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
January 2023
www.automobil.co.za
the deepest business reach into the sa retail motor industry
contents
columns
03 . Driver’s Seat: Jakkie Olivier, CEO of the RMI
03 . Editor’s Letter: Reuben van Niekerk
18 . A 2023 economic outlook
36 . Tackling wage issues on behalf of our members
37 . Driving skills development
38 . Navigating compliance requirements
40 . Achieving transformation through gender equality
41 . Wellbeing: The current state of the wellbeing industry
42 . Financial planning in 2023
44 . Tech Talk: What’s the diff?
news
05 . News
10 . Industry News
12 . The 2023 RMI Board
14 . RMI News
associations
20 . MIWA: Staying relevant in an evolving automotive aftermarket
22 . SAVABA: Gearing up for 2023
24 . ARA: Remaining relevant into the fifth industrial revolution
26 . NADA: Facing new and existing challenges
28 . SAMBRA: Driving a safer, more equitable and transparent sector
30 . SAPRA: Navigating petroleum retailing in 2023
32 . TEPA: Striving towards a cleaner more compliant sector
34 . VTA: Driving safety on our roads
regulars
46 . A review of labour and employment trends in South Africa
47 . A commercial law review
48 . Member Update
49 . Sales: November 2022 vehicle sales figures
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.
www.automobil.co.za
P10
P44
P37
www.automobil.co.za
January 2023
www.automobil.co.za
January 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
I
wish all our valued members, industry stakeholders and
staff the very best for 2023. As we move into this new year
with fresh prospects, we remain optimistic for the year
ahead and start the year on a sound financial footing. Our
strategic goals are crystal clear and our strong, committed
leadership team is united and focused on adding value to all
our members and the automotive industry.
The past two years have taught us several lessons.
Perhaps the greatest one is that we can never re-
main stagnant and need to continuously adapt,
transform and innovate.
For the first time in many years, we are
pleased to bring you a January edition of
Automobil and thought there was no better
way to kick off the new year than with some
industry insights and thoughts from each of
our different associations. You will notice a few common themes which run
through the commentary centred around keeping relevant, encouraging
innovation, lobbying for a more sustainable and cleaner environment, and
a fairer and more equitable trading and labour environment. There’s also a
strong focus on empowerment, transformation, training and upskilling of
members in order to embrace our changing environment.
I trust you will enjoy reading the different insights provided and find
ways to integrate some of the prospects into your own businesses. As al-
ways demonstrating value to consumers remains key and this will be facili-
tated by the various initiatives planned.
We look forward to a positive year and remain committed to always
keeping the interests of our members and the industry top of mind, while
making a real and lasting difference in the industry we support and serve.
Jakkie Olivier
RMI Chief Executive Officer
A year of prospects,
stability and innovation
elcome to this bumper January edition of Automo-
bil. We took the decision to expand our offering to
12 issues a year and in doing so offer readers infor-
mation from all sectors of the automotive industry, including
all eight RMI Associations as well as all the support functions
of the RMI. This information has been curated to equip read-
ers with the information needed to tackle the year ahead with
confidence.
2022 was a tough year and the perfect storm for busi-
nesses. The difficult recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic,
the fallout from the Ukraine war, disruption of global supply
chains, sky rocketing energy costs, the local Eskom energy
crisis, political instability and climbing inflation are just some
of the things that have impacted negatively on local business-
es and their clients and many of these factors are set to con-
tinue into 2023.
According to Statistics South Africa, the total number
of liquidations in South Africa increased by 44.8% in Au-
gust 2022 compared with the same period a year ago. The
total number of liquidations increased by 18.8% in the three
months ended August 2022 compared with the three months
ended August 2021.
There is no doubt that doing business in South Africa in
2023 will remain challenging and business owners need to
adequately prepare their businesses in order to minimise the
effect that these challenges have on their daily operation.
The advantages that small to medium business have is that
they are adaptable. Business owners need to think and act dif-
ferently in 2023 not only through growing their business skills
but by learning from successful peers who have ridden out and
even grown during one of the most turbulent economic times.
This issue of Automobil aims to do exactly that, by providing in-
sights from experts originating from every corner of the auto-
motive aftermarket and in doing so allowing business owners
to set their operations up to succeed in 2023.
