Automotive Business Review June 2009

ABR JUNE 1 2009:Layout 1 5/27/09 4:31 PM Page 2
14 MISA Magic 56 Braking the Sound Barrier

27 Dropping a Stitch 60 Life Goes On
32 Shock Treatment 68 Springs has Sprung
The Phoenix
Tilting at Windmills
Every now and then something weird and wonderful occurs which attracts my attention.
Not weird in the strange and bizarre sense, but weird in the majestic and mythical sense.
Just such a moment occurred in March 2009 at the Automechanika exhibition at NASREC.
I
t was the sight of a trade union byline “the intelligent alternative”, and the
exhibiting at a citadel of trade and linchpin for the aspiration of effective and
capitalism that intrigued me, and responsible trade unionism. It is based on
even more intriguing was their artful this understanding that ABR has allowed
use of marketing and communication, to its much sought after cover to honour the
such an extent that they were judged as the inspiring team at MISA, and to give space
top stand out of 421 displays, and their to Dana de Villiers to answer two probing
efforts were lauded as “outstanding in questions, which can be found on page 14.
every aspect in which an exhibition stand
is evaluated”. I was humbled in the realisa- Talking about tilting at windmills, we also
tion that my perception of trade unionism introduce in the June 2009 issue of ABR a
was not entirely correct and the recogni- new and exciting contributor, Theo Calitz
tion that when anyone applies lateral nary people and casting a sharp eye on of T-R-M (Total Relationship Manage-
thinking weird and wonderful things can accepted beliefs, reality, honesty, and chau- ment). Theo is going to focus on how to
happen. This was the catalyst to have a vinism. The true intent of the story lies in enhance personalised customer care and
closer look at MISA (Motor Industry Staff the full title of the book “El Ingenioso customer satisfaction, and this series of
Association), and as I unpeeled this tanta- Hidalgo Don Quixote de la Mancha”. articles will complement and augment the
lising onion layer by layer, tears came to Ingenioso means inventiveness, and this is Trilogy Customer C.A.R.E. Programme
my eyes, not from the pungency of the the essence of Don Quixote’s quest. He introduced in our April 2009 issue. To
onion, but rather from a feeling of awe was tilting at windmills, but with inven- have two dedicated articles each month on
and wonder, and admiration for a true tiveness. This is also the essence of what customer care shows how seriously ABR
Don Quixote effort by a great team of out Dana de Villiers and his team are doing. takes this subject, and judging by the
of the box thinkers. Don’t get me wrong. They are people who do not accept the shocking levels of service in this country,
Don Quixote has gone down in the annals status quo, and who refuse to be pigeon- our readers may think that we are really
of literature as an impractical idealist, but holed. People who strive to fulfil their tilting at windmills, but we are made of
any true scholar of the works of Spanish mandate, not in an aimless and conven- strong stock, and we shall persevere in
author Miguel de Cervantes will under- tional way, but in a highly effective and attempting to change the service culture in
stand that with Don Quixote, de imaginative way. They confront the reali- this country, and particularly in the motor
Cervantes was really taking a serious and ties and they change perceptions. This is industry. Go to page 28 to read Theo’s
philosophical look at the world of ordi- the quintessential rationale behind the pearls of wisdom.
w w w. a b r b u z z . c o . z a
ABR’s website is growing from strength to strength. This month’s issue; as well as previous issues; is available in its
entirety at www.abrbuzz.co.za, and this webpage is updated daily with the latest news and views. Read all about it
in South Africa’s most respected and most influential automotive aftermarket publication.
Boardroom Edition
of RMI 101
T
rilogy Publishing has been com- and to contribute to this rich tapestry of response from the industry in compiling
missioned by the RMI to pro- our pioneering history. The editorial copy an accurate and magnificent acknowledge-
duce a prestigious edition of the shall be written by highly qualified and ment of the pioneers of the automotive
history of the RMI, and a history esteemed journalists assigned the task by industry in our country and something
of the companies that contributed to the Trilogy Publishing, with the welcome par- worthwhile to serve as a memorable
development of the South African auto- ticipation of the companies involved. The memento of our wonderful history.
motive industry, in all its forms, over the compilation of RMI 101 shall commence
past 101 years. Scheduled for publication in August 2009, and is scheduled for com- Please contact Stanton Porter
in November 2009, the RMI 101 serves pletion in October 2009, and distribution Marketing at 012 654 2745; or
the primary purpose of celebrating the is planned for November 2009, as it will Graham Erasmus at 083 709 8184 or
centenary of the Retail Motor Industry serve as a wonderful year end gift. We shall
Organisation, whilst also informing the only be allowing 101 companies, basically
bigheart@iafrica.com for more
automotive community of the role the first come first served, so we recommend details on how you can participate at
organisation plays today. The RMI 101 that you indicate as soon as possible incredibly low rates. Don’t delay; this
issue has another exciting purpose – to whether you wish to be involved in this opportunity only comes once every
provide a forum for the who’s who of the venture. Trilogy Publishing and the RMI 101 years!
automotive industry to tell their stories, will truly appreciate an enthusiastic
4 June 2009
Contents
10 22 46
4 The Phoenix Tilting at Windmills
8 What’s the Buzz
10 Wilde Things The Dumbing Down of the World
12 Industry Icons Focus on Forsdicks
14 Cover Story MISA Magic
16 Tony’s Take The Zuma Cabinet of 2009
20 The Chery Story Chery Shines at Shanghai Motor Show
22 Frankly Speaking Dropping a Stitch?
24 Health Care Managing Your Health
26 Vehicle Evaluation Jiminy Cricket!
28 Customer C.A.R.E. Customer Relationship Management

Trilogy Customer C.A.R.E. Programme
32 Managing the Risks Shock Treatment
34 Weighty Issues For Toyota Trucks, Read Hino
36 Auto Topical Automotive GDP Contribution Recovers
38 Personal Profile Q & A with Jacques Brent
42 Tyre Safety Tyres’ Contribution to Safety in Motoring
44 Diamond Dialogues Inferior Parts – the Consequences
46 Safety, Bling and Flying High
Publishing Editor Intelli-Driving Editor Gamble, Austin Published by:

Graham Erasmus Eugene Herbert Keeg, Howard Trilogy Publishing
083 709 8184 082 941 3785 McCleery, Roger
Stadler, Johann Advertising Sales:
Commercial Vehicle Editor Correspondents Twine, Tony Stanton Porter Marketing
Alwyn Viljoen Beeton, Frank Wilde, Fingal Tel. 012 654 2745
082 458 9332 Borlz, Baron Claude
Burford, Adrian
6
Contents
47 69 77
48 Transport History Stonehenge – Eat your Heart Out
50 Burford on Brands Pontiac About to Join its Ancestors
51 e-CAR Golden Nugget
53 AutoZone Update Get Turbocharged
54 Capricorn Insights Taking the High Road
56 Topclass Topics “Braking” the Sound Barrier
58 Euroquip News Valeo for Life
60 Industry Update Life Goes On
62 Robert Bosch Bosch Service National Convention 2009
66 Industry Update Champions of Industry
68 Partinform Springs has Sprung
72 AIDC Quiz 20 Questions
74 AIDC Conference Navigating the Storm
75 Fast Wheels No passing F1 is Back
76 Industry Update An Ideal Becoming a Reality
77 The Last Writes
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e-mail: bigheart@iafrica.com 7
What’s the Buzz?
LAMBORGHINI SELECTS ALCOA TO

SUPPLY LIGHTWEIGHT WHEELS FOR
MURCIÉLAGO LP 670-4 SUPERVELOCE
Alcoa Wheel Products has been selected by Automobili Lamborghini to supply light-
weight wheels for its Murciélago LP 670-4 SuperVeloce (SV). The forged alloy wheels
reduce unsprung weight and contribute to the SV’s 100kg mass reduction over the stan-
dard Murciélago. “The new Murciélago SV is the product of a substantial cross-car
weight reduction programme and forged wheels are vital to this,” explains David Yates,
marketing manager for Alcoa Europe. "The engineering behind Alcoa’s wheels enables a
20 percent weight saving over a comparable cast aluminium wheel, benefiting handling
and ride.” The exclusive five twin-spoke design results in a superior metal structure that
improves strength and durability, offering the opportunity to create very strong and
lightweight wheels. The structure also allows for more material to be milled out to achieve finer detailing while retaining strength. At the front the 18”x
8.5” wheels weigh just 8.9kg each, while the 18”x13” rears each weigh 12.3kg. Lowering the unsprung mass at each corner results in more responsive
steering, braking and suspension input all while optimising performance and efficiency for drivers of the SuperVeloce.
NEW WAR ON MALARIA

A new front in the war against malaria is being waged by insect repellent manufacturer Tabard. To coincide
with the World Malaria Day on April 25, Tabard launched a brand new website dedicated to malaria
awareness – www.malariafocus.com. An integral part of this website will be Tabard’s new school project
initiative, and a special project pack containing vital information about combating malaria will be freely
available to schools and teachers who register via Tabard’s new website. Applications can also be made
in writing, either by e-mail or fax. The project materials will be available to schools throughout Africa
and are most suitable for learners between 14 to 18 years of age. Malaria claims nearly 1 million lives
annually in Africa. This staggering death toll is increasing largely as a result of environmental degrada-
tion and change, yet malaria is preventable and treatable. Controlling the disease is an essential key to
breaking the cycle of poverty in Africa. Tabard advocates a full circle approach to malaria prevention; in
other words taking all possible precautions. This includes anti-malarial medication, use of mosquito nets,
water treatment, residual insecticide spraying and use of insect repellents. Tabard cautions people travelling
into a malaria area against using minimal protection or relying on unregistered “natural” remedies.
JAGUAR IMPLEMENTS TWO PROGRAMMES TO

SAVE THE PLANET
Jaguar – a company that has long been famous for producing beautiful, fast
cars – is about to make its mark in another area: that of saving the planet.
With effect from April 2009 the company has introduced two industry-lead-
ing carbon dioxide (CO2) offset programmes. According to Andrew Daniel,
Managing Director of Jaguar South Africa, the first of these is a programme
to offset the CO2 emitted during the assembly of all vehicles produced at the
company’s two manufacturing plants in the United Kingdom. “We will focus
on three actions: switching from fossil fuels to renewable energy, promoting
renewable technology and improving energy efficiency within communities
and industry alike,” he reveals. Simultaneously, the company is introducing a
voluntary programme for Jaguar owners wishing to offset the CO2 emissions
of their vehicles (both new and pre-owned). Owners who elect to participate
in this programme should visit http://www.jpmorganclimatecare.com/jaguar.
An easy-to-use calculator works out the carbon emissions after the owner has
provided basic information such as the specific Jaguar he or she drives, the
Ken Ken 7 x 7 fuel and engine type, transmission and mileage he or she wishes to offset. The
website also provides information about the projects that their contributions
How to Play: Like Sudoku, even though difficulty may vary
from puzzle to puzzle, the rules for playing KenKen are fairly simple: will support. “Funding will go towards real environmental technologies that
For a 7x7 puzzle, fill in with the numbers 1-7. can be introduced in different places or communities to reduce CO2 emis-
• Do not repeat a number in any row or column. sions – such as wind turbines or solar power,” explains Daniel. In addition to
• The numbers in each heavily outlined set of squares, called cages,
must combine (in any order) to produce the target number in the the reassurance that they are doing their part to save the planet, participating
top corner of the cage using the mathematical operation indicated. owners will receive a certificate from carbon offsetting expert, ClimateCare,
• Cages with just one box should be filled in with the target number which is administering the programme on Jaguar’s behalf. The programme
in the top corner.
• A number can be repeated within a cage as long as it is not in the will support the offset of around 70 000 tons of CO2 in 2009.
same row or column. Answer on page 27
8 June 2009
Wilde Things
The Dumbing Down of the World

by Fingal Wilde
Freedom Day, 27th April 2009 marked 15 years of full blown
democracy in South Africa. Co-incidentally, it is in Time maga-
zine’s 27th April 2009 issue in which Carla Power reviews Paul
Collier's new book; Wars, Guns and Votes: Democracy in
Dangerous Places.
O
xford economist Paul Collier most political commentators claim. This is letters written from the front in the
argues that in rich countries, pure unadulterated hogwash, and danger- American Civil War, and the letters writ-
democracy makes life more ous semantics. It is political correctness ten from the trenches in the First World
peaceful and prosperous, taken to the extreme end of lucidity, and War; and contrast them with today’s letters
whereas in poor countries, it makes life for those of us in the cerebral minority, it and e-mails written by the American and
more dangerous. He points out that elec- simply doesn’t wash. I could go on and on British troops in Iraq and Afghanistan, and
tions, unsupported by robust institutions, with so many examples, so I will close the you will see a marked decline in literacy
are simply political fetishes. Collins con- chapter on our political immaturity with levels. You need more evidence? Take Sky
tinues with a close to the bone analysis for just one question to those mothers and News, for example. It is a useful news sta-
South Africans, by showing that in rich fathers who voted for the shower fiend, tion in that you can get the latest news
democracies elections allow citizens to and just one question to those women who every 15 minutes, but to get this news you
hold their politicians accountable. Spine voted for the self same AIDS guru. The usually have to first suffer the mortifying
chillingly, Collier shows how in poorly questions, respectively, would be “Would experience of hearing about the latest com-
educated places, riven by ethnic and tribal you feel comfortable in allowing your ings and goings of the footballing fraterni-
rivalries, the easiest way to win is not good daughter to stay overnight at his house, un ty. Anyone with two brain cells to rub
governance, but bad. He continues, "in a chaperoned (or even chaperoned!)?” and together is simply not interested whether
world that rewards the rituals of democra- “Would you feel comfortable in staying cretin A is moving from Arsenal to Chelsea
cy - not just with loaded votes, but with fat overnight at his house?” If the answer is for some ridiculous sum, or whether cretin
aid checks from abroad, thuggery and vote yes, then you’re either a pimp or a prosti- B is upset because a referee did not give a
rigging pay”. Uncanny, isn't it, coming just tute. And yet, two thirds of our electorate penalty in some insignificant game where
after our elections on 22nd April, and our did exactly that, so I rest my case. grown men chase a round ball in front of
unique form of thuggery and vote rigging. thousands of fellow cretins. My apologies
Our form of thuggery is the flimsy drop- Now I am going to go a little further, and for calling them cretins, but how can any-
ping of charges by an insipid, feckless and to say that it is not just the developing one who has a sliver of self respect be inter-
intimidated NPA, and our form of vote world that suffers from the malady of thick ested in Neanderthals who have problems
rigging is the ballot given to uneducated, skulls. Whereas the developed world may in stringing a couple of sentences together,
and quite frankly, thick people. A rather have honed their democratic credentials but do seem to have the cranium for head-
harsh analysis, you may say, but consider over the centuries, the signs are there that ing a soccer ball? And the newspapers in
this - apart from the jobs for pals and the these societies are also in serious decline the UK are also full of this absolute rub-
patronage that the ruling party can dole when it comes to intellectual matters. I am bish. Why can’t we provide enough room
out, why vote for a government that has not convinced that literary and speaking to celebrate the intellectual pursuits of
done so little for the vast majority of the skills are not directly related to overall IQ humanity, and consign the athletic to a far
population? levels, because these are what sets us apart less substantial space? I know that this is a
from the animal world, and keeps us a gen- forlorn hope, because the world is well on
I am afraid that our election results show eration away from retrograding into our its way to even more dumbing down.
just how thick our citizens are, because the previous savage state. But just look at the
government can only go so far with
patronage, and this cannot account for
even 10% of their votes. The rest can only
be ascribed to the fact that our electorate is
as thick as seven planks, and their behav-
iour can be likened to that of a sheep men-
tality. No one can argue that when they
put that cross against the smiling face of
someone who has rather dubious creden-
tials, that their cognitive processes were
working at full tilt, and that they were
thinking clearly. It is a great fallacy to
believe that the electorate is not stupid,
and that they know what they are doing, as
Which of these craniums is more suited to heading a soccer ball?
quickpic
10 June 2009
What’s the Buzz?

