What Lies in Store for 2016 – a Female Perspective - aBr Buzz

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WORDS IN ACTION | FEBRUARY 2016 1

The Phoenix

Whilst this issue of aBr is jam packed with information, our monthly contribution cannot do justice to the wealth of information available on a daily basis, so don’t forget to get your daily fix on our website. Make sure that you make regular visits to www.abrbuzz.co.za

What Lies in Store for 2016 – a Female Perspective

Thus, it is in desperation that we tend to look for silver linings, and when we do come across some positive news

and views, we cling to it like a marooned sailor. Hope springs eternal in the human breast, which means that the more female economists we have the better, because I have noticed that female economists tend to be more positive than their male counterparts. And from my viewing point, I have noticed that there are more and more female economists being appointed to senior economic positions. This must be a good thing, because their more positive outlook must create a more upbeat environment.

This recurring thought was reinforced at the Ford media breakfast on 3 November 2015, which was the last such breakfast in 2015. I love the Ford media breakfasts, because I always walk away with a spring in my step, as the news for the past two years has been very upbeat, what with Ford doing very well globally, and shooting the lights out in South

From most perspectives, 2016 is

threatening to be a tough year.

Most pundits are having a field day

predicting all sorts of economic

pestilences that are to be visited

upon us. This is particularly harsh

for us hard-working and industrious

folk, who whilst working our butts

off, have to look on in frustration at

a profligate government frittering

our taxes away. Even harder to

stomach is the business and

investor unfriendly policies that

these economic illiterates have

foisted upon us.

Let us hope that Benjamin

Disraeli’s jibe about “Lies, damned

lies, and statistics” applies here.

And what about my favourite

definition of an economist;

“someone who is inaccurate to the

third decimal point.” Let’s get 2016

out of the way.

female perspective in the Financial Mail of December 3 – December 9 2015.

This time it was Danelee Masia, Deutsche Bank’s economist. What really scared the bejesus out of me was her admission that “this is the first time I really don’t have confidence that things will get better.” Her concern is that wage growth has been faster than output growth for quite some time, which is unsustainable. She is particularly concerned about the proposed national minimum wage, which she predicts will devastate corporate profit growth.

Africa. Ford always invites an economist to these breakfasts, and their presentations tend to be like a curate’s egg, being excellent in places, but always with some caveats about the South African economy. But on 3 November we had the pleasure to get a slightly different perspective from Gina Schoeman, Citi’s South African economist. Whilst Schoeman did warn that 2016 will be a lost year for South Africa, she told us that we must hang in there, as 2017 and 2018 look more promising. I do not have the space to go into the details of her presentation, but the gist of her argument is that South Africa’s institutional strength will see us through the bad times, and will even contribute to us avoiding the junk status tag. One can only hope that our government does not destroy this outlook with some more damn fool moves! (This was written before the Black Swan Event on 9 December 2015 - see the following story)

Then, just as I was preparing to enjoy a well-deserved year end break, I read another

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2 WORDS IN ACTION | FEBRUARY 2016

The Phoenix #2

Our Enormous Black SwanHarold Wilson, British prime minister

in the 1960’s and 1970’s, is quoted

as saying that “a week is a long time

in politics”. Ironically, with the state

of the Rand, this quote came in the

midst of the sterling crisis in 1964,

and long before the UDI (Universal

Declaration of Independence)

of the Rhodesian government in

November 1965. Well, if a week in

politics is a long time, then a week in

publishing is a long, long time.

This quote came to mind after the removal of Nhlanhla Nene as our finance minister on the night of

9 December 2015, and the swearing in of “who the F%%$$ is Alice” David van Rooyen the next morning, and then the reassignment of “who the F%%$$ is David” three days later, and the appointment of wise old hand Pravin Gordhan that very same night.

this enormous black albatross around our necks.

My referral to black swans and black albatrosses may have you confused, so let me explain. I quote from Wikipedia, “The black swan theory or theory of black swan events is a metaphor that describes an event that comes as a surprise, has a major effect, and is often inappropriately rationalised after the fact with the benefit of hindsight.

The theory was developed by Nassim Nicholas Taleb to explain: 1) The disproportionate role of high-profile, hard-to-predict, and rare events that are beyond the realm of normal expectations in history, science, finance, and technology. 2) The non-computability of the probability of the consequential rare events using scientific methods (owing to the very nature of small probabilities). 3) The psychological biases that blind people, both individually and collectively, to uncertainty and to a rare event’s massive role in historical affairs”.

The black swan theory applies to events, but for the purpose of this article I am applying this to an individual who is so dangerous and unpredictable that he alone is an enormous black swan.

Of particular concern is that he makes decisions based on the needs and wants of females that are “close” to him, rather than on the critical needs of the South African economy, which makes this horrendous black swan a horrendous black albatross around our necks, with apologies to Samuel Taylor Coleridge.

Let us just pray that another

concubine does not get upset

with Gordhan.

What had got me agitated, apart from the unmitigated disaster that had been visited upon our economy, was that just one day earlier, on 8 December 2015, I had written my Phoenix column for the February 2016 issue, looking at what lies in store for 2016, not expecting any major economic disruptions during the normally quiet holiday period.

And in this piece (see previous article) I had tempted fate by saying that “one can only hope that our government does not destroy this outlook with some more damn fool moves!”

My attempt to get ahead of the curve, and to reduce my workload when I came back from leave, had misfired spectacularly, in one day, forget about a week! And all because of the machinations of one enormous black swan. And the female economists quoted in my previous article, must also be sitting in their offices, shaking their heads, and wondering if forecasting is really worth it while we have

Get ready for

Radio aBrbroadcasting from the beginning of

March!

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INTERNATIONAL OVERVIEW6 Auto Alert8 Robert Bosch Phenomenon10 What’s the Buzz

TECHNOLOGY AND FEATURE14 Cover Feature: Monroe 100th Anniversary16 What’s the Buzz20 Customer C.A.R.E.22 e-CAR28 Valvoline 150th Anniversary30 Industry News36 Lubrication Matters

IN THE MIX38 Partinform40 Wilde Things42 Vehicle Launch44 Vehicle Review46 Bike Torque

READERS’ PAGE48 The Fink50 What’s the Buzz

52 Formula One from the Inside54 Global Motorsport Overview55 Road Tests57 What’s the Rev

60 Moving Matters62 Industry Update64 Talking Technical65 What’s the Move66 Commercial Vehicle Insights

70 Wilder Things72 Last Writes

The publisher and contributors have done their best to ensure the accuracy of the articles and cannot accept responsibility for any loss or inconvenience sustained by any reader as a result of information or advice in Automotive Business Review. The information provided and opinions expressed in this publication are provided in good faith and do not necessaraly represent the opinion of the publisher. No article may be reproduced in any form without the prior written permission from the publisher, except for the quotation of brief passages in reviews.

Published byLitage Publishing

GM Editorial Sales & ProductionMarlene ErasmusCell: 082 837 2668E-mail: [email protected]

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Design Twilightdragon print creationz

PrintingBusiness Print Centre, PretoriaPhoto Credits:Quickpic • Motorpress

| W O R D S I N A C T I O NFebruary 2016

Contents

www.textarsa.co.za Textar SA

www.textarsa.co.za Textar SA

0030 Textar SPS Ad_v7.indd 1 2016-01-12 01:51:23 PM


by Frank Beeton

Auto Alert

A probing review of significant global motor industry news

FROM MIATA TO “FIATA”?

Back in the May 2015 edition of aBr, we detailed the latest version of Mazda’s MX-5/Miata roadster. Mazda’s bold 1989 step in recreating a 1960’s “British” sports car had paid off handsomely for the Japanese manufacturer, to the tune of 950 000 unit sales through its first three generations. The 2016 year model fourth generation MX-5 was unusual in being smaller than its immediate predecessor, but this has not, in any way, adversely affected the enthusiastic reception that the latest version has received from the motoring media, and early marketplace interest has reportedly been solid. The main differentiators of the new Miata include aluminium bonnet, boot lid, front mudguards and bumper reinforcements, repositioned controls, repositioned windscreen and associated bodywork, new suspension, and a more rearward engine location to provide a 50:50 front/rear weight distribution. Powertrain options include a 131 hp 1,5-litre or 155 hp 2-litre Skyactiv direct-injection petrol engine, and 6-speed manual or automatic transmission.

In our original report, we mentioned that Mazda had agreed to share some of the latest MX-5 DNA with Fiat Chrysler Automobiles, in order to create a new roadster for that manufacturer. We first got wind of this collaboration in May 2012 in an announcement that Mazda Motor Corporation and Fiat Group Automobiles S.p.A, had signed a non-binding Memorandum of Understanding that covered the development and manufacture of a new roadster for the Mazda and Alfa Romeo nameplates, based on the next generation MX-5.

However, FCA’s subsequent decree that all Alfa Romeos must only be built in Italy determined that its version of this Japanese-built car would have to carry Fiat or Abarth branding. Sure enough, during November, the official unveiling of Fiat’s new 124 Spider took place at the Los Angeles auto show, and it didn’t take long for the media to dub it “Fiata”!

The unique FCA content was identified to include the 1,4-litre Fiat MultiAir turbocharged engine, developing 160 hp and 249 Nm torque, driving the rear wheels through a 6-speed manual or automatic transmission, the complete bodywork, sport steering wheel, seats, gearshift, gauges, graphics, door panels and upper dash trim. Fiat has also tuned the springs and shock absorbers to achieve its preferred balance of comfort and handling, and has specified two trim levels, namely Classica (base) and Lusso (upmarket).

Fiat is hoping that, when it goes on sale in mid-2016, the new 124 Spider will play the same role in building the brand’s appeal in North America as the original design did 50 years ago. The first 124 Spider sold 170 000 units in North America between 1967 and 1985.

We would still not be surprised to see a higher-performance and more highly specified version of this car emerge with Abarth branding at some future date.

The power output of the standard MultiAir engine is only 5 hp more than Mazda’s 2-litre MX-5, so it seems likely that FCA would like to have a variant with a performance advantage over the Miata, which it is sure to compete with in some markets. With turbocharging already part of the technical makeup, boosting the power would be a fairly simple exercise, but some additional enhancements to braking and handling may also be necessary. Watch this space!

AND NOW…… THE FIAT FULLBACK!

While we are on the subject of new products from the FCA group, we must admit that the arrival of the Fiat Fullback at the Dubai Motor Show in early November took us completely by surprise.

There did not seem to be any reason to expect Fiat to turn up at that show with a one ton payload body-on-frame pickup, when it had never had this type of product in its catalogue before.

However, closer examination of the product soon aroused suspicions that it was not quite what it originally seemed. Media reports revealed that the design and manufacturing origins of the Fullback are firmly rooted in the Mitsubishi Motors Corporation’s Triton/L200 pickup. Thus, with the Fiat 124 Spider described in the preceding article, we have two new FCA products which have emerged from co-operative arrangements between this Euro-US grouping and Japanese motor manufacturers. However, the Fullback, and the Mitsubishi Triton on which it is based, are built in Thailand, which is the manufacturing source of most “Japanese” one-tonners.

The Fullback has a unique grille, lower bumper and alloy wheels, is to be offered in single cab, extended cab and double cab derivatives, and also with a choice of rear-, or all-wheel-drive.

The European market model will reportedly be powered by a 2,4-litre four-cylinder turbodiesel, while the global versions will offer additional 2,5-litre turbodiesel and 2,4-litre naturally-aspirated petrol engine options. Transmission choices will include six-speed manual or five-speed automatic gearboxes, and market entry in Africa, the Middle East and Europe is set for May, 2016.

The choice of the name “Fullback” was reportedly inspired by that player position in the games of rugby and American football.

➲ Fiat’s Triton-derived Fullback will give the brand its initial entry into the one-ton

bakkie market

➲

Auto Alert


This is not the first time that the Fiat family has had a marketing connection with the oval ball game, as truck-building affiliate Iveco has, for some time, used sponsorship and association with the New Zealand All Blacks rugby team to build a corporate image of solidarity, ruggedness and success.

We are not sure that this has gone down all that well in other rugby playing nations, but nobody can deny that the All Blacks’ triumph in the recent World Cup would have been generally supportive of Iveco’s image in the rest of the world.

Fiat has had some previous history with “bakkies” in the South African market. In 1978, the Italian manufacturer launched a half-ton pickup version of its 128 front-wheel-drive sedan/station wagon family, which remained on the local market until 1984.

More recently, in 2005, the Palio-based Strada half-tonner was imported from Brazil to compete in a growing car-derived pickup segment with the likes of the Nissan NP200, Ford Bantam and Opel Corsa pickups, but it was discontinued in 2012.

This makes Fiat’s decision to add a one-tonne pickup to its product range somewhat intriguing.

This type of vehicle does not have a huge following in Europe, although several Japanese brands do market their products in the United Kingdom and on the Continent, and there is, of course, Volkswagen’s Amarok, which is built in Argentina, and now also in Germany.

Locally, and despite a heavyweight promotional effort by VW, the Amarok has failed to capture a major share of the South African “bakkie” market, being continuously outsold by the Toyota Hilux and Ford Ranger.

This suggests that buyers of this class of vehicle may be heavily influenced by a perception that the manufacturer has an established track record of “truck” experience, and that even the mighty Volkswagen is considered “lightweight” in this regard.

Fiat reportedly intends to bring the Fullback to this market, and it will be interesting to see if its linkage to a European brand, with no previous one-tonner experience, proves to be a positive or negative marketing factor.

Ford has somewhat disproved the theory that only “Japanese” bakkies can make it here, although the Ford brand has a long history of light and heavy truck involvement, from European and North American sources, with the South African market. The Ranger’s relationship to Mazda’s BT-50 pickup is also no secret.

MORE GEN ON NAVARA

During 2014, Nissan Motor Company gave the world its first look at the latest NP300 Navara pickup family. This is the 12th generation of Nissan’s pickup model, which provides an indication of how importantly the company views this area of the market.

Last year we reported on the announcement that Mercedes-Benz and Renault badged derivatives of the basic NP300 design were also on the way, adding even more weight to the model’s global importance.

The new Navara will have an extensive production footprint, being built in Spain, Argentina, Mexico and Thailand, while the final announcement regarding possible assembly in Rosslyn, South Africa, is still awaited.

During November, 2015, Nissan announced that certain double cab versions of the Navara would be equipped with a new, lightweight 5-link/coil sprung rear suspension, in the interests of providing a more comfortable ride than that usually experienced in pickups with traditional rigid axle/leaf spring setups.

The design objective was to provide an unladen ride experience similar to that experienced in Nissan’s crossover models, but interestingly, the multi-link suspension will not come with any penalty in terms of payload capacity, which remains in excess of one ton when it is fitted. The new Navara will also offer a 3 500 kg towing capacity.

CADILLAC XT5

As reported previously in Auto Alert, General Motors would like to see its Cadillac luxury brand be more competitive with higher volume selling luxury brands such as BMW, Audi, Mercedes-Benz and Lexus.

Part of the strategy that it has developed with this objective in sight is a new model designator system, which kicked off with the recently-announced CT6 flagship. There has been much discussion about this new system, with the CT6 possibly being confused with the existing CTS, and continuing the lack of positioning clarity allegedly suffered by its SRX, XTS, ATS and ELR siblings. As we said in our earlier comments, the efficacy of the new policy will only become fully apparent once more new models, lower down the pecking order, have been launched.

Late last year, the second new model to carry this designation system, the XT5, was unveiled. In this case, “XT” signifies “crossover touring”, and this all-new model is planned for production in the US and China going into the second quarter of 2016. Positioned to compete with the likes of the Audi Q5, and the Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class, the five-passenger XT5 is powered by the same 3,6-litre V6 engine as used in versions of the ATS, CTS and CT6.

In XT5 trim, this engine, with its variable valve timing, cylinder deactivation, and direct petrol injection, has a maximum estimated output of 310 hp (231 kW). The Chinese market version will be powered by a 2,0-litre four-cylinder turbocharged engine, and, in both cases, power is transmitted through an eight-speed automatic gearbox to the front, or all four, wheels.

The XT5 and CT6 will also feature Cadillac’s Rear Camera Mirror system, using a Liquid Crystal video display positioned over the conventional interior rearview mirror.

