Automotive Refinisher March-April 2014

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T H E V O I C E O F T H E I N D U S T R Y March - April 2014

Edition 172

Zwartkops Passion For

GENEVA

or Speed

MOTORSHOW

TOP SHOP

RSB AUTOGROUP

IN THIS ISSUE >> >> >> >>

CRA NEWS ZAMBIAN UPDATE FUTURE TECH DID YOU HEAR?

COLLISION REPAIR ASSOCIATION 2_Layout 1 2014/03/19 11:25 AM Page 1

Enjoy the recognition you deserve.

In the last two decades the South African collision repair market has really come of age as right across the country top independent repair concerns have moved forward to embrace the changing technology of todays complex modern vehicles.

One of the foremost concerns in recent years has been the constant bottom line profitability erosion partially due to the lack of standards which has lead to a over-traded repair environment.

Top class independent shops have been left with only policies of a reactive nature and much difficulty in finding a proper return on their investment through a lack of recognition of the standards needed to run a professional repair facility.

The Collision Repairers Association has adopted an entirely new approach to the industry and some of its challenges by recruiting the cream of the crop of the repair industry who have invested in standards and continue to put out quality repairs with the aim to please customers. The vast knowledge of the officials and staff will drive forward a strategic plan to improve repairer profits and gain recognition for the vast number of independent key role players in every area of activity in collision repair in South Africa.

The CRA over the past year have worked closely with some major insurers in putting together guidelines to progress the needs of both the insurance and repair sectors. The time has come for major structural repairers and the smaller nonstructural repair shops to have a dedicated voice at the negotiating table. Not only do we have to understand the insurance industry and some of their unique challenges, but we need to also offer long term sustainable solution to problems that have existed over the past 3 decades.

The CRA is also driving a recognizable legislated standard via the DTI that will become compulsory for any repairer to trade in South Africa. This should see the repairers that have already invested in standards gain the recognition they so rightly deserve.

The industry has certainly been begging for change and change has arrived in the form of the CRA. So call us soon to gain your place on the road forwards with the new trade organisation of the future in collision repairs.

JOIN THE CRA AND GET THE RECOGNITION YOU DESERVE!

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Call us on 0861 726 272 or Visit www.crasa.org.za

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Contents MARCH - APRIL 2014

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CRA UPDATE Making Great Strides

PPG PROGRAMME Continuous Improvement

GLASURIT

Wet-on-Wet Primer

DRIVEN

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Sonic RS

ARVATO

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Interview with Christian Bust

NORTON

Multi-Air Option

KEIZEN AUTOMOTIVE Rislone Arrives

ZWARTKOPS Vintage Races

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TOP SHOP Alfa Body Works

FUTURE TECH GM Where to Now?

PEUGEOT

Parts Proficiency

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Front Cover & Contents: Audi TT Quattro Sport Concept (420hp)

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LATEST NEWS FROM CRA LOCAL UPDATE

CRA MAKE GREAT STRIDES INTO THE NEW YEAR “

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n less than two years the Collision Repair Association (CRA) has posted some significant achievements in the drive to become the association with a quality benchmark for an entirely new body,” “A successful track record of delivery to the members has been hard earned.

“With the help of insurance companies like Zurich, Santam, MiWay and Hollard and other key players, we have been able to gain a co-operative agreements on things like standards and interbusiness relationships for the CRA membership.

“Still one of the biggest problems going forward in the insurance and repair sector remains customer and body repair concerns of right of choice. By our latest moves of being able to consult key insurance figure heads who really fully understand the exact needs that South African Insurers are looking to improve on. This type of inside knowledge will surely be able to help us drive up our national footprint of membership and see the CRA constant drive to develop a more profitable model to work with going forward.

CRA will continue to develop systems for the members this year and expect some very positive developments in this regard in the near future. CRA has also created a platform to assist members with Audatex quotes. The majority of insurance assessments are done on the Audatex system today. CRA members can now send queries and quotes to audatex@crasa.org.za . A trained professional will provide you with technical assistance.

CRA will see a rapid expansion on tool sets, BETAG Soft Push Systems, PDR Trolleys and single part tools.

“The full line up of the Swiss manufactured products includes many unique and cutting edge technologies like Glue Pullers, GP2, Sliding Hammer, Dentliners and single part tools now in use in modern repair shops worldwide. These systems will certainly be useful with the recent hail that has hit areas like Gauteng. They will also help improve profitability in the shops by using more effective repair methods.

C RA launch BET A G Innovative modern body panel repair system BETAG Innovative are a specialist supplier of body shop technology repair tool systems from Switzerland used by technicians worldwide. The full range is on offer and is very comprehensive with mobile tool sets, soft push dent removal, full trolleys that are equipped with professional sets of paintless dent removal pushers, whale tail sets, carbon hammers and flat shaft sets complete with the PDR tool table holders.

BETAG also offer glue pullers, sliding hammers and a dent liner full kit. The professional offer is available to CRA members country wide. Call the CRA for more details on 0861 726 272 or see their website at www.crasa.org.za For membership enquiries or to make an appointment with a CRA consultant contact: Lisa-Marie (Gauteng) on 0826009565 Chris Boaz (Durban/ Eastern Cpe) on 0840858939 Hendry Basson (Free State/ Northern/Western Cape) on 0832741911.

By holding a number of high profile conferences and technical training sessions, CRA have been uplifting the quality of repair and knowledge of new systems throughout the year.

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LATEST NEWS CRC UPDATE

FIRST CRC GENERAL MEETING FOR CO-OP ACTIVITIES

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eventy one high profile collision repair centres held the first stakeholder meeting for the Collision Repairers Cooperative to vote on key matters at the first general meeting.

In new developments underway board member Peter Todd, played a guiding influence in the way business will unfold, in the way insurers and repairers could align their objectives for the future.

Body shop owners were told that they were now part of a bigger concern with meetings being held with various key role players in their regions by the co-operative operation.

Good corporate governance will be part of the way forward explained Peter. No one must lose sight of the motor cover aspect of their operations as clearly insurers were having difficulties all of their own when it came to returns on motor policies.

Another feature of their pricing to drivers was it takes an insurer between 18 to 24 months to implement a rate hike on their policies so with compounding events like Rand depreciation and increasing parts and paint prices it is another headache on the horizon.

However, the new co-operation model proposed would undoubtedly deliver a better cost quantity for insurers who sign up for the new proposal from the co-operative members with the availability of a much more accurate repair cost which is designed to reduce claims costs and eliminate unsavory practices. Cooperative stakeholders would, however, need to keep standards of repair high and onwards maintained as the pilot systems start to roll out.

Members would enjoy a great deal of protection with regards to transparency as the existing executive council would apply a very straight forward and open cards policy with the members at all times with consultations being employed nationally to retain a great degree of fairness for all role players, suppliers and repairers involved.

Some key constitutional changes followed by new overseas repair technologies saw the close of the meeting. The business seminar the following day also provided value to all business owners that attended.

Peter Todd told stakeholders that best practises and top quality repairs were part of the new co-operative model.

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IAL SPEC URE FEAT Steyl Panealbeaters, Somerset West “We’re 15% up on refinish paint cost savings and enjoying faster damaged vehicle turnaround.”

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ertius Steyl (junior) and his twin brother Jean are doing an excellent job of running the company built up by their father Tertius (senior) and are now continuing their hands-on approach to the company’s success. With RSB behind them and much-improved technical back-up, it’s a great partnership with good clients and repeat business.

A1 Panel Shop, Paarden Eiland “Our output has increased from an average of 26 up to 30 cars with RSB’s help.”

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ick Acey is upbeat about A1’s performance. “We’re now running the best for the last six years with my production up, thanks to the R-M waterborne system. It is outstanding. Not only are we seeing more cars out per month, but paint purchases are also reduced by a large amount. We are very grateful to RSB for their good service and back-up interest for A1’s Panel Shop.`’

“QUALITY FROM START TO FINISH” 6

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Dals Claremont Auto Body Repair Centre “For me, a refinish paint system must be invisible and run like clockwork. With RSB and R-M we have achieved that,” says Robert Reister, MD.

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als Claremont sees an industry long term MercedesBenz specialist running the operations. “We have been able to boost output significantly as many colours are right first time with the R-M colouristics. With superb technical help the new shop is doing very well,” says Reister.

Malmesbury Paneelkloppers

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einier van Wyk is seeing a much-improved repair cycle time with RSB and their technical approach. The overall result with the R-M waterborne range is that they are making a major cost saving each and every month on paint and operating efficiency.

RSB TAKE AN IMPROVED APPROACH TO SERVICE DELIVERY FOR CLIENTS 7

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IAL SPEC URE FEAT Sentraal Bakwerke, Malmesbury “Moving to RSB support was the best thing I ever did in 25 years of business,” says Johan Odendal.

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etitia and Johan Odendal have a good 28-year-long history in the collision repair business. Johan says, “RSB simply overcame any problems that come up. It’s the 100% technical RSB focus that has stopped the reject work from the paint shop stone dead. This, plus reduced paint costs, it is a dream come true with R-M in my shop.”

Dals, Montague Gardens “We have boosted output dramatically with RSB support,” says Wayne Gibson.

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lvin Nel and Wayne Gibson run a slick, modern body shop in the motor town hub centre of Montague Gardens.

Dals founder Tommy Nel says that this branch is seeing between 15-20% more production with the RSB big value addon with the R-M refinish system.

“HELPING TOP COLLISION REPAIR OPERATORS”

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Worcester Bakwerke “Overall quality at the end of the repair has improved for us with radical cost savings at Worcester,” says Rudi Horn.

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orcester Bakwerke is so big that founder Nicky Horn scoots around in a golf cart. His hands-on sons Morne and Rudi are on top of all the technical issues. “We’re up to around 300 repaired cars per month right now.

We’re matching our 60 colours each week with more improved flow and quality using RSB and their technical back-up and assistance.”

RSB Cape “We continue to gain new customers because of our great service”, says Chanel Vogl.

CHANGING THE LANDSCAPE OF TECHNICAL SERVICE & PRODUCTION EFFICIENCY

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eon Boshoff has been in the body shop supply trade for over a decade and his job of being a key account manager means he is at it from first light to late in the day.

“I feel we have been incredibly successful in just one year in the Cape market because of the company’s drive and enthusiasm to genuinely save on the overall costs and speed up output quality for our system users”, said Leon.

Husband and wife team Chanel Vogl branch manager, and Trevor technical manager, oversee the new branch in Cape Town and work with seven specialist technical back-up trainers and a fleet of delivery vehicles.

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WHAT’S HOT? PRODUCT UPDATE

SAGOLA CLASSIC PRO GRAVITY

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new line of spray guns from Vermont Sales is now available for the refinisher. The Classic Pro Gravity, made in Spain carryies full approvals from the world’s top paint companies.

The new body design carries an ergonomic design coupled with maximum robustness and everyday reliability in use. It is also a highspeed spray gun at the work face, using a single spindle design with far fewer parts than seen on a normal spray gun. All this comes with a value price in terms of body shop affordability.

The gun can also be fully adjusted with spraying gloves for ease of operation, and has an aluminium, built-in regulator for air pressure for ease and speed of spray gun applications on primers and sealers.

Sagola also offer a full line up of nozzle sizes right from a 1.6 up to a 2.8 to gain exactly the right layout a spray painter might need.

Looking to meet an approval programme or maximum clean air

quality in air filtration, the triple air purifier from Sagola sees an eight micron filter with regulator using a coupled wide surface calescant filter to gain 0.01 micron clean air. It is an ideal choice for the spraybooth or preparation zone installation, for its large two inch inlet delivers a maximum air flow rate of some 2500 l/min.

All this comes with an automatic unmanned drain for the discharge of liquids and impurities.

You can get more details on the full Sagola range on the website www.sagola.com or you can call Vermont Sales on +27 (0)11 314 7711 for a distributor near you.

WHAT’S HOT?

the stainless steel and brass designed vFan Airbrush System is a "work horse" and delivers a 1/16" detail to 3" fan spray pattern when spraying lacquer, exterior/interior paints, wood stains, latex, clear coats, solvent-based paints and more.

It’s portable, silent and made of stainless steel and brass metal. First in class – a 1/16" detail to 3" fan spray pattern and as simple as switching out the air cap.

Industrial use – sprays gel coats, clear coats, water based paint, solvent based paint, latex and more. Simple to clean with an even finish.

For more details call EPT Systems +27 (0)21 556 1991.

vFAN PREVAL AIRBRUSH

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he first, and the industry's most innovative airbrush that turns into a air gun. The 3" fan and 1/16th" detail pattern spray system is amazing and easier to switch out than any system on the market. Amazing portability uses for touchups and working with air compressors. The vFan Portable Airbrush system is used for precision paint and material dispensing, touch-ups and surface repairs, surface preparation and curing.

The complete vFan System includes the vFan Airbrush (made from Stainless, Brass and with added coatings to protect against solvents), 6' air hose, two portable units of 150 Feet of ENERGY, air regulator, fan air cap, standard air cap for detail, additional needles, multiple product containers, dip tubes and an instruction manual.

No matter what the finish is, no matter where the touch-up is,

SLASH COSTS WITH THE SA STAR SPRAYBOOTH

ZENITH EQUIPMENT INTRODUCES THE SA STAR SPRAYBOOTH

With improved 50mm steel wall thickness and stateof-the-art colour matching fluorescent lighting and new safety features in the stainless steel burner and heat exchangers. The SA Star Spraybooth also incorporates both front and side doors for easy entry at a very competitive price. The spraybooth meets and exceeds health and safety standards.

CALL HENRY BASSON ON 082 857 5772 Burner with automatic flap c ontrol 10

Improved Lighting

Twin Door Ac c ess

New Control Panel

SALES - SERVICE - FILTRATION VISIT OUR WEBSITE www.zenithequipment.c o.za

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COATINGS UPDATE

PPG’s MVP programme is a tool for the body shop to make sure that your business is on the right track, making the most money it can and providing the best service along with it.

PRODUCT PROFILE

THE ROAD TO CONTINUOUS IMPROVEMENT

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hen it was introduced in the 90’s, the MVP programme was the first programme of its kind in the collision repair industry. Since then, it has become a truly global programme. As of today, many body shop owners and managers have taken advantage of MVP's innovative benchmarking tools, training and services to improve the way they run their businesses and drive their performance levels.

Success is not only achieved by working harder, but by working smarter. MVP Business Solutions’ commitment goes above and beyond providing your business with products of guaranteed quality. PPG’s endeavours are geared towards maximising 12

the productive value of your body shop and to this end PPG have designed a unique and comprehensive programme.

Profitable growth is the main objective of any business, including body shops.

Today, our challenge is to define the right strategies that will enable us to achieve this goal.

There are no textbooks to show you how to manage your workshop optimally, but MVP Business Solutions is very much aware that by applying the right processes and procedures in both the production section and the management department you can make your business highly profitable.

The MVP Business Solutions programme encompasses a series of services that you can use according to your needs, offering you the chance to gain an advantage over your competitors. These services include management reports on the current situation of your body shop, comparison of key performance indicators in your market

and, most importantly, action plans geared towards increasing the profitability of your business.

The strategic decisions you make in your body shop should revolve around this competitive advantage, and for this reason the MVP Business Solutions programme will help you to steer your business in the right direction with the sole aim of achieving increased profitability in a market as demanding as the body shop sector.

With the support of MVP Business Solutions, you will always know where your efforts need to be directed.

In short, PPG is offering you a management tool which provides direct solutions for your body shop to answer the everyday challenges: measuring the actions you have established, evaluating whether they are the right ones, and identifying how you can tackle changes to manage the future of your company in a more profitable way.

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BY MONITORING SET KPI’S, THE BODY SHOP WILL ACHIEVE REDUCED CYCLE TIMES AND INCREASED PRODUCTION CAPACITY.

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TRAINING UPDATE WHAT’S HOT?

WINTERVELD SET TO TACKLE YOUTH UNEMPLOYMENT

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auteng Premier Nomvula Mokonyane, together with the Economic Development MEC Mxolisi Xayiya, launched the Winterveld Enterprise Hub In February 2014.

Township Enterprise Hubs form an integral part of Gauteng’s strategy to revitalise township economies, increase the skills profile for young people and forge sustainable partnerships for employment creation.

The Winterveld hub has an automotive focus and will provide on-site support small businesses specialising in tyre fitment and wheel alignment; panel beating; auto body repairs and spray painting; auto spares; general motor mechanic; car wash and valet services.

The hub will provide budding entrepreneurs in the area with the following: •Training on the latest cutting edge technologies in the automotive sector •Incubation, mentoring and skills transfer on technical and financial management and business acumen.

•Shared services and facilities within the hub facility, which will also be made available for small businesses around the area.

Speaking at the launch, Premier Mokonyane said: “We come from a past where black enterprise was significantly stifled and suppressed; these hubs are a creative way of nurturing existing enterprises in our townships to ensure their success and contribution to our job creation drive.”

MEC Xayiya added: “The hubs are designed to provide economic relief to some of the most economically depressed areas of the province. This is an innovative way of revitalising townshipbased businesses. They provide a golden opportunity to formalise and expand existing automotive businesses in this area,” said MEC Xayiya.

Xayiya said the initiative would formalise township automotive businesses and enable young black entrepreneurs and women to participate in the automotive industry.

