Motor Trader e-magazine, September 2018

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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 Email: publications@mtaq.com.au Website: www.mtaq.com.au EDITOR Jonathan Nash ART DIRECTOR Marco Ilinic INDUSTRIAL RELATIONS Ted Kowalski Paul Murray

JONATHAN NASH EDITOR

H

POLICY Kellie Dewar, General Manager MTA Queensland ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES Email: publications@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 (including GST) 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.

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20180718

CORPORATE PARTNERS

ELLO AND WELCOME to the September edition of Motor Trader.

In this month's cover story, we take a look at electric vehicles (EV) and the seemingly imminent shift in thinking that should see Australians finally accept EVs as a viable alternative to petrol power.

Several new models of EVs will be available in Australia over the next few months and in November, the Australian Electric Vehicle Association (AEVA) will be holding an EV expo in Brisbane that will highlight how far the technology has come and where it is headed.

MTA Queensland has been busy in this area - as well as other areas that will prove disruptive to the auto industry. The Association has developed hybrid electric training courses and has worked hard through initiatives such as the Carmageddon symposiums and the establishment of

the MTAiQ Innovation Hub to help industry adapt and embrace the coming changes.

It is represented on the Queensland Electric Vehicle Council and is a sponsor of the AEVA Expo at which it will be delivering presentations on EV training and other initiatives.

The EV revolution is fascinating stuff and in our cover story we talk to Graeme Manietta - Chairman of the Queensland branch of the AEVA and owner of the EV conversion company OZ-DIY Electric Vehicles - about the expo, the technology and the future. Go to page 18 for more.

As always, the rest of Motor Trader is jam-packed with news and features and in our classic car story we focus on a very special vehicle.

That car is a 1912 WillysOverland Model 61, nicknamed 'Whitey'. Once owned by Fred Eager, one of the founders of what is now the A.P. Eagers automotive group, it is now owned by Graham Crittenden of Kingaroy, and it's a beautiful car with a wonderful history.

Go to page 64 to read the story.

I hope you enjoy this month's Motor Trader, and if you have any news you'd like to share; or have a classic vehicle we could feature on our Member's Classic pages, then please do get in contact with me.

Cheers!

Jonathan Nash, Editor jonathann@mtaq.com.au September 2018 Motor Trader | 1

Contents

18

04 FROM THE DESK OF THE CEO 08 POLICY/VIEWPOINT 28 AN EYE ON INNOVATION 30 AUTO INNOVATION NEWS 58 AUTO NEWS 89 TRAINING GM'S PROFESSIONAL CIRCLE PERSPECTIVE 90 PROFESSIONAL CIRCLE TRAINING 96 PLUGGED IN 98 CARS & COFFEE 103 INDUSTRIAL RELATIONS 108 MARKET WRAP 2 | Motor Trader September 2018

64

Search for MTA Queensland

42

74 12

104 September 2018 Motor Trader | 3

From the Desk of the CEO

BRETT DALE CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER MTA QUEENSLAND

M

OST RECENTLY, MY focus has been preparing the end of financial year report for the MTA Queensland Board on the strategic issues relating to the Group’s business and to present the several audited financial and statutory compliance papers for approval.

The key operational document is the 201719 Strategic Plan, which sets the goals and the framework to grow the Association’s commercial interests through membership, training, the innovation hub initiative and communications. It also establishes the benchmarks for the delivery of services to members. In my report to the Board, I advised that there had been successful progress measured against the goals. I thank the entire staff for their diligence and professionalism in working to achieve these outcomes in which we all can take pride.

DUTIES THAT SURPRISE Sometimes, other duties come along that surprise for the best. There are two experiences that I share with you. It’s rare for a peak organisation to appear before the influential House of Representative’s Standing Committee on Economics 4 | Motor Trader September 2018

(the Committee) for almost an hour to provide evidence on issues important to our membership. Normally, this is confined to such entities as the Australian Taxation Commission or the Reserve Bank of Australia.

Not for one moment do I want members to think that MTA Queensland is important in the affairs of the nation.

Definitely not, but we were one of a two Queensland organisations allocated to give evidence for the 80-minute Brisbane Hearings on impediments to business investment. Whilst I was prepared for the Hearing, I was surprised by the time given to MTA Queensland as a witness before the Committee and the questions posed.

In my opening statement I addressed ‘cost of doing business’, which is the consistent message from members to the corporate office. These include the energy affordability, regulatory obligations (red-tape), fee for service, digital connectivity with government entities, and industrial relations - particularly unfair dismissals. I mentioned other matters such as disruption arising from the transition to the digital economy; the shift from combustion engines to electric vehicles; technology such as 3D printing disrupting parts and tools suppliers and manufacturing; and an economic and regulatory framework that enables small/ medium enterprise to be sustainable into the future.

Whilst I was surprised by the time given to the MTA Queensland as a witness, the Committee also requested detail of ten impediments to business which challenged the automotive value chain’s core business. This will be provided with the support of MTA Queensland members. The Committee

“T WAS PLEASING TO BE INVITED BY THE MINISTER FOR TRANSPORT AND MAIN ROADS MARK BAILEY TO BECOME A MEMBER OF THE QUEENSLAND ELECTRIC VEHICLE COUNCIL AND HAVE THE OPPORTUNITY TO SHARE OUR LEARNINGS.”

and integrated mobility promises to be faster, cheaper, safer, cleaner and more convenient for all users. To advance this, government should be proactive and plan the infrastructure requirements such as transport lanes to trial mobility technologies that include autonomous vehicles and shuttle buses for consumers to become familiar with new transport options.

questioned me about the Association’s commitment to a statutory mandated regulatory framework for the effective transfer of vehicle repair and maintenance information from Original Equipment Manufacturers to independent repairers.

I assured that this was the position and policy of the Association. The Committee pursued the issue of both hydrogen cell technology for motor vehicles in comparison to electric vehicles. I advised the Association was not experts but observed that electric vehicles (EVs) were in the market place and governments and the private sector were facilitating their take up with recharge stations across the state but suggested parallel investment into research of hydrogen cell technology is sensible.

The second experience was ‘Car Pool Karaoke’- no, not singing - but a casual, lighthearted interview in a car. This was a new and interesting concept by Deloitte’s Consulting Partner Dr Kellie Nuttall to capture diverse thinking from different passengers around the ‘Future of Mobility’ within a relaxed and entertaining environment. The videos were showcased at a Deloitte Queensland Gala event to which I was invited. I was keen to promote in the interview that the Association was preparing for an era where seamless

For almost two years, we’ve been providing leadership and investigating the implications of digital disruption and vehicle technological transformations on the automotive value chain and integrated transport systems. It was pleasing to be invited by the Minister for Transport and Main Roads Mark Bailey to become a member of the Queensland Electric Vehicle Council and have the opportunity to share our learnings. It is advisory in nature and comprises government, industry and community representatives. At the inaugural meeting chaired by the Minister, it was agreed to focus on long-term strategic direction and industry involvement.

A separate entity, the Australian Electric Vehicle Association Inc. (AEVA) will hold its 2018 annual conference and expo in Brisbane on 9 – 10 November at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre. As AEVA’s goals align with the objectives of our Carmageddon symposiums and participation in the Myriad Festival, we will be a sponsor of the Electric Vehicle expo. Of particular interest to us, is raising the awareness of the mobility aspect of electric vehicles from bicycles to scooters to cars. The expo is an opportunity for the trades sector to display products and for the public

QUEENSLAND ELECTRIC VEHICLE COMMITTEE

September 2018 Motor Trader | 5

From the desk of the CEO to learn about electric vehicles such as charging options.

CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES Both Deputy Chief Executive Kellie Dewar and I, at stakeholder meetings or networking events, look and listen for opportunities, programs or initiatives that would contribute to the ongoing resilience of the Association and the sustainability of member’s businesses.

In last month’s From the Desk of the CEO, I referred to an opportunity to engage with Telstra’s Emerging Technology Strategy personnel on Cooperative Intelligent Systems. This is progressing with a planned workshop to explore areas of mutual interest and potential collaboration. It will include Telstra’s Chief Transport Strategist Dean Economou who is credentialled in aspects of intelligent transport.

Another opportunity emerged through a meeting with Block2 Chief Executive Officer Eden Spencer. He leads a team with diverse economic, industrial and professional skills in the areas of technology, business intelligence, innovation, partnerships and strategy.

They have developed a product, Block2, that is a ground-breaking industry resource sharing platform that enables business to create resilience and support as they navigate significant changes in modern operating environments. It is focused on solving the problems that businesses face day-to-day while creating new opportunities to collaborate for financial reward.

I’ve discussed opportunities that Block2 can provide for the membership with the MTA Queensland Board. It has been agreed to commence planning with Block2 as a corporate partner to deliver the latest in blockchain technology to 6 | Motor Trader September 2018

“IT HAS BEEN AGREED TO

COMMENCE PLANNING WITH BLOCK2 AS A CORPORATE PARTNER TO DELIVER THE LATEST IN BLOCKCHAIN TECHNOLOGY TO INDUSTRY.” industry. More information about Block2’s status as a corporate partner and the benefits to members will be provided as the arrangement progresses.

AND THE LAST THING The Association and members alike have been through a busy period with end of the year reporting obligations in harness with normal business activities. With this is mind, I trust members will be able to treat themselves to the Annual Industry Dinner, Saturday 10 November at Hotel W Brisbane – 81 North Quay. It is an occasion to toast the ‘new world automotive’ and the MTA Institute Apprentice of the Year, the MTAiQ Innovation and the MTA Queensland Community Award winners.

I will continue to work to expand our commercial interests, continue the strategic restructure and industry realignments which includes the emerging digital and technological innovations.

We will continue to build on the success of improved governance, expanding commercial interests, and continuing the strategic restructure and industry re-alignments which includes the emerging digital and technological innovations.

In closing, I too look ‘to the heavens for rain to break the drought cycle and restore business confidence and uplift spirits.’ Until next month, as Henry Ford, the industrialist and the founder of the Ford motor company said, ‘execute ideas with enthusiasm . . . as it is the bottom of all progress’.

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Policy/Viewpoint

KELLIE DEWAR DEPUTY GROUP CHIEF EXECUTIVE GENERAL MANAGER MEMBER SERVICES

W

ITH DISRUPTIVE CHANGE becoming the norm with the digital economy and industry generally, a thread that seamlessly weaves through my several responsibilities, including advocacy, is ‘change’. Across the years we’ve been active participants responding to diverse government and parliamentary entities on policy options, reviews and reforms. Primarily, the underlying theme of each has been ‘change’.

Our submissions, at all times, reflect the ‘best interest’ of the membership and the automotive value chain arising from challenges associated with economic, technological and industry transformations. Being part of the conversation, whether it is on policy or reform measures, means the Association’s views are on the table influencing the decision-making processes.

At present, I am preparing two submissions with a focus on ‘change’ or ‘reform’. The first is the Queensland Parliamentary Committee on Transport and Public Work’s inquiry into transport technology. Overall, the emphasis is on identifying trends and changes in fuel type usage and the increasing electrification

8 | Motor Trader September 2018

of vehicles in coming years. Our research indicates the projected trends in fuel demand for the next decade is for the fuel retailing industry to undergo massive structural changes. This will occur in sync with the technological advancement in the automotive sector led by the conversion from internal combustion engines to hybrid and plug-in electric vehicles.

Nationally, the volume of fuel sold by the industry is expected to increase at a lowly annualised 0.7 per cent through 2017-18. It is estimated by 2025 there will be 230,000 electric vehicles on the nation’s roads and this is expected to exceed one million by 2030.

The second submission too, is about ‘change’. It relates to the ‘black economy’, with emphasis on consultation on designing a modern Australian Business Number (ABN) system to improve the integrity of the ABN system and the quality of ABN data.

There is a sound reason for redesigning the ABN. The Australian Bureau of Statistics in 2012 estimated that the’ black economy’ equated to 1.5 per cent of Gross Domestic Produce (GDP). The 2017 Black Economy Taskforce (the Taskforce) considered that number outdated and the ‘black economy’ was as large as 3 per cent of GDP or about $50 billion based on identified trends.

The black economy imposes a significant cost to the nation, and in

“OUR RESEARCH INDICATES THE PROJECTED TRENDS IN FUEL DEMAND FOR THE NEXT DECADE IS FOR THE FUEL RETAILING INDUSTRY TO UNDERGO MASSIVE STRUCTURAL CHANGES.”

“THE BLACK ECONOMY IMPOSES A SIGNIFICANT COST TO THE NATION, AND IN PARTICULAR TO HONEST BUSINESSES AND CONSUMERS.” particular to honest businesses and consumers. Our response will be to support the ABN system that is fit for purpose as required by business, consumers and government. Importantly, we will stress the design of the ABN must not impose significant new compliance or regulatory obligations, fee for service or cost recovery on business to capture miscreants.

Recently, I met with Australian Financial Security Authority officers who make a practice of visiting stakeholders on a regular basis for a general discussion on the Personal Properties and Securities Register (PPSR). This time, they advised on new initiatives relating to motor vehicles on the Register and fee changes. In the near future, the PPSR will include a new feature that highlights all outstanding recalls for Takata Airbags. This will enable buyers to check if the vehicle has an outstanding airbag replacement under the recall. The second is that PPSR fees have changed and resulted in reductions in most areas affecting our members, including basic searches and registering an interest.

DIVISIONAL NEWS Generally, the MTA Queensland’s industry divisions in their quarterly Board reports indicated a positive economic outlook for either their sector or region.

Encouragingly, The Far North and Central Queensland region representatives

were upbeat as result of strong resource commodity prices and infrastructure developments either underway or pending.

The Rental Vehicle industry division, which has had to work its way through several disruptions, is starting to see underlying strength in the rental markets flowing from the infrastructure and mining sector’s project investments.

Additionally, technology, management of aggregator website pricing, and suppling vehicles to ride sharing groups were helping to improve the ‘bottom line’.

There is rising confidence in the industrial machinery sector of the Farm and Industrial Machinery division due to the large numbers of government tendered works across most areas of the state.

These range from major highway upgrades, coal seam gas developments and solar power and wind farm developments. The Automotive Parts and Recyclers division has experienced a ‘tough time’, but the view expressed is that ‘predominantly the industry appears to be progressing well.’ There was a caveat, that ‘profitability is down’.

Whilst overall confidence was prominent, we have industry divisions with members experiencing bleak economic circumstances. The farm machinery sector of the Farm and Industrial Machinery division reported that the drought had ravaged both machinery sales and crop plantings. For example, the Darling Downs has had little if any winter crop planted and this is the first year in 50 years where this has occurred.

The prolonged dry has dampened spirits and optimism and is holding back investment in new equipment.

Our Motorcycle industry division too, is experiencing a downturn with an ongoing decline in the new product market for September 2018 Motor Trader | 9

Policy/Viewpoint the last six months of the financial year with the entire market down 6 per cent.

Each division has industry issues to be worked through.

For our Service Station and Convenience Store Association, drive-offs (the non-payment of fuel) has long been an unresolved matter. Advancements in technology could result in automatic scans of vehicle number plates, cross matched to databases, that will indicate if the vehicle has been involved in previous drive off or non-payment activity.

An on-going issue that has engaged our Motorcycle Industry Division is the increasing deaths and serious injuries from all-terrain-vehicle (ATV) motorcycles. All parties – ATV dealers, distributors and the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission are considering ways to reduce these through education, minimum performance standards and crush protection devices. There is unanimity on the first two, but a divergence of opinion relating to the latter which will be the subject of ongoing discussions.

Referring again to the Takata Airbag Recall, our Automotive Parts Remarketing Division reports that it is a major issue

“ADVANCEMENTS IN

TECHNOLOGY COULD RESULT IN AUTOMATIC SCANS OF VEHICLE NUMBER PLATES, CROSS MATCHED TO DATABASES, THAT WILL INDICATE IF THE VEHICLE HAS BEEN INVOLVED IN PREVIOUS DRIVE OFF OR NON-PAYMENT ACTIVITY.” for the industry. The continued expansion of the makes and models affected by the recall by the manufacturers has seen most members in the division impacted, with vehicles in stock requiring airbag replacement prior to resale to the public.

Whilst an ongoing problem for some time yet, progress is being made in reducing the number for defect airbags. In midAugust, nearly half – 45 per cent – of the defect airbags had been replaced, with the government advising that there are now 146,000 fewer malfunctioning airbags in vehicles than this time a year ago. In total now, around 247,000 vehicles have been completed. The government anticipated for the recall to be completed by the end of next year.

FINALLY

an The Takata Airbag Recall will continue to be issue for the industry for some time yet.

10 | Motor Trader September 2018

Almost 60 per cent of Queensland is drought declared. Across that area, MTA Queensland has members who rely on the resilience of the industries, the communities and the people who sustain their businesses. We look to the heavens for more blessed rain that will break the drought cycle and restore business confidence and uplift spirits.

Until next month, take care and stay safe.

Small change.

Big future.

Matthew Webster (46) has a long way to go before he hangs up his hat, but he can already picture his retirement.

He plans to travel around Australia in a caravan with his wife - once he convinces her that it will be fun!

increased life expectancy, many of us will spend close to a quarter of our lives as retirees.

Matt has spent his career in the motor trades and is well on his way to make sure he has enough super to see the country in comfort.

For some, the age pension alone or relying solely on your employer’s super contributions may not be enough.

He joined MTAA Super as an apprentice in 1989 and now works in an automotive training role in NSW.

Leeanne Turner, CEO of MTAA Super, says it’s important that workers do what they can to help grow their super throughout their working lives.

“I’m really happy I’ve been with MTAA Super. It’s the industry super fund for my trade and has been supporting careers in the automotive industry for over 25 years.”

“I’m still a long way off retirement, but I do think about what I will do when I stop working and how I will support myself and my family.”

Matt, like many Australians, is not alone in his concern. Thanks to changing work patterns and

“Too many workers are hands-off with their super. Retirement can feel like a lifetime away, so it’s easy to put super on the back burner. But there are a lot of ways you can actively grow your super now.”

She says one of the easiest and most effective ways is to make regular extra contributions.

“Small amounts can go a long way.

Putting as little as an extra $10 per week into your super can add up to thousands over a 30+ year career.”

“This is because of the compounding nature of superannuation. With super, you don’t just grow your employer and voluntary contributions, you also grow the investment returns on these contributions. Every dollar you add to your super account boosts your super’s earning capacity.”

Ms Turner also adds that making extra contributions is easy.

“It’s simple. Just ask your employer to set up a regular (pre-tax) salary sacrifice into your super, or make direct (after-tax) deposits into your super whenever you can afford to put a little aside.”

Give your super a boost!

For ways to give your super a boost while you’re still working visit mtaasuper.com.au /extra-contributions

1300 362 415 mtaasuper.com.au

This article is issued by Motor Trades Association of Australia Superannuation Fund Pty. Limited (ABN 14 008 650 628, AFSL 238 718) of Level 3, 39 Brisbane Avenue Barton ACT 2600, Trustee of the MTAA Superannuation Fund (ABN 74 559 365 913). Motor Trades Association of Australia Superannuation Fund Pty. Limited has ownership interests in Industry Super Holdings Pty Ltd and Members Equity Bank Limited. The information provided is of a general nature and does not take into account your specific needs or personal situation. You should assess your financial position and personal objectives before making any decision based on this information. We also recommend that you seek advice from a licensed financial adviser.

The MTAA Super Product Disclosure Statement (PDS), an important document containing all the information you need to make a decision about MTAA Super, can be obtained by calling MTAA Super on 1300 362 415 or visiting mtaasuper.com.au/handbooks. You should consider the PDS in making a decision.

Brad Collett, owner of Geebung Tyres & More

MTA|Q&A

Brad Collett owns Geebung Tyres & More, offering tyre and mechanical services to customers across north Brisbane.

