June 2023
WWW.AuTOMOBIL.CO.ZA
THe DeePeST BuSIneSS ReACH InTO THe SA ReTAIL MOTOR InDuSTRY
Win R10 000 in
Automobil reader
competition
SAMBRA CReATInG VALue AnD
uPLIFTInG STAnDARDS
RMI AnD TuT SIGn LAnDMARK AGReeMenT
DeALeRS PRePARe FOR CHAnGInG
SKILLS ReQuIReMenTS
CONTENTS
COLUMNS
03 . Driver’s Seat: Jakkie Olivier, CEO of the RMI
03 . Editor’s Letter: Reuben van Niekerk
32 . Tech Talk: Understanding the basics of vehicle suspension
34 . Busting wellbeing myths
35 . Finance: Red Flags are required for timeous fraud detection
NEWS
05 . News
12 . Industry News
21 . RMI News
26 . Association News
FEATURES
28 . Association: SAMBRA creating value and uplifting standards
30 . Interview: Eric Scoble looks back on a career filled with success
36 . Legal: Dodging contract catastrophes
38 . Labour: Understanding the parity principle
REGULARS
40 . New models: Toyota Vitz and Jeep Grand Cherokee
42 . Motorsport: Suzuki conquers Simola Hillclimb
43 . Member Update
44 . Sales: April 2023 vehicle sales figures
P12
P42
P32
www.automobil.co.za
June 2023
JUNE 2023
WWW.AUTOMOBIL.CO.ZA
THE DEEPEST BUSINESS REACH INTO THE SA RETAIL MOTOR INDUSTRY
Editor
Reuben van Niekerk
reuben@automobil.org.za
Sub-editor
Suzanne Walker
Regular contributors
Roger Houghton
Nicol Louw
Publisher
Wilken Communication Management
Tel: 012-4604448
Advertising Sales
Greg Surgeon
greg@automobil.org.za
Automobil is produced monthly by Wilken
Communication Management for the Retail
Motor Industry Organisation. The views and
opinions expressed in the publication are not
necessarily those of the publishers or the Retail
Motor Industry Organisation. While precau-
tions have been taken to ensure the accuracy
of advice and information contained in edito-
rial or advertisements, neither the publishers
nor the Retail Motor Industry Organisation can
accept responsibility for errors, misrepresenta-
tions or omissions, or for any effect or conse-
quence arising therefrom. Permission to repub-
lish any article or image or part thereof must be
obtained in writing from the publishers.
Cover image courtesy of SIB
www.automobil.co.za
www.automobil.co.za
June 2023
DRIVeR’S SeAT
For information on the RMI and its workings, visit www.rmi.org.za or call 011 886 6300
eDITOR’S LeTTeR
his month we are really proud to announce that the RMI
and the Tshwane University of Technology’s Department
of Marketing, Supply Chain and Sport Management have
made history by signing a Memorandum of Understanding
(MoU) to provide stakeholders within the Automotive Retail
Aftermarket with an opportunity to further their studies,
by enrolling for a customised Diploma in Retail Business
Management.
This first of a kind agreement in South Africa will allow
RMI members and their employees to enhance their
knowledge and skills by enrolling for a three year,
fully online qualification, that has been especially
developed for the Retail Motor Industry.
Although the MoU was actually signed some
time ago, due to the COVID-19 pandem-
ic, the accreditation of this programme
was unavoidably delayed. We are now
delighted that Dr Elizma Wannenburg,
Head of the Department of Marketing,
Supply Chain and Sport Management at TUT
has confirmed that everything is in place for the official commencement of
this programme on 1 July 2023.
The first cohort of students (employers and staff) will form part of an
historical event which represents a commendable achievement of which the
RMI is extremely proud.
Over the years professionalisation of the industry has been one of the
key focus areas of the organisation. We have always advocated for closer
collaboration between institutions of higher education and industry in order
to provide more industry-appropriate qualifications that will inspire learners
to educate themselves in a particular field. We hope that this is the first of
many programmes that we can develop together and encourage all employ-
ers within the motor sales, motor parts, equipment as well as the tyre sales
sectors to actively promote this unique opportunity by identifying potential
candidates that can form part of the first cohort of students.
Make sure to read the full article on page 22, which contains curriculum
information and guidelines on how to enrol. Applications will open soon
and space within this specialised qualification is limited so we encourage
employers to actively engage with staff to avoid disappointment.
Jakkie Olivier , RMI Chief Executive Officer
RMI and TUT sign landmark agreement
he South African motor industry is in an extremely weird
phase right now. The transport sector defied expec-
tations of under-performance in the fourth quarter of
2022 to be the best sectoral performer and all indications are
that the transport sector once again outperformed other sec-
tors of the South African economy during the first quarter of
2023. Statistics South Africa is expected to release the real first
quarter GDP growth rate on Tuesday 6 June, with expectations
of a small positive quarterly growth rate allowing the economy
to avert a technical recession.
Although we might just dodge the official recession classifi-
cation the average South African is certainly feeling the pinch,
a situation that is only being made worse by a variety of ad-
ditional factors including political instability and widespread
loadshedding. However, for some reason the local motor in-
dustry remains largely unaffected.
The recent Simola Hillclimb was one of the best supported
iterations yet and this event has without a doubt become the
pinnacle of South African motorsport. The quality of entrants
was world class with competitors investing massive amounts
of money to improve their times up the hill. The event also at-
tracted support from a large number of manufacturers, who
used the event to showcase or even launch new performance
derivatives. Public support was great too with almost 20 000
spectators descending on the small town of Knysna to witness
the spectacle.
Vehicle sales reflect the same with Lightstone reporting
that overall sales for the first quarter of 2023 were 1.7% higher
than for the comparable period in 2022, and 20% above sales
for the same window in 2021. Probably more significantly, new
vehicle sales are, so far in 2023, 3.1% ahead of the Q1-2019
volume, a sign that the market has essentially recovered to
pre-COVID levels.
Dealer sales represented 83.9% of the 138 571 units sold
between January and March, while passenger vehicle sales
were down 1.4% year-on-year for the three months and sales
of LCVs grew 9.1% compared to 2022.
While the South African economy might be a difficult place
to survive and do business in at the moment, people need to
move and businesses need to move goods and the automotive
industry seems to be more resilient than other sectors for the
time being.
Reuben van niekerk, reuben@automobil.org.za
Automotive industry continues
to outperform the economy
Take the Automobil
reader survey here
View the April
sales figures
here
enter the
Automobil reader
competition here
CONTENTS
COLUMNS
03 . Driver’s Seat: Jakkie Olivier, CEO of the RMI
03 . Editor’s Letter: Reuben van Niekerk
32 . Tech Talk: Understanding the basics of vehicle suspension
34 . Busting wellbeing myths
35 . Finance: Red Flags are required for timeous fraud detection
NEWS
05 . News
12 . Industry News
21 . RMI News
26 . Association News
FEATURES
28 . Association: SAMBRA creating value and uplifting standards
30 . Interview: Eric Scoble looks back on a career filled with success
36 . Legal: Dodging contract catastrophes
38 . Labour: Understanding the parity principle
REGULARS
40 . New models: Toyota Vitz and Jeep Grand Cherokee
42 . Motorsport: Suzuki conquers Simola Hillclimb
43 . Member Update
44 . Sales: April 2023 vehicle sales figures
P12
P42
P32
www.automobil.co.za
June 2023
JUNE 2023
WWW.AUTOMOBIL.CO.ZA
THE DEEPEST BUSINESS REACH INTO THE SA RETAIL MOTOR INDUSTRY
Editor
Reuben van Niekerk
reuben@automobil.org.za
Sub-editor
Suzanne Walker
Regular contributors
Roger Houghton
Nicol Louw
Publisher
Wilken Communication Management
Tel: 012-4604448
Advertising Sales
Greg Surgeon
greg@automobil.org.za
Automobil is produced monthly by Wilken
Communication Management for the Retail
Motor Industry Organisation. The views and
opinions expressed in the publication are not
necessarily those of the publishers or the Retail
Motor Industry Organisation. While precau-
tions have been taken to ensure the accuracy
of advice and information contained in edito-
rial or advertisements, neither the publishers
nor the Retail Motor Industry Organisation can
accept responsibility for errors, misrepresenta-
tions or omissions, or for any effect or conse-
quence arising therefrom. Permission to repub-
lish any article or image or part thereof must be
obtained in writing from the publishers.
