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
November 2022
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
26 . Tech Talk: Why modern cars look alike
28 . Finance: The manufacturing process and terms
30 . Wellbeing: The urgency required in maintaining wellbeing
News
05 . News
10 . Industry News
16 . Product News
20 . Association News
features
18 . Behind the scenes: It’s a numbers game
22 . Association of the month: The legitimate voice
24 . Interview: Laying the foundations for the RMI
32 . Labour: Is a shorter work week feasible?
33 . Legal: Binding nature of a Memorandum of Understanding
34 . Restoration: Toyota 2000GT restored to former glory
reGulars
36 . New models: Ford Everest and VW Tiguan R
38 . Motorsport: Kyalami 9-hour dates confirmed
39 . Member Update
40 . Sales: September 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
P37
P34
www.automobil.co.za
November 2022
s we move closer to the holiday season the focus is going to shift
grettably, South Africa has one of the worst accident rates. Over the
last 2021/2022 festive season (1 December 2021 – 11 January 2022) there
were 1808 fatalities and 1395 fatal crashes.
Rather than wait for the last minute, motor vehicle owners should book
their cars in for those critical safety checks before heading off on holiday. It
is concerning that our roads continue to be plagued with unroadworthy ve
hicles where many of the safety critical components have long been neglect
ed. These vehicles are death traps, not only for the passengers in the vehicle
but for other road users too. We have to get serious about regu
According to the RTMC Road Crash Report 2020, 17% of
major crashes (in which more than five people are killed) are
attributed to vehicle factors. In South Africa, vehicle defects
or un-roadworthiness is certainly a contributor to the fatal
ing South African lives but billions in rands too.
When major crashes are investigated and the
factors contributing to accidents, the vehicle
consideration, the major factors of vehicle
defects causing fatal crashes can be at
tributed to tyres bursting, faulty brakes,
unroadworthy vehicles, faulty headlights
maintenance is not happening regularly enough. yet still only 21% of our
vehicles are required to be tested on a regular basis.
The RMI through its Vehicle Testing Association (VTA) has been cam
paigning for many years now to see the legislation passed for Periodic Vehi
cle Testing (PTI). Several years after the legislation for more regular vehicle
inspections was promulgated by South Africa’s Minister of Transport, the
implementation is yet to happen. The legislation was published with imple
mentation “at a date to be determined by the Minister”. To date, there has
been no mention of even a suggested implementation date. Should the leg
islation be implemented it would enforce those vehicles 10 years and older
be tested every two years. This really begs the question why is South Africa
not passing the legislation? We have seen countless examples from other
As the RMI, with our 8 000 businesses across the country, we are strongly
placed to make a positive contribution to road safety. All of our associations
use vehicle, in terms of its sale, maintenance, repair and testing. It is our
strong belief that should a vehicle be maintained in a roadworthy and safe
condition, it will have a positive impact on road safety and decrease the
number of fatalities from road crashes. Furthermore, it will create jobs in
the retail and vehicle testing sectors and save the economy billions.
I encourage our members to engage with their customers and remind
them to carry out these safety checks during November, particularly with
when it comes to the safety critical components of their cars.
As we have done in the past, I also encourage our members to think
about offering this testing free of charge to South Africans. This is our way
of giving back and together I feel confident we can make a real difference in
saving lives this festive season.
conomic conditions in South Africa took a turn for the
worse during September, with Eskom data confirming that
the South African economy experienced the worst-ever
month of load shedding, with 572 of the month’s 720 hours di
rectly affected. Analysis by Eskom’s Research, Testing and Devel
opment department further showed that, besides 2021, there
was more power cuts in September 2022 than had been expe
rienced in any other entire year since load shedding started in
2007. The negative impact of load shedding reaches all spheres
of the economy. Companies buckle under the inability to pro
duce at capacity, the cost of lost production, reduced produc
tivity, the cost of providing alternatives and reduced margins.
For small businesses, like many of the RMI members, this
has a serious effect on productivity, with electricity needed to
power everything from lifts to tools, compressors, point of sale
equipment and security systems. The knock on effect is that
businesses are having to spend any spare cash that they might
have on future proofing their businesses with investment in
equipment like generators, inverters or solar installations nec
essary to be able to do business in South Africa.
The on going load shedding has also had an effect on the wa
ter supply in certain regions, such as Gauteng. While the dams
feeding the Gauteng province are at satisfactory levels, electric
ity disruptions have affected Rand Waters ability to pump water
by rising spring temperatures resulting in the implementation of
water restrictions.
look at water saving and water storage solutions in order to
avoid the increased tariffs that are implemented by municipal
ities during periods of water restrictions.
Unfortunately these factors mean that alternative elec
tricity and water supply solutions are necessary and will
become increasingly important for businesses, both big and
small, in order to remain competitive and mitigate the dis
ruptions caused by unpredictable supply of these resources
by government.
Wilken Communication Management
Advertising Sales
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
November 2022
driver’s seat
For information on the RMI and its workings, visit www.rmi.org.za or call 011 886 6300
editor’s letter
s we move closer to the holiday season the focus is going to shift
increasingly to safety and preholiday safety checks for drivers. Re-
grettably, South Africa has one of the worst accident rates. Over the
last 2021/2022 festive season (1 December 2021 – 11 January 2022) there
were 1808 fatalities and 1395 fatal crashes.
