automotive refinisher march-april 2014

March - April 2014

UTOMOTIVEAUTOMOTIVET H E V O I C E O F T H E I N D U S T R YEdition 172

A

IN THIS ISSUE>>>>>> >>

R E F I N I S H E R

TOP SHOP

IN THIS ISSUE

RSB AUTOGROUP

>>>>>> >>

CRA NEWS ZAMBIAN UPDATEFUTURE TECHDID YOU HEAR?

RSB AUTOGROUP

R E F I N I S H E R

TOP SHOP

CRA NEWS ZAMBIAN UPDATEFUTURE TECHDID YOU HEAR?

GENEVAMOTORSHOWGENEVAMOTORSHOW

Zwartkops Passion For Speed

ZwartkopsPassion For Speed

AR COVER M-A 2014_NOV/DEC COVER 05 2014/03/19 11:23 AM

In the last two decades the South African collision repair markethas really come of age as right across the country top independentrepair concerns have moved forward to embrace the changingtechnology of todays complex modern vehicles.

One of the foremost concerns in recent years has been theconstant bottom line profitability erosion partially due to the lackof standards which has lead to a over-traded repair environment.Top class independent shops have been left with only policies ofa reactive nature and much difficulty in finding a proper return ontheir investment through a lack of recognition of the standardsneeded to run a professional repair facility.

The Collision Repairers Association has adopted an entirely newapproach to the industry and some of its challenges by recruitingthe cream of the crop of the repair industry who have invested instandards and continue to put out quality repairs with the aim toplease customers. The vast knowledge of the officials and staffwill drive forward a strategic plan to improve repairer profits andgain recognition for the vast number of independent key roleplayers in every area of activity in collision repair in South Africa.

Enjoy the recognitionyou deserve.

T h e b e n c h m a r k o f q u a l i t yC a l l u s o n 0 8 6 1 7 2 6 2 7 2 o r V i s i t w w w . c r a s a . o r g . z a

The CRA over the past year have worked closely with somemajor insurers in putting together guidelines to progress theneeds of both the insurance and repair sectors. The time hascome for major structural repairers and the smaller non-structural repair shops to have a dedicated voice at thenegotiating table. Not only do we have to understand theinsurance industry and some of their unique challenges, but weneed to also offer long term sustainable solution to problemsthat have existed over the past 3 decades.

The CRA is also driving a recognizable legislated standardvia the DTI that will become compulsory for any repairer to tradein South Africa. This should see the repairers that have alreadyinvested in standards gain the recognition they so rightlydeserve.

The industry has certainly been begging for change andchange has arrived in the form of the CRA. So call us soon togain your place on the road forwards with the new tradeorganisation of the future in collision repairs.

JOIN THE CRA AND GET THE RECOGNITION YOU DESERVE!

COLLISION REPAIR ASSOCIATION 2_Layout 1 2014/03/19 11:25 AM Page 1

CRA UPDATEMaking Great Strides 4PPG PROGRAMMEContinuous Improvement 12GLASURITWet-on-Wet Primer 21DRIVENSonic RS 31ARVATOInterview with Christian Bust 34NORTONMulti-Air Option 39KEIZEN AUTOMOTIVE Rislone Arrives 46ZWARTKOPSVintage Races 48TOP SHOPAlfa Body Works 54FUTURE TECHGM Where to Now? 68PEUGEOTParts Proficiency 78

ContentsM A R C H - A P R I L 2 0 1 4

16 21

3152

Contents

78

48

68

40

3R E F I N I S H E RUTOMOTIVEAAUTOMOTIVE

16 21

4048

68 78

Front Cover & Contents:Audi TT Quattro Sport Concept(420hp)

5231

CONTENTS MARCH-APRIL 2014_Layout 1 2014/03/24 11:44 AM Page 1

4R E F I N I S H E R

UTOMOTIVEAAUTOMOTIVE

In less than two years the Collision Repair Association (CRA)has posted some significant achievements in the drive tobecome the association with a quality benchmark for an entirelynew body,” “A successful track record of delivery to the

members has been hard earned.“With the help of insurance companies like Zurich, Santam,

MiWay and Hollard and other key players, we have been able togain a co-operative agreements on things like standards and inter-business relationships for the CRA membership.

“Still one of the biggest problems going forward in the insuranceand repair sector remains customer and body repair concerns ofright of choice. By our latest moves of being able to consult keyinsurance figure heads who really fully understand the exact needsthat South African Insurers are looking to improve on. This type ofinside knowledge will surely be able to help us drive up our nationalfootprint of membership and see the CRA constant drive todevelop a more profitable model to work with going forward.

CRA will continue to develop systems for the members this yearand expect some very positive developments in this regard in thenear future. CRA has also created a platform to assist memberswith Audatex quotes. The majority of insurance assessments aredone on the Audatex system today. CRA members can now sendqueries and quotes to [email protected] . A trained professionalwill provide you with technical assistance.

CRA will see a rapid expansion on tool sets, BETAG Soft PushSystems, PDR Trolleys and single part tools.

“The full line up of the Swiss manufactured products includesmany unique and cutting edge technologies like Glue Pullers, GP2,Sliding Hammer, Dentliners and single part tools now in use inmodern repair shops worldwide. These systems will certainly beuseful with the recent hail that has hit areas like Gauteng. They willalso help improve profitability in the shops by using more effectiverepair methods.

CRA launch BETAG Innovative modern body panel repair system

BETAG Innovative are a specialist supplier of body shoptechnology repair tool systems from Switzerland used bytechnicians worldwide. The full range is on offer and is verycomprehensive with mobile tool sets, soft push dent removal, fulltrolleys that are equipped with professional sets of paintless dentremoval pushers, whale tail sets, carbon hammers and flat shaft setscomplete with the PDR tool table holders.

BETAG also offer glue pullers, sliding hammers and a dent linerfull kit. The professional offer is available to CRA members countrywide. Call the CRA for more details on 0861 726 272 or see theirwebsite at www.crasa.org.za

For membership enquiries or to make an appointment with aCRA consultant contact:

Lisa-Marie (Gauteng) on 0826009565Chris Boaz (Durban/ Eastern Cpe) on 0840858939Hendry Basson (Free State/ Northern/Western Cape) on

0832741911.

LATEST NEWS FROM CRA

CRA MAKE GREAT STRIDESINTO THE NEW YEAR

LOCAL UPDATE

“

By hold ing a number ofh igh prof i le conferencesand techn ica l t ra in ingsess ions, CRA have beenupl i f t ing the qual i ty o frepa ir and knowledge ofnew systems throughoutthe year .

AR M-A 2014 NAT_NOV/DEC 2005 paganation 2014/03/24 12:32 PM Page 28

Seventy one high profile collision repair centres held the firststakeholder meeting for the Collision Repairers Co-operative to vote on key matters at the first general meeting.In new developments underway board member Peter Todd,

played a guiding influence in the way business will unfold, in theway insurers and repairers could align their objectives for the future.Body shop owners were told that they were now part of a biggerconcern with meetings being held with various key role players intheir regions by the co-operative operation.

Good corporate governance will be part of the way forwardexplained Peter. No one must lose sight of the motor cover aspectof their operations as clearly insurers were having difficulties all oftheir own when it came to returns on motor policies.

Another feature of their pricing to drivers was it takes an insurerbetween 18 to 24 months to implement a rate hike on theirpolicies so with compounding events like Rand depreciation andincreasing parts and paint prices it is another headache on thehorizon.

However, the new co-operation model proposed wouldundoubtedly deliver a better cost quantity for insurers who sign upfor the new proposal from the co-operative members with theavailability of a much more accurate repair cost which is designedto reduce claims costs and eliminate unsavory practices. Co-operative stakeholders would, however, need to keep standards ofrepair high and onwards maintained as the pilot systems start to rollout.

Members would enjoy a great deal of protection with regards totransparency as the existing executive council would apply a verystraight forward and open cards policy with the members at alltimes with consultations being employed nationally to retain a greatdegree of fairness for all role players, suppliers and repairersinvolved.

Some key constitutional changes followed by new overseasrepair technologies saw the close of the meeting. The businessseminar the following day also provided value to all businessowners that attended.

LATEST NEWS

FIRST CRC GENERAL MEETING FOR CO-OPACTIVITIES



CRC UPDATE

Peter Todd toldstakeholders thatbest practises andtop quality repairswere part of the newco-operative model.

AR M-A 2014 NAT_NOV/DEC 2005 paganation 2014/03/19 9:15 AM Page 4

Tertius Steyl (junior) and histwin brother Jean are doing anexcellent job of running thecompany built up by their father

Tertius (senior) and are now continuingtheir hands-on approach to thecompany’s success. With RSB behindthem and much-improved technicalback-up, it’s a great partnership withgood clients and repeat business.

Nick Acey is upbeat about A1’sperformance. “We’re nowrunning the best for the lastsix years with my production

up, thanks to the R-M waterbornesystem. It is outstanding. Not only are weseeing more cars out per month, butpaint purchases are also reduced by alarge amount. We are very grateful toRSB for their good service and back-upinterest for A1’s Panel Shop.`’

Steyl Panealbeaters,Somerset West“We’re 15% up on refinishpaint cost savings and enjoyingfaster damaged vehicleturnaround.”

A1 Panel Shop, Paarden Eiland“Our output has increasedfrom an average of 26 up to 30cars with RSB’s help.”

6

SPECIAL

FEATURE

“QUALITY FROMSTART TO FINISH”

AR M-A 2014 CLAIRE_NOV/DEC 2005 paganation 2014/03/24 12:16 PM Page 12

Dals Claremont sees anindustry long term Mercedes-Benz specialist running theoperations. “We have been

able to boost output significantly asmany colours are right first time with theR-M colouristics. With superb technicalhelp the new shop is doing very well,”says Reister.

Reinier van Wyk is seeing amuch-improved repair cycletime with RSB and theirtechnical approach. The overall

result with the R-M waterborne range isthat they are making a major cost savingeach and every month on paint andoperating efficiency.

Dals Claremont AutoBody Repair Centre“For me, a refinish paintsystem must be invisible andrun like clockwork. With RSBand R-M we have achievedthat,” says Robert Reister, MD.

MalmesburyPaneelkloppers

7

RSB TAKE ANIMPROVEDAPPROACH TOSERVICE DELIVERYFOR CLIENTS


Letitia and Johan Odendal have agood 28-year-long history in thecollision repair business. Johansays, “RSB simply overcame any

problems that come up. It’s the 100%technical RSB focus that has stopped thereject work from the paint shop stonedead. This, plus reduced paint costs, it isa dream come true with R-M in myshop.”

Elvin Nel and Wayne Gibson runa slick, modern body shop in themotor town hub centre ofMontague Gardens. Dals

founder Tommy Nel says that thisbranch is seeing between 15-20% moreproduction with the RSB big value add-on with the R-M refinish system.

Sentraal Bakwerke,Malmesbury“Moving to RSB support wasthe best thing I ever did in 25years of business,” says JohanOdendal.

Dals, MontagueGardens“We have boosted outputdramatically with RSBsupport,” says Wayne Gibson.

SPECIAL

FEATURE

“HELPING TOPCOLLISIONREPAIROPERATORS”


Worcester Bakwerke is sobig that founder NickyHorn scoots around in agolf cart. His hands-on

sons Morne and Rudi are on top of allthe technical issues. “We’re up to around300 repaired cars per month right now.We’re matching our 60 colours eachweek with more improved flow andquality using RSB and their technicalback-up and assistance.”

Leon Boshoff has been in thebody shop supply trade forover a decade and his job ofbeing a key account manager

means he is at it from first light to latein the day.

“I feel we have been incrediblysuccessful in just one year in the Capemarket because of the company’sdrive and enthusiasm to genuinely saveon the overall costs and speed upoutput quality for our system users”,said Leon.

Husband and wife team ChanelVogl branch manager, and Trevortechnical manager, oversee the newbranch in Cape Town and work withseven specialist technical back-uptrainers and a fleet of delivery vehicles.

Worcester Bakwerke“Overall quality at the end ofthe repair has improved for uswith radical cost savings atWorcester,” says Rudi Horn.

9

RSB Cape“We continue to gain newcustomers because of ourgreat service”, says ChanelVogl.

CHANGING THELANDSCAPE OFTECHNICAL SERVICE& PRODUCTIONEFFICIENCY


quality in air filtration, the triple airpurifier from Sagola sees an eightmicron filter with regulator using acoupled wide surface calescant filterto gain 0.01 micron clean air. It is anideal choice for the spraybooth orpreparation zone installation, for itslarge two inch inlet delivers amaximum air flow rate of some2500 l/min.

All this comes with an automaticunmanned drain for the discharge of liquids and impurities.

You can get more details on the full Sagola range on the websitewww.sagola.com or you can call Vermont Sales on+27 (0)11 314 7711 for a distributor near you.

Anew line of spray guns from Vermont Sales is nowavailable for the refinisher. The Classic Pro Gravity, madein Spain carryies full approvals from the world’s top paintcompanies.

The new body design carries an ergonomic design coupled withmaximum robustness and everyday reliability in use. It is also a high-speed spray gun at the work face, using a single spindle design withfar fewer parts than seen on a normal spray gun. All this comes witha value price in terms of body shop affordability.

The gun can also be fully adjusted with spraying gloves for ease ofoperation, and has an aluminium, built-in regulator for air pressure forease and speed of spray gun applications on primers and sealers.

Sagola also offer a full line up of nozzle sizes right from a 1.6 upto a 2.8 to gain exactly the right layout a spray painter might need.

Looking to meet an approval programme or maximum clean air

the stainless steel and brass designed vFan Airbrush System is a "workhorse" and delivers a 1/16" detail to 3" fan spray pattern whenspraying lacquer,exterior/interior paints, woodstains, latex, clear coats,solvent-based paints andmore.

It’s portable, silent andmade of stainless steel andbrass metal. First in class – a1/16" detail to 3" fan spraypattern and as simple asswitching out the air cap.

Industrial use – sprays gelcoats, clear coats, waterbased paint, solvent basedpaint, latex and more. Simpleto clean with an even finish.

For more details call EPT Systems +27 (0)21 556 1991.

The first, and the industry's most innovative airbrush thatturns into a air gun. The 3" fan and 1/16th" detail patternspray system is amazing and easier to switch out than anysystem on the market. Amazing portability uses for touch-

ups and working with air compressors. The vFan Portable Airbrushsystem is used for precision paint and material dispensing, touch-upsand surface repairs, surface preparation and curing.

The complete vFan System includes the vFan Airbrush (madefrom Stainless, Brass and with added coatings to protect againstsolvents), 6' air hose, two portable units of 150 Feet of ENERGY, airregulator, fan air cap, standard air cap for detail, additional needles,multiple product containers, dip tubes and an instruction manual.

No matter what the finish is, no matter where the touch-up is,

WHAT’S HOT?

SAGOLA CLASSIC PROGRAVITY

vFAN PREVAL AIRBRUSH

PRODUCT UPDATE

WHAT’S HOT?

With improved 50mm steel wall thickness and state-of-the-art colour matching fluorescent lighting andnew safety features in the stainless steel burner andheat exchangers. The SA Star Spraybooth alsoincorporates both front and side doors for easy entryat a very competitive price. The spraybooth meetsand exceeds health and safety standards.

CALL HENRY BASSON ON 082 857 5772

New ControlPanel

Twin Door Access

Improved LightingBurner withautomatic

flap control

SLASH COSTS WITH THE SA STAR SPRAYBOOTH

SALES - SERVICE - FILTRATION

ZENITH EQUIPMENT INTRODUCES THE SA STAR SPRAYBOOTH

ZENITH EQUIPMENT INTRODUCES THE SA STAR SPRAYBOOTH

VISIT OUR WEBSITE www.zenithequipment.co.za




R-M FILLER AD J-F 2013_Layout 1 2013/07/15 12:46 PM Page 1

When it was introduced in the90’s, the MVP programmewas the first programme ofits kind in the collision

repair industry. Since then, it has become atruly global programme. As of today, manybody shop owners and managers havetaken advantage of MVP's innovativebenchmarking tools, training and services toimprove the way they run their businessesand drive their performance levels.

Success is not only achieved by workingharder, but by working smarter. MVPBusiness Solutions’ commitment goesabove and beyond providing your businesswith products of guaranteed quality. PPG’sendeavours are geared towards maximising

the productive value of your body shop andto this end PPG have designed a uniqueand comprehensive programme.

Profitable growth is the main objectiveof any business, including body shops.Today, our challenge is to define the rightstrategies that will enable us to achieve thisgoal.

There are no textbooks to show youhow to manage your workshop optimally,but MVP Business Solutions is very muchaware that by applying the right processesand procedures in both the productionsection and the management departmentyou can make your business highlyprofitable.

The MVP Business Solutions programmeencompasses a series of services that youcan use according to your needs, offeringyou the chance to gain an advantage overyour competitors. These services includemanagement reports on the currentsituation of your body shop, comparison ofkey performance indicators in your market

and, most importantly, action plans gearedtowards increasing the profitability of yourbusiness.

The strategic decisions you make in yourbody shop should revolve around thiscompetitive advantage, and for this reasonthe MVP Business Solutions programme willhelp you to steer your business in the rightdirection with the sole aim of achievingincreased profitability in a market asdemanding as the body shop sector.

With the support of MVP BusinessSolutions, you will always know where yourefforts need to be directed.

In short, PPG is offering you amanagement tool which provides directsolutions for your body shop to answer theeveryday challenges: measuring the actionsyou have established, evaluating whetherthey are the right ones, and identifying howyou can tackle changes to manage thefuture of your company in a moreprofitable way.

COATINGS UPDATE

THE ROAD TOCONTINUOUSIMPROVEMENT



PRODUCT PROFILE

PPG’s MVP programme is a tool forthe body shop to make sure that yourbusiness is on the right track, makingthe most money it can and providing

the best service along with it.

AR M-A 2014 CLAIRE_NOV/DEC 2005 paganation 2014/03/19 9:48 AM Page 8

BY MONITORING SET KPI’S, THE BODY SHOP WILL ACHIEVEREDUCED CYCLE TIMES AND INCREASED PRODUCTION CAPACITY.

PPG AD M-A 2014_Layout 1 2014/03/12 2:57 PM Page 1

Gauteng Premier Nomvula Mokonyane, together with theEconomic Development MEC Mxolisi Xayiya, launchedthe Winterveld Enterprise Hub In February 2014.Township Enterprise Hubs form an integral part of

Gauteng’s strategy to revitalise township economies, increase theskills profile for young people and forge sustainable partnerships foremployment creation.

The Winterveld hub has an automotive focus and will provideon-site support small businesses specialising in tyre fitment and wheelalignment; panel beating; auto body repairs and spray painting; autospares; general motor mechanic; car wash and valet services.

The hub will provide budding entrepreneurs in the area with thefollowing:

•Training on the latest cutting edge technologies in theautomotive sector

•Incubation, mentoring and skills transfer on technical andfinancial management and business acumen.

•Shared services and facilities within the hub facility, which willalso be made available for small businesses around the area.