Cover image courtesy of SIB
www.automobil.co.za
www.automobil.co.za
June 2023
DRIVeR’S SeAT
For information on the RMI and its workings, visit www.rmi.org.za or call 011 886 6300
eDITOR’S LeTTeR
his month we are really proud to announce that the RMI
and the Tshwane University of Technology’s Department
of Marketing, Supply Chain and Sport Management have
made history by signing a Memorandum of Understanding
(MoU) to provide stakeholders within the Automotive Retail
Aftermarket with an opportunity to further their studies,
by enrolling for a customised Diploma in Retail Business
Management.
This first of a kind agreement in South Africa will allow
RMI members and their employees to enhance their
knowledge and skills by enrolling for a three year,
fully online qualification, that has been especially
developed for the Retail Motor Industry.
Although the MoU was actually signed some
time ago, due to the COVID-19 pandem-
ic, the accreditation of this programme
was unavoidably delayed. We are now
delighted that Dr Elizma Wannenburg,
Head of the Department of Marketing,
Supply Chain and Sport Management at TUT
has confirmed that everything is in place for the official commencement of
this programme on 1 July 2023.
The first cohort of students (employers and staff) will form part of an
historical event which represents a commendable achievement of which the
RMI is extremely proud.
Over the years professionalisation of the industry has been one of the
key focus areas of the organisation. We have always advocated for closer
collaboration between institutions of higher education and industry in order
to provide more industry-appropriate qualifications that will inspire learners
to educate themselves in a particular field. We hope that this is the first of
many programmes that we can develop together and encourage all employ-
ers within the motor sales, motor parts, equipment as well as the tyre sales
sectors to actively promote this unique opportunity by identifying potential
candidates that can form part of the first cohort of students.
Make sure to read the full article on page 22, which contains curriculum
information and guidelines on how to enrol. Applications will open soon
and space within this specialised qualification is limited so we encourage
employers to actively engage with staff to avoid disappointment.
Jakkie Olivier , RMI Chief Executive Officer
RMI and TUT sign landmark agreement
he South African motor industry is in an extremely weird
phase right now. The transport sector defied expec-
tations of under-performance in the fourth quarter of
2022 to be the best sectoral performer and all indications are
that the transport sector once again outperformed other sec-
tors of the South African economy during the first quarter of
2023. Statistics South Africa is expected to release the real first
quarter GDP growth rate on Tuesday 6 June, with expectations
of a small positive quarterly growth rate allowing the economy
to avert a technical recession.
Although we might just dodge the official recession classifi-
cation the average South African is certainly feeling the pinch,
a situation that is only being made worse by a variety of ad-
ditional factors including political instability and widespread
loadshedding. However, for some reason the local motor in-
dustry remains largely unaffected.
The recent Simola Hillclimb was one of the best supported
iterations yet and this event has without a doubt become the
pinnacle of South African motorsport. The quality of entrants
was world class with competitors investing massive amounts
of money to improve their times up the hill. The event also at-
tracted support from a large number of manufacturers, who
used the event to showcase or even launch new performance
derivatives. Public support was great too with almost 20 000
spectators descending on the small town of Knysna to witness
the spectacle.
Vehicle sales reflect the same with Lightstone reporting
that overall sales for the first quarter of 2023 were 1.7% higher
than for the comparable period in 2022, and 20% above sales
for the same window in 2021. Probably more significantly, new
vehicle sales are, so far in 2023, 3.1% ahead of the Q1-2019
volume, a sign that the market has essentially recovered to
pre-COVID levels.
Dealer sales represented 83.9% of the 138 571 units sold
between January and March, while passenger vehicle sales
were down 1.4% year-on-year for the three months and sales
of LCVs grew 9.1% compared to 2022.
While the South African economy might be a difficult place
to survive and do business in at the moment, people need to
move and businesses need to move goods and the automotive
industry seems to be more resilient than other sectors for the
time being.
Reuben van niekerk, reuben@automobil.org.za
Automotive industry continues
to outperform the economy
Take the Automobil
reader survey here
View the April
sales figures
here
enter the
Automobil reader
competition here
BELONGING IS BETTER BUSINESS
Here’s why…
Legacy and unity
•
We’ve been representing the retail motor industry for more than 100 years.
•
With more than 8 000-member businesses, our unity is our strength.
Your voice
RMI represents the industry at:
•
Centralised wage negotiations.
•
Various MIBCO and Industry-related Boards and committee structures.
•
Various South African Bureau of Standards (SABS)
committees and working groups.
•
The National Regulator for Compulsory Specifications (NRCS), defending our
industry when compulsory specifications and standards are compromised.
•
The Moto Health Care Fund, Industry Provident Funds
and the Sick, Accident and Maternity Pay Fund.
•
Meetings hosted by reputable organisations recognised by government, big
business, consumers and relevant stakeholders like Business Unity SA (BUSA).
Supports your business
•
Professional industrial relations advice ensuring procedural
and substantive fairness when disciplining staff.
•
Chairing of disciplinary hearings and AUTOMATIC
entry at the CCMA, DRC and Labour Court.
•
Exceptional CPA support at the National Consumer Commission (NCC)
and the Motor Industry Ombudsman of South Africa (MIOSA).
•
Facilitation of a business-to-business complaint where both parties are
RMI members, with a complaint resolution rate in excess of 95%.
•
Training needs and representation via merSETA and W&RSETA.
•
Industry-specific products like RMI4BEE, RMI4LAW and RMI4OHS.
Keeps you in the know
•
Industry labour relations seminars.
•
Automobil magazine and weekly web letters.
•
Commenting on industry topics in the media, and participating
in and hosting numerous conventions and shows.
s the Franchise Association of South Afri-
ca, in association with Absa, embarks on a
definitive industry survey after a break of
the past four gruelling years – that included the
debilitating effects of the COVID-19 lockdown
regulations, flooding and the July 2021 riots and
looting, political turmoil and economic strain – it
hopes to get a clear indication of the challenges
franchisors and franchisees faced and more im-
portantly what lies ahead for the future of this
important sector.
The 2019 FASA Franchise Survey showed that
whilst the industry was taking strain due to the
slowing economy, franchising contributed 13.9%
to the country’s GDP (R734 billion) through its
813 franchise systems and its 47 923 outlets and
employing, directly and indirectly, almost 500 000
people. It showed a solid performance despite
tough economic conditions and was testament to
the tenacity of this unique business format.
There is no question that businesses across
the board, big and small, including franchises
were hit hard by the snowballing effect started
by COVID-19 and affected by so many other so-
cio-political and economic factors since then. By
and large, the franchise sector has, through these
trying times and in line with global trends, relied
on the strength of the collective made up of fran-
chisors and franchisees – all tackling problems
and finding solutions together.
“FASA has, for the past 44 years, overseen the
establishment and growth of this vital sector. We
cannot allow growth in our sector to regress or
slow down as the future of South Africa relies on
a vibrant sector like ours that encourages entre-
preneurship, plays a role in skills transfer and in
job creation. Now, more than ever, franchising
needs to hold its own, take the road to recovery
and continue to play the important role it does
in the country’s economy,” says Fred Makgato,
FASA’s CEO.
Thanks to sponsorship from Absa and the
commitment of its franchise division, FASA has
commissioned Research EQ to conduct the sur-
vey under the capable direction of Margaret Con-
stantaras, Head: Quantitative Research & Gover-
nance who has a particular interest in franchising
as she is completing her PhD in this field.
“Since our involvement in FASA’s surveys of
the sector since 2014, we will be devoting a good
portion of the survey on how franchisors and
franchisees coped during what was probably the
most trying four years in business and identifying
their strengths and weaknesses.”
FASA’s Franchise Surveys will be conducted
from May to July this year with franchisors and
franchisees across the fourteen different busi-
ness sectors participating in one-on-one and
online interviews. The results of the surveys will
form part of FASA’s event calendar for the second
half of 2023 – which includes a Franchise Expo in
August and the FASA Conference in October. Re-
search EQ invites all franchisors and franchisees,
whether FASA members or not, to contact them
if they would like to participate in the survey.
Please email Margaret for more information.
he South African economy recorded zero growth for the first quar-
ter of 2023, following a fourth quarter of negative growth in 2022.