Rather than wait for the last minute, motor vehicle owners should book
their cars in for those critical safety checks before heading off on holiday. It
is concerning that our roads continue to be plagued with unroadworthy ve-
hicles where many of the safety critical components have long been neglect-
ed. These vehicles are death traps, not only for the passengers in the vehicle
but for other road users too. We have to get serious about regu-
lar maintenance and servicing of vehicle components to make
sure our roads are safer.
According to the RTMC Road Crash Report 2020, 17% of
major crashes (in which more than five people are killed) are
attributed to vehicle factors. In South Africa, vehicle defects
or un-roadworthiness is certainly a contributor to the fatal
road crashes that occur each year and is not only cost-
ing South African lives but billions in rands too.
When major crashes are investigated and the
factors contributing to accidents, the vehicle
types and the road environment taken into
consideration, the major factors of vehicle
defects causing fatal crashes can be at-
tributed to tyres bursting, faulty brakes,
unroadworthy vehicles, faulty headlights
and tyre failure. This is a clear indicator that
maintenance is not happening regularly enough. yet still only 21% of our
vehicles are required to be tested on a regular basis.
The RMI through its Vehicle Testing Association (VTA) has been cam-
paigning for many years now to see the legislation passed for Periodic Vehi-
cle Testing (PTI). Several years after the legislation for more regular vehicle
inspections was promulgated by South Africa’s Minister of Transport, the
implementation is yet to happen. The legislation was published with imple-
mentation “at a date to be determined by the Minister”. To date, there has
been no mention of even a suggested implementation date. Should the leg-
islation be implemented it would enforce those vehicles 10 years and older
be tested every two years. This really begs the question why is South Africa
not passing the legislation? We have seen countless examples from other
countries showing the success of this type of approach.
As the RMI, with our 8 000 businesses across the country, we are strongly
placed to make a positive contribution to road safety. All of our associations
are involved in the upkeep and maintenance throughout the life of the in-
use vehicle, in terms of its sale, maintenance, repair and testing. It is our
strong belief that should a vehicle be maintained in a roadworthy and safe
condition, it will have a positive impact on road safety and decrease the
number of fatalities from road crashes. Furthermore, it will create jobs in
the retail and vehicle testing sectors and save the economy billions.
I encourage our members to engage with their customers and remind
them to carry out these safety checks during November, particularly with
when it comes to the safety critical components of their cars.
As we have done in the past, I also encourage our members to think
about offering this testing free of charge to South Africans. This is our way
of giving back and together I feel confident we can make a real difference in
saving lives this festive season.
Jakkie olivier
RMI Chief Executive Officer
Focus on safety
conomic conditions in South Africa took a turn for the
worse during September, with Eskom data confirming that
the South African economy experienced the worst-ever
month of load shedding, with 572 of the month’s 720 hours di-
rectly affected. Analysis by Eskom’s Research, Testing and Devel-
opment department further showed that, besides 2021, there
was more power cuts in September 2022 than had been expe-
rienced in any other entire year since load shedding started in
2007. The negative impact of load shedding reaches all spheres
of the economy. Companies buckle under the inability to pro-
duce at capacity, the cost of lost production, reduced produc-
tivity, the cost of providing alternatives and reduced margins.
For small businesses, like many of the RMI members, this
has a serious effect on productivity, with electricity needed to
power everything from lifts to tools, compressors, point of sale
equipment and security systems. The knock on effect is that
businesses are having to spend any spare cash that they might
have on future proofing their businesses with investment in
equipment like generators, inverters or solar installations nec-
essary to be able to do business in South Africa.
The on going load shedding has also had an effect on the wa-
ter supply in certain regions, such as Gauteng. While the dams
feeding the Gauteng province are at satisfactory levels, electric-
ity disruptions have affected Rand Waters ability to pump water
to various reservoirs in order to meet increased demand caused
by rising spring temperatures resulting in the implementation of
water restrictions.
This meant that high water users have very quickly had to
look at water saving and water storage solutions in order to
avoid the increased tariffs that are implemented by municipal-
ities during periods of water restrictions.
Unfortunately these factors mean that alternative elec-
tricity and water supply solutions are necessary and will
become increasingly important for businesses, both big and
small, in order to remain competitive and mitigate the dis-
ruptions caused by unpredictable supply of these resources
by government.
reuben van Niekerk
reuben@automobil.org.za
Future proof your business
take the
automobil
reader
survey here
view the
august 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.
ord South Africa is proud to have sup
represented South Africa at the 2022
International WorldSkills Competition in
the Mechatronics Technology category.
The South African team competed in re
gional and national rounds before head
ing off to Stuttgart, Germany for the final
round, which finished on 8 October 2022.
The WorldSkills competition aims to en
courage young people to pursue artisanal
vocations as a career choice to help ease
the skills shortage in South Africa. One of
its primary objectives is to influence the
development and employability of South
African youth and act as an effective means
of increasing awareness of apprenticeships.
