Motor Trader e-magazine, April 2022

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+ MTA QUEENSLAND LAUNCHES INTERNATIONAL TRAINING SERVICES + 2022-23 FEDERAL BUDGET OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE MOTOR TRADES ASSOCIATION OF QUEENSLAND

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MTA QUEENSLAND hosts quarterly Divisional Committee meetings for:

USTRALIAN AUTOMOTIVE DEALER ASSOCIATION › A(NEW CAR DEALERS) UTOMOTIVE ENGINEERS DIVISION › A(MECHANICAL REPAIRERS) UTOMOTIVE PARTS RECYCLERS DIVISION › A(PARTS RECYCLERS) UTOMOTIVE REMARKETING DIVISION › A(USED CAR DEALERS) NGINE RECONDITIONERS ASSOCIATION OF QUEENSLAND › E(ENGINE RECONDITIONERS) ATIONAL AUTO COLLISION ALLIANCE › N(PAINT & PANEL / TOW TRUCKS) UEENSLAND FARM & INDUSTRIAL MACHINERY DEALERS DIVISION › Q(FARM & INDUSTRIAL MACHINERY) UEENSLAND MOTORCYCLE INDUSTRY DIVISION › Q(MOTORCYCLES) ENTAL VEHICLE INDUSTRY DIVISION › R(RENTAL VEHICLES) ERVICE STATION & CONVENIENCE STORE ASSOCIATION OF QUEENSLAND › S(SERVICE STATIONS) YRE & UNDERCAR DIVISION OF QUEENSLAND › T(TYRES, BRAKES, SUSPENSIONS) The Agenda topics include:

› robust discussions around the priorities of the Division, › issues that need to be directly presented to government and submissions, › skilling needs, › membership representation, › technical and educational updates, and › innovation opportunities.

The Committee meetings can be attended in-person at MTA Queensland or online.

The meetings are open to members and non-members, but we strongly encourage membership to ensure all member benefits are available.

CLICK HERE FOR MEETING DATES

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From the Editor Official Publication of the Motor Trades Association of Queensland HEAD OFFICE Building 8, 2728 Logan Road, Eight Mile Plains, Qld 4113 P.O. Box 4530, Eight Mile Plains, Qld 4113 Tel: 07 3237 8777 Fax: 07 3844 4488 Toll Free: 1800 177 951

JONATHAN NASH

Email: publications@mtaq.com.au Website: www.mtaq.com.au

EDITOR

W

EDITOR Jonathan Nash

ELCOME TO THE April 2022 edition of Motor Trader.

It has been a big few weeks for MTA Queensland with two new major initiatives launched.

The first is a marketing campaign aimed at reminding the public just how important it is to use the services of an MTA Queensland member. In this time of concern over the rise in the cost of living - exacerbated by worries about COVID and the seemingly never-ending rain and flooding in parts of the State - Queenslanders are surely more conscious than ever about spending their money wisely.

As MTA Queensland members are expected to deliver services to the highest professional standard (and are admitted as members on the condition that they do so), the public should feel comfortable knowing they will be looked after best when choosing to use their services.

ART DIRECTOR Marco Ilinic INDUSTRIAL RELATIONS Evangeline Kannis Ian Naylor POLICY Kellie Dewar, General Manager MTA Queensland ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES

Email: jonathann@mtaq.com.au EDITORIAL Editorial submissions are welcomed but cannot be guaranteed placement. For more information email the Editor at publications@mtaq.com.au SUBSCRIPTION RATES Subscribing to the Motor Trader e-magazine is free.

Click here to subscribe MOTOR TRADER PUBLISHING POLICY Motor Trader is the official publication of the Motor Trades Association of Queensland. The role of Motor Trader is to inform members of current issues and legislation affecting the industry. As such it can be regarded as the business magazine for the Queensland motor industry. The role of Motor Trader is not to be in competition with the technical magazines already on the market. It will advise of new vehicles being released and of the latest technology incorporated into them; it will advise of latest technology affecting members in each of the MTA Queensland Divisions; it will keep members abreast of the latest in motor industry training and industrial affairs; and it will keep members informed of the latest technical aids available through MTA Queensland Member Services, which will assist members in staying ahead of the technological revolution presently being encountered within the motor industry. The publisher reserves the right to omit or alter any advertisement and the advertiser agrees to indemnify the publisher for all damages or liabilities arising from the published material.

MTA QUEENSLAND ABN: 74 028 933 848 CORPORATE PARTNERS

And that is exactly what the marketing campaign is aimed at emphasising. Find out more from page 6.

The MTA Institute, meanwhile, launched a new International Training Program this month - a program aimed at helping alleviate the constant headache for the industry that is the shortage of skilled workers. The comprehensive training package includes a substantial work experience component and is a first step for international students on the path to trade qualification. The program is a major addition to the already comprehensive set of initiatives - including workshop-based training and short, online micro-credentials - that MTA Queensland offers to help support the industry. You can find out more from page 28.

As always, we have plenty of other news - from industry innovations to new vehicle launches - in Motor Trader this month. I hope you enjoy this edition and do reach out if you have some interesting news to share. I look forward to hearing from you.

Cheers Jonathan Nash, Editor jonathann@mtaq.com.au

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MTA Queensland welcomes the following new members BUSINESS NAME Max Mufflers and Mechanics Ipswich Diesel Services Auto Masters Southport Auto Masters Burleigh Heads Auto Masters Tweed Heads Bridgestone Select Toowoomba

ADDRESS

DIVISION

29 Frederick St, Northgate QLD 4013 120 Eagle St, Redbank Plains QLD 4301 39 Egerton St, Southport QLD 4215 75A W Burleigh Rd, Burleigh Heads QLD 4220 143 Minjungbal Dr, Tweed Heads South NSW 2486 Cnr Herries &, Mann St, Toowoomba City QLD 4350

AED AED AED TUDQ TUDQ TUDQ

April 2022 Motor Trader | 1

Contents

6

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MTA QUEENSLAND LAUNCHES BIGGEST EVER MARKETING CAMPAIGN

04 FROM THE DESK OF MANAGEMENT 06 MTA QUEENSLAND LAUNCHES BIGGEST EVER MARKETING CAMPAIGN 14 2022-23 FEDERAL BUDGET 18 HARD WORK AND DRIVE THE KEY TO SUCCESS FOR YOUNG AUTO WORKSHOP OWNER 28 MTA INSTITUTE LAUNCHES INTERNATIONAL TRAINING SERVICES 34 MTA|Q&A: MARK BILLINGSLEY OF MARKS MECHANICS 40 AUTO INNOVATION NEWS 54 MASERATI BOOMERANG 58 AUTO NEWS 80 WORKPLACE RELATIONS 83 MTA INSTITUTE NEWS 86 APPRENTICE OF THE MONTH: MARCH 2022 90 CONCEPT CORNER 2 | Motor Trader April 2022

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HARD WORK AND DRIVE THE KEY TO SUCCESS FOR YOUNG AUTO WORKSHOP OWNER

Search for MTA Queensland

MASERATI BOOMERANG

54

24

FORMER MTA INSTITUTE STUDENT CLAIMS ULYSSES MOTORCYCLE CLUB NATIONAL AWARD

MTA | Q&A: MARKS MECHANICS

34

POLESTAR O2 ROADSTER CONCEPT

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April 2022 Motor Trader | 3

From the Desk of Management

A

S THIS EDITION of Motor Trader hits the inbox of readers, MTA Queensland is preparing to hit the launch button ROD CAMM on an exciting, CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER MTA QUEENSLAND comprehensive new campaign aimed at protecting consumers from unscrupulous automotive service providers.

So far in 2022, we have seen a frustrating rise in cases of odometer fraud, dodgy roadworthy certificate issuing, and backyard repairs gone wrong, not to mention risks associated with damaged cars during the floods. All affect the back pockets of unsuspecting consumers.

Our message during these trying times, is that you simply cannot afford to deal with someone you don’t trust, so only look for an MTA Queensland member business to perform the services required.

This is a message that we will be driving hard across numerous media channels all over the state in the next several months, so members and consumers alike can expect to see us everywhere!

For this to be a success, however, we need the help of our members. We are asking everyone to proudly and visibly their member sticker and anything else featuring the MTA Queensland logo, to let the public know where to go.

In the coming pages, members can learn how to access and display the logo for maximum presence and show the world that you are an MTA Queensland member.

We are already receiving photos of members getting right behind the campaign and showing off the logo, which is just fantastic, and I hope to see much more of it in the coming months!

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EGULAR READERS WILL by now be well aware of MTA Queensland’s Auto Women initiative, which has gone from strength to strength KELLIE DEWAR since being launched DEPUTY CEO | GENERAL MANAGER MEMBER SERVICES earlier this year.

I am excited to say that following our early success, we have been fortunate enough to receive federal funding through the National Careers Institute to deliver a program aimed at advancing career opportunities and pathways for women in the automotive industry across Queensland!

This is a fantastic opportunity for us to connect with young women in schools, women in the industry, as well as those looking to enter the industry, to guide and support them and enable them to receive opportunities to progress through the ranks and thrive. We are currently in the process of hiring a Career Guidance Officer to steer this project and will keep everyone updated.

We are also currently assessing applications for the Women & Leadership Australia professional development scholarships and will announce the successful recipients shortly. Thank you to everyone who took the time to apply.

Finally, I must remind readers that registrations for our second Auto Women Connect virtual event, scheduled for Wednesday 20th April, are now open and can be accessed HERE. Our first event was a resounding success, with more than 50 women from across Queensland (and even one attendee from America) taking part in a stimulating discussion about the challenges they have faced working in a maledominated field. I look forward to seeing as many women from our community as possible online for our next one.

Are you getting the most out of your Membership?

MTAQ members have access to a Commonwealth Bank Relationship Manager who can arrange for you to receive information on: •

Everyday banking solutions including business accounts and eftpos terminals.

•

For your eftpos – a Commonwealth Bank Relationship Manager can provide information on the Least Cost Routing options.^

•

Funding options including Business Credit Cards, Car and Equipment Finance and Business Loans.

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These solutions may help you manage cash flow and expand your business.

To find out how Commonwealth Bank can help your business move forward, contact MTAQ on (07) 3237 8777or email info@mtaq.com.au.

Things you should know: As this information has been prepared without considering your objectives, financial situation or needs, you should, before acting on this information, consider its appropriateness to your circumstances. Eligibility criteria and other conditions applies. Applications are subject to credit approval. Full terms and conditions will be included in our loan offer. Fees and charges may be payable. ^ Least Cost Routing is also known as Merchant Choice Routing. A reference in the Merchant Agreement dated 1 April 2020 to Merchant Choice Routing is also a reference to Least Cost Routing.

The target market for this product will be found within the product’s Target Market Determination, available at commbank.com.au/tmd.

MTAQ may receive a fee from the Commonwealth Bank of Australia for each successful referral.

Commonwealth Bank of Australia ABN 48 123 123 124 AFSL and Australian credit licence 234945.

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6 | Motor Trader April 2022

DON’T GET TAKEN FOR A RIDE

DON’T GET CAUGHT

Always look for MTA Queensland members.

Always look for MTA Queensland members.

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Trust the Motor Trades Professional Circle.

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MEMBER

MTA Queensland material can be used in the workshop (left) or in the office (above)

M

TA QUEENSLAND IS launching a new and wide-ranging marketing campaign to remind consumers that using the services of an MTA Queensland member business is the best choice when it comes to meeting their automotive needs.

The new campaign will launch across all media platforms – from social media to hardcopy, digital newspapers and major publications – making MTA Queensland more visible to the public than ever and ensure that consumers, no matter what type of service they are after, know the business that displays the Association’s name, logo and branding is a business they can trust to deliver quality, professional services.

“THE YOUR OCD MECHANICS’ MTA QUEENSLAND MEMBERSHIP CERTIFICATE IS PROUDLY DISPLAYED IN THE OFFICE WINDOW. WE FEEL THAT CERTIFICATE GIVES OUR CUSTOMERS A SENSE OF CONFIDENCE THAT THE BUSINESS HAS INTEGRITY AND WILL TAKE CARE OF THEM.” MATT BARRETT YOUR OCD MECHANICS, MACKAY April 2022 Motor Trader | 7

“WE FIND THAT PROUDLY DISPLAYING OUR MTA QUEENSLAND MEMBERSHIP GIVES CUSTOMERS CONFIDENCE THAT THEY CAN TRUST US AS WE ARE A MEMBER OF A WELL-RESPECTED INDUSTRY ASSOCIATION.”

MTA Queensland’s visibility is already substantial, of course. In 2021, for example, the MTA Queensland websites recorded more than 625,000 views, while its social media reach saw nearly 400,000 users see its content across various platforms including Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, Twitter, and LinkedIn. Also last year, MTA Queensland’s media reach – that is the number of people who saw the Association mentioned across all media outlets, including television and print media – ROBYN WALSH peaked at more than 2.1 million people.

HANNAM STREET MUFFLERS, CAIRNS In fact, in just the past month, many (including on trading hours, automotive Queenslanders will have seen MTA franchising, right to repair, and future Queensland referenced on their television fuels strategy) made to governments screens as Group CEO Rod Camm State and Federal in 2021, and it is partly appeared on channels 10, Seven, and Nine through this work that media outlets see commenting on issues including fuel pricing, MTA Queensland as a go-to for comment written-off vehicles and the floods that on many issues. affected the southeast of the state.

MTA Queensland’s reputation CLICK TO Appearance such as this stem ACCESS MTA is, then, one of a respected and QUEENSLAND from MTA Queensland’s role trusted organisation, and that GRAPHICS, LOGOS as the voice for automotive reputation is reflected in its & POSTERS businesses. Its work championing members, who pledge to adhere the industry and advocating to a set of values that underpins on its behalf saw 17 submissions any enterprise that wishes to stand

MTA Queensland logo

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Professional Circle logo 8 | Motor Trader April 2022

MTA Queensland member graphic

The MTA Queensland brand can used on a member’s website and social media pages

DON’T GET TAKEN FOR A RIDE

DON’T GET CAUGHT

Always look for MTA Queensland members.

Always look for MTA Queensland members.

Trust the Motor Trades Professional Circle.

Trust the Motor Trades Professional Circle.

MEMBER

Consumer campaign posters

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MEMBER

MTA Q UE EN S LA N D

Queensland membership. And that means the public can trust they will not only receive the service they want and expect but know that there is the support of an organisation with nearly 100 years of leadership and experience behind any

M TA QU EE N S L A ND

the test of time and be successful.

Those values - be Honest, Professional, Transparent, Courteous, Integrous, Caring, Innovative, Proactive, Accountable, and Compliant - are words to live by for any business, and are central to MTA

MTA Queensland member swooper flags April 2022 Motor Trader | 9

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member business they use.

For an MTA Queensland member, it is a logical move to advertise their relationship with the Association and use that connection to its fullest extent.

And they are encouraged to do so. Using the MTA Queensland logo and branding, and making it a highly visible part of a business’s communication – especially with the public – is a sure-fire way of cementing its position as a reliable, ethical, and trustworthy enterprise.

From adding MTA Queensland’s logo to a website, email signature, business cards, online profiles, and social media pages, to installing signage, banners and flags, the ways of broadcasting a business’s affiliation with the Association are many, and MTA Queensland can help members achieve this broadening of their profile.

Logos and graphics can be accessed and 10 | Motor Trader April 2022

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downloaded from the member portal HERE, as can posters that remind the public that dealing with a member business means they ‘won’t get taken for a ride.’ Any assistance needed regarding how to incorporate those elements into websites and other platforms can be had by contacting MTA Queensland at info@mtaq.com.au.

And incorporating MTA Queensland as part of a member’s communication strategy does work.

For Peter Dever, owner of the Supamerc car dealership in Brisbane, and Chair of the Association’s Automotive Remarketing Division, advertising his business as a member of MTA Queensland has been a winner for years, and he uses relevant branding and graphics across his media outreach.