Reuben van Niekerk
reuben@automobil.org.za
Planning to
succeed in 2023
Take the Automobil reader survey here
View the November sales figures here
January 2023
www.automobil.co.za
the deepest business reach into the sa retail motor industry
contents
columns
03 . Driver’s Seat: Jakkie Olivier, CEO of the RMI
03 . Editor’s Letter: Reuben van Niekerk
18 . A 2023 economic outlook
36 . Tackling wage issues on behalf of our members
37 . Driving skills development
38 . Navigating compliance requirements
40 . Achieving transformation through gender equality
41 . Wellbeing: The current state of the wellbeing industry
42 . Financial planning in 2023
44 . Tech Talk: What’s the diff?
news
05 . News
10 . Industry News
12 . The 2023 RMI Board
14 . RMI News
associations
20 . MIWA: Staying relevant in an evolving automotive aftermarket
22 . SAVABA: Gearing up for 2023
24 . ARA: Remaining relevant into the fifth industrial revolution
26 . NADA: Facing new and existing challenges
28 . SAMBRA: Driving a safer, more equitable and transparent sector
30 . SAPRA: Navigating petroleum retailing in 2023
32 . TEPA: Striving towards a cleaner more compliant sector
34 . VTA: Driving safety on our roads
regulars
46 . A review of labour and employment trends in South Africa
47 . A commercial law review
48 . Member Update
49 . Sales: November 2022 vehicle sales figures
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.
www.automobil.co.za
P10
P44
P37
www.automobil.co.za
January 2023
www.automobil.co.za
January 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
I
wish all our valued members, industry stakeholders and
staff the very best for 2023. As we move into this new year
with fresh prospects, we remain optimistic for the year
ahead and start the year on a sound financial footing. Our
strategic goals are crystal clear and our strong, committed
leadership team is united and focused on adding value to all
our members and the automotive industry.
The past two years have taught us several lessons.
Perhaps the greatest one is that we can never re-
main stagnant and need to continuously adapt,
transform and innovate.
For the first time in many years, we are
pleased to bring you a January edition of
Automobil and thought there was no better
way to kick off the new year than with some
industry insights and thoughts from each of
our different associations. You will notice a few common themes which run
through the commentary centred around keeping relevant, encouraging
innovation, lobbying for a more sustainable and cleaner environment, and
a fairer and more equitable trading and labour environment. There’s also a
strong focus on empowerment, transformation, training and upskilling of
members in order to embrace our changing environment.
I trust you will enjoy reading the different insights provided and find
ways to integrate some of the prospects into your own businesses. As al-
ways demonstrating value to consumers remains key and this will be facili-
tated by the various initiatives planned.
We look forward to a positive year and remain committed to always
keeping the interests of our members and the industry top of mind, while
making a real and lasting difference in the industry we support and serve.
Jakkie Olivier
RMI Chief Executive Officer
A year of prospects,
stability and innovation
elcome to this bumper January edition of Automo-
bil. We took the decision to expand our offering to
12 issues a year and in doing so offer readers infor-
mation from all sectors of the automotive industry, including
all eight RMI Associations as well as all the support functions
of the RMI. This information has been curated to equip read-
ers with the information needed to tackle the year ahead with
confidence.
2022 was a tough year and the perfect storm for busi-
nesses. The difficult recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic,
the fallout from the Ukraine war, disruption of global supply
chains, sky rocketing energy costs, the local Eskom energy
crisis, political instability and climbing inflation are just some
of the things that have impacted negatively on local business-
es and their clients and many of these factors are set to con-
tinue into 2023.
According to Statistics South Africa, the total number
of liquidations in South Africa increased by 44.8% in Au-
gust 2022 compared with the same period a year ago. The
total number of liquidations increased by 18.8% in the three
months ended August 2022 compared with the three months
ended August 2021.
There is no doubt that doing business in South Africa in
2023 will remain challenging and business owners need to
adequately prepare their businesses in order to minimise the
effect that these challenges have on their daily operation.
The advantages that small to medium business have is that
they are adaptable. Business owners need to think and act dif-
ferently in 2023 not only through growing their business skills
but by learning from successful peers who have ridden out and
even grown during one of the most turbulent economic times.
This issue of Automobil aims to do exactly that, by providing in-
sights from experts originating from every corner of the auto-
motive aftermarket and in doing so allowing business owners
to set their operations up to succeed in 2023.
Reuben van Niekerk
reuben@automobil.org.za
Planning to
succeed in 2023
Take the Automobil reader survey here
View the November sales figures 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, RMI4OHS and RMI4SURE.
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.
news
news
www.automobil.co.za
January 2023
he 8th edition of Automechanika Johannesburg will take place at the
JHB Expo Centre from 5-7 September 2023.
As the largest business platform for the automotive aftermarket
on the African continent, it is the ideal meeting place for all stakeholders
to gather, connect, and network. It will bring together suppliers and buyers
and will showcase rapidly changing technologies and processes. The event
will be a host to multiple sector-related conferences, that will pave the way
for the sector in the short to medium term, making it a must-attend event
for those involved in the automotive aftermarket sector.
The fundamental impact a trade show can have on the growth and de-
velopment of an industry depends on the wide support from all market
segments.
Through its portfolio of trade shows, Messe Frankfurt has always aimed
at providing platforms where all market participants join to nurture, grow,
and present their industry.
Messe Frankfurt, organisers of Automechanika, are pleased that the
RMI and its various associations will once again endorse the 8th edition
in 2023.
Jakkie Olivier, CEO of RMI, says it is an absolute honour to once again
be part of a worldwide professional show that values the industry as much
as RMI does. “We fully appreciate the importance of networking and the
important role it plays in our business. We thus welcome the opportunity
presented by Automechanika to interact face-to-face with other business
owners and product suppliers.”