Speaking at the launch, Premier Mokonyane said: “We come froma past where black enterprise was significantly stifled and suppressed;these hubs are a creative way of nurturing existing enterprises in ourtownships to ensure their success and contribution to our jobcreation drive.”

MEC Xayiya added: “The hubs are designed to provideeconomic relief to some of the most economically depressed areasof the province. This is an innovative way of revitalising township-based businesses. They provide a golden opportunity to formaliseand expand existing automotive businesses in this area,” said MECXayiya.

Xayiya said the initiative would formalise township automotivebusinesses and enable young black entrepreneurs and women toparticipate in the automotive industry.

The Gauteng’s Automotive Industry Development Centre(AIDC) CEO, Barlow Manilal, said that there is currently a discussionunderway between the department and the automotive companies

about obtaining motor manufacturer accreditation for theentrepreneurs operating in the hub.

“This is one way of providing an enabling environment for viableand sustainable small businesses which can make a direct impact onthe economy. Global evidence suggests that both funding andincubation are crucial elements for small business success. Thesehubs are an integral part of our plans to foster mentorship and createpartnerships for long-term business sustainability and job creation,”he said.

Township Enterprise Hubs compliment the department’s work intraining young artisans to play a key role in furniture manufacturing,metal fabrication, jewellery manufacturing, tooling and foundryindustries.

Approximately 3000 Winterveld residents attended the launchwhere 90 young people were awarded training certificates.

TRAINING UPDATE

WINTERVELD SET TO TACKLEYOUTH UNEMPLOYMENT

WHAT’S HOT?




DEVILBISS AD N-D 2013_Layout 1 2013/11/06 9:42 AM Page 1

Operating from a new location in Marconi Road,Montague Gardens, Cowley SA says the move is a moreeffective way of servicing the Cape region body shopmarket distribution networks.

“It’s a new approach”, says Don, “and with the Cape Townmarket seeing constant expansion, the move will bring up availabilityin this area for the De Beer brand. We intend to cover the entireNorth Eastern and central paint sales markets of the Cape fromGeorge right up to Upington, from the new hub centre ofdistribution.”

“In quality terms the De Beer refinish offer is right up with theexcellent finish and colouristic back-up and our target market willremain the middle of the road top quality body shops looking for avalue price range with great ease of use and quality.”

“Our recent collision repair survey of the Cape reveals thatproven refinish products will play a large part in market expansion tocover the out-of-warranty and uninsured repair work being seen inever increasing numbers.”

The brand has, with Cowley SA’s back-up nationally, achieved adoubling of its sales volumes in recent times. With constant researchinto new colour shades, the range has a great line-up of first timecolour right colours in basecoat, mica and solid 2K materials.

That’s really what’s powering the De Beer brand forwards inSouth Africa. You can call Cowley Cape on +27 (0)21 552 6018 formore information on De Beer or the new branch.

INDUSTRY NEWS

DE BEER UP AND RUNNING IN THE CAPE

WHAT’S HOT?

erSo utAipqurdeeaLertHun ovApprM OE

BMW , enagwsolkVi/udA

.za.copiuqreadew.lww.za.copiuqreadelfo@ni

inises alcipeSs ceviertnepmquiEd eov orf

nzBes deceMer&BMW

.za.za

17 ellivntesetoR RdnaiMeagllVi

r AfthuoS,grusbenanhoJ

000 086 : eeFrll ToalationN1680334 (0)11 +27: Tel1694334 (0)11 +27: Fax

acir

2010 000 16801694

S HAY RTTRSINDUY EREV

DERALEEAAS

With a good value price and top performance to the Body Shop, Cowley SA opensin the Cape region to service the huge out-of-warranty, warranty and uninsuredrepair market for refinish,” says Don and Monja heading up Cowley Cape.


Call for distribution opportunities in your area.Sole Importer Cowley Automotive Products Tel: (016) 933 2233 email: [email protected] AUTOMOTIVE & INDUSTRIAL COATINGS (PTY) LTD

DE BEER BEROBASE S-O 2011_Layout 1 2013/05/22 11:11 AM Page 1



84TH GENEVA INTERNATIONAL MOTORSHOW84TH GENEVA INTERNATIONAL MOTORSHOW

GENEVA MOTORSHOW 2014

Mercedes-Benz S-C lass Coupe Audi TT Lamborghin i Huracan

AR M-A 2014 JAY_NOV/DEC 2005 paganation 2014/03/19 9:10 AM Page 7



The Geneva International Motor Show was the firstinternational motor show to dedicate an exhibition areaspecifically for vehicles powered by alternatives to petroland by renewable energies: The Green Pavilion which began

in 2009. Today, all the large manufacturers have included these lowemission vehicles in their product lines. As a result, beginning lastyear, these vehicles have re-joined the stands of their respectivebrands, as they are no longer oddities but have become part of theirmainstream offerings.

Responding to the increasing demand for low emission vehicles,the necessity to preserve the environment and to the introduction ofCO2 emission regulations, automobile manufacturers are now in arace against each other to develop alternative energy technologiesthat achieve advances in both economy and ecology. In only six yearsthe automobile industry has not only endured a major economiccrisis but has also completely revised and adapted their products tosatisfy the demands of automobile owners increasingly concernedabout the environment.

Within the framework of SwissEnergy, the platform of the Swissgovernment for the promotion of energy efficiency and the use ofrenewable energy, the Swiss national energy office and the GenevaInternational Motor Show have produced a brochure that bringstogether all of the “green” vehicles being presented at the Show.Regardless of their means of propulsion, all of these vehicles thatemit less than 95 grams of CO2 per kilometre will be listed in thispublication.

The threshold of 95 grams is lower in comparison with 2013.This figure corresponds to the average level of emissions that theEuropean Union will impose on all new vehicles to be sold in 2021.Last year the threshold was fixed at 100 grams of CO2 perkilometre. Around 10% of the 900 vehicles presented at thatGeneva Motor show were already below that level. This year morethan 65 models or 7.2% of all the models presented will alreadyqualify for the average emissions criteria set for new vehicles in sixyears’ time.

BMW 2-ser ies Act ive TourerC i t roën C1

Peugeot 108

Volvo Concept Estate

Hyundai Passo Corto

Maserat i A l f ier i Concept Toyota Aygo

VW’s T-ROC Concept


GLASURIT WET ON WET M-A 2014_Layout 1 2014/03/18 12:04 PM Page 1

Glasurit has further revolutionised its wet-on-wet fillerconcept so that you can achieve perfect results morequickly and economically at your body shop. With thenew concept, you can now even dispense with sanding

new e-coated parts. Leave the sanding paper in the supply cupboardand also save valuable labour time – up to 15% per part.

In addition, the new filler concept constitutes an entire packagefor nearly all substrates – even plastics. The new 522-10 PlasticAdditive ensures that the wet-on-wet filler now also adheres toplastic parts. This means that you no longer need to use adhesionpromoters and other special products at your body shop. Evenbetter, you will also cut labour time by up to 25%. Simply use theplastic additive instead of using reducer. It’s as easy as that! The entirepackage consists of Glasurit Non-Sanding Fillers 285-31 grey, 285-38white and 285-49 black, as well as 522-10 Plastic Additive.

The wet-on-wet filler concept ensures the same perfect results asthe former one, but saves substantially more material and labourtime. In this way, Glasurit is continually providing new products thathelp you stay ahead of the game. It goes without saying that the newwet-on-wet fillers also function as a grey shade concept. A greyshade coordinated with the colour of the basecoat allows you tosave up to 40% basecoat.

The refinishing process with Glasurit‘s wet-on-wet filler concept

allows you to repair cosmetic damage and coat new parts even fasterand more efficiently. Body shops profit from the technique, sincesanding and drying times are no longer needed. A high-quality resultwith no sanding or drying times can save you up to 30% in time whencompared to the application of a sanding filler.

With this refinishing process, application of new e-coated parts isquick and efficient. With the wet-on-wet filler concept, body shopsno longer need to sand new e-coated parts. The parts can be flexiblyprocessed for up to five days, allowing body shops to coat severalparts in advance. This optimises spray booth utilisation, boostscapacity and cuts energy costs.

With 522-10 Plastic Additive, wet-on-wet fillers also adhere toplastics. This is particularly efficient because body shops can dispensewith the application of adhesion promoters. And it’s as simple as this:all body shops have to do is replace the thinner with the plasticadditive. Even the mixing ratio remains the same.

Peter Corna from Cornright Motors says that the reason theyenjoy using wet on wet primer is that new parts don’t need to besanded and they can go straight into the spraybooth. “There is a costsaving as my colours are more accurate and have better coverage. Asa body shop owner, I would recommend that you use wet on wetprimers as it is very quick and user friendly on new parts.” concludedPeter.

PRODUCT PROFILE

SAVE AN APPLICATION STEP WITH WET-ON-WET



GLASURIT CAMPAIGN

Paint utlisation is helped by easy to cover wet-on-wet primers that can beresprayed in just 15 minutes under normal conditions. Vernon Dalais (left) andMark Oakes were on hand for the BASF Coatings team.

Three generations of Corna family members are still hard at work after 50 years ofrunning their successful business, Cornright Motors. Seen here from left to right areChris, Aldo, Peter and Mark. The Glasurit range is their refinish range of choice.


Aluminium use in vehicles to doubleby 2025, so you need the toolsand skills to work on thesevehicles We’ve seen a lot of

changes in vehicle technology over the years.With each of these changes come newchallenges and new opportunities. When theunibody vehicle was introduced, repairprofessionals were required to change theirapproach to collision repair, from damageanalysis through the repair process. With theintroduction of GMA (MIG) welding,additional restraint systems presented acompletely different type of challenge,involving electronics and diagnostics.

Since then, we’ve seen advanced brakingsystems, advanced high- and ultra highstrength steels, new types of plastic andcomposite parts, and a plethora of advancedsafety systems. With each new advancementcollision repairers have been continuouslychallenged to adapt; and it’s time to getready to adapt again. High productionvehicles with extensive use of aluminium arecoming; it’s time to acknowledge the realityof this imminent change and get ready totackle it as another opportunity.

“Aluminium isn’t difficult; it’s justdifferent.” We first heard this statement inthe 1990s during the development of theFord P2000 concept vehicle; a collaborativeeffort between the Aluminium Associationand Ford Motor Company. Many collisionrepair professionals began to look into theimpending challenges we’d soon be facing, ICAR expanded its aluminium courseofferings, and started to see an expansion inthe availability of automotive aluminium MIGpulse welding equipment. However, whenthe steel manufacturers recognised thecharge that aluminium was about to make,they acted quickly and formed the UltraLightSteel Auto Body (ULSAB) consortium; that

led to the creation of the ULSAB vehiclestructure. The infusion of aluminium into theautomobile design and developmentindustry had been slowed; temporarily.

So, “what’s Iowa got to do with it?” InMarch 2012, Alcoa executives, along withthe Governor of Iowa, broke ground inDavenport on a $300 million dollarexpansion at their Davenport Works facilityto “meet rising demand for aluminium fromthe automotive market.”

While there isn’t a shortage of aluminiumintensive vehicles (Jaguar F-Type, XJ and XK,Land Rover Range Rover and Range RoverSport, Audi A8 and R8 are just a fewexamples) and there are a lot of aluminiumclosure panels, the Iowa expansion is astrong indicator that we will soon see morealuminium than ever.

The new Corvette Stingray is built on anall aluminium space frame and rumours arerunning rampant about other potential highvolume vehicles that will employ aluminiumintensive body structures. At a minimum, wewill see more aluminium bonnets, doors, andother closure panels. According to the latestDucker Report, a survey of auto OEMs andtheir planned use of materials, the amount ofaluminium used in cars in North America –already the number 2 material in a car – isgoing to almost double by 2025.

So what does it all mean to collisionrepair professionals? It’s time to adapt, again.Much like shops had to “find a place” to

install a three-dimensional measuring system,they’ll need to develop an isolated area torepair aluminium intensive vehicles, to avoidpotential galvanic corrosion issues. Similar tomaking investments in GMA (MIG) andsqueeze type resistances spot welding(STRSW) equipment, they’ll need to investin GMA (MIG) welders capable ofaluminium pulse welding and in rivet guns toproperly repair tomorrow’s aluminiumintensive vehicles.

There will also be a number of vehiclesthat will be built with a combination ofaluminium and steel structures (Audi TT andPorsche 911, for example) that will requirerepair professionals to ensure they’re usingthe proper adhesives and techniques tominimise the potential of galvanic corrosion.

Aluminium intensive vehicles will alsoforce professionals to adapt their approachto damage analysis – no different than aswith high-strength steels. Identifying castingsfrom stampings and extrusions, and knowingthe repairability limits of each, will beessential to writing a complete and accuratedamage assessment.

Proper identification of parts and theirrepairability limits will minimise supplementsand improve cycle time. I CAR hasdeveloped the Aluminium Panels andStructures Damage Analysis (DAM05)course to better equip industry professionalsin the damage analysis process.

LATEST NEWS

BODY SHOPS MUSTPREPARE FORALUMINIUM



TECHNICAL UPDATE

To keep the weight as low as possible on the DBS, Aston Martin has made extensive use of carbon fibrethroughout the whole car. The bonnet, the boot, the front wings and the door opening surrounds are all madeof carbon fibre. The carpets are also made of special thin layers made from carbon fibre. The roof and thedoors are made of aluminium. The result is a 30kg weight reduction from a regular DBS. The car is also fittedwith a carbon fibre splitter at the front wings to increase handling and a carbon fibre rear diffuser to increasehigh-speed stability. The brake discs are carbon ceramic, which shaves a significant 12.5kg from the unsprungweight.

is going to change the way you think about filler and putty

Tel: 021 556 1991083 488 1593


Contact Suleman Tel (031) 902 7666

Introducing a new and improved formulation system withlocal and international formulas.

[email protected] www.automotivepaint.co.za

LIFETIME WARRANTYLIFETIME WARRANTY

YATU NEW AD M-J 2013_Layout 1 2013/07/15 12:50 PM Page 1

HURRICANE NEW M-A 2014_Layout 1 2014/03/18 12:33 PM Page 1



For years, the joke in the auto industry was that a mass-produced car that runs on hydrogen was always a decadeaway. That will change next year when Hyundai starts sellinga Tucson SUV powered by a hydrogen fuel cell. It will be the

first mass-market vehicle of its type to be sold or leased in the US.“These things are now ready for prime time,” John Krafcik,

Hyundai’s North American CEO, said. His company plans toannounce details of the new Tucson at the Los Angeles Auto Show.

Automakers have been dabbling in hydrogen-powered cars sincethe 1960s. General Motors announced a test fleet of hydrogen-powered Chevy Equinoxes in the mid-2000s, and Honda leasedabout two dozen FCX Clarity models for R6 000 per month startingin 2005.

President George W Bush allocated R120 billion for hydrogenresearch and said in his 2003 State of the Union address, “The firstcar driven by a child born today could be powered by hydrogen andthus pollution free.” But the programme was largely scrapped by theObama administration, which focused on battery-powered vehicles.

Hyundai now is making Bush’s forecast come true, beating otherauto companies to the mass market with Tucsons that have electricmotors powered by a stack of hydrogen fuel cells. Hyundai plans tostart selling the vehicles in Southern California and eventually spreadto other areas as filling stations are built.

Hyundai says it has overcome safety and storage issues with arear-mounted tank that has passed numerous crash tests withoutincident. As for filling stations, the California Air Resources Board saysthere are currently nine open to the public in the state. Legislatorsrecently allocated about R200 million a year to build 100 more.

Also at the Los Angeles Show, Honda Motor Co, is scheduled to

show off a fuel-cell concept vehicle, which it says hints at theaerodynamic design of the next generation fuel-cell vehicle to belaunched in 2015. Further details were not available.

Toyota Motor Corp. is scheduled to unveil its own concept fuelcell at the Tokyo Motor Show. That one is also likely for distributionin the mass market in 2015.

The largest US automaker, which has spent a lot of time andresources on battery-powered cars such as the Chevrolet Volt, hasno fuel-cell vehicles currently in its new product pipeline, spokesmanDan Flores said recently. He says more work needs to be done oncost and infrastructure to make the cars viable.

Hyundai is expected to introduce prices and details of how itscars will be sold or leased at the Los Angeles Show. Automakersusually offer leases when they put new technology on the market.

Hydrogen cars most likely will help automakers meet new goalsfrom eight key states to put more zero-emission cars on the road.The states, including California and New York, pledged late lastmonth to work together to put 3.3 million battery powered cars,plug-in hybrids and other clean-burning vehicles on the roads inthose states by 2025. That’s more than 15 times as many zero-emission vehicles projected to be in use in the entire US by 2015.

The other states in the pact are Massachusetts, Maryland,Oregon, Connecticut, Rhode Island and Vermont. The eight statestogether represent about 23% of the US auto market.

INDUSTRY NEWS

HYUNDAI - IX35HYDROGEN SUV

UK INSURANCE ISN’TWORKING WELL

The Competition Commission’s (CC) provisional findings onthe £11 billion private motor insurance market have foundthat it is not working well for motorists and the CC is nowlooking at ways to reduce the cost of premiums.

The CC has provisionally found that the complex chain for thesettlement of non-fault claims increases the costs of replacement carsand repairs, which are in turn passed on to the insurers of at-faultmotorists. This results in higher motor insurance premiums for alldrivers.

The CC also found that following an accident too many repairsare not completed to the required standard. Other provisionalfindings identify problems with the sale of add-on products toconsumers and with the contacts between price comparisonwebsites and insurers.

In its provisional findings, the CC has found that:1. The non-fault claim separation of control and liability creates a

chain of interactions which result in higher costs for replacement carsand for repairs being passed on to at-fault insurers. The CC estimatesthe extra premium costs to be between £150 million and £200million a year.

2. Evidence shows that too many accident repairs are not carriedout to the required standard.

3. Consumers have limited information about ‘add-on’ insuranceproducts while insurers have a point-of-sale advantage. As a result, itis difficult for consumers to identify the best-value offers in themarket and add-ons may be priced too high.

4. The contracts between price comparison websites and insurers

WHAT’S HOT?

UK NEWS

can require that individual insurers’ premiums aren’t offered morecheaply elsewhere. The CC considers that some forms of these so-called most favoured nation (MFN) clauses may be necessary toensure that price comparison websites can continue to provide abeneficial service.

However, it believes that ‘wide’ clauses requiring the same priceacross all price comparison websites reduce competition and lead tohigher premiums.

The CC has not considered personal injury claims, given recentchanges such as the banning of referral fees for such claims and otherchanges proposed by the Ministry of Justice.

The CC has also published a Notice of possible remedies thatoutline measures it could introduce or recommend to improvecompetition and address the issues it has identified. A summary ofthis is available on the private motor insurance home page on theCC website along with other information relating to the investigation.The full version of the provisional findings will be published in duecourse. The CC is required to publish its final report by September,2014.


SPIES HECKER EDIT M-A 2014_Layout 1 2014/03/18 12:17 PM Page 1

SPIES HECKER AD M-A 2014_Layout 1 2014/03/18 12:19 PM Page 1

current price), with anaverage repair time of, say,15 hours, it adds justR2 250 to the total repaircost. This is actually lessthan 3%.

