Call for law changes

Doubts have been cast over the consultation process on options for the warrant of fitness (WOF) regime.

The Motor Trade Association’s (MTA) submission was one of about 4,200 to be lodged on the Vehicle Licensing Review (VLR) before the October 31 deadline.

Its 55-page document, supplied to Autofile, states while the VLR’s

discussion document lists four WOF options, the MTA wants to keep the status quo of annual checks for vehicles up to six years of age with six-monthly inspections thereafter.

One of its concerns is the current regime being excluded as an option in Ministry of Transport (MoT) papers.

“The MTA is disappointed the discussion document didn’t include

the status quo,” the submision states.“The ‘questions for your

submission’ [section on the online form] didn’t include a status quo tick-box option. This biases the process.

“The only way the status quo can be submitted is to tick the ‘some other package’ box and explain it is required.

“Most motorists wouldn’t

The two adjudicators for the Motor Vehicle Disputes Tribunal (MVDT) have recommended a raft of changes to legislation.

They include immediately banning car dealers for breaching tribunal orders and forcing parties to pay for costs incurred by ignoring its directions.

Chris Cornwall, who sits on the Auckland tribunal, and his Wellington counterpart, Nicola Wills, have made the suggestions to the Ministry of Consumer Affairs.

Some recommendations in their annual reports have been considered under the Consumer

Law Reform (CLR) Bill, while others will have to wait until different legislation is reviewed.

Cornwall highlights an issue relating to the Motor Vehicles Sales Act (MVSA), which allows for dealers to be banned if they fail to comply with a tribunal order more than once within 10 consecutive years.

“In the interests of protecting the public and honest traders, any person who fails to comply with an order should be immediately liable to be banned,” he says.

He also wants the tribunal’s jurisdiction extended to include contract-based claims made under the MVSA.

Cornwall transferred six applications to the Disputes Tribunal during the past reporting year on this basis.

“It would be convenient to applicants to have the MVDT hear such claims where one of the parties is a trader,” he says.

Nicola Wills points out the MVSA sets limited circumstances in which the tribunal may award costs.

“On occasion, a party attends with evidence the other hasn’t had an opportunity to consider,” she says.

“In those circumstances, natural justice may necessitate an adjournment so evidence in reply may be obtained.

“Standard practice is to require evidence in advance so this situation may be avoided.”

Wills believes it would be helpful to award costs when the tribunal’s directions are ignored, resulting in cases being adjourned.

“Often parties travel considerable distances to attend hearings and there’s no incentive to avoid ‘surprise’ evidence.”

She also notes an increasing trend in using standard form contracts, which include unfair terms.

“In common use is a clause acknowledging the vehicle is being purchased for business purposes

Review consultation ‘biased’

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I t’s been frenetic lately, with the Consumer Law Reform (CLR) Bill and Vehicle Licensing Review (VLR) rearing their heads at about the same time.

“The select committee has done a comprehensive job of reviewing draft legislation and considering a wide range of views,” said Simon Bridges, Minister for Consumer Affairs, on the CLR Bill on October 2 before it has its second reading in Parliament.

But on finding the Consumer Guarantee Act (CGA) will apply to all trader-to-public sales, jaws in the motor industry dropped.

Many suspected the CGA would apply to online auctions and competitive tenders, but few thought physical auctions would fall under its remit as well.

This effectively leaves no “as is, where is” outlet – illegal dealers on the grey market must be rubbing their hands with glee.

The CLR was also supposed to bring our laws in line with our friends across the ditch. Does the Aussie equivalent of the CGA apply to such sales at auction houses? No.

On September 19, Bridges, with his Associate Transport Minister hat on, announced consultation on the VLR would run until October 31. He’s a busy chap, I pondered.

“These aren’t preferred options, there may be others,” he said.

“The views and knowledge of the transport sector will be an important part of final recommendations to help the government make

considered choices.”Cue frantic action in the industry

– which has mixed views on the warrant of fitness (WOF) options – with submissions compiled, appearances on TV news and Greg Murphy giving his two cents.

Six weeks seems to be a short time to properly consult the industry and the nation on this overhaul of vehicle licensing.

I pondered, whatever did happen to that mysterious “transport official” spouting off in the mainstream media?

It brought about a Ministry of Transport (MoT) and NZTA statement, which insisted there was no predetermination of the VLR’s outcomes.

The WOF is obviously the VLR’s main focus judging by the mountains of paperwork.

Then there’s rego. Options tinker around the edges because ACC wants no change, probably on the basis it’s too busy sending out emails about anyone to everyone.

Here’s an idea. Let’s put ACC in the “too hard box” and do something sensible with rego, such as paying for it at the pump.

On November 1, Bridges thanked the senders of about 4,200 VLR submissions. “Their views will be carefully considered and contribute to the final decision-making process.”

Some media folk got excited when one issue surfaced just before the submissions deadline – the idea

Time to contemplate outcomesof private companies doing random roadside inspections.

“They do this in Queensland with good success,” Bridges told TV3’s The Nation. “My approach isn’t to rule in or rule out.”

The minister seemed to be expanding on a concept he mentioned in an opinion piece, which was sent to publications such as Autofile in early October.

“In Queensland, the Safe Drive initiative sees transport inspectors checking cars during school holidays to ensure they are mechanically safe,” he wrote. “This enforcement method is worth exploring.”

Autofile asked the minister if random roadside checks were on the agenda, what they would cover, if the police would carry them out, why private contractors were suggested and how much this would cost.

“All options and ideas in the

discussion document are still on the table,” a spokesman replied.

“Through the submission process, we have been open to other ideas and suggestions. It’s too early to make definitive comments on which mitigation factors might be adopted.”

What fate for the WOF, I pondered. That’s a tricky one, but the current regime’s neck appears to be on the guillotine.

I again pondered that MoT-NZTA statement, which spoke of “no preconceptions”.

Something’s changed since then, or maybe a long time ago, because none of the WOF options include keeping the status quo.

Perhaps that says it all and there’s no longer any need to ponder.

Darren Risby Editor

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Copyright: Published twice monthly by 4Media, PO Box 6222, Dunedin 9059 All statements made, although based on information believed to be accurate and reliable, cannot be guaranteed, and no liability can be accepted for any errors or omissions. Reproduction of autofile in whole or part, without written permission, whether by xerography or any other means, is strictly forbidden. All rights reserved.

Editor darren risby editor@autofile.co.nz 021 137 5430 AdvErtising Brian McCutcheon brian@autofile.co.nz 021 455 775

dEsignEr Adrian Payne arpayne@gmail.com

Autofile is also available as an electronic copy via email. If you’d like to receive electronic copies please send an email with your name and organisation to: subscribe@autofile.co.nz. Back copies are also available on request.

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[continued from page 1]

Online vehicle information provider MotorWeb has appointed David Boshier to the newly created position of NZ dealer services manager.

The creation of a dedicated role to service the industry is a first for the company and indicates strong growth plans for the market leader in online vehicle transactions.

The new role focuses solely on MotorWeb’s Registered Motor Vehicle Traders (RMVT), and roll-out of products and services for dealers.

“We’ve been developing plans to expand our products and services for RMVT customers, and now is the right time to put the necessary resources in place to implement these plans,” says Chris Knight, managing director of MotorWeb.

“We’re delighted to be bringing David on-board to drive this. He brings a wealth of specialised knowledge and experience that will fit in with the rest of the MotorWeb team.”

Boshier, formerly general

manager at AutoBase, which was acquired by Trade Me, has worked closely with the motor industry delivering online services – the same sector MotorWeb operates in.

“There are opportunities for us to bring new information-based services to RMVTs they currently don’t have, so a bigger team is essential to help us grow to the next level,” says Knight.

MotorWeb has indicated new services aimed at assisting dealers with pricing, sales channel automation and stock analysis, along with a mobile platform to suit smartphone and tablet-based users.

With the MotorWeb team expanding, business development manager Greg McQuaid will continue to focus on market opportunities here and in Australia, where MotorWeb has the role of commercialising the Australian central vehicle information system, along with assisting David develop the RMVT market.

Gear up in dealer market

Tribunal highlights legal concernsand the parties are contracting out of the Consumer Guarantees Act [CGA],” says Wills.