When a trade show is well supported by the industry, it shows the
strength of the sector. While individual companies may win or lose, the
mantra of “stronger together” will always hold true, particularly at such a
well-respected and representative show as this.
An attractive display of an entire industry can also have many long-term
effects, including appealing to the younger generation for career opportuni-
ties, which is key to ensuring the sustainability of the sector, and the broader
economy.
“We are delighted to have the RMI as an endorsing partner for Autome-
chanika 2023. This is a positive endorsement of the event and underscores
our shared commitment to the growth and development of the automotive
aftermarket,” says Michael Dehn, Managing Director for Messe Frankfurt
South Africa, organisers of Automechanika Johannesburg.
RMI and Automechanika
build momentum together
he BMW Group is continuing to drive the
digitalisation of access to its vehicles in
co-development with Apple and Google. It
is now possible to share a BMW Digital Key across
platforms between iPhone and Android devices.
Previously, keys could only be shared via Apple
iMessage. There is now no longer any need for
a specific app or a set method of transmission.
Instead, keys can be easily passed on to friends
or family from the wallet using the native share
function known from many apps.
This means that sharing a BMW Digital Key now
takes the straightforward form of sending a link.
The key can be sent by e-mail, SMS or any other
messaging service such as WhatsApp. The recip-
ient does not require either a specific app or a
BMW ID. To add the Digital Key to their wallet, they
simply click on the link. If the owner and recipient
are standing next to each other, the key can also be
shared via Apple AirDrop or Android Nearby Share.
In certain cases, an activation code may have to be
entered in the vehicle for security reasons, which
the sender would ideally disclose to the recipient
via a different channel. Once a digital key has been
received on an iPhone, the recipient can add it to
an Apple Watch just as easily.
This new function is available for all new ve-
hicles with BMW Digital Key or BMW Digital Key
Plus. Older suitably equipped vehicles will be able
to make full use of this feature once their soft-
ware has been updated to status “22-11” or later
via Remote Software Upgrade.
This latest upgrade is the result of a close col-
laboration between BMW and its partners Apple,
Google and Samsung under the umbrella of the
Car Connectivity Consortium (CCC). It marks an-
other milestone for the BMW Digital Key en route
to complete cross-platform interoperability –
and towards securing the status of smartphones
as digital vehicle keys.
BMW Digital Key can now be shared
between smart phones
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, RMI4OHS and RMI4SURE.
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.
news
news
www.automobil.co.za
January 2023
he 8th edition of Automechanika Johannesburg will take place at the
JHB Expo Centre from 5-7 September 2023.
As the largest business platform for the automotive aftermarket
on the African continent, it is the ideal meeting place for all stakeholders
to gather, connect, and network. It will bring together suppliers and buyers
and will showcase rapidly changing technologies and processes. The event
will be a host to multiple sector-related conferences, that will pave the way
for the sector in the short to medium term, making it a must-attend event
for those involved in the automotive aftermarket sector.
The fundamental impact a trade show can have on the growth and de-
velopment of an industry depends on the wide support from all market
segments.
Through its portfolio of trade shows, Messe Frankfurt has always aimed
at providing platforms where all market participants join to nurture, grow,
and present their industry.
Messe Frankfurt, organisers of Automechanika, are pleased that the
RMI and its various associations will once again endorse the 8th edition
in 2023.
Jakkie Olivier, CEO of RMI, says it is an absolute honour to once again
be part of a worldwide professional show that values the industry as much
as RMI does. “We fully appreciate the importance of networking and the
important role it plays in our business. We thus welcome the opportunity
presented by Automechanika to interact face-to-face with other business
owners and product suppliers.”
When a trade show is well supported by the industry, it shows the
strength of the sector. While individual companies may win or lose, the
mantra of “stronger together” will always hold true, particularly at such a
well-respected and representative show as this.
An attractive display of an entire industry can also have many long-term
effects, including appealing to the younger generation for career opportuni-
ties, which is key to ensuring the sustainability of the sector, and the broader
economy.
“We are delighted to have the RMI as an endorsing partner for Autome-
chanika 2023. This is a positive endorsement of the event and underscores
our shared commitment to the growth and development of the automotive
aftermarket,” says Michael Dehn, Managing Director for Messe Frankfurt
South Africa, organisers of Automechanika Johannesburg.
RMI and Automechanika
build momentum together
he BMW Group is continuing to drive the
digitalisation of access to its vehicles in
co-development with Apple and Google. It
is now possible to share a BMW Digital Key across
platforms between iPhone and Android devices.
Previously, keys could only be shared via Apple
iMessage. There is now no longer any need for
a specific app or a set method of transmission.
Instead, keys can be easily passed on to friends
or family from the wallet using the native share
function known from many apps.
This means that sharing a BMW Digital Key now
takes the straightforward form of sending a link.
