www.autolive.co.za Issue No. 89 | 29 Septemberp 2016

AAUTOMECHANIKAUTOMECHANIKA TTRADERADE FFAIRAIR ININ GERMANYGERMANY SHOWSSHOWS HHOWOW AFTERMARKETAFTERMARKET ISIS KEEPINGKEEPING PACEPACE WITHWITH WWIDE-RANGINGIDE-RANGING NNEWEW AUTOMOTIVEAUTOMOTIVE TECHNOLOGIESTECHNOLOGIES

Model Ana Paula adds glamour to the eye-catching clear plastic car display that showcased the wide scope of products made by the ZF group of companies at Automechanika in Frankfurt.

BY ROGER HOUGHTON once again a great success with a record number of related shows. Th e other shows are Futuroad Expo exhibitors and a near-record attendance of 136 000 (Africa’s international commercial vehicle show), visitors (137 982 in 2014). Scalex Johannesburg (SA’s leading trade fair for Visitors to the recent Automechanika trade fair for It was announced during the Frankfurt show transport systems, infrastructure and logistics the automotive aft ermarket in Frankfurt could not that another location will be added next year. Th e solutions) and REIFEN (the world’s largest trade help but be impressed by the manner in which this venue will be Ho Chi Min City in Vietnam, with a fair for the tyre industry). sector of the global motor industry has been able show in March. Th is will increase the global reach Good weather, including temperatures of more to keep pace with the rapidly changing technolo- of the Automechanika brand to 16 cities in 15 than 300, contributed to the large number of people gies being adopted for the latest and future cars countries, with two shows taking place in Russia. who visited the vast Messe Frankfurt showgrounds and commercial vehicles. Fittingly, the theme of Johannesburg is on the calendar for 2017 too, in Germany this year. Th is year’s trade fair took this year’s biennial show was: “Tomorrow’s Service with Automechanika being staged at the Expo over the entire exhibition centre with 305 000m3 of and Mobility”. Centre for the fi ft h time from September 27–30. display area. Th is fi ve-day show, which is the premier event A new development will see Automechanika in the current 15-city Automechanika fold, was Johannesburg 2017 co-located with three other, continued on page 2

Page 7 Page 15 Page 17 A bright future for Car of the Year The customer must local industry fi nalists announced be king Subscribe for free @ www.autolive.co.za Page 2

Editor and Advertising Manager continued from previous page the arrival of 3D glasses, virtual arising from their participation at Liana Reiners classrooms and interactive, on-line Automechanika will total R25,9- [email protected] Once again the event was organ- training elements. million in the next six months. 083 407 4600 ised superbly with the high quality of “Automechanika allows us to re- Th e exhibitors on the South the display stands being particularly place smartphones with handshakes African stand this year were: Contributors impressive. and that is why these trade fairs Automotive Industry Development A record 4 820 exhibitors from continue to be the most important Centre’s Supplier Park Development Roger Houghton 76 countries participated and visitors events on our calendar,” said Dirk Company, the Automotive Industry [email protected] came from more than 170 countries, Willers, General Manager of the Export Council, Bradbri, CA 082 371 9097 with visitors from outside Germany Parts Division at ElringKlinger. Components, Microfi nish, C&J Stuart Johnston making up more than 60% of the South Africa exhibitors once Services, Crisp-Air, LAS 4WD total, underlining the international again had a national pavilion spon- Accessories, MBT Automotive, Rock [email protected] importance of Automechanika sored by the Department of Trade Solid Industries, Supreme Spring, 083 450 9255 Frankfurt. and Industries. Unfortunately for Swift Industrial Supply, Triton-Leo Visitor satisfaction was rated the largest vehicle manufacturing and Universal Clips. Advertising Sales at 95% while more than 80% of ex- country on the African continent Overall the Frankfurt trade fair Liana Reiners hibitors said they were satisfi ed that the display stand was downsized was a most impressive showcase for [email protected] they were able to meet their visitor and the 14 exhibitors did not even the global automotive aft ermarket 083 407 4600 target groups. have separate booths. Instead they with plenty of activity on the stands. A delighted Detlef Braun, were all grouped together in a fairly Th e surge of interest in connectivity Address Member of the Executive Board cramped environment. in the automotive world has even re- 237 Rigel Avenue of Messe Frankfurt, said: “Th ese Sadly, there was not even a sulted in Messe Frankfurt launching impressive fi gures show that proper brochure detailing the vari- an international road show entitled Waterkloof Ridge Automechanika is continuing ous exhibitors, as had been the case “Connected Mobility.” Pretoria to build on its position as the in the past at Frankfurt. Instead Th e new format kicked off in PO Box 914 005 world’s leading platform for the there was only an A4 sheet printed Frankfurt during Automechanika Wingate Park automotive aft ermarket.” both sides giving bare details of and the road show will soon be mak- 0153 Dr Uwe Th omas, President of the each exhibitor. ing stops in Shanghai and Austin, Automotive Aft ermarket Division of Th ey nevertheless attracted Texas. One of the most important 012 460 4448 Bosch, summed up his take on the a substantial number of orders topics on the road show will be the important Repair and Maintenance totalling R5.6-million during the tremendous importance of soft ware Website section of the trade fair in Frankfurt, show and the exhibitors expect sales security in connected cars. ■ www.autolive.co.za saying: “Th e automotive aft ermarket and workshops are on the brink of Facebook a new era – connected mobility is www.facebook.com/pages/AutoLive the wave of the future. As a result, © 2016 WCM Media CC there were many opportunities for worthwhile networking with Production digitalisation and augmented reality Marketing Support Services being popular topics for discussion. +27 (0)12 346 2168 Automechanika is our platform [email protected] of choice for showcasing the latest trends and technologies, as well as Disclaimer demonstrating how Bosch can make While reasonable precautions have workshop operations more effi cient been taken to ensure the accuracy for the future.” of the advice and information given Th e popularity of to readers, neither the editor, the Automechanika trade fairs is proprietors, nor the publishers underlined by the fact that personal The South African national pavilion at Automechanika in Frankfurt can accept any responsibility for encounters are still essential in the was downscaled from previous years to a single display area any damages or injury which may business-to-business world, despite whereas each exhibitor had a separate display booth previously. arise therefrom.

MONTHLY SALES STATISTICS The growing amount of advertising in AutoLive has made it necessary to relocate the four pages of detailed monthly vehicle sales analysis to the website www.autolive.co.za. CLICK HERE to access Subscribe for free @ www.autolive.co.za Page 3

No Strike Could Result in Editor’s Note Good Deals for Consumers

If you haven’t realised this al- BY ROGER HOUGHTON and vehicle production infl ation of 14.8% ready, the Septembers issue of for the fi rst seven months of 2016, relatively AutoLive will make one thing high interest rates, low levels of consumer abundantly clear: digital is Th e fact that a three-year wage and condi- and business confi dence – would combine the future. tions of employment agreement was struck to further pressurize sales of new motor As Jeff Osborne, Head of by trade union Numsa and the seven OEMs vehicles, particularly new cars. Automotive for Gumtree in without any disruption to production could Th e lower levels of new vehicle sales SA points out, the automotive result in some good deals for consumers as represented a refl ection of current diffi cult industry is changing dramati- there were evidently manufacturers who economic conditions in South Africa ac- cally. And the biggest shift has been the move to selling cars built up stock to cater for lost production cording to NAAMSA. Th e fairly substantial online. Consumers started off doing their research online due to a strike. decline in the latest Purchasing Managers’ – now they are purchasing cars online. Whereas the sales- However, at the time of writing negotia- Index did not augur well for short to me- person once was a fi gure of authority, consumers are now tions between Numsa and the component dium term prospects. In contrast, however, self-educated. Th ey are reading reviews, comparing prices makers and retail motor trade was still the Reserve Bank leading indicator for 2016 and shopping around for alternatives. Th is has made it much under way and a strike was threatening in provided some grounds for optimism of a harder to sell to them. the tyre-making industry, both of which possible future turnaround in economic Mike Whitfi eld, the President of Naamsa and Managing would aff ect vehicle production, so we are activity levels. Director of the Nissan Group of Africa feels that for the SA not necessarily out of the woods yet. Th e SA automotive industry, in par- motor industry to fl ourish until 2020 and beyond it was vital NAAMSA, commenting on the ticular, remained exposed to exchange rate that all the players moved with the times in terms of innova- sales fi gures for August released by the weakness and current low confi dence levels tion, new thinking, fi nding creative solutions and diff erent Department of Trade and Industry, said that and NAAMSA believed that the public and ways of doing things. the fi gure for total new vehicles was down private sectors had a responsibility to calm At the same time a study by Deloitte has revealed that by 9.5% year-on-year, while the year-to-date current tensions in South Africa and to utilising online research, dealers as well as OEMs can access fi gure was 10.5% down. restore confi dence through renewed com- a wealth of information about car purchasing, servicing and Th e new car market was badly hit in mitment to sound macro-economic policy, customer habits. August, with sales falling 13.1% compared continued fi scal discipline and stability. Said Karthi Pillay, Africa Automotive Leader at Deloitte: to August 2015, despite another strong “Growing expectations from car purchasers dictate that an contribution by the rental industry, which WesBank says demand for used omni-channel approach is seen as a permanent paradigm accounted for 21.6% of new car sales cars slows new vehicle sales shift to make dealerships more agile to customer needs and last month. WesBank’s data indicated that August’s moving fi rmly to a customer-centric approach that will Light commercials were verily stable weak new vehicle sales were driven by this totally reshape dealer operations. Th ose who adapt early will with a fall of only 1% while medium and year’s predominant trend: customers shift - undoubtedly be winners in attracting and maintaining sales heavy trucks and buses registered decreases ing to the used market. A total of 133 094 and developing customer loyalty. of 3.9% and 9% respectively. vehicle fi nance applications was received Th e overriding message at the biennial CAR Conference Dealer sales accounted for 80.6% of the last month – year-on year growth of 3.7% held at the Kyalami Grand Prix circuit as part of the SA 46 146 units sold in August, while the rental – and the highest number of applications Festival of Motoring was that the global automotive industry industry represented 15% of sales, with 3.1% received for any month of 2016, so far. and many related facets of the business are changing rapidly of sales going to corporate fl eets and only However, within this there was an 11.1% as the digital revolution causes major disruption. Th is makes 0,9% being bought by the government. decline in applications for new vehicles, due it essential for motor businesses to adapt or die. Th e good news was growth in export to the shift to the used car market. Here, de- Apparently the current number of active website users sales which showed growth of 26.7% over mand for used vehicle fi nance grew 11.2%, in SA is around 18-million people. Th at’s double the number the fi gure for August 2015 with 35 620 units resulting in the used-to-new vehicle ratio of cars on South African roads. being shipped. Th e momentum of built up growing to 1.67:1. You can read the full stories in AutoLive this month but, vehicle exports is expected to continue to Buyers fi nancing new vehicles are in a nutshell, the message is that the digital world was the improve for the remainder of 2016. spending more than ever before, with the way to go if you still want to be in business in the future. NAAMSA reported that domestically, price of a new vehicle fi nanced in August at the short to medium term outlook was one nearly R297 000 – an increase of 13.4%, year- of low economic growth and further pres- on-year. Demand in the used market drove Liana Reiners, sure on consumers’ disposable income. up prices of pre-owned cars by 9.2% during Editor Double digit new vehicle price increas- the same period, with the average used deal es, as a result of exchange rate weakness now sitting at just over R190 000. ■