“In almost all cases, the purchasers haven’t discussed contracting out with the trader and aren’t aware they have signed any rights away until there’s a problem with the vehicle.”

Wills calls for provisions for unfair contract terms in the CLR Bill and for these to be extended to include small business owners.

Alternatively, the CGA could be changed along the lines of a proposed amendment to the Fair Trading Act (FTA) dealing with contracting out for parties in trade.

“The CLR Bill provides for contracting out in certain circumstances, including that it’s

‘fair and reasonable the parties are bound by the provision in the agreement’,” says Wills.

“The respective bargaining power of the parties is one of the factors to be taken into account in assessing what’s ‘fair and reasonable’.

“An amendment to the CGA would enable the tribunal to assess on a case-by-case basis whether it was ‘fair and reasonable’ for the parties to be bound by a provision to contract out.”

Wills also stresses the tribunal’s powers under the Contractual Remedies Act are limited to cases where buyers cancel contracts. “Jurisdiction should be extended to award damages for misrepresentation.”

The CLR Bill adds a provision to

prevent the use of unfair terms in standard form contracts, and requires contracting out of the CGA in business terms to be “fair and reasonable”.

A spokesman for the Ministry of Consumer Affairs told Autofile: “Wills suggests the FTA should include unfair contract terms provisions and such provisions are extended to small business owners.

“The CLR Bill, as reported back from the Commerce Select Committee, sees unfair contract term provisions apply to consumer goods and services purchased by anyone, including businesses.”

The official adds that a clause in the bill – the proposed new section of the FTA – provides for contracting out in certain

circumstances, including that “it’s fair and reasonable the parties are bound by the provision”.

The bargaining power of the parties is one factor to be taken into account when assessing what’s “fair and reasonable”.

“An amendment to the CGA along these lines would enable the MVDT to assess whether it was ‘fair and reasonable’ for the parties to be bound by a provision to contract. The CLR Bill incorporates this suggestion.”

Cornwall’s report calls for removing the CGA exemption for goods supplied by competitive tenders.

This also falls under the remit of the CLR, which proposes applying the CGA to all sales between traders and the public.

Cornwall feels the tender exemption is unnecessary because it “appears to be abused by traders”.

The CLR removes the reference to competitive tenders in the CGA, thereby removing their exemption from its protections.

TENDERS HIGHLIGHTEDChris Cornwall’s report contains two cases about dealers in Auckland that require special mention to the Consumer Affairs Minister.

The adjudicator covered “sham tenders and their potential to deceive consumers” in his 2008, 2009 and 2011 annual reports.

Issues arise because the

CGA doesn’t apply to sales by competitive tender and there’s no definition of such transactions in the law – although that will change as part of the CLR.

He says Ezybuy Car Auctions Ltd gets customers to acknowledge in writing at, or after, agreeing to purchase vehicles they have bought them by competitive tender on an “as is, where is” basis.

“No such competitive tender sale process takes place,” Cornwall’s report states.

He cites the case against Ezybuy concerning Miss Barber, who bought a 1997 Land Rover Discovery station wagon for $5,760 on January 14, 2011. She claimed it was faulty and wanted to reject it.

“Barber didn’t get the car inspected before buying it and it was faulty from the time it was supplied.”

The vehicle overheated on a trip back from Hokianga within

“No such competitive tender sale process takes place.”

- Chris Cornwall, MVDT adjudicator

news

http://www.motorweb.co.nzhttp://www.motorweb.co.nz

www.autofile.co.nz | 5

two weeks of purchase. When she returned to Auckland, she phoned Ezybuy’s manager Mike Clarke to tell him about the problem and ask for a refund.

“She says Clarke told her the vehicle had been sold ‘as is, where is’ and the trader wasn’t responsible for rectifying the fault.”

Ezybuy was willing to swap the car, but when Barber was told the exchange vehicle was unsuitable for towing a boat she kept the Land Rover.

She produced a “tender form” that she signed when buying the car.

Cornwell says: “From answers given by the purchaser, the tribunal was satisfied the vehicle wasn’t supplied by competitive tender.

“There was no evidence competing offers had been made or it had been sold in competitive circumstances. There was no process whereby tenderers could compete.

“The trader’s sales manager didn’t attempt to argue the vehicle had been sold by tender.

“The tribunal decided it hadn’t been supplied by competitive tender and the CGA hadn’t been excluded.”

The tribunal found the car wasn’t free of defects at sale because it overheated after a few hundred kilometres.

“A mechanic’s report contained 17 faults, many of which raised the question as to how the vehicle obtained a warrant of fitness [WOF],” says Cornwall.

“After only 2,577km of use, 10 more faults were found. At least six would probably have resulted in the vehicle failing a WOF if it could have been started and driven to a WOF issuer to be tested.”

Cornwall says the tribunal had little doubt the car didn’t comply with the guarantee of acceptable quality – even allowing for its age, high mileage and low price.

The tribunal was satisfied Barber tried to get the trader to remedy the faults but it had shown no inclination to do so. It ordered Ezybuy to refund the purchase price.

Cornwall says since this case was heard in August 2011, there have been seven other applications filed with the tribunal against Ezybuy, the most filed against any

single trader in the past year. “Each has involved the

completion of a ‘tender’ offer by the purchaser,” says Cornwall. “Six have been settled by Ezybuy a day or two before the hearing and one remains to be heard.

“Although the tribunal is not always told settlement details, it understands in most cases the purchasers have received a full refund.

“I’m concerned Ezybuy is still using the fiction of a competitive tender.

“Many purchasers of vehicles from Ezybuy are unsophisticated consumers, who are buying solely on price.”

PROBE INTO TRADERThe case of a 2003 Porsche Cayenne Turbo bought from Autofind NZ Ltd for $50,990 in December 2011 by Natalie McIntosh-Moorman was another case raised in Cornwall’s report.

The buyer claimed the car had serious faults, which the trader refused to remedy. She rejected it and sought a refund, as reported by Autofile on August 10.

The trader’s defence that the buyer had the vehicle examined by a mechanic before buying it – and the mechanic had found no faults – was true.

But that didn’t prevent the buyer from returning it and requiring the trader to rectify the faults.

The tribunal found the vehicle had faults at sale and several post-purchase.

It decided the car wasn’t as durable as a reasonable buyer would regard as acceptable for an eight-year-old fairly low mileage prestige car.

The tribunal ordered the trader to pay the buyer the purchase price and hearing costs of $550.

“Since making its decision on

June 13, the tribunal understands from the purchaser that the trader has since ceased to trade and has transferred its stock to another company,” says Cornwall.

“The Ministry of Economic Development is seeking to ban the trader and its director from motor vehicle trading."

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View from the BeehiveThe Minister for Consumer Affairs says the MVDT adjudicators are required in the Motor Vehicle Sales Act (MVSA) to indicate in their annual reports areas where they think change might be appropriate.

Their recommendations are considered as part of the process of gathering information from a range of sources for reviews of legislation associated with motor vehicles.

“Any changes recommended by the adjudicators are noted by officials to me, as Minister of Consumer Affairs, and are considered when there are reviews of legislation,” Simon Bridges, pictured right, told Autofile.

“A number of recommendations from the 2012 annual reports reiterate matters that have been considered as part of the CLR Bill.

“Both adjudicators made submissions to the bill and recommendations in their reports repeated their submissions.”

He says consideration has been given to unfair terms and competitive tenders as part of the bill, which awaits its second reading in Parliament.

“Regarding matters raised but not addressed in the CLR Bill, I’m advised officials have noted the

MVDT’s recommendations.“When considering

future timing of a review of the MVSA, they will be taken into account.”

The adjudicators must submit their reports within three months after June 30 in each year.

The reports must detail cases that require special mention and make recommendations for amendments the adjudicator thinks desirable based on the Disputes Tribunal’s experience.

The MVDT’s Auckland area starts from New Plymouth and heads north, while the Wellington area goes south from Palmerston North.

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The MTA estimates advertising to improve safety culture will shift costs from motorists to taxpayers by at least $20 million a year.

With extra on-road enforcement, it believes 500 more police officers will be needed at $72.5m per year.