The country is pointing towards a technical recession (defined as two
consecutive negative quarters of growth), despite Finance Minister Enoch
Gondwana ruling out the possibility just a few weeks ago.
The FNB/BER consumer confidence index (CCI) also fell to -23 points in
Q1 2023 (down from -8 in Q4 2022), indicating increasing financial strain
among consumers.
Yet as the economic climate sees consumers becoming more price con-
scious and thrifty, businesses in South Africa are facing unprecedented op-
erational costs, resulting in price hikes being passed on to consumers.
According to Chief Operating Officer, Craig Pitchers, at leading national
courier service The Courier Guy, South African businesses find themselves in
a uniquely challenging position.
To build stronger and more resilient companies that can withstand the
economic storm, Pitchers recommends that businesses focus on what he
calls “The 3 Cs of building a recession-ready business”.
Costs
Pitchers believes there are many creative ways to lower operational costs,
but says it is critical that cost-cutting does not negatively affect the quality
of a business’ final product or service delivery.
He suggests outsourcing certain non-core activities to reduce overhead
costs and freeing up internal resources to focus on core business activities.
Customers
With studies showing that it is between five and seven times more expen-
sive to acquire a new customer than keep an existing one, another good way
to get recession-ready is to ensure that business strategies place a heavy
weighting on client retention.
To keep clients happy and satisfied during a recession, Pitchers says
companies must prioritise excellent customer service and a personalised
experience.
Collaboration
Another robust recession-proof strategy is for businesses to be agile and
adaptable, so that they can pivot their business strategy, if need be, by shift-
ing focus to a new product or service, or targeting a new audience or market.
For Pitchers, this goes hand in hand with the final ‘C’ for collaboration,
which involves identifying suppliers in your industry or related industries
that can help you to stay up to date with market trends and identify new
opportunities.
The power of reliable, loyal and like-minded partnerships in times of eco-
nomic crises should never be underestimated. By depending on each other,
businesses can provide a more comprehensive solution and increase the
value proposition of their services.
“With the economic sentiment suggesting a muted national outlook for
the year ahead, it more important than ever to be creative and open to new
ideas that can help your business survive and thrive,” concludes Pitchers.
www.automobil.co.za
June 2023
Building a recession-ready business
How has franchising
fared in South Africa
neWS
neWS
BELONGING IS BETTER BUSINESS
Here’s why…
Legacy and unity
•
We’ve been representing the retail motor industry for more than 100 years.
•
With more than 8 000-member businesses, our unity is our strength.
Your voice
RMI represents the industry at:
•
Centralised wage negotiations.
•
Various MIBCO and Industry-related Boards and committee structures.
•
Various South African Bureau of Standards (SABS)
committees and working groups.
•
The National Regulator for Compulsory Specifications (NRCS), defending our
industry when compulsory specifications and standards are compromised.
•
The Moto Health Care Fund, Industry Provident Funds
and the Sick, Accident and Maternity Pay Fund.
•
Meetings hosted by reputable organisations recognised by government, big
business, consumers and relevant stakeholders like Business Unity SA (BUSA).
Supports your business
•
Professional industrial relations advice ensuring procedural
and substantive fairness when disciplining staff.
•
Chairing of disciplinary hearings and AUTOMATIC
entry at the CCMA, DRC and Labour Court.
•
Exceptional CPA support at the National Consumer Commission (NCC)
and the Motor Industry Ombudsman of South Africa (MIOSA).
•
Facilitation of a business-to-business complaint where both parties are
RMI members, with a complaint resolution rate in excess of 95%.
•
Training needs and representation via merSETA and W&RSETA.
•
Industry-specific products like RMI4BEE, RMI4LAW and RMI4OHS.
Keeps you in the know
•
Industry labour relations seminars.
•
Automobil magazine and weekly web letters.
•
Commenting on industry topics in the media, and participating
in and hosting numerous conventions and shows.
s the Franchise Association of South Afri-
ca, in association with Absa, embarks on a
definitive industry survey after a break of
the past four gruelling years – that included the
debilitating effects of the COVID-19 lockdown
regulations, flooding and the July 2021 riots and
looting, political turmoil and economic strain – it
hopes to get a clear indication of the challenges
franchisors and franchisees faced and more im-
portantly what lies ahead for the future of this
important sector.
The 2019 FASA Franchise Survey showed that
whilst the industry was taking strain due to the
slowing economy, franchising contributed 13.9%
to the country’s GDP (R734 billion) through its
813 franchise systems and its 47 923 outlets and
employing, directly and indirectly, almost 500 000
people. It showed a solid performance despite
tough economic conditions and was testament to
the tenacity of this unique business format.
There is no question that businesses across
the board, big and small, including franchises
were hit hard by the snowballing effect started
by COVID-19 and affected by so many other so-
cio-political and economic factors since then. By
and large, the franchise sector has, through these
trying times and in line with global trends, relied
on the strength of the collective made up of fran-
chisors and franchisees – all tackling problems
and finding solutions together.
“FASA has, for the past 44 years, overseen the
establishment and growth of this vital sector. We
cannot allow growth in our sector to regress or
slow down as the future of South Africa relies on
a vibrant sector like ours that encourages entre-
preneurship, plays a role in skills transfer and in
job creation. Now, more than ever, franchising
needs to hold its own, take the road to recovery
and continue to play the important role it does
in the country’s economy,” says Fred Makgato,
FASA’s CEO.
Thanks to sponsorship from Absa and the
commitment of its franchise division, FASA has
commissioned Research EQ to conduct the sur-
vey under the capable direction of Margaret Con-
stantaras, Head: Quantitative Research & Gover-
nance who has a particular interest in franchising
as she is completing her PhD in this field.
“Since our involvement in FASA’s surveys of
the sector since 2014, we will be devoting a good
portion of the survey on how franchisors and
franchisees coped during what was probably the
most trying four years in business and identifying
their strengths and weaknesses.”
FASA’s Franchise Surveys will be conducted
from May to July this year with franchisors and
franchisees across the fourteen different busi-
ness sectors participating in one-on-one and
online interviews. The results of the surveys will
form part of FASA’s event calendar for the second
half of 2023 – which includes a Franchise Expo in
August and the FASA Conference in October. Re-
search EQ invites all franchisors and franchisees,
whether FASA members or not, to contact them
if they would like to participate in the survey.
Please email Margaret for more information.
he South African economy recorded zero growth for the first quar-
ter of 2023, following a fourth quarter of negative growth in 2022.
The country is pointing towards a technical recession (defined as two
consecutive negative quarters of growth), despite Finance Minister Enoch
Gondwana ruling out the possibility just a few weeks ago.
The FNB/BER consumer confidence index (CCI) also fell to -23 points in
Q1 2023 (down from -8 in Q4 2022), indicating increasing financial strain
among consumers.
Yet as the economic climate sees consumers becoming more price con-
scious and thrifty, businesses in South Africa are facing unprecedented op-
erational costs, resulting in price hikes being passed on to consumers.
According to Chief Operating Officer, Craig Pitchers, at leading national
courier service The Courier Guy, South African businesses find themselves in
a uniquely challenging position.
To build stronger and more resilient companies that can withstand the
economic storm, Pitchers recommends that businesses focus on what he
calls “The 3 Cs of building a recession-ready business”.
Costs
Pitchers believes there are many creative ways to lower operational costs,
but says it is critical that cost-cutting does not negatively affect the quality
of a business’ final product or service delivery.
He suggests outsourcing certain non-core activities to reduce overhead
costs and freeing up internal resources to focus on core business activities.
Customers
With studies showing that it is between five and seven times more expen-
sive to acquire a new customer than keep an existing one, another good way
to get recession-ready is to ensure that business strategies place a heavy
weighting on client retention.
To keep clients happy and satisfied during a recession, Pitchers says
companies must prioritise excellent customer service and a personalised
experience.
Collaboration
Another robust recession-proof strategy is for businesses to be agile and
adaptable, so that they can pivot their business strategy, if need be, by shift-
ing focus to a new product or service, or targeting a new audience or market.
For Pitchers, this goes hand in hand with the final ‘C’ for collaboration,
which involves identifying suppliers in your industry or related industries
that can help you to stay up to date with market trends and identify new
opportunities.
