goauto news · known, although jaguar is clear about pushing the f-type to the pinnacle of the...
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Jul 31, 2013 No. 689
GoAuto NewsJohn Mellor’s
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Type settingF-Type roadster heralds new wave of sportscars from Jaguar as coupe draws near
By BYRON MATHIOUDAKISTHE all-new F-Type roadster now on sale in Australia is the beginning of a sportscar renaissance for Jaguar, with a forthcoming coupe poised to push the famous British brand deeper into Porsche 911 heartland.
Faster and more focused due to a stiffer, stronger, sleeker and yet lighter all-aluminium body, the tin-lidded two-door is set to surface in final production guise at the Tokyo motor show in November.
This is only weeks after one of Jaguar’s worst-kept secrets is due to make an appearance in concept car form at September’s Frankfurt show.
Though the F-Type coupe’s existence is not yet officially confirmed, GoAuto understands that Australian sales are slated to commence in the second half of next year.
They are expected to double the 200 or so units that insiders conservatively predict from the convertible in its first
12 months, split evenly between the three supercharged launch models.
This is despite the fact that the F-Type coupe should cost slightly more than the roadster – which kicks off from $138,645 plus on-road costs for the base 3.0 V6 – just as Porsche’s Cayman commands a premium compared to its roofless Boxster brother.
The coupe might also have the honour of siring the halo car of the range, in the shape of a hardcore V8 performance flagship charged with taking the fight right up to the 911 Turbo.
Whether that model turns out to be the rumoured R-S GT tearaway is not yet
known, although Jaguar is clear about pushing the F-Type to the pinnacle of the sportscar class.
Some reports put its total power output beyond 500kW, aided by a hybrid powertrain.
The current top-line F-Type convertible is the $201,945 5.0 V8 S – and that’s no slouch, offering 364kW to help launch the car from standstill to 100km/h in just 4.3 seconds, on the way to an electronically limited 300km/h top speed.
At the other end of the spectrum, the coupe may also usher in a four-cylinder sportscar with a rumoured 2.0-litre capacity, as Jaguar challenges Porsche in the bottom end of the Cayman market.
Continued next page
C-X16 concept
INSIDEAUDI’S FEROCIOUS
RS6 AVANT ARRIVES
Jul 31, 2013 Page 2
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Type setting
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Continued from previous page Speculated to pump out between
180kW and 200kW, the turbo four-pot F-Type will have up-spec Audi TT and BMW Z4 models in its crosshairs.
Said to be spawned from the convertible – rather than the other way around – the coupe also came under the guidance of long-time Jaguar designer Ian Callum.
While it retains the sleek flowing lines of the C-X16 concept from the 2011 Frankfurt motor show, the closed car will lose the side-opening rear hatch (a nod to the E-Type coupe) in favour of a conventional top-hinged tailgate.
The convertible’s two-seater configuration will remain, leaving the 2+2 market for the bigger and more expensive (though ageing) XK, which is set to undergo a complete redesign inside the next couple of years, growing in size and moving upmarket
to make space for the F-Type.We understand that the coupe’s hatch
will reveal a slightly larger cargo area than the drop-top’s meagre 196 litres (down to 148L with the space-saver spare fitted in lieu of run-flat tyres), helping to address one of the latter’s packaging shortfalls, due in part to the pert exterior styling.
The coupe will most likely keep within the roadster’s length (4470mm), but the fixed roof may lift the overall height measurement above 1296mm, while width should at least match the rag-top’s 1923mm.
It will be another exciting dimension to the F-Type launched in Australia this week, which sees Jaguar re-enter the sportscar market for the first time since the demise of the E-Type nearly 40 years ago.
Full aluminium body construction (except for a composite bootlid for better aerial reception) on a bonded
aluminium subframe, the architecture is essentially all-new, even though it is a derivative of the ‘D7A’ platform that has its roots in the XJ/XK series created in the Ford era of ownership.
Central development pillars included the stiffest-ever structure of any Jaguar convertible, even-balanced front-to-rear weight distribution,
a low-slung driving position, high-response drivetrain choices, fast steering and high-performance braking capabilities.
To that end, all F-Types feature forged aluminium double wishbone suspension, while the higher-performance ‘S’ models gain adaptive damping technology to take handling and ride characteristics to their extremes.
FULL STORY: CLICK HERE For drive impressions, go to
GoAuto.com.au from this afternoon
PRICING:3.0 V6 (a) $138,6453.0 V6 S (a) $171,0455.0 V8 S (a) $201,945
Jul 31, 2013 Page 3
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Australian orders up to 30 at last count for Audi’s $225,000 412kW/700Nm twin-turbo V8 RS6 Avant
Strength in numbers
By MIKE COSTELLOAUDI this week staged the Australian launch of what will become the most powerful road car in its current range, the scorching RS6 Avant, ahead of local sales in October.
It may be more than two months away from showrooms, but 30 people have already placed orders for the 412kW/700Nm twin-turbocharged V8 uber-wagon, which will kick off from $225,000 plus on-road costs.
As such, the load-carrier leaps to the top of the Audi’s growing range of sporty RS models here, supplanting the smaller but conceptually similar RS4 Avant, and the RS5 and TT RS coupes.
Audi sees its RS cars as important ‘halo’ models in Australia – a market with a proportionately large number of performance-car sales – and as such the company will boost its list of
offerings between now and early 2013 to include the RS5 cabriolet, RS7 and RSQ3 hot SUV.