THE CASTROL EDGE EXTREME AUTO SHOW will host this year’s action packed event. It’s all about the meanest, loud-
- IT’S ALL ABOUT POWER, PERFORMANCE est, fastest and most desirable customised and modified cars, exotics,
AND PASSION - COCA-COLA DOME, NORTH- classic cars and custom bikes, along with the top automotive tuners, fit-
GATE 13 – 16 JUNE 2009. ment centres, sound systems, wheels and tyres, suspension modifica-
tions, accessories – and a whole lot more, including the Mangawani Spa
Bernie Fineman, the star presenter of the 'Chop Shop: London Garage' and Kids corner. For more information, visit
series on Discovery Channel UK and Kevin Perkins aka Michael Niaker, www.extremeautoshow.co.za or www.chromecard.co.za
HYUNDAI SOUTH AFRICA LAUNCHES HYUNDAI FAST FURIOUS

FUTBOL AND “SPORTS 4 POVERTY” INITIATIVES
Hyundai Automotive South Africa recently
announced the appointment of Seam Sports cc to
roll out promotional and community upliftment
projects in the run-up to the 2010 FIFA World Cup.
Seam Sports will be responsible for rolling out its
Hyundai Fast Furious Futbol concept at venues
across the country. Seam Sports will also arrange
and manage Football Clinics in underprivileged
areas through their “Sports 4 Poverty” initiative on
behalf of Hyundai. The Fast Furious Futbol concept
is based on “Four versus Four” Football games
played within a fully-enclosed, portable and inflat-
able arena. The basics of Foot balling Technique –
Triangular Play – are put to the test in the high-
paced games with speed of movement and position-
al play being of importance. The introduction of a
“Flying Keeper” within the Fast Furious Futbol con-
cept is sure to add to the speed, fun and excitement
of the 6-minute long, non-stop, one-way games;
with “shooting on goal” from varying parts of the
Arena now becoming an integral and testing part of
the game.
Industry Icons
Focus on Forsdicks
A series of articles on Forsdicks Sandton
Forsdicks is a member of the McCarthy Group, South Africa’s
leading motor retailer. Brand Pretorius, Chief Executive Officer of
McCarthy Limited, regards the Forsdick Group as an important
element in the McCarthy mix, “The Forsdicks Group with its proud his-
tory spanning more than 50 years, is a valuable member of the
McCarthy Group. Our BMW approved collision repair shops repre-
sent a particular centre of excellence because of their single-
minded focus on quality, service and customer satisfaction. I salute
our highly specialised and professional teams for their significant
contribution to the ongoing success of our group”.
Geared for Customer repair if you have the misfortune to have

an accident in your prized BMW. An
Satisfaction added bonus for non BMW owners is that
Forsdicks is also approved for the majority
The recent dramatic change in the new
of vehicle marques.
vehicle sales market has created a new
dynamic. Car sales across the globe have
Housed in a modern and well-equipped
declined by anything from 20% to 40%,
building in a safe, corporate environment
and in some cases even worse than this.
with around the clock security, Forsdicks
What has not changed is the fundamental
Approved Repair Centre has a highly
fact that the motoring population and
skilled and committed team to offer its
demographics have stayed the same, and
customers the best possible service. The
this puts the onus on vehicle dealers to up
spacious repair centre accommodates more
the ante on customer service levels, from
than 54 vehicles in a 2 300m² workshop
the sales floor through to the after sales
built on a stand of 7 000 m², thus allow-
departments. With the sales of new vehi-
Trevor Turner, Manager of Forsdicks ing for parking and storage for an addi-
cles currently below the natural replace-
Sandton Approved Repair Centre, ensures tional 90 vehicles. In short, a world class
ment cycle, we are moving to an older car
that each vehicle is delivered to the customer facility which stands up well to the most
parc, and the demand for service back up in perfect condition stringent requirements and audits.
that ensures that cars do not deteriorate
and lose value is high and will continue to ities, professional sales and service staff,
and very importantly, a BMW Approved More on Forsdicks in the next issue of
grow. Forsdicks Sandton is ideally placed
Repair Centre, for peace of mind collision ABR.
to meet these needs, having first class facil-
12 June 2009
Cover Story
MISA Magic
ABR puts two important
questions to Dana de Villiers
of MISA
Why would a trade union like Within the retail aftermarket MISA will certainly endeavour to
address those negative perceptions through our actions, benefits
MISA participate in an and service delivery; at least in as far as it pertains to MISA and
International Exhibition such its members.
as Automeckanika?
What is the MISA philosophy
The Motor Industry Staff Association (MISA) organises exclu-
sively in the retail motor and aftermarket, and because of that and view on the role of trade
we have a very specific target market. It will be of no use to unions and employers?
MISA to exhibit at the Johannesburg International Motor Show
as the focus there is on the consumer and MISA will spend There are radically different views on the role, importance and
more time explaining why the general public cannot join as need for trade unions in the workplace specifically and the econ-
members than actually promoting our brand and philosophy. omy in general. These views range from total worker control of all
aspects to getting rid of trade unions and then the economy will
At the Inaugural Automechanika show held during March 2009 show a positive growth. The reality is that none of these two
at NASREC that was exactly what MISA achieved. We had the extremes work in the long run. Communism did not work as we
opportunity of speaking to close on 3000 employers in the retail know through history and the capitalist system without regulation
motor aftermarket. During these interactions we had the oppor- and driven by exuberant greed caused the biggest world econom-
tunity to share our organisational philosophy, brand, benefits and ic crisis since the great depression in the 1930’s.
services with those employers. Some people might say that a trade
union should not speak to the employers but rather organise the
employees. It is after all the employees who must consider joining
the trade union or not. That is so, however the primary relation-
ship is between the employer and the employee and then the
employees join the trade union.
The trade union needs to obtain access to the workplace in terms

of the requirements of the Labour Relations Act to organise the
employees and convince them to join the trade union. In order to
obtain access to the workplace the employer must consent to the
arrangement and a time which is convenient and holds no danger
in for the safety of the employees. From a trade union perspective,
and we have found this in reality, employers are more amenable to
interaction if they understand the trade union and have had expe-
rience with the trade union.
The Automechanika Exhibition was the ideal vehicle for MISA to

reach as many employers in the retail aftermarket as possible.
Automechanika is a business to business trade show. The reason is
very simple, that is where MISA has the greatest potential for
membership growth. The alternative was to contact those employ-
ers individually in an attempt to engage them. The general per-
ception of trade unions in South Africa is negative for a variety of
reasons based on perceptions and actual experiences. Those per-
ceptions can only be changed by the trade unions themselves
through taking responsibility for their actions, managing the
organisation as a business, professional conduct, integrity and
respect for others without compromising the interests of their
members.
14 June 2009
Cover Story
The MISA philosophy and approach is informed by a couple of The process we have implemented in assessing the merits of a case
issues, mainly the objectives as set out in our Constitution as on behalf of a member is extremely thorough and comprehensive.
approved by the Registrar of Labour Relations. The first objective MISA does not create expectations with members and then we
for MISA is “to regulate relations between members and their cannot deliver.
employers and to protect and further the interests of members in
relation to their employers”. When MISA is of the opinion that a member has been unfairly
treated by the employer we will pursue that case until we gain
The focus is on regulating relations between the employer and the what we believe should be forthcoming to the member. The most
MISA members and protecting the interest of the members. This recent example is where an employer refused to listen to MISA in
links in with the key principle as set out in Schedule 8 – Code of 2002 regarding retrenchment benefits owing to 16 MISA mem-
Good Practice: Dismissal of the Labour Relations Act.The key bers. The employer and his representative thought that they could
principle in the Code is “employers and employees should treat drag the issue out and refer it to every court allowed for in the
one another with mutual respect. A premium is placed on both Labour Relations Act and that the employees would run out of
employment justice and the efficient operation of business. While money for legal representation.
employees should be protected against arbitrary action, employers
are entitled to satisfactory conduct and work performance from MISA represented those members and carried all the legal costs
their employees”. and we were awarded Labour Court and Labour Appeal Court rul-
ings in our favour. The capital amount of R3, 837, 806-00 plus
MISA therefore has a responsibility towards their members in interest is payable to the members. This full amount is paid to the
achieving their goal of contributing to the relationship between respective members and MISA does not withhold any of the
the MISA members and the employer through our professional money to offset legal costs nor did we charge the members any
conduct, education of our members, not creating conflict between additional money to pay for the legal costs.
the MISA members and the employer whilst at the same time pro-
tecting and advancing the interests of the members. That is the extent to which MISA goes to protect
the interest of our members if the employer is not
Membership of MISA does not give interested in finding solutions. The daily interac-
any member the right not to adhere to tion with and on behalf of employees
reasonable instructions by the employ- keep our dedicated and professional
er, unsatisfactory work performance team of officials busy. It is impor-
and ill discipline with the knowledge tant to understand that the
that MISA will step in as the trade actions of the employers
union and protect the member. MISA towards our members and
members making them guilty of dis- MISA will inform our
honest conduct, fraud or theft will not reaction.
be represented. MISA will not utilise
the general membership money to
represent and protect such members.
June 2009 15
Tony’s take
by Tony Twine,
The Zuma cabinet of 2009
Senior Economist,
Director –
Econometrix (Pty)
Ltd
– something for everyone?
When the budget was delivered in February 2009, this column looked at the probabilities
of South African Economic Policy moving to the left of the Political spectrum in the wake
of the ANC Pholokwane Convention of December 2007 and a probable ascent to the
Presidency by Jacob Zuma (Lurching Left…Flying Right), March 2009. It concluded
thatMacro Economic Policy, particularly fiscal and monetary policy would remain in a for-
mat agreeable to potential foreign investors, but that any leftward policy shift would
take place in the operational or delivery departments of Government. The announcement
of the Zuma cabinet on 10th May takes this story a step further forward.
T
he announcement of Jacob Zuma’s cabinet appoint- Commission is yet to be detailed, as are its responsibilities and lev-
ments saw a swathe of new cabinet appointees at both els of authority, but it is unlikely that Manuel would have left
ministerial and deputy ministerial levels. The emer- Finance for any position of less influence and tangible power, the
gence of this new set of executive government leaders world and its employment opportunities currently being his oys-
brings with it a group of new incumbents who have a significant ter. The new department of Economic Development appears to be
amount of individual and collective experience, a privilege not as a spin-off from National Treasury within the Department of
easily available to previous selectors within the governing alliance Finance, and its operational objectives are not crystal clear at this
leadership and its policy advisors. The stage. One assumes that it will need to slot
Star noted that “just over half the names in with other major economy-driving
on the new national executive are new, departments like Finance, Trade and
while only 12 out of the 62 ministers and Industry, Energy, Transport and the new
deputy ministers from the previous cabi- Presidential National Planning Committee.
net are staying put. Only three former
cabinet appointees – Sports Minister The deployment of Rob Davies as Minister
Makhenkesi Stofile, Tourism Minister, of Trade and Industry is probably very typ-
Marthinus van Schalkwyk and Labour ical of the combination of ideology and
Minister, Membathisi Mdlandlana – were pragmatism, together with experience of
retained in their previous positions. the massive department at both deputy
ministerial level and as chair of the parlia-
Cynics have pointed out the appointment mentary portfolio committee monitoring
to Ministerial and Deputy Ministerial the department. Davies was one of the
positions of SA Communist Party and early proponents of the phrase “develop-
COSATU leaders like Blade Nzimande, mental interventionist state”, the meaning
Jeremy Cronin, Noluthando Mayende- of which is not particularly well defined in
Sibiya and Ebrahim Patel. More fairly, it economic literature, but which could be a
will be remembered that these are not the clear signal for both the financial and real
first cabinet members to be appointed sectors of the economy to monitor the pol-
from those particular parts of the ANC icy developments of DTI very closely.
alliance, and the Mandela and both With the Zuma leadership having promised
Mbeki cabinets had similarly aligned continuity of macro economic policy (espe-
members, some of whom have survived Jacob Zuma has put together a Ninja cabinet cially fiscal and monetary rules and regula-
into the Zuma cabinet. At the same time, tions) the operating departments who have
it would be naïve to deny the reward motivation for players who their hands on the regulatory levers governing actions and owner-
supported Jacob Zuma in his ascent to the Presidency, but this is a ship in the real economy, are clearly the potential source of any ide-
reality of real politick, which occurs in every organisation or enter- ological change that the new cabinet might bring to bear. The gov-
prise, including political parties, business corporations, clubs and ernment departments most closely connected to the economy
super-national governing organisations. The business community appear to be as well endowed with ministerial hands-on experience
in South Africa will doubtlessly approve of the elevation of Pravin as could be imagined in a democratic government environment
Gordhan to the position of Minister of Finance from the predom- which spans a mere 15 years. The economic ideology of a mixed
inantly executive position at the head of revenue services, which he economy is already firmly established, and must continue to
has held since 1999. His appointment inspires confidence because evolve. To paraphrase the ANC election manifesto and the words
of his track record of predictability and unrelenting forcefulness in of Jacob Zuma at the time of announcing the cabinet, the time has
moving from virtual chaos to highly systematic solutions. come for action and delivery, rather than debating the basic prin-
Consumers and business alike will welcome the fact that Trevor ciples of what it is that should be delivered.
Manuel remains in cabinet, presumably at an even more elevated
position than before. The work of the new National Planning Continued on page 18
16 June 2009
With inflation at double digit levels, Imperial Auto Parts

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covers a variety of products from tool sets to drill bit sets, along
with innovative products such as the dual head plier.
Supercraft tools offer excellent value for money, have a lifetime warranty and
are exclusive to Imperial Auto Parts. This tool range is available from reputable
aftermarket retail parts stores & Mikar outlets.
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Fax: (021) 582 3459
June 2009 17
Tony’s Take From page 16
CHERY TIGGO RANGE

EXPANDS WITH NEW 1.6-LITRE
& AUTO DERIVATIVES
Chery South Africa has launched a new 1.6-litre model and an
automatic derivative to its Tiggo compact urban SUV range.
Already consisting of a 2-litre model that is available in two
trim levels, the Tiggo is a price leader in its class and packed full
of surprises, offering a sedan-like performance, comfort and
convenience. “Since the Tiggo range was first launched in May
2008, it has proved itself as a very well-rounded and versatile
vehicle,” said Brett Soso, managing director of McCarthy
Vehicle Imports. “These two new models are bound to appeal
to a number of South African motorists who are looking for an
affordable compact SUV.” The Tiggo 2.0 TXE Auto also now
has a multifunctional steering wheel that allows the driver to
conveniently adjust the radio or set cruise control without let-
ting go of the steering wheel.
18 June 2009
A series of articles on the rise of the Chery automobile
Chery Shines
at Shanghai
Motor Show
The Shanghai Motor Show, renamed as Auto Shanghai
2009, ran from 20 to 28 April 2009, and what was
once seen as a marginal show on the international show
circuit, is now considered as the place to be, by all and
sundry. China has overtaken the US as the world’s
largest car market, and with government incentives
China is one of the few countries where the automobile
market is still growing.
The M1
The A3 1,6 and 2,0
W
ith US and Europe car sales
sharply down in the global
recession, China is now per-
ceived as an important market,
and even the luxury players are doing the
unthinkable by premiering at the Shanghai
Show. Porsche unveiled the Panamera, their first
foray into the sedan segment. In another world
premiere, German automaker Daimler AG
unveiled the remodelled Mercedes-Benz S65
AMG sedan. AMG sales nearly tripled in China
last year, and government incentives will give
sales of luxury cars a further boost this year.
China’s leading car maker Chery was, not sur-
prisingly, one of the stars at the show.
"Many automakers now see the Chinese market as at the forefront," said Paul Gao, chief executive of Chery Quantum Auto, a unit of Chinese
carmaker Chery Automobile. What makes Chery unique amongst the domestic manufacturers is its strategy of “going abroad”, and it was the
first Chinese auto company to export CBU, CKD, engines and car manufacturing technologies to foreign countries. In 2008, Chery exported
135 000 vehicles, the sixth consecutive year that Chery took the honours as the leading vehicle exporter in China. An amazing statistic for a com-
pany that was founded in 1997, and its first car coming off the production line on December 18, 1999! South Africa is one of Chery’s impor-
tant export markets, so ABR brings our readers a glimpse of what was on show at Shanghai. Chery has a multi-brand global strategy, with four
brands: Chery, Riich, Rely and Karry. This does cause some confusion when vehicles are displayed, but the good news for South African is that
it will be Chery for all models in this country.
20 June 2009
A series of articles on the rise of the Chery automobile
The stunning Riich G6
The H5 1,9D
The Riich G5 2,0VVT
The Riich X1
C
hery had two electric vehicle concepts on display at this year's Shanghai Motor Show.
The first one is called the Riich M1 EV, and it uses a 336V lithium iron phosphate
battery pack. The vehicle itself is quite small, which should allow a reasonable range
and performance from its 40kW electric motor. Chery claims that a full charge of the M1's
battery will take 4-6 hours using a 220V plug, but a fast charger is reportedly in develop-
ment that would provide an 80 percent charge in just 30 minutes.
The second EV from Chery is based on the automaker's Tiggo platform, a small SUV in the
same vein as the Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V. The Tiggo 3 EV uses a 375V lithium ion
battery pack that powers a permanent magnet electric motor that's rated at 45 kW (60 horse-
power) continuously with short bursts of 90 kW (120 horsepower). Charging times from a
standard 220V outlet stand at 6-8 hours, and again, a quick charger can supposedly offer an
80 percent charge in 30 minutes.
June 2009 21
Frankly Speaking
by Frank Beeton
Dropping a Stitch?
Conventional wisdom suggests that, when companies are faced with deteriorating markets
and extremely challenging financial conditions, the best way to ensure corporate sur-
vival would be to cut costs to the greatest extent possible without compromising the core
business, maximise the take of available sales volumes (with the aid of incentives, if
affordable), “stick to the knitting”, and wait for the (hopefully) inevitable upturn. It may
seem strange, then, that in the present scenario where new car sales volumes in the
world’s largest market (the United States) have retreated to levels last seen in 1992,
many vehicle manufacturers are rushing ahead with new product technologies that will
consume billions of dollars in development and engineering, while there appears to be no
consensus that these will result in any incremental sales!
T
he most com- Since then, a growing number of other vehicle builders have fol-
mon motivation- lowed Toyota’s lead into hybrid territory, but there is still no evi-
al forces behind dence that these vehicles are being sold at prices which adequate-
the progressing ly cover their cost of construction, or provide a realistic margin of
of radical new automotive technical profit to their manufacturers. The subsequent launch in the US of
thinking to production status usu- Honda’s second-generation Insight hybrid at a price well below the
ally include environmentally- Prius’ initial level is likely to further delay any meaningful resolu-
driven legislative require- tion of this question. General Motors has also paid homage at the
ments, the price of fuel, hybrid altar, but is now working flat out to introduce the
and the unending search Chevrolet Volt, which is primarily an all-electric car with an
for competitive advan- overnight plug-in facility for battery charging and an on-board
tage. How-ever, it is more “range extender” petrol-fuelled engine/generator, in 2010. (The
common for evolution to official designation for this type of vehicle is “PHEV” – Plug-In
come in incremental steps, as Hybrid Electric Vehicle). Chrysler has revealed its own array of
evidenced by developments electric propulsion possibilities, while Mitsubishi has shown off
through the 20th Century. the “i MiEV” plug-in zero-emissions car, due for launch to major
Numerous new technolo- Japanese fleet operators during July, 2009. Other manufacturers
gy deviations from the orig- working on electric vehicle development include Proton, Tesla,
inal recipe developed by Karl Ford and Renault/Nissan/Dongfeng. The retail price of the
Benz et al late in the 1800’s emerged Chevy Volt has been estimated at around $US 40 000, some $US
in the intervening years, including 10 000 more than the pre-Insight-launch Prius price level, but, in
petrol-electric vehicles (incredibly, these first the stated opinion of the US government and many commenta-
“hybrids” were already in fairly widespread use tors, this will be too high to ensure ready market acceptance.
well before the First World War!), two-stroke, diesel and rotary There have been reports suggesting that Mitsubishi will price the
engines, the shift from chain drive to shaft drive, then from rear- i MiEV somewhere around $US 25 000, which would put it in a
wheel to front-wheel and all-wheel drive, and the evolution from completely different space. Unfortunately, the same argument
body-on-frame construction to full integral monocoque struc- about product price cross-subsidisation being applied to hybrids
tures. Some of these practices were widely adopted, while others will probably also rear its head in the PHEV arena, and we may
initially faded out, only to re-appear years later. By the turn of the not become aware of their true cost levels for some time.
Millennium, interest had become firmly focused on liquid hydro-
gen as the next mainstream fuel source, but with final adoption The question remains whether these developments will help to
still subject to the solution of numerous distribution and storage save some of the more troubled members of the global motor
challenges. manufacturing community, or just hasten their demise? There is a
body of opinion that says most consumers are likely to become
Toyota launched the Prius petrol-electric hybrid driveline vehicle more conservative in the prevailing economic climate, and will
domestically in Japan during 1997, and drifted it into the global tend to buy well-proven products with a sound reputation. This
market in 2001. Initially it was seen as a novelty, or at best a sig- will not make it easy to sell radical new technology at an expected
nificant learning step on the road to the ultimate dream of pollu- price premium. The preoccupation with fuel cost has abated
tion-free hydrogen propulsion. The rapid rise of world oil prices recently, and is only likely to re-emerge once global demand for oil
to $US 147/bbl in mid-2008, however, brought new focus to bear recovers. Even hybrid vehicles may well be restricted to “fringe”
on this fuel-efficient model, and its first million-unit global sales status in global markets while their pricing remains substantially
landmark was achieved just as oil prices hit their all-time peak. above that of conventional models.
22 June 2009
health care
MOTO Health Care

