestone tyre surveys conducted around the country help with the cause, but next time you walk through a shopping centre parking lot just take a casual glance at the number of vehicles with under-inflated, damaged or heavily worn tyres that have far exceeded their useable lifespan.
By Colin Mileman
As a bit of a tyre fanatic I’m horrified at the state of rubber on our roads, and the casual indifference far too many drivers show towards the only thing keeping them on the tarmac! Colleagues, friends and family of
3 0 • Ta l k i n g Ty r e s
mine are usually quite bemused when one of the first things I notice on a
sheets, but now the focus appears to have been diverted to a vast array of
car is the state of its tyres, but it’s certainly no laughing matter.
more high-profile and attractive gadgets to lure potential buyers.
There are no official statistics on the issue, but I reckon that excessively
Vehicle manufacturers dare not introduce a new model range without a
worn and incorrectly inflated tyres can be attributed to a huge proportion of
dazzling mix of multimedia and navigation systems, cellphone and even
our tragic 14 000-plus road deaths annually. And it’s simply not acceptable.
internet connectivity tools, high-resolution colour screens, expansive sunroofs, snazzy LED daytime lights and all manner of other toys. The likes
It’s a truly deadly scenario, and we all have a responsibility to take up
of radar-based cruise control and automatic parking assist have even filtered
the cause, from OEMs to tyre companies, dealers, fleet operators and
down from luxury limos to compact sedans, hatchbacks and small SUVs.
individual motorists. But having spent some time trawling through vehicle specification sheets Crucially, the authorities also need to step up their game as, sadly, tyres are
it is quite concerning that tyre pressure monitoring appears to be the
so low on their list of priorities to be basically negligible. Tyre checks should
exception rather than the rule in South Africa.
be mandated as an obligatory element of every road block, driving license inspection or traffic law transgression.
On the exclusive models where it is fitted, it’s buried so far in the detail that’s missed entirely – and no longer appears to be a major selling or
Technology must be used to fight the scourge too, and I have been quite
talking point. And although it’s standard fare on vehicles equipped with
dismayed lately to see the number of new vehicles hitting the market
controversial run-flat tyres, these are equally in the minority.
without any form of tyre pressure monitoring function. A couple of years ago it was on the frontline of most new vehicle specification
Interestingly, the first production car to feature a tyre pressure
Colin Mileman is a freelance motoring journalist, photographer and advanced driving specialist with over 17 years of experience in this field. As a former editor of Topcar and Topbike magazines, he’s as enthusiastic about cars and bikes as they come, and has extensive knowledge of all motoring-related matters, including the topic of tyres, having run the annual and highly regarded Topcar tyre tests for several years.
monitoring system (TPMS) was the Porsche 959 supercar, way back in 1986. It was adopted as a legal requirement for all new cars sold in the United States in 2007, and from 2014 it will apparently become a mandatory in the European Union. So its value has clearly been recognised by the First World legislative
WHEEL SERVICE EQUIPMENT
NEW
bodies, and as South African models typically follow EU specification levels, this will hopefully mean that weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll see more of it locally. Before anyone gets into a huff about it adding to the rapidly spiralling cost of vehicles, it doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t necessarily cost that much to introduce â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and the benefits unquestionably outweigh the expense. With an indirect tyre pressure monitoring system, it is simply built into the functioning of the existing anti-lock braking system (ABS). Wheel speed sensors used by this active safety feature measure the rotation speed of the tyre. As an under-inflated tyre has a smaller rolling diameter than a correctly inflated one, the difference is highlighted as a tyre pressure warning. The fact that this system can simply employ the existing ABS sensors makes it the easiest to adopt industry-wide, particularly
V3400
with anti-lock braking systems now fortunately being introduced as standard on the overwhelming majority of new cars. More effective but more expensive is the direct TPMS, which
Wireless system provides flexible installation, usage and mobility options. Patented digital camera tracking automatically adjusts to the height of the vehicle.