The third-generation RS6 may have less raw power than its 426kW 5.0-litre V10-powered predecessor, but it remains the most potent model in Audi’s global fleet, ahead of the 404kW R8 V10 Plus.
Furthermore, the latest wagon weapon from Ingolstadt is 0.7 seconds faster to 100km/h than the old one, thanks to its 100kg lighter kerb weight – Audi uses more high-tensile steel and 20 per cent aluminium in the body – and extra 50Nm of torque (700Nm compared with 650Nm).
With acceleration from 0-100km/h in 3.9 seconds, the RS6 blurs the line between supercar and regular car. Top speed is electronically governed to either 250km/h – or 280km/h for an extra fee – in Australia, arguably a moot point.
The 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 under the bonnet is shared with fellow VW Group brand Bentley, and is also featured in a lower-tuned form in the S6 and S7 models. It is matched to an eight-speed automatic with paddles and sports mode – with the top ratio geared extra tall for cruising.
All 700Nm of torque is available between 1750 and 5500rpm, and the twin-scroll turbos are positioned between the 90-degree ‘V’ to save space. The subsequent extra heat is dispersed through nine radiators, including one just for the intercooler.
Continued next page
Jul 31, 2013 Page 4
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Strength in numbersContinued from previous page
Combined-cycle fuel economy is cut by a claimed 30 per cent to 9.8 litres per 100km via a new transmission and lighter body, plus the use of idle-stop and cylinder deactivation.
Power is sent to all four corners via the 40:60 front/rear torque-vectoring quattro all-wheel-drive system, while up to 85 per cent of engine load can also be directed to the rear axle. A sports differential can be added, enabling engine torque to be distributed between the rear wheels on a flexible basis, meaning more flows to the outside wheel when cornering.
Quattro GmbH, the Audi arm responsible for RS models, the R8 and Audi racecars, turns 30 this year. Reflecting Audi’s sportier modern focus, its production has risen from 2500 cars in the year 2000 to around 11,500 last year.
Regular RS6 models come with adjustable adaptive air suspension, which firms up or softens depending on which dial-operated driving mode you’re in (choose from comfort, auto, dynamic or individual), and lowers the car by as much as 20mm.
As part of the $4900 Dynamic Package (the one that ups the top speed and also adds more adjustment to the electromechanical steering), Audi will replace the air suspension with steel springs, with three-way adjustable shocks that are connected via diagonally
opposed oil lines that send load to the outside-front wheel.
The 1935kg beast is hauled up by 390mm ventilated discs with six-piston black or red callipers behind 21-inch wheels. Enormous 420mm ceramic units will be offered as a $20,490 extra-cost option.
The new version has a longer wheelbase than the old one – 2915mm – liberating more cabin space, but shorter overhangs. With the rear bench folded, Audi claims the RS6 can hold 1685 litres. The back seat can be flipped by latches in the side walls of the cargo area, while a rail system and cargo net are standard fit.
Other standard features include a flat-bottomed steering wheel with paddles, LED headlights that automatically dip the high-beam lights, digital TV
reception with DAB-plus digital radio, twin RS sports exhausts, a head-up display, 21-inch alloy wheels, Audi’s ‘parking system plus’ with 360-degree camera, panoramic glass sunroof, front sports seats upholstered in ‘Valcona’ leather and honeycomb stitching, and aluminium fascia inserts.
A Carbon styling pack will set you back $8500, and adds matte-black or carbon-finished radiator grille, air intake, roof rails, front sill, rear diffuser and body-coloured door mirrors. The $10,375 Assistance pack adds a night vision camera to detect pedestrians, lane assist, radar-guided cruise control and automated parking.
FULL STORY: CLICK HEREDRIVE IMPRESSIONS: CLICK HERES3 Sportback at $60K – next page
Jul 31, 2013 Page 5
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Audi Australia sets sharp$59,990 starting price forhot hatch due December
S3 Sportback at $60K
HONDA NSX OUTINGHONDA has uncovered a prototype version of its forthcoming second-generation NSX supercar ahead of its official debut at an IndyCar Series event in the US this weekend.
The all-new hybrid coupe will be sold in the US under the Acura brand from late next year, followed by other global markets in 2015.
FULL STORY: CLICK HERE
By MIKE COSTELLOAUSTRALIA’S hot weather has forced Audi to detune its still-scorching new S3 Sportback five-door to the tune of 15kW over its European cousin.
However, the company balanced this by last week announcing a sharper-than-expected $59,990 (plus on-road costs) starting price ahead of its official launch in December.
Not only is this more than $11,000 cheaper than the previous S3, it is also more than $5000 cheaper than the Ingolstadt marque’s official early projection that had this new version starting around $65,000.
Keep in mind, too, that those estimates were published in April, when the exchange rate with Europe was even more favourable than it is now.
But while European versions of the third-generation pocket rocket pack a 221kW/380Nm punch from a new Volkswagen Group 2.0-litre turbo-petrol engine, Australian iterations will be scaled back to 206kW/380Nm.
Scorching summer days Down Under have been attributed the blame, with Audi reining the engine in a touch to
improve longevity. This was also the case with the previous-generation S3, as well as its VW Golf R sibling.
Fitted standard with a six-speed S-tronic dual-clutch gearbox, the Aussie-spec S3 Sportback can accelerate from 0-100km/h in a claimed 5.0 seconds.