Managing Your Health
We are reminded almost on a daily basis by the media that there exists a global reces-
sion and that our country has not escaped the fall out from this. Nowhere is this
more evident than in the retail motor industry that has seen a dramatic downturn.
It is therefore not surprising that many of you engaged in this industry are feeling
the pinch, with your household budgets coming under severe pressure. In the circum-
stances it is understandable that those of you who find yourselves in this difficult
situation will be tempted to cut expenses by targeting those that are misguidedly
regarded as grudge purchases. Insurance premiums and medical aid contributions
seem to fall in this category.
I
f there are any of you who are seri- you are required to settle medical bills
ously considering adopting such a that are not covered by your benefit
course of action, I would strongly option.
advise you against it. The fact that • Before your service provider (doctor,
we are experiencing tough times does not dentist, etc.) treats you remember to
reduce or remove altogether the chances of ask him/her whether he/she charges
an event happening that would cause you private or scheme rates. Depending on
to regret having cancelled your medical aid your option, the scheme may not settle
or insurance. You could well find yourself the full bill received from the service
in deeper financial difficulty having to pay provider.
out of your own pocket for expensive med-
• Negotiate a better rate if your service
ical treatments. This added burden can
provider intends charging more than
lead to you developing stress-related ail-
what the scheme is able to pay in terms
ments, which are very costly to treat. It is
of its rules.
far wiser to adjust your lifestyle, maintain
your medical scheme membership, remain • Do not sign blank forms when asked
to do so by your healthcare provider. Barry Canning, Chairman Board of
healthy, and enjoy peace of mind that you Trustees - MOTO Health Care
are covered for unexpected high cost You could be charged for services that
events. are not covered by your benefit option, butions and benefits are determined in
in which case you may be liable to pay many ways and under certain constraints.
Here are some tips to assist you to reduce the bill out of your own pocket. Our actuarial consultants play a pivotal
your medical expenses and so reduce pres- • Use pharmacies that charge SEP 26/26 role in determining the mix of benefits and
sure on your household budget. (single exit price), you may have to pay the contributions, which have to satisfy the
levies or administration fees if your Council for Medical Schemes. A signifi-
• Do not cancel your medical scheme cant influencing factor in this process is
pharmacist does not apply the rate
membership when your budget is the historical claims versus contributions
approved by the department of health.
stretched. If the need to reduce this experience. Thus a positive experience
You do have the right to refuse medica-
expense is unavoidable, rather consider makes it easier for the scheme to settle on
tion if you are not happy with the
buying down to a cheaper option a more benign benefit design and com-
price, it may be more difficult to do
when the next opportunity presents mensurate contribution. For this reason I
this once you have paid, so ask you
itself for you to be permitted to do so. appeal to all of you to regard MHC as a
pharmacist what they charge before
However, do weigh up very carefully precious asset and consequently to use the
you pay.
your likely medical needs with the benefits of MHC in a responsible way,
benefits provided in any lower cost • Do not buy your medication on
which will then hopefully translate into
option. account, this may attract additional
that positive experience.
costs that you are not aware of.
• Do not skip paying your medical aid
contributions. You may end up not I do believe that most of you understand
being covered should anything happen the model on which medical aid schemes
to you or your dependants. are based. Simply put, schemes offer
• Make sure you understand fully what ranges of benefits in return for contribu-
you are covered for in terms of your tions, which make up the pool of money
benefit option. Failure to do so can used to pay the benefits claimed.
lead to added financial difficulty when However, the correlation between contri-
24 June 2009
Vehicle Evaluation
Jiminy Cricket!
by Howard Keeg
In 1968, Suzuki introduced to the world the concept of rugged and lightweight 4 x 4’s that could
go anywhere and do anything. The world has been having heaps of fun with them ever since. These
introductory words do not come from me, but from Suzuki’s Jimny brochure, and who am I to dis-
agree, because during the week that I test drove this vehicle, that is exactly what I did do, I had
heaps of fun! The fun aside, is it a good car? By Jiminy Cricket, it is!
I
had requested the Jimny for a vehicle would not argue. A direct descendant of at R149 900 and will be available from
evaluation as I had experienced this the SJ410 and Samurai 4x4s, the Jimny September 2008 through Suzuki Auto SA’s
vehicle in all its 4 x 4 glory during the ‘retains the astonishing all-terrain capabili- national network of 19 dealers. In summa-
launch in September 2008 at ty and nimble reactions of the original’. ry, I believe that whilst the Grand Vitara is
Assegaay Bosch in the southern Cape, and During our test drive over a demanding 4 a superb vehicle, it is in a busy SUV seg-
it had passed the all terrain challenge with x 4 route, I mused that the Jimny should ment, and may not achieve the sales it
flying colours, but I had yet to test this be called the Dassie in South Africa, and deserves. Conversely, I believe that the
vehicle in city conditions, and I also want- my driving colleague readily agreed. It lit- Jimny is going to surprise Suzuki’s sales
ed to see how it behaved on the open road. erally jumps from rock to rock, with dassie planners. It is going to create a segment of
Once again, I was pleasantly surprised by like aplomb. The 1,3 litre engine delivers its own amongst the young, and young at
this tough little baby, as it navigated good torque at low revs, and with its push- heart, and it will also find favour in the
Gauteng’s highways and byways with button selection of rear-wheel drive, high rural communities and those who want to
aplomb. And for once in my life, I did not range four-wheel drive, or low-range four- get to inaccessible areas.”
have to fear those potholes that are every- wheel drive, this car is a pleasure to drive,
where, and are not been repaired even irrespective of the challenge. Words cannot Prophetic words, and whilst the Jimny
though we all pay our rates and taxes, and describe the all-round ability of this hyrax price has now gone beyond the R170 000
obviously the fuel levy is not being used hybrid, so I leave it to our readers to find mark, it remains an attractive price, con-
wisely. However, help is at hand in the out for themselves. I give the last words to sidering the package that you are getting.
form of the Jimny, because when it comes Kazuyuki Yamashita, Managing Director So attractive in fact, that I am seriously
to badly maintained roads, the Jimny skrik of Suzuki Auto SA, ‘The Suzuki Jimny has considering getting one, as it does the job
for niks. played a pivotal part in the history of the in the city and off the beaten track, seam-
Suzuki brand. In South Africa, the SJ- lessly and cost effectively.
Let’s recall what I said after the launch of series SUVs, and the Samurai, established
the Jimny and Grand Vitara in September a loyal following for Suzuki which endures
2008, “Suzuki proclaim in their press to this day, and it is therefore only fitting
release that the icon is back, and after driv- that we introduce the latest, and vastly
ing this perky, pesky (in the non-literal improved, iteration of those vehicles to
sense of not giving up), lovable rascal, I this market.’ The Jimny 1.3 Manual retails
26 June 2009
Customer C.A.R.E
Customer Relationship
Management
Theo Calitz has been
– what on earth…
working in or involved Customer Relationship Management or CRM has been around for a
the motor industry for
the last 16 years. A while now. The first time I heard about it was in 1994 where I was
mechanical Engineer by exposed to some of Peppers and Roger’s works. Here I learned about
profession, he is passion- concepts like Customers for Life, One-to-one marketing and
ate about customer care
and his company, T-R-M Relationship Marketing. We learned that retention can be many times
specialises in (I heard different figures over the years but the most prevailing
automotive CRM for the seems 8) more profitable than acquisition. It was interesting stuff
automotive industry and
has been doing it for
and it made a lot of sense but where does it leave us today? How
9 years. have we progressed and what does it mean now?
www.t-r-m.co.za
T 0861 TRM TRM
F 086 686 8382
T
he story of Ray Kroc of MacDonald’s fame is still a rel- work and it still is mass mailing which have the benefits of cost and
evant example of the thought process behind CRM. He efficiency (like a hypermarket). Today we even receive brochures
had a figure on his cap which was a high number (like that are customised; your name appear in the right places, the cell
$100 000). This invariably resulted in questions as of phone model that you own and its logical successor appear in the
the meaning thereof upon which he would reply that this is the right places. Amazing! The problem is that with the first introduc-
value of a customer. Incredulously the employees would retort that tion the innovation is great, everybody is wowed. When everybody
they do not see how a company selling $1 burgers could earn that else does it however, this becomes the minimum standard and now
kind of money from a customer. everyone has to get it right. If you mix up the titles or make
spelling mistakes with the name, chances are good that you now
As the story goes Mr. Croc would explain the value of a customer have created a disgruntled customer!
as someone who could 1) buy up – i.e. buy bigger or more,
2) come again and again 3) bring friends and/or family along and It is clear that companies are applying CRM more often these chal-
4) recommend the Big Mac to his/ her circle of influence and do lenging days with a struggling economy as it is a cheaper form of
this over a lifetime. Now you start to understand where the $100 marketing. I see CRM in action daily with the number of SMS’s I
000 comes from. It does illustrate the good and bad of CRM get. It can be useful but mostly it is irritating, especially those
though. On the one hand it is great that companies want our busi- SMS’s from companies that I only have dealt with once, maybe in
ness and make an effort to know more about us but needing to a remote cities. This clearly is not very useful.
submit our information when dealing with a company and then
receiving endless ‘spam’ does seem to present more of a downside There is so much more to CRM. It is great if a company has one
than up. view of me, that every time I need to fill in a form or sign it, my
details are pre filled in. All I have to do is check accuracy. If, when
CRM has become part of our daily lives. I now receive mail (print- I book into a hotel, they know my preferences and my favorite
ed and electronic) which is personalised. This is designed to make room or, when I take my car to the car wash, they know my
me feel special; it was sent just to me after all, because I am impor- favourite fragrance. The good news is, all this is possible but we are
tant. It is almost like the good old days when you could walk into still only at the tip of the iceberg, incredible things can, and will
the corner café and the person behind the counter knew you and still happen in the field of CRM!
knew what you were likely to buy. This is however technology at
28 June 2009
What’s the Buzz?

RENAULT INTRODUCES THE KANGOO
BE BOP Z.E. ELECTRIC VEHICLE
DEMONSTRATOR
Kangoo be bop Z.E. is derived from the production Kangoo be bop
and is instantly recognisable by its Energy Blue body colour, while the
Renault logos on the grille and wheels are picked out in satin-finish
blue-hued chrome. Inside, the satin-finish chrome and metallic acidic
green trim ensure a unique ambience which is further expressed by the
specific grey velour upholstery and embroidered 'printed circuit'
motifs.
Ken Ken Answers from page 8
Audi of South Africa is proud of its

association with the most decorated
SAMA winner: Lira Lerato
“Lira”, has popularly become known as one of
South Africa’s most treasured singers. She
exudes soulfulness and femininity which
comes through in her Afro-Soul music. She
was nominated for 6 South African
Music Awards for 2009, and won 4 of
those 6 at the SAMA’s, which was
held at Sun City on the 2nd of May.
Lira has been an Audi Ambassador
since April 2008, and is current-
ly driving an S3 Sportback.
June 2009
Customer C.A.R.E
Trilogy Customer C.A.R.E.

Programme
– sponsored by Federal-Mogul
MODULE ONE - THE CUSTOMER C.A.R.E. ENIGMA
I
doubt if there are any of the 46 mil- Once again, I ask, why is this? Why do we tioned service in Singapore, etc., etc.These
lion citizens of this country, who can experience inefficient and unfriendly serv- cosmopolitan experiences can all be
honestly say that they have not had ice whenever we visit the supermarket, the ascribed to culture, but in South Africa we
poor service in South Africa. In actu- post office, the bank, any government have managed something unique in cus-
al fact, the majority of us are experiencing department, the motor repair workshop, or tomer service. We manage to be both inef-
very poor service every day of our lives. whatever place you care to mention? Oh ficient and unfriendly at the same time.
yes, I agree, there are wonderful exceptions, This takes some doing, and even if it is a
Why is this? I can personally vouch for but why should pleasant customer service cultural thing, I have one message to those
many such experiences, not only of ineffi- be the exception, rather than the rule? surly, slow, unco-operative and unproduc-
cient service, but unfriendly service, and in tive staff behind the counters, telephones,
many cases, downright rude and arrogant- I ask, once again, why is this? I do have an whatever - we’re not going to take it! We
ly aggressive service. If you are the typical answer, which is a complex and lengthy are the ones paying your salary, so we
South African consumer, you hardly even dissertation, but let us try to distil it into deserve better treatment.
notice such bad service anymore, because one sentence. I hear you say that it is a cul-
you have been desensitised, or in other tural thing, which is unquestionably so. I Back to the distillation process - what is
words, you have been beaten into submis- have been around the world, and I’ve expe- CUSTOMER C.A.R.E. ? Even though it is
sion. I am not in such a fortunate position rienced efficient but dour service in complex, it is also very simple. In one
(is it fortunate?), as my stock in trade is Germany, efficient and friendly service in sentence, CUSTOMER C.A.R.E. is the
customer c.a.r.e., and therefore I am very England, efficient and unfriendly service in intellectual and emotional understanding
conscious of the service levels that I am France, efficient and inscrutable service in that C.A.R.E. means CUSTOMERS ARE
receiving. So, I challenge you - for the next Korea, inefficient but riotously happy and REALLY EVERYTHING. Once this is
week, analyse your service experiences, friendly service in Italy, efficient but truly understood, everything falls into
every minute of the day. I can guarantee unscrupulous service in Hong Kong, effi- place, and the battle is won. Over the next
that after one week, you shall join me as a cient and full teeth friendly service in few modules, we shall explore this concept
raving Customer C.A.R.E. Crusader. Zimbabwe, quaint but friendly service in in more depth, focusing on your own
New Zealand, efficient and air-condi- feelings.
DISCUSSION POINTS
1. Why do you, as a typical South African consumer, accept bad service?
2. Describe a recent bad experience of customer service, in all its gory detail.
3. How does South Africa achieve its unique position of giving both unfriendly and inefficient service - give your frank
opinion on the reasons.
4. It’s all very well to say that we’re not going to take it - discuss the problems that you have with this approach.
5. What is the intellectual understanding of CUSTOMERS ARE REALLY EVERYTHING?
6. What is the emotional understanding of CUSTOMERS ARE REALLY EVERYTHING?
7. The solution to the problem is to start with yourself - what does this mean?
THE NEXT MODULE, WE SHALL START AT THE ROOT CAUSE

OF BAD CUSTOMER SERVICE - MANAGEMENT !
30 June 2009
managing the Risks

It’s been said a million times before that when the going gets tough, the tough get going. This cliché takes
on a new resonance when describing the truck industry. Times may be tough, but trucks are tougher, and
truckers are the toughest. This industry is literally the wheels of the economy, so thank goodness that when
the going gets tough, the toughest get going. A critical element in this dynamic is the ability to keep costs
down, and to ensure that operating costs are kept under tight control. The first port of call in this endeav-
our is to protect against theft and misuse. The first port of call in this endeavour is to protect against theft
and misuse. A close second is thinking smart and keeping costs down. ABR has commissioned Séan
by Séan Jackson Jackson of TRUCKTEK to give our readers a series of tips on Managing the Risks.
Shock Treatment
Last month, Séan Jackson expounded on the benefits of fitting world class shocks,
both in safety and performance, and the concomitant savings in tyres, fuel efficien-
cy, driver fatigue, downtime costs, etc. Séan now looks at the technical aspects of
superior shocks, which translates into lower cost per kilometre.
T
RUCKTEC distributes KONI motto is “Engineered for Life”. KONI has keep the contact of the tyre on the road, to
shock absorbers, and for good a full range of shock absorbers for passen- allow for grip. The following three dia-
reason – KONI shock absorbers ger vehicle, bus, truck, trailer and military grams show the role of the shock absorber,
are “simply the best”. KONI applications, all designed specifically for allied to the role of the springs.
have been designing and developing shock the task at hand, but it is in the area of All good and well, but there are complica-
absorbers since 1857, when they intro- technical superiority that KONI really tions such as damping, and taking it a little
duced shock absorber innovations for stands out. Firstly, let us take a look at the further, rebound damping. This is where
horse driven carriages. Today, KONI is part primary role of a shock absorber, which is KONI shocks come into their own.
of the world renowned ITT Group, whose to minimise wheel movement and thus
Take a look at the next six diagrams, which highlight the effects of damping.
In both the damping, and the rebound damping, KONI can be likened to the story of Goldilocks and the three bears. Goldilocks was
looking for beds, chairs and porridge that were just right. KONI shocks, whatever the application, give damping and rebound damping
that is spot on. So, if Goldilocks happened to be a truck driver, she would find that the truck fitted with KONI shock absorbers would
be “just right”.
32 June 2009
What’s the Buzz?