The body shop makesmore money and has amore sustainable future.The body shop invests intraining and newtechnology, which in turndrives the repair costdown, some of whichcould be passed to theinsurance carrier. Staff canbe paid a little more and,working the right culture,are likely to stay longerand reduce training costs.

The insurers now deal with a more professional collision centreas they are now able to invest in their future and grow their business.There is also less bad debt. Better body shop systems and investedprocesses mean less cycle time. That’s win-win.

There seems to be a culture of beating up on everyone aboutprice, not focusing on mutually finding solutions that bring a win tothe insurers, a win to the body shop, a win to the supply chain andultimately a win to the end customer. There is a distinct lack of trust.

In many cases, neither party sits down and actually discusses amutual solution for fear of being shafted by the other. Real businesssuccesses are born out of open relationships, one of ensuring thatyour actions do not disadvantage the others with the chain. In orderto get the gains all of us need, we have to work together to achievea mutually beneficial goal. Common sense needs to prevail.

For both insurers and collision repair shops to be successful in thevery near future, collaboration and dialogue at the right level has totake place, where neither see each other as enemies or adversaries,but as mutual partners in solving their common customers’ problems.



Visiting collision centres and seeing predominantly eitherIndian or Philipino techs reshaping exotic cars, you really dohave to take your hat off to the amazing work a body shoptechnician does under such difficult circumstances.

This is a tough business. In my first venture running my own bodyshop, which I sold in 1989, we charged the equivalent of R300 perhour for our services. In the UK, one new work provider coming intothe market has a Labour rate of R335. That’s 24 years later and onlya R35 increase?

It defies belief sometimes the labour rates at which some bodyshop owners will repair cars, and then they wonder why they don’tmake any money. In the UK market the real rate should be aroundR620 to allow the business to invest in the latest tooling, training andtechnology to be able to repair the modern motor vehicle. Ofcourse, most insurance carriers would scoff at having to pay such highrates, but in reality, what difference would it really make to theoverall cost of repair?

Contrary to popular belief, the actual repair to the vehicle is onlya relatively small percentage of the total claims fee that is paid out.The average cost of processing most UK claims in total is in theregion of R78 000. This has to cover the average cost of PersonalInjury (PI). This PI costs is around R20 000 on average. Add to thatthe cost of referral fees for nonfault PI and vehicle rental, referralssometimes as much as R10 000, and I’ve seen rental claims go as highas R800 000. The cost of the claim handling itself and the costsaround the repair actually add up to a significant amount.

When you subtract the average actual cost paid out to therepairer (with a typical deductible of say R5 000), then it is actuallyonly about R8 000 that the insurer pays for the repair itself. Now, ifwe were to ask for a sensible rate per hour (say R150 above the

INDUSTRY NEWS

SLOW RATE OF INCREASEDLABOUR CHARGES

HYUNDAI SA MOVES ONGREY IMPORTS

Hyundai South Africa has announced that it has increasedthe share in its parts market to 73%. And it is all thanks, itsays, to its programme to inform consumers about thedangers of using so-called grey import parts and fake parts.

The programme goes further than simply highlighting the negativeeffects that can result from using grey-imported parts, but also aimsto make its genuine parts more affordable to the consumer.

As Gary Braude, parts director at Hyundai Automotive SouthAfrica explains, “Consumers often do not realise the effect that so-called ‘grey-parts’ have on the integrity of their vehicle or the dangersassociated with using non-genuine parts. Using non-genuine parts notonly voids the vehicle’s warranty, but, more importantly, can lead tomechanical failure and seizure of parts can occur as a result.”

He continues, “There is a general misconception that genuineparts are more expensive than grey parts and, as a result,disregarding the consequences of using these products, consumersstill purchase them.”

“We have therefore created a number of programmes to ensurethat we are not only making genuine parts more affordable for theconsumer, but also more accessible.

Our Hyundai Approved Repair Programme (HARP), a best of itskind in the world, is one such example. It provides peace of mind toour customers that, should their vehicles need accident repairs, thesewill be done by Hyundai approved panel shops. These panel shops

UK UPDATE

LOCAL NEWS

provide quality and professional service and use the latesttechnology, genuine parts and professional technicians to ensure thatthe customer’s vehicle is back on the road as quickly as possible.”

The local arm of the automaker also says that it ensures thatinformation about genuine parts is loaded onto its dealer websiteand provided to help desk staff deal with customers. “In order tocombat the use of grey parts locally, Hyundai has become the firstautomotive manufacturer in the country to work closely withinsurance companies to provide them with special rates on parts.This not only reduces the cost of repairs, but also results in lessHyundai vehicles having to be written off.

“With almost 95% of cars being written off unnecessarily, thisprogramme is a great way towards bigger customer satisfactionwithout compromising vehicle quality and standards. Last year alone,we saved more than 1 500 cars as a result of this programme.”

Story by John Parker


HIGH DEFINITION

WAX

Top Gear Limited recently becamethe first collision repair centre toupgrade and prepare for the OEMvehicle factory approval

programme in Zambia. The company isbeing promoted by Alliance Motors who arethe Jaguar and Land Rover officialdistributors in Zambia.

Top Gear Limited began its marathonlegacy in the collision repair industry as longago as 1957, making them one of the longestrunning repairers in Zambia. They havecome a long way and previously operated asUnited Panel Beaters. Top Gear Limited iswell known in Zambia as a company wherequality counts and they perform bothstructural and non-structural repair works.They have a great customer driven attitudeand also do work for major insurancecompanies in Zambia.

Today, close to six decades after openingtheir doors, they are the “new kids on theblock” as they have turned the facility into anultra-modern collision repair centre. Theyare now considered to be the mostsuccessful and highly respected repair centrein the industry in Zambia.

The panel shop is now immaculatelyrevamped and sufficiently equipped withmodern and sophisticated repair equipmentto match vehicle repair technologicaladvancement repair methods.This alsoensures that no job will be too big or toosmall for Top Gear Limited.

For many years the industry has not beenregulated in Zambia and that brought theindustry to its knees. This motivated theZambia Bureau of Standards to facilitate thedevelopment of industry standards and theyhave now been gazetted. This move willsurely usher in a new era for industrystructures so greatly needed.

As the industry begins to evolve, it is clearthat Top Gear Limited is already set and haspositioned itself to help customers that havefor a long time suffered from sub-standardrepairs services.

One of the key successes of Top GearLimited is the fact that quality starts from thetop. The managing director himself is ahands-on person capable of controllingquality. The level of investment in trainingtheir technicians and staff is another factor,

which also keeps the employees wellmotivated.

The Aer-O-Cure team was on hand tohelp with the upgrade and redesigning abetter flowing shop. They also providedtraining on the new systems installed.

AFRICAN UPDATE

TOP GEAR LIMITEDLEADS THE WAY IN ZAMBIA

UPGRADING

Training and investing in their staff as well as their equipment is what has put Top Gear Limited on the rightpath to grow into the future of the demands that the collision repairers are already seeing.

An aluminium bay for the latest in technological repair was probably a scene out of a science fiction book in1957 when Top Gear Limited first started out in Zambia.

Story & pics by Derrick Mwango

The trusted name in body shop products just got better

JHB: 011 908 5446CT Tonie: 083 458 0699KZN Andre: 082 850 [email protected]

The trusted name in body shop products just got better29

R E F I N I S H E RUTOMOTIVEAAUTOMOTIVE


A Division of BASF Coatings. For further informationplease contact [email protected]

UNIVERSAL L IGHTWEIGHT BODY FILLERBRUSHABLE SEAM SEALERSTOPPER FINEFIBRE PUTTYSOLVENT BASED STONE- CHIP

XTRA LITE WEIGHT BODY FILLER

OUR ENTOURAGE

PAINT REMOVERBUMPER PUTTYHS ANTI-SCRATCH CLEAR COATHS HARDENERHS PRIMER 4 :1

(CAN BE USED DIRECT ON PLASTIC)

Ca l l us on +27 (0)31 902 7666

EN AD NEW J-F 2014_Layout 1 2014/02/06 10:13 AM Page 1

Chevrolet has a new addition totheir Sonic range, in the form ofa performance enhanced siblingcalled the RS. The fresher

looking Sonic RS has an all-new eco-petrol103kW/200Nm 1.4 turbocharged engineputting a little extra spice into and aroundtown commuting.

With a six-speed manual gearbox tomatch, fuel consumption is listed at a mere6.6 litres/100km which is why these smallerturbo engines are proving very popular toeveryday commuters these days. With a 0-100km/h dash in 9.5 sec and there’s a topspeed sprint of 197 km/h. The pricing,unfortunately with the way our Rand hasgone, puts it a bit out of a cash-strappedstudent’s reach at a healthy R225 300.With all this hot-headed tech and gadgetrycrammed into the package, it’s great fun todrive and unexpectedly quick! Thesmoothness of the turbo coupled together

with the torque makes for a deceptivelyfast drive, and it’s only a 1.4-litre!

As we got out of the Mother City andheaded towards Arniston, we really got tofeel the suspension of this city slicker as itate up the tightest of twisty’s. Not only wasit solid through the bends but offered aseamless, never-ending powerbandthrough the gears, with minimal turbo lag.

The Sonic comes with the kind of speclevel you’d only expect from sportiermodels such as the red trimmed, black andsuede leather seating. There’s alsoadequate boot space and built-in goodlooks. It also has a 7-inch touch screencolour display which you can interfaceeverything from online radio stations toyour movies and photos, while you arestationary.

The MyLink concept is simple – anintegration of the most popular andadvanced infotainment functions

incorporated into an easy-to-use, attractiveand effective interface which transformsthe Chevrolet Sonic into a connectedentertainment hub while on the move.

MyLink incorporates a host of differentmedia sources and formats, allowing theuser to play or watch their favourite mediain the car. Bluetooth audio streaming withplaylist customisation and full smartphoneintegration allows MyLink to stayconnected and become an extension of thephone itself. Full phonebook and call listintegration with a smart dialling featuremakes calling easier than ever before.

Video playback and picture galleryviewing while the vehicle is stationery addsanother, class-leading touch. The high-resolution 7-inch touch screen is perfectlyintegrated into the vehicle’s dashboard andfeatures touch button controls for athoroughly modern look and feel.

DRIVEN SONIC RS



Story by Jay Groat

CHEVROLET’SSOUPED-UP SONIC RS CHEVROLET’SSOUPED-UP SONIC RS


CELETTE DPS N-D 2013_Layout 1 2014/02/06 11:13 AM Page 1

CELETTE DPS N-D 2013_Layout 1 2014/02/06 11:13 AM Page 2



INTERVIEW CHRISTIAN BUST, MANAGING DIRECTOR, ARVATO

In June 2013 Arvato South Africa launched a new CustomerSatisfaction Index (CSI) Platform for the Motor Body Repair(MBR) Industry in South Africa. After the first couple ofmonths in operation, Automotive Refinisher Magazine

decided to pay Arvato a visit to find out more about their systemcalled “ACE” (Arvato Customer Experience). This is whatChristian Bust, who is the managing director of Arvato SouthAfrica had to say.

Q So why did Arvato choose to offer a new CSI solution toMotor Body Repairers in SA? You are widely known as a

technical training and logistics services provider in the automotiveindustry thus far.

A Arvato was approached by different OEMs in 2012 and wewere asked if we would be able to offer a simple and cost

effective CSI solution for the market, which would cover theneeds of the MBRs and the OEMs, and at the same time help allparties to save costs. After some research of the market andspeaking to an external IT development company to support ourefforts, we realised that we can indeed deliver what was desiredby the industry. On top of that, we saw great potential for offeringthe industry an opportunity to use our customer satisfaction toolto improve on business-performance, especially in the long run.

Q So how do you achieve this? What is the general ideabehind the CSI Platform? What makes it different?

A We wanted to provide the MBRs and OEMs with moredetailed information on their repair process and the

satisfaction levels of their customers for each process-step frominitially entering the MBR premises to driving off in their repairedcar. This means we are asking MBR customers multiple questionsin an email-based survey that does not take longer than oneminute to complete.

Q So you obtain more information from a client, than simplyasking them if they were satisfied with the service they

received from the MBR?

A Correct. We have divided the questionnaire into foursections: Before Repair, During Repair, After Repair and

Insurance. The questions follow the chronological process acustomer would go through, when handing in a car for repairs.On our ACE online reporting platform each shop and the OEMscan log in and review their scores for each category (either in asummarised and easy report or they can go into more detail andfind each and every issue that might have occurred). Thequestions were designed based on OEM and key MBR input, inorder to capture exactly the relevant information that is neededby the industry.

Q If the same issue pops up over and over again, it is clearthat the MBR should address that particular process in their

shop.

A It is not only a CSI Tool, it is a Management Tool for theMBRs. They are able to use the tool to improve their own

business performance. Arvato only designed the platform toobtain the critical customer feedback and we then display it forthe MBRs in an easy and understandable way, in order to enablethem to act, based on the information provided.

Q What about the Insurance Section you made mentionabove?

A The Insurance related questions will only be included in thequestionnaire if a customer indicates that the repair indeed

was an insurance claim. Arvato ACE will establish if the client washappy with the insurance provider and the assessor involved inthe process. It will be beneficial to know for the insurancecompanies where exactly the process went wrong with theirunhappy clients. However, no repair information or any MBRrelated information would be shared with insurance companies.We only focus on the insurance-related client satisfaction levels.

QLast but not least, who should readers contact if they wouldlike to find out more about the system and how does the

pricing work for Arvato ACE?

A Well, the pricing is quite straight forward: The ACE servicewill cost you R780 excl. VAT per month, regardless of how

many OEM approvals your MBR Shop carries. You can eithercontact us via email [email protected], phone+27 (0)41 995 5200) or sign up online at www.arvatoace.co.za


ARVATO AD M-A 2014_Layout 1 2014/03/12 2:49 PM Page 1

INTE

RN

ATI

ON

AL

RE

CO

MM

EN

DA

TIO

NS

90 LINE

BEROBASE

ANEST-IWATA EDIT M-A 2014_Layout 1 2014/03/19 10:34 AM Page 1

B lo ck B , G round F l oo r, S t . And rew s O f f i c e Comp lexMeadowbrook Lane , Ep som DownsCon ta c t : +27 (0 )11 463 2169

Arnest Iwata’s State-of-the-Art Supernova WS-400 Evo.

Gun Design by MasterCar Designer Pininfarina.

ANEST-IWATA AD N-D 2013_Layout 1 2014/03/12 2:47 PM Page 1


Recharging a Toyota plug-in hybrid or all-electric vehiclecould in future be as simple as parking the car. Toyotahas announced verification testing is to begin later thismonth of a new wireless battery charging system it has

developed for vehicles that use an electric powertrain.The new technology allows a vehicle to be charged simply by

parking it in alignment with a coil set into the surface of theground. This makes the process simpler and easier, dispensingwith cables and connectors.

The Toyota charging system transmits electricity usingmagnetic resonance created by changes in magnetic fieldintensity between a transmitting coil in the ground and areceiving coil in the car. It is designed so that it can reduce anyloss in power transmission efficiency caused by misalignment orheight differences between the coils.

The system is being developed with a future market launch inmind. Measures have been taken to minimise anyelectromagnetic interference with nearby equipment, and thetransmitting coil in the ground has been made robust enough towithstand vehicles driving over it.

To help the driver align the car correctly, Toyota hasdeveloped a function for its Intelligent Parking Assist system thatshows the position of the transmitting coil in a parking space.

The test programme involves three plug-in hybrids used byhomes in Aichi prefecture in Japan. It will assess user satisfaction,the system’s ease of use, misalignment rates and chargingbehaviour, such as how often charging takes place and timer-based charging it used.

Toyota will use the test results to develop the technologyfurther, with the ultimate aim of bringing the system to market.Toyota believes its commercialisation will help promote the useof electrified vehicles and mobility options that are smarter,easier to use and kinder to the environment.

The specifications are:Wireless Battery Charging System key specificationsCharging method : Magnetic resonanceFrequency : 85kHzInput voltage : AC 200VCharging power : 2kWCharging time : Approx. 90 minutes.

INDUSTRY NEWS

TOYOTA PULLS PLUG ONPLUG-IN CHARGING WITHWIRELESS TECHNOLOLGY

WHAT’S HOT?


LATEST NEWS

TAKE THE MULTI-AIROPTION



PRODUCT NEWS

When it comes to product development andexcellence in performance Norton Abrasives have along and very successful track record deliveringinnovative systems, like their proven technology,

which is already in use around the world by body shop repairers. Norton Multi-Air Process combines the excellence of a premium

Norton Multi-Air abrasive disc with an innovative dust-extractionMulti-Air back-up pad. This revolutionary Multi-Air Process givesoperators the optimal sanding solution to optimise performance,increase productivity and eliminate dust.

The innovative pad design draws dust into a collection chamberallowing optimal airflow and powerful dust extraction. Multi-Airaddresses multiple markets including those sanding, primed andpainted parts in the automotive industry, composites, marine gelcoat, furniture, non-ferrous metals and many more.

The cut time of Multi-Air can increase production by around 35%,due to a combination of the larger surface area covered with the30% higher dust extraction. The increased absence of dust throughthe powerful dust-extraction, gives full visual control of the workarea. This is accomplished through the 125 holes found in the125mm disc and the 181 holes in the 150mm disc.

The Multi-Air process comprises four parts: the backing pad, thedisc, the dust-extraction sanding machine and the operator.

The backing pad range includes options for hard, medium and softpads depending on the scope of work and required finish. The padhas a universal connector that fits most popular machine types andadaptors are available for Festool sanding machines.

The Multi Air disc range is available in three ranges. The first rangecombines Norton technology discs (in the latest generation graindesign) and high strength paper backing – effective for fast removalof old paint layers, smoothing body filler, flattening of sharp edgesand large surface areas. The higher cost of this range is offset by theincreased disc performance, higher cut-rate and longer life; givingfantastic price: performance ratio. (Grits 40-120.)

The second range sees a fibre reinforced, latex paper (tearresistant and flexible) combined with premium, heat-treatedaluminium oxide grain. The disc is “Norton No-fill” treated forincreased load resistance that prevents dust clogging any further.(Grits 80-800.)

The aluminium oxide range goes further into a Soft-Touch rangefor very fine grits. The Multi-Air Soft-Touch discs have soft foambacking for high performance and exceptionally long life. The foamlayer absorbs any difference in surface contours when sanding,without cutting through the paint layer, maintaining excellent cuttingaction for a very high level finish. (Grits 320-1500.)

Multi-Air discs are also available with SG Ceramic grain – thehighest performing grain available for this application, with the longestpossible life (up to 200% more life than conventional abrasives).

The design of the discs and the use of the process can only beutilised to its maximum potential by using a dust-extraction system.The end-user will have full use of the disc to the end of the grain life.

The strong backing paper and clogging resistance gives optimal valuefor money with less contamination through dust.

The last part of the process is the operator. This is the easy part,as operators see the benefits of the Multi-Air system and as foremen,managers and owners review the increased production and returns,the system proves itself as the system of choice for comfort,production and cost-saving.

The Norton Multi-Air system is the process of choice for multiplemanufacturing plants and aftermarket service providers.