The power of reliable, loyal and like-minded partnerships in times of eco-
nomic crises should never be underestimated. By depending on each other,
businesses can provide a more comprehensive solution and increase the
value proposition of their services.
“With the economic sentiment suggesting a muted national outlook for
the year ahead, it more important than ever to be creative and open to new
ideas that can help your business survive and thrive,” concludes Pitchers.
www.automobil.co.za
June 2023
Building a recession-ready business
How has franchising
fared in South Africa
neWS
neWS
A Driving force in South Africa’s automotive aftermarket
The Retail Motor Industry Organisation is a proactive, relevant, retail and associated motor industry organisation recognised
as the leading voice in South Africa‘s automotive after market. It serves the daily needs of its members and plays a key role
in enabling motor traders to deliver a superior service to motoring consumers. Eight Associations fall proudly under the RMI
umbrella. Inter-associational business-to-business trading is encouraged in the interests of all stakeholders.
HeAD OFFICe www.rmi.org.za
Tel: +27 11 886 6300 | Surrey Square Office Park, 330 Surrey Avenue, Ferndale, Randburg, 2194, Gauteng, P. O. Box 2940, Randburg, 2125
ReGIOnAL OFFICeS
Central: Randburg tel: +27 11 886 6300 | KwaZulu-Natal: Durban tel: +27 31 266 7031 | Eastern Cape/Border: Port Elizabeth tel: +27 41 364 0070 |
Western Cape: Cape Town tel: +27 21 939 9440 | Free State / Northern Cape: Bloemfontein tel: +27 51 430 3294
SAPRA – South African Petroleum
Retailers’ Association
SAPRA represents the interests of all petroleum retailers in
South Africa. Its aim is to improve growth and profitability
for the investor. SAPRA plays an important role in tracking
global and local trends that affect sustainability and help
retailers remain relevant in an ever-changing business
environment. Retailers voice concerns through one of
the seven regional chairs strategically located around
the country, into a National Executive Committee (NEC),
where strategy and solutions are developed. This bottom
up approach is a fundamental SAPRA imperative.
SAMBRA – South African Motor Body
Repairers’ Association
SAMBRA is the pre-eminent motor body repair association in
South Africa representing the majority of accredited motor body
repairers. SAMBRA’s grading system, which was introduced over
30 years ago, regulates repairer standards in the motor body repair
industry in South Africa and instils confidence in consumers and
industry stakeholders alike. The Association works in close collab-
oration with various key industry stakeholders including Insurers,
Original Equipment Suppliers, paint and equipment suppliers, the
labour department and trade unions, as well as related SETAs – to
maintain industry sustainability and development. It ensures the
provision of technical and business management skills training in
order for members to meet the demands of the industry.
TePA – Tyre, Equipment, Parts Association
TEPA represents tyre dealers; garage/workshop equipment and
tool importers and distributors; auto part wholesalers, retailers
and independent operators in the aftermarket motor parts
industry as well as manufacturers and importers of parts for
the automotive aftermarket. The members of TEPA represent,
promote, sell and endorse the use of legitimate, bona fide,
quality branded products. TEPA members also export parts,
equipment and components into Africa and other countries in
the world. TEPA encourages at all times inter-associational RMI
business-to-business trading, intent on strengthening the RMI
Organisation as a whole. TEPA is seen as the mark of integrity
and fair trade for the consumer, the business operator and the
government. The Association is the legitimate voice of the tyre,
equipment, and parts industry in South Africa and is positioned
as an intermediary between government, business, and the
consumer.
VTA – Vehicle Testing Association
The VTA represents private vehicle testing stations that are
committed to operating within the law in accordance with the
Road Traffic Act and the relevant SANS standards. In this highly
regulated environment, the association represents the interests
of its members at government level working groups and is
committed to enhancing the reputation of the industry in all the
spheres.
ARA – Automotive Remanufacturers’ Association
ARA represents the remanufacturing trade sector. This includes
component remanufacturers involved in safety-critical compo-
nents, inclusive of but not limited to vehicle cooling, turbocharg-
er and braking systems; automotive engineers who machine and
remanufacture engine components by way of expert engineer-
ing – ultimately rebuilding engines to its original specifications;
and specialists in the repair, servicing and remanufacturing of
diesel fuel injection systems fitted to diesel engines in earth mov-
ing equipment, highway trucks, stationary engines and passen-
ger vehicles. ARA promotes the responsible reuse of remanufac-
tured engine components for a ‘greener’ environment (carbon
footprint). Its members are dedicated to providing consumers
with only the best of advice, finest service delivery, and highest
quality workmanship.
nADA – National Automobile Dealers’ Association
NADA represents the interests of business people who own or
operate new motor vehicle and motorcycle franchise dealerships
and qualifying used motor vehicle and motorcycle outlets. NADA
is committed to the image enhancement of the retail motor busi-
ness, facilitating the interface between dealers and OEMs; import-
ers and distributors; building relationships between dealers and
customers and bringing relevant industry issues to the attention of
government. NADA is the respected voice on all matters relating to
motor vehicle and motorcycle dealer business.
MIWA – Motor Industry Workshop Association
MIWA, the Independent Workshop Association, representing
general repairs, auto electrical; air conditioning; accessories and
fitment as well as transmission and driveline workshops strives
to remain ahead of the ever-changing technologies and best
practices of the aftermarket motor industry. MIWA encourages
members to support inter-associational, business-to-business
trading with a view to strengthen the RMI. MIWA remains the
leading resource for members ensuring continued relevance and
sustainability.
SAVABA – South African Vehicle and
Bodybuilders’ Association
SAVABA members are professional, certified and regulated
vehicle body builders in South Africa who manufacture
commercial vehicle body applications (tanker, coal, refrigerated
trucks and trailers) and bus bodies (commuter and tourist
type). Members manufacture using the latest equipment and
highly trained staff to ensure strict compliance with NRCS
regulations; SABS standards and all other legal specifications
and requirements.
CONSTITUENT ASSOCIATIONS
www.automobil.co.za
June 2023
neWS
Win big with Automobil magazine
e at Automobil value your readership and will be
rewarding one lucky reader with a R10 000 prize.
Each month (from the February 2023 issue)
there will be a set of questions, the answers to which can be
found on the pages of that issue of Automobil. Each month, up
until the July issue, you can enter as many times as you like. The
winner will be drawn randomly on the 31st of July 2023.
To view the fifth round of questions, to enter and for the
Terms & Conditions of this competition
please click on the links below. Good
luck.
n an effort to offer personalised and profession-
al services to corporate clients, Volkswagen has
transformed 15 dealerships countrywide into
Corporate Business Centres.
“Corporate sales are the third best-selling ave-
nue for Volkswagen vehicles in South Africa. Whilst
Polo Vivo is the preferred solution for corporate
customers, the T SUV model range has also been
well received in the market and accounted for over
20% of corporate sales last year,” said Steffen Knapp,
Head of the Volkswagen Passenger Car brand.
15 Volkswagen dealerships countrywide have
thus been transformed into Corporate Busi-
ness Centres. Each of the dealerships now has
a certified and dedicated Service Manager and
Service Advisor as well as an express service for
corporate clients, a branded demo vehicle and an
exclusive customer lounge.
“The Volkswagen Sales team will be supporting
each of the Corporate Business Centres dealerships
with dedicated corporate fleet support, a Key Ac-
counts Manager for management consulting, gap
analysis and reporting as well as customer value
proposition,” added Knapp.
Eight dealerships in Gauteng, three in Kwa-Zulu
Natal, two in the Western Cape, one in Bloemfon-
tein and one in Port Elizabeth are the new Corpo-
rate Business Centres.
ahle Powertrain and Clean Air Power
have signed a Memorandum of Un-
derstanding to combine their efforts
in providing rapid and cost-effective solutions
for net-zero fuelled internal combustion engines.
The two companies have a longstanding collab-
orative relationship that has shown excellent re-
sults across a number of important research proj-
ects. As part of these efforts, Mahle Powertrain
will continue to explore opportunities of utilising
their flexible engine control unit in conjunction
with Clean Air Power’s fuel delivery systems.
“The UK was the first country in the world to
commit to phasing out new, non-zero emission
heavy goods vehicles under 26 tonnes by 2035,
with all new trucks to be zero emission by 2040,”
said Dr. Mike Bassett, Engineering Director, Mah-
le Powertrain.