The image, collected by a high dynamic range camera, is streamed to video processing software that “removes” the roof, rear pillars and rear seat passengers from the display, and provides a considerably enhanced view to the driver when compared to a normal rearview mirror.

The XT5 is reportedly one of four new crossovers to be introduced by Cadillac, so it will be interesting to see which numeric designators are allocated to future models. “XT” will, apparently be the common designator for all crossovers, so we are left wondering if using the “6” numeric for the brand’s flagship sedan will have left enough space for a clutch of crossovers presumably downmarket of that product. We will watch this one with interest!


The Robert Bosch Phenomenon – Part Two – A series of articles on the phenomenal impact that Robert Bosch has had on the world, and

the potential for even greater things, based on a visit to Stuttgart from 14 to 16 October

2015 by Graham Erasmus, aBr’s publisher, and an avowed admirer of Robert Bosch by Graham Erasmus

Robert Bosch – The Entrepreneur and His Foundation

In the December 2015 / January 2016 issue of aBr,

we gave an overview of the incredible achievements

of Robert Bosch, and the impact that he had on the

world, and the impact that he continues to have on

the world, as entrepreneur, citizen, philanthropist

and democrat. In this issue we take a deeper look

at the Robert Bosch Foundation, and its various

activities.

ROBERT BOSCH’S SENSE OF SOCIAL RESPONSIBIL ITY1906: Robert Bosch is the first German entrepreneur to

introduce the eight-hour workday

1910: Bosch employees are entitled to free Saturday afternoons and regular vacation days

1913: Bosch introduces an apprentice department and apprentice workshop

1919: The corporate newspaper “Bosch-Zünder” goes into print, covering topics like “About Social Peace”, and “Future Prevention of Global Economic Crises”

1927: Foundation of the “Bosch-Hilfe”, and pension and social benefits programme for Bosch employees

The Robert Bosch Phenomenon – Part Two

➲ Photographer: Michael Fuchs

THE ENTREPRENEUR AND PHILANTHROPISTWith wealth comes responsibility: Starting in 1910, Bosch makes more than thirty grants to scientific, social, and cultural causes, such as:

• Technische Hochschule Stuttgart (Stuttgart University of Applied Sciences)

• Verein zur Förderung der Begabten (Association for the Promotion of the Gifted)

• Verein zur Förderung der Volksbildung (Association for the Promotion of Adult Education)

• Paneuropean Union

• Deutsche Schillergesellschaft (German Schiller Association)

• Foundation of a homeopathic hospital

THE DEMOCRAT1919: Robert Bosch acquires a building to house Friedrich

Naumann’s “Hochschule für Politik” (University for Political Science) in Berlin

1925: Bosch is a founding member of the “Verein für die Erneuerung des Reiches” (Federation for the Renewal of the Empire) to stabilise the Weimar Republic

1926: Robert Bosch and others found the Stuttgart local chapter of the “Verein zur Abwehr des Antisemitismus” (Association in Defence against Anti-Semitism)

1927: Bosch becomes a member of the Committee for German-French understanding and the Paneuropean Union of Richard Coudenhove-Kalergi

THE MISSION OF THE ROBERT BOSCH FOUNDATION

“It is my intention, apart from the alleviation of all kinds of hardship, to promote the moral, physical, and intellectual development of the people … health, education, promotion of talent, international understanding and the like to be promoted …”

Excerpts from Robert Bosch’s guidelines for the Vermögensverwaltung Bosch GmbH of 19 July 1935

THE HOSPITAL AND RESEARCH INSTITUTESThe Robert Bosch Stiftung operates three facilities in Stuttgart:

• The Robert-Bosch-Krankenhaus (Robert Bosch Hospital)

• The Dr Margarete Fischer-Bosch-Institut für Klinische Pharmakologie (Institute for Clinical Pharmacology)

• The Institut für Geschichte der Medizin (Institute for the History of Medicine)

FOUNDATIONS WITHIN THE FOUNDATIONThe Hans-Walz-Stiftung promotes natural healing methods. It focuses on projects dealing with the social history of medicine and the history of homeopathy

The Otto and Edith Mühlschlegel Stiftung aims to enhance the quality of life of senior citizens

The DVA-Stiftung promotes German-French relations in the field of translation and academic exchange

The Rochus and Beatrice Mummert-Stiftung promotes Executives of Tomorrow from Central and South Eastern Europe by awarding scholarships

Agent in South Africa – INTRADE Tel: 011-432-2667 • Fax: 011-432-3005 • E-Mail: [email protected]

Dana Announces Redesigned Victor Reinz® Installation Instructions

Customers also can access additional product details, view the complete Victor Reinz® product portfolio, search part numbers, and find global network and sales partners on www.victorreinz.com.

Dana announced today it has launched a refreshed set of assembly instructions for its Victor Reinz® aftermarket solutions. The Victor Reinz® directions have been enhanced to include colorful and detailed diagrams that are universally understood, removing text-heavy instructions and allowing global customers to easily review the installation details.

ABR 2/16

Dana optimized the instructions in an effort to simplify the layout and make it easier for customers to follow each assembly step.

Previous instructions included written explanations in German, English, and French, while the new design is entirely visual.

The company’s product program management team designed the new options to be user-friendly and offer a comprehensive, product-specific, and visually appealing guide to Victor Reinz® installations.

The instructions have been updated for multiple Victor Reinz® aftermarket products, including cylinder-head gaskets, sealants, valve cover gaskets, half rings, integrated oil seals, and more.

Installation instructions are included in all packaging.


What’s the Buzz?

Changes at the Helm of Schaeffler South AfricaAt a function in Port Elizabeth on 25 November 2015, the retirement of Len Terblanche, managing director of Schaeffler South Africa for some 27 years, was marked with a mixture of pathos, humour, remembrance, and rejuvenation, and the who’s who of the South African automotive market rubbed shoulders with a high powered delegation from the Schaeffler Group.

Seen at the function were, left to right: Trudbert Kraus, senior vice president Operations Transmission Systems Division; Dr Juergen Kroll, president Business Unit Clutch Systems – CEO Western Europe; Alex-Georg Mungiuri, vice president Region Africa & Middle East Business Division Automotive Aftermarket; Len Terblanche, outgoing managing director Schaeffler South Africa;

Norbert Indlekofer, CEO Automotive Schaeffler Group; and Marshal Myburg, incoming managing director Schaeffler South Africa.

What’s the Buzz?

MATCH MAKING•

TRADE SHOW•

CONFERENCES•

NETWORKING•

SITE TOURS

TSHWANE EVENTS CENTRE • PRETORIA GAUTENG PROVINCE • SOUTH AFRICAWWW.SAAW.CO.ZA

11 - 13 OCTOBER 2016

Barloworld Logistics aligns with global supply chain planning partnerBarloworld Logistics, an international provider of smart supply chain solutions, has announced that it has formed a strategic relationship with LLamasoft, the global leader in supply chain design software solutions.

In a deal aligned to both companies’ strategic objectives, Barloworld Logistics sold its UK and USA based Supply Chain Software (SCS) division to LLamasoft.

It signifies the official launch of a major strategic partnering initiative, enabling Barloworld Logistics to offer its clients a

wider array of cutting edge software and services to drive innovation and efficiencies through their supply chains.

Commenting on the deal, Steve Ford, CEO of Barloworld Logistics says, “The SCS team has developed world-class supply chain planning software products in CAST and Optimiza which have added significant value to our clients’ supply chains as well as our own business.

Our smart partnership with LLamasoft will enable the teams to leverage their skills and capabilities to provide leading software products to the global market.

It also enables the Barloworld Logistics consultants to continue providing our clients ongoing support and expertise with the existing tools as well as access to LLamasoft’s products.”

ABR-2016-02.FH11 Fri Jan 22 10:28:50 2016 Page 1

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What’s the Buzz? Ford Begins Assembling Ranger Trucks in Nigeria

As part of its ambitious expansion in Africa, Ford Motor Company assembled the first Ford Ranger in Nigeria in November 2015.

“The facility will accommodate one shift and will produce an initial 10 units per day for the Nigerian market, creating approximately 180 direct and indirect jobs. Over time, this will gradually expand,” says Jeff Nemeth, President and CEO Ford Motor Company of Sub-Saharan Africa region.

“The main driver behind Ford in Africa is affordability. Africa is one of the youngest markets in the world and presents a huge opportunity in terms of consumption,” he adds.

“The buying power of the African consumer is on the rise as the continent’s middle class increases exponentially. Despite infrastructure challenges, Africa has demonstrated impressive returns on foreign direct investment.”

Ford’s semi-knockdown (SKD) operation in Nigeria was established in partnership with the local Ford dealer group, Coscharis Motors Limited, and is based in Ikeja, Lagos State, approximately 750km south-west of Nigeria’s capital city Abuja. D. Cosmas Maduka, president of Coscharis Motors, says:

“We have worked hard and moved quickly to turn this dream into a reality. Today marks an important milestone when the cogs in the wheel really start to turn, not only for Ford in Nigeria, but in general for the Nigerian industry, which is receiving a much needed boost towards industrialisation and the development of the automotive industry.”

➲ Jeff Nemeth, president and CEO Ford Sub Saharan Africa region alongside Dr Cosmos

Maduka, president and CEO Coscharis Group, celebrating the first customer ready Ranger

assembled in Nigeria

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Agent in South AfricaIntradeT. 011-432-2667F. 011-432-3005E-mail: [email protected]

AM-JSI-210x297-int-e.indd 1 12.04.11 07:34

MON

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100TH

ANN

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SARY

Cover Feature

Monroe, Leading Global Brand of Vehicle Ride Control Products, Celebrating 100th Anniversary

Monroe, MI, USA, January 15, 2015 – Monroe® Suspension, one of the most respected brands in the

automotive and commercial vehicle industries, is celebrating its 100th Anniversary in 2016 with an extensive

schedule of programs, promotions and other special activities designed to support the thousands of parts

and service providers and millions of consumers worldwide who rely on Monroe products. Monroe shock

absorbers, struts and other products are manufactured by Tenneco.

F ounded in 1916 in Monroe, Mich., by mechanic and entrepreneur August F. Meyer, the business

that eventually became Monroe Auto Equipment Company initially manufactured tyre pumps for the owners of early automobiles.

Meyer soon added a partner, local Dodge motorcar dealer Charles S. McIntyre, whose industry knowledge helped cultivate demand for the company’s self-oiled, single-barreled

pumps. By 1926, Meyer and McIntyre had turned their attention to a larger opportunity – the demand for increased driver comfort and control.

Later that year they introduced the first Monroe “Shock Eliminator,” which soon replaced the unwieldy carriage springs on many passenger vehicles.

Nine decades and millions of customers later, the Monroe brand has become a globally recognised standard of innovation and product excellence within the ride control category.

Monroe is one of

the very few brands of

vehicle components

that have been able to

not only remain relevant

throughout the past

century, but which are

still viewed as the leading

innovators within their

product categories,

says Justin McKnight,

national sales executive,

Africa Automotive

Aftermarket Solutions.

YEARLONG COMMEMORATION TO H IGHLIGHT BRAND’S SUCCESS IN SUPPORTING CUSTOMERS THROUGH INNOVATIVE PRODUCTS ‘DRIVEN BY INNOVATION

AND QUALITY S INCE 1916’

“A consumer could live almost anywhere in the world today and be confident that a leading local vehicle service provider would recommend Monroe shock absorbers and struts for their vehicle.”

Monroe Auto Equipment expanded to Europe in 1964; Japan, Australia and Mexico in 1972; South America in 1974; and Canada in 1975.

Tenneco, which purchased the company in 1977, has overseen the development of several more recent Monroe innovations for passenger vehicles, trucks, buses and other applications.

The company introduced the automotive service industry’s first gas-charged replacement shock absorbers, Monroe Gas-Matic™ shocks, in 1982; Monroe Reflex® shocks and struts in 1999; Monroe Quick-Strut® complete replacement strut assemblies in 2003; and Monroe OESpectrum® shocks and struts in 2011.


Cover Feature

MON

ROE

100TH

ANN

IVER

SARY

To learn more about

Monroe ride control

products and the

brand’s 100th anniversary

celebration,

please contact your

Monroe or Tenneco

representative, and visit

www.monroe100.com.

In addition to its strong presence in the global aftermarket, Tenneco is one of the world’s largest manufacturers of original equipment ride control and suspension systems and components.

Tenneco’s revolutionary Monroe Intelligent Suspension electronic

suspension technologies offer vehicle manufacturers a wide range of options to tune suspension systems to very specific requirements and

provide a higher level of safety and comfort for drivers.

With the theme

Driven by innovation

and quality since 1916,

the brand’s 100th anniversary

celebration will focus as much

on the Monroe brand’s future as

it does on its past, according

to Bill Dennie, vice president

and general manager, Tenneco

Aftermarket EMEA.

Beyond advanced technologies and best-in-class product performance, a core element of the Monroe brand’s enduring success has been a uniquely strong connection with the professionals who specify, sell and install its products.

Every Monroe

breakthrough for

the aftermarket has

been supported by

dedicated channel

partners and skilled

vehicle service

professionals who

have embraced

the responsibility

to provide

motorists with a

controlled ride,

says

Joe Pomaranski,

senior vice

president and

general manager,

Global Aftermarket,

Tenneco.

“That’s the ultimate role of every Monroe product – a goal that requires strong partnerships across our industry.”

“It’s part of our corporate culture to always look for the next opportunity to enhance vehicle stability and performance. That’s how our founders helped create the ride control category in the early 1900s and it will be key to our next century of success.”


73302 RAM Ad_ABR_297X102.indd 1 2016/01/19 4:39 PM

South African Automotive Week Plans AnnouncedThe fifth edition of South African Automotive Week will take place in Tshwane, Africa’s Automotive City, from October 11-13, 2016. This year The Week, which has become a key international trading platform for South African component manufacturers, will be co-hosted with “Tooling Africa.” South African Automotive Week director Andrew Binning believes the inclusion of Tooling Africa into the Week will ‘’significantly boost interest and participation from an even wider segment of the manufacturing supply chain, including internationals.” The development which has stemmed from South African Automotive Week’s MOU with the Tooling Association of South Africa (TASA) will ensure that the over 10 000 m² trade show area of South African Automotive Week will grow to include a hall dedicated to tooling manufacturers. “TASA will also host a Tooling focused seminar at future editions of South African Automotive Week and will promote The Week to members and associates in terms of an exclusive partnership, which we believe will optimally address the imperatives pertaining to tooling and the tool industry in South Africa,’’ Binning adds.

The Tool, Die and Mouldmaking (TDM) industry, which represents a market of R13 billion per annum, with added maintenance services contributing another R2 billion per annum, is critical to achieve manufacturing competitiveness in South Africa, says Binning. “In order to create a sustainable manufacturing industry, steps need to be taken to ensure that the TDM industry achieves the highest quality and standards.’’ Binning says the agreement “is an important milestone in the development of The Week as the country’s authoritative voice and showcase of its manufacturing capability.’’

According to an economic impact report South African Automotive Week is highly effective in stimulating trade. At the previous edition in 2014, collectively 56% of exhibitors concluded deals valued above R50 000 at the event. Of that total, 15% were reported to have done deals valued between R100 000 and R500 000 and 21% concluded deals above R500 000. 1 414 meetings were scheduled between buyers and sellers on the match-making programme between 968 profiled organisations. “The focus is on trade, locally and internationally and any innovation this year will be around how to extract greater value for industry. Consequently The Week’s highly successful online match-making portal will be strengthened by the deployment of additional dedicated match-making personnel”, Binning adds.

More information on the programme for The Week including tradeshow, conference, workshops, networking and site tours is available at www.saaw.co.za

Contact your nearest PIA branch today

Cape TownTel: (021) 590-7500Fax: (021) 591-5033

East LondonTel: (043) 703-8000Fax: (043) 743-8418

JohannesburgTel: (011) 879-6000Fax: (011) 454-0200

Port ElizabethTel: (041) 390-3000Fax: (041) 373-0090

BloemfonteinTel: (051) 506-0700Fax: (051) 447-8336

DurbanTel: (031) 533-5300Fax: (031) 569-6576

GeorgeTel: (044) 874-4175Fax: (044) 874-3706

NelspruitTel: (013) 752-4821Fax: (013) 752-4869

PretoriaTel: (012) 377-7500Fax: (012) 377-3896(012) 377-3896

CH45

18

Although thermostats are not standard wearing parts, there is a need to replace them as a result of an accident, or under simple cooling system maintenance when a vehicle does not reach its optimal operating temperature. The THERMOSTAT forms an integral part of the engines thermal

management system, as all engines are designed to operate at their highest level of ef�ciency, when they reach a pre-determined temperature level.