A 32-year veteran of the auto industry, Brad’s experience covers a range of automotive sectors with the past dozen or so years focused on the tyre industry. Recently, he became the Chairman of the Tyre & Undercar Division of MTA Queensland, working on issues that impact the tyre sector across the state.

What products and services does Geebung Tyres & More offer?

BC: Tyres, obviously, but also full

mechanical services - everything from basic servicing to engines, lift kits, brakes.

Pretty much everything.

How long have you owned and operated the Geebung store?

BC: I have been here in Brisbane for six years, but I’ve been in the industry for 32.

12 | Motor Trader September 2018

I started my light vehicle apprenticeship when I was 16 at a VW shop in Geelong and followed that by working at a Holden dealership for about 3½ years. I got a little bored of that because I was basically doing the same thing every day, so went to work at a smaller, independent workshop for six years. That was very good as a lot of different work came through that shop.

From there, I moved to Warrnambool and worked at a Toyota dealership and

Why did you decide to work with Tyres & More?

“TO BE SUCCESSFUL YOU BC: My wife Carla and I looked at a few HAVE TO REALLY KNOW different franchises, but Tyres & More THE PRODUCTS AND looked like a good fit for us. At the time, I didn’t know too much about them but OFFER GREAT SERVICE TO when I enquired a bit more and did my CUSTOMERS SO THAT THEY research I realised what a good set-up it ARE HAPPY WHEN THEY HAND was, and they were clearly the best option.

OVER THEIR HARD-EARNED The location of the store was great, and you can get as much support as you want MONEY.” then for the RACV for a while, before working on trucks for about six years. I then moved into the office and ran the workshop for four years.

After that I moved into the tyre sector, moving back to Geelong to run a Kmart Tyre & Auto where I stayed for 10 years. I then did a stint with Jax Quick Fit, running a store in Geelong and then in Cairns before moving down to Brisbane in 2012 and buying this Tyres & More business.

Moving into the tyre sector wasn’t really a conscious decision, it just kind of worked out that way. That first job at Kmart was different and interesting – it wasn’t just about working on cars - and I really enjoyed it. After that, I just kept going!

from the company. Whatever you need, it’s always there.

You started your career as a mechanic and now specialise in tyres. Was that an interesting transition to make?

BC: It was actually quite a challenge.

Tyres are not just black and round and made of rubber!

Back in the day I was probably a bit like a lot of people – wondering why there were $90 tyres and $150 tyres and how they could be different. But of course, there is a big difference in the work and development that goes into higher performance tyres – a lot more technology, a lot more testing and research. There’s so much more involved and the difference September 2018 Motor Trader | 13

between a budget tyre and a performance tyre on the road is massive.

To be successful you have to really know the products and offer great service to customers so they are happy when they hand over their hard-earned money.

Buying tyres is often a bit of a grudge purchase - it can cost quite a bit - so you have to make sure you are giving the customer the right information and ensure the tyres they are getting are appropriate for their needs.

What is most important to customers when they come to buy a tyre?

BC: Sometimes it is price and the question will be around the the safest but cheapest option. In that case, we’ll help the customer find the best product for their budget.

Safety is also definitely important too, as is longevity.

Thanks to the internet, which has enabled people to check the different brands and tyres in quite a lot of detail,

“WHEN I PURCHASED THE

BUSINESS, IT WASN’T DOING THAT WELL, BUT WE HAD A PLAN - I HAD A FEELING THAT THIS BUSINESS WAS LOCATED WELL AND WE COULD HAVE A REAL CRACK AT IT.”

many people do come in armed and ready to go - they’ve done a bit of googling and they’ll say that they’ve heard about how good one tyre is as opposed to another.

I’d say more than half come in knowing exactly what they are after - we really don’t get as many of the ‘just give me what’s on special’ type customers anymore.

What we do is try to gauge how the customer uses their vehicle and what they expect from the tyre. That might mean we end up suggesting a different tyre than fits their budget, but when they are offered the right advice and shown the benefits of a better tyre that extra cost often does not matter. And to be honest, sometimes the price difference is quite small, especially as many of the brands offer four tyres for the price of three. That’s an offer that brings premium tyres back to mid-range pricing.

What brands do you sell?

BC: We do the top 15 brands – such as

Michelin, Pirelli, Yokohama, Continental and so on - as well as a few of the budget brands.

Realistically, the best tyres of the top brands are all excellent - the technology, research and development that goes into them is outstanding. While there is sometimes a particular tyre that is a real standout, it is in the budget and mid-range product where the differences are more obvious. You can buy a couple of different budget tyres and one will perform well, while the other can be, well, a bit rubbish!

What do you make of the news that Continental are to buy the Kmart Tyre & Auto chain?

BC: There had been whispers of others

sniffing about, so it wasn’t a complete surprise. It does give Continental a big foot in the door here - straight away they will have nearly 300 stores.

The tyre majors are tyring to get a bigger share of the market - Hankook bought Jax not long ago - so it makes a lot of sense. Maybe there will be more to follow. I’d like to think the independents will survive, however, because you do need the independents to keep everyone honest.

One of the changes we have seen in the tyre sector is the growth of online sales – consumers can buy tyres from just about anywhere. What are your thoughts on that?

BC: Online retail has been around for a long time and the sale of tyres became a big deal some six or seven years ago.

I don’t have a problem with online sellers - we are a fitting station for some of them – but there is an issue in some cases, and that issue is to do with tyres that are not made for Australian conditions.

A tyre that is made for European conditions uses different compounds and set-ups and is obviously designed to work best in colder conditions. Buy that tyre and bring it into Australia and there clearly could be problems.

We actually had one brought in not

long ago that we changed for a customer and on its sidewall it stated it was a snow tyre! The customer had bought it online, someone had fitted it, and the customer had come to us after suffering a puncture In the end we couldn’t repair it anyway so we had to replace it, but how did that come into Australia? We don’t want that.

You can’t really blame the consumer - they are looking online for a tyre of a certain size, at a price they like, and it may be that they find a well-known brand, so it must be OK, right? They don't necessarily think about whether it is right for their driving use or the conditions in which they’ll be using it, and they won’t be told that if there is no one to advise them.

The problem is that we, the fitter, are liable for anything that we fit. While that particular snow tyre was clearly marked as a problem, we don’t know where other tyres bought online come from. While most do probably come from Australia, some may come from elsewhere, and that is a concern. If I buy a tyre from Michelin or Pirelli, or whoever it might be, I know it has come from the warehouse in Sydney, Melbourne or Brisbane. With the online stuff, we just can’t be sure.

We are working in interesting times!

How many staff do you have?

BC: At present we have four. I work the

front counter and in the workshop, Carla does the bookwork, and I have a couple of guys that work in the shop as well as a casual tyre fitter who comes in as required.

To what do you attribute your success?

BC: A lot of bloody hard work!

When I purchased the business, it wasn’t doing that well, but we had a plan - I had a feeling that this business was located well, and we could have a real crack at it.

Within about four months we had nearly doubled sales and in our first year we were up 70 per cent September 2018 Motor Trader | 15

BC: I came onto the committee

“WITHIN ABOUT FOUR

MONTHS WE HAD NEARLY DOUBLED SALES AND IN OUR FIRST YEAR WE WERE UP 70 PER CENT ON WHAT THE PREVIOUS OWNER HAD DONE IN THE PREVIOUS YEAR.” on what the previous owner had done in the previous year. A lot of that was down to just saying ‘Yes, we can do the work, when do you want it done?’. That attitude changed everything, and we have grown every year. But it is a lot of hard work.

Of course, customer relationships are also important, maybe the most important aspect of the business. I don’t want a customer just for one set of tyres, I want them to come back again and again, and so we work hard for that result and for them to recommend us to their friends and family and so on. I want them to be able to say that this business really helped them out, knew what they wanted and went the extra step to make sure they were happy.

You are Chairman of the MTA Queensland Tyre and Undercar Division and a Board member of the Association. Why did you take on that responsibility and what issues is your committee focusing on?

16 | Motor Trader September 2018

three years ago and took over from John Ruddick as committee chairman a year later.

I was happy to take on the role and it has been an interesting two years. We have a couple of important items on our agenda including tyre disposal, which is a very important issue. End-of-life tyres and what happens to them is something we want to look at more deeply. About 54 million tyres are disposed of each year in Australia and we are recycling only about 30 per cent of those. That is high priority for myself and for our division.

As I mentioned earlier, the importation of tyres that aren’t necessarily made for Australian conditions is also an issue.

The question is how do we stop that from happening? That is something we do want to work on too.

What plans do you have for your future in the tyre sector?

BC: We have thought about expanding and

maybe buying another shop, but we are very busy at the moment, doing well and providing quality service to our customers.

So, we have talked about expanding but that won’t happen in the near future, although there is always a chance something might come up. We are keeping things open.

What do you do with your spare time, if you have any?

BC: Spending time with my family. I do also

love working on classic cars and have an old Pontiac, a Kingswood and a Torana that I tinker about with. But mostly it’s about spending CLICK TO time with the family. I can VISIT THE spend 60-70 hours a week GEEBUNG TYRES & MORE at work, so relaxing and WEBSITE spending time with them is very important!

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CLICK HERE FOR MEDIA GUIDE AND COSTS

18 | Motor Trader September 2018

A CURRENT AFFA R IS AUSTRALIA

ABOUT TO EMBRACE ELECTRIC VEHICLES? September 2018 Motor Trader | 19

Image credit: Photosite / Shutterstock.com

I

T HAS BEEN a while in the offing, but it looks like the Electric Vehicle (EV) revolution is finally upon us here in Australia.

While the pickings have been slim thus far, over the next 18 months to two years the choice of EVs – that’s battery-powered and plug-in hybrid vehicles – is about to go through a remarkable expansion.

EVs from Hyundai, Nissan, Jaguar, Tesla, Mini, BMW, Kia, Audi, Mercedes, VW, Volvo and Porsche are all expected to be available here by 2020-21 with some – the Tesla Model S and Model X, Renault Zoe, Hyundai Ioniq and Jaguar I-PACE – already here or to launch this year.

Things are definitely looking up for consumers interested in being amongst the first to be a part of this titanic shift in the automotive landscape.

And it will be a titanic shift. The willingness of the major manufacturers to get onboard the EV train ensures that battery-powered vehicles will be a major part of our transportation future.

We need only look overseas to see how far things have come and where things are headed. According to the latest edition of the International Energy Agency’s (IAE)

20 | Motor Trader September 2018

VIDEO: GLOBAL ELECTRIC VEHICLE OUTLOOK 2018

“. . . . MORE THAN 3 MILLION

ELECTRIC (EV) AND PLUG-IN HYBRID (PHEV) CARS WERE CRUISING THE ROADS OF THE WORLD IN 2017, A 54 PER CENT INCREASE COMPARED WITH 2016.”

Global Electric Vehicles Outlook, more than 3 million electric (EV) and plug-in hybrid (PHEV) cars were cruising the roads of the world in 2017, a 54 per CLICK TO VIEW THE IEA cent increase compared EV OUTLOOK with 2016. Furthermore, the report notes ‘the stock of electric buses

Image credit: AuKirk / Shutterstock.com

Tesla Model X and Model S

rose to 370,000 from 345,000 in 2016, and electric two-wheelers reached 250 million’.

Nearly 580,000 EV/PHEVs were sold in China in 2017 (a 72 per cent increase over 2016) and 280,000 were sold in the U.S. (up from 160,000 in 2016). In Norway, 39 per cent of new car sales are EVs and in the UK more than 30,000 new EV/PHEV cars were registered in the first half of 2018 (up 26 per cent on 2017).

Similarly, impressive figures are being registered in many other countries and while these numbers may still be dwarfed by the sales of conventionally-powered vehicles – global sales reached 86 million in 2017 – the simple truth is that with the weight of manufacturers behind them, and the ever-increasing interest from consumers around the world, EVs and PHEVs can no longer be ignored.

In Australia, however, it would seem that we have done our best to do so.

While electric vehicle sales represent about 2 per cent of the global market, in Australia, the number was a risible 0.2 per cent in 2017, with just 2400 vehicles sold.

But with a wider choice of vehicles soon to become available, that will surely change, and the evidence is there that it

Tesla Superchargers with two Model S electric vehicles charging

will - in research conducted by the Roy Morgan market research company earlier this year, 51.6 per cent of Australian drivers agreed that they would seriously consider buying a hybrid vehicle, while 36.2 per cent would consider a fully electric vehicle.

Those are encouraging figures for the EV sector.

Globally, EV growth has been driven, says the IAE, by ‘government policy, including public procurement programmes, financial incentives reducing the cost of purchase of EVs, tightened fueleconomy standards and regulations on the emission of local pollutants, low- and zeroemission vehicle mandates and a variety of local measures, such as restrictions on the circulation of vehicles based on their pollutant emission performances’.

While some of these incentives may not be available in Australia, one development that will likely have an impact on the purchasing considerations of Australian consumers is the dwindling concern of range anxiety thanks to improved battery performance (new model EVs with a range of more than 200km and up to 500km will be the norm) and the steady development of a nationwide charging network.

September 2018 Motor Trader | 21

In fact, the development of a charging network has been so rapid that it is possible, according to the Australian Electric Vehicle Association (AEVA), to circumnavigate the nation right now if you have one of the longer-range EVs (you can go to www.plugshare.com to view where these recharging points are located).

In Queensland, the government’s installation of fast charger points along the coast means that the Queensland Electric Super Highway - part of The Future is Electric: Queensland’s Electric Vehicle Strategy – can ensure a comfortable trip from Coolangatta to Cairns.

Australians interested in the possibilities and advantages of EV ownership will get the opportunity to find out a lot more in November when the AEVA holds its Electric CLICK TO Vehicle Expo at the VIEW THE FUTURE IS Brisbane Exhibition and ELECTRIC Convention Centre on DOCUMENT November 9 and 10.

A volunteer-run, not-

Image credit: Stuart Perry / Shutterstock.com

Tesla electric car charging station, Queensland, Australia

22 | Motor Trader September 2018

for-profit organisation founded in 1973, AEVA’s aim is to raise awareness of and encourage the use of EVs, as well as help governments form appropriate policy around the technology.

The organisation is taking a departure from the norm with its 2018 Expo.

While it has held annual meetings for years, the 2018 event will be something a bit special said Graeme Manietta, Chairman of the Queensland branch of the AEVA and owner of EV conversion business OZ DIY a well as traditional mechanical workshop Suzi Auto Parts.

“In previous years, there were very few manufactured EV models available,”

“IN QUEENSLAND, THE

GOVERNMENT’S INSTALLATION OF FAST CHARGER POINTS ALONG THE COAST MEANS THAT THE QUEENSLAND ELECTRIC SUPER HIGHWAY . . . CAN ENSURE A COMFORTABLE TRIP FROM COOLANGATTA TO CAIRNS.” he said. “This year, however, many manufacturers are releasing new EVs worldwide and several are doing so in Australia. We have the likes of Mercedes, Porsche, Hyundai, Renault, Tesla, as well as the locally manufactured ACE vehicle.

“There are so many models coming to the market towards the end of the year that it seemed obvious that what we really needed to do was to have a proper motor show.

“Manufacturers, businesses and government were all keen on the idea and I do think that this is a watershed moment for EVs in Australia. They are about to become mainstream.”

While it may seem that electric cars are a relatively new addition to the automotive mix, they actually have a

long history and were, for people interested in electric cars,” said for a while around Graeme. “And we have 1900, as popular a fair percentage of as petrol-powered individuals who work transportation. At that in the industry - in time, about 30 per cent Australian Electric Vehicle charging, electronics of cars on U.S. roads Association (AEVA) and so on – a lot of were battery powered, members who work in and even the official QLD Branch other highly technical land speed record was Presents fields, and members held by an electric who are backyard car – in 1899, Belgian The Electric Vehicle converters or who are racer Camille Jenatzy Conference and Expo owners of EVs such as recorded 65.8mph 2018 a Tesla, a Nissan Leaf (105.8km/h) in the and so on. torpedo-shaped vehicle “Membership La Jamais Contente.

Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre has grown over the EVs were quiet and November 9 and 10 2018 years, and so has the clean, while petrolassociation’s charter, powered cars were CLICK TO which is to promote the uptake noisy, polluting and required VISIT THE of EVs - that means not just hand-cranking to start. For EV EXPO cars, but boats, planes, scooters, a time, it seemed EVs were WEBSITE motorcycles, right down to lawn on the ascendance and some care equipment – and to help innovative ideas were considered develop policy. to capitalise on this early EV “Governments have been talking revolution, including the concept of an about electric vehicle technology for exchangeable battery service. a long time and the AEVA has become However, as road networks improved, involved in policy with regards to safety as oil discoveries made petrol widely issues, conversions and that sort of thing, available and cheap, and as Henry Ford and our branches are automatically began to churn out thousands of the invited to have representatives on most of rugged and affordable Model T cars, the the states’ Electric Vehicle councils.” slow speed and relatively short range of As a long-time member of the AEVA the EVs, as well as a lack of infrastructure and the owner of OZ DIY Electric Vehicles for them, became issues from which they - that offers EV conversion services and could not recover. So, for nearly a century, EV components to those who wish to the EV became something of a curiosity. do the conversion themselves - Graeme They would appear as concept cars from said he is impressed, so far, with the both time to time and, on very infrequent federal and state governments’ efforts occasions, a manufacturer might test the waters with a production car (such as GM’s to make Australia accommodating to electric vehicles.

EV1 in the 1990s), but, on the whole, EVs Of particular note, he said, was the were relegated to the labs of researchers electric vehicle superhighway. and the workshops of enthusiasts.

“When you really look at it with an In Australia, those enthusiasts got unbiased eye, they are doing a fine job,” together to form the AEVA. he said. “It is not cheap to put “The AEVA began as a meeting point th

th

September 2018 Motor Trader | 23

Image credit: Anton Ukolov / Shutterstock.com

Image credit: emirhankaramuk / Shutterstock.com

Nissan Leaf

Renault Zoe

in those super-charging points and the Queensland government went and did it. They’re trying to work out how to do things so that everybody is happy, which is probably never going to happen, but they are doing a pretty good job. Quite a few of our members have done the Coolangatta to Cairns trip and it was excellent and, of course, it cost them nothing to do it.”

The cost of electric vehicles - or rather the cost of running one - is part of the technology’s attraction. While they are not exactly cheap to buy (the Renault Zoe will run you to about $50,000 while the Tesla Model S will put you back a fair chunk more than $100,000) it’s the savings post-purchase where an EV really comes into its own. And if you happen to be an environmentally-conscious driver, then there’s something to be said to owning a vehicle that creates no emissions at all.

With the EV superhighway, as well as the continuing development in battery technology that enables some truly tremendous performance (check out the Tesla Racing Channel on YouTube and you’ll see what we mean), EVs really do begin to look like an attractive option.

“Most people look at EVs as an option that will cut their running costs, with environmental issues as the second concern,” said Graeme. “Since I built my conversion, I can say that I have had the ‘EV grin’ for about eight years. What’s the EV grin? It’s what every EV owner has 24 | Motor Trader September 2018

“. . . . I CAN SAY THAT I

HAVE HAD THE ‘EV GRIN’ FOR ABOUT EIGHT YEARS. WHAT’S THE EV GRIN? IT’S WHAT EVERY EV OWNER HAS WHEN THEY DRIVE PAST A PETROL STATION!” when they drive past a petrol station!

“Of course, while you might not be spending money on that fuel, the energy has to come from somewhere, but you are probably looking at about one-tenth the cost per km when you compare electricity to petrol.

“Some people may argue that coal is being burnt to create that power. However, not all 240v power comes from coal, there is a green mix in there as well, and many people have solar systems. Personally, my cars are charged through solar, whether at home or at the workshop.

“Then, of course, there are the savings in maintenance,” he added. “In an EV, you don’t need engine oil, you don’t have fuel filters or air filters, there is no radiator coolant, no fan belts or radiator hoses, no exhaust system, no starter motor – that’s a whole bunch of stuff that you won’t have to worry about and don’t have to maintain.