The Gauteng’s Automotive Industry Development Centre (AIDC) CEO, Barlow Manilal, said that there is currently a discussion underway between the department and the automotive companies

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about obtaining motor manufacturer accreditation for the entrepreneurs operating in the hub.

“This is one way of providing an enabling environment for viable and sustainable small businesses which can make a direct impact on the economy. Global evidence suggests that both funding and incubation are crucial elements for small business success. These hubs are an integral part of our plans to foster mentorship and create partnerships for long-term business sustainability and job creation,” he said.

Township Enterprise Hubs compliment the department’s work in training young artisans to play a key role in furniture manufacturing, metal fabrication, jewellery manufacturing, tooling and foundry industries.

Approximately 3000 Winterveld residents attended the launch where 90 young people were awarded training certificates.

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INDUSTRY NEWS WHAT’S HOT?

DE BEER UP AND RUNNING IN THE CAPE

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perating from a new location in Marconi Road, Montague Gardens, Cowley SA says the move is a more effective way of servicing the Cape region body shop market distribution networks.

“It’s a new approach”, says Don, “and with the Cape Town market seeing constant expansion, the move will bring up availability in this area for the De Beer brand. We intend to cover the entire North Eastern and central paint sales markets of the Cape from George right up to Upington, from the new hub centre of distribution.”

“In quality terms the De Beer refinish offer is right up with the excellent finish and colouristic back-up and our target market will remain the middle of the road top quality body shops looking for a value price range with great ease of use and quality.”

“Our recent collision repair survey of the Cape reveals that proven refinish products will play a large part in market expansion to cover the out-of-warranty and uninsured repair work being seen in ever increasing numbers.”

The brand has, with Cowley SA’s back-up nationally, achieved a doubling of its sales volumes in recent times. With constant research into new colour shades, the range has a great line-up of first time colour right colours in basecoat, mica and solid 2K materials.

That’s really what’s powering the De Beer brand forwards in South Africa. You can call Cowley Cape on +27 (0)21 552 6018 for more information on De Beer or the new branch.

Leaderquip Auto Services Specialises in Hunter OEM Approved Equipment for Audi/Volkswagen, BMW & Mercedes Benz www.leaderquip.co.za info@leaderquip.co.za 17 Rosettenville Rd Village Main Johannesburg, South Africa National Toll Free: 086 000 2010 Tel: +27 (0)11 334 1680 Fax : +27 (0)11 334 1694

EVERY INDUSTRY HAS A LEEADER

With a good value price and top performance to the Body Shop, Cowley SA opens in the Cape region to service the huge out-of-warranty, warranty and uninsured repair market for refinish,” says Don and Monja heading up Cowley Cape.

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Call for distribution opportunities in your area.

Sole Importer Cowley Automotive Products Tel: (016) 933 2233 email: sales@cowleysa.co.za COWLEY AUTOMOTIVE & INDUSTRIAL COATINGS (PTY) LTD

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GENEVA MOTORSHOW 2014

84THTH GENEVA INTERNATIONAL MOTORSHOW

Mercedes-Benz S-Class Coupe

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Audi TT

Lamborghini Huracan

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VW’s T-ROC Concept

Maserati Alfieri Concept

Toyota Aygo

Volvo Concept Estate

Hyundai Passo Corto

Peugeot 108

Citroën C1

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BMW 2-series Active Tourer

he Geneva International Motor Show was the first international motor show to dedicate an exhibition area specifically for vehicles powered by alternatives to petrol and by renewable energies: The Green Pavilion which began in 2009. Today, all the large manufacturers have included these low emission vehicles in their product lines. As a result, beginning last year, these vehicles have re-joined the stands of their respective brands, as they are no longer oddities but have become part of their mainstream offerings.

Responding to the increasing demand for low emission vehicles, the necessity to preserve the environment and to the introduction of CO2 emission regulations, automobile manufacturers are now in a race against each other to develop alternative energy technologies that achieve advances in both economy and ecology. In only six years the automobile industry has not only endured a major economic crisis but has also completely revised and adapted their products to satisfy the demands of automobile owners increasingly concerned about the environment.

AUTOMOTIVE R E F I N I S H E R

Within the framework of SwissEnergy, the platform of the Swiss government for the promotion of energy efficiency and the use of renewable energy, the Swiss national energy office and the Geneva International Motor Show have produced a brochure that brings together all of the “green” vehicles being presented at the Show.

Regardless of their means of propulsion, all of these vehicles that emit less than 95 grams of CO2 per kilometre will be listed in this publication.

The threshold of 95 grams is lower in comparison with 2013.

This figure corresponds to the average level of emissions that the European Union will impose on all new vehicles to be sold in 2021.

Last year the threshold was fixed at 100 grams of CO2 per kilometre. Around 10% of the 900 vehicles presented at that Geneva Motor show were already below that level. This year more than 65 models or 7.2% of all the models presented will already qualify for the average emissions criteria set for new vehicles in six years’ time.

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PRODUCT PROFILE

GLASURIT CAMPAIGN

SAVE AN APPLICATION STEP WITH WET-ON-WET

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lasurit has further revolutionised its wet-on-wet filler concept so that you can achieve perfect results more quickly and economically at your body shop. With the new concept, you can now even dispense with sanding new e-coated parts. Leave the sanding paper in the supply cupboard and also save valuable labour time – up to 15% per part.

In addition, the new filler concept constitutes an entire package for nearly all substrates – even plastics. The new 522-10 Plastic Additive ensures that the wet-on-wet filler now also adheres to plastic parts. This means that you no longer need to use adhesion promoters and other special products at your body shop. Even better, you will also cut labour time by up to 25%. Simply use the plastic additive instead of using reducer. It’s as easy as that! The entire package consists of Glasurit Non-Sanding Fillers 285-31 grey, 285-38 white and 285-49 black, as well as 522-10 Plastic Additive.

The wet-on-wet filler concept ensures the same perfect results as the former one, but saves substantially more material and labour time. In this way, Glasurit is continually providing new products that help you stay ahead of the game. It goes without saying that the new wet-on-wet fillers also function as a grey shade concept. A grey shade coordinated with the colour of the basecoat allows you to save up to 40% basecoat.

The refinishing process with Glasurit‘s wet-on-wet filler concept

allows you to repair cosmetic damage and coat new parts even faster and more efficiently. Body shops profit from the technique, since sanding and drying times are no longer needed. A high-quality result with no sanding or drying times can save you up to 30% in time when compared to the application of a sanding filler.

With this refinishing process, application of new e-coated parts is quick and efficient. With the wet-on-wet filler concept, body shops no longer need to sand new e-coated parts. The parts can be flexibly processed for up to five days, allowing body shops to coat several parts in advance. This optimises spray booth utilisation, boosts capacity and cuts energy costs.

With 522-10 Plastic Additive, wet-on-wet fillers also adhere to plastics. This is particularly efficient because body shops can dispense with the application of adhesion promoters. And it’s as simple as this: all body shops have to do is replace the thinner with the plastic additive. Even the mixing ratio remains the same.

Peter Corna from Cornright Motors says that the reason they enjoy using wet on wet primer is that new parts don’t need to be sanded and they can go straight into the spraybooth. “There is a cost saving as my colours are more accurate and have better coverage. As a body shop owner, I would recommend that you use wet on wet primers as it is very quick and user friendly on new parts.” concluded Peter.

Paint utlisation is helped by easy to cover wet-on-wet primers that can be Three generations of Corna family members are still hard at work after 50 years of resprayed in just 15 minutes under normal conditions. Vernon Dalais (left) and running their successful business, Cornright Motors. Seen here from left to right are Mark Oakes were on hand for the BASF Coatings team.

Chris, Aldo, Peter and Mark. The Glasurit range is their refinish range of choice.

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LATEST NEWS TECHNICAL UPDATE

BODY SHOPS MUST PREPARE FOR ALUMINIUM

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luminium use in vehicles to double by 2025, so you need the tools and skills to work on these vehicles We’ve seen a lot of changes in vehicle technology over the years.

With each of these changes come new challenges and new opportunities. When the unibody vehicle was introduced, repair professionals were required to change their approach to collision repair, from damage analysis through the repair process. With the introduction of GMA (MIG) welding, additional restraint systems presented a completely different type of challenge, involving electronics and diagnostics.

Since then, we’ve seen advanced braking systems, advanced high- and ultra high strength steels, new types of plastic and composite parts, and a plethora of advanced safety systems. With each new advancement collision repairers have been continuously challenged to adapt; and it’s time to get ready to adapt again. High production vehicles with extensive use of aluminium are coming; it’s time to acknowledge the reality of this imminent change and get ready to tackle it as another opportunity.

“Aluminium isn’t difficult; it’s just different.” We first heard this statement in the 1990s during the development of the Ford P2000 concept vehicle; a collaborative effort between the Aluminium Association and Ford Motor Company. Many collision repair professionals began to look into the impending challenges we’d soon be facing, I CAR expanded its aluminium course offerings, and started to see an expansion in the availability of automotive aluminium MIG pulse welding equipment. However, when the steel manufacturers recognised the charge that aluminium was about to make, they acted quickly and formed the UltraLight Steel Auto Body (ULSAB) consortium; that

To keep the weight as low as possible on the DBS, Aston Martin has made extensive use of carbon fibre throughout the whole car. The bonnet, the boot, the front wings and the door opening surrounds are all made of carbon fibre. The carpets are also made of special thin layers made from carbon fibre. The roof and the doors are made of aluminium. The result is a 30kg weight reduction from a regular DBS. The car is also fitted with a carbon fibre splitter at the front wings to increase handling and a carbon fibre rear diffuser to increase high-speed stability. The brake discs are carbon ceramic, which shaves a significant 12.5kg from the unsprung weight. led to the creation of the ULSAB vehicle structure. The infusion of aluminium into the automobile design and development industry had been slowed; temporarily.

So, “what’s Iowa got to do with it?” In March 2012, Alcoa executives, along with the Governor of Iowa, broke ground in Davenport on a $300 million dollar expansion at their Davenport Works facility to “meet rising demand for aluminium from the automotive market.”

While there isn’t a shortage of aluminium intensive vehicles (Jaguar F-Type, XJ and XK, Land Rover Range Rover and Range Rover Sport, Audi A8 and R8 are just a few examples) and there are a lot of aluminium closure panels, the Iowa expansion is a strong indicator that we will soon see more aluminium than ever.

The new Corvette Stingray is built on an all aluminium space frame and rumours are running rampant about other potential high volume vehicles that will employ aluminium intensive body structures. At a minimum, we will see more aluminium bonnets, doors, and other closure panels. According to the latest Ducker Report, a survey of auto OEMs and their planned use of materials, the amount of aluminium used in cars in North America – already the number 2 material in a car – is going to almost double by 2025.

So what does it all mean to collision repair professionals? It’s time to adapt, again.

Much like shops had to “find a place” to

install a three-dimensional measuring system, they’ll need to develop an isolated area to repair aluminium intensive vehicles, to avoid potential galvanic corrosion issues. Similar to making investments in GMA (MIG) and squeeze type resistances spot welding (STRSW) equipment, they’ll need to invest in GMA (MIG) welders capable of aluminium pulse welding and in rivet guns to properly repair tomorrow’s aluminium intensive vehicles.

There will also be a number of vehicles that will be built with a combination of aluminium and steel structures (Audi TT and Porsche 911, for example) that will require repair professionals to ensure they’re using the proper adhesives and techniques to minimise the potential of galvanic corrosion.

Aluminium intensive vehicles will also force professionals to adapt their approach to damage analysis – no different than as with high-strength steels. Identifying castings from stampings and extrusions, and knowing the repairability limits of each, will be essential to writing a complete and accurate damage assessment.

Proper identification of parts and their repairability limits will minimise supplements and improve cycle time. I CAR has developed the Aluminium Panels and Structures Damage Analysis (DAM05) course to better equip industry professionals in the damage analysis process.

is going to change the way you think about filler and putty

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INDUSTRY NEWS WHAT’S HOT?

HYUNDAI - IX35 HYDROGEN SUV

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or years, the joke in the auto industry was that a massproduced car that runs on hydrogen was always a decade away. That will change next year when Hyundai starts selling a Tucson SUV powered by a hydrogen fuel cell. It will be the first mass-market vehicle of its type to be sold or leased in the US. “These things are now ready for prime time,” John Krafcik, Hyundai’s North American CEO, said. His company plans to announce details of the new Tucson at the Los Angeles Auto Show.

Automakers have been dabbling in hydrogen-powered cars since the 1960s. General Motors announced a test fleet of hydrogenpowered Chevy Equinoxes in the mid-2000s, and Honda leased about two dozen FCX Clarity models for R6 000 per month starting in 2005.

President George W Bush allocated R120 billion for hydrogen research and said in his 2003 State of the Union address, “The first car driven by a child born today could be powered by hydrogen and thus pollution free.” But the programme was largely scrapped by the Obama administration, which focused on battery-powered vehicles.

Hyundai now is making Bush’s forecast come true, beating other auto companies to the mass market with Tucsons that have electric motors powered by a stack of hydrogen fuel cells. Hyundai plans to start selling the vehicles in Southern California and eventually spread to other areas as filling stations are built.

Hyundai says it has overcome safety and storage issues with a rear-mounted tank that has passed numerous crash tests without incident. As for filling stations, the California Air Resources Board says there are currently nine open to the public in the state. Legislators recently allocated about R200 million a year to build 100 more.

Also at the Los Angeles Show, Honda Motor Co, is scheduled to

show off a fuel-cell concept vehicle, which it says hints at the aerodynamic design of the next generation fuel-cell vehicle to be launched in 2015. Further details were not available.

Toyota Motor Corp. is scheduled to unveil its own concept fuel cell at the Tokyo Motor Show. That one is also likely for distribution in the mass market in 2015.

The largest US automaker, which has spent a lot of time and resources on battery-powered cars such as the Chevrolet Volt, has no fuel-cell vehicles currently in its new product pipeline, spokesman Dan Flores said recently. He says more work needs to be done on cost and infrastructure to make the cars viable.

Hyundai is expected to introduce prices and details of how its cars will be sold or leased at the Los Angeles Show. Automakers usually offer leases when they put new technology on the market.

Hydrogen cars most likely will help automakers meet new goals from eight key states to put more zero-emission cars on the road.

The states, including California and New York, pledged late last month to work together to put 3.3 million battery powered cars, plug-in hybrids and other clean-burning vehicles on the roads in those states by 2025. That’s more than 15 times as many zeroemission vehicles projected to be in use in the entire US by 2015.

The other states in the pact are Massachusetts, Maryland, Oregon, Connecticut, Rhode Island and Vermont. The eight states together represent about 23% of the US auto market.

UK NEWS

UK INSURANCE ISN’T WORKING WELL

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he Competition Commission’s (CC) provisional findings on the £11 billion private motor insurance market have found that it is not working well for motorists and the CC is now looking at ways to reduce the cost of premiums.

The CC has provisionally found that the complex chain for the settlement of non-fault claims increases the costs of replacement cars and repairs, which are in turn passed on to the insurers of at-fault motorists. This results in higher motor insurance premiums for all drivers.

The CC also found that following an accident too many repairs are not completed to the required standard. Other provisional findings identify problems with the sale of add-on products to consumers and with the contacts between price comparison websites and insurers.

In its provisional findings, the CC has found that: 1. The non-fault claim separation of control and liability creates a chain of interactions which result in higher costs for replacement cars and for repairs being passed on to at-fault insurers. The CC estimates the extra premium costs to be between £150 million and £200 million a year.

2. Evidence shows that too many accident repairs are not carried out to the required standard.

3. Consumers have limited information about ‘add-on’ insurance products while insurers have a point-of-sale advantage. As a result, it is difficult for consumers to identify the best-value offers in the market and add-ons may be priced too high.

4. The contracts between price comparison websites and insurers

AUTOMOTIVE R E F I N I S H E R

can require that individual insurers’ premiums aren’t offered more cheaply elsewhere. The CC considers that some forms of these socalled most favoured nation (MFN) clauses may be necessary to ensure that price comparison websites can continue to provide a beneficial service.

However, it believes that ‘wide’ clauses requiring the same price across all price comparison websites reduce competition and lead to higher premiums.

The CC has not considered personal injury claims, given recent changes such as the banning of referral fees for such claims and other changes proposed by the Ministry of Justice.

The CC has also published a Notice of possible remedies that outline measures it could introduce or recommend to improve competition and address the issues it has identified. A summary of this is available on the private motor insurance home page on the CC website along with other information relating to the investigation.

The full version of the provisional findings will be published in due course. The CC is required to publish its final report by September, 2014.

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INDUSTRY NEWS UK UPDATE

SLOW RATE OF INCREASED LABOUR CHARGES

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isiting collision centres and seeing predominantly either Indian or Philipino techs reshaping exotic cars, you really do have to take your hat off to the amazing work a body shop technician does under such difficult circumstances.

This is a tough business. In my first venture running my own body shop, which I sold in 1989, we charged the equivalent of R300 per hour for our services. In the UK, one new work provider coming into the market has a Labour rate of R335. That’s 24 years later and only a R35 increase?

It defies belief sometimes the labour rates at which some body shop owners will repair cars, and then they wonder why they don’t make any money. In the UK market the real rate should be around R620 to allow the business to invest in the latest tooling, training and technology to be able to repair the modern motor vehicle. Of course, most insurance carriers would scoff at having to pay such high rates, but in reality, what difference would it really make to the overall cost of repair?