weighty issues
For Toyota Trucks, Now

by Frank Beeton
Read Hino
Regular readers of this column will be familiar with this scribe’s oft-repeated
contention that happenings in the Australian truck market should be of more than
passing interest to the South African transport community. As far back as 2001, the
Toyota group, in a revision of its Australian strategy, launched the Hino Dutro medium
commercial into that market. This turned out to be a badge-engineered sibling to the
then-current version of the Toyota Dyna light truck. At that time, it was not generally
known that this highly successful light truck series was, in fact, manufactured by Hino
Motors, although it had been marketed widely as a Toyota-badged product.
Subsequently, the Toyota-badged version was phased out in Australia, and Hino emerged
as the group’s exclusive truck brand “down under” for everything larger than a Hilux
pickup. The Dutro name was also deleted in favour of “Hino 300 Series” in 2007,
bringing the nomenclature into line with the heavier Hino 500 Series cruiserweights
(formerly known as Rangers) and 700 Series extra-heavies (previously called Profias).
I
n South Africa, a similar, but not Hino has a clear mission to improve its
identical, process has been followed. local performance in the Extra Heavy mar-
At the Johannesburg International ket segment. Since the discontinuation of
Motor Show late last October, the local Atlantis Diesel Engine fitment
truck division of Toyota SA Motors began through the 1990’s, the performance of
the process of morphing into Hino South Hino product in the local market for multi-
Africa. However, at that time, the Toyota axled trucks has trailed behind that of arch-
Dyna MCV line-up still clung steadfastly rival Nissan Diesel. During the first quarter
its identity, and there was a strong feeling of 2009, Hino sales in this segment were
that the internal corporate political climate brand should not cause any disruption, slightly more than a third of equivalent
because the basic product stays unchanged, Nissan Diesel volumes, which were, by far,
was not yet ready for the full switchover.
and all the properties that have led to its the highest for any Japanese-sourced
Sure enough, the process moved forward
past success will be carried over. The wider XHCV product range. Operators buying
during April, 2009, when most of the
vehicles in the XHCV class are mostly
Dyna range gave way to Hino 300 Series- adaptation of the Hino identity for Toyota’s
engaged in long-distance linehaul opera-
badged equivalents, although it was note- South African commercial vehicle opera-
tions, with a significant secondary element
worthy that the “baby” of the Dyna family, tion is clearly intended to shift perceptions
involved in construction-related activities.
the one-and-a-half ton payload 4-093, was of the group’s commitment levels to the
This is clearly a huge opportunity for
still to carry Toyota branding into the truck business, despite its Hino, and an important avenue by which
future. considerable history of success in this area. the present 7% market share gap to overall
It is no secret that the truck market truck market leader Mercedes-Benz can be
It is entirely appropriate that this rebrand- demands a radically different business narrowed.
ing exercise has been approached with a approach to that employed in the light
degree of caution. The Toyota Dyna has vehicle sector. This is particularly evident in In global terms, Hino Motors Limited is an
been an incredibly successful model range the need for clear communication channels extremely important and successful manu-
in South Africa, having chalked up more between vehicle users, and the manufactur- facturer of light, medium and heavy trucks
than 80 000 unit sales since its introduc- er’s top management, in all its activities. and buses. The fact that is 50,1% owned by
tion to this market in 1965. While the The appointment of a comprehensive net- Toyota does it no harm at all. The develop-
Hino brand has been locally present since work of dealers and sales outlets does not, ments in Australia and South Africa are
1972, it started off initially as a supplemen- in itself, guarantee success, and the inter- part of a global plan to position Hino as a
tal product line-up to the volume-selling face with the purchasers of these working truly global brand by 2015. Other elements
Toyota branded trucks, notably the Dyna vehicles requires a high deal of co-ordina- include the opening of new plants in
and DA Series of bonneted 7-tonners. For tion. Every broad-based vehicle franchise Arkansas (USA), Mexico and Colombia,
many years, locally-sold Hino products car- that has tried to succeed in the truck arena and joint ventures in India and Russia.
ried additional “Toyota” badging to clearly has made this same voyage of discovery, Hino’s annual global sales currently
indicate their corporate connection to the and those that have not established suffi- amount to just more than 100 000 units.
best-selling vehicle family. However, the cient credibility with the operating com-
clever timing of the local migration of munity have been left licking extremely
much of the Dyna family to the Hino painful and costly wounds.
34 June 2009
Auto Topical
Automotive GDP
Contribution Recovers
by Tony Twine
in 2008
Given the pressure that the integrated South African Automotive sector was under in terms
of sales during 2008, the calculation of the sector contribution to the country’s Gross
Domestic Product (GDP) initially came as a surprise to the research team at Econometrix.
In April each year, they sift through various data sources, including trading revenue sta-
tistics from STATS SA, Reserve Bank data and international trade data assembled by
Normal Lamprecht, Executive Manager at NAAMSA. The objective is to estimate the propor-
tional contribution of the Automotive Sector, split between manufacturers and assemblers,
importers and the motor retail trade, to the total GDP of the country.
T
he result of the analysis for 2008 of reducing the sector’s international trade sound systems that can melt Ellispark, to
showed that, after reaching a deficit from R35.6 billion in 2007 to the full splendor of gadgets with which to
peak contribution share of frac- R14.7 billion in 2008. This was the single pimp ones ride, geographic positioning
tionally over 7,4% of GDP in largest contribution to the recovery of systems and ultra sophisticated tracking
the record new vehicle sales year of 2006, GDP share. devices. Because the relatively modest
the automotive sector share of total value decline in new vehicle domestic unit sales
added in the economy dropped to 6.8% The second important contribution came of -5.2% had contributed to eroding the
during 2007. Based on two results during from after market sales, where STATS SA sector’s share of GDP so markedly during
2008 that have been mentioned in the data reveals a doubling of the growth rate 2007, observers would have been forgiven
automotive business press over recent of the retail sales value of accessories from for anticipating an even worse contraction
months, but which are sometimes difficult 18.3% during 2007 (already a hugely in GDP share during 2008, simply on the
to translate directly into a picture of any impressive rate), to 36.6% during 2008. back of a -20.2% decline in NAAMSA
gain or loss of GDP share, the contribution unit sales that year. But the rapid growth
of the vertically integrated automotive sec- The annual Econometrix study splits the of export volumes and values and relatively
tor spring back to 7.3% of the country’s value added contribution of the sector into tame value growth for both imported vehi-
GDP during 2008. 2 major areas, namely vehicle and compo- cles and components for domestic vehicle
nents supplier’s share, and the share of the assembly, meant that the severe negative
The bigger of these two events turned out retail motor sector. The latter includes effect of the sectors international trade bal-
to be the massive increase in export rev- value added by means of new vehicle retail ance was reduced to such an extent that its
enue earned by the industry, made up activity, used vehicle margins, parts and GDP share rose back to almost record lev-
mainly of vehicle exports, which increased workshop sales, and the rapidly growing els during a rather depressed domestic
in value by 82% or R22.6 billion com- value of accessory sales. The latter includes vehicle demand year.
pared to 2007’s levels. This had the effect all kinds of electronic equipment, from car
Predicting an outcome for 2009 is at least
as hazardous as was trying to forecast 2008,
even after the year had closed! While orig-
inal equipment sales levels were heavily
down during the first four months of
2009, and vehicle exports were also taking
a pounding from the global recession, slack
domestic demand probably implies that
sector imports will probably reduce during
the year. At this very early stage, with little
more than the very up to date NAAMSA
new vehicle sales statistics to go by, it
appears that the sector will do well to hang
onto the GDP share which it attained last
year. We should not forget, however, that
the overall value of Gross Domestic
Product in the country has probably also
moved backwards so far in 2009, further
complicating the art of prediction.
36 June 2009
Personal profile
Q&A INTERVIEW WITH JACQUES BRENT

by Roger McCleery
South Africa has produced top motormen in many spheres.

They have achieved great things overseas and under unique-
ly tough conditions in our market, they have achieved great
things here in South Africa. Such a person is 39-year-old
Jacque Brent, Vice President of Marketing, Sales and
Service at Ford and Mazda. He has enjoyed a string of
successes and a meteoric rise to the top.
It is an old saying that “Once a Ford man,

always a Ford man.”
Q. HOW DID IT ALL START FOR Astoria Bakery as the General Manager a year later. Pleasing was that we nearly
YOU? I was born in PE. My grandfather, where I stayed for two years. won the Car of the Year, according to
Dennis, was a Ford Sub-dealer in Peddie what we hear, with the Ford Fiesta, just
in the Eastern Cape after a spell with the Q. THEN BACK INTO THE one year after the Mazda 2 took the title.
GM Franchise. My Dad, Jeff, worked for MOTOR INDUSTRY? Back I came to
Ford in PE and Silverton for 37 years, so I Ford Motor Company to integrate Land Q. WHO MADE A BIG IMPRES-
have lived with Ford culture all my life. Rover, which had been bought by Ford SION IN YOUR LIFE?
away from BMW, and to get it to fit A. My father and brother, Donavan, who
Q. I SUPPOSE YOU WANTED TO seamlessly into Ford. The idea was to worked for and are still working for Ford,
JOIN FORD? Not really. When I was retain the Land Rover culture, which is and Martha Woolard, who taught me a
at school at Westering in PE and Glen different from most other manufacturers. lot about Ford and its systems.
High, Pretoria, I wanted to be a pilot, but After completing that job I was appointed
that came to nothing. My parents con- as Finance Director of Land Rover, which Q. MARRIED? To Tracy, with three
vinced me I needed a degree or two so off lasted a year. daughters, Tamryn, Nicola and Alexia,
I went to university. who are all at Woodhill College in
Q. BIG THINGS WERE HAPPEN- Pretoria. They are all very supportive of
Q. SO WHAT DID YOU DO? After ING AT FORD? We formed Land what I do, especially with the hours that
school I went to the University of Pretoria Rover, Jaguar and Volvo into one compa- I spend away from home.
and took my B.Comm. majoring in ny called The Premier Automotive Group
Accounting. (PAG) and I was the Financial Director of Q. WOULD YOU GO AND WORK
that until Deesch Papke left Volvo in OVERSEAS IF ASKED? Yes, for
Q. WHERE DID YOU WANT TO 2003 to go to Russia and I took his place experience, but I would ultimately like to
WORK? Armed with a Post Graduate as the MD of Volvo for the next two work in South Africa in the motor
Diploma in Education with the emphasis years. industry.
on Accounting and Economics, I wanted
to be a teacher, but after a short time at Q. ALL THESE BRANDS DID Q. SPORTS? Mainly motor sports. I’m
Germiston High School I decided that WELL IN THE MARKET PLACE? also a recreational golfer with a huge
would not be for me. Volvo took the Car of the Year with the handicap which I am not going to dis-
S40 in 2004, which pleased me a lot. close here.
Q. WHAT FOLLOWED AFTER
THAT? One year’s Military Service in Q. THINGS KEPT CHANGING? Q. READING? Mainly non-fiction titles
Intelligence and then three years working I came back to Ford as National Sales and particularly biographies about South
in the Finance Department of Unilever in Manager, and despite it being a tricky Africa and South Africans.
Boksburg, concentrating on finance and period in our history, Ford sales went up.
the management development program. Q. WHAT CAR DO YOU DRIVE?
Q. MAZDA PART OF THE PIC- A Mazda CX7 for its functionality.
Q. YOU HAD TO GET TO FORD TURE? For one year I took over as
SOMETIME. In 1995 I joined Ford in General Manager of Mazda when sales Q. IF MONEY WAS NO PROB-
the Finance Department as a Revenue went up there as well, with the Mazda 2 LEM? A Ford Mustang or a GT40,
Accountant. taking the 2008 Car of the Year title. which I have never driven, although an
offer has been made by Colin Lazarus.
Q. THINGS REALLY STARTED TO Q. CURRENTLY? I was appointed A Focus RS would be great as well.
HAPPEN AT THE TURN OF THE Vice President of Marketing and Sales for
CENTURY? At 30 I got an offer to join Ford and Mazda with service being added
38 June 2009
and Their
by Marcus Haw
Tyres Contribution to
Safety in Motoring
Some fleet owners/managers may be feeling a bit left out after the last two articles
knowing they have vehicles with different capacities and yet many of the same tyre
problems. These would be the fleets with trucks of more than 4ton capacity, but not
more than 10tons. These guys have as many different applications as all the vehicles
we have been discussing. They also have as many tyre problems, some exactly the same
and some isolated to these vehicles only. There are in fact some advantages with
these over the smaller vehicles, the best one being that due to the tyre sizes used,
better mileages can be expected. But before we get into the details, let’s look at the
operations in general.
W
hat kinds of operations use the vehicles in The routes used by this segment of vehicle obviously include every
this category? Many, and varied kinds; furni- kind one would imagine, and many we would never imagine.
ture transporters, long distance parcel carri- Even those trips which would be considered as only ever on tar
ers, explosives, supermarkets, meat, vegeta- roads, are often on roads in such poor condition that they are
bles, refrigeration, farmers and farm suppli- harder on tyres than the off-road ones. Those used in construc-
ers, some tippers, milk, bread, animal-feeds, automotive parts, tion, and the electrical power supply companies, are very often not
trans-African tourist carriers, construction companies and many on roads at all. And once the ‘roads’ are built, they are constantly
more. What types and configurations do these vehicles come in? on sand, rock and mud. Those used on long haul have to put up
Again the answer is many and varied; various load bodies, high, with higher speeds, higher loads, and although the main roads are
low, flat-deck, dropside, tow/ good, those at the beginning
recovery, refrigerated, skeletal and end of each trip may not be
(not common), some tankers so good. The short distance
(very commonly as watercarts in ones suffer from stop start driv-
construction), municipal garbage ing, left turns, right turns, up
collection, and even including hill and down hill. The tyres
bus bodies for tourist carriers. suffer in all these operations,
and that’s without taking the
vehicle body needs of the vari-
By far, the majority are single ous operations into account.
drive-axle with dual rear wheel
fitment. There are a few special High bodies are the hardest on
purpose vehicles with dual drive- tyres due to the lateral sway
axles, or my pet hate, two rear they induce. This loads and
axles but one being a tag-axle. unloads the tyres constantly on
Then there are many where the any of the routes mentioned
steer axle is a drive axle as well. In and in all the operations. The
most cases, such as those vehicles tour operators are distinct in
used by Eskom and other electri- this respect from the others and
cal pylon erectors, as well as some we’ll get to them later. The flat
in the construction sector, the Typical in town curb scuffing decks and drop-sides should be
rear drive axle has dual wheel fit- the easiest, but aren’t because
ment. The 4X4 configurations used by tour operators in trips up they don’t limit the weight in any way, and nor do the operators.
Africa, use single wheel fitment all round with extra large tyres These vehicles are usually the most abused. They also don’t limit
which have some flotation capability and have deep off-road tread the load type, so very often they are loaded as high as those with
patterns. So as you can see, these vehicles are as versatile if not high load bodies. Although we say high load bodies are the hard-
more so, than those discussed previously, and are therefore very est on tyres, they are hardest when, or if, all the configurations are
much in demand. loaded within the correct parameters. Otherwise the flatbeds and
drop-sides can be harder on tyres.
42 June 2009
Any and every load will do even at the same time
These are also used in more varied operations, where those with The tyres in use are the first
closed bodies are more specialised and therefore their load types are place to start. Generally it
more constant. is good practice to run
radial tyres. So if you are
So now there is a basic idea of the general operations of the vehi- running 10.00-20 or
cle segment and some of the difficulties. But how does this all 11.00-20 tyres you should seriously
affect the tyres? consider changing. However, there are some excep-
tions as these cross-ply tyres are a lot cheaper than radial tyres. So
As already mentioned, the one advantage these vehicles have over if your operation is so harsh that your tyres are getting damaged
the previously discussed segment is that the tyres can be expected before they reach their potential life, buy the cheapest and stay
to last longer. with the cross-plies.
The reason for this is purely that the tyres are bigger, their rolling This advice would normally apply to scrap metal dealers, some
circumference is greater meaning that to travel the same distance municipal garbage removals, and sometimes also in the construc-
their job is comparatively easier. This naturally means that running tion industry.
costs are also generally lower. While this is a good thing for every-
one concerned, the potential improvements are harder to achieve. There are some operations where buying the best only means
But they are possible, and very achievable. Let’s look at the tyres scrapping better tyres. But before this decision is taken, one
involved. needs to be absolutely sure that you cannot improve the condi-
tions that your tyres work in.
This vehicle segment uses a variety of different tyre sizes, usually
ranging from 10.00-20s up to 12R22.5s. The latter is somewhat of Remember, whatever improvement you can make will improve
an overkill although what some operators load on these vehicles your running costs, so make it. Even if it still works out that buy-
still manages to stress the tyres. However, it is the total operation ing the cheaper option is the best way, you still need to get the
package that makes the segment so ‘tyre-harsh’ - the routes, the most out of them. Remember to be realistic in your thinking and
loads, the speeds and the specifics of each individual operation. your expectations. All tyres and all tyre brands can be damaged.
These are the challenges the controllers must face from day to day
if they want to improve their tyre and general running costs. And In the next issue we will look at as many operational problems
as mentioned in the previous issue, improving your tyre costs is a and tyre remedies as we can, and we’ll get into some cost saving
never ending challenge although maintaining low costs is the as well.
biggest and hardest challenge. www.bridgestone.co.za
June 2009
43
Diamond Dialogues
Editorial
Partnership
Giel Steyn
In this series of articles ABR discusses with Giel Steyn of Grandmark International the four significant factors that should be
taken into account when purchasing automotive parts - Technology, Quality, Safety and Value for Money. These four
characteristics are inter-related, and each cannot stand on their own, and together they become a motorist's best friend. Similarly, diamonds
are also judged on four characteristics, known as the “four c's” - carat, clarity, colour and cut; and of course, diamonds are a girl's best friend.
Grandmark International, as a distributor of automotive parts, is keenly aware of the need to source only the best in Technology, Quality,
Safety and Value for Money, and therefore it is appropriate that this series of articles is titled Diamond Dialogues.
Inferior Parts – the Consequences