To date, WorldSkills has helped develop
careers in multiple areas including mecha
tronics, mobile robotics, water technology,
automotive technology, auto body repairs, spray
painting, computer numerical control (CNC) turn
ing, graphic design, plumbing, as well as careers
in a number of beauty, cooking and service relat
Ford South Africa’s involvement in WorldSkills
started in 2019 with the sponsorship of automo
tive equipment, such as engines and gearboxes,
required for a national event in Durban. After
seeing the immediate impact that WorldSkills was
having on artisanal trade and skills development of
the youth, Ford South Africa procured the neces
ing learners in automation technology. As expect
ed, this support continues to motivate and inspire
learners to embark on a technical career path and
This year’s team, comprising Pontso Mashu
mu and Ernest Ndou, was selected from a group
of unemployed NQF Level 2 learners from vari
ous colleges in Gauteng. The pair was enrolled
into Ford’s Technical Training Centre, which
incubates young learners from previously
disadvantaged backgrounds to help them
to NQF Level 4. These qualifications can be
automotive sector.
Mashumu and Ndou initially took part
in the provincial competition during No
vember 2021, which was hosted at FESTO
in Kempton Park. With great determina
tion, the team claimed first position in the
provincial competition where they were as
automation systems. In June 2022 the team
secured another first place in the following
national competition, which included de
signing Modular Production Systems (MPS)
needed to build handling and sorting sta
tions. This qualified them for the WorldSkills
International event held over 12 weeks across Eu
rope, North America, and East Asia.
Competing against the very best in the world,
the team built MPS stations with three distribution
links integrated with Robotino pick-and-sorting
modules. Their design was awarded 677 points,
which meant they narrowly missed out on the Me
dallion of Excellence - but managed to rank among
the top 22 countries alongside teams from Japan,
Chinese Taipei, Singapore, and India.
he 39th edition of Auto e Moto d’Epoca, one of the most
important events in Europe for vintage car and mo
torcycle enthusiasts, was Alfa Romeo’s chance to
present the Alfa Romeo Classiche heritage program, a
range of services with the precise aim of protecting and
promoting the history of the iconic Italian brand. For the
first time in Stellantis, the brand’s top management is
personally involved in all the activities that make up the
whole range of its dedicated services. In fact, the certifica
tion committee is chaired by Alfa Romeo’s CEO and the Head
of Heritage department, with the support of the Alfa Romeo
Museum, the location of the production registers and all the techni
cal documentation used by the committee to analyse the information on
the examined cars.
The Alfa Romeo Classiche heritage program consists of the
Certificate of Origin – which has been offered for Alfa Romeo
cars since 2016 – together with the Certificate of Authentic
ity and the Restoration. The top management of the brand
personally chairs and intervenes in the committee that
evaluates historic cars and issues the certifications with
the support of the heritage team and the experts in Alfa
The brand will introduce an area dedicated on its website
to the new Alfa Romeo Classiche heritage program that allows
owners of historic cars to make use of programs dedicated to Cer
tificates of Authenticity and Restoration. It will therefore be possible to
receive all the information and support necessary to start a dedicated and
personalised program directly from the brand’s website.
•
We’ve been representing the retail motor industry for more than
•
With more than
businesses, our unity is our strength.
•
Centralised wage negotiations.
•
Various
and Industry-related Boards and committee structures.
•
Various South African Bureau of Standards (
)
committees and working groups.
•
The National Regulator for Compulsory Specifications (
), 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 (
).
•
Professional industrial relations advice ensuring procedural
and substantive fairness when disciplining staff.
•
Chairing of disciplinary hearings and
,
and Labour Court.
•
Exceptional CPA support at the National Consumer Commission (
)
and the Motor Industry Ombudsman of South Africa (
).
•
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
•
Industry-specific products like
•
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
November 2022
ord South Africa is proud to have sup-
ported two determined learners who
represented South Africa at the 2022
International WorldSkills Competition in
the Mechatronics Technology category.
The South African team competed in re-
gional and national rounds before head-
ing off to Stuttgart, Germany for the final
round, which finished on 8 October 2022.
The WorldSkills competition aims to en-
courage young people to pursue artisanal
vocations as a career choice to help ease
the skills shortage in South Africa. One of
its primary objectives is to influence the
development and employability of South
African youth and act as an effective means
of increasing awareness of apprenticeships.
To date, WorldSkills has helped develop
careers in multiple areas including mecha-
tronics, mobile robotics, water technology,
automotive technology, auto body repairs, spray
painting, computer numerical control (CNC) turn-
ing, graphic design, plumbing, as well as careers
in a number of beauty, cooking and service relat-
ed industries.
Ford South Africa’s involvement in WorldSkills
started in 2019 with the sponsorship of automo-
tive equipment, such as engines and gearboxes,
required for a national event in Durban. After
seeing the immediate impact that WorldSkills was
having on artisanal trade and skills development of
the youth, Ford South Africa procured the neces-
sary mechatronics equipment required for upskill-
ing learners in automation technology. As expect-
ed, this support continues to motivate and inspire
learners to embark on a technical career path and
push their professional skills to the limit.
This year’s team, comprising Pontso Mashu-
mu and Ernest Ndou, was selected from a group
of unemployed NQF Level 2 learners from vari-
ous colleges in Gauteng. The pair was enrolled
into Ford’s Technical Training Centre, which
incubates young learners from previously
disadvantaged backgrounds to help them
acquire mechatronics technology skills up
to NQF Level 4. These qualifications can be
used to advance their careers within the
automotive sector.