About Norton

Norton started as a pottery business in 1858 in Worcester,Massachusetts in the US. By 1876 Norton was manufacturinggrinding wheels with customer demands flourishing. In 1885, theNorton Emery Wheel Company was founded, commanding 140 000square metres of manufacturing space.

Throughout the 20th century, Norton continually grew itsabrasive range and became established worldwide. Germany 1910,France 1920, UK 1930, Italy 1935, Brazil 1956, India 1968, Japan1972. By 1950 Norton was the leading worldwide abrasive brand.

Today, Norton manufactures and distributes the widest range ofabrasives and related products to many different markets.

As the premium brand within the Saint-Gobain Abrasivesportfolio, Norton supports major markets including metal working,automotive manufacturing, automotive aftermarket, aerospace,wood working, bearing foundries, DIY housing and construction,paint and decoration markets (to mention just a few).

Saint-Gobain Abrasives – part of the multi-listed Saint-GobainGroup – is the world’s leading abrasives manufacturer and supplier,covering all types of abrasives: Cutting and grinding wheels, Bondedabrasives products, Coated abrasives products, Diamond abrasivesproducts for the construction industry and super abrasives for glassand TCT industries.


The quality of a paint job is primarilyassessed through visual factors,such as colour match, coloureffects, gloss, distribution, etc. The

spray gun plays a crucial role in the coatingprocess and significantly contributes toensure high quality standards. Consistency inthe quality standard is a basic requirementduring the entire coating process.

Here are a few tips on how to preventpaint errors by SATA’s product manager,Mazin Mashalla.

1. Follow the exact mixing ratios

When mixing paint, follow the technicaldata provided by the paint manufacturerprecisely, in particular, the mixing ratios ofpaint components. The use of taperedmixing cups in conjunction with themeasuring sticks provided by the paintmanufacturer should be avoided, as this willresult in too much of the second and thirdcomponents being used. Consequently, theviscosity of the mixed paint will be too low,which in turn can lead to colour tonedeviations in basecoats, as well as reducedopacity. In the case of 2K materials, thehardener content will be too high, leading toinsufficient cross-linking of the hardenercomponent, leaving free isocyanate in thepaint film.

This free isocyanate will ultimately reactwith moisture in the atmosphere, resulting ina dull appearance. Problems can arise withboth 1K waterborne paints and 2K materialsif incorrect mixing ratios are used. Commondefects are runs and/or visible edges.Therefore: Measuring sticks should only beused with cups having parallel sides. If cupswith tapered sides are used, it isrecommended to refer to the scales printedon these mixing cups. On the SATA RPSdisposable cups, you will find all of thepopular mixing ratios which will assist you inmixing paint in a time-saving manner, andmost importantly, according to the paintmanufacturer recommendations.

2. Clean the substrate with water-basedas well as solvent-based cleaning solutions

To ensure a 100% clean substrate, youshould use both cleaning solution systems:The water-based cleaner serves to remove,for example, traces of sweat or calciumcarbonate residues resulting from wetsanding. The solvent-based cleaner (so-called silicone remover) removescontamination caused by grease or silicone.Residues that have not been completely

removed prior to the painting process couldpop up months later as visible coating flaws.These flaws will then lead to a completeredo of the paint job (reapplication of allcoats).

3. Use only technically clean air

The different paint materials all need tobe applied only with technically cleancompressed air – this does not only concernthe top coat layers, but also every primerand filler material. The required filters for thespray booth are the three-stage filters of theSATA filter 200 or SATA filter 400 series.These filters eliminate particles down0.01µm and also absorb oil vapours (SATAfilter 284/484 versions) generated bycompressors.

The need for the third stage activatedcharcoal filter has become necessary sincethe introduction of waterborne materials, asin former times the solvent in the basecoattended to dissipate any oil vapour whereasthe water does not. As a matter of fact, toachieve optimum efficiency, the filterelements need to be replaced on a regularbasis, i.e. the fine filter cartridges every sixmonths and the activated charcoal cartridgesevery three months. The first stage filterelement is a sintered filter that CAN becleaned when the fine filter is being replaced,however, it is felt that due to the relativelylow cost of this filter, it would makeeconomic sense to replace it rather than dryand clean it.

4. Ensure the correct pressure setting forthe spraying air

Another important point that helpsprevent colour tone deviations is the correctsetting of the dynamic gun inlet pressure.Again, paint manufacturer recommendationsmust be strictly observed. In this conjunctionit is important to realise that it is notsufficient to check the pressure at the filterregulator unit, as the pressure will beeffectively further reduced inside the gunhose before reaching the spray gun.

To ensure that the pressure is correctlymeasured, I recommend working with adigital pressure display positioned at thespray gun itself. To this end, SATA offervarious solutions: In case of our digital guns,the digital pressure gauge is integrated in thegun handle, while the pressure is adjusted bymeans of the air micrometer on the spraygun.

With the SATA adam 2 or the SATAadam 2 mini, respectively, non-digitalversions of all current SATA spray gunmodels can be digitally enabled. Due to thesmall dimensions and little weight of thesegauges, the spray guns still remain compactand light. In addition, spray guns of othermakes can now also be digitally upgraded,thanks to the new SATA adam 2 U.

When using this device however, the airmicrometer on the spray gun should remainfully opened, while the effective pressure isregulated with the SATA adam 2 U.

SATA’s full range of spray guns and filtersare available from Bulldog AbrasivesSouthern Africa (Pty) Ltd. Contact their salesteam on +27 (0)11 786 5991 or by email [email protected] for moreinformation on their exciting range ofproducts.

PRODUCT PROFILE

SATAPREVENTING PAINT ERRORS



WHAT’S HOT?


Contact: Deon on 083 628 2288 or Andre on 072 463 9570w w w . h u r r i c a n e a u t o . c o . z a

Contact: Deon on 083 628 2288 or Andre on 072 463 9570w w w . h u r r i c a n e a u t o . c o . z a

WIELANDER AND SCHILL AD 1/31/12 11:21 AM Page 1

Vehicle sales didn’t start too badly in 2014, 53 025 units intotal against December 2013’s 46 629. Exports, comparedto December, went down from 17 393 vehicles to 13 960.Talk in the industry is that 2014 will not do as well as 2013.

In fact the market could stay flat or go down a few percentage points.With prices increasing by the day it looks like secondhand cars willcome into their own.

Biggest sellers in January were Toyota, Volkswagen, Ford and GM.Biggest passenger car seller was Volkswagen by a long shot with9 336 units. Best exporter was Toyota with 3 963 units. It is all still alot better than the dark years in 2009 when we saw sales droppingby the day.

With the Rand sliding almost by the hour and close to being

valued into Monopoly money like the rest of Africa, we can expectcar prices to rocket in 2014. I suppose, as always, our President isputting his mind to it and will be able to correct the situationbrought on by strikes, lack of jobs and full use of productioncapacity.

There is still good news in the market place, however. Mercedes-Benz AMG sold a record number of 32 200 units in 2013 as theyproduced new models for the A-Class, CLA and GLA 45 AMG’s.

Brand Pretorius’ new book called “In the Driving Seat” (“Aan dieStuur”) has been flying off the shelves and is now in its fourth print.Everybody in motoring should read and take in what Brand has tosay.

At this time of the year all the manufacturers tell us how well

DID YOU HEAR? by Roger McCleery

Supercure Spraybooth Rail System

Procure Mobile Infra-Red

Hotbox Colour MatchingDryer With Timer

Tel: 011 425 4062Franz: 082 463 6284Email: [email protected] Madeley Street, Rynfield, Benoni

After what was named one of the toughtest competitions in recent years, the Porsche Cayman S was named the competition winner atthe annual Wesbank and South African Guild of Motoring Journalists Car of the Year competiton with a score in total of 199 points.

Listen to Roger McC leery every Tuesday on Radio Today (1485 A M) at17h30 for everything about SA motor ing.

DID YOU HEAR? by

2014PORSCHE WINS THESA CAR OF THE YEAR

2014PORSCHE WINS THESA CAR OF THE YEAR


HD KOREKAn all new straighteningsystem for heavy dutyvehicles

HD KOREKAn all new straighteningsystem for heavy dutyvehicles

The compact Korek HD floor frame features adouble layer ground frame for robustperformance and easy set-up. The flexibletower assemblies are highly mobile. It offersextended cab tower pulls with traction pulls of20 tons per basic tower.

The towers are simple to fix as they operateon rollers and are fixed to the HD Korekframe by four wedges with three main standson offer. This is coupled to 30 ton compositionhydraulic sets. The options for a perfectchassis cab and frame straightening job areendless as well as painless.

As far as speed of output and profitability areconcerned, the HD Korek offers majorprofitability at a reasonable entry level cost. Itis ideal for both CV repairers and large fleetoperators as an investment in Truck repair.

30 TonStand

HydraulicStand

MobileHigh LiftStand

FOR COSTS ANDINFO CONTACT ANDREW MACKIE ON 083 628 6639

Fully approvedby Mercedes-Benz

CommercialVehicles

they have done. Peugeot manufactured 1 553 000 vehicles withsales outside Europe amounting to 674 000, or an increase of10.9%.

Porsche, for the first time in their history, delivered 162 000vehicles to customers. In South Africa Porsche has done ratherwell with 273 units being sold in December 2013 alone.

Korean motorcycles are suddenly in the news with aHyosung 85 piloted by Jeong winning a 250cc race in Korea onits debut. Orders have come in from all over the world afterbeing shown off in Korea and at the Milan Motorcycle Show.

Still on the motorcycle front, Ducati has appointed RodeoDrive in Randburg as the new official importer for Ducatimotorcycles in South Africa. This is the sister company forPorsche South Africa. Porsche of course now own Ducati.

The man who heads up all design at KIA and Hyundai, PeterSchreyer, has been honoured with a Golden Steering Award foroutstanding achievements in the automotive industry. Schreyeris only the second designer in the 31-year history of the GoldenSteering Award to receive this trophy. Giugiaro was the other,way back in 1995.

Ford has just completed building their 100 000th dieselengine at their plant in Port Elizabeth. This is after the threemillionth vehicle was produced by Ford in South Africa in 2013.

If you are interested in any old Autosport Grand PrixInternational magazines dating back to 1981 and featuring awhole lot of information on the South African Grands Prix ofthat era, get hold of Peter Ross 082 553 4589.

Chrysler who bring in Chrysler, Jeep and Dodge vehicles, hasa new six-year or 100 000 km Maintenance Plan on all theirmodels. This is three years longer than previously.

The motor industry does good things. After two years theImperial Group and their ‘I Pledge’ campaign has seen the revivalof the scholar patrol programmes in 248 schools inJohannesburg, plus the redistribution of over 1 500 kiddies carseats. They are doing good things all over the country.

Volkswagen has already announced that they sold a cool9,7 million units in 2013 which surely puts them on top of thepile. Their original plan is to be at No. 1 spot by 2018.

Cars in South Africa emit .003% of all carbon emissions. Andthat is why we have a Green Tax, which I am sure does not gointo any sort of environmental kitty. Eskom produces 85% of allcarbon emissions, but of course is not taxed. If you take all theemissions of all the fuel ever used in Formula 1 racing, it is lessthan those emitted by planes at Heathrow Airport in a singleday.

Globally, there are one billion vehicles on the roads – this isone for every seven people on the planet. Boggles the mind tothink where all the fuel is going to come from to power all thesein the future. Also where are we going to get all the roads builtto handle all these cars and trucks.

What’s the most you have ever paid for tyres? If you havegot a Bugatti Veyron a new set of four tyres will cost you£23 500. Don’t even bother to work it out in Rands. It is a quitea lot!

KIA has just exported their first turbo charged car to SouthAfrica. It is the new 1.6 litre Cerato Koup. A very impressiveunit.

Hyundai has entered the World Rally Championship with ani20. Their first big event, the Monte Carlo, was not a greatsuccess but it is early days yet and knowing their determinationto do well, they’ll be sure to feature in the results soon.

The specialist German car magazine “auto motor und sport”voted the new Mercedes Benz S-Class and G-Class off roadvehicles as the best cars in their category. As a result bothvehicles were awarded the title of “The Best Car of 2014”. Andthey are.

Mitsubishi has just launched another great Pajero off roader.It is a two-door Pajero short wheelbase with all the bells andwhistles. Ticket price is R579 000. Do you remember the dayswhen Mitsubishi were unbeatable in something like 12 Dakars?

Kawasaki Motors in South Africa has just taken on theTaiwanese Sym brand of scooters and motorcycles. Sym todayproduces 35 000 cars and a million two wheelers every year,giving them a turnover of more than one billion US$.

Opel is again GM’s second largest brand after Chevrolet.1 064 million vehicles were sold last year.



AEROCURE DPS M-A 2012 3/14/12 12:39 PM Page 1

AEROCURE DPS M-A 2012 3/14/12 12:39 PM Page 2

Rislone, a leading US manufacturerof oil, fuel and cooling systemadditives is now available in SouthAfrica through local importers

Keizin Automotive. Launched late in 2013,the range has already enjoyed great favourand success with the local market.

The range includes unique and highlyeffective products for addressing commonand frustrating mechanical issues with motorvehicles such as oil and cooling system leaks,gearbox leaks, head gasket leaks and fuel anddiesel system problems. Many suchproblems can require tedious and expensiverepairs and for many, this is simply not anoption. For these vehicle owners, Risloneprovides a cost effective and easy solution towhat would otherwise be an expensiveproblem to fix.

"There is opinion amongst many ‘experts’in the industry that such additives do notwork or can even be harmful,” says GregHutcheon, director at Keizin Automotive.“This perception is not altogether incorrectas there are many such products on themarket that claim to work miracles andultimately disappoint consumers. How manyof us have at some time in our lives throwna bottle of something into the engineexpecting the miracle claimed on the label –and felt cheated by the result?”

Hutcheon continues: “Rislone wasestablished in the US in 1923 and is acompany that is dedicated exclusively toengine and cooling system additives. Theyare specialists in what they do and this iswhat differentiates the brand.” While manyOEM manufacturers may discourage the use

of additives, it is interesting to note thatRislone is an OEM supplier to certainmanufacturers in the US.”

“Our primary Rislone market is thecountless number of vehicles on our roadsthat fall outside warranty programmes. Thisaccounts for the majority of vehicles on ourroads today. Many of these vehicle ownersdo not have the financial means to haveexpensive repairs done. Rislone providesthese vehicle owners with a simple solution.They are also relevant in the vehicle servicecentre and body repair industry, for examplebumper bashings, that often result in coolingsystem damage or transmission leaks.

For more information about Rislone,contact Keizin Automotive on 0861CARGUY [227489] or visitwww.rislone.co.za

LATEST NEWS

RISLONE ARRIVES IN SOUTH AFRICA



PRODUCT NEWS


In today’s tough economic climate,customers think much harder aboutevery single item they put in their‘basket’. It is a proven fact that your

competition will replicate your product andprice, but one thing that will differentiateyou is your customer service. “Finding thebalance between your customer, product,pricing and business processes is pivotal,”says Justin Swanepoel, managing director ofReal Research, a local research company.

“Real Research is a young and vibrantindependent research agency that was bornfrom an intense passion for market researchand 18 years’ experience in the globalresearch industry. Our primary goal is to‘roll up our sleeves’ and partner our clients,becoming an essential component of theirbusiness to ensure the balance is createdbetween their product, price, competitorand customers.

“We specialise in out-of-the-boxqualitative and quantitative research – oftencombining traditional and new agemethodologies to provide key insights andsolutions for business planning andstrategies. Key services include:

• Customer Analysis: Knowing andunderstanding your current and potentialcustomer is pivotal. Where they live, whereelse they buy, what they buy, their likes anddislikes, their needs and wants,demographics, psychographics etc.

• Mystery Shopping: Find out what ishappening with your customer service, whyyour product or service is selling or not andget first-hand knowledge of the customerexperience and selling techniques of yourcompetitors.

• Business Process Surveys: Analyseyour route to market and quickly identify asimple SWOT of your business modelcompared to your competitors. Is yourtraining, regional support, call centre,marketing material, advertising material, repvisitations etc where it should be?

• Competitive Intelligence: Understandyour competitors, their locations, products,pricing and customer service offerings andbe ahead of the game at all times.

• Price Baskets: With pricing undercuts,“specials” and the creation of in-housebrands, it is vitally important to constantlykeep up to date with you and your

competitor’s prices through pricing basketsof key products or services.

“Nothing beats rolling up your sleeves,sitting with the client, understanding theirbusiness and working with them tounderstand and dominate their marketthrough research intelligence. This is whatseparates us from the competition. This isnot just our job, it’s our passion.” concludedJustin.

To contact us about how we can assistyour business on an even better growthpath, visit www.realresearch.co.za orcontact Justin on +27 (0)82 773 2839.

LOCAL NEWS

REAL RESEARCH FORTHE AUTOMOTIVEMARKET



INTERESTING FACTS

Justin Swanepoel


Building on the spectacle of success of both large and smallveteran race cars, again took centre stage. Luckily in fineweather, after a deluge of rain, the classes provided for somespirited driving and the normal amount of door slamming and

shoving that the cut and thrust of heated motor sport competitiontends to be about.

With record crowds lined up on the banks and packedgrandstands, it is proof positive that Zwartkops has attained a specialmotor racing stature to tempt race watchers to come and experiencesuperb dices in a packed programme of events which ran all day longfor the 13th running of this great event.

The main crowd drawcard were the two races for Pre-1966Production Cars, which lived up to their premier billing status.

The opening heat saw Thomas Falkiner (Castrol Ford Mustang)

and Franco Scribante (Remos Ford Mustang) fight for the leadthroughout. Scribante eventually snatched the lead on thepenultimate lap and won, less than a second ahead of Falkiner. Theyled home Leeroy Poulter (Centlube Ford Thunderbolt), Jonathen duToit (TAR Chev Noca) and Mark du Toit (TAR Chevelle).

Behind them, Sarel van der Merwe (Ford Galaxie) and HennieGroenewald (SP Plymouth Fury) waged war, with Van der Merwefinally crossing the finish line three tenths of a second ahead of thepack. Leeroy Poulter led most of the second race, but was docked 30seconds for jumping the start. That left Scribante to take anothervictory ahead of Jonathan du Toit, Thomas Falkiner, Patrick Gearing(Alfa Giulietta), Poulter and Mark du Toit. This time around Sarel vander Merwe spun his Galaxy while the Plymouth of HennieGroenewald suffered engine maladies.

ZWARTKOPS RACE WEEKEND

ZWARTKOPS HISTORIC RACING

R E F I N I S H E RUTOMOTIVEAAUTOMOTIVE48

2

ZWARTKOPSRACE WEEKEND

Pics by Jay Groat




1. Main Pic; With Galaxies, Mustangs, Jags and many more, the pace waselectric in the nine hour legs of racing. 2. There is something about motor racing that always brings out a bevyof beauties.3. Grandstands were packed to capacity on the day of the Passion forSpeed.4. Big V8 noise coming from Roland Zoomous Dutch GT40 kept yourattention.5. Close up and personal races left the participants quite tired out.6. Veteran commentator Roger McCleery was once again ever presentand working hard. 7. Rui Campos had some good outings in the 1974 Porsche RSR.8. The weather held up at the International Zwartkops race day.