Contrary to popular belief, the actual repair to the vehicle is only a relatively small percentage of the total claims fee that is paid out.

The average cost of processing most UK claims in total is in the region of R78 000. This has to cover the average cost of Personal Injury (PI). This PI costs is around R20 000 on average. Add to that the cost of referral fees for nonfault PI and vehicle rental, referrals sometimes as much as R10 000, and I’ve seen rental claims go as high as R800 000. The cost of the claim handling itself and the costs around the repair actually add up to a significant amount.

When you subtract the average actual cost paid out to the repairer (with a typical deductible of say R5 000), then it is actually only about R8 000 that the insurer pays for the repair itself. Now, if we were to ask for a sensible rate per hour (say R150 above the

Story by John Parker current price), with an average repair time of, say, 15 hours, it adds just R2 250 to the total repair cost. This is actually less than 3%.

The body shop makes more money and has a more sustainable future.

The body shop invests in training and new technology, which in turn drives the repair cost down, some of which could be passed to the insurance carrier. Staff can be paid a little more and, working the right culture, are likely to stay longer and reduce training costs.

The insurers now deal with a more professional collision centre as they are now able to invest in their future and grow their business.

There is also less bad debt. Better body shop systems and invested processes mean less cycle time. That’s win-win.

There seems to be a culture of beating up on everyone about price, not focusing on mutually finding solutions that bring a win to the insurers, a win to the body shop, a win to the supply chain and ultimately a win to the end customer. There is a distinct lack of trust.

In many cases, neither party sits down and actually discusses a mutual solution for fear of being shafted by the other. Real business successes are born out of open relationships, one of ensuring that your actions do not disadvantage the others with the chain. In order to get the gains all of us need, we have to work together to achieve a mutually beneficial goal. Common sense needs to prevail.

For both insurers and collision repair shops to be successful in the very near future, collaboration and dialogue at the right level has to take place, where neither see each other as enemies or adversaries, but as mutual partners in solving their common customers’ problems.

LOCAL NEWS

HYUNDAI SA MOVES ON GREY IMPORTS

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yundai South Africa has announced that it has increased the share in its parts market to 73%. And it is all thanks, it says, to its programme to inform consumers about the dangers of using so-called grey import parts and fake parts.

The programme goes further than simply highlighting the negative effects that can result from using grey-imported parts, but also aims to make its genuine parts more affordable to the consumer.

As Gary Braude, parts director at Hyundai Automotive South Africa explains, “Consumers often do not realise the effect that socalled ‘grey-parts’ have on the integrity of their vehicle or the dangers associated with using non-genuine parts. Using non-genuine parts not only voids the vehicle’s warranty, but, more importantly, can lead to mechanical failure and seizure of parts can occur as a result.”

He continues, “There is a general misconception that genuine parts are more expensive than grey parts and, as a result, disregarding the consequences of using these products, consumers still purchase them.”

“We have therefore created a number of programmes to ensure that we are not only making genuine parts more affordable for the consumer, but also more accessible.

Our Hyundai Approved Repair Programme (HARP), a best of its kind in the world, is one such example. It provides peace of mind to our customers that, should their vehicles need accident repairs, these will be done by Hyundai approved panel shops. These panel shops 28

provide quality and professional service and use the latest technology, genuine parts and professional technicians to ensure that the customer’s vehicle is back on the road as quickly as possible.”

The local arm of the automaker also says that it ensures that information about genuine parts is loaded onto its dealer website and provided to help desk staff deal with customers. “In order to combat the use of grey parts locally, Hyundai has become the first automotive manufacturer in the country to work closely with insurance companies to provide them with special rates on parts.

This not only reduces the cost of repairs, but also results in less Hyundai vehicles having to be written off.

“With almost 95% of cars being written off unnecessarily, this programme is a great way towards bigger customer satisfaction without compromising vehicle quality and standards. Last year alone, we saved more than 1 500 cars as a result of this programme.”

AUTOMOTIVE R E F I N I S H E R

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AFRICAN UPDATE

Story & pics by Derrick Mwango

UPGRADING

TOP GEAR LIMITED LEADS THE WAY IN ZAMBIA

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op Gear Limited recently became the first collision repair centre to upgrade and prepare for the OEM vehicle factory approval programme in Zambia. The company is being promoted by Alliance Motors who are the Jaguar and Land Rover official distributors in Zambia.

Top Gear Limited began its marathon legacy in the collision repair industry as long ago as 1957, making them one of the longest running repairers in Zambia. They have come a long way and previously operated as United Panel Beaters. Top Gear Limited is well known in Zambia as a company where quality counts and they perform both structural and non-structural repair works.

They have a great customer driven attitude and also do work for major insurance companies in Zambia.

Today, close to six decades after opening their doors, they are the “new kids on the block� as they have turned the facility into an ultra-modern collision repair centre. They are now considered to be the most successful and highly respected repair centre in the industry in Zambia.

The panel shop is now immaculately revamped and sufficiently equipped with modern and sophisticated repair equipment to match vehicle repair technological advancement repair methods.This also ensures that no job will be too big or too small for Top Gear Limited.

For many years the industry has not been regulated in Zambia and that brought the industry to its knees. This motivated the Zambia Bureau of Standards to facilitate the development of industry standards and they have now been gazetted. This move will surely usher in a new era for industry structures so greatly needed.

As the industry begins to evolve, it is clear that Top Gear Limited is already set and has positioned itself to help customers that have for a long time suffered from sub-standard repairs services.

Training and investing in their staff as well as their equipment is what has put Top Gear Limited on the right path to grow into the future of the demands that the collision repairers are already seeing.

One of the key successes of Top Gear Limited is the fact that quality starts from the top. The managing director himself is a hands-on person capable of controlling quality. The level of investment in training their technicians and staff is another factor,

which also keeps the employees well motivated.

The Aer-O-Cure team was on hand to help with the upgrade and redesigning a better flowing shop. They also provided training on the new systems installed.

An aluminium bay for the latest in technological repair was probably a scene out of a science fiction book in 1957 when Top Gear Limited first started out in Zambia.

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AR M-A 2014 JAY_NOV/DEC 2005 paganation 2014/03/19 10:34 AM Page 2

DRIVEN SONIC RS

CHEVROLET’S SOUPED-UP SONIC RS

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hevrolet has a new addition to their Sonic range, in the form of a performance enhanced sibling called the RS. The fresher looking Sonic RS has an all-new eco-petrol 103kW/200Nm 1.4 turbocharged engine putting a little extra spice into and around town commuting.

With a six-speed manual gearbox to match, fuel consumption is listed at a mere 6.6 litres/100km which is why these smaller turbo engines are proving very popular to everyday commuters these days. With a 0100km/h dash in 9.5 sec and there’s a top speed sprint of 197 km/h. The pricing, unfortunately with the way our Rand has gone, puts it a bit out of a cash-strapped student’s reach at a healthy R225 300.

With all this hot-headed tech and gadgetry crammed into the package, it’s great fun to drive and unexpectedly quick! The smoothness of the turbo coupled together

AUTOMOTIVE R E F I N I S H E R

with the torque makes for a deceptively fast drive, and it’s only a 1.4-litre!

As we got out of the Mother City and headed towards Arniston, we really got to feel the suspension of this city slicker as it ate up the tightest of twisty’s. Not only was it solid through the bends but offered a seamless, never-ending powerband through the gears, with minimal turbo lag.

The Sonic comes with the kind of spec level you’d only expect from sportier models such as the red trimmed, black and suede leather seating. There’s also adequate boot space and built-in good looks. It also has a 7-inch touch screen colour display which you can interface everything from online radio stations to your movies and photos, while you are stationary.

The MyLink concept is simple – an integration of the most popular and advanced infotainment functions

Story by Jay Groat

incorporated into an easy-to-use, attractive and effective interface which transforms the Chevrolet Sonic into a connected entertainment hub while on the move.

MyLink incorporates a host of different media sources and formats, allowing the user to play or watch their favourite media in the car. Bluetooth audio streaming with playlist customisation and full smartphone integration allows MyLink to stay connected and become an extension of the phone itself. Full phonebook and call list integration with a smart dialling feature makes calling easier than ever before.

Video playback and picture gallery viewing while the vehicle is stationery adds another, class-leading touch. The highresolution 7-inch touch screen is perfectly integrated into the vehicle’s dashboard and features touch button controls for a thoroughly modern look and feel.

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AR M-A 2014 NAT_NOV/DEC 2005 paganation 2014/03/19 9:16 AM Page 13

INTERVIEW CHRISTIAN BUST, MANAGING DIRECTOR, ARVATO

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n June 2013 Arvato South Africa launched a new Customer Satisfaction Index (CSI) Platform for the Motor Body Repair (MBR) Industry in South Africa. After the first couple of months in operation, Automotive Refinisher Magazine decided to pay Arvato a visit to find out more about their system called “ACE� (Arvato Customer Experience). This is what Christian Bust, who is the managing director of Arvato South Africa had to say.

So why did Arvato choose to offer a new CSI solution to Motor Body Repairers in SA? You are widely known as a technical training and logistics services provider in the automotive industry thus far.

Arvato was approached by different OEMs in 2012 and we were asked if we would be able to offer a simple and cost effective CSI solution for the market, which would cover the needs of the MBRs and the OEMs, and at the same time help all parties to save costs. After some research of the market and speaking to an external IT development company to support our efforts, we realised that we can indeed deliver what was desired by the industry. On top of that, we saw great potential for offering the industry an opportunity to use our customer satisfaction tool to improve on business-performance, especially in the long run.

So how do you achieve this? What is the general idea behind the CSI Platform? What makes it different?

We wanted to provide the MBRs and OEMs with more detailed information on their repair process and the satisfaction levels of their customers for each process-step from initially entering the MBR premises to driving off in their repaired car. This means we are asking MBR customers multiple questions in an email-based survey that does not take longer than one minute to complete.

So you obtain more information from a client, than simply asking them if they were satisfied with the service they received from the MBR? Correct. We have divided the questionnaire into four sections: Before Repair, During Repair, After Repair and Insurance. The questions follow the chronological process a customer would go through, when handing in a car for repairs.

On our ACE online reporting platform each shop and the OEMs can log in and review their scores for each category (either in a summarised and easy report or they can go into more detail and find each and every issue that might have occurred). The questions were designed based on OEM and key MBR input, in order to capture exactly the relevant information that is needed by the industry.

If the same issue pops up over and over again, it is clear that the MBR should address that particular process in their shop.

It is not only a CSI Tool, it is a Management Tool for the MBRs. They are able to use the tool to improve their own business performance. Arvato only designed the platform to obtain the critical customer feedback and we then display it for the MBRs in an easy and understandable way, in order to enable them to act, based on the information provided.

What about the Insurance Section you made mention above?

The Insurance related questions will only be included in the questionnaire if a customer indicates that the repair indeed was an insurance claim. Arvato ACE will establish if the client was happy with the insurance provider and the assessor involved in the process. It will be beneficial to know for the insurance companies where exactly the process went wrong with their unhappy clients. However, no repair information or any MBR related information would be shared with insurance companies.

We only focus on the insurance-related client satisfaction levels.

Last but not least, who should readers contact if they would like to find out more about the system and how does the pricing work for Arvato ACE? Well, the pricing is quite straight forward: The ACE service will cost you R780 excl. VAT per month, regardless of how many OEM approvals your MBR Shop carries. You can either contact us via email info@arvato.co.za, phone +27 (0)41 995 5200) or sign up online at www.arvatoace.co.za 34

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AR M-A 2014 NAT_NOV/DEC 2005 paganation 2014/03/19 9:16 AM Page 19

INDUSTRY NEWS

WHAT’S HOT?

TOYOTA PULLS PLUG ON PLUG-IN CHARGING WITH WIRELESS TECHNOLOLGY

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echarging a Toyota plug-in hybrid or all-electric vehicle could in future be as simple as parking the car. Toyota has announced verification testing is to begin later this month of a new wireless battery charging system it has developed for vehicles that use an electric powertrain.

The new technology allows a vehicle to be charged simply by parking it in alignment with a coil set into the surface of the ground. This makes the process simpler and easier, dispensing with cables and connectors.

The Toyota charging system transmits electricity using magnetic resonance created by changes in magnetic field intensity between a transmitting coil in the ground and a receiving coil in the car. It is designed so that it can reduce any loss in power transmission efficiency caused by misalignment or height differences between the coils.

The system is being developed with a future market launch in mind. Measures have been taken to minimise any electromagnetic interference with nearby equipment, and the transmitting coil in the ground has been made robust enough to withstand vehicles driving over it.

To help the driver align the car correctly, Toyota has developed a function for its Intelligent Parking Assist system that shows the position of the transmitting coil in a parking space.

The test programme involves three plug-in hybrids used by homes in Aichi prefecture in Japan. It will assess user satisfaction, the system’s ease of use, misalignment rates and charging behaviour, such as how often charging takes place and timerbased charging it used.

Toyota will use the test results to develop the technology further, with the ultimate aim of bringing the system to market.

Toyota believes its commercialisation will help promote the use of electrified vehicles and mobility options that are smarter, easier to use and kinder to the environment.

The specifications are: Wireless Battery Charging System key specifications Charging method : Magnetic resonance Frequency : 85kHz Input voltage : AC 200V Charging power : 2kW Charging time : Approx. 90 minutes.

AUTOMOTIVE R E F I N I S H E R

AR M-A 2014 NAT_NOV/DEC 2005 paganation 2014/03/24 11:53 AM Page 3

LATEST NEWS PRODUCT NEWS

TAKE THE MULTI-AIR OPTION

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hen it comes to product development and excellence in performance Norton Abrasives have a long and very successful track record delivering innovative systems, like their proven technology, which is already in use around the world by body shop repairers.

Norton Multi-Air Process combines the excellence of a premium Norton Multi-Air abrasive disc with an innovative dust-extraction Multi-Air back-up pad. This revolutionary Multi-Air Process gives operators the optimal sanding solution to optimise performance, increase productivity and eliminate dust.

The innovative pad design draws dust into a collection chamber allowing optimal airflow and powerful dust extraction. Multi-Air addresses multiple markets including those sanding, primed and painted parts in the automotive industry, composites, marine gel coat, furniture, non-ferrous metals and many more.

The cut time of Multi-Air can increase production by around 35%, due to a combination of the larger surface area covered with the 30% higher dust extraction. The increased absence of dust through the powerful dust-extraction, gives full visual control of the work area. This is accomplished through the 125 holes found in the 125mm disc and the 181 holes in the 150mm disc.

The Multi-Air process comprises four parts: the backing pad, the disc, the dust-extraction sanding machine and the operator.

The backing pad range includes options for hard, medium and soft pads depending on the scope of work and required finish. The pad has a universal connector that fits most popular machine types and adaptors are available for Festool sanding machines.

The Multi Air disc range is available in three ranges. The first range combines Norton technology discs (in the latest generation grain design) and high strength paper backing – effective for fast removal of old paint layers, smoothing body filler, flattening of sharp edges and large surface areas. The higher cost of this range is offset by the increased disc performance, higher cut-rate and longer life; giving fantastic price: performance ratio. (Grits 40-120.)

The second range sees a fibre reinforced, latex paper (tear resistant and flexible) combined with premium, heat-treated aluminium oxide grain. The disc is “Norton No-fill” treated for increased load resistance that prevents dust clogging any further.

(Grits 80-800.)

The aluminium oxide range goes further into a Soft-Touch range for very fine grits. The Multi-Air Soft-Touch discs have soft foam backing for high performance and exceptionally long life. The foam layer absorbs any difference in surface contours when sanding, without cutting through the paint layer, maintaining excellent cutting action for a very high level finish. (Grits 320-1500.)

Multi-Air discs are also available with SG Ceramic grain – the highest performing grain available for this application, with the longest possible life (up to 200% more life than conventional abrasives).

The design of the discs and the use of the process can only be utilised to its maximum potential by using a dust-extraction system.

The end-user will have full use of the disc to the end of the grain life.

AUTOMOTIVE R E F I N I S H E R

The strong backing paper and clogging resistance gives optimal value for money with less contamination through dust.

The last part of the process is the operator. This is the easy part, as operators see the benefits of the Multi-Air system and as foremen, managers and owners review the increased production and returns, the system proves itself as the system of choice for comfort, production and cost-saving.

The Norton Multi-Air system is the process of choice for multiple manufacturing plants and aftermarket service providers.

About Norton Norton started as a pottery business in 1858 in Worcester, Massachusetts in the US. By 1876 Norton was manufacturing grinding wheels with customer demands flourishing. In 1885, the Norton Emery Wheel Company was founded, commanding 140 000 square metres of manufacturing space.

Throughout the 20th century, Norton continually grew its abrasive range and became established worldwide. Germany 1910, France 1920, UK 1930, Italy 1935, Brazil 1956, India 1968, Japan 1972. By 1950 Norton was the leading worldwide abrasive brand.

Today, Norton manufactures and distributes the widest range of abrasives and related products to many different markets.

As the premium brand within the Saint-Gobain Abrasives portfolio, Norton supports major markets including metal working, automotive manufacturing, automotive aftermarket, aerospace, wood working, bearing foundries, DIY housing and construction, paint and decoration markets (to mention just a few).