Then there are unknown costs from more crashes causing

damage to vehicles,

which would hit insurance premiums.

These costs alone could rise by the cost of one extra WOF each year, cancelling out reduced frequency savings.

The MTA is, however, supporting pre-1960 vehicles and private trailers having 12-month tests, and wants a working group to assess emission testing.

VIEWS ON OPTIONSAll four alternatives for the WOF have come in for criticism.

Option one is for annual inspections for vehicles up to 12 years old, six-monthly thereafter.

The MTA suggests crash data shouldn’t be the main factor to change inspections.

“WOF failure information across the vehicle age range, which is an indicator of driver attitude to maintenance, must be considered,” it says.

“Most faults picked up at a six-month inspections would continue to be in the fleet. Faults would increase if the period were extended.”

The MTA’s 2012 WOF pass-fail survey shows 45 per cent of vehicles aged seven to 10 year, and 56 per cent in the 11-15 age group, need

safety repairs on inspection day.Option one has an information

programme to encourage owners to take responsibility for maintaining vehicles.

“The fail rate is still high and many motorists don’t regularly have comprehensive maintenance,” says the MTA.

“If attitudes improve, evidenced

by a reduced fail rate, extending the annual inspection for vehicles older than six years could be considered.”

Demerit points for operating unsafe vehicles have some traction, but the MTA doesn’t believe a change of frequency is needed for this.

“Thousands of owners don’t take WOFs seriously. These vehicles should be targeted by enforcement and the MTA sees no reduction in non-compliant vehicles as evidence that enforcement is happening.”

The VLR’s interim economic report indicates option one will result in 0.7 fatalities, 1.6 serious injuries and 7.7 minor injuries but the MTA disagrees.

“Experts we’ve spoken to suggest vehicle causal factors are under-reported and these statistics are likely to be higher.”

The discussion document says measures to counter risks of change need to be fully scoped.

But the MTA is disappointed they’re not in the document along with a cost-benefit analysis, so “anyone supporting this is doing so with incomplete information”.

Many option one objections also apply to option two, which has the first inspection at three years and then annual.

The VLR documents suggest the fail rate for vehicles under three years of age is 7.9 per cent,

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consider the WOF regime, which they want to retain, as ‘some other package’.”

The MTA also wants an investigation into how many accidents are affected by vehicle safety.

“It’s critical the government can be absolutely confident there will not be additional deaths or serious injuries,” it says.

It questions the 2.5 per cent contribution of vehicle defects to crashes used in the MoT’s economic modelling, while overseas literature indicates this should be between six and 10 per cent.

“A further investigation into vehicle causal factors should be undertaken, including insurance crash data, before changing inspection frequency.

“No evidence has been provided on crash data and its linkage to vehicle age.”

According to the MTA, extending the WOF frequency fails to account for:  Putting at risk some of the world’s

youngest drivers who have few funds for vehicle maintenance.

 This country having the oldest fleet in the OECD.

 Little roadside enforcement, or driver education, being in place.

 New Zealand’s challenging roads.

It has carried out two surveys in which about two-thirds of respondents support the present regime.

A Peter Glen Research survey shows 67 per cent of people support the current WOF frequency, while 68 per cent would rather pay present inspection costs than lower safety standards, according to Ignite Research.

If there are changes, costs will be greater than the savings.

Safety essential with changesnews

“Faults would increase if the period were extended.” - MTA

http://www.mta.org.nz

www.autofile.co.nz | 7

which the MTA labels as “untrue”. Its pass-fail survey shows 24 per

cent have safety repairs undertaken, or are rejected, at inspection.

“The NZTA’s 2011 WOF online fail rate for cars and vans up to three years at 14 per cent is also higher.

“The discussion document advises new vehicles are usually sold with a 100,000km warranty that includes servicing.

“Some manufacturers might include servicing to promote sales.

Usually vehicles are serviced at the owner’s expense.

“Drivers of new vehicles travel longer distances and wear out tyres quickly. The year-on-year fail rate for the first three years shows a steep rise from year one to two and a further increase to year three.”

Work carried out by MTA-owned VTNZ in helping police with crash investigations indicates cars with overdue WOFs are more likely to have accidents.

“If the period were extended, faults would be carried into the zone where accidents are demonstrated to increase.”

The MTA points out many households don’t have reasonable budgets to cover repairs. If WOFs were annual, repair bills might be higher than they could afford.

“This could lead to the consumer running the vehicle into the ground and running the risk of detection without a WOF.”

As for improved tests for all vehicles suggested under option two, the MTA has made suggestions to improve WOFs and inspector training. It also supports better compliance and enforcement.

Option three clocks the first inspection at 50,000km, then after every 12,000km.

“No other jurisdiction has a distance-based frequency,” says the MTA.

“Owners would be relied on to have vehicles inspected, so it would be difficult to enforce.

“Kilometres travelled aren’t a good proxy for wear. Lower kilometre vehicles can spend a lot of time in town, manoeuvring in

car parks, stopping at intersections and making sharp turns.

“This can accelerate steering, suspension and brake wear, compared to a vehicle doing higher kilometres on the motorway.

“The 12,000km distance might be an average travelled but doesn’t line up with any service period, as suggested in the discussion document.

“A distance system is likely to encourage odometer fraud. The NZTA will be aware of this through avoidance tactics by those required to pay RUC.”

For vehicles not inspected within three years, the MTA recommends annual default checks up to six years of age and then six-monthly.

Option four has no periodic inspection, but compliance at change of ownership.

VLR documents advise vehicles would be inspected every two to four years. They state about one million vehicles are sold each year, while government statistics indicate about 750,000 light vehicles change ownership in-service.

The MTA believes there are about 3.2 million light vehicles,

which change ownership at four years. Its research shows 51 per cent need safety work on inspection day.

Under option four, these vehicles could accumulate faults for another three years, while some might not be checked for 10-15 years.

The MTA’s submission states: “These steps would require a campaign similar to drink-driving and enforcement would need to establish itself so the public weren’t willing to ‘run the gauntlet’ with an unsafe vehicle.

“There could be no interim period while the public adjusted from one system to another. Fatalities from crashes would be unacceptable.”

Inspection at change of ownership, or following an inspection order, already exists.

The MTA stresses a WOF no older than one month is needed at time of delivery, while red or green stickers are issued to unsafe vehicles.

It wants a system to notify the police of dangerous vehicles, which are taken off the road.

DEALERS BACK CHANGEThe Motor Industry Association (MIA) has endorsed option two, which sees the first WOF at three years then annual.

“This isn’t a unanimous position with a number of members, including motorcycle distributors, preferring yearly inspections for new vehicles up to six years old,” its submission states.

In response to an earlier conversation paper, the MIA notes: The new light vehicle industry

standard for warranty is three years, or 100,000km. Some members offer five years, or 130,000km, with up to 10 years – or 160,000km – for the powertrain.

 Bike warranties are shorter, with the standard being one year, and between 7,000km and 10,000km. Some distributors offer two years.

 Free servicing within the warranty period is offered

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A comment made by the MIA relates the first inspection at three years. It wants it confirmed this will apply to all vehicles, be they New Zealand-new or used imports.

For a used import, the period should start from first registration in the overseas market.

For example, with a vehicle first registered in Japan in March 2011 and entering New Zealand in September 2012, the first WOF would expire in March 2014 and not September 2015.

“Special attention must apply to previously registered vehicles from the UK. At present, numbers of vehicles, which have been registered in the UK, are being registered as New Zealand-new.

“The three-year period must start from the date of registration in the UK.”

The MIA is again pressing the government to include outstanding safety recalls into criteria for issuing WOFs and COFs.

“We want to capture outstanding campaigns, which affect 10-15 per cent of vehicles covered by a campaign,” it says.

“Our solution is for the issuing or completion of an inspection to depend on the completion of all safety recalls applicable to a vehicle.”

The MIA points out owners incur no costs. They are borne by its members, who are required by suppliers to hit a 100 per cent completion rate for safety recalls.

“We ask this aspect be encompassed as part of this review, including an online mechanism to add and remove notice of an outstanding recall to a vehicle’s record, and for inclusion within guidelines for this to be checked prior to the completion of a WOF or COF.”

