To advertise here call Kay‑Leigh Els on 072 2626 839 or e-mail her South Africa’s leading source of news and information on all aspects of the motor industry at [email protected] Issue 02 | 9 June 2011 www.autolive.co.za

Sparks set to fly

As already reported (see Issue No 1 of AutoLive), the Mitsubishi Triton will soon no longer be made in this country. Its demise is in-line with local production trends of the past decade (full story on page 2).

The changing face BMW’s next 3 Series Ford’s “Home” May NAAMSA of local vehicle – Plant Rosslyn Ranger readies for sales: VW pips manufacturing looks ahead Fourth Quarter rollout Toyota, again pg 2 pg 5 pg 6 pg 7 Subscribe for free @ www.autolive.co.za Page 2

Sparks set to fly

Tristan Wiggill

Editor As already reported (see Issue Stuart Johnston No 1 of AutoLive), the [email protected] Mitsubishi Triton will soon no longer be made Deputy Editor in this country. Its de- Tristan Wiggill mise is in-line with lo- [email protected] cal production trends of the past decade. Toyota Innova General Manager The simple fact is, Roger Houghton over the years – particu- [email protected] larly over the last eight It also appears the 11th genera- years – South Africa has tion Toyota Corolla will not be made produced fewer and fewer passenger in South Africa when production is Sales car and LCV models for both export This allowed it to double its total Polo expected to start in 2012. Reports have Kay-Leigh Els and local markets. Manufacturers are exports, from approximately 28 500 emerged that claim Corolla produc- [email protected] moving away from multiple varieties in 2009, to 55 000 in 2010. This year, tion is moving to Turkey, a country and platforms to focus on increased the rate of Polo production is breaking which already makes the Corolla Verso Address output of single models, primarily South African production records. (which is an import here) and the two- Suite 106B, MISA Centre motivated by government incentives. Recent models that have been door Auris (not imported here). 12 Fir Street, Northcliff In 2002, South Africa manu- lost or phased out include the Ford If this is indeed the case, it Johannesburg, 2195 factured 25 base car and light com- Focus, Mazda3 Nissan Tiida, Triton will free up production capacity at mercial vehicle models. After July, and Citi Golf. And now General Toyota’s plant in Prospecton, Durban, Tel when one eliminates the low-volume Motors South Africa (GMSA) has de- where a major facelift on Hilux and +27 (0)11 431 1228 Triton, SA will produce a total of just cided to slash initial Spark produc- Fortuner models will be launched in 14 models. However, the good news tion figures and export numbers in the second half of this year. Fax is that over the same eight-year pe- half, as the company focuses on beef- Meanwhile, a third model in +27 (0)86 505 8957 riod the average volume per model ing up Isuzu production at its Port the IMV (Innovative Multipurpose produced in SA has almost doubled Elizabeth plant. Vehicle) programme line could be Website – from 15 606 units in 2002 to 29 944 Original Spark production vol- added to the range, in the form of www.autolive.co.za units in 2010. umes were expected to be 15 000 units the Innova people carrier. If it were A major reason behind this trend a year, of which 50% were due to be produced locally, the Innova could is the Motor Industry Development exported to New Zealand, Australia become a valuable extra model for © 2011 WCM Media CC Programme (MIDP). The MIDP en- and other right-hand-drive markets the export market and bring with it courages OEM’s in South Africa to in the Asia-Pacific. jobs in both the manufacturing and Production specialize in one or two high-volume But GMSA will now confine mar- component industries. The Innova is Marketing Support Services models on behalf of parent companies. kets for the Spark to sub-Saharan currently made and sold in the Far +27 (0)12 346 2168 In this way, OEM’s can obtain econo- Africa, and will align all GMSA’s ve- East, and is an eight-seater, which is mies of scale benefits via exports and hicle assembly programmes to these similar, but larger than the Avanza. Layout and Typesetting in turn, import low volume models markets. Toyota will also introduce an- Johann Seidel not manufactured in the country. This The first batch of Sparks are set to other new model, the Etios, which is approach also assists the component leave GMSA’s production line at the made in India (see story on page 8). Disclaimer suppliers to attain higher volumes. end of this year. With a strengthened The SA government is in talks While reasonable Substantially increasing local relationship with Isuzu, GMSA will with Toyota about the possibility of precautions have been production volumes will also qualify assemble the next generation Isuzu building the Quantum minibus taxi taken to ensure the OEM’s to receive incentives under KB in both left – and right-hand drive, locally, too, as at present all the taxis accuracy of the advice government’s Automotive Production increasing the brand’s reach to more are imported and thus create vital and information given to and Development Plan (APDP) from markets in sub-Saharan Africa. The employment in those countries in- readers, neither the Editor, 2013. current generation Isuzu KB is limited stead of within SA. the Proprieters, nor the Volkswagen South Africa (VWSA) to right-hand-drive production. However, the government would publishers can accept is a prime example of model trimming. GMSA still hopes to achieve the have to offer Toyota some sort of any responsibility for any Historically, it built cars on five plat- 50 000-unit-a-year production level incentive to do this, and this could damages or injury which forms. This was reduced to three plat- to receive government incentives well cause an outcry from rival may arise therefrom. forms in 2008 and then to two in 2010. from 2013. manufacturers. Subscribe for free @ www.autolive.co.za Page 3

Editor’s Note 1st edition reader feedback

“Well done. Brilliant, informative, interesting, comprehensive, thorough… Welcome to the second almost complete. The private vehicle testing / roadworthy industry rarely gets edition of AutoLive, known a good mention and it only, quite frankly, has itself to blame. I do hope that for the record as AutoLive your wonderful publication is going to seek out the newsworthy and positive No 2, June 9, 2011. actions of this misunderstood industry. It is still early days for your publi- In this edition of South Africa’s exciting new e- cation and I sincerely wish it every success and a very long innings,” Wally zine that covers all aspects Cracknell, SGS Automotive – KZN Consultant. of the motor industry, we focus strongly on the com- “I would like to congratulate you on AutoLive! It is a great initiative that will ings and goings of current make a great contribution to the retail motor industry,” Christo Claasen, and future models that are Automotive Compliance Consultant. being manufactured right here in South Africa. Toyota features strongly in this scenario, so look out “Congrats on the launch of AutoLive. Nice to have online news of motor hap- for the story on the likelihood of Corolla being phased penings,” Theo Stead, former retailer at BMW Tygervalley (1964 -2005). out of its Prospecton plant near Durban (this is not to say the popular nameplate will disappear from our “Hi, congrats on the AutoLive edition I just received. It is great and I wish you market). Corolla production could, in all likelihood, be every success with the publication. I am convinced it will do very well!” Robert replaced by a locally-made newcomer in the all-impor- Kaiser, RMC. tant A/B segment, to keep Toyota’s SA production lines humming along at full capacity. We also examine the switchover BMW SA will be “Heartiest congratulations on your first issue. In my view it came out extreme- making to the next-generation 3 Series in a few months ly well and I have no doubt that it will find favour with its readers. I wish you time at Plant Rosslyn, and give BMW SA the opportu- every success with this exciting venture! Warm Regards.” Brand Pretorius. nity to set the record straight from its point of view via effervescent communications wiz, Guy Kilfoil. BMW is much in the news this issue, with driv- ing impressions of its new 6 Series Convertible and an exclusive interview with media liaison man, Edward Makwana. We also report in some depth on the upcom- ing Ford Ranger and its implications for local manufac- turing across a broad scale. There is lots of useful comment on the latest NAAMSA sales figures, too, as well as a lot more inter- esting stuff on trucks, tyres, sales and social issues that affect the motor industry. On a personal note, it is great to have Danie Dreyer and his team on board as the new designers of AutoLive. Dreyer’s company, Marketing Support Services, has been involved with motoring layouts for many years, in- cluding the popular Wheels motoring annual. It was gratifying to receive so many positive com- ments about Issue No 1 of AutoLive, particularly from the heavy hitters within our industry. We’d like to take the opportunity to invite you to air your views on our publi- cation, or anything else that’s on your mind in connection with cars, trucks, components, gadgets and the motor industry in general, including, of course, the colourful people involved in this important sector of our economy. Scorching Scirocco R wafts in Direct any comments you have to the Editor, Stuart Johnston, at [email protected] In the meantime, settle back and enjoy the read. Following the local introduction of the fastest production Golf ever produced, the Golf R, VWSA has extended the R nameplate in the form of its 188kW Scirocco R Coupé. Stuart Johnston, AutoLive Editor, Stuart Johnston, joined the launch activities this week in Durban, Editor and will bring you his driving impressions, pictures and all the facts in the next edition of [email protected] AutoLive (issue 3, June 23). It’s going to be hot, so don’t miss it! Subscribe for free @ www.autolive.co.za Page 4

Why you should advertise in Autolive

AutoLive, a convenient e-zine delivered twice a source of news within the biggest manufacturing ■■ Fleet management companies month, is the best way to keep up to date with sector of the South African economy. ■■ Suppliers of workshop equipment news and views about all facets pertaining to Advertisers who are suppliers or service ■■ Car care companies the South African and international motor providers to any facet of the SA motor industry ■■ Panel beaters and dent removers industry’s. are seen by a focussed target market. In addi- ■■ Auction houses Importantly, the concept has been embraced tion, the e-zine format has an immediacy lack- ■■ Courier companies by the organised SA motor industry – AutoLive ing in traditional print media, therefore getting ■■ Service providers in the finance and insur­ has already been provided with membership information across faster with less lead time. ance industry mailing lists by the: ■■ Vehicle tracking system suppliers ■■ Retail Motor Industry organisation RMI Who should advertise? ■■ Organisers of exhibitions and conferences ■■ Motor Industry Staff Association (MISA) ■■ Companies looking to recruit employees for ■■ Tyre fitment centres ■■ National Association of Component and specialist positions in the motor industry ■■ Suppliers of car care products Allied Manufacturers (NAACAM) ■■ Companies looking for franchisees ■■ Suppliers of automotive replacement parts ■■ McCarthy Motor Group ■■ Companies looking for dealers for new ■■ Roadworthy testing centres This is in addition to a comprehensive list of peo- vehicle brands ■■ Printers ple operating within the industry. Furthermore, ■■ Automotive marketing consultants ■■ Accounting firms negotiations for further meaningful subscriber ■■ Training organisations Autolive advertising rates are very cost effective lists are on-going. We have had an excellent re- ■■ Market research companies and we are able to make up advertisements at sponse to our dummy and launch issues, and ■■ Business management consultants reasonable rates. it appears this product has great potential as a ■■ IT companies LEGO celebrates Unimog’s 60th