In the two previous issues of ABR, Giel Steyn of Grandmark explained the differences
between the terms quality, original, genuine, pirate part and counterfeit; all these
terms being measured against a quotation that Giel uses as his personal yardstick,
“I think it is an immutable law in business that words are words, explanations are
explanations, promises are promises – but only performance is reality”.
I
n this issue, Giel closes the discussion Over and above government interventions,
with a look at the ramifications of fitting what can the trade do to stop this scourge?
inferior parts, and the true cost in both Picture Giel’s advice is 1) to only buy from reputable
human and economic terms. We do not have courtesy of suppliers and/or at least purchase known
to labour the point around the life threaten- trade names, 2) to be very suspicious of
ing dangers to which you are exposing your-
the RMI “white” box product; 3) to insist on a warran-
self and your family when you fit poor qual- ty; and 4) to be aware of the dangers when
ity brakes, windscreens, lights, tyres, safety offered a very low price - if the price is too
belts, etc. These parts could cause a serious good to be true, it is most probably too good
accident, or not protect you when you’re to be true. If distributors, wholesalers, and
involved in such an accident, but have you the other resellers and fitters down the line
considered the human safety factor when you follow this advice, it will make it very diffi-
fit other “innocuous” products such as radia- cult for the unscrupulous importers and sup-
tors, clutches, suspension parts, and the like. pliers to ply their trade, but it will not eradi-
When you suffer a mechanical breakdown cate the problem. Eradication will require a
and your car is at a standstill, it can be irritat- massive effort from everyone throughout the
ing and you will incur financial costs, but industry, but especially the members of the
what if you break down in an isolated spot? RMI who control a huge proportion of the
If help does not arrive in a hurry, the odds are aftermarket. A collective, committed and
pretty short that sooner rather than later constant effort will over time become an
some one will relieve you of your possessions impenetrable trade barrier. However, the end
and maybe your life. Human safety is thus no user is key, and all the consumer has to do is
longer only hostage to vehicle accidents; it is to exercise some common sense. Giel once
also vulnerable when you fit less “safety criti- again uses a quote to reinforce this aspect.
cal” parts. John Ruskin, a 19th century English author
A drag link fitted to an Isuzu KB280; ten and social reformer hits the nail on the head,
Apart from the safety factor, the economic kilometres later, as the driver entered his “It is unwise to pay too much, but it’s worse
costs also have significant consequences. driveway, the vehicle stopped when the to pay too little. When you pay too much, all
Whether the product is counterfeit or inferi- front wheels had a mind of their own, and you lose is a little money, that is all. When
or or both, deceived customers do not receive went awol, just from a little bump. What you pay too little, you sometimes lose every-
value for money, and the perception is rein- the owner thought he was buying was a one thing because the thing you bought was inca-
forced that the automotive aftermarket is piece forged unit – but what he got was a pable of doing the thing it was bought to do.
sometimes prone to rather dubious practices. remanufactured unit welded together and The common law of business balance pro-
Far fetched stories thus become fodder for sold as new, and with a welding penetra- hibits paying a little and getting a lot – it
the media, and the whole industry is tarred tion of less than 15% of the joint. Imagine can’t be done. If you deal with the lowest bid-
with the same brush. However, there is an if he was doing 120km with his family in der it is well to add something for the risk
even bigger cost to the country, because the the car and he hit a pothole. The irony of you run, and if you do that you will have
vast majority of automotive product, the situation is that suspension parts are enough to pay for something better.” Amen.
whether good or bad, that is sold in this not even considered as safety critical. The good news for the end consumer is that
country comes from across the seas. It is there are companies such as Grandmark
therefore not an exaggeration to describe the right direction, as it holds everyone in the International, who are proud to be part of
inferior parts as a threat to our country’s supply chain jointly and severally responsible the solution, supplying quality product at
economy, and that the government should and liable for harm and/or loss. This will reasonable prices, and who are committed to
treat the obligation to eradicate this practice make the purveyors of inferior product sit up bringing respect to the industry.
as a national priority. The proposed and take notice, but some are just irre-
Consumer Protection Bill is a major step in deemable.
44 June 2009
Safety, Bling and Flying High
Safety and Bling By Marcus Haw - mhaw@bridgestone.co.za
With the current global economic crash, vehicle sales are taking a pounding. It is gen-
erally believed that this will continue for some time yet, and that replacement cycles
are going to lengthen quite drastically. It is expected that while people will keep
their means of transport for longer periods, they will off-set their “boredom” by
prettying the vehicles up. Wheels and tyres are always top of any wish list, and sales
of these high profile items seldom slow down, even in tough times. In fact, if the above
thinking proves correct, future sales may indeed improve.
T
his brings me to one of my main concerns, which It is sometimes an advantage for a vehicle to be able to slide. While
involves a growing trend. It is currently high fashion to it is sliding, it won’t roll. When the grip is too high, and no slip-
put extremely large diameter wheel rims, usually page takes place at the bottom, and lateral forces cause the top to
chrome and very ‘bling’, fitted with ultra-low profile carry on going until the inevitable roll over.
tyres on MPVs, SUVs, and bakkies. The safety of your vehicle
should never be compromised by the need to beautify it. With recently inspected tyres on three vehicles involved in
rollovers, one fatal, they all occurred when the drivers swerved to
Low profile tyres are far superior to conventional profile tyres avoid different emergencies. All three responded to the swerve and
when it comes to ultimate grip and handling. This is the reason rolled on the recovery from too much grip at the point when the
that high speed sports and super cars are fitted with them. The lat- lateral forces swopped sides.
est executive saloons and even the newest budget hatches are going
lower and lower in their tyre profiles in the interests of response,
grip and handling. They enhance safety on cars through improved
handling and braking performance. However, this very factor is
why fitting them to SUVs, 4X4s and the others can present a dan-
ger that few realise exists.
Cars and especially sports cars have a low centre of gravity (COG).
They can accept extremely high lateral G-forces without reaching
the point of rolling. SUVs, 4X4s, MPVs and double cabs have a
high COG, and their roll moment is reached far earlier than cars.
The phenomenal grip provided by ultra low profile tyres can work
against one in an emergency in a high COG vehicle.
Suzuki Slick 360 Wows the Crowds at Rand Airport
T
hey descended by their
thousands on the Rand
Airport on Sunday
17th May 2009, to see
an enthralling air show. Whilst the
cars were gridlocked and earth-
bound outside the airport and the
frustrated drivers were gobbling
with the turkeys, the young guns
in their magnificent flying
machines were soaring with the
eagles. Despite the wind, the air
jockeys enthralled the crowd, and
Johnnie Smith, crop sprayer extra-
ordinaire and part time aerobat,
did not disappoint in his Suzuki
Slick 360, doing an exciting rou-
tine of aerial flips, flaps, pirouettes
and his own version of the Jackson
moonwalk.
46 June 2009
Safety, Bling and Flying High
X-Customs Motorcycles
Is it engineering? Is it Art? You Decide!
X-Customs was created in South Africa for the exclusive motorcy-
cle enthusiast, Art Collector and Investor. They build and manu-
facture unique designs and complete Custom motorcycles, utilis-
ing the most technically advanced engineering in Computer
Numeric Control (CNC) manufacturing; CNC bending and the
latest Tig Welding – all done in-house! Rian Janse van Rensburg
founded the company in South Africa in 2003 after many years
working for a Custom Motorcycle Operation in the USA. Here he
perfected his trade and brought his knowledge of select engineer-
ing and the art of bike building back to South Africa. Rian has a
passion for creating beautiful timeless classics and is a perfection-
ist to the core. Mark Groenewald; the owner of RT Group; the
company that incorporates Rolling Thunder Classic Cars,
Danmar Autobody, Hillbank, AMG Conversions and Autohaus
Danmar invested in X-Customs in 2007, enabling this exclusive
Company to take shape in the form of a very large and very well dream becomes your reality. The cost of building your own
equipped Workshop and Showroom. Motorcycle starts at around R320 000, and can be built within 3
months. The cost is ultimately determined by your choice of
To have your dream motorcycle built is easy with X-Customs. All accessories and components. You are free to visit their workshop
you need is a picture in your head or on paper of what your dream and showroom at Autohaus Danmar, Cnr Modderfontein &
bike resembles. X-Customs works with you to create a blue-print Hereford Road, Longmeadow Business Park, Modderfontein,
and conceptualise the final design. The overall look, theme and Johannesburg or do it virtually at www.x-customs.co.za
design of your Motorcycle will be determined by your choice of
Frame - Tank – Motor – Wheels – Brakes – Suspension - Art
work. The choice of motor is yours and X-Customs brings in any
type of motor ranging from a Harley-Davidson Motor® to an S&
S Motor. The choice of the X-Customs experts is most certainly
performance motor by ‘Patrick Racing.’ www.patrickracing.com.
Almost every part of the X-Customs Motorcycle is built from
‘seamless certified tubing’. Various components are designed by
Jacques Gates; X-Customs highly trained Machinist; using the 3D
CAD system. X-Customs Frames are completely Tig welded and
allowed to fully cool in the Jig for 100% accuracy. All parts
are ‘brought to life’ in-house at the X-
Customs Engineering Workshop.
The beauty of having your own
bike built is that you can visit the
X-Customs Workshop at anytime
to view and understand the build-
ing process – this ensures that your
June 2009 47
Transport history
Stonehenge – eat
By Austin Gamble
your heart out
Ancient road gives hope to auto industry
Hidden in the tall grasses of the Highveld escarpment are sections of ancient road
that serve to encourage the auto industry that even after entire economies have col-
lapsed and been forgotten, transport will go on. To find inspiration for the future
of the auto industry, ABR’s Austin Gamble took the GM’s V6 Captiva in search of what
amateur archeologists have dubbed “Africa’s oldest road”.
T
he Captiva LTZ is a 3,2l V6 AWD that takes one off – according to local Sangomas – dates back much further than the
the beaten path with little fuss and in sublime comfort. Stonehenge’s 2 000 to 3 000 BC.
Its on road and off road capabilities are awesome to
behold and make it the ideal car for the adventurer “The mysteries around the origin and age of the Highveld ruins
who wants to travel in style. A somewhat thirsty beast, but what can inspire a slew of Indiana Jones or Lara Croft sequels,” says
do you expect when you have 189kW of power and 297 Nm of Viljoen, who recently invited the archeology departments of the
torque on tap? Our attempt to be the first vehicle on an 8 000 Wits and Arizona universities to install new dating techniques at
year old road came to naught because of the difficult terrain and various sites of the complex that stretches from Ermelo in the
the fact that no 4x4 tracks have yet been established, but we’ll be south to Steelpoort in the north. “We hope that by the end of
back once we have the benefit of local knowledge and some fur- 2010 the new dating techniques will add an empiric age to our
ther surveying to be undertaken by the Graham Hancock mysterious complex, and are confident that this date will at least
wannabes from Mpumalanga. I hope to be taking the Captiva list the Highveld’s lost city amongst the oldest in southern Africa,
again, because thus is a superb vehicle, and somewhat underrated, and at best, qualify it as Africa’s oldest”. Meanwhile, the
and when I get the chance to actually get close enough to these Highveld’s complex of ruins are still officially described as “cattle
ancient roads, I can then give the vehicle a thorough evaluation. kraals” in tourism brochures because, as Viljoen explains, the
Is this an ancient road? The secrets of the ancient travelers will Close to Waterval Boven is an easily identifiable stretch of
eventually be revealed. ancient road, but not yet accessible
Alwyn Viljoen, spokesperson for the Highlands Meander, says more visible remains looks like – and have in the past 800 years
that the tall elephant grasses in the Highveld hide a vast complex often been used – as kraals by various tribes. “Challengers to the
of ancient megaliths, geometric structures, terraces and walled cattle-kraal theory however point out that the stone circles have
roads which could very well be SA’s real lost city. Viljoen says local no entrances and they question why the cattle herders construct-
amateur archeologists have already mapped a complex that ed many kilometres of walled roads against steep hills.
stretches over an area that is bigger than Johannesburg and which
48 June 2009
Transport history
Viljoen says that despite the vast size of the complex, most of the
remains of the thousands of stone circle ruins are only ankle-high
Aliens?
and often hidden even in short grass, which is why no-one has On the other extreme, esoteric author of “Slave Species of the
bothered to “connect the dots” until now. “The disastrous fire that Gods” and renegade scientist Michael Tellinger has interviewed
swept through the Highveld escarpment a few years ago had the sangomas and healers who venerate the megalithic structures near
one benefit that it exposed the sheer number of these faint stone Kaapsehoop, dubbed “Adam’s Calendar”. Tellinger lectures to
circles to pilots and farmers. We currently know of more than 20 eager audiences that the Adams Calendar megalith would have
000 stone circle structures, and encourage hikers to report the been in sync with the sun some 75,000 years ago, although his
location of any new ruins that they often literally stumbled over.” psychic sources, which include Credo Mutwa, claim the megalith
Viljoen says the sections of ancient roads in the escarpment con- has been in use for more than 250,000 years.
ceal “a very humbling and encouraging lesson for business: no
matter how the economy and technology changes – the business Dravidian Indians?
of transport will go on.” All it takes is to survive is to anticipate The middle theory, lead by anthropologist Dr Cyril Hromnik,
and then meet customers’ changing needs, as General Motors did presents an Indo-African connection, with members of India’s
when it bought Daewoo for a song to add some American mar- Dravidian trading caste supposed to have built the terraced stone
keting muscle to Korean affordability, or when its engineers built towns near their open cast mines and horizontal shafts. Dr
the Volt electrical car, long before Nissan’s recent plans to shortly Hromnik’s theory is that the Indians sailed from the Gomti River
sell as many electric cars as fuel-burning models. to explore and later colonise the area now known as Komatipoort,
expanding their trading route through settlement from Carolina
Who built the Stone Ruins? to Steelpoort to Lydenburg. His hypothesis rests on the quaintly
Currently three schools of thought each present a different romantic anthropological fact that most Indian castes required
hypothesis about the origin of the ruins, ranging from African gold dowries to get married, and is supported by notes from 14th-
tribes to gods to the Dravidian trading caste from India. century Dutch and Portuguese seafarers, who met with Indians
from the Gomti River who was actively mining around
African Tribes? Komatipoort. Dr Hromnik also used the so-called Moon Sickle,
an astrologically-aligned structure near Steelpoort, as well as more
The officially accepted and very conservative theory, lead by
tenuous linguistic links, to build a postulate that the Indians
archeological Professor Pieter Delius, is that the older ruins date
colonisers intermarried with the Kung Bushmen to create the
back to AD 1200, built and subsequently occupied by African
Hottentot race, which descendants later intermarried with newly
tribes, ranging from the small baKoni and the mighty maTabele,
African tribes to create the Venda tribe.
to the current baPedi and siSwati.
More on this legend in the making in future issues of ABR.
The Captiva handles uneven

terrain with aplomb
June 2009 49
Burford on Brands
Pontiac About to Join its Ancestors