2 4

3

5 6

7 8

Lawrence Davies won the first Pre-1966 Little Giants race in hisAlfa Romeo Giulietta, followed by Franco Resta (MGB) and GinoAllesio (Alfa Giulietta). Marc Miller won the second race in his AlfaGiulietta, ahead of Shaun Cabrita (Mini Marcos) and Chad TenDoeschate (GSM Dart).

Franco Scribante (Remos Chevron B19) won both the Genie Pre-1074 Sports Prototype races from Roman de Beer (Lola T70), AndreBezuidenhout (Weltevreden Porsche RSR), Neil Lobb (Lola T70) andJonathan du Toit (Chevron B8). Deon du Plessis won both theextreme Supercar races in his BPT KTM X-Bow. On the first occasionScribante led home Andre Bezuidenhout (Porsche RSR), Craig Jarvis(Panacea Porsche GT3) and Nicky Dicks (Porsche GT3). The secondheat, Craig Jarvis, Greg Parton (Drizit KTM X-Bow) and VernonBricknell (Porsche GT3) filled out the top four places.


CARSYSTEM DPS M-A 2014_Layout 1 2014/03/12 2:52 PM Page 1

CARSYSTEM DPS M-A 2014_Layout 1 2014/03/12 2:52 PM Page 2

The ultra-fast 43-year-old Scottish born road racing legendchampion Ian Simpson on a Motul Suzuki XR 69 F1 wonboth heats of the Zwartkops Motor Cycle SA TT onSaturday, running second secs short of the current Superbike

lap times on a superbly tuned bike that ran like clockwork for bothraces.

A packed Zwartkops Raceway saw, Simpson, a three-times winnerof the Isle of Man TT with another eight podium appearances, fiveNorthwest 200 wins, two Ulster GP titles and five British SBChampionships, lead from start to finish in both heats at Zwartkopson a recent weekend.

Simpson held off SA legend the very quick 65-year-old Les vanBreda on a Suzuki Katana, who finished second, third place went toAlan Duffus on a Yamaha TZ 750 followed by 65-year-old BillSimpson, Ian’s father, on the second Motul Suzuki GS 1000 – andclose behind him Mike McSkimming, on yet another Suzuki GS 1000.

Ian was so quick and super smooth throughout the day for aretired rider that he was lapping the tail enders and finished both

races with his normal customary ear-to-ear grin that he is so wellknown for.

Simpson’s Suzuki was an identical machine from the one used byMichael Dunlop to win last year’s Classic TT Race in the Isle of Man.It is designed to use engines up to 1992 while the local vintage specsees engines of 1984 being mandated. So Simpson’s bike had close to30 more ponies than the local contenders.

Zwartkops Day of Champions saw a full race card of races andmany famous names out to strut their stuff, like the 750cc MV Agustaof Alan Walker and Mick Grant’s 500cc Suzuki GP square four.Crowds were up on last year and the festive occasion was everpresent as the sun blessed race day after some very heavy rains.

Zwartkops Results SA TT1. Ian Simpson Motul Suzuki 1000 XR 69 F1 (UK)2. Les van Breda Suzuki 1981 Katana 1000 (SA)3. Alan Duffus Yamaha TZ 750 (UK)4. Bill Simpson Suzuki GS 1000 SR (UK)5. Mike McSkimming Suzuki 1980 GS 1000 (SA).

VINTAGE THRILLS AT ZWARTKOPS

SA TT REVIVAL


J immie Guthr ieon the 1961Manx Norton.

Pics and Story by Ian Groat

VINTAGE THRILLS AT ZWARTKOPS

Super qu ick IanSimpson rode th isSuzuk i X R69 to fourimpress ive wins.

Revivalists a plenty with Mick Grant’s Sunshine Tourists from theUK enjoyed two great events at Zwartkops and Killarney.


53

Killlarney race track played host to the second leg ofthe TT Revival with two superlative races beingseen by an absolutely packed circuit of spectators.Scottish road-racing legend Ian Simpson completed

his domination of the 2014 SA Tourist Trophy series forhistoric motorcycles with another emphatic double win atCape Town’s Killarney circuit on the Saturday to match thatat Zwartkops a week earlier.

Behind him, however, locals and visitors from all over theworld, including Gauteng, mixed it up in two superb racesthat had the huge crowd on its feet, with battles throughoutthe field that in some cases weren’t settled until the sprint tothe flag.

Simpson, 43, with three TT winds, five British Superbikechampsionships and two Ulster GP wins to his credit, put his1981 Suzuki XR69, the forerunner of the iconic GSX-Rseries, on pole with an unanswerable 1 min 19.054 qualifiyinglap but got a jerky, badly co-ordinated start in Race 1 as therest of the front row, former SA champion Les van Bredaand local veteran David Bolding (each on a Suzuki Katana)and John ‘Konstable’ Kosterman on a 1985 Suzuki GSX R750,howled down to turn 1 ahead of him.

Once Simpson had got the big Suzuki over its start-linejitters, however, there was no denying him as he dive-bombed both Katanas into turn 5 at the end of lap one totake the lead and romped away to win by nearly 12 seconds.Behind him, however, things were by no means as clearcut.Bolding made the most of home-track advantage to hold offthe vastly experienced van Breda in a superlative battle forsecond that lasted until the final lap, when the former SAchampion outbraked the local rider in a move Bolding laterdescribed with a grin as “committed” to take second by 0.67seconds.

Kosterman held on as best he could for a few laps, butthere was no way his essentially standard 750cc Gixer wasgoing to say with a litre-class works endurance racer and twokitted Katanas, and he trailed home half a minute in arrears,ahead of Robbie Burns, another Scot on an XR69, five timesformer Scottish champion Alan Duffus, now 67 years old, ona four-cylinder two-stroke Yamaha TZ750, and MikeMcSkimming on Tony Sparg’s Suzuki GSX1100.

The closest finish of the race, however, ws between TonyJones, riding Lourens Rossouw’s GSX R750 after he blew theengine of his Ducati Paul Smart replica in practice, and KevinSpratley’s remarkably well sorted Yamaha RZ350R, whofinished just 0.287 sec apart after a race-long duel.

Van Breda got another scorching start to lead the fieldinto turn1, only for Simpson to sweep by on to the backstraight for another unchallenged victory. Four secondsbehind him Van Breda and Bolding swopped places at leasttwice a lap until Van Breda outbraked the local man in toTurn 1 three laps from the flag and held him off to takesecond by 0.669 sec.

Kosterman and Burns took the next two places, closelyshadowed by Simpson’s father Bill, who’d blown his SuzukiGS 1000R in practice and was riding Alan Walker’s gorgeous888 Ducati to considerable effect, Jones, McSkimming andSpratley, all of whom finished within four seconds, whileDuffus passed Etienne Low’s Kawasaki Z1 on the final lap tograb 10th by 0.189 sec.

This demonstration run by the gentleman racers (many ofthem pensioners) of the Team Incomplete on vintagemachines too rare and irreplaceable to be raced rapidlybecame a flat-out dice between riders who rivalries in somecases stretched back half a century!

Overall Results1. Ian Simpson Motul Suzuki, Scotland2. Les van Breda Suzuki, RSA3. David Bolding Suzuki, RSA4. John Kosterman Suzuki, RSA5. Rob Burns Suzuki, UK

Mick Grant ( le f t)i s seen w i t hKei th Zeeman.

Les van Bredaf in ished insecond p lace onthe KatanaSuzuki 1000. THE KILLARNEY LEG...

SA TT REVIVAL

The Norton’s factory r iderIan Morgan had somepace on the V4 racer .




ART AND SOUL

TOP SHOP ALFA BODYWORKS, ATHLONE

The superb quality of panelbeating shops found in andaround the Western Cape – especially Cape Town itself –never cease to amaze me. Take Moeneeb Fataar’s AlfaBodyworks as a case in point. Employing over 52 staff

members out of premises consisting ±3 200 sq m, you get thepicture.

Boasting some of the best approvals in the business, “and there’smore to come,” quiet spoken Moeneeb was quick to point out hecouldn’t have this level of success without help from his youngerbrother Shameeg – under the watchful eye of their father andmentor Fuad, of course.

Alfa Bodyworks is situated at Mynmona Crescent, AthloneIndustria (Tel. 021 691 9333/4), close to Primrose Park where theboys were raised. Moeneeb always loved cars and at the age of 10encountered the Alfa Romeo marque and was smitten for life.

Fascinated enough to learn all there was to know aboutpanelbeating and all of its components, he approached Cape

Panelbeaters who were prepared to take the youngster on and teachhim the trade. Mastering all this came easy to Moeneeb and beforetoo long he started up his own business respraying/customising anytype of wheels – even motorcycles – with candy finishes and otherexotic coatings that proved so very popular in the late 90s.

Premises were soon outgrown and in 2006 the brothers took theplunge into the big league with a workshop/panelbeating outlettotaling 600 sq m and a staff complement now totalling 15 – growingthe business further to 20 or so by 2009.

“We are now able to consolidate that business in these ourcurrent premises – and hopefully our final move!” said Moeneeb.“We can tackle up to 200 cars a month on average, thanks in themain due to Sikkens, our paint supplier.”

“Business has been good to us down the years, but it’s nevergoing to happen overnight. Hard work is the real name of the game,”reiterated Moeneeb.

The whole co l l is ion repair centre features spot less work areas. Wi th a fu l l downdraf t preparat ion deck no pr imer dust everescapes to cause any operator heal th r isks.

S ikkens Autowave 2.0 is de l iver ing both top qual i ty resu l ts w i th improved product ion output leve ls says Moeneeb Fataar , far r ight .Seen here f rom the le f t are Nikk i Smit f rom Chemspec Paint , Shameeg Fataar and Mark Johnson, Chemspec Regional Manager.

ART AND SOUL




Story by Dave Fall

The body shop has many l i f ts for ease of co l l is ion repair damage.

A l fa ’s body repair team have worked for the company for manyyears.

Wi th a large number of repeat customers A l fa Bodyworks has investedin state-of- the-art equipment and standards.

Autobase Plus is S ikken’s so lvent re f in ish system for non-warranty repa irs .

Moeneeb Fataar has spent h is ent i re l i fe repa ir ing. He and h is fatherhave bui l t up the impress ive body repair centre in Ath lone, Cape Town.


Multifunctional Colour LCD Panel withAdvanced DSP control Technology.

One Button Intelligent design storeswelding modes for aluminium, stainlesssteel, copper and Nickel.

IGBT Inverter pulsed technology andsoft switching control

High quality welding gun included.

Energy efficient.

Fast arch ignition.

Less post weld treatment workrequired as less welding sparks arecreated.

GM Approved

COST EFFECTIVE M.I.G BRAZING IS HERE!THE MIG 5320 FROM HURRICANE.

COST EFFECTIVE M.I.G BRAZING IS HERE!

R 25 000ExclR 25 000

For more information about this product.

Contact: Deon Joubert on 083 628 2288Email: [email protected]: [email protected] our website: www.hurricaneauto.co.za

Hurricane AD N-D 2013_Layout 1 2014/02/10 10:14 AM Page 1



The courtesy of Ford SA, provided a huge contrast on manyfronts, particularly in terms of roads and transport.Admittedly there is a huge difference in the size of the twocities, with Delhi, the capital of India and the world’s second

most populous city after Tokyo, housing more than 23-millioninhabitants, while Barcelona, the capital of Catalonia has a populationof 6.5-million, but the contrast in the way they are handling transportis worlds apart.

Barcelona is proving a model of traffic control with its multi-modelapproach. It uses a combination of bicycles, motorcycles, scooters,taxis, private cars, underground trains (Metro), buses, air transport(two airports), commuter and rapid rail trains. There are also threefuniculars and a couple of cable car routes in the city.

Another contributor to cutting traffic congestion is the fleet ofopen top buses that transport visitors to the various points ofinterest in the city and these run at close intervals so it is unnecessaryfor tourists to use other forms of transport such as rental cars ortaxis.

All these systems and vehicles are integrated to minimise trafficcongestion. I saw it for myself and it definitely works.

What is important is the big role played by two-wheelers – pedalcycles and powered motorcycles and scooters. In fact, there werealready more than 300 000 motorcycles and scooters in Barcelona in2010, which makes it the European city with the highest proportionof powered two wheelers relative to the population; probably thereason Spaniards are so successful in two-wheel motor sport!

In addition, almost 200 000 people in Barcelona make use of theBiking communal cycle loan system which has more than 6 000bicycles at 420 locations in the city. Annual subscription payable tothe Biking organisation is only about R500 a year and it is proving apopular and convenient method of getting around the city withoutever worrying about parking.

The authorities in Barcelona are also encouraging the increaseduse of electric bicycles and scooters. With many charging pointsalready operational there are plans to lift the number to more than4 000 in the near future. Electric bicycles and scooters can have theirbatteries recharged free of charge at the Mobecpoints in the city. Theobjective was to have more than 3 000 electric vehicles running onBarcelona streets by the end of last year, from about 400 in 2012.

Being a motorcycle enthusiast I was most impressed with theextensive use of powered two-wheelers in this beautiful city.

What was most impressive was the responsible manner in whichthe powered-two-wheelers were ridden. I saw no reckless riding butrather very responsible riders who obeyed traffic signs and did notweave through the traffic. In fact I cannot even remember hearingthe toot of a hooter in the free-flowing traffic, which is a pleasantchange to the situation in many other global cities, such as Mumbaiand Delhi in India.

Traffic in these two cities is absolutely chaotic, but I did not seeany collisions other than one biker who had been knocked over butappeared unhurt.

Amazingly there was no sign of road rage, despite having to dealwith other vehicles forcing their way in front of your vehicle atvirtually every junction and driveway. Scary.

Hooters are used virtually nonstop: day and night. Besides thetrucks and cars traffic consists of a huge number of Tuk Tuk three-wheelers and two-wheelers – motorcycles and scooters – as well asbicycle rickshaws. Many of these vehicles do not appear roadworthyeither, but there is virtually no visual policing by the authorities.

Motorcycles make up most of the personal transport in India,particularly in rural areas, and although a helmet is required whenregistering a motorcycle there are no laws to enforce the wearing ofsame. Many of the billion passengers are women and not only dothey have only a sari as headgear they also often ride side saddle onthe motorcycles!

We only saw one proper freeway during our recent visit to Indiaand this was on the way to the Taj Mahal and Red Fort in Agra.Strangely, there was little traffic on this wide open concrete highwaywhich was a manual toll road with long delays from traffic build upon either side of the toll booths

What is really staggering is the fact that it is forecast that India willbe the third biggest marketplace in the world for passenger cars in2020 with predictions of more than seven million sales that year,which will put it behind only China and the US.

How on earth the road network and traffic arrangements willhandle this huge increase in volume is hard to imagine, while thoseliving in Barcelona should continue to enjoy one of the best regulatedtransport systems in the world.

TRANSPORT IN BARCELONA & DELHI - MASSIVECONTRASTS

REGULAR BITS

NEWS FROM THE ZOO - by Roger Houghton


STANDOX PAGES M-A 2014_Layout 1 2014/03/13 2:19 PM Page 1

STANDOX PAGES M-A 2014_Layout 1 2014/03/13 2:19 PM Page 2

Contract represents the second of several contracts forQuindell telematics that are expected to be announcedby year-end, and largest North American deal forQuindell to date.

Quindell Portfolio PLC has announced that CAA South CentralOntario (CAA SCO), has contracted with Quindell to providetheir auto club members and insurance customers with newtelematics technology and services.

Quindell has agreed to contract with CAA SCO on anexclusive basis for a minimum period of five years in which thegroup will provide the technology for all of CAA SCO’s telematicsinitiatives to its membership base of over 1.9 million members.CAA SCO members are entitled to core services including 24/7roadside services, battery service, emergency fuel and delivery, flattyre service, locksmith, and extrication services that will beenhanced by the introduction of telematic’s services. CAA SCOalso provides auto insurance to over 90 000 auto owners inOntario, and plans to utilise Quindell technology to offer AAInsurance clients new insurance products.

Over the next five years Quindell, the CAA SCO and otherindustry analysts generally believe that between 10% to 30% of allCanadian auto insurance policies will transition to being telematicsbased, driven by initiatives such as this one promoted by the CAASCO. At a 10% to 30% adoption rate, applied to insurance clientsand to all CAA SCO members, technology revenue from thiscontract to Quindell could therefore potentially increase from$26m to $78m per annum. Applying a similar adoption rate forCAA SCO sister associations in Canada, representing 5.8 millionCanadian members, would provide a revenue potential of $79m to$237m per annum.

Rob Terry, founder and executive chairman of Quindell said,“The CAA South Central Ontario is the first major AutomobileAssociation in Canada to contract with Quindell, and it representsa tremendous win for both our companies. This agreement onceagain validates Quindell’s significant market leading model, whichwe believe will continue to positively disrupt the Canadianinsurance market. It also confirms our belief that the insurancemarket in Canada is going to exceed all our previous plans forgrowth in the short to medium term. Matthew Turrack, vicepresident, Insurance for CAA SCO said, “Our planned telematicsoffering will enhance CAA auto insurance offers, bring fairness toinsurance, reward better driving behaviours, and lead to saferroads.” He added, “We are excited to partner with Quindell, amarket leader in telematics, who have a long established trackrecord of delivering this technology,”

Cindy Hillaby, vice president, Membership and AutomotiveServices at CAA SCO added, “Our promise to our members is toprovide them this roadside safety, peace of mind and value fortheir membership. Telematics provides us with new opportunitiesto use technology to deliver on that promise more effectively whileproviding members with an extra level of care and convenience.”

LATEST NEWS

INSURANCE ADDTELEMATICS TO THE OFFER IN THE USA

60R E F I N I S H E RAAUTOMOTIVE

US NEWS


STANDOX AD M-A 2014_Layout 1 2014/03/13 2:17 PM Page 1



EPT Systems have moved to a larger warehouse distributionoperation that is still based in Killarney, in Cape Town. Beingthe sole importer of the Evercoat Specialist range of fillersand accessories has seen Mike Speck and his daughter

Michelle make a move to increase their stock holding in South Africaof the top-selling refinish Preval Portable Spray Gun range.

The company have also gained better operating facilities for theirsister operation of Quality Paint Supplies.

The American brand of Evercoat features a number of top qualitybody fillers as well as their range of Multifix Plastic Repair systems tocomplete the line-up. Metal Bonding fast setting adhesives are alsoavailable for metal-to-metal surfaces as well as a range of manuallyoperated caulking guns for the adhesive application.

If you would like a technical disc on the future of automotive

body preparations, EPT Systems have developed a step-by-step‘How To’ technical process for their Evercoat System.

Visit www.eptsystems.co.za or call +27(0)21 556 1991 for moredetails.

INDUSTRY NEWS

EPT SYSTEMSEXPAND

ALAN HARRIS 1940 - 2014

Alan Harris was born into acolonial lifestyle inBulawayo, Rhodesia. Hewent through the normal

life cycle of attending school atBaynes and Gifford Technical School.He worked in a long career as anapprentice fitter and turner but asearly as 1950, Alan had set his sightson becoming a motorcycle racer.