The key can be sent by e-mail, SMS or any other
messaging service such as WhatsApp. The recip-
ient does not require either a specific app or a
BMW ID. To add the Digital Key to their wallet, they
simply click on the link. If the owner and recipient
are standing next to each other, the key can also be
shared via Apple AirDrop or Android Nearby Share.
In certain cases, an activation code may have to be
entered in the vehicle for security reasons, which
the sender would ideally disclose to the recipient
via a different channel. Once a digital key has been
received on an iPhone, the recipient can add it to
an Apple Watch just as easily.
This new function is available for all new ve-
hicles with BMW Digital Key or BMW Digital Key
Plus. Older suitably equipped vehicles will be able
to make full use of this feature once their soft-
ware has been updated to status “22-11” or later
via Remote Software Upgrade.
This latest upgrade is the result of a close col-
laboration between BMW and its partners Apple,
Google and Samsung under the umbrella of the
Car Connectivity Consortium (CCC). It marks an-
other milestone for the BMW Digital Key en route
to complete cross-platform interoperability –
and towards securing the status of smartphones
as digital vehicle keys.
BMW Digital Key can now be shared
between smart phones
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, turbocharger
and braking systems; automotive engineers who machine and
remanufacture engine components by way of expert engineering
– 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 moving
equipment, highway trucks, stationary engines and passenger
vehicles. ARA promotes the responsible reuse of remanufactured
engine components for a ‘greener’ environment (carbon foot-
print). 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
news
www.automobil.co.za
January 2023
ontinental Tyre South Africa (CTSA) is
celebrating its 75th anniversary in 2022.
Since the Continental group has found its
home on South African soil in 1987, it has grown
the company into a trusted, renowned, and
sought-after brand, known for the premium tyres
it produces. With over 1 000 employees across
its manufacturing, marketing and sales opera-
tions, Continental Tyre South Africa is home to
vibrant and innovative people whose passion to
win ensures that it is an integral part of the mo-
bility of the future.
“The 75th anniversary of Continental’s South
African operations is an amazing milestone for
the company, and a proud achievement for all
our people that have helped us reach this im-
portant chapter of our history,” says Martin Bu-
day, Managing Director of CTSA. “Over the past
several decades, the company has expanded to
meet the growing demand for Continental and
General Tire-branded products in both the orig-
inal equipment and replacement tyre sectors,
both in South Africa and export countries.
“Our Gqeberha plant has benefitted from
major investments and upgrades to introduce
the latest technologies, cutting-edge production
processes and the most advanced tooling, which
together with the expertise of our people con-
tributed to our 75-year success story,” highlight-
ed Attie Higgs, Acting Plant Manager of the South
African manufacturing facility.
The company’s history started when the Gen-
eral Tire and Rubber Company was established
by the Williams Hunt Group and General Tire USA
in 1947. Almost 40 years later, in 1985, Continen-
tal AG and General Tyre SA signed an agreement
to produce Continental branded tyres in South
Africa. The local operation was acquired by Con-
tinental in 1998 and renamed Continental Tyre
South Africa (Pty) Ltd, creating the foundation to
become one of South Africa’s leading tyre man-
ufacturers and an integral part of Continental’s
global family. In 2013, CTSA became fully owned
subsidiary of Continental.
ocal automotive intelligence has found that
criminals are now using sophisticated tech-
nology to target high-end and luxury vehi-
cles featuring keyless or smart entry systems and
emergency start capabilities. The rise in these
crimes has partly been attributed to increased
vehicle usage since businesses re-opened after
the COVID-19-induced lockdown, as well as a
new modus operandi on the part of criminals and
syndicates, such as keyless access theft.
While this phenomenon affects automotive
brands across the board, as well as all makes of
cars, Toyota South Africa Motors (TSAM) con-
firms that it has been proactively conducting
extensive research and development into the en-
hancement of its vehicle security systems.
TSAM’s research and development team act-
ed proactively, forming allies with various parties,
including the South African Police Services, in or-
der to gather intelligence about the new methods
used by criminals when stealing cars in SA. The
intelligence gathered revealed that highly sophis-
ticated cyber-attacks are used by thieves to exploit
the vehicle’s computer-controlled systems.
These attacks include three modes: CAN at-
tack, fob relaying and a combination of forced
entry and key cloning.
The CAN attack happens when the vehicle’s
Control Area Network is infiltrated using highly
sophisticated electronic equipment to gain entry
and then access the computer system to start the
engine.
Fob relaying is achieved using high-tech re-
ceivers and transmitters to remotely read the ve-
hicle’s security key whilst in the possession of the
owner, thereby allowing the attacker to unlock
and start the vehicle.
The third, a combination of forced entry and
key cloning, is executed using advanced tech-
niques and equipment to disable the vehicle’s
alarm system, and then clone its security key.