The only thing you need to worry about on EVs is gear box oil, tyres and brakes, and with regenerative braking you’re not even

using the brakes that hard.” predominantly EV fleet on the mechanical With all that in mind, there will, and fuel sectors of the auto industry is inevitably, be significant disruption to pretty clear, there is also the training sector to consider – an area of particular interest the auto industry should EVs become to the MTA Institute, MTA Queensland’s a major part of Australia’s vehicle fleet.

Registered Training Organisation and the From mechanical workshops to fuel largest private provider of automotive stations to training, there will be few areas industry training in Queensland. that won’t feel the impact of the change.

Having recognised early that the How businesses adapt will be crucial industry was likely to face such disruption, to minimising pain and maintaining a the Institute has been offering courses vibrant industry.

“There will continue to be petrol vehicles on Hybrid vehicle technology for some years and has argued successfully to and diesel trucks around,” said Graeme. have relevant skill sets recognised on “But in 10 years or so I believe a fair proportion of workshops will be struggling Queensland’s higher-level skills subsidies list, allowing potential learners to get unless they embrace the changes. access to training at a cost-effective rate.

“Personally, I am gearing up to be able “Over the coming decade, it is to service electric vehicles and do repairs anticipated by many that the automotive and maintenance. While EVs won’t need a lot of that, there will still be a need for that industry will undergo a process of transitional change that is greater than service. Conversions too, I think, will be a anything it has ever experienced before,” big part of the future. said Paul Kulpa, General Manager, MTA “As for the fuel industry, in 10 years we’ll Institute. “This change is expected to alter probably need half the fuel we need now the structure, product and service delivery and fuel stations will have to adapt too, of the automotive industry, with few other as they are already in Europe” he adds. industries forecast to encounter this level “Electricity is, when you think about it, of disruption. just another fuel, so you can have petrol “The skill sets were identified as priority bowsers, diesel bowsers and add fast chargers to the mix – perhaps a parking bay areas that will increase the technical skills and knowledge of the automotive of chargers where customers can pull in, workforce and enhance productivity and plug in, grab a coffee and be on their way. safety. The training provides advanced “While that recharge might take 15 or technical skills and enables reorientation 20 minutes today with current technology, into alternative and complementary companies such as Tritium are already sectors considered for growth in the developing 350kw chargers that will bring that down to about five Graeme Manietta built his own minutes. Soon, you’ll be able to EV and offers a conversion service recharge as quickly as it takes to through his OZ DIY Electric refill a tank.

Vehicles business “Funnily enough, one result of all this is that, as Jay Leno said, EVs will be the saviour of muscle cars. More people using EVs means less demand for fuel, which means it will become cheaper!”

While the effect of a September 2018 Motor Trader | 25

Graeme Manietta and apprentice Ryan Cliffe

CLICK TO VISIT THE OZ DIY ELECTRIC VEHICLES WEBSITE

taking my apprentice along too. Everyone is aware of what is coming in the industry and INSTITUTE HYBRID COURSE doing these courses to add electrical skills AND I’LL BE TAKING MY certainly couldn’t hurt.”

In November, the Electric Vehicle Expo APPRENTICE ALONG TOO. will reveal just how far things have come.

EVERYONE IS AWARE OF New EV models, soon to be available to WHAT IS COMING IN THE buy, will be on show, and the conference INDUSTRY AND DOING agenda includes guest speakers from the THESE COURSES TO heavy-hitting end of town – representatives ADD ELECTRICAL SKILLS from government, cutting-edge technology firms and manufacturers. MTA Queensland CERTAINLY COULDN’T HURT.” will be represented too. Not only is the automotive industry.”

Association a sponsor of the event, both Hybrid training, added Graeme, is Mr Kulpa and MTA Institute trainer Paul precisely what should be undertaken by Tugwell, an expert on hybrid and EV technicians in preparation for the EV training, will be making presentations. disruption, and though he is a qualified If the electric vehicle revolution is going to mechanic and auto electrician who take off, then we could be looking back in a specialises in EVs, he’s preparing to take few years and recognising the 2018 Electric the courses himself.

Vehicle Expo as the ground-zero event. And “I do think the best training we could if public interest is anything to go by, that see people doing is in plug-in hybrid might well be what happens. technology,” he said. “It is common “We have thousands of people expressing technology, it shares petrol and electric interest in the Expo,” said Graeme. “Our technology, and the electrical components expectations at the moment are that we are no different to a fully electric car will have more than 12,000 visitors - the - they both have controllers, both interest has been amazing. In Europe CLICK TO have chargers and while battery and America, it is already at the FIND OUT chemistry might be different, it is tipping point and the take-up has MORE ON HYBRID still electricity. been very good. I really believe TRAINING “For me, I’ll be doing the MTA next year will be the year that we Institute hybrid course and I’ll be see EVs take off here at home.”

“. . . I’LL BE DOING THE MTA

26 | Motor Trader September 2018

MTAQ RACING TEAM

MTAQ RACING PURSUE WARWICK VICTORY

B

Y THE TIME most of you read this, the MTAQ Racing Team will be in final preparation for our next hit out – the third round of the Queensland State Championship on September 8-9. This round sees us return to what has been, generally, a fairly good hunting ground for us - Morgan Park Raceway.

This September race meeting is traditionally the fastest race meeting of the year at this circuit - the combination of cool air and a crisp track usually equates to most setting personal bests. We will be no different as we look to improve on our own best lap time and best finishing position (2nd) that we took home from our last visit to the track in April.

The team have been working very hard since the last race meeting to overcome the issues that killed our weekend at the recent Queensland raceway event. I am happy to say things are coming along well!

The car will head to Warwick with our long-awaited, brand new engine (which is the latest specification), along with a host of suspension, exhaust and electrical

revisions. We also have a new batch of tyres thanks to our friends at NETA tyres.

At state level, we have been hunting around podium positions for a while now and we hope that these latest upgrades help us find that extra little bit of pace we need to nail a win! As we have learned during our MTAQ Racing journey, nothing in this sport is guaranteed, so all we can do is prepare well and do our best on race day.

It is also very exciting to have some new sponsors on board with the team as well.

We have a new major sponsor in Aqualuma LED, who you can read about in this edition, and we also have welcomed Podium.com to the MTAQ Racing Team family.

Until next time everyone, happy motoring!

THANKS

SPONSORS MTAQ RACING FOUNDATION PARTNER

MAJOR PARTNER

MAJOR PARTNER

OFFICIAL TOOL PARTNER

OFFICIAL INSURANCE PARTNER

SIGNAGE AND DESIGN PARTNER

OFFICIAL LUBRICANT PARTNER

OFFICIAL TYRE PARTNER

ENGINEERING AND INNOVATION PARTNER

September 2018 Motor Trader | 27

An Eye on Innovation

KATHY WINKCUP CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER GENERAL MANAGER INNOVATION

Y

OU WILL PROBABLY have noticed that quite a bit of this month's edition of Motor Trader is focused on electric vehicles (EVs). Of all the disruptors that can be expected over the next few years, it is the EV that will likely be the first to arrive in a big way. As mentioned elsewhere in this edition, a number of new EV models can be expected to arrive in Australia by this time next year and more are on the way.

On the next few pages of Innovation News you'll read about Jaguar's electric E-type, the new Vespa electric scooter that is going into production, a fantastic-looking EV concept from Infiniti and, in the Concept Corner feature, the amazing motorsport-inspired PB18 e-tron from Audi.

There's also a report on the cutting-edge hydrogen cell technology from Australia's national science agency, the CSIRO. That technology - that creates ultra-high purity hydrogen from ammonia - will allow for hydrogen to be transported in the form of ammonia and converted back to hydrogen at the point of use. As the CSIRO points out, the tech 'has the potential to fill the gap in the technology chain to supply fuel cell vehicles around the world with lowemissions hydrogen sourced from Australia'.

It's truly impressive stuff and members

28 | Motor Trader September 2018

of the MTAiQ team were in Brisbane to see the unveiling of the system as the CSIRO successfully refueled two fuel cell vehicles.

MTAiQ and MTA Queensland will also be a part of the upcoming EV expo, to be held in Brisbane in November, where presentations will be made on the continuing development of the technology and the training courses available through the MTA Institute.

The momentum is solidly behind EVs as the next automotive revolution and the technology has come a long way in 15 years.

I say 15 years because it was in 2003 that a certain company called Tesla was founded. Say what you like about that company's enigmatic chief Elon Musk and quite a lot unflattering things have been said and written about him in the past few months - but the man is seen, with some justification, as the person who kickstarted an industry that had been all but forgotten.

In the years since Tesla was founded - the same year, incidently, that GM cancelled its innovative EV1 electric car program - the development of batteries, fast chargers, charging infrastructure and, of course, the shift by every manufacturer of note into building EV models, has forced everybody to face the reality that the auto industry will be a very different beast in just the next few years.

“THE MOMENTUM IS SOLIDLY BEHIND ELECTRIC VEHICLES AS THE NEXT AUTOMOTIVE REVOLUTION, AND THE TECHNOLOGY HAS COME A LONG WAY IN THE LAST 15 YEARS.�

Innovation Officer, and Nathan Nguyen, MTAiQ Community CLICK EVs, and the autonomous TO ACCESS THE Manager, travelled to Mackay vehicles that will surely follow, DELOITTE CITY to visit Split Spaces, that city’s MOBILITY INDEX are technologies that will form INSIGHT innovation hub. Ultimately, the part of future mobility solutions, intention is to open opportunities and that was the focus of the for regional businesses and Deloitte Queensland Gala, held entrepreneurs to access to the in August, that MTAiQ and MTA resources of MTAiQ, and the Mackay Queensland CEO, Dr Brett Dale, attended. trip was the first step in our task to enable These events are vital as we move to an anyone, from anywhere is Queensland, to ever more connected and inter-connected be able to do just that. transportation system, allowing everyone Our state is alive with innovative thinkers involved in the development of innovative and doers and and we will be visiting concepts and systems to network, interact more regional centres, and making more and come together to discuss options and connections, to ensure that the great ideas ways forward. out there have the best chance to develop Deloitte, as with MTAiQ and MTA into something commercially viable.

Queensland, is at the forefront of these discussions and the Deloitte City Mobility FINALLY Index is an invaluable resource - a On that note, I encourage you, no matter comprehensive review of key aspects of where you are located, to get in touch mobility in 18 cities, and a document that with MTAiQ with your automotive-related 'sets out to create a new and better way for concept. We are constantly searching for city officials, transport operators and public innovative ideas that can have an impact planners to gauge the readiness of their on the automotive industry and we’re transport networks to embrace the rapid keen to hear all about them. We might just changes occurring in the transportation be able to give you the impetus you need ecosystem'. It is well worth a look. to get them off the drawing board. Click EXPANDING MISSION on the blue button link below, fill in the submission form, and we’ll be in touch The MTAiQ Innovation Hub's mission about what will happen next! Simple. is to to bring together mentors, investors, I’ll be back with more in October's Motor coaches, commercial partners and Trader, but until then, it may be worth industry experts to collaborate with both considering these words from American start-up businesses and entrepreneurs, as businesswoman Ginni Rometty, CEO well as established businesses looking to of IBM, "The only way you survive is you adapt to the changing industry landscape. continuously transform into something And that mission has always been a stateelse. It's this idea of continuous wide, indeed national, one. transformation that makes you an MTAiQ has made connections CLICK innovative company." with local governments, other TO SUBMIT We here at MTAiQ look innovation hubs, academia YOUR IDEA forward to hearing from you! and business, and last month, TO MTAIQ James Orr, our Chief Technology Until next month.

MOBILITY SOLUTIONS

September 2018 Motor Trader | 29

Auto innovation news

CONTINENTAL TO WORK WITH UC BERKELEY ON AI RESEARCH

C

ONTINENTAL HAS ANNOUNCED it is expanding its international network for artificial intelligence (AI) in Silicon Valley by teaming up with the University of California Berkeley DeepDrive (BDD) centre.

BDD works with state-of-the-art technologies for machine learning in automotive applications. The multidisciplinary centre is managed by the Institute of Transportation Studies at UC Berkeley and industry sponsors support the program to help bring new technologies to automotive applications.

In the first year of the program membership, Continental and BDD are focused on two fields of research. First is the testability of AI algorithms in safety-relevant systems. Drivers need to be sure that the complex technology in their vehicles will work properly, so BDD is developing methods that will allow the reliability of AI systems to be tested more efficiently. The researchers at the centre are also looking at how to operate AI applications in a memory-efficient way to accelerate and optimise neural networks.

"We are joining forces with the world's leading AI researchers," said Demetrio Aiello, Head of Continental’s Corporate Artificial Intelligence and Robotics Lab. "Building on the momentum of our strategic partnerships with the University of Oxford, DFKI (German Research Center for Artificial Intelligence) and other AI

30 | Motor Trader September 2018

thought leaders, we have signed a fiveyear agreement to be members of the UC Berkeley DeepDrive (BDD) center.

"What inspired us most to team up with the experts in Silicon Valley and UC Berkeley was the highly interesting research in the field of Explainable AI as well as the optimisation of deep neural networks that were taking place there."

Explainable AI focuses on understanding precisely how an AI system makes decisions. To test artificial intelligence in detail, experts must know exactly how it works. In addition to the benefits of the research itself, Aiello shared another important advantage of the membership.

"The opportunity to have colleagues from Silicon Valley and other Continental locations working as part of BDD research teams enables more efficient collaboration and transfer of expertise. It also allows us to identify the talent we need for our AI strategy at an early stage."

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

CLICK HERE TO ACCESS PAST ISSUES OF MOTOR TRADER

Auto innovation news

The hydrogen-powered Toyota Mirai

CSIRO TECHNOLOGY ACCELERATES HYDROGEN VEHICLE FUTURE

A

USTRALIA IS A step closer to a new hydrogen production and export industry following the CSIRO’s recent successful refuelling of two fuel cell vehicles.

The Toyota Mirai and Hyundai Nexo vehicles were powered by ultra-high purity hydrogen, produced in Queensland using CSIRO’s membrane technology.

The CSIRO says this technology will pave the way for bulk hydrogen to be transported in the form of ammonia, using existing infrastructure, and then reconverted back to hydrogen. It has the potential to fill the gap in the technology chain to supply fuel cell vehicles around 32 | Motor Trader September 2018

the world with low-emissions hydrogen sourced from Australia.

The membrane separates ultra-high purity hydrogen from ammonia, while blocking all other gases and the technology VIDEO: POWERING AHEAD WITH HYDROGEN MEMBRANE TECHNOLOGY

“THIS IS A WATERSHED MOMENT FOR ENERGY, AND WE LOOK FORWARD TO APPLYING CSIRO INNOVATION TO ENABLE THIS EXCITING RENEWABLY-RESOURCED FUEL AND ENERGY STORAGE MEDIUM A SMOOTHER PATH TO MARKET .” links hydrogen production, distribution and delivery in the form of a modular unit that can be used at, or near, a refuelling station. This means that the transportation and storage of hydrogen is simplified, allowing bulk hydrogen to be transported economically and efficiently in the form of liquid ammonia.

The CSIRO says that advances in solar and electrochemical technologies mean renewable hydrogen production is expected to become competitive with fossil fuel-based production, providing an opportunity to decarbonise both the energy and transport sectors while creating new export opportunities.

"This is a watershed moment for energy, and we look forward to applying CSIRO innovation to enable this exciting renewably-sourced fuel and energy storage medium a smoother path to market," said CSIRO Chief Executive Larry Marshall.

"I'm delighted to see strong collaboration and the application of CSIRO know-how to what is a key part of the overall energy mix."

BOC assisted in the project and the company’s Sales and Marketing Director Bruce Currie congratulated CSIRO on the successful refuelling.

“BOC’s innovative engineering team are proud to be collaborating with CSIRO researchers on this technology breakthrough, as we focus on advancing the hydrogen economy and global transition towards clean hydrogen for mobility and energy,” said Mr Currie.

Following this successful demonstration, the technology will be increased in scale and deployed in several larger-scale demonstrations, in Australia and abroad.

Following on from the successful demonstration, the CSIRO has released a National Hydrogen Roadmap – a document that sets out a path to develop a hydrogen economy.

Roadmap findings include: • Hydrogen technologies are reaching maturity, with the narrative now shifting from R&D to market activation.

• Hydrogen presents a new export opportunity for Australia and could also play a significant role in enabling the further uptake of renewable energy.

• While the benefits are clear, current barriers to market activation include a lack of supporting infrastructure such as hydrogen refuelling stations for transport, and the cost of hydrogen supply for some applications.

• An appropriate policy framework could create a 'market pull' for hydrogen, with investment in infrastructure then likely to follow • In or around 2025, clean hydrogen could be cost-competitive with existing industrial feedstocks such as natural gas, and energy carriers such as batteries in many applications.

"Australia has a unique and urgent opportunity to turn significant natural resources, including coal, gas, and renewables like solar and wind energy, into a low-emissions energy product and ship it around the world – in some cases literally exporting Aussie sunshine," said Dr Marshall.

"This National Hydrogen Roadmap provides a blueprint for growing Australia's hydrogen industry through coordinated investment to be globally competitive."

September 2018 Motor Trader | 33

Auto innovation news

FORD ROLLS OUT EXOSKELETON WEARABLE TECHNOLOGY GLOBALLY

F

ORD IS EXPANDING the use of its EksoVest wearable tech globally after a successful trial at two U.S. plants.

Ford employees in 15 plants and seven countries around the world are now able to use an EksoVest to help lessen the physical toll their job takes on their body. Ford partnered with Ekso Bionics to enhance the wearable technology that elevates and supports a worker’s arms while performing overhead tasks such as reaching up with a power tool to screw bolts to secure the car’s brace – all while 34 | Motor Trader September 2018

“WE CARE ABOUT OUR

EMPLOYEES AND ARE TRYING TO HELP THEM DO THEIR JOBS WITH THE LEAST AMOUNT OF WEAR AND TEAR ON THEIR BODIES AS POSSIBLE.” standing underneath the vehicle.

“Building vehicles is physically a tough job,” said Bruce Hettle, Ford group vice president, Manufacturing and Labor Affairs. “We care about our employees and

The Ekso Bionics EksoVest VIDEO: FORD'S EXOSKELETON

are trying to help them do their jobs with the least amount of wear and tear on their bodies as possible.”

The EksoVest provides lift assistance from 2.2kg to 6.8kg per arm.

Ford piloted the EksoVest at Michigan Assembly Plant in Wayne, Michigan, and Flat Rock Assembly Plant in Flat Rock, Michigan, during the past year.

The feedback from plant operators helped refine the technology before the company rolled it out globally.

“At Ekso, our mission is to augment human capability with wearable technology and robotics that help people rethink current physical limitations and achieve the remarkable,” said Jack Peurach, president and chief executive officer of Ekso Bionics.

“Advancing our collaboration with a global leader like Ford, represents a major step forward in achieving our mission as our EksoVest is deployed around the world to enhance the wellbeing of its work force.”

All of Ford’s North American assembly plants have EksoVests and they are being used in plants in Asia Pacific, Europe and South America as well.

September 2018 Motor Trader | 35

Auto innovation news

JAG TAKES ELECTRIC CAR RECORD AT SHELSLEY WALSH HILL CLIMB

T

HE NEW GENERATIONS of electric sports cars are proving to be quite a handful on the racing tracks of the world. A few weeks ago, VW broke the record at the Peaks Pike hill climb in the U.S. with the incredible VW I.D. R sports car, and now it’s Jaguar’s turn.

The company set a new electric car course record of 30.46 seconds at the famous Shelsley Walsh Hill Climb in the UK in August with its I-TYPE 2 Formula E race car. The record attempt – a partnership between GKN Driveline and the Panasonic Jaguar Racing ABB FIA Formula E Championship team – saw New Zealander Mitch Evans pilot the Jaguar I-TYPE 2 to a time 6.84 seconds faster than the previous best time.