“We use it in all our online advertising

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153 Engine St, Motorville QLD 0407 845 523 info@bobsgaragemotorville.com www.bobsgaragemotorville.com

MTA Queensland branding can be used in an email signature (above) . . .

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MEMBER

MTA QUE EN SL AND

MTA QUE EN SL AND

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M TA Q UE EN S LA N D

M TA Q UE EN S LA N D

. . . and in a Facebook page header (above).

MTA Queensland member swooper flags April 2022 Motor Trader | 11

The Oldmac Toyota Springwood dealership in Brisbane has embraced the extra marketing power that comes with using the MTA Queensland message

– on Facebook and Carsales – and it’s on our own website and on our premises,” he said. “And customers absolutely do respond to seeing that we are members. I have sold vehicles to people who have specifically said that they had seen we are an MTA Queensland member and liked the fact they were dealing with someone who is professional.

“And in the age of the internet, that is important,” he added.

“The internet has turned every backyarder or private seller into a ‘car dealer’ because they can advertise their vehicle online with a multitude of photos. Putting the MTA Queensland logo in our messaging and stating that any customer will be dealing with an MTA Queensland member sets us apart.”

Peter is not alone. Many members display the MTA Queensland branding in their business in some form or another and say that it is a mark that gives confidence to their customers.

Now, more than ever perhaps, the relationship with MTA Queensland is one worth celebrating, said Rod Camm, MTA Queensland Group CEO. After COVID, the recent flooding disaster, and the rise of living expenses across the board, consumers ROD CAMM are more conscious of where their money is MTA QUEENSLAND GROUP CEO going than ever before.

“MTA Queensland members are they will look after you,” said committed to values and ethical Mr Camm. “And that is the message business, so we believe it is CLICK we will be pushing, so it just FOR MORE imperative that consumers know makes sense that the more visible INFORMATION a business’s membership is, the the difference. That is, only use OR ASSISTANCE easier it is for consumers to businesses you can trust – pick find them.” an MTA Queensland member and

“MTA QUEENSLAND MEMBERS ARE COMMITTED TO VALUES AND ETHICAL BUSINESS, SO WE BELIEVE IT IS IMPERATIVE THAT CONSUMERS KNOW THE DIFFERENCE. THAT IS, ONLY USE BUSINESSES YOU CAN TRUST – PICK AN MTA QUEENSLAND MEMBER AND THEY WILL LOOK AFTER YOU.”

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CONSUMERS LOOK FOR MTA QUEENSLAND MEMBERS Trust the Motor Trades Professional Circle.

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Can you afford to not be a member?

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Enquire 3237 8777 or info@mtaq.com.au

2022-23 FEDERAL BUDGET KEY INITIATIVES IMPACTING MTA QUEENSLAND MEMBERS AND THE MTA INSTITUTE BACKGROUND

The Australian Government announced the 2022-23 Budget on 29 March 2022 against a backdrop of a looming federal election (expected by May 2022) and rising cost-of-living concerns. The ‘headline’ economic indicators include a 2021-22 budget deficit of $79.8 billion (down 14 | Motor Trader April 2022

from the $98.9 billion estimate at the Mid-Year Economic and Fiscal Outlook in December 2021) and unemployment forecast to reach a near five-decade low of 3.75 per cent by the end of 2022.

The Budget contained several initiatives relevant to MTA Queensland members and the MTA Institute. Announced

ANNOUNCED PRIOR TO THE RELEASE OF THE BUDGET IS THE EXTENSION OF THE BOOSTING APPRENTICESHIP COMMENCEMENTS WAGE SUBSIDY PROGRAM TO JUNE 2022. prior to the release of the Budget is the extension of the Boosting Apprenticeship Commencements wage subsidy program to June 2022. New arrangements beyond that date were also outlined along with a commitment to increase training places through the National Skills Agreement with states and territories.

Speculation around a cut in the 44.2 cent/litre fuel excise in response to record high domestic fuel prices was confirmed with a 22.1 cent/litre cut for six months. Further elements of a costof-living package included an increase in the low and middle-income tax offset (up to $1,500) and a $250 payment to self-funded retirees, pensioners and others on benefits.

There was, however, no broader changes to the tax regime that currently impacts the automotive sector, such as the luxury car tax and import duties.

Nor were there any significant enhancements to skilled migration to address widespread skill shortages.

April 2022 Motor Trader | 15

ISSUES EXTENSION OF THE BOOSTING APPRENTICESHIP COMMENCEMENTS WAGE SUBSIDY The Boosting Apprenticeship Commencements (BAC) wage subsidy was introduced by the Australian Government in October 2020 as part of its COVID-19 recovery plan. It provides up to a 50 per cent wage subsidy for new or recommencing apprentices and trainees.

It was scheduled to finish in March 2022.

There is also a complementary Completing Apprenticeship Commencements (CAC) wage subsidy initiative that was introduced in October 2021.

Under the BAC extension, employers who engage a new apprentice or trainee up until 30 June 2022 will be eligible for a 12-month wage subsidy of 50 per cent (capped at $7,000 per quarter). They will also be eligible for the corresponding CAC wage subsidy for second (10 per cent wage subsidy capped at $1,500 per quarter) and third-year (5 per cent wage subsidy capped at $750 per quarter) apprentices and trainees engaged through the BAC initiative.

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SPECULATION AROUND A CUT IN THE 44.2 CENT/LITRE FUEL EXCISE IN RESPONSE TO RECORD HIGH DOMESTIC FUEL PRICES WAS CONFIRMED WITH A 22.1 CENT/LITRE CUT FOR SIX MONTHS. The Government estimates an additional 35,000 apprentices and trainees will be supported through the BAC extension at a cost of $365.3 million. With the extension of the CAC to June 2027, it is estimated the total cost of BAC and CAC will be $5.8 billion.

The initiative has contributed to MTA Institute apprentice commencements growing more than 50 per cent (to 1,549) in calendar year 2021. As a result of this growth there are now 2,265 apprentices and 74 trainees in training with MTA Institute, up some 12 per cent over the last 12 months.

This initiative is welcome given the significant skill shortages in the automotive industry that are estimated at more than 30,000 nationally, of which automotive technician and mechanic occupations are prominent.

AUSTRALIAN APPRENTICESHIPS INCENTIVE SYSTEM This new $2.4 billion initiative over five years will essentially replace the BAC and CAC from July 2022. Until June 2024, it will offer employer wage subsidies of 10 per cent for first and second-year apprentices and 5 per cent for third-year apprentices in priority occupations. Apprentices in priority occupations will be eligible for a $1,250 payment every six months over the first two years of their apprenticeship.

Employers of apprentices in non-priority occupations will be eligible for a $3,500 hiring incentive.

From July 2024, incentives will target priority occupations with a $4,000 employer incentive and up to $3,000 for apprentices.

EXTRA TRAINING PLACES The Budget includes a $3.7 billion commitment over five years to provide an additional 800,000 training places through the National Skills Agreement with states and territories. These places will, of course, be subject to agreements with the states and territories.

INCREASED TRAINING AND TECHNOLOGY TAX DEDUCTIONS Businesses with annual turnover of less than $50 million will be able to

claim a 120 per cent tax deduction for staff training provided by external Australian-registered providers, up from 100 per cent, through the Skills and Training Boost initiative. This initiative has an immediate start and runs until June 2024.

The Budget also provides, through a technology investment boost, a 120 per cent tax deduction (an additional 20 per cent deduction) for those businesses with less than a $50 million turnover for business expenses and depreciating assets that support their digital adoption, such as portable payment devices, cyber security systems or subscriptions to cloud-based services. This initiative, that commences immediately and runs until June 2023 only, has an annual expenditure cap of $100,000.

FUEL EXCISE CUT The 2022-23 Budget includes a sixmonth 22.1 cent/litre cut in the fuel excise to be implemented immediately with monitoring by the Australia Competition and Consumer Commission to ensure the cut is passed on to motorists. It is worth noting that due to existing holdings it may take several weeks for the cuts to pass to motorists.

April 2022 Motor Trader | 17

Stephanie Williams

HARD WORK AND DRIVE THE KEY TO SUCCESS FOR YOUNG AUTO WORKSHOP OWNER

B

ACK IN OCTOBER 2020, Stephanie Williams was a finalist for the prestigious MTA Queensland Apprentice of the Year Award. At the time, the then 21-year-old was a light vehicle apprentice at car and truck service provider CB Automotive in Yatala, near the Gold Coast, and was closing in on completing her training. As her appearance as an Apprentice of the Year finalist suggests, she was a standout student and employee, and someone who harboured a real passion for cars and the automotive industry.

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Fast forward to March 2022, and you’ll find Stephanie is as passionate as ever, perhaps even more so as the now 23-yearold has joined the ranks of industry business owners as the proprietor of Marsden Mechanical in Logan City, just south of Brisbane.

That is quite a change in circumstances for the young mechanic, and it was around the time of that Apprentice of the Year award announcement that the opportunity arose for Stephanie to purchase the small mechanical workshop. For the determined and confident soon-to-be-tradesperson,

“THE BUSINESS HAD BEEN HERE FOR 38 YEARS AND A FAMILY FRIEND OWNED IT, BUT HE WANTED TO RETIRE AND HE OFFERED IT TO ME FIRST. I THOUGHT, WHY NOT?” the opportunity to buy a long-established business with a solid reputation was one that may have come early but was too good to ignore.

“The business had been here for 38 years and a family friend owned it, but he wanted to retire and he offered it to me first,” said Stephanie. “I thought, why not? I had to finish off my apprenticeship, obviously, and it was the 13th of December 2020 when I actually purchased it.”

It has been a steep learning curve for Stephanie since then. There has been the COVID pandemic to contend with, of course, and, in recent weeks, the rainfall

that caused flooding across large swathes of southeast Queensland and northern NSW caused trouble in the Marsden area too. Thankfully, the workshop itself came through unscathed.

Worst of all, and very tragically, the previous owner passed away suddenly not long after Stephanie took over the business. That was a difficult time personally, but also meant Stephanie could not rely on his experience and knowledge, or his relationship with the local community, as she began her new role as a business owner.

Saying this first year has been a busy one would, then, be an understatement, and has been one that might have tested even the most grizzled industry veteran.

Running a workshop solo, working extremely long hours; combining the practical mechanical work while updating the shop and learning the art of running a business; repainting the shop; updating lighting and installing a new hoist and new April 2022 Motor Trader | 19

equipment; learning the ropes of ordering parts and scheduling jobs; understanding bookkeeping and insurance matters; setting-up new computer hardware and software systems; kicking social media into gear – Stephanie has managed to do all this successfully and today her passion and ambition burns as brightly as ever. In fact, there’s a smile on her face as she talks about being her own boss, about doing things her way, and what the future holds.

“It was a pretty hard decision to make to buy the business,” said Stephanie. “I had to drop getting a stable wage every week, and CB automotive is awesome and a great place to work. But I had to just dive in.

“The mechanical side of things has been the easy part. The rest of it has been the fun part,” she added. “I just went with what I thought and hoped for the best.”

While she has done almost everything on her own, Stephanie has had support from her dad, an auto-electrician, who has, she said, been dropping by after his own workday has finished and who also chips in at the weekend.

And it was from working with her dad as a youngster that Stephanie first got bitten by the automotive bug.

As she told Motor Trader in 2020 prior to the Apprentice of the Year event, Stephanie’s childhood was one during

which she spent many happy hours working with her dad on the cars and hot rods that were their shared passion.

“For many years, my dad owned his own business in Browns Plains and we were always tinkering on

“A FEW PEOPLE TOLD ME I WASN’T GOING TO BE ABLE TO DO IT, BUT MY ATTITUDE WAS THAT I WOULD PROVE EVERYBODY WRONG.” the cars he had at the house and on the hot rods that we built together,” she said at the time.

Those early days would lead to Stephanie’s first step into the automotive industry as a receptionist/service advisor at a large dealership operation before a move into the workshop as a light vehicle apprentice came at the beginning of 2018. A couple of years after that, Stephanie moved to CB Automotive to complete her apprenticeship.

As she noted in 2020, Stephanie had been determined to become a mechanic, even though there were those who

suggested it would be a tough road to negotiate for a young woman.

“A few people told me I wasn’t going to be able to do it, but my attitude was that I would prove everybody wrong,” she said.

Today, she is doing everything right to prove those people wrong and is winning

over those potential customers who still find it unusual for a woman to be hands-on in the workshop.

“People have been pretty good,” said Stephanie. “You still get old-school people who are set in their ways and let me know that I’m a young, female mechanic.

“And I do get people who walk in and ask me if they can ‘speak to the mechanic’. But I don’t take offence to any of it. I’ve dealt with that for a long time. I just ask people to give me a chance to prove myself to them. That’s all I can really ask for.

“And I now have a lot of repeat customers,” she added. “I don’t really advertise, so it’s all sort of come by word of mouth.”

With things now ticking along nicely, Stephanie is already looking to develop the business and grow to include another, “Ideally, I’d like to keep this shop because bigger workshop and move beyond the it does mean a lot to me,” she added. general servicing and mechanical work “I could use it as a base and do mainly she currently offers. On the cards is the servicing out of here, and then bigger jobs development of her own skills so that she could get sent over to the new shop.” can work in the performance upgrade side One thing Stephanie clearly does not of the mechanical sector as well as auto lack is ambition, and there would electrical. There’s also the potential be little doubt that, based on her CLICK TO of a future in which she can work achievements already, she’ll be VIEW THE professionally with her dad. a terrific ambassador for the MARSDEN MECHANICAL industry in the years to come.

“Dad and I work well together.

FACEBOOK PAGE The chance to own, grow and We are really close and we mesh develop her own business might really well,” she said. “And I would have come early, but it has been like to expand in the future and get an opportunity she has grasped with a couple more hoists and a bit more both hands. As the old saying goes, room. At some point, I’ll look at putting on ‘The harder I work, the more luck I have.’ an apprentice or bringing in an employee “It was a case of the right place the so I can step back a little bit and branch right time,” said Stephanie. out into auto electrical and learn more “I guess it was just meant to be.” about the performance side of things.

“AT SOME POINT, I’LL LOOK AT PUTTING ON AN APPRENTICE OR BRINGING IN AN EMPLOYEE . . . AND BRANCH OUT INTO AUTO ELECTRICAL AND LEARN MORE ABOUT THE PERFORMANCE SIDE OF THINGS.”

22 | Motor Trader April 2022

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FORMER MTA INSTITUTE STUDENT CLAIMS ULYSSES MOTORCYCLE CLUB NATIONAL AWARD

T

HE NATIONAL ULYSSES Motorcycle Apprentice of the Year award has returned after a one-year, COVID-related hiatus, and Bradley Thorley, a 24-year-old motorcycle mechanic with Mini Motor Service in Chinchilla, has been named as the latest winner of the prestigious accolade.

The award, presented by the Ulysses Motorcycle Club, was introduced in 2004 to ‘encourage and promote the youth in pursuing a career in the motorcycle industry’, and recognises the achievements of an outstanding motorcycle apprentice in the fourth year of their training.

Bradley actually completed his qualification with the MTA Institute in early 2021 but was included for

Bradley Thorley learned his trade at Mini Motor Service in Chinchilla, which offers a range of services from motorcycle sales to small and large engine repair

“BRAD REALLY DIDN’T DO ANYTHING EXTRA TO TRY AND WIN . . . HE JUST DID WHAT HE DOES, AND THAT IS TO WORK HARD. HE WAS ALWAYS ON TOP OF HIS WORK AND ALL HIS THEORY, AND HE JUST REALLY PUT HIS MIND TO IT.” consideration for this year’s award as a result of last year’s COVID pause. On the road to becoming the national winner, he also picked up the Ulysses Queensland/NT regional award.

To claim the top award, finalists must go through an interview process with a

Bradley Thorley, National Ulysses Motorcycle Apprentice of the Year winner, with Ulysses Club National President Henry Rokx (left) and National Committee member Robert Hunt (right)

Ulysses Club adjudicator who grills them slimmest of margins that separated with technical questions to determine him from his rivals. their knowledge and skills. Adjudicators “We had regional winners in then combine the finalists’ interview Queensland/NT, NSW/ACT, Victoria/ performance with other elements Tasmania, and South Australia/Western – including submissions from, and Australia, and I can tell you that it was conversations with, their employers and very tight, and the decision was difficult,” trainers – to whittle the shortlist down to said Mark. one winning name.