The LEGO Group, the world’s third largest toy man- ufacturer, has created a Unimog model with 2048 elements to mark the Unimog’s 60th Jubilee. The impressive vehicle, which links a combi- nation of electric drive and pneumatics, has been produced in exclusive cooperation with Mercedes- Benz as a true adaptation of the original down to the smallest details. The LEGO Technic Unimog U 400 will be avail- able from toy retailers from August on as well as To hear more call Kay-Leigh Els on from Mercedes- Benz and it costs about 190 Euros. 072 2626 839 or e-mail her at [email protected]

RUCKRUCKS RUCK The Business& of TrucksHEAVY • Buses • Heavy EQUIPMENT Equipment • Materials Handling • Logistics RUCKT& HEAVY EQUIPMENTS & HEAVY EQUIPMENT TThe Business of Trucks • Buses • Heavy Equipment • Materials Handling • Logistics The Business of Trucks • Buses • Heavy Equipment • Materials Handling • Logistics & HEAVY EQUIPMENT S T S TThe Business of Trucks • Buses • Heavy Equipment • Materials Handling • Logistics Trucks & Heavy Equipment was established more than three years ago as a one-stop source of news, comment and opinion For more for all those involved in the business of trucking and transport as well as providing information contact: information on equipment used in the Pierre Sanson (Editor) related areas of heavy construction, [email protected] materials handling and logistics. 083-635-0114 • FAW going from strength to strength • Hino’s mighty new • Hino’s mighty new 700 Series heavy John Stanton (Advertising) May/June 2011 The bi-monthly publication has found a 700 Series heavy• Hino’s mighty new • FAW going from strength 700 Series heavy solid niche in the market and the average [email protected] to strength • FAW going from strength Controlled Free Distribution for July to 083-225-9690 May/June 2011 to strength

December 2010, according to the ABC, was May/June 2011 7 451 copies. Subscribe for free @ www.autolive.co.za Page 5

Excitement builds for new 3 Series

By Stuart Johnston GK: The entire investment of R2.2 billion is attributable to the production of the new BMW 3 The buzz around the Rosslyn area, Series. It can be broken down into where BMW South Africa has three main categories; structural been established as a manufacturer investment (21%), production in- since 1973, is very much about the vestment (34%) and supplier net- new 3 Series. work investment (35%). The struc- Although BMW SA MD Bodo tural investment includes general Donauer said recently that the stillages and pallets for part storage, new 3 Series was scheduled to go installation of new IT infrastruc- into production in March 2012, tures, renovation of the building AutoLive has received reports structures including new canteen from sources close to BMW’s Plant facilities, a complete upgrade of the Rosslyn that in fact production of paint mix and a complete renova- the new car was scheduled to be tion of the main assembly plant, fed into the existing E90 3 Series amongst others. The Rosslyn plant has produced over 300 000 E90 3 Series sedans production line as early as this Production investment includes August. tooling for the manufacture of lo- The on-sale date of the new BMW 3 Series at Plant Rosslyn. This information seemed to cal components, specialised still- BMW 3 Series has not been con- Total production of this vehicle will corroborate overseas reports that ages and pallets and new conveyer firmed as March, but it will cer- be close to 350 000 units by the end the new 3 Series, to be code-named systems to work on a revised and tainly be on sale by this time next of production. the S30 series internally at BMW, upgraded final assembly line. We year. AutoLive: Any comment from would make its public debut at the are also investing in new robots in AutoLive: Our understand- you on projected success/produc- Frankfurt Motor Show (IAA), in the body and assembly shops, a new ing is that the new 3 Series has tion figures for the new car, which mid September this year. main line in the body shop which already been down the line in we believe has a different code name, To get the official verdict on these will have a higher degree of automa- pilot form already, and that the not following on the E30/36/46/90 rumours, we put some questions to tion in future (93% compared with new car will go into at least lim- pattern? Guy Kilfoil (GK), BMW SA’s General 84%), various assembly jigs and fix- ited production, slotting onto the GK: Since 1994, production Manager of Communications and tures, and specialised tools in both current 3 Series line, as early as volumes at Plant Rosslyn have in- Public Affairs. the assembly and body shops. August. This makes some sense creased by some 220% and export AutoLive: BMW has recently We are also integrating some to us, as the car is being shown at volume by 400%. We have devel- given news of a massive investment of the suppliers into the old Land Frankfurt in September. What is oped these numbers sustainably made at Plant Rosslyn. How much Rover assembly plant, which is cur- the SA plant schedule? over time. Importantly, while the money can be attributed to the rently standing vacant, and that GK: This is incorrect. Whilst investment equips Plant Rosslyn start-up costs of the new 3 Series, will ensure more efficient and cost- the machinery to produce the ve- with the ability to produce up to which is scheduled for local sale in effective delivery of critical compo- hicle is being run to produce vari- 87 000 units per annum, we will March? nents to the production line. ous sections of the car, such as the certainly only be in a position to front end, the rear axle carrier or increase production to these lev- various body panels, in order to els if market demand, both locally check measurements and accuracy and internationally, requires this. levels, complete vehicles are yet to Of course, we are doing everything be built in a South African con- in our power to ensure that we will text. Whilst speculation may be be able to produce at a minimum rife that the car will be on display of 70 000 units per annum because in September this is yet to be con- this will require a third shift of ap- firmed. Certainly, the Plant will proximately 700 associates to be produce a few T-cars later in the added to headcount. While the year to check the build processes outlook is positive at the moment, and quality levels. we saw with the downturn which AutoLive: How many of the hit in 2007 and continued through current 3 Series cars will be pro- 2008 and 2009, that the car market duced when you finally sign off on can be extremely volatile and until E90 production at the end of this we have confirmation of the long- year? term production plan we can’t GK: In October we will produce commit to producing these sorts of the 333 333rd current generation numbers just yet. Subscribe for free @ www.autolive.co.za Page 6

New Ranger follows “One Ford” thinking

By Stuart Johnston from the global economic down- turn of 2008–2009 in a strong fi- nancial position. Ford’s striking new Ranger pick- Mulally, a former engineer up is all set for a full-production and executive at Boeing (the air- roll-out in the fourth quarter of craft manufacturer), is said to have 2011 at Ford Motor Company devised One Ford after being in- South Africa’s (FMCSA’s) Silverton spired by the principles of Henry plant, east of Pretoria. Ford and the original Model T that And while the new bakkie has revolutionised the car industry strong export markets in its sights, back in 1908. including sub-Saharan Africa and “The South African team has Europe, Ford’s engine plant in Port worked hard to ensure we will Elizabeth has been revamped to deliver world class levels of qual- produce major components for the ity and safety,” continues Von Ranger line on a world market basis. Essen. “People who know pick-ups “The all new Ranger is the lat- are going to love the next genera- est global proof point of how our tion Ranger for its capabilities, its One Ford strategy is working,” says smart technologies and the work it that the Ranger, admired by the Elizabeth, to build the new diesel Craig von Essen, Ford’s Product can do. The whole Ranger driving farmers in the heartland of South engines for the bakkie. Components Communications Director for Asia experience has been transformed.” Africa’s agricultural community, for these engines will also be export- Pacific and Africa. The reference The South African bakkie was built up especially for the show. ed worldwide (see article below). to One Ford concerns the global buying public had its first taste of An investment totalling R3- Nemeth confirmed produc- strategy to streamline Ford’s prod- the new Ranger when an example billion has been made to put the tion capability at Ford’s Silverton uct development, instituted by was shown at the Nampo Show in new Ranger into production, in- plant will be increased to 110 000 Ford Motor Company CEO Alan Bothaville, in mid-May. cluding plant upgrades in Silverton vehicles annually to serve ad- Mulally in 2006, and considered FMCSA’s president and CEO, and a complete revamp of Ford’s ditional local and world Ranger to be a key factor in Ford emerging Jeff Nemeth, confirmed at the show Struandale engine plant in Port markets.

PE Duratorque components for world markets

By Stuart Johnston switching from the Rocam small four-cylinder petrol engine, which was also produced for local and in- Cylinder heads, crankshafts and ternational markets, to the new 2.2 engine blocks built at Ford’s and 3.2-litre Duratorque units. newly-configured Struandale More than 100 new machines engine plant are destined for were imported for the project engine plants in Argentina and in a programme that began 14 Thailand, the two other coun- months ago. Specialist engineers tries where the new Ford Ranger from India, the UK and the US Wallace Yearwood is being built. were brought in to oversee the The first component sets for transformation. namely our employees, the the new Duratorque TDCI en- “We are extremely proud National Union of Metalworkers gines came off the production to reach this milestone, hav- of South Africa (NUMSA), con- line in Port Elizabeth on May 30. ing met all the deadlines and tractors and suppliers. We’re de- About 75 000 of these core engine quality standards, as well as the lighted to see the first machined components will be used for local validation process, trials and components being produced Ranger production, while, im- pre-production machining”, said today for our export customers, pressively, 220 000 of the “engine Wallace Yearwood, plant man- thus symbolising our integra- sets” are destined for export. ager at the Struandale facility. tion into Ford’s global supply The revamping of the Struan­ “This has required a mas- chain, as part of the One Ford dale engine plant entailed sive effort from all stakeholders, strategy.” Subscribe for free @ www.autolive.co.za Page 7