Mashumu and Ndou initially took part
in the provincial competition during No-
vember 2021, which was hosted at FESTO
in Kempton Park. With great determina-
tion, the team claimed first position in the
provincial competition where they were as-
sessed on all aspects of mechatronics and
automation systems. In June 2022 the team
secured another first place in the following
national competition, which included de-
signing Modular Production Systems (MPS)
needed to build handling and sorting sta-
tions. This qualified them for the WorldSkills
International event held over 12 weeks across Eu-
rope, North America, and East Asia.
Competing against the very best in the world,
the team built MPS stations with three distribution
links integrated with Robotino pick-and-sorting
modules. Their design was awarded 677 points,
which meant they narrowly missed out on the Me-
dallion of Excellence - but managed to rank among
the top 22 countries alongside teams from Japan,
Chinese Taipei, Singapore, and India.
he 39th edition of Auto e Moto d’Epoca, one of the most
important events in Europe for vintage car and mo-
torcycle enthusiasts, was Alfa Romeo’s chance to
present the Alfa Romeo Classiche heritage program, a
range of services with the precise aim of protecting and
promoting the history of the iconic Italian brand. For the
first time in Stellantis, the brand’s top management is
personally involved in all the activities that make up the
whole range of its dedicated services. In fact, the certifica-
tion committee is chaired by Alfa Romeo’s CEO and the Head
of Heritage department, with the support of the Alfa Romeo
Museum, the location of the production registers and all the techni-
cal documentation used by the committee to analyse the information on
the examined cars.
The Alfa Romeo Classiche heritage program consists of the
Certificate of Origin – which has been offered for Alfa Romeo
cars since 2016 – together with the Certificate of Authentic-
ity and the Restoration. The top management of the brand
personally chairs and intervenes in the committee that
evaluates historic cars and issues the certifications with
the support of the heritage team and the experts in Alfa
Romeo history.
The brand will introduce an area dedicated on its website
to the new Alfa Romeo Classiche heritage program that allows
owners of historic cars to make use of programs dedicated to Cer-
tificates of Authenticity and Restoration. It will therefore be possible to
receive all the information and support necessary to start a dedicated and
personalised program directly from the brand’s website.
Ford SA helps learners
through WorldSkills
Alfa Romeo launches
Classiche heritage program
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
market sentiment, organisers of Autom
echanika Frankfurt took advantage of the
last Autopromotec to commission an inde
pendent survey of exhibitors aimed in par
ticular at identifying their preferences for
scheduling the sectors international events.
The survey revealed that, once the pan
demic is over, exhibitors would prefer that
the two most important international trade
fairs for the automotive aftermarket Auto
promotec and Automechanika return to
their traditional schedule: Autopromotec in
odd-numbered years and Automechanika
in even-numbered years.
Representatives of these two events agreed
that it was important to satisfy the markets re
quirements here, and as a consequence, Autom
echanika Frankfurt will take place on 10-14 Sep
tember 2024, while the 30 Autopromotec will
take place on 21-24 May 2025 in the Bologna fair
district, restoring the events alternation that had
been interrupted by the pandemic.
In addition, Autopromotec is creating a new
event, to be held on 16-18 November 2023. The
event, which is still in the design phase, is de
voted to manufacturers, component suppliers,
dealers and buyers and focuses on the challenges
facing the entire mobility industry, from the en
ergy transition and sustainability to new business
Autopromotec is an international exhibition
for automotive equipment and aftermarket
Bologna Exhibition Centre. Founded in 1965,
the event is organised by Promotec, a services
company owned by the AIRP (Italian Tyre
Retreaders Association) and AICA (Italian
Automotive Equipment Manufacturers
Association). The event features a unique
combination of specialisation, profession
trade show which includes over 580 prod
uct categories covering all sub-sectors of
the aftermarket takes the form of a selec
tion of specialised fairs, where visitors can
easily plan personalised itineraries based
With 13 events around the globe, Auto
mechanika is the worlds most successful B2B
trade fair brand. In 2022, a total of nine Autom
echanika trade fairs will be held worldwide. The
trade fair was first held in Frankfurt in 1971. Since
the 1990s, new locations around the world have
been added continuously. Automechanika is now
represented in 13 cities: In addition to Frankfurt,
these are Birmingham, Buenos Aires, Dubai, Ho
Chi Minh City, Istanbul, Johannesburg, Kuala Lum
pur, Mexico City, New Delhi, Nur-Sultan, Riyadh
and Shanghai.
xalta Refinish has unveiled three new
websites for its premium refinish brands,
Cromax, Spies Hecker and Standox, that
cater specifically for the Europe, Middle East and
Africa (EMEA) region. The sites offer visitors mod
ern, clean homepages and page content with an
enhanced and complete browsing experience.
Olaf Adamek, Axalta Refinish Brand Manager
for EMEA, says, “These three new websites re
flect intuitive navigation, an accessible approach
and a clear focus on products, three things we
know our visitors value, in particular the refinish
ers and bodyshops who use the sites regularly.”