“I interviewed Brad’s employer and It’s a process that can take some time trainer, who gave him an excellent report, and when the phone call came to tell him while a colleague asked the technical he had been chosen as apprentice of the questions, and when we collated year, it was, said Bradley, a real shock. everything, it really came down “Disbelief. I just didn’t believe it to start to just one question! It was very close with,” he said. “I didn’t hear from them we had some really excellent candidates for a while, and I sort of assumed I didn’t from across the country.” get anywhere. Then I got the call, and it Bradley was guided through his was a complete surprise. A great surprise apprenticeship by experienced MTA though!”

Institute trainer Zak Zuiderduin, who was According to Ulysses Club clear in his assessment that Bradley adjudicator and automotive trainer was a worthy winner.

CLICK TO VISIT THE Mark Paynter it was a year of “He’s one of those guys that is ULYSSES CLUB WEBSITE extremely strong finalists, and passionate about the trade and while Bradley was an outstanding always goes the extra mile to make and deserving winner, it was the sure things are done properly,” said April 2022 Motor Trader | 25

“TO TAKE OUT THE QUEENSLAND/ NT REGIONAL AWARD AND THEN THE NATIONAL AWARD IS HUGE. WE HAVE HAD PEOPLE COMING INTO THE SHOP TO CONGRATULATE HIM, AND THE GENERAL CONGRATULATIONS FROM THE COMMUNITY HAS BEEN REALLY NICE.”

Zak. “His study and research skills are also at the highest level, and he has a natural ability when it comes to attending to customers as well as working with other staff. This is very well deserved.”

A long-time motorcycle enthusiast who started riding while at high school, Bradley set his sights early on becoming a motorcycle mechanic and got a spot on the team at Mini Motor Service some six years ago. As well as services for motorcycles, the business offers sales, parts and services for small engines, and Bradley initially completed recognised for his consistently excellent an apprenticeship in Outdoor Power performance as an apprentice.

Equipment. That was, he said, very useful “Brad really didn’t do anything extra for his subsequent motorcycle training. to try and win,” said Steven. “He just did “I always wanted to do the motorcycle trade but training on small motors did give what he does, and that is to work hard. He was always on top of his work and all his me more of an understanding of things, theory, and he just really put his mind to it. and we do everything here - from mowers “To take out the Queensland/NT to chainsaws,” said Bradley. “Now, I work regional award and then the national across all of that, including managing the award is huge. We have had people coming workshop, so it has worked out well.” into the shop to congratulate him, and Mini Motors has been servicing the the general congratulations from the Chinchilla community for more than community has been really nice.”

50 years, the past 18 of those under Mini Motor Service is clearly a good the guidance of owner Steven CLICK TO VISIT THE Hammermeister. It was great, place to learn the motorcycle and MINI MOTOR SERVICE said Steven, to see Bradley small motors trades, and amongst WEBSITE 26 | Motor Trader April 2022

the six staff currently in the workshop there are two apprentices – a mature-aged apprentice and a young female schoolbased apprentice – with another schoolbased apprentice soon to start.

“It’s all happening,” said Steven.

“It’s a fun shop, we are pretty diverse, and we try and laugh a little bit as we work.”

For Bradley, the end of his Ulysses award award journey came at the beginning of April when he was presented with a trophy and other prizes by the Club at its national rally in Warwick.

Beyond the prizes, however, is the knowledge that not only has he has been recognised for the hard work it takes to successfully complete an apprenticeship, but that the Ulysses Motorcycle Apprentice of the Year is well regarded in the industry and will be a looked upon favourably as his career progresses.

“It is a great to have the feeling of being appreciated, and I know that this is a great opportunity that I have been given,”

Mini Motor Service owner, Steven Hammermeister, with Bradley Thorley

said Bradley. “I am very grateful to have been given it.”

Mini Motor Service is currently up for sale.

The business has been a fixture of the Chinchilla community since the 1960s and if you are interested in finding out more, contact Steven or Dianne Hammermeister. See more information below.

FOR SALE

Mini Motor, Chinchilla Workshop/Service Centre

• Small Engine: Outdoor power equipment - domestic & commercial.

• Larger Engine: Motorbikes, Side-by-Side, Quad Bikes, and Mowers.

Retail: CLICK TO VISIT THE MINI MOTOR WEBSITE

• Small Engine: Outdoor power equipment - domestic & commercial.

• Larger Engine: Motorbikes, Side-by-Side, and Mowers.

• Dealer for Honda and Stihl.

Parts & Accessories:

• Parts for small and large engines and equipment.

• Motorbike clothing, helmets, and accessories.

• Scooters.

A family business established in the early 1960s, Mini Motor has been run by the current owner for the past 18 years. Located in a prominent, highway location, the business has experienced real growth over the last 3 years, with buy-local activity, interest in side-by-sides, and servicing of quad bikes showing solid increases. Further opportunites to improve on current revenue streams exist through other avenues.

Three qualified tradesmen, three apprentices, a spare parts interpreter, and an administration trainee will enable a fully operational business to be handed over to the new owner without interruption.

For more information, contact Dianne or Steve Hammermeister on

(07) 4662 7448

Caption to go here

MTA INSTITUTE LAUNCHES

28 | Motor Trader April 2022

T

HE AUTOMOTIVE INDUSTRY across Australia is facing a skills and labour shortage. Anyone currently running an automotive business, in just about any sector, who has tried to recruit and retain skilled employees is almost certain to know this. And their experience is reflected in the reports and surveys completed by various national automotive groups and organisations.

For example, in Capricorn’s 2021 State of the Nation report – a survey of more than 2000 of that organisation’s members – ‘lack of qualified staff ’ was listed as the top challenge for the industry overall, and 53 per cent of respondents said they were ‘very or extremely concerned’ about the skills shortage.

According to the Motor Trades Association of Australia’s (MTAA) Directions in Australia’s Automotive Industry report 2021, the percentage of automotive businesses in Queensland experiencing a skill shortage runs at 56.8 per cent. It adds that there is ‘an estimated deficit of 31,143 skilled positions within the automotive industry nationally. This represents the highest level of skill shortages ever recorded for the industry.’

Of those 31,143 skilled positions,

Matt Traynor is leading the MTA Institute International Training program

demand is highest for light vehicle mechanics (17,509 positions) and heavy vehicle mechanics (2,711 positions).

The MTAA’s report goes even further, saying that ‘key observation from the data

Experienced trainer and Senior Business Development Manager Anthony Bonaccorso has been instrumental in developing the International Training program

April 2022 Motor Trader | 29

is that it is not just the supply of skilled labour that is in deficit, but also the quality of the skills base which has atrophied according to many employers. For example, even amongst applicants that present as qualified technicians, employers are witnessing a poor level of diagnostic technical and fault-finding capability, electrical knowledge, as well as practical experience across different vehicle marques.’

What can be done about this shortage of skilled workers? Employers should be applauded for the significant increase in employing apprentices. Inspiring more young people to consider the automotive trades as career options is clearly one solution. Encouraging women – who comprise around 50 per cent of Australia’s population but who make up a tiny percentage of hands-on, in-the-workshop, tradespeople – into the trades is another.

A third would be to take advantage of the interest from overseas students who are keen to be trained to Australian industry standards.

With almost all COVID-19 restrictions now lifted and international travel unrestrained for those who are fully vaccinated, the opportunity is now open for students to come to Australia.

With the skills shortages front of mind, MTA Institute is offering students that chance through the creation of a new international training program.

The division will be led by Matt Traynor, a 30-year veteran of the employment and training sector who has held senior 30 | Motor Trader April 2022

“THE AUTOMOTIVE SECTOR HAS MASSIVE SKILLS AND LABOUR SHORTAGES AND WHATEVER WE DO WHETHER IT’S SKILLED MIGRATION OR DEVELOPING INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS OR DELIVERING MICRO-CREDENTIALS - IT ALL LEADS TOWARDS ADDRESSING THAT PROBLEM.” positions at educational and training organisations including TAFE, the Australian Industry Group, and ITECA (Independent Tertiary Education Council Australia) when it was known under its former name of ACPET (Australian Council for Private Education and Training).

“The automotive sector has massive skills and labour shortages, and whatever we do - whether it’s skilled migration or developing international students or delivering micro-credentials - it all leads towards addressing that problem. Because that is the burning issue.”

The international student program is, said Matt, a longer-term solution, and two nationally accredited and CRICOS registered courses will be offered initially – 103636G | AUR30620 Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical

Technology and 091674D | AUR40216 Certificate IV in Automotive Mechanical Diagnosis.

International students will travel to Australia to study at the MTA Institute’s workshop facility in Brisbane, and training for the dual qualification will take place over two years and will include more than 400 hours of hands-on learning through work experience placement with an industry employer (or employers).

This period of theoretical learning, work experience, and institution-based training is designed to give the students the tools to step into a workshop environment as full and productive employees and, with additional guidance and instruction from their employer, enable them to develop further to the point that they can receive recognition of prior learning and receive their full tradesperson ticket.

With work placement a critical part of the program, the students’ week is designed specifically to give them real-world experience – a boon to workshops looking for enthusiastic and ambitious staff.

“The structure of the student week is that for three days they will be training here at the MTA Institute. They will also have one day work placement, and one free day,” said Matt. “They can do as they wish on the free day though we would like to think that the business at which they are doing their work placement could take them on for that day or even more.”

Careful monitoring of a student’s progress will be done to ensure that

they are working to their abilities and knowledge, learning as they go and being productive to the business at which they are doing their work placement.

“As the students move through the modules and their time with us here, we’ll be talking to employers to let them know they are at a particular part of their training and should be competent and be able to do certain types of work safely and productively,” said Matt. “Part of our oversight is to make sure we match students and workplaces together well, and ensure employers are realistic about their expectations of the students capabilities and how it relates to their training.

“The weeks of training they must do and the amount of placement hours incorporated into the program means the students will, with the support of an employer and with outcomes successfully achieved along the way, have a variety of pathways open to them. If they remain working in the industry for maybe 2-3 years more, and have employer endorsement, they can then move on to trade recognition and become a mechanical tradesperson.”

And here lies the ultimate goal for the International Training Services team and for the MTA Institute – to deliver worldclass training and develop the talent to meet the skills and labour needs of MTA Queensland members and the wider industry.

“The quality of our work-integrated learning approach is an absolute priority,” said Matt. “These are the members we’re representing and looking after, so we’ve got to get it right. And it’s got to leap beyond just the training. It’s got to be an employment solution.”

The program will initially be aimed at students from the ASEAN, Indian, Nepalese and Korean markets and in July, the first group will make their way to Brisbane to begin their training journey.

April 2022 Motor Trader | 31

Thanks to a network of specialist And we should be excited about exploring electric vehicles and bikes, and how we can agents working on MTA Queensland’s position ourselves internationally for that.” behalf, students targeted will be those The International Training Program who truly desire to become automotive marks another step taken by MTA tradespeople.

Queensland, and the MTA Institute, Support for them will be extensive. to provide its members, and the wider While a good understanding of English is industry, with progressive, innovative a prerequisite for accessing the program, training, upskilling, and employment language training will be provided. Preoptions for their staff and their businesses. arrival information will include clear The range of apprenticeship, preadvice for students on how to prepare for apprenticeship, traineeship, licensing, their studies abroad, and a handbook will cover all the information regarding student and industry training courses is comprehensive, and the past two years attendance, monitoring and progression, has seen the introduction of a suite of and other related policies. Advice on micro-credential courses; short courses banking, healthcare, accommodation, and on Advanced Driver Assistance Systems all those other living necessities will be available, and the MTA Institute will hold many social and networking events to help students integrate into the Australian way of life and be introduced to employers and relevant organisations.

“We are committed to providing student pastoral care whatever it may be,” said Matt.

This support structure is not just for (in partnerships with ADAS Solutions students. Critical to the program’s success Australia) and Diesel Diagnostics (in are employers, and the MTA Institute partnership with Diesel Help Australia); as will make it simple for businesses to well as the Auto Ready course designed to be part of it. The Association will offer provide school-age students with a basic student profiles that outline the skills introduction to the automotive industry. they have acquired, connect employers Soon, the MTA Institute will look to with students for vocational placements, offer the new AUR32721 Certificate III in conduct webinars for members to gain Automotive Electric Vehicle Technology. an understanding of work visas, and “We are committed to meeting the skills will always be contactable and ready to demands of our members,” said Rod Camm, provide ongoing advice to members who MTA Queensland Group CEO. “It is fantastic have elected to be part of the program. how they have committed to a substantial While the first intake of overseas increase in apprenticeship intakes, however, students is scheduled to arrive and begin that process takes time. We are also aware training in July, additional intakes will that in addition to technicians there is a coincide with the four school terms real demand for aftermarket fitters and the scheduled each year (those terms begin in like. We have commenced our international January, April, July, and October). training program as a part of that strategy.

“Whatever we do has to start with Again, this will take time, but we need to acknowledging the skills and labour CLICK build the skills needed for the future.”

FOR MORE void,” said Matt. “For smash repair, INFORMATION ON Click HERE To find out more about MTA spray painters and those sorts of INTERNATIONAL TRAINING areas, this model could also apply.

Queensland’s International Training program.

“THE WE ARE COMMITTED TO MEETING THE SKILLS DEMANDS OF OUR MEMBERS.”

32 | Motor Trader April 2022

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The team at Marks Mechanics. From left to right: Rodney Brander, Adrian Ries, Christopher Eathorne, Mark Billingsley, Greg McDonald, and Damian McDonald

MTA |Q&A MTA Queensland members are often known for their generosity. While many members give their time, resources and cash to support the community, Mark Billingsley of Marks Mechanics in Townsville is the first member we have met who is giving his business away. Mark, who is also a member of the MTA Queensland Board, took a moment to tell Motor Trader all about his business and his remarkable plan.

WORDS: LARA WILDE PICTURES: JESSE DONOGHOE, SWEET SPOT PHOTOGRAPHY 34 | Motor Trader April 2022

Owner of Marks Mechanics, Mark Billingsley

Marks Mechanics is a well-known business in the automotive industry. Tell us a little bit about the business to date.

MB: My wife Annette and I opened the

doors in 1991. Our focus is on servicing and maintaining late model vehicles. We take care of logbook servicing, warranty work, and our close proximity to the Department of Transport means that we see a lot of cars coming in for last minute repairs to pass roadworthy assessments.

Our customers bring in passenger cars and light four-wheel-drives and we also have a great relationship with Defence Force military personnel and Government employees. We work hard to create a culture that delivers a friendly, trustworthy service centre. Due to our relationship with Repco, our customers have a nationwide warranty.

What is your background in the automotive industry?

MB: I was a RAAF kid born in Wagga Wagga, NSW. I completed my trade as a motor mechanic and as a diesel mechanic before going on to work for Holden and Toyota. I managed a mechanic shop for about 3 years before choosing to become my own boss and open my own shop.

Are you still hands-on in the business today?

MB: Very much so, although I only step in on

the tools when I am needed. My focus is as a supervisor and manager, mentoring and training staff. I also provide support and business consultation through the Repco network to mechanic shops across Australia.

What advice would you give to a young Mark starting out in the industry?

MB: Two bits of advice come to mind.

The first is to embrace technology and April 2022 Motor Trader | 35

MTA | Q&A invest in the best scan tool you can afford.

Technology and the right tools can make your life much, much easier. The second is to network as much as possible. The more people you know and the more people who know you, the further you will go.

facilitated by Repco and MTA Queensland when it is in the Townsville area. We find that face-to-face training is always much better than virtual training.

Who is in the current Marks Mechanics team?