Failing to reach these temperatures can cause a deterioration in fuel ef�ciency, an increase of CO2 emis-sions and even premature engine failure. MAHLE original THERMOSTATS are manufactured to original equipment speci�cations and are guaranteed to perform at these levels. These OE thermostats are not only available from the vehicle manufacturers. Full map controlled range available.

THERMOSTATS


HASTINGS MANUFACTURING – A TRUSTED NAME IN P ISTON RINGS WORLDWIDE

Hastings Manufacturing began in the small town of Hastings Michigan and remains there today. The factory is supplied with raw material from its own dedicated piston ring foundry. The company’s spirit and dedication to quality product is embodied in the Tough Guy, the Hastings iconic mascot for decades. If Hastings understands one thing, it’s the importance of customer confidence in its product. That’s why throughout the manufacturing process, Hastings Manufacturing is focused on making the highest quality piston rings,

knowing the end goal is customer confidence in the knowledge that the very best is going into their engines.

At Hastings Manufacturing, it is intentional to be solely focused on piston rings. This allows the company to better understand the product – and the customer. When you do one thing, depth and breadth are a natural result. Hastings engineers can recommend one of over 25,000 SKUs currently being manufactured for over 2.5 million vehicle applications, or collaborate with a customer to design a unique product for the desired application. If a customer needs a set of rings, no matter the style or coating – odds are Hastings can provide it.

Hastings offers superior tech support, attentive customer service, and online ordering – all backed by an award-winning inventory management system that ensures timely and reliable delivery across the globe. Add that to Hastings’ robust base of resources, including TecDoc electronic cataloguing, videos, and tech tips, it’s no wonder it’s a name that discerning OEM and aftermarket customers trust.

Learn more about Hastings Manufacturing at www.hastingpistonrings.com or check them out on Facebook.

As Hastings Manufacturing Company surpasses its 100th year in business, the company has become a global leader in piston

ring engineering and manufacturing. As a design innovator, such as with its famous Flex-Vent oil ring, Hastings is dedicated to

making only one thing – piston rings, with piston ring coverage for nearly any application – from automotive and truck, to agriculture, industrial, small engine, as well as marine and high performance.

ABR 2/16

Agent in South Africa – INTRADE • Tel: 011-432-2667 • Fax: 011-432-3005 E-Mail: [email protected] • Website: www.intrade.co.za

TransUnion Auto Dealers Guide Milestone: Supplying value to the industry for 55 yearsTransUnion has reached an epic milestone, celebrating 55 years of supplying value to the South African motor finance and insurance industry through the TransUnion Auto Dealers’ Guide. Providing the industry with over five decades of research, the Guise is widely respected and has become indispensable to everyone engaged in the buying and selling of vehicles. Over the past 55 years, the only thing that has changed is the size of the Dealers’ Guide as well as the various formats one can obtain them in including an electronic format, and more recently, the TransUnion1Check mobile platform. The printed guide is still the preferred method however, although TransUnion has noted that many are migrating from the printed guide to the mobile platform.

Some of our OE quality brands include:

The best looking range you’ll find.Goldwagen offers the widest range of superior quality suitable replacement parts for:

VW, Audi, BMW, Mercedes Benz, Opel, Renault, Toyota and Chevrolet

• Boasting more than 80 stores in operation and strategically located in several other countries

• 12-month warranty

• Genuine quality, genuine value

EST. EST. EST. 199219921992

Visit www.goldwagen.com to find a store nearest to you or phone us on 086 12255 49

62862 GW Manufacturers ad-Revised.indd 1 2015/05/28 2:15 PM

ModuleSeventy Four – Reflections on Customer C.A.R.E.

41091 FM-Motorparts_ABR_ad.pdf 1 9/17/14 10:40 AM

by Dr Trilogy

Customer C.A.R.E.

sponsored by Federal-Mogul

THE ESSENCE OF CUSTOMER C.A .R .E .

The previous two modules we took a detour, to look at an appalling example of customer c.a.r.e. Now we return to some more words of wisdom,

gleaned from Don Caldwell’s book, “The Customer is Always Wrong”, published in 1991, but with elements still relevant today.


BECOME FAMOUS FOR LONG, SLOW-MOVING QUEUESWhen my editor, Libby, finds long lines at the Birnham post office, she shouts to the back until somebody drags himself away from a cup of tea (or an important government document) and opens another window. The other customers always thank her for having the nerve to complain. But she shouldn’t have to.

41091 FM-Motorparts_ABR_ad.pdf 1 9/17/14 10:40 AM

41091 FM-Motorparts Logos_ABR_ad.pdf 1 9/17/14 2:38 PM

by Dr Trilogy

Customer C.A.R.E.

sponsored by Federal-Mogul

Dr Trilogy’s comments: Of course, things

have changed since 1991, so some of the

examples are not so relevant today.

But the essence of the article remains,

and the essence of not keeping customers

waiting (one of the cardinal crimes of

Customer C.A.R.E.) is still very, very relevant.


Long queues destroy sales in both the short term and the long term. Long lines encourage irritated customers to simply drop their baskets and live without whatever they had planned to buy. So you lose sales immediately. Then, the memory of interminably long lines discourage spur-of-the-moment shopping in the future.

I find it very difficult to get up the courage to enter a Checkers supermarket – particularly those in Hillbrow and the Killarney Mall – because it can take forever to buy Cocoa-Cola and a loaf of bread. I’d rather pay extra for the convenience of a café. To add to the irritation, large supermarkets frequently leave several checkout lanes unmanned as the lines get longer and longer.

Finally, there is nothing more annoying than banks, post offices, and cinema snack bars that make you guess which line will move fastest. What’s needed is a single queue that directs customers to the next available window. Otherwise you inevitably end up behind someone posting fourteen items to fourteen different countries (if you’re at the post office) or depositing R10 000 in bags of two-cent pieces (if you’re at the bank).

WHAT CAN YOU DO ABOUT IT?• Managers should double as cashiers.

The moment lines begin to form, managers should drop what they’re doing and open another till.

• Hire people as combination shelf-straighteners and cashiers. During slow periods, they should walk up and down each aisle, straightening cans and retrieving stray packages of frozen chicken left in the tooth paste aisle. This will combat the pigsty atmosphere of most large South African shops. When lines begin to form, they should rush to the tills.

• Make it store policy never to make a customer wait in line behind more than one other customer. Become known as the store without queues.

• Is your customer going to pay by cheque? Call the manager before the last item is rung up, so the cashier and customer don’t have to twiddle their thumbs for him to arrive.

• Make sure prices are stamped on all items, so other customers don’t have to wait six minutes while the cashier determines the price of a bunch of radishes.

• Try to serve customers in the order they arrive at the counter, rather than overlooking the meek.

• Don’t be short-sighted. Yes, cashiers cost money. But, in the long run, do you have any idea how much money you are losing because customers refuse to pop into your shop for a few items or have boycotted you altogether.


e-CAR

by Paul Collings

To join the fastest growing workshop network in South Africa and to add a new dimension to your business, contact Wayne Kreunen at 086 000 3227 (086 000 e-CAR)

Despite proliferating digitisation of modern vehicle engines, there remains a purely mechanical element to any engine, based on pure physics and the interplay between natural

elements brought together under pressure, such as air, oil, water, fuel and metal. The interplay between these elements is often beyond the scope of sophisticated electronic diagnostic tools and solving issues in these areas of the powertrain requires, well, good old-fashioned investigative/diagnostic tools which, reside squarely in the grey matter of the technician – i.e. his/her brain.

Take for example a recent case at an e-CAR workshop, VSB Auto Electrical & Fitment Centre, where a Volkswagen Passat 1.8T (2000 model) was brought in with engine oil floating in the radiator reservoir. According to the customer, several technically-minded people were asked (including via Google) what the problem might be and several different possibilities were given; from ‘blown head gasket’ to ‘leaking turbo’, to ‘oil cooler gone’ to ‘oil pressure switch dead’…prior to taking it to e-CAR partner, VSB Auto Electrical’s owner, Vernon Bresler.

Revisiting the Original Diagnostic Tool

Advanced electronic diagnostic machines are essential in any automotive workshop wishing to service

late-model vehicles equipped with on-board computers, ECUs (electronic control units) as they are more

commonly referred to. While advancements in digital management of automotive machinery have contributed to significant

improvements in engine power and fuel economy, they have also resulted in increasing complexity in diagnostic processes,

which in turn has the net effect of increased capital outlay in acquiring the necessary skills and tooling to execute successful

repairs to faulty engines.

Although not an immediate threat to

an engine, oil in the coolant will reduce

the cooling system’s ability to keep the

engine cool and therefore needs to be fixed.

Having checked the degree of leakage in

the radiator coolant reservoir, a process of

elimination was used to determine where the

leak was. Pressure tests were conducted on

both the radiator and the cylinder head and

no leaks were registered meaning both the

head gasket and the oil cooler were not the

culprits in this case,

says Bresler.

“We subsequently drained the cooling system, flushed the radiator, cleaned the reservoir and refilled the system with new coolant and water. I then drove the car for several days to see if the problem persisted but all seemed fine with the coolant level remaining constant and the coolant itself free of oil,” adds Bresler.

So what led to the problem? “Quite simple,” concludes Bresler, “someone must have poured oil into the radiator!”

Aha! Human error!

Lesson: Watch those pump-jockeys more closely…

Hastings delivers what the world wants in piston rings: precision, performance, and confidence, no matter the engine or application. If it has an internal combustion engine, it will run better and longer with Hastings Piston Rings.

MADE IN THE USA. MADE FOR SOUTH AFRICA.

Agent in South Africa Intrade Motor Parts T: 011-432-2667 E: [email protected] www.hastingspistonrings.com/countries/south-africa

Hastings delivers what the world wants in piston rings: precision, performance, and confidence, no matter the engine or application. If it has an internal combustion engine, it will run better and longer with Hastings Piston Rings.

MADE IN THE USA. MADE FOR SOUTH AFRICA.

Agent in South Africa Intrade Motor Parts T: 011-432-2667 E: [email protected] www.hastingspistonrings.com/countries/south-africa

What’s the Buzz?

Planner 2016:

Show Towns and Dates

Vereeniging (Gauteng), Wed 17 February 2016

Middelburg (Mpumalanga), Thu 17 March 2016

Vredenburg (Western Cape), Wed 13 April 2016

Musina (Limpopo), Wed 18 May 2016

Buluwayo (Zimbabwe), Wed 22 June 2016

Upington (Northern Cape), Wed 20 July 2016

George (Western Cape), Wed 17 August 2016

Lichtenburg (North West Prov), Wed 14 September 2016

Ladybrand (Free State), Wed 12 October 2016

Pinetown (KZN), Wed 9 November 2016

A Helping HandThe dti is well known for its financial support to qualifying companies in various sectors of the economy. Financial support is offered for various economic activities, including manufacturing, business competitiveness, export development and market access, as well as foreign direct investment. This assistance in provided via a veritable alphabet soup of incentive schemes, such as the Automotive Investment Scheme (AIS); Medium and Heavy Commercial Vehicles Automotive Investment Scheme (MHCV-AIS); People-carrier Automotive Investment Scheme (P-AIS); Black Industrialists Scheme (BIS); Black Business Supplier Development Programme (BBSDP); Incubation Support Programme (ISP); Manufacturing Competitiveness Enhancement Programme (MCEP); and many more. On 18 January 2016 aBr attended the Gauteng Provincial Presentation of The Incentive Development and Administration Division 2014/15 Incentive Performance Report, and the report card shows that whilst much has been achieved, there is still a long way to go in achieving the ultimate goals of the department. Dr Nonceba Mashalaba, chief director of Programme Monitoring and Evaluation, admitted that they depend on the treasury for funding, and that with the priorities of the country changing, they are holding thumbs that the upcoming budget speech will hold good news, to allow the dti to continue creating an enabling environment for industrialists.

as well as foreign direct investment. This assistance in provided

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www.grandmark.co.za


What’s the Buzz?

TUKS team finishes third in national all-terrain vehicle endurance raceMechanical engineering students at the University of Pretoria (TUKS) have achieved an overall third place in the South African mini BAJA series – having scooped first place in cost report, third in design, and third in the endurance race. The event took place at Gerotek outside of Pretoria on 30 and 31 October 2015.

BAJA is an annual inter-university design competition where mechanical engineering students from universities all over the world design, build and race small, all-terrain vehicles.

The vehicles are taken through a four-hour endurance race which includes acceleration, hill climb, slip and mobility testing. The competition gives undergraduate students the opportunity to gain invaluable hands-on engineering experience and training that they would not normally be exposed to.

The competition was initiated in 1976 at the University of South Carolina in the United States, and is administrated by the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE).

The South African BAJA competition started at TUKS with four teams in 1996, and has grown to 16 teams participating from tertiary institutions nationwide.

The TUKS BAJA racing team boasts 40 members and was led by final year mechanical engineering student, Odette Scholtz. The team also included among others Devin Johnson and Tiano De Conceicao who are part of the 15 main members.

They were responsible for most of the design and the manufacturing work, while the rest contributed to the overall process in different ways.

For their car design, the team used aircraft grade aluminium, which is three times stronger than mild steel and is only a third of the weight.

The car can take five litres of petrol and can go an hour and thirty minutes before requiring a refill. The TUKS team designed

a single seater, all-terrain vehicle with independent suspension and a 7456W petrol-powered engine.

“The car is about 2 m by 1,5 m and is 1,4 m tall. We have improved the overall design of the previous vehicle.

The previous gearbox weighed 10,5 kg and now it weighs 6,4 kg, in effort to improve its performance. The team’s ultimate goal was to teach, win and leave a legacy for upcoming students,” says Scholtz.

The components of the vehicles require considerable investment and, as part of their project, the teams are expected to obtain sponsorships.

Bosch Professional Power Tools – the world market-leader for portable electric power tools and power tool accessories designed specifically for trade and industrial applications – donated more than R 25 000 worth of its tried-and-tested ‘Professional’ range of tools to the TUKS BAJA team.

The BAJA competition is held every year in October and students are given a maximum of 12 months to not only work on the components of the vehicle but to also put it through intense testing.

For more information on the race visit

https://bajasa.esteq.co.za

Valvoline 150th AnniversaryVA

LVOL

INE 1

50TH

ANN

IVER

SARY


Racing Ahead

In an age when brand loyalty is no longer a given, and where companies and business models are being disrupted

on a daily basis, longevity is a highly-prized distinction, and a feather in the cap of those striving to keep their

products relevant and respected.

H alf a century ago, the life expectancy of a Fortune 500 company was 75 years. Today it is 15 years and declining. Similarly, many well-known brands have

come and gone. For a brand to last 100 years is remarkable. Some of the brands that have passed the century mark are Budweiser (since 1876), Johnson & Johnson (since 1886), and General Electric (since 1889).

Exceeding these storied global brands is a brand that has become synonymous with quality and

excellence. This brand is Valvoline, which in 2016 marks its 150th anniversary.

Founded in 1866, Valvoline and its lubricants, chemicals and car products are now available in more than 160 countries and territories worldwide, including South Africa, in which it has been active since 1976.

Currently in South Africa, Valvoline is exclusively available through the DIESEL-ELECTRIC GROUP,

and its brand is recognised by South African car enthusiasts and mechanics as a provider of

superior products.

Jackie Reymann, Valvoline Brand Manager at Desamark (Pty) Ltd, says “For 150 years, Valvoline has conceptualised, tested and perfected its motor oil science, resulting in a complete portfolio of leading products trusted by mechanics and used in service operations across the globe, including South Africa. It is estimated that Valvoline has produced over eight billion litres of motor oil and lubricated well over a billion cars, trucks, motorcycles and more over the course of its existence.”

Valvoline’s heritage of innovation represents a guarantee for Valvoline users today that they are getting the highest quality protection to help their

vehicles and equipment run their very best.