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Opinion

Modern Dealerships and the Brave New World

While the market will change BY JEFF OSBORNE and new types of cars will emerge, HEAD OF AUTOMOTIVE the way they are consumed will FOR GUMTREE SA remain traditional. Th ere will be interaction and these cars will be personally fi nanced. Th at means Th e automotive industry is universally one of that no forward-thinking dealership the largest, and it is changing dramatically. will become obsolete. We are going to see the industry displaced but Th e bottom line is this: Get not replaced. And we’re seeing the fi rst shift s online and make sure that you being realised. are present where the average car Th e biggest shift has been the move to selling browser is shopping. cars online. Consumers started off doing their Th is means partnering with research online – now they are purchasing cars the right platforms and playing by online. Whereas the salesperson once was a fi gure the online rules. It seems so simple, of authority, consumers are now self-educated. but dealerships have to stick to the Th ey are reading reviews, comparing prices and Gumtree also launched a new package for shopping around for alternatives. Th is has made it Get online and make sure that you automotive dealerships, aimed at generating three much harder to sell to them. times more leads than their current off ering. Th is are present where the average car In the United States, companies like Carvana is the ideal solution for dealerships that want to have even shift ed how online customers interact browser is shopping. amplify their leads. Dealerships that opt for the offl ine, by building large glass car “vending package enjoy 7 Day Top Ads on a third of their machines” – buildings where pre-ordered cars are basics. Take good photographs. Update your stock listings, access to special discounts and an URL to parked and can be picked up by their buyers. It daily. Include as much information as you can. drive traffi c to their websites or social media pages. essentially removes staff from the entire process. And answer your phone when it rings. Treat your Select off ers start from as little as R1678,77 (ex email leads with the same attentiveness as walk- VAT) per month for ten cars. Interested parties can What should dealerships do today ins. It’s so simple, but it’s the key to success. email Nunben Dixon on [email protected] to stay relevant tomorrow? Gumtree is committed to helping dealer- or Bronwyn Davis on [email protected]. ■ ships transition into the future. Th e platform launched dedicated automotive social media pages Th ere is also the question of mobility Apps this year, including a popular Facebook page (such as Uber and Lyft ) and self-driving cars that (GumtreeAutoZA) and Twitter feed. Dealerships may remove the need for car ownership entirely. are welcome to participate and make use of these Th is begs the question: What should dealerships do channels as we are always happy to promote deal- today to stay relevant tomorrow? erships in any way we can. NAACAM Launches Transformation Initiative

Th e National Association of Automotive in all major autos manufacturing regions across Component and Allied Manufacturers the country and members were encouraged to (NAACAM) held its annual general meeting at participate and increase levels of proactivity in the inaugural Kyalami Festival of Motoring on getting to the updated BBBEE targets. Naacam will Wednesday 31 August. continue to play an advocacy role in addressing President, Dave Coff ey, used the opportunity members’ concerns once all avenues to compliance to launch the association’s programme of activities were explored. to drive transformation eff orts in the sector. Th is Coff ey also used the AGM to brief members is considered key as many companies in the sector on various other challenges and opportuni- have been admittedly slow to adapt to the new ties facing the sector, update them on the 2035 BBBEE codes of good practice implemented by the Coff ey believes that many companies are Automotive masterplan process, as well as to Department of Trade and Industry. In his address struggling to adapt due to a lack of awareness and formally introduce incoming Executive Director, Coff ey reiterated Naacam’s commitment to aiding a dearth of best practice examples. To this end Renai Moothilal to members and pay tribute to government’s drive to increase levels of true trans- a detailed research and information dissemina- outgoing advisor Roger Pitot for his contribution formation in the automotive sector. tion process is underway. Workshops will be held to the association. ■ Subscribe for free @ www.autolive.co.za Page 6 Subscribe for free @ www.autolive.co.za Page 7

The Future Could be Bright

Mike Whitfi eld, the President of NAAMSA and Managing Director of the Nissan Group of Africa, painted an encouraging picture of the future of the South African motor industry when he was one of the keynote speakers at the biennial CAR Conference, which was co-located with the SA Festival of Motoring at Kyalami earlier this month.

SA now ranks 21st in the world in terms of annual the rapidly changing landscape in terms of challenges in terms of unclear automotive policies, vehicle production, but this fi gure of 650 000 units vehicle technology. high levels of ownership of vehicles by fl eets, strong manufactured locally last year accounts for only Although the take up of electric vehicles used car markets together with large numbers of 0,7% of total global output. Th e industry objective has been slow in SA, Whitfi eld believes that the so-called grey imports, while fi nance to purchase is to lift this to 1% by 2020. expanding network of charging stations being es- vehicles was a major stumbling block due to the According to Whitfi eld the current business tablished jointly by Nissan and BMW will increase high interest rates charged. environment is both tough and complex, with sales of these vehicles in the future. However, there were also opportunities, in- macro-economic factors such as high interest Whitfi eld presented some interesting views cluding viable automotive assembly sectors, inter- rates, a weak rand and ongoing fl uctuations in the on the growth of alternative mobility options with regional trade, self-sustainability and an entry into fuel price. Other major infl uencers aff ecting the changing vehicle ownership patterns, shrinking the global automotive industry, industry are rapid advances in technology, new dealerships, virtual sales, an emphasis on low cost Whitfi eld summed up by saying that for the players in the automotive industry, such as Uber, fl eet servicing and the ongoing development of SA motor industry to fl ourish until 2020 and Google and Tesla, as well as changing consumer mobility technology by the OEMs. beyond it was vital that all the players moved with behavioural patterns. In his position as Vice Chairman of AAAM he the times in terms of innovation, new thinking, “Fortunately we enjoy ongoing support also made interesting observations in his presenta- fi nding creative solutions and diff erent ways of and stimulation from the Department of Trade tion about the situation of the motor industry in doing things. ■ and Industry, highlighted by the Automotive the rest of Africa. He remarked that there were Production and Development Programme, which runs to 2020, and its predecessor, the Motor Industry Development Programme, both of which have contributed to the local motor industry’s growing international competitiveness.

“Fortunately we enjoy ongoing support and stimulation from the Department of Trade and Industry, highlighted by the Automotive Production and Development Programme, which runs to 2020.”

“Th ese programmes have resulted in huge amounts of capital investment over the years, including R24-billion between 2011 and 2015, with R7.6-billion slated for investment this year,” said Whitfi eld. “Th e focus on effi ciencies has also resulted in the number of vehicle platforms manu- factured in South Africa being slashed from 42 in 1966 to only 12 in 2016.” Already the DTI has appointed a technical team to assist in the development of a post 2020 master plan aimed at ensuring the long-term sustainability of the industry in terms of policy and support mechanisms. Other objectives are to increase investment, production and exports while creating more job opportunities. In view of Nissan’s extensive involvement in the development of electric vehicles it was understandable that Whitfi eld focused on this Mike Whitfi eld, the President of NAAMSA and Managing Director of the Nissan Group form of alternative power when discussing of Africa. Subscribe for free @ www.autolive.co.za Page 8