MB: Greg McDonald is my manager. We

word of mouth is very useful, particularly with Defence Force military personnel and Government employees as their communities are fairly tight knit. We support the Starlight Foundation and have done so for more than 10 years. It is a great cause and we like to give back to our community when we can. As part of the Repco network, we advertise nationally and heavily support their campaigns. We have a very active Facebook Page.

have worked together for more than 22 years. Greg finished his apprenticeship under me, and he has been a good friend and colleague for more than two decades.

Greg’s son Damien is a mechanic at the shop, as is Rod Brander and Adrian Ries. Chris Eathorne is our apprentice mechanic. I like to take on apprentices at the shop and at one point we had three apprentices on the tools.

How do you play a role in the professional development of your team?

MB: Greg and I monitor the staff closely

to assess the training needs of each individual. We have staff attend training

What is your marketing strategy?

MB: Townsville isn’t a huge town and so

How much value do you place on social media for your business?

MB: We place a huge amount of value on social media as more and more people turn to Facebook and Google to check up on their options for car maintenance and

repairs. We encourage our customers to do their research not just on their car but also on the workshops they are considering going to. Google is excellent for reviews, and we prompt our happy customers to go on Google and leave a review for us.

What do you see as the greatest advancement in technology for you and your business?

MB: Without a doubt it is the scan tools and the ability to instantly access information on the internet. This means we can

efficiently and effectively diagnose an issue and order the specific parts required, saving us and the customer time and money.

Do you consider that the advancements in electric vehicles will have an impact on your business?

MB: We love electric vehicles. They are the

future and we are preparing for them to have a massive impact on our business.

There is not a lot of face-to-face training for electric vehicles available in Townsville, but we embrace every opportunity we can to

learn more. I look forward to seeing more electric vehicles as I know we need to look after the planet.

What else do you do to look after the planet through your business?

MB: Six years ago, I made the Marks

Mechanic workshop completely solar powered. The solar panels are good for the planet and they have made the shed much cooler by shading it during the day. We also place a heavy focus on recycling in the workshop. From office supplies to workshop consumables, we recycle, reduce and reuse whenever possible.

What has been the greatest benefit of your MTA Queensland membership?

MB: We joined MTA Queensland about

ride my 2015 Indian Chief whenever I can. I also love traveling and taking in more of the world. Annette and I take every opportunity to travel and explore Australia, America and Europe.

Covid must have put a dampener on your love for travel. What are your plans for the next few years now that Covid travel restrictions have eased?

MB: I am ready to retire. Annette and I are

5 years ago. I appreciate the strength and unity that being a member gives me.

It is great to have the industry specific going to travel and ride motorcycles and expertise available especially for enjoy the world. I am going to give advice on topics such as human CLICK the business to Greg to run as his resources and legal matters.

TO VISIT own. Greg has been with me for THE MARKS MECHANICS more than two decades and he What do you do with your spare time?

WEBSITE has built this business with me. It MB: I have a 2015 Chrysler 300c is only right that he should own it as my daily driver, but my true now that I am stepping down. passion is motorcycles. I love to 38 | Motor Trader April 2022

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Auto innovation news

QUEENSLAND GOV’T OFFERING INCENTIVES TO SUPERCHARGE EV UPTAKE

T

HE QUEENSLAND GOVERNMENT has announced a $55 million package to encourage the uptake of clean energy transport.

The package includes $45 million for $3000 incentives for electric vehicle (EV) purchases, and $10 million for charging infrastructure.

Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk made the announcement while releasing the new EV strategy Queensland Zero Emission Vehicle Strategy 2022-2032 which is designed to help drive the state’s commitment to reach net-zero by 2050.

“We are going to make the cost of buying electric cars just that little bit cheaper,” the Premier said.

“My government will provide a $3,000 subsidy for anyone buying an electric vehicle to the value of $58,000.”

Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey said this is an important step towards making Queensland a global leader in the world’s lowemissions future and becoming a renewable energy superpower.

“We were the first Australian state to develop an EV strategy, and now we are once again leading the way with Queensland’s Zero Emission Vehicle Strategy 2022-2032,” he said.

“This will see Queenslanders get money back for switching to electric vehicles, and the Palaszczuk Government 40 | Motor Trader April 2022

build more charging infrastructure across the Sunshine State.

“We revolutionised electric vehicle travel through the Queensland Electric Super Highway, which is currently being expanded to almost 3800km, and now Queenslanders will have even more charging stations to use.

“Not only does this encourage people to buy electric vehicles, it gives the automotive industry confidence to set up shop in Queensland.

“This strategy signals a fundamental shift in our transport system.”

The $3000 subsidy is available for 15,000 new vehicles and the price cap of $58,000 means eligible vehicles will include the Hyundai Ioniq and some Kona models, Nissan’s Leaf, MG’s ZS Essence, the Mini Cooper SE and the BYD Atto 3. The bigselling Tesla Model 3, which now starts at $63,900, will not be eligible. Plug-in Hybrid electric vehicles are not eligible for the subsidy.

According to the Queensland Government, the average Queenslander drives 13,400km annually and spends approximately $1,900 on fuel each year (at $1.90 per litre). A zero-emission vehicle travelling the same distance would cost around $502 annually in electricity costs, or charging could be free if home charging

“WE WERE THE FIRST AUSTRALIAN STATE TO DEVELOP AN EV STRATEGY, AND NOW WE ARE ONCE AGAIN LEADING THE WAY WITH QUEENSLAND’S ZERO EMISSION VEHICLE STRATEGY 2022-2032.” through solar panels (depending on weather and solar system capacity).

Victoria, NSW, South Australia, the ACT, and the Northern Territory, have all either introduced financial incentives for EV buyers, or are about to, though South Australia, Victoria, and NSW have also introduced (or will introduce when EV sales have reached a certain point) roaduser charges for EV owners - something that the Queensland Government has, so

far, refused to consider.

The EV subsidy, which was announced prior to the federal budget when petrol prices had risen to more than $2 per litre, was met with support from across automotive industry groups, including MTA Queensland.

“The government should be applauded for this initiative to bring Queensland in line with other States,” said Rod Camm, CEO of MTA Queensland. “It is obviously very important to get the price down on EVs to make them more affordable for consumers, and there’s no point even considering a road-user tax until you’ve got a lot of EVs on the road.

“With the price of petrol over $2 per litre, it is also the perfect time to make this announcement as the hurt is real for many Queenslanders.”

April 2022 Motor Trader | 41

Auto innovation news

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VIEW PAST ISSUES OF MOTOR TRADER MAGAZINE AT WWW.MTAQ.COM.AU/PUBLICATIONS

42 | Motor Trader April 2022 CLICK HERE TO ACCESS PAST ISSUES OF MOTOR TRADER

GM AND HONDA TO WORK ON DEVELOPMENT OF MORE AFFORDABLE ELECTRIC VEHICLES

G

ENERAL MOTORS (GM) and Honda have announced plans to work together on the development of a series of affordable electric vehicles based on a new global architecture using GM’s Ultium battery technology.

The companies say they are working together to ‘enable global production of millions of EVs starting in 2027, including compact crossover vehicles, leveraging the two companies’ technology, design and sourcing strategies.’

The companies say they will also work toward standardising equipment and processes and will look at further EV battery technology collaboration opportunities to reduce the cost of electrification, improve performance and sustainability.

GM and Honda have worked closely over many years. In 2013, they began collaborating on the development of a next-generation fuel cell system and hydrogen storage technologies. In 2018, Honda joined GM’s EV battery module development efforts. In 2020, they announced plans to co-develop two EVs, including the Honda Prologue, to be launched in early 2024. The companies also have an ongoing relationship with autonomous vehicle developer Cruise – a

subsidiary of GM in which Honda invested $US750 million in 2018 and committed much more for future development - and are working together on the Cruise Origin, a fully autonomous vehicle designed for driverless ride-hail and delivery.

Both GM and Honda (as are many major automotive players) are currently working on solid-state batteries - technology that allows for the creation of smaller, lighter, battery packs with a higher energy density than lithium-ion batteries.

GM is also researching other battery technologies, along with production methods that can quickly be used to improve and update battery cell manufacturing processes. Honda says it is making progress on its all-solid-state battery technology which the company sees as the core element of future EVs. April 2022 Motor Trader | 43

Auto innovation news

AUSTRALIA’S FIRST HYDROGEN-FUELLED GARBAGE TRUCK TO BE TRIALLED IN QUEENSLAND A mock-up of the trial truck

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USTRALIAN CLEAN ENERGY company Pure Hydrogen has partnered with waste collection provider JJ’s Waste to build Australia’s first hydrogen fuelled garbage truck.

Pure Hydrogen will supply JJ’s Waste with a Hydrogen Fuel Cell Side-Lift RCV Truck and also supply Emerald Hydrogen – hydrogen produced from waste that would otherwise go to landfills -via its refuelling service.

The companies will undertake a trial program later this year with the first truck to be based on the Gold Coast.

JJ’s Waste has more than 2,000 trucks in its fleet and if the trial is successful, there is potential for further hydrogen fuelled trucks to be transitioned into the company’s fleet.

“Vehicle technology is rapidly changing, and we want to be able to offer our council

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customers the latest in environmentally friendly vehicle options whilst ensuring maximum safety and reliability for our drivers and the public,” said Owen Burton, National Fleet Manager for JJ’s Waste.

“JJ’s Waste feel it is important to assist in the development of these technologies by partnering with companies such as Pure Hydrogen to conduct vehicle trials and we look forward to seeing the results later this year.”

The supply of affordable Hydrogen and Hydrogen fuel cell-powered heavy commercial vehicles is a potential game changer for the Australian trucking industry. They are cleaner and quieter, and given the volatile price of fuel, represent a real economic alternative.

“We are delighted to be partnering with JJ’s Waste to build Australia’s first ever Hydrogen fuelled garbage truck,” said Scott Brown, Managing Director of Pure Hydrogen.

“We believe this is the start of a new era for heavy commercial vehicles in Australia which will not only reduce and fix fuel costs but be cleaner and greener for the Australian environment. It will also reduce our reliance on imported diesel by replacing it with Hydrogen made in Australia. We see the business case for converting garbage trucks to Hydrogen Fuel Cell Trucks as very compelling and we are confident this trial will be a great success.”

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Auto innovation news

JAGUAR TO USE I-PACE BATTERIES TO POWER ZERO-EMISSION ENERGY STORAGE UNIT

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AGUAR IS MOVING into the energy storage business and, via the same project, the business of recycling/reusing electric vehicle (EV) batteries.

The British luxury car manufacturer, which announced in 2021 that it would be an all-electric carmaker by 2025, is teaming up with Italian company Pramac – which, amongst many other areas, works in the energy generation sector – to develop a zero-emission energy storage unit powered by second-life Jaguar I-PACE batteries, taken from prototype and engineering test vehicles.

Called the Off Grid Battery Energy Storage System (ESS), Pramac’s technology – which features lithium-ion cells from one-and-a-half, second-life Jaguar I-PACE batteries – supplies zero-emission power where access to the mains supply is limited or unavailable. The Jaguar I-Pace is fitted with a 90kWh lithium-ion battery.

The technology was showcased when used to assist Jaguar TCS Racing to prepare for the 2022 ABB FIA Formula E World Championship, where it was used to run the team’s diagnostic equipment to analyse the race cars’ track performance, and to supply auxiliary power to the 46 | Motor Trader April 2022

Jaguar pit garage.

The flagship ESS system has a capacity of up to 125kWh – which is enough power, Jaguar claims, to fully charge the company’s I-PACE performance SUV, or to power a regular family home for a week.

Charged from solar panels, the unit consists of a battery system linked to a bi-directional converter and the associated control management systems. Available for commercial hire, the units are fitted with Type 2 Electric Vehicle charge connections with dynamic control, and rated at up to 22kW AC to allow EV charging.

Jaguar says the I-PACE battery is perfect for second-life, and even third-life, applications in low-energy situations once battery health falls below the requirements of an electric vehicle. Once the battery does finally come to the end of its usable life, it is also 95 per cent recyclable.

RTO No: 31529

NEW GOVE LIMITED P RNMENT FUND LACES APP ING LY NOW

Right training.

Right place.

Right way.

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Get Your Trade Skills Recognised Do you have trade skills and experience but no formal qualification?

Trade Recognition Trade Recognition is the process of having your skills and work experience formally assessed against industry and educational requirements for the purpose of gaining a formal trade qualification.

MTA Institute offers a Government Subsidised Trade Skills Assessment and Gap Training Program for the following qualifications: • AUR30316 – Certificate III in Automotive Electrical Technology • AUR30416 – Certificate III in Agricultural Mechanical Technology • AUR30616 – Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology • AUR30716 – Certificate III in Outdoor Power Equipment • AUR30816 – Certificate III in Motorcycle Mechanical Technology • AUR31016 – Certificate III in Automotive Sales (Parts Interpreting) • AUR31116 – Certificate III in Heavy Commercial Vehicle Mechanical Technology • AUR31216 – Certificate III in Mobile Plant Technology

• AUR32116 – Certificate III in Automotive Body Repair Technology • AUR32416 – Certificate III in Automotive Refinishing Technology • AUR32518 – Certificate III in Automotive Underbody Technology

Eligibility Applicants must meet the following eligibility criteria: i) Aged 21 years or over ii) Have not completed a trade qualification in the same industry area iii) Permanently reside in Queensland iv) Be an Australian or New Zealand citizen, or hold an eligible visa as identified by the Department of Employment, Small Business and Training; or v) Meet any additional eligibility requirements identified through this Initiative and: a. Individuals assessed as demonstrating substantial competency in a prospective trade qualification, who require gap training in no more than 40% of the funded competencies of that Priority Trade Qualification; and b. Express a commitment to gain the entire qualification.

Fee information This program is mostly subsidised by the Queensland Government; however, mandatory student co-contribution fees are applicable for all units requiring gap training.

Course length The course duration will depend upon individual circumstances and the amount of gap training required.

The duration and applicable fees will be advised upon a successful application.

Enrol Training and assessment can be arranged at either MTA Institute’s premises or an approved automotive workplace.

Please refer to www.mtai.edu.au for full details or for further information contact one of our friendly team members using the contact details below.

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Auto innovation news

FORD STEPS UP PLANS FOR ALL-ELECTRIC FUTURE IN EUROPE

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FTER RECENTLY ANNOUNCING it would create a separate electric vehicle division called Ford Model e, Ford is continuing its drive to an allelectric future in Europe, announcing in March that it will offer a new generation of seven, all-electric, fully connected vehicles by 2024. The three new passenger vehicles and four new commercial vehicles will join the already launched Mustang Mach-E and soon-to-be-launched E-Transit van.

Starting in 2023, Ford will begin production in Cologne, Germany, of a new electric passenger vehicle - a five-seat, medium-sized crossover - with a second electric vehicle - a sports crossover - to be added to the Cologne production line-up in 2024. The company’s top-selling passenger vehicle in Europe, the Ford Puma, will also be available as an electric version from 2024, with production to be located at the company’s facility in Craiova, Romania.

Ford’s Transit commercial van range will include four new electric models – the Transit Custom one-tonne van and Tourneo Custom multi-purpose vehicle 48 | Motor Trader April 2022

in 2023, and the smaller, next-gen Transit Courier van and Tourneo Courier multipurpose vehicle in 2024.

With this range of electric models, Ford expects its annual sales of EVs in Europe to exceed 600,000 units in 2026.

Ford’s Cologne Electrification Centre will be a hub of production. Investment in the new vehicles to be built at the site is expected to be $2 billion ($AU2.7 billion) and will include investment in a new battery assembly facility.

Ford’s manufacturing plant in Romania, where the Puma will be built, will also be home to the new Transit Courier and Tourneo Courier.

To support its electrification plans, Ford - along with South Korea’s SK On Co., Ltd. and Turkey’s Koç Holding - are planning a new joint venture, with the partners to create one of the largest EV battery facilities in the region, to be located near Ankara in Turkey.

The site will manufacture high Nickel NMC cells, and production is intended to start by the middle of the decade with annual capacity to be in the range of 30 to 45 Gigawatt hours.