One of the key changes has been to the prod
uct catalogues. Now, every SKU has a full prod
uct description so visitors can easily and quickly
find specific products, which are conveniently
grouped by category, usage area, related paint
system or related mixing system. Users can also
search the catalogues by material codes or key
“The websites’ new architecture, which we
have created with user feedback in mind, pro
vides even more of the content our sites’ visitors
want in real-time. The product catalogues are
now refreshed automatically a new product is
added or updated in our database, so refinishers
will have the latest information about our innova
tive technologies at a click of a mouse or a tap of
a finger,” adds Adamek.
Like the previous sites, visitors can receive
all the sites’ content regardless of how they ac
cess it as the layout is completely responsive, so
it adapts regardless of whether the websites are
browsed from a laptop, desktop, a tablet or a mo
bile phone.
Users can still utilise the website like an app
on home screens of iOS and Android mobile
devices by simply saving the site. It appears as an
icon, enabling fast access to important informa
tion such as the product catalogues or technical
“While each site retains the iconic look and feel
of each brand, we’ve ensured our users have fresh,
valuable content thanks to lean, responsive pages
from day one,” concludes Adamek.
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.
Tel: +27 11 886 6300 | Surrey Square Office Park, 330 Surrey Avenue, Ferndale, Randburg, 2194, Gauteng, P. O. Box 2940, Randburg, 2125
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 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
the country, into a National Executive Committee (NEC),
where strategy and solutions are developed. This bottom
up approach is a fundamental SAPRA imperative
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 represents tyre dealers; garage/workshop equipment and
tool importers and distributors; auto part wholesalers, retailers
and independent operators in the aftermarket motor parts
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
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
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
NADA represents the interests of business people who own or
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, 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 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
News
n order to get an accurate picture of
market sentiment, organisers of Autom-
echanika Frankfurt took advantage of the
last Autopromotec to commission an inde-
pendent survey of exhibitors aimed in par-
ticular at identifying their preferences for
scheduling the sectors international events.
The survey revealed that, once the pan-
demic is over, exhibitors would prefer that
the two most important international trade
fairs for the automotive aftermarket Auto-
promotec and Automechanika return to
their traditional schedule: Autopromotec in
odd-numbered years and Automechanika
in even-numbered years.
Representatives of these two events agreed
that it was important to satisfy the markets re-
quirements here, and as a consequence, Autom-
echanika Frankfurt will take place on 10-14 Sep-
tember 2024, while the 30th Autopromotec will
take place on 21-24 May 2025 in the Bologna fair
district, restoring the events alternation that had
been interrupted by the pandemic.
In addition, Autopromotec is creating a new
event, to be held on 16-18 November 2023. The
event, which is still in the design phase, is de-
voted to manufacturers, component suppliers,
dealers and buyers and focuses on the challenges
facing the entire mobility industry, from the en-
ergy transition and sustainability to new business
models.
Autopromotec is an international exhibition
for automotive equipment and aftermarket
products that takes place every two years at the
Bologna Exhibition Centre. Founded in 1965,
the event is organised by Promotec, a services
company owned by the AIRP (Italian Tyre
Retreaders Association) and AICA (Italian
Automotive Equipment Manufacturers
Association). The event features a unique
combination of specialisation, profession-
alism and quality that makes it a true meet-
ing place for manufacturers and users. The
trade show which includes over 580 prod-
uct categories covering all sub-sectors of
the aftermarket takes the form of a selec-
tion of specialised fairs, where visitors can
easily plan personalised itineraries based
on their professional interests.
With 13 events around the globe, Auto-
mechanika is the worlds most successful B2B
trade fair brand. In 2022, a total of nine Autom-
echanika trade fairs will be held worldwide. The
trade fair was first held in Frankfurt in 1971. Since
the 1990s, new locations around the world have
been added continuously. Automechanika is now
represented in 13 cities: In addition to Frankfurt,
these are Birmingham, Buenos Aires, Dubai, Ho
Chi Minh City, Istanbul, Johannesburg, Kuala Lum-
pur, Mexico City, New Delhi, Nur-Sultan, Riyadh
and Shanghai.
xalta Refinish has unveiled three new
websites for its premium refinish brands,
Cromax, Spies Hecker and Standox, that
cater specifically for the Europe, Middle East and
Africa (EMEA) region. The sites offer visitors mod-
ern, clean homepages and page content with an
enhanced and complete browsing experience.
Olaf Adamek, Axalta Refinish Brand Manager
for EMEA, says, “These three new websites re-
flect intuitive navigation, an accessible approach
and a clear focus on products, three things we
know our visitors value, in particular the refinish-
ers and bodyshops who use the sites regularly.”
One of the key changes has been to the prod-
uct catalogues. Now, every SKU has a full prod-
uct description so visitors can easily and quickly
find specific products, which are conveniently
grouped by category, usage area, related paint
system or related mixing system. Users can also
search the catalogues by material codes or key
product terms.
“The websites’ new architecture, which we
have created with user feedback in mind, pro-
vides even more of the content our sites’ visitors
want in real-time. The product catalogues are
now refreshed automatically a new product is
added or updated in our database, so refinishers
will have the latest information about our innova-
tive technologies at a click of a mouse or a tap of
a finger,” adds Adamek.
Like the previous sites, visitors can receive
all the sites’ content regardless of how they ac-
cess it as the layout is completely responsive, so
it adapts regardless of whether the websites are
browsed from a laptop, desktop, a tablet or a mo-
bile phone.