The swinging 60s suited Pontiac to a tee, but clearly the first decade of
the 21st century has not. By the end of 2010 it looks very likely that
by Adrian Burford it will be no more, disappearing as part of General Motors’ s plans to
survive by shedding a number of brands – including Pontiac.
W
ho would’ve thought it the evocative names there wasn’t the per- 1960s Pontiac was GM’s most successful
would come to this, the formance to back it up. That may explain division in terms of image and also the
brand named after a war- why Pontiac had a somewhat fuzzy image most profitable per car. There was simply
like Ottawa Indian chief- by the middle 1950s, being neither fish no question what Pontiac stood for: per-
tain who rose against the British sent to the nor fowl in the eyes of the American pub- formance, speed and sex appeal.
car cemetery after more than eight lic. This market research was the catalyst to
decades? Of course, it acts as a poignant creating a sporty new image, partly By the mid-1970s the V8 performance
reminder that nothing is impossible in the achieved thanks to a new V8 and success in cars which had been the USA’s stock in
modern motor industry and Chrysler’s NASCAR racing. trade for the last dozen years were all but
Plymouth is also gone, dead and like the rest Pontiacs
another brand which made were becoming smaller and less
its name in the muscle car sporty.
era. Despite its muscle car
reputation, Pontiac started In 1980 the first front-drive
its life as a genteel and versions went on sale. By the
affordable sub-brand of GM beginning of 1988, with the
subsidiary Oakland, and exception of the Fiero and the
was so successful that it Firebird, all Pontiacs were
became a separate entity in front-wheel-drive yet this phi-
its own right almost imme- losophy seemed to work and it
diately. It then proceeded to was the third-placed domestic
speed up the demise of its brand in the States that year.
parent, which was gone by Arguably one of the finest
1932. Pontiacs from that era was the
Fiero, a neat-looking and agile-
All early Pontiacs had handling mid-engined two-
straight six powerplants and seater, which was unfortunately
two doors, and in 1926 undermined by a wheezy
were keenly priced at a little over 800 That started in the latter part of the 50s engine and a lack of development. It never
Dollars. These cars were Chevy-based in and ultimately culminated in the GTO. ultimately achieved its true potential
terms of bodywork and also dipped into While Firebird is probably the best-known despite the eventual introduction of a V6
other areas of the GM parts basket. They Pontiac model, aficionados go all starry- model. Nevertheless, Pontiac peaked in
were made of thicker steel than Chevrolets eyed when the GTO name is mentioned. 1984, when it sold almost 850 000 vehi-
so their refinement was superior, though A take on Ferrari’s Gran Turismo cles, making it GM’s third largest division.
performance suffered as a result, giving rise Omologato – a nomenclature which is
to the slightly sedate reputation. steeped in motor sport – the ‘Goat’ as it is But since then it has been mostly downhill
affectionately known grew out of the with little in the way of signature models
Interestingly, the very first cars manufac- Tempest, a fairly mundane American com- to keep the faithful happy and nothing
tured at the General Motors South African pact of the early 1960s designed with a cutting edge to meet the needs of younger
plant in Port Elizabeth were Pontiacs and only a four-cylinder powerplant in mind. buyers. So it seems Pontiac is destined to
the car was highly popular here for a num- It was the division’s general manager, John join a host of other names in that great big
ber of years. Straight eights followed the Z De Lorean (who went on to Chevrolet graveyard of great cars.
sixes into the 1930s and Pontiac continued and then made his eponymous sports car Let’s hope that the
to use Chevrolet bodies, setting a trend for in Ireland in the early 1980s before going enthusiasts and collec-
much of the brand’s existence. For exam- bust amidst accusations of drug dealings), tors keep it alive forev-
ple, the 1967 Firebird was based on the who came up with the name. er, so that when we tell
Camaro but had tauter handling and our grandchildren
Pontiac’s own engine. The original, 1964 GTO had a 6,2-litre about a car call a Goat,
V8 with up to 260 kW and it is this car they may have some
In keeping with its Indian roots, earlier which is widely regarded as the one which idea of what we’re talk-
Pontiac models were named Super Chief, changed the brand’s image. In the late ing about.
Star Chief, and the Chieftain, but despite
50 June 2009
Golden Nugget
When Antonio Folgore immigrated to South Africa in 1965,
little did he know that one day three of his sons would be
running a very successful automotive workshop in central
Johannesburg. It takes guts and an entrepreneurial spir-
it to emigrate, and Antonio obviously passed on these pio-
neering genes to his sons.
T
echnocar Auto Services is situated on the corner of Albert and Nugget Streets, City
& Suburban, Johannesburg; an area that can be accurately described as downtown
Johannesburg but, according to the Folgore trio, Daniel, Nunzio and Ugo, this is
where the action is, pointing out that Johannesburg central is still by far thebiggest
catchment area of businesses in South Africa. Thus Technocar’s location is ideal and conven-
ient for many business and private clients. So ideal and convenient that despite having spacious premises, Technocar Auto Services is
expanding and building an annex on the parking lot next door. In addition, the word recession does not even enter their minds, as they
are as busy as ever and their loyal clientele plus new clients keep
streaming in. With Daniel’s engineering background, combined with
Ugo’s Lamborghini, Rolls Royce and Porsche formative training, and
Nunzio’s Alfa Romeo, Ferrari, Fiat, Lancia and Maserati automotive
pedigree, it is no wonder that they have built up a loyal clientele,
with the ability to repair anything from the basic Citi Golf to a
Mercedes-Benz Actros.
A car ready to leave the wash bay, and another satisfied client Daniel, Ugo and Nunzio Folgore fly the e-CAR flag in downtown
Johannesburg
June 2009 51
From page 49
Whilst the loyal clientele need no further invita-
tion, the new clients are attracted by the e-CAR sig-
nage, and this was the primary reason why
Technocar became one of the first e-CAR members
in April 2005. The Folgore’s were looking for a
strong national brand, as they realised that the
industry had a perception problem, and that the
new breed of car owners are looking for peace of
mind and an assurance that they are going to get
value for money and consistency. Would they go
for an e-CAR workshop, or the unknown work-
shop with unidentified signage? As Ugo puts it, “It’s
like Steers vs. the corner café”. e-CAR was thus a
no-brainer, as together with the national identity,
From a Citi Golf, to the
Technocar also gets branded product and competi- AA fleet, to an Actros, even
tive prices from the Diesel-Electric organisation, a alternative fuel businesses,
nationwide warranty back-up, diagnostic equip- many companies and private
ment, advice and world class training from Robert clients rely on Technocar
Bosch, and various networking and marketing
opportunities.
Auto Services
Upstairs is used for the major repairs
To join the fastest growing workshop network in South Africa and to add a new dimension to your business,
contact Wilfried Langenbach at 0860 003 227 (0860 00 ECAR)
What’s the Buzz?
Cover picture creates interest picture is taken from above the robotic off loading at the BL1
Windscreen bending furnace. The glass being off loaded is the inner
glass with the black printed border. The stainless flutes, one of which
is clearly visible, is positioned to swallow the separator spacer which is
collected by the robot at the same time as the glass with a different set
of suckers and is released before the glass is loaded onto the conveyor.
The robot loads the outer, which is generally not printed, on the same
conveyor which is to the left of the screen where it gets layer of inter-
leaving powder from the powder dispenser (visible on the photo)
while it passes underneath the dispenser. The conveyor moves from
left to right and the printed glass is picked up by some suckers in the
next operation while the outer glass indexes to a point where the two
align and the inner is placed on top of the outer glass before it is per-
fectly aligned and placed on the rim of the bending mould during
their rotation through the furnace. The dispensing powder unit is the
reason the area looks covered in a fine layer of white powder as the
shape and size of each glass determines the amount of powder that can
go to waste in this process. This operation is done behind a glass panel
ABR’s April 2009 cover pic created quite a bit of interest, with many which contains the contamination to just the area around the dis-
asking what exactly it was. This was taken at Shatterprufe’s Garankuwa penser.” There you have it, as clear as glass to robotic and glass engi-
plant, and we give you the description from the horse’s mouth; “This neers.
52 June 2009
Update
Get Turbocharged
at AutoZone
By Johann Stadler
AutoZone has “upped the boost” and taken themselves to the next level with the
introduction of a comprehensive range of new products in their distribution arsenal
and then charged their reputation even further by hanging warranty tags on them
A
utoZone is the preferred distributor for Garrett® and significantly larger in size, offering the vehicle a lighter and more
Holset Turbochargers in this country and it stands to efficient power plant. Secondly, turbocharged engines offer
reason that South Africa’s number one parts and acces- improved fuel consumption, due to denser air/fuel charge enter-
sories retailer be chosen as the preferred distributor as ing the engine and also, a turbocharged engine is ‘ozone friendly’
AutoZone offers, amongst other things, the widest range of after- due to the very low emissions produced by the engine.
market parts and accessories, world class service and a ‘12 month Considering that the turbocharger runs on waste exhaust energy,
hassle free warranty’. this is astounding.
In today’s developing and technologically superior vehicle manu- Garrett® is the largest and most widely used turbocharger on the
facturing industry, world’s leading vehicle manufacturers have an market today and caters for almost every vehicle application.
obligation to provide a quality product that is durable and These units are manufactured in over ten countries around the
reliable, meets emissions standards, offers acceptable fuel globe, and have a total sales figure of nine million units sold in
consumption and problem/failure free mechanical/engine life for 2008 on an international scale. Holset Turbochargers specialise in
at least 100 000km. These manufacturers turn to two of the the heavy duty and industrial sector.
world’s leading turbocharger manufacturers in order to achieve
this – Garrett® and Holset, and now these leading brands are Not only does AutoZone’s national footprint make these top
available from AutoZone. brands available throughout South Africa, AutoZone have
engaged the services of TurboDirect S.A, an internationally
AutoZone’s national buyer for turbochargers, Raymond Read accredited technical partner, to further enhance the offer. The
says, “As the country’s number one distributor of top quality parts ability to offer repairs and an overall after sales backup is key to
and accessories, it makes perfect sense for AutoZone to be the success of any turbocharged application. Customers who have
expanding their range and products to cater for the industry’s repair, rebuild, refurbishment or even component balancing
demands with the best brands available in turbochargers. We requirements are welcome to contact AutoZone as together with
believe that this will add yet another facet to the overall offering TurboDirect, their back-up service guarantees a speedy, smooth,
that AutoZone makes to the market and furthers the goal for turnkey and ‘turbo-ed’ turnaround. The service includes, pre and
AutoZone to supply the right part, at the right price, everytime.” post sales support, application enquires, failure analysis & report-
ing, maintenance requirements, repairs or refurbishments, com-
The turbocharger industry is a rapidly growing and expanding ponent balancing and failure preventative solutions.
market. Many vehicles manufactured today are powered by
turbocharged engines. The benefit of turbocharging an engine is All queries must be directed to AutoZone’s call centre on
simply increased engine power output. A turbocharged engine 0861 122 111, these will then be directed further depending
produces more power output than a normally aspirated engine on the nature of the query.
June 2009 53
Insights
Taking the High Road

In the March 2009 issue of ABR, we published an open letter
to Capricorn Society Limited Suppliers. Trent Bartlett, chief
executive office of Capricorn Society Limited, made Capricorn’s
uncompromising stance quite clear that its suppliers would be
able to manage their cash flows with the confidence that
comes from the knowledge that the Society guarantees its
Members’ debt. A true vindication of Capricorn’s reputation
as “an organisation that you can rely on”. Automotive
Business Review, in the wake of an overwhelmingly positive
response to this letter, chatted with Rob Mildenhall, South
Africa’s Business Development Manager, on the dynamics
around the situation.
appeal to the guilty parties to take stock ABR: Could you elaborate?
of the damage that they are doing and to
do the right thing. RM: Take databases for example. To sur-
vive, a company needs to exploit many
ABR: Going back to Trent Bartlett’s open databases: customer information, suppli-
letter, this is truly a shining example of er information, technical information.
Capricorn Society’s ethical approach, and This is available from Capricorn, and we
ABR: Capricorn Society is basically guar- taking the high road. Hopefully other can also assist with proprietary technical
anteeing payment on all purchases made by organisations will emulate this. information as with our Autodata
Capricorn’s members. This must mean an alliance, and facilitate access to the lat-
incredibly strong balance sheet? RM: Yes. The onus lies on everyone to est diagnostic hardware and software for
stay on the moral high ground, and to our members.
RM: That is correct, but it also shows manage their cash flows and to pay their
confidence in the commercial abilities of accounts timeously. If everyone stayed ABR: Is this just not another cost burden?
the majority of Capricorn’s members. true to this ideal and put their shoulders
The choice to become a Capricorn mem- to the wheel, the whole supply chain ben- RM: All the more reason to manage your
ber is already an indication of the com- efits. However, if too many companies cash flow effectively. Collecting debts
mercial skills of these companies. default, it spells trouble as it can create a and paying suppliers on time must now
domino effect. become a business imperative. By so
ABR: South African companies have a rep- doing a company builds up a reputation
utation for being perennially slow payers. ABR: With the technology and skills chal- of integrity, which stands it in good stead
What will change this mindset? lenges facing the modern day workshop, it in tough times.
is most unfortunate that the guys in the
RM: Unfortunately, many small business- frontline are now expected to face one ABR: The figures quoted for 30 day collec-
es bear the brunt of larger companies and more challenge. tion rates are 65% for South Africa, and an
institutions not playing the game. Some average of 98% for countries such as the
of these organisations don’t pay for three RM: Yes. It is the survival of the fittest, USA, UK, Australia and New Zealand.
months, and then they still expect the and the ability to adapt is now a charac- This is a stunning indictment of our busi-
small business to carry on providing a teristic that is sorely needed. Effective ness ethics!
service with the promise of payment a procurement now becomes of critical
further 60 days down the line. This trans- importance, and a collective arrange- RM: Unfortunately true. South Africa
lates into a small business carrying a ment is no longer a matter of choice, but needs to raise the bar on this one. Our
much larger business for 150 days and an absolute necessity. Businesses have to International reputation is at stake.
more. At today’s interest rates, this is well look for cost efficiencies, and simply can-
over 5% of the invoice value. It is an not afford to be at the bottom of the feed-
appalling and unfair situation and I ing chain.
To join Capricorn Society Limited call Rob Mildenhall

on 083 654 2094 or e-mail him at
rob.mildenhall@capricorn.com.au or visit their website
on www.capricorn.com.au
54 June 2009
Topclass Topics
“Braking” the Sound

Barrier
What is green, synthetic and tacky? No, it is not Kermit the Frog. Nor
is it an AWB leader’s underpants. It is actually something far more
redeeming and useful. It is the Permatex® Ultra Disc Brake Caliper
Lube, available from Top Class Automotive.
A
nyone who has suffered the
assault on the ears that squeal-
ing brakes can inflict will find
the Permatex® Ultra Disc Brake
Caliper Lube a godsend, as the prevention
of brake squeal alone is worth using the
product, but this lubricant has many other
qualities and benefits. It is an environ-
mentally friendly, non-melting, pure syn-
thetic lubricant, formulated to lubricate
under the most adverse brake conditions,
thus ensuring that critical caliper pins,
sleeves, bushings and pistons remain
lubricated throughout the brake pad’s life. • Withstands temperatures from -
With its water and corrosion resistant 45ºC to +230ºC
capabilities, this lubricant is excellent on • Waterproof, protects against cor-
rolling and sliding surfaces operating in rosion, will not attack most rub-
wet or dry conditions from -40ºF to bers
+400ºF (-45ºC to +230ºC), and is com-
patible with internal and external brake • Non-silicone, non-petroleum based
rubber and plastic hardware, including formula
ethylene-propylene rubber.
• Pure, synthetic lubricant
• Environmentally safe
Applications for
Features/Benefits Ultra Disc Brake
• Prevents disc brake squealing Caliper Lube:
• Prevents long bolt and sleeve seiz- Long and short bolts, sleeves, bushings,
ing and galling outboard pad backing plates, inboard pad
backing plates, disc brake calipers, caliper
• Outperforms ordinary caliper pins and pistons. Available in accordion
grease and traditional disc brake squeeze bottle, brush-top bottle, and blis-
anti-squeal methods ter card packets.
56 June 2009
Valeo for life

In our everyday life, people are confronted with
the reality of constant threats, but whether we
want to or not, we just have to overcome them or
face the consequences. But how would it influence
our daily routines if it were possible to eliminate a
large a part of those daily threats?
R
esearch shows that the majority of people spend almost a third of their lives in a car,
whether that is behind the wheel or as an occupant. The responsibility is a massive
burden on the driver’s shoulder and one needs to be on your guard at all times, which
causing unnecessary stress, constraints and fatigue. Euroquip offers a range of various import-
ed Valeo assistance systems, design to make regular driving tasks safer and more comfortable.
Beep & Park/Keeper Light/On & Off

Parking in small spaces will reduce If you don’t always notice visibility
rear visibility, it’s uncomfortable changes when driving, Valeo came
and difficult. The Beep and Park/ up with a bright idea. Light/on &
Keeper is a front and/or rear park- off is an automatic lighting system
ing assistance system with an anti that switches on the headlights as
bump alert to protect your vehicle soon as the light becomes poor and
against the all too often clumsy switches them off again when suf-
parking manoeuvres of other ficient light is restored.
motorists.
Speed/Vision
Beep & Park/Vision
Changes in the speed limit means
Are you worried about hitting
that you have to keep an eye on
obstacles or pedestrians that you
the speedometer, which could
cannot see? Beep & Park/Vision is
cause loss of control or reacting
a rear parking detection system
too late if there is an obstacle in
with sensors, coupled with a rear
the road. Speed/Visio displays the
view camera to provide drivers
vehicle’s speed directly on the
with audible and visual informa-
windscreen in the driver’s line of
tion when reversing.
sight and sends out an alert when the vehicle exceeds the pro-
Park/Vision grammed speed.
Is the visibility when reversing Guideo

poor because the rear window is
If you often make long journeys
narrow and the back of your vehi-
and are worried about falling
cle raised? Park/Vision is a parking
asleep at the wheel, why not take
assistance system comprising of a
your very own co-pilot with?
rear camera that projects images of
Guideo is a camera module that
the area behind the vehicle onto a
permanently scans the road and
colour screen in the cabin.
supervises all four driving assis-
tance functions.
For more information, please contact
+27 (0) 12 661 6467 • Fax: +27 (0) 86 614 1378
Email: prakash@euroquip-sa.co.za • Cell 082 870 7809
58 June 2009
euroquip
18 Months Warranty
Industry Update
Life Goes On
During the early part of May 2009, I attended two interesting and
indeed illuminating functions, with the highlight of each event being a
presentation by the chief executive, each in a different space, but both
By Austin Gamble in arguably the most difficult jobs at the moment in the South African
automotive industry. Upon reflection, it is during these tough times when
the men are sorted out from the boys, and you begin to realise why these gentlemen
were appointed in the first place. The qualities of men like Hal Feder and Steven Koch
are not readily apparent in the good times, but when the chips are down, their
Michigan DNA kicks in, as investors and customers alike need to be desensitised and
reassured. Spin doctoring and soothing balm need to be applied in equal measure.
These guys are good. So good, in fact, that even a cynical old codger like me left the
presentations with a lighter step and a song in my heart. Not a classic like “Bohemian
Rhapsody”; more like “Baa baa black sheep”, but still a song.
F
irst up to the plate was Hal Feder, President and CEO
of Ford South Africa, at the Ford media breakfast on
Tuesday 5 May 2009. The April vehicle sales had just
been announced, and in the midst of the doom and
gloom of one of the worst months in recent history, Hal stood up
and started listing the global and regional positives from Ford’s
perspective; annual savings of US$500 million in the States
through concessions by the UAW; debt obligations of US$10,1
billion restructured; customer satisfaction levels up; the Focus RS
the fastest ever production model; the Fiesta taking first place in
March in Europe; the Fusion Hybrid voted most fuel efficient
midsize sedan in America; the Mustang’s 45th birthday; the
EcoBoost engine in production in Cleveland, etc, etc. All posi-
tive and all good news for the future, but Hal really did his Steven Koch, GM President of Hal Feder, President and CEO
Houdini act when he disclosed that Ford globally ONLY had a African Operations & GMSA of Ford South Africa
loss of US$2 billion in the first quarter of 2009. This is good Managing Director
news? Yes, because it is a distinct improvement on the loss of
US$3,6 billion in the last quarter of 2008. It’s all about trends,
you see. And the real magic is in the cash flow. Ford’s cash flow
actually increased in the first quarter of 2009, as they dipped into
funds previously arranged by the prescient Alan Mulally, Ford’s
CEO. With a war chest of US$21,3 billion, and the resizing pain
mostly over, Ford is in relatively good space and is ready to roll
with the punches. “We are waiting for the volume to come back”,
said Feder. And with South African car sales looking to go below
350 000 units in 2009, the sooner the better! But, as Jacques
Brent, Vice President of Marketing & Sales pointed out at the
breakfast, Ford is gaining market share locally during this down- long haul, and with 17 of the 18 vehicles currently under devel-
turn with fresh and attractive Fords and Mazdas, so domestically opment scheduled to deliver fuel economy of under 7l/100km,
the blow has been softened. they are moving in the right direction. Domestically, South
Africa gets its product from GM’s Global Design Centres, and as
After Hal Feder’s home run, next up to the plate was Steven GMSA is debt free and not reliant on the USA, Steve says that
Koch, GM President of African Operations & GMSA Managing GMSA will not just survive, but thrive. As Koch said, “We’re in
Director, when GMSA hosted a media briefing session at their a good position to ride this thing out”.
Woodmead offices on Friday 8 May 2009. Steve opted for a FDR
type “fireside chat”, sitting on a high stool, and regaling the At the GMSA presentation, we were also treated to a very inter-
assembled journalists with a homily about his history with GM, esting analysis and statistical overview of the habits of the South
and the regional dynamics involving the interdependence but African motorist, by Brian Olson, GMSA General Manager –
also the independence of GM’s global operations. Thus, what Marketing, and a sign of the times was the introduction of
happens in Europe does not necessarily directly affect the South GMSA’S new programme called “GM Total Confidence”.
African operations, and so forth. In America, GM has introduced
a new wage structure under agreement with the UAW, and even The GM Total Confidence program includes three components:
though Chapter 11 is an option, GM is definitely in it for the • vehicle warranty extension to 5 years / 120 000 km
60 June 2009
Industry Update
• vehicle payment protection (insurance that covers up to nine
months of the consumers’ vehicle finance payments if they
are retrenched) for vehicles purchased between May 4, 2009
and July 31, 2009
• extension of a new, industry-leading roadside assistance pro-
gram to 5 years / 120 000 km
All Chevrolet, Opel, Isuzu LCVs, Hummer, and Cadillac vehi-

cles are included in the plan, which was introduced by Malcolm
Gauld, GMSA Vice President of Vehicle Sales & Marketing.
There you have it, there is a Ford in your Future, and as the lat-
est GMSA advertising campaign says, “There’s never been a bet-
ter time to buy a car”, and I doubt that it will ever be called a
Chevroletti. The Chevrolet Cruze will be coming to our shores shortly
The Ford Fiesta was pipped at the post for South Africa’s 2008 Car of the Year
GMSA has also started a