MTAQ MEMBER SIGNAGE MTA Queensland has developed a series of posters that can be downloaded free of charge for members only. These are signs commonly asked for, and used, in workshops.

R E PA I R N OT I C E

R E PA I R N OT I C E

R E PA I R N OT I C E

WARNING

RIGHT TO RETAIN

QUALIFIED/TRAINED TECHNICIAN

No admittance into the workshop – Staff Only.

We reserve the right to retain your vehicle until payment is made in full.

A LWAY S C H O O S E A N M TA Q U E E N S L A N D MEMBER

A LWAY S C H O O S E A N M TA Q U E E N S L A N D MEMBER

This automotive business guarantees only qualified and trained technicians will be working on your vehicle.

A LWAY S C H O O S E A N M TA Q U E E N S L A N D MEMBER

R E PA I R N OT I C E

R E PA I R N OT I C E

CUSTOMERS RIGHT TO CHOOSE A REPAIRER

CUSTOMER SUPPLIED PARTS

Please note that you, as a consumer, have the legal right to choose who repairs your vehicle.

This automotive business will not install customer supplied parts because it cannot warrant or guarantee the quality, fitment and/ or the intended outcome of fitting these parts.

Independent repairers can complete log book servicing on your vehicle, even while it is under the warranty period, without affecting the manufacturer’s warranty.

A LWAY S C H O O S E A N M TA Q U E E N S L A N D MEMBER

This business is willing and able to diagnose and assess the vehicle’s problem and supply you with competitively priced, high quality parts in order to fix your vehicle.

This will ensure you are provided with all of the warranties and guarantees in accordance with the Australian Consumer Law. A LWAY S C H O O S E A N M TA Q U E E N S L A N D MEMBER

CLICK HERE TO SIGN-IN OR REGISTER FOR ACCESS TO MEMBER SIGNAGE

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We hope to build a library of commonly needed signs, so please contact info@mtaq.com.au if you have suggestions.

Auto innovation news

HANKOOK AND GOODYEAR REVEAL NEW TYRES FOR ELECTRIC VEHICLES

Hankook Ventus iON S

Hankook Winter i*cept iON

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HILE MUCH OF the talk around the automotive sector focuses on the new, technologically advanced all-electric vehicles (EV) that will soon become a common feature on our roads, the tyres upon which these vehicles ride are advancing at a pace too. The extra weight of EVs, the extra torque they have on tap, and the absence of a noisy combustion engine, means tyre manufacturers are developing new products designed to cope with these new variables.

And that is important, as while the hype

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surrounds the EVs, the clever gadgetry in them, and their often astounding performance, it is easy to forget just how important are the tyres upon which they sit. Those tyres are, after all, the only bit of the vehicle that actually contacts the road surface and they really must be able to cope with the demands that EVs ask of them.

All the major manufacturers have developed, and continue to develop, tyres specifically for electric vehicles, and last month, two of those majors – Hankook and Goodyear – revealed new tyres with EVs in mind.

Korean tyre maker Hankook announced that later this year it is set to launch iON, its first family of tyres specially designed for EVs. Market launch for the range is set for Europe in May, and iON tyres will initially be available in three designs in sizes between 18 and 22 inches. The company says that characteristics of the new tyre include further reduced rolling resistance, notably lower rolling-noise characteristics, higher load capacity (to cater for the extra weight of an EV’s batteries), high resilience, and a design using ultra-resistant aramid fibres tailored to counteract the deformation forces caused by the high torque produced by electric vehicles. All of this should mean more range per battery charge and a better driving experience.

From May, the Ventus iON S summer tyre pattern will be available, and from

“WITH THE INTRODUCTION OF THIS NEW ION TYRE FAMILY, OUR COMPANY IS INCREASINGLY ACKNOWLEDGING THE RAPID GROWTH IN DEMAND FOR ELECTRIC VEHICLES . . .

September 2022 ( for the Northern Hemisphere winter) so will be the Winter i*cept iON. The Ventus iON A tyre will be available as an all-season version for the North American market.

“With the introduction of this new iON tyre family, our company is increasingly acknowledging the rapid growth in demand for electric vehicles and the associated need for suitable tyres, also in terms of the need for replacements,” said Sanghoon Lee, President of Hankook Tire Europe. “With an improved range per battery charge, this new generation of tyres will help to further optimise the efficiency of electric vehicles in everyday use.”

Goodyear also showcased innovative new tyres in March - the Endurance RSA ULT and Fuel Max RSA ULT models.

The tyres have been developed with the electric vehicle sector and, more specifically the commercial last-mile delivery sector, in mind.

Compatible with EV and petrol or diesel-powered work vehicles, the Endurance RSA ULT is, Goodyear said, the company’s premium 17.5-inch all-position tyre for last-mile delivery vehicles, pickup trucks and light trucks and is equipped to handle the higher load capacities of EVs. It is the first commercial tyre stamped with Goodyear’s “Electric Drive Ready” designation.

Goodyear has passenger EV tyres in its portfolio too and at the end of 2021 launched the ElectricDrive GT tyre in the US – its first replacement tyre tuned for electric vehicles.

SMART CHARGER TRIAL KICKS OFF IN VICTORIA, TASMANIA & ACT

A TRIAL OF smart chargers has begun across Victoria, Tasmania, and the ACT. The 12-month trial, which has seen smart chargers installed at the homes of more than 160 EV owners is designed to look at how home fast-charging can reduce the energy costs for owners and help electricity network businesses manage the demands on the grid during peak hours.

Five electricity network businesses – Jemena, AusNet, United Energy, TasNetworks and EVOEnergy, together with charging infrastructure company JET Charge, are partnering in the 12-month EV Grid Trial, co-funded by the Australian Renewable Energy Agency.

The smart chargers mean participants’ EVs can be plugged in when it’s convenient but charged at times when the electricity grid has more capacity – ideally leading to lower electricity bills.

Through the trial, participants will have more visibility of their EV charging data, and the network operators will gain a better understanding of electricity demand.

‘Solar soak’ events on forecast sunny days will be a key feature of the trial.

During these events, participants will be notified ahead of time to have their cars plugged in during a day when there is an abundance of solar energy being exported into the grid.

Trial outcomes will be shared with electricity retailers, electric vehicle manufacturers, governments, and other energy industry stakeholders.

In total, 123 Victorian, 22 Tasmanian and 22 ACT households are participating in the trial.

April 2022 Motor Trader | 51

Auto innovation news

QUEENSLAND BACKING RENEWABLE HYDROGEN FUEL PROJECTS TO DRIVE HEAVY TRANSPORT

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UEENSLAND, NEW SOUTH Wales and Victoria have announced a collaboration on a renewable hydrogen refuelling network for heavy transport and logistics along Australia’s eastern seaboard.

‘Green’ or renewable hydrogen is created when the power needed for the electrolysis process is generated via renewable sources such as wind, solar or hydro power.

Under the Memorandum of Understanding, the States have agreed to collaborate on the development of the east coast hydrogen refuelling network that will include the nation’s most critical roads and highways, starting with the Hume Highway, the Pacific Highway and the Newell Highway.

Although no timeline has yet been announced for the project, Queensland Minister for Energy, Renewables and Hydrogen Mick de Brenni said hydrogen presents an enormous opportunity for the State, including emissions reduction

52 | Motor Trader April 2022

“TRANSPORT IS THE FASTEST GROWING SECTOR FOR EMISSIONS AND IRONICALLY IT COULD ALSO BE THE KEY TO REDUCING THEM.

opportunities and fuel security benefits.

“When you consider the impacts of the COVID pandemic and international conflicts, it’s clear Australia must achieve energy independence, to shield our nation from foreign companies and foreign powers,” said Mr de Brenni.

“Low emissions electricity and hydrogen fuelled heavy transport will sit at the heart of the renewable energy eco-system.

“Transport is the fastest growing sector for emissions and ironically it could also be the key to reducing them.

“Transport applications are one of the most economic uses of hydrogen, where it is already competitive with diesel on a

Renderings of the proposed Kogan Renewable Hydrogen Demonstration Plant

cost-of-fuel basis.”

The news comes on top of an announcement that the construction of a renewable hydrogen plant and refuelling facility for heavy transport is expected to start in the next six months in Queensland’s Western Downs region.

The Kogan Renewable Hydrogen Demonstration Plant near Chinchilla will receive funding from the Queensland Government to the tune of $28.9 million and publicly owned CS Energy has appointed IHI Engineering Australia (a subsidiary of IHI Corporation Japan) to construct the facility.

The plant is expected to produce 50,000kg of renewable hydrogen each year once it becomes operational in 2023, and Mr de Brenni said that the plant’s hydrogen electrolyser will only be powered by behind-the-meter solar energy, “making

it one of the few truly renewable hydrogen projects in Australia.”

“Queensland has a unique competitive advantage in the production of renewable hydrogen, with our proximity to Asia, established infrastructure, manufacturing capabilities and renewable energy generation,” said Mr de Brenni.

The demonstration project includes the co-location of a solar farm, battery, hydrogen electrolyser, hydrogen fuel cell, hydrogen storage and out-loading facility.

It will be built next to CS Energy’s Kogan Creek Power Station, but will only be powered by renewable energy from the solar farm.

Construction is expected to begin in September 2022 once all relevant development approvals have been finalised and CS Energy will operate and maintain the plant once it is completed.

April 2022 Motor Trader | 53

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5

0 YEARS AGO, at the Geneva Motor Show in March 1972, the Maserati Boomerang, one of the most extraordinary cars of the modern age, made its full debut. A sleek, wedgeshaped concept, the Boomerang was (and still is) a jaw-dropping creation, one of many wonderful works - including other Maserati models such as the 1966 Ghibli and the 1972 Merak - that flowed from the pen of legendary car designer Giorgetto Giugiaro of the renowned Italdesign company.

A mock-up of the Boomerang had actually appeared at the Turin Motor Show in 1971, but the model presented at Geneva the following year was a fully functional, road-going, registered car, which used as its foundation the chassis and complete mechanics of the Maserati Bora - a production car that was another striking design from Giugiaro.

Power for the two-seater, rear-mid-

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engined, rear-wheel-drive Boomerang comes from a 4.7-litre V8 delivering 231kW through a five-speed manual gearbox, and although the car was never really tested for performance, Maserati claimed a top speed of 300km/h. The sprint to 100km/h was reportedly done in around six seconds.

Sharing its underpinnings with the Bora, the Boomerang has a steel monocoque with a steel subframe for the engine and gearbox. Suspension was independent double wishbone all round with coil springs and telescopic shock absorbers, and anti-roll bars. There are ventilated

The Boomerang shared its underpinnings with the production Bora model

discs at every corner, power-assisted steering, and the car sits on 15-inch x 7.5-inch wheels.

Its astounding exterior appearance, with those massive windows and incredibly large and steeply angled windscreen, is matched by an equally unusual and exotic interior. Leather trim is used throughout, but standout in the cabin is the steering wheel and instrumentation layout. The wheel sits at the end of an enormous steering column and rotates on spokes that run around the edge of the column.

All gauges and instrumentation are static

and contained within the boundaries of the wheel on the column itself. A most unusual design.

Acclaimed at the time for its daring styling and design, the Boomerang would do the rounds of car shows and automotive events until being sold off to a private customer in the mid-1970s. Not surprisingly, when this remarkable, unique, machine does come up for sale, only those with the fattest of bank accounts need turn up for the auction. In 2015, it sold for a whopping €3,289,500 ($AU4.8 million).

Worth every penny.

April 2022 Motor Trader | 57

Auto news

VOLKSWAGEN DEBUTS THE ID. BUZZ AND ID. BUZZ CARGO

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FULLY ELECTRIC UPDATE of VW’s classic Kombi has joined the German manufacturer’s expanding range of all-electric vehicles. A commercial variant of the new Kombi has arrived too and - as all the models in the Volkswagen Passenger Car’s ID. family will - the two new EVs will be built on the VW Group’s Modular Electric Drive Kit (MEB).

Together the two Kombis - called the ID. Buzz and ID. Buzz Cargo - are launching in Europe with a 77kWh battery that provides energy to a 150kW electric motor driving the rear axle. The lithium-ion battery is positioned down in the floor and can be charged from wall boxes or public charging stations using 11kW alternating

VW ID. Buzz

THE ID. BUZZ AND ID. BUZZ CARGO ARE LAUNCHING IN EUROPE WITH A 77KWH BATTERY THAT PROVIDES ENERGY TO A 150KW ELECTRIC MOTOR DRIVING THE REAR AXLE. current (AC). Via a CCS plug connector at a DC rapid-charging station the charging power increases to as much as 170kW. When charged in this way, recharge time from 5 per cent to 80 per cent can be achieved in about 30 minutes. Range has yet to be confirmed.

Bidirectional charging is available,

VW ID. Buzz Cargo

enabling the ID. Buzz to feed energy from the battery into the customer’s home network. The power transfer and communication take place via a special DC bi-directional wall box.

At some point in the near future, VW says the model line will also offer a ‘Plug & Charge’ function which will enable the Buzz to authenticate itself at compatible DC rapid-charging stations via the charging connector and save owners from having to sign in or provide any other details when charging on any network.

There is, of course, plenty of room in the ID. Buzz. In the passenger (MPV) variant, there’s room for five people and their luggage (1,121 litres of capacity). If

the second row of seats is folded down, the load capacity increases to up to 2,205 litres. For the Cargo version, there are two or three seats up front and a fixed partition separating off 3.9 square metres of cargo space.

Included in the ID. Buzz package is the latest generation of VW’s ID. software offering a suite of safety and assistance functions. Included as standard is the ‘Car2X’ local warning system, which utilises signals from other vehicles and transport infrastructure to spot hazards in real time. Also included as standard are a ‘Front Assist’ emergency braking function and, in the MPV, the ‘Lane Assist’ lane-keeping assistant. Available as an option is ‘Travel Assist with swarm data’, which allows for the partial automation of driving across the entire speed range and assisted lane-changing on the motorway.

Like many car makers, VW is keen to move towards a more sustainable future both in its manufacturing and the materials used for its products, and the ID. Buzz features recycled synthetic material across the interior, from the steering wheel trim to upholstery and floor.

Advanced orders for the ID. Buzz will be taken from May this year, with the deliveries scheduled for the European autumn.

April 2022 Motor Trader | 59

Auto news

HONDA CONFIRMS EQUIPMENT AND PRICING FOR NEW HR-V

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ONDA AUSTRALIA HAS confirmed pricing and equipment details for the new HR-V, and the third generation of the SUV will be available with e:HEV (hybrid electric vehicle) powertrain technology for the first time.

The HR-V will be offered in two specification levels with two different powertrains – starting with the Vi X grade powered by a 89kW/145Nm 1.5-litre DOHC i-VTEC petrol engine and rising to the e:HEV L grade fitted with the 96kW/253Nm hybrid powertrain. Fuel economy for the hybrid comes in at 4.3 litres per 100km (combined). Power is deliver to the front wheels via Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) in the Vi X model and Electric Continuously Variable Trasnmission (E-CVT)in the Hybrid.

The Vi X is equipped with a range of new features and technologies, including: • Forward Collision Warning • Collision Mitigation Braking System • Lane Keep Assist System • Lane Departure Warning • Road Departure Mitigation System • Adaptive Cruise Control with Low-Speed Follow • High Beam Support System • Traffic Sign Recognition • Agile Handling Assist System • Hill Descent Control • Walk-away locking • 9-inch Advanced Display Audio with 60 | Motor Trader April 2022

wireless Apple CarPlay • Satellite navigation • 18-inch alloy wheels • Privacy glass The e:HEV L grade gets a heap of further equipment, including: • Blind Spot Information System • Rear Cross Traffic Alert • Intelligent speed assist • Hands-free power tailgate with walk-away close • Acoustic Vehicle Alerting System • Auto-dimming rear view mirror • Auto rain sensing wipers • Auto retractable, auto reverse tilting, heated, hydrophilic door mirrors • LED Active Cornering Lights • Heated front seats • Leather steering wheel • Heated steering wheel • Acoustic windscreen • Rear air vents and USB ports

The Vi X grade starts the new HR-V range with a national drive away price of $36,700, while the e:HEV L grade comes in at $45,000.