To celebrate the 150 year milestone, Valvoline, which incidentally was the first trademarked lubricant brand in the U.S., is planning a series of global initiatives, including:

• Enhancing its international marketing efforts, including on-field advertising during popular 2016 English Premiere League matches

• Launching new products throughout the course of 2016, with forthcoming announcements to coincide with each launch

“The Valvoline brand has the heritage that rivals companies like Heineken, Nestlé – and even older than renowned brands such as Ford Motor Company,” Valvoline international senior vice president Craig Moughler says. “We look forward to celebrating our storied history in South Africa – and throughout the entire world.” Valvoline has supported growth with its numerous distributors, channel partners and vehicle parts shops around the world by continuously providing products and service solutions that deliver value to end users. Initiatives in 2016 will aim to increase tools and operational support to further enable growth among these critical relationships.

The next 150 years will be marked with a track record of double digit growth across Valvoline’s international markets and the activities planned for 2016

and beyond will help sustain this growth moving forward.

For product and company information, please visit www.diesel-electric.co.za, valvolineeurope.com

and www.facebook.com/valvolinesouthafrica and/or follow the brand via Twitter, Instagram and

YouTube to stay up to date on company news, announcements and product promotions.

1866 1930’s 1960’s 1970’s 1980 1987 1997 2004

Industry News

by Paul Collings

Sexy Scooters for Top Sellers

In December 2015, South Africa’s only OE shock absorber supplier to locally assembled passenger cars, Monroe,

concluded a highly successful 2015 summer promotional campaign in conjunction with one of its major distributors, Validtrade, where over 500 retail fitment centres in Johannesburg, Pretoria and Cape Town

Dealers Rewarded

➲ Supa Quick Ormonde

➲ Tyres & More Southgate

➲ Supa Quick Trump str

➲ Tyres & More Kempton Park

➲ Solly’s Nigel

COMPETITION WINNERS JOHANNESBURG

COMPETITION WINNERS PRETORIA

COMPETITION WINNERS WESTERN CAPE

➲ Tyremart Midrand

➲ Exhaust and Tyre Menlyn

➲ Renata Tyres in Rustenburg

➲ Kwikfit Hennops Pretoria

➲ Hi-Q Dastek

➲ HiQ Hermanus

➲ HiQ Brackenfell

➲ Supa Quick Observatory

➲ Supa Quick Hermanus

➲ Supa Quick Brackenfell

competed to win one of 15 Suzuki VR11 scooters, valued at R15 000 each.

According to Andrew Antonis, Snr Country Manager Aftermarket Africa, Middle East, at Tenneco (importers and manufacturers of Monroe shock absorbers), “The Validtrade Summer Promo was designed to boost Monroe sales and give something back to our loyal retailers.

The Suzuki VR11 is a quality scooter, one that will bring added mobility to any business and it proved a powerful incentive for fitment centre staff competing in the promotion campaign”.

“We would like to congratulate all

our retail partners and hope that

our 15 scooter winners get all the

added zip they need for a

successful 2016.”

➲ For more pics go to www.abrbuzz.co.za

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Winning racers have depended on ValvolineTM products for the high-performance edge since America’s fi rst race in 1895. Valvoline-sponsored teams have had championship victories in series including Formula 1*, NASCAR*, Indy 500* and the World Rally. Racing is another way Valvoline proves the high quality of its products for the broader marketplace.

National Wholesale Distributors

0860 003 227 | www.diesel-electric.co.za

Shantel, Sales Manager:[email protected]: psh-shantelCell&Whatsapp: 073 581 1339Blackberry Pin: 24F22B4C

Lizzy, Internal Sales:[email protected]: psh-lizzy

Neil, Internal Sales:[email protected]: neil-psh1

Solly, Sales Representative:Cell: 073 496 9217

Barry, Sales Representative:[email protected]&Whatsapp: 083 275 2600

Pos Service Holland (SA) Pty LtdPos Service Holland (SA) Pty LtdStarters - AlternatorsTesters - Equipment - Parts

www.psh-sa.co.za

New on stock!Starter and Alternator Parts

Pos Service Holland (SA) Pty LtdUnit 7 Mica Drive, Newport B.P.2169 Kya Sand Ext. 101 Johannesburg South Africa

T: +27 (0)117 045 196F: +27 (0)865 169 890W: www.psh-sa.co.za

What’s the Buzz?

ExxonMobil Expands Operations and Appoints New Distributor in South Africa ExxonMobil has opened a new office and appointed a new authorised distributor, Centlube, to represent its lubrication business in South Africa. While ExxonMobil has operated in the country for many years, the new Cape Town branch is the first dedicated lubricants office to open in South Africa since 2005. In addition, lubrication specialist Centlube now distributes ExxonMobil’s advanced lubrication solutions country-wide for passenger vehicles, commercial vehicles and industrial equipment. To mark its renewed focus on South Africa, ExxonMobil, together with Centlube, hosted a major re-launch event on 19 November in Pretoria. The ‘Mobil Lubricant Experience’ welcomed more than 200 industry professionals to the Gerotek vehicle testing facility. The site was transformed into a Mobil lubricant festival that

showcased the Mobil brand, its products and solutions. “South Africa holds great potential and this event highlights our commitment to long-term development in the market,” said Lawrence Kearns, sales director for ExxonMobil Europe, Africa & Middle East, who attended the event. “With Centlube’s team by our side, we can combine our leading-edge solutions with their market knowledge and experience to help customers optimise performance, reduce

costs and enhance the efficiency of their cars, trucks and machines.” “Enabling customers to maximise the potential of their vehicles and equipment with advanced lubricants has never been more important,” said Paul Mansour, CEO of ENX Group, which owns Centlube. “Together with ExxonMobil, we look forward to delivering a comprehensive package of lubrication services to customers across South Africa.” The ‘Mobil Lubricant Experience’ highlighted ExxonMobil’s vast range of products, services and experience in the world of passenger vehicle, commercial vehicle and industrial lubricants.

➲ From Left to Right: Gerald De Causemaeker from ExxonMobil, Clint Nickall of Centlube and Paul Mansour

from enX Group celebrate the new partnership with Lawrence Kearns and Vincent Cartier from ExxonMobil at

the Mobil Lubricant Experience”

➲ From Left to Right: Gerald De Causemaeker from

Contact your nearest PIA branch todayBloemfonteinTel: (051) 506-0700Fax: (051) 447-8336

DurbanTel: (031) 533-5300Fax: (031) 569-6576

GeorgeTel: (044) 874-4175Fax: (044) 874-3706

NelspruitTel: (013) 752-4821Fax: (013) 752-4869

Cape TownTel: (021) 590-7500Fax: (021) 591-5033

East LondonTel: (043) 703-8000Fax: (043) 743-8418

JohannesburgTel: (011) 879-6000Fax: (011) 454-0200

Port ElizabethTel: (041) 390-3000Fax: (041) 373-0090

PretoriaTel: (012) 377-7500Fax: (012) 377-3896

CH

3820

Arrow HT Leads

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Lubrication Matters

by Paul Collings

Tough Times Don’t Last - Smart Entrepreneurs Do

As the old adage, “when the going gets tough, the tough get going” proclaims, world-leading supplier

of automotive oils, additives, car care and cleaning equipment, LIQUI MOLY is on hand to give automotive aftermarket workshops a set of business solutions that tackle dwindling turn-over head-on.

According to Melicia Labuschagne, director, LIQUI MOLY SA, “in tough economic times, all business owners have to think ‘out the

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box’ to find new ways of generating income. Automotive workshops are by and large focused strictly on servicing vehicles and repairing or replacing specific components, which is their core business of course. However, the premises they work in can become much more than simply a workshop. LIQUI MOLY has both the products and expertise to convert any workshop into a cutting-edge vehicle performance enhancer, where both the workshop owner and the customer derive benefits from the LIQUI MOLY suite of products.”

The LIQUI MOLY recession-busting recipe focuses on the art of ‘up-selling’, explains Labuschagne,

where every workshop staff member is trained how to add value to the customer experience by offering LIQUI MOLY solutions that boost vehicle performance, lower fuel

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petrol and diesel injection systems without exorbitant capital outlay. The system is also portable, making onsite servicing an additional service workshop owners can offer their clients,” says Labuschagne.

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Conceived and created in 1986 to promote the use of locally produced parts and components, and to combat the impact of dangerous sub-standard imports, Partinform

remains extremely relevant, and in many cases it is even more relevant, as the import barriers have come down, to the detriment of the local industry, and the South African motorist.

aBr, as the long-term fanatically loyal media supporter of Partinform, will be at all the Partinform events in 2016, to promote this committed organisation, and to espouse its objectives and aims, which are carried across at Partinform events, combining education, entertainment, brand exposure and networking opportunities with fun, competitions and prizes. Read much more in the future issues of aBr.

VIEW PARTINFORM VIDEO ON

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PARTINFORM YEAR END FUNCTION 2015:Partinform Promises Big Things in 2016

Partinform turns 30 years old in 2016, and to celebrate

this fact the Partinform team promises to put the pedal

down in its Pearl year, staying the course of promoting

quality branded product to workshops, technicians, parts

resellers, and most importantly, the informal mechanic

and the technicians of the future.

Partinform

by Howard Keeg

➲ Malcolm Ras of Charm Events

managed to achieve the fastest

lap at the 2015 event – who will

take the honours in 2016?

PROPOSED ITINERARY FOR 2016:

1. Vereeniging (Gauteng), Wed 17 February 2016

2. Middelburg (Mpumalanga), Thu 17 March 2016

3. Vredenburg (Western Cape), Wed 13 April 2016

4. Musina (Limpopo), Wed 18 May 2016

5. Bulawayo (Zimbabwe), Wed 22 June 2016

6. Upington (Northern Cape), Wed 20 July 2016

7. George (Western Cape), Wed 17 August 2016

8. Lichtenburg (North West Prov), Wed 14 September 2016

9. Ladybrand (Free State), Wed 12 October 2016

10. Pinetown (KZN), Wed 9 November 2016

See more pics at www.abrbuzz.co.za

Traditionally, Partinform ends with a year-end function that includes a racing opportunity for the prize winners from the year’s Partinform events. On Friday

20 November 2015 the function was held at the Red Star Raceway near Delmas, where the winners, together with the Partinform members, had an opportunity to test their skills in driving a Legends Race Car. A great day was had by all, and we look forward to the 2016 event.

➲ The very opposite of the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse, unless you are an importer of shoddy product. Left to right, the chairmen of Partinform - Gideon de Klerk, incoming chairman;

Colin Murphy, past chairman; Andrew Antonis, outgoing chairman; and Andrew Webb, immediate past chairman

➲ The Partinform ladies will not be going away,

which should be a popular decision

➲ A drive in a Legends Race Car will be up for grabs again in 2016 eXtra points. eXtra rewards.eXtra advantages.

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Wilde Things

by Fingal Wilde

Much Ado About Nothing

Quite a lot has been said about

the “defeat devices” that has put

Volkswagen in a large American

pickle, with ramifications bigger than

a large German cucumber, and

exclamations of Gherkin Gott being

heard from Wolfsburg to Hillsboro,

and beyond.

On the surface it appears to be very serious, with VW’s and Germany’s reputation taking

a smack, and questions being asked across the world about the ethical parameters of German companies.

And yes, what they did was pretty serious, and pretty dumb, and it does reek of Teutonic arrogance.

But the Germans are an equanimous lot, and are taking it in their stride, and even displaying levels of humour that a few decades ago would have been unthinkable. For example, I bumped into an old German friend the other day, and he told me a classic joke around the VW saga – “a young married couple was making passionate love, and the woman whispered into her husband’s ear, “Talk dirty to me”, and he replied “Volkswagen.”

But the real zinger is the fact that only 0,01% (NO, IT IS NOT A TYPO – ONLY 0,01%!!!) of NOx emissions in America comes from light-duty cars.

Why such an enormous fine, particularly in comparison to the 1998 fine, when the NOx emissions are paltry in comparison to the belching truck behemoths?

Are we seeing some power politics at play here, or some industry fandangling going on? It just does not make sense, and I smell (excuse the pun) a rather large rat.

Could it be that Volkswagen was threatening to get too big in America? Or that vested interests

did not want to see diesel passenger cars taking hold in the

land of the free and the brave?

➲ Imagine if volcanoes could be taxed for

emissions!

I’m not normally a conspiracy

theorist, so I am not going to

take this thing further. I’m more

like a supersized cynic, and all

I’m asking is a few pertinent

questions.

But wait a minute. Let’s get some perspective here, and

the perspective is provided by an American magazine. Time

magazine, in their double issue of November 30 to December 7 of

2015, in an article titled “the man who brought down Volkswagen”,

unwittingly provides the ammunition for cynics like me to say, “What’s

the Big Deal?”

Did you know that this very same saga played itself out long ago in 1998, when seven heavy-duty diesel manufacturers, including Caterpillar, Cummins and Mack Trucks – got caught using defeat devices to pass EPA emission tests, and “in addition to paying $83 million in civil penalties, the manufacturers were required to develop on-board emission testing to help ensure that truck emissions were the same on the road as they were in the lab”.

The only difference here is that VW may have to pay $18 billion in EPA fines, versus an average of $12 million for the seven heavy-duty manufacturers! Obviously, the EPA now employs some Nigerian shake-down artists.

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Vehicle Launch

by Howard Keeg

Don’t Spare the Horses

T he Mustang I was driving was the 2.3 EcoBoost Manual Fastback, delivering turbocharged performance with outstanding fuel efficiency (8.0 litres/100km combined

cycle). Direct injection, variable cam timing and turbocharging combine to deliver 233kW of power and 430Nm of torque, which takes this sixth generation Mustang from 0 to 100km/h time in 5.8 sec. Not shabby, even though all my friends say that if you buy a Mustang it has to have the 5.0 litre V8 engine, which employs sequential multiport electronic fuel injection and variable camshaft timing, delivering 306kW of power and 530Nm of torque, taking the car from 0 to 100km/h in a blistering 4.8 sec.

But in my “baby” Mustang I was in motoring heaven, and even when I had the chance to savour the 5.0 V8 GT Automatic Fastback, and was indeed impressed by its power, I had already

The moment that I slid into the driver’s seat at the

launch of the first right hand-drive Ford Mustang on

1 December 2015, I knew that the fifty year wait had

been worth it. As I peered over the aggressive long

bonnet with its two fins disappearing into the shark

inspired front fascia, I was suddenly twenty years old,

and the adrenaline started flowing. But first I had to

negotiate Cape Town’s notorious traffic, before getting

the chance to experience the power of this wild horse.

fallen in love with the entry level vehicle, which at R699 900 is good value for money. Not that pricing means much to my mates, although I am sure that they would find the price of R899 900 for the top end 5.0 V8 GT Automatic Convertible eminently reasonable.

All the Mustangs in the line-up have impressive technology across the spectrum, which you can read up at www.ford.co.za/cars/newmustang, so I will rather use my space for some interesting titbits about this iconic vehicle, but for the petrol heads out there, the Standard Performance Pack has some goodies for “thrilling driving precision and dynamics”, and for the V8 you must have a look at the Track Apps, the Launch Control system, and the electronic Line Lock system.

I’m always interested in the history of a vehicle, and the Mustang has dollops. For instance, on the dashboard it has a plate recognising its birth as 1964, but in reality it was a 1965 model, introduced early on April 17 1964. It was thus dubbed as a “1964½” model by Mustang fans. The Mustang also has a rich history in the realm of movies and songs, but I’m afraid that names such as Steve McQueen, Sean Connery, and Wilson Pickett may mean nothing to the younger generation, so it is my generation that lays claim to the Mustang, and we should get preferential rights in the lottery, which has been introduced because of the expected massive waiting list in South Africa.

Whoever gets hold of this car, don’t spare the horses.

➲ 1964 or 1965? Let’s make it 1964½

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Vehicle Review

by Howard Keeg

Wind of Change

I f Macmillan visited South Africa today, he may be tempted to rephrase his quote to something like “The wind of change is blowing through the roads of South Africa, and whether we like

it or not, this growth of national awareness is an automotive fact.”