People

GMSA’s Top Technician Crowned Th e top technician takes home a prize of venture between Th e best Chevrolet, Opel and Isuzu technician R30 000 and the runners up receive R12 000 Mercedes-Benz in the country hails from Nelson Mandela Bay. and R10 000 respectively. In addition the fi rst Trucks and Gawie Engelbrecht (30), of Williams Hunt Port and second prize winners jet off to Th ailand in E.A. Juff ali & Elizabeth, claimed this coveted title during the November, to attend the international Isuzu 1 Brothers. His annual General Motors South Africa (GMSA) Top Grand Prix. ■ appointment is Technician Skills Awards. eff ective from Th e runners up were Hendre Hulscher of Impending Changes at MBSA 1 October 2016 Reeds N1 City (32) in the Western Cape and Sujit On 1 December 2016, Mercedes-Benz South Africa and to ensure a Munnisunker (47) of South Coast Motors in Kwa- (MBSA) will smooth transi- Zulu Natal, who claimed second and third place welcome Jasper tion, he will be respectively. Hafkamp as its available for a Th e three top technicians were the last men new Executive handover period. Kobus van Zyl. standing aft er a total of 327 technicians across Director for the Th e Juff ali GMSA’s 132 dealerships participated in the fi rst Regional Centre Group is the Mercedes-Benz appointed General knockout round. Th is was followed by round Southern Africa Distributor in Saudi Arabia and Van Zyl will be two where 67 technicians competed for a place (RCSA). He will responsible for Mercedes-Benz Trucks, Vans, in the top 10. During the semi-fi nals the top be responsible Buses and Special Trucks as well as Western Star fi ve remained and they competed in fi nal round for Daimler and Freightliner Trucks. ■ during two days of gruelling diagnostics and Trucks & Buses problem solving. (DT&B) in New Appointments at the Chemical Engelbrecht, who has been working for southern Africa. and Allied Industries’ Association Williams Hunt Port Elizabeth for the past 11 years, Hafk amp Jasper Hafkamp. Dr Mlu Ganto has been appointed Head: described the competition as challenging and joined Mercedes- Regulatory tough. “I just concentrated on fi xing the problems. Benz Nederland BV in 1995 aft er completing his Aff airs at the Th roughout the competition I stayed focused and studies in Business Engineering at the College of Chemical and gave it my best,” he said. “Winning the competition Technology and Management and Organisation Allied Industries’ and having your skills and abilities recognised is at the University of Groningen. He started within Association a huge honour. I must admit that I feel very proud the commercial vehicle department where he (CAIA) with eff ect of myself. “ held various positions within Marketing and from 1 August Ian Nicholls, President and Managing Director Product Management for Mercedes-Benz Vans 2016. Ganto holds of GM South Africa and Sub-Saharan Africa, con- and Trucks. a doctorate in gratulated the technicians for delivering service ex- In 2008, Hafk amp became responsible for chemistry, and his cellence. He said one of the company’s core values Mercedes-Benz Truck Sales in Th e Netherlands previous positions is putting the customer at the centre of everything and then progressed to the position of Managing include that of they do. “Th e Top Technician competition is proof Director: Mercedes-Benz Trucks. candidate at- of this commitment to our customers, where the Th e current Executive Director for DT&B (and torney at Adams focus is on ensuring that our technicians meet and the Vice-Chairman of the Heavy Commercial & Adams Patents Dr Mlu Ganto. exceed our customers’ expectations.” Vehicle Division and Bus Forum for the National Department, Association of researcher Automobile at the CSIR Manufacturers Biosciences Unit of South Africa), and post-doctoral Kobus van Zyl, research fellow at is pursuing a ICS-UNIDO in new and exciting Trieste, Italy. career opportunity Mr Amon and assignment Nyamhingura within the larger has been appoint- global Daimler ed Responsible organisation. Care Manager at Van Zyl has the Chemical and Amon Nyamhingura. been appointed as Allied Industries’ General Manager Association (CAIA) with eff ect from 1 August for National 2016. Nyamhingura holds an MSc in chemis- Ian Nicholls, GMSA President and MD (centre) with fi rst prize winner Automotive try and will be responsible for overseeing the Gawie Engelbrecht of Williams Hunt PE on the right and Hendre Industries in Saudi implementation and maintenance of the CAIA’s Hulscher from Reeds N1 City on the left. Arabia, a joint Responsible Care initiative in South Africa. ■ Subscribe for free @ www.autolive.co.za Page 9

Snippets

Wheelchair friendly taxi for SA Tracker reaches one Firestone SA became part of Bridgestone, the million milestone world’s largest tyre manufacturer, in 1997, and is one of only a few companies which can boast an Tracker has announced that it has reached 1 unbroken 80-year history of manufacturing in million active subscriptions. Th is is a fi rst for the South Africa. tracking and telematics industry in South Africa Today, Bridgestone South Africa’s PE Plant and testimonial of the trust South African con- has a total of 43000 square metres of factory space, sumers and businesses have placed in the brand. employs over 350 people and has a capacity of 800 Servicing an entirely South African base, tyres per day ranging from 10 kg front tractor tyres Tracker is the market leader in vehicle tracking to earthmover tyres weighing up to 800 kg. and telematics in SA with a market share of 40%. Apart from being the only tyre company to Th e company is nearly twice the size of its closest manufacture bias truck tyres locally, Bridgestone competitor and 3rd largest in the world. also has a second plant, based in Brits, which Said Wayne de Nobrega, CEO at Tracker: opened in 1971. ■ “It’s been an amazing year for us so far at Tracker and despite the tough economic environment we’ve continued to show signifi cant growth in our Three other shows to co- subscriber base, revenue and profi t. We attribute locate with Automechanika this to our remarkable and talented staff and our Johannesburg 2017 strong relationships with the insurance, dealer and original equipment manufacturer channels.” Next year’s Automechanika trade fair for the Tracker is strategically positioned to accelerate automotive aft ermarket, which takes place at its local growth through new product and service the Johannesburg Expo Centre from 27 to 30 Nissan has become the fi rst manufacturer in SA off erings and will focus on global expansion going September, will be co-located with three other, to off er wheelchair-friendly vehicles to the taxi into 2017. ■ related shows. Th ese are Futuroad Expo (Africa’s industry in order to meet the growing demand international commercial vehicle show), Scalex for safe, reliable transportation for people living Johannesburg (SA’s leading trade fair for transport with disabilities. Bridgestone plant turns 80 systems, infrastructure and logistics solutions) Th e company has developed a full conver- September 14, 2016, marked 80 years since the and REIFEN (the world’s largest trade fair for the sion of its NV350 Impendulo, transforming the fi rst Firestone tyre to be built in SA rolled off the tyre industry). vehicle into a spacious carrier suitable for disabled assembly line in the company’s factory in Port All the shows will organised by SA Shows passengers. Key features include a hydraulic lift , Elizabeth in the Eastern Cape. On that day, 80 Messe Frankfurt, a wholly owned subsidiary of rear-facing seating and aluminium fl ooring which years ago, Harvey Firestone Jnr, together with fi rst Messe Frankfurt Exhibitions of Germany. Th e helps to keep wheelchairs in position. Managing Director John Cohill, offi cially opened local subsidiary is headed up by CEO Konstantin Th e converted vehicle has achieved ho- the PE factory. von Vieregge, based in Sandton. mologation, meaning it meets regulatory Harvey purchased the fi rst 7.06 morgen Next year’s Automechanika Johannesburg standards and specifi cations, such as safety and (approximately six hectare) site on the corner of will mark the fi ft h time that this world renowned technical requirements. Kempston and Harrower Roads on the outskirts of trade fair for the automotive aft ermarket has With taxis transporting approximately 15 Port Elizabeth in 1935, for 750 pounds. Th e origi- been staged in South Africa since the inaugural million commuters daily and approximately 7.5% nal production capacity in 1936 was 350 car tyres a event in 2009. Over the years this biennial trade of the country’s population regarded as having a day, and 150 people worked at the factory. disability, many disabled people remain unable to continued on next page access this vital mode of transport. Th ey are there- fore excluded from gaining meaningful employ- ment or education opportunities, and participating in the economy. While Government and the Department of Transport are focusing on improving public transport for people with disabilities, through the Public Transport Strategy and Action Plan of 2007, minibus taxis and buses remain ill-equipped to transport people living with physical disabilities. Th e converted Impendulo is attracting interest and enquires from several sectors, including in the Eastern Cape where the vehicle has already been deployed within regional health departments. ■ Subscribe for free @ www.autolive.co.za Page 10

Snippets

continued from previous page suppliers of tracking and navigational systems, who build and sell our vehicles. Without them home base refuelling systems, fl eet management we would not have made it to where we are today, fair in Johannesburg, one of 15 in the world, has systems, cross border services, hoists and cranes 65 years later,” said Th omas Schaefer, Chairman grown signifi cantly both in terms of the number as well as specialised utility vehicles such as ambu- and Managing Director: Volkswagen Group of exhibitors and visitors, but also regarding its lances, police vehicles, fi rst and rescue vehicles and South Africa. ■ importance in the African market. waste compactors., Messe Frankfurt, the owner of the Scalex Johannesburg 2017 is an innovative Automechanika brand, is in the process of co- and pioneering trade fair for the logistics sector to Kyalami gets the thumbs up locating the established REIFEN tyre expo brand provide a dynamic business platform for this vital Th e new 4.522 km Kyalami Grand Prix circuit with Automechanika trade fairs worldwide. cog in the global economy. ■ has been certifi ed by the Federation International Originally REIFEN, which is owned by Messe de l’Automobile (FIA) as a Grade 2 race track, Essen, was predominantly a German-based event conforming to stringent international safety and although it had a subsidiary in China. 65 years of building quality standards. Kyalami is the only current mo- It was fi rst rolled out as a co-located people’s cars tor racing facility on the African continent to have Automechanika trade fair at the inaugural show been bestowed with such prestigious accreditation. in Birmingham in April this year and will be co- Volkswagen reached a major milestone at the end Th e new Kyalami International Convention located at the premier Automechanika trade fair in of August as it celebrated the 65th anniverary of Centre and pits complex is also complete. Frankfurt from 2018. the fi rst SA-built VW rolling off the assembly plant In keeping with the revived legacy for Kyalami, Th e Futuroad Expo replaces the Johannesburg in Uitenhage. various areas within this expansive building have Truck and Bus Show, which was previously co- Th e Uitenhage manufacturing plant was been named aft er legendary racing drivers. Th e located at the Johannesburg International Motor founded in 1946 as South African Motor 2,770 square-meter area, connected to the upper Show. Th e big change is that it will now be part of a Assemblers and Distributors (SAMAD). At parking via a new bridge, with its large, fl exible ex- four-day business-to-business trade fair instead of that time, the factory assembled at least 12 hibition space will be known as the Jody Scheckter being located at an 11-day consumer exhibition. It Studebakers a day. Today, the factory has grown Paddock Club. will also include commercial vehicle body builders, to a daily capacity of 600 cars for local and On the fi rst fl oor, two boardrooms bear the international markets. names of Jacky Ickx and Dave Charlton. Four ad- In the past 65 years over 3.4 million vehicles jacent conference rooms have been named aft er Sir have been built at the Uitenhage factory. It has Jackie Stewart, Nigel Mansell (CBE), Alain Prost become an integral part of the Volkswagen pro- and Niki Lauda respectively. duction network and has been awarded numerous Th e new 2,100 square-meter covered roof ter- export orders by the parent company. Th e current race on the third fl oor is named aft er local racing two top-selling passenger models, Polo and Polo legend and regular motorsport competitor, Sarel Vivo are produced at the Volkswagen factory in van der Merwe. Uitenhage. Th e additional launch area on the ground fl oor VWSA is the largest private sector employer in has been named aft er John Love. the Eastern Cape and contributes substantially to Th e 18,000 square-meter Dynamic Driver all facets of the local economy. VWSA is also the Training area, covered with low-friction asphalt, single largest investment in Sub-Saharan Africa by is now fully functional. Powerful irrigation a German company. systems aff ord ‘wet condition’ training in a safe Konstantin von Vieregge, CEO of SA “Our company vision is to provide sustainable and controlled environment. Th e 1.1 km Dynamic Shows Messe Frankfurt, which will mobility for Africa with German engineering and Handling Circuit is also complete, featuring irriga- organise three additional shows alongside a South African heart. At the centre of this com- tion on the lower portion of the circuit, for equally Automechanika Johannesburg 2017. pany is and always will be the exceptional people challenging driver training simulation. ■ Subscribe for free @ www.autolive.co.za Page 11 Subscribe for free @ www.autolive.co.za Page 12