DETAILS REVEALED OF AUSTRALIA-SPEC WRX AS ORDER BOOK OPENS

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ETAILS OF THE Australian specifications for Subaru’s new WRX range have been revealed, with the fifth generation of the iconic performance machine now available for pre-order.

The sedan will be available in three variants – WRX AWD, WRX AWD RS and WRX AWD tS – with both WRX AWD and WRX AWD RS offered in a choice of six-speed manual or Subaru Performance Transmission, while the WRX AWD tS is offered exclusively in Subaru Performance Transmission.

WRX Sportswagon will also be available in three variants – WRX Sportswagon AWD, WRX Sportswagon AWD GT and WRX Sportswagon AWD tS – all offered exclusively with Subaru Performance Transmission. That transmission is a new Sport Lineartronic gearbox and offers automatic downshift blipping control and an 8-speed manual mode.

Inside, there’s an 11.6-inch touchscreen integrated infotainment system with vertical orientation. All WRXs feature dual-zone climate control air conditioning, D-shaped leather steering wheel, and sports bucket seats (driver and front passenger).

WRXs with Subaru Performance

Transmission will feature Subaru’s latest generation EyeSight safety system, with features including Adaptive cruise control, Emergency lane keep assist, Lane centring function, Pre-collision braking system, Precollision brake assist, Pre-collision throttle management, Autonomous emergency steering, Speed sign recognition, and Intelligent speed limiter.

Select WRX Sedan and Sportswagon variants also feature the Driver Monitoring System with technologies such as facial recognition, distraction warning and drowsiness warning.

Top of the range tS Sedan and Sportswagon variants feature Drive Mode Select and electronic control dampers.

With Drive Mode Select, the driver can choose modes that change the driving dynamics while an ‘individual’ mode can be customised by the driver.

The new WRX is powered by a revised Subaru 2.4-litre turbocharged, horizontally opposed Boxer engine delivering 202kW and 350Nm.

The fifth generation WRX range will be priced (manufacturer’s list price) from $44,990 for the AWD Manual through to $57,990 for the WRX Sportswagon AWD tS Sport Lineartronic.

Auto news

ASTON MARTIN UNVEILS THE FINAL V12 VANTAGE

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STON MARTIN HAS revealed the new V12 Vantage – the last of the venerable name to be powered by a monster V12. And what a monster it is, with the beating heart of the Vantage a Twin Turbo 5.2-litre V12 developing a whopping 515kW and 753Nm. Top speed is 322km/h, and a 0-100km/h is done in around 3.5 seconds.

Aston Martin says that thanks to the potent engine and extensive use of weight-saving materials throughout the car the V12 Vantage has a power-toweight ratio of 287kW-per-ton, an increase of more than 20 per cent compared to the V8 powered Vantage.

Those weight-saving measures include carbon fibre front bumper, clamshell bonnet, front fenders and side sills, composite rear bumper and deck lid, lightweight battery and a special centre-mounted twin-exit lightweight exhaust system.

Power is fed through a specially calibrated ZF 8-speed automatic transmission and mechanical Limited-Slip

VIDEO: V12 VANTAGE | THE ULTIMATE EXPRESSION OF EXTREME PERFORMANCE | ASTON MARTIN

. . . THE V12 VANTAGE HAS A POWER-TOWEIGHT RATIO OF 287KW-PER-TON, AN INCREASE OF MORE THAN 20 PER CENT COMPARED TO THE V8 POWERED VANTAGE. Differential (LSD) mounted at the rear of the car, and the Vantage is equipped with a new adaptive damping suspension system including new anti-roll bars, bushes, and spring and damper assemblies. Body stiffness has also been increased.

For stopping power, the V12 Vantage features a Carbon Ceramic Braking (CCB)

Aston Martin V12 Vantage

system as standard – with 410mm x 38mm discs with 6-piston calipers at the front, and 360mm x 32mm discs paired with 4-piston calipers at the rear.

There’s a choice of two new designs of 21-inch alloy wheels offered in satin black or satin black diamond turned, plus an optional lightweight option available in Satin Black.

Michelin Pilot 4S high performance tyres – 275/35 R21 front and 315/30 R21 at the rear – are standard fitment on all rims.

In the cabin, the V12 Vantage retains the layout of the current Vantage, but with a Sports Plus Seat trimmed in full semianiline leather featuring ‘Wings’ quilt and perforation pattern as standard.

There is also a new carbon fibre performance seat with exposed twill carbon fibre shell and manual 6-way adjustment available as an option.

Every V12 Vantage can be individually tailored through the brand’s bespoke Q by Aston Martin personalisation service.

Auto news

LOTUS UNWRAPS THE ELETRE ALL-ELECTRIC SUV

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HE TRANSFORMATION OF Lotus from the maker of sleek, petrol-powered sports cars to the manufacturer of sleek, all-electric vehicles is all but complete with the British brand – which is majority-owned by China’s Geely Holdings - revealing its newest creation, the Eletre SUV. The Eletre delivers a number of firsts for Lotus – the first five-door production car, the first model outside the sports car segments, the first lifestyle EV, and the most ‘connected’ Lotus ever.

A four-wheel-drive beauty, the Eletre is built on Lotus’ all-new Electric Premium Architecture (EPA) which, the company says, delivers ‘outstanding handling’ (something for which Lotus is renowned), and which can be adapted to accommodate other vehicle class battery sizes, motors, component layouts and intelligent driving technologies,.

The EPA will be the platform for an

64 | Motor Trader April 2022

all-new range of performance electric vehicles from Lotus with the Eletre the first out of the blocks.

The architecture is 800-volt and the potent SUV has a battery capacity of more than 100kWh. Power output

VIDEO: LOTUS ELETRE ELECTRIC SUV

starts at a whopping 448kW of power. A 350kW charger will enable a 400km range recharge in 20 minutes and the car’s target maximum driving range is around 600km.

It also comes with the ability as standard to accept 22kW AC charging.

There are two electric motors, one driving the front wheels and another driving the rear wheels, and Lotus claims a top speed of 260km/h and a 0-100km/h sprint time under three seconds.

Technology includes an advanced active aerodynamics package, intelligent driving technologies and, adding a touch of theatre to proceedings, a ‘dynamic walk-up sequence’ which the company describes as a ‘peacock moment.’

Under the skin, the Eletre has five-link suspension at the rear, while standard equipment includes air suspension and Continuous Damping Control (CDC).

Active ride height, active rear axle steering, an active anti-roll bar and torque vectoring.

Four drive modes - which adjust the steering, damper settings, powertrain and accelerator pedal response - include Range, Tour, Sport, Off-Road and Individual, and are standard on all versions of the car.

April 2022 Motor Trader | 65

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The Eletre’s styling and design is, as you would expect from Lotus, top notch, and the exciting exterior, constructed of carbon fibre elements and aluminium body panels, is matched by a very tidylooking interior stuffed full of high-tech goodies.

Below the instrument panel, a decorative blade of light runs across the cabin which changes colour to communicate with occupants is, for example, a phone call is received, if the cabin temperature is changed, or to reflect the vehicle’s battery charge status.

Below the light is a ‘ribbon of technology’ which provides the front seat occupants with information. Ahead of the driver the traditional instrument cluster binnacle is a slim strip less than 30mm high used to communicate key vehicle and journey information. It’s repeated on the passenger side, where different information can be displayed, including music selection or nearby points of interest. Between the two, OLED touch-screen technology in the form of a 15.1-inch landscape interface provides access to the car’s infotainment system. Information can also be displayed to the driver via a head-up display featuring augmented reality (AR) technology.

Lotus says that everything in the 66 | Motor Trader April 2022

Eletre can be controlled digitally, but certain key controls are duplicated with analogue switches. There’s a simple-to-use User Interface and speech recognition technology is also available.

The Advanced Driver Assistance System designed to be futureproof so new features can be enabled via Over The Air (OTA) updates – utilises a deployable LiDAR, the sensors of which are hidden when not required, and includes Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control; Collision Mitigation Support Front; Traffic Sign Information; Door Open Warning; Rear Cross Traffic Alert; Front Cross Traffic Alert; Lane Change Assist; Children Presence Detection; Lane Keep Aid with Lane Departure Warning / Prevention; Parking Emergency Brake; Collision Mitigation Support Rear; and Emergency Rescue Call.

5G compatibility is part of the package, enabling continuous connection to the car via smartphone app. That smartphone app will allow owners access to driving logs, vehicle and charge status, remote features, location services and other features.

The Eletre is the first of three new Lotus ‘lifestyle’ EVs expected over the next four years, and production of the SUV is scheduled to start later this year at a new facility in China.

ALWAYS LOOK FOR MTA QUEENSLAND MEMBERS Trust the Motor Trades Professional Circle.

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PRODRIVE UNLEASH THE HUNTER ALL-TERRAIN SUPERCAR

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RITISH MOTORSPORT AND advanced engineering group Prodrive has unveiled a 447kW, four-wheel drive all-terrain adventure vehicle.

Based on one of its Dakar Rally cars, the road-going Prodrive Hunter is an incredible-looking machine and offers even more power than its racing predecessor.

The Hunter retains the Dakar competition car’s engine, drivetrain and suspension, but to improve driveability, the manual sequential gear box has been replaced by a six-speed paddle shift.

As there are no competition regulations to be complied with, the Hunter’s power has been increased by more than 50 per cent, and the 3.5-litre twin turbo V6 engine has been refined and retuned to produce

68 | Motor Trader April 2022

THE HUNTER’S POWER HAS BEEN INCREASED BY MORE THAN 50 PER CENT, AND THE 3.5-LITRE TWIN TURBO V6 ENGINE HAS BEEN REFINED AND RETUNED TO PRODUCE OVER 447KW AND 700NM OF TORQUE. over 447kW and 700 Nm of torque.

Prodrive estimates that this gives a 0-100km/h time of less than four seconds and a top speed of nearly 300km/h.

However, the vehicle is fitted with

bespoke, 35-inch off-road tyres designed to optimise grip over rough terrain and sand rather than on tarmac.

The whole car is built around a high tensile steel space-frame chassis, and there’s also an FIA standard safety cage.

The all-round double wishbone suspension with twin adjustable dampers on each corner has 400mm of travel, and there are six-pot racing brake calipers and vented discs all round.

The whole vehicle has been designed

to minimise overall weight and optimise the weight distribution and centre of gravity. All the bodywork is made from lightweight carbon composite, which includes recycled materials.

Prodrive says the first development vehicle is currently in the Middle East where customers are being offered the opportunity of driving the Hunter and confirming their personal specification for production vehicles to be delivered later this year.

April 2022 Motor Trader | 69

Auto news

TOYOTA LAUNCHES THE FIRE-BREATHING GR COROLLA

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ANS OF THE hot hatchback segment have been waiting . . . and the wait is now over, with Toyota revealing the company’s latest performance GR model, the GR Corolla.

Scheduled to arrive in Australia at the end of the year, the GR Corolla will be the fourth GR performance model to be launched locally, joining the GR Supra, the GR Yaris, and the upcoming GR86, and will be just as potent as its brethren.

The foundation of its performance comes via a strengthened version of the homologation-special three-cylinder GR Yaris engine, the GR-FOUR all-wheel-drive system, and front and rear Torsen limitedslip differentials and six-speed manual transmission with a short-stroke gear shift lever.

A valve-equipped, triple-exhaust muffler improves airflow, unleashing maximum output and torque of 220kW/370Nm from the 1.6-litre in-line three-cylinder

intercooled turbo engine.

All the under-the-skin stuff is designed for performance.

The GR-FOUR system, which uses an electronic multi-plate clutch to provide variable front and rear driving force has been upgraded for maximum control when pushing the car to its limits.

A VALVE-EQUIPPED, TRIPLE-EXHAUST MUFFLER IMPROVES AIRFLOW, UNLEASHING MAXIMUM OUTPUT AND TORQUE OF 220KW/370NM FROM THE 1.6-LITRE IN-LINE THREE-CYLINDER INTERCOOLED TURBO ENGINE.

Toyota has separated the system’s ‘4WD’ mode (which controls driving force distribution) and ‘Drive’ mode (which controls accelerator response, steering and other systems), enabling selection according to driver preference and the driving environment.

Pillow-ball bushings and enhanced springs, shock absorbers and wheel alignment contribute to cornering control, and body rigidity has been strengthened.

Braces have been added between the rear wheel wells, to the under-floor tunnel, and under the floor in front of the fuel tank to

improve handling stability.

Opposed-calliper disc brakes provide the stopping power and the car is fitted with a hand-operated parking.

Safety hasn’t been ignored, with the GR Corolla fitted with the latest Toyota Safety Sense package.

The Corolla has a decent racing pedigree, and the new GR will evoke some good memories for Toyota motorsport fans. The GR’s performance will, no doubt, be stellar, and if it moves as good as it looks, the hot hatch fan club are going to be very pleased indeed.

Auto news

FORD’S BEST-SELLING F-150 BOUND FOR AUSTRALIA IN 2023

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ORD AUSTRALIA IS bringing one of the most popular vehicles in the world to Australian shores. The company has announced that two versions of the F-150 truck – part of the F-series line that has been the biggest-selling vehicle family in US for the past 40 years - will be available here by mid-2023, with the right-hand-drive, local remanufacturing conversion program to be completed by RMA Automotive Holdings.

The two high-grade variants will be the XLT and the premium Lariat. Available in Crew Cab body style, they will be offered with the 3.5-litre EcoBoost V6 engine and 10-speed transmission, delivering 298kW 72 | Motor Trader April 2022

and 678Nm. That power means the F-150 offers 4.5 tonne towing capability.

Fully loaded with tech and safety features, all F-150 models come standard with Ford SYNC4, Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking, Blind Spot Information System with CrossTraffic Alert, Lane-Keeping System, Rear View Camera, Auto High Beams, Reverse Brake Assist, Reverse Sensing System and Post-Collision Braking.

F-150 will be available alongside the full Ford vehicle range throughout Ford’s nationwide dealer network, and come with a five-year, unlimited kilometre warranty.

“We’ve listened hard to fans and

dealers and found a way to bring F-150 to Australia. As the pinnacle of ‘Built Ford Tough’, it will give our customers even more choice when they’re in the market for a pick-up. We just can’t wait to unleash it,” said Andrew Birkic, President and CEO, Ford Australia and New Zealand.

“F-150 has been part of F-Series, America’s best-selling vehicle line for the past 40 years, with more than 40 million F-Series Trucks produced to date. With

such a local fan base, and with full-size truck sales in Australia tripling in recent years, we just knew we had to find a way to bring it back to Australia.”

Remanufacturing of the vehicles from left-hand drive to right-hand drive will take place in an RMA Automotive-leased facility at the Merrifield Business Park in Mickleham, north of Melbourne.

Further specifications and pricing will be shared closer to launch in mid-2023.

April 2022 Motor Trader | 73

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NEW VEHICLE SALES SOLID AS TESLA AND POLESTAR MAKE SALES DATA DEBUT

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IGURES FOR NEW vehicle sales were solid in March with 101,233 vehicles sold - bringing the year-to-date total to 262,436. The March number is up just over one per cent over the same month last year when 100,005 units were sold.

The result comes even though the industry continues to struggle to meet demand, with shortages still an issue due to challenges including the pandemicrelated shutdowns and the ongoing global shortage of micro-processing units.

The monthly VFacts report from the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries (FCAI) showed that the usual suspects were at the head of the sales race, although making their debuts as manufacturers included in the data were electric vehicle carmakers Tesla and Polestar.

Toyota was the market leader for the month with 21,828 vehicles sold.

Mazda took the second spot with 11,248, Mitsubishi was next with 9,007, Hyundai was in fourth with 6,516 and Kia in fifth with 6,051.

The Toyota Hilux was the highest-selling model with 6,324 sold, with the company’s RAV4 in second place with 4,610. The Mitsubishi Triton took out third place with 3,808 vehicles sold, while Mazda’s CX-5 was fourth with sales of 3,772.