But the wind of change blows slowly. It took over 30 years for Macmillan’s political prediction to become reality in South Africa, and it may also take many years for any prediction about an automotive revolution to take root. However, after having road tested the JMC Landwind SUV, which was launched in late July 2015, I think that the wind of change could assume gale force levels sooner than we think.

Priced at launch at a very respectable R269 880, the Landwind SUV is definitely a step ahead of what has been previously dished up by Chinese brands, with an impressive build quality, a refreshingly upbeat exterior, a modern interior, and performance and road holding dynamics that one expects from today’s SUVs. The engine is particularly impressive, which is a turbocharged 2.0 Mitsubishi inspired unit, pushing 250Nm and 140Kw torque and

In 1960 British Prime Minister Harold Macmillan made the famous “Wind of Change” speech to the South African

parliament, whereby he pointed out that the politics of Africa had fundamentally changed. The famous quote in this

speech was “The wind of change is blowing through this continent. Whether we like it or not, this growth of national

consciousness is a political fact.”

power respectively through a six speed manual gearbox, and with very little turbo lag. All experienced in comfort, with power steering, air conditioner, central locking, radio with MP3 and aux port, and single disc CD. Add electric windows and side mirrors, rain wipers with intermittent setting and roof rack rails, and the package just gets better. Safety features include dual airbags, ABS with EBD, park distance control, high-mounted LED brake light and child-safety rear door locks. Good value for R269 880.

Apart from a drivetrain that could do with a little refinement, the Landwind, if you did not know that it was from China, could easily be mistaken as an SUV from Europe, Japan, America or Korea. This is an indication of the strides made by JMC, and if they follow on this path, the bad old days of Isuzu and Evoque copies will soon be a distant memory.

The wind of change is blowing, and as Bob Dylan would

say, the answer is right there, in the Landwind.

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I think Honda’s got everything right with the Africa Twin.

It’s lively, it’s quick, comfortable and safe on tarmac, and

it’s excellent in the dirt. The bike will only be available in

March this year and pricing has not yet been finalised,

but should be between R150-R170 000, depending on

the model.

Bike Torque

by Gavin Foster

Honda Africa TwinHonda has brought sanity back into the world of big

adventure bikes by launching a brand new version of

the legendary Africa Twin that they inexplicably dropped

from their model range in 2003.

I n doing so they’ve acknowledged that riders who really do take their bikes into the rough stuff would rather have a rugged, compact and reasonably lightweight dual-purpose machine

than wrestle with a 160 hp quarter-ton behemoth that’s difficult to mount without the help of a stepladder and 50 m2 of level ground.

The new Africa Twin uses a 95 hp parallel-twin 998cc engine in a compact frame with long-travel suspension and a 21” front wheel to turn dirt-riding excursions into fun rather than fear-filled occasions.

At the same time, it handles long, high-speed on-road trips with aplomb, which is exactly what a big-bore adventure bike is supposed to do.

Honda earned some criticism for switching from a 750cc V-twin to the big parallel-twin for the new bike,

but justifies this by explaining that the new engine is lighter and more compact than a V-twin

configuration, allowing the bike to be shorter and thus more nimble.

I rode the new bike over two days at the international launch near Ceres in the Western Cape and loved it. The engine is a lively enough number, allowing highway cruising at 190 km/h if you’re willing to chance your arm with the law, and if you’re feeling very frisky you could on occasion see the needle edging up towards 230 km/h or so. Despite the skinny 21” front wheel the handling is good, and the Showa suspension did a great job of soaking up the numerous bumps on some of the tight Cape passes we briskly traversed.

The second day’s riding saw us following a reasonably challenging off-road route that included a rock-strewn mountain climb, a fair bit of soft sand and various farm tracks littered with middle-mannetjies, soft sand and gravel. The Honda weighs between 228 and 242 kg fully-fuelled, depending upon the model, but feels significantly lighter because the weight has been kept low down, and the bike’s extremely narrow. This really paid off in the dirt, and, along with the 21” front wheel, makes it arguably the best all-round machine in a world of increasingly bloated adventure motorcycles.

The Africa Twin comes in three versions – a base model sans ABS or traction control, an ABS model with both of these, and an automatic dual-clutch-transmission version of the latter. Honda’s done a superb job of making the electronics very quick and easy to operate. The ABS is deactivated for dirt use - the back brake only – via a single button, the three-mode (plus off) traction control can be switched in seconds, and the gears can be shifted manually on the 6-speed DCT, which offers standard and sport modes as well as a “G” mode to sharpen the interaction between engine, gearbox and clutches off-road.

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The Fink

Lettersto the Editor

Once again, aBr breaks ranks to give our readers something special. The poms have a way with words, and when they are educated, they reach levels of prose that is simply sublime. I am busy reading the biography of Pelham Grenville Wodehouse, one of the world’s greatest pensmiths, and interestingly Plum, the name by which he was known by his friends, received an honorary Doctor of Letters from the University of Oxford in 1939.

At the conferment of the degree, the Public Orator, Dr Cyril Bailey, described Wodehouse as “a magical author, than whom no one is more expert at delighting men’s minds and arousing laughter”. Bailey continued, “our author does not turn up his nose at men’s vices, but observes these with gentle affection, and laughs at

“Dear scrotty students,

Cecil Rhodes’s generous bequest has contributed greatly to the comfort and wellbeing of many generations of Oxford students – a good many of them, dare we say it, better, brighter and more deserving than you.

This doesn’t necessarily mean we approve of everything Rhodes did in his lifetime – but then we don’t have to. Cecil Rhodes died over a century ago.

Autres temps, autres moeurs. If you don’t understand what this means – and it wouldn’t remotely surprise us if that were the case – then we really think you should ask yourself the question: “Why am I at Oxford?”

Oxford, let us remind you, is the world’s second oldest extant university. Scholars have been studying here since at least the 11th century. We’ve played a major part in the invention of Western civilisation, from the 12th century intellectual renaissance through the Enlightenment and beyond.

Our alumni include William of Ockham, Roger Bacon, William Tyndale, John Donne, Sir Walter Raleigh, Erasmus, Sir Christopher Wren, William Penn, Rep. Adam Smith (D-WA), Samuel Johnson, Robert Hooke, William Morris, Oscar Wilde, Emily Davison, Cardinal Newman. We’re a big deal. And most of the people privileged to come and study here are conscious of what a big deal we are.

Oxford is their alma mater – their dear mother – and they respect and revere her accordingly. And what were your ancestors doing in that period? Living in mud huts, mainly.

Sure we’ll concede you the short lived Southern African civilisation of Great Zimbabwe. But let’s be brutally honest here. The contribution of the Bantu tribes to modern civilisation has been as near as damn it to zilch.

You’ll probably say that’s “racist”. But it’s what we here at Oxford prefer to call “true.” Perhaps the rules are different at other universities. In fact, we know things are different at other universities.

We’ve watched with horror at what has been happening across the pond from the University of Missouri to the University of Virginia and even to reverend institutions like Harvard and Yale: the “safe spaces”; the #blacklivesmatter; the creeping cultural relativism; the stifling political correctness; what Allan Bloom rightly called “the closing of the American mind”.

At Oxford however, we will always prefer facts and free, open debate to petty grievance-mongering, identity politics and empty sloganeering. The day we cease to do so is the day we lose the right to call ourselves the world’s greatest university.

Of course, you are perfectly within your rights to squander your time at Oxford on silly, vexatious, single-issue political campaigns.

(Though it does make us wonder how stringent the vetting procedure is these days for Rhodes scholarships and even more so, for Mandela Rhodes scholarships) We are well used to seeing undergraduates – or, in your case – postgraduates, making idiots of themselves.

Witty Words


their misdeeds. In addition, although his pages are full of everyday language, he does not let his words run on in unrhythmical disorder, but is neat and witty and ‘a lover of elegant speech’.”

Coincidentally, just a few days before I read this, aBr received an interesting Facebook posting, which I assume originated from the outraged members of Oriel College, Oxford, who clearly do not like their traditions tampered with. Over seventy five years after Wodehouse received his degree, the students at Oriel College, which has the distinction of being the oldest royal foundation in Oxford, keep the spirit of Wodehouse alive, albeit with a little more rancour than which Wodehouse would approve.

The following does include a few low blows, but for the amusement of aBr’s readers, I give you the full unedited version:


The Fink

Just don’t expect us to indulge your idiocy, let alone genuflect before it. You may be black – “BME” as the grisly modern terminology has it – but we are colour blind.

We have been educating gifted undergraduates from our former colonies, our Empire, our Commonwealth and beyond for many generations. We do not discriminate over sex, race, colour or creed. We do, however, discriminate according to intellect.

That means, inter alia, that when our undergrads or postgrads come up with fatuous ideas, we don’t pat them on the back, give them a red rosette and say: “Ooh, you’re black and you come from South Africa. What a clever chap you are!”1 No.

We prefer to see the quality of those ideas tested in the crucible of public debate. That’s another key part of the Oxford intellectual tradition you see: you can argue any damn thing you like but you need to be able to justify it with facts and logic – otherwise your idea is worthless.

This ludicrous notion you have that a bronze statue of Cecil Rhodes should be removed from Oriel College, because it’s symbolic of “institutional racism” and “white slavery”.

Well even if it is – which we dispute – so bloody what? Any undergraduate so feeble-minded that they can’t pass a bronze statue without having their “safe space” violated really doesn’t deserve to be here.

And besides, if we were to remove Rhodes’s statue on the premise that his life wasn’t blemish-free, where would we stop?

As one of our alumni Dan Hannan has pointed out, Oriel’s other benefactors include two kings so awful – Edward II and Charles I – that their subjects had them killed.

The college opposite – Christ Church – was built by a murderous, thieving bully who bumped off two of his wives. Thomas Jefferson kept slaves: does that invalidate the US Constitution? Winston Churchill had unenlightened views about Muslims and India: was he then the wrong man to lead Britain in the war?”

Actually, we’ll go further than that. Your Rhodes Must Fall campaign is not merely fatuous but ugly, vandalistic and dangerous. We agree with Oxford historian RW Johnson that what you are trying to do here is no different from what ISIS and the Al-Qaeda have been doing to artefacts in places like Mali and Syria.

You are murdering history. And who are you, anyway, to be lecturing Oxford University on how it should order its affairs? Your #rhodesmustfall campaign, we understand, originates in South Africa and was initiated by a black activist who told one of his lecturers “whites have to be killed”.

One of you – Sizwe Mpofu-Walsh – is the privileged son of a rich politician and a member of a party whose slogan is “Kill the Boer; Kill the Farmer”; another of you, Ntokozo Qwabe, who is only in Oxford as a beneficiary of a Rhodes scholarship, has boasted about the need for “socially conscious black students” to “dominate white universities, and do so ruthlessly and decisively!”

Great. That’s just what Oxford University needs. Some cultural enrichment from

the land of Winnie Mandela, burning tyre necklaces, an AIDS epidemic almost entirely

the result of government indifference and ignorance, one of the world’s highest per capita

murder rates, institutionalised corruption, tribal politics, anti-white racism and a collapsing economy.

Please name which of the above items you think will enhance the lives of the 22,000 students studying here at

Oxford.

And then please explain what it is that makes your attention grabbing campaign to remove a listed statue from an Oxford college more urgent, more deserving than the desire of probably at least 20,000 of those 22,000 students to enjoy their time here unencumbered by the irritation of spoilt, ungrateful little tossers on scholarships they clearly don’t merit using racial politics and cheap guilt-tripping to ruin the life and fabric of our beloved university.

Understand us and understand this clearly: you have everything to learn from us; we have nothing to learn from you.

Yours,

Oriel College, Oxford

We prefer to see the quality of those ideas tested in the crucible of public debate. That’s another key part of the Oxford intellectual tradition you see: you can argue any damn thing you like but you need to be able to justify it with facts and logic – otherwise your idea is worthless.

This ludicrous notion you have that a bronze statue of Cecil Rhodes should be removed from Oriel College, because it’s symbolic of “institutional racism” and

Well even if it is – which we dispute – so bloody what? Any undergraduate so feeble-minded that they can’t pass a bronze statue without having their “safe space” violated really

privileged son of a rich politician and a member of a party whose slogan is “Kill the Boer; Kill the Farmer”; another of you, Ntokozo Qwabe, who is only in Oxford as a beneficiary of a Rhodes scholarship, has boasted about the need for “socially conscious black students” to “dominate white universities, and do so ruthlessly and decisively!”

Great. That’s just what Oxford University needs. Some cultural enrichment from

the land of Winnie Mandela, burning tyre necklaces, an AIDS epidemic almost entirely

the result of government indifference and ignorance, one of the world’s highest per capita

murder rates, institutionalised corruption, tribal politics, anti-white racism and a collapsing economy.

Please name which of the above items you think will

Subsequent to writing this column, I have discovered that this letter was actually written by a certain James Delingpole. I’m not sure if this Delingpole fellow studied at Oxford, but I’m pretty sure that the majority of students at Oxford would agree with his analysis of the situation.

Editor’s note:


What’s the Buzz?

Metair Enters UK Battery Market Through Distributor AcquisitionMetair Investments Limited (“Metair”), a leading international manufacturer and distributor of automotive products to Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEM), Replacement and Aftermarket segments, has announced the acquisition of United Kingdom (UK) based Dynamic Batteries Services Limited (“Dynamic”) for R31 million in cash. Dynamic is a distributor of lead acid and specialist batteries with an approximate. 4% market share in the UK. The acquisition is aligned with Metair’s globalisation strategy as it will facilitate the supply of Metair batteries into the UK market and will support distribution services to major Original Equipment (OE) customers. It will also provide Metair with a base to take advantage of distribution opportunities across the region. Dynamic specialises in direct sales and owns three distribution centres spread across England in Skelmersdale, Durham and Trowbridge. The acquisition will be earnings enhancing and enable Metair to improve capacity utilisation at its manufacturing operations in Turkey (Mutlu Akü) and Romania (Rombat). “This strategic acquisition supports our strategy and vision to secure and grow our aftermarket product range in existing and new markets and to focus on the transfer of battery technologies to facilitate AGM and EFB growth. We will continue to do this by pursuing acquisitions of complementary businesses to leverage off our technologies, efficiencies and product ranges,” says Sjoerd Douwenga, Metair’s financial director. Dynamic was established in the UK in 1993 by Altron Group Limited’s subsidiary Powertech Battery Group (Pty) Ltd to distribute batteries in the UK and Europe.

Opinion Piece: Racism: Do Not Whitewash The RealityWithout condoning the remarks by Penny Sparrow, she’s done this nation a huge favour. Depending on your background and where you find yourself, you may also think that in various areas of society our nation is in severe trouble. Penny’s remarks have set a process in motion which has shown us where we stand in the area of race relations, South Arica’s Achilles heel. There is merit in not leaving the remarks made by Penny and those who (understandably) responded viciously, unchallenged. However, prosecuting her, and the others, will at most only succeed in concealing South Africa’s most threatening disease - racism. It’s like refraining from breaking the uncomfortable news to a patient suffering from aggressive cancer. How can we expect people not to be racist? During apartheid ‘race’ defined us. ‘Race’ still defines us. It controls every aspect of our society. We’re obsessed with it, but apparently that’s acceptable, as long as we don’t say the wrong things in public. Since the criminal charges have been laid and complaints lodged, social media has gone somewhat quiet on this issue. However, the underlying anger, from the various perspectives, whether justified or not, continues to build up steam. The charges and complaints against those

who made all sorts of remarks, only serves to put the lid on the steam cooker, but its doing nothing to reduce the ever increasing pressure.

Calls are being made to criminalise racism. To do that, we will have to seriously jack up our criminal justice system and build a prison which can contain at least 50 million people. Or will only those who say the wrong things be prosecuted, leaving the underlying attitude, which is plaguing this nation, unchallenged. Is there anyone who can honestly say that, as far as this cancer is concerned, he/she is ‘without sin?’ Unless healing as a nation is achieved, South Africa will be one big prison. The sooner it is realised how sick the nation is, the better; it is the symptoms, including racial remarks, that indicates the nation’s feverish temperature regarding racism. However, since we don’t like what we hear, we want to silence the messengers.