Saint-Gobain Abrasives – part of the multi-listed Saint-Gobain Group – is the world’s leading abrasives manufacturer and supplier, covering all types of abrasives: Cutting and grinding wheels, Bonded abrasives products, Coated abrasives products, Diamond abrasives products for the construction industry and super abrasives for glass and TCT industries.

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PRODUCT PROFILE WHAT’S HOT?

SATA PREVENTING PAINT ERRORS

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he quality of a paint job is primarily assessed through visual factors, such as colour match, colour effects, gloss, distribution, etc. The spray gun plays a crucial role in the coating process and significantly contributes to ensure high quality standards. Consistency in the quality standard is a basic requirement during the entire coating process.

Here are a few tips on how to prevent paint errors by SATA’s product manager, Mazin Mashalla.

1. Follow the exact mixing ratios

When mixing paint, follow the technical data provided by the paint manufacturer precisely, in particular, the mixing ratios of paint components. The use of tapered mixing cups in conjunction with the measuring sticks provided by the paint manufacturer should be avoided, as this will result in too much of the second and third components being used. Consequently, the viscosity of the mixed paint will be too low, which in turn can lead to colour tone deviations in basecoats, as well as reduced opacity. In the case of 2K materials, the hardener content will be too high, leading to insufficient cross-linking of the hardener component, leaving free isocyanate in the paint film.

This free isocyanate will ultimately react with moisture in the atmosphere, resulting in a dull appearance. Problems can arise with both 1K waterborne paints and 2K materials if incorrect mixing ratios are used. Common defects are runs and/or visible edges.

Therefore: Measuring sticks should only be used with cups having parallel sides. If cups with tapered sides are used, it is recommended to refer to the scales printed on these mixing cups. On the SATA RPS disposable cups, you will find all of the popular mixing ratios which will assist you in mixing paint in a time-saving manner, and most importantly, according to the paint manufacturer recommendations.

removed prior to the painting process could pop up months later as visible coating flaws.

These flaws will then lead to a complete redo of the paint job (reapplication of all coats).

3. Use only technically clean air The different paint materials all need to be applied only with technically clean compressed air – this does not only concern the top coat layers, but also every primer and filler material. The required filters for the spray booth are the three-stage filters of the SATA filter 200 or SATA filter 400 series.

These filters eliminate particles down 0.01µm and also absorb oil vapours (SATA filter 284/484 versions) generated by compressors.

The need for the third stage activated charcoal filter has become necessary since the introduction of waterborne materials, as in former times the solvent in the basecoat tended to dissipate any oil vapour whereas the water does not. As a matter of fact, to achieve optimum efficiency, the filter elements need to be replaced on a regular basis, i.e. the fine filter cartridges every six months and the activated charcoal cartridges every three months. The first stage filter element is a sintered filter that CAN be cleaned when the fine filter is being replaced, however, it is felt that due to the relatively low cost of this filter, it would make economic sense to replace it rather than dry and clean it.

4. Ensure the correct pressure setting for the spraying air

Another important point that helps prevent colour tone deviations is the correct setting of the dynamic gun inlet pressure.

Again, paint manufacturer recommendations must be strictly observed. In this conjunction it is important to realise that it is not sufficient to check the pressure at the filter regulator unit, as the pressure will be effectively further reduced inside the gun hose before reaching the spray gun.

To ensure that the pressure is correctly measured, I recommend working with a digital pressure display positioned at the spray gun itself. To this end, SATA offer various solutions: In case of our digital guns, the digital pressure gauge is integrated in the gun handle, while the pressure is adjusted by means of the air micrometer on the spray gun.

With the SATA adam 2 or the SATA adam 2 mini, respectively, non-digital versions of all current SATA spray gun models can be digitally enabled. Due to the small dimensions and little weight of these gauges, the spray guns still remain compact and light. In addition, spray guns of other makes can now also be digitally upgraded, thanks to the new SATA adam 2 U. When using this device however, the air micrometer on the spray gun should remain fully opened, while the effective pressure is regulated with the SATA adam 2 U. SATA’s full range of spray guns and filters are available from Bulldog Abrasives Southern Africa (Pty) Ltd. Contact their sales team on +27 (0)11 786 5991 or by email on sales@bulldogabrasives.co.za for more information on their exciting range of products.

2. Clean the substrate with water-based as well as solvent-based cleaning solutions To ensure a 100% clean substrate, you should use both cleaning solution systems: The water-based cleaner serves to remove, for example, traces of sweat or calcium carbonate residues resulting from wet sanding. The solvent-based cleaner (socalled silicone remover) removes contamination caused by grease or silicone.

Residues that have not been completely

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AUTOMOTIVE R E F I N I S H E R

WIELANDER AND SCHILL AD

1/31/12

11:21 AM

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Contact: Deon on 083 628 2288 or Andre on 072 463 9570 www.hurricaneauto.co.za

AR M-A 2014 NAT_NOV/DEC 2005 paganation 2014/03/19 9:15 AM Page 1

DID YOU HEAR? by Roger McCleery

2014 PORSCHE WINS THE SA CAR OF THE YEAR

After what was named one of the toughtest competitions in recent years, the Porsche Cayman S was named the competition winner at the annual Wesbank and South African Guild of Motoring Journalists Car of the Year competiton with a score in total of 199 points.

DID YOU HEAR? by Listen to Ro ger McC leery every Tuesday o n Radio To day (1485 A M) at17h30 fo r everything abo ut SA mo to ring.

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ehicle sales didn’t start too badly in 2014, 53 025 units in total against December 2013’s 46 629. Exports, compared to December, went down from 17 393 vehicles to 13 960.

Talk in the industry is that 2014 will not do as well as 2013.

In fact the market could stay flat or go down a few percentage points.

With prices increasing by the day it looks like secondhand cars will come into their own.

Biggest sellers in January were Toyota, Volkswagen, Ford and GM. Biggest passenger car seller was Volkswagen by a long shot with 9 336 units. Best exporter was Toyota with 3 963 units. It is all still a lot better than the dark years in 2009 when we saw sales dropping by the day.

With the Rand sliding almost by the hour and close to being

Tel: 011 425 4062 Franz: 082 463 6284 Email: info@specialheat.com 1 Madeley Street, Rynfield, Benoni

valued into Monopoly money like the rest of Africa, we can expect car prices to rocket in 2014. I suppose, as always, our President is putting his mind to it and will be able to correct the situation brought on by strikes, lack of jobs and full use of production capacity.

There is still good news in the market place, however. MercedesBenz AMG sold a record number of 32 200 units in 2013 as they produced new models for the A-Class, CLA and GLA 45 AMG’s.

Brand Pretorius’ new book called “In the Driving Seat” (“Aan die Stuur”) has been flying off the shelves and is now in its fourth print.

Everybody in motoring should read and take in what Brand has to say.

At this time of the year all the manufacturers tell us how well

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AR M-A 2014 NAT_NOV/DEC 2005 paganation 2014/03/24 11:56 AM Page 2

they have done. Peugeot manufactured 1 553 000 vehicles with sales outside Europe amounting to 674 000, or an increase of 10.9%.

Porsche, for the first time in their history, delivered 162 000 vehicles to customers. In South Africa Porsche has done rather well with 273 units being sold in December 2013 alone.

Korean motorcycles are suddenly in the news with a Hyosung 85 piloted by Jeong winning a 250cc race in Korea on its debut. Orders have come in from all over the world after being shown off in Korea and at the Milan Motorcycle Show.

Still on the motorcycle front, Ducati has appointed Rodeo Drive in Randburg as the new official importer for Ducati motorcycles in South Africa. This is the sister company for Porsche South Africa. Porsche of course now own Ducati.

The man who heads up all design at KIA and Hyundai, Peter Schreyer, has been honoured with a Golden Steering Award for outstanding achievements in the automotive industry. Schreyer is only the second designer in the 31-year history of the Golden Steering Award to receive this trophy. Giugiaro was the other, way back in 1995.

Ford has just completed building their 100 000th diesel engine at their plant in Port Elizabeth. This is after the three millionth vehicle was produced by Ford in South Africa in 2013.

If you are interested in any old Autosport Grand Prix International magazines dating back to 1981 and featuring a whole lot of information on the South African Grands Prix of that era, get hold of Peter Ross 082 553 4589.

Chrysler who bring in Chrysler, Jeep and Dodge vehicles, has a new six-year or 100 000 km Maintenance Plan on all their models. This is three years longer than previously.

The motor industry does good things. After two years the Imperial Group and their ‘I Pledge’ campaign has seen the revival of the scholar patrol programmes in 248 schools in Johannesburg, plus the redistribution of over 1 500 kiddies car seats. They are doing good things all over the country.

Volkswagen has already announced that they sold a cool 9,7 million units in 2013 which surely puts them on top of the pile. Their original plan is to be at No. 1 spot by 2018.

Cars in South Africa emit .003% of all carbon emissions. And that is why we have a Green Tax, which I am sure does not go into any sort of environmental kitty. Eskom produces 85% of all carbon emissions, but of course is not taxed. If you take all the emissions of all the fuel ever used in Formula 1 racing, it is less than those emitted by planes at Heathrow Airport in a single day.

Globally, there are one billion vehicles on the roads – this is one for every seven people on the planet. Boggles the mind to think where all the fuel is going to come from to power all these in the future. Also where are we going to get all the roads built to handle all these cars and trucks.

What’s the most you have ever paid for tyres? If you have got a Bugatti Veyron a new set of four tyres will cost you £23 500. Don’t even bother to work it out in Rands. It is a quite a lot!

KIA has just exported their first turbo charged car to South Africa. It is the new 1.6 litre Cerato Koup. A very impressive unit.

Hyundai has entered the World Rally Championship with an i20. Their first big event, the Monte Carlo, was not a great success but it is early days yet and knowing their determination to do well, they’ll be sure to feature in the results soon.

The specialist German car magazine “auto motor und sport” voted the new Mercedes Benz S-Class and G-Class off road vehicles as the best cars in their category. As a result both vehicles were awarded the title of “The Best Car of 2014”. And they are.

Mitsubishi has just launched another great Pajero off roader.

It is a two-door Pajero short wheelbase with all the bells and whistles. Ticket price is R579 000. Do you remember the days when Mitsubishi were unbeatable in something like 12 Dakars?

Kawasaki Motors in South Africa has just taken on the Taiwanese Sym brand of scooters and motorcycles. Sym today produces 35 000 cars and a million two wheelers every year, giving them a turnover of more than one billion US$.

Opel is again GM’s second largest brand after Chevrolet.

1 064 million vehicles were sold last year.

AUTOMOTIVE R E F I N I S H E R

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An all new straightening system for heavy duty vehicles Fully approved

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The compact Korek HD floor frame features a double layer ground frame for robust performance and easy set-up. The flexible tower assemblies are highly mobile. It offers extended cab tower pulls with traction pulls of 20 tons per basic tower.

The towers are simple to fix as they operate on rollers and are fixed to the HD Korek frame by four wedges with three main stands on offer. This is coupled to 30 ton composition hydraulic sets. The options for a perfect chassis cab and frame straightening job are endless as well as painless.

As far as speed of output and profitability are concerned, the HD Korek offers major profitability at a reasonable entry level cost. It is ideal for both CV repairers and large fleet operators as an investment in Truck repair.

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LATEST NEWS

PRODUCT NEWS

RISLONE ARRIVES IN SOUTH AFRICA

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islone, a leading US manufacturer of oil, fuel and cooling system additives is now available in South Africa through local importers Keizin Automotive. Launched late in 2013, the range has already enjoyed great favour and success with the local market.

The range includes unique and highly effective products for addressing common and frustrating mechanical issues with motor vehicles such as oil and cooling system leaks, gearbox leaks, head gasket leaks and fuel and diesel system problems. Many such problems can require tedious and expensive repairs and for many, this is simply not an option. For these vehicle owners, Rislone provides a cost effective and easy solution to what would otherwise be an expensive problem to fix.

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"There is opinion amongst many ‘experts’ in the industry that such additives do not work or can even be harmful,” says Greg Hutcheon, director at Keizin Automotive.

“This perception is not altogether incorrect as there are many such products on the market that claim to work miracles and ultimately disappoint consumers. How many of us have at some time in our lives thrown a bottle of something into the engine expecting the miracle claimed on the label – and felt cheated by the result?”

Hutcheon continues: “Rislone was established in the US in 1923 and is a company that is dedicated exclusively to engine and cooling system additives. They are specialists in what they do and this is what differentiates the brand.” While many OEM manufacturers may discourage the use

of additives, it is interesting to note that Rislone is an OEM supplier to certain manufacturers in the US.” “Our primary Rislone market is the countless number of vehicles on our roads that fall outside warranty programmes. This accounts for the majority of vehicles on our roads today. Many of these vehicle owners do not have the financial means to have expensive repairs done. Rislone provides these vehicle owners with a simple solution.

They are also relevant in the vehicle service centre and body repair industry, for example bumper bashings, that often result in cooling system damage or transmission leaks.

For more information about Rislone, contact Keizin Automotive on 0861 CARGUY [227489] or visit www.rislone.co.za

AUTOMOTIVE R E F I N I S H E R

AR M-A 2014 CLAIRE_NOV/DEC 2005 paganation 2014/03/19 9:48 AM Page 5

LOCAL NEWS INTERESTING FACTS

REAL RESEARCH FOR THE AUTOMOTIVE MARKET

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n today’s tough economic climate, customers think much harder about every single item they put in their ‘basket’. It is a proven fact that your competition will replicate your product and price, but one thing that will differentiate you is your customer service. “Finding the balance between your customer, product, pricing and business processes is pivotal,” says Justin Swanepoel, managing director of Real Research, a local research company.

“Real Research is a young and vibrant independent research agency that was born from an intense passion for market research and 18 years’ experience in the global research industry. Our primary goal is to ‘roll up our sleeves’ and partner our clients, becoming an essential component of their business to ensure the balance is created between their product, price, competitor and customers.

“We specialise in out-of-the-box qualitative and quantitative research – often combining traditional and new age methodologies to provide key insights and solutions for business planning and strategies. Key services include:

AUTOMOTIVE R E F I N I S H E R

• Customer Analysis: Knowing and understanding your current and potential customer is pivotal. Where they live, where else they buy, what they buy, their likes and dislikes, their needs and wants, demographics, psychographics etc.

• Mystery Shopping: Find out what is happening with your customer service, why your product or service is selling or not and get first-hand knowledge of the customer experience and selling techniques of your competitors.

• Business Process Surveys: Analyse your route to market and quickly identify a simple SWOT of your business model compared to your competitors. Is your training, regional support, call centre, marketing material, advertising material, rep visitations etc where it should be?

• Competitive Intelligence: Understand your competitors, their locations, products, pricing and customer service offerings and be ahead of the game at all times.

• Price Baskets: With pricing undercuts, “specials” and the creation of in-house brands, it is vitally important to constantly keep up to date with you and your

Justin Swanepoel

competitor’s prices through pricing baskets of key products or services.

“Nothing beats rolling up your sleeves, sitting with the client, understanding their business and working with them to understand and dominate their market through research intelligence. This is what separates us from the competition. This is not just our job, it’s our passion.” concluded Justin.

To contact us about how we can assist your business on an even better growth path, visit www.realresearch.co.za or contact Justin on +27 (0)82 773 2839.

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ZWARTKOPS HISTORIC RACING

ZWARTKOPS

RACE WEEKEND Pics by Jay Groat

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uilding on the spectacle of success of both large and small veteran race cars, again took centre stage. Luckily in fine weather, after a deluge of rain, the classes provided for some spirited driving and the normal amount of door slamming and shoving that the cut and thrust of heated motor sport competition tends to be about.

With record crowds lined up on the banks and packed grandstands, it is proof positive that Zwartkops has attained a special motor racing stature to tempt race watchers to come and experience superb dices in a packed programme of events which ran all day long for the 13th running of this great event.

The main crowd drawcard were the two races for Pre-1966 Production Cars, which lived up to their premier billing status.

The opening heat saw Thomas Falkiner (Castrol Ford Mustang) 48

and Franco Scribante (Remos Ford Mustang) fight for the lead throughout. Scribante eventually snatched the lead on the penultimate lap and won, less than a second ahead of Falkiner. They led home Leeroy Poulter (Centlube Ford Thunderbolt), Jonathen du Toit (TAR Chev Noca) and Mark du Toit (TAR Chevelle).

Behind them, Sarel van der Merwe (Ford Galaxie) and Hennie Groenewald (SP Plymouth Fury) waged war, with Van der Merwe finally crossing the finish line three tenths of a second ahead of the pack. Leeroy Poulter led most of the second race, but was docked 30 seconds for jumping the start. That left Scribante to take another victory ahead of Jonathan du Toit, Thomas Falkiner, Patrick Gearing (Alfa Giulietta), Poulter and Mark du Toit. This time around Sarel van der Merwe spun his Galaxy while the Plymouth of Hennie Groenewald suffered engine maladies.

AUTOMOTIVE R E F I N I S H E R

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Lawrence Davies won the first Pre-1966 Little Giants race in his Alfa Romeo Giulietta, followed by Franco Resta (MGB) and Gino Allesio (Alfa Giulietta). Marc Miller won the second race in his Alfa Giulietta, ahead of Shaun Cabrita (Mini Marcos) and Chad Ten Doeschate (GSM Dart).