Effi ciencies in After-Sales Crucial for Viability and Sustainability

Effi ciencies in all aspects of the aft er-sales opera- Th e Sewells MSXI consultant said that tion are now more crucial than ever to ensure the role of managers in the parts and service the viability and sustainability of automotive department had changed dramatically with the dealerships in today’s rapidly-changing business introduction of new technologies in vehicles and in environment. Th is is according to George Austin, business management. a long-serving Senior Consultant at Sewells MSXI “For instance a parts manager is now es- South Africa, the local subsidiary of the global sentially a key account manager whose main focus consulting and outsourcing fi rm that concentrates these days is not ordering and managing stock, but on the retail motor industry. rather looking for business outside the dealer- Austin has specialised in the parts and ship. He or she must then manage these accounts service aspects of the motor industry since diligently to ensure customers were given a high 1982 and has vast resources of experience to service level and that these accounts were, in turn, call on when he consults to dealers and dealer profi table for the dealership,” he said. groups on the importance of having a healthy Austin did not set out to work in the motor aft er-sales division. business. His fi rst serious job was working at Dun “Times are changing fast as disruptive trends & Bradstreet, an American business services com- alter the old face of the retail motor industry,” he George Austin, Senior Consultant at pany, where he learned fi nancial analysis. explained. “It is therefore essential that dealers Sewells MSXI South Africa. One of his projects was writing a detailed move with the times particularly in tailoring report on Toyota South Africa. He was very im- their aft er-sales service and other off erings to “I was fortunate to have been able to cut my pressed with the information he unearthed about meet the requirements of their customers or risk teeth in the motor industry with Toyota, which has Toyota and by chance found an advertisement that losing them. always been a trend-setter in terms of developing this company was looking for a National Parts “Customer retention aft er the warranty strategies and innovations such as lean manufac- Operations Manager. He applied and got the job, and service or maintenance plans expire is very turing, lean parts supply and Kaizen (continual which set him on a whole new career. important as is the ability to justify service costs to improvement). In addition, I learned the methodi- customers and to refrain from loading the price to cal Japanese way of thinking. Th is background has “Dealers have to be more make a quick buck. been very benefi cial in shaping the methods I use retail oriented and more for training and consulting,” added the Sewells fl exible in the current changing “Customer retention after MSXI consultant. He is also an enthusiastic supporter of Sewells business environment.” the warranty and service or and the revolution in dealer fi nancial manage- maintenance plans expire is very ment this company has brought to South Africa. “In those days much of my work focus was important as is the ability to justify It established benchmarking among similar size fi nancial, although I also had to manage the fi eld service costs to customers and businesses. Th is tool continues to drive effi ciencies staff who looked aft er a network of 284 dealers, and profi t in local dealerships, with the company’s which put me on a quick learning curve. Next move to refrain from loading the price to Performance Groups being an excellent method of was Promotions Manager, fi rst for Parts and later make a quick buck.” providing a mutually benefi cial forum for partici- for Aft er Sales. Th en came the opportunity to move pating dealers to improve the way they do business. into training as Aft er Sales Training Manager and “Th ere are now many options for customers “I was fortunate that I was able to join Sewells this is the area where I found true fulfi lment as I in terms of tyre fi tment, brake and clutch repairs in 2000 when the company was in its formative revel in human resource development. Toyota also and battery supply so it is necessary for dealers to years, but growing quickly by ensuring it provided gave the chance to go to university at the age of 42 off er these services in-house to retain customer added value to the dealers making use of its exper- and I obtained an honours qualifi cation in human business. Dealers have to be more retail oriented tise,” explained Austin. resource development at RAU. and more fl exible in the current changing business He particularly enjoys interaction with dealer “In 2000, the scope of my position changed environment. Th is includes off ering vehicle servic- principals as well as being involved with the annual and I decided to move on. I had been working with ing at times to suit their customers who cannot Advanced Dealer Management programme which Sewells for the past 10 years so it was a natural for be without a car for a whole day. Among these aims to groom successors for senior positions in me to join them as a consultant. customers are travelling salespersons, mom’s taxi dealerships and dealer groups. “My current position includes a variety of drivers and small entrepreneurs who are totally “I love the interaction with these people and consultancy opportunities, developing training dependent on their own transport.” also the opportunity to continue my learning material, e-learning programmes, storyboards and Austin’s position at Sewells MSXI has provided experiences. Oft en these delegates have theoretical train-the-trainer initiatives. I am proud to be part him with a wealth of international experience knowledge, but are not yet ‘street smart’ in terms of of the Sewells MSXI team that has embarked on too, particularly in the varied markets of the the complex automotive retail business. Here I try the exciting journey of working to equip dealers for Asian region. and help them,” added Austin. the future,” concluded Austin. ■ Subscribe for free @ www.autolive.co.za Page 13

SA Motor Dealers Showing Great Tenacity in a Falling Market

BY ROGER HOUGHTON Th ere is also positive growth in the important shown volume overall return on operational assets (ROOA), with growth in the benchmark dealers showing an increase of 12% this period. South African motor frachise dealers continue to and the median grouping up by 6%. All the other exhibit tenacity and are obviously using innovative “We are very happy with the way in which the sectors – cars, strategies as they keep their businesses profi table dealers we assist with managing the fi nancial side of LCVs, medium even in these tough economic times, which have their businesses are faring in these tough economic commercials seen the dealer segment overall new vehicle market times,” said Warren Olsen, the CEO of Sewells and extra-heavy Warren Olsen, the CEO fall by more than 10% in the fi rst half of the year. MSXI Sub Saharan Africa. “Th ese results show how trucks – show of Sewells MSXI Sub However, the monthly analysis of a large well these dealers are managing the combination of declines in sales Saharan Africa. percentage of local dealers by Sewells MSXI has new and used vehicle sales, parts and service sales volume, with revealed that their benchmark dealers (the top 30% as well as income from fi nance and insurance to the overall market down 10%. of the dealers) are maintaining their gross profi ts keep their businesses on a solid footing.” Further interesting information comes from (Up 0.69%) in the fi rst half of 2016, compared to Th e analysis of data by Sewells MSXI, the local an analysis of retail sales in the various vehicle 2015. Slightly improved margins on new and used subsidiary of the global consulting and outsourc- confi gurations from 2013 to the end of June this vehicle sales are the main contributors. ing fi rm that concentrates on the retail motor year. Th e biggest increase has been in the sales of Th e median (top 50% of the dealers) are in a industry, also brings out some interesting facts estate cars, which are up by 236%, albeit off a small similar position with year-to-date gross profi t for about the way new vehicle sales have fared in the base. Other growth areas are minibuses (+28%), the fi rst six months of the year up very slightly various sectors of the local market from 2013 to the buses (+24%), double cab pick-ups (+19%), mixer by 0.83%. fi rst half of 2016. trucks (+9%), MPVs and tipper trucks (both +2%) Overall profi t before tax (PBT) is up for both For instance, the segment which has shown and extended cab pick-ups (+1%). Strangely the the benchmark and median groupings, with new the largest growth of 36% is large buses, with heavy popular SUV market has shrunk by 3% in this and used vehicle sales the main contributors. trucks (up by 7%) the only other sector which has three-year period. ■ Subscribe for free @ www.autolive.co.za Page 14

Kenyan Vehicle Production compact model is the best-selling car in the Sub- on the Cards for VW Saharan region – so it is the ideal entry model for the promising Kenyan market,” Th omas Schaefer commented at the signing ceremony. “With this Volkswagen is planning to start production of move, we are strengthening the brand’s over- the Polo Vivo in Kenya at the end of 2016. An all position in Africa and taking an important agreement to that eff ect was signed in Nairobi step towards expanding our commitment in earlier this month by the Kenyan Government the region.” and Th omas Schaefer, Chairman and Managing “Th e investment by the Volkswagen Group Director of Volkswagen South Africa in the pres- Thomas Schaefer, Chairman & Managing in Kenya is a key milestone in my administra- ence of H.E. Uhuru Kenyatta, President of Kenya. Director of Volkswagen South Africa and tion’s determined push to grow the manufactur- Volkswagen is expanding its commitment in H.E. Uhuru Kenyatta, President of Kenya ing base and industrialised the nation,” said Africa with local production of the Polo Vivo in addressing media at the State House in President Kenyatta. the Kenyan city of Th ika near Nairobi. Th e project, Nairobi after the signing of an agreement In addition to production of the Polo Vivo, which will be jointly realised with the importer to start the production of the Volkswagen a local training centre will also be established to DT Dobie, will be Volkswagen’s third production Polo Vivo in Thika near Nairobi, Kenya. qualify production workers and provide further facility in Africa – alongside the South African fac- training. Th e centre will initially focus on the tory and a local production facility in Nigeria. Th e “We are taking the Polo Vivo from South needs of the VW production team but will later on plan is to build up to 5 000 units of the Polo Vivo Africa to Kenya to leverage the enormous growth provide basic training for young people to learn per year at the plant operated by Kenya Vehicle potential of the African automobile market and general industrial skills, thereby increasing em- Manufacturers (KVM) from 2017. participate in its positive development. Th is ployment opportunities in the region in general. ■