Evans’ record-setting run up the hill saw one of the most advanced electric vehicles tackling the world’s oldest motorsport venue that still uses its original course.

“It was a great honour to drive the Jaguar I-TYPE 2 at such a historic venue,

The Shelsley Walsh Hill Climb, UK

and the whole team was elated with the record time we managed to achieve,” said Evans. “Formula E fans in the UK were incredibly welcoming, and it was great to see them so excited about the car’s debut run here. I’m proud to have moved the class-best result a step further towards a potential pure electric outright hill record in the future.

36 | Motor Trader September 2018 Jaguar I-TYPE 2 Formula E

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Visit www.mtaq.com.au today

Auto innovation news

150 NEW ENGINEERS AT HOLDEN TO FOCUS ON GM ADVANCED VEHICLE DEVELOPMENT

G

M HOLDEN WILL recruit 150 new Australian engineers who will play a crucial role in developing future technologies that underpin autonomous vehicles and electric powertrains for the future, the company has announced.

GM Executive Vice President and President, Global Product Group and Cadillac, Mark Reuss, said Australian engineers would be fully integrated into global GM engineering teams to develop leading technologies to drive the future of mobility.

“GM is determined to be the first company to bring safe, autonomous vehicles to market — not within years, but in quarters. Make no mistake, we’re moving to a driverless future — a future of safer roads and zero crashes,” said Reuss.

38 | Motor Trader September 2018

“GM IS DETERMINED TO BE

THE FIRST COMPANY TO BRING SAFE, AUTONOMOUS VEHICLES TO MARKET — NOT WITHIN YEARS, BUT IN QUARTERS.” “At the same time, GM is well on its way to bringing at least 20 new all-electric models to market by 2023.

“The world-class vehicle engineering capability we have at Holden in Australia will play a significant role in GM delivering on its commitment to create a world with zero crashes, zero emissions and zero congestion.”

Holden’s design, engineering and vehicle development workforce will increase to over 500 after the latest expansion. The

“WE WANT TO HARNESS THE

BEST YOUNG ENGINEERING MINDS IN THE COUNTRY. THIS IS AN INCREDIBLE OPPORTUNITY TO WORK ON GM’S GLOBAL PRODUCTS AND TO BE AT THE FOREFRONT OF INDUSTRY INNOVATION.”

150 newest recruits to Holden Engineering will be a mixture of both experienced and graduate engineers.

GM Holden Executive Director – Engineering Brett Vivian said Australian engineers had played a critical role in vehicle development for Holden and GM globally since 1946, and this would continue with today’s announcement.

“This announcement of 150 new engineers at Holden to work on global advanced vehicle development comes on top of significant upgrades we have made to the emissions test lab and test tracks at our Lang Lang Proving Ground.

“Holden’s engineering unit has a bright future undertaking important local and global work, from ensuring imported Holden vehicles can master Australia’s unique driving conditions, to developing the technologies that will power the future of mobility globally. With today’s announcement, we will now be spending up to $120 million annually on automotive research and development at our operations here in Australia.”

Vivian said Holden was targeting “the best of the best” of Australia’s established and graduate engineers to join the team.

“We want to harness the best young engineering minds in the country. This is an incredible opportunity to work on GM’s global products and to be at the forefront of industry innovation. We’re looking for forward-thinking people with a passion for creating revolutionary solutions; people who can work collaboratively and have strong communication skills. Automotive engineering experience is desired but not a pre-requisite.”

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We exist solely to benefit you.

Whether you’re paying your team’s super, or building your own, we have the tools, resources and people to help you make financial decisions that work for you.

To find out how we can support you, call us or visit our website today.

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You should assess your financial position and personal objectives before making any decision based on this information. The MTAA Super Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) can be obtained by calling MTAA Super on 1300 362 415 or visiting mtaasuper.com.au/handbooks.

You should consider the PDS in making a decision.

September 2018 Motor Trader | 39

Auto innovation news

ROBERT BOSCH VENTURE CAPITAL INVESTS IN DEEPMAP

R

OBERT BOSCH VENTURE Capital GmbH (RBVC), the corporate venture capital company of the Bosch Group, has completed an investment in DeepMap Inc, a California-based software startup focused on solving mapping and localisation challenges for DeepMap autonomous vehicle autonomous vehicles.

DeepMap’s approach allows different companies to create custom HD maps, which contain different “SELF-DRIVING CAR characteristics and data structures.

DEVELOPMENT IS BOTH A DeepMap also provides software TECHNOLOGY CHALLENGE embedded in the vehicle that addresses AND A PRODUCT CHALLENGE. localisation, change detection, data IT NEEDS TO BE SAFE, updates, route planning, HD map caching, AFFORDABLE, AND SCALABLE. and data collection. Bosch says these IN THE SELF-DRIVING ERA, capabilities allow DeepMap to undertake one of the biggest challenges in the A MAP IS NO LONGER industry, providing ‘living’, continuously 'JUST A MAP'.” updated HD maps. The company says it is not providing a static map database, but owns the underlying data. This strategy rather a full software layer in the cloud and enables them to take a more scalable, embedded on the vehicle. low-cost approach to HD map making.

DeepMap is also pursuing a new data Instead of owning and operating expensive ownership model where the end customer survey fleets, data can be collected from

40 | Motor Trader September 2018

the customer’s autonomous vehicles deployed in the field.

The company says that High Definition maps are complete and accurate volumetric reconstructions of a 3D environment and provide a critical set of ‘pre-information’ to autonomous vehicles. They contain layers of semantic information such as lane connectivity, drivable areas, crosswalks, signs, signals, traffic restrictions, and other information that is specific to each endcustomer’s solution.

HD maps have extremely high precision, typically at the centimetrelevel. This is because autonomous vehicles need very precise instructions on how to manoeuvre themselves around in the real world.

The key value proposition, the company says, is that the more precise the HD map is, the simpler the self-driving software can be while obtaining higher performance.

“Self-driving car development is both a technology challenge and a product challenge. It needs to be safe, affordable, and scalable. In the self-driving era, a map is no longer 'just a map'. It’s an integral part of the car’s brain,” said James Wu, CEO and Co-Founder of DeepMap. “Maps explicitly designed to be read by machines are a critical enabling technology for safe autonomy,” said Dr. Ingo Ramesohl, RBVC Managing Director. “DeepMap fills a vacuum in the market. The company’s approach to mapping, which leverages embedded software on the vehicle, is very compelling and relevant for highly automated as well as autonomous driving, within Bosch and the whole automotive industry.”

LIQUID BATTERY COULD RECHARGE AN EV IN SECONDS RESEARCHERS AT THE University of Glasgow have reportedly developed a ‘hybrid-electric-hydrogen’ flow battery.

Based upon the design of a nanoscale battery molecule the system can store energy and release it when required as either electric power or hydrogen gas. Researchers says that when a concentrated liquid containing the nano-molecules is made, the amount of energy it can store increases tenfold.

One potential benefit of this system, they add, is that because the material is a pumpable liquid, electric cars could be ‘recharged’ in roughly the same length of time as petrol cars can be filled up. The old battery liquid would be removed at the same time and recharged ready to be used again.

The approach was designed and developed by Professor Leroy Cronin, Dr Mark Symes, and Dr Jia Jia Chen who say that the technology will help pave the way for the development of new energy storage systems that could be used in electric cars, for the storage of renewable energy, and to develop electric-to-gas energy systems.

“For future renewables to be effective, high capacity and flexible energy storage systems are needed to smooth out the peaks and troughs in supply,” said Professor Cronin. “Our approach will provide a new route to do this electrochemically and could even have application in electric cars where batteries can still take hours to recharge and have limited capacity.

Moreover, the very high energy density of our material could increase the range of electric cars, and also increase the resilience of energy storage systems to keep the lights on at times of peak demand.”

September 2018 Motor Trader | 41

Auto innovation news

Jaguar E-type Zero concept

JAG TO BUILD ZEROEMISSION E-TYPES

J

AGUAR CLASSIC HAS confirmed it will offer all-electric E-types for sale, following the positive reaction to the original EV concept in 2017.

The company will offer tailor-made E-types restored and converted to electric power at the Classic Works facility in Coventry, UK. An EV conversion service for existing E-type owners will also be offered. To preserve the authenticity of the base vehicle, the EV conversion will be fully reversible.

Technical specifications and pricing details will follow, but Jaguar Classic is now taking expressions of interest from potential E-type Zero clients. Deliveries of the first electric E-type vehicles are expected to start from summer 2020.

The company says the Jaguar E-type Zero concept not only drives and looks like an E-type, it also offers outstanding performance, with quicker acceleration than the original Series 1.

Jaguar Classic is targeting a range in

VIDEO: JAGUAR | E-TYPE ZERO

excess of 170 miles (274km) and the concept is powered by a 40kWh battery, which can be recharged in six to seven hours, depending on power source.

An electric powertrain with singlespeed reduction gear has been specially designed for the E-type, utilising many Jaguar I-PACE components. Its lithium-ion

battery pack has the same dimensions, and similar weight, to the standard E-type’s six-cylinder petrol XK engine and is in the same location.

The electric motor lies just behind the battery pack, in place of the E-type’s gearbox. A new propshaft sends power to a carry-over differential and final drive.

Using an electric powertrain with similar weight and dimensions to the outgoing petrol engine and transmission means the car’s structure, including suspension and brakes, has not changed, simplifying the conversion and keeping the driving experience in line with the original vehicle.

“We’ve been overwhelmed by the positive reaction to the Jaguar E-type Zero concept,” said Tim Hannig, Jaguar Land Rover Classic Director. “Future-proofing the enjoyment of classic car ownership is a major stepping stone for Jaguar Classic.

“E-type Zero showcases the incredible heritage of the E-type, and the expertise and craftsmanship at Classic Works, while demonstrating Jaguar Land Rover’s dedication to creating zero emission vehicles across every part of the business, including Jaguar Classic.”

September 2018 Motor Trader | 43

Auto innovation news

KIA MOTORS UNVEILS NEXT-GENERATION SOUND ZONE TECHNOLOGY Kia's next-generation Separated Sound Zone technology

K

IA MOTORS HAS revealed its nextgeneration Separated Sound Zone (SSZ) technology that allows each passenger of a vehicle to experience an audio stream tailored to their individual needs - including music, hands-free phone calls, and vehicle alerts - whilst maintaining a headphone-free space.

SSZ technology creates and controls the acoustic fields of the car, allowing the driver and each passenger to hear isolated sounds.

The company says the speakers installed in the vehicle feature technology that uses scientific principles to reduce or increase audio levels of sound waves. This negates the overlap of sounds being heard in each seat, creating the same effect as current noise cancellation systems, but without

44 | Motor Trader September 2018

VIDEO: HYUNDAI·KIA FUTURE TECHNOLOGY SSZ, SEPARATED SOUND ZONE

“CUSTOMERS IN THE

AUTONOMOUS NAVIGATION ERA WILL DEMAND INCREASINGLY CUSTOMISABLE ENTERTAINMENT OPTIONS WITHIN THEIR VEHICLES.”

the need for headphones.

“Customers in the autonomous navigation era will demand increasingly customisable entertainment options within their vehicles, which includes technological innovations such as the Separated Sound System,” said Kang-duck Ih, Research Fellow at Kia’s NVH Research Lab. “I hope by providing drivers and passengers with tailored, independent audio spaces, they will experience a more comfortable and entertaining transportation environment.”

When travelling in a vehicle equipped with next-generation SSZ technology, Kia says each passenger can connect their smartphone via Bluetooth and listen to their own music without interference from, or interfering with, other passengers’

audio streams.

When the SSZ is utilised, handsfree phone calls can also be isolated to individual passengers, ensuring privacy when having important phone conversations on the move.

Furthermore, the company says the technology can eliminate unnecessary sounds for the passenger but provide them for the driver. Navigation sounds, or various alerts allow the driver to focus on controlling the vehicle, while the SSZ system isolates these sounds, maintaining a quiet area for the other passengers.

SSZ technology has been in development since 2014, and the completed mass production system is expected to be ready for installation in vehicles within one to two years.

TYRE RETAILERS — IMPORTANT COMPLIANCE INFORMATION Do you engage a separate company to transport your tyres?

You must make sure you follow these steps to avoid potential compliance action.

1. Make sure the individual or company that you engage holds an appropriate environmental authority or licence for transporting your tyres.

2. You must record and submit to the Department of Environment and Science specific information relating to each instance of tyre transportation. There are a number of different options available for completing this waste tracking information.

For more information relating to waste tyre transportation in Queensland, including details about waste tracking, please contact the Department of Environment and Science on 1300 130 372 (option 4) or visit the department’s Management of Regulated Waste web page.

Left: The Split Spaces hub Right: Jarryd Townson from Split Spaces with Nathan Nguyen and James Orr from MTAiQ

Auto innovation news

MTAiQ SPREADS THE INNOVATION MESSAGE TO REGIONAL QUEENSLAND

S

UPPORTING NEW IDEAS, concepts, entrepreneurs and businesses in the automotive space is the mission of MTAiQ, Australia’s first automotive innovation hub.

Established in 2017 by MTA Queensland, the MTAiQ has already provided assistance and guidance to numerous start-ups – including those working in retail, software and robotics – who have used the state-of-the-art office and workshop hub in Brisbane, as well as the expertise and knowledge of MTA Queensland staff, to hone and progress their ideas, their message and their business plans.

While MTAiQ has its base in Brisbane, its mission is to reach out and provide those services to every corner of the state and beyond. To fulfil that brief, the MTAiQ team have built relationships with government, academia and other innovation hubs and in August team members James Orr (Chief Technology Innovation Officer) and Nathan Nguyen (MTAiQ Community Manager), travelled to Mackay to visit Split Spaces, that city’s 46 | Motor Trader September 2018

co-working and innovation hub, and a not-for-profit organisation which, like MTAiQ, is dedicated to supporting small businesses and start-ups.

The relationship with Split Spaces is intended to open opportunities for regional businesses and entrepreneurs to tap into the support and experience not only of that organisation but of MTAiQ, and it is one of the important first steps into developing a state-wide network of such connections.

“Split Spaces is a well-resourced, forward-thinking organisation and our association with them will give members in the area the opportunity to develop their

ideas and concepts, and we are working on how we can run programs in parallel with Split Spaces and drive opportunities between both hubs that will benefit MTA Queensland members,” said James.

“We have engaged with a number of hubs across the southeast, but this is the first engagement of many we hope we have in the regions. Mackay is a great place to start and we will definitely be looking to link up with other hubs in Townsville and Cairns and then see what other opportunities are available across the state.”

The visit to Split Spaces included a presentation to guests on the mission of MTAiQ and, in particular, on the continued development of the Pegasus Flying Car Project – a project which MTAiQ backs through its support of NXG3N Robotics, the start-up business cofounded by Nathan and which is building the advanced VTOL (vertical take-off and landing) vehicle.

While the concept of flying cars may James and Nathan were guests on ABC Tropical North's morning show with Meecham Philpott

seem like science fiction, the technology is now well established with dozens of companies building such vehicles across the globe, and the Pegasus project was a catalyst for some enthusiastic discussion on technology, mobility solutions and how MTAiQ can help those looking to make a mark in that space.

It was a conversation that carried across to other engagements for the MTAiQ duo, with James and Nathan fitting in some media work while in Mackay, including being interviewed by the city’s Daily Mercury newspaper as well as appearing as guests on ABC Tropical North radio’s morning show.

“The flying car project captures the imagination and offers a great platform to engage with people, and it prompted some terrific debate and discussion about the future of mobility, autonomous technology and the future of the automotive industry” said James. “And that was part of the reason for the trip – to talk to people about the future, about technology and innovation, about the opportunities that will come with these developments, and also to make them aware what MTAiQ is all about and what we are doing, and can do, to support and encourage everyone to embrace this change.”

September 2018 Motor Trader | 47

Auto innovation news

INFINITI Prototype 10

INFINITI REVEALS THE ELECTRIC PROTOTYPE 10

T

HIS IS THE Prototype 10, a stunning all-electric concept from INFINITI. Revealed at the 2018 Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance in California, the concept represents the company’s plans for electrified performance - from 2021, the company says every new INFINITI

48 | Motor Trader September 2018

model will be electrified, featuring hybrid or battery electric technology - and hints at how the brand’s design teams will evolve the appearance of its production cars.

A single-seat speedster, the Prototype 10 is has been designed to ‘illustrate what drivers will come to associate with the

brand’s electrified models. Echoing the performance traditions of the speedster, INFINITI will deliver electric performance of the highest order’.

While details of the power set-up have not been revealed the company does say that ‘electric motors will be used to provide INFINITI vehicles with breathtaking off-the-line acceleration and thrilling speeds’, so we can expect some performance figures as stunning as the car itself.

VIDEO: THE INFINITI PROTOTYPE 10

September 2018 Motor Trader | 49

Auto innovation news

Vespa Elettrica

ELECTRIC VESPA TO GO INTO PRODUCTION

T

HE PIAGGIO GROUP will start production of Vespa Elettrica, the electric version of the its scooter, in September. The scooter will be produced at the Pontedera plant in the Italian province of Pisa, the same one where Vespa first rolled off the line in the spring of 1946. Sales will begin in Europe and then be extended to the U.S. and Asia starting from early 2019.

Piaggio says the Vespa Elettrica will be ready to be fitted out in the

VIDEO: ALL ABOUT VESPA ELECTRICA - RIDE TOWARDS THE FUTURE

50 | Motor Trader September 2018

near future with technology such as artificial intelligence systems, both adaptive and responsive to all human input.

The systems will allow, the company says, for the scooter to be aware of people and other vehicles operating in the vicinity, extend the operator’s ability to sense potential perils and opportunities, and provide real-time mapping and traffic data.

The company also says that the new generation vehicles will ‘know’ their operators: recognise them without key fobs, anticipate their driving choices, interact with other devices and vehicles on the road and allow for degrees of personalisation.

DRONES KEEP FORD ENGINE PLANT WORKERS SAFELY GROUNDED

F

ORD EMPLOYEES ARE now using cameras mounted on drones to safely inspect high-rise gantries, pipework and roof areas at the company’s Dagenham Engine Plant in the UK. Previously, Ford says the team carried out this type of maintenance work by using automated extendable platforms and scaffolding to check 40-metre-long gantries that support the plant’s heavy machinery. Each inspection area would take 12 hours to complete.

Now, by using drones equipped with GoPro cameras, maintenance staff can thoroughly inspect each area in just 12 minutes. The company says the whole production facility can be covered in a day, zoning in on hard-to-reach areas to ensure they are well-maintained and comply to rigorous safety standards.

“We’d joked about having a robot do the work when there was a lightbulb moment – use drones instead,” said Pat Manning, machining manager, Ford Dagenham Engine Plant. “We used to have to scale heights of up to 50 metres to

VIDEO: WATCH HOW DRONES ARE USED BY FORD WORKERS

do the necessary checks on the roof and machining areas. Now we can cover the entire plant in one day and without the risk of team members having to work at dangerous heights.”

With the time saved, Ford says the team at Dagenham can carry out more frequent inspections, without having to shut facilities to construct the scaffolding that was once necessary.

Ford’s drones are also set to work inspecting pipework, locating air leaks and checking machinery. The company is now evaluating the possibility of using this high-flying technology in other regions.

September 2018 Motor Trader | 51

Auto innovation news

ROLLS-ROYCE TAKES THE LUXURY OF PRIVACY TO A NEW LEVEL

R

OLLS-ROYCE IS WELL known for taking vehicle luxury to astounding levels, and recently announced the introduction of the ‘Privacy Suite’ for the new Extended Wheelbase Phantom.

This new feature is really something, utilising some clever technology to give passengers the ultimate privacy solution, if they so which.