Franco Scribante (Remos Chevron B19) won both the Genie Pre1074 Sports Prototype races from Roman de Beer (Lola T70), Andre Bezuidenhout (Weltevreden Porsche RSR), Neil Lobb (Lola T70) and Jonathan du Toit (Chevron B8). Deon du Plessis won both the extreme Supercar races in his BPT KTM X-Bow. On the first occasion Scribante led home Andre Bezuidenhout (Porsche RSR), Craig Jarvis (Panacea Porsche GT3) and Nicky Dicks (Porsche GT3). The second heat, Craig Jarvis, Greg Parton (Drizit KTM X-Bow) and Vernon Bricknell (Porsche GT3) filled out the top four places.

AUTOMOTIVE R E F I N I S H E R

1. Main Pic; With Galaxies, Mustangs, Jags and many more, the pace was electric in the nine hour legs of racing.

2. There is something about motor racing that always brings out a bevy of beauties.

3. Grandstands were packed to capacity on the day of the Passion for Speed.

4. Big V8 noise coming from Roland Zoomous Dutch GT40 kept your attention.

5. Close up and personal races left the participants quite tired out.

6. Veteran commentator Roger McCleery was once again ever present and working hard.

7. Rui Campos had some good outings in the 1974 Porsche RSR. 8. The weather held up at the International Zwartkops race day.

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SA TT REVIVAL

VINTAGE THRILLS AT ZWARTKOPS

Revivalists a plenty with Mick Grant’s Sunshine Tourists from the UK enjoyed two great events at Zwartkops and Killarney.

Pics and Story by Ian Groat

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he ultra-fast 43-year-old Scottish born road racing legend champion Ian Simpson on a Motul Suzuki XR 69 F1 won both heats of the Zwartkops Motor Cycle SA TT on Saturday, running second secs short of the current Superbike lap times on a superbly tuned bike that ran like clockwork for both races.

A packed Zwartkops Raceway saw, Simpson, a three-times winner of the Isle of Man TT with another eight podium appearances, five Northwest 200 wins, two Ulster GP titles and five British SB Championships, lead from start to finish in both heats at Zwartkops on a recent weekend.

Simpson held off SA legend the very quick 65-year-old Les van Breda on a Suzuki Katana, who finished second, third place went to Alan Duffus on a Yamaha TZ 750 followed by 65-year-old Bill Simpson, Ian’s father, on the second Motul Suzuki GS 1000 – and close behind him Mike McSkimming, on yet another Suzuki GS 1000.

Ian was so quick and super smooth throughout the day for a retired rider that he was lapping the tail enders and finished both Super quick Ian Simpson rode this Suzuki X R69 to four impressive wins.

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races with his normal customary ear-to-ear grin that he is so well known for.

Simpson’s Suzuki was an identical machine from the one used by Michael Dunlop to win last year’s Classic TT Race in the Isle of Man. It is designed to use engines up to 1992 while the local vintage spec sees engines of 1984 being mandated. So Simpson’s bike had close to 30 more ponies than the local contenders.

Zwartkops Day of Champions saw a full race card of races and many famous names out to strut their stuff, like the 750cc MV Agusta of Alan Walker and Mick Grant’s 500cc Suzuki GP square four.

Crowds were up on last year and the festive occasion was ever present as the sun blessed race day after some very heavy rains.

Zwartkops Results SA TT 1. Ian Simpson Motul Suzuki 1000 XR 69 F1 (UK) 2. Les van Breda Suzuki 1981 Katana 1000 (SA) 3. Alan Duffus Yamaha TZ 750 (UK) 4. Bill Simpson Suzuki GS 1000 SR (UK) 5. Mike McSkimming Suzuki 1980 GS 1000 (SA).

Jimmie Guthrie on the 1961 Manx Norton.

AUTOMOTIVE R E F I N I S H E R

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Les van Breda finished in second place on the Katana Suzuki 1000.

SA TT REVIVAL

THE KILLARNEY LEG...

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Mick Grant (left) is seen with Keith Zeeman.

The Norton’s factory rider Ian Morgan had some pace on the V4 racer.

illlarney race track played host to the second leg of the TT Revival with two superlative races being seen by an absolutely packed circuit of spectators.

Scottish road-racing legend Ian Simpson completed his domination of the 2014 SA Tourist Trophy series for historic motorcycles with another emphatic double win at Cape Town’s Killarney circuit on the Saturday to match that at Zwartkops a week earlier.

Behind him, however, locals and visitors from all over the world, including Gauteng, mixed it up in two superb races that had the huge crowd on its feet, with battles throughout the field that in some cases weren’t settled until the sprint to the flag.

Simpson, 43, with three TT winds, five British Superbike champsionships and two Ulster GP wins to his credit, put his 1981 Suzuki XR69, the forerunner of the iconic GSX-R series, on pole with an unanswerable 1 min 19.054 qualifiying lap but got a jerky, badly co-ordinated start in Race 1 as the rest of the front row, former SA champion Les van Breda and local veteran David Bolding (each on a Suzuki Katana) and John ‘Konstable’ Kosterman on a 1985 Suzuki GSX R750, howled down to turn 1 ahead of him.

Once Simpson had got the big Suzuki over its start-line jitters, however, there was no denying him as he divebombed both Katanas into turn 5 at the end of lap one to take the lead and romped away to win by nearly 12 seconds.

Behind him, however, things were by no means as clearcut.

Bolding made the most of home-track advantage to hold off the vastly experienced van Breda in a superlative battle for second that lasted until the final lap, when the former SA champion outbraked the local rider in a move Bolding later described with a grin as “committed” to take second by 0.67 seconds.

Kosterman held on as best he could for a few laps, but there was no way his essentially standard 750cc Gixer was going to say with a litre-class works endurance racer and two kitted Katanas, and he trailed home half a minute in arrears, ahead of Robbie Burns, another Scot on an XR69, five times former Scottish champion Alan Duffus, now 67 years old, on a four-cylinder two-stroke Yamaha TZ750, and Mike McSkimming on Tony Sparg’s Suzuki GSX1100.

The closest finish of the race, however, ws between Tony Jones, riding Lourens Rossouw’s GSX R750 after he blew the engine of his Ducati Paul Smart replica in practice, and Kevin Spratley’s remarkably well sorted Yamaha RZ350R, who finished just 0.287 sec apart after a race-long duel.

Van Breda got another scorching start to lead the field into turn1, only for Simpson to sweep by on to the back straight for another unchallenged victory. Four seconds behind him Van Breda and Bolding swopped places at least twice a lap until Van Breda outbraked the local man in to Turn 1 three laps from the flag and held him off to take second by 0.669 sec.

Kosterman and Burns took the next two places, closely shadowed by Simpson’s father Bill, who’d blown his Suzuki GS 1000R in practice and was riding Alan Walker’s gorgeous 888 Ducati to considerable effect, Jones, McSkimming and Spratley, all of whom finished within four seconds, while Duffus passed Etienne Low’s Kawasaki Z1 on the final lap to grab 10th by 0.189 sec.

This demonstration run by the gentleman racers (many of them pensioners) of the Team Incomplete on vintage machines too rare and irreplaceable to be raced rapidly became a flat-out dice between riders who rivalries in some cases stretched back half a century!

Overall Results 1. Ian Simpson Motul Suzuki, Scotland 2. Les van Breda Suzuki, RSA 3. David Bolding Suzuki, RSA 4. John Kosterman Suzuki, RSA 5. Rob Burns Suzuki, UK 53

AR M-A 2014 NAT_NOV/DEC 2005 paganation 2014/03/24 1:16 PM Page 8

TOP SHOP ALFA BODYWORKS, ATHLONE

ART AND SOUL

Sikkens Autowave 2.0 is delivering both top quality results with improved production output levels says Moeneeb Fataar, far right.

Seen here from the left are Nikki Smit from Chemspec Paint, Shameeg Fataar and Mark Johnson, Chemspec Regional Manager.

With a full downdraft preparation deck no primer dust ever escapes to cause any operator health risks.

The whole collision repair centre features spotless work areas.

he superb quality of panelbeating shops found in and around the Western Cape – especially Cape Town itself – never cease to amaze me. Take Moeneeb Fataar’s Alfa Bodyworks as a case in point. Employing over 52 staff members out of premises consisting ±3 200 sq m, you get the picture.

Boasting some of the best approvals in the business, “and there’s more to come,” quiet spoken Moeneeb was quick to point out he couldn’t have this level of success without help from his younger brother Shameeg – under the watchful eye of their father and mentor Fuad, of course.

Alfa Bodyworks is situated at Mynmona Crescent, Athlone Industria (Tel. 021 691 9333/4), close to Primrose Park where the boys were raised. Moeneeb always loved cars and at the age of 10 encountered the Alfa Romeo marque and was smitten for life.

Fascinated enough to learn all there was to know about panelbeating and all of its components, he approached Cape

Panelbeaters who were prepared to take the youngster on and teach him the trade. Mastering all this came easy to Moeneeb and before too long he started up his own business respraying/customising any type of wheels – even motorcycles – with candy finishes and other exotic coatings that proved so very popular in the late 90s.

Premises were soon outgrown and in 2006 the brothers took the plunge into the big league with a workshop/panelbeating outlet totaling 600 sq m and a staff complement now totalling 15 – growing the business further to 20 or so by 2009.

“We are now able to consolidate that business in these our current premises – and hopefully our final move!” said Moeneeb.

“We can tackle up to 200 cars a month on average, thanks in the main due to Sikkens, our paint supplier.”

“Business has been good to us down the years, but it’s never going to happen overnight. Hard work is the real name of the game,” reiterated Moeneeb.

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AUTOMOTIVE R E F I N I S H E R

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Story by Dave Fall

The body shop has many lifts for ease of collision repair damage.

With a large number of repeat customers Alfa Bodyworks has invested in state-of-the-art equipment and standards.

Alfa’s body repair team have worked for the company for many years.

Moeneeb Fataar has spent his entire life repairing. He and his father have built up the impressive body repair centre in Athlone, Cape Town.

Autobase Plus is Sikken’s solvent refinish system for nonwarranty repairs.

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AUTOMOTIVE R E F I N I S H E R

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Contact: Deon Joubert on 083 628 2288 Email: andrew@hurricaneauto.co.za Email: deon@hurricaneauto.co.za Visit our website: www.hurricaneauto.co.za

AR M-A 2014 NAT_NOV/DEC 2005 paganation 2014/03/19 9:16 AM Page 12

NEWS FROM THE ZOO - by Roger Houghton REGULAR BITS

TRANSPORT IN BARCELONA & DELHI - MASSIVE CONTRASTS

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he courtesy of Ford SA, provided a huge contrast on many fronts, particularly in terms of roads and transport.

Admittedly there is a huge difference in the size of the two cities, with Delhi, the capital of India and the world’s second most populous city after Tokyo, housing more than 23-million inhabitants, while Barcelona, the capital of Catalonia has a population of 6.5-million, but the contrast in the way they are handling transport is worlds apart.

Barcelona is proving a model of traffic control with its multi-model approach. It uses a combination of bicycles, motorcycles, scooters, taxis, private cars, underground trains (Metro), buses, air transport (two airports), commuter and rapid rail trains. There are also three funiculars and a couple of cable car routes in the city.

Another contributor to cutting traffic congestion is the fleet of open top buses that transport visitors to the various points of interest in the city and these run at close intervals so it is unnecessary for tourists to use other forms of transport such as rental cars or taxis.

All these systems and vehicles are integrated to minimise traffic congestion. I saw it for myself and it definitely works.

What is important is the big role played by two-wheelers – pedal cycles and powered motorcycles and scooters. In fact, there were already more than 300 000 motorcycles and scooters in Barcelona in 2010, which makes it the European city with the highest proportion of powered two wheelers relative to the population; probably the reason Spaniards are so successful in two-wheel motor sport!

In addition, almost 200 000 people in Barcelona make use of the Biking communal cycle loan system which has more than 6 000 bicycles at 420 locations in the city. Annual subscription payable to the Biking organisation is only about R500 a year and it is proving a popular and convenient method of getting around the city without ever worrying about parking.

The authorities in Barcelona are also encouraging the increased use of electric bicycles and scooters. With many charging points already operational there are plans to lift the number to more than 4 000 in the near future. Electric bicycles and scooters can have their batteries recharged free of charge at the Mobecpoints in the city. The objective was to have more than 3 000 electric vehicles running on Barcelona streets by the end of last year, from about 400 in 2012.

Being a motorcycle enthusiast I was most impressed with the extensive use of powered two-wheelers in this beautiful city.

What was most impressive was the responsible manner in which the powered-two-wheelers were ridden. I saw no reckless riding but rather very responsible riders who obeyed traffic signs and did not weave through the traffic. In fact I cannot even remember hearing the toot of a hooter in the free-flowing traffic, which is a pleasant change to the situation in many other global cities, such as Mumbai and Delhi in India.

Traffic in these two cities is absolutely chaotic, but I did not see any collisions other than one biker who had been knocked over but appeared unhurt.

Amazingly there was no sign of road rage, despite having to deal with other vehicles forcing their way in front of your vehicle at virtually every junction and driveway. Scary.

Hooters are used virtually nonstop: day and night. Besides the trucks and cars traffic consists of a huge number of Tuk Tuk threewheelers and two-wheelers – motorcycles and scooters – as well as bicycle rickshaws. Many of these vehicles do not appear roadworthy either, but there is virtually no visual policing by the authorities.

AUTOMOTIVE R E F I N I S H E R

Motorcycles make up most of the personal transport in India, particularly in rural areas, and although a helmet is required when registering a motorcycle there are no laws to enforce the wearing of same. Many of the billion passengers are women and not only do they have only a sari as headgear they also often ride side saddle on the motorcycles!

We only saw one proper freeway during our recent visit to India and this was on the way to the Taj Mahal and Red Fort in Agra.

Strangely, there was little traffic on this wide open concrete highway which was a manual toll road with long delays from traffic build up on either side of the toll booths What is really staggering is the fact that it is forecast that India will be the third biggest marketplace in the world for passenger cars in 2020 with predictions of more than seven million sales that year, which will put it behind only China and the US. How on earth the road network and traffic arrangements will handle this huge increase in volume is hard to imagine, while those living in Barcelona should continue to enjoy one of the best regulated transport systems in the world.

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LATEST NEWS US NEWS

INSURANCE ADD TELEMATICS TO THE OFFER IN THE USA

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ontract represents the second of several contracts for Quindell telematics that are expected to be announced by year-end, and largest North American deal for Quindell to date.

Quindell Portfolio PLC has announced that CAA South Central Ontario (CAA SCO), has contracted with Quindell to provide their auto club members and insurance customers with new telematics technology and services.

Quindell has agreed to contract with CAA SCO on an exclusive basis for a minimum period of five years in which the group will provide the technology for all of CAA SCO’s telematics initiatives to its membership base of over 1.9 million members.

CAA SCO members are entitled to core services including 24/7 roadside services, battery service, emergency fuel and delivery, flat tyre service, locksmith, and extrication services that will be enhanced by the introduction of telematic’s services. CAA SCO also provides auto insurance to over 90 000 auto owners in Ontario, and plans to utilise Quindell technology to offer AA Insurance clients new insurance products.

Over the next five years Quindell, the CAA SCO and other industry analysts generally believe that between 10% to 30% of all Canadian auto insurance policies will transition to being telematics based, driven by initiatives such as this one promoted by the CAA SCO. At a 10% to 30% adoption rate, applied to insurance clients and to all CAA SCO members, technology revenue from this contract to Quindell could therefore potentially increase from $26m to $78m per annum. Applying a similar adoption rate for CAA SCO sister associations in Canada, representing 5.8 million Canadian members, would provide a revenue potential of $79m to $237m per annum.

Rob Terry, founder and executive chairman of Quindell said, “The CAA South Central Ontario is the first major Automobile Association in Canada to contract with Quindell, and it represents a tremendous win for both our companies. This agreement once again validates Quindell’s significant market leading model, which we believe will continue to positively disrupt the Canadian insurance market. It also confirms our belief that the insurance market in Canada is going to exceed all our previous plans for growth in the short to medium term. Matthew Turrack, vice president, Insurance for CAA SCO said, “Our planned telematics offering will enhance CAA auto insurance offers, bring fairness to insurance, reward better driving behaviours, and lead to safer roads.” He added, “We are excited to partner with Quindell, a market leader in telematics, who have a long established track record of delivering this technology,” Cindy Hillaby, vice president, Membership and Automotive Services at CAA SCO added, “Our promise to our members is to provide them this roadside safety, peace of mind and value for their membership. Telematics provides us with new opportunities to use technology to deliver on that promise more effectively while providing members with an extra level of care and convenience.”

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INDUSTRY NEWS LOCAL NEWS

EPT SYSTEMS EXPAND

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PT Systems have moved to a larger warehouse distribution operation that is still based in Killarney, in Cape Town. Being the sole importer of the Evercoat Specialist range of fillers and accessories has seen Mike Speck and his daughter Michelle make a move to increase their stock holding in South Africa of the top-selling refinish Preval Portable Spray Gun range.

The company have also gained better operating facilities for their sister operation of Quality Paint Supplies.

The American brand of Evercoat features a number of top quality body fillers as well as their range of Multifix Plastic Repair systems to complete the line-up. Metal Bonding fast setting adhesives are also available for metal-to-metal surfaces as well as a range of manually operated caulking guns for the adhesive application.