“These far-reaching legislative demands and
their aggressive timescales mean there is strong
industry interest in developing engines for heavy
duty applications that can operate efficiently on
zero-carbon fuels.”
Mahle Powertrain has a long history in the de-
velopment of internal combustion engines. The
company’s flexible engine controller, one of many
innovative solutions, is particularly well suited to
the development of demonstration units, as well
as low volume production applications utilising
alternative fuels or novel technologies.
Clean Air Power is developing injector technol-
ogy aimed at supporting the use of zero-carbon
and renewable fuels such as hydrogen or metha-
nol. Clean Air Power has focussed on higher pow-
er transport solutions such as truck and bus, rail
and marine applications, and is already supplying
fuel injectors for dual- and single-fuel applications
for both, retrofit and new engines.
Volkswagen opens Corporate
Business Centre dealerships
Mahle to collaborate
with Clean Air Power
R10 000 up for grabs in the Automobil Readers Competition.
enter here
OCTOBER 2022
WWW.AUTOMOBIL.CO.ZA
THE DEEPEST BUSINESS REACH INTO THE SA RETAIL MOTOR INDUSTRY
HIGHLIGHTS FROM
AUTOMECHANIKA FRANKFURT
BUILDING TAILORED SOLUTIONS
FOR THE TRANSPORT INDUSTRY
47 YEARS OF CHANGING GEARS
NOVEMBER 2022
WWW.AUTOMOBIL.CO.ZA
THE DEEPEST BUSINESS REACH INTO THE SA RETAIL MOTOR INDUSTRY
TEPA: GIVING TYRE DEALERS A VOICE
LAYING THE FOUNDATIONS FOR THE RMI
TOYOTA 2000GT RESTORED
DECEMBER 2022
WWW.AUTOMOBIL.CO.ZA
THE DEEPEST BUSINESS REACH INTO THE SA RETAIL MOTOR INDUSTRY
TRANSFORMATION BEGINS
WITH THE YOUTH OF TODAY
IS THERE A FUTURE FOR
FUEL-CELL VEHICLES?
MOTOR INDUSTRY RECOVERS
DURING THIRD QUARTER
JANUARY 2023
WWW.AUTOMOBIL.CO.ZA
THE DEEPEST BUSINESS REACH INTO THE SA RETAIL MOTOR INDUSTRY
A 2023 ECONOMIC
OUTLOOK
LOOKING BACK.
LOOKING AHEAD
STAYING RELEVANT
IN AN EVOLVING
INDUSTRY
A Driving force in South Africa’s automotive aftermarket
The Retail Motor Industry Organisation is a proactive, relevant, retail and associated motor industry organisation recognised
as the leading voice in South Africa‘s automotive after market. It serves the daily needs of its members and plays a key role
in enabling motor traders to deliver a superior service to motoring consumers. Eight Associations fall proudly under the RMI
umbrella. Inter-associational business-to-business trading is encouraged in the interests of all stakeholders.
HeAD OFFICe www.rmi.org.za
Tel: +27 11 886 6300 | Surrey Square Office Park, 330 Surrey Avenue, Ferndale, Randburg, 2194, Gauteng, P. O. Box 2940, Randburg, 2125
ReGIOnAL OFFICeS
Central: Randburg tel: +27 11 886 6300 | KwaZulu-Natal: Durban tel: +27 31 266 7031 | Eastern Cape/Border: Port Elizabeth tel: +27 41 364 0070 |
Western Cape: Cape Town tel: +27 21 939 9440 | Free State / Northern Cape: Bloemfontein tel: +27 51 430 3294
SAPRA – South African Petroleum
Retailers’ Association
SAPRA represents the interests of all petroleum retailers in
South Africa. Its aim is to improve growth and profitability
for the investor. SAPRA plays an important role in tracking
global and local trends that affect sustainability and help
retailers remain relevant in an ever-changing business
environment. Retailers voice concerns through one of
the seven regional chairs strategically located around
the country, into a National Executive Committee (NEC),
where strategy and solutions are developed. This bottom
up approach is a fundamental SAPRA imperative.
SAMBRA – South African Motor Body
Repairers’ Association
SAMBRA is the pre-eminent motor body repair association in
South Africa representing the majority of accredited motor body
repairers. SAMBRA’s grading system, which was introduced over
30 years ago, regulates repairer standards in the motor body repair
industry in South Africa and instils confidence in consumers and
industry stakeholders alike. The Association works in close collab-
oration with various key industry stakeholders including Insurers,
Original Equipment Suppliers, paint and equipment suppliers, the
labour department and trade unions, as well as related SETAs – to
maintain industry sustainability and development. It ensures the
provision of technical and business management skills training in
order for members to meet the demands of the industry.
TePA – Tyre, Equipment, Parts Association
TEPA represents tyre dealers; garage/workshop equipment and
tool importers and distributors; auto part wholesalers, retailers
and independent operators in the aftermarket motor parts
industry as well as manufacturers and importers of parts for
the automotive aftermarket. The members of TEPA represent,
promote, sell and endorse the use of legitimate, bona fide,
quality branded products. TEPA members also export parts,
equipment and components into Africa and other countries in
the world. TEPA encourages at all times inter-associational RMI
business-to-business trading, intent on strengthening the RMI
Organisation as a whole. TEPA is seen as the mark of integrity
and fair trade for the consumer, the business operator and the
government. The Association is the legitimate voice of the tyre,
equipment, and parts industry in South Africa and is positioned
as an intermediary between government, business, and the
consumer.
VTA – Vehicle Testing Association
The VTA represents private vehicle testing stations that are
committed to operating within the law in accordance with the
Road Traffic Act and the relevant SANS standards. In this highly
regulated environment, the association represents the interests
of its members at government level working groups and is
committed to enhancing the reputation of the industry in all the
spheres.
ARA – Automotive Remanufacturers’ Association
ARA represents the remanufacturing trade sector. This includes
component remanufacturers involved in safety-critical compo-
nents, inclusive of but not limited to vehicle cooling, turbocharg-
er and braking systems; automotive engineers who machine and
remanufacture engine components by way of expert engineer-
ing – ultimately rebuilding engines to its original specifications;
and specialists in the repair, servicing and remanufacturing of
diesel fuel injection systems fitted to diesel engines in earth mov-
ing equipment, highway trucks, stationary engines and passen-
ger vehicles. ARA promotes the responsible reuse of remanufac-
tured engine components for a ‘greener’ environment (carbon
footprint). Its members are dedicated to providing consumers
with only the best of advice, finest service delivery, and highest
quality workmanship.
nADA – National Automobile Dealers’ Association
NADA represents the interests of business people who own or
operate new motor vehicle and motorcycle franchise dealerships
and qualifying used motor vehicle and motorcycle outlets. NADA
is committed to the image enhancement of the retail motor busi-
ness, facilitating the interface between dealers and OEMs; import-
ers and distributors; building relationships between dealers and
customers and bringing relevant industry issues to the attention of
government. NADA is the respected voice on all matters relating to
motor vehicle and motorcycle dealer business.
MIWA – Motor Industry Workshop Association
MIWA, the Independent Workshop Association, representing
general repairs, auto electrical; air conditioning; accessories and
fitment as well as transmission and driveline workshops strives
to remain ahead of the ever-changing technologies and best
practices of the aftermarket motor industry. MIWA encourages
members to support inter-associational, business-to-business
trading with a view to strengthen the RMI. MIWA remains the
leading resource for members ensuring continued relevance and
sustainability.
SAVABA – South African Vehicle and
Bodybuilders’ Association
SAVABA members are professional, certified and regulated
vehicle body builders in South Africa who manufacture
commercial vehicle body applications (tanker, coal, refrigerated
trucks and trailers) and bus bodies (commuter and tourist
type). Members manufacture using the latest equipment and
highly trained staff to ensure strict compliance with NRCS
regulations; SABS standards and all other legal specifications
and requirements.
CONSTITUENT ASSOCIATIONS
www.automobil.co.za
June 2023
neWS
Win big with Automobil magazine
e at Automobil value your readership and will be
rewarding one lucky reader with a R10 000 prize.
Each month (from the February 2023 issue)
there will be a set of questions, the answers to which can be
found on the pages of that issue of Automobil. Each month, up
until the July issue, you can enter as many times as you like. The
winner will be drawn randomly on the 31st of July 2023.