The new all-paw quattro S3 will sit atop Audi’s new A3 range until the even hotter RS3 version arrives next year, and as such will be tasked in the interim with flying the four-ringed flag against the faster BMW M135i and Mercedes-Benz A45 AMG.
But while the S3 may lack the punch of the 235kW/450Nm BMW inline-six or the 265kW/450Nm AMG 2.0-litre turbo, it also undercuts them on price by about $5000 and $15,000 respectively.
FULL STORY: CLICK HERE
Jul 31, 2013 Page 6
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Vision concept shows offfuture design for Mini asall-new hatch draws near
Next Cooper up close
By MIKE COSTELLOMINI’S ‘tomorrow’ will look a lot like Mini’s ‘today’ if a concept rendering released in Munich last week is an accurate depiction of the BMW-owned company’ s future product.
Called the Mini Vision, the concept two-door hatch bears more than a passing resemblance to the spectacular Rocketman concept first shown in Geneva in 2011, and subsequently ruled out of contention for series production.
The Vision, which is said to “showcase various elements of future Mini design”, also features the rounder grille and sleeker headlight design that is expected to feature on the next-generation Cooper hatch, which makes its world debut at the Los Angeles
motor show in November. Images of the new Mini leaked online
at the start of July, eliciting a cheeky response from the company that alluded to “unflattering paparazzi shots”.
The retro exterior design again harks back to the classic Minis of yore, but adds a new hexagonal grille with integrated foglights and bumper. The nifty oval lights are full LEDs, and are surrounded by ring-shaped daytime-runners.
The blacked-out pillars clearly delineate roof from side panels, made
from a strong, easily moulded and lightweight fibre-composite called ‘organo-metal’. The rear haunches are more pronounced, the overhangs are shorter and the new spoiler design may appear on future JCW hot versions.
Also notable are the familiar twin rear pipes, mounted centrally, as well as the larger and blockier tail-lights and pronounced tailgate creases.
FULL STORY: CLICK HEREBMW reveals final i3 – next page
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Production EV emergesas Australia mulls buyeroptions like IC car loans
BMW reveals final i3
By BARRY PARKBMW’S first-ever electric car is expected to come with a full-size spare when it comes to Australia mid-next year – spare car, that is, not tyre.
The German luxury car-maker this week fully revealed its future-driven i3 city car, sporting a four-cylinder petrol engine-rivalling 125kW/250Nm electric motor driving the rear wheels using a bank of lithium-ion batteries hidden away under the floor.
As an alternative, buyers can opt for a range-extender version of the car featuring a 25kW 600cc three-cylinder
motor scooter engine that holds charge in the batteries until the fuel runs out and bumps up the reach to 300km.
BMW Australia is also considering offering i3 buyers access to a conventional internal combustion (IC) engine vehicle from its regular model range for longer trips.
The base price of the i3 in Germany is about the same as a BMW 320i Gran Turismo – that translates to about $70,000 in Australian money – although the range-extender version adds an extra $6500 to the German buyers’ price.
BMW has high hopes for this car, with production expected to reach 30,000 units a year in a worldwide market for
electric vehicles that is expected to reach 150,000 sales this year alone.
“What the mobile phone did for communication, electric mobility will do for individual mobility,” BMW chairman Norbert Reithofer said at the i3’s New York launch.
The i3 is also shaping up as the first BMW model in Australia to sell online rather than in a traditional showroom, although BMW Australia product communications manager Scott Croaker said it would sell through traditional dealerships before being considered for web-based versions.
FULL STORY: CLICK HERE
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More Mercedes hybrids on the way as Australia’s first diesel-electric car arrives
Diesel hybrid pulls in
By BARRY PARKIT IS unusual that the brand that invented the car should be late to market with technology that is already more than a decade old.
But even so, Mercedes-Benz has still claimed an Australian first, launching the only hybrid car on the market to feature an electric motor paired to a diesel engine.
The E300 BlueTec Hybrid features the same 2.1-litre twin-turbocharged four-cylinder diesel engine under the bonnet as the more mainstream E250 CDI, priced from $98,900 plus on-road costs.
However, the extra bits of electronic technology shoehorned into the diesel-electric E300 add another $10,000 to
the price of the four-door sedan, and shave an extra 0.6 litres of diesel fuel per 100 kilometres off the bowser bill.
It is also a start to the hybrid-fuelled future for the German premium brand.
A twin-turbo V6-engined diesel-electric hybrid S300 limousine is “almost 95 per cent certain” to come to Australia after gaining approval for the right-hand-drive Japanese
market, according to Mercedes-Benz Australia senior manager of corporate communications David McCarthy.
Also high on Australia’s list, he said, was a hybrid version of the C-Class due sometime in the next year.
Until those arrive, the E300 BlueTec Hybrid will have to soldier on alone.
“I think that with the price premium of $10,000 our expectations of the sales of this car is not huge volumes, but it offers something different,” Mr McCarthy said.
“We already have 60 orders. The response from the dealers who spoke with customers is actually a surprise, as we didn’t expect that many orders.”
Continued next page
Jul 31, 2013 Page 9
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Continued from previous pageMr McCarthy said the long wait to
get hybrid technology would benefit buyers, with expectations that sales could push as high as 100 over the course of a full year of sales.
“The technology’s advanced a long way and this is a very, very advanced system,” he said.
“It (hybrid technology) was only left-hand drive previously. We made a strong case for it (the new-generation E-Class hybrid) as soon as we knew it was coming.