Export Vehicle Sales into half the 901 units shipped a year previously. Th e units shipped into Africa in the fi rst eight months Africa Continue to Collapse other companies in the top four were: Nissan of 2014. (345), Ford (202) and GM/Isuzu Trucks (123). Toyota continued to hold top spot aft er eight Th ere are no signs of the export market for built-up Ghana was the biggest market, taking 257 units. months of 2016 with 5 850 units, compared to vehicle market going from South Africa into other It was followed by Kenya (126), Tanzania (107) 14 999 a year previously. Th is equated to a fall of African countries bottoming out. Instead each and Zimbabwe (101). Nigeria, which everyone 39% and followed a fall of 33% between 2014 and month is an even bigger disaster. had seen as a potentially big market despite its 2015.Other major exporters, with the correspond- Total exports from SA into Africa in August fl edgling assembly operations, received only 36 ing 2015 fi gures in parentheses, were: Nissan, 4 008 amounted to only 1 344 units, which was 66% vehicles from SA in August. (7 576), Ford, 2 260 (5 945) and GM/Isuzu Trucks, down on the 2 035 units exported in August 201. Th e year-to-date fi gures are just as devastat- 1 151 (2 493). Th is fi gure was, in turn, 57% below the fi gure for ing. Total exports into Africa totalled 14 723 Nigeria was the biggest market with 2 449 the corresponding month in 2014. units, which was 46% lower than the fi gure of units (3 677 a year previously). It was followed by Top exporter in August was again Toyota, 32 007 for the fi rst eight months of 2015. Th is Ghana, 2 398 (1 377), Kenya, 1 224 (3 229) and but its total this year of 495 units was just over total, in turn, had been 27% down on the 43 790 Zimbabwe, 1 033 (1 762). ■

New wage deal ensures no production disruptions

The Automotive Manufacturers Employers’ Organisation (AMEO) and the National Union of Metalworkers of SA (NUMSA) successfully concluded their negotiations for a new three-year wage agreement in Port Elizabeth earlier this month. The agreement will be in force until 2019. It holds the promise of a longer term and stable investment planning horizon for South Africa’s seven vehicle manufacturers and offers a further enhanced and competitive wage structure and benefi ts for the automotive industry’s hourly paid workers. Among the highlights of the agreement is the creation of a plant-based housing solution that will seek to provide access to more housing for employees at the various manufacturing plants. The signing of this three-year wage agreement marks the fi rst time since 2007 and only the fi fth time in the history of the sector’s collective bargaining process that it has been successfully negotiated without any disruption or work stoppages. “The signing of our new agreement is testament to the value of proactive negotiations between AMEO and NUMSA,” said Mike Whitfi eld, CEO of Nissan South Africa and President of the National Association of Automobile Manufacturers of South Africa (Naamsa). “Formal negotiations were preceded by several consultative industry indabas and a fact fi nding mission to the Australian automotive industry by Naamsa, NUMSA, the Department of Trade and Industry, the Department of Labour and others. The preparations also started earlier this year, giving both parties ample time to prepare and consult their constituents.” Said Nico Vermeulen, Executive Director of Naamsa: “The automotive manufacturing sector is the largest in SA and the broader industry contributes over 7,5% of the country’s GDP and an estimated 3.4% of the national wage bill. The automotive manufacturing sector is recognised as one of the best paying formal employers in South Africa and it remains an important driver in the development of the South African economy.” “The new wage agreement gives us a platform on which we can plan further investment in the sector and it sends a clear signal to our international parent companies of our serious intent to nurture and grow the automotive manufacturing industry in South Africa,” Whitfi eld concluded. ■ Subscribe for free @ www.autolive.co.za Page 15

Car of the Year Finalists Announced

Earlier this week the South African Guild of Th e evaluation days off er the Jury the opportu- AutoTrader, Hollard Insurance and MAPO supply Motoring Journalists (SAGMJ) announced the nity to reacquaint themselves with the vehicles on support sponsorship. ■ fi nalist vehicle ranges for the 2017 WesBank South specifi c aspects including aesthetics, build quality, African Car of the Year (COTY) competition. ergonomics, fuel consumption, environmental Announced during an interactive event at Th e friendliness, safety features and value for money. Country Club Johannesburg hosted by WesBank, the competition’s headline sponsor, and the The evaluation days offer the Jury SAGMJ, the fi nalist reveal follows a vote cast by the opportunity to reacquaint a 28-member Jury, elected by their peers, of an original list of 35 eligible vehicle ranges. themselves with the vehicles on specifi c aspects. Preparations are made for two Opel Astra days of stringent evaluations at the Th e Jury will also have access to performance test data, comparative pricing and specifi cation beginning of February 2017. data, as well as comparative parts pricing data, compiled by the Guild’s digital partner, MAPO. Th e fi nalists for the 2017 WesBank South While all of the vehicles that are participating African Car of the Year competition, South Africa’s in the event represent examples of outstanding au- premier motoring event, are (in alphabetical order): tomotive engineering, there can be only one win- ■ AUDI A4 SEDAN ner. Aft er careful deliberation by the COTY Jury, ■ HONDA CIVIC the vehicle range that best represents automotive ■ HYUNDAI TUCSON excellence when compared to its segment peers, Renault Kadjar ■ JAGUAR F-PACE will be crowned the 2017 WesBank South African ■ MAZDA CX-3 Car of the Year. All of the vehicles that are ■ OPEL ASTRA Th e winner will be revealed at a gala banquet ■ RENAULT KADJAR on 15 March 2017. participating in the event represent ■ TOYOTA FORTUNER Th e SAGMJ has run the SA Car of the Year examples of outstanding ■ VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT competition since 1986, with WesBank – one automotive engineering. However, ■ VOLKSWAGEN TIGUAN of South Africa’s largest vehicle fi nance institu- tions – as its headline sponsor since inception. there can be only one winner! Th e competition now moves into high gear as prep- arations are made for two days of stringent evalu- ations at the beginning of February 2017. During these evaluation days – the most critical of which will be the scheduled procedures at the Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit – the COTY Jury will assess the cars independently, with routes and modules de- signed to test the vehicles in a similar way in which the average consumer would use them. Hyundai Tucson Toyota Fortuner

Audi A4 Sedan Jaguar F-Pace Volkswagen Passat

Honda Civic Mazda CX-3 Volkswagen Tiguan Subscribe for free @ www.autolive.co.za Page 16

We Drive Testing The Tiguan

BY STUART JOHNSTON Th e ride composure is also exemplary, taking as its starting point an ultra-rigid chassis and em- ploying a fi ne mix of geometry, well-chosen spring As you saw on the previous page, the VW Tiguan and damper rates to produce a car that manages to has been announced as a fi nalist in the 2017 Car of be sporty and practical in eff ortless fashion. the Year (COTY) competition. In terms of performance, this model featured AutoLive was fortunate to have just completed the 110 kW version of the 1 395 cc direct injected a test period with the Tiguan 1,4 TSI Comfortline, turbo four that is used extensively in Volkswagen’s and, if public reception to cars were to be taken as product range, in various power levels. Th is car the major criterion for a COTY winner, then the is front-drive only, while all-wheel drive ver- Tiguan should already be preening itself for that sions with more power are on their way, as are place under the spotlights, come March next year diesel derivatives. The interior of the VW Tiguan. when the winner is announced. With an R-line kit, (19-inch alloy wheels, Th at emphatic thumbs-up from Joe and bumper accents, black sill and wheel arch trim, capability, with no more eff ort than a depression Josephine Public is obviously based on looks, as costing an extra R18 000) this car makes a serious of the accelerator pedal. Overall fuel (petrol) con- few people have to date experienced the excellent youth-market statement too, and indicates that sumption is in the region of 7,5 litres/100 km to 8,5 dynamics of this new off ering. However, it should cross-over SUVs of this ilk are no longer seen as litres/100 km, depending on your commute route. be borne in mind that some three million examples Mom-n-Pop conveyances. In ease of parking and manoeuvrability, as well of the previous Tiguan were built, and 19 000 of as visibility, the Tiguan also scores top marks, and those were sold in South Africa, so there is obvi- This car is front-drive only, while clearly the high-style aspect of this car hasn’t hurt ously a substantial following for this particular all-wheel drive versions with more its practicality. Th e only department where it could VW nameplate. do with some improvement is in the luggage space power are on their way, as are Experiencing the car fi rst-hand, it is the strides area, where it is not as large as some of its rivals. in refi nement that stand out. Firstly in the way the diesel derivatives. It’s not cheap at a base price of R457 680, but cabin is conceived, in terms of spaciousness where it’s not outlandishly expensive either, considering it really counts (rear leg room, head room), and Th e six-speed DSG gearbox remains one of the what a statement it makes when you arrive home secondly in the way the levels of trim have risen to best dual clutch devices out there in terms of its un- with such a class act! And the more you drive it, the point where this car can compete with certain fussy operation, and it enables sub-10 second zero the more you appreciate the intrinsic quality of SUVs costing twice as much! to 100 km/h sprinting as well as strong overtaking this car. ■ Subscribe for free @ www.autolive.co.za Page 17

The Customer Must Be King

The old adage which says that the ‘Customer is King’ is taking on renewed signifi cance in the 21st century where product-based marketing is being replaced by an information-led market where savvy consumers demand fl exible, personalised customer-centric service. In addition, says Deloitte, the retail automotive industry in which most players are still stuck in the 20th century, has the most to lose if it doesn’t change its product-orientated ways.