In regards to bikes and mopeds,

the MIA considers any powered vehicle registered for on-road use should be subject to an ongoing safety compliance audit regime.

With increasing fuel costs and commuter efficiency, it believes this sector will grow and improving the current regime should be a priority.

ON MIDDLE GROUNDThe Imported Motor Vehicle Industry Association (IMVIA) has decided against making a submission on the VLR.

Chief executive David Vinsen says members have differing positions, particularly on inspections – some have the authority to issue WOFs, while others need vehicles to be compliant prior to sale.

This means some companies want to retain the status quo and others would like inspection terms extended.

He does note, however, that every time changes are made to how the industry operates “our members have to pay the bill”.

“Our overriding criteria are any changes shouldn’t compromise safety,” Vinsen previously told Autofile. “The intention should be for people to maintain their cars to suitable standards.”

He believes genuine costs and reasons are needed to change the frequency of inspections, especially as New Zealand has a safe fleet.

by some distributors. As a marketing option, this is likely to increase.

 Dealers are encouraged to maintain relationships with clients. Within the warranty period, and for vehicles up to five years, dealer retention rates are 80 per cent or higher.

 If a three-year WOF is brought in, dealers may incorporate safety checks into scheduled servicing.

 On WOF faults for vehicles up to three years, the MIA believes a high number of lighting failures related to moisture in lamps, which have been clarified in the vehicle inspection requirements manual.

 Franchises record failures for items covered by a service because they believe 100 per cent WOF pass rates will result in unneeded NZTA audits.

“We endorse improving the test, better information to owners, greater use of technology to ensure compliance, changes to how vehicle infringements are dealt with and demerit points for operating an unsafe vehicle,” says the MIA.

“In our earlier submission, we sought to have removed the issuing of a WOF on entry certification as we see this as a duplication of effort for minimal safety outcome.

“This would necessitate alternative procedures around labelling a vehicle. We would, however, like this to be reconsidered.”

Focus on rules for used cars

TESTINGSTATION.

FREEPHONE OR VISIT US ONLINE FOR A LOCATION NEAR YOU!

0800 GO VINZ www.vinz.co.nz

See us first for

Transport Service Delivery Agent for

Specialists in Used Import Certification

What do you think? Should the current WOF regime stay or go? Email your views to: editor@autofile.co.nz.

news[continued from page 7]

“Our overriding criteria are any changes shouldn’t compromise safety.” - David Vinsen, IMVIA

http://www.vinz.co.nzmailto:editor@autofile.co.nz

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10 | www.autofile.co.nz

ball and rack-and-pinion steering boxes also came into being, and by the late-50s power steering was appearing on American and top-end British cars.

Cars had to have a WOF every six months. Vehicle manufacturing standards and durability requirements were minimal compared to today’s environment.

I worked in a government department where the norm was to bring all vehicles into the workshops every three months for inspection and repair.

There were durability issues with the cars of the day. Invariably safety components and systems required attention and vehicles were issued with WOFs on a three-monthly basis in this government department.

It was not until we saw the first of the Japanese cars in the 1960s that durability started to improve, getting better through the 1970s-80s.

With less mechanical faults occurring, we saw extended durability of braking systems with disc brakes replacing drum brakes – firstly on the front axle with self-adjusting rear drum-brakes, through to four-wheel disc brakes being the norm today.

During this time, we’ve also seen independent rear suspension becoming the norm, along with International Vehicle Safety Standards introduced to require marques to build to “standards” that

cover individual components and systems, including durability.

Some components will still wear or fail, such as tyres, brakes and lighting components and to a lesser extent other mechanical items.

But bear in mind all these components, since the introduction of safety standards, have been designed with durability in the design criteria.

If the WOF regime is changed to 12 months many people will ask “how do we deal with worn-out tyres and faulty lights on vehicles”.

The answer is simple – through on-road enforcement and public education.

Local authorities’ parking officers issue tickets for bald tyres on vehicles. The police do the same, and issue infringement notices and non-operational orders to cars being driven on our roads.

We can task police and parking officers to be more pro-active, and educate members of the public with media campaigns to change their attitudes towards maintenance.

You’ll still have hard-core motorists who don’t bother getting WOFs and don’t have their vehicles licensed or registered – put some “Crusher Collins” legislation in place to deal with these cases.

Do I think that it’s time for change? Yes.

A new car should have its first WOF for three years. Most go back to the franchises for regular and free servicing, while technicians check safety components and systems every time the car is in the workshop.

After three years, the timeframe should be extended to 12 months for cars up to 12 years old, after which WOFs should be six-monthly.

Along with more roadside and on-road enforcement, there should be education campaigns and punitive measures for recidivist motorists, who neither register their cars nor get WOFs.

The warrant of fitness (WOF) system was introduced in the 1930s, when the government and road safety organisations realised vehicles were likely to need regular repairs and to bring the fleet up to a better standard.

It should be borne in mind we’re talking about cars built from the turn of the century through to the ’30s, writes Malcolm Yorston.

Most of these cars had semi-elliptic springs – some transverse, Ford Model As, V8s and so on — kingpins that forever wore out, worm and peg steering boxes, and cable or rod-operated brakes.

When I started my apprenticeship in 1962, there were still many of these vehicles on the road – my first car was a 1930 Willys Overland Whippet equipped with external contracting band rod-brakes operating on the rear wheels only.

There were also cars equipped with “new technology” independent front suspensions.

These included General Motors’ “knee-knocker” suspensions used on US and UK production lines from the ’30s to the late-40s, while McPherson Strut and double wishbone suspensions were used by other US and UK marques, the main suppliers of cars to New Zealand at the time.

Hydraulic brakes, recirculating

System needs a good servicenews

About the writerThis opinion piece doesn’t represent the views of Autofile nor the Imported Motor Vehicle Industry Association, of which Malcolm Yorston is membership and technical services manager.

His personal views are gained from more than 50 years in the motor trade.

Yorston’s experience includes

23 years as an inspector, including managing testing stations, and in the vehicle standards section

of the Ministry of Transport and Land Transport Safety Authority.

Some matters raised in this opinion piece are included his personal submission on the Vehicle Licensing Review.

A 1930 Willys Overland Whippet

Spring Wind Voyage 4Osaka 29 Oct, kawasaki 31 Oct,

auckland 14 Nov, Lyttelton 16 Nov, wellington *19 Nov, Nelson *20 Nov

Trans Future 5 Voyage 62Osaka 22 Oct, Nagoya 23 Oct, kawasaki 27 Oct,

auckland 15 Nov, Lyttelton 17 Nov, wellington 19 Nov, Nelson 20 Nov

Trans Future 7 Voyage 58Osaka 5 Nov, Nagoya 6 Nov, kawasaki 10 Nov,

auckland 28 Nov, Lyttelton 30 Nov, wellington 2 Dec, Nelson 3 Dec

*To be trans-shipped on Trans Future 5 v62

http://www.toyofujinz.co.nz

www.autofile.co.nz | 11

His company expects to add more than 200 jobs at its Michigan facilities within 12 months. At maximum capacity, the plant can make 20 units per hour, while the company currently has 100 employees in the state.

It also plans to launch a military-style SUV called the Humdinga and the Phibian, an amphibious truck mainly for rescue purposes, in the coming months.

Gibbs believes the Quadski has made the biggest technological increase in car capability

since the Model T because “no one has been able to make a vehicle that goes fast on land and water”.

The 72-year-old, who is worth about $440 million, started in the 1960s by importing TVs and stereo systems, but his first automotive venture was an attempt to build the Nova, New Zealand’s first home-grown motor car.

By the 1970s, he owned the Holden franchise Tappenden Motors, Auckland’s largest car yard. In the 1980s, he ran a merchant bank,

bought and sold Telecom, and helped to set up Sky TV in

the 1990s.  

The world’s first high-speed sports amphibian, the Gibbs Quadski, goes on sale in the US this month, with marketing to other countries starting next year.

Built in Auburn Hills, Michigan, it can reach speeds of 72kph on land and water, and transitions between both in five seconds or less.