For starters, there’s Electrochromatic Glass, that allows front and rear cabins to be visually separated at the touch of a button. The rear occupant is offered the option to see through the glass and on to the road ahead or to instantly transform the glass to opaque!

Rolls-Royce also says the Privacy Suite represents a leap forward in sound absorption in a motor car and delivers the highest possible levels of acoustic insulation. A frequency-specific compound

52 | Motor Trader September 2018

The Rolls-Royce 'Privacy Suite' includes glass that can go from clear to opaque at the touch of a button

inhibits the transmission of conversations in the rear cabin to the front cabin, yet a fully integrated Intercom System allows communication on demand.

Controlled by the rear passenger, the Intercom System can be used to open a direct line to the driver at the press of a button whilst the driver is able to ‘call’ the

MAZDA, SAUDI ARAMCO AND AIST LAUNCH WELL-TO-WHEEL RESEARCH PROJECTS

rear occupants, who can choose to answer or reject the communication.

In addition, a large aperture controlled solely by the rear passenger allows documents or other objects to be easily passed between the front and rear cabins.

When open, the aperture is discretely illuminated to ensure passengers are satisfied with the nature of the documents or objects before they receive them.

A Rear Theatre Entertainment system has also been integrated into the Privacy Suite, which includes two high definition 12-inch monitors linked to the car’s suite of fully connected software, as well as an HDMI port that allows passengers to synchronise their personal devices.

Rear Privacy Curtains have also been added allowing full closure of the side and rear window as well as Rear Privacy Glass.

Simply amazing.

MAZDA HAS ANNOUNCED the start of a joint research project with Saudi Aramco, the state-owned oil company of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, and Japan’s National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology (AIST) aimed at making internal combustion engines more efficient and reducing carbon dioxide emissions. The research topic focuses on developing a low-carbon fuel alongside research into internal combustion engines that use the fuel.

The company claims that 84 per cent of vehicles globally will still make use of combustion engines in 2035. The three companies will investigate ways of effective carbon dioxide reduction and the technologies behind it from a wellto-wheel perspective, considering every step in the fuel life cycle from oil well to wheels on the road. Within this project, Saudi Aramco will develop a fuel based on a refinery process that results in lower carbon dioxide emissions, and Mazda and AIST will research and develop a high-efficiency engine that runs on the fuel.

Mazda says it believes it is no longer sufficient to focus solely on the tank-towheel phase and develop fuel-efficient engines and cars that emit low levels of carbon dioxide in road traffic.

The joint research project is in line with the company’s ‘Sustainable Zoom-Zoom 2030’ vision for technology development.

Auto innovation news

TOYOTA AND UBER EXTEND COLLABORATION TO AUTOMATED VEHICLE TECHNOLOGIES

T

OYOTA AND UBER have agreed to expand their collaboration with the aim of advancing and bringing to market autonomous ride-sharing as a mobility service at scale. Technology from each company will be integrated into purpose-built Toyota vehicles to be deployed on Uber’s ride-sharing network.

The Japanese carmaker has also committed to investing $500 million in the ridesharing company.

“Combining efforts with Uber, one of the predominant global ride-sharing and automated driving R&D companies, could further advance future mobility,” said Shigeki Tomoyama, executive vice president, TMC, and president, Toyota Connected Company. “This agreement and investment marks an important milestone in our transformation to a

54 | Motor Trader September 2018

mobility company as we help provide a path for safe and secure expansion of mobility services like ride-sharing that includes Toyota vehicles and technologies.”

The companies say the partnership will be critical in realising self-driving technology at scale. Uber and Toyota anticipate that the massproduced autonomous vehicles will be owned and operated by mutually agreed upon third party autonomous fleet operators.

“Our goal is to deploy the world’s safest self-driving cars on the Uber network, and this agreement is another significant step towards making that a reality," said Dara Khosrowshahi, Uber’s CEO. "Uber’s advanced technology and Toyota’s commitment to safety and its renowned manufacturing prowess make this partnership a natural fit.”

The initial “Autono-MaaS” (autonomousmobility as a service) fleet will be based on Toyota’s Sienna Minivan platform.

Uber’s Autonomous Driving System and the Toyota Guardian automated safety support system will both be integrated into the vehicles. Toyota will also use its Mobility Services Platform (MSPF), its core information infrastructure for connected vehicles. Pilot-scale deployments are scheduled to begin in 2021.

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Auto innovation news

HONDA ENHANCES CAPABILITIES OF NSX HYBRID SUPERCAR

H

ONDA HAS ANNOUNCED a range of enhancements for the 2019 NSX. The focus is on the dynamics of the car and Honda has equipped the NSX with larger front and rear stabiliser bars, which increase stiffness by 26 per cent at the front and 19 per cent at the rear. The rear hubs and control-arm toe link bushings are also stiffer, boosting responsiveness through the chassis.

Beyond the hardware upgrades, Honda has also recalibrated the software controlling its Sport Hybrid SH-AWD power unit, electric power steering, Vehicle Stability Assist system and active magnetorheological dampers.

The company says the dampers now provide a more comfortable ride and response while maintaining the stiffer set-up for higher speeds and on-track driving. The NSX will also be fitted 2019 Honda NSX

56 | Motor Trader September 2018

as standard with the Continental SportContact 6 high-performance tyre.

Honda says it has made the changes to deliver a more responsive experience for the driver, as well as to provide greater stability and throttle-modulated controllability during on-the-limit track sessions. Powertrain updates include upgraded injectors, enhancement to the heat response of the turbocharger, and a new particulate filter.

Exterior upgrades include the availability of a new Thermal Orange Pearlescent paint colour, with the additional choice of orange calipers for the optional carbon-ceramic brake discs.

Buyers now have the added choice of full red leather for the upholstery, or a new Indigo Blue trim if opting for the Alcantara and leather trim combination.

MTAiQ: THE INNOVATION HUB FOR THE AUTOMOTIVE INDUSTRY

Do you have an idea, a concept or an innovation that could make a difference in the automotive world? Do you need assistance in taking that idea to the next step in its development and to the wider world?

The auto industry is evolving quickly – technology is pushing the industry forward in directions we could scarcely imagine a decade ago and in another 10 years the vehicles that will be cruising our highways and byways (and maybe skyways!) will be vastly different to what we see today.

New ideas and new thinking are the fuel of this evolution and MTAiQ has a mission to not only help nurture new concepts, but to educate and assist the industry to adjust to, and embrace, this evolution.

At MTAiQ, we know there are creative and innovative thinkers and doers in the automotive sector who are constantly working on new ways to advance their business and their industry – and we are here to help.

With a purpose-built workshop, hot-desk working area with high-speed internet, an environment humming with start-up creativity, the backing of an association with more than 80 years working for the automotive industry, and a dedicated team with links and contacts across the worlds of investment, research and government, MTAiQ can help give your idea the development and backing it needs to shift into top gear.

Click here and submit your ideas, or problems that need solving, to MTAiQ for consideration. Come on . . . Let’s get started!

www.mtaiq.com.au/submit-idea September 2018 Motor Trader | 57

Auto news

PRICING AND SPECS CONFIRMED FOR NEW BMW X4

VIDEO: THE ALL-NEW BMW X4. OFFICIAL LAUNCHFILM

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MW GROUP AUSTRALIA has announced local pricing and specification for the all new BMW X4.

Available in Australia from the third quarter of 2018, the new X4 range will be available in four variants from launch.

Borrowing from BMW’s flagship 7 Series and 5 Series, the latest X4 ncludes a full colour and highly configurable Head-Up Display. There is also a large, 10.25-inch colour infotainment touchscreen, mounted centrally in the cockpit.

Navigation system professional is standard across the range, incorporating an app-style interface with live updates.

As well as touchscreen functionality, occupants can also interact with the system via natural voice control or the familiar, centre console-mounted iDrive rotary controller.

A new, 12.3-inch wide instrument cluster features black panel technology and digital instrumentation. On the X4 xDrive30i and M40i variants, this display also adapts to the selected drive mode, either ECO Pro, Comfort, or Sport.

58 | Motor Trader September 2018

The BMW X4 offers the M Sport X Package as a no-cost option on xDrive20i, xDrive20d and xDrive30i variants.

The M sport X package adds an M Aerodynamics exterior package, M Sport adaptive suspension, M sport brakes, BMW Individual high-gloss Shadow Line window surrounds and specific light alloy road wheels of 19 inches on xDrive 20i and 20d variants, and 20 inches on the xDrive30i.

BMW is also offering a selection of exclusive leathers, trims, exterior colours and light alloy road wheels of up to 21 inches diameter.

ENGINE AND DRIVETRAIN All four BMW X4 variants will feature BMWs xDrive four-wheel drive system as

KIA RIO AND STINGER EARN J.D. POWER AWARDS

BMW X4 Sports Activity Coupe

well as a standard eight-speed automatic transmission, with paddle shifters.

The xDrive20i features a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine generating 135kW and 290Nm and can reach 100km/h in 8.3 seconds.

The similarly-specified xDrive20d uses a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder diesel engine that produces 140kW and 400Nm of torque, for 0-100km/h of 8 seconds.

The X4 xDrive30i has a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine providing 185kW of power and 350Nm of torque. This enables 0-100km/h acceleration of 6.3 seconds.

For the first time, the BMW X4 is also available as an M Performance model, in the X4 M40i. This model has a 3.0-litre turbocharged straight six-cylinder petrol engine, offering 265kW and 500Nm of torque. 0-100km/h is 4.8 seconds.

All variants of the BMW X4 feature Adaptive Suspension as standard. For the M Performance M40i, a sports-tuned Adaptive M Suspension is fitted.

BMW X4 LAUNCH RANGE PRICING* X4 xDrive20i M Sport X4 xDrive20d M Sport X4 xDrive30i M Sport X4 M40i M Performance

KIA MOTORS AMERICA (KMA) has earned two more J.D. Power Automotive Performance, Execution and Layout (APEAL) awards for the 2018 Rio and 2018 Stinger.

The announcement follows Kia Motors being named the highest ranked mass market brand in the J.D. Power Initial Quality Study for the fourth consecutive year, with the Rio also capturing a win in the small car segment.

“Earning a J.D. Power APEAL award for both the Rio and Stinger demonstrates the level of dedication we put on delivering a superior combination of the desirable features and attributes todays savvy car buyers want from their vehicles,” said Orth Hedrick, vice president, product planning, KMA. The Rio scored the highest marks in overall performance and design, comfort, features, and style.

The J.D. Power APEAL study measures new-vehicle owners’ overall satisfaction with their vehicles in the first 90 days of ownership.

The results are divided into 10 categories and weighted accordingly: exterior, interior, storage, audio, seats, heating and ventilation, driving dynamics, powertrain, visibility, and fuel economy.

Kia Stinger

$76,900 $79,900 $83,900 $109,90 September 2018 Motor Trader | 59

Ford Focus ST-Line

NEW FORD FOCUS TO ARRIVE IN AUSTRALIA IN NOVEMBER

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HE ALL-NEW FORD Focus will be on sale in Australia from November, with enhanced specifications and a wider choice of body styles and trim levels.

Built on he company's new C2 platform, Ford says the Focus will offer selectable drive modes across the series line-up for the first time and will come with a suite of safety features. These include Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB) with Night-time Pedestrian Detection and Cyclist Detection, as well as Lane Departure Warning and Lane Keeping Aid as standard across the range. There’s also Post-Impact Braking (PIB) which is designed to automatically apply the brakes after a collision to reduce the risk of rolling into another vehicle.

The standard safety suite includes driver and passenger front airbags, side airbags 60 | Motor Trader September 2018

as well as curtain airbags on all Australian models, in addition to convenience technology including a Rear wide-view camera, which offers a near 180-degree view to the rear of the vehicle.

At launch, the all-new Focus will be powered exclusively by a new 1.5L EcoBoost three-cylinder engine producing 134kW/240Nm and matched to an all-new eight-speed automatic. Constructed of

aluminium alloy for light weight, and an advanced low-inertia turbocharger, it uses twin-fuel injection system – Port Fuel Injection and Direct Injection.

The all-new Focus will be available in a choice of three model grades at launch, sourced from Germany - the Trend, the premium flagship Titanium, and the STLine Focus which will be offered in both five-door hatch and a wagon variant.

VIDEO: THE ALL-NEW FORD FOCUS ST-LINE

FOCUS TREND HATCH

brings wireless smartphone charging as standard, as well as dual-zone climate control that can be operated via voice activation.

The ST-Line will be offered in five-door hatch and wagon body styles.

Standard equipment on the Focus Trend includes 16-inch alloy wheels and front fog lamps, while the eight-speed torqueconverter automatic with paddle shifters introduces the e-shifter which, along with the new electronic park brake, allows space for smartphones and other items and a less cluttered centre console design.

SYNC 3 is standard on Focus on all three trim levels, with a full-colour 8-inch touchscreen, in-built voice-activated sat-nav with Traffic Message Channel, MapCare updates, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. SYNC 3 also brings voice-activation to features including the standard climate control.

FOCUS ST-LINE HATCH AND WAGON The ST-Line replaces the existing Focus Sport model. Focus ST-Line is has a unique honeycomb grille, side skirts and rear bumper capped with a chrome finished twin tail-pipe. The hatch includes an integrated boot-lid spoiler and 17-inch alloys. The model also comes standard with its own sports suspension tune.

Inside, there’s a flat-bottom sports steering wheel featuring redstitching, which extends to the gear-lever boot and ST-Line cloth trim.

The ST-Line cabin also features metallic foot pedals.

Focus ST-Line

FORD FOCUS TITANIUM Titanium has a unique front grille and body styling with 18-inch alloy wheels, plus a new LED Lighting Package. Features include Daytime Running Lights, as well as automatic daytime levelling and automatic high-beam control. There’s a sequential turn-signal progression for the LED indicators, as well as Static Bending Light from the multifunctional projector headlights, which are also capable of glarefree high beam deployment, camera-based dynamic bending, speed sensitive light modes and sign-based light modes.

In addition to the standard Autonomous Emergency Braking, which includes Cyclist Detection as well as Night-time Pedestrian Detection, Focus Titanium also brings BLIS (Blind Spot Information System) with Rear Cross Traffic Alert as standard, Stop&Go Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with Evasive Steer Assist and LaneCentering.

Focus Titanium also has leather upholstery and a 675-watt 10-speaker B&O Play Premium Audio System including sub-woofer.

Full pricing and further specifications for the all-new Ford Focus will be announced ahead of its 2018 Australian launch.

September 2018 Motor Trader | 61

Auto news

ASTON MARTIN PUTS BOND'S ICONIC DB5 BACK INTO PRODUCTION

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STON MARTIN IS bringing back the iconic DB5, thanks to a collaboration between the company and EON Productions, the makers of the James Bond films.

A series of 25 Goldfinger DB5 continuation editions will be created for customers by Aston Martin Works and EON Productions. The Goldfinger DB5 continuation will be based on James Bond’s legendary car from 1964 and built by Aston Martin Works at Newport Pagnell, UK – the original home of the DB5. They will, the company says, be authentic reproductions of the DB5 seen on screen, with some sympathetic modifications to ensure build quality and reliability.

This authenticity will extend to include functioning gadgets such as revolving number plates, made famous in Goldfinger.

Officially sanctioned by Aston Martin and EON Productions, all the Goldfinger

62 | Motor Trader September 2018

VIDEO: GOLDFINGER CAR CHASE

edition cars will be produced in Silver Birch paint – just like the original.

Along with the 25 models to be produced for customers, a further three cars will be built – one each for EON and Aston Martin, plus another to be auctioned for charity.

Each Goldfinger DB5 continuation car will be priced at £2.75m ($AU4.8 million) plus taxes. First deliveries to customers will commence in 2020.

September 2018 Motor Trader | 63

C

S&COFFEE R A

land

State Library of Queens

rd-breaking Overland Fred Eager in the reco

car, 'Whitey', ca. 1914

A CENTURY O

64 | Motor Trader September 2018

'Whitey' when it was di

scovered in 1963

MAKE: WILLYS-OVERLAND MODEL: MODEL 61 YEAR: 1912 ENGINE: 4-CYLINDER, SEPARATE WATER-JACKET ENGINE OWNER: GRAHAM CRITTENDEN OWNED SINCE: 1966

OF ADVENTURE

September 2018 Motor Trader | 65

1912 Willys-Overland Model 61 'Whitey'

Y

OU MAY NOT recognise the name, but 100 years ago, WillysOverland was once one of the world’s largest car manufacturers.

Founded in 1912 after John Willys – a successful car dealer – had bought the struggling Overland car company in 1908, Willys-Overland would, for a brief period before and after WWI, be the second largest manufacturer in the U.S. after Ford.

Perhaps best known for its ubiquitous Willys MB or Jeep (of which more than 600,000 saw service during WWII), WillysOverland had a long and storied history before disappearing amongst the labyrinth of corporate takeovers and mergers that saw many a famous automotive name vanish from the books by the second half of the 20th century.

However, being a successful manufacturer of cars in its early days did mean there were 66 | Motor Trader September 2018

plenty of early WillysOverland models about, and thanks to the dedication of the hardy group of souls who collect and restore such veteran automobiles, plenty of the company’s brilliant early vehicles still survive.

This particular car is a 1912 Model 61, built at the WillysOverland Indianapolis factory. Known as ‘Whitey’, today the car is owned by Graham Crittenden of Kingaroy – a coach and motor trimmer by trade and a man with a passion for the veteran vehicles that once charged around the rugged ‘tracks’ of Australia, paving the way for the motor industry to

take hold across the country.

And Whitey holds a particularly special place in that pioneering history, especially in Queensland, as it played a special role in the development of what would become one of Australia’s most successful motoring groups, A.P. Eagers.

The story, says Graham, goes back to the company’s earliest days and to its founders, Edward Eager and his son Fred, who owned Whitey and used it in for some years as a promotional tool for the company.

“The Eagers were very entrepreneurial

Americans who had come to Brisbane and were actually selling Overlands before they formed their company,” says Graham.

“And they knew the value of publicity.

While Fred’s father was the driving force of the business, Fred was able to do the promotional work and he would do things like organise company cars to take orphans to picnics and organise tours to Southport for the weekend - all to keep the company in the public eye.”

But it was Whitey that really made an impact. With speed and record-setting the name of the game in the early days of motoring, Fred Eager drove Whitey to some impressive marks. In 1918, he set a record time for the Brisbane to Toowoomba run of 2 hours 7½ minutes, and in the same year broke the time for the Sydney to Brisbane route – completing the 620 miles in 19 hours 38½ minutes.

September 2018 Motor Trader | 67

There were also records set and victories claimed in hill climbs (Whitey was victorious in the Mt Coot-tha climb from 1916-18) and in one dramatic event in 1916, a race across the sands of Southport beach on the Gold Coast saw Whitey reach a 4-cylinder speed record of 81mph (130.3 km/h).

It should be remembered, of course, that this was motoring in its infant days.

Roads outside of towns were tracks and the technology of an automobile was somewhat primitive compared to the air-conditioned luxury we have today. People like Fred Eager, and his riding-mechanic offsider Wally Webb who accompanied him on many of Whitey’s adventurous drives, really were true motoring pioneers.

And to emphasise that point, it is worth noting that Whitey is a one-of-a-kind car. Though a Model 61, there have been some unique modifications made – most compelled upon its operators by the

68 | Motor Trader September 2018

circumstances of its cross-country exploits.

Graham heard the stories of these alterations straight from Wally Webb, who he was able to meet in the late 1960s as he researched Whitey’s history.

“I was very fortunate when I bought the car in 1966 that Wally Webb was still alive,” says Graham. “I was able to go to Brisbane and spend the afternoon with him and talk about all the things I had discovered about the car and have them confirmed or corrected. Apart from Fred Eager, who had long since passed away, he was the only other person who was actually there for these events. Wally was a brilliant engineer and was the only person to work on the car really - it was his job to make it perform at its best.