A great solution for people who need a car to do business in the city, the service enables a user to use other modes of transport and shift to a car only when it is needed. With the number of changes in the retail automotive market increasing steadily through technological advances in the digital space and more empowered customers, the onus is on retail dealerships to innovate, introduce new busi- ness models and engage customers – ultimately introducing new retail models and a distribution channel to a sales operation that has remained unchanged for decades. “We foresee a move towards an omni-channel retail positioning where customers can interact through an integrated seamless shopping experi- ence. Th ey will be able to shop for a car, buy and take ownership of a vehicle regardless of how they Th e indications of what is to come for the retail “Adding to the challenge facing the auto retailer interact with a dealership,” explained Pillay. auto industry is comprehensively covered in a is a changing perception regarding car ownership. As part of this process Original Equipment Deloitte report: ‘The future of auto retailing: Although South Africans still favour cars above the Manufacturers (OEM’s) and dealers will have to Preparing for the evolving mobility ecosys- limited public transport services available, there is work closely together and share customer and sales tem’ which holds major challenges for the global no doubt that car sharing and services such as Uber data to deliver an omni-channel experience. and local car retail business said Karthi Pillay, will increasingly attract people away from car own- According to the Deloitte ‘digital divide’ study, Africa Automotive Leader at Deloitte. ership. Th e emphasis will be on convenience, rather automotive is now the third most digitally infl u- “Th e surest sign of things to come is embodied than ownership, especially in urban areas where enced purchase, coming in behind electronics and in a research fi nding which indicates that, when traffi c congestion is an everyday reality.” home furnishing. it comes to making car purchasing decisions, “Car retailers, like other retailers, must realise Generation Y (drivers born during the 1980’s and “We foresee a move towards an that the sale of their product is not simply a once- 1990’s) value the customer experience three times omni-channel retail positioning off transaction. Th ey need to track customers as as much as vehicle design. Retailers therefore need they travel through the diff erent channels and where customers can interact to redouble their eff orts to create memorable and enable the consumer to use physical dealerships as painless customer experiences to retain customers through an integrated seamless a supplement to increasing digitisation of the car and appeal to new ones.” shopping experience.” retail space,” Pillay said. According to Pillay, the implications Pillay, By utilising online research, dealers as well as are that: In South Africa one of the signs of things to OEMs can access a wealth of information about car ■ Th e product-orientated approach still come was the launch of ‘Locomute’, a car sharing purchasing, servicing and customer habits. prevalent in car retailing operations has to scheme designed to bring fl exibility to the car “Growing expectations from car purchasers change and will ultimately have to go; rental industry, and aimed at users who need a dictate that an omni-channel approach is seen ■ Dealer showrooms fi lled with stockpiled car for short trips or even one-way trips. Using an not as a project, but as a permanent paradigm vehicles on display could become things of App, renters can reserve a car, fi nd the one parked shift to make dealerships more agile to cus- the past; and nearest to them in a public area and receive a code tomer needs and moving fi rmly to a customer- ■ Th e model using commission-incentivised which enables them to open the vehicle. centric approach that will totally reshape sales people in showrooms being responsible At the end of the trip, a user locks the vehicle. dealer operations. for maximising the bottom line will be Th e App then takes note of where the vehicle is “Th ere is no doubt that long-term market challenged. parked and it can be rehired. What makes the ser- forces will change the industry. Th ose who adapt vice diff erent is that the user only pays for the time early will undoubtedly be winners in attracting Consumers today do not make allowances for the the car is used. Th e costs of fuel, insurance and and maintaining sales and developing customer way that diff erent industries deliver services. parking are all included within the hire fee. loyalty,” concluded Pillay. ■ Subscribe for free @ www.autolive.co.za Page 18

Digital Disruption Rapidly Changing the Face of Global Automotive Industry

Th e global automotive industry and many related the manner in which more and more vehicles facets of the business are changing rapidly as the are being used these days. Th is is resulting in the digital revolution causes major disruption. Th is so-called trifecta design proposition whereby makes it essential for motor businesses to adapt traditional body styles like hatches, sedans, MPVs or die. and SUVs are being crossed and morphed to make Th is was the message at the biennial CAR hybrid designs. Conference held at the Kyalami Grand Prix circuit Shayne Mann, the managing director as part of the SA Festival of Motoring. Th e overall of Mann Made, a brand experience company, conference theme was “Consumer Trends and summed up the rapidly changing automotive Disruption: How SA automakers can drive the landscape when he said: “Technology is disrupting change required to adapt to a new future”. every industry worldwide and motor retail is not Th e arrival of self-driving autonomous cars going to be spared. Disruption is coming – from sooner rather than later was also a topic for many online retail to driverless cars – and those who of the speakers. don’t learn to innovate now will fi nd themselves Chris de Kock. Martyn Briggs, an industry principal of left behind.” Frost and Sullivan in the United Kingdom and one He continued by explaining that it is not in the country, which now numbered 18-million of the keynote speakers, presented on the topic necessary to throw away the expertise and people, was already double the number of cars on “Megatrends and the future of mobility”, an area of physical footprint off ered by traditional dealer- South African roads. the industry where he is an expert. ships, but rather to re-imagine their role in an Other thought-provoking statistics that were Much of what Briggs told the delegates was uncertain future. put on the table by Duarte were that 45.9% of 1 000 about future developments but he also had plenty Chris de Kock, the managing director of people surveyed in SA would be willing to buy a of facts and fi gures about what was happening WesBank, continued in the same vein about the car online and that only 17 people out of more right now in terms of ride sharing, car sharing need for change. He said that the current linear than 4 000 interviewed in another survey said they and ride hailing apps as well as the increasing process of buying a car – search, sell, fi nance, buy were satisfi ed with the current car buying process; use of apps to assist in fi nding a parking space in – had to change as it was ineffi cient, did not off er all the others wanted change. congested cities. a personalised experience and was expensive for Duarte warned dealers that quick responses Briggs went on to explain how digital dealer- the customer. were necessary when dealing with potential buyers ships using small showrooms in shopping malls, De Kock said WesBank was mulling the online. “Th ey are not prepared to wait long for with only one or two cars on display and doing various disruptive technologies that will deliver feedback to queries.” business online, were proving increasingly suc- the desired experience to the customer. Options Th e founder of Treeshake also explained that cessful in the UK. He predicted that this trend is include Platform Business Systems, Blockchain, buyers of new vehicles were using general websites expected to spread worldwide. Cloud Computing and the Internet of Th ings. such as Gumtree when buying a new vehicle and Briggs added that most people now know Th e need for change was reinforced by Dave not only using these sites for buying used vehicles. exactly which car they want to buy by the time they Duarte, the founder of Treeshake, a consultancy Th is trend has resulted in many dealers now using entered the relevant dealership and on average only dedicated to growing digital marketing capabil- Gumtree and similar online websites to advertise visited the dealer only twice when doing the deal to ity, who also served as the master of ceremonies at both new and used models. buy a new car. the conference. Delegates to the conference were certainly According to Briggs car design is another He set the scene by explaining that the growth not left in any doubt that the digital world was the aspect of the automotive world that is being towards a digital world in South Africa was driven way to go if they still wanted to be in business in infl uenced by the changing digital landscape and by the fact that the number of active website users the future. ■

Martyn Briggs, Shayne Mann. Dave Duarte. Subscribe for free @ www.autolive.co.za Page 19

Corporate Social Responsibility Amarok Helps Change Lives of Young Girls

Each year young girls in impoverished communi- Volkswagen employees as part of the company’s ties can miss up to 50 days of school for not having Corporate Social Responsibility initiative themed the correct hygiene products at their disposal. Th is Volkswagen for Good. important, but oft en unmentioned, challenge of Caring4Girls is a programme that helps keeping young women in school is at the heart of underprivileged girls mainly in rural communi- the Caring4Girls and Trek4Mandela Initiatives. ties. Th e main objective of the programme, which Th omas Schaefer, Chairman and Managing is run by the Imbumba Foundation and funded by Director of Volkswagen Group South Africa the Trek4Mandela initiative, is to provide hygiene (VWSA) and with his wife, Wendy recently training and products to underprivileged girls. Thomas Schaefer, Chairman and delivered over 2 300 sanitary towels to Nkululeko Th e delivery to Nonkululeko Secondary School Managing Director of Volkswagen Group Secondary School in KwaNobuhle, Uitenhage. in KwaNobuhle was made as part of the Amarok South Africa and his wife, Wendy with Th ese sanitary towels were purchased using Social Test Drive Campaign. Amarok Social Test pupils of Nkululeko Secondary School in funds raised by the late Gugu Zulu, member Drive allows companies and individuals to put KwaNobuhle, Uitenhage. of the Volkswagen Motorsport family, during the Amarok through its paces whilst delivering his Trek4Mandela campaign to climb Mount much-needed supplies to people in hard-to-reach kilometres across the country and delivered over Kilimanjaro in July. communities in South Africa. 15.8 tonnes of items such as water to the drought- In Gugu’s honour, further donations were To date, the campaign dubbed ‘the test drive hit towns in Free State and sewing machines to arranged by Volkswagen Motorsport and that matters’, has travelled more than 16 000 unemployed women in KwaZulu Natal. ■