“We wanted to get the absolute best technology and we’ve waited and this is what we’ve got.”
The car uses a very similar hybrid system to the one developed for the Volkswagen Group’s hybrid models, including the Panamera four-door coupe and Cayenne SUV.
That version of the hybrid drivetrain sandwiches an electric motor – Mercedes-Benz has tagged it an “electric machine” based on an almost literal translation of what its German parents have dubbed it – in between the petrol engine and the seven-speed automatic gearbox.
When the car slows or while cruising, the electric motor acts as a generator to feed electricity back into a 23-kilogram lithium-ion battery pack – it is made up of 35 separate battery cells mated together – sitting under the bonnet to
one side of the engine.The technology cuts the diesel
engine’s fuel use from 4.9L/100km down to 4.3L/100km. Likewise, emissions are cut from 129 to 113 grams per kilometre of carbon dioxide.
All up, the extra electronics and wiring in the E-Class hybrid weighs about 100kg over its conventionally engined sibling.
Under acceleration, driving up a hill or taking off from a standing start at the traffic lights, the electric motor gives a helping hand to the diesel engine, providing an extra 20kW of power and 250Nm of torque almost from rest.
Those figures look small, but they are paired to the twin-turbo diesel engine, which by itself can generate 150kW and 500Nm.
The batteries are good for only a
couple of kilometres of low-speed driving, but operate across six different modes including under full-electric power at speeds of up to 160km/h.
The E-Class hybrid is well equipped for the price, with a similar level of equipment to its conventionally engined E250 CDI sibling.
That includes keyless entry/start, power-operated seats, leather upholstery, adaptive cruise control with a speed limiter function, a premium Harman Kardon sound system with digital radio, in-car internet shared from a smartphone paired to the Bluetooth system, and 19-inch alloy wheels.
FULL STORY: CLICK HEREDRIVE IMPRESSIONS: CLICK HERE
More reports – next page
Diesel hybrid pulls in
Jul 31, 2013 Page 10
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Applications for new and existing employees can be made through Auto Skills Australia (ASA) for training in nationally approved qualifications and specific skill sets. Anyone employed in the automotive industry can apply.
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Nine-speed auto gearboxdebuts on E350 V6 diesel
By DANIEL GARDNERMERCEDES-BENZ has introduced a groundbreaking new nine-speed automatic transmission on the E-Class in Europe ahead of its introduction across wide range of models sold in Australia and abroad in the near future.
The German luxury car-maker is initially offering the 9G-Tronic transmission in the E350 BlueTec sedan and wagon, which supersedes the previous seven-speed auto – still in service across other model lines – and combines with its 3.0-litre V6 turbo-diesel engine.
However, Mercedes has confirmed the in-house-developed 9G-Tronic, which is suitable for rear-wheel-drive and AWD applications as well as hybrid and plug-in hybrid drive systems, “will be used in almost all model series and engines in the coming years”.
It is capable of handling up to 1000Nm of torque, indicating it will also feature on high-performance engines built in conjunction with AMG.
The 9G-Tronic’s introduction on the E-Class makes it a world-first application of a nine-speed automatic in a rear-wheel-drive sedan.
It is not, however, the first nine-speed auto in the industry, with ZF having already developed a self-shifting gearbox with this many ratios for brands including Land Rover and Jeep.
FULL STORY: CLICK HERE
CLS63 ‘S’ on sale
Power up, pricing stable for Mercedes-AMG heroesBy TIM NICHOLSON
MERCEDES-BENZ has maintained a circa-$263,000 entry price for its high-performance new CLS63 AMG S Coupe, despite a 44kW power boost over the outgoing model.
The Australian arm of the German luxury car-maker has reshuffled the CLS AMG line-up by introducing the more powerful ‘S’ variant which will replace the current CLS63 as the only available model here, albeit in both Coupe and Shooting Brake body styles.
On sale now ahead of its arrival in October, the Coupe starts from $262,645 plus on-road costs while the Shooting Brake kicks off at $265,145.
In ‘S’ guise, the updated German super-sports machine produces a massive 430kW of power and 800Nm of torque from its 5.5-litre bi-turbo V8 petrol engine, well up on the 386kW/700Nm found in the model it replaces.
This also puts it ahead of one of its key rivals, the recently launched – and more expensive, at $299,500 – BMW M6 Gran Coupe, which offers 412kW and 680Nm
from its 4.4-litre V8 engine and can race from zero to 100km/h in 4.2 seconds.
The mighty new CLS AMG can complete the run to 100km/h one-tenth quicker, while the Shooting Brake reaches the benchmark in an equivalent 4.2s.
An even quicker (3.6s) all-wheel-drive version is available overseas, but has not been engineered for right-hand-drive markets and will not be available here.
Other competitors include Porsche’s 4.8-litre V8 Panamera S, which retails from $287,100 in Australia, while Maserati’s soon-to-be-replaced Quattroporte kicks off from $250,000 and tops out at just under $300,000.
Mercedes-Benz Australia has priced the new CLS63 AMG above the mechanically similar E63 AMG S that went on sale last month for $249,900 plus on-road costs.
Top speed for the CLS63 AMG is 250km/h, although an optional driver’s package boosts this to 300km/h.
FULL STORY: CLICK HERE Star-spangled roadshow – next page
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Mercedes-Benz commits to motor show with more special models in pipeline
Star-spangled roadshow
BENZ POWER FOR ASTONASTON Martin’s next generation of sportscars will feature bespoke Mercedes-AMG V8 engines and electronic components if a technical partnership signed off last week progresses.