“He told me that the big problem with inter-city racing was the little wash-outs that ran across the dirt roads.

“The water would wash across the gravel road and make a little gully and drivers

would call these things ‘spring breakers’ because they could cause the chassis to snap in the middle. When that happened, Wally said you could hear a noise like a gunshot as the metal edges at the break flicked past one another.

“What Wally did to prevent this happening to Whitey was to unrivet the whole chassis, cut a piece of plate steel ⅜-of-an-inch thick and put it inside the C-section. He then re-riveted the chassis back again. They never had any problems following that reinforcement and that work is still visible today.

“Wally also fitted two shock absorbers on each corner - so Whitey has 8 shocks – and that helped with stability in the axles when on dubious roads.”

Another element of Whitey that, not surprisingly, gave Fred and Wally some grief during distance races on less than perfect roads, was the wheels, which they had already changed to wire models from the

original wooden-spoked variety.

“Wally did tell me that on the route to Sydney they actually lost a wheel, and ‘had a devil of a time finding it because it had just gone off into the bush!’,” says Graham with a laugh. “They did eventually find the wheel and when they got to Sydney, Wally made some modifications to the hubs. There were originally six driving pins, but Whitey now has only three because Wally cut three pins off and fitted studs and nuts onto the hubs so he could secure the wheels and lock them on. That too, is still a feature of the car.”

Graham has a million more stories of Whitey’s adventures – including that of a hastily-fashioned muffler made from an old oil can, a piece of flat metal and some wire ripped from a roadside fence, that was then used to replace the muffler that had blown to bits during a run. But they all beg the question of how such an important car, that played such an interesting role in Queensland’s early motoring history, found its way into his possession?

At some point following the flurry of promotional success, it can be assumed that Whitey was put out to pasture as more modern Willys-Overland models became available. Exactly what happened is a bit of a mystery but in 1963 the car was discovered, in a rather sad state of disrepair, in the back of a Brisbane workshop.

“The Guthrie family, who at the time were panel beaters in the Valley, actually found Whitey by accident,” says Graham.

“They were doing a towing job down in Ferny Grove when they got a flat tyre and needed to get it fixed. They found an open workshop, but no one was around, so they walked around the back of the garage and there was the car!

“It wasn’t in great shape, but they did as good a restoration job on it as they could considering they didn’t have access to the information we have now. They couldn’t find wire-spoked wheels to put back on September 2018 Motor Trader | 69

it, and they did have to do some more modifications so tyres would fit - tyres were a big problem for restorers back then.

They also had to build the back body of the car, which they knew would be pointed, but built it about 18 inches shorter than the original.

“Given what they had to work with, they did a great job in resurrecting the car and I bought it from them in 1966.”

Over the next few years, Graham would bring Whitey all the way back to something like its Wally Webb-engineered uniqueness, but not until it too had put him through some grief.

“It was driveable when I got it, so I decided to take it from Kingaroy to Maryborough for a rally, but on the way, I ran a big end,” he says.

“As you did in the days when you were young and agile, I got stuck in and by the end of the day had pulled the sump off, pulled the connecting rod out and together with an engineer friend in Maryborough, had white-metalled the bearing, scraped it and put it back together so that by midnight the car was running again. On the way back to Kingaroy, however, I ran another big end and I realised there was something really wrong.

"I found out that the engine had three steel racing pistons and one cast iron piston, with the cast iron piston being about twice the weight of the others. At some point, one of the steel pistons must have broken and been replaced with the cast iron one.

“I set about getting an aluminium piston and shaved away as much of it as I could to get down to the weight of the three racing pistons, but in 1968, on the 50th anniversary of the Brisbane to Toowoomba run, we ran a big end again! Ultimately, I had the engine completely rebuilt and a whole new set of aluminium pistons put in, and we haven’t had any trouble since.

“Over time we also got some good photographs of the car in its heyday and were able to rebuild the back of the body to its proper size. Now it looks like it did when 70 | Motor Trader September 2018

Graham (right) and Paul Adams driving Whitey in the 2018 reenactment of Fred Eager's Brisbane to Toowoomba run

Fred Eager and Wally Webb were racing it.”

Graham’s passion for veteran cars got its start when he was a kid. His father was a car dealer in Kingaroy and the young Graham soon became enamoured with the vehicles that came through the shop. A career working with cars was always on the cards.

“Because my father was in the car business, I grew up with them,” he says. “As a dealer, he thought of cars as a means of earning a living, but I had a different view of them and grew to appreciate all the different types of cars and models I saw and I did have access to a lot of them.

“He was an Austin dealer and I remember when the Austin Atlantic came to Australia in 1949. I had the day off school so that I could go down to Brisbane and collect the first one and drive it back with him. I remember that day as if it was yesterday. It

meant so much to me - the Atlantic was a revolutionary-looking car.

“Eventually, I became an apprentice coach and motor trimmer and I still work at my trade to this day, and I am 78!”

While Graham’s business has evolved to include other sectors in which his skills are required – including furniture upholstery, canvas work and vinyls – working on the restoration of veteran cars, be it his own or those of others, has been a constant, and he says he can often spot his own handiwork on other classic vehicles.

Whitey, of course, is in its current condition because of his efforts, but it is not alone. Over the decades Graham, who has been a member of the Veteran Car Owners Club for more than 60 years, has owned many veteran vehicles and he still does have a substantial collection. Amongst them are German-made Stoewers, a 1916 Buick and a 1916 Dodge. He has also owned a couple of Model T Fords and recently passed on to his daughter Sally a complete 1914 Overland that he had owned and stored away for more than 50 years.

After a lifetime restoring and enjoying veteran cars, the time might have come for

his collecting to end, Graham says. In fact, he may start reducing his collection.

Whitey, however, will likely remain part of his life, as will the veteran car club-owning community.

“Whitey is probably worth quite a bit, but it is the historic value of this car that is important, and you can’t just go out and buy that sort of history,” he says.

“I have loved being involved with veteran cars. It doesn’t matter if you’re a doctor or a ditch digger, you have a level playing field when you talk about old cars. It is the most wonderful hobby and I have met wonderful people from all over the world because of it.”

If you'd like to get a glimpse of Whitey, he'll be a guest of honour at the next MTA Queensland Cars & Coffee event, to be held on Sunday 30 September, at the Association's HQ at Eight Mile PLains.

We'll see you there!

!

DO YOU HAVE A PRIDE AND JOY IN THE GARAGE THAT YOU WOULD LOVE TO SEE IN THE PAGES OF MOTOR TRADER? Contact Jonathan Nash at jonathann@mtaq.com.au and let’s see if we can share your classic with other members.

September 2018 Motor Trader | 71

Auto news

2019 Tucson

HYUNDAI ANNOUNCES NEW SPECS AND PRICING FOR 2019 TUCSON

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YUNDAI MOTOR COMPANY Australia (HMCA) has announced pricing and specifications for the new 2019 Tucson range. The revised 2019 Tucson line-up comprises four variants, with a new range-opening Go model.

The 2019 Tucson’s updated look begins with a new visage featuring the Hyundai’s signature cascading grille, restyled Engine 2.0 GDi 2WD

headlamps and daytime running lights.

New wheel designs include 17-inch for Go and Active X, and machine-finished 18- and 19-inch for Elite and Highlander.

The company says that every 2019 Tucson features more standard equipment than the preceding model.

A new floating tablet-style multimedia system with Apple CarPlay and Android

Transmission Go ActiveX Elite Highlander 6 speed manual $28,150 $31,350 – – 6 speed automatic $30,650 $33,850 $37,850 – 1.6 T-GDI AWD 7 speed DCT – – $40,850 $46,500 2.0 CRDi AWD 8 speed automatic $35,950 $39,150 $43,150 $48,800

72 | Motor Trader September 2018

Option Pricing Go ActiveX Elite Highlander Premium paint $595 $595 $595 $595 Beige interior – $295 $295 $295 SmartSense pack $2,200 $2,200 – – (automatic only)

Auto connectivity is standard.

Tucson Go boasts a 7.0-inch OEM display radio and exterior mirror turn signals while the 2019 Tucson Highlander gains a heated steering wheel and wireless (Qi) smartphone charging.

Tucson Active X offers an array of additional features, including leather interior trim, an 8-inch sat-nav system with live traffic and lifetime map updates, Infinity Premium Audio, rear park assist and a tyre pressure monitoring system.

Tucson Elite benefits with the addition of Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (FCA), Blind-Spot Collision Warning (BCW) and Rear Cross-Traffic Collision Warning (RCCW).

The 2019 Tucson has a new eight-speed automatic transmission, paired with the 2.0-litre turbo diesel engine with all-wheel-drive.

The turbo-diesel engine is offered in each of the four model grades, along with a 2.0-litre direct injection petrol for Go, Active X and Elite, and a 1.6-litre turbo petrol for Elite and Highlander models.

An optional SmartSense pack available for automatic Tucson Go and Active models brings Forward CollisionAvoidance Assist (FCA), Blind-Spot Collision Warning (BCW), Rear CrossTraffic Collision Warning (RCCW), Lane Keeping Assist (LKA) and Driver Attention Warning (DAW) systems.

Hyundai says Tucson also benefits from a specific Australian suspension and steering calibration.

FORD CELEBRATES PRODUCTION OF 10 MILLIONTH MUSTANG FORD HAS CELEBRATED the production of its 10 millionth Mustang – America’s best-selling sports car of the last 50 years and the world’s best-selling sports car three years straight.

The 10 millionth Mustang is a 460hp 2019 Wimbledon White GT V8 sixspeed manual convertible equipped with the latest driver assist technology and built at Ford’s Flat Rock Assembly Plant in Michigan. The first serialised Mustang (VIN 001) produced in 1964 was the same colour and model with a three-speed manual transmission and 164 horsepower V8.

The new Ford Mustang features enhanced powertrains that include Ford's 445hp 5.0-litre V8 and 10-speed automatic transmission for 0-100km/h acceleration in 4.3seconds.

Advanced driving technologies include MagneRide adjustable suspension, selectable Drive Modes and a new Active Valve Performance Exhaust. New driver assistance technologies include Pre-Collision Assist with Pedestrian Detection and Lane Keeping Aid. September 2018 Motor Trader | 73

Auto news

LAND ROVER CELEBRATES 70 YEARS WITH TREK TO ‘LAND OF LAND ROVERS’

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AND ROVER HAS taken its 70th anniversary celebrations to a remote rural community in West Bengal – a community that relies on a fleet of classic models for its survival.

Known as the ‘Land of Land Rovers’, the rural location deep in the Himalayas is reliant on a fleet of meticulously maintained Series Land Rovers dating back as far as 1957. The residents make a 31km journey between villages through a spectacular landscape to make a living and traverse some pretty terrifying and steep terrain to do so.

Land Rovers team visited the remarkable collection of Series models, which provides a vital role for the community as reliable

74 | Motor Trader September 2018

VIDEO: THE LAND OF LAND ROVERS

and unstoppable all-terrain transport.

Land Rover is marking this milestone with a series of celebrations throughout 2018, including a special broadcast, recordbreaking convoys and a display in London’s Design Museum.

Auto news

BURSON AUTO PARTS OPENS FIRST THAI STORE

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APCOR LIMITED HAS opened a Burson Auto Parts store in Thailand – the company’s first outside of Australia.

The company says that the opening of the store, in the central Bangkok suburb of Bangbon, is the first step in its international expansion plans for Burson Auto Parts.

“Burson Auto Parts Thailand represents an exciting new step in our international growth plans for the company. Our brandnew multi-storey store in Bangbon delivers the Thai automotive trade and automotive enthusiasts a one stop shop for everything that they require in automotive parts, accessories, tools and equipment,” said Darryl Abotomey, Bapcor Limited Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director.

Bapcor says its strategic partner in the establishment of Burson Auto Parts’ Thailand operations, the Sammitr Group, brings vast local automotive industry expertise and efficiencies to the

Australian company, ensuring the best possible product range and service well into the future for Thai based automotive passenger or commercial vehicle service and repair centres.

“No foreign company has managed to establish a multi store operation in the Thai auto parts market, which is composed mainly of small operators with one or two stores,” said Darryl Gray, Burson Auto Parts Thailand General Manager.

“We plan to open a number of stores in Thailand this year and to eventually have more than twenty stores selling premium international brands alongside local brands. Thailand has a mature automotive market with a good supply chain.”

The first Burson Auto Parts store to open outside of Australia offers 1,600 square metres of store space across multi levels and features premium quality Original Equipment parts, leading global automotive aftermarket parts brands, along with local Thai automotive parts brands.

Burson Auto Parts’ first store to open outside of Australia with delivery vehicles parked in front at Ekachai Road, Bangbon, Bangkok

September 2018 Motor Trader | 75

Scott Kenneth Brodie / Shutterstock.com

Auto news

CONTINENTAL TO BUY KMART TYRE AND AUTO

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ONTINENTAL IS TO acquire Kmart Tyre and Auto Service (KTAS) from the Wesfarmers Group.

The international automotive supplier, tyre manufacturer and technology company says the acquisition will greatly reinforce the corporation’s tyre dealership network in Australia. The deal is worth $AU350 million.

“Australia is a highly promising sales market for Continental,” said Nikolai Setzer, member of the Executive Board of Continental AG responsible for the Tyre division. “The acquisition of KTAS marks a major expansion in our presence on the Australian tyre market. This move is part of our ‘Vision 2025’ growth strategy through which we are systematically expanding the worldwide presence of our Tyre division.”

KTAS has 258 branches, more than 1,200 employees and its core business comprises passenger and light commercial vehicle tyre sales and service, inspections and maintenance, as well as minor mechanical repairs to brakes, air-conditioning and suspension systems.

“We are very pleased to further strengthen our commitment to the

76 | Motor Trader September 2018

Australian market through the acquisition of KTAS – a very successful and well-known tyre and auto services chain in Australia,” added Ferdinand Hoyos, Continental’s Head of Passenger and Light Truck Tyre Business Asia Pacific. “Together with the current management team and our new colleagues at KTAS we are looking to drive forward what is already a strong network of outlets and expand their product portfolio.”

Continental’s Tyre division is one of the world’s leading tyre manufacturers. The corporation operates four tyre production plants in the Asia-Pacific region. To date, Continental has been represented in Australia through its Best Drive and Continental branded retail network.

The acquisition comes after speculation that Bapcor (parent of Burson Auto Parts) and Repco were in the running to buy KTAS, and follows reports earlier in the year that Wesfarmers was looking to offload the division.

In a statement, Wesfarmers said it estimates that it will report a pre-tax profit on the sale of approximately $270 million to $275 million, subject to completion

Nils Versemann / Shutterstock.com

adjustments. The sale is subject to certain consents and approvals including from the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission and the Foreign Investment Review Board.

It further added that Continental will use the KTAS name and logo for a transitional period following the sale.

Wesfarmers Managing Director Rob Scott said the agreement to sell KTAS crystallises value for shareholders from the business turnaround since it was acquired as part of the Coles Group in 2007.

“We believe that the divestment is in the

best interests of Wesfarmers’ shareholders, while giving the employees and customers of KTAS the opportunity to join a highly complementary business in Continental.

Continental’s automotive industry expertise will further strengthen the business’ customer offering,” said Mr Scott.

“I thank all of the KTAS team for their outstanding efforts in growing and improving the business under Wesfarmers’ ownership and, in advance, for their continued focus and commitment during the transition to new ownership.”

Energy Efficient Equipment Finance.

Receive a 0.50% p.a. discount on qualifying equipment and vehicles.

You can access a 0.50% p.a. discount and fund up to 100% of the purchase price when you finance qualifying energy efficient vehicles and equipment.

To find out more contact MTA Queensland on (07) 3237 8777 or email info@mtaq.com.au and they’ll put you in touch with a dedicated CommBank Business Banking Specialist.

Things you should know: Qualifying equipment includes cars with low CO2 and trucks or buses powered by an electric, hybrid, natural gas or regenerative drive/engine subject to our approval. Consider if this product is right for you. MTA Queensland may receive a referral fee from Commonwealth Bank of Australia for each successful referral (excludes existing customers). Fees, charges, terms and conditions apply. Commonwealth Bank of Australia ABN 48 123 123 124 AFSL and Australian credit licence 234945.

September 2018 Motor Trader | 77

Auto news

Bugatti Divo

BUGATTI UNVEILS THE DIVO

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HIS IS THE Divo, Bugatti’s latest fire-breathing beast of a car.

Powered by the company’s eightlitre W16 engine with a power output of 1,500 PS (1480hp), Bugatti says the Divo is 35kg lighter and has 90kg more downforce than the standard Chiron2. Maximum speed is limited to 380 km/h (236 mph) but the Divo can still lap the Nardò handling circuit in southern Italy eight seconds faster than the Chiron.

VIDEO: BUGATTI DIVO: WORLD PREMIERE

Only 40 models will be built, and Bugatti says the series has already sold out, even with the hefty price tag of €5 million ($AU7.99 million).

“The feedback from our customers was overwhelming,” said Stephan Winkelmann, President of Bugatti Automobiles S.A.S. “We showed the Divo to a small group of selected Chiron customers. All 40 cars were sold immediately – this was fantastic confirmation for the Bugatti team which had put so much dedication and passion into the project.”

The supercar is named after Albert Divo, a French racing driver who was a two-time winner of the famous Targa Florio race on

the mountainous roads of Sicily with Bugatti in the late 1920s.

Some clever design work has gone into the Divo. Sophisticated aerodynamics makes for optimum vehicle cooling and 90kg more downforce. Air intakes which reduce the effective cross-sectional area of the vehicle at the same time as ensuring improved air flow at the front and increasing aerodynamic efficiency. An ‘air curtain’ makes for better air flow over the front and rear sections of the car’s sides.

The wide front spoiler provides higher downforce and guides more air to the front air inlets improving overall cooling performance.

The brakes are cooled by four independent air sources on each side of the vehicle: air flows in from the high-pressure area above the front bumper, the inlets on the front wings, one inlet on the front radiator and the diffusers ahead of the tyres.

Vanes direct the cold air from these areas onto the brake discs. A heat shield carries the hot air out through the wheels.

The roof has been designed to form a NACA air duct. In combination with the specially designed engine compartment cover, Bugatti says this ensures a very high air mass flow to the engine compartment,

playing a key role in temperature management.

The rear end of the Divo features a new, height-adjustable rear spoiler which functions as an air brake when turned forwards and is set to different angles for the individual driving modes. Bugatti says the wider spoiler improves efficiency and results in higher air brake performance as well as significantly more downforce.

The downforce is also boosted by the rear diffuser which has been redesigned and accommodates four tailpipes.

September 2018 Motor Trader | 79

Auto news

ALFA ROMEO LAUNCHES SPECIAL EDITION GIULIA

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LFA ROMEO IS to release the Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio Carbonio Edition – a model that adds performance-focused design elements valued at over $8,500 at no additional cost.

The Quadrifoglio is the performance flagship of the Giulia range and is powered by a 375kW 2.9-litre V6 BiTurbo engine that can accelerate to 100km/h in just 3.9 seconds and reach a best-in-class top speed of 307km/h.

Limited to just 20 units, key additional design features include: • Trofeo White or Competizione Red Exterior Paint • Leather and Alcantara Steering Wheel with Carbon Fibre Insert • 19-inch Dark Alloy Wheel Upgrade • Genuine Carbon Fibre Details “The new Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio Carbonio Edition blends the same

80 | Motor Trader September 2018

highly acclaimed driving dynamics, technologies, lightness and efficiency with new distinctive styling features to accentuate its dynamic performance and design,” said Fulvio Antonelli, Head of Alfa Romeo Brand Australia.