And then comes a surprise, with the Tesla Model 3 charging into fifth spot in the sales chart with 3,097 units sold 74 | Motor Trader April 2022

Tesla sold 3097 Model 3 EVs in March

(4,417 year-to-date). As noted, this is the first time that Tesla sales figures have been include in VFacts data, and it proves what the industry already knew – that the demand for EVs is growing, and Tesla is the 800-pound gorilla of the sector.

Polestar, which began selling its EVs in March, recorded 115 sales of its Polestar 2.

Overall, Queensland sales were down 1.7 per cent with 21,214 vehicles sold over March 2021. Across the other states and territories, results were mixed. NSW sales was down 0.8 per cent with 32,224 sold, South Australian sales decreased by 0.1 per cent with 6,380 vehicles sold, and Victorian sales increased by 5.3 per cent with 27,155 vehicles sold. Sales in WA were up 5.3 per cent to 10,016 vehicles, while sales in the ACT were down 6.2 per cent at 1,560 vehicles sold. Northern Territory sales decreased by 0.2 per cent with 916 vehicles sold, and Tasmanian sales increased by 8.2 per cent with 1,768 vehicles sold.

LAWS PROTECTING AGAINST HARASSMENT

RECENT MEDIA STORIES about what may be happening in some parliamentarian’s offices is a reminder to all employers and business owners that no-one is immune from a sexual harassment claim.

The Fair Work Act and Regulations will soon be amended to give employers more power to sack perpetrators of sexual harassment.

The Federal Government has announced it will amend section 387 of the Act to clarify that sexual harassment can be a valid reason for termination when determining whether a dismissal was unfair.

It will also amend the definition of “serious misconduct” in the Fair Work Regulations to include sexual harassment, to clarify that this behaviour can justify summary dismissal.

In addition, education and guidance on unfair dismissal and other workplace rights will be updated. The Act will include a ‘stop sexual harassment order’ by clarifying that a stop-bullying order is available in the context of harassment.

model WHS laws for employers to ensure workers are not exposed to health and safety risks, which includes the risk of sexual harassment. Safe Work Australia guidance recently released specifically describes sexual harassment as a systemic risk employers must approach with a safety mindset.

PSYCHOSOCIAL RISKS CODE OF PRACTICE A code of practice on managing psychosocial risks is currently being

ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS developed by Safe Work Australia, which is to cover sexual harassment in the

TO MORE THAN 13,000 PEOPLE workplace.

This willDIRECTLY help to increase POSITIVE DUTY ALREADY EXISTS INVOLVED IN THE MOTORING INDUSTRY A positive duty already exists under awareness of the duty to manage (website or e-magazine options)

psychosocial health and safety risks and improve compliance, it says, adding it will continue to support this work.

The aim is to create an improved culture of respectful workplace behaviour.

For further information about Policy for your workplace, please contact MTA Queensland.

CLICK HERE FOR MEDIA GUIDE AND COSTS

Auto news

MASERATI LAUNCHES THE GRECALE SUV

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ASERATI IS MAKING a play for top spot on the podium of bigselling SUVs with its sparkling new Grecale model.

A partner to the Italian carmaker’s other SUV model, the Levante, the Grecale is aimed at the market currently inhabited by the Porsche Macan and it will be available in three versions: the GT, powered by a turbocharged, 224kW four-cylinder mild hybrid engine; the Modena, with a four-cylinder, turbocharged 246kW mild hybrid engine; and the Trofeo, powered by a high-performance 395kW/620Nm petrol twin-turbo V6 based on the company’s MC20 supercar Nettuno engine. Power runs through an 8-speed transmission.

At the top end of the four-wheel-drive Grecale range, the Trofeo - with its V6 utilising Maserati’s clever twin combustion tech - packs quite a punch, with a 0-100km.h time of 3.8 seconds and a top speed of 285km/h.

In its hybrid version, the Grecale

VIDEO: THE ALL-NEW MASERATI GRECALE. EVERYDAY EXCEPTIONAL

MASERATI IS MAKING A PLAY FOR TOP SPOT ON THE PODIUM OF BIGSELLING SUVs WITH ITS SPARKLING NEW GRECALE MODEL. combines a four-cylinder internal combustion engine with a 48-volt mild hybrid system. The hybrid system consists of four components: a Belt Starter Generator (BSG), a 48-volt battery, an e-Booster and a DC/DC converter. The

BSG acts as an alternator, charging the battery which in turn powers the e-Booster fitted to the engine. The engine features dual turbochargers, where the internal combustion component is combined with the e-Booster, powered by either the BSG or the battery.

An electric compressor compensates for the lack of a conventional turbocharger in the early engine cycles.

Performance for the mild hubrid GT and Modena models is excellent, with the Modena reaching 100km/h in 5.3 seconds and the GT doing the same sprint in 5.6 seconds.

Top speed for both is 240km/h.

Maserati have already stated that a pureelectric variant, using 400-volt technology, is on the cards, and the Grecale Folgore, as it is to be known, will launch in 2023. It is to be equipped with a 105kWh battery and will deliver up to 800 Nm of torque.

The Grecale features Maserati’s Vehicle Dynamic Control Module (VDCM) system – which works to monitor and control the dynamics of the vehicle – to ensure better performance and safety, and there are four different drive modes: COMFORT, GT, SPORT, and OFF-ROAD, with the Trofeo variant gaining a fifth, CORSA mode.

Air suspension comes as standard on the Grecale Trofeo, and is an option on the Mild Hybrid versions. The height of the air springs is closely related to the drive mode used. Six levels of suspension adjustment can be selected.

The Trofeo gets what Maserati calls quadrilateral suspension with virtual steering axle plus active shock absorbers and air springs at the front and a multilink with active shock absorbers and air springs at the rear. Same goes for the other models except the air springs are an option. Braking comes from Brembo and the Trofeo gets 21-inch wheels all round,

while the Modena sits on 20-inch wheels and the GT on 19-inch wheels.

In the cabin, the Grecale is luxurious and full of quality technology, with different trim styles across the three variants.

There are four screens – the classic cluster and a new central 12.3-inch panel, a smaller 8.8-inch comfort panel with extra controls and a new digital clock. An optional headsup display is available.

The latest Maserati Intelligent Assistant (MIA) multimedia system runs via the 12.3-inch screen. Running the Android Auto operating system, the MIA can be configured with multiple tab-based screens for a driver’s favourite functions or the most commonly used ones. Up to five different user profiles can be stored, and those profiles can include music preferences, temperature and seat/mirror positioning and so on.

MIA lets two smartphones be connected at once via Bluetooth, and also available is voice control of on-board functions.

The in-car sound comes via a Sonus faber 3D sound system that includes up to 21 speakers.

At launch, the Grecale is to be available in a special PrimaSerie Launch Edition - a limited edition featuring exclusive interiors and technological content.

April 2022 Motor Trader | 77

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EV DEMAND OUTSTRIPPING SUPPLY AS FUEL PRICES LEAP IN MARCH

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HANKS TO THE Federal Government’s budget move of cutting the fuel excise tax, the price of fuel at the bowser was - at the time of writing in the first week of April - about $1.70 per litre. Back in mid-March, however, somewhere around $2.15 per litre was the norm. Not surprisingly, the climb to that price had an effect on the public’s thinking about what type of cars they might purchase, and news from Lloyds Auctions during the month revealed just what that thinking looked like - the company said on March 24 that second-hand Teslas it was auctioning were going for higher prices than their original retail price.

“Right now, we have a 2022 Tesla Model 3 on offer with the current bid sitting at $71,000 where they actually retail for around $68,000, and the bidding is set to close in a few days’ time,” said Lee Hames, COO for Lloyds in a media statement.

“With the current fuel prices, people are realising how much they can save in fuel per year by owning an electric vehicle, where savings could be up to 70 per cent on fuel alone.”

That second-hand EVs were selling for 78 | Motor Trader April 2022

CLICK TO VIEW THE EVC STATE OF ELECTRIC VEHICLES REPORT

more than their retail value made some decent ripples across the media landscape, and Australia’s Electric Vehicle Council, on the eve of the release of its latest State of Electric Vehicles report, was fairly damning in its response to the news.

“This is a stunning reflection of how the Australian Government has allowed demand to totally outstrip supply on EVs, leaving Australian consumers with the choice between a massive wait or paying above-retail for a used car,” said Behyad Jafari, Electric Vehicle Council chief executive, in a media statement.

“The Morrison Government seems to have confused its own myopic views about EVs with those of average Australians and has completely misjudged how demand would grow.

“Global carmakers are far more interested in selling cars in Europe or the US or even New Zealand, where fuel efficiency standards are established and governments offer unambiguous support to the transition.

“Every Australian who wants to buy

HERTZ AND POLESTAR ANNOUNCE EV PARTNERSHIP

an EV should have the same array of options as their counterparts in America or Europe. The fact that they do not is the fault of the federal government and its unique hostility to EVs.” The EVC’s State of Electric Vehicles report - a comprehensive rundown of Australia’s current EV landscape highlighted this disparity, noting that the number of electric vehicle models available in the Australian market now sits at 30, with these models including a total of 65 variants. There are 28 PHEVs and 37 battery electric vehicle variants. For comparison, there are 120 battery electric vehicle variants and 40 plug-in hybrid electric vehicle variants in the UK. Evidence beyond the sale prices reported

by Lloyds Auctions does also seem to show the demand for EVs in Australia is growing fast. Sales were very strong in 2021. 20,665 were sold last year - up from 6,900 in 2020 representing a 2 per cent market share. The EVC’s report also noted that demand had seen some popular models selling their full annual allocation within hours of being made available for purchase.

The Tesla Model 3 was by far the biggest selling model, with more than 12,000 units sold in 2021, representing nearly 60 per cent of all EV sales in the country.

The report also noted that there are 21 models of utility vehicles, trucks and vans available in the local market, and 11 manufacturers are now supplying electric buses in Australia.

CAR RENTAL GIANT Hertz and EVmaker Polestar have announced a new global partnership that will see Hertz purchase up to 65,000 electric vehicles (EVs) over five years.

Availability for the EV fleet is expected to begin in Spring 2022 in Europe and late 2022 in North America and Australia.

The news comes after Hertz revealed last year that it was to order 100,000 Tesla EVs for its global fleet.

In addition to making the fleet available to its business and leisure customers, Hertz says it is extending EVs to rideshare drivers too.

Hertz will initially order the Polestar 2. That vehicle went on sale in Australia in March, selling 115 units during the month.

“We are excited to partner with Polestar and look forward to introducing their premium EV products into our retail and rideshare fleets,” said Stephen Scherr, Hertz CEO. “Today’s partnership with Polestar further builds on our ambition to become a leading participant in the modern mobility ecosystem and doing so as an environmentally forward company.

By working with EV industry leaders like Polestar, we can help accelerate the adoption of electrification while providing renters, corporate customers and rideshare partners a premium EV product, exceptional experience and lower carbon footprint”

April 2022 Motor Trader | 79

Workplace relations AUSTRALIA: WHAT IS AN EMPLOYMENT SEPARATION CERTIFICATE AND WHEN DO I NEED TO PROVIDE ONE?

BY ATTICUS SAUNDERS, LEGALVISION

A

S AN EMPLOYER, SENIOR WORKPLACE you have legal RELATIONS ADVISOR obligations when you terminate an employee. For example, if you are an employer terminating an employee, you must complete an employment separation certificate upon request.

Indeed, it is important that as an employer you take such obligations seriously to avoid issues in the future. Therefore, this article will explain what this certificate is for employers who have terminated an employee, to help you understand and navigate this obligation.

IAN NAYLOR

WHAT IS AN EMPLOYMENT SEPARATION CERTIFICATE?

• the terminated employee’s final gross payment; • any unused leave payments; and • redundancy payments.

DO EMPLOYERS HAVE TO PROVIDE AN EMPLOYMENT SEPARATION CERTIFICATE? Employers do not need to provide an employment separation certificate for every employee termination. However, if Services Australia, Centrelink or a terminated employee request one, you must provide it. Furthermore, you must complete and sign the Services Australia form within 14 days of receiving the request. Services Australia may also ask for this form if your employee decreases their work hours or changes their employment status from full time to casual.

Employers can complete and submit employment separation certificates using Services Australia online portal Business Hub.

An employment separation certificate is a form that Services Australia issues.

Indeed, it is up to you as the employer to complete the Services Australia form within 14 days after a request. This certificate provides relevant employment information for the terminated KEY TAKEAWAYS employee. Furthermore, a completed Centrelink will use an employment certificate enables Centrelink to assess separation certificate to assess the and pay income support payments to eligibility of income support CLICK TO eligible recipients. payment claims. An employer must VISIT THE An employment separation MTAQ MEMBER provide an employment separation PORTAL certificate includes: certificate if Centrelink requests.

• the terminated employee This general advice only. Employers seeking and employer details; information about any flexible work arrangements • employment details; should contact the Workplace Relations Advisors on • the reason for separation 3237 8777. from the company; 80 | Motor Trader December 2021/January 2022

LOOKING FOR WORK? Check out MTA Queensland’s Job Board for all the latest opportunities in the automotive industry.

Visit www.mtaq.com.au today

81 | Motor Trader September 2020

OUR VISION IS TO BE QUEENSLAND’S MOST TRUSTED, INFLUENTIAL & ENGAGED INDUSTRY BODY The Motor Trades Association of Queensland (MTA Queensland) is the peak organisation in the state representing the specific interests of businesses in the retail, repair & service sectors of the automotive industry.

Member benefits include: Advocacy MTA Queensland makes representations to state and federal governments on the BIG issues affecting your business and industry.

Services Our members can utilise free Workplace Relations advice and Consumer Complaint support; access a cost-effective website building service and, through our self-service Member Portal, access information regarding wages & awards, health & safety, public holidays and more. There also is a FREE-to-use online Jobs Board platform to advertise open positions, plus discounted signage & stationery products are available through the online MTA Queensland shop.

Training The MTA Institute (RTO 31529) is the awardwinning, leading provider of automotive training and apprenticeships in Queensland. Course & training options include: • Apprenticeships • Traineeships • Skills Recognition • Automotive Licensing • Short Automotive Courses (including some which attract a 20% discount for members) • Pre-apprenticehips

Support Members can take advantage of a wide range of services & benefits, including: •B anking, insurance, payment options, legal advice and workplace health & safety compliance advice, offered by our Corporate Partners.

• A library of small business resources.

• A Weekly Industry Bulletin containing updates on industry news and events, workplace relations, divisional updates and training courses.

•C omprehensive webinar and micro-credential program (coming soon).

•M onthly subscription to the Motor Trader e-magazine and free business profiling.

•S avings and discounts from a range of industry stakeholders.

• I nvitations to industry signature events Industry Awards Gala, Golf Day, and Carmageddon.

Innovation Stay at the front of cutting-edge information and business solutions connected to the automotive digital revolution with access to events and MTAiQ – Australia’s first automotive innovation hub which is a facility offering an eco-system that supports innovation in the motor trades.

20190801

Freeway Office Park, Building 8, 2728 Logan Road, Eight Mile Plains www.mtaq.com.au | info@mtaq.com.au (07) 3237 8777

M E M B E R S

MTA Institute News

E S S E N T I A L S

PAUL KULPA GENERAL MANAGER MTA INSTITUTE

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April 2022 Motor Trader | 83

E S S E N T I A L S

capped at a maximum of $7,000 per quarter per Australian apprentice, • 10 per cent of the eligible Australian Apprentice’s wages in the second year, capped at a maximum of $1,500 per quarter per Australian Apprentice, and • 5 per cent of the eligible Australian Apprentice’s wages in the third year, capped at a maximum of $750 per quarter per Australian Apprentice.

Click HERE for the details.

Lastly, with the growth in our student numbers, we have been adding more trainers to support the skilling of the automotive industry. We appreciate it takes time to onboard new trainers and some employers and students have already seen these changes.

Ultimately, with additional skilled trainers we can service students more regularly and offer a more tailored experience and continue with supporting industry with its workforce.