In return for providing Aston with powertrain and electrical technology, the German powerhouse will take a 5 per cent non-voting stake in the niche British brand. Aston currently sources its V8 and V12 engines from former owner Ford, but that deal is drawing to a close.
FULL STORY: CLICK HERE
SLS AMG ‘Blackbird’
By BARRY PARKMERCEDES-BENZ is about to launch a roadshow featuring four special cars it had intended to reveal at the cancelled Sydney motor show.
Not only that, the car-maker has given a strong sign that it will continue to bring in a range of wild, expensive, show-stopping cars for at least the next two years in the hope that Australia will once again stage an international motor show.
Believed to be four highly individualised, high-end AMG models similar to the orange-liveried C63 ‘Jaffa’ and $500,000-plus matte-black SLS AMG ‘Blackbird’ show cars revealed in 2010, the latest batch of bespoke vehicles will visit Brisbane, Sydney and Melbourne starting from late next month before being sold off.
But the good bit is that rather than miss out, the show-car-hungry public will also get a chance to see them, along with other high-end Mercedes models housed under a specially built dome as part of the car-maker’s ‘Precious Metal’ tour.
Mercedes-Benz Australia corporate communications senior manager
David McCarthy said the tour of high-end models, including the show cars, would miss out on one special vehicle – the all-new, LED-laden S-Class flagship revealed internationally earlier this month.
“It will be between six and eight cars – we have a few other cars we want to put there as well,” Mr McCarthy said.
“When we say ‘precious metal’, what we’re talking about are obviously the cars we had for the show, and expensive, high-priced stuff.
“It won’t be S-Class – don’t even think that, although it would have been nice. We’re not going to get a (S-Class) car until later in the year.”
FULL STORY: CLICK HERE
Mazda NSW is the State headquarters for Mazda Australia. It is home to a dedicated team working with a high performing Dealer network to achieve mutual business objectives. The Dealer Business Manager (DBM) position is the key interface between Mazda and our Dealer network.
This role is based in Botany in Sydney’s south east, and the successful applicant will report directly to the NSW State Manager.
Key responsibilities include:• Developing strong working relationships with
Dealers in all areas of their business, including sales (new and used), service and parts
• Monitoring Dealer performance against KPIs and working with Dealers to plan and implement collaborative business solutions
• Supporting Dealers in areas of marketing, business planning, retailing and supply
• Helping Dealers to fulfil our Corporate Identification requirements
• Assisting Dealer teams build their product and business knowledge
• Implementing strategic business programs at the Dealer level.
To be considered for the role you will need:• Tertiary qualifications (preferably in a business
related discipline)• The ability to demonstrate strong communication
and relationship building skills• Experience as a business development manager,
account manager or in another customer facing role
• Ability to negotiate with business owners and senior managers effectively
• A flair for analysing business performance• Excellent time management skills with the ability
to achieve deadlines and prioritise tasks.
Having an understanding of Dealer business processes and the vehicle sales process would be advantageous as well as field/territory experience. The role will require regional travel within NSW from time to time.
This role is located at our Somerton National Parts Distribution Centre (PDC)and reports to the National Parts Operations Manager.
Responsibilities include: • Inventory and supply performance monitoring,
including approval of purchase orders• Preparing KPI reports to facilitate awareness
of Operational performance and implement improvements
• Managing PDC suppliers and service providers ensuring compliance with PDC processes
• Liaison with internal departments with regards to supporting sales, parts and technical programs and campaigns
• Working with the Warehouse Manager, facilitating administration requirement to ensure accurate and relevant inventory, including obsolescence and cycle counts
• Budgeting and financial reporting.
To be considered for this role you will need:• Tertiary qualifications within a business
related field• At least 5 years leadership experience and skills
whilst managing a team of 15+ employees• Extensive knowledge of automotive
parts activities• At least 3 years of procurement, inventory
control, warehousing and logistics experience• Ability to analyse and apply data to planning
and decision making.
Although not required, experience within an automotive parts sales environment would be advantageous.
To apply for either role, please send your résumé and cover letter or email to [email protected] quoting in the subject line the reference SY-DBM-03 for the Dealer Business Manager position or CS-TFT-01 for the Parts Supply Chain Manager.
Applications for both roles close on 9th August, 2013 at 5pm.
Dealer Business Manager (NSW)
Parts Supply Chain Manager (Vic)
We are one of the most successful Mazda subsidiaries in the world. Part of a global brand, Mazda Australia is responsible for importing, wholesaling and distributing vehicles and parts to our Dealer network, as well as providing marketing, advertising, customer support and Dealer development services.
At Mazda, we pride ourselves on the Zoom-Zoom philosophy.
M{zd{ australia. drive your career further
www.mazda.com.au
Jul 31, 2013 Page 13
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GoAuto NewsJohn Mellor’s
LeasePlan is the world’s leading vehicle and fleet management company, operating a fleet of more than 1.36 million vehicles worldwide. LeasePlan provides its clients with the opportunity to outsource their fleet and the day-to-day management of vehicles.
This is an ideal opportunity for a motivated sales professional to grow our customer base in NSW and across Australia. This position is responsible for sourcing quality prospects, presenting the wide range of LeasePlan services and benefits, and converting prospects into LeasePlan customers.
Ideally you will have proven new business sales experience within fleet management, salary packaging, finance or a similar field, and a strong track record of winning and maintaining business.