At 17 years old he was already incompetitive road racing becoming aRhodesian champion in 1962. Beingpart of the up and cominginternational grand prix scene camenext with bronze medal awards at theIsle of Man TT races in 1963. Whileon his European Tour he returned tomarry his fiance Shona, and returnedto race in England and Europe in thegrand prix. His big win will always beremembered when he piloted aVelocette Thruxton to first placewith his co-rider Howard German, inthe long distance Thruxton 500Production Bike Race against aformidable amount of internationalcompetitors. Alan raced that race likehe lived his life – cautiously, but with great determination. They cameup the leaderboard on a smaller machine than the leaders in cubiccapacity to snatch victory that day.

Alan’s good luck turned the other way when he suffered a huge‘off’ at Abadare Park which put him in hospital for many months withdoctors saying he would never walk again. With stoic resolve hehowever, threw away the crutches and with an iron will to onceagain become mobile under his own steam and regained his health.

Alan then took up on his early passion of photography andworked for many years at the Star newspaper. He then opened andmanaged a glass business and during the past five years battled aterminal blood disorder.

This final chapter however, didn’t get him down, as his ability todeal with adversity had been well practised in his early days of life.

Alan became a rider in my “Team Incomplete” Champion’s Team

LOCAL NEWS

OBITUARY

and enjoyed his occasional burst of speed, tempered always with abig amount of common sense in the knowledge that he could notafford another accident while operating against doctor’s advice. Butwhat the medical fraternity clearly fail to understand is that onceyou’re bitten by the speed bug in life it’s difficult to remove it fromthe system.

I can honestly say that Alan never had a cross word for anyoneand lived his life to the full. Planet earth can shed a tear for the lossof a great man whose modesty was a shining example for all whoknew him, for he valued relationships above everything else. So it’s inthis regard that saw his extended family and hundreds of friends andmourners attend a memorial service for Alan Harris.

To keep pace with larger business orders EPT have now opened up a much largerfacility in Killarney, Cape Town.

Alan Harris is seen here with the Velocette Factory cafe racer he helped todesign. The model enjoyed considerable success in its day.

by Ian Groat


General paints have a very successfultrack record and supply over 56 countriesacross the globe with a full range of 92toners - 39 standards, 16 pearls, 6xyralics and 29 2K. These high covertoners ensure a perfect result everytime.General Paints also offer a completecolour support package with their colourbox of 8000 colour formulas backed-up byGPC pro computer software which hasclose to 70 000 international car colourformulas in different variable shades. TheGeneral refinish range includes rapidprimers and high solid clearcoats whichhave been extensively researched toprovide you with a ‘One Stop Shop’philosophy. General paints are designedto improve body shop profitability andshorten process times.

For dealer opportunities in your area or nearest stockist

call us on +27 (0)11 663 0300

Email us at [email protected]

Visit us on www.kanyevimba.co.za

Unit No.1B Plumbago Bussiness Park

Cnr Spier & Monument Road

Kempton Park

Johannnesburg

GENERAL New AD_Invoice TOYOTA 16-8-05 2014/02/07 11:41 AM Page 1

PHOENIX EXCHANGE AD M-A 2013_Invoice TOYOTA 16-8-05 2013/03/18 1:38 PM Page 1



Ford, Mitsubishi, Holden and now Toyota. Australia could be facing an economic crisis the likes of which 'haven't been seen since theGreat Depression' as unions fear 50 000 jobs could be lost, says Australian Prime Minister, Tony Abbott. Abbott said there was nothinghe could do to prevent Toyota halting vehicle manufacturing in Australia, as fears it will spark an economic crisis gathering pace. Toyotasaid it would stop making cars in Australia by 2017, citing high production costs, a strong local dollar and a small domestic market. The

decision would end the country's 66-year-old auto manufacturing industry. Whereas Toyota SA recently announced a R1-billion injection forproduction here with the new Toyota Corolla.

Toyota’s announcement follows Mitsubishi closing factories in 2009, Ford halting production in 2016 and General Motors announcing inDecember 2012 that its Holden brand would also cease manufacturing by 2017.

The demise of the industry has sparked a political battle with the Labour opposition blaming the government for not doing enough to preventToyota from walking away and unions warning 50 000 jobs could be lost down the supply chain, mostly in component manufacturing andtransport. Given that the numerous strikes in 2013 cost the country millions and BMW lost its local 3 Series production contract, the currentstate of the Australian auto industry should serve as a rude awakening for the SA auto industry.

Opposition industry spokesman Kim Carr compared the impact on the worst hit states of Victoria and South Australia to the GreatDepression that struck the nation in the 1930s. Carr said: "There's likely to be, for many blue collar Australians, an economic crisis the like ofwhich we haven't seen since the Great Depression. "There are going to be families that won't be able to get work. There will be wholecommunities that will be savaged by this decision." Since coming to power in 2013, the conservative government has adopted a hard line onindustry assistance, warning that "the age of entitlement is over" when it comes to taxpayer-funded handouts.

Abbott said that millions of dollars had been thrown at the ailing car industry in recent years and had not saved it. Abbott said: "This is a veryconsidered decision (by Toyota) and it is a final decision and it's not as if the government could have leapt in at the 11th hour and said here'sanother $100 million or $200 million, please, please, please stay."

"We've tried that with the motor industry. It hasn't worked and the best thing now is to focus on things that we can do and which areprofitable."

Victoria state Premier Denis Napthine met workers at Toyota's Altona plant in Melbourne and said "there was a sense of disappointment,but also a sense of where do we go from here". He was due to meet Abbott later in Canberra to thrash out a package to assist retrenchedworkers in the state as well as drum up more money for key infrastructure and industries of the future to help their transition.

Toyota has manufactured cars in Australia since 1963 and still produces the top-selling Camry sedan and other models in the country. Butnot for much longer.

INDUSTRY NEWS

A LESSON FOR OUR LOCALUNIONS FROM AUSTRALIA

FIAT/CHRYSLER OPTFOR NEW NAME

Italian car giant Fiat has announced a name change aftercompleting the purchase of US automaker Chrysler. Henceforthit will be ‘Fiat Chrysler Automobiles’, but the company still posteddisappointing 2013 results.Fiat chairman John Elkann said the name change heralded ‘a new

chapter’ "A journey that started more than a decade ago as Fiatsought to ensure its place in an increasingly complex market hasbrought together two organisations, each with a great history in theautomotive industry and different but complementary geographicstrengths. FCA allows us to face the future with a renewed sense ofpurpose and vigour."

The group statement read: "To establish a true peer to the majorglobal automotive groups in both scale and capital market appeal theboard has decided to establish Fiat Chrysler Automobiles, organisedin the Netherlands, as the parent company.

"The company said shares would be listed in New York and Milanand Fiat shareholders would receive one FCA common share foreach Fiat share held. FCA will be resident in the UK for taxpurposes.”

Fiat CEO Sergio Marchionne was quoted as saying: "Today is oneof the most important days in my career at Fiat and Chrysler. Wehave worked tenaciously and single-mindedly to transformdifferences into strengths and break down barriers of nationalistic orcultural resistance.

“The FCA would continue with the same mission, includingmanufacturing plants in Italy and elsewhere around the globe, withno impact on headcount (staff)".

The group said it expected to present a long-term business planin May 2014.

WHAT’S HOT?

US NEWS

VOLVO ADVANCES ONPLANS

Volvo Car Group hasintroduced new scalableproduct architecture (SPA) toenable it to move faster

towards a crash-free future.The new SPA enables

improvements both when it comes to offering protection and whencreating innovative features that support the driver in avoidingaccidents.

Jan Ivarsson, senior manager, safety strategy and requirements atVolvo Cars said, “The new architecture opens up for furtherimprovements. 7% of the safety cage in the original XC90 was madeof hot-formed boron steel. The structure in the upcoming all-newXC90 features over 40% hot-formed steel, which translates intosignificantly improved strength but without adding mass or weight.”

The new SPA is designed to make it easy to add-sophisticatedfunctions and rapidly implement new technology in fast-moving areassuch as microprocessor, sensor and camera technology. In principle,the electrical system consists of a network with four domain masters,vehicle dynamics, safety, car body and infotainment.

Camera, radar and sensor technologies have been extended todetect more objects around the car and to offer support at higherspeeds and in more situations. The sensors used, are also parts offeatures such as adaptive cruise control with steer assist, introducedin the upcoming all-new XC90.

SPA is also designed to accommodate the implementation ofautonomous technologies all the way to self-driving cars. Volvo aimsthat by 2020, no one should be killed or seriously injured in a newVolvo.

CAR NEWS


MIXPLAST ADS J-F 2014_Layout 1 2014/02/06 10:58 AM Page 1

MIXPLAST ADS J-F 2014_Layout 1 2014/02/06 10:58 AM Page 2

GM, OPEL, CHEVROLET - WHERE NEXT?



GM, OPEL, CHEVROLET - WHERE NEXT?

The automotive industry to many observers – fromcustomers buying vehicles to those running highly profitableenterprises in other sectors – is an impossible riddle. Acombination of brand building, straight ‘stack them high and

sell them cheap’ promotion and load of references to by-gone days.A whole industrial sector that produces for a global audience yet hasa simply vast turn over. Just don’t mention profit margin too loudly.

There is a conventional business way and there is an ‘automotivebusiness’ way.

The advent of wireless communication for the masses – especiallyin Africa – has done much to transform ideas about how to dobusiness. The automotive industry grew up for more than a centuryserving specific markets with either specific vehicle adaptions orspecific brand building messages. Those in turn were based on acomplex mix of the best marketing money could buy and a profoundsense of history. However, the Internet has allowed anyone with anycuriosity to see exactly what is sold almost anywhere in the world,including the price. Suddenly those country or regional specificmarketing plans take on a whole new challenge, although one thathas existed for a decade already.

Let’s look at General Motors, for example.This is a global company, and vies with Toyota as the biggest

automotive company in the world. It produces more than 1 in 8 ofall vehicles sold on the planet, so on every street corner there’s goingto be one or more of the vehicles they build. Some markets aremore successful that others, exactly as one would expect of a globalenterprise. However, the crash on 2008 followed by the bail out in2009 brought this global giant into sharp focus – the primary aid wasfrom the US, although most countries where GM operated alsoassisted. The leadership comes from mostly the US, and the currentfight back to sustainable profitability is centred around the thing theUS gave to the world – share price.

Outside the US GM has lots of manufacturing locations, but themain engineering centres are:

• GM Brazil, strategically important for access to the SouthAmerican market. Traditionally it has ties to Detroit as well asEurope.

• GM in Europe, represented by Adam Opel AG and sold tostrange people on an island just off mainland Europe as ‘Vauxhall’.

• GM in South Korea, formerly known as Daewoo. This was – stillis – the powerhouse for producing small car designs which are built

around the world.• GM in Australia, which produces engines for the world market

as well as unique-to-Australia models which have been exported tothe US in the past.

At the time of the financial crash the European operation waslosing huge amounts of cash, as it has done almost ever since. GM inSouth Korea also has a huge build-up of debt as global exportmarkets collapsed and domestic demand faltered. GM in Australiahas almost independently reached the end of the road, and will notbuild complete vehicles within the country from 2016 onwards.

There is a very big ‘but’ in this.Where a vehicle is built and what is built are two things.

Unfortunately for the US citizens calling for the closure of Opelignored that Opel was responsible for the engineering behind themost of the key global vehicles built by a global company. RemoveOpel engineering and GM removes the engineering knowledgebehind more than half the platforms it builds around the world.

Chevrolet in the US historically has been the brand of ‘goodvalue’. Using products initially borrowed from the Daewoo era, GMsought to establish Chevrolet as a global brand with products smallenough to literally fit into many global markets. Those smallerinexpensive vehicles in later life used architecture laid down by Opel,and engineering knowledge from Opel.

In Europe Chevrolet was the saviour to access the lower cost endof the car market where Opel operational overheads simplywouldn’t allow. Then came currency fluctuations and the financialcrisis, which combined to pit Opel/Vauxhall vehicles head-to-headwith Chevrolet vehicles in a sector awash with ultra-competitiveproducts. The effect was to canabalise marginal sales betweendivisions of the same company, whilst failing to grow. Just five yearsafter the big push for Chevrolet in Europe, along with much lobbyingfrom European countries, Chevrolet will scale back to allowOpel/Vauxhall to gain ground.

The problem. This leads directly to a confused marketingsituation. Great products with more marketing make-overs than anaging Hollywood star.

The picture is more complex. The baby GM South Korea vehiclewas called Matiz, engineered in part by the Daewoo team based inthe UK as well as LG. GM Europe teamed up with Fiat to give theworld the Corsa/Barina and the Fiat Punto – products which were sogood they are still being built seven years after launch. That latter

FUTURE TECH - by Andrew Marsh




marriage gave birth to Alfa Romeo petrol engines built inEurope as well as in Australia by GM …. an arrangement thathas thankfully ended. In later life the latest Chevrolet Aveoshares more in common with Astra/Cruze than ever before,whilst the Spark remains an almost pure GM South Koreaengineered product. Collaboration with other partners willoccur again in the future, but there has to be a core vision ofwhat features define a GM vehicle.

Which brand name should GM use to push into establishedand new markets outside the US? Holden? Vauxhall? Opel?Something else? Which product development team shouldcreate the smaller vehicles for those all-important marketsoutside the US, and offer those same vehicles to fuel economyminded North Americans?

GM led the automotive world for decades by beingdedicated to its business plan. If we look over the past decadeand observe the demise of Saab, Hummer, Pontiac, Oldsmobile– and very nearly Opel – what do they want to do? Theproduct teams are guided by their own values, and are lesssuccessful than Ford at engineering in a global corporate way.The Ford Ranger was engineered in Australia, is built in Thailandas well as South Africa – and does not have any trace of itsroots. Yet an Opel will be built to take forever to accelerate butachieve amazing maximum speeds given enough road and lackof obstacles, whilst consuming next to no fuel. Just as one wouldneed on an Autobahn. Not quite what is needed for Taipei inthe rush hour with 80% humidity and 30°C plus ambient.

GM has many of the finest minds to be found in any businessanywhere in the world, but the sharp focus on the NorthAmerican market is at odds with other markets. GM SouthKorea employees were less than excited to find out that notonly were they not engineering the next Sonic/Aveo, but it wasnot going to be built in South Korea either. At the time the ‘planB’ was not revealed, leaving lots of people fearing the worst.Given that the Sonic/Aveo is one of the biggest single productsGM build, that was an amazing decision handled with anamazing lack of tact.

Where does this leave GM in South Africa? Faithfullyfollowing the decisions made far, far away. What is needed isfocus on product, not making frequent radical operationalchanges with little impact and embracing the consumer. Sometime ago another confused company took on the ‘Mini’ at itsown game – a basic product that was quite simply irresistible.

The result, the Citroen DS3, defied observers and became agiant success because it competed in spirit but not directly withMini. Fiat did the same thing with the 500. These products showhow careful planned use of ‘off the shelf’ components wrappedin forms aimed to excite the target audience works. The OpelAdam comes close to getting in the groove, but tried too hard.

Vauxhall? Well this goes back to the days of the battlebetween GM in the UK and Opel. The latter won the day bythe mid-1970s, so eliminating most of the engineering in the UKalong with the products unique to Vauxhall. Ford in Europe hadexactly the same thing and also eliminated the unique products.Both Ford of Europe engineering centres survived and work aspart of a global network of Ford engineering centres. However,in marketing terms Vauxhall has carried on quietly beingsuccessful selling Opels with Vauxhall badges – but neversuggested as the next big thing to push as an internationalbrand.

Has someone missed a trick there?

About Auto Industry Consulting

Auto Industry Consulting is an independent provider oftechnical information to the global co llision repair industry.Products include Ezi-Methods, our on-line co llision repairmethods system and Auto Industry Insider, our co llision repairindustry technical information website.

Fo r mo re info rmation please v isit the websites:www.ezimethods.com and www.auto industryinsider.com orcontact ben.cardy@auto industryconsulting.com

www.autoindustryinsider.com

This trio (including the main picture) are based on Gamma 2, which was mostly based onthe Opel Corsa / Barina / Fiat Grande Punto. But, this MPV cross over was engineered byOpel based on the GM South Korea version of the vehicle, since its closest sister is theCheverolet Aveo / Sonic. So - no harm in multiple offerings - but in the same market?

The Opel Astra - and some of the most important global volume selling cars GM makes.Again the Buick Verano was a huge hit in North America as well as China, whilst theChevrolet Cruze is the main volume product from which the slightly shortened Aveo / Sonicis derived. Additionally a gaggle of MPVs and SUVs are based on the same platform, whichis also related to the Insignia. The lead engineering was from Opel - without which any ofthis was possible. This shows clearly the long held GM idea that products arecommissioned by brands from engineering teams which is no real problem, but just whereis the overall strategy?


Egyptian paint maker Kapci last yearachieved the number one positionin their local market and furtherdeveloped their global network of

exports with a full 20% increase in sales fortheir refinish paint system.

Mohamed Hafez, regional sales managerexport management, was recently in hisoperating territory of Africa and reportedexcellent increased sales to Malawi andZimbabwe, among others.

Mohamed says their constant salesincrease comes from the Kapci Coatingsphilosophy of keeping batch-to-batchquality at top levels. The company, alongwith ISO manufacturing methods, has alsoimplemented a PDF quality platform in themanufacturing process to boost outputfinished paint standards.

Kapci Coatings are already working witha new factory in India and have moved toone office in China to keep pace in those

markets. Kapci Coatings will berepresented at the Phil Auto Show in theFar East and Automechanika later this yearas these prominent trade shows have beena major brand awareness booster in recentyears.

With a large team of colour researchersworking hard on both Dima waterbornecolours and new solvent borne colourderivative shades, Kapci Coatings havebeen able to introduce a new colour app,Smartmix, which is now available for endusers on their tablets, smart phones orcomputer. It uses the IOS and androidsystem. This works really well as now nospray painter will be stuck for a new colourformula as its available on a 24/7 basis rightat their fintertips too. It is free to downloadas well. With this novel advance from KapciCoatings, Kapci have also introduced a newformula Hi-Solid clear coating system thatdelivers an exceptional wet look top coatfinish.

“Our relationship with the key marketfor us in Africa and South Africa,” saidMohamed, “has once again been verysuccessful in recent times as the localdistribution network have done a good jobwith the brand along with continuoustraining from the Johannesburg centre.

They have delivered a streamlined andmore profitable way to producing a betterclass of body repair to end users locally.”

BRAND NEWS

KAPCI COATINGS ONCOURSE WITHGLOBAL EXPANSION



PRODUCT PROFILE

Mohamed Hafez, (right) Regional Sales Manager Export Management, was out from Egypt recently. He said that he was very happy with the way Kapci Coatings is growingin the local South African market. Bev Dicks (centre) who has been wearing the Kapci Coatings marketing hat for a few years now is now retiring and handing over themarketing mantle to Moosa Ally (left).

The new Smartmix app from Kapci Coatings isandroid and IOS based so it works on all smartphones, tablets and other computers.