Volkswagen tops overall vehicle sales

Stuart Johnston

For the second time this year, Volkswagen South Africa (VWSA) has topped Toyota in overall ve- hicle sales. Sales figures issued for May 2012 by the National Association of Automobile Manu­ facturers of South Africa (NAAMSA) showed the Uitenhage-based company leading Toyota by 712 units sold. Volkswagen’s leading total of 7 711 came in a month that, according to NAAMSA, was “disappointing” with sales de- clining “substantially” compared with earlier months in 2011. While Volkswagen was understandably buoyant about its May successes – “we are over- May, he cited the fact that year-on-year growth for 4 937 of these and Corolla 1 021. The balance joyed” said Sales and Marketing Director Mike for 2011 is still up by 16.4 %. of exports was in the medium to heavy commer- Glendinning – Toyota issued an atypically terse Ford Motor Company of South Africa cial segments). statement headed “Sales and Exports Slow down (FMCSA) was in a secure fourth place (ahead BMW was once again strong in the export in May 2011.” of Nissan and Mercedes-Benz, which rounded market with 3 089 examples of its 3 Series sedan Toyota was understandably disappointed out the top six). Ford cited excellent sales of leaving the country during the month, while and made mention of the fact it was hit by the its Figo (1 128 units), which shows just how its German rival, Mercedes-Benz, sent 2 574 knock-on effect of the tsunami in Japan expe- well the affordable B-Segment car has been re- C-Class sedans to the US. rienced in March. “Toyota South Africa Motors ceived in the local passenger market since its (TSAM) has confirmed that the March 11 tsu- introduction. Total South African vehicle market at the end of May 2011 nami in Japan has impacted on the availability Overall sales for May for all vehicle cat- of certain models. Despite this the company’s egories was 36 211 for NAAMSA reporting YTD 2011 227 806 production plant in Prospecton, Durban has re- manufacturers. However, the “non-reporting” YTD 2010 195 769 turned to full planned production levels and the importers, Associated Motor Holdings (AMH) Increase of 16.4% between YTD 2011 and YTD 2010 company will continue to work hard to restore and Amalgamated Automobile Distributors May 2011 41 555 full product availability to the South African (AAD), which comprise some exceptionally April 2011 38 533 market.” strong-selling brands in our market, notably May 2010 39 166 Occupying third place in the sales race for the AMH duo of Hyundai and Kia, disclosed a overall vehicle markets, General Motors South combined total of 5 344 vehicles. This brings the Increase of 6.1% between sales in May 2011 and May 2010 Africa (GMSA) was much more upbeat, describ- total sales figures for May to 41 555 units. ing its May performance as “pleasing.” Exports were notably strong, with some Total passenger car market at the end of May 2011 Malcolm Gauld, GMSA’s Vice President 22 063 vehicles exported to many parts of the for Sales and Marketing, said that the growth world. Leading the exports race was once again YTD 2011 157 342 in Chevrolet passenger vehicle sales was key to Volkswagen with 9 408 units listed (made up YTD 2010 130 749 its strong third place. While Gauld conceded almost entirely by its Polo model line-up), fol- Increase of 20.3% between YTD 2011 and YTD 2010 that the overall market was a “little subdued” in lowed by Toyota with 5 958 (Hilux accounting May 2011 28 830 April 2011 26 327 The Top selling passenger Top Selling Light Commercial vehicles in May Vehicles in May May 2010 25 724 Volkswagen Polo Vivo 2 547 1 Toyota Hilux 2 558 Increase of 12.1% between sales in May 2011 and May 201 Volkswagen Polo 1 935 2 Chevrolet Corsa Utility 1 248 Total light commercial vehicle Ford Figo 1 128 3 Nissan NP 200 1 036 market at the end of May 2011 Mercedes-Benz C-Class 968 4 Isuzu KB 934 YTD 2011 60 027 BMW 3 Series 888 5 Ford Bantam 719 YTD 2010 56 352

Toyota Corolla 839 6 Toyota Quantam 590 Increase of 6.5% between YTD 2011 and YTD 2010 Toyota Fortuner 758 7 Ford Ranger 511 May 2011 10 609 Chevrolet Cruze 691 8 Nissan NP300 Hardbody 384 April 2011 10 286 Nissan Micra 646 9 VW Amarok 379 May 2010 11 516

Toyota Yaris 622 10 Nissan Navara 237 Decrease of 7.9% between sales in May 2011 and May 2010 Subscribe for free @ www.autolive.co.za Page 8

Toyota to fight back with Etios

Tristan Wiggill disaster in Japan in May also af- This inexpensive family car cars now constitute 8% of the total fected Toyota’s performance dur- concept is very similar in feel to the new car sales market”. ing the past month. Renault Logan – with only-slight- Toyota, which has not been Japanese car-making giant, Toyota, But with the Etios and Aygo, ly-less insipid looks – and will ap- adequately represented in the is going all out to retain local mar- Toyota is proactively taking meas- peal to a similar buyer, we suspect. A-and-Sub-B segments in recent ket leadership as 2011 marks the ures to undercut VW’s South Like the Logan, the Etios se- times, has been forced to introduce golden anniversary of the found- African passenger car sales domi- dan in India is powered by a newly something quickly to lure budget- ing of Toyota Motor Corporation nance. Toyota’s simple, rugged Etios, developed petrol engine which, in conscious young people back into South Africa (TMCSA) in 1961. originally destined for family buyers Toyota’s case, measures 1.5 litres in its cars. The immense popularity of in India’s rapidly growing car mar- capacity, while the hatchback ver- This also explains the com- the cheap Volkswagen Polo Vivo ket, as well as emerging markets in sion is powered by a modest a 1.2 pany’s positioning of the Etios, and new VW Polo, both built in Russia, South America and, accord- litre petrol unit. which will slot in above the new- Uitenhage, are the major reasons ing to reliable sources, right here in Perhaps worryingly for Toyota, ly-launched Aygo and below the behind the German marque’s re- South Africa, is on its way. the Logan’s popularity in SA has top-end new Yaris model, itself cent ascendency in overall vehicle Etios boasts a spacious inte- recently died off sharply, with most scheduled for local introduction sales in the country, thus overtak- rior with abundant storage space, budget-conscious shoppers pre- next year. ing its long-time arch nemesis in and offers simple, affordable mo- ferring it’s locally made Sandero While we don’t expect the Etios May for the second time this year. toring for the masses. Production hatch spin-off. Is it a case of Toyota to be marketed in Europe any time Volkswagen has been the pas- began late last year at Toyota’s closing the stable door after the soon (its looks and purpose are not senger-car sales leader for some second plant in India, which was horse has bolted? Not so, says in- suited to sophisticated European time, and its recent introduction of built expressly for the car, with dustry authority Brand Pretorius. tastes), we anticipate an imminent the Amarok LCV has enabled it to annual Etios sales in India set at “Affordable mobility is the watch- local introduction. In fact, we half- challenge the long-time leader for 70 000 units, and exports well un- word of today, with entry level cars expect the car to be launched at overall sales success. The shortage derway. As a developing county, costing less than R130 000 up some the Johannesburg Motor Show on of certain parts and imported ve- South Africa is one of its export 82% on a year to date basis. These October 6 this year. In the mean- hicle models following the tsunami destinations. time, watch this space…

a speech that the Automotive Capital expenditure on the up Investment Scheme, which forms part of APDP, has resulted in planned investment by automotive Tristan Wiggill investment projects by manufactur- assemblers of between R9-billion ers as they gear up for the Automotive and R13-billion and a further Production and Development Pro­ R4-billion by component sup- South African vehicle manufactur- gramme (APDP). The 2011 predic- plier companies. Such investment ers are expected to increase their tion is a major turnaround from the would see a significant expansion capital expenditure (capex) to slump experienced in 2009 when in local component sourcing by R4.45-billion this year from R3.99- the global financial crises unfolded, vehicle manufacturers and sup- billion in 2010, says the National and is thrice the figure spent in 2000, port 24 000 jobs. Dr Rob Davies Association of Automobile Manu­ but still some way short of the record Naamsa reports the industry’s facturers of South Africa (Naamsa). R6.2-billion spent in 2006. aggregate capital expenditure on an details supplied by the seven major The increase in capex during Trade and Industry Minister, annual basis, with the aggregated local vehicle manufacturers and two 2010 and 2011 may be attributed to Dr Rob Davies, recently said in data based on Capital Expenditure truck producers. Subscribe for free @ www.autolive.co.za Page 9

Synovate survey surprises

Tristan Wiggill process. They are therefore harder to please and scores are usually lower for service as for sales,” says Rice. Last week, AutoLive visited the Synovate offices “However, the scores have improved since in Bryanston, Johannesburg, to attend a press the last awards for sales and service, which in- briefing by Richard Rice, Sales and Marketing dicates an increased effort to make this interac- Director at Synovate South Africa. tion as pleasant as possible”. Synovate, the fourth largest market research The category of Light Commercial Vehicle company in the world, has undertaken to re- Purchasing Experience yields gold awards for veal which car brands provide the best levels of Isuzu, Toyota and Chevrolet. Isuzu scored a sales and service satisfaction in South Africa, high 93% with Toyota and Chevrolet at 92%. as reported telephonically by car owners. Gold, This category boasts a high average score of Silver and Bronze awards are then given to the 88%. Richard Rice winners. The company has been doing this sur- The top achievers for the category of Light vey for 20 years. Commercial Vehicles Servicing Experience intention to encourage competitive perform- The 2011 Synovate quality awards are consisted of five gold award winners – namely ance in the automotive industry. The endorse- based on interviews with 30 000 customers Mitsubishi, Toyota, Chevrolet, Isuzu and ment also demonstrates the DTI’s confidence who purchased vehicles between January and Nissan, whose scores were neck and neck be- in the research methodology and the reliability December 2010. This study makes up part of the tween 84% and 86%. The average score for this and validity of the results. largest survey South African vehicle owners. category is 80%. However, not all brands are included in the Recognition is given to the outstanding achiev- “Isuzu, Toyota and Chevrolet achieved gold survey for various reasons – some manufactur- ers in the following four categories: passenger awards in both purchasing and service for light ers choose not to participate, while others are vehicle purchasing experience, passenger car commercial vehicles, which is a great testament excluded because the sample achieved is too servicing experience, light commercial vehicle to how seriously manufacturers take the brand small. Another reason some manufacturers do purchasing experience and light commercial experience. They offer their customers loyalty not get published is due to the length of partici- vehicles servicing experience. into the future.” pation in the study – a full year of participation Audi takes top spot for quality for passenger “Synovate questions respondents on the is required before a brand can be included in the car purchasing experience. “Although Audi has quality of the interaction and focuses not only rankings. won gold awards for this category before, this on the hard measurements, but also on the Some industry watchers feel the absence of year the German company has pulled away from softer, more emotional attributes. This directly significant players calls into question the reach other leaders in this category to establish itself relates to the degree of customer loyalty a brand and validity of the survey when major brands as the clear front-runner,” states Rice. “This will enjoy. Getting the softer issues right can like BMW and Hyundai, as well as all the move is really a beneficial one to the automo- be a far greater challenge than making sure the Chinese brands, are non-participators. tive consumer because it sets a higher standard customer has all the right information, for ex- Nevertheless, Synovate claims to interview for customer experience”. However, the same ample. What we focus on is the overall customer about 83% of the passenger car market and 98% cannot be said for Audi’s passenger car service experience.” of the light commercial vehicle market. satisfaction levels, with the German brand only The questionnaire covers all elements of Participating brands in this Synovate receiving a bronze award. both sales and service processes, from the ap- Survey were: Mitsubishi, Lexus, Chevrolet, The category of passenger car servicing ex- pearance of staff in the dealership itself to the Volkswagen, Nissan, Isuzu, Toyota, Mazda, perience was (somewhat surprisingly) topped financing pricing aspects of the sales or service, Opel, Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge, Audi, Renault, by Mitsubishi, Lexus and Chevrolet – all three and then to the post-sale or post-service follow Volvo, Fiat, Ford, Peugeot and Mercedes-Benz. with a score of 87%. up. Complaint resolution is also a key part of the Non-participators were: BMW, Hyundai, “The service experience is typically a more questionnaire for customers to report problems. Kia, SsangYong, Proton, Citroen, Suzuki, Tata, difficult area for manufacturers, as it is not as The results are endorsed by the Department Land Rover, Range Rover, Jaguar, Alfa Romeo, exciting for the consumer as the initial sales of Trade and Industry (DTI) and reflect its Hummer, Honda, Mini, Subaru and Daihatsu.