Benefits of working at LeasePlan include an attractive remuneration and reward package, annual profit sharing and a fully-maintained vehicle as well as ongoing training and career development.
If this sounds like you, please forward your resumé to [email protected] or for a confidential discussion, contact Rebekah Adams on (03) 9269 2647.
Applications treated in strictest confidence.
New BusiNess MaNager – Sydney
Inspiring engineers, scientists among new horizons for land-speed record holder
On the limit
By DANIEL GARDNERLAND-SPEED record holder Andy Green is hoping to inspire a generation with a rocket-powered extreme machine that will crack 1600km/h and burn more than 400 litres of fuel per minute.
His ‘vehicle’, called the Bloodhound, will combine a hybrid rocket, a Typhoon jet engine and a Formula One V8 to produce a scarcely believable 100,000kW of power.
The aim? To smash his own 16-year-old world record of 1228km/h with another high-speed run to be streamed live around the globe. Mr Green will make the attempt in 2016, on a dried-up South African lake bed.
But that’s only half the tale.It might not sound very environmentally
friendly, but the ex-RAF ace also wants his triple-engined monster to inspire a
new generation of engineers and scientists to push the envelope.
“Bloodhound is not just about breaking a record. It’s about going to the limit of technology as an adventure, an adventure we could share with a global audience,” Mr Green said in an interview with GoAuto in Sydney last week.
“Bloodhound is feeding in to the long-term requirement for kids to think about science and technology and what it means to the world that they will inhabit in the future because
we are going to need at least some of them to start designing, building and maintaining that world.
“Having a really big crash will get us a lot of hits on YouTube, but it won’t have the desired effect of getting kids excited about design and engineering.”
Here are some mind-bending statistics to ponder.
The hybrid rocket motor requires a delivery pump capable of filling a bathtub in just three seconds, and requires a 600kW Cosworth Formula One engine to drive it.
Furthermore, at full speed the car is subjected to 20 tonnes of drag. This means if you were to turn the engines off at top speed, the car would confront a rate of deceleration three times the force of gravity.
Continued next page
Jul 31, 2013 Page 14
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GoAuto NewsJohn Mellor’s
Marshalls Motors is a well-established Mercedes-Benz motor dealership located in Parramatta. Well known for delivering a fi rst class guest experience we are seeking to appoint a Sales Delivery Manager.
In this role, the Sales Delivery Manager will be responsible for managing a small team. Your exceptional time management skills will make certain each guest is guided through every stage of the delivery process ensuring a seamless vehicle handover.
Working in collaboration with our sales team you must be committed to providing exceptional customer service.
Duties include:• Managing a small team of 3 staff members• Overseeing the delivery of approximately 150 vehicles
per month• Overseeing the smooth running of the delivery process• Customer liaison • General administration
The successful applicant will possess the following attributes:• Excellent customer service & communication skills
(including strong written and verbal communication)• Good MS Offi ce skills: Word & Excel• High attention to detail• Professional phone manner• Mature attitude and ability to deal with a range of clientele• Immaculate presentation• Ability to show initiative and work within a team environment• Have a full Australian Drivers Licence
The successful candidate will be a top sales performer with a proven track history. An attractive remuneration package is on offer commensurate with experience.
It goes without saying that you must be a reliable and trustworthy individual who takes pride in all that they do.
Don’t miss this rare opportunity to join one of the world’s best luxury automotive brands. If you’ve got what it takes to fulfi l this role then we look forward to hearing from you.
Interested applicants should forward a copy of their resume including covering letter to [email protected] by Friday, 9th August 2013
Sales Delivery Manager
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Cnr Church & Meehan Streets, Parramatta NSW 2150 Tel: (02) 9897 1777 /MBMarshalls DL26331Marshalls®
Since 1958
On the limitContinued from previous page
Even something as simple as a wheel becomes a huge engineering challenge when travelling at record-breaking speed. The precision-forged aluminium units have no tyres, spin at 10,000 revolutions per minute and are subjected to 50,000 times the force of gravity.
So how does Mr Green justify building a car that uses 400 litres of fuel in under a minute, in an age when so much importance is put on fuel-efficient vehicles?
“A full power burn of our rocket generates the same carbon footprint as 5000 people charging their mobile phones overnight; 5000 people charging their phones aren’t likely to change the future of education. Firing that rocket a few times could,” he said.
Before the main event, Mr Green’s team will conduct a preliminary run in 2015, with the aim of gathering vital data to finetune the car before returning in 2016 for the record attempt.
But the man at the centre of the action explained there is much more to breaking the record than just building a fast car. Half the challenge is putting on a show to match the spectacular ‘go’.
The record attempt will be streamed live from South Africa via a multitude of cameras – an enormous technical challenge considering the mechanical extremes at play.
“We are going to be running live video from 16 different cameras on the car. This is technically nearly as hard as building the car in the first place,” said Mr Green.
But the challenge only grows from there. One of the team’s sponsors projects a staggering three billion
people will watch this feed, and there is a real risk such a load of demand could overwhelm and crash South Africa’s internet infrastructure.
FULL STORY: CLICK HERE
Andy Green
GREEN TAKES BENTLEY MULSANNE TO 307KM/H AT BONNEVILLE: CLICK HERE
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Jul 31, 2013 Page 16
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GoAuto NewsJohn Mellor’s
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Hallowed British brandapproves controversialprogram for off-roader
Bentley SUV is go
By DANIEL GARDNERBENTLEY Motors has finally given the production green light to an ultra-luxury Range Rover-rivalling SUV, to go on sale around the globe from 2016.