It’s equipped with a 175hp BMW Motorrad engine and transmission, and its wheels retract when entering the water and deploy when approaching land.

The four-cylinder, water-cooled engine is considered the lightest powerplant in its segment. It features

electronic fuel injection, a double-overhead camshaft and dry-sump lubrication.

The amphibian weighs 136kg, is equipped with a 57-litre fuel

tank and retails for about NZ$49,000. 

Alan Gibbs, the Kiwi founder of Gibbs Sports Amphibians, says: “Although the Quadski will initially be only on sale in the US, we expect to find a ready market

elsewhere in 2014 and beyond.”Gibbs has indicated – during

television interviews in the States – that up to three Quadskis could make their way to these shores next year and may even be displayed around Auckland over Christmas.

Gibbs skis to make splash

Alan Gibbs

Sales co-ordinatorkey responsibilities: • Enhance the effi ciency and accuracy of the

sales team• Provide operational support to the sales and

account management team• Coordinate initiatives that help our sales

activities

The right person will be able to work with the Sales team to help provide our dealers with the best possible service and support.

Skills and experience:• Excellent organisation skills with a clear focus

on accuracy• Ability to prioritise & work unsupervised• Knowledge of the sales process• A proven track record of being able to

multi-task• Great computer skills, especially Word

and Excel• Highly developed creative and written

communication skills• An understanding of digital marketing

principles and methods• Ability to build and nurture relationships

internally• Previous sales and administration experience • Passion for the internet and motors

Account managerkey responsibilities: • Identify & prioritise sales opportunities that enable us to

grow yield• Understand the needs of the customers & address with

appropriate solutions• Develop robust account plans to achieve these• Cement deep relationships with our largest accounts, their

key decision makers and operational contacts• Ensure our customers get the most out of

Trade Me Motors

The right person will be able to work with our dealers and provide the best possible service and support. Skills and experience:• Highly motivated and thrives in the competitive world of sales• Great relationship and account manager• Establishes trust-based relationships smoothly and quickly• Solid understanding of the sales cycle• Good communication and great presentation skills,

especially face-to-face• Understands particular needs of clients and seeks

opportunities to add value to their businesses through their Trade Me presence

• Self-motivated and able to operate autonomously• Understands the local dealer market and dynamics• Passion for the internet• Passion for Motors is bloody important, and knowledge of

NZ environment very helpful

Sales managerkey responsibilities: • Acquire and grow new business• Ensure we have great relationships with our customers• Lead and inspire the sales and account management

team• Identify new opportunities for growth across

Trade Me Motors• Assist with strategy & budget development

The right person will be able to lead our dedicated and committed sales team and work with our dealers to provide the best possible service and support.

Skills and experience:• Strong sales manager and mentor• Leadership ability• Good communicator• Presentable and articulate• Comfortable presenting to large groups of people• Strong sales skills and good understanding of sales cycle• Proven ability to manage and close deals at senior level• Great infl uencing and negotiation skills• Builds good cross-functional relationships• Tertiary qualifi ed advantageous• Experience in media, preferably ecommerce• Managed small to mid sized teams, with strong sales bias• Passion for Motors is bloody important, and knowledge

of NZ environment very helpful

Th e successful applicants will be able to represent the interests of Trade Me in a professional manner in line with the existing brand and culture Please visit www.trademe.co.nz/About-Trade-Me/Careers to send your CV and a brief covering letter explaining why you’re right for this job. Applicants for this position should have NZ residency or a valid NZ work permit.

Trade Me Motors are recruiting: Sales manager - Account manager - Sales co-ordinatorTrade Me is New Zealand’s busiest website, responsible for over two thirds of New Zealand’s domestic web traffi c. From very humble beginnings in 1999, we’ve taken a special place in the hearts of Kiwis. To cope with the growth in Trade Me Motors we are looking for three experienced sales professionals to add value to our service to dealers

news

http://www.trademe.co.nz/About-Trade-Me/Careers

12 | www.autofile.co.nz

The new managing director for BMW Group New Zealand is bringing 22 years’ experience with the company into the job.

Nina Englert takes up the position on December 1 as Mark Gilbert’s replacement.

The 41-year-old is based in Munich, Germany, managing the regional office for the US, Canada and Mexico.

Having worked in BMW AG’s market research and quality departments, she moved back to America, where she was born, in 2000 as after-sales special projects manager and then customer relations manager.

In 2008, she became manager of the China office in Munich with responsibilities covering

product, pricing, marketing, dealer development and after-sales.

After two years, she took on the same role for BMW of North America.

“We work closely with our New Zealand colleagues,” says Phil Horton, managing director of BMW Group Australia.

“Nina will add an extra dimension to the well-established and

successful BMW and MINI teams in Auckland.

“She has considerable experience working across every aspect of the business and is perfectly suited to continuing the group’s success story in New Zealand.”

Gilbert, who is also president of the Motor Industry Association, retired as the marque’s managing director on October 31.

Nina Englert

Autohub customers please complete the RSVP form by logging on to http://autohub.co.nz/xmas_rsvp.html

Dealers that are not currently customers of Autohub or if you have any questions please contact John or Tony: info@autohub.co.nz or 09 411 742

It’s a great chance for us to say thanks to customers, catch up for a chat and have a few drinks to show our appreciation of your support – past, present… and future.

Napier - Tues Nov 20thHawkes Bay Club, Cnr Marine Parade & Browning St, Napier.

Wellington - Wed Nov 21stRoyal Port Nicholson Yacht Club, 103 Oriental Parade, Wellington.

Christchurch - Thur Nov 22ndThe Chateau on The Park, Cnr Deans Ave & Kilmarnock Street, Riccarton, Christchurch.

Dunedin - Fri Nov 23rdPequeno Bar, Alleyway next to Savoy Building, Moray Place, Dunedin CBD.

Auckland - Thu Nov 29thSorrento, One Tree Hill Domain, Royal Oak, Auckland.

Time: 6.00 pm onwards

There will be a

“Lucky Draw” at each venue for those who attend, so

someone will go home with an

extra Christmas present.

It’s that time of year already ....and the AUTOHUB Christmas bash is on again this year.

news

American lands top job Report due on tyresA report on creating a product stewardship scheme for end-of-life tyres (ELTs) should be released this month.

The fourth scoping report will cover the industry’s preferred option, scheme governance, guiding principles and indicative timelines.

It was delayed for the Tyrewise working group to review and discuss options with stakeholders.

“The initial timelines were pretty tight,” says Michelle Duncan, of the 3R Group, which is overseeing the project.

“We recognised it’s important for everyone to have enough time to consider, consult and provide opinions.”

ELTs came under the spotlight at WasteMINZ’s annual conference in Hamilton, which included a workshop and session to discuss and the way forward.

August saw the project’s key

fourth milestone reached, which included a scoping report into stewardship options.

The working group agreed a priority product approach was needed to ensure a level playing field and supporting regulation were in place.

There are no priority products in New Zealand. The declaration of this status under the Waste Minimisation Act would make it mandatory for a scheme to be developed and accredited by the Ministry for the Environment.

The working group also agreed there should be levies on all tyres.

A loose tyres levy would be collected at the point of import either by Customs, or by brand owners and importers via sales declarations.

A levy on tyres on vehicles would be charged at first point of registration and would become part of on-road costs.

http://www.autohub.co.nz

www.autofile.co.nz | 13

HSV has added six-piston brakes which, with a 50 per cent increase in pad area, deliver optimum performance.

Technology is boosted by adding side blind zone alert, which alerts the driver to objects next to the vehicle.

The build of HSV’s 25th anniversary GTS is limited to just 140 vehicles, 125 will be sold Australia and 15 are bound for New Zealand.

Their build plates are individually numbered, and the body colours available are heron,

sting, phantom and hazard.It also features anniversary

ornamentation, including seat embroidery, exterior badging, sill plates and EDI start-up screen.

“Twenty-five years is an important milestone in our journey,” says Darren Bowler,

HSV’s general manager of sales.“This anniversary GTS

embodies all HSV stands for – race-bred performance, design and technology at a price that represents outstanding value.”

The new limited edition comes hot on the heels of the range realignment the marque launched in August.