On many occasions I’ve made myself guilty of racial intolerance. I’ve become wiser, I’ve grown in this area, but I’m not ‘there’ yet. I can honestly say that I love all South Africans, that I love South Africa for its diversity - the very thing that’s causing tension. However, it doesn’t take much to expose dark areas in my heart, something which doesn’t creep out unless I’m under pressure, when things don’t go the way I like it, when I feel insecure. I haven’t met Penny, but there is at least one similarity between us: by way of historical events and government classification

(past and present) we are, broadly speaking, of the same race. Because of what she said people want to kill her, murder her; not only her, but also all those of the same race, so-called ‘whites’. That, of course, includes me. But I honestly don’t mind people threatening to kill me. To go so far as to desire to commit a murder, to set in motion mass murder (genocide), must be the result of unbearable bitterness and anger. I wish I can meet my murderer, for the sake of his/her healing, and mine.

It is time that the racists meet and talk. It has to be honest, unfiltered and uncensored. It’s better than not talking at all, even if it gets messy. Reconciliation can only take place once that which is needed to be said, is actually said, regardless of what it is. That’s where reconciliation, forgiveness and healing begin. It is not for the over sensitive and fainthearted. South Africa needs this true fundamental healing. In the absence of this every aspect of our society is prejudiced. Our economy is not growing because of the lack of confidence, and racism is at the root of this uncertainty. It is the cancer of our nation, and nobody is without guilt. And even if you are an unlikely exception, it is still your problem. This is the biggest challenge facing us as a nation, and there’s no way out, there’s just no alternatives: get this right or perish.

This opinion piece is by Gerhard Papenfus, chief executive of the National Employers’ Association of South Africa (NEASA)

FEBRUARY | 2016 www.abrmotoring.co.za

52 FORMULA ONE FROM THE INSIDE

54 GLOBAL MOTORSPORT OVERVIEW

55 ROAD TESTS

57 WHAT’S THE REV WHE

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WHEELS IN ACTION | FEBRUARY 2016 51

On display at NACE Las Vegas 2005 - an appropriate symbol for South Africa’s road carnage

by Graham Duxbury

Formula One from the Inside – Graham Duxbury is a former racing driver, champion and TV commentator. He is featured in the Hall of Fame

at the Daytona Motor Speedway in the USA. Here, in 1984, he made history by winning the famous 24-hour

sports car race in an all-South African team, partnered by Sarel van der Merwe and Tony Martin.

52 WHEELS IN ACTION | FEBRUARY 2016

INDY

500 (

PART

ONE

)

The iconic American speedway race, the Indianapolis 500, is inexorably linked with Formula One.

Part of the F1 championship only until 1960, the race nevertheless continues to hold a fascination for

F1 teams and drivers.

The concept of F1 racing was defined by the Commission Sportive Internationale (CSI) in 1946. The objective was to make it the world’s premier single seater racing

category.

The ‘formula’ was largely based on pre-World War II regulations and was expected to bring a new balance between cars with supercharged and normally aspirated engines.

If the F1 fraternity hoped that the Indy 500 would play an immediate role in the F1 world, they were to be disappointed. Indy had little influence on F1 or the outcome of the world championship during the eleven years of its participation (1950 to 1960).

Nevertheless, it was in 1961 that the first

serious European participation in the Indy

500 occurred. Jack Brabham, the reigning F1

world champion, took a modified version of his

rear-engined, championship-winning Cooper

Climax to Indy and stunned the drivers of

traditional front-engined ‘roadsters’ with its

performance.

The Cooper used a smaller (2.7 litre) engine compared to the 4.4 litre units in the other 32 cars in the race.

Brabham qualified 17th and drove the car to a respectable ninth place finish after running as high as third. Five years later, the rear-engined revolution would take over the Indy 500 with the last roadster in the winners circle being that of AJ Foyt in 1964.

By then, Colin Chapman, founder of the Lotus team, had already embraced the Indy 500, seeing it as a lucrative race worth winning. Largely persuaded by Ford and Dan Gurney, an American competing in F1 in Europe, Lotus prepared two cars for

him and F1 world champion Jim Clark for the ’63 event.

Clark finished a controversial second running behind the roadster of American Parnelli Jones.

Clark and Gurney returned in 1964, but tyre problems intervened.

Everything came together the following year, however, with Clark triumphant in the first Indy-winning rear-engined car, the F1-inspired Lotus 38.

Formula One and the Indy 500 (part one)

Although most races counting towards the world championship took place in Europe, it was decided that America’s classic race, the Indianapolis 500, would be part of the championship series, cementing F1 global positioning.

The event has always been billed by American fans as ‘the world’s greatest spectacle in racing’. Unlike the road courses favoured by F1, Indianapolis is a typical American speedway - a two-and-a half mile, nearly rectangular oval. Initially paved with bricks – hence the ‘Brickyard’ label - it was completely resurfaced with asphalt for the 1962 event – with the exception of the now-famous ‘yard of bricks’ at the finish line.

➲ The F1-inspired Cooper Climax that Jack Brabham took to the

Indianapolis 500 in 1961. It stunned the drivers of traditional front-engined

‘roadsters’ with its performance

The first race conforming to F1 regulations was

the Turin Grand Prix of 1947, won by Achille Varzi

in an Alfa Romeo. A championship for drivers was

not introduced immediately. It was only after the

motorcycle world championship was introduced in

1949 that the sport’s governing body –

the Fédération Internationale

de l’Automobile (FIA) - responded with the

first official world drivers’ championship

in 1950.

by Graham Duxbury

Formula One from the Inside


INDY

500 (

PART

ONE

) To be continued…..

INDY

500 (

PART

ONE

)

➲ In 1965 Jim Clark was triumphant in the first Indy-winning rear-engined car, the

F1-inspired Lotus 38. Pictured in his F1 Lotus 49 of 1968

➲ Where it all began. This 1911 photograph depicts Ray Harroun aboard the Marmon

Wasp that he drove to victory in the inaugural Indianapolis 500 mile race

➲ One of the strangest – and most dangerous – Indy 500 cars was the 1964 Hurst Floor Shifter Special, created by Smokey Yunick. Anticipating the rear engine phenomenon that swept Indy, it

sited the engine towards the rear with the driver exposed on the left of the chassis. It crashed

during a qualifying session… never making it to the starting grid

Clark’s win in Chapman’s revolutionary Lotus set the stage for a British invasion, with more F1 drivers attempting to beat the Americans at their own game.

In ’66 Clark and Gurney were joined by 1962

world champion Graham Hill and Jackie Stewart

fresh from his first season in F1. Hill, in a British-

built Lola, went on to win from Clark.

In 1967 Denny Hulme (who would clinch the F1 title that year) joined the Indy 500 grid along with F1’s Jochen Rindt, and the Clark/Gurney/Hill/Stewart quartet. Hulme was the most successful, placing fourth.

The 1968 event was a sad affair. Jim Clark was

scheduled to drive a new Lotus turbine-powered

car, but he was killed in a F2 race.

His replacement, F1 regular Mike Spence was fatally injured when his Lotus turbine crashed in practice for the Indy 500.

The race was won by American driver Bobby Unser, driving an Eagle - in effect a Lotus 38 replica - penned by former Lotus designer Len Terry.

Gurney’s Eagle was second and Hulme, now reigning F1 champion, was again placed fourth in another Eagle.

Colin Chapman was not the only

F1 car constructor with a drive

to win at Indianapolis.

Bruce McLaren had a burning desire to conquer

the race, but he was killed in one of his sports cars

before he could turn his dream into reality.

Nevertheless, his team continued with his work on the

McLaren Indy project.

McLaren cars, run by the American Penske racing team and driven by Johnny Rutherford - ‘Lone Star JR’ – completed in seven Indy 500 races (1973 – ’79) winning in ’74 and again in ’76.


By Roger McCleery

Global Motorsport Overview

2016 Will Provide Great Motorsport

Great motorsport is ahead of us

in 2016.

January 2nd saw the year get off to a spectacular start in what has become the toughest event on the calendar.

This of course was the 26th running of the 9500km 14 day Dakar Rally run over 13 stages in Argentina and the high plains and mountains of Bolivia. 354 competitors from 54 countries started in Buenos Aires. There were 110 cars, 55 trucks, 143 motorcycles and 46 quads. Included in the field there were 14 talented and brave South Africans competing in all four classes.

The TV coverage brought to us each evening by Toyota gave us a glimpse of how mind boggling this race has become as the lead was fought out between the greatest motor sportsmen, drivers and riders in the world. There was 9-times World Rally Champion, Frenchman Sébastien Loeb and eleven times Dakar winner, Stephane Peterhansel, ex Dakar motorcycle winner Cyril Despres and Spaniard and World Rally Champion Carlos Sainz whose son races in Formula 1.

They were driving their new two-wheel drive Peugeots against last year’s winner, Nasser Al Attiyah from Qatar and Miko Hirvonen, the World Rally Championship ace in Minis (BMW X3?). Our own 2009 winner and Dakar legend, Giniel de Villiers with Dirk von Zitzowitz and 2015 Donaldson SA Off-Road Cross Country Champion here in South Africa, Leeroy Poulter with Rob Howie who builds the Toyota Hiluxes plus last year’s Dakar sensation, Saudi Yasheed al Rajhi with Timo Gottschalk raced the new Toyota Gazoo Hiluxes. These 9 teams alone make it the greatest contest bar none on this planet.

There were also two South African Renault Dusters built by Stuart Thompson and his team in Johannesburg.Toughest competitors of all have to be the motorcyclists who have to be super fit to ride and navigate their 450cc motorcycles over long distances.

The river, mud, dust, the rocks and the power sapping mountains and plains of Bolivia are the biggest challenge for the two-wheelers and quads where our Brian

East London is one of the few Grand Prix circuits in the world that has never changed since it opened in 1960.

Another international event follows in March. It is the famous DJ (Durban to Jo’burg) Rally for pre-1936 motorcycles from all over the world competing from Hillcrest to Germiston Motorcycle Club at the lake.

Knysna is the place to be in middle of May when a huge field of classic cars, the hottest cars in the country, take to the 1.9km, 8-corner Jaguar Simola Hill Climb. They will all be out there to beat Des Gutzeit’s (1450hp Nissan GTR) King of the Hill record. Already entries have been oversubscribed.

All this plus the popular du Toit inspired National Extreme Festival for cars and motorcycles which brings in the fans in droves for an exciting day’s entertainment all round the country. One request is that national superbikes return to this programme so that we can see the top riders in action which has always been the South African way of National Circuit Racing.

National Rallying has dropping fields due to the high costs needs to be re-formulated whilst the 6 Donaldson SA Cross-Country Events continue to provide great competition and competitors who can compete internationally in races like the Dakar.

Formula 1 continues to be a political hot potato run by manufacturers in front of smaller crowds and TV audiences despite Mexico returning to the fold as the best and most exciting meeting of the year in 2015.

There will be 11 two-car teams, (the new American Haas Team has entered) and there is even talk of Alfa Romeo coming back to add some life to grand prix racing. Their entry is an effort to improve their worldwide sales of at 72,000 in 2014. 400,000 car sales is what they want to reach by 2018.

Baragwanath (Bidvest Yamaha) along with two other South Africans were always in the picture.

With South African Richard Schilling, the president of the FIA Off-Road Commission in the world and a former chairman of our successful Donaldson SA Off-Road Championship, there is no reason that an event of this stature cannot be run in Africa once again. After all it started in Africa 26 years ago. Eight years ago the Dakar was moved to South America where it was promptly won by Giniel de Villiers in a VW. It changed continents due to the rebel activity and theft in North Africa.

The race start could be from the new Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit and go through Botswana, to the southern part of Angola and then go down to Namibia with the world’s largest sand dunes. Then finally come back through the Northern Cape to the finish at Kyalami. It is a thought. One thing is for sure, it will bring tourists to this country as it has done to Argentina and Bolivia this year and into the future. Peru and Chile where the Dakar took place before gained an enormous number of people wanting to experience the unknown South American continent.

The Dakar brings all the best out in girls and boys - concentration, determination, pressure, disappointment, joy and sadness and lots of worldwide publicity.

At the end of January we got to see Peter du Toit’s 15th Passion for Speed Festival Historic racing at Zwartkops. Thanks to Peter, the owner of Zwartkops, there were 340 competitors which included 45 international car competitors with some historic machinery and formula junior single seaters. Eighteen international motorcyclists came to our shores. Included in the line-up were six times World Motorcycle Champion Jim Redman on Ian Groat’s Norton plus a host of TT riders and grand prix winners. After a two day meeting at Pretoria’s international circuit the field travelled to Cape Town and Killarney in the first week of February followed by a meeting at the famous East London Grand Prix Circuit in the middle of the month.

As always in motor racing, never discount the Italians on two

and four wheels wherever they might be racing at the

moment.

I nitially, there was very little difference between these cars, and of course because of their dealer footprint, Toyota

grabbed the lion’s share of the sales. Then, last year, with the new generation of this vehicle, the manufacturers started to individualise their cars, and the Toyota Aygo has morphed into a funky and cheeky alternative for the more expressive customer, who wants something more than just a budget beater. “The new Aygo combines a distinctive, sporty and unashamedly funky design with a comprehensive specification level, great fuel efficiency and proven Toyota QDR, which will undoubtedly appeal to the young and young at heart”, says Glenn Crompton, vice president of Marketing at Toyota South Africa.

High Specced Budget Beater

The Toyota Aygo, and its

European brethren, the Peugeot

107, and the Citroën C1, have

been around for a decade now,

and these Czech manufactured

vehicles have made their mark

across the globe, as budget

beating babies.

Pricing ranges from R 138 900 to R 139 900 – not bad for anyone,

18 to 80, who wants some budget beating excitement.

➲ The touch screen display audio system is sure to sway a few sales

What will really appeal to the target market is the availability of a trendy two-tone exterior colour design, with X-play Black and X-play Silver the options, which can be paired with Cherry Red or Ice White body colour; or Ash Grey body colour respectively. An energetic interior design carries on the theme, which makes driving seem just that more exciting, with additional information displays to keep the excitement alive.

➲ The touch screen display audio system is

➲ The front of the Aygo will appeal to both X-Men

and Men in Black fans

The new Aygo customer is also spoiled with the specifications, with a touch-screen display audio system, which is a first for the segment, plus geek delights such as Bluetooth functionality, remote central locking, front power windows, electrically adjustable side mirrors, air conditioning,

and nowadays the oh so important things like a 12-volt power socket and USB and auxiliary inputs. And the safety brigade is well catered for with front and front side airbags, ABS and Brake Assist, plus ISOFIX attachment points.

Anyone who has been reading my test reviews will know that I just love the 51kW 1.0-litre three-cylinder engine that throbs under the bonnet of these irrepressible little beasts, so I was relieved to find that Toyota has stayed with this power plant, which pushes raw adrenaline through the bloodstream as you bang through its 5-speed manual transmission.

A 3-year 100 000 km Warranty is standard with a service plan being optional, but too late for those reading this column is a complimentary 3 year/45 000 km service plan for those who buy before 31 December – however as things will be tight in 2016, I’m sure the hard bargaining customer will still be able to get this from the sales distressed dealer.


Road Test

by Howard Keeg


by Howard Keeg

Road Test

T his movie came to mind when I road tested the Mazda2, a subcompact that belies its size,

as it is a little big car with an enormous big heart. The Mazda2 is already the fourth generation of a vehicle that has in its short existence become an iconic flagship for small vehicles, and earlier this year it joined its bigger siblings the Mazda CX-5, Mazda6 and Mazda3 to become the fourth model and first subcompact to join Mazda’s line-up of new-generation vehicles that adopt the ‘KODO—Soul of Motion’ design language and full range of SKYACTIV Technology.

Little Big Car Do you remember the 1970

movie “Little Big Man” starring

Dustin Hoffman? I loved the

movie, as it had many profound

messages. The title of the movie

is based on the fact that Jack

Crabb (Hoffman) is given the

name “Little Big Man” by his

Cheyenne captors because he is

short but very brave.

Prices at launch ranged from a respectable R188 000 to R259 900, but if the Rand continues to do its

impersonation of the Titanic, expect some hefty increases in 2016.

inside, you’ve got the impression that you are in a much bigger car, and the driving experience only serves to enhance this impression.