Having studied the methods mentioned
above, TSAM has developed several measures
to mitigate possible theft of Toyota and Lex-
us-branded vehicles in the country. These en-
hancement measures have already been shared
with the Toyota dealer network through a series
of practical online sessions and bulletins. In addi-
tion, the enhancements have also been reviewed
and evaluated by VSS Administration – an inde-
pendent South African organisation that specia-
lises in vehicle security and automotive systems.
Senior Vice President of Sales and Marketing
at TSAM, Leon Theron says: “We, as Toyota, are
committed to developing safe and reliable vehi-
cles and we will continue with our research and
development to further enhance our vehicle se-
curity systems. I would also like to add that vehi-
cle owners will not negate the warranty on their
vehicles should they elect to fit an aftermarket
security device if these are installed correctly by
a reputable fitment centre.”
Theron added that customers who own the
vehicle models mentioned above can take them
to their nearest dealership for security enhance-
ments. New vehicles as well as those arriving at
dealers for servicing will automatically receive
these enhancements. These will all be carried out
at no cost to the customer.
Affected models include Hilux Legend models
from 2019; all Fortuner models from 2016; Land
Cruiser Prado (VX and VXL models from 2017); all
Land Cruiser 200 with Smart Entry, Land Cruiser
300 and all Lexus RX and LX models from 2015.
Toyota announces enhancements
to vehicle safety
Continental celebrates
75 years in SA
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, turbocharger
and braking systems; automotive engineers who machine and
remanufacture engine components by way of expert engineering
– 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 moving
equipment, highway trucks, stationary engines and passenger
vehicles. ARA promotes the responsible reuse of remanufactured
engine components for a ‘greener’ environment (carbon foot-
print). 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
news
www.automobil.co.za
January 2023
ontinental Tyre South Africa (CTSA) is
celebrating its 75th anniversary in 2022.
Since the Continental group has found its
home on South African soil in 1987, it has grown
the company into a trusted, renowned, and
sought-after brand, known for the premium tyres
it produces. With over 1 000 employees across
its manufacturing, marketing and sales opera-
tions, Continental Tyre South Africa is home to
vibrant and innovative people whose passion to
win ensures that it is an integral part of the mo-
bility of the future.
“The 75th anniversary of Continental’s South
African operations is an amazing milestone for
the company, and a proud achievement for all
our people that have helped us reach this im-
portant chapter of our history,” says Martin Bu-
day, Managing Director of CTSA. “Over the past
several decades, the company has expanded to
meet the growing demand for Continental and
General Tire-branded products in both the orig-
inal equipment and replacement tyre sectors,
both in South Africa and export countries.
“Our Gqeberha plant has benefitted from
major investments and upgrades to introduce
the latest technologies, cutting-edge production
processes and the most advanced tooling, which
together with the expertise of our people con-
tributed to our 75-year success story,” highlight-
ed Attie Higgs, Acting Plant Manager of the South
African manufacturing facility.
The company’s history started when the Gen-
eral Tire and Rubber Company was established
by the Williams Hunt Group and General Tire USA
in 1947. Almost 40 years later, in 1985, Continen-
tal AG and General Tyre SA signed an agreement
to produce Continental branded tyres in South
Africa. The local operation was acquired by Con-
tinental in 1998 and renamed Continental Tyre
South Africa (Pty) Ltd, creating the foundation to
become one of South Africa’s leading tyre man-
ufacturers and an integral part of Continental’s
global family. In 2013, CTSA became fully owned
subsidiary of Continental.
ocal automotive intelligence has found that
criminals are now using sophisticated tech-
nology to target high-end and luxury vehi-
cles featuring keyless or smart entry systems and
emergency start capabilities. The rise in these
crimes has partly been attributed to increased
vehicle usage since businesses re-opened after
the COVID-19-induced lockdown, as well as a
new modus operandi on the part of criminals and
syndicates, such as keyless access theft.
While this phenomenon affects automotive
brands across the board, as well as all makes of
cars, Toyota South Africa Motors (TSAM) con-
firms that it has been proactively conducting
extensive research and development into the en-
hancement of its vehicle security systems.
TSAM’s research and development team act-
ed proactively, forming allies with various parties,
including the South African Police Services, in or-
der to gather intelligence about the new methods
used by criminals when stealing cars in SA. The
intelligence gathered revealed that highly sophis-
ticated cyber-attacks are used by thieves to exploit
the vehicle’s computer-controlled systems.
These attacks include three modes: CAN at-
tack, fob relaying and a combination of forced
entry and key cloning.
The CAN attack happens when the vehicle’s
Control Area Network is infiltrated using highly
sophisticated electronic equipment to gain entry
and then access the computer system to start the
engine.
Fob relaying is achieved using high-tech re-
ceivers and transmitters to remotely read the ve-
hicle’s security key whilst in the possession of the
owner, thereby allowing the attacker to unlock
and start the vehicle.
The third, a combination of forced entry and
key cloning, is executed using advanced tech-
niques and equipment to disable the vehicle’s
alarm system, and then clone its security key.