Peugeot Drives Away Hunger Rugby Goes Rural

Peugeot South Africa and Meals on With Land Rover Wheels Community Services recently partnered in a cook-a-thon held at the charity’s City Deep warehouse, during Land Rover’s Hope Crosses Any Terrain programme recently which no less than 1 200 hearty meals visited the Emsengeni Primary school in Mzide, Eastern were prepared and rapidly distributed Cape, for a very special rugby activation. Th e Land Rover to residents of informal settlements. Brand Ambassadors from the DHL Stormers team, Siya Kolisi, Th e logistics of this part of the opera- Scarra Ntubeni, Juan de Jongh and Sikhumbuzo Notshe were tion was aided by a brand new Peugeot joined by SARU referee Craig Joubert and TV personality Partner Crew Cab, donated to Meals Matthew Pearce. on Wheels by the PSA Foundation. With the concept of creating moments that matter, the Th e PSA Foundation is the Peugeot Citroën Group’s umbrella body to help those in activations will see Land Rover Ambassadors visit their child- need, with mobility being the common thread. While the Foundation has aided more hood schools or places that inspired their love for the game. than 400 projects in France and abroad, this is the fi rst time it has become involved with a Additionally, Land Rover will also involve its brand ambas- cause locally. sadors in activities at initiatives close to the brand’s heart – Says Francis Harnie, managing director of PCSA: “Meals on Wheels is one of many including wildlife conservation projects. projects we are involved with and the partnership goes back to the turn of the century. It is Emsengeni Primary school is the school where Siya Kolisi still hard to comprehend that in this day and age there are people – and children especially learned to play rugby as a youngster. Returning in his capacity – who still go without a proper meal every day.” as a DHL Stormers player and a Springbok, he was able to Th e similarities between the corporate social investment goals of the local distributor share his experiences with aspiring young students who were and the overarching aims of the Foundation are clear: both see sustainable development as interested in rugby. Joined by his teammates, they hosted an a key economic driver, and realise that without mobility it is diffi cult to progress. Both are exclusive rugby clinic for the youngsters as well as delivering deeply aware of their social responsibility – one as a multinational automaker the other as inspirational talks. the company behind Peugeot and Citroën locally. “It’s very emotional because this is where it all started “As our name implies without wheels we will be unable to deliver meals to more than for me. My coach gave me the opportunity to come to 15 million hungry South Africans and thanks to Peugeot we have a fl eet of safe, reliable Emsengeni and when I arrived he already had goals and vehicle that are helping us get this job done,” said Gershon Naidoo, Programmes Director from Meals on Wheels. ■ continued on next page Subscribe for free @ www.autolive.co.za Page 20

Corporate Social Responsibility

continued from previous page that will improve the quality of life for students at the school. dreams for me,” said Kolisi. “It’s amazing to Th e Rugby Goes Rural clinic ended with a return here, and see the grassy fi eld that used to visit to the Shamwari Game Reserve near Port be covered in dust and rocks.” Elizabeth. Land Rover has a global relation- Aft er a morning spent learning valuable ship with the Born Free Foundation, of which rugby lessons from their local heroes, the students Shamwari is a member. Th e Land Rover rugby were also treated to a healthy lunch and Hope ambassadors were given a tour of the reserve, Crosses Any Terrain backpacks containing Land which has done excellent work in rehabilitating our Rover story books, stationery and other items big cats. ■ Foton Helps to Fight Rhino Poachers

Imperial Select, which has been involved in a bakkie was a practical way in which the company programme to protect the rhinos in the Rietvlei could contribute to the fi ght against this scourge. Nature Reserve in Tshwane since early 2012, has “It is fortunate that there is a very active organisa- increased its support with the recent sponsorship tion, Friends of Rietvlei Nature Reserve, which is of a Foton Tunland 4×4 bakkie to assist with patrol contributing to the protection of the large variety duties. Th e Foton Tunland sponsorship was funded of wildlife in the reserve,”: he said. by Foton SA, a company in the Imperial Auto Kobus Engelbrecht, Chairman of the Friends Group and the Foton dealer in Midrand. of Rietvlei Nature Reserve, said his organisation Th e Rietvlei Reserve, which covers an area welcomed and appreciated the involvement of of 4 000 hectare, is the world’s largest nature companies such as Foton SA and that this level conservation area within city limits. Already it has of support was necessary to enable the Friends to had four of its rhinos killed and dehorned, the fi rst implement conservation measures in conjunction Kobus Engelbrecht, Chairman of the two in 2010 and another two in May this year. One with those of the offi cial rangers in the reserve. Friends of Rietvlei Nature Reserve (right) of the latter rhino cows was pregnant when she Th e model that will be used by Friends of receives the keys to the Foton bakkie from was killed. the Rietvlei Nature Reserve is a double cab 4×4 Mike Scarth, General Manager of Foton According to Mike Scarth, the General Comfort model powered by a 2.8-litre Cummins SA (left). Manager of Foton SA, the sponsorship of the Foton turbo diesel engine. ■

Rally to Read Brings Cheer to Pupils

Mercedes-Benz South Africa (MBSA) once again Eastern Cape in terms of where joined forces with the READ Educational Trust we would like to see growth and and various companies to deliver educational sup- development. Th e most impor- plies to disadvantaged schools in Butterworth and tant thing that we have to do is Ngqamakwe. to create a passion for learning, a Th is was the beginning of a three-year cycle yearning to know–and all of that in this region and it includes a total of ten schools. starts with reading and the ability Among the companies that collaborated to sponsor to read,” he explained. material for the under-resourced schools in a bid Said Gladstone Mtyoko, to create an environment conducive to learning for Mercedes-Benz Passenger Cars the children was MBSA, Kempston Group, Telkom Senior Manager Assembly: “Th e Foundation and Bidvest Services. focus is on rural schools because According to Arno van der Merwe, CEO of it is quite evident that children in MBSA and Executive Director of Manufacturing, these rural areas are the most disadvantaged when “When I look at these children, I see the awareness and an understanding of a situation is it comes to service delivery, including educational future leaders of this country and in order for the fi rst thing that you need in order to contribute material. In order for this initiative to be a success, them to achieve greater things in life, it is impor- to and change it. we need the participation of the communities, the tant for us as parents and community leaders to “Th e former Transkei area is an area that feeds School Governing Body (SGB), and the teachers to support their basic foundation. Th is is what is many of our communities, it’s a home to many of be involved in supporting the learners and to also needed in order to change our country – educated our colleagues and a very important part of the use the material that is supplied. young people.” ■ Subscribe for free @ www.autolive.co.za Page 21

Events

Jaguar Simola Hillclimb to for the chequered fl ag. Improved spectator areas view the latest BMW models on display, purchase return in 2017 will ensure that visitors enjoy fantastic opportuni- BMW Lifestyle and BMW Car Club clothing and ties to see the racers in action. accessories and discover the latest technology on Jaguar South Africa has reaffi rmed its commit- Entry for adults is priced at R150 per day or off er from Castrol. ment to the Jaguar Simola Hillclimb, announcing R250 for both days. Children under 12 years of age Visit www.bmwcarclub.co.za for further that it would remain the headline sponsor of the will enjoy free access. Hospitality packages and information on the event, or contact the popular event for three more years. early-bird discounts are also available. Tickets organizer Michael Broom on 084 325 2744 or Th e event has seen remarkable growth since are limited and can be purchased by visiting [email protected]. ■ Jaguar came on board as the headline sponsor in www.kyalamigrandprixcircuit.com and clicking 2014. Attendance has reached record numbers, on the Computicket link. ■ SpeedWeek is a go with the 2016 event seeing 14 206 spectators pack the stands along the 1.9 km road course for three Kyalami to host BMW Car Club Th e next instalment of All Tar SpeedWeek will be spectacular days of racing. Event logistics and held at the Mafi keng Airport on 14 and 15 October infrastructure have both evolved to cater to larger On 29 October 2016, the BMW Car Club Gauteng 2016. Th e runway is 4.5 km long, perfect for spec- crowds, to off er spectators an unforgettable fan will continue a 26 year tradition with their annual tacular top end runs. Timing will be done at the 3 experience that will have them returning year Kyalami Track and Race Day. Headline sponsors km mark with a 1.5 km run off . Th ere will also be aft er year. Bridgestone, Castrol and Auto Bavaria Midrand 2 additional timed runs: 1 km for the short bursts Demand for event entries has also started to have dug deep to help the Club and its members and the fi rst ever 3 km top end night run dubbed exceed supply and event organisers have had to experience the refurbished international circuit Th e Moonshine Run. rethink the entire entry system. For 2016 a new fi rst-hand. Spectators and day visitors will be welcome mechanism was implemented to allow all com- Th e day will be comprised of the BMW Car as the airport has excellent vantage points for petitors a fair chance at participating, eff ectively Club Time Trial Series, the Porsche Club Central everybody to witness the action. Th ere will also be turning the event into an invitational. Despite this, Time Trial Series and the ever popular Bridgestone food stalls and entertainment for the whole family, organisers still received 201 applications of inter- BMW Club Racing Series. throughout the event. A limited number of camp- est for the 145 available seats – a record number It has equally been a tradition at the BMW Car ing stands will also be available but priority will of participants. Club Kyalami events to help a charity or cause of be given to event participants and must be booked Th e 2017 Jaguar Simola Hillclimb will kick some sort. Th is is achieved by off ering the public 2 in advance. off with the Classic Car Friday town parade and hot laps in a BMW around the circuit for just R200. Visit www.alltarspeedweek.com for additional Charity Golf Day on Th ursday 4 May 2017. Racing BMW Driving Experience, Bridgestone and some information. will commence with Classic Car Friday, on Friday of the best driving talent in the country have come 5 May, while King Of Th e Hill competitors excite on board to help achieve this again. Th is year the Programme the townsfolk with a parade and display. Th e club has turned its attention to the plight of baby thrilling King Of Th e Hill shootout revs up on the Caylum Willemse. Caylum requires a life-saving Friday 14 October 2016 morning of Saturday, 5 May 2016, and continues medical procedure that can only be performed in 09:00 to 13:00 3 km top end runs until the aft ernoon of Sunday, 6 May 2017. Th e Boston, USA. 14:00 to 17:30 1 km top end runs competitor entry application process will go live in At the same time, the Club will be supporting 18:00 to late Light entertainment and October 2016. ■ the Bridgestone Pink Valve Cap Project to raise socialising funds for breast cancer treatment and awareness. 19:00 Opening Motorsport returns to Kyalami For every hot lap sold, R150 will go to the Caylum 21:00 to 22:30 Moonshine Run Willemse Foundation and R50 will go to the Th e Motorsport Festival at Kyalami, scheduled Bridgestone Pink Valve Cap Project. Saturday 15 October 2016 from the 21st until the 23rd of October promises to Th e event kicks off at 07:30 AM. Entry to spec- 07:00 to 12:00 3 km top end runs be a spectacular event. Th is fi rst race meeting to tators is free at the gate, while food and refresh- 12:00 to 17:30 1km top end runs be hosted at the extensively revised and revamped ments will be on sale. Visitors will also be able to 17:30 to late End of event celebration and light Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit and International entertainment Convention Centre, is expected to draw over 300 20:00 to 21:30 Moonshine Run entries, making this event the biggest motorsport event at Kyalami – ever! Event Costs Th is Motorsport South Africa (MSA) 1 km top ends only : R1 250 per driver (unlimited sanctioned event, incorporating the Extreme runs on both days but subject to capacity and Festival and the DEOD Super GP Champions must be booked online or via email/telephone Trophy, will include the Sasol Global Touring in advance). Cars (GTC) Championship, V8 Supercars and V8 3 km top ends : R2 750 per driver (unlimited Masters, National and Regional Superbikes, G & H runs both days and includes 1 km runs but subject Transport Extreme Supercars, Engen Volkswagen to capacity and must be booked online or via Cup and Investchem Formula 1600 race series. email/telephone in advance). Spectators can expect a thrilling line-up of lo- Spectator only : R20 for adults and R10 for cal racing talent as the various categories do battle children under the age of 12. ■ Subscribe for free @ www.autolive.co.za Page 22