To advertise in call Kay-Leigh Els on 072 2626 839 or e-mail her at [email protected] Subscribe for free @ www.autolive.co.za Page 10

Balance of power shifting – Brand Pretorius

By Roger Houghton The industry commentator said that he ex- pected local competition between the various brands to intensify. What used to be a two-horse The South African vehicle market is already race for market dominance between Toyota reflecting the change in the balance of power and Volkswagen is already a three-horse race seen in the international motor industry and with the emergence of a strong challenge from this trend will escalate. This is according to the Hyundai/Kia. This could well become a five- retired former CEO of the McCarthy Group, horse race with the rapid progress being made Brand Pretorius. by recovering General Motors and Ford. Pretorius was speaking recently at a con- “Imported cars are now enjoying a very ference organised by the Automotive Industry dominant share of the SA passenger vehicle Development Centre (AIDC) on the topic “The market with CBU (Completely Built Up) mod- Brand Pretorius state of the (SA) motor industry and pre-requi- els accounting for 67% of sales year-to-date, sites for a sustainable future”. which is more than double the 31% recorded insignificant components are still halting pro- He said that rapid growth in emerging mar- in 2003,” explained Pretorius. “The structure duction. He predicted that this could lead to kets such as China, India, South America and of the market is also changing in favour of cars further decentralisation of vehicle and compo- Eastern Europe had already resulted in these re- over commercial vehicles. Cars now account nent manufacturing operations as a form of risk gions now constituting 51% of the global vehicle for 68% of the total market compared to 57% in mitigation. market. This was resulting in over-capacity in 1980 when many people used bakkies for pri- Vehicle and component manufacturers in developed markets. vate transport. South Africa are expecting a substantial recov- According to PricewaterhouseCoopers “The makeup of the car market is also ery in production levels this year as both do- (PwC) the global vehicle market for 2011 is ex- changing and polarising with growth in the mestic and international demand continues to pected to reach 75-million units in 2011, which entry level and SUV/executive segments. Entry improve. is well below current worldwide production level cars, which cost less than R130 000, are up The former McCarthy CEO said South capacity. PwC then sees the market growing to 82% on a YTD basis and now constitute 8% of Africa is now the 24th largest producer of ve- 93-million units by 2015, with premium brands the market,” added Pretorius. hicles in the world and output this year could continuing to increase their share. “Growth in total vehicle sales has been at reach 600 000 units ,with about half of these ve- Pretorius said that the South African mar- the expanse of used cars, with the ratio of used hicles bound for export destinations. ket is probably the most competitive in the to new vehicles having changed significantly in SA is now exporting vehicles and com- world, with 61 brands and 2 100 model deriva- favour of new. Dealers are benefitting from the ponents to 131 countries in the world and the tives while the overall sales volume only equates upsurge in demand for new vehicles, despite the shipment of built-up vehicles and automotive to only 0.8% of the world market. less profitable sales mix as the used car share components account for 10% of the country’s “The industry is definitely in a recovery declines. total exports. Projected earnings from these ex- phase following a dramatic decline in the mar- “However, the dealership business model is ports in the first five months of 2011 amounted ket in 2008 and 2009 as the world went into eco- under pressure as there is a marked decline in to R100-billion, which was a 37% improvement nomic decline,” explained Pretorius. parts and service sales as well as a decline in in- on the situation a year ago. “We have had a good start to the year, with a come from used car sales. Component manufacturers expect produc- 19% increase in sales in the first four months of Pretorius said that some people were tend- tion to increase by 15% this year, which will lead the year compared to the same period last year. ing to underestimate the impact on the in- to increased employment of up to 4 000 jobs, The forecast for the year is 575 000 units, which ternational and local vehicle markets of the despite the amount of local content in locally- will be far better than 2009 (395 000 units) and earthquake and subsequent tsunami that hit the manufactured vehicles being considered as still 2010 (493 000 units), but way below the heady north-eastern region of Japan on March 11. He too low. days of 2006 when sales set a record at 714 000 said the vehicle-related value chains remained “It is concerning that the deficit on the au- units for the year.” vulnerable and estimated that the situation will tomotive industry trade account is still huge at Key reasons given for the growth were: only start normalising towards the third quar- R30.7-billion in 2010, and this is attracting gov- higher levels of business and consumer con- ter of the year. ernment and industry attention, but I still be- fidence, GDP growth of almost 3%, strong re- He explained that this area of Japan was lieve we in the local motor industry have a great placement demand, enhanced affordability, low home to many component makers who supplied deal to be grateful for, even though we operate new vehicle price inflation, a comparatively low manufacturers all over the world and not just in in a fiercely competitive market,” concluded interest rate and extended repayment terms. Japan. He added that shortages of comparatively Pretorius.

To advertise in call Kay-Leigh Els on 072 2626 839 or e-mail her at [email protected] Subscribe for free @ www.autolive.co.za Page 11

Avis CEO slams proposed E-tolling Labels the system a “farce”

Staff writer points or online, no need to police the system and no need to chase thousands of debtors. Why the need for such an inefficient and expensive Wayne Duvenage, Chief Executive of Avis Rent process, when the collection of these funds a Car, has demanded transparency behind the could be so much easier with a 100% fool proof motives and rationale behind the e-tolling sys- revenue collection process?” tem proposed for the Gauteng freeway upgrades. “Based on the number of cars on SA roads “While we do not dispute the need for the (minimum 8 million, but more like 11 million), long overdue Gauteng Freeway Improvement average distances travelled and consumption Project (GFIP), we need answers about the de- rates, to fund the R20 billion bandied about cision to adopt the proposed e-tolling funding (this figure also needs to be scrutinised) over mechanism. The public knew virtually nothing 15 years, including interest, should not cost us about the elaborate, complex and extremely un- more than 15c per litre (i.e. less than a 0.02% in- wieldy electronic tolling process until mid-2010. crease in the fuel price). But when challenged on No meaningful consultation or engagement had this, SANRAL Authorities come with a figure of taken place with either business or the public R1.60 per litre.” and the question is: Why not?” As for the erected toll gantries, Duvenhage “The simplest and least expensive way to said: “Well, we think that freeway policing is fund commuter road infrastructure upgrading good. The Automatic Number Plate Recognition is to do this via a fuel levy. This is how our roads cameras can be put to good use - to find stolen Wayne Duvenage and upgrades were funded in the past. Sadly, it cars and to assist with other necessary policing appears the provisions for the GFIP were either operations.” infrastructure upgrades are carried out for all not made, insufficient or spent elsewhere. What To those that ask: “Why should citizens in South Africans. Gauteng is the economic hub is being done with our taxes and levies which Cape Town or Durban pay this extra 15c on of Africa. Transportation efficiency in the prov- are supposed to be provided for such capital in- their fuel price?” Duvenhage says, “Well firstly, ince will have a positive economic impact for all frastructural upgrades,” he asked. you don’t want to introduce different regional citizens, all businesses and for the government.” “My guess is that the public at large (includ- fuel funding levies. This opens up a whole can “It is time the public demand the reasons ing those in cities elsewhere in SA) would rather of worms and the potential for abuse, if handed behind unilateral decision making. Decisions fund this extra tax / tolls through the far sim- over to regional government coffers. Fuel levies of this nature without thorough input from all pler method of adding a few extra cents per litre must be managed at a national level. Secondly, stakeholders not only affect the broader busi- to the retail price of petrol. In this way, there’d the four-lane highways around these other ness community and our economy, they have a be no need to erect gantries, no need for tags in large cities are not tolled in this manner. They negative impact on the already stressed budgets cars, no need to top up the tag accounts at pay were built on all our taxes. All national road of every one of us,” Duvenhage concluded.

BMW official vehicle sponsor of the Springboks

Staff writer

BMW South Africa (Pty) Ltd has been announced as official vehicle sponsor of the Springboks by the South African Rugby Union (SARU). The announcement, coming just two months before the kick off of the Springboks’ international season, will see the BMW brand mark adorning the left leg of the players’ shorts in official Test matches until the end of 2015. It is BMW’s first foray into international rugby sponsorship globally. BMW was also announced as a sponsor of the South African Rugby Legends Association for the next five years. Subscribe for free @ www.autolive.co.za Page 12

Darryl Jacobson: Uncle of the Motorcar Business

Darryl Jacobson, MD of Burchmore’s, has been in the car auction business for 20 years. We caught up with him at the firm’s Sandton branch on Old Pretoria Main Road recently, and put a few questions to him.

Stuart Johnston repossessed. As far as our floor stock goes, some of them we source from private sellers. In many cases, someone looking to buy a new car finds AutoLive: Darryl, you recently said in a media it’s easier to dispose of his current car with us, statement that customers are buying up, going and go to a dealer with cash, rather than having for “all the bells and whistles”. As far as a car to negotiate a trade-in. fitted with options is concerned, how does this AutoLive: Your showroom stock looks to be affect the price? (see back page). angled towards the premium end of the market. DJ: We go on book value, as supplied by DJ: We can’t compete against the franchised TransUnion Mead & McGrouther, and the price dealers in the entry-level market, where the mar- for a basic model never includes the options. gins are small. Something that’s changed over I’ve always said, in respect to buying new, go for the past 20 years is that a car with 100 000km on options if you like, but they are yours to enjoy the clock now is no-longer considered to have while you own the car. Don’t expect to recoup very high mileage. As long as the service history your money on them. is complete, many people are prepared to buy AutoLive: Burchmore’s sells cars straight up, in terms of prestige and features. Darryl Jacobson off the floor as well as during your auctions on AutoLive: What about maintenance plans? the weekend. What’s the split between the two DJ: We offer a two year warranty on engine, DJ: People are no longer scared of buying at modes of transactions? gearbox and transmission backed by Bidvest, on auctions. We’ve removed the risk factor. DJ: It’s basically two to one, in favour of all our cars. AutoLive: Why should someone buy a car auctions. We sell about 300 cars per month off AutoLive: There is a view that luxury cars from your company? the floor and about 500 to 600 at auction each lose a lot of their value compared to more af- DJ: We are like the uncle in the motor busi- month. fordable cars. Do you go along with this view? ness. Essentially we are wholesalers, to both the AutoLive: What determines how you sell DJ: It’s a general rule, yes, that the more ex- trade and the public. Dealers buy cars from us, your stock? pensive the car, the greater the depreciation. so you can get a car from us and avoid paying DJ: We sell cars on auction essentially AutoLive: How has the auction business the dealer mark-up and any refurbishing costs for the finance houses, cars that have been changed in the last 20 years? the dealer might add on. Subscribe for free @ www.autolive.co.za Page 13