If you would like a technical disc on the future of automotive

To keep pace with larger business orders EPT have now opened up a much larger facility in Killarney, Cape Town. body preparations, EPT Systems have developed a step-by-step ‘How To’ technical process for their Evercoat System.

Visit www.eptsystems.co.za or call +27(0)21 556 1991 for more details.

OBITUARY

ALAN HARRIS 1940 - 2014

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lan Harris was born into a colonial lifestyle in Bulawayo, Rhodesia. He went through the normal life cycle of attending school at Baynes and Gifford Technical School.

He worked in a long career as an apprentice fitter and turner but as early as 1950, Alan had set his sights on becoming a motorcycle racer.

At 17 years old he was already in competitive road racing becoming a Rhodesian champion in 1962. Being part of the up and coming international grand prix scene came next with bronze medal awards at the Isle of Man TT races in 1963. While on his European Tour he returned to marry his fiance Shona, and returned to race in England and Europe in the grand prix. His big win will always be remembered when he piloted a Velocette Thruxton to first place with his co-rider Howard German, in the long distance Thruxton 500 Production Bike Race against a

by Ian Groat formidable amount of international competitors. Alan raced that race like he lived his life – cautiously, but with great determination. They came up the leaderboard on a smaller machine than the leaders in cubic capacity to snatch victory that day.

Alan’s good luck turned the other way when he suffered a huge ‘off’ at Abadare Park which put him in hospital for many months with doctors saying he would never walk again. With stoic resolve he however, threw away the crutches and with an iron will to once again become mobile under his own steam and regained his health.

Alan then took up on his early passion of photography and worked for many years at the Star newspaper. He then opened and managed a glass business and during the past five years battled a terminal blood disorder.

This final chapter however, didn’t get him down, as his ability to deal with adversity had been well practised in his early days of life.

Alan became a rider in my “Team Incomplete” Champion’s Team 62

Alan Harris is seen here with the Velocette Factory cafe racer he helped to design. The model enjoyed considerable success in its day. and enjoyed his occasional burst of speed, tempered always with a big amount of common sense in the knowledge that he could not afford another accident while operating against doctor’s advice. But what the medical fraternity clearly fail to understand is that once you’re bitten by the speed bug in life it’s difficult to remove it from the system.

I can honestly say that Alan never had a cross word for anyone and lived his life to the full. Planet earth can shed a tear for the loss of a great man whose modesty was a shining example for all who knew him, for he valued relationships above everything else. So it’s in this regard that saw his extended family and hundreds of friends and mourners attend a memorial service for Alan Harris.

AUTOMOTIVE R E F I N I S H E R

GENERAL New AD_Invoice TOYOTA 16-8-05 2014/02/07 11:41 AM Page 1

General paints have a very successful track record and supply over 56 countries across the globe with a full range of 92 toners - 39 standards, 16 pearls, 6 xyralics and 29 2K. These high cover toners ensure a perfect result everytime.

General Paints also offer a complete colour support package with their colour box of 8000 colour formulas backed-up by GPC pro computer software which has close to 70 000 international car colour formulas in different variable shades. The General refinish range includes rapid primers and high solid clearcoats which have been extensively researched to provide you with a ‘One Stop Shop’ philosophy. General paints are designed to improve body shop profitability and shorten process times.

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INDUSTRY NEWS WHAT’S HOT?

A LESSON FOR OUR LOCAL UNIONS FROM AUSTRALIA

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ord, Mitsubishi, Holden and now Toyota. Australia could be facing an economic crisis the likes of which 'haven't been seen since the Great Depression' as unions fear 50 000 jobs could be lost, says Australian Prime Minister, Tony Abbott. Abbott said there was nothing he could do to prevent Toyota halting vehicle manufacturing in Australia, as fears it will spark an economic crisis gathering pace. Toyota said it would stop making cars in Australia by 2017, citing high production costs, a strong local dollar and a small domestic market. The decision would end the country's 66-year-old auto manufacturing industry. Whereas Toyota SA recently announced a R1-billion injection for production here with the new Toyota Corolla.

Toyota’s announcement follows Mitsubishi closing factories in 2009, Ford halting production in 2016 and General Motors announcing in December 2012 that its Holden brand would also cease manufacturing by 2017.

The demise of the industry has sparked a political battle with the Labour opposition blaming the government for not doing enough to prevent Toyota from walking away and unions warning 50 000 jobs could be lost down the supply chain, mostly in component manufacturing and transport. Given that the numerous strikes in 2013 cost the country millions and BMW lost its local 3 Series production contract, the current state of the Australian auto industry should serve as a rude awakening for the SA auto industry.

Opposition industry spokesman Kim Carr compared the impact on the worst hit states of Victoria and South Australia to the Great Depression that struck the nation in the 1930s. Carr said: "There's likely to be, for many blue collar Australians, an economic crisis the like of which we haven't seen since the Great Depression. "There are going to be families that won't be able to get work. There will be whole communities that will be savaged by this decision." Since coming to power in 2013, the conservative government has adopted a hard line on industry assistance, warning that "the age of entitlement is over" when it comes to taxpayer-funded handouts.

Abbott said that millions of dollars had been thrown at the ailing car industry in recent years and had not saved it. Abbott said: "This is a very considered decision (by Toyota) and it is a final decision and it's not as if the government could have leapt in at the 11th hour and said here's another $100 million or $200 million, please, please, please stay."

"We've tried that with the motor industry. It hasn't worked and the best thing now is to focus on things that we can do and which are profitable."

Victoria state Premier Denis Napthine met workers at Toyota's Altona plant in Melbourne and said "there was a sense of disappointment, but also a sense of where do we go from here". He was due to meet Abbott later in Canberra to thrash out a package to assist retrenched workers in the state as well as drum up more money for key infrastructure and industries of the future to help their transition.

Toyota has manufactured cars in Australia since 1963 and still produces the top-selling Camry sedan and other models in the country. But not for much longer.

US NEWS

CAR NEWS

FIAT/CHRYSLER OPT FOR NEW NAME

VOLVO ADVANCES ON PLANS

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talian car giant Fiat has announced a name change after completing the purchase of US automaker Chrysler. Henceforth it will be ‘Fiat Chrysler Automobiles’, but the company still posted disappointing 2013 results.

Fiat chairman John Elkann said the name change heralded ‘a new chapter’ "A journey that started more than a decade ago as Fiat sought to ensure its place in an increasingly complex market has brought together two organisations, each with a great history in the automotive industry and different but complementary geographic strengths. FCA allows us to face the future with a renewed sense of purpose and vigour."

The group statement read: "To establish a true peer to the major global automotive groups in both scale and capital market appeal the board has decided to establish Fiat Chrysler Automobiles, organised in the Netherlands, as the parent company.

"The company said shares would be listed in New York and Milan and Fiat shareholders would receive one FCA common share for each Fiat share held. FCA will be resident in the UK for tax purposes.”

Fiat CEO Sergio Marchionne was quoted as saying: "Today is one of the most important days in my career at Fiat and Chrysler. We have worked tenaciously and single-mindedly to transform differences into strengths and break down barriers of nationalistic or cultural resistance.

“The FCA would continue with the same mission, including manufacturing plants in Italy and elsewhere around the globe, with no impact on headcount (staff)".

The group said it expected to present a long-term business plan in May 2014.

AUTOMOTIVE R E F I N I S H E R

V

olvo Car Group has introduced new scalable product architecture (SPA) to enable it to move faster towards a crash-free future.

The new SPA enables improvements both when it comes to offering protection and when creating innovative features that support the driver in avoiding accidents.

Jan Ivarsson, senior manager, safety strategy and requirements at Volvo Cars said, “The new architecture opens up for further improvements. 7% of the safety cage in the original XC90 was made of hot-formed boron steel. The structure in the upcoming all-new XC90 features over 40% hot-formed steel, which translates into significantly improved strength but without adding mass or weight.”

The new SPA is designed to make it easy to add-sophisticated functions and rapidly implement new technology in fast-moving areas such as microprocessor, sensor and camera technology. In principle, the electrical system consists of a network with four domain masters, vehicle dynamics, safety, car body and infotainment.

Camera, radar and sensor technologies have been extended to detect more objects around the car and to offer support at higher speeds and in more situations. The sensors used, are also parts of features such as adaptive cruise control with steer assist, introduced in the upcoming all-new XC90.

SPA is also designed to accommodate the implementation of autonomous technologies all the way to self-driving cars. Volvo aims that by 2020, no one should be killed or seriously injured in a new Volvo.

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FUTURE TECH - by Andrew Marsh

GM, OPEL, CHEVROLET - WHERE NEXT?

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he automotive industry to many observers – from customers buying vehicles to those running highly profitable enterprises in other sectors – is an impossible riddle. A combination of brand building, straight ‘stack them high and sell them cheap’ promotion and load of references to by-gone days.

A whole industrial sector that produces for a global audience yet has a simply vast turn over. Just don’t mention profit margin too loudly.

There is a conventional business way and there is an ‘automotive business’ way.

The advent of wireless communication for the masses – especially in Africa – has done much to transform ideas about how to do business. The automotive industry grew up for more than a century serving specific markets with either specific vehicle adaptions or specific brand building messages. Those in turn were based on a complex mix of the best marketing money could buy and a profound sense of history. However, the Internet has allowed anyone with any curiosity to see exactly what is sold almost anywhere in the world, including the price. Suddenly those country or regional specific marketing plans take on a whole new challenge, although one that has existed for a decade already.

Let’s look at General Motors, for example.

This is a global company, and vies with Toyota as the biggest automotive company in the world. It produces more than 1 in 8 of all vehicles sold on the planet, so on every street corner there’s going to be one or more of the vehicles they build. Some markets are more successful that others, exactly as one would expect of a global enterprise. However, the crash on 2008 followed by the bail out in 2009 brought this global giant into sharp focus – the primary aid was from the US, although most countries where GM operated also assisted. The leadership comes from mostly the US, and the current fight back to sustainable profitability is centred around the thing the US gave to the world – share price.

Outside the US GM has lots of manufacturing locations, but the main engineering centres are: • GM Brazil, strategically important for access to the South American market. Traditionally it has ties to Detroit as well as Europe.

• GM in Europe, represented by Adam Opel AG and sold to strange people on an island just off mainland Europe as ‘Vauxhall’.

• GM in South Korea, formerly known as Daewoo. This was – still is – the powerhouse for producing small car designs which are built 68

around the world.

• GM in Australia, which produces engines for the world market as well as unique-to-Australia models which have been exported to the US in the past.

At the time of the financial crash the European operation was losing huge amounts of cash, as it has done almost ever since. GM in South Korea also has a huge build-up of debt as global export markets collapsed and domestic demand faltered. GM in Australia has almost independently reached the end of the road, and will not build complete vehicles within the country from 2016 onwards.

There is a very big ‘but’ in this.

Where a vehicle is built and what is built are two things.

Unfortunately for the US citizens calling for the closure of Opel ignored that Opel was responsible for the engineering behind the most of the key global vehicles built by a global company. Remove Opel engineering and GM removes the engineering knowledge behind more than half the platforms it builds around the world.

Chevrolet in the US historically has been the brand of ‘good value’. Using products initially borrowed from the Daewoo era, GM sought to establish Chevrolet as a global brand with products small enough to literally fit into many global markets. Those smaller inexpensive vehicles in later life used architecture laid down by Opel, and engineering knowledge from Opel.

In Europe Chevrolet was the saviour to access the lower cost end of the car market where Opel operational overheads simply wouldn’t allow. Then came currency fluctuations and the financial crisis, which combined to pit Opel/Vauxhall vehicles head-to-head with Chevrolet vehicles in a sector awash with ultra-competitive products. The effect was to canabalise marginal sales between divisions of the same company, whilst failing to grow. Just five years after the big push for Chevrolet in Europe, along with much lobbying from European countries, Chevrolet will scale back to allow Opel/Vauxhall to gain ground.

The problem. This leads directly to a confused marketing situation. Great products with more marketing make-overs than an aging Hollywood star.

The picture is more complex. The baby GM South Korea vehicle was called Matiz, engineered in part by the Daewoo team based in the UK as well as LG. GM Europe teamed up with Fiat to give the world the Corsa/Barina and the Fiat Punto – products which were so good they are still being built seven years after launch. That latter

AUTOMOTIVE R E F I N I S H E R

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www.autoindustryinsider.com marriage gave birth to Alfa Romeo petrol engines built in Europe as well as in Australia by GM …. an arrangement that has thankfully ended. In later life the latest Chevrolet Aveo shares more in common with Astra/Cruze than ever before, whilst the Spark remains an almost pure GM South Korea engineered product. Collaboration with other partners will occur again in the future, but there has to be a core vision of what features define a GM vehicle.

Which brand name should GM use to push into established and new markets outside the US? Holden? Vauxhall? Opel?

Something else? Which product development team should create the smaller vehicles for those all-important markets outside the US, and offer those same vehicles to fuel economy minded North Americans?

GM led the automotive world for decades by being dedicated to its business plan. If we look over the past decade and observe the demise of Saab, Hummer, Pontiac, Oldsmobile – and very nearly Opel – what do they want to do? The product teams are guided by their own values, and are less successful than Ford at engineering in a global corporate way.

The Ford Ranger was engineered in Australia, is built in Thailand as well as South Africa – and does not have any trace of its roots. Yet an Opel will be built to take forever to accelerate but achieve amazing maximum speeds given enough road and lack of obstacles, whilst consuming next to no fuel. Just as one would need on an Autobahn. Not quite what is needed for Taipei in the rush hour with 80% humidity and 30°C plus ambient.

GM has many of the finest minds to be found in any business anywhere in the world, but the sharp focus on the North American market is at odds with other markets. GM South Korea employees were less than excited to find out that not only were they not engineering the next Sonic/Aveo, but it was not going to be built in South Korea either. At the time the ‘plan B’ was not revealed, leaving lots of people fearing the worst.

Given that the Sonic/Aveo is one of the biggest single products GM build, that was an amazing decision handled with an amazing lack of tact.

Where does this leave GM in South Africa? Faithfully following the decisions made far, far away. What is needed is focus on product, not making frequent radical operational changes with little impact and embracing the consumer. Some time ago another confused company took on the ‘Mini’ at its own game – a basic product that was quite simply irresistible.

The result, the Citroen DS3, defied observers and became a giant success because it competed in spirit but not directly with Mini. Fiat did the same thing with the 500. These products show how careful planned use of ‘off the shelf’ components wrapped in forms aimed to excite the target audience works. The Opel Adam comes close to getting in the groove, but tried too hard.

Vauxhall? Well this goes back to the days of the battle between GM in the UK and Opel. The latter won the day by the mid-1970s, so eliminating most of the engineering in the UK along with the products unique to Vauxhall. Ford in Europe had exactly the same thing and also eliminated the unique products.

Both Ford of Europe engineering centres survived and work as part of a global network of Ford engineering centres. However, in marketing terms Vauxhall has carried on quietly being successful selling Opels with Vauxhall badges – but never suggested as the next big thing to push as an international brand.

Has someone missed a trick there?

This trio (including the main picture) are based on Gamma 2, which was mostly based on the Opel Corsa / Barina / Fiat Grande Punto. But, this MPV cross over was engineered by Opel based on the GM South Korea version of the vehicle, since its closest sister is the Cheverolet Aveo / Sonic. So - no harm in multiple offerings - but in the same market?

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Products include Ezi-Methods, our on-line collision repair methods system and A uto Industry Insider, our collision repair industry technical information website.

Fo r mo re info rmatio n please visit the w ebsites: www.ezimethods.com and www.autoindustryinsider.com or contact ben.cardy@autoindustryconsulting.com

AUTOMOTIVE R E F I N I S H E R

The Opel Astra - and some of the most important global volume selling cars GM makes.

Again the Buick Verano was a huge hit in North America as well as China, whilst the Chevrolet Cruze is the main volume product from which the slightly shortened Aveo / Sonic is derived. Additionally a gaggle of MPVs and SUVs are based on the same platform, which is also related to the Insignia. The lead engineering was from Opel - without which any of this was possible. This shows clearly the long held GM idea that products are commissioned by brands from engineering teams which is no real problem, but just where is the overall strategy?

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BRAND NEWS

Mohamed Hafez, (right) Regional Sales Manager Export Management, was out from Egypt recently. He said that he was very happy with the way Kapci Coatings is growing in the local South African market. Bev Dicks (centre) who has been wearing the Kapci Coatings marketing hat for a few years now is now retiring and handing over the marketing mantle to Moosa Ally (left).

PRODUCT PROFILE

KAPCI COATINGS ON COURSE WITH GLOBAL EXPANSION

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gyptian paint maker Kapci last year achieved the number one position in their local market and further developed their global network of exports with a full 20% increase in sales for their refinish paint system.

Mohamed Hafez, regional sales manager export management, was recently in his operating territory of Africa and reported excellent increased sales to Malawi and Zimbabwe, among others.

Mohamed says their constant sales increase comes from the Kapci Coatings philosophy of keeping batch-to-batch quality at top levels. The company, along with ISO manufacturing methods, has also implemented a PDF quality platform in the manufacturing process to boost output finished paint standards.

Kapci Coatings are already working with a new factory in India and have moved to one office in China to keep pace in those 70

markets. Kapci Coatings will be represented at the Phil Auto Show in the Far East and Automechanika later this year as these prominent trade shows have been a major brand awareness booster in recent years.