My test car was the 1.5 litre diesel version, with a 6-speed automatic transmission, with stop/start technology, nogal. But if petrol is your choice, you have the option of the 1.5 litre 6-speed manual or automatic petrol version. All models have a 3-year unlimited kilometre factory warranty, 3-year roadside assistance, 3-year service plan and 5-year Corrosion Warranty.

And as this article was written in November 2015, by the time you read this the CX-3 will have also joined this line-up.

In Mazda’s press release at the time of the launch of this little big car, they stated that their aim was to “shatter all notions of the subcompact class”, and that they set out to “build a new subcompact that enhances all aspects of quality and overturn conventional thinking that a car’s value is proportionate to its size. In turn, this realises uncompromising levels of design, driving performance and functionality that deliver true pride of ownership.”

To reach this goal, Mazda strived to “incorporate all the knowledge and technology developed in building the larger models in the new-generation line-up, while facing the challenge of condensing these merits into the compact body of the All-New Mazda2.”

My verdict after a very short time in this incredible car – they have delivered, in spades! This car is a subcompact, which is patently obvious from the outside, but once you’re ensconced in its inviting embrace

➲ This little big car has quite a presence on the

road

➲ A large sedan feel awaits its occupants

SKF Automotive Product SolutionsSKF developed the world’s first hub bearing units and the first custom-designed engine oil seals. Today, SKF’s concept is to offer high quality products and premium services to our customers, whether their profession involves maintaining vehicles or supplying products to those who do.

SKF’s range of products and services is the result of relentless innovation and constant improvement in the design of all critical components, from engines and electronics to driveline and wheel-end systems. SKF continues to take part in the on-going endeavor in developing its services and state-of-the-art products.

The Power of Knowledge EngineeringSKF South Africa (Pty) LimitedTel: +27 11 821 3591, Fax: +27 86 677 7876Email: [email protected], Web: www.skf.co.za


Launches • Reviews • Motorsport

A touch screen with haptic feedback developed by Bosch was honoured with the “CES 2016 Innovation Award” in the “In-Vehicle Audio/ Video” category on November

10, 2015. The special feature of the touch screen: thanks to haptic feedback, users can operate infotainment applications such as navigation, radio, or smartphone functions interactively. The keys displayed on the touch screen have the feel of realistic buttons so that it is often possible for users to find their way around the keyboard without looking while operating the applications. They can keep their eyes on the road for much

longer periods, substantially enhancing safety while driving. “The new touch screen combines the simple operation of mechanical buttons with the advantages of a touch screen, significantly enhancing ease of operation” says Manfred Baden, president of the Bosch Car Multimedia division. “The innovative technology offers everything that is required to ensure its fast success on the market.” The CES Innovation Awards are sponsored by the Consumer Technology Association (CTA) TM and recognise the best products at the CES in advance of the show every year.

Display makes images tactilely perceptible Bosch recipient of the CES 2016 Innovation Award in the

“In-Vehicle Audio/Video” category

What’s the REV? Industry snippets and quick news about launches, reviews, motorsport


Launches • Reviews • Motorsport

N ational Tekkie Tax Day is part of the South-African calendar for three years already and this year it will be celebrated on Friday 27 May. This campaign gives people the opportunity

to show with their feet where their heart lies.

You can choose a sticker for a cause close to your heart, and you can spunk up your tekkies with a funky pair of Tekkie Tag shoelaces and you are ready for National Tekkie Tax Day!

Gary Westwood, director of Epilepsy SA in the Free State & North West province says; “We used our Tekkie Tax donations in serving persons with epilepsy and other disabilities in our residential care facilities.”

Imisebeyelanga Services used their Tekkie Tax donations to purchase tables and chairs for some of their Early Childhood Development centres.

Samaritan’s Feet SA bought shoes for the needy. The list is long and these are only a few examples of how the donations were utilised in the past.

There is really no excuse to not participate in this year’s campaign. The shoelaces (R35 per packet) and the stickers (R10 each) will be available from mid-April at all Clicks or Toys R Us shops.

There are also more than 200 participating non-profit organisations selling these items and together they aim to

convince every South African to be part of the fun. Orders can also be

placed via the Tekkie Tax website www.tekkietax.co.za.

Walk the extra mile for a welfare organisation close

to your heart by wearing your sticker of choice on

Friday, 27 May and spunk up your tekkies with a pair of their funky Tekkie Tag shoelaces.

Let your feet speak for your heart

T he SA Festival of Motoring, to be held at the refurbished world class Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit & International Convention Centre from 31 August 2016 to 4 September

2016 – will succeed the previously staged Johannesburg International Motor Show.

The choice of venue is ideally located between Pretoria and Johannesburg and offers outstanding exhibition, entertainment and conference facilities.

The SA Festival of Motoring has been inspired by the highly successful Goodwood Festival of Speed in the United Kingdom and will feature and focus on automotive lifestyle, entertainment, motorsport demonstrations and vehicle drive opportunities.

A broad array of ancillary events will form part of the festival including driving demonstrations, parades of vintage cars, family events, music, celebrities and outstanding cuisine and ambience.

The event represents a joint venture partnership between South African Shows Messe Frankfurt and NAAMSA with broad support from automotive companies.

Depending on the success of the 2016 festival, it could well become an annual event offering an enhanced experiential showcase for the local automotive industry.

An innovative technology lab will present future trends focusing on mobile technology, including hybrid and electric vehicles and the impending reality of the connected car.

Suppliers of aftermarket automotive accessories, as well as service providers for the automotive industry, will also be represented. It is anticipated that Messrs WesBank will continue as the platinum sponsor for the SA Festival of Motoring.

SA Festival of Motoring

www.abrmove.co.za

60 MOVING MATTERS

62 INDUSTRY UPDATE

64 TALKING TECHNICAL

65 WHAT’S THE MOVE

Time waits for no man

FEBRUARY 2016

LOGISTICS IN ACTION | FEBRUARY 2016 59

66 COMMERCIAL

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60 LOGISTICS IN ACTION | FEBRUARY 2016

by Frank Beeton

Moving Matters

The breaking news on Tuesday, November 24th, 2015,

that the Johannesburg International Motor Show, also

known by its initials as JIMS, was to be no more,

certainly captured the attention. The last JIMS was held

in 2013, and the expected follow-up, after the usual

two-year gap, in 2015 never materialised.

I nitially, it was thought that the show would be delayed to 2016, but the November

announcement made it clear that this would not happen, and that the “South African Festival of Motoring” would take its place at the Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit and International Convention Centre from August 31 to September 4, 2016.

The new format, according to a report from Engineering News, is to include “entertainment for the whole family, motorsport demonstrations, a vintage car parade, good food, as well as vehicle demonstrations and drive opportunities.

A technology lab will present future automotive trends, including hybrid and electric vehicles and the impending reality of the connected car”.

The event will reportedly be a joint venture between South African Shows Messe Frankfurt and the National Association of Automobile Manufacturers of South Africa (NAAMSA), so one must assume that the new concept has drawn broad support from the local vehicle manufacturing and distributing industry.

This writer must declare his disappointment at this announcement. Having been associated and involved with JIMS, and its predecessor Auto Africa, for many years, he has enjoyed the world-class experience that JIMS has brought to the local industry, and its supporting public.

The South African operations of global automotive groups, as well as indigenous importers and agents, always made an effort to exhibit new products and technologies that would otherwise only have been experienced by locals travelling abroad.

Frank Beeton scans the transport world for news

pertinent to the Logistics Sector. Mattersoving

FAREWELL, JIMS!The exhibition format encouraged a high standard of display, with at least a proportion of all the glitz and glamour associated with international motor shows.

It seems unlikely that the “Festival of Motoring” will generate a similar ambience. It must be conceded that the JIMS format was not universally popular with all exhibitors, because of the enormous costs incurred in presenting a world-class display.

There was also resistance to manning the show for the ten day period it typically occupied. However, it gave the local industry, at the highest level, a rare opportunity to interact

with its public without the intervening filter of dealer involvement. The presence of passenger cars at the show, with their associated razzmatazz, tended to raise the standard of exhibitor’s presentations above those normally expected at a typical “beer and boerewors” local commercial or agricultural show, and there was always the added attraction of

exhibits by specialist suppliers to the parts, accessory and servicing aspects of the motor trade.

From a trucking perspective, the “Festival of Motoring” format, with its emphasis on “motoring”, does not appear to offer a viable alternative to JIMS.

That show offered the transport operator a unique opportunity to view prestige exhibits from the major vehicle manufacturers, together with more basic outdoor displays by smaller importers, and the supporting body and trailer manufacturing sector.

In the past, there had been much heated debate over the relevance of commercial vehicle participation in JIMS, based on the perception that it takes truck people away from their day jobs for too long, and exposes (expensive) exhibits to wave upon wave of “tyre kickers” and brochure collectors.

A further complication lay in timing, as it was unlikely that major new product launches would always be able to coincide with events timed by show organisers to suit their own priorities.

➲ The revised Kyalami circuit will play host to the 2016 SA Festival of Motoring. But where will the trucks go?

➲

MOV

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MAT

TERS


Moving Matters

This will inevitably lead to more travel and time expense for potential customers, and the media.

It will also reduce the opportunities available to equipment, bodywork and trailer suppliers,

who previously took advantage of JIMS, and its predecessors, to present their wares to the broader

market.

Acting Transnet CEO Siyabonga Gama confirmed at the

group’s interim results presentation during October,

2015, that the State-owned freight and logistics

operator remained committed to its Market Demand

Strategy, despite the parlous state of South Africa’s

economy.

This strategy now calls for expenditure of R340-billion to R380-billion over a ten-year period, extended from the original seven years, in recognition of expected

protracted commodity market weakness.

In the meantime, Transnet has secured a R12-billion “Club loan” from five of South Africa’s major financial institutions, following the signing of a $US 1,5-billion loan facility agreement with the China Development Bank in June, 2015, with an option to increase this to $ 2,5-billion.

Financing arrangements already in place included a R6,99-billion loan from Export Development Canada, R2,76-billion from KfW Development Bank of Germany, and a R6-billion loan guarantee from the Export Import Bank of the United States.

These financing arrangements will be used to pay for Transnet’s 1 064-unit locomotive acquisition programme, which is being sourced from four global manufacturers, namely CSR Zhuzhou Electric Locomotive, Bombardier Transportation, General Electric Technologies and CNR Rolling Stock.

Recent projects completed in terms of the MDS include the R 800-million upgrading of Johannesburg’s City Deep “inland port” to double its container handling capability to 400 000 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEU’s) per annum.

Transnet also reportedly claims that the duration of typical train trips between City Deep and Durban has been reduced

(LOTS OF) MONEY FOR TRANSNET

from more than 27 hours to less than 16 hours, and that it has registered increases in vehicle carriage and container traffic volumes during the first six months of the current financial year of 23% and 2,3%, respectively.

It is well known that the South African government is pursuing a strategy to divert a considerable percentage of line-haul freight from road transport to rail, and that it will be using this massive infrastructural investment through Transnet to support this plan.

We have previously indicated that it makes a great deal of sense to arrive at a more rational modal split between road and rail transport for the country, as the balance has shifted radically from the situation prevailing before the 1993 deregulation of road transport.

Since then, there has been a massive swing to truck usage, with the road:rail split officially recorded by Statistics SA at 70:30, although anecdotal evidence suggests that the actual ratio is considerably higher.

The discussion presented in our article “Road versus Rail – Some Enlightening Statistics” in the October 2015 aBr suggested that the real on-cost of this high dependence on road transport is, in fact, greater than that reflected in the official Stats SA data.

In the past, major manufacturers often organised stand-alone events at more appropriate times, and in an effort to ensure closer control of their sponsored visitors. After all, anybody attending a show wants to look around, irrespective of who paid for his travel to the show or entrance ticket!

However, with the demise of JIMS as a viable option, the commercial vehicle industry will need to rethink its position. It seems unlikely that there will be sufficient consensus to agree on suitable timing or format for a stand-alone national truck and bus show.

In the past, those manufacturers who have opted to run their own events have tended to choose venues such as the Gerotek testing grounds outside Pretoria, where heavy vehicles can be driven off the public roads, under controlled

conditions, by people not having the requisite licences. The most likely outcome will be a series of individual events, timed to coincide with launches of new or revised products.

If this supposition is correct, the investment plan should work in favour of Transnet’s efforts to divert goods on to rail, but only if the desired levels of security, reliability and on-time arrival

can be achieved. To do this, Transnet will need to reverse the recent trend of inadequate performance delivered by some State-owned

Enterprises in South Africa and if it can, it will be to its eternal credit.


Industry Update

source - Imperial Logistics

A partnership with services and technology solutions specialist Resolve has yielded a host of benefits for Imperial Cold

Logistics, including annual cost savings of R35 million as a result of simplified distribution.

Formerly The Cold Chain, Imperial Cold Logistics was facing challenges that were jeopardising the business’s competitiveness, reveals Resolve managing director Heinrich

Strauss.

The Cold Chain’s problems included its poor financial performance, unmaintained

facilities, aging fleet and dated systems, as well as poor visibility of logistics

activity and costs, and inefficient logistics operational systems. The rise of the retailer distribution centre posed an

additional challenge. This had resulted in a drop size reduction, but there had been no corresponding reduction in The Cold Chain’s own distribution footprint,

he explains.

Resolve gets chilled foods specialist out of hot water and on the path to success

“The business was in dire need of transformation, which started with a new name and branding, and Imperial Cold Logistics was born,” Strauss continues.

In partnership with Resolve, Imperial Cold Logistics analysed the changes needed to turn the company around.

“The financial reality was that the transformation needed to deliver a near immediate payback, in order to keep the business operational. The company was not in a position to carry the cost of failed initiatives, lost sales, debtors’ write-offs or lost customers, so the pressure was on,” Strauss stresses.

The changes made by Resolve included the consolidation of six distribution sites, which enabled the business to save R35 million annually.

Optimised distribution planning and execution management was implemented, and the development and empowerment of people was prioritised, with extensive system and operation based training introduced.

People development initiatives are ensuring that Imperial Cold Logistics retains key people, and going forward, attracts the right calibre of new team members.


Industry Update

Resolve has also established clear and aligned key performance indicators and implemented inventory optimisation and replenishment software, which has significantly reduced working capital. A reduction of 55 delivery vehicles has also been achieved through optimised distribution planning and execution management.

An integral part of Resolve’s sustainable solution for Imperial Cold Logistics was the development of a massive, new warehouse – the largest chilled storage facility in Africa. Developed by Resolve Capacity, it boasts 50 000 pallet positions and offers a combination of bulk cold storage and secondary distribution.

“In addition to enabling client efficiencies, this facility is reducing costs for Imperial Cold Logistics through optimised activity and the reduction of waste,” Strauss states.

Looking ahead, Resolve and Imperial Cold Logistics will continue to drive business improvements, with several investments in infrastructure upgrades planned.

“New distribution facilities will be established in Cape Town and Durban, and further investment in distribution vehicles is planned over and above the 89 new vehicles already purchased and branded with the new Imperial Cold Logistics logo.” Strauss notes that 50% of Imperial Cold Logistics’ fleet is now less than three years old.

From being a business in jeopardy, Imperial Cold Logistics has emerged as a

force to be reckoned with in this industry, providing world class warehousing, logistics

and distribution services to major chilled and frozen food manufacturers like McCain,

Tiger Brands Perishables, Astral Foods and County Fair Foods, among others,

he concludes.

In last month’s article, we discussed

the workings of a typical clutch.

This month, we move on down the

driveline to the gearbox, which is

usually located immediately behind

the clutch housing. The purpose

of the gearbox is to provide the

vehicle with a range of different

operating speeds to suit varying

conditions. The number of speeds,

or “Gears” can vary from three to

eighteen, depending on the vehicle

and its intended use. The engine

has a predetermined speed range,

expressed in revolutions per minute

(revs/min, or RPM), so the variation

in the rotational speed of the

shaft leaving the gearbox is made

possible by the interaction of pairs

of “cogs”, or gears, in the gearbox.

Each pair of gears has a ratio, which denotes the rotational speed differential between the two gears

in the pair. If both gears turn at the same speed, the ratio will be 1:1, or “direct”, but if one gear turns at five times the speed of the other, the ratio will be 5:1, or “indirect”.

The illustration, included with acknowledgement to the HowStuffWorks website, shows a typical simple five-speed gearbox.