How the CPA impacts aftermarket suppliers

Tristan Wiggill Toyota, Kia, Daihatsu, Porsche, Renault, Suzuki and Subaru and is recommended by Chrysler and In Issue No 1, AutoLive published Land Rover. an article titled “Safety unseated” It is the first aftermarket leather which took a look at the fitment of fitment company to obtain ISO aftermarket leather and how dealers 9001 2008 and ISO TS 16949 cer- run tremendous risks to their liveli- tification, which means it complies hoods and that of their car-buying with specific safety standards set by customers, should they make use of manufacturers. non-approved leather suppliers. This allows the company to ad- This week we continue the sto- vertise manufacturer logos, as well ry by looking at how the Consumer as perform testing in conjunction Protection Act (CPA) is impacting with the vehicle manufacturer’s the sale of leather interiors as an airbag manufacturer, as well as aftermarket accessory. The same with the South African bureau of could be said for many industry standards (SABS). A leather seat undergoes side airbag testing practitioners - I’m told dealers, for According to Ismail, the law instance, now have a thick book of states very clearly that any product, The law states that no leather the specifications set down by the rules to follow as opposed to a doc- new or used, has a mandatory six- aftermarket supplier can claim manufacturer. ument, when it comes to lawful car month warranty. This is enforced to be airbag compliant without it The law says that a supplier sale procedures. The revolutionary by South African legislation. But, having done side airbag deploy- cannot claim to supply a grade of act, number 68 of 2008, was gazet- he says, the law is generic. What ment tests. Each test for airbag cer- leather without providing a batch ted on 24 April, 2009, and came this means is that any new or used tification and compliancy with a certificate for the leather which he into force on 1 April, 2011. product sold must be suitable for manufacturer comes at a nominal or she is installing. This is a right AutoLive spoke to Ashraf Ismail, the purpose for which it is sold. cost, and is done in a controlled en- which is afforded to every client. Marketing Director of Handel Street It may not be unsafe. It must not vironment, be it in Europe, the US, The CPA also says a product Upholsterer’s in Johannesburg to be defective. It must not be prone or Asia. It is also dependent on a cannot claim to be abused with- find out more about the automo- to failures or hazards and it must manufacturer’s specifications. out the supplier informing the end tive leather business. Handel Street comply with the safety standards The ISO TS 16949 certification user of maintenance and due care Upholsterer’s provide aftermarket set down by vehicle manufactur- is a specific automotive specifica- of the product. This is spelt out leather installations for established ers, as well as an international tion which includes engineering clearly in the warranty certificate. brands like General Motors, Nissan, standard of certification authority. diagrams of a vehicle for the crea- Only when the raw material or tion of an interior. Without the product manufactured does not Aftermarket leather fitment: specifications and requirements ISO TS 16949 and ISO 9001 2008 conform to the standards set down Test Specification Requirements in place, no manufacturer will by the vehicle manufacturer can it approve or allow an aftermarket be deemed defective. The law does Thickness ISO 2589 1.0 - 1.4 (mm) centre to install leather seats. And not cover normal wear and tear, Tensile strength ISO 3376 120 (min) this, too, is subject to an on-site and if the consumer has damaged inspection by a team of engineers it themselves, the client has to pay Elongation at break (%) ISO 3376 50+/- 15 from the vehicle manufacturer’s for the repairs. Tear strength long ISO 3377-1 18 (min) head office. The colour of leather, chosen The CPA provides and en- by the client has to be documented Tear strength across ISO 3377-1 18 (min) sures that manufacturers hon- and signed off by the purchasing Resistance to bally DIN 53351 4 (min) our their warranties, and provide clients. The suppliers’ client, i.e. flexion: 20 000 cycles good quality goods. The quality the dealership, has to ensure when Stiffness upper DIN 53350 3.5+/-1.0 of the actual raw materials used placing an order that the specific Stiffness lower DIN 53350 3.5+/-1.0 by Handel Street Upholsterers, or CPA document is filled in with the any aftermarket supplier, has to order as they undertake the instal- Colour fastness to DIN EN ISO 11640 Veslic Rub conform to specifications which lation of the leather interior. are set down by the manufacturer. There is no longer a choice for 1000 cycles dry DIN EN ISO 11640 4 - 5 (min) These specifications, as listed in the end purchasing client to change 500 cycles wet DIN EN ISO 11640 4 - 5 (min) the panel below, have to be pro- his or her mind in terms of the vided to the manufacturer, with leather colour selected. Therefore, Top coat adhesions ISO 11644 3.5 (min) every batch of leather. This means the salesperson has to ensure the Burn at speeds less Flammability DIN 75200 a certificate of compliance of the client understands what he or she than 100 mm/min raw material meets and exceeds is purchasing in full. Subscribe for free @ www.autolive.co.za Page 14

Truck market shows resilience

Staff writer of slightly more than 10% over the final audited (AAD), presently limited only to MCV class volume of 1 920 units recorded during April. products). The May 2011 market composition was This performance has resulted in cumula- In spite of widely held expectations that reduced made up of 703 Medium Commercial Vehicles tive total market growth of 20.4% in the year- product availability was about to become a con- (GVM ratings between 3 501 kg and 8 500 kg), to-date comparison with the equivalent first five straint on market performance, commercial 432 Heavy Commercials (goods vehicles with month period of 2010. vehicle sales exhibited substantial resilience GVM ratings between 8 501 kg and 16 500 kg), In the comparison of individual market seg- during May, and registered a substantial im- 889 Extra Heavy Commercials (goods vehi- ments between the months of May and April, provement over April’s result. cles with GVM ratings above 16 500 kg) and 2011, MCV volumes increased by 24.9%, HCV During May, total sales of 2 116 trucks, bus- 92 passenger Buses with GVM ratings above 8 sales by 9.6%, XHCV deliveries by 0.8% and es and vans with Gross Vehicle Mass ratings of 500 kg. (These volumes also include sales re- Buses by 13.6%. In fact, May’s Bus sales were more than 3 500 kg were reported to the National ported by Associated Motor Holdings (AMH) the best of any month, so far, during 2011, be- Association of Automobile Manufacturers of and Amalgamated Automobile Distributors ing just one unit ahead of the 91 units reported South Africa (NAAMSA), this being an increase in March.

Total South African truck and bus Heavy truck market (8 501–16 500kg GVM) Buses (over 8 500kg GVM) market at the end of May 2011 YTD 2011 1 943 YTD 2011 406 YTD 2011 10 437 YTD 2010 1 628 YTD 2010 853 YTD 2010 8 668 Increase of 19.3% YTD 2011 and YTD 2010 Decrease of 52.4% YTD 2011 and YTD 2010 Increase of 20.4% YTD 2011 and YTD 2010

May 2011 2 116 May 2011 432 May 2011 92 April 2011 1 920 April 2011 394 April 2011 81 May 2010 1 926 May 2010 366 May 2010 213

Increase of 9.9% between sales in May 2011 and May 2010 Increase of 18% between sales in May 2011 and May 2010 Decrease of 82.1% between sales in May 2011 and May 2010

Medium truck market Extra-heavy truck market Total truck and bus exports (3 501–8 500kg GVM) (over 16 500kg GVM) year-to-date to March 2011 YTD 2011 3 641 YTD 2011 4 447 YTD 2011 273 YTD 2010 3 065 YTD 2010 3 122 YTD 2010 335

Increase of 18.8% YTD 2011 and YTD 2010 Increase of 42.4% YTD 2011 and YTD 2010 Decrease of 18.6% between total truck and bus exports in YTD 2011 and YTD 2010 May 2011 703 May 2011 889 Medium YTD 2011 29 (YTD 2010: 33) April 2011 563 April 2011 882 Heavy YTD 2011 56 (YTD 2010: 63) May 2010 740 May 2010 607 Extra-heavy YTD 2011 168 (YTD 2010: 143) Decrease of 5% between sales in May 2011 and May 2010 Increase of 46.5% between sales in May 2011 and May 2010 Buses YTD 2011 20 (YTD 2010: 96) Subscribe for free @ www.autolive.co.za Page 15

BMW’s convertible steps up

Stuart Johnston component set to take a bow. It com- bines newly-calibrated electrical pow- er assistance with BMW’s Servotronic At the South African launch of the BMW system, and the feedback is just right 6-Series Convertible, BMW’s PR man, Edward for what, one keeps on having to re- Makwana, was rather thoughtful in answering mind oneself, is essentially a Gran a question about which cars BMW perceived as Turismo (GT), rather than an out- direct competitors. and-out sports machine. Kick back Among the cars Makwana mentioned were is minimal, but the finely-calibrated (quite logically) Jaguar’s XKR and Mercedes’ CL. electronic weighting loads the steer- More tellingly, he also mentioned Porsche’s 911. ing wheel up beautifully as you turn There was grumbling about some of these the car into a corner, enabling precise cars not being direct competitors in terms of placement and your confidence levels configuration, but Makwana, lest the scribes to increase accordingly. forget, is privy to insider knowledge from The 6-Series is fast, too, in both BMW’s worldwide dealer network. And the cus- of the two variants available, the V8 tomer is always right, because he or she, in the twin-turbo (650i) and the straight-six final analysis, coughs up the cash. twin-turbo. The turbocharged petrol The inclusion of the benchmark of drivers’ six is arguably our choice because it cars from up-the-autobahn in Stuttgart came loses out only marginally in terms of back to me on the launch drive. Our time be- grunt (235kW and 450Nm vs. 300kW hind the wheel featured all manner of road chal- and 600Nm for the V8). This is good lenges, including eye-of-the-needle stuff on the for a claimed 5.7 second zero to 100 for almost forgotten old George-to-Knysna road the 650i, and a 5.0 for the 640i. Both that cuts through cliff faces and undergrowth in cars have a 250km/h top speed (elec- a joyous sequence of switchbacks. tronic cut-out). In tight twisty bits, or conversely, super- Those power figure differences fast sweeps, the new 6-Series Convertible has a look significant on paper, and back- combination of nimbleness, stability and solid- to-back, yes, the V8 is stronger, but ity that ranks it up there with the world’s best not as by much as you’d expect. This sports / super cars. It’s a day-and-night improve- is because the 640i weighs some 100 ment over the previous 6-Series Convertible, for kg less. Incidentally, on the subject of a couple of reasons. weight, both models use aluminium First to take a bow for this is the body shell. doors and bonnets, glass-fibre-com- By dint of extensive use of both multi-phased posite boot-lids and front wings to and hot-formed ultra-high tensile steel, BMW save weight. states that static torsional rigidity has increased There are so many electronic sys- by some 50 percent. The advantages of this en- tems in the new Beemer that once able more supple suspension units to be used, again space prohibits listing them all and you can feel this over dodgy surfaces - the here. Suffice to say, we really enjoyed suspension never seems to bottom out, even on the Head Up Display, which now lists bad bumps. prevailing speed limits wherever you From a sporting perspective, the BMW are, on the windscreen straight ahead Dynamic Drive Control, and the even more (this is standard on both models). It is “active” Adaptive Drive system (standard on noted that with traction control (DSC) switched (ranging in size from 18-inch to 20 inch diam- the 650i, a R34 500 option on the 640i) ensures off; an electronic individual wheel braking sys- eter), sound systems and so on… that body roll is minimised. tem comes into play, to simulate the effects of a Actually, the price of this car is very, very Adaptive Drive uses electronic adjustment limited slip differential. reasonable, considering that dynamically it of the dampers to automatically adjust to the Like any BMW, you can spend a small for- can compete with the best of them. The 640i’s driver’s style (hard and fast most of the time, tune on options. Lane Change warning costs base price is R909 000 and the 650i weighs in presumably) and the road surface (smooth or R7 700 for the 640i, for instance, while the at R1 167 000. bumpy). But driving the 640i over a rippled 650i has this as standard. Night Vision with Apart from the beautiful induction and ex- road (the 640i does not have Adaptive Drive Pedestrian Recognition costs R27 400 and is haust burble-growl of the V8-equipped 650i, we as standard) saw the 6-Series Convertible cope optional on both models. figure we’d save ourselves the price of a small more than admirably. And there is a plethora of goodies to lure hot hatch and opt for the 640i twin-turbo six. After the body rigidity and marvellous sus- you into the dealership: touch-screen mod- By the way, neither of the prices listed include pension, the steering system is the third major ules, Napa leather, five different wheel options emissions tax contributions. Subscribe for free @ www.autolive.co.za Page 16