With more than $7,600 of added extras, the anniversary GTS will be available on these shores at a recommended retail price of $104,990, $3,000 more than the regular GTS.

Options include six-speed automatic transmission with active select for $2,300, sunroof at $2,700, DVD player at $2,000 and liquid propane injection for $7,790.

It officially goes on sale in November.

Holden Special Vehicles (HSV) is launching a limited edition GTS as part of its 25th anniversary celebrations.

Its standard features include the 6.2-l LS3 Generation 4 alloy V8 engine, which provides up to 325kW of power at 6,000rpm and

550Nm of torque at 4,600rpm.The anniversary GTS also

boasts styling, performance and technology upgrades, while the all-new lightweight 20-inch forged alloys are finished in satin graphite.

The forged wheels deliver a weight saving in excess of 22kg over the standard GTS wheel set,

cutting unsprung weight by eight

per cent.

Sporty looks spiced up

Birthday edition HSV unveiled

new cars

New Zealand

Japan

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The new Fiesta is “dynamic with sharper design and exclusive features”, according to Ford.

Powered by the 1-litre EcoBoost petrol engine, the marque expects it to deliver best-in-class fuel economy.

The engine was voted international engine of the year, while the model will include Ford’s SYNC connectivity system.

This enables owners to voice-activate phone calls and music selection from devices connected via Bluetooth or USB.

The car’s front end is dominated by a trapezoidal grille, bracketed by laser-cut headlamps

with daytime running lamps that use LED technology, and features a power-dome bonnet design.

“The sporty appeal of the last generation Fiesta inspired passion among customers, contributing to its status as the world’s most successful small car,” says Martin Smith, of Ford.

“We had to keep that vital part of the Fiesta’s make-up, but wanted to give it a more sophisticated look.”

The new Fiesta will be heading to these shores next year. Arrival dates and pricing have yet to be finalised, while the marque is expected to unveil full specifications soon.

http://www.jevic.co.nz

14 | www.autofile.co.nz

John Andrew’s new dealership has been described as Ford’s best in the New Zealand.The marque’s $12 million

facilities in Great North Road, Auckland, welcomed its first customers about two months ago before the official opening party on October 25.

The celebration, which was attended by about 300 people, was overseen by master of ceremonies Shaun Summerfield, the TV3 sports journalist, while young YouTube sensation, singer-songwriter Josh Leys, performed live on-stage.

“The opening was fantastic and we’ve had positive feedback,” Paul Brown, dealer principal, told Autofile. “The dealership is inviting, comfortable for customers and an easy place to do business in.”

For about 18 months, it operated around the construction site, utilising parts of the current site and one across the road where there are plans to open a used vehicle yard by the end of the year.

“This strip of dealerships has a lot of history and we’re the first building on the block, which contains some of the industry’s main players.

“It’s just great to have a facility to be proud of that’s commensurate with our landmark site. Also, our workshop refurbishment is nearly finished and we’ll have a Bridgestone tyre shop downstairs.”

The opening was attended by, among others, Bronte Howsen, managing director of Automotive Holdings Group which owns John Andrew Ford and Mazda, and Bob Grazione, president of Ford Motor Company Australia.

“I’ve worked for Ford in six

countries and I’m pleased to say this is the finest facility I’ve had the privilege of standing in,” said Grazione.

“John Andrew Ford is our number-one franchise in New Zealand and that didn’t happen by accident.

“To have maintained that position for many years speaks volumes about the people who

make up this dealership. “The staff have done a tremendous job

representing the brand. The products we’re bringing to the market are the best Ford has globally but we also have great dealers.”

Howsen added: “I used to enjoy going

to Colin Giltrap and saying that’s where we should be. Now this is where to come to shop for cars.

“We’re so proud of the facilities. This is the best franchise we own, and boasts the new livery for Australia and New Zealand.”

“The past 18 months have been trying at times, running a business from this site and the limited premises across the road,” said Brown.

“John Andrew has been the number-one Ford dealership in New Zealand since 1917, and I’m proud of the building and the presence we’ve got here.

“It makes it easy for customers to come and experience our business, and for our staff to work in. This building and what we do here is all about the next generation.”

The AA and NZ Motoring Writers’ Guild have announced the finalists for this year’s New Zealand Car of the Year award.

They are the BMW 3 Series, Ford Ranger, Honda Civic Euro, Hyundai i40, Mazda BT-50, Mazda CX-5, Range Rover Evoque, Subaru Impreza/XV,

Toyota Prius C and Toyota 86.Stella Stocks, the AA’s general

manager of motoring services, says the final 10 represent “a good cross section of vehicles available for the Kiwi motorist to buy”.

“We’re pleased with the diversity of the shortlist,” adds guild president David Linklater.

There will also be a safety award with nine category awards – for small, compact, medium and large cars, sports or performance car, small-medium SUV, large SUV, luxury and utility.

The winners will be unveiled on December 12 at Auckland’s Viaduct Events

Centre, with the top honour being the Peter Greenslade trophy.  

More than 40 motoring writers will choose the winner, with votes counted by the AA.

Flying the flag with Ford

Final shortlist in awards unveiled

For further information call Kim Dwyer now on 021 595 124

“Your solid fi nance partner ”We’ve been providing fl exible fi nancial

solutions for over 20 years‘‘ ’’Avanti Finance is one of the best fi nance companies we have dealt with. The team are friendly, professional and fast and we are glad to have Avanti as our fi nancial partner.Kash Khan, The Right Cars Limited, Takanini, Auckland

news

From left, Paul Brown, Bob Grazione and Bronte Howsen.

http://www.avantifinance.co.nz

www.autofile.co.nz | 15

“These are significant savings to around a third of motorists, with minimal increased social costs of road crashes.”

The AA says six-monthly inspections for vehicles more than 12 years old are supported by its membership.

“This proposal recognises modern vehicles are more reliable and safer than the fleet in decades past.

“It also recognises WOF failure rates and fault-related crashes increase with vehicle age, and New Zealanders’ maintenance culture could lead to older vehicles receiving less maintenance.

“Splitting the frequency at age 12 will deliver savings to motorists without compromising safety, while retaining confidence in the WOF system by targeting vehicles more likely to develop defects

that might compromise safety.”

The AA supports exempting new vehicles from undergoing WOFs until reaching one year of age, instead of three

years as proposed in option two. It says this recognises only a few

new vehicles are under periodic service programmes and 80 per cent are sold to fleets that typically do high mileages on chip-seal roads.

An annual WOF for vehicles up to 12 years would also be easier to police than the first inspection being at three years.

Before the AA could support delayed inspections for new vehicles, it would be necessary for them in service plans with key safety items.

Conditional to its support for cutting the frequency of WOFs, it proposes changes around increased owner-driver education and targeted roadside enforcement

of safety compliance, with an emphasis on tyres, brakes

and lights.But, as the AA is

supporting a variation of option one, it doesn’t

favour an improved WOF test for all vehicles.

news

one year of age, better education and enforcement, and demerit points for operating an unsafe vehicle provided they are waived if a WOF is then obtained.

“New Zealand is the only country

that requires an inspection as often as six-monthly, yet it’s unclear from crash evidence this is contributing to less fault-related crashes compared to other countries,” says the AA.

“The system is a blanket approach that requires vehicles to be frequently tested when in practice only a minority will be unsafe. A disproportionate number of vehicles don’t even have a WOF, or wouldn’t pass one.

“Countries with a lesser frequency have similar or improved road safety records than ours.

“While the average age of the New Zealand fleet is older, many countries with a younger fleet only inspect vehicles every two years, or not at all.

“We consider there’s insufficient evidence to justify a six-monthly inspection for vehicles aged between six and 12 years.

“The owners of 850,000 light vehicles will benefit from this change, resulting in lower WOF and time costs of $45-$70 million, according to the discussion document.

Two transport services delivery agents want the current warrant of fitness (WOF) regime retained, while the third is calling for annual inspections.

Submissions on the Vehicle Licensing Review (VLR) made by VINZ and VTNZ propose keeping the status quo with six-monthly WOFs for older vehicles, while the AA hopes a variation of option one will be adopted.

The Ministry of Transport (MoT) is now considering all of the views submitted.