employs actual sensors in each tyre. These relay tyre pressure and even temperature data to the vehicleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s on-board computer by means of radio frequencies. The information is displayed on the instrument cluster or multimedia screen, thus allowing the driver to check the prevailing pressures at any time. Variations in tyre pressure can be identified much more accurately with the direct monitoring system, thereby contributing towards even higher levels of safety, while also contributing towards greater
WHEEL ALIGNERS
WHEEL TRUCK TYRE BALANCERS CHANGERS EQUIPMENT
fuel efficiency. There are also a variety of aftermarket direct monitoring systems available, along with several types of affordable (yet not entirely accurate) DIY options such as pressure-sensitive valve caps that show different colours as the pressure drops. TPMS technology hasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t been without its faults and niggles over the years, but it has definitely been refined and become more precise
PIPE BENDERS
BATTERY & BRAKE
AIRCON & TOOLSETS & DIAGNOSTICS WEIGHT TRAYS
and accessible than ever.
damage â&#x20AC;&#x201C; until something goes wrong â&#x20AC;&#x201C; but itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s still an important step in the right direction. LEVEL
2
 ��
www.johnbean.co.za
Unfortunately it doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t address the issue of excessive tyre wear or
32 â&#x20AC;˘ Goodyear News
Goodyear launches new Sava truck tyres for cost-conscious operators Sava Tyres, a subsidiary of Goodyear and one of the largest, most successful tyre manufacturers in central Europe, is launching a new range of 17â&#x20AC;? truck tyres for regional and local delivery vehicles in South Africa. Avant 4
The range comprises three tyre types:
The Avant 4 regional steer tyre tread design
l Avant 4 for steer axles
has three double ribs, which ensure
l Orjak 4 for drive axles and
balanced pressure distribution, a low wear rate and an even wear profile, and its high
l Cargo 4 for trailers.
blading density provides good wet braking. The carcass construction gives a lower heat
The new tyres are designed to meet the needs of the prudent
build-up for good durability.
vehicle operator engaged predominately in regional haul and/or delivery operations. The tyres are suited for a wide
Other features and benefits of the Avant 4
range of vehicles including articulated trucks and rigids, as well as an extensive range of trailers. All the new Sava tyres are regroovable and retreadable, further extending their value and environmentally efficient attributes.
include a high wearable rubber volume for improved mileage, stiff shoulder ribs for road handling and lateral stability. Noise is kept low thanks to the staggered tread blocks and stone penetration protectors ensure a high level of durability. The Avant 4 is available in the following sizes: l 205/75 R 17.5 124/122 M l 215/75 R 17.5 126/124 M l 225/75 R 17.5 129/127 M l 235/75 R 17.5 132/130 M
Goodyear News â&#x20AC;˘ 33
Orjak 4
Cargo 4
The Orjak 4 drive tyre has a specific
The Cargo 4 is a trailer tyre with a wide
block type tread pattern for good
application range for all types of trailer
traction and wet braking. This wide
including low platform versions. It
tread has an open tread design to
has an optimised tread pattern with
promote traction and a high wearable
grouped centre ribs, which provides
volume to ensure good mileage.
high mileage, good vehicle stability and
The Orjak 4 also has a carcass
low rolling resistance for fuel economy.
construction for reduced heat buildup and therefore good durability.
The new carcass construction, as with the other new Sava tyres, means less heat build-up for better durability.
In addition, the five-rib connected solid tread blocks provide even wear, good resistance to chunking and damage plus rear
Its mould cavity shape gives the benefit of even wear due to
axle stability for better handling. Computer optimised block
optimum contact pressure distribution. In addition to this, deep
shape gives low impact noise, even wear and good traction.
tread blades across the centre area reduce heel and toe wear
Other benefits include low noise and reduced rolling resistance
and provide good wet performance. Rib edge sides further
in comparison with its predecessor the Orjak 3.
improve the wear characteristics and the groove geometry is designed to reduce stone holding for greater durability.