Industry profile: Edward Makwana

Stuart Johnston disadvantaged people and to me this was the coal- face of human relations,” explains Makwana. His next move was to a completely different Edward Makwana has a natural warmth about working environment, with the South African him that immediately has the effect of putting Institute of Chartered Accountants. Here he people at ease. That’s not a bad character trait worked under Willi Coates, who he admires to have in his chosen field, public relations, an deeply to this day. arena he decided to enter straight after school as “Willi is Afrikaans, and there is a directness he simply “loved to do presentations, get some about the Afrikaners that I really admire. You ideas across.” always know where you stand with them. You Now 28, Makwana grew up in a Pedi family work hard, and when it’s time to play, say on a in the village known as Jane Furse, which is lo- late Friday afternoon, there’s a special warmth cated a little distance outside Groblersdal, in the to that, too. There’s was a time to work and a Limpopo Province. At the age of 14 he moved time to laugh. to what was then known as Verwoerdburg, now “A lot of people misinterpreted Willi’s di- known as Centurion. rectness as harshness. But I never saw it that “It was just at the time in the old regime way. He always told me, “Edward, surround when black people were being allowed to attend yourself with good people. With weak people, white schools. My brother Mpho was 12 years you fail along with them.” older than me, and he undertook to provide a Makwana then had his first taste of the mo- Edward Makwana home-base for his younger siblings, something tor industry, when he joined Mercedes-Benz SA, I’ll always be grateful to him for, because he working in the communications department Makwana has his work cut out, as he man- sacrificed a big part of his young adulthood for under long-time Mercedes PR manager Shirle ages the media side of public relations for BMW, us.” Mpho Makwana, not incidentally, is now Greig. “That was very enlightening, because Mini and BMW Motorcycles. This means evolv- Chairman of Eskom. I had the Mitsubishi brand in my portfolio, as ing strong relations with various groups of mo- “I moved around a lot between schools. First well as the Freightliner and Mitsubishi-Fuso toring media. He sees motoring journalists as a it was Lyttelton Primary, followed by a boarding truck brands. This was when I first became -ex group operating like an extended family. school in Middelburg, then Jeppe Boys High in posed to the world of motoring journalism.” “After my stint at Mercedes, then leaving Jo’burg and finally, I matriculated at Fourways A move back to the SA Institute of Chartered the field and returning with BMW, I see famil- High in Randburg. Accountants seemed destined to be long term, iar faces, everyone is very close, which is not the “I studied Public Relations at what was then but then out of the blue, Shirle Greig of Mercedes- case with other groups of journalists.” Wits Technikon, now part of the University of Benz mentioned that there was a media relations When asked if he goes along with the view Johannesburg, and my first exposure to the “real job going at BMW. Edward was torn between that motoring journalists are overly-pampered, world” was at Arcay Corporate Communications loyalty to his mentor Willi Coates and the excite- he smiles and concedes that, like in a fam- in Jo’burg, run by Robyn de Villiers. My mentors ment of working for a global brand like BMW. ily “there is always the one child that wants there were Pamela Christy and Andre Venter and “Eventually the strength of the BMW brand an extra lollipop”. But consistency is the key I owe a lot to them for teaching me the basics. My won out. It’s such a dynamic company, and after in making sure everyone gets what they want, advice to anyone entering the PR field would be eight months I would describe it as a very flex- both from BMW’s point of view and the media’s to work for a Public Relations firm, because you ible culture, not nearly as rigid as one would ex- point of view”. get to understand the dynamics of communica- pect from a company with a German parentage. Although just eight months into his new job tion and public relations. Once you have those “I work under Guy Kilfoil, who has incredi- at BMW, he’s already proud of the company’s basics, you can fit into any organisation.” ble product knowledge, and is very quick-minded leading role in the premium car field. Makwana moved about quickly, first to – he’s a good example to us in the communica- “The accusation is often made that BMW is Ogilvy Public Relations, and then to Makwetla tions department. In our Efficient Dynamics pro- arrogant. I prefer to see it as a leadership role. and Associates, an event managing company gramme, as applied to our cars, the key slogan is We recently edged into the lead in terms of sales deeply involved in community work. less emissions, more performance. In a way, that in the premium sector, and if you are in a leader- “This was very valuable to me, we worked applies to the PR department too, because we are ship role, you want to take a firm stance. That’s in community development, we dealt with expected to produce more in less time.” the way I see it, a firmness, a self-belief.”

To advertise in call Kay-Leigh Els on 072 2626 839 or e-mail her at [email protected] Subscribe for free @ www.autolive.co.za Page 17

Hitting the G-spot

Stuart Johnston hop inside, and lo-and-behold on the floor are rugged rubber- ised mats that once again look Driving the Mercedes-Benz G 350, like they were filched from old there were times when I felt I was stock from the same W123- cruising for my next red carpet series sedan. But the fittings are photo-op. Such is the attention the luxurious, if boxy, and there are G-Wagen draws; you could easily modern details on this model - whip up movie star delusions, in such as the review camera which much the same way as you might aids greatly in reversing. when slinking and swanking Being a trad off-roader, there around in an SLS… is no adjustable air suspension, Cruise is generally what you but rather rigid axles front and do in the G-Wagen, its mellow die- rear, ultra-long travel springs, sel pumping out effortless torque, permanent four wheel drive, your cranium high up there in the and diff locks for front, central clouds somewhere, and the com- and rear differentials. In a mod- muter masses far below as you ern concession, these are en- meditate on the meaning of life gaged by dash-mounted electric and odd-ball modes of transport. switches, as is the switch from Oddball is the phrase that high to low range. This, curiously, For the record, the G 350 bullet. It’s just so old school, so strikes many South Africans must be done when the vehicle is BlueTec offers full leather seats, honest, and thence, so loveable! when they see the new hard-core moving and the automatic gearbox a steering wheel with wood and off-roader from the Daimler con- in neutral. This is what the owner’s leather surfaces and 18-inch alloys. Second opinion: glomerate, not being privy to the manual instructs, and if you try it The three-litre V6 turbo-diesel Tristan Wiggill long and respected history that stationary, it doesn’t engage. A bit is good for 155kW and 540Nm The G-Wagen is a quirky, distinctly the G-Wagen boasts in its mother finicky and non-user friendly, to of torque, more than enough for unique, manly vehicle. Everything country of Germany my mind. this vehicle, and a realistic overall about it is macho. Its square body G stands for Gelanda, or, The ride on tarmac is fine, consumption of around the 13.5 styling is matched by square dash cross-country, and the first ren- unless you have to traverse speed litres/100km mark – the official EU and square seats. Opening and clos- dition goes back some 30 years. bumps or non-specific big bumps, figure is 11.2 per 100km with a Co2 ing it’s (once again, square) doors Hence this newcomer’s adher- in which case it is ultra-firm. The rating of 297g/km. takes some effort, as does merely ence to its roots, which looks like steering is slow and the turning Somewhat limiting to your turning its large, deeply treaded a German rendition of a Jeep, with circle is wide. But in the short bit free-ranging excursions is that wheels, so heavy is the steering only slight concessions to glamour, of off-roading I did, off the beaten it does require 50 ppm diesel, so weighting. The semi-wooden steer- such as alloy wheels. track the grip is prodigious, and check on its availability before you ing wheel almost froze my hands No keyless go here, you have impressive ramp and departure head to the swamps and have to as I ascended into the lofty driver’s to press a door handle that looks angles, as well as good ride height, call up Merc’s MobiloDrive rescue seat on a particularly frosty winter like it came off the Mercedes W123 make it a serious tool for proper service, which is included as part morning. Perhaps I’m not tough production line back in 1985. You safari usage. of the price. enough? Speaking of which, it Would I want one? Well, it wouldn’t be entirely inappropriate costs R1 227 140, and for that to stop shaving for three days and you get a retro-type machine wear utility boots in order to sync with most of the modern comfort car and driver image... and safety features such as high- Apart from the not-for-sissies quality audio, airbags, electric ride, I found rear legroom to be windows, climate control and hill inadequate, but the effortless surge start assist, to make you feel a bit from the diesel lump is powerful better about the ultra-firm ride. enough to more than make up for It comes with Mercedes-Benz’s this shortcoming. Ultimately, this two-year unlimited km war- is a very niche product, and so ranty as well as the MobiloDrive won’t sell in large volumes. I like Maintenance Plan. to think of it as an ultra-luxurious, It’s probably not worth the German engineered Mahindra, money in any practical sense, but, with a distinctly un-Mahindra- you know what? If I had plenty of like price tag. Now, time for a KFC spare cash, I might just bite the fully-loaded box meal, me thinks! Subscribe for free @ www.autolive.co.za Page 18