Having studied the methods mentioned
above, TSAM has developed several measures
to mitigate possible theft of Toyota and Lex-
us-branded vehicles in the country. These en-
hancement measures have already been shared
with the Toyota dealer network through a series
of practical online sessions and bulletins. In addi-
tion, the enhancements have also been reviewed
and evaluated by VSS Administration – an inde-
pendent South African organisation that specia-
lises in vehicle security and automotive systems.
Senior Vice President of Sales and Marketing
at TSAM, Leon Theron says: “We, as Toyota, are
committed to developing safe and reliable vehi-
cles and we will continue with our research and
development to further enhance our vehicle se-
curity systems. I would also like to add that vehi-
cle owners will not negate the warranty on their
vehicles should they elect to fit an aftermarket
security device if these are installed correctly by
a reputable fitment centre.”
Theron added that customers who own the
vehicle models mentioned above can take them
to their nearest dealership for security enhance-
ments. New vehicles as well as those arriving at
dealers for servicing will automatically receive
these enhancements. These will all be carried out
at no cost to the customer.
Affected models include Hilux Legend models
from 2019; all Fortuner models from 2016; Land
Cruiser Prado (VX and VXL models from 2017); all
Land Cruiser 200 with Smart Entry, Land Cruiser
300 and all Lexus RX and LX models from 2015.
Toyota announces enhancements
to vehicle safety
Continental celebrates
75 years in SA
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
Riaan Botha
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
Uvashen Bramiah
Cell: 061 148 4289
uvashen.bramiah@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 and
Company Secretary Designate
Jacques Viljoen
Cell: 083 337 9922
jacques.viljoen@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
Randall Langenhoven: Regional Manager: Western Cape
Peter van Mosseveld: Regional Manager: Eastern Cape/Border
Jeff Molefe: 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
RMI4Sure 011 669 1214
RMI4Law 0861 668 677
RMI4BEE 066 292 0102
RMI4OHS 072 787 5503
@AutomobilSA
Facebook.com/AutomobilSA
www.rmi.org.za
www.automobil.co.za
January 2023
industry news
ercedes-Benz South Africa Limited (MBSA) has announced that
Dr Joachim Schmidt, currently Chairman of the Board of Directors
of Mercedes-Benz South Africa, will retire and be succeeded by
Wilfried Porth, effective 1 January 2023. Dr Schmidt served as the Chairman
of the Board for a period of nine years.
“Good corporate governance remains the cornerstone of our business.
The appointment of Wilfried Porth affirms our commitment to ensuring that
our business practices and way of operating are in line with our philosophy
of corporate governance. His outstanding experience will support MBSA’s
continued efforts to deliver on our business sustainability strategy. We look
forward to working together with Wilfried Porth and to continue with the
legacy left by Dr Schmidt,” says Andreas Brand Chief Executive Officer of
Mercedes- Benz South Africa and Executive Director Manufacturing.
Prior to serving as the Chairman of the Board of Directors of Mer-
cedes-Benz South Africa, Dr Schmidt served in various roles within Daimler
AG for more than 34 years. He studied mathematics at the University of
Stuttgart, obtaining his science doctorate there in 1976. In 1979, he joined
what was then known as Daimler-Benz,
working initially in passenger car de-
velopment and thereafter, for over 20
years, in various sales and marketing
management positions. He was a mem-
ber and Chairman of the Board for a pe-
riod of nine years.
Chairman of the Board of Directors
of Mercedes-Benz South Africa des-
ignate, Wilfried Porth, has 36 years of
working experience in various loca-
tions such as Europe, South America,
South Africa, Japan and the USA. He
has served on various Boards of Man-
agement and Supervisory Boards as a
Member within several corporations. Porth’s experience spans across pro-
duction, research and development, sales and human resources.
rom January to November 2022, Volkswa-
gen sold a total of 58 822 vehicles in the
local market. Volkswagen’s performance in
the first 11 months of 2022 was bolstered by a
growing affinity for the T SUV model range.
“In November, we increased passenger car
sales in the local market by 10% when compared
to November 2021. Last month, the Volkswagen
brand (including Volkswagen Commercial Vehi-
cles), sold a total of 6 006 vehicles (VW PC: 5 540,
VW CV: 466) in the local market,” said Steffen
Knapp, head of the Volkswagen Passenger Car
Brand.
Volkswagen’s T SUV range, which consists of
the T-Cross, Taigo, T-Roc, Tiguan (including All-
space and R) and the Touareg, has continued to
grow in popularity in the local market.
In the first 11 months of 2022, T-Cross sales
saw a significant increase of 44% year-on-year
with 9 695 units sold, making it Volkswagen’s
best-selling imported vehicle. The T-Cross was
followed by the Tiguan range with 2 334 units
sold and the recently- launched T-Roc and Taigo
with 2 143 and 1 739 units sold respectively. 151
Touaregs were sold in the local market during the
same period.