KAPCI COATINGSKAPCI COATINGSTel: +27 11 834 1252Tel: +27 11 834 1252Fax: +27 11 834 1259Fax: +27 11 834 1259Email: [email protected]: [email protected]

KAPCI AD M-A 2014_Layout 1 2014/03/12 2:56 PM Page 1

The category for cars under fourmetres in length and with anengine capacity below 1.5-litres(diesel) or 1.2-litres (petrol) is

spicing up action in India as many newcontenders are launched into this popularsegment which enjoys significant taxbenefits, besides being reasonably frugalwith fuel. These cars are categorised as“small” with only 12% excise duty payableinstead of the 27% for all other cars.

There is also a big demand for sedansinstead of hatchbacks so it is a challenge fordesigners to come up with a booted carwith a spacious interior for five occupants.

Tata was the first maker to make a carespecially for the segment, the Indica CS(compact sedan). Now there are a host ofthese cars, such as the Maruti-Suzuki DZire,Honda Amaze, Mahindra Verito and theToyota Etios Liva. The latter is a shorterderivation of the normal Etios, which are4.25-metres in length.

Now Ford is intensifying its efforts in thisaffordable compact car segment which isseen by many of the volume car makers inthe world as one of the most importantkeys to growing overall sales and marketshare in the future, particularly in emergingmarkets. This message came through loudand clear at the unveiling of a concept ofthe new Ford Figo in New Delhi, India,recently.

The fact that a group of SA motoringjournalists was invited to the unveiling andthe first public display of this substantial-looking, sub-four metre compact car at the12th Auto Expo in New Delhi two dayslater indicates that SA is high on the list ofpriorities for this model.

The current, Indian-built Figo is proving avaluable contributor to Ford’s amazingrevitalisation in SA over the past few years.It was fourth in the overall list of top-sellingpassenger cars in SA in 2013, with 15 254units sold and continued in this position inlast month’s sales. It was the ninth mostpopular car in India in 2013 with sales of60 964 units.

Ford is covering its bases well, with theKa Concept being a hatchback while theFigo Concept is a sedan, albeit with atruncated luggage boot giving it a veryhatchback-like side profile.

At the end of last year the Ka Conceptwas unveiled in Brazil in November andthen shown in Barcelona in Decemberwhen this hatchback derivative of thisimportant, high volume, B-segment modelwas shown as part of a global Ford eventfor dealers and the media built around the

first unveiling of the latest Ford Mustangsports car.

Although the senior Ford executives atthe unveiling of the Figo Concept in NewDelhi, including South African Craig vonEssen, who has been moved recently upthe ranks to global productcommunications manager at Ford HQ inDearborn, were tight-lipped about whatname the upcoming model would wearwhen it arrived in SA, probably in 2015, butit is highly likely to be Figo.

The previous Ka was an oddly styledmodel that fared rather poorly in thepopularity stakes in SA when it was soldhere from 2005-2008, while Figo has builtstrong brand awareness and customerloyalty in the local market.

This B-segment contender is Ford’slatest project in the ongoing roll-out of itsglobal One Ford programme, but theexecutives would not confirm whether ornot SA will get both the hatchback andsedan derivatives, nor what specific powertrains will be offered or when it will arrivehere.

The Ford team, who made a mostimpressive presentation in New Delhi, usingamazing digital projection, kept stressingthat this was still a concept model and didnot reveal interior styling or other details.

What newly-appointed Ford Indiapresident Nigel Harris, a New Zealander,did say is that “substance” was a veryimportant part of the car’s DNA, while itwas designed and developed on the pillarsof Quality, Safe, Green and Smart and asFord vice-president of engineering, KumarGalhotra, added: “Expect the unexpected!”

Ford says the affordable, sub-four metreB-segment is extremely important as salesin this category of car are expected to growsubstantially in the future, mainly due todemand from first time buyers in emergingmarkets. The B-segment already accounts

for a third of car sales in India and salesvolume in this category is expected to growfrom about one million sales in 2013 toabout two million by 2018.

The Indian market is seen as havingimmense growth potential with a forecastthat it will account for seven million vehiclesa year in 2020, which should make it thethird biggest market in the world, hence therush by several manufacturers to build newfacilities in this region of the globe; Fordalone has six new plants under constructionin the Asia Pacific region, despiteannouncing that it is closing its assemblyfacility in Australia in 2016.

This is Ford’s largest industrial expansionin 50 years in the Asia Pacific region, withthe new Sanand manufacturing plant inIndia, where Figo will be built, set to beginvolume production in 2015. Sanand, whichis costing more than US$1-billion, willsupplement the existing Ford plant inChennai and position India as a major globalhub for the assembly of Ford small cars.

The new facility will double thesubsidiary’s annual capacity in India to440 000 vehicles and 610 000 engines. Fordwill then be in a position to increase thenumber of countries to which it exportsvehicles from India to 54 in the next fiveyears. Currently Ford India ships vehicles to37 countries.

“We see India as a pillar of ourcompany’s growth in the Asia Pacific region,which we predict will account for nearly50% of globe vehicle sales by 2020,” saidthe president of Ford Asia Pacific, DaveSchoch.

“As we prepare to launch 23 vehiclesglobally in 2014 – the most in more than acentury – we see huge opportunity in India,both as a market and as a centre ofexcellence of manufacturing. We arealready represented by 274 dealerships in146 Indian cities,” he concluded.

INDUSTRY NEWS

UNDER 4 METRECARS ALL THE RAGEIN INDIA

WHAT’S HOT?

In emerging markets, the small compact vehicle is where the growth is seen to be to increasing overall sales.Ford have heard this message loud and clear with the launch of their new Figo in New Delhi at the Auto Exporecently.



by Roger Houghton


HENKEL LOCTITE AD N-D 2013_Layout 1 2013/11/11 3:18 PM Page 1

Axalta have announced a commitment to the investmentof $60 million in Wuppertal, Germany. The investmentis to allow a next-generation facility to be built that willexpand capacity to produce waterborne industrial

coatings. Production at the new operations centre is expected tobegin in the first quarter of 2015.

The investment will reinforce the Wuppertal site, already thelargest of Axalta’s 35 manufacturing facilities around the world, andGermany as the centre of Axalta’s water-based paintmanufacturing operations in Europe, Middle East and Africa region.The investment underscores the company’s commitment toenvironmentally responsible waterborne coatings for Axaltacustomers in the automotive OEM and refinish, commercialtransportation, general industrial, and architectural and decorativesegments. In addition to manufacturing products for WesternEurope, products made in Wuppertal will continue to be exportedto Eastern Europe, Asia and Latin America.

The next-generation facility will use manufacturing technologythat will improve efficiencies, reduce waste and shrink even furtherthe environmental footprint from operations while at the sametime meeting the growing needs of Axalta customers. Additionalproduction of waterborne coatings is a direct response tocustomers’ growing interest in environmentally responsiblecoatings.

“We’re tremendously excited about our ability to build newfacilities in Europe and especially in Wuppertal,” explained Axaltachairman and CEO Charlie Shaver. “Germany is synonymous withsome of the finest automotive engineering in the world and hometo some of our key customers. Building on our great legacy thatoriginated in Wuppertal in 1866, we are optimistic about an ever-expanding customer base for us to Service in the future.”

The facility will manufacture coatings for some of the largestEuropean automotive original equipment manufacturers. Anumber of Axalta’s leading refinish brands, including our globalflagship brands Standox, Spies Hecker and Cromax used by bodyshops, will also be manufactured at the new facility, helping toexpand its offerings of the newest generation of waterborne paints.

“Our decision to invest in Germany reflects not only ourcommitment to our customers but also our confidence in theGerman and larger EMEA economy,” explained Otmar Hauck,Axalta’s chief operating officer in the EMEA region. “Building inWuppertal also is a tribute to our employees and their dedicationboth to our company and our customers.”

EPT Systems will once again host their fundraising golf dayon 15 May. All of the profits made will go to First Car CareCollege. The College, provides auto-repair training forlearners in Cape Town and is a fully-functional repair facility

where trainees can be taught the full spectrum of skills, techniquesand procedures required to operate a successful autobodybusiness. The golf day will be held at Parow Golf Club in CapeTown and will be a four-ball alliance format.

For sponsorship opportunities or to book a four ball, callMichelle Speck on +27 (0)21 556 1991.

LATEST NEWS

AXALTA COATINGS TOINVEST $60 MILLIONIN GERMANY

EPT SYSTEMS GOLF DAY



INTERNATIONAL NEWS

LOCAL FUNDRAISER


R92 000 excl

With the estimated need forbody shop technicians at the20 to 30 000 mark and onlyapproximately 750 graduates

into this industry last year – why would anybody shop not want to get involved inmentoring an apprentice? The mind justboggles at these numbers.

The Ntuthuko Foundation (NF) has a clearline of sight when it comes to recruiting thebest people to train as apprentices for thecollision repair industry. Busi Maile literallygoes through to schools and conductsassessment tests on young girls and boys whoshow the right attitude and capability to makeit in this ever changing and highly technicalbusiness.

Once the candidates have been whittleddown to the very serious, an aptitude test istaken as they don’t want youngsters decidingafter a year of hard work and mentorship thatthe industry really isn’t for them. When theapprentices are short listed, they areinterviewed by the participating body shopswho are given first dibs on those they feel willfit in best with their business. A two-week trialis then introduced to make sure that everyoneis happy.

The foundation assists their partner shopswith recruiting apprentice candidates,managing engagements with MerSETA on theshop’s behalf and monitoring apprenticeprogress. In short, all you have to do is openyour doors and NF will do the rest. You havenothing to lose but everything to gain.

NF place their first apprentices for 2014

Nothing beats the end of a longrecruitment drive at Ntuthuko Foundation(NF) like finally placing apprentices at thevarious partner body repair shops.

NF placed its first group of apprentices forthe year in February. They were welcomed byfour reputable partner repair shops, namelyMF Autobody,Cornright Motors,Auto Body Specialistsand Dent DoctorRandburg.

All the NtuthukoFoundation apprenticesare from disadvantagedbackgrounds and haveshown zeal andeagerness towards theundertaking of theirSpray Painting andAuto Body Repairingapprenticeships.

“Every NtuthukoFoundation apprenticehas to provethemselves” said CalebMakhela, programme

co-ordinator for the foundation. “To earn aspot on the programme, candidates have topass all the required assessments; have afinancial need and show commitment anddrive, all key ingredients of a successfulapprenticeship career.”

Nineteen-year-old Ntsako is lookingforward to his first year as an auto bodyrepairer apprentice. He understands that theenvironment he will be in is very differentfrom his high school days that were just afew months ago when he completed matric.

Eager to get his qualification andcontribute to the well being of his family,Ntsako has had to quickly adjust to being anadult and take on all the responsibilities thatcome with it.

The Ntuthuko Foundation recruitmentprocess is thorough and quite rigorous. Theobjective is to recruit apprentices who havea matric pass and have undergone all thetechnical aptitude assessments to help thefoundation and the NF partner shopsascertain whether or not they are a good fitfor the auto repair industry.

Partner repair shops play their part bymaking sure that apprentices are given thenecessary on the job training and supportside in order to succeed. The NtuthukoFoundation is interested in partnering withshops that understand that theapprenticeship process does not happen onits own and that they will need to activelyparticipate and support the process.

The foundation assists partner repairshops with recruiting apprentice candidates,managing engagements with MerSETA onthe shops’ behalf and monitoring eachapprentice’s progress. NF is endorsed by theCollisions Repairers Association (CRA) andalso receives training support from IndustryTraining and Consulting (it-c). Moreinformation on the Ntuthuko Foundationapprenticeship programme is available onwww.nf.org.za.

LOCAL NEWS

WHY CHOOSE THENTUTHUKO FOUNDATIONFOR TRAINING?


TRAINING

The team at Ntuthuko Foundation are as pleased as punch with having placed theirfirst apprentices in February this year in various body shop centres across Gauteng.

R92 000 excl


From the 11th until the 24th of January 2014, BulldogAbrasives Southern Africa (Pty) Ltd hosted their Bi-annualTraining Seminar nearly 50 of their sales staff and techniciansand as well their suppliers at their state of the art Training

Centre in Wynberg, Johannesburg. With over 10 of the company’s top suppliers from all over the

world represented to provide our staff with theory and practicaltraining, there was a great deal of work to get through including newproduct launches, training on both basic and highly technicalproducts, distributor visits and assistance, solution sales training toboth staff and customers as well as demonstrations in the trainingcentre’s extraction booth.

They were proud to welcome suppliers from Spain, Germany,Finland, France, the US, the UK and Turkey to their seminar. Byrunning this seminar every two years in conjunction with theirsuppliers, they not only “up-skill” our staff and give them thenecessary tools to function in their ever-evolving and highlycompetitive market, but to also pass this knowledge on to theirdistribution network and the end users of their products.

Over and above the education process, our suppliers were giventhe opportunity to showcase their new developments in productsand processes. They are extremely fortunate to have suppliers withthe foresight and technical expertise to be involved in the continuousdevelopment of new and revised products that will assisttheircustomers in getting their work load out faster andsimultaneously ensure that the quality of their work meets thehighest European and American standards.

Suppliers introduced new automotive products that will launchBulldog Abrasives and the automotive industry to a whole new level,such as Mirka’s Optimized Surface Preparation System which is trulyunique, thanks to an innovative combination of high-tech abrasives,tools and processes. There is no other product in the market placethat can compare to this unique product. By using advancedtechnology, Mirka’s Optimized Surface Preparation System takesfewer steps and significantly less time to achieve the perfect result.Mirka´s net sanding products used together with ergonomic tools,such as the Mirka PROS650CV sander, give the operator benefitsthat cannot be achieved with a conventional sanding system. Inaddition to this the surface is dust-free and gives better visual controlover the work.

Polarstar SR is the first in a series of new high technology microproducts produced by Mirka. This product is best suited for theautomotive refinishing and vehicles manufacturing market withinnovative cutting technology that is energy saving and has a lowcarbon footprint.

The Polarstar SR is primarily designed for wet sanding, for thecorrection of small painting defects and removing of dust particles in

top coats and clear coats. This product is suitable for both machineand hand sanding.

Thomas Weppner from Carsystem introduced to the team a highsolid, asbestos-free, long-lasting stone chip protection for all car bodycomponents – Carsystem’s KS-1050.

This product protects door sills, engine bonnets and under-bodiesagainst corrosion and can also be used on PVC. After drying, KS-1050 provides permanent elastic, recoatable and textured surface.The temperature resistance (cured) of KS-1050 is from minus 25°Cto +80°C and it is resistant against oil, water and road salt.

Also new from Carsystem is their revolutionary Carbo Putty,which is a transparent polyester putty used for carbon parts. It has ahigh filling capacity with easy, pore-free application and super easysandability. It has adhesion on carbon grounds (Polyester / Epoxy -carry out a test beforehand). It is UV-resistant which means noyellowing. Due to its superior properties as a fill and fine putty, CarboPutty can be used universally.

Another new innovative product launched at the seminar was theSATA RPS Cup System. The SATA RPS (Rapid Preparation System)is a cup system for body shops that demand perfect painting finishesand high efficiency.

SATA RPS improves the painters’ work significantly, enhances thebody shops’ productivity and critically reduces the use of cleaningagents and solvents. SATA RPS consists of only three components,namely, a cup; a lid and a sieve, which means less handling and thus,less expenditure of time. No additional components are necessary.There is no other cup system with the same functions with onlythree components!

The new compact spray gun, SATAminijet 4400B, for small areasis now replacing it’s extremely successful predecessor SATAminijet3000B. Besides a complete redesign, the new spray gun model alsofeatures a host of very practical enhancements.

The wide range of Pneumatic tools they currently stock andsupply from Rodcraft has grown enormously during the last threeyears. With service centres in most main cities, they have no troubleoffering their customers fast and efficient service.

Pricing is competitive for this range of European Pneumaticmachines which includes 6-speed polishers, random orbital sanders,cordless drills, to name just a few. They also stock their new range ofautomotive tools and equipment including jack stands, bottle jacksand trolley jacks.

The 2014 Training Seminar was a resounding success, provingthat knowledge is definitely the key to providing their distributors andend users with unrivalled service and technical support to improveboth efficiency and quality in the work place. All of the delegates arelooking forward to the next seminar in 2016. Watch this space!

INDUSTRY NEWS

BULLDOG ABRASIVES TRAINING SEMINAR 2014:‘KNOWLEDGE IS THE KEY TO EXCEPTIONAL CUSTOMER SERVICE’

WHAT’S HOT?

Thomas Weppnerf rom CarsystemGermanydemonstrat ingthe newKS-1050.




PEUGEOT AD M-A 2014_Layout 1 2014/03/17 12:22 PM Page 1

In recent months we have seen Peugeot South Africa (PSA) makea few changes to streamline the supply chain network for betterproductivity especially on the parts delivery side. They thenfurther bolstered this with a claimed 4 deliveries a day in the

greater Gauteng region and deliveries within 24 hours around therest of the country, with overnight services to areas a little moreremote. With all of this going on Automotive Refinisher Magazinewent out to see just how positive the effects of these changes havebeen.

Claims of slow delivery are now a thing of the past. We met withPeugeot Fourway’s dealer branch parts manager Lance Richie, who Imust add is highly regarded by his employees and body shop peers,to see what he thought. He is an integral link between the body shopand OEM. Lance told me that not only had the delivery side of thenetwork seen changes, but that the entire ordering process betweendealer and body shop had undergone a makeover. From what usedto be the body shop calling the dealer, placing the order and waitingfor your parts estimate to be sent to them, it is now as simple asonline shopping.

This new-age online parts ordering system was introduced mid-way through last year. Because of its recent start it is still fairly newto dealers and Panelshops alike. “It’s a progressive start, said Richie,“and hasn’t been hard to integrate approved panel shops onto thesystem. It’s just a matter them getting used to it. What they like about



PEUGEOT PARTS NETWORK

Story and pics by Jay Groat

the new method is that within a few minutes they have all the partsordered and a generated quote to pass onto the client or insurer.”

With the new online ordering process repairers are capable ofseeing every possible Peugeot part available by simply entering in thevehicle’s VIN number. Repairers add which parts they need to a partsbasket and hit the “send”button which delivers the order directly totheir chosen dealer. Once the Peugeot dealer receives hisnotification, he checks PSA for the availability of the parts, which isalso online, validates the order and within 12-24 hours, the order isdelivered to the repairer. The only delay which might occur is if apart has to be ordered from France, but then a guaranteed 5-7 dayworking period is the most you can expect to wait. The new onlineapproach is so quick and easy to use that Lance says he hardly needsto speak to his approved shops that are on the system. “Everythinggets taken care of without picking up a phone. I can now concentrateon bigger things closer to home”. concluded Richie.

While at the Fourways dealer, I got to see the second wave ofdaily deliveries, just after 10:30 am, from PSA courtesy of GEFCO.GEFCO bring with them years of European expertise in industrialand automotive logistics. Still quite fresh to the continent they havebeen handling PSA’s warehouse logistics and delivery operationssince the end of last year.