To be built in the UK at Bentley’s facility in Crewe, the still-to-be-named SUV will headline an £800 million ($A1.3 billion) investment in its headquarters and new-model pipeline, which will also create 1000 new jobs, according to the company.
The Volkswagen-owned luxury brand first mooted a move into the SUV space when it tore the covers from the polarising EXP 9 F concept at the 2012 Geneva motor show.
As GoAuto reported at the time, that concept drew criticism from many quarters for its unorthodox styling.
While the company used the exercise as a litmus test, the road-going version is expected to lose some of the more controversial design elements.
The new model will be the fourth in the
current range, joining the Continental GT, Flying Spur and Mulsanne.
While Bentley is yet to confirm a name for the new arrival, rumours persist around the name ‘Falcon’, which is naturally close to home for Australian Ford fans – and posing no problems for this market with the Falcon nameplate’s retirement here in 2016.
Details of the new model were not released with the announcement, but Bentley is saying the SUV will be the most powerful and luxurious in the market and visually unlike any other.
Bentley Motors chief operating officer Wolfgang Schreiber has previously stated that the model is likely to share the existing 373kW/660Nm twin-turbocharged V8 and 447kW/800Nm W12 engines.
A previously hinted-at V6 plug-in hybrid powertrain may also find its way under the bonnet of the SUV if Bentley decides to go ahead with the brand-first technology.
Bentley has previously said the hybrid will provide a 30km zero-emissions range, achieve a sub-five-second 0-100km/h sprint and emit 130 grams per kilometre of CO2 – lower than the least polluting Ford Focus, for example.
Parent company Volkswagen’s MLB platform is likely to provide the basis for the Bentley, but other technology such as Porsche’s four-wheel-drive architecture may also be borrowed.
FULL STORY: CLICK HERE ‘A brand moving forward’ – page 18
EXP 9 F
Driving your future forwardwww.simedarbymotors.com.au/careers
Parts Operations ManagerSime Darby Automobiles Australia Joining the Sime Darby group of companies means you are part of a global group that employs more than 120,000 people in over 20 countries.
In Australia, you’ll be part of an organisation of 200 people representing the sought after brands of Peugeot or Citroen as the national importer, Porsche as a prestige retailer and Corefleet providing the mining industry’s needs for quality rental vehicles.
Sime Darby Automobiles Australia is responsible for the importation, sales, marketing, distribution and technical training/support for the Peugeot and Citroen brands across Australia.
An opportunity has arisen for an experienced and knowledgeable parts professional to join our team as our Parts Operations Manager. As Head of the Parts Department for the Peugeot and Citroen brands and reporting to the National Customer Services and Fixed Operations Manager, you will be accountable for the successful promotion and sale of genuine Peugeot and Citroen parts throughout our dealer network.
In this key operational role, you will oversee the entire supply chain for Peugeot and Citroen parts within our company. Your responsibilities will include but will not be limited to:
• Compiling competitive parts pricing and merchandising information• Pro-actively working to identify best-practice inventory, pricing and stock levels• Manage parts stock levels to ensure appropriate stock turnover and aged inventory
as required• Maintain an appropriate parts hierarchy and parts price file • Managing the importation, customs clearance and freight of parts• Oversee the total parts inventory management and all country and interstate parts freight for
the dealer network, in conjunction with our parts storage and freight management business partner
• Developing, implementing and executing the parts strategy for the business• Responsibility for the on-going development and training of parts staff
To be successful in this role, you will have tested parts experience within an Automotive Wholesale business, preferably within a role of similar scope. You will be a competent Manager that is achievement oriented with a strong sense of business acumen. With a keen eye for detail, you will be process driven and well versed in IT systems associated with parts logistics and distribution (AS400 skills preferred).
For more information about this role and to apply, visit the below website and search for Job Code 10300.
Jul 31, 2013 Page 18
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GoAuto NewsJohn Mellor’s
1300 654 665 www.thewarrantygroup.com.au
Partner with the ExpertsThe Warranty Group is one of the largest global single source providers of warranty services to manufacturers and dealers in over 30 countries. Our programs are designed to promote retention and brand loyalty in a competitive market. The Warranty group owns the underlying insurance entity, providing financial stability and peace of mind for our partners.
With the assurance of global experience, expertise and a strong customer focus; contact us today to discuss how we can implement a customised and profitable solution that offers you additional revenue whilst providing your customers with exceptional value.
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No discounts on offer asBentley aims at youngercustomers Down Under
‘A brand moving forward’
By DANIEL GARDNERBENTLEY says its return to the European racing circuit, bigger emphasis on sporty offerings and imminent move into the SUV market will revitalise its image in markets such as Australia.
But the British-based, German-owned marque is unlikely to follow the lead of fellow high-end brands Rolls-Royce and Porsche by cutting its local prices.
“There has been a historic perception of being a very English brand and not quite moving ahead,” said Bentley Motors’ Asia-Pacific head of marketing and communications Robin Peel.
“But with (Continental) GT V8, the new Flying Spur, the return to racing and a potential SUV we show a brand moving forward, and we have a new younger audience which is very attractive to us.”
Much of this growth with a younger audience can be attributed to Bentley’s boom in China – it sold a record 2253 cars there last year, to a significantly younger average buyer than western markets.