In this example, drive from the Engine (input shaft) is transferred to the layshaft by a pair of gears, so that the layshaft rotates continuously while the engine is running.

All pairs of gears from 1-5 and Reverse will also be rotating, but in “neutral” condition, as illustrated, the output shaft (to differential) is stationary.

This is because none of the blue gears are directly engaged with the output shaft in neutral, and are free to rotate in conjunction with the red gears.

When the driver selects a gear using the gear lever, the appropriate Gear Selector Fork will slide into position and engage the blue gear with the output shaft, which brings the output shaft, driving to the

differential, into motion. The reverse gear set has an additional idler gear, which reverses the rotational direction of the output shaft when engaged.

Please note, however, that the use of the term “layshaft” in last month’s article for the shaft exiting the clutch and entering the gearbox, could be confusing.

In the type of gearbox illustrated below, the layshaft is driven by a set of gears from the input shaft, which, in turn, is driven by the engine’s flywheel through the fully engaged clutch. There are many different gearbox designs using differing drive layouts and varying numbers of layshafts, or countershafts, and the example illustrated here is typical of the layout used for a rear-wheel-drive vehicle.

The gear selector mechanism is designed in such a way that only one pair of gears can be engaged at any one time, to prevent gearbox damage being caused by multiple selections.

This type of gearbox is known as a “manual” gearbox, as it requires direct inputs from the driver to affect gear changes.

In most cases, each gear will be engaged sequentially in accelerating the vehicle from stationary, to cruising, or maximum speed.

Changes back to a lower ratio are normally necessitated by the vehicle slowing down, or needing to climb gradients.

Higher numerical gear ratios (e.g. 5: 1) are normally referred to as “low” ratios, while lower numerical ratios (e.g. 2:1 or 1:1) are called “high” ratios.

A ratio of less than 1:1 (e.g. 0,7:1) is called an “overdrive” ratio, and this means that the driven gear in the pair will rotate at a higher speed than the driving gear.

In next month’s article, we will discuss different types

of gearboxes.

Talking Technical

by Frank Beeton

Frank Beeton explains modern vehicle technology in language we can all understand.

Number Six – February 2016

The Gearbox


Gear Selector

Fork

Idler Gear

Layshaft

TO DIFFERENTIAL

FROM ENGINE

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ETSETS

People • Places • Products • Potential

What’s the MOVE? Industry snippets and quick news about people and products on the move...

Imperial Road Safety, Bakwena & N3TC Kept an Eye on our Roads in December/January

Any holiday maker travelling on the N1N4 and N3 toll routes during the just past December/January holiday period, would have noticed the patrol and emergency

vehicles on the road, with the Imperial livery. This vehicle sponsorship - running for the fourth consecutive year and supported by Imperial’s Europcar - is aimed at increasing and boosting route surveillance, patrol support and post-crash care during South Africa’s busiest holiday season. Charmaine Van Wyk, PR officer for Bakwena, said at the handover on 10 December 2015 that “There is no doubt that visible policing of our roads influences consumers to be more cautious and to ensure they practice safer road usage and as such, the support from Imperial Road Safety during such busy seasons is fundamental to aiding us in servicing the needs of road users and ensuring safer roads for all.”

MiX Telematics leads in South African Fleet Management Market

MiX Telematics, a leading global provider of fleet and mobile asset management solutions, has been recognised by a recently published Berg Insight report as the largest

fleet management solution provider in South Africa. The report, titled ‘Fleet Management in South Africa’ was authored by Rickard Andersson, senior analyst at Sweden-based M2M/IoT analyst house Berg Insight, and includes insights from numerous interviews with market-leading companies, data on commercial fleets, an overview of the fleet management value chain, profiles of 22 aftermarket fleet management solution providers and a summary of the Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) propositions from commercial vehicle brands. “We are delighted to be recognised as the largest provider of fleet management solutions in South Africa – a key market for us as a global telematics company,” says Brendan Horan, managing director at MiX Telematics (Africa). “South Africa is where it all began for us in 1996, and we are grateful to not only have grown substantially in this market over the years, but to have industry experts note this growth and the contribution we have made to the local fleet management landscape.” In addition to identifying the top performing fleet management solution providers dominating the South African fleet market, the report also explores the overall state of the market including fleet management infrastructure, market drivers and barriers, as well as future market trends. “Although the current growth levels are somewhat lower than in other markets, due to the high telematics penetration and a weak local economy, we estimate a 10.8% compound annual growth rate from 0.9 million units in 2015 to 1.5 million by 2020,” says Andersson. “Despite the current economic challenges, we believe that the fleet management sector in the region is in a growth period that is set to continue in the years to come.”

➲ Corne Venter, CEO of Imperial Car Rental, stands, together with traffic policemen and women, in front of the

sponsored vehicles


Commercial Vehicle Insights

by Austin Gamble

When Billy Ocean sings that “when the going gets tough,

the tough get going”, you may cast your mind to Torbjörn

Christensson, president of Volvo Group Southern Africa, who

at his company’s annual press conference in Ekurhuleni,

gave a surprisingly upbeat prognosis of the company’s

prospects in 2016.

He ascribes “a combination of macroeconomic factors, including a weak exchange rate, pressure on inflation and interest rates, as well low business confidence levels”

to the decline in local truck sales during 2015, and he says that “with the South African economy predicted to grow by only 1% during 2016, we expect the local truck market to be in for another challenging year.”

Being responsible for the south east African operations of the Volvo Group, Christensson must

look yearningly at North America and Europe, where Volvo has shown improved profitability, and which have contributed to the Volvo Group

increasing operating margins from 4,3% to 6,9% in 2015. But of course, he must be glad that he

does not have Brazil in his portfolio, where sales have fallen by 50%.

Volvo Group Southern Africa has a 15% share of the SADC truck and bus market, selling 4 563 units during 2015, which gives them a good base for growth, but what must be exercising his mind is the macroeconomic situation in South Africa.

Thus it was not surprising to hear that one of his priorities is to expand into Africa, and to change the SA/non-SA ratio of sales from 9/1 to 7/3. Not that the core strengths will be ignored.

“I strongly believe that you have to be service orientated and if you get that right, your customers will stick with you through the good and the bad times,” adds Christensson.

Despite the tough times, Christensson and his team intend to emulate the origins of the

brand name, and to “roll on”. Volvo means “I roll” in Latin, conjugated from “volvere”, and created when Volvo was in the forefront of the

development of ball bearings.

When the Going Gets Tough

And Christensson has great faith in his team. With a number of structural changes incorporated over the past few years, Volvo Group Southern Africa is now a streamlined organisation, and ready to roll.

Christensson believes the real differentiator in such a highly competitive market is the quality of the Volvo Group employees. “I have the privilege to work with some of the most experienced, skillful and passionate people in the industry,” says Christensson.

As a company, we have confidence in the future of the transport industry

in the region. We have therefore aligned our strategies, services and products to address the very unique operating

requirements and conditions of transport operators in the region. We remain

committed to the success of our customers in South East Africa.

He concludes. “We are ready for 2016!”

➲ Seen at Volvo Group Southern Africa’s annual press conference are Torbjörn Christensson, president; and

Theunis Eloff, director Aftermarket. At the conference we heard that the aftermarket division is playing an increasingly

important role at Volvo Group Southern Africa, with parts sales and labour hours showing big growth at Volvo

dealerships. Eloff tells aBr that with the Rand taking strain, imaginative ways have to be found to reduce cost pressures

on maintenance costs for Volvo truck owners, including re-balancing of parts pricing, service contracts, growing the

official exchange programme, and promoting repair over replacement where possible. He adds that with the increase

in service contracts, Volvo Group dealerships are experiencing higher volumes through their

workshops

72654_Ingersoll Rand_Rotary Ad_ABR.indd 1 2015/11/25 3:51 PM


Industry News

source - BCE Consulting

This is How you Save Costs in 2016

Every new-year my clients start the year with a drive to cut cost. All sorts of different names and acronyms are created to give

these cost cutting exercises a name all involved could buy into. All the normal business centers are involved and manufacturing

and supply chain are usually tasked to provide the bulk of the savings.

A s a logistic and supply chain service provider, we are often called upon to provide

improved pricing and innovative service offering to assist with the annual cost reduction plan.

Unfortunately if pricing is the only criteria, the gap between reduced pricing and improving value are growing, creating risks that could be over looked in the name of saving.

The truth is that no company has ever saved itself into a profit position; chasing revenue should always be the most important driver in any business.

Reducing expenses is however not a totally wasteful endeavor, it has to be entered into keeping the process, people and underlying risk in mind.

Value is unfortunately not seen as a tangible reduction as it often reduces risk and protects the long-term sustainability of the business rather than creating the quick fix many of these cost cutting programs require.

For many automotive companies, one of the cost drivers that we expect to provide the savings, is the logistic and supply chain operation.

These costs can easily contribute between 10% to 30% of the importer and exporter’s total expenses. It can however not be panel-beated into a price only service delivery.

Your service provider should address many more business processes that if left neglected, could cause havoc in the manufacturing and supply chain process.

Instead of purely measuring the logistic cost in your company against the bank balance we recommend a more holistic approach.

Often the real saving is the value of having complaint processes and being “SARS proof”, protecting your business against show stopping risks that were not addressed because the only focus was on cost saving.

BCE recommends implementing a logistic review in 2016 rather that a cost saving target for the supply chain.

The review includes analyzing processes and documents to determine the true cost position when compliance, risk and opportunities are included to create an environment where cost are evaluated rather than merely reduced.

BCE Global has to date been successful in reducing risk and identifying opportunities for 100% of our review client. Visit our website or talk to a consultant and start enjoying a more compliant business and Yes, we will assist you to correctly

implement that CSS (Cost Saving Strategy) in the supply chain.

WWW.BCEGLOBAL.CO.ZA

012 748 3800www.goldwagen.com

012 12 661 0110www.imcomex.co.za

012 748 3800www.goldwagen.com

012 12 661 0110www.imcomex.co.za

Wilder Things – a satirical and madcap look at our industry

by Fingal Wilde

Garages are for CarsThis January I eventually plucked up the courage to tackle my garage. Slowly but surely, over a period of twenty five

years, the cars have been pushed out, and this large space has assumed a life of its own.

Recently, I had even heard noises coming from the garage, so I approached the clean-up with caution.

Opening the garage door was a challenge, as a completely full garage had not fazed my wife.

Boxes and various pieces of clothing and paraphernalia had now been stacked up against the door from the outside, acting as a bulwark against invasion.

But I am made of sterner stuff, and after extensive forays and clearing

techniques, a breach was made, and eventually the door was slowly but

surely cranked open.

Now a new wall, denser than the outside bulwark, had to be challenged. This was a sturdily constructed wall, with a Lego type construction of boxes, chairs, tables, HTH boxes, black bags full of clothes, and even some cable rolls.

A tough job, but I contacted some mountaineers, and with the latest equipment, we climbed this fortress, and started clearing from the top.

It required careful and considered movement, as we did not want to bring the whole edifice tumbling down.

At last, we had got the wall down to under two metres, and then a big, big surprise. As I shone

a torch into the dark interior, I was met by a pair of wide open eyes.

I don’t know who was the most surprised, but what I had discovered was a family of Syrian refugees, living in my garage! Language was an issue, but eventually I managed to interpret via sign language that this family had

been living there for four months, and entry into the garage was via an underground tunnel.

Apparently this was an easier option than tackling the imposing wall, and

it also afforded the opportunity to escape detection, as the tunnel had

been burrowed from outside our garden wall.

A dangerous exercise, because of the weight of half-full cement bags and pieces of Vibracrete that my wife had stacked on our side of the wall, which threatened the integrity of the tunnel. So why were they not moving on, was my

question. No way, said the head of the garage, life was pretty cosy in his newly found refuge. It had a stove, a deep freeze, a fridge, and even a toilet (though he did request that we connect this to the municipal services).

The beds were comfy, the dining room suite perfectly adequate, and the combination of office chairs and lounge suite extremely comfortable. He had even connected the TV and hi-fi set to the wall plug, although he did complain about the age of the TV.

What was I to do, so I moved in with the

Syrians, because the space they occupied

was less cluttered than my own house!

But surely garages

are for cars?

70 HUMOUR IN ACTION | FEBRUARY 2016

If we believe a member has been treated unfairly, we will do whatever it takes.

We’re not afraid to rock the boat, say what has to be said, do what has to be done.

We take on the big fish and fight for the small ones.

Isn’t it time you joined the Intelligent Alternative?

THE INTELLIGENT (TENACIOUS) ALTERNATIVE

MISA,

As the only trade union that organises exclusively in the retail motor sector, the Motor Industry Staff Association (MISA) is 100% committed to its members.

MISA is affiliated to the Federation of Unions of South Africa (FEDUSA), which enables it to play a major role in the South African labour relations arena.

Where to find the Motor Industry Staff Association (MISA)MISA Head OfficeTel: (011) 476-3920Fax: (011) 678-4537Email: [email protected]: misa.org.za

facebook.com/pages/Motor-Industry-Staff-Association-MISA

@MIStaffAss

Last Writes you will always find on the last page of ABR,

because all work and no play makes Jack a dull boy.

by Baron Claude Borlz

The Last Writes

72 HUMOUR IN ACTION | FEBRUARY 2016

You know you’re getting old when:Everything hurts, and what doesn’t hurt doesn’t work.

The gleam in your eye is the sun shining on your bifocals.

You feel like the morning after but you haven’t been anywhere.

Your little black book contains only names ending in MD.

A dripping tap causes an uncontrollable urge.

You don’t consider gravity to be a force that pulls two particles together.

You look forward to a dull evening.

Your face has finally cleared up and your laugh lines are now permanent.

Your eyesight is failing, you’re in denial so you just buy a snazzy pair of magnifying glasses at the pharmacy while buying your fibre supplements.

You need glasses to find your glasses.

You can’t remember how to start your rocking chair.

Your knees buckle but your belt won’t.

Your back goes out more often than you do.

You put your bra on back to front and it fits better.

Mom jeans... are they really that bad?

- But, getting old is mandatory, but being and acting old is a choice.

The “Washington Post’s Mensa Invitational” once again invited readers to take any word from the dictionary, alter it by adding, subtracting, or changing one letter, and then to supply a new definition.

Here are the winners:

1. Cashtration (n.): The act of buying a house, which renders the subject financially impotent for an indefinite period of time.

2. Ignoranus: A person who’s both stupid and an asshole.

3. Intaxicaton: Euphoria at getting a tax refund, which lasts until you realise it was your money to start with.

4. Reintarnation: Coming back to life as a hillbilly.

5. Bozone ( n.): The substance surrounding stupid people that stops bright ideas from penetrating. The bozone layer, unfortunately, shows little sign of breaking down in the near future.

6. Foreploy: Any misrepresentation about yourself for the purpose of getting laid.

7. Giraffiti: Vandalism spray-painted very, very high.

8. Sarchasm: The gulf between the author of sarcastic wit and the person who doesn’t get it.

9. Inoculatte: To take coffee intravenously when you are running late.

10. Osteopornosis: A degenerate disease. (This one got extra credit.)

11. Karmageddon: It’s like, when everybody is sending off all these really bad vibes, right? And then, like, the Earth explodes and it’s like, a serious bummer.

12. Decafalon (n.): The grueling event of getting through the day consuming only things that are good for you.

13. Glibido: All talk and no action.

14. Dopeler Effect: The tendency of stupid ideas to seem smarter when they come at you rapidly.

15. Arachnoleptic Fit (n.): The frantic dance performed just after you’ve accidentally walked through a spider web.

16. Beelzebug (n.): Satan in the form of a mosquito, that gets into your bedroom at three in the morning and cannot be cast out.

17. Caterpallor ( n.): The colour you turn after finding half a worm in the fruit you’re eating.

nvitational” once again invited readers to take any word from the dictionary, alter it by adding, subtracting, or changing one letter, and then to

The act of buying a house, which renders

Satan in the form of a mosquito, that gets into your bedroom at three in the morning and cannot be cast out.

The colour you turn after finding

C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K

2765_FPFC 2016_Jacaranda AD_A4sizeHighRes.pdf 1 2016/01/13 1:27 PM

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What Lies in Store for 2016 – a Female Perspective - aBr Buzz

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