From our meeting with Lance Richie in Fourways, we decided topush out a bit further and complete the ‘full circle’ of the network

PEUGEOT PARTS PROFICIENCYPEUGEOT PARTS PROFICIENCY




supply chain at Jocks’s Autobody in Pretoria East. There we spoketo general manager Nelson De Sousa and parts manager HelderFernandez, to see how they have found the changes.

De Sousa said that before the system had been replaced lastyear there had been some delays. Since they had got up to speedwith the online system, everything has been running muchsmoother. The body repairer works between 60 and 70 repairedvehicles a month, so timing and efficiency of deliveries are key.

Fernandez, who handles working with the new online orderingsystem says that it has saved them all time. “Previously we wouldhave to strip the vehicle to find out what the necessary partnumbers were in order to place our orders. Now you can seeeverything on the operating system”. Quality ordering systemscoupled with around the clock deliveries, is a combination allmanufactures can aspire to. Peugeot has set the bar in this regard,by ensuring that their clients get nothing but fast and effectiveservice. We all know the nightmare it is to be without a car.

With everything said the only shortfall we could see was thelack of experience on the new system by those using it, but that’shardly a hiccup. Peugeot will be seeing significant differences in themonths to come with happy and confident clients who have moretime on their hands to do other things. A win win situation for allinvolved.

Lance R ich ie ,Fourway’sbranch partsmanager.


It's hard out there for a midsize crossoverSUV. Merely being good isn't goodenough; it takes a true winner to stand outamong today's galaxy of honest-to-

goodness stars. And the 2014 Hyundai SantaFe is exactly that.

Redesigned and markedly improved justlast year, the Santa Fe offers everythingshoppers have come to expect from Hyundaiin recent years, outstanding value, attractivestyling and a wealth of feature content, andeffectively brings it to the three-row crossoversegment.

Even discerning crossover SUV shopperswill be awed by the Santa Fe's list of attributes.With three rows of seating, up to sevenpassengers can come along for the ride, andleg- and headroom in the first two rows isgenerous enough to seat even taller adults incomfort.

The cabin is more than just roomy; it's alsowonderful to look at and interact with, thanksto attractive, modern design and well-placed,easy-to-find controls.

An eager 2.2 litre turbo diesel engine getsyou there in a hurry, and the Santa Fe's myriadstandard and optional features represent

outstanding value for the price. Topping it alloff is a graceful and attractive exterior designthat makes this Hyundai one of the more eye-catching models in its class.

The 2014 Hyundai Santa Fe is a six- orseven-passenger midsize crossover SUV thatis available in GLS and Limited trim levels.(The smaller Santa Fe Sport seats five and isreviewed separately.)

Standard features on the GLS include 18-inch alloy wheels, foglights, a rear spoiler,windshield wiper de-icers, cruise control, a tripcomputer, full power accessories, air-conditioning (with second- and third-row rearvents and controls), a leather-wrapped tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, an eight-waypower driver seat (with four-way powerlumbar), heated front seats, a 40/20/40-splitsliding and reclining second-row seat and a50/50-split-folding third-row seat.

Also standard are a rearview camera,Bluetooth phone and audio connectivity,Hyundai's Blue Link telematics system, and asix-speaker audio system with CD player,satellite radio, HD radio, USB/iPod integrationand a 4.3-inch touchscreen display.

Powering the Santa Fe is a 4 cylinder

engine that produces 145@3800 rpm withtorque figures of 436@1800/2500. Power issent to the front wheels via a standard six-speed automatic transmission, and all-wheeldrive is optional.

On either side of the driving spectrum, the2014 Hyundai Santa Fe has the potential toimpress. The Santa Fe's V6 helps it toaccelerate with authority. The smooth andquiet engine makes for relaxed highway travel,as do low levels of wind and road noise. Onwinding mountain passes, the Santa Fe feelsfairly light and sporty as big three-rowcrossover SUVs go.

The latest model Santa Fe has a reducedride height and when fully loaded care has tobe exercised on off-road trails in 4x4 mode.All in all the car remains very versatile in it’sability to gobble up huge amounts of luggageand travelling kit.

The Santa Fe proved to be an excellenttowing vehicle turning in 9 litres per 100 kmwhile towing a huge and heavy trailer. It alladds up to an effortless long distancekilometre eater from Hyundai, and it joins afast growing SUV market in South Africa.

DRIVEN HYUNDAI SANTA FE




Companies seeking additionalways to lower their carbonfootprint and increase methodsof enhancing sustainable

development can now do so through theirbranding and signage-related activities.Technology Group 3M has launchedpioneering eco-friendly products under itsEnvision™ brand – the 3M Envision™Wrap Film 480Cv3 and accompanyingGloss Wrap Overlaminate 8548G.

Capable of wrapping everything frompersonal and commercial vehicles, boatsand textured buildings, to billboards andmost things in between, these products aremade with a high-performance non-PVCpolymer. In addition, they are phthalate-free, exclude chlorine and other halogens,and are manufactured using bio-basedmaterials and 60% less solvent. This type ofcomposition renders the 3M Envision™Wrap Film and accompanying Gloss WrapOverlaminate 100% recyclable – theindustry’s first wholly recyclable product.

“These products exceed most currenthigh performance characteristics,” says KimIndermaur, sales and marketing supervisorCommercial Graphics Division, 3M SouthAfrica. “In fact, 3M is confident that trade-offs between a more environmentally-friendly product and product performanceare fast becoming a thing of the past.” This

can be quantified by the fact that themarket price on this eco-friendly material isbetween only 10% and 15% higher thanconventional material.

“Many companies publicise theirsustainable development programmes andachievements,” points out Indermaur, “butthe real question is: is the advertising andmarketing material they use to promotesustainability, sustainable in itself?” She saysthat this question is a concern shared bysome brand managers. “The 3M Envision™Print Wrap Film is the answer to thisquestion.” She adds that the product canbe used for a broad range of applications.The number of applications, however,becomes astonishing when one takes intoaccount that the primary target marketscomprise large format printers, vehiclewrap companies, corporates and retailers.“Many organisations will benefit greatly byadding the use of this application to theirsustainability programmes,” says Indermaur.

Industry recognition and benefits

The fact that the European Digital PressAssociation recognised 3M Envision™ PrintWrap Film as the ‘Best EnvironmentalSubstrate’ shortly after its 2013 Europeanlaunch, describing it as “a breakthrough inthe market”, lends a huge amount of

credibility to the company’s product claims. Over and above the obvious sustainable

development and multiple-use benefits, theEnvision™ Print Wrap Film 480Cv3 has anumber of characteristics which easeapplication and removal techniquescompared to conventional-type wrapproducts:

• Slideability: due to the pressure-activated adhesive, film can be adjusted orrepositioned directly after application.

• Snap-Up: refers to the ease ofremoval. 3M Envision™ Print Wrap Filmcan be removed by pulling only, and thesheet will detach in a single unit leaving thesurface ready for the next application.However, the application remains fixeduntil intentionally lifted.

• Flexibility: using heated film recoverygives the innovative product 150% morestretch than its predecessor (180Cv3),allowing it to easily cover contours anddifficult-to-reach places easily. Applyingheat once the wrap is correctly positionedfacilitates material shrinkage to its originalsize.

• Comply™ Adhesive Air releasechemicals: allow for, among several otherbenefits, a ‘bubble-free’ application and forthe medium to be affixed to any surface,even rough ones.

LOCAL UPDATE

3M INTRODUCES FIRST NON-PVC VINYLTO THE SOUTH AFRICAN MARKET



WHAT’S HOT?


NEW PRODUCTSCELETTE RUPES

BIGFOOT DELUXE POLISHING KIT

The Celette Rupes BigFoot System was designed to make machine polishing easy – professional detailers have traditionallypreferred to use a rotary polisher for heavy compounding and paint correction, but rotaries can introduce holograms intothe paintwork. The BigFoot System works entirely differently, changing long held beliefs and proving it is possible to achieveheavy compounding without introducing holograms. The Celette Rupes BigFoot System has truly changed the face ofmachine polishing. This LHR21ES BigFoot Random Orbital Polisher has an even larger 21mm throw, perfect for body shopswhere speed and efficiency are of the essence. The Deluxe Kits contain all four gel compounds and all four grades of pads.All the compounds now come in a smart new black packaging with blue, green, yellow and white coloured tops to matchthe relevant pad. In addition the Deluxe Kits feature a Celette Rupes BigFoot branded carry bag to keep all the supplies inone organised bag. For more details call Celette on +27 (0)11 334 1875/6.


This industrial high quality polisher has built in speedcontrol to avoid burning up new clear coats that arefreshly dried. All with a high power input of 1200W. It’srecommended that best results will come from using ahook and look backing pad of 150mm diameter. The P0103 also comes complete with a side handle toeliminate wobbling during the polishing action. Theaddition of the thumb adjustable wheel delivers excellentoperator control. You can get more information fromVermont Sales on +27 (0)11 314 7711.

VERMONT SALESPOLISHER P0103

AR M-A 2014 JAY_NOV/DEC 2005 paganation 2014/03/24 2:05 PM Page 3



New from Carsystem is their revolutionary Carbo Puty – atransparent polyester putty which is used for carbon parts. It hasa high-filling capacity with an easy, pore free application andsuper easy sandability. It has adhesion on carbon grounds(Polyester / Epoxy – carry out test before hand) and is UVresistant, which means no yellowing. Due to its superiorproperties as a fill and fine putty, Carbo Putty can be useduniversally. Contact Bulldog Abrasives’ sales team on+27 (0)11 786 5991 for more information on this product andthe rest of Carsystems Carbo-Tech-Line.

CARSYSTEM CARBO PUTTYFOR ADHESION ONTO CARBON SURFACES

3M PAINT DEFENDER SPRAY FILM

Polarstar SR is the first in a series of new high technology micro products producedby Mirka. It is a high precision sanding material developed mainly for use on spotrepairs, such as at car plants in the finessing and hospital area of the paint shop.Using Mirka’s innovative ‘Defined Mono Layer’ production technology has resulted inan even surface finish that ena bles quick polishing with excellent results. Thismanufacturing process is also energy efficient and has a low carbon footprint.The discs can be used for both machine and hand sanding operations and are

primarily designed for wet sanding mode where the abrasive’s strong bonding ensuresa long working lifespan.Polarstar SR mm discs are available in micron (P5000), 5 micron (P3000) and 7micron (P2500) and sold as rolls (500 discs per roll) as well as envelopes (100 discsper envelope). Contact Bulldog Abrasives’ sales team on +27 (0)11 786 5991 formore information on this product, as well as other new and exciting Mirka products.

POLARSTAR® SRMIRKA’S INNOVATIVE FINESSING DISC

The 3M™ Paint Defender Spray Film is a spray applied film that helps protectautomotive paint from stones, sand, bugs, and more. It’s easy to apply, and isremovable. The 3M™ Paint Defender Spray Film can be applied to a varietyof areas including the vehicle’s leading edge, bonnet, front bumper, fenders,mirrors, rocker panels, and rear bumper.The 3M™ Paint Defender Spray Film is applied onto the prepared surface, inthree wet-on-wet coats with a drying time of 2-4 hours (temperature andhumidity dependant). De-masking of the panel is done immediately afterapplication. The full cure of the system takes 1-4 days, but the vehicle can bedriven during this period. The 3M™ Paint Defender Spray Film is supplied in a 496gm aerosol canister and is suitable for both professional and home DIY applicationThe 3M™ Paint Defender Application Kit PN 90200 contains: 3.6m x 4.8m masking film and a 24mm x 18m ScotchBlue™ 2080 masking taperoll. The 3M™ Paint Defender Spray Trigger PN90201 contains: 1 trigger assembly that attaches to the top of the spray can, which makes thespraying/application process easier.Features Advantages & Benefits• Helps protect paint from stones, sand, bugs, and more. • Easy to apply, long-lasting, removable.• Once cured, this film can be waxed. • Helps protect paint and appearance of vehicle, helps to reduce costly paint maintenance.Contact: Rajen Naidoo on +27 (0)11 806 2186 or email [email protected].

AR M-A 2014 JAY_NOV/DEC 2005 paganation 2014/03/24 2:05 PM Page 4



WHAT’S HOT? JOBS, EQUIPMENT, SERVICES AND MUCH MORE

DON’ T FEEL LEFT OUT - ADVERTISE HERE & BUILD YOUR BRAND WITH US

We weld with over 20 years of experience.Repairs to aluminium, magnesiumcomponents, high strength steel, bronze,pewter, iron, titanium, copper and damagedsteel.

PARTS MADE NEW.Call Mark on 086 100 9353

UTOMOTIVEAUTOMOTIVEA R E F I N I S H E R

March - April 2014

Edition 172

[email protected]

www.autoref.co.za

OFFICE CONTACT DETAILS:Tel:+27 (0)11 949 4091Fax: 27 (0)11 252 6844Email: [email protected]: Ian Groat +27 (0)83 290 2967Editor: Claire Macfie +27 (0)83 260 1826Accounts: Val Groat +27 (0)83 541 8878Design: Jay Groat +27 (0)60 501 7450Assistant: Nataschja FerreiraCT Journo: Dave Fall +27 (0)73 021 3076European Technical Editor Andrew MarshCentral Africa - Derrick Mwango +260 96 327 5331

The views expressed in articles inAutomotive Refinisher are those of theauthors and shall not be construed torepresent those of the Editor or the Publisher.Accordingly, Automotive Refinisher acceptsno responsibility for claims and statementsmade by advertisers and independentcolumnists. Further, the appearance ofadvertisements herein does not necessarilyindicate the approval by AutomotiveRefinisher for the product and/or serviceadvertised. Material may not be reproducedin any form without the written consent ofthe Publisher. Automotive Refinisher isdedicated to servicing the business interestsof the collision repair industry.

NOW IN CHROME & BLACK

DON’ T FEELLEFT OUT?ADVERTISE ANDBUILD YOUR BRAND.The voice of the collision repair industryfor over 29 yearsCALL US +27 (0)11 949 4091EMAIL US [email protected]

The voice of the collision repair industryfor over 29 years

UTOMOTIVEA R E F I N I S H E R

DON’ T FEELLEFT OUT?ADVERTISE AND BUILD YOUR BRAND.


85R E F I N I S H E RUTOMOTIVEAAUTOMOTIVE

WHAT’S HOT? JOBS, EQUIPMENT, SERVICES AND MUCH MORE

Suppliers of Automotive Repair Equipment

The DENT PRO-PORTABLE DENT PULLER is a rugged locallymanufactured electronic dent pulling unit; • Removes dents in body panels without needing to strip panels.• Will not damage sensitive electronic devices in modern cars.• Car batteries do not have to be disconnected. • 1 Year warranty from date of purchase with full service backup.• Excellent trade-in offers for your old Dent Pullers.• Call us now for a quote. • Free Delivery throughout SA.• New Dent Pulling Trolleys now available.Call them on 082 452 6631, www.panelprotech.co.za

Auto Industry Consulting provide technical information and consultancyto the global collision repair industry. Our subscription based websitewww.autoindustryinsider.com includes: l Vehicle Technology Review Videos l New model introductionsl Vehicle manufacturer connections l Technology trend overviewsl Vehicle engineering materials l In depth industry reportsl Industry news and more.Ezi-Methods; our vehicle repair methods solution: CRI Tech Reports; a monthly publication providing strategic and practicalindustry information.For further information on any of these products andservices please contact: [email protected] or by calling + 4 4 ( 0 ) 7 9 2 3 5 6 3 2 6 0

www.autoindustryinsider.com

Contact Ian on 011 949 4091 or 083 290 2967

PROFINISHER PRODUCTSPAINT FILM THICKNESSGAUGEMeasuring both ferrousand non-ferrousmetals

INSPECTION LIGHT SCOPELightscope for 8 timesmagnifying ofpaint films

R5750 & VAT

R995 & VAT

SPARK - THE ULTIMATEMULTI-TASKER

tel: +27 (0)860 772 652 l email: [email protected] l www.spanjaard.biz

Lubricants l Greases l Additives l Aerosols

Quality lubricating, moisture-repelling penetratingoil which does not attract dust. A permanent

lubricant, protects against rust and corrosion.


Things weren’t going too well forRalph in his later years. The onlyjob he had left after a lifetime inthe body repair business was one

of being a professional lay-about wishingaway the long nights in his tow truckwaiting for something to happen at anintersection of his choice in the ’burbs.

The great dreams of his imaginationwere long gone after he had been bitten bya couple of costly liquidations. All thisbusiness activity had come at a big cost toRalph’s mental health for the onlycompanion he had left on planet earthturned out to be “George”, the long-hairedterrier who he loved to bits.

To liven life up a bit Ralph took to makethings a bit more interesting by throwing afew gallons of diesel fuel at his favouriteintersections in the rain in a philosophygained from the Irish undertakers Berk andHair, who started knocking off their closerelations and placing them in plywoodmahogany effect coffins under tons of clayat an ever increasing rate.

Ralph needed a donor crashed car tobe able to hawk it around his panelbeatingbuddies to earn more disposable income,

but when one smart cop quickly workedout that Ralph was always the first towtruck on the accident scene, and had analmost full can of diesel in the rear of thevehicle, the game was up. Ralph was giventhe option of a long custodial sentence orpleading insanity. So a trip to the nutty farmwas Ralph’s next move.

With weekly visits not popular by hisfar-flung distant family, Ralph went througha burst of reflection and loneliness. Thatwas until he met another crazy inmatecalled Ethel who was a long termer, whodidn’t really know why she was there in thefirst place, but did make things look up abit.

God bless her heart, Ethel insisted oneshould always go to bed with theexpectation that she would be woken upby a fireman. In her case it was more likewishful thinking than fearful. She alwayswore a wooly nighty, a shawl coupled toone open cardigan, knee length bed socksfinished off with a tea cozy hat when shecould. Quite what this would do for thefireman no one could quite imagine.

Anyway, they had struck up a type ofcompanionship sitting around each day

talking about life’s failures. To deal with theeternal supply of happy pills to overcomethe occasional suicidal tendencies, Ralphtook to swimming lengths in the hospitalpool.

One day Ralph had had enough andsimply jumped into the deep end andstayed immersed without surfacing. Ethelpromptly jumped in to save him and swamto the bottom to pull him out. When thehead matron heard of Ethel’s heroic deed,she gave an order for Ethel to bedischarged from the hospital as she nowconsidered Ethel to be mentally stableonce more.

Ralph did achieve his death wish as theyfound him hanging by his pyjama belt laterthat day. “So in fact, you didn’t save theman you loved,” Matron said to Ethel.Ethel’s next chirp left the matron cold asshe said that he didn’t hang himself, she hadsimply put him up there to dry. Now howsoon could she go home, please?

The bad news was that Ralph haddiscovered it wasn’t the drop that kills you– it’s the sudden stop found at the end …

AFRICAN PANORAMA - HANGING AROUND



by Ian Groat


For more info contact www.3m.comor mail us on: [email protected]

3M AD_Layout 1 2014/03/18 12:10 PM Page 1

AEROCURE OBC J-A 2014_Layout 1 2014/07/03 11:56 AM Page 1

automotive refinisher march-april 2014

Documents

repair industry

issue r e f i n

t h e b e n c h

o r v i s i t w w w

i t yc

u s o n

collision repair association

rsb autogroupr e f i