Users can still utilise the website like an app
on home screens of iOS and Android mobile
devices by simply saving the site. It appears as an
icon, enabling fast access to important informa-
tion such as the product catalogues or technical
and safety data sheets.
“While each site retains the iconic look and feel
of each brand, we’ve ensured our users have fresh,
valuable content thanks to lean, responsive pages
guaranteeing the sites are delivering performance
from day one,” concludes Adamek.
www.automobil.co.za
November 2022
The automotive aftermarket
is back on schedule
Axalta Refinish unveils
new websites
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
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
ord’s next generation Ranger
Raptor will be its latest off-road
ing vehicle to tackle the SCORE
International Baja 1000 – one of the
toughest off-road races in the world.
The Ranger Raptor will be racing on
a low-carbon biofuel, demonstrating
the potential of these fuels in the
Ford Performance worked with
Australia’s Kelly Racing to build the
Baja-ready Ranger Raptor and U.S.-
based Lovell Racing to develop and
race the truck at Baja, which begins on Nov. 18.
Lovell Racing, led by multi-time off-road champi
on and Off-Road Motorsports Hall of Famer Brad
Lovell, is one of Ford Performance’s key off-road
“By entering this event, we’re building on the
ment testing and pushing the Ranger Raptor to
new extremes,” said Brian Novak, Off-Road Mo
torsports Supervisor, Ford Performance.
The Baja 1000, held on the Baja California
Peninsula, is considered one of the world’s most
prestigious off-road races, attracting competi
tors from around the globe eager to take on its
miles of treacherous desert terrain, steep drops
and tough climbs.
In the past, both the F-150 Raptor and Ford
Bronco have successfully raced at Baja. Whether
it was a stock 2017 F-150 Raptor finishing on the
podium before driving an additional 400 miles
home, the Bronco R race prototype’s develop
ment and verification of the current production
Bronco or even hailing all the way back to the leg
endary 1969 overall win, there’s hearty history at
play for Ford trucks.
Ford Performance believes the Ranger Raptor
is up for the challenge. It is built to the rules of
SCORE’s stock class, which are meant to show off
the capability of the stock street legal bakkies.
The Ranger Raptor will be powered by Shell’s
low carbon biofuel blend, which consists of more
than 30% sustainably sourced bio components.
“Demonstrating low-carbon fuels
in performance settings like the Baja
1000 can help bring biofuels and oth
more quickly, and help to make them
more available and affordable for ev
eryone,” said Cynthia Williams, Global
Director of Sustainability, Compliance
and Homologation at Ford.
Ford is working to achieve car
bon neutrality globally across its ve
hicles, operations and supply chain
by no later than 2050 and to reach
science-based interim targets by 2035. As Ford
launches electrified versions of its most popular
nameplates, the company continues to research
and develop alternative fuel options across all
of its vehicles, including performance racing, to
provide customers with efficient, low-carbon al
ternatives. Alternative fuel vehicles can reduce
GHG emissions compared to conventional fuel
equivalents on a well-to-wheels basis, which in
cludes emissions from both producing and con
suming the fuels.
otortrend’s iconic Hot Rod brand, one
of the most recognised brands in the
1948, announced the brand will celebrate its
75th anniversary by providing free access to its
massive magazine archives, featuring digital ver
sions of every Hot Rod Magazine published prior
ClassiC car fans can access the Hot Rod digi
tal archive by registering for a free MotorTrend+
account. With more than 900 issues of Hot Rod
Magazine published since 1948, totaling more
than 128 000 pages of content, the Hot Rod Dig
ital Archives takes readers from the early days of
organised racing on the dry lake beds through the
horsepower wars of the ‘60s into present day.
Jakkie Olivier
Cell: 082 452 5150
jakkie.olivier@rmi.org.za
Jan Schoeman
Cell: 082 552 7712
jan.schoeman@rmi.org.za
Renee Coetsee
Cell: 082 412 6760
renee.coetsee@rmi.org.za
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
Attie Serfontein
Cell: 082 452 5153
attie.serfontein@rmi.org.za
Pieter Niemand
Cell: 082 812 5391
pieter.niemand@rmi.org.za
Gary McCraw
Cell: 082 560 6613
gary.mccraw@rmi.org.za
Uvashen Bramiah
Cell: 061 148 4289
uvashen.bramiah@rmi.org.za
Vishal Premlall
Cell: 082 886 6392
vishal.premlall@rmi.org.za
Julian Pillay
Cell: 082 560 6625
julian.pillay@rmi.org.za
Louis van Huyssteen
Cell: 082 560 6623
louis.vanhuyssteen@rmi.org.za
Nonhlanhla Noni Tshabalala
Cell: 083 208 7161
noni.tshabalala@rmi.org.za
Jacques Viljoen
Cell: 083 337 9922
jacques.viljoen@rmi.org.za
Brand and Communication Manager
Cell: 082 926 5846
danelle.vandermerwe@rmi.org.za
HR Manager
Cell: 083 208 7161
noni.tshabalala@rmi.org.za
Regulatory Compliance Manager
Cell: 082 560 6625
julian.pillay@rmi.org.za
Surrey Square Office Park
Regional Manager: KwaZulu-Natal
Regional Manager: Western Cape
Regional Manager: Eastern Cape/Border
Jeff Molefe: Regional Manager: Central
(Gauteng/Northwest/ Mpumalanga/ Limpopo)
Regional Manager: Free State/Northern Cape
Randburg: 011 886 6300
Durban: 031 266 7031
Port Elizabeth: 041 364 0070
Cape Town: 021 939 9440
Bloemfontein: 051 430 3294
011 669 1214
0861 668 677
066 292 0102
072 787 5503
@AutomobilSA
Facebook.com/AutomobilSA
www.rmi.org.za
www.automobil.co.za
November 2022
News
ord’s next generation Ranger
Raptor will be its latest off-road-
ing vehicle to tackle the SCORE
International Baja 1000 – one of the
toughest off-road races in the world.