Ken Worsley, chairman of VINZ, believes the main issue on the table is having WOFs every six or 12 months.

“In New Zealand, the WOF is the vehicle safety system,” he told Autofile. “It’s the foundation and when you change foundations, you have to carefully look at them from a safety point of view.

“It’s a serious issue and we shouldn’t compromise safety if we cannot evaluate the risk properly.”

He says two WOF options – such as having compliance on distance travelled or change of ownership – are inappropriate, and to make comparisons to Australia is wrong because New Zealand has a different vehicle profile and terrain.

Worsley describes the frequency of inspections as a judgement call, but “we don’t want to go too far out” while retaining “the status quo is the safe option”.

“A lot has been said and there has been enormous interest in this. Now it’s up to the MoT to weigh up the issues.”

Mike Walsh, chief executive of VTNZ, says there have been strong indications the system will change.

“That concerns us because some form of predetermination may have underestimated some of the risks involved,” he says.

“Risk progresses as you move from option one through to option four, but mitigation initiatives for more crashes may be underestimated in terms of cost and effectiveness.”

Walsh describes talk of having commercial operators on the side of the road checking vehicles as “crazy” and this wasn’t in the VLR’s original terms of reference.

“We’ve got a good WOF system, but there will be change and we’re being pragmatic about that,” he adds.

“We aren’t opposed to all changes to the regime. For instance, newer vehicles could have fewer WOFs but for vehicles more than eight years old, six-monthly inspections are needed.

“According to data overseas and in New Zealand, there’s more risk of faults developing beyond eight years, with negative consequences.

“If the government makes changes, there needs to be some room for vehicles at the lower end to have six-monthly, and not annual, inspections – so that’s for cars between six and eight years and older.”

The AA’s submission calls for extending annual WOFs for light vehicles up to 12 years of age and then six-monthly, essentially option one.

It wants WOFs for new cars at

Mixed views on way forward

Mike Walsh, VTNZ chief executive

“This proposal recognises modern vehicles are more reliable and safer.”– the AA, on six-monthly WOFs for vehicles more than 12 years old

Getting Kiwis’ viewsThe Ministry of Transport and NZTA have commissioned independent

research about people’s attitudes to WOF inspections, vehicle maintenance and safety, and annual vehicle licensing.

“This research will add to the information we got through the submissions process and help us understand how New Zealanders respond to licensing systems and maintaining their

vehicles,” says Simon Bridges, Associate Transport Minister.  “It will add a deeper and more robust picture to help decision-making.”

The indicative timescale for Cabinet policy decisions on the VLR is next month, according to www.transport.govt.nz.

16 | www.autofile.co.nz

PAUL CURIN 0274 333 303 pcurin@miles.co.nz

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DEALERS BUYING NOWNewS in briefIndustry still recovering from disasterHardships caused by the earthquake and tsunami of March last year still have to be overcome, according to the chairman of the Japan Automobile Manufacturers’ Association.

Akio Toyoda says the auto industry faces sustained yen appreciation, high corporate taxation, strict labour regulations, tough goals to cut carbon dioxide emissions and a restricted electric power supply.

“The result is a severe business environment for our sector,” he says. “Anxiety has arisen over the territorial dispute with China. At home, no time should be wasted in abolishing Japan’s automobile acquisition and tonnage taxes ahead of the hike in national consumption tax.”

Toyoda describes the difficulties faced by the industry as “testing the limits of our capacity”.

Marque scores goal with football nameVolkswagen’s South American arm has revealed its new Gol hatchback, which is the Portuguese and Spanish word for “goal”.

The model has been the football-crazy continent’s best-seller since the mid-1980s, with more than five million units retailed in Brazil alone.

It has been designed to function on high levels of methanol made from sugar bi-products.

Prestige marque targets Kiwi marketMaserati has growth plans for Australasia, which will build on work done by European Automotive Imports (EAI).

Gaetano Marino, Asia-Pacific regional director, says: “Our position in New Zealand and Australia has been transformed over the past seven years with EAI growing sales and brand public perception. This provides the foundation to launch new models over the next few years.”

The Quattroporte, GranTurismo and GranCabrio will be joined by an E-segment sedan called the Ghilbi and the Levante, a performance luxury SUV.

The marque hopes these cars, along with new variants, will see sales worldwide rise to 50,000 units by 2015, with Australia and New Zealand’s share of that figure being 1,500 cars per year by 2015.

Website enhances listings for dealersTraders putting vehicles on Trade Me via AutoBase will soon be able to include a subtitle on each listing – a service only available to consumers listing direct.

“This is a step towards aligning the display of information on vehicles between dealer and private listings, something I’m sure dealers will welcome with open arms,” says Paul Hardiman, of Trade Me Motors.

“Instead of the small amount of additional information in the description line, or ‘model variant’ field, dealers will have access to 50 more characters on the line below, the ‘vehicle description’.”

The subtitle is included in search results pages. Dealers can individualise the text in the field or have the system randomly input pre-selected text. The service starts on December and costs from $30 per month.

Tyre outlets change handsBeaurepaires has sold its heavy commercial tyre service outlets. The North Island operations are now owned by Carters Tyres, and by Tyre General and General Tyres on the Mainland.

The national network remains unchanged, and continues to supply Goodyear and Dunlop tyres. One out of the 24 stores has been closed, while most workers have kept their jobs.

Opportunities for dealers beckoningI t’s almost New Year’s Eve once again, the time when we all make a host of bad conscience-inducing promises commonly known as new year’s resolutions.

These might include “I will lay off the chocolate”, “I’ll do exercise once or twice next year” or “I’ll spend at least four hours a day away from my television”.

All of these things are well and good, but how long do you think you will keep them up?

Many of the top new year’s resolutions are made by people who will keep them for exactly as long as they are convenient – and the minute the resolutions become a challenge to keep, they’re dropped like a very hot pot being grabbed with bare hands.

December is a month of traditions – Christmas feasts, the giving of gifts and spending time with your family. So too is January, traditionally the largest month on record for car enquiry.

Another new year’s event, which often goes unnoticed, is a lull in consumers researching and purchasing new cars.

The average punter tends to worry more about what the sun’s doing than buying a new car at this time of year.

In the case of Trade Me, browsers seem to be focused on those typical material items you normally identify Christmas and new year with.

Categories that traditionally experience the biggest uplift in new listings on Trade Me over this period include:  Toys go mental, especially

trampolines.

 Computer gaming. Music, instruments in

particular. Sports, especially kayaks,

tents and outdoors stuff. Decorations, of course,

which go berserk.

However, in the wake of the Boxing Day sales and mass listing of those “unwanted” Christmas presents that didn’t fit the bill, consumers are starting to gear up for what can only be described as a sensational month of opportunities for dealerships New Zealand-wide.

Consumers often choose this time to research high-involvement purchases, such as new cars.

It’s no coincidence that this time each year, Trade Me experiences a significant increase in traffic – an uplift that flows onto dealers in the form of increased inquiry and, ultimately, in increased opportunities.

The best way you can make the most out of the quieter year-end trend is to get a great start on next year.

December is the perfect time to prepare your strategy for this surge in inquiry to kick-start your sales in the new year.

To ensure your dealership starts 2013 on the front foot, here are some tips to help you get on your way: Ensure your Trade Me

listings and dealership websites reflect your holiday trading hours and any special promotions being run. Double check your internet

inquiries aren’t being directed to sales staff who are going to be away on holiday. Ensure there will be at least

one person working over the holiday period who can be responsible for adding and removing inventory.

 Make sure your stock on Trade Me is up-to-date, and include quality photos and quality comments.  Make reference to “Christmas” somewhere in listings to ensure search results using this text find your cars.

Some other suggestions to consider are: Running a January sale to create some activity for the dealership and maybe have

a special offer. Start the year fresh and clear out some of that aged inventory.  Make use of Trade Me’s additional services, such as Super Features or newly created AutoReel Video, to

gain more exposure for these vehicles. Plan ahead and start clearing stock

now to give you room to trade in January.

And don’t forget, it’s important to have follow-up processes in place to ensure your sales opportunities are maximised over this period.

The speed of your response directly impacts on your ability to stop the customer from continuing to shop and significantly increases your likelihood of sales.