To view the fifth round of questions, to enter and for the
Terms & Conditions of this competition
please click on the links below. Good
luck.
n an effort to offer personalised and profession-
al services to corporate clients, Volkswagen has
transformed 15 dealerships countrywide into
Corporate Business Centres.
“Corporate sales are the third best-selling ave-
nue for Volkswagen vehicles in South Africa. Whilst
Polo Vivo is the preferred solution for corporate
customers, the T SUV model range has also been
well received in the market and accounted for over
20% of corporate sales last year,” said Steffen Knapp,
Head of the Volkswagen Passenger Car brand.
15 Volkswagen dealerships countrywide have
thus been transformed into Corporate Busi-
ness Centres. Each of the dealerships now has
a certified and dedicated Service Manager and
Service Advisor as well as an express service for
corporate clients, a branded demo vehicle and an
exclusive customer lounge.
“The Volkswagen Sales team will be supporting
each of the Corporate Business Centres dealerships
with dedicated corporate fleet support, a Key Ac-
counts Manager for management consulting, gap
analysis and reporting as well as customer value
proposition,” added Knapp.
Eight dealerships in Gauteng, three in Kwa-Zulu
Natal, two in the Western Cape, one in Bloemfon-
tein and one in Port Elizabeth are the new Corpo-
rate Business Centres.
ahle Powertrain and Clean Air Power
have signed a Memorandum of Un-
derstanding to combine their efforts
in providing rapid and cost-effective solutions
for net-zero fuelled internal combustion engines.
The two companies have a longstanding collab-
orative relationship that has shown excellent re-
sults across a number of important research proj-
ects. As part of these efforts, Mahle Powertrain
will continue to explore opportunities of utilising
their flexible engine control unit in conjunction
with Clean Air Power’s fuel delivery systems.
“The UK was the first country in the world to
commit to phasing out new, non-zero emission
heavy goods vehicles under 26 tonnes by 2035,
with all new trucks to be zero emission by 2040,”
said Dr. Mike Bassett, Engineering Director, Mah-
le Powertrain.
“These far-reaching legislative demands and
their aggressive timescales mean there is strong
industry interest in developing engines for heavy
duty applications that can operate efficiently on
zero-carbon fuels.”
Mahle Powertrain has a long history in the de-
velopment of internal combustion engines. The
company’s flexible engine controller, one of many
innovative solutions, is particularly well suited to
the development of demonstration units, as well
as low volume production applications utilising
alternative fuels or novel technologies.
Clean Air Power is developing injector technol-
ogy aimed at supporting the use of zero-carbon
and renewable fuels such as hydrogen or metha-
nol. Clean Air Power has focussed on higher pow-
er transport solutions such as truck and bus, rail
and marine applications, and is already supplying
fuel injectors for dual- and single-fuel applications
for both, retrofit and new engines.
Volkswagen opens Corporate
Business Centre dealerships
Mahle to collaborate
with Clean Air Power
R10 000 up for grabs in the Automobil Readers Competition.
enter here
OCTOBER 2022
WWW.AUTOMOBIL.CO.ZA
THE DEEPEST BUSINESS REACH INTO THE SA RETAIL MOTOR INDUSTRY
HIGHLIGHTS FROM
AUTOMECHANIKA FRANKFURT
BUILDING TAILORED SOLUTIONS
FOR THE TRANSPORT INDUSTRY
47 YEARS OF CHANGING GEARS
NOVEMBER 2022
WWW.AUTOMOBIL.CO.ZA
THE DEEPEST BUSINESS REACH INTO THE SA RETAIL MOTOR INDUSTRY
TEPA: GIVING TYRE DEALERS A VOICE
LAYING THE FOUNDATIONS FOR THE RMI
TOYOTA 2000GT RESTORED
DECEMBER 2022
WWW.AUTOMOBIL.CO.ZA
THE DEEPEST BUSINESS REACH INTO THE SA RETAIL MOTOR INDUSTRY
TRANSFORMATION BEGINS
WITH THE YOUTH OF TODAY
IS THERE A FUTURE FOR
FUEL-CELL VEHICLES?
MOTOR INDUSTRY RECOVERS
DURING THIRD QUARTER
JANUARY 2023
WWW.AUTOMOBIL.CO.ZA
THE DEEPEST BUSINESS REACH INTO THE SA RETAIL MOTOR INDUSTRY
A 2023 ECONOMIC
OUTLOOK
LOOKING BACK.
LOOKING AHEAD
STAYING RELEVANT
IN AN EVOLVING
INDUSTRY
TELL US WHAT’S ON YOUR MIND
RMI Executives
RMI Board Members
RMI Directors
RMI Head Office
Chief Executive Officer:
Jakkie Olivier
Cell: 082 452 5150
jakkie.olivier@rmi.org.za
Chief Operations Officer:
Jan Schoeman
Cell: 082 552 7712
jan.schoeman@rmi.org.za
Financial Director:
Renee Coetsee
Cell: 082 412 6760
renee.coetsee@rmi.org.za
Company Secretary:
Gary McCraw
Cell: 082 560 6613
gary.mccraw@rmi.org.za
Jakkie Olivier – CEO
Jeanne Esterhuizen – President
Ferose Oaten - Vice President
Mark Dommisse
Frank MacNicol
Eugene Ranft
Teresa Spenser-Higgs
Les McMaster
Johann van de Merwe
Mams Rehaman
Sandra Singh
Charles Canning
Marcel van Ruler
Henry van der Merwe
Lindsay Bouchier
ARA, SAVABA
Attie Serfontein
Cell: 082 452 5153
attie.serfontein@rmi.org.za
MIWA
Pieter Niemand
Cell: 082 812 5391
pieter.niemand@rmi.org.za
NADA
Gary McCraw
Cell: 082 560 6613
gary.mccraw@rmi.org.za
SAMBRA
Jacques Viljoen
Cell: 083 337 9922
jacques.viljoen@rmi.org.za
TEPA, SAPRA
Vishal Premlall
Cell: 082 886 6392
vishal.premlall@rmi.org.za
VTA
Julian Pillay
Cell: 082 560 6625
julian.pillay@rmi.org.za
Training Director
Louis van Huyssteen
Cell: 082 560 6623
louis.vanhuyssteen@rmi.org.za
Transformation Director
Nonhlanhla Noni Tshabalala
Cell: 083 208 7161
noni.tshabalala@rmi.org.za
Labour Director
Jeffrey Molefe
Cell: 082 560 6617
jeffrey.molefe@rmi.org.za
Danelle van der Merwe
Brand and Communication Manager
Cell: 082 926 5846
danelle.vandermerwe@rmi.org.za
Nonhlanhla Noni Tshabalala
HR Manager
Cell: 083 208 7161
noni.tshabalala@rmi.org.za
Julian Pillay
Regulatory Compliance Manager
Cell: 082 560 6625
julian.pillay@rmi.org.za
011-886-6300
www.rmi.org.za
Surrey Square Office Park
330 Surrey Avenue,
Ferndale, Randburg
2194
RMI Regional Offices
Julian Pillay: Regional Manager: KwaZulu-Natal
Enrico Phillips Regional Manager: Western Cape
Peter van Mosseveld: Regional Manager: Eastern Cape/Border
Raoul Spinola: Regional Manager: Central
(Gauteng/Northwest/ Mpumalanga/ Limpopo)
Reemo Swartz: Regional Manager: Free State/Northern Cape
Central: Randburg: 011 886 6300
KwaZulu-Natal: Durban: 031 266 7031
Eastern Cape/Border: Port Elizabeth: 041 364 0070
Western Cape: Cape Town: 021 939 9440
Free State/Northern Cape: Bloemfontein: 051 430 3294
RMI PARTNERS
RMI4Law 0861 668 677
RMI4BEE 066 292 0102
RMI4OHS 072 787 5503
@AutomobilSA
Facebook.com/AutomobilSA
www.rmi.org.za
www.automobil.co.za
June 2023
NEWS
he countdown to the eighth Automechan-
ika Johannesburg has begun and with four
months to go before the official opening of
the event on 5 September 2023, entries for the
coveted Innovation Awards are now open and
the cut-off date to enter is midday on Friday, 18
August 2023.