The Polo Vivo is the best-selling Volkswa-
gen model with 19 445 units sold in the first 11
months of 2022. The Polo was Volkswagen’s sec-
ond best-selling vehicle this year with a total of
14 212 units sold. The T-Cross rounded up Volk-
swagen’s trio of best-selling vehicles with 9 695
units sold.
Volkswagen
Commercial
Vehicles
deliv-
ered 4 791 vehicles to customers in the first 11
months of 2022. The Amarok double cab was the
best-selling model with 1 823 units sold in the
first 11 months of 2022 and accounted for almost
40% of the brand’s sales.
The Kariega manufacturing plant also export-
ed 94 049 Volkswagen Polos to 38 international
countries during the same period.
2023 will see the Volkswagen brand intro-
ducing the new Golf 8 R in the local market as
well as a refresher of the range-topping Polo
Vivo GT derivative. For Volkswagen Commercial
Vehicles, 2023 will be an important year with
the market introduction of the highly anticipat-
ed new generation Amarok.
Volkswagen’s T SUV range
accounts for 30 percent of sales
Board of Directors changes at
Mercedes-Benz South Africa
wilfred porth, incoming
chairman of the board of
directors of mercedes-benz
south africa
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
Riaan Botha
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
Uvashen Bramiah
Cell: 061 148 4289
uvashen.bramiah@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 and
Company Secretary Designate
Jacques Viljoen
Cell: 083 337 9922
jacques.viljoen@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
Randall Langenhoven: Regional Manager: Western Cape
Peter van Mosseveld: Regional Manager: Eastern Cape/Border
Jeff Molefe: 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
RMI4Sure 011 669 1214
RMI4Law 0861 668 677
RMI4BEE 066 292 0102
RMI4OHS 072 787 5503
@AutomobilSA
Facebook.com/AutomobilSA
www.rmi.org.za
www.automobil.co.za
January 2023
industry news
ercedes-Benz South Africa Limited (MBSA) has announced that
Dr Joachim Schmidt, currently Chairman of the Board of Directors
of Mercedes-Benz South Africa, will retire and be succeeded by
Wilfried Porth, effective 1 January 2023. Dr Schmidt served as the Chairman
of the Board for a period of nine years.
“Good corporate governance remains the cornerstone of our business.
The appointment of Wilfried Porth affirms our commitment to ensuring that
our business practices and way of operating are in line with our philosophy
of corporate governance. His outstanding experience will support MBSA’s
continued efforts to deliver on our business sustainability strategy. We look
forward to working together with Wilfried Porth and to continue with the
legacy left by Dr Schmidt,” says Andreas Brand Chief Executive Officer of
Mercedes- Benz South Africa and Executive Director Manufacturing.
Prior to serving as the Chairman of the Board of Directors of Mer-
cedes-Benz South Africa, Dr Schmidt served in various roles within Daimler
AG for more than 34 years. He studied mathematics at the University of
Stuttgart, obtaining his science doctorate there in 1976. In 1979, he joined
what was then known as Daimler-Benz,
working initially in passenger car de-
velopment and thereafter, for over 20
years, in various sales and marketing
management positions. He was a mem-
ber and Chairman of the Board for a pe-
riod of nine years.
Chairman of the Board of Directors
of Mercedes-Benz South Africa des-
ignate, Wilfried Porth, has 36 years of
working experience in various loca-
tions such as Europe, South America,
South Africa, Japan and the USA. He
has served on various Boards of Man-
agement and Supervisory Boards as a
Member within several corporations. Porth’s experience spans across pro-
duction, research and development, sales and human resources.
rom January to November 2022, Volkswa-
gen sold a total of 58 822 vehicles in the
local market. Volkswagen’s performance in
the first 11 months of 2022 was bolstered by a
growing affinity for the T SUV model range.
“In November, we increased passenger car
sales in the local market by 10% when compared
to November 2021. Last month, the Volkswagen
brand (including Volkswagen Commercial Vehi-
cles), sold a total of 6 006 vehicles (VW PC: 5 540,
VW CV: 466) in the local market,” said Steffen
Knapp, head of the Volkswagen Passenger Car
Brand.
Volkswagen’s T SUV range, which consists of
the T-Cross, Taigo, T-Roc, Tiguan (including All-
space and R) and the Touareg, has continued to
grow in popularity in the local market.
In the first 11 months of 2022, T-Cross sales
saw a significant increase of 44% year-on-year
with 9 695 units sold, making it Volkswagen’s
best-selling imported vehicle. The T-Cross was
followed by the Tiguan range with 2 334 units
sold and the recently- launched T-Roc and Taigo
with 2 143 and 1 739 units sold respectively. 151
Touaregs were sold in the local market during the
same period.
The Polo Vivo is the best-selling Volkswa-
gen model with 19 445 units sold in the first 11
months of 2022. The Polo was Volkswagen’s sec-
ond best-selling vehicle this year with a total of
14 212 units sold. The T-Cross rounded up Volk-
swagen’s trio of best-selling vehicles with 9 695
units sold.