Road impression: Honda Jazz 1.3 CVT Comfort

Tristan Wiggill each side. Doing so frees up a lot of space, which, in this position, compares favourably against its di- The kind folk at Honda South rect competitors (Polo, Swift, Focus Africa recently supplied us with a etc). Another nicety is that, in this new 1.3 CVT Honda Jazz Comfort, version (as with other petrol deriva- neatly dipped in Deep Sapphire tives in the refreshed range) the rear blue paint. seats can now recline. Driving it around town, I real- The 1.3 L petrol engine does ised just how well put together these a good job of powering the car cars are. In fact, the same assess- around town, an ideal environment ment can be made of just about any for the Jazz, and interested parties Honda these days. It is a remarkably should not be concerned that the solid feeling vehicle, with Honda’s small engine lacks punch on the build quality, once again impress- Highveld. This model of Jazz also ing me (the newly refreshed Accord boasts low fuel consumption and being the most recent affirmation of some pretty eco-friendly carbon this long-held view). emissions credentials – thanks to As per its nomenclature, this improved aerodynamics. Honda particular model features a Continu­ claims a fuel consumption rate of adequately insulated from the out- around my standard hilly test ously Variable Transmission (CVT) 5.4 L per 100 km. side world. In fact, at idle I often route which often challenges small gearbox. CVT’s haven’t been my The net result of its good design wondered if the Jazz sported start/ cars with CVT and fluid-drive favourite transmissions in the past, is superb visibility all-round, plenti- stop technology. It does not, but Automatic “boxes. While the Jazz but this one is pretty good. For one, ful space within the cabin for both that is an indication of how quiet it was no firecracker, it was devoid it is not particularly noisy and “gear passengers and loose items, and er- gets. of the incessant droning that often changes” can be performed quickly gonomics that do not interfere with If there is criticism, it is that mars the CVT experience. via small shift paddles behind the the normal operation of the vehicle. mid-range torque does not allow For technophiles, the CVT steering wheel if need be. I’d choose Its controls are light, too, which also for brisk overtaking and a gear gearbox basically operates by using this over a low-tech four-speed helps with day-to-day schleps. shift will be necessary. This is a two cones linked by a drive belt. By auto‘box any day of the week, even While the Jazz is not a new ve- minor consideration, and one that moving the belt along the cones the if it does remove a degree of driver hicle per se, Honda has kept it rel- can easily be overcome through final drive ratio is varied seamlessly involvement. evant by tweaking its sheet metal the use of the aforementioned shift according to torque demands sig- Another aspect of the Jazz that and expanding the range to include paddles. nalled by the driver’s movement on really impresses me is the easy this CVT, as well as a hybrid mod- Overall, though, the feeling the accelerator pedal, and as there manner in which the rear seats el. The CVT we drove will likely you’re left with is of a well thought are no “steps” in power delivery, the can be folded down - literally with appeal to older buyers, although out and well-engineered car that is engine and gearbox are always in one tug on the release latches on Honda’s research shows that this difficult to find serious fault with. synch to deliver maximum torque transmission is popular in the local It is ideal for those buyers look- on demand. market, in this segment, regard- ing for a well-made, versatile and The manual modes are achieved less of age. While it does carry a easy to drive family vehicle. At by electro-mechanical lock-outs of slight premium over the manual R187 123, the Jazz CVT is a premi- the belt movement, enabling quick (about R13 000, although some um-priced option in its segment. higher rev burst of acceleration, or dealers offer them at the However, I feel this is justified, engine braking when descending a same price as the man- given its big-car feel and quality (as steep gradient. ual equivalent so shop confirmed by Jazz owners in cus- As for the ride, Honda have around), the automat- tomer satisfaction surveys over the managed to introduce an amaz- ed transmission offers years). ing amount of compliance into its greater ease of use and spring and damper set up. For a convenience and own- Second opinion by mini-MPV, it has precise cornering ers will revel in heavy Stuart Johnston and steering abilities, and yet the traffic situations. Two things stand out for me with ride is one of the best in the small Honda's CVT option has been Honda has also done a the Jazz CVT: The non-intrusive- car division, and much more re- available in overseas markets good job of keeping road and wind ness of the engine note and the warding to the driver than it’s mini- for some time noise under control and you feel ride quality. I drove the little Jazz mom’s-taxi looks suggest. Subscribe for free @ www.autolive.co.za Page 19

Castrol Extreme Auto Show moves to Zwartkops

Tristan Wiggill cars, including Hot Rods, Modified Street Cars, “Horsepower Braai” on Friday, from 15:30pm Restored Classics and Muscle Cars. These cars until 21:00pm. will all strut their stuff on the black top at the The revamp of the event comes after chief The Castrol Extreme Auto Show, now in its th8 year, same time, behind a pace car. Think of it as a organiser Graeme Ayerst visited a number of car has moved with the times, swapping its traditional Gumball Rally on the track, as opposed to shows in Australia and in the US, and noticed home - the Dome at Northgate - for Zwartkops across the country, say the organisers, AEC a trend towards the more dynamic, “rolling Raceway. With the change of venue also comes Exhibitions. shows” rather than static displays. a change of date: the 2011 Castrol Extreme Auto Other attractions include a host of static Ayerst’s company, AEC Exhibitions, has Show is now scheduled for late September, where- displays under marquees, Superdrift, which will been organising the Castrol Extreme Show, the as in the past it was held in April. bring out the best in Drift cars, 250cc Superkarts, premier “hot-rodding, custom and automotive The shift in location comes as a result of Free-Style Motocross riding, Custom Bikes sound-equipment show” since 2004. escalating costs to hire the Dome, while the and Advanced Driving demonstrations. As a Prices are expected to be R60 for adults, banned use of its parking lot as an area for drift Motorsport South Africa (MSA) sanctioned which represents good value. However, the ex- cars, and the need to make the show more inter- event, a clerk of the course, marshals, medics hibition faces strong competition towards the active, were other contributing factors. and scrutineers will all be on duty and all vehi- latter part of the year. In August, the Pretoria In addition, unlike the Dome, Zwartkops cles participating in any of the events during the Old Motor Club organises its annual Cars in Raceway is more centrally located between show will undergo scrutineering. the Park, also at Zwartkops, and attendance- Pretoria and Johannesburg and boasts plentiful Entertainment will also be provided for wise this is the biggest show on the “petrolhead” parking, a skidpan, go-kart circuit and, not to the kiddies and non-motorsport enthusiast at- calendar. be forgotten, the 2.4km racetrack itself! tendees, while food and drinks will be on sale Then, in October, the 2011 Johannesburg Speaking of which, the famous circuit will throughout the course of the weekend. International Motor Show returns to the Nasrec be put to good use during the show, as it hosts The Castrol Extreme Auto Show 2011 takes Exhibition Centre, South-West of Johannesburg, the inaugural Castrol Extreme Power Cruise, place from Friday, 23 September to Sunday, having been rescheduled from last year this to a “horsepower party” for a range of 200 plus 25 September. The event will kick off with a make way for the soccer World Cup. Subscribe for free @ www.autolive.co.za Page 20

VW Logo Day celebrates 60 years of the Beetle in South Africa

Stuart Johnston an agreement was signed between of its life the same basic design forms, and many of the factory-fit Volkswagen AG (Germany) and had evolved into a much faster camper examples. The Karmann South African Motor Assemblers car, with a 1 600 cc engine push- Ghia remains one of the most The Jo’burg Beetle and VW Club and Distributors (SAMAD). It was ing its top speed from the original beautiful cars ever built, based on have stolen a march on VWSA by negotiated by Volkswagen’s first 110 km/h to over 130 km/h. And a Beetle platform but with Italian- celebrating 60 years of VW pro- sales representative in South Africa, many of them can be spotted on styled coachwork. Some half a doz- duction in South Africa this year. Baron Claus Detlof van Oertzen, our roads today. en of these were on display. On May 28, 2011, the club organ- who is rightly known as the “father” On the ground at Riversands And as for personal inter- ised a giant logo display made up of the Beetle in South Africa. Farm, just outside Randburg, the pretations, our favourite was a of full-sized Beetles, Kombis and That first Beetle, first pro- sheer variety of people’s interpre- Beetle totally restyled to resem- Karmann Ghias, to pay homage to duced in any real numbers in tations of this much-loved car was ble a miniature Dodge Ram, con- The People’s Car, and the event was Germany in 1946, was a modest much in evidence. There were Split ceptualised and built by young duly photographed from a helicop- affair, featuring the now famous window and Oval window Beetles Leonardo Tommassini of Pretoria ter hovering overhead. split rear window, and an 1 100 (the early ones), the S type Beetle as a hobby. Technically, the birthday cele- cc flat four motor that produced which was the only one to have a Perhaps the best moment of all bration should be on August 31, for just under 20 kW. Nevertheless, curved windscreen, Baja Bugs, came when club organiser Pierre that was the date, in 1951, that the just about everyone in South Beach buggies, and kit cars based Eksteen handed over a cheque of first VW Beetle actually rolled off a Africa today knows what the on the Beetle floor-pan. R10 000 to the SA Guide Dog’s South African production line. original Beetle looks like, as the There were Kombis of the split Association, from money raised at The factory at Uitenhage, which cars were produced here right up windscreen and second-series “bay the gate, proving once again that still produces the VW Polo and until January 18, 1979, with over window” design in van, 10-seater, the Beetle was a small car for peo- Vivo models today came about after 288 000 examples built. At the end single-cab and double cab pick-up ple with big hearts.

Logo Day 2011 at Riverside Farm, Johannesburg (© www.studio88.co.za) Subscribe for free @ www.autolive.co.za Page 21

BMW reveals new 1 Series details

Staff writer

BMW has released details and pictures of its sec- ond generation 1 Series, still the only rear-wheel- drive model in its class, and is promising a more sporty and fuel-efficient drive than before. The company says all the petrol and diesel engines - ranging in capacity from 1.6 litres to 2.0 litres - in the range will feature new BMW TwinPower Turbo technology. It says the 1 Series is the first car in the world in its segment to be made available with an optional eight- speed automatic transmission. An automatic Start/Stop function will be inte- grated into both manual and automatic transmis- sions, while an ECO PRO mode can be activated The new BMW 1 Series goes on sale in SA in the last quarter of 2011. by using the driving experience switch (included as standard). According to the maker, height remains un- been expanded from 330 to 360 litres. Luggage Compared to the outgoing 1 Series, the changed, but 17 millimetres of increased width capacity is reportedly expandable to a maxi- newcomer is said to be 85 millimetres longer are reported to create a more spacious interior mum of 1 200 litres with the rear seats folded thanks to a longer wheelbase, and features wid- and a sportier look. down (40/20/40 seats available optionally). er tracks front and rear (51 and 72 millimetres BMW says there is 21 millimetres more rear The new BMW 1 Series goes on sale in South respectively). legroom and says the luggage compartment has Africa in the last quarter of 2011.