“Whether it be parts, accessories, tools, mo-
bility services, autonomous driving or intelligent
software for workshops and car dealerships,
Messe Frankfurt South Africa is confident that
manufacturers and suppliers in the automotive
aftermarket have a wealth of new products and
innovations that will qualify to enter the compe-
tition,” says Tracy Gounden, Portfolio Manager of
Messe Frankfurt South Africa, the organiser of Au-
tomechanika Johannesburg. “After the immense
interest shown and the high standard of entries
received for last year’s Awards, we look forward
to receiving a record number of entries for 2023.”
As always, entries will be judged by a group of
hand-picked jury members that are all experts in
their fields, which includes macro-economics, im-
port and export, aftermarket retail, business and
skills development, transformation, sustainability,
automotive technology and more. They will be
tasked with identifying the most innovative and
pioneering automotive products that are manu-
factured, supplied or distributed in South Africa.
Organisations represented on the panel of
judges will include, among others, the Retail
Motor Industry (RMI), the Automobile Associat-
ed (AA), the National Association of Automotive
Component and Allied Manufacturers (NAA-
CAM), the National Association of Automobile
Manufacturers of South Africa (NAAMSA), the
Automotive Industry Export Council (AIEC), the
Motor Industry Bargaining Council (MIBCO),
the Automotive Industry Development Centre
(AIDC), and the sponsors of the event. After an
initial vetting process by the convenor of the
competition, the jury will be required to score
each entry on a predetermined list of criteria that
covers the design, quality, efficiency, functional-
ity, practicality, value for money, environmental
friendliness and – of course – innovation of the
product. The names of the members of the jury
will be announced in due course.
In keeping with the latest automotive trends,
both in South Africa and abroad, the 10 categories
for the 2023 competition include, Parts; Accesso-
ries & Customising; Driver Assistance & Safety;
E-mobility; Data & Connectivity; Diagnostics &
Tuning; Repair & Maintenance; Original Equip-
ment Products & Services; IT & Management and
Service Station & Car Wash equipment.
Winning the coveted award isn’t the only ben-
efit of participation. As before the finalists and
winners in the Innovation Awards will be show-
cased in a special exhibit at the show that has
garnered huge interest from industry represen-
tatives and the public alike. Winners have been
able to successfully harness their achievements
in the competition to bolster their marketing pro-
grammes and – as a result – have tasted local and
international success.
In 2022, the ultimate accolade went to Syn-
apCAM, designed, and developed in the USA and
South Africa by Synap Inc, and launched on the lo-
cal market at Automechanika Johannesburg 2022.
In order to be considered for the award, pro-
spective entrants must submit photographs and
a detailed description of any automotive after-
market or original equipment product they have
developed, manufactured, imported, or distrib-
uted in South Africa. There is no entry fee.
The description of each product must include
its country of origin, when it was introduced to
the South African market, the category of the af-
termarket in which it competes, as well a variety
of additional criteria.
Based on the photographs and descriptions
– which must include information relating to the
technical characteristics and relevance of each
product, jury members will score and rank each
item. Products that achieve the highest marks on
a collective basis will be deemed to be finalists in
the competition. Representatives of the compa-
nies whose products have been selected will be
required to submit – on Monday, 21 August – two
examples of their entries for physical scrutiny by
jury members.
The finalists and winners of the Innovation
Awards will be showcased in a special display at
Automechanika Johannesburg 2023, with the
winners and their innovations being honoured as
part of the trade fair’s official opening on Tues-
day, 5 September.
How to enter
Entrants are requested to submit a completed
entry form by e-mail on or before midday on
Friday, 18 August 2023. This must include their
product motivations, along with hi-resolution
pictures of at least 1 Mb in size of the items, as
well as the name, e-mail address and telephone
number of the person responsible for the sub-
mission, along with details of the company he or
she represents. Please note that no incomplete
or late entries will be accepted.
Entries must be sent to the competition’s
convenor, Liana Reiners, at the following e-mail
address: reinersliana@gmail.com.
Queries or requests for additional informa-
tion on the Innovation Awards can be sent to
the same e-mail address. Alternatively, contact
Liana Reiners on 083 407 4600 or via e-mail at
reinersliana@gmail.com. Please visit www.au-
tomechanika.za.messefrankfurt.com for infor-
mation on Automechanika Johannesburg 2023.
The trade fair runs from 5–7 September 2023.
Entries now open for
2023 Innovation Awards
Winners of the 2022 Innovation awards
TELL US WHAT’S ON YOUR MIND
RMI Executives
RMI Board Members
RMI Directors
RMI Head Office
Chief Executive Officer:
Jakkie Olivier
Cell: 082 452 5150
jakkie.olivier@rmi.org.za
Chief Operations Officer:
Jan Schoeman
Cell: 082 552 7712
jan.schoeman@rmi.org.za
Financial Director:
Renee Coetsee
Cell: 082 412 6760
renee.coetsee@rmi.org.za
Company Secretary:
Gary McCraw
Cell: 082 560 6613
gary.mccraw@rmi.org.za
Jakkie Olivier – CEO
Jeanne Esterhuizen – President
Ferose Oaten - Vice President
Mark Dommisse
Frank MacNicol
Eugene Ranft
Teresa Spenser-Higgs
Les McMaster
Johann van de Merwe
Mams Rehaman
Sandra Singh
Charles Canning
Marcel van Ruler
Henry van der Merwe
Lindsay Bouchier
ARA, SAVABA
Attie Serfontein
Cell: 082 452 5153
attie.serfontein@rmi.org.za
MIWA
Pieter Niemand
Cell: 082 812 5391
pieter.niemand@rmi.org.za
NADA
Gary McCraw
Cell: 082 560 6613
gary.mccraw@rmi.org.za
SAMBRA
Jacques Viljoen
Cell: 083 337 9922
jacques.viljoen@rmi.org.za
TEPA, SAPRA
Vishal Premlall
Cell: 082 886 6392
vishal.premlall@rmi.org.za
VTA
Julian Pillay
Cell: 082 560 6625
julian.pillay@rmi.org.za
Training Director
Louis van Huyssteen
Cell: 082 560 6623
louis.vanhuyssteen@rmi.org.za
Transformation Director
Nonhlanhla Noni Tshabalala
Cell: 083 208 7161
noni.tshabalala@rmi.org.za
Labour Director
Jeffrey Molefe
Cell: 082 560 6617
jeffrey.molefe@rmi.org.za
Danelle van der Merwe
Brand and Communication Manager
Cell: 082 926 5846
danelle.vandermerwe@rmi.org.za
Nonhlanhla Noni Tshabalala
HR Manager
Cell: 083 208 7161
noni.tshabalala@rmi.org.za
Julian Pillay
Regulatory Compliance Manager
Cell: 082 560 6625
julian.pillay@rmi.org.za
011-886-6300
www.rmi.org.za
Surrey Square Office Park
330 Surrey Avenue,
Ferndale, Randburg
2194
RMI Regional Offices
Julian Pillay: Regional Manager: KwaZulu-Natal
Enrico Phillips Regional Manager: Western Cape
Peter van Mosseveld: Regional Manager: Eastern Cape/Border
Raoul Spinola: Regional Manager: Central
(Gauteng/Northwest/ Mpumalanga/ Limpopo)
Reemo Swartz: Regional Manager: Free State/Northern Cape
Central: Randburg: 011 886 6300
KwaZulu-Natal: Durban: 031 266 7031
Eastern Cape/Border: Port Elizabeth: 041 364 0070
Western Cape: Cape Town: 021 939 9440
Free State/Northern Cape: Bloemfontein: 051 430 3294
RMI PARTNERS
RMI4Law 0861 668 677
RMI4BEE 066 292 0102
RMI4OHS 072 787 5503
@AutomobilSA
Facebook.com/AutomobilSA
www.rmi.org.za
www.automobil.co.za
June 2023
NEWS
he countdown to the eighth Automechan-
ika Johannesburg has begun and with four
months to go before the official opening of
the event on 5 September 2023, entries for the
coveted Innovation Awards are now open and
the cut-off date to enter is midday on Friday, 18
August 2023.
“Whether it be parts, accessories, tools, mo-
bility services, autonomous driving or intelligent
software for workshops and car dealerships,
Messe Frankfurt South Africa is confident that
manufacturers and suppliers in the automotive
aftermarket have a wealth of new products and
innovations that will qualify to enter the compe-
tition,” says Tracy Gounden, Portfolio Manager of
Messe Frankfurt South Africa, the organiser of Au-
tomechanika Johannesburg. “After the immense
interest shown and the high standard of entries
received for last year’s Awards, we look forward
to receiving a record number of entries for 2023.”