If there are any concerns you have with training in general, we are always willing to take on the feedback to improve our training – it’s the best way can support the automotive industry.

M E M B E R S

HE DAYS ARE long and the weeks are short or something like that?

Here we are already into the Easter period and the year is moving very quickly.

We’ve delivered our first ever Auto Ready course at the start of April during the school holidays. The course is run over five days with the following outcomes: • AURTTK102 – Use and maintain tools and equipment in an automotive workplace, • AURETR103 – Identify automotive electrical systems and components, • AURLTA101 – Identify automotive mechanical systems and components.

This is the course we will be running in locations across Queensland during the school holidays (click HERE for the details). We hope this program will be the catalyst for many young people to begin their career in the automotive industry.

The Federal Government has committed to extending the Boosting Apprenticeship program. This is great news for any employer who takes on an apprentice/ trainee up until 30 June 2022.

They can gain access to the following subsides: • 50 per cent of the eligible Australian apprentice’s wages in the first year,

The scholarships are an opportunity for automotive professionals to advance their careers by undertaking a course that provides the skills and knowledge to deliver training in the VET sector.

MTA QUEENSLAND NAMES RECIPIENTS OF 2022 VET TRAINER SCHOLARSHIPS

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“IT DOESN’T MATTER WHERE YOU STARTED, VET HAS A PATHWAY THAT WILL PAVE YOUR WAY TO THE NEXT GOAL NO MATTER WHERE IT LIES.”

TA QUEENSLAND HAS awarded the first round of the 2022 Vocational Education and Training (VET) Trainer Scholarships to Sharine Milne from R.H.D Classic Supplies and Services in Townsville, and Tim McRae from Carline Automotive in Bundaberg.

The scholarships are a fantastic Sharine Milne, also known as opportunity for automotive professionals ‘Spanner,’ is the owner and head to advance their careers by undertaking Sharine ‘S mechanic of R.H.D Classic Supplies a Certificate IV in Training and Classic Su and Services, a motorcycle Assessment (TAE40116); a highly CLICK TO service and repair shop in sought-after course that provides VISIT THE R.H.D. Townsville. She is a qualified the skills and knowledge to CLASSIC SUPPLIES & SERVICES mechanic and parts interpreter deliver training in the VET sector.

WEBSITE and holds a Certificate II Valued at $2,500, the scholarships and Certificate III in office are awarded to one female and one administration and a Certificate male candidate each round.

84 | Motor Trader April 2022

Tim McRae, owner of Carline Automotive in Bundaberg

“I FEEL VERY FORTUNATE TO BE GIVEN THIS OPPORTUNITY TO EXPAND MY SKILLS IN TRAINING AND CAN’T WAIT TO GET STARTED!”

V in management. Spanner has worked in the industry for almost 20 years, owning her own business for the last 10.

While she already provides on-the-job work experience to apprentices, Spanner hopes to use this scholarship to build upon her skills and deliver a higher quality of training.

“I was given a chance to show what I have Spanner’ Milne, Owner of R.H.D achieved and upplies and Services in Townsville my commitment to continuous learning,” she said. “Now I want to be a better teacher and pass that on. It doesn’t matter where you started, VET has a pathway that will pave your way to the next goal no matter where it lies.”

Tim McRae is a qualified light vehicle mechanic CLICK TO who has worked in the VISIT THE CARLINE industry for over 25 years, WEBSITE owning and managing workshops for the last 17. Currently the owner of Carline Automotive, a mechanical workshop in Bundaberg, Tim hopes to keep both his staff and customers satisfied by offering high quality service. He has trained many apprentices during his time and is extremely passionate about sharing his knowledge.

“It has been hard for everyone these last couple of years, but in the middle of every difficulty lies opportunity,” he said. “I feel very fortunate to be given this opportunity to expand my skills in training and can’t wait to get started!”

The VET Trainer Scholarship is available twice per year and is open to trade-qualified automotive employees in Queensland with at least five years’ experience. The next scholarship round will open 1 August 2022.

MTA Queensland is CLICK FOR committed to addressing MORE INFO ON the skills shortage that THE MTAQ VET exists across Queensland SCHOLARSHIPS and supports the career advancement of automotive tradespeople.

April 2022 Motor Trader | 85

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Apprentice of the Month: March 2022 APPRENTICE: JACK FARRAWAY WORKPLACE: DONE RIGHT AUTOMOTIVE APPRENTICESHIP: LIGHT VEHICLE MECHANICAL TECHNOLOGY

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ACK FARRAWAY IS the MTA Institute Apprentice of the Month for March 2022.

The 18-year-old, third-year apprentice has been working at Done Right Automotive in Charters Towers since he was just 14 and, according to his trainer Gavin Jacobs, his ‘commitment to his training, development, and employment . . . is outstanding.’

Having finished school at the end of 2021, Jack has been with the business full time only since January this year but has been a highly valued member of the Done Right team right from the start when he began working at the business a couple of afternoons after school to help out and do some cleaning around the workshop. It wasn’t too long before he had secured a school-based apprenticeship position.

“It was clear from early on he had the potential and was eager to learn,” said Done Right owner Mick Blacklock. “He soon became a part of the furniture.

“Jack’s positive attitude and willingness to learn and achieve is outstanding and makes him a valuable member of our team. His interactions with customers and suppliers, combined with his maturity and respect for his peers and workplace demonstrates his understanding of his position within the business and automotive industry . . . We can’t speak highly enough of him. We have struck gold with this man!”

Jack has always had an interest in cars and would help his dad work on his cars whenever he could.

And he even got his hands on a vehicle nice and early, owning a 1996 Patrol since he was 13 – a very useful project vehicle for a young man fascinated by the workings of the combustion engine and all things automotive.

“I have always enjoyed cars and how it all works has always interested me. The technology, and how 86 | Motor Trader April 2022

it has come such a long way in a short amount of time, blows my mind,” he said.

That fascination with the technology is still strong, and Jack said it is the challenges that the mechanical trade can throw his way that makes the work especially interesting.

“We work on pretty much everything here,” he said. “Any job from general services to replacing engines - we can do anything on any make and model. And I like the long, technical jobs that come in – the challenging ones. Doing work you might not have done before, and learning the things needed to complete that job - there’s a sense of accomplishment when you complete that kind of work.”

Having trained with the MTA Institute since he started his apprenticeship – now with trainer Gavin Jacobs but beginning with the late and much-missed trainer Richard Matthews - Jack said the one-on-one, in-the-workplace training model delivered by the Institute was one he enjoyed.

“Both my trainers have been excellent, and the MTA Institute training works really well for me,” he said. “Anything I am struggling with or need to understand better, then Gavin can go in-depth on that with me, and that really helps.”

Jack’s apprenticeship is expected to be completed toward the end of 2023, and he already has some ideas about where his career may head. He also recognises that the industry is changing rapidly, and more training is likely in the future.

“I am interested in diesels, and I think I might go for my diesel qualification,” he said. “And I know electric vehicles are coming, even if it seems unlikely we’ll see many of them out here for a while, so I would certainly be interested in learning about them.

“I wouldn’t mind having my own workshop at some point, and I would like to get more into the performance side of things. That really is interesting – making something that shouldn’t be going very fast, go fast. That does get me going!”

N OM IN AT E FOR T HE MTA INS TIT U TE APP R E N TIC E O F T HE MONT H AWARD • Are yo u em p loyi ng a n a p p re nti ce wh o is excelling i n th e wor kp l a ce?

• Do yo u have a hi g h- a chi ev i n g ap p rent ice co lle a g u e?

• Are they t rainin g wi th MTA Ins ti tu te?

If th e ans wer is ‘ye s ’, the n nom i nate th e m fo r t he M TA In s ti tute Ap p re nti ce of th e Mo nt h Awa rd.

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MTA Institute Graduates

CONGRATULATIONS TO THE MTA INSTITUTE’S LATEST GRADUATES THE MTA INSTITUTE is the largest independent provider of automotive apprenticeships and training in Queensland and it is always a proud moment when its APPRENTICE Scott Graffunder Daniel Herweynen Joseph Farrell Joshua Carson Benjamin Hart Cody Wojtowicz Dean Graham John O'Loughlin Lance Maguire Jordan Campbell Ashley Munro Kristian Reid Kai Macfarlane Elliott Dal Santo Noah Jackson Nicholas Stagnitta Jim Spencer Trent Pere Matt Daniel Heathcliff Simpson Peter Sheppard Kyle Strowe Matthew Smith Kurtis Bowen Jack Towler Brayden Habler Joseph Giles Daniel Thomas Bruce Vines Brock Fuller Daniel Nulley Kirk Johnson

students complete their trade qualification. Congratulations to everyone who was issued a qualification in February 2022 - it is a fantastic achievement!

QUALIFICATION Certificate III in Agricultural Mechanical Technology Certificate III in Automotive Body Repair Technology Certificate III in Automotive Electrical Technology Certificate III in Automotive Electrical Technology Certificate III in Automotive Refinishing Technology Certificate III in Automotive Refinishing Technology Certificate III in Heavy Commercial Vehicle Mechanical Technology Certificate III in Heavy Commercial Vehicle Mechanical Technology Certificate III in Heavy Commercial Vehicle Mechanical Technology Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology Certificate III in Mobile Plant Technology (Mobile Plant Equipment) Certificate III in Mobile Plant Technology (Mobile Plant Equipment) Certificate III in Motorcycle Mechanical Technology Certificate III in Motorcycle Mechanical Technology Certificate III in Motorcycle Mechanical Technology Certificate III in Motorcycle Mechanical Technology

88 | Motor Trader April 2022

TRAINER Michael De Waard Brett Baker Andrew Elson Ross Wilson Shane Palmer Luke Cooper Michael De Waard Michael De Waard Michael De Waard Colin Crichton Andrew Bellars Gavin Jacobs Scott Buckley Gavin Jacobs Gavin Jacobs Gavin Jacobs Andrew Elson Colin Crichton Andrew Bellars Andrew Bellars Derrick Pratt Derrick Pratt Roger West Andrew Bellars Keith Minchin Don Lerm Michael De Waard Terry Palfrey Colin Crichton Ivan Aird Scott Buckley Neil Bovey

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Providing legal services across a number of core areas, Bennett & Philp Lawyers have been providing effective legal solutions to meet the needs of dealers, suppliers, racers, financiers and other motor vehicle professionals for more than ten years.

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SUPPORT

openpay is a leading buy now, pay later service favoured by the automotive industry. Openpay gives customers longer to pay for servicing and parts through interest-free payment plans, while you get paid the next business day. Not just a payment method, but a smarter way to triple your Average Transaction Value.

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• Apprenticeships • Traineeships • Skills Recognition.

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Receive FREE expert advice on Workplace Relations matters & Consumer Complaint Support. Access a website building service and, through the Member Portal, information regarding wages & awards, health & safety, public holidays and more. There also is a FREE-to-use online Jobs Board platform, and discounted products available through the online MTA Queensland shop.

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Members have saved thousands with CBA.

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MTA Queensland will represent you to state and federal governments on BIG issues affecting your business and the industry. We represent service stations, new & used car dealers, tyre businesses, paint & panel, repairers, parts recyclers, engine re-conditioners, farm & industrial machinery businesses, motorcycle sales and rental vehicles, so can actively espouse direct industry perspective.

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Concept corner

POLESTAR O2 ROA 90 | Motor Trader April 2022

ADSTER CONCEPT April 2022 Motor Trader | 91

Concept corner

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OLESTAR, THE ELECTRIC performance car brand which has just made its grand entrance onto the Australian automotive stage with its Polestar 2 EV, has unveiled this new concept, the O2.

The two-door hard-top convertible appears to share styling cues with its fourdoor concept predecessor, the Precept, and so, like that vehicle, it is a fantastically good-looking, sleek machine. And, as concepts often do, the O2 has at least one feature so unusual that you just have to smile. In this case, that feature is a drone.

Yes. A drone.

It is an idea we have seen before. Audi, for example, showcased such an idea on its Audi AI:Trail concept, which had a series of drones that would light the way ahead of the vehicle, but the Polestar O2 has a rather different approach to the idea. This drone is all about the social media generation and being able to create

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“INTEGRATING AN AUTONOMOUS CINEMATIC DRONE WAS SOMETHING THAT ALLOWED US TO PUSH THE BOUNDARIES ON THE INNOVATION FRONT. NOT NEEDING TO STOP AND OFFLOAD THE DRONE BEFORE FILMING, BUT RATHER DEPLOYING IT AT SPEED, IS A KEY BENEFIT TO THIS INNOVATIVE DESIGN.” shareable video content of you and your sexy new car driving on picturesque roads.

The company says that the drone can be deployed while the car is moving, operates autonomously and can follow the car at speeds up to 90km/h. After filming, the drone returns itself to the 02, and video clips it has recorded can be edited and shared directly from the car’s 15-inch centre display when the car is parked.

“We wanted to emphasise the

VIDEO: POLESTAR 02 CONCEPT

experience you can have with a car like the Polestar O2 in new and unusual ways,” said Maximilian Missoni, Polestar’s Head of Design. “Integrating an autonomous cinematic drone was something that allowed us to push the boundaries on the innovation front. Not needing to stop and off-load the drone before filming, but rather deploying it at speed, is a key benefit to this innovative design.”

April 2022 Motor Trader | 93

VIDEO: POLESTAR O2 CONCEPT - THE DRONE!

While such a feature is the headline act for the O2, the car does also showcase Polestar’s bonded aluminium platform which is adapted from the company’s upcoming Polestar 5 four-door GT, and which is ‘geared towards heightened dynamic response’.

Also being showcased here are Polestar’s advances in sustainability and technology. The company has used a new ‘thermoplastic mono-material’ extensively - meaning a single base material has been used to manufacture different components featured in the interior. In the case of the O2, this is recycled polyester which is used for all the soft components of the interior: foam, adhesive, 3D knit fibres and non-woven lamination. This, Polestar said, simplifies recycling and is a significant step towards greater circularity, while also reducing weight and waste.

94 | Motor Trader April 2022

THE COMPANY HAS USED A NEW THERMOPLASTIC MONO-MATERIAL EXTENSIVELY - MEANING A SINGLE BASE MATERIAL HAS BEEN USED TO MANUFACTURE DIFFERENT COMPONENTS FEATURED IN THE INTERIOR. While there are no details yet about battery, motors, range, or performance, the O2 is, no doubt, a player in all those areas. And while it may not appear eventually in production form as it does here, it is worth noting that the Polestar 5 looks mighty close to the Precept concept.

Fingers crossed Polestar does the same with the O2.

MTA INSTITUTE COURSES AUTO READY

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26 Apr - 27 May 2022 25 Jul - 26 Aug 2022

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MTA QUEENSLAND COURSES MIG WELDING FUNDAMENTALS COURSE 11 May 2022, 8:30am - 12:30pm 3 Aug 2022, 8:30am - 12:30pm

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11 May 2022, 8:30am - 12:30pm 3 Aug 2022, 8:30am - 12:30pm

12 Apr 2022 29 Jun 2022 21 Sep 2022

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Rhonda Madden Your Superannuation Adviser

Book your 7-point super service You regularly service your car to improve performance, but what about your super?

Talk to one of our super experts to find out how your super is travelling. We can help with boosting your super, investment options, insurance, combining super, retirement options and more.

Book an appointment today Call us on 1800 005 166.

Advice on Spirit Super is provided by Quadrant First Pty Ltd (ABN 78 102 167 877, AFSL 284443) (Spirit Super Advice), which is wholly owned by Motor Trades Association of Australia Superannuation Fund Pty. Limited (ABN 14 008 650 628, AFSL 238718), the trustee of Spirit Super (ABN 74 559 365 913). A copy of the Financial services guide for Spirit Super Advice is available at spiritsuper.com.au/financial-services-guide or by calling us on 1800 005 166. You should consider the Product disclosure statement and Target market determination available at spiritsuper.com.au/pds or by calling 1800 005 166 before deciding if the fund is appropriate for you.