The Orjak 4 is available in the following sizes: l 205/75 R 17.5 124/122 M
The Cargo 4 is available in the following sizes:
l 215/75 R 17.5 126/124 M
l 215/75 R 17.5 135/133 J
l 225/75 R 17.5 129/127 M
l 235/75 R 17.5 143/141 J
l 235/75 R 17.5 132/130 M
The One Stop Show for Tyres, Workshop Equipment & Accessories 4, 5, 6 March Sandton Convention Centre, Johannesburg South Africa
AN
INTERNATIONAL EVENT
ECI International Ltd., Speldhurst Business Park, Langton Road, Kent, TN3 0AQ, England T +44 (0)1892 863888 F +44 (0)1892 863828 sales@eci-international.com
www.eci-international.com
World News • 35
THE WORLD’S LARGEST AGRI TYRE FROM MICHELIN Michelin has announced the development of the world’s first 900mm wide and 2.3 metres tall radial agricultural tyre – the all new AxioBib in size IF900/65R46. The tyre has been developed in partnership with machinery manufacturers New Holland, Same & Deutz-Fahr and Krone and will be launched next Tuesday 22nd October on a ‘Live’ global webcast.
CONTINENTAL TO LAUNCH TYRE PRESSURE MONITORING SYSTEM IN EUROPE monitoring system in North America for the past three years, Continental
BRAZIL TO IMPOSE FIVE-YEAR ANTIDUMPING DUTY ON CHINESE TYRES
has announced that the product will soon be introduced in Europe
Brazil will levy a five-year anti-dumping duty on Chinese tyres, as per
in preparation for the EU Regulation 523/2012 coming into effect in
China Ministry of Commerce, according to the weight of the tyres and
around twelve months time.
ranges from $1.08 to $2.17 per kilo.
It is anticipated that the REDI-Sensor tyre pressure monitoring system will
The China Rubber Industry Association said a Brazilian anti-dumping
become available during the third quarter of 2014.
investigation into Chinese tyres started last year. The investigation
Having successfully marketed their REDI-Sensor tyre pressure
mainly focused on 13-inch and 14-inch Chinese tyres for cars. In 2008 and 2009, Brazil conducted an anti-dumping investigation and
FRENCH SAY NON TO TYRE LABELLING?
levied duties on cars imported from China.
The main organisation representing the French tyre industry – Syndicat
Statistics show that Brazilian tyre production in the first four months of
des Professionnels di Pneu (SPP) has confirmed the growing opinion that the EU tyre labelling legislation has had little if any impact on customer buying decisions in France. SPP comments further compound increasing concern in the tyre industry as to whether the label will continue long term in the country unless a major consumer awareness campaign is launched.
this year increased by 4 percent compared to the same time last year, while Brazilian car production increased by 17 percent reported China Daily. Brazil is also conducting anti-dumping investigations on passenger car tyres imported from other countries like South Korea, Thailand, South Africa, Russia and Japan.
PIRELLI CELEBRATES IN RETRO-STYLE AS ITS 50TH ANNIVERSARY CALENDAR IS LAUNCHED As you would expect from Pirelli its 2014 Calendar which is a 50th Anniversary edition was launched in Milan last week amidst speculation and controversy. Next year’s edition will see Pirelli ‘turning the clock back’ by releasing a special nostalgic calendar from 1986 as a tribute to the late photographer Helmut Newton. This black and white edition was never published due to a commissioning error and Pirelli informs SA Treads European correspondent that in its 50th year it would be fitting to pay tribute to Newton’s ‘love of vitality and vibrant eroticism’ The latest calendar features three clothed models posing around Tuscany and Monte Carlo and at yesterday’s launch Trellis’s Chairman, Marco Trondheim Provera concluded the launch by raising a toast to ‘the next 50 years of the calendar’ promising an interesting future for this ‘global treasure of the automotive industry’.
36 • Competition / Subscription
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Corrie Lewies whose correct answer wins him a set of Sailun Tyres courtesy of CFP Tyres!
quarterly competition QuEstion:
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