The Ranger Raptor will be racing on
a low-carbon biofuel, demonstrating
the potential of these fuels in the
most demanding environments.
Ford Performance worked with
Australia’s Kelly Racing to build the
Baja-ready Ranger Raptor and U.S.-
based Lovell Racing to develop and
race the truck at Baja, which begins on Nov. 18.
Lovell Racing, led by multi-time off-road champi-
on and Off-Road Motorsports Hall of Famer Brad
Lovell, is one of Ford Performance’s key off-road
teams.
“By entering this event, we’re building on the
hundreds of thousands of kilometers of develop-
ment testing and pushing the Ranger Raptor to
new extremes,” said Brian Novak, Off-Road Mo-
torsports Supervisor, Ford Performance.
The Baja 1000, held on the Baja California
Peninsula, is considered one of the world’s most
prestigious off-road races, attracting competi-
tors from around the globe eager to take on its
miles of treacherous desert terrain, steep drops
and tough climbs.
In the past, both the F-150 Raptor and Ford
Bronco have successfully raced at Baja. Whether
it was a stock 2017 F-150 Raptor finishing on the
podium before driving an additional 400 miles
home, the Bronco R race prototype’s develop-
ment and verification of the current production
Bronco or even hailing all the way back to the leg-
endary 1969 overall win, there’s hearty history at
play for Ford trucks.
Ford Performance believes the Ranger Raptor
is up for the challenge. It is built to the rules of
SCORE’s stock class, which are meant to show off
the capability of the stock street legal bakkies.
The Ranger Raptor will be powered by Shell’s
low carbon biofuel blend, which consists of more
than 30% sustainably sourced bio components.
“Demonstrating low-carbon fuels
in performance settings like the Baja
1000 can help bring biofuels and oth-
er clean energy technologies to scale
more quickly, and help to make them
more available and affordable for ev-
eryone,” said Cynthia Williams, Global
Director of Sustainability, Compliance
and Homologation at Ford.
Ford is working to achieve car-
bon neutrality globally across its ve-
hicles, operations and supply chain
by no later than 2050 and to reach
science-based interim targets by 2035. As Ford
launches electrified versions of its most popular
nameplates, the company continues to research
and develop alternative fuel options across all
of its vehicles, including performance racing, to
provide customers with efficient, low-carbon al-
ternatives. Alternative fuel vehicles can reduce
GHG emissions compared to conventional fuel
equivalents on a well-to-wheels basis, which in-
cludes emissions from both producing and con-
suming the fuels.
Next-generation Ford Ranger
Raptor to tackle Baja 1000
otortrend’s iconic Hot Rod brand, one
of the most recognised brands in the
world of high-performance cars since
1948, announced the brand will celebrate its
75th anniversary by providing free access to its
massive magazine archives, featuring digital ver-
sions of every Hot Rod Magazine published prior
to 2022.
ClassiC car fans can access the Hot Rod digi-
tal archive by registering for a free MotorTrend+
account. With more than 900 issues of Hot Rod
Magazine published since 1948, totaling more
than 128 000 pages of content, the Hot Rod Dig-
ital Archives takes readers from the early days of
organised racing on the dry lake beds through the
horsepower wars of the ‘60s into present day.
Next-Gen
ranger raptor
is baja bound
Hot Rod celebrates by unlocking
archives
10
www.automobil.co.za
November 2022
iNdustry News
he 2022 South African motorcycle market is
well on track to surpassing the 30 00 new units
sales mark.
“This will be a healthy increase of 14.7% com-
pared 2021, which in turn was up 26% on 2020. How-
ever, not every segment is doing well,” says Arnold
Olivier, National Director, AMID (The Association of
Motorcycle Importers and Distributors).
“Segment performance varies from between
-30% to +49% with the higher priced leisure seg-
ments being negatively affected. For the first time in
four years the leisure 250 to 500cc segment is show-
ing growth, which is promising. During the year nu-
merous brands experienced stock shortages and not
all were microchip related. ATV and side by side sales
remained stagnant year on year on year,” says Olivier.
“The commercial motorcycle segment continues
to grow in a healthy manner. Anecdotal evidence sug-
gests that if more commercial riders were available,
growth could be even higher. As approximately 95%
of commercial riders are estimated to have foreign
passports, this most certainly presents a low-cost op-
portunity to employment of South African citizens,”
adds Olivier.
Manufacturers remain positive that the growth
pattern will continue in 2023 and beyond.
Commercial motorcycles lead
sales surge
roger houghton
here are many people who think of them-
selves as being legends in their own life-
time, but that accolade is deserved by only
a few. One of these people was Deryck Spence
(79), who passed away suddenly at his home in
Southbroom on September 29.