With a large team of colour researchers working hard on both Dima waterborne colours and new solvent borne colour derivative shades, Kapci Coatings have been able to introduce a new colour app, Smartmix, which is now available for end users on their tablets, smart phones or computer. It uses the IOS and android system. This works really well as now no spray painter will be stuck for a new colour formula as its available on a 24/7 basis right at their fintertips too. It is free to download as well. With this novel advance from Kapci Coatings, Kapci have also introduced a new formula Hi-Solid clear coating system that delivers an exceptional wet look top coat finish.

“Our relationship with the key market for us in Africa and South Africa,” said Mohamed, “has once again been very successful in recent times as the local distribution network have done a good job with the brand along with continuous training from the Johannesburg centre.

They have delivered a streamlined and more profitable way to producing a better class of body repair to end users locally.”

The new Smartmix app from Kapci Coatings is android and IOS based so it works on all smart phones, tablets and other computers.

AUTOMOTIVE R E F I N I S H E R

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KAPCI COATINGS Tel: +27 11 834 1252 Fax: +27 11 834 1259 Email: info@kapci.co.za

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INDUSTRY NEWS

by Roger Houghton

WHAT’S HOT?

UNDER 4 METRE CARS ALL THE RAGE IN INDIA

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he category for cars under four metres in length and with an engine capacity below 1.5-litres (diesel) or 1.2-litres (petrol) is spicing up action in India as many new contenders are launched into this popular segment which enjoys significant tax benefits, besides being reasonably frugal with fuel. These cars are categorised as “small” with only 12% excise duty payable instead of the 27% for all other cars.

There is also a big demand for sedans instead of hatchbacks so it is a challenge for designers to come up with a booted car with a spacious interior for five occupants.

Tata was the first maker to make a car especially for the segment, the Indica CS (compact sedan). Now there are a host of these cars, such as the Maruti-Suzuki DZire, Honda Amaze, Mahindra Verito and the Toyota Etios Liva. The latter is a shorter derivation of the normal Etios, which are 4.25-metres in length.

Now Ford is intensifying its efforts in this affordable compact car segment which is seen by many of the volume car makers in the world as one of the most important keys to growing overall sales and market share in the future, particularly in emerging markets. This message came through loud and clear at the unveiling of a concept of the new Ford Figo in New Delhi, India, recently.

The fact that a group of SA motoring journalists was invited to the unveiling and the first public display of this substantiallooking, sub-four metre compact car at the 12th Auto Expo in New Delhi two days later indicates that SA is high on the list of priorities for this model.

The current, Indian-built Figo is proving a valuable contributor to Ford’s amazing revitalisation in SA over the past few years.

It was fourth in the overall list of top-selling passenger cars in SA in 2013, with 15 254 units sold and continued in this position in last month’s sales. It was the ninth most popular car in India in 2013 with sales of 60 964 units.

Ford is covering its bases well, with the Ka Concept being a hatchback while the Figo Concept is a sedan, albeit with a truncated luggage boot giving it a very hatchback-like side profile.

At the end of last year the Ka Concept was unveiled in Brazil in November and then shown in Barcelona in December when this hatchback derivative of this important, high volume, B-segment model was shown as part of a global Ford event for dealers and the media built around the

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In emerging markets, the small compact vehicle is where the growth is seen to be to increasing overall sales.

Ford have heard this message loud and clear with the launch of their new Figo in New Delhi at the Auto Expo recently.

first unveiling of the latest Ford Mustang sports car.

Although the senior Ford executives at the unveiling of the Figo Concept in New Delhi, including South African Craig von Essen, who has been moved recently up the ranks to global product communications manager at Ford HQ in Dearborn, were tight-lipped about what name the upcoming model would wear when it arrived in SA, probably in 2015, but it is highly likely to be Figo.

The previous Ka was an oddly styled model that fared rather poorly in the popularity stakes in SA when it was sold here from 2005-2008, while Figo has built strong brand awareness and customer loyalty in the local market.

This B-segment contender is Ford’s latest project in the ongoing roll-out of its global One Ford programme, but the executives would not confirm whether or not SA will get both the hatchback and sedan derivatives, nor what specific power trains will be offered or when it will arrive here.

The Ford team, who made a most impressive presentation in New Delhi, using amazing digital projection, kept stressing that this was still a concept model and did not reveal interior styling or other details.

What newly-appointed Ford India president Nigel Harris, a New Zealander, did say is that “substance” was a very important part of the car’s DNA, while it was designed and developed on the pillars of Quality, Safe, Green and Smart and as Ford vice-president of engineering, Kumar Galhotra, added: “Expect the unexpected!”

Ford says the affordable, sub-four metre B-segment is extremely important as sales in this category of car are expected to grow substantially in the future, mainly due to demand from first time buyers in emerging markets. The B-segment already accounts

for a third of car sales in India and sales volume in this category is expected to grow from about one million sales in 2013 to about two million by 2018.

The Indian market is seen as having immense growth potential with a forecast that it will account for seven million vehicles a year in 2020, which should make it the third biggest market in the world, hence the rush by several manufacturers to build new facilities in this region of the globe; Ford alone has six new plants under construction in the Asia Pacific region, despite announcing that it is closing its assembly facility in Australia in 2016.

This is Ford’s largest industrial expansion in 50 years in the Asia Pacific region, with the new Sanand manufacturing plant in India, where Figo will be built, set to begin volume production in 2015. Sanand, which is costing more than US$1-billion, will supplement the existing Ford plant in Chennai and position India as a major global hub for the assembly of Ford small cars.

The new facility will double the subsidiary’s annual capacity in India to 440 000 vehicles and 610 000 engines. Ford will then be in a position to increase the number of countries to which it exports vehicles from India to 54 in the next five years. Currently Ford India ships vehicles to 37 countries.

“We see India as a pillar of our company’s growth in the Asia Pacific region, which we predict will account for nearly 50% of globe vehicle sales by 2020,” said the president of Ford Asia Pacific, Dave Schoch.

“As we prepare to launch 23 vehicles globally in 2014 – the most in more than a century – we see huge opportunity in India, both as a market and as a centre of excellence of manufacturing. We are already represented by 274 dealerships in 146 Indian cities,” he concluded.

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LATEST NEWS LOCAL FUNDRAISER

EPT SYSTEMS GOLF DAY

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PT Systems will once again host their fundraising golf day on 15 May. All of the profits made will go to First Car Care College. The College, provides auto-repair training for learners in Cape Town and is a fully-functional repair facility where trainees can be taught the full spectrum of skills, techniques and procedures required to operate a successful autobody business. The golf day will be held at Parow Golf Club in Cape Town and will be a four-ball alliance format.

For sponsorship opportunities or to book a four ball, call Michelle Speck on +27 (0)21 556 1991.

INTERNATIONAL NEWS

AXALTA COATINGS TO INVEST $60 MILLION IN GERMANY

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xalta have announced a commitment to the investment of $60 million in Wuppertal, Germany. The investment is to allow a next-generation facility to be built that will expand capacity to produce waterborne industrial coatings. Production at the new operations centre is expected to begin in the first quarter of 2015.

The investment will reinforce the Wuppertal site, already the largest of Axalta’s 35 manufacturing facilities around the world, and Germany as the centre of Axalta’s water-based paint manufacturing operations in Europe, Middle East and Africa region.

The investment underscores the company’s commitment to environmentally responsible waterborne coatings for Axalta customers in the automotive OEM and refinish, commercial transportation, general industrial, and architectural and decorative segments. In addition to manufacturing products for Western Europe, products made in Wuppertal will continue to be exported to Eastern Europe, Asia and Latin America.

The next-generation facility will use manufacturing technology that will improve efficiencies, reduce waste and shrink even further the environmental footprint from operations while at the same time meeting the growing needs of Axalta customers. Additional production of waterborne coatings is a direct response to customers’ growing interest in environmentally responsible coatings.

“We’re tremendously excited about our ability to build new facilities in Europe and especially in Wuppertal,” explained Axalta chairman and CEO Charlie Shaver. “Germany is synonymous with some of the finest automotive engineering in the world and home to some of our key customers. Building on our great legacy that originated in Wuppertal in 1866, we are optimistic about an everexpanding customer base for us to Service in the future.”

The facility will manufacture coatings for some of the largest European automotive original equipment manufacturers. A number of Axalta’s leading refinish brands, including our global flagship brands Standox, Spies Hecker and Cromax used by body shops, will also be manufactured at the new facility, helping to expand its offerings of the newest generation of waterborne paints.

“Our decision to invest in Germany reflects not only our commitment to our customers but also our confidence in the German and larger EMEA economy,” explained Otmar Hauck, Axalta’s chief operating officer in the EMEA region. “Building in Wuppertal also is a tribute to our employees and their dedication both to our company and our customers.”

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LOCAL NEWS TRAINING

WHY CHOOSE THE NTUTHUKO FOUNDATION FOR TRAINING?

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ith the estimated need for body shop technicians at the 20 to 30 000 mark and only approximately 750 graduates into this industry last year – why would any body shop not want to get involved in mentoring an apprentice? The mind just boggles at these numbers.

The Ntuthuko Foundation (NF) has a clear line of sight when it comes to recruiting the best people to train as apprentices for the collision repair industry. Busi Maile literally goes through to schools and conducts assessment tests on young girls and boys who show the right attitude and capability to make it in this ever changing and highly technical business.

Once the candidates have been whittled down to the very serious, an aptitude test is taken as they don’t want youngsters deciding after a year of hard work and mentorship that the industry really isn’t for them. When the apprentices are short listed, they are interviewed by the participating body shops who are given first dibs on those they feel will fit in best with their business. A two-week trial is then introduced to make sure that everyone is happy.

The foundation assists their partner shops with recruiting apprentice candidates, managing engagements with MerSETA on the shop’s behalf and monitoring apprentice progress. In short, all you have to do is open your doors and NF will do the rest. You have nothing to lose but everything to gain.

NF place their first apprentices for 2014

co-ordinator for the foundation. “To earn a spot on the programme, candidates have to pass all the required assessments; have a financial need and show commitment and drive, all key ingredients of a successful apprenticeship career.”

Nineteen-year-old Ntsako is looking forward to his first year as an auto body repairer apprentice. He understands that the environment he will be in is very different from his high school days that were just a few months ago when he completed matric.

Eager to get his qualification and contribute to the well being of his family, Ntsako has had to quickly adjust to being an adult and take on all the responsibilities that come with it.

The Ntuthuko Foundation recruitment process is thorough and quite rigorous. The objective is to recruit apprentices who have a matric pass and have undergone all the technical aptitude assessments to help the foundation and the NF partner shops ascertain whether or not they are a good fit for the auto repair industry.

Partner repair shops play their part by making sure that apprentices are given the necessary on the job training and support side in order to succeed. The Ntuthuko Foundation is interested in partnering with shops that understand that the apprenticeship process does not happen on its own and that they will need to actively participate and support the process.

The foundation assists partner repair shops with recruiting apprentice candidates, managing engagements with MerSETA on the shops’ behalf and monitoring each apprentice’s progress. NF is endorsed by the Collisions Repairers Association (CRA) and also receives training support from Industry Training and Consulting (it-c). More information on the Ntuthuko Foundation apprenticeship programme is available on www.nf.org.za.

Nothing beats the end of a long recruitment drive at Ntuthuko Foundation (NF) like finally placing apprentices at the various partner body repair shops.

NF placed its first group of apprentices for the year in February. They were welcomed by four reputable partner repair shops, namely MF Autobody, Cornright Motors, Auto Body Specialists and Dent Doctor Randburg.

All the Ntuthuko Foundation apprentices are from disadvantaged backgrounds and have shown zeal and eagerness towards the undertaking of their Spray Painting and Auto Body Repairing apprenticeships.

“Every Ntuthuko Foundation apprentice has to prove themselves” said Caleb The team at Ntuthuko Foundation are as pleased as punch with having placed their Makhela, programme first apprentices in February this year in various body shop centres across Gauteng.

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INDUSTRY NEWS WHAT’S HOT?

BULLDOG ABRASIVES TRAINING SEMINAR 2014: ‘KNOWLEDGE IS THE KEY TO EXCEPTIONAL CUSTOMER SERVICE’ Thomas Weppner from Carsystem Germany demonstrating the new KS-1050.

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rom the 11th until the 24th of January 2014, Bulldog Abrasives Southern Africa (Pty) Ltd hosted their Bi-annual Training Seminar nearly 50 of their sales staff and technicians and as well their suppliers at their state of the art Training Centre in Wynberg, Johannesburg.

With over 10 of the company’s top suppliers from all over the world represented to provide our staff with theory and practical training, there was a great deal of work to get through including new product launches, training on both basic and highly technical products, distributor visits and assistance, solution sales training to both staff and customers as well as demonstrations in the training centre’s extraction booth.

They were proud to welcome suppliers from Spain, Germany, Finland, France, the US, the UK and Turkey to their seminar. By running this seminar every two years in conjunction with their suppliers, they not only “up-skill” our staff and give them the necessary tools to function in their ever-evolving and highly competitive market, but to also pass this knowledge on to their distribution network and the end users of their products.

Over and above the education process, our suppliers were given the opportunity to showcase their new developments in products and processes. They are extremely fortunate to have suppliers with the foresight and technical expertise to be involved in the continuous development of new and revised products that will assist theircustomers in getting their work load out faster and simultaneously ensure that the quality of their work meets the highest European and American standards.

Suppliers introduced new automotive products that will launch Bulldog Abrasives and the automotive industry to a whole new level, such as Mirka’s Optimized Surface Preparation System which is truly unique, thanks to an innovative combination of high-tech abrasives, tools and processes. There is no other product in the market place that can compare to this unique product. By using advanced technology, Mirka’s Optimized Surface Preparation System takes fewer steps and significantly less time to achieve the perfect result.

Mirka´s net sanding products used together with ergonomic tools, such as the Mirka PROS650CV sander, give the operator benefits that cannot be achieved with a conventional sanding system. In addition to this the surface is dust-free and gives better visual control over the work.

Polarstar SR is the first in a series of new high technology micro products produced by Mirka. This product is best suited for the automotive refinishing and vehicles manufacturing market with innovative cutting technology that is energy saving and has a low carbon footprint.

The Polarstar SR is primarily designed for wet sanding, for the correction of small painting defects and removing of dust particles in 76

top coats and clear coats. This product is suitable for both machine and hand sanding.

Thomas Weppner from Carsystem introduced to the team a high solid, asbestos-free, long-lasting stone chip protection for all car body components – Carsystem’s KS-1050.

This product protects door sills, engine bonnets and under-bodies against corrosion and can also be used on PVC. After drying, KS1050 provides permanent elastic, recoatable and textured surface.

The temperature resistance (cured) of KS-1050 is from minus 25°C to +80°C and it is resistant against oil, water and road salt.

Also new from Carsystem is their revolutionary Carbo Putty, which is a transparent polyester putty used for carbon parts. It has a high filling capacity with easy, pore-free application and super easy sandability. It has adhesion on carbon grounds (Polyester / Epoxy carry out a test beforehand). It is UV-resistant which means no yellowing. Due to its superior properties as a fill and fine putty, Carbo Putty can be used universally.

Another new innovative product launched at the seminar was the SATA RPS Cup System. The SATA RPS (Rapid Preparation System) is a cup system for body shops that demand perfect painting finishes and high efficiency.

SATA RPS improves the painters’ work significantly, enhances the body shops’ productivity and critically reduces the use of cleaning agents and solvents. SATA RPS consists of only three components, namely, a cup; a lid and a sieve, which means less handling and thus, less expenditure of time. No additional components are necessary.

There is no other cup system with the same functions with only three components!

The new compact spray gun, SATAminijet 4400B, for small areas is now replacing it’s extremely successful predecessor SATAminijet 3000B. Besides a complete redesign, the new spray gun model also features a host of very practical enhancements.

The wide range of Pneumatic tools they currently stock and supply from Rodcraft has grown enormously during the last three years. With service centres in most main cities, they have no trouble offering their customers fast and efficient service.

Pricing is competitive for this range of European Pneumatic machines which includes 6-speed polishers, random orbital sanders, cordless drills, to name just a few. They also stock their new range of automotive tools and equipment including jack stands, bottle jacks and trolley jacks.

The 2014 Training Seminar was a resounding success, proving that knowledge is definitely the key to providing their distributors and end users with unrivalled service and technical support to improve both efficiency and quality in the work place. All of the delegates are looking forward to the next seminar in 2016. Watch this space!

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PEUGEOT PARTS NETWORK

PEUGEOT PARTS

PROFICIENCY Story and pics by Jay Groat

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n recent months we have seen Peugeot South Africa (PSA) make a few changes to streamline the supply chain network for better productivity especially on the parts delivery side. They then further bolstered this with a claimed 4 deliveries a day in the greater Gauteng region and deliveries within 24 hours around the rest of the country, with overnight services to areas a little more remote. With all of this going on Automotive Refinisher Magazine went out to see just how positive the effects of these changes have been.

Claims of slow delivery are now a thing of the past. We met with Peugeot Fourway’s dealer branch parts manager Lance Richie, who I must add is highly regarded by his employees and body shop peers, to see what he thought. He is an integral link between the body shop and OEM. Lance told me that not only had the delivery side of the network seen changes, but that the entire ordering process between dealer and body shop had undergone a makeover. From what used to be the body shop calling the dealer, placing the order and waiting for your parts estimate to be sent to them, it is now as simple as online shopping.