2011 MISA Woman of the Year award

The 2011 Motor Industry Staff Association Women’s Challenges are Unique ■■ Actively making a difference in the work (MISA) Woman of the Year Award has attracted “Though times have brought change to the in- environment nominations for a wide spectrum of women em- dustry, the retail motor sector is still predomi- ■■ Actively making a difference in the ployed in various sectors of the motor industry. nantly considered a “male” industry. Many community Run through MISA’s innovative E-Data elec- women have had success and recognition for ■■ Focused on positive change and growth tronic newsletter sent to members throughout their contribution to this sector, but it has not ■■ Innovative problem-solver South Africa, members were asked to nominate always been an easy feat. ■■ Natural leader women who best exemplified key attributes “They have had to gain the respect of their ■■ Happy, healthy, harmonious identified by MISA for the competition. co-workers by performing their task and building ■■ Well-presented The following is an outline of the competi- their careers, whilst many are raising children and ■■ Actions based on the greater good, integrity tion guideline, as it was issued in the run-up to creating a supportive, happy family environment. and honesty closing date for entries, which was April 30, 2011. “The MISA Women’s forum has recognised ■■ Emotional intelligence The winner will be announced at a gala din- that there is a need for the education, enlighten- ■■ Motivated ner at Idaba Hotel, Fourways, on November 17, ment and support for women in the retail motor ■■ Well-developed communication skills 2011. sector. The forum has addressed certain issues ■■ Enthusiastic “The Woman of the Year Award, an initiative and aim to build a support system that will ben- ■■ Committed of the MISA Women’s Forum, is in pursuit of a efit women in the industry. One of the goals of ■■ Goal-orientated woman that has created a fulfilling lifestyle by the Forum is to encourage initiatives that will ■■ Independent mastering the balance between her career, person- lead to positive change. ■■ A wise decision-maker al life and community involvement. She has inner “Balancing a career and personal life is a ■■ Confident in herself and her abilities strength, power, respect and effect on people she never-ending challenge. Challenges, however, And to give a final perspective to the com- interacts with, or situations she encounters. can and have been met. The Woman of the Year petition, MISA rounded off its competition “She is NOT a wonder woman, but a person is one who will share her formula with others guideline with the following quotation: “When who believes in herself, committed to her work and in doing so, uplift the women around her.” they told me that by the year 2100 women and family life, while at the same time making a MISA has identified the following charac- would rule the world, my reply was: ‘Still?’ ” difference a difference in her community. teristics of a “Role Model”: – Winston Churchill Subscribe for free @ www.autolive.co.za Page 22

Renault celebrates Gordini heritage

Staff writer The Gordini nameplate has always been closely associated with Renault and several historic A celebration of the Renault Gordini cars, including a Renault Gordini performance brand Dauphine and an R8, were on dis- marked the third running of play at the Hillclimb. the Renault-sponsored Simola The Clio Gordini RS joins the Hillclimb, overlooking the scenic Twingo Gordini RS in the Renault tourist town of Knysna late last model offering, and was used as the month. weapon of choice in the Renault This year the event attracted Hillclimb Media Challenge, a several racing luminaries, includ- shootout between 10 motoring ing Ian and Jaki Scheckter, Geoff journalists. Mortimer, Nissan GT-R ace, moto- They competed in identical cross enduro and WesBank Super Clio Gordini RS cars, and really Series star Jade Gudzeit. got to put the race-bred 2.0-litre Renault’s current performance such as Geoff Mortimer’s 500kW The Hillclimb also marked the pocket rocket through its pace. flagship, the Mégane RS Cup, also put Mitsubishi Lancer Evo, the stock debut of Renault’s latest perform- The Media Challenge was won by in some giant-killing performances. standard, front-wheel drive Mégane ance model with the unveiling of Ashley Oldfield of Topcar, with a Despite competing against highly- RS Cup of Bayle managed an impres- the Clio Gordini RS at the event. time of 53.42 seconds. modified, four-wheel drive sedans sive third in class A1, posting a time of 50.222 seconds in the process. Another standard Mégane RS, Michelin and TWT kit up driven by racing personality Deon Joubert, set a best time of 49.71 sec- Staff writer onds in the Brat Pack Challenge, a race-within-a-race between former touring and production car Michelin and Tiger Wheel & Tyre stars that also included Duncan have teamed up to give away nifty Vos, Robbi Smith, Geoff Goddard, Michelin Branded Safety Kits with Mike Briggs, and Philip Kekana. the purchase of any Michelin Tyres. The overall winner of the 2011 With the purchase of any two Renault Simola Hillclimb was Michelin Tyres starting from R459 each, Wilhelm Baard, who piloted his customers will receive a free Michelin branded every driver should have, including a safety triangle - First Aid Kit, complete with bandages and other aids to now the legal standard for all South African drivers - Nissan GT-R to victory in a time assist with minor injuries. and a set of jumper cables. of 42.444 sec. He narrowly beat Buying four or more Michelin Tyres sweetens the To take advantage of this special offer while stocks Gudzeit, in a similar car, by 0.2 deal even further with a free Roadside Emergency Kit, last, visit your nearest Tiger Wheel & Tyre before the seconds, with veteran Mortimer’s complete with all the handy emergency gadgets that 22nd of June 2011. Lancer Evo less than 0.5 seconds further back in third place. Bridgestone announces Dream Team winners

Staff writer Autoquip dealer countrywide and entering the competition, they stood the chance of winning a car valued at R350 000, three dream holidays The first round of the Dream Team competi- to the value of R40 000 each, 15 iPhones and a tion ran from the beginning of March until variety of R1 000 shopping vouchers. the end of April and afforded all customers of The second round of the Dream Team pro- Bridgestone participating dealer networks an motion runs until July 31. Visit any participat- opportunity to win big. ing dealer in your area, purchase two or more valued at R150 000, a dream holiday to the val- By purchasing two or more Bridgestone Bridgestone tyres, enter and stand the chance ue of R40 000, an Apple iPad or one of many tyres from any Supa Quick, Speedy Tyre or of winning either a Dream Home Makeover R1 000 shopping vouchers. Subscribe for free @ www.autolive.co.za Page 23

“Ingulube” shows off its grunt

Staff writer

Umkomaas locals have dubbed a 6x6 Mercedes- Benz Actros 3344 an Ingulube - isiZulu for pig - because they say it just loves the mud and has lots of grunt! Brian Hunt of Timber Logistics in Umkomaas explains. “A lot of the timber we collect is high up in the hills around Bulwer and Highflats where the roads are often no-go zones for your average truck especially when it’s rain- ing - or snowing as it does occasionally. “The road being used by the Actros has some serious gradients and gets slushy when it rains but the vehicle handles things with ease whether empty or loaded with 30 tons of timber. The 50km round trip journey saves 100km as your average truck would have to approach the area by going through Underberg. “The savings on fuel because of the reduced distance travelled have been significant.”

Second clean sweep for Hino

Staff writer

Hino SA has scored a clean sweep for the sec- ond consecutive year in a national survey of truck manufacturers and distributors in SA conducted by PMR Africa magazine. Nissan Leaf Results announced at an awards function held in Johannesburg recently placed Hino achieves five stars first in all three categories of the research - un- der 10 tons, over 10 tons and in the combined truck market. Staff writer The survey was conducted by means of interviews with a random national sample of 180 respondents during November/December Nissan’s LEAF, a five-door mid-size electric 2010 and January 2011. Those interviewed hatchback, is the first of its kind to achieve a included fleet owners, fleet managers, fleet Euro NCAP five-star overall crash safety rating. controllers and transport managers in the The car has a specially designed battery private and public sectors, as well as trucking Ignatius Muthien, Senior Manager, pack, fitted below the rear-seat compartment, journalists. Marketing, Hino which ensures that occupants are well protected The respondents rated the various com- in a crash and that risks of battery damage or mercial vehicle manufacturers across 27 at- attribute. Hino scored more than 4.10 out of a high voltage leaks are reduced to zero. tributes. They were also asked to list the make, possible five points in each of the categories so “The Nissan LEAF proves that electric ve- as well as type and number of vehicles they was awarded with three Platinum Arrows. It hicles can be equally safe as common cars. The operated in their fleets. scored 4.15 in the combined results: 4.24 in the standard is now set for the next generation of The results are based on perceptions of the under 10 ton category and 4.12 in the over 10 ton cars on the European market,” says Michiel van respondents with ratings from 1 to 5 on each segment. Ratingen, Euro NCAP Secretary General. Subscribe for free @ www.autolive.co.za Page 24

Personalising your new vehicle may be fun but not everyone might agree with your individual sense of style Getting ripped-off is optional

Tristan Wiggill hundreds and thousands of rands, to discern- which determines market and trade values of ing customers. cars, does not make provisions for such extras. In fact it’s not uncommon for some brands This means, in the case of the BMW men- Recently I had the opportunity to drive the to go out of their way to boast about ‘options tioned above, the customer would lose just BMW 530d, a luxury vehicle that joint- that are too numerous to list’ or in their ability about all of his or her R257 500 worth of extras ly won the 2010 South African Guild of to offer ‘a unique level of customisation for the immediately, not to mention the moneys lost Motoring Journalists Car of the Year (COTY) car market’. One car I drove had a ‘fragrance from depreciation, vehicle condition and mile- competition. diffuser’ that was available in three fragrances, age. And what if, after you’ve taken personali- Like most I was impressed with Munich’s while three types of leather upholstery were on sation of your car to the ultimate extreme, you diesel sipping executive sedan, but something offer - for the gear lever knob. find that nobody appreciates your unique sense perturbed me: the sheer scope of features I Back to the BMW and, looking into it, I of style quite as much as you do? You might be could amuse myself with. I know from expe- discovered that the base price for the Standard in the unfortunate situation where you are rience that, particularly with European car BMW 530d is R642 500, before the Co2 forced to lower your price just to be rid of your brands, just about everything (bar the engine Emissions Tax, while the heavily tarted up ver- one-of-a-kind creation! and gearbox) comes at additional cost. sion I was driving, with all its extras, came in Having said this, there is no doubt that This is in contrast with smaller, imported at over R900 000! some options, like a tow bar, add value to the brands (most often of Korean, Japanese and The scenario above is a manifestation of ownership experience of some vehicles. But in Chinese descent), which spec their offerings greed which, if left unchecked, can result in my experience, the majority of these are practi- in such a way as to leave no room for options, major financial repercussions later on. Besides cal additions, not cosmetic ones. Think care- primarily because of model range limitations. the fact that for R900 000 one could buy fully about what your intended uses and needs On the other hand, European car mak- something a lot more exotic, or both COTY are, and avoid the niceties, which will only be ers love nothing more than to provide hun- winners plus change, the motor industry’s appreciated by the used car buyer - at your dreds and thousands of options, costing Transunion Mead and McCgrouther’s guide, expense.

Comments? Complaints? Suggestions? E-mail [email protected]