Deryck was the driving force when the pres-
ence of Castrol lubricants was seen and heard all
over South Africa, with memorable advertising in
all its forms and a host of sponsorships, particu-
larly in the realm of motor sport. Castrol spon-
sorship was evident in all aspects of local motor
sport, while Deryck was also very involved with
ensuring the on going success of the Castrol Ral-
ly, which obtained international status and was a
byword in the world of rallying for 25 years.
Deryck also built special relationships with
his customers and his hosting on events was
legendary. He had a special knack for engen-
dering wonderful brand and company loyalty in
his employees as well as generating an amazing
team spirit that was rewarded with great sales
success for many years.
Deryck joined the Burmah-Castrol group of
companies in 1964 as a Sales Representative and
rose in the ranks to become the Managing Direc-
tor of Castrol South Africa in 1986, also becoming
a legend in the local motor industry as he estab-
lished a dominant footprint for his company in
South Africa. He transferred to the United King-
dom in 1992 as European Director for a group
company, Foseco Plc.
“Luckily for South Africa, this brilliant, tal-
ented, businessperson returned to this country.
He formed a management consultancy business
and in 2000 entered the paint sector when he
acquired a share in Promac Paints. In 2009 he be-
came the Executive Director of the South African
Paint Manufacturing Association (SAPMA) and
led that organisation for 11 years. He continued
to serve SAPMA as a non-executive director after
his retirement.
Passing of a legend
inance Minister Enoch Godongwana’s effective scrapping of e-tolls as
a funding mechanism for the Gauteng Freeway Improvement Project
(GFIP) is a victory for Gauteng motorists and brings an end to years of
protest and objection against the system. However, moving forward, focus
must now shift to how the Gauteng Provincial Government (GPG) will fund
road maintenance and development in the province, according to the Auto
mobile Association.
The Automobile Association (AA) says government’s commitment to
pay 70% of outstanding debt for the Gauteng Freeway Improvement Project
(GFIP) is also to be welcomed. The remaining 30% of the debt will be paid
by the GPG.
“This is a positive move and means the debts of SANRAL in relation to
GFIP will be dealt with. SMS communication late yesterday afternoon after
the announcement to registered e-toll users that a final pronouncement on
e-tolls had been made is equally important. While the sms states ‘The im
pact on your SANRAL Account will be communicated soonest’ we believe
all debt will also be cancelled, again another positive development and one
which we urged government to make,” says the AA.
Moving forward, the AA says the maintenance of roads in Gauteng,
including the GFIP, will now have to come directly from the GPG. Minister
Godongwana indicated that the provincial government could use a variety
of mechanisms to raise this money, including e-tolls, toll plazas (which would
be impractical), or through their provincial budget.
The Association says these are all positive developments, but the con
cern now is how the maintenance of roads in the province, and development
of the additional phases of the GFIP, will be funded.
“Currently the provincial roads budget is around R9bn annually. Howev
er, in each of the last two years, R2bn has, for instance, been allocated to the
Gautrain to compensate that private system for low ridership levels through
the Patronage Guarantee. Looking ahead, when considering more extensive
funding of roads in the province through the GPG’s Roads Budget, will this
allocation to Gautrain – which serves a small, elite group of commuters in
the province – continue, or will it be reallocated to serve the interests of
motorists in Gauteng which comprise a far bigger portion of the commuting
public?” asks the AA.
The motoring public of Gauteng showed their dissatisfaction with the
right decision to scrap it. Moving forward, the AA will continue to push for
a solution to road funding that serves the needs of all the citizens of the
province without placing additional financial pressure on them for funding
as they already pay for this through existing taxation,” the AA concludes.
yres can mean the difference between life
and death, or safety versus life-changing
injury. This Transport Month, Sumitomo
Rubber South Africa, in partnership with the
Road Accident Fund (RAF) and the South African
Tyre Manufacturers Conference (SATMC), is tak
As part of an ongoing partnership between
the RAF and the SATMC, a tyre safety workshop
was held for around 70 traffic officers from the
Ladysmith District. The aim was to equip the
officers to better enforce laws and regulations
correctly, by knowing how to spot risky or illegal
At the Sumitomo Training Academy in Lady
smith, SRSA Group Training Manager: Truck & Bus,
Keith Phelps, took the law enforcement officers
wear patterns, sidewall damage, retreaded tyres,
and other factors that could affect the roadwor
thiness and legality of a tyre. The initiative also
included an educational roadblock set up just
outside the Road Traffic Inspectorate centre
on the N11, Ladysmith, to educate commuters
about tyre safety and ensure that they get prop
er technical information on their tyres. A number
of trucks with defective tyres were also stopped.
In providing compensation to the victims of
road accidents in South Africa, the RAF knows
all too well that poor tyre safety is a critical fac
operating vehicles with worn or poorly inflated
tyres, and traffic departments need to be able to
identify and weed out unroadworthy tyres and
Prioritise tyre care and safety. Buy reputable
tyres. Choose new tyres over second-hand. Inflate
tyres correctly. Ensure your tyre tread is above
1.6mm. Carry out wheel alignment, balancing and
tyre rotation at recommended intervals.