Chevrolet Brand campaign
reminiscent of the Braaivleis,
Rugby, Sunny Skies and
Chevrolet campaign of the
seventies, with a modern
platform of wherewillchevro-
lettakeyou.com
June 2009 61
Robert Bosch
Bosch Service National Convention 2009

In a vibrant and upbeat atmosphere, Robert Bosch held their Bosch Service National
Convention 2009 at the Birchwood Conference Centre, Boksburg on 23rd May 2009,
and some stimulating and enlightening presentations kept the delegates enthralled.
he underlying theme of the and honest service. When the times were because the time is not ripe for franchised
T conThe underlying theme of

the conference, as espoused by
Ewald Faulstich, Director
Automotive Aftermarket Division, Robert
Bosch (Pty) Limited, was that the battle
good, the OEM dealerships were quite
happy to focus on new car sales, whilst
looking after their “captive” market of
vehicles under warranty and maintenance
schemes, and they made little or no effort
workshops in the independent aftermar-
ket, but because they have not stuck to the
basics whilst also adding something spe-
cial. The Bosch Service concept is a holis-
tic concept, offering a powerful Brand, a
for the hearts and minds, and most impor- to entice customers with older cars. But distinctive and eye-catching Corporate
tantly, the pockets of the South African the times they are a changing. Secondly, Design, a wide range of a technical servic-
motorist seeking reliable and honest after the simple arithmetic and the dynamics es and marketing support portfolio and a
sales service, has begun with earnest around revenue and profits at departmen- Code of Practise, outlining appropriate
endeavour. Facing each other will be too tal level has come to the notice of the hold- workshop practices and procedures, ensur-
big armies, nm. OES (OEM aftermarket ers of the purse strings. South African sta- ing a highest possible level of customer sat-
activities) and IAM (independent after- tistics are not readily available, but these isfaction. But it is in the Bosch Service
market activities), and behind the IAM 2006 stats extracted from the McKinsey “Genetic Code” Concept, where Bosch’s
lines will be skirmishes between franchised CARE study in Germany on the contribu- DNA or fingerprint plays a massive role,
workshops, such as Bosch Service, e-CAR, tion by department at OEM dealerships providing uniqueness, exclusivity, and an
ACD, Motolek, Autopro, etc., and the make for compelling reading: excellent utilisation of synergies. Bosch
independents. The two key driving forces defines this as Bosch Service brand per-
behind the moves by the OEMs to make a Revenue Profit formance. When Bosch talks about brand
foray onto the playing turf of the inde- Vehicle Sales 45,1% 14,4% performance, it is wise to sit up and take
pendent aftermarket are the aging and notice. Bosch has lasted for 123 years, and
Aftermarket Sales 22,5% 54,4%
growing car parc, and the simple arith- is the world’s biggest automotive supplier,
metic around the revenues and profits at Used Vehicle Sales 19,1% 0,8% so as Ewald says’ “Bosch must be doing
OEM dealership level. something right!”. A company that spends
Insurance, etc 11,3% 27,2% 7,8% of their turnover or R 190 million
Despite the slow down in new vehicle sales per working day on research and develop-
over the past two years, the car parc is Miscellaneous 2,0% 3,2% ment intends to stick around for another
growing, and naturally it’s getting older. 123 years. And even more astonishing is
South Africa will not be much different,
The car parc at the end of 2008 was bigger the Automotive Division of Bosch, which
and it does not take a rocket scientist to see
than the car parc at the end of 2007, and allocates 12% of their turnover to R&D.
where the profits are to be made, and in
the car parc at the end of 2009 is expected No wonder that they’re number one.
to be 2,5% larger than that at the end of these times, the less glamorous side of serv-
2008, simply because of the uncomplicat- ice and parts sales can mean the difference Coming back to “brand performance”,
ed fact that whilst people are not replacing between life and death for a vehicle dealer- which is a result of three specific areas of
their cars at the rate they used to, they are ship. Therefore the expected thrust into brand excellence and brand performance
keeping their cars for longer. The South traditional aftermarket areas, and the and closely linked to the 14 specific areas
African car parc, broken down into age, is resultant blurring of the sales channels. of the Genetic Code:
as follows: This trend has already started in Europe,
and South Africa will not be far behind. • Corporate Design and Visual
• 1 – 3 years 22% The OEMs have extended their warranty Standards
• 4 – 7 years 22% and maintenance periods, they are putting
an emphasis on used car sales (to create • Corporate Competence, i.e. providing
• 8 – 12 years 21%
potential workshop customers), and con- highest possible technical competence,
• 13 – 20 years 28% sider to introduce their own workshop products and services at competitive
• 21 – 25 years 7% concepts for the independent aftermarket prices with minimum waiting times
to focus on this “middle aged” vehicle parc for customers or just doing the job
The rich vein to be mined lies in the 4 to properly, each and every day
12 year age bracket, some 43% of the car The solution from the Bosch perspective is
parc. The majority of these cars are out of to provide bumper to bumper service, and • Corporate “Behaviour”, i.e. outstand-
warranty and maintenance periods, whilst to provide this service with panache and ing customer relationships and cus-
they are still new enough for the owners to competence. Quite a number of independ- tomer care management striving to
be motivated to keep these cars in relative- ent aftermarket workshop concepts have keep existing customers and to attract
ly pristine condition, and to seek first-rate come and gone these past few years, not potential new customers.
62 June 2009
Robert Bosch
The aim is the recognition of excellence and the linking of this
excellence to the Bosch Service brand and the imprinting of this
in the customer’s mind. Get this right, and service starts taking
priority over price, and it can be done.
Co-incidence or not, the message from Motivational Speaker Gavin

Sharples at the Gala Dinner was that relationships at home and at
work are both based on the same principles. Build Your Product and
Brand. Get Involved when they need you. It is all about
Relationship Marketing!
Dave Stalker, Technical Services Manager at Robert Bosch, with

Jeff Osborne, CEO of the RMI
Dereck Knight, Senior Product Manager, with Christoph Wagner

from Robert Bosch Germany
Grant Palliser, Marketing Manager; and Lilian Hansen, Senior

Ewald Faulstich, Director Automotive Aftermarket Division, Robert
Product Manager; gave insightful presentations at the conference
Bosch kept the delegates enthralled with a wide-ranging presentation
June 2009 63
Robert Bosch
South Africans are not just good at rugby
Robert Bosch Germany has appointed independent auditors to conduct
Quality Audits at Bosch Service outlets all over the world. The 2008 results
show South Africa in a particularly good light. The South African outlets
audited achieved an average rating of 91,3%, second only to Germany
which achieved 91,7%. Considering that the average achieved in North
America was 79,4% and Asia/Pacific was 70,5%, the enormity of this
achievement can be put into perspective. And in the mystery shopper
rating, which focused more on customer care issues, South Africa
once again came second to Germany. We’re a great nation!
Gala Dinner
2008 Award Winners:
“Bosch Car Service “
of the Year 2008 –
TPS Auto Electrical,
Witbank
“Bosch Car Service /

Diesel Centre” of the
Year 2008 – Diesel
Works,
Pietermaritzburg
“Bosch Diesel Service”

of the Year 2008 -
Mafika Engineering,
Johannesburg
“Top Performer” of
the Year 2008 -
Diesel Works,
Pietermaritzburg
64 June 2009
Industry Update
Champions of the Industry

After a successful stint as Sales Director for Specialised Markets, Chris Hillier has
taken on a new challenge at Federal-Mogul Aftermarket Southern Africa (Pty) Ltd.,
as Sales & Marketing Director, effective 1 May 2009. ABR took the opportunity to
talk to Chris about his move.
O
ver the past seven years Chris has been very busy
breaking bread with African customers. Initially it
was the establishment of a beachhead for Federal-
Mogul’s brands north of the Limpopo, but now it is
a significant footprint in 38 African countries. Having achieved
huge growth over the past couple of years in these markets, Chris
moves onto a new challenge, taking the full sales function under
his wing, and adding the marketing portfolio, all part of a strate-
gic realignment at Federal-Mogul. This consolidation means that
the sales strategies are now under one roof, both domestic and
export, with marketing added to the mix. The marketing portfo-
lio was previously handled by Malcolm Perrie, Managing
Director, and this reorganisation frees Malcolm up to focus on
strategic issues and stakeholder relations. However, Chris foresees
an extremely close working relationship when it comes to market-
ing matters, as he plans to lean heavily on Malcolm’s expertise and
knowledge as the duo tackles key operational concerns, to provide
a platform for exciting initiatives.
Chris brings two decades of Federal-Mogul nous to the job, hav-

ing had two stints at the company in its various guises, and being
an interested observer and participant in its mergers and acquisi-
tions, including Asseng Automotive, T&N, and now under its
current form as Federal-Mogul Aftermarket. Federal-Mogul is a
global giant, and Chris sees his key role in the next few months
and years in the alignment of sales and marketing objectives with
Federal-Mogul’s strengths. Lean manufacturing, technical know-
how, great brands, customer confidence are all attributes that can
provide leverage. Chris says, “I want to align our customer mes-
sage and our customer approach on a national level. This will
Chris Hillier, newly appointed Sales & Marketing Director, Federal-
require a moving away from a regional focus to a key account Mogul Aftermarket, stands in the engine room of Federal-Mogul’s
focus, to allow us to be consistent in our approach to the cus- aftermarket operations in City West, Johannesburg
tomer, and critically, our message to the customer”. To achieve
this, Chris intends to synchronise the internal and external sales terfeiting, and is implementing anti-counterfeiting technologies
staff with these goals, to present “One Face, One Message”, and a in both product and packaging, to make it difficult for those who
strong emphasis on improved service levels. Federal-Mogul’s great put money before conscience. To put counterfeiting in perspec-
strength is its global brand philosophy. Any part sold anywhere in tive, Chris quotes some alarming statistics; “Six to nine percent of
the world has to have Federal-Mogul’s global approval, which world trade is in counterfeit product. Interpol estimates that some
translates into a cast iron assurance to the customer that they are US$600 billion per annum is in counterfeit goods, and the auto-
getting only the very best. Add to this Chris’ desire to provide motive aftermarket is one of the major victims”. He adds, “It is
great service levels, and you have a potent formula which has to more profitable and less risky than the drug trade, mainly because
lead to success. the penalties are less severe. Stronger action is necessary. Federal-
Mogul will always be part of this fight “.
The irony in all this is that because of Federal-Mogul’s success
with its global brand approach, the counterfeiters have been busy. ABR will bring you more about anti-counterfeiting initiatives
The strength of the brands has attracted the attention of the copy- from Chris Hillier in future issues.
cats and the fraudsters, who attempt to pass off inferior product
as the real thing. Chris is passionate about fighting this scourge,
as he has seen its detrimental affects in Africa, and does not want
this to take hold in South Africa (Ed’s comment “It unfortunate-
ly already has!”). Federal-Mogul is part of the fight against coun-
66 June 2009
Springs has Sprung

It may have been a chilly May evening, but for the attendees of the Partinform
Automotive Trade Show held at the Springs Civic Centre, it was a hot August night
and springs had sprung. The depressing economic news was put aside as the partici-
pants indulged in the usual Partinform fare of education, information, technical
know-how, brand awareness, and valuable networking with the trade. Automotive
Business Review, South Africa’s most influential automotive aftermarket publication;
was naturally there to take in the action.
The Partinform brand ambassadors ready

to roll, revved up by the Ferrari 360
Challenge Car, which is used in the
Ferrari Track Experience
Robert Bosch used the opportunity

to remind the market that the
Bosch brand is not just about
kitchen appliances, power tools,
electrical and electronic product,
and diagnostic equipment. Robert
Bosch is also about braking, and
Bosch offers an extensive range of
brake pads, both imported and
locally assembled, using a
German developed formulation
compound. A little known fact is
that Robert Bosch is the biggest
Some influential big hitters seen at the RMI stand brake system manufacturer in the
world, having made significant
inroads into the Japanese brands
at OEM level, offering the full
package of calipers, pads, hoses,
and electronics. Locally, the Bosch
range of brake pads is fully sup-
ported by the Robert Bosch organ-
isation, offering a 35 000 km no
quibble warranty. Here,
Christopher Roberts, senior prod-
uct manager, Automotive
Aftermarket Division, proudly
displays the Bosch pads.
68 June 2009
The vibe at the stands was first-rate
Federal-Mogul used the

opportunity to show their
well known “Fix it with Fred
and Manny” series.
Ian Fleming would be inspired to write a James Bond novel “The Man with
the Golden Caliper” if he stopped at the Ate stand, and saw this four pot
caliper. The full inspiring story behind this product will be unveiled exclusively
by ABR in the July 2009 issue. Bracket this in your diary and watch this space.
GUD metal free filters are ecological & environmentally friendly. These filters
are used in a housing which is attached to the engine and does not need to be
replaced. These products have no metal content and new media technology is
used to cater for the extended service intervals of the modern cars. More on
this in forthcoming issues of ABR.
June 2009 69
Springs has
Sprung!
Colin Murphy, chairman of Partinform, and master of cere-

monies Duane Rockwell, kept the event moving crisply and
encouraged the crowd to enjoy the event
Attending the event were the guys from Emergency Spares, Daveyton. L to r:
Thushan Pillay, Colin Naidoo, Randir Maharaj, Daylin Poonsamy.
70 June 2009
The Winners
The runners-up, who nevertheless walked away with some stunning prizes, were Sharma Moonsamy, Amelia Steyn, and Nicolaas Nel
Stefanus Nel of Mining

Industrial Repair Centre was
the big winner of the evening,
and he will be attending the
Forza Racing Ferrari Track
Experience on Friday 19th
November 2009, together with
the other lucky winners. You
too can win this stunning prize;
all you need to do is attend one
of the forthcoming shows.
And that’s not all. Winners of the lucky The balance of

the 2009 schedu
draw prizes (an i-Pod and a Garmin Bloemfontein le is as follows:
Durban Wednesday 17
GPS sponsored by Willard and Sabat Tuesday 21st
th June 2009
Klerksdorp July 2009
batteries) were Koos Koekemoer and Port Elizabeth Tuesday 8th Se
Daylin Poonsamy ptember 2009
White River Tuesday 13th
October 2009
Tuesday 10th
November 2009
Competition Corner
And if you are a reader of ABR, not only are you highly intelligent, you also have a chance to win a Forza Racing Track Experience. Four
lucky winners will be drawn out of the hat at the South African Automotive Conference to be held in early October 2009, and will be
advised via e-mail or telephone by the middle of October 2009, and the winners shall also be announced in the November 2009 issue
of ABR. Don’t delay. The entries from the previous editions of ABR are already streaming in, so get out your thinking cap and answer
these three questions:
1. Which vehicle is used in the Forza Ferrari Driving Experience?
2. Who was the winner of the Forza Driving Experience at the Springs Partinform?
3. Who was the Master of Ceremonies for the evening?
Send your answers to fax 086 6579 289 or e-mail bigheart@iafrica.com with the following details:
Name and Surname: __________________________________________________________________________________
Company: ___________________________________________________________________________________________
Position: ____________________________________________________________________________________________
Postal Address:_______________________________________________________________________________________
Contact Tel. no’s:_____________________________________________________________________________________
e-mail address:________________________________________________________________________________________
June 2009 71
by Roger McCleery
Roger McCleery
asks the questions
See how many of these 20 Questions you can answer.
1. Why are manhole covers welded down on a Formula 1 Grand Prix street circuit?
2. Who was the second man to walk on the moon?
3. When did the last man walk on the moon?
4. How long on average does it take to change all four wheels on a Formula 1 GP car?
5. How many years was the Model T Ford in production?
6. At top speed how many times does the wheel of a Grand Prix car rotate per second?
7. What is the first name of the founder of the Honda Motor Company?
8. Who owns the Zwartkops Raceway in Pretoria?
9. What bakkie has replaced the Nissan 1400?
10. Name the best selling bakkie in South Africa for 26 years.
11. When did the Corsa Lite cease production in South Africa?
12. Name the motoring programme on Summit TV?
13. Who lies second in the Formula 1 GP Championship after five rounds?
14. What car does he drive?
15. Which make of car sold bigger numbers on 2008 – Opel or Chev?
16. Who lost more money in the first quarter of 2009 – GM or Toyota?
17. The Honda Accord station wagon is called a what?
18. What is the cheapest new car in South Africa?
19. What is the most expensive car that is quoted? (not P.O.A.)
20. Who owns Lamborghini?
Answers on page 75
72 June 2009
AIDC Automotive Industry Conference 2009
Navigating the storm