Working Wheels

FAW Dealer Bats a Century

One of FAW’s dealers scored a century when he quality control, with all the checks and balances delivered his team’s 100th FAW truck sold – a followed precisely. Th is is especially so with work- fi rst among FAW’s Southern African representa- shop activities. His best cost-control philosophy is tives to sell this many units through a single FAW to do the job right the fi rst time and never waste, franchised dealership. neither time nor materials. Juan Wiggill, dealer principle at FAW It is for this very reason that VKB chose to Harrismith credits his entire 26-person staff purchase their latest FAW fl eet addition, a FAW complement with the achievement. “Here at FAW 28.380FT from Juan Wiggill. Harrismith we all have a passion for the brand and According to Bryan Boshoff , Logistics are dedicated to customer services, whether on the Manager of VKB, the FAW vehicles not only sales or the aft er-sales service and maintenance return very good fuel consumption fi gures, but side. Whatever our team of staff do they know are also lowering total cost of operation while Juan Wiggill, Dealer Principle of FAW exactly what to do, how best to do it and always providing great value for money. He also praised Harrismith (right) congratulate Bryan display friendliness and express interest in every the FAW Harrismith dealership for providing Boshoff, Logistics Manager of VKB (left) customer’s business. Th e key asset to any good VKB exceptional service, maintenance and parts with their new FAW purchase. dealership is good, well-trained, right-attitude support for their entire FAW fl eet. staff ,” he enthused. “Downtime is a critical element when it comes truck partner who understands this and the eff ect Wiggill is uncompromising on cost and to my own service delivery. So it’s great to have a it has on my business,” concluded Boshoff . ■

Truck Sales Track Lower Sales Predictions

Th e South African commercial vehicle market is Medium Commercial Vehicle (MCV) sales coming months and if it will have any signifi cant continuing to track various industry predictions have declined by a signifi cant 18% to 5 409 units impact on sales.” with the forecasted decline in new truck sales so far this year, while sales in the Extra Heavy UD Trucks expects the market to remain fl at continuing during August. Commercial Vehicle segment declined by 7.5% to during the next quarter. Th e company advises Th is is according to the latest results released 7 878 units. truck owners to scrutinise all costs in order to by the National Association of Automobile According to Gert Swanepoel, acting vice eliminate any wastages and not to let vehicle Manufacturers of South Africa (NAAMSA), president of UD Trucks Southern Africa, the maintenance fall behind as this can be more costly Associated Motor Holdings (AMH) and EHCV segment in particular is heavily im- in the long run. Amalgamated Automobile Distributors (AAD). pacted by the lack of business confi dence in the “We understand that there are always cycles At the end of last month, the truck market was local economy. to our business, so we place more emphasis on 4.2% down on the corresponding period in 2015, “In essence, fl eet operators are ‘sweating looking aft er our customers effi ciently, profes- reaching 12 154 sales. On a year-to-date basis, only their assets’ or adopting a wait and see approach,” sionally and dependably – whatever the market the Heavy Commercial Vehicles (HCV) and Bus explained Swanepoel. “However, there has been conditions. An interactive partnership between segments managed to remain in the black, record- some positive activity over the past few weeks in us and our customers is the best medicine,” ing growth of 1.6% (3 487 units) and 7.3% (789 specifi cally the construction sub-segment, but we commented Swanepoel. ■ units) respectively. will have to see how all of this pans out during the

Japanese Widest Load Fuel GETS WORK DONE Reliability Box in its Class Efficient

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Working Wheels

Vision 2020. Th ese Hino Having a Good Year include an extended demonstrator pro- “Hino South Africa is having a good year in SA, suppliers and Hino Motors Ltd. to become a gramme, a renewed terms of sales when one considers the tough the partner of the customer. focus on driver economic climate and highly competitive market,” Th e 2020 Vision aims to provide Hino SA training, a learner- said Vice President Ernie Trautmann, addressing customers with the best products and total sup- ship programme the media recently. port. Th is was a key motivator at a strategy session at the dealers, a “Hino’s overall market share is currently for dealer principals in April and a conference for two-year warranty Ernie Trautmann, Vice standing at 13.5% of the total truck and bus managers of 3S (Sales Service and Spares) dealer- on genuine parts, President of Hino SA. market compared to our target for the year of ships in August. a quick response 14.6% and we are confi dent of further improving Among the future plans discussed at these action plan for vehicles off road (VOR) and “Bring our position in the run up to the end of the year,” meetings was developing a used truck franchise, it Back” campaigns for servicing at a Hino dealer. added Trautmann. off ering a competitive range of service and mainte- “We know the going is very tough for the He went on to confi rm his team’s commitment nance plans as well as extended warranties, provid- truck industry in South Africa this year, but we to the Hino corporate vision of being the top truck ing added value aft er sales services and drawing up are confi dent that our quality products and Hino brand in South Africa by 2020. Th is strategy is be- stringent standards for dealers handling the Hino Total Support will continue to further improve ing driven by the international Hino Total Support 700-Series extra heavy truck range. the customer experience so we can reach our long programme which is based on relationships rooted In addition there are a number of initiatives term goals such as Vision 2020,” said the Hino SA in absolute mutual trust between the dealers, Hino underway this year as the company works towards Vice President. ■ Sprinter Can Now Carry More

oft en expressed a demand for a version with a maximum rear axle load increases from 3 500 kg to higher payload. Th at is why we are launching a 3 600 kg. Th is provides the new Sprinter variant to include a permissible gross Th e increase in permissible GVW from vehicle weight of 5.5 tons,” explained Vusi Vusani, 5 tons to 5.5 tons benefi ts the vehicle’s payload, Product and Marketing Manager for Mercedes- which rises by around 400 kg in all variants, Benz Vans. thereby attaining a record level in certain vehicle Th e new weight variant closes the gap between confi gurations. Mercedes-Benz vans and light-duty trucks. Th e Th e Sprinter as a chassis with cab attains the Mercedes-Benz Vans is expanding the product Sprinter with a gross vehicle weight of 5.5 tons substantial load-bearing capacity of around 3 range of its Sprinter to include a new variant with already off ers the payload of a light-duty truck. 400 kg. As a panel van with high roof and standard a permissible gross vehicle weight (GVW) of At the same time, it benefi ts from the conveni- wheelbase, the 5.5 ton Sprinter with a six-cylinder 5.5 tons. Th is represents an increase in pay- ent entrance, the seat positioning and the driving diesel engine attains a payload of up to 2 900 kg. load of almost half a ton, a record level in this dynamics of a van. Th e 5.5 t Sprinter 519 CDI engine boasts an weight class. Th e higher permissible GVW is accompanied output rating of 140 kW. Th is engine is paired as “As Mercedes-Bens Vans, we pride ourselves by a corresponding rise in permissible axle loads. standard with the ECO Gear six-speed transmis- on always being in constant communication Th e maximum permissible front axle load on the sion to transfer the power to the driven rear axle. with our customers. We know that some of them Sprinter rises from 1 950 kg for the previous rein- Th e 7G-TRONIC PLUS automatic transmission operate in weight-sensitive areas and they have forced variant to a current level of 2 100 kg. Th e with torque converter is available as an option. ■

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Pantera Wins First Concours South Africa at Sun City

BY STUART JOHNSTON

Th e fi rst Concours South Africa, held at Sun City on September 11, saw a surprise winner in a mid- 1980s De Tomaso Pantera GT5, owned by Fatima de Abreu of Gaberone, Botswana. Not only was this De Tomaso a surprise winner, but it was amaz- ing to see two Panteras entered for this competi- tion, the other car being an earlier GTS model sans wings and wheel-arch extensions. Th e Show and Shine category was won by another lady owner, Manana Nhlanhla of Botha’s Hill, KZN, with her late 1950s Mercedes-Benz 190 SL. Just shy of 50 cars entered, and organisers Ross Crichton and Paul Kennard are already hard at work on next year’s event. ■ Carlos and Fatima de Abreu with Fatima’s winning Pantera GT5.

An earlier De Tomaso Pantera GTS also scored well in the pre 1980 sports category. Show and Shine winner was this Mercedes-Benz 190 SL.

(Left) A rare unmolested Pontiac GTO took third place.