If you would like more advice on how to get your dealership ready, or if you have any changes you would like to make to your subscriptions, phone your Trade Me account manager on 0800-428-862 or email autobasesales@trademe.co.nz

by Paul Hardimanpaul.hardiman@trademe.co.nz

www.autofile.co.nz | 17

Trade Me services, such as Super Features or AutoReel Video, can create festive interest in listings.

mailto:autobasesales@trademe.co.nzmailto:paul.hardiman@trademe.co.nz

18 | www.autofile.co.nz

Ford is touting its new Transit Custom’s load-carrying ability as “class-leading”.The marque says the van’s

load-space features include a load-through hatch in the bulkhead for extra-long items, and an integrated roof rack that can be folded away when not in use.

The use of so-called “intelligent load space” means it can carry six cubic metres of cargo, while the flexibility of the new bulkhead enables items up to three metres long to be transported.

The Custom has CO2 emissions of 174g/km delivered by a 2.2-litre Duratorq TDCi diesel

engine, and Ford says the cost of ownership is minimised by lengthy service intervals.

To further boost efficiency and reduce cuts, a start-stop system automatically switches off the engine when idling. It then re-starts when the clutch is touched.

The Custom also boasts Ford’s latest technologies, such as the lane-keeping aid and SYNC, its new in-vehicle communications system.

The Transit Custom arrives in New Zealand in January, priced from $49,490.

Less thirsty with better safetyExtra fuel economy and safety technology feature in this year’s symmetrical all-wheel-drive Legacy and Outback models.

The 2.5-litre models have been upgraded with the latest quad-cam version of the marque’s Boxer engine.

This was introduced in the Forester last year, and a 2-litre derivative was fitted to Impreza and XV models launched earlier this year.

The new engine has 4kWs more power, up to 127kWs, than the SOHC motor, which has powered the Legacy and Outback 2.5 until now.

Torque has increased by 6Nm to 235Nm. This motor has chain-driven camshafts to reduce servicing costs, while the 100,000km cambelt change, which costs about $700, is no longer needed.

Overall fuel economy of the Legacy 2.5 sedan is now 7.9l/100km, compared to 8.4l/100km. The Legacy wagon and Outback 2.5 are up from 8.4l to 8l/100km.

The more efficient operation of the new double-overhead camshaft motor produces more mid-range torque from 2,500rpm.

Some improved economy results from refining the transmission. It’s now lighter and more compact with less internal friction.

The 2013 Legacy and Outback are also cleaner running, with CO2 emissions down to 182g/km compared to 198g/km for the outgoing Legacy sedan.

The turbocharged Legacy GT Spec B, and six-cylinder 3.6-litre Outback and Legacy sedan, are equipped with Subaru’s EyeSight technology for the first time.

With twin cameras at the top of the front windscreen on either side of the rear-view mirror, the system combines seven main features to avoid frontal collisions or reduce the speed of impacts, lane departure

warning and adaptive cruise control.Visual changes for the Legacy

and Outback include larger front fog lights, sportier grille, bumper and headlights, and three new paints – burnished bronze, deep-sea blue pearl and venetian red pearl.

The steering wheel has the same design as the new Impreza with more controls, including Subaru’s Intelligent Drive (SI-Drive) on the higher specification models.

The “intelligent” setting is the most economical, “sport” is for all-round operation with linear acceleration and “sport sharp” provides the most performance by making gear changes at higher revs with responsive throttle control.

Operating the SI-Drive is better

integrated with the vehicle dynamics control system to provide precise and stable distribution of the engine’s torque to all four wheels.

The Outback diesel will be available with the high-torque Subaru Lineartronic Transmission for the first time early in 2013.

The Outbacks have lighter rear-suspension upper arms for less unsprung weight, while revised suspension bushes improve stability and reduce noise, vibration and harshness.

The Legacy sedan ranges in price from $48,990 to $69,990, the Legacy wagon costs $48,990-$69,990 and while the Outback costs between $57,990 and $69,990. They were going on sale this month.

new cars

Maserati is completing its open-top range with the GranCabrio MC.The marque says the new

model “combines the style, charm and practicality of the GranCabrio with the performance and features derived from Maserati’s motorsport programme”.

The GranCabrio MC’s development has been inspired by the success of the limited-edition four-seat GranTurismo MC Stradale coupe, says the marque.

The new open-top, launched at the Paris Motor Show, blends the

Stradale’s looks while maintaining the strengths and characteristics of a grand tourer.

The GranCabrio MC, which is 48mm longer than the GranCabrio, is recognisable due to its Stradale-inspired front. This adopts a new design profile that optimises the aerodynamic down force and airflow.

The rear is dominated by a large spoiler, which boosts down force at high speeds. Inside the spoiler, built into the luggage compartment, is the third brake light.

Release dates and pricing are yet to be released.

Open-top debuts at show in Paris

ExTra SpacE optimises

custom’s load

www.autofile.co.nz | 19

REaDERs of this column will have recognised a common theme warning of escalating shortages of people with technical skills.

Whether you’re employed in an after-sales function or not, there is an emerging threat to industry – and that’s the quality and quantity of supplementary technical skills to cover skill shortages.

Before we review the risk, we acknowledge the motor vehicle industry’s gains – many talk about the number of apprentices in training and resources being poured in.

Even more encouragingly, the Targeted Review of Qualifications (TROQ) may soon be leading more youngsters down the right path.

Rarely have we seen better encouraging long-term signs.

Right now, however, many companies are desperate to secure technical skills. This comes as no surprise to those who recognise these shortages having spanned 50 years.

As our population grows, so does the motor industry and the larger groups are ensuring job boards are full of vacancies with planned expansion.

The recession only saw “motor mechanics” (automotive technicians) briefly removed from NZ Immigration’s essential skills lists.

The 2011 review saw “motor mechanics” reinstated on the immediate skills shortages list.

As the economy now grinds its way to acceptable growth, the shortage has worsened.

Industry bodies and Automotive Employment NZ made submissions to have the long-term shortages recognised.

But the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) has thrown a curveball.

It’s not only planning to reject elevating mechanics to the highest level of shortage, it’s also proposing to remove them altogether.

This would reduce the ability of companies to cover shortages – the industry is already having difficulty attracting industry-standard technicians and apprentices with the learning capabilities needed.

Once off the list, licensed immigration advisers tell us it may be more difficult for some to gain approval for visa applications.

Sankar Ramasamy, the MBIE’s manager of migration research, writes: “We’ve given pre-eminence to protect training and employment

opportunities of New Zealanders in or entering these professions, and to considering if the skill shortage list is the best mechanism for addressing shortages.” 

Before finalising advice, the recommendations will be to:  Remove motor mechanic from the

immediate skill shortage list and not move it to the long-term list because mechanics have been on the list for a number of years, and it’s important to protect training and job opportunities of Kiwis in or entering this occupation.

 The industry has had considerable opportunity to train Kiwis and migrants into the required standard on the lists.

 Remove motorcycle mechanic from the immediate skill shortage list.  Decline the submission to add small engine mechanic, panel beater and vehicle painter to the long-term skill shortage list.

Automotive Employment NZ feels removing motor mechanics from the essential

skills lists will be a disaster for an industry struggling to cope with shortages.

The ministry’s message seems to be, “start hiring our unemployed, up-skill those who haven’t made the grade and, whether the industry can find industry standard apprentices or not, employ apprentices”.

This is all very well and good but the issue seems to be that not all workers can get their heads around the new technology.

There will always be automotive technicians, young and old, who find it difficult dealing with modern diagnostics.

Just as the ministry uses the old term “motor mechanic”, which was phased out in the early 1980s, the challenge is how to attract apprentices who view the role of “automotive technician” as the start of an exciting career full of potential.

It has become increasingly more difficult to locate quality entry-level talent when other technology sectors, such as information technology, seemingly offer rich rewards.

The motor industry has so much more to offer than what’s apparent to the uneducated eye.

The ministry’s deadline for comments was November 2.

NZ labOur market rePOrt NOV 2012in association with Automotive Employment NZ Ltd

Tony CouTinho, of Giltrap Group Holdings, has been pro