As always, entries will be judged by a group of
hand-picked jury members that are all experts in
their fields, which includes macro-economics, im-
port and export, aftermarket retail, business and
skills development, transformation, sustainability,
automotive technology and more. They will be
tasked with identifying the most innovative and
pioneering automotive products that are manu-
factured, supplied or distributed in South Africa.
Organisations represented on the panel of
judges will include, among others, the Retail
Motor Industry (RMI), the Automobile Associat-
ed (AA), the National Association of Automotive
Component and Allied Manufacturers (NAA-
CAM), the National Association of Automobile
Manufacturers of South Africa (NAAMSA), the
Automotive Industry Export Council (AIEC), the
Motor Industry Bargaining Council (MIBCO),
the Automotive Industry Development Centre
(AIDC), and the sponsors of the event. After an
initial vetting process by the convenor of the
competition, the jury will be required to score
each entry on a predetermined list of criteria that
covers the design, quality, efficiency, functional-
ity, practicality, value for money, environmental
friendliness and – of course – innovation of the
product. The names of the members of the jury
will be announced in due course.
In keeping with the latest automotive trends,
both in South Africa and abroad, the 10 categories
for the 2023 competition include, Parts; Accesso-
ries & Customising; Driver Assistance & Safety;
E-mobility; Data & Connectivity; Diagnostics &
Tuning; Repair & Maintenance; Original Equip-
ment Products & Services; IT & Management and
Service Station & Car Wash equipment.
Winning the coveted award isn’t the only ben-
efit of participation. As before the finalists and
winners in the Innovation Awards will be show-
cased in a special exhibit at the show that has
garnered huge interest from industry represen-
tatives and the public alike. Winners have been
able to successfully harness their achievements
in the competition to bolster their marketing pro-
grammes and – as a result – have tasted local and
international success.
In 2022, the ultimate accolade went to Syn-
apCAM, designed, and developed in the USA and
South Africa by Synap Inc, and launched on the lo-
cal market at Automechanika Johannesburg 2022.
In order to be considered for the award, pro-
spective entrants must submit photographs and
a detailed description of any automotive after-
market or original equipment product they have
developed, manufactured, imported, or distrib-
uted in South Africa. There is no entry fee.
The description of each product must include
its country of origin, when it was introduced to
the South African market, the category of the af-
termarket in which it competes, as well a variety
of additional criteria.
Based on the photographs and descriptions
– which must include information relating to the
technical characteristics and relevance of each
product, jury members will score and rank each
item. Products that achieve the highest marks on
a collective basis will be deemed to be finalists in
the competition. Representatives of the compa-
nies whose products have been selected will be
required to submit – on Monday, 21 August – two
examples of their entries for physical scrutiny by
jury members.
The finalists and winners of the Innovation
Awards will be showcased in a special display at
Automechanika Johannesburg 2023, with the
winners and their innovations being honoured as
part of the trade fair’s official opening on Tues-
day, 5 September.
How to enter
Entrants are requested to submit a completed
entry form by e-mail on or before midday on
Friday, 18 August 2023. This must include their
product motivations, along with hi-resolution
pictures of at least 1 Mb in size of the items, as
well as the name, e-mail address and telephone
number of the person responsible for the sub-
mission, along with details of the company he or
she represents. Please note that no incomplete
or late entries will be accepted.
Entries must be sent to the competition’s
convenor, Liana Reiners, at the following e-mail
address: reinersliana@gmail.com.
Queries or requests for additional informa-
tion on the Innovation Awards can be sent to
the same e-mail address. Alternatively, contact
Liana Reiners on 083 407 4600 or via e-mail at
reinersliana@gmail.com. Please visit www.au-
tomechanika.za.messefrankfurt.com for infor-
mation on Automechanika Johannesburg 2023.
The trade fair runs from 5–7 September 2023.
Entries now open for
2023 Innovation Awards
Winners of the 2022 Innovation awards
10
www.automobil.co.za
June 2023
neWS
oyota South Africa Motors (TSAM) recently
hosted a special visit from Hiroki Nakajima,
Executive Vice President for Toyota Motor
Corporation (TMC), in which a new Global and
Regional Policy was announced.
Accompanying Nakajima to deliver the mes-
sage was Toshimitsu Imai, CEO of TMC Africa Re-
gion and Executive Vice President of the Toyota
Tsusho Corporation (TTC), and Shinichiro Otsuka,
Chief Operating Officer for TTC Africa Region, who
shared how the direction would work in Africa. Fi-
nally, Andrew Kirby, President and CEO of TSAM,
elaborated on how the company would adapt to
and embrace the direction going forward.
electrification, Intelligence
and diversification
“The Mobility Society vision was developed to
enhance the value of the car, expand freedom of
mobility, and provide new services and energy
solutions as part of the Toyota Mobility Concept.
We remain firmly committed to our multi-path-
way approach and will continue to tailor electri-
fication to the needs of customers and individual
regions by drawing on the strengths and charac-
teristics of each vehicle type,” said Nakajima.
In practical terms, the first pillar of the Toyo-
ta mobility concept is a commitment to achieve
carbon neutrality (CN) globally by 2050, with key
milestones along the way being a 33% reduction
of CO2 emissions by 2030 and 50% by 2035. TMC
is accelerating Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV) ex-
pansion worldwide, aiming for 10 new models by
2026, which would amount to 1.5 million vehicle
sales per year.
For Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs),
by increasing battery efficiency to extend the EV-
mode driving range beyond 200 km, the compa-
ny will reposition PHEVs as the practical BEV. For
Hybrids (HEVs), Toyota will continue to improve
its product offering with a focus on quality and
affordable prices, by accounting for local energy
conditions and customer ease of use. Toyota will
pursue mass production of commercial vehicles
powered by hydrogen and has added the explo-
ration of carbon-neutral fuels as a sixth element
to its multi-pathway approach.
Pillar two of the Toyota Mobility Concept is
the new generation of Intelligent cars that will
evolve with advanced safety technology, multi-
media, and feature updates. An onboard operat-
ing system for next-generation BEVs will enable
users to customise driving feel according to their
preferences.
Next is the public rollout of intelligent services
that connect cars to cities and infrastructure. For
example, logistics systems that use real-time
traffic information to boost transport efficiency,
and systems that provide optimal energy man-
agement. Then there is the role of intelligence in
society. The Woven City, which Toyota positions
as a mobility test course, will serve as a living lab-
oratory for trialling various ways of connecting
people, cars, and society.
The third pillar is Diversification. Toyota will
not only diversify its services into connected
technology, parts/accessories, and business col-
laborations with new partners, but also explore
new types of energy. Toyota has already begun
work in Japan and Thailand on using hydrogen
made from water, disposed foods and other
waste, as well as carbon-neutral fuels made from
biomass and other resources.
Carbon neutrality in Africa
In response to such diverse needs and reduc-
ing CO2 reduction in Africa, Toyota is preparing
all options, including HEV, PHEV, BEV and FCEV,
under the policy of “leaving no one behind” to
tackle Carbon Neutrality with a multi- pathway
approach.
Especially in Africa, the energy and electrici-
ty situation of each country must be considered.
Even in South Africa, the main energy source is
still fossil fuels, and the electricity supply is not
stable, therefore, BEVs are not a practical solu-
tion yet. Also, in Africa, vehicles act as a lifeline
where there is limited infrastructure.
In such an environment, Toyota believes HEVs
are the most practical solution for carbon neu-
trality in Africa. They don’t take electricity from
the grid, they can reduce CO2 emissions by 40%,
make use of existing petrol stations, and are
more affordable than BEVs.
To that end, TSAM will promote HEVs by in-
troducing competitive products in both Toyota
and Lexus stables. From a local production point
of view, TSAM will expand production volume
of Corolla Cross Hybrid derivatives. New Energy
Vehicles (NEVs) currently make up 3% of TSAM
sales in South Africa, and the goal is to increase
this to 22 000 units (10%) by 2025 and 54 000
units (20%) by 2030. Such measures will ensure
a CO2 reduction in line with TMC’s global carbon
neutral initiatives.
Toyota mobility concept detailed