"The Giulia Quadrifoglio Carbonio Edition brings something fresh, unique and exhilarating to the premium sports sedan market in an exciting year for the brand in Australia, spearheaded by the launch of the all-new Stelvi SUV.” The Giulia Quadrifoglio Carbonio Edition is priced at $143,900 (MSRP)

Representing the legal interests of MTAQ’s chosen firm Queensland’s automotive industry for Representing the legal interests of TheMTAQ’s MTAQ’s chosen firm more thanthe 15 years Bennett Philp Representing the legal interests Representing the legal interests of Representing legal interests of& of chosen firm Representing legal interests of for for automotive industry Queensland’s the automotive industry MTAQ’s chosen firm MTAQ’s chosen firm MTAQ’s chosen firm Lawyers are acknowledged asfor experts Queensland’s automotive industry for Queensland’s automotive industry for Queensland’s automotive industry Queensland’s automotive industry more than 15 years Bennett & Philpfor for for theautomotive automotive industry industry, more in a broad range of commercial issues more than 15 years Bennett & Philp more than 15 years Bennett & Philp than 15 years Bennett & Philp complimentary legal more than 15acknowledged years Bennett as & Philp for automotive industry for automotive industry Lawyers for automotive industry Lawyers are experts involving the automotiveasindustry. acknowledged as Lawyers are acknowledged as experts Lawyers areare acknowledged experts providing complimentary Lawyers are acknowledged asexperts experts in a broad range of commercial issues complimentary legal advice aa range of issues broad range of commercial issues in ainin broad range of commercial issues complimentary legal complimentary legal complimentary legal in abroad broad range ofcommercial commercial issues We advise car and truck dealerships, involving the automotive industry. legal advice involving the automotive industry. involving the automotive industry. involving the automotive industry. involving the automotive industry. advice vehicle tuning and customisation advice advice advice We advise car and truck dealerships, companies, performance and accessory advise and truck dealerships, We advise car and truck dealerships, WeWe advise carcar and truck dealerships, Take advantage of our Take advantage our expertise and ask of MTAQ Take advantage of ouryour expertise and ask for a referral today.

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Become the top-rated dealership in your area.

Call us to watch a free demo. +61 8 7228 0161

PODIUM.COM

VON BIBRA MOTOR GROUP FINDS SUCCESS WITH ONLINE REVIEWS

V

ON BIBRA MOTOR Group has been a mainstay in the Gold Coast of Australia for decades. They sell about 750 new and used cars, and handle 3,500 repairs, each month. But Wade von Bibra, Group GM, knew that if the business was going to grow, they had to evolve.

The way car buyers find and choose a dealership has changed. Now consumers are conducting most of their research online and reading reviews before ever stepping on a car lot.

“When people get it in their mind that they want to buy a car, the first thing they do is jump online to see what kind of car they want and which local dealer they should work with,” said von Bibra.

FINDING AN EASIER WAY Prior to implementing Podium, von Bibra had a solution in place to help dealerships collect reviews, but the process wasn’t streamlined. It required them to input customer details, take a photo of the vehicle, and forward it to their digital agency.

From there, the digital agency would send the customer an email with a link to leave a review. By the time the customer got invited, the experience was long gone. Von Bibra needed a faster, easier solution.

“I’m not a rocket scientist when it comes to technology, so what I like most about Podium is how simple it is to use. When you have a customer in front of you, all you have to do is enter their name, number, hit send, and they’ve got the invite.”

CONSISTENT REPUTATION Even though they have only been using Podium for a couple of months, von Bibra Auto Group has already seen 400+ new reviews with an average rating of 4.7 across all review sites.

“Podium is such a powerful tool,” concluded von Bibra. “It has made it very easy for us to collect reviews on Google.

The minute you start adding more steps, the less reviews you’re going to receive, and Podium is so easy—both for our staff and our customers.”

September 2018 Motor Trader | 83

AQUALUMA: LEADING THE WAY IN LIGHTING

F

OUNDED BY BROTHERS Carl and pace cars for many years. This led them to Grant Amor on the Gold Coast in become heavily involved with the Australian 2004, Aqualuma has set the standard Super Touring Championship where in LED lighting products and is leading they held leading roles in the day-to-day the industry with cutting edge technology, operations of the championship until its iconic designs and unparalleled service. untimely demise.

Starting their first Australian business With an extensive history of boating, with a Motor Trimming/ Panel Beating in 1985 the Amor brothers purchased a shop; their business would quickly become damaged 53-foot Southern Cross Motor the only approved Rolls-Royce Repair Yacht Hull and Decks from the factory. The Centre in Queensland. The success of brothers spent all of their spare time over their business is a testament to their high the next four years rebuilding the aptly standards of quality, time management and named 'BELLE AMOR' and launched her in customer service. Carl & Grant also helped December 1999. with the operational side of the Concours In 2003, the automotive side of the Amor De Elegance for a few years. brothers business was sold and they The brothers also have a long retained their Marine trimming history with motor sport - firstly business located in the Gold Coast CLICK TO being involved in the Gold Coast City Marina. It was at this time VISIT THE AQUALUMA Indy where they were in charge that the Amor’s decided to add WEBSITE of preparing and running the underwater lighting to 'BELLE

84 | Motor Trader September 2018

AMOR' and, upon researching the products available, they identified the many pitfalls of these products - such as metal housings, glass lens, seals, external driver boxes and old technology light sources. They came to the conclusion that none of these existing products were suitable for the environment in which they were intended to be used.

Whilst Grant Amor designed and constructed an efficient and economical Thu-Hull Underwater LED Light, Carl continued the trimming business to fund this development. Aqualuma was established in 2004 and Generation 1 quickly became recognised within the marine industry for its iconic, indestructible polymer housing and energy efficiency.

Aqualuma has dedicated an extensive amount of funds and time to research and development. The company boasts patents in 127 countries plus worldwide certifications, and it has evolved to include a comprehensive and versatile range of submersible, deck and flood lighting now in its 4th Generation of releases.

In 2007, the marine industry took a decidedly heavy downturn and the Amor

brothers saw the opportunity to expand their product range. The Aqualuma team spent considerable time in the R&D lab, designing and testing to develop a worldleading LED high-bay light. The result was a new LED high-bay luminaire that achieved energy efficiency levels unheard of in the market. Providing a warranty of seven years overcame any scepticism the market held for the new technology. They were unique in being environmentally friendly, being both recyclable and upgradable as technology improved.

The current Aqualuma Industrial / Commercial range of premium LED Highbay lighting ranges from 90w to 250w and includes a number of variants and optical options, ideally suited to manufacturers, engineering companies, logistics centres, freight companies, warehouses, storage faculties, vehicle showrooms, big-box retail stores and outdoor use.

The company is proudly Australian and manufactures its entire range from a purpose-built facility on the Gold Coast using local labour while sourcing 90 per cent of its components from local suppliers.

Aqualuma have also kindly invested some time into MTA Queensland recently, becoming the major sponsor of the MTAQ Racing team. This maintains the keen interest in the motor industry and motorsports for Carl and Grant, and the MTAQ Racing team are very proud to have a Queensland success story joining.

“Aqualuma is a great story, a Queensland business that exports across the world - so it is terrific to be able to work with them and their support for the MTAQ Racing Team has been invaluable” said MTAQ Racing Team driver David Wood. “It is a relationship we are thoroughly enjoying.

Carl and Grant are ‘car guys’ and love racing, so we are working towards doing them proud during the rest of the season.”

September 2018 Motor Trader | 85

The benchmark of industry standards.

69 TH ANNUA L M OTOR T R A DE S

GO L F TO U R N AMEN T VIRGIN IA GOLF CLUB , FR I DAY, 5 T H O CTO B ER , 2 0 1 8

MTA QUEENSLAND ARE PROUD TO ANNOUNCE THE 69TH ANNUAL MOTOR TRADES GOLF TOURNAMENT TO BE HELD AT VIRGINIA GOLF CLUB ON FRIDAY, 5TH OCTOBER, 2018 With this year’s event set to be bigger than ever, sponsorship opportunities NOW AVAILABLE! MTA Queensland wishes to extend an invitation to you and your work colleagues to enter the event, and we look forward to some friendly competition on the green.

Download the MTA QUEENSLAND GOLF DAY FLYER for more information here Download the MTA QUEENSLAND GOLF DAY SPONSORSHIP BROCHURE here ENTRIES CLOSE 4 P.M. THURSDAY, 27TH SEPTEMBER, 2018 Iesha Iselin: Phone (07) 3237 8777 | Email info@mtaq.com.au PO Box 4530 Eight Mile Pains Q 4113

A NEW BEGINNING

A

S THE MARKET changes with fixed division. commissions, and potentially other When limitations set to hinder income developing potential, many dealerships are turning this business, I to DBS to help them build out their own thought “what brokerage. is missing in the DBS has many current projects industry?� and assisting the set up of new brokerages then worked for dealerships across Australia and will on building a Angelo Lauro continue to focus on this sector, delivering business that a unique offering in the market. supplies all those Many dealers are looking to build out things brokerages or businesses need to another business to remarket other be successful. Our focus is to assist either services to their clients. These can include established or new start-up brokerages commercial and leisure loans, business either establish or even expand. loans and even home loans so they have Some of the support programs include: a complete solution to offer their large 1. No cost set up of brokerage customer databases.

2. Turn key business start-up support Another key area of focus for many 3. Full compliance support and management dealerships is to retain control over the 4. Technology platform for processing deals, transactions and improve penetration of including introducer portals (Business deals by bringing the business manager Manager & Group Business Manager Views) internally.

5. Extensive lender panel - Deal support After spending more than 8 years in 6. Processing centre support program a brokerage developing and supporting 7. Recruitment & HR support more than 70 brokers and 400 dealerships 8. Training nationally, I thought it was time to create a Boutique aggregation that focuses on 9. Marketing support programs high level support programs. Some of the 10. Business Mentoring programs are designed to target support We have worked hard and invested in services for Dealers who may either want a support structure to make the whole to potentially add value through additional process easy for our partners to ensure finance products or look at setting up their their success. Feel free to contact us own Brokerage. to discuss your options and develop a I am committed to developing strategy in building a successful brokerage the industry through my or Internal finance department. involvement in the Finance CLICK TO Brokers Association of CONTACT Australia on various DEALER BUSINESS committees and councils SOLUTIONS including a dealer focused September 2018 Motor Trader | 87

RTO No. 31529

Can you afford not to be in the circle?

Advocacy

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Innovation

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MTA Queensland | Sir Jack Brabham Automotive Centre of Excellence Address Freeway Office Park, Building 8, 2728 Logan Road, Eight Mile Plains, Queensland, Australia 4113 Phone (07) 3237 8777 Fax +61 7 3844 4488 Email info@mtaq.com.au Website www.mtaq.com.au Postal PO Box 4530 Eight Mile Plains, Queensland, Australia 4113

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Guard Insurance Brokers specialises in insurance and risk management solutions and offers dedicated service to MTAQ members at market leading rates.

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• Our corporate partners offer substantial savings on EFTPOS fees, electricity & gas bills and business & residential insurance • Library of online business resources and templates • Weekly industry bulletin • FREE Jobs Board • Discounts on stationery & workshop products • Monthly subscription to the Motor Trader e-magazine • Regular specials & discounts

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Support

Dun and Bradstreet is the nation’s foremost credit control and debt collection agency. Members are eligible for substantial savings on annual subscriptions.

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Capricorn makes it easier for its members buy parts, earn reward points and share in the benefits of being a member of the largest and oldest automotive parts buying cooperatives in Australasia.

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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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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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GENERAL MANAGER MTA INSTITUTE

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E’VE JUST HELD our latest graduation ceremony for those who finalised their apprenticeships from January to June 2018.

It was a fantastic night and it was great to see the graduates and their families and friends attend the evening along with MTA Institute staff. It was an honour to be there to congratulate the graduates. The evening was also a reminder of the four years it took to complete their apprenticeship. How the world has changed in that time! The evolution of our industry is unstoppable and you just have to keep learning.

I recently represented the MTA Institute at a Ministerial roundtable for the employment and training of apprentices in Queensland. One aspect discussed by the Minister for Training and Skills Development was the $1million Advancing Apprentices Fund. This Fund is a partnership between the Queensland Government and industry to promote priority apprenticeship pathways and encourage more businesses to employ apprentices. I will be looking at using the Advancing Apprentices Fund to take the ‘Auto Camp’ to regional locations to

MEMBERS' ESSENTIALS Contents 90 Professional Circle training 95 Apprentice of the Month: August 96 Plugged In: Explaining Electric & Hybrid Vehicle Tech 103 Industrial Relations September 2018 Motor Trader | 89

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PAUL KULPA

increase awareness of automotive careers.

I also continue to be a representative on PwC’s Skills for Australia - Automotive Skills Service Organisation, via the Industry Reference Committee (IRC) - Strategic Reference Group. Currently the IRCs are establishing several Project Working Groups (PWGs) to help ensure training in the automotive sector is meeting industry needs. Participants of the PWGs will provide technical advice and subject matter expertise to the IRC to translate what they hear in consultations into training products.

MTA Queensland will have representation in the following PWGs: • Heavy Vehicles and Manufacturing • Light Vehicles Mechanical Technology • Motorcycle Mechanical Technology • Vehicle Body Repair with specialties in: • Automotive Glazing • Automotive Re-finishing • Automotive Vocational Preparation qualifications Finally, as part of our quality assurance process, our administration team will be completing surveys with employers and students this month on our training delivery.

This is to ensure you are receiving the service you expect and provides a chance for any feedback regarding our programs. We want to ensure we are on top of our game, and this will help us make sure we are doing that. We look forward to your feedback.

M E M B E R S

Training GM's Professional Circle perspective

Paul Kulpa, General Manager of the MTA Institute (right) with the latest group of Institute graduates

M E M B E R S

E S S E N T I A L S

Professional Circle training

MTA INSTITUTE SALUTES NEW AUTOMOTIVE INDUSTRY GRADUATES

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N FRIDAY AUGUST 24th, the MTA Institute held its second Graduation Ceremony welcoming trainers, students, families and friends to come together to celebrate graduating apprentices who successfully completed their automotive qualifications between January 1 and June 30, 2018.

Hosted in the MTAiQ Innovation Hub, the ceremony saw more than 40 guests gather to celebrate.

“Four years is what it takes to complete an automotive apprenticeship,” said Paul Kulpa, General Manager of Training.

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“Statistics show that one in three people who begin an apprenticeship actually complete it, so we know that achieving this is no easy feat. I am proud to have this opportunity to celebrate each and every student, and the effort it has required in successfully complete the apprenticeship.”

Touching on the immense amount of change the automotive industry is experiencing, Paul spoke about the industry’s current position and the ability for tradespeople to continue learning, growing and evolving as technology such as hybrid, electric and autonomous cars

M E M B E R S E S S E N T I A L S

Francois Welman

begin to gain traction. The educational pathway is never over.

And this notion seemed to be agreed upon by the attending graduates.

Francois Welman spoke about his desire to continue learning in his trade and improving his skills.

“Although I’ve completed my apprenticeship, it’s just the beginning for me,” said Francois. “I am definitely interested in learning more and continuing to refine and broaden my skills.”

Having completed his Light Vehicle Mechanical Apprenticeship in March at Bridgestone Select Tyre & Automotive in Toowoomba, Francois is a testament to the immense effort required in completing an apprenticeship. The journey for Francois was by no means easy.

“I’ve had a few RTOs throughout my apprenticeship,” Francois said with a laugh.

“I moved to MTA Institute in my third year after my previous RTO closed unexpectedly. Prior to this, for the first couple years of my apprenticeship, I worked at Highlands Mechanical and trained with another RTO. So, it hasn’t exactly been smooth sailing for me!”

Despite the changes throughout his apprenticeship, Francois has thrived within the industry and quickly cemented his position as a top apprentice being awarded the MTA Institute Apprentice of the Month for March 2018. Nominated by his trainer David Twidale for his excellent attitude and the pride taken in his work, Francois is now in the running for the prestigious title of MTA Institute 2018 Apprentice of the Year, which will be announced at the Annual Industry Dinner held on Saturday, November 10 at the W Hotel in Brisbane.

“It’s really exciting to be in the running September 2018 Motor Trader | 91

E S S E N T I A L S M E M B E R S

Professional Circle training

The graduatioin ceremony is a proud moment for the MTA Institute management and trainers who guided the students through their apprenticeships

for Apprentice of the Year and I was blown away when I was nominated, I didn’t expect it at all.

“The automotive industry offers a lot, and it’s a nice thing to be acknowledged for the hard work and pride I take in my work.”

Although the evening was about hard work and achievement, Paul Kulpa also spoke about the importance of support and offered thanks to family and friends who took part in helping their loved one to the finish line.

“To the friends and family who have joined us tonight, you are in the cheer squad for those graduating. I’d like to say thank you to those present for their support over the last four years and I’m sure their continued support for the years to come,” he said.

“I’m really grateful for the opportunity to celebrate completing my apprenticeship and it’s really nice to be able to bring my dad to the graduation,” said Francois. “He’s supported me throughout the entire thing, and it’s nice to take a moment to reflect on the achievement.”

“I WOULD LIKE TO WISH EACH

GRADUATE IN THIS ROOM GOOD LUCK IN YOUR CAREER . . . YOU HAVEN’T MADE IT THIS FAR BY CHANCE, YOU’VE EARNT YOUR QUALIFICATION, YOU’VE EARNT YOUR PLACE IN THIS INDUSTRY.” Paul continued by saying, “I would like to wish each graduate in this room good luck in your career.”

“Despite the challenges you’ve faced you haven’t made it this far by chance, you’ve earnt your qualification, you’ve earnt your place in this industry.

“Congratulations on hitting this significant milestone and welcome to the automotive industry!”

MTA Institute would like to congratulate the 173 students who successfully completed their apprenticeship from January 1 to Jun 30, 2018.

Graduating ceremonies will be held at MTA Institute twice a year, with the next being in late February 2019.

MTA QUEENSLAND WELCOMES THE FOLLOWING NEW MEMBERS Business Name Airlie Auto Electrics & Mechanical Services Ko Cars & Commercial

Principal/s Simon Price James Currie

92 | Motor Trader September 2018

Address 1Whitsunday Plaza Shopping Centre, 8 Galbraith Park Drive, CANNONVALE Q 4802 118 Kingston Road, Underwood

Email

Division

simon@airlieauto.com.au

AED

ko-cars@hotmail.com

ARD

Right training.

Right place.

Right way.

RTO No: 31529

MTA INSTITUTE

COURSES MIG WELDING FUNDAMENTALS COURSE 20 November 2018, 8:30am - 12:30pm 12 February 2019, 8:30am - 12:30pm 14 May 2019, 8:30am - 12:30pm Click for more information.

HYBRID ELECTRIC VEHICLE COURSE

SKILL SET TRAINING (3 DAY) 30 - 31 October and 1 November 2018 5 - 7 February 2019 7 - 9 May 2019 Click for more information.

AIR CONDITIONING COURSE

SKILL SET TRAINING (2 DAY)

COMMON RAIL DIESEL INJECTION COURSE INTRODUCTORY

27 November 2018, 6pm - 9pm 12 February 2019, 6pm - 9pm 14 May 2019, 6pm - 9pm Click for more information.

24 - 25 October 2018 27 - 28 Febraury 2019 1 - 2 May 2019 Click for more information.

GAP TRAINING (3 DAY) 12 - 14 November 2018 20 - 22 March 2019 12 - 14 June 2019 Click for more information.

SALES/DEALER LICENCING COURSE

CERT IV AND DIPLOMA OF LEADERSHIP AND MANAGEMENT

Click for more information.