requires firm action
Both domestic sales and automotive exports have been hard
hit by the global credit crunch resulting in low sales figures
and mounting job losses. To navigate the storm requires firm
action. This must be focused on putting the automotive indus-
try on a sound long-term footing. The AIDC’s Automotive
Industry Conference 2009 has been designed to help stakeholders focus on collec-
tive actions and to achieve improved synergy in overcoming the many challenges we
face, says Barlow Manilal, CEO of the Automotive Industry Development Centre.
T
he new Cabinet will bring fresh ideas and newly Trade Show in South Africa. The Trade Show is focused on
appointed Trade and Industry Minister Rob Davies Component Manufacturing, is for trade only and attracts buyers
plans to give new impetus to the government’s much- and suppliers from throughout South Africa and around the
talked-about industrial policy, which will become the globe. Site tours to the Coega IDZ, an OEM and FIFA 2010
central pillar of economic policy. Says Barlow: “The AIDC is Soccer World Cup Stadium are among key networking opportu-
looking forward to playing a constructive role in enhancing the nities which also include golf and the famous Gala Networking
scale of industrial policy with regard to the automotive industry Dinner on Port Elizabeth’s blue flag beach attended by the who’s
through its work in the fields of skills development and training, who of the automotive sector. "The AIDC Automotive Industry
supplier development and supply chain development. We wel- Conference will address an industry in crisis. Industry role players
come the Minister’s emphasis on developing local industrial are seeing this as a platform to ensure that the industry is
capacity. Since our establishment, we have worked towards mak- equipped with the credible information, resources, direction and
ing the automotive industry globally more competitive in ways sentiment that will allow automotive businesses to make the right
that will meaningfully create and sustain decent work.” Manilal strategic decisions for their businesses," says Lance Schultz,
says that the challenges faced by the automotive industry are com- Project Manager at the AIDC.
plex and require a shared vision on how to move forward. “This
will better enable the various stakeholders to take the actions they Diarise the dates now! Conference fees for the two day conference
are mandated to perform in the spirit of contributing towards a are R4,069.00 excluding VAT per delegate. The early bird confer-
collective solution.” ence fee presents a saving of over 15% if registration is completed
by 31 July 2009. Early bird fees are R3,176.00 excluding VAT.
The AIDC’s Automotive Industry Conference 2009 has as its There are also a limited number of lucrative sponsorship packages
theme “NAVIGATING THE STORM: A ROADMAP TO available, allowing companies to market and establish vital busi-
VISION 2020.” It will be hosted at the SA Automotive Week in ness networks. For further information, please contact Lance
Port Elizabeth on 7-8 October 2009. Key automotive industry Schultz at lschultz@aidc.co.za or call him on 041 393 2104 or
leader, Dr Brand Pretorius, has confirmed his participation. visit www.aidc.co.za. For more information about opportunities
Additional value is on offer to delegates at the Automotive at SA Automotive Week please contact Alastair Stead at
Industry Conference 2009 as part of South African Automotive alastair@inkanyezi.co.za or call him on 041 363 0310 or visit
Week, which includes the only Naacam endorsed International www.saaw.co.za.
O
nly by achieving the vision of producing a million a mix of a four-day industry expo, a “Navigating the Storm: A
cars a year will the South African auto industry be roadmap to Vision 2020” conference and networking opportu-
able to create and sustain more jobs, says National nities. International interest from manufacturers in China, India,
Association of Automobile and Allied Manufacturers Taiwan and Holland showed that the African market was seen as
(Naacam) executive director Roger Pitot. This was one of the being a potential growth area by the world’s auto industry, he
main reasons that Naacam was supporting the second South said. He urged local component manufacturers to turn this to
African Automotive Week (SAAW), an industry show-case and their advantage by entering into licence agreements with foreign
think-tank that is being held in Port Elizabeth in October this suppliers wanting to enter the African and local South African
year. SAAW is the only industry event supported by both markets. Over the next two years, the component industry
Naacam and the National Association of Automobile would be characterised by mergers, take-overs and a consolida-
Manufacturers of South Africa (Naamsa), together with the tion of suppliers by original equipment manufacturers (OEMs).
Automotive Industry Development Centre (AIDC). According The pressure was therefore intense for suppliers to beef up
to Pitot, it would not be possible to meet an industry target of through partnerships. – the potential of which existed through
70 per cent local content without much higher production vol- SAAW. The local companies already have the skills, facilities and
umes. Hitting the million vehicle a year mark would increase infrastructure in place, and would benefit from technology.
employment levels in the auto industry by “50 to 60 per cent”, “Original equipment manufacturers demand that local suppliers
according to Pitot. SAAW chairperson Alfred da Costa, who has have international licensing agreements in place. Therefore, hav-
interests in component manufacturing, says SAAW 2009 will be ing international links in place is not a choice but a necessity.”
74 June 2009
Fast Wheels
No Passing F1 is Back
With four wins in the five races that started the Formula 1 GP sea-
son this year, Jensen Button has proved one thing. Give the right car
with the right team to any one of the twenty drivers in Formula 1 and
by Roger McCleery probably lots more in some of the other single seater formulae, and
they will win a GP.
J
ensen Button was written off over the What a start for a team with dedicated and Round 4 in Bahrain was fairly dramatic
last few years as a “over the hill has- knowledgeable men who know their and good to watch and had a new exciting
been” with only one GP win in his Grand Prix racing. look with lots of new faces and new cars
entire career. So was Rubens starting to show.
Barricello for that matter. Truth is that the What is nice about GP racing this year and
cars they were driving were not up to I don’t think we are going to see passing on Behind the scenes the usual political drama
the track on the scale we even see in other continued. Max Moseley who unfortu-
scratch in the handling or engine perform-
formula or in South Africa for that matter, nately has lost his 39 year-old son, had his
ance departments. The trouble with is the new or young smiling faces that have cost reduction methods being queried by
Formula GP racing is that if you as a driv- come to the fore. Button, 21 year old the boss of Fiat and Ferrari, who said he
er aren’t in a top well-financed team, Sebastian Vettel tipped as the next Michael will withdraw from Formula 1 Racing if
Formula 1 will make a fool of you. Every Schumacher, Nico Rosberg, the Swiss this happens. According to reports Max
one of the competitors in Formula 1 today Sebastian Buemi – are all giving it their said – “Go. Formula 1 can survive without
has got there as a champion of one sort or everything and loving being part of the you..” You think? I reckon if Ferrari with-
another. Either World Karting (and that scene. They enjoy their racing despite all draws it could start a snowball effect with
is a super competitive sport), National the politics around them. The last three Renault, Toyota and BMW leaving the
Championships, GP2, Formula 3000 GPs in China, Bahrain, and Barcelona scene. Boardroom members not close to
American Championships, Formula Ford have been different. China, run in mon- the Formula 1 racing, who finance these
soon rains, saw Red Bull with Vettel and teams, just need an excuse to pull out and
– or whatever. They certainly wouldn’t be
Mark Weber without the advantages of the save huge amounts of money. See what
driving million-rand racing cars if they so-called illegal diffusers, used by the happened to our own Production Cars and
weren’t top of their game with a reputation uncatchable “gang of three” (Brawn, Touring Cars in South Africa without
for success. Toyota and Williams) as described by manufacturers. Sure, the racing will go on
Renault Chief Flavio Briatore, came home but it won’t be quite the same.
We have seen the skill of these drivers and 1 / 2 to take it away from the Brawn duo.
the competitiveness of their teams when it Bahrain, a little bit closer to home, saw odd Then the CE of Williams, was said to have
is damp or raining. That’s when the weath- bits and pieces being fitted to try and questioned the legality of Ferrari’s title win-
er neutralises everything – drivers, cars and improve the performance of the cars. ning cars in the days of MS. He claimed
teams - and makes for great GPs. Most of Bahrain in the desert saw Button, Vettel afterwards that he never said that about
the dry GPs these days are still processions. and Trulli stand on the podium with - sur- Ferrari or Renault for that matter. Nice
In the wet races we have seen Adrian Sutil, prise, surprise - World Champion Lewis boys. Sounds like our politicians, who have
the young German in Force India, up there Hamilton, fourth. been misquoted.
with the front runners. Kazuki Nakajima
in the Williams has done the same. The Comes Barcelona – the first European GP Formula 1 has the habit of keeping the
world beating McLarens and Ferraris and of ten in a row saw the cars all square with intrigue and in-fighting going with huge
their drivers have looked average despite lots of aerodynamics and other goodies coverage between races. It comes generally
having the biggest budgets and world fitted. Results? A procession of note with with someone paying big amounts of
champions at the wheel. Bottom line? all of us having to get excited about fueling money particularly when they are asked to
Every one of these super stars who race in tactics and the amount of gas carried in the appear in FIA Court.
Formula 1 today can win under the right car and whether it would last to the end.
circumstances. At the first race in Martin Brundel, the commentator, was Roll on Monaco. It is the pearl in the
Melbourne along comes the new Brawn back to saying “The stewards are sure to crown with all the beautiful people in
Grand Prix Team with two non-perform- look at that” when one car tried a daring attendance and normally providing a sting
ing drivers. The team was only formed passing move. At least we won’t have any of in the tail as drivers and cars start to get
about a month before the first race. They that in Monaco where there is no passing super tired. (No sting in the tail, I’m afraid
promptly cleaned up with a 1 / 2 finish. anyway. Yawn yawn. So the racing up to – editor’s comment – after the race)
Answers From page 72

1. To prevent the down 4. Three seconds 8. Peter du Toit 13. Rubens Barrichello 18.Chery QQ.8 TE at
force on the cars lifting 5. Eighteen years 9. NP200 14. Brawn R69 000
them up 6. + Fifty times per second 10. Toyota Hi-Lux 15. Chev 19. Porsche GT 2 at
2. Buzz Aldrin 7. Soichiro – means ‘First 11. November 2008 16. Toyota R2.65m
3. December 1972 Son’ 12. Ignition 17. Tourer 20. Volkswagen
June 2009 75
Industry update
An Ideal Becoming
a Reality
Patrick Latouche is on a mission. Sceptics may say that it is mission impossible, but
Patrick is not fazed. He has an ideal which he believes can become a reality, and his
overriding philosophy in everything he does is to shoot for the stars.
A
s general manager of Sparepro, becomes the supplier of choice, even if the
Patrick is striving to create a sup- price is not as good as the competitors’.
ply chain that not only feeds off Patrick says that in getting to this ideal
itself, it strengthens in the there must be no comfort zone. The team
process, from A to Z, whilst encouraging must never rest, and the focus has to be
co-operation from everyone in the chain in improve, improve, improve. Sounds like a
meeting common goals. In essence, a win- tall order, but Patrick is adamant that his
win situation. In this idealistic scenario, ideal must become a reality, and that this is
strong and synerginistic relationships are a process of constant reinforcement and
critical. Patrick’s ideal is to create business adaptation, and that it is a journey that
focused relationships with both the inward never ends, as in reality the goalposts will
freight companies and the outward freight always move higher and higher, so you
companies, thus providing an excellent never reach the destination. Patrick says it
logistics base from start to finish, to enable is all about respecting yourself and self
excellent delivery service to the ultimate improvement. “Everything is an opportu-
customer, i.e. the wholesalers, the spares nity, and there is always a potential for
shops, the workshops, and the DIY enthu- growth. Our foundation is that we are the
siasts. With a strong and reliable logistics best we can be, and that we will always use
base, Sparepro can leverage off this a professional approach.” Inspiring words,
“cocoon of certainty” and introduce clear respect, with no smoke and mirrors; with and may this dream become reality.
policies and house rules around credit lim- the true intention of building relationships
its, return for credits, and to communicate to such an extent that each customer can
this with confidence to the clients. This truly say “Sparepro is Different”.
cocoon of certainty thus allows manage-
ment to concentrate on the nuts and bolts Patrick says that the sales team plays a key
of the business, i.e. good product, right role in making this ideal become a reality.
price, and efficient service. Thus, no mat- Each salesperson becomes part of the solu-
ter the size of the customer, each and every tion, and part of the future, and he or she
customer can be treated with the necessary delivers to such an extent that Sparepro
76
June 2009
The Last Writes by Baron Claude Borlz
My readers have once again not let me down

Eish, very that, St. Peter escorts him to the elevator and he
goes down, down, down to hell. The doors open
have gone by and St. Peter returns. 'Well, then,
you've spent a day in hell and another in heaven.
appropriate and he finds himself in the middle of a green golf Now choose your eternity.' The MP reflects for a
course. In the distance is a clubhouse and standing minute, then he answers: 'Well, I would never have
just after the in front of it are all his friends and other politicians said it before, I mean heaven has been delightful,
who had worked with him. Everyone is very happy but I think I would be better off in hell.' So St.
elections: and in evening dress. They run to greet him, shake Peter escorts him to the elevator and he goes down,
While walking down the street one day a Member his hand, and reminisce about the good times they down, down to hell. Now the doors of the elevator
of Parliament' is tragically hit by a truck (Probably had while getting rich at the expense of the people. open and he's in the middle of a barren land cov-
a municipal one, I think!) and dies. His soul arrives They play a friendly game of golf and then dine on ered with waste and garbage. He sees all his friends,
in heaven and is met by St. Peter at the entrance. lobster, caviar and champagne. Also present is the dressed in rags, picking up the trash and putting it
'Welcome to heaven,' says St. Peter. 'Before you set- devil, who really is a very friendly & nice guy who in black bags as more trash falls from above. The
tle in, it seems there is a problem. We seldom see a has a good time dancing and telling jokes. They are devil comes over to him and puts his arm around
high official around these parts, you see, so we're having such a good time that before he realizes it, it his shoulder. 'I don't understand,' stammers the
not sure what to do with you.' 'No problem, just let is time to go. Everyone gives him a hearty farewell MP. 'Yesterday I was here and there was a golf
me in,' says the man. 'Well, I'd like to, but I have and waves while the elevator rises...The elevator course and clubhouse, and we ate lobster and
orders from higher up. What we'll do is have you goes up, up, up and the door reopens on heaven caviar, drank champagne, and danced and had a
spend one day in hell and one in heaven. Then you where St. Peter is waiting for him. 'Now it's time to great time. Now there's just a wasteland full of
can choose where to spend eternity.' 'Really, I've visit heaven.' So, 24 hours pass with the MP join- garbage and my friends look miserable. What hap-
made up my mind. I want to be in heaven,' says the ing a group of contented souls moving from cloud pened?' The devil looks at him, smiles and says,
MP. 'I'm sorry, but we have our rules..' And with to cloud, playing the harp and singing. They have 'Yesterday we were campaigning.. ..Today you
a good time and, before he realises it, the 24 hours voted.'
New Employment Rules

SICKDAYS We will no longer accept a Fat people get 5 minutes for lunch because that's all the time
doctor's certificate as proof of sickness. If needed to drink a Slimfast and take a diet pill.
you are able to get to the doctor, you are
able to come into work. DRESS CODE It is advised that you must come to work
dressed according to your salary. If we see you wearing designer
SURGERY Operations are now banned. clothing we will assume that you are doing well financially and
As long as you are an employee here, you therefore do not need a pay rise.
need all your organs. You should not con-
sider having anything removed. We hired Thank you for your loyalty to our company. We are here to pro-
you intact. To have something removed constitutes a breach of vide a positive employment experience. Therefore, all questions,
employment. comments, concerns, complaints, frustrations, irritations, aggra-
vations, insinuations, allegations, accusations, contemplations,
HOLIDAYS Each employee will receive 104 holidays per year. consternations or input should be directed elsewhere.
They are called Saturday and Sunday.
Have a nice day
BEREAVEMENT LEAVE This is no excuse for missing The Management.
work. There is nothing you can do for dead friends or relatives.
Every effort should be made to have non-employees to attend to
the arrangements. In rare cases where employee involvement is
necessary, the funeral should be scheduled for the late afternoon.
We will be glad to allow you to work through your lunch-hour
and subsequently leave one hour early, provided your share of
the work is done.
ABSENT FOR YOUR OWN DEATH This will be accepted

as an excuse. However, we require at least two weeks notice to
allow time for you to train your own replacement.
TOILET USE Entirely too much time is being spent in the toi-
lets. In the future, we will follow the practice of going in alpha-
betical order. For instance: All employees whose names begin
with 'A' will go from 8.00 to 8.20, employees whose names
begin with 'B' will go from 8.20 to 8.40 and so on. If you are
unable to go at your allotted time, it will be necessary to wait
until the next day when your turn comes again. In extreme
emergencies employees may swap their time with a co-worker.
Both workers' supervisors must approve this exchange in writ-
ing. In addition, there is now a strict 3-minute time limit in the
toilets. At the end of 3 minutes, an alarm will sound, the toilet
paper will retract, and the door will open.. It’s a fine mess you’ve gotten us
LUNCH BREAK Skinny people get an hour for lunch as they into now that you’ve got rid of
need to eat more so they can look healthy, normal size people get
30 minutes for lunch to maintain their average figure. our meal ticket...
June 2009 77

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ABR JUNE 1 2009:Layout 1 5/27/09 4:31 PM Page 2

14 MISA Magic 56 Braking the Sound Barrier

4 The Phoenix Tilting at Windmills

8 What’s the Buzz

10 Wilde Things The Dumbing Down of the World

12 Industry Icons Focus on Forsdicks

14 Cover Story MISA Magic

16 Tony’s Take The Zuma Cabinet of 2009

20 The Chery Story Chery Shines at Shanghai Motor Show

22 Frankly Speaking Dropping a Stitch?

24 Health Care Managing Your Health

26 Vehicle Evaluation Jiminy Cricket!

28 Customer C.A.R.E. Customer Relationship Management

32 Managing the Risks Shock Treatment

34 Weighty Issues For Toyota Trucks, Read Hino

36 Auto Topical Automotive GDP Contribution Recovers

38 Personal Profile Q & A with Jacques Brent

42 Tyre Safety Tyres’ Contribution to Safety in Motoring

44 Diamond Dialogues Inferior Parts – the Consequences

46 Safety, Bling and Flying High

Publishing Editor Intelli-Driving Editor Gamble, Austin Published by:

48 Transport History Stonehenge – Eat your Heart Out

50 Burford on Brands Pontiac About to Join its Ancestors

51 e-CAR Golden Nugget

53 AutoZone Update Get Turbocharged

54 Capricorn Insights Taking the High Road

56 Topclass Topics “Braking” the Sound Barrier

58 Euroquip News Valeo for Life

60 Industry Update Life Goes On

62 Robert Bosch Bosch Service National Convention 2009

66 Industry Update Champions of Industry

68 Partinform Springs has Sprung

72 AIDC Quiz 20 Questions

74 AIDC Conference Navigating the Storm

75 Fast Wheels No passing F1 is Back

76 Industry Update An Ideal Becoming a Reality

77 The Last Writes

Editorial Office: Subscriptions and Data Design and Reproduction: Printing:

What’s the Buzz?

LAMBORGHINI SELECTS ALCOA TO

NEW WAR ON MALARIA

JAGUAR IMPLEMENTS TWO PROGRAMMES TO

The Dumbing Down of the World

What’s the Buzz?

HYUNDAI SOUTH AFRICA LAUNCHES HYUNDAI FAST FURIOUS

Geared for Customer repair if you have the misfortune to have

The trade union needs to obtain access to the workplace in terms

The Automechanika Exhibition was the ideal vehicle for MISA to

With inflation at double digit levels, Imperial Auto Parts

Tony’s Take From page 16

CHERY TIGGO RANGE

A series of articles on the rise of the Chery automobile

The A3 1,6 and 2,0

A series of articles on the rise of the Chery automobile

The stunning Riich G6

The Riich G5 2,0VVT

MOTO Health Care

What’s the Buzz?

Ken Ken Answers from page 8

Audi of South Africa is proud of its

Trilogy Customer C.A.R.E.

THE NEXT MODULE, WE SHALL START AT THE ROOT CAUSE

managing the Risks

What’s the Buzz?