Volkswagen
Commercial
Vehicles
deliv-
ered 4 791 vehicles to customers in the first 11
months of 2022. The Amarok double cab was the
best-selling model with 1 823 units sold in the
first 11 months of 2022 and accounted for almost
40% of the brand’s sales.
The Kariega manufacturing plant also export-
ed 94 049 Volkswagen Polos to 38 international
countries during the same period.
2023 will see the Volkswagen brand intro-
ducing the new Golf 8 R in the local market as
well as a refresher of the range-topping Polo
Vivo GT derivative. For Volkswagen Commercial
Vehicles, 2023 will be an important year with
the market introduction of the highly anticipat-
ed new generation Amarok.
Volkswagen’s T SUV range
accounts for 30 percent of sales
Board of Directors changes at
Mercedes-Benz South Africa
wilfred porth, incoming
chairman of the board of
directors of mercedes-benz
south africa
10
www.automobil.co.za
January 2023
industry news
kriben reddy, vice president of auto
information solutions at transunion africa
ike many South Africans, I love my car. It’s
sleek. It’s quick. It makes me smile every time
I get into it. But it may be one of the last cars
I ever actually own myself, as mobility patterns
undergo a massive change in the next couple of
decades.
Many studies have predicted that by 2030,
hardly anyone in the US and Europe will own their
own car. Instead, most people will use self-driv-
ing, electric ride-shares to get around. I’m not
convinced about the timeline, but I do know that
the world of mobility is changing before our eyes.
South Africa’s vehicle sales volumes have been
steadily declining for several years. Many young-
er urban consumers don’t want to own cars, they
simply want to get from A to B. Others want to
own cars, but they can’t. So, how does the au-
tomotive industry create solutions that provide
mobility beyond traditional car ownership?
Right now, there are around 12 million vehi-
cles on South Africa’s roads. Of those, only around
2.4 million are financed, and around three million
insured. TransUnion’s data suggests that less than
15% of vehicle finance applications get approved.
There are around 24 million sales leads being
generated each year – but the industry only sells
around 580 000 vehicles, of which 180 000 are
new vehicles and 400 000 used vehicles.
This tells us a couple of things. Firstly, there
are plenty of consumers who are interested in
buying a car but can’t do so through a traditional
credit application. One way of addressing this is
by finding ways of using alternative data to allow
more people to qualify for credit in order to buy
or lease vehicles.
While that may get more people into cars, it
won’t solve the bigger problem of a vast market
that requires mobility but cannot be accommo-
dated. We don’t have a vehicle ownership prob-
lem. We have a mobility problem. And while
financed vehicles will remain relevant for the
foreseeable future, the real opportunity for the
automotive industry lies in creating alternative
mobility models in line with the global trend of
mobility as a service.
If we look at mobility as a continuum, with
pure ownership on the one side and usership
on the other, everything in between those two
points is mobility as a service – leasing, subscrip-
tion models, e-hailing, taking a plane, carpooling,
public transportation, ride sharing and many
more. In Europe and more developed econo-
mies, ride-hailing and ride sharing have practical-
ly become the norm. They’re a rapidly emerging
trend in South Africa, albeit largely in the major
urban centres for now.
The mobilty as a service model offers sim-
plicity and adaptability and appeals to many
customer segments. Older drivers want to avoid
the annoyances of car ownership, such as main-
tenance and insurance, while younger markets
want to avoid significant outlays and long-term
financial commitments. A growing number of car
manufacturers are already offering subscription
models for their vehicles.
A second driver of mobility as a service is the
increasing urbanisation of our population. It’s es-
timated that 55% of the world’s population lives
in cities. They don’t need a car. They just need
access to transport and that could include every-
thing from public transport, bicycles and scoot-
ers to ride-sharing and carpooling.
In South Africa, we have all the elements
we need for alterative models like subscription.
Think affordable, long-term, flexible car hire.
We have the demand as there is a huge market
of people that want to be mobile but can’t. We
have the supply in the form of massive amounts
of stock of vehicles standing idle at dealer-
ships – and vehicles that don’t move, don’t bring
in money.
TransUnion’s Auto Digital Onboarding product
provides the data and tools to assist our custom-
ers through their entire value chain, starting at
the top of the funnel, lead enrichment, through-
out the qualification and identity checks journey,
and right to through to aftersales. This enables
you to identify other mobility solutions for your
customers, like leasing or rent to own.
Personally, I can’t see myself not owning some
sort of vehicle in my lifetime. But, like the entire
automotive industry, it’s important to be open to
change. Our relevance depends on it.
Are the days of car
ownership numbered?
www.mirf.co.za
Motor Industry
Retirement Funds
Access your Fund
Credit and Benefit
Statements
Dial *134*20054# to obtain your latest fund credit
Register at
https://portal.mirf.co.za/openaccess/
MemberAccessRegistration.aspx
Please use your ID Number and your
Council Number to access your Fund
Credit and Benefit Statements.
WhatsApp 011 561 9301 (Fund Credit, Current
Benefit Statement, Annual Benefit Statement)