This new-age online parts ordering system was introduced midway through last year. Because of its recent start it is still fairly new to dealers and Panelshops alike. “It’s a progressive start, said Richie, “and hasn’t been hard to integrate approved panel shops onto the system. It’s just a matter them getting used to it. What they like about 78

the new method is that within a few minutes they have all the parts ordered and a generated quote to pass onto the client or insurer.”

With the new online ordering process repairers are capable of seeing every possible Peugeot part available by simply entering in the vehicle’s VIN number. Repairers add which parts they need to a parts basket and hit the “send”button which delivers the order directly to their chosen dealer. Once the Peugeot dealer receives his notification, he checks PSA for the availability of the parts, which is also online, validates the order and within 12-24 hours, the order is delivered to the repairer. The only delay which might occur is if a part has to be ordered from France, but then a guaranteed 5-7 day working period is the most you can expect to wait. The new online approach is so quick and easy to use that Lance says he hardly needs to speak to his approved shops that are on the system. “Everything gets taken care of without picking up a phone. I can now concentrate on bigger things closer to home”. concluded Richie.

While at the Fourways dealer, I got to see the second wave of daily deliveries, just after 10:30 am, from PSA courtesy of GEFCO. GEFCO bring with them years of European expertise in industrial and automotive logistics. Still quite fresh to the continent they have been handling PSA’s warehouse logistics and delivery operations since the end of last year.

From our meeting with Lance Richie in Fourways, we decided to push out a bit further and complete the ‘full circle’ of the network

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Lance Richie, Fourway’s branch parts manager.

supply chain at Jocks’s Autobody in Pretoria East. There we spoke to general manager Nelson De Sousa and parts manager Helder Fernandez, to see how they have found the changes.

De Sousa said that before the system had been replaced last year there had been some delays. Since they had got up to speed with the online system, everything has been running much smoother. The body repairer works between 60 and 70 repaired vehicles a month, so timing and efficiency of deliveries are key.

Fernandez, who handles working with the new online ordering system says that it has saved them all time. “Previously we would have to strip the vehicle to find out what the necessary part numbers were in order to place our orders. Now you can see everything on the operating system”. Quality ordering systems coupled with around the clock deliveries, is a combination all manufactures can aspire to. Peugeot has set the bar in this regard, by ensuring that their clients get nothing but fast and effective service. We all know the nightmare it is to be without a car.

With everything said the only shortfall we could see was the lack of experience on the new system by those using it, but that’s hardly a hiccup. Peugeot will be seeing significant differences in the months to come with happy and confident clients who have more time on their hands to do other things. A win win situation for all involved.

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DRIVEN HYUNDAI SANTA FE

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t's hard out there for a midsize crossover SUV. Merely being good isn't good enough; it takes a true winner to stand out among today's galaxy of honest-togoodness stars. And the 2014 Hyundai Santa Fe is exactly that.

Redesigned and markedly improved just last year, the Santa Fe offers everything shoppers have come to expect from Hyundai in recent years, outstanding value, attractive styling and a wealth of feature content, and effectively brings it to the three-row crossover segment.

Even discerning crossover SUV shoppers will be awed by the Santa Fe's list of attributes.

With three rows of seating, up to seven passengers can come along for the ride, and leg- and headroom in the first two rows is generous enough to seat even taller adults in comfort.

The cabin is more than just roomy; it's also wonderful to look at and interact with, thanks to attractive, modern design and well-placed, easy-to-find controls.

An eager 2.2 litre turbo diesel engine gets you there in a hurry, and the Santa Fe's myriad standard and optional features represent

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outstanding value for the price. Topping it all off is a graceful and attractive exterior design that makes this Hyundai one of the more eyecatching models in its class.

The 2014 Hyundai Santa Fe is a six- or seven-passenger midsize crossover SUV that is available in GLS and Limited trim levels.

(The smaller Santa Fe Sport seats five and is reviewed separately.)

Standard features on the GLS include 18inch alloy wheels, foglights, a rear spoiler, windshield wiper de-icers, cruise control, a trip computer, full power accessories, airconditioning (with second- and third-row rear vents and controls), a leather-wrapped tiltand-telescoping steering wheel, an eight-way power driver seat (with four-way power lumbar), heated front seats, a 40/20/40-split sliding and reclining second-row seat and a 50/50-split-folding third-row seat.

Also standard are a rearview camera, Bluetooth phone and audio connectivity, Hyundai's Blue Link telematics system, and a six-speaker audio system with CD player, satellite radio, HD radio, USB/iPod integration and a 4.3-inch touchscreen display.

Powering the Santa Fe is a 4 cylinder

engine that produces 145@3800 rpm with torque figures of 436@1800/2500. Power is sent to the front wheels via a standard sixspeed automatic transmission, and all-wheel drive is optional.

On either side of the driving spectrum, the 2014 Hyundai Santa Fe has the potential to impress. The Santa Fe's V6 helps it to accelerate with authority. The smooth and quiet engine makes for relaxed highway travel, as do low levels of wind and road noise. On winding mountain passes, the Santa Fe feels fairly light and sporty as big three-row crossover SUVs go.

The latest model Santa Fe has a reduced ride height and when fully loaded care has to be exercised on off-road trails in 4x4 mode.

All in all the car remains very versatile in it’s ability to gobble up huge amounts of luggage and travelling kit.

The Santa Fe proved to be an excellent towing vehicle turning in 9 litres per 100 km while towing a huge and heavy trailer. It all adds up to an effortless long distance kilometre eater from Hyundai, and it joins a fast growing SUV market in South Africa.

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LOCAL UPDATE

WHAT’S HOT?

3M INTRODUCES FIRST NON-PVC VINYL TO THE SOUTH AFRICAN MARKET

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ompanies seeking additional ways to lower their carbon footprint and increase methods of enhancing sustainable development can now do so through their branding and signage-related activities.

Technology Group 3M has launched pioneering eco-friendly products under its Envision™ brand – the 3M Envision™ Wrap Film 480Cv3 and accompanying Gloss Wrap Overlaminate 8548G. Capable of wrapping everything from personal and commercial vehicles, boats and textured buildings, to billboards and most things in between, these products are made with a high-performance non-PVC polymer. In addition, they are phthalatefree, exclude chlorine and other halogens, and are manufactured using bio-based materials and 60% less solvent. This type of composition renders the 3M Envision™ Wrap Film and accompanying Gloss Wrap Overlaminate 100% recyclable – the industry’s first wholly recyclable product.

“These products exceed most current high performance characteristics,” says Kim Indermaur, sales and marketing supervisor Commercial Graphics Division, 3M South Africa. “In fact, 3M is confident that tradeoffs between a more environmentallyfriendly product and product performance are fast becoming a thing of the past.” This

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can be quantified by the fact that the market price on this eco-friendly material is between only 10% and 15% higher than conventional material.

“Many companies publicise their sustainable development programmes and achievements,” points out Indermaur, “but the real question is: is the advertising and marketing material they use to promote sustainability, sustainable in itself?” She says that this question is a concern shared by some brand managers. “The 3M Envision™ Print Wrap Film is the answer to this question.” She adds that the product can be used for a broad range of applications.

The number of applications, however, becomes astonishing when one takes into account that the primary target markets comprise large format printers, vehicle wrap companies, corporates and retailers.

“Many organisations will benefit greatly by adding the use of this application to their sustainability programmes,” says Indermaur.

Industry recognition and benefits The fact that the European Digital Press Association recognised 3M Envision™ Print Wrap Film as the ‘Best Environmental Substrate’ shortly after its 2013 European launch, describing it as “a breakthrough in the market”, lends a huge amount of

credibility to the company’s product claims.

Over and above the obvious sustainable development and multiple-use benefits, the Envision™ Print Wrap Film 480Cv3 has a number of characteristics which ease application and removal techniques compared to conventional-type wrap products: • Slideability: due to the pressureactivated adhesive, film can be adjusted or repositioned directly after application.

• Snap-Up: refers to the ease of removal. 3M Envision™ Print Wrap Film can be removed by pulling only, and the sheet will detach in a single unit leaving the surface ready for the next application.

However, the application remains fixed until intentionally lifted.

• Flexibility: using heated film recovery gives the innovative product 150% more stretch than its predecessor (180Cv3), allowing it to easily cover contours and difficult-to-reach places easily. Applying heat once the wrap is correctly positioned facilitates material shrinkage to its original size.

• Comply™ Adhesive Air release chemicals: allow for, among several other benefits, a ‘bubble-free’ application and for the medium to be affixed to any surface, even rough ones.

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NEW PRODUCTS CELETTE RUPES BIGFOOT DELUXE POLISHING KIT The Celette Rupes BigFoot System was designed to make machine polishing easy – professional detailers have traditionally preferred to use a rotary polisher for heavy compounding and paint correction, but rotaries can introduce holograms into the paintwork. The BigFoot System works entirely differently, changing long held beliefs and proving it is possible to achieve heavy compounding without introducing holograms. The Celette Rupes BigFoot System has truly changed the face of machine polishing. This LHR21ES BigFoot Random Orbital Polisher has an even larger 21mm throw, perfect for body shops where speed and efficiency are of the essence. The Deluxe Kits contain all four gel compounds and all four grades of pads.

All the compounds now come in a smart new black packaging with blue, green, yellow and white coloured tops to match the relevant pad. In addition the Deluxe Kits feature a Celette Rupes BigFoot branded carry bag to keep all the supplies in one organised bag. For more details call Celette on +27 (0)11 334 1875/6.

VERMONT SALES POLISHER P0103 This industrial high quality polisher has built in speed control to avoid burning up new clear coats that are freshly dried. All with a high power input of 1200W. It’s recommended that best results will come from using a hook and look backing pad of 150mm diameter.

The P0103 also comes complete with a side handle to eliminate wobbling during the polishing action. The addition of the thumb adjustable wheel delivers excellent operator control. You can get more information from Vermont Sales on +27 (0)11 314 7711.

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POLARSTAR® SR MIRKA’S INNOVATIVE FINESSING DISC Polarstar SR is the first in a series of new high technology micro products produced

by Mirka. It is a high precision sanding material developed mainly for use on spot repairs, such as at car plants in the finessing and hospital area of the paint shop.

Using Mirka’s innovative ‘Defined Mono Layer’ production technology has resulted in an even surface finish that enables quick polishing with excellent results. This manufacturing process is also energy efficient and has a low carbon footprint.

The discs can be used for both machine and hand sanding operations and are primarily designed for wet sanding mode where the abrasive’s strong bonding ensures a long working lifespan.

Polarstar SR mm discs are available in micron (P5000), 5 micron (P3000) and 7 micron (P2500) and sold as rolls (500 discs per roll) as well as envelopes (100 discs per envelope). Contact Bulldog Abrasives’ sales team on +27 (0)11 786 5991 for more information on this product, as well as other new and exciting Mirka products.

CARSYSTEM CARBO PUTTY FOR ADHESION ONTO CARBON SURFACES New from Carsystem is their revolutionary Carbo Puty – a transparent polyester putty which is used for carbon parts. It has a high-filling capacity with an easy, pore free application and super easy sandability. It has adhesion on carbon grounds (Polyester / Epoxy – carry out test before hand) and is UV resistant, which means no yellowing. Due to its superior properties as a fill and fine putty, Carbo Putty can be used universally.

Contact Bulldog Abrasives’ sales team on +27 (0)11 786 5991 for more information on this product and the rest of Carsystems Carbo-Tech-Line.

3M PAINT DEFENDER SPRAY FILM The 3M™ Paint Defender Spray Film is a spray applied film that helps protect automotive paint from stones, sand, bugs, and more. It’s easy to apply, and is removable. The 3M™ Paint Defender Spray Film can be applied to a variety of areas including the vehicle’s leading edge, bonnet, front bumper, fenders, mirrors, rocker panels, and rear bumper.

The 3M™ Paint Defender Spray Film is applied onto the prepared surface, in three wet-on-wet coats with a drying time of 2-4 hours (temperature and humidity dependant). De-masking of the panel is done immediately after application. The full cure of the system takes 1-4 days, but the vehicle can be driven during this period.

The 3M™ Paint Defender Spray Film is supplied in a 496gm aerosol canister and is suitable for both professional and home DIY application The 3M™ Paint Defender Application Kit PN 90200 contains: 3.6m x 4.8m masking film and a 24mm x 18m ScotchBlue™ 2080 masking tape roll. The 3M™ Paint Defender Spray Trigger PN90201 contains: 1 trigger assembly that attaches to the top of the spray can, which makes the spraying/application process easier.

Features A dvantages & Benefits • Helps protect paint from stones, sand, bugs, and more. • Easy to apply, long-lasting, removable.

• Once cured, this film can be waxed. • Helps protect paint and appearance of vehicle, helps to reduce costly paint maintenance.

Contact: Rajen Naidoo on +27 (0)11 806 2186 or email rgnaidoo@mmm.com.

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WHAT’S HOT? JOBS, EQUIPMENT, SERVICES AND MUCH MORE

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Repairs to aluminium, magnesium components, high strength steel, bronze, pewter, iron, titanium, copper and damaged steel.

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UTOMOTIVE

March - April 2014 Edition 172

autoref@iafrica.com

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OFFICE CONTACT DETAILS: Tel:+27 (0)11 949 4091 Fax: 27 (0)11 252 6844 Email: autoref@iafrica.com Publisher: Ian Groat +27 (0)83 290 2967 Editor: Claire Macfie +27 (0)83 260 1826 Accounts: Val Groat +27 (0)83 541 8878 Design: Jay Groat +27 (0)60 501 7450 Assistant: Nataschja Ferreira CT Journo: Dave Fall +27 (0)73 021 3076 European Technical Editor Andrew Marsh Central Africa - Derrick Mwango +260 96 327 5331

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The views expressed in articles in Automotive Refinisher are those of the authors and shall not be construed to represent those of the Editor or the Publisher.

Accordingly, Automotive Refinisher accepts no responsibility for claims and statements made by advertisers and independent columnists. Further, the appearance of advertisements herein does not necessarily indicate the approval by Automotive Refinisher for the product and/or service advertised. Material may not be reproduced in any form without the written consent of the Publisher. Automotive Refinisher is dedicated to servicing the business interests of the collision repair industry.

AUTOMOTIVE R E F I N I S H E R

AR M-A 2014 CLAIRE_NOV/DEC 2005 paganation 2014/03/19 9:48 AM Page 7

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AUTOMOTIVE R E F I N I S H E R

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AR M-A 2014 NAT_NOV/DEC 2005 paganation 2014/03/19 9:16 AM Page 24

AFRICAN PANORAMA - HANGING AROUND

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hings weren’t going too well for Ralph in his later years. The only job he had left after a lifetime in the body repair business was one of being a professional lay-about wishing away the long nights in his tow truck waiting for something to happen at an intersection of his choice in the ’burbs.

The great dreams of his imagination were long gone after he had been bitten by a couple of costly liquidations. All this business activity had come at a big cost to Ralph’s mental health for the only companion he had left on planet earth turned out to be “George”, the long-haired terrier who he loved to bits.

To liven life up a bit Ralph took to make things a bit more interesting by throwing a few gallons of diesel fuel at his favourite intersections in the rain in a philosophy gained from the Irish undertakers Berk and Hair, who started knocking off their close relations and placing them in plywood mahogany effect coffins under tons of clay at an ever increasing rate.

Ralph needed a donor crashed car to be able to hawk it around his panelbeating buddies to earn more disposable income, 86

but when one smart cop quickly worked out that Ralph was always the first tow truck on the accident scene, and had an almost full can of diesel in the rear of the vehicle, the game was up. Ralph was given the option of a long custodial sentence or pleading insanity. So a trip to the nutty farm was Ralph’s next move.

With weekly visits not popular by his far-flung distant family, Ralph went through a burst of reflection and loneliness. That was until he met another crazy inmate called Ethel who was a long termer, who didn’t really know why she was there in the first place, but did make things look up a bit.

God bless her heart, Ethel insisted one should always go to bed with the expectation that she would be woken up by a fireman. In her case it was more like wishful thinking than fearful. She always wore a wooly nighty, a shawl coupled to one open cardigan, knee length bed socks finished off with a tea cozy hat when she could. Quite what this would do for the fireman no one could quite imagine.

Anyway, they had struck up a type of companionship sitting around each day

by Ian Groat

talking about life’s failures. To deal with the eternal supply of happy pills to overcome the occasional suicidal tendencies, Ralph took to swimming lengths in the hospital pool.

One day Ralph had had enough and simply jumped into the deep end and stayed immersed without surfacing. Ethel promptly jumped in to save him and swam to the bottom to pull him out. When the head matron heard of Ethel’s heroic deed, she gave an order for Ethel to be discharged from the hospital as she now considered Ethel to be mentally stable once more.

Ralph did achieve his death wish as they found him hanging by his pyjama belt later that day. “So in fact, you didn’t save the man you loved,” Matron said to Ethel.

Ethel’s next chirp left the matron cold as she said that he didn’t hang himself, she had simply put him up there to dry. Now how soon could she go home, please?

The bad news was that Ralph had discovered it wasn’t the drop that kills you – it’s the sudden stop found at the end …

AUTOMOTIVE R E F I N I S H E R

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