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AVAILABLE ONLINE - ENROL NOW

NOW AVAILABLE

All Courses are held at the MTA Institute

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Free guest Wifi at MTA Institute

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Address Freeway Office Park, Building 8, 2728 Logan Road, Eight Mile Plains, Qld 4113 Enquiries to: courses@mtai.edu.au Website www.mtai.edu.au

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF TRAINING WITH THE MTA INSTITUTE? • Trainers with extensive automotive industry experience • On-site one-on-one workplace training • Flexible employer arrangements • State-of-the-art training facility • Online learning capability • Free wi-fi at our training facility • Strong connections to government agencies and industry stakeholders • Unique student opportunities - Pathway to motorsports - Apprentice of the Month and Year Awards - Overseas scholarship opportunities - Links to employers that are members of MTA Queensland - Access to jobs board - Graduation ceremonies THE MTA INSTITUTE offers a full suite of nationally accredited automotive apprenticeships and traineeships in the fields of Light Vehicle, Heavy Vehicle, Motorcycle, Mobile Plant, Automotive Body Repair, Refinishing and more.

ENQUIRE: TRAINING@MTAI.EDU.AU 07 3237 8777 | WWW.MTAI.EDU.AU

RTO No: 31529

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In addition, accredited short courses for licensing requirements are available for Motor Vehicle Sales, Dealers, Wreckers and Automotive Air-Conditioning. We also offer non-accredited short courses in MIG Welding, Paintless Dent Repair, Hybrid Electric Vehicles and Common Rail Diesel Injection.

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ACHARIAH WILLIAMS-HOOK IS the MTA Institute Apprentice of the Month for August.

The 28-year-old, 3rd-year panel beating apprentice works for Nick Contarino at Exclusive Auto Centre in Brisbane. Already qualified as a sheet metal worker, Zac made the decision three years ago to move to another trade.

"I always wanted to expand my skills levels and when I came for an interview with Nick, he really convinced me that I could do that here," he said. "And that is exactly what I am doing," .

It is little wonder, as Exclusive works on exactly the kind of vehicles that the name implies - exclusive vehicles. With Ferraris, Lamborghinis and other high-end cars all part of a day's work, the requirement for employees with top-notch skill sets is clear,

as is a steady hand and nerves of steel.

"I do have some transferable skills – we shape panels and fabricate some elements - so my other trade does come in handy," said Zac. "And we work on some very unique new cars. There's a lot of money being thrown around and quite early on I was working on the restoration of a Ferrari Dino - I was a bit nervous doing that!"

With a terrific work ethic and an enthusiasm to learn, Zac has impressed his MTA Institute trainer, Alfio Rotolone, who said Zac has proven to be one of his most outstanding students.

“He is extremely hard working and always shows initiative," said Alfio. "He has amazing attention to detail, great patience, and an awesome scope of problem-solving techniques. And he's always eager to take on something new. He's a credit to himself and his employer.”

A worthy Apprentice of the Month winner, Zac shows no sign of resting on his laurels.

"I want to continue learning, and keep improving," he said. "And I CLICK TO am in the right place to do that.

VISIT THE EXCLUSIVE AUTO There's so much going on in CENTRE WEBSITE the industry and they are really supportive here - it’s a great place to work."

E S S E N T I A L S

APPRENTICE: ZACHARIAH WILLIAMS-HOOK WORKPLACE: EXCLUSIVE AUTO CENTRE APPRENTICESHIP: PANEL BEATING

ACKNOWLEDGING THE ACHIEVEMENTS OF COLLISION REPAIR INDUSTRY EMPLOYEES IN QUEENSLAND

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-CAR AUSTRALIA, THE organisation that delivers information, training and education to the collision repair industry, is acknowledging the achievements of industry employees from across the country who have achieved I-CAR Platinum Individual accreditation and I-CAR Welding Certification.

The following is a list of Queensland-

M E M B E R S

Apprentice of the Month: August

based collision repair industry employees who have received I-CAR Platinum Individual Accreditation: These are the latest Platinum Individual Certifications for July:

• Frank Puglia

Suncorp

• Scott Young

H Harvey Prestige

The following have also completed the I-CAR Aluminium MIG Certification

September 2018 Motor Trader | 95

E S S E N T I A L S M E M B E R S

Plugged In: Explaining Electric & Hybrid Vehicle Tech PAUL TUGWELL TECHNICAL ELECTRICAL TRAINER MTA INSTITUTE

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ITH SEVERAL MODELS scheduled to be launched in Australia over the next 18 months, Electric Vehicles will soon become a much more common and viable choice for consumers searching for a new car.

With this in mind, Motor Trader is introducing Plugged In, a new regular column from Paul Tugwell - Electric (EV) and Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV) expert, and MTA Institute trainer and lecturer.

The column is dedicated to highlighting and explaining the technologies, systems and components of EVs and HEVs and in his first series of articles, Paul takes a look at battery systems, starting with a concise history of the battery itself.

HYBRID HIGH VOLTAGE BATTERIES AND BATTERY ELECTRIC VEHICLES PART ONE: HISTORY First of all, it is worth noting that,

SIMPLE CIRCUIT WITH DRY CELL

96 | Motor Trader September 2018

without batteries, our world would be a very different place. For starters, there would be no mobile phones and we’d have to crank start our cars - proof enough, I think, of how important this bit of technology is to the lives we lead today.

So, what is a battery? Put simply, it of ‘cells’ in which chemical reactions create electrical energy.

Each cell has an anode (negative) and a cathode (positive) – these are collectively known as electrodes - and an electrolyte substance that reacts with both.

The chemical reaction in the battery causes a build-up of electrons (sub-atomic particles that have a charge) at the anode and when the battery is connected to a circuit, the electrons flow through the circuit to the cathode. In an electric bulb, for example, the electrons flow through the filament and light the bulb.

When the material in the cell is depleted and no longer able to be used in the reaction, the battery ceases to work.

In batteries that can be recharged, the direction of the flow of the electrons goes the other way by using an alternative source of power (plugging into a power socket, for instance) and the process is reversed, with the anode and cathode restored to their original state and again able to provide power.

And that’s pretty much the basics.

The battery has a long history. It was during the 17th century that a revolution in magnetism and an interest in the mystery of electricity began, and the 18th century

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M E M B E R S

when developments in electricity led the way to new advancements in scientific experimentation.

In the 1740s, electricity became the leading branch of experimental physics and in 1800 Italian scientist Alessandro Volta developed a system through which an electric current could flow. This system, which placed different metals - zinc and copper between salt parchment would come The zinc-ca rbon battery is still used to this day to be known as the Voltaic Pile and it is the earliest type of battery that could continuously provide an electric ammonium chloride solution which acted current to a circuit. as an electrolyte that made contact with In recognition of Alessandro Volta’s contribution to science, the unit of electric the cathode. This system was known as a Laclanche Wet Cell. potential is called the VOLT. Improvements on the Leclanche battery Incidentally, Volta also discovered that would see the first dry cell created in when methane was mixed with air it 1888 by German physician Carl Gassner could explode using an electric spark – a in which zinc chloride was added to the discovery that would be the basis of an electrolyte that was then made into a internal combustion engine. paste, extending the life of the battery.

While Volta’s battery discovery was This was, essentially, the first zincamazing, it was not without carbon battery, variations of which drawbacks and not entirely safe. became the industry standard and Hydrogen would form during the are still used to this day. reaction and accumulate on one That brings us to the end of this of the electrodes, diminishing its introduction to batteries and in next ability to conduct as the hydrogen month’s article we will look at other built up and increased resistance. systems including LSI (Lighting, This effect was called polarisation.

Starting, Ignition) Lead Acid; Battery systems would continue Nickel – Cadmium Batteries (NiCad); to be refined following Volta’s Nickel-Metal Hydride (NiMH); creation, but it wasn’t until 1866 Lithium-ion type batteries (Li-ion); that French electrical engineer Lithium-Polymer, and some unusual Georges Leclanche high voltage batteries such as Zincinvented a battery that Air and Zebra. overcame the problem of Battery systems are an exciting and polarisation. important area of our evolving Leclanche’s battery was automotive industry and I hope assembled in a porous pot you enjoy the journey we will consisting of crushed manganese take over the next few months as dioxide with a little carbon mixed we examine this continually in. The anode was a zinc rod, the developing technology. cathode was a carbon rod.

Reconstruction of the first electric Until next month.

The anode (zinc rod) and pot battery invented by Alessandro Volta were then immersed in an Paul.

CARS &

C O F F E E

SEVEN82MOTORS MUSCLES UP FOR DROUGHT RELIEF

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ITH MUCH OF Australia caught in the grip of a terrible drought, it seems strange to report that MTA Queensland’s Cars & Coffee gathering, normally held on the last Sunday of every month, should have been cancelled in August thanks to the forecast of a torrential downpour.

There’s always something going on in the car enthusiast community, however, and MTA Queensland member business SSEVEN82MOTORS put on a Cars & Coffee event of its own at the beginning of September, taking the opportunity to raise money - through coffee sales, a sausage sizzle, donations and an auction - to help assist rural communities with drought relief.

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MTA QUEENSLAND MEMBER BUSINESS SEVEN82 MOTORS PUT ON A CARS & COFFEE EVENT OF ITS OWN AT THE BEGINNING OF SEPTEMBER . . . TO HELP ASSIST RURAL COMMUNITIES WITH DROUGHT RELIEF. SEVEN82MOTORS buys, sells and offers consignment, mechanical and restoration services for classic Australian and American cars, and always has some beautiful vehicles in its showroom. For the Cars & Coffee meeting, those magical motors were joined by some very special

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CARS &

C O F F E E

CLICK TO VISIT THE SEVEN82MOTORS FACEBOOK PAGE

guests, with members of the Gold Coast Muscle Car Association thundering in to make the event a petrolhead’s dream.

“We’ve been talking about doing this event for a while,” said Ben Atkinson, owner of Seven82 Motors. “People can always come into our showroom but not into the build shop, so this was about creating a day where people can get a look at the mechanical side of things as well.

“When we started talking about raising 100 | Motor Trader September 2018

I’VE JUST GOT BACK FROM A TRIP OUT WEST TO LIGHTNING RIDGE, AND THEY ARE DOING IT TOUGH OUT THERE. IT’S NICE TO BE ABLE TO GIVE BACK A LITTLE BIT. some money for drought relief, the coffee guys and our friends from the Gold Coast Muscle Car Association got involved and

CLICK TO VISIT THE SEVEN82MOTORS WEBSITE

we got some real traction.

“I’ve just got back from a trip out west to Lightning Ridge, and they are doing it tough out there. It’s nice to be able to give back a little bit.”

With a spectacular following on social media, Ben and SEVEN82MOTORS were able to get the word out about the event and attendance was strong on the day.

“The turnout has been really good,” said Ben. “We do hold functions here, but this

is probably the first time when we have said anybody can come along, have a hot dog and a coffee and have a look around. And it has been great.”

• SEVEN82MOTORS will be holding more events in the future. Keep track of what's going on by following them on Facebook and checking out their website.

• MTA Queensland’s Cars & Coffee will return on Sunday, September 30, from 7:30-9:30am at the Association’s head office in Brisbane.

September 2018 Motor Trader | 101

QUEENSLAND AUTOMOTIVE TRADES – QOF SCHOLARSHIP The Queensland Automotive Trades – QOF Scholarship assists high achieving vocational education and training graduates (Certificate III and above) in the Queensland automotive industry to travel and work overseas in their chosen vocation for 12 months.

ELIGIBILITY To be eligible for this award, applicants must:

✔ Have completed an apprenticeship (Certificate lll or above) in the automotive industry; ✔ Have current work experience in the automotive industry; ✔ Be a Queensland resident (Australian citizens only); ✔ Be eligible for a work visa to the country in which they wish to travel;

✔ Be at least 18 years of age at the time the scholarship is awarded; ✔ Be prepared to take up the scholarship within 12 months of it being awarded; and ✔ Intend to return to Queensland after their placement.

APPLY • Applications open 30th July 2018 and close 5th October 2018 • Visit http://qof.org.au/qof-scholarship/ queensland-automotive-trades-qofscholarship to apply and find more information including Tc & Cs and selection criteria

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The scholarship funds travel related expenses and a settling in allowance up to $7,500. Recipients will gain valuable international work experience, improve their career prospects and return to Queensland to contribute more broadly from their learnings.

INDUSTRIAL RELATIONS OFFICER

EMPLOYEES’ OBLIGATION TO GIVE NOTICE

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EMBERS WHO HAVE been in the unfortunate position of having a key employee walk out without giving notice might be aware they can withhold payment of entitlements when that happens. This right to withhold payment comes from the Awards; both the Clerks and the Vehicles Awards have identical provisions.

If an employee fails to give adequate notice, an employer can withhold from the employee’s final pay an amount equivalent to the amount the employee would have been paid for the length of notice they failed to give. For example, if an employee were obliged to give three weeks’ notice and gave only one, their employer could withhold an amount equivalent to two weeks’ pay. That right covers payment of any wages owed, or any entitlements accrued under the Federal system, such as annual Paul, who had been the MTAQ's Industrial Relations leave or leave loading.

Officer for over three years, left the Association in August As it currently stands, the amount of notice to return to the practice of law. He says he has thoroughly an employee is obliged to give their employer is enjoyed being able to help members with their set by the Awards at the same amount of IR issues, small or large. From representing time the employer is obliged to give the CLICK FOR MORE ON members in the Fair Work Commission to employee (though without the extra week INDUSTRIAL providing advice on Award pay rates, he has owed to employees over 45 years old).

RELATIONS found great satisfaction in guiding members This arrangement is, however, going to through the sometimes complicated nooks and change. As part of the Four Yearly Review of crannies of Industrial Relations.

Modern Awards, the Full Bench of the Fair Work

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PAUL MURRAY

Commission decided in mid-July on the wording of a Standard Clause for Modern Awards that will replace provisions like these in all Modern Awards. As with all changes that will result from the Review, we don’t yet know when they will take effect. For the time being, the existing provisions will remain. However, when the amended Modern Awards are introduced there will be some significant changes.

The biggest change will be to the amount that can be withheld. Although the required notice period will remain the same, the maximum amount that can be withheld from termination pay will be reduced to one week’s pay. There is a further requirement that this must also “not be unreasonable in the circumstances”. What might count as unreasonable will depend on the circumstances, but an example might be where an employee has no idea that notice is required and would happily work the notice if that was explained to them. Indeed, MTA Queensland’s current advice to members is that they should warn employees they are risking a loss of termination pay before the member relies on this provision, even though the Award in its current form doesn’t expressly say this.

Another significant change is that employers won’t be able to withhold from the pay of employees who are under 18. The final change is that no deduction can be made if an employer agrees to a shorter notice period than is required.

MTA Queensland will provide members with plenty of notice of the introduction of these changes, and in the meantime IR support and advice is just a phone call away on 07 3238 8777.

M E M B E R S

Industrial relations

Concept corner

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ANS-INSPIRED ELECTRIC CONCEPT September 2018 Motor Trader | 105

Concept corner

Audi PB18 e-tron

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ANY OF THE electric vehicle concepts that have been revealed over the past couple of years - and that will hopefully be amongst the future models we can actually buy – have been jaw-droppingly stunning to look.

And we can now add to that list the Audi PB18 e-tron, an absolutely stonking concept fresh off the drawing boards of the design gurus at the company’s design studio in California and revealed at the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance automotive event in August.

Audi’s successful motorsport adventures, and in particular its Le Mans racing program, were the inspiration for the concept, a connection that is noted in the name – PB18 e-tron – which refers both to the Pebble Beach launch venue and to the technological DNA it shares with the Audi R18 e-tron LMP1 racing car.

With all that in mind, the PB18 looks like it could smash a few race track records and indeed that is what it has been designed to be - a radical driving machine for the racetrack and road.

Audi says that in the PB18, the driver is the absolute centre of attention. There are

106 | Motor Trader September 2018

VIDEO: AUDI PB18 E-TRON CONCEPT CAR

no comfort features to add weight and in their place is a driver’s seat and cockpit that integrated into an inner monocoque shell that is moveable laterally depending on how many occupants are on board.

When driven solo, the monocoque can be positioned in the centre of the interior.

When the driver’s monocoque is moved into the side position, fthe PB18 e-tron can be steered in everyday driving like a conventional road vehicle, and there is room for a passenger.

A mix of aluminium, carbon and multimaterial composites ensures the body of the Audi PB18 e-tron has a low weight. The company says a total weight of less than 1,550 kg can be expected.

The fully-charged liquid-cooled solidstate battery is good for a range of over 500km in the WLTP cycle and the PB18 is already designed for charging with a voltage of 800 volts. This means the battery can be fully recharged in about 15 minutes.The concept can also be charged via induction with Audi Wireless Charging (AWC).

The PB18 e-tron uses three electric motors – one up front and two in the rear.

The latter are centrally located between the steering knuckles, each directly driving

one wheel via half-shafts. They deliver up to 150 kW of power to the front axle and 350 kW to the rear. Maximum output is 500 kW, but with boosting the driver can temporarily mobilise up to 570 kW. The combined torque of up to 830 Nm (612.2 lb-ft) allows acceleration from 0 to 62mph in a little over two seconds! Nice.

There you have it – a tate-of-the-art, all-electric beast that looks the absolute business and performs like it.

Bring on the EV revolution.

September 2018 Motor Trader | 107

Investment matters

MARKET WRAP

T

HE S&P/ASX 200 Accumulation Index returned 1.39% in July with Telecommunication Services the best performing sector closing up 7.9%.

The Dow Jones Industrial and MSCI World Index closed strongly, up 4.71% and 3.12% respectively. Real GDP growth in the US grew at an annualised pace of 4.1% in the second quarter, the strongest in 12 years. Emerging markets continued their sell-off as the US put tariffs on $200b worth of imports from China.

The valuation of the market appears reasonable at face value, trading within the price earnings ratio (PE) range of the past five years. Furthermore, compared to bond yields, which remain low, it appears very attractive. However, as we have stated in recent months, this disguises the fact that there is polarisation in the market between growth stocks and bond proxies that are trading expensively compared to historical averages, and financials and resources and some industrials that appear cheaper. This divergence is driven by disruption impacting the outlook for many traditional companies, and low interest rates enhancing the valuation for growth companies and bond proxies.

The earnings outlook for the market remains at mid-single digit levels, which appears reasonable with some upside if commodity prices stay at current levels.

Interestingly, a lead indicator of inflation published by the Federal Reserve Bank of 108 | Motor Trader September 2018

THE EARNINGS OUTLOOK FOR THE MARKET REMAINS AT MID-SINGLE DIGIT LEVELS, WHICH APPEARS REASONABLE WITH SOME UPSIDE IF COMMODITY PRICES STAY AT CURRENT LEVELS. New York suggests inflation expectations are rising and that this will drive actual inflation higher. We see this when we talk to companies. Reports of surveys of Brambles’ customers reveal that they expect price rises to occur in the next few years, and that they will most likely pass them on to their customers. Higher inflation will likely drive the PE multiple of the market down over time, especially if it is not accompanied by stronger economic growth.

DISCLAIMER This document has been prepared by DNR Capital Pty Ltd, AFS Representative - 294844 of DNR AFSL Pty Ltd ABN 39 118 946 400, AFSL 301658. It is general information only and is not intended to be a recommendation to invest in any product or financial service mentioned above. Whilst DNR Capital has used its best endeavours to ensure the information within this document is accurate it cannot be relied upon in any way and recipients must make their own enquiries concerning the accuracy of the information within. The general information in this document has been prepared without reference to any recipient’s objectives, financial situation or needs. Before making any financial investment decisions we recommend recipients obtain legal and taxation advice appropriate to their particular needs. Investment in a DNR Capital managed account can only be made on completion of all the required documentation.

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This document is issued by Motor Trades Association of Australia Superannuation Fund Pty. Limited (ABN 14 008 650 628, AFSL 238 718) of Level 3, 39 Brisbane Avenue Barton ACT 2600, Trustee of the MTAA Superannuation Fund (ABN 74 559 365 913). Motor Trades Association of Australia Superannuation Fund Pty. Limited has ownership interests in Industry Super Holdings Pty Ltd and Members Equity Bank Limited. The information provided is of a general nature and does not take into account your specific needs or personal situation. You should consider the MTAA Super Product Disclosure Statement in making a decision (mtaasuper.com.au/handbooks).