According to Mr Peel, the company also has the product in its arsenal to skew
younger buyers in Australia, namely the forthcoming Flying Spur limo, the new, unnamed Range Rover rival due around 2016 and the cheaper Continental GT V8 variant launched last year.
Mr Peel gave particular emphasis to the latter, saying: “I think this country is passionate about V8. A V8 with a sports exhaust, as our new car has, is a very attractive proposition to Australian buyers.
“It’s slightly lighter, more sporty, has a slightly different feel and drive to it, and has encouraged people who probably looked at GT before.”
Bentley has sold 61 cars in Australia so far this year, a figure 144 per cent higher than over the same time period in 2012.
Mr Peel said another key to appealing to a younger and more dynamic audience is Bentley’s well-publicised return to the tracks of Europe with a Continental GT-
based GT3 category racer. Bentley may say the decision to race
is not a marketing exercise, but it is important to consider that its decision to return to Le Mans after a 70-year break in 2001 earned the brand valuable international recognition.
The presence of a Bentley in the 2014 GT3 series is intended to reunite the brand with its racing heritage and may generate similar interest in the marque.
“Racing is in our blood as a brand,” said Mr Peel. “Before we went back to Le Mans in 2001 it was 70 years since we had raced. It’s now 10 years since we raced so we feel we need to do it again.
“A customer said to me, ‘The atmosphere, the feeling of utter joy of Bentley being back at Le Mans was fabulous.’”
FULL STORY: CLICK HERE
Continental GT3 (front) and Continental GT Speed
Jul 31, 2013 Page 19
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GoAuto NewsJohn Mellor’s
An opportunity exists for a proven, high-caliber person to join Holden in the position of State Manager – NSW/ACT, located in our North Ryde office. Holden is entering into a new growth phase of its operations with a year of unprecedented new model activity tied together with an exciting and contemporary new Brand campaign. Launching the long-awaited VF Commodore, the all-new Holden Malibu, and with Holden’s latest entry into the small SUV market Trax still to come. At Holden we do not take success for granted. To ensure that we maximise the results of our investments in the market place, we need a strong and performance orientated State Manager to drive the sales of our fantastic new model range in the market. You will be the face of Holden in the NSW/ACT markets and lead and mentor a team of District Managers who are dedicated to achieving the required results.In this role, you will take the lead on growing the vehicle sales and market penetration of the Holden brand and its products within the zone. You will ensure that Holden has a world-class Dealer Network capable of achieving the highest levels of customer engagement. Working alongside our Dealer Network, you will partner with them to maximise sales and profitability in order to achieve our mutual performance expectations.The successful candidate for this role is likely to have extensive sales and aftersales experience within the automotive industry. In addition you will have the ability to build strong working relationships based on credibility and respect, be seen as a true leader and have demonstrated leadership experience, be described as customer service focused, and see ahead clearly to create competitive and breakthrough strategies. Reporting directly to the National Director of Sales for Holden, this role offers opportunity for career growth and development for the right person.
Think abouT your nexT move Today.Flexible working arrangements will be considered for the right candidate. Applications close on Wednesday 7th August 2013. Please apply confidentially online via www.holden.com.au/careers and search for job reference number: SaL0004075
State Manager – NSW/ACT
British sports brand alivewith fresh funding boostbut model expansion cut
Lotus secure, but lean
EVORA LEFT STRANDEDLOTUS was left in the wrong position last week after one of its range-topping Evora S models became stuck on a beach at Sydney’s Middle Harbour.
The $150,990 supercharged V6-engined British sportscar is better known for sprinting from 0-100km/h in 4.6 seconds, but was left sitting on its belly early on Friday after an attempt to get it on a concrete apron next to the beach fell short.
Lotus Cars Australia brand manager Alastair Manihera told GoAuto it was just a case of bad luck that the Evora S beached itself on the sand, with half the car well inside the high-tide mark.
FULL STORY: CLICK HERE
Exige S Roadster
By TIM NICHOLSONTHE future of British sportscar-maker Lotus now looks secure after its new Malaysian owners last week released a three-year investment program.
However, while the existing model line-up is secure, a planned rollout of sleek-looking future models appears to be on hold.
DRB-Hicom will reportedly inject an undisclosed sum of money into the struggling brand after already pouring ₤100 million ($A165 million) into Lotus’ bank account over the past 18 months to keep the business afloat.
Early last year, the Malaysian government sold its 42.7 per cent stake in Lotus’ parent company Proton. Proton has since been taken over by DRB-Hicom, a conglomerate with interests in manufacturing, finance and construction.
DRB-Hicom managing director Tan Sri Mohd Khamil Jamil told Malaysian media that Lotus was on the way up again with a plan focused on expanding the existing model line-up.
“We have cleaned up and we are moving ahead,” he said, suggesting the
company has fixed a number of residual financial, marketing and product planning issues left over from Proton’s management of Lotus.
Mr Jamil confirmed Lotus would concentrate on introducing new variants of its existing models including the Exige, Evora and Elise, starting with the Exige S Roadster due for an Australian debut early next year.
Under the stewardship of former chief Dany Bahar, Lotus unveiled ambitious plans at the 2010 Paris motor show to introduce five all-new models over five years, including reborn Elan and Elite sports coupes, a four-door grand tourer dubbed the Eterne, a tiny City Car and an all-new Elise.
Mr Jamil confirmed the new-model expansion had been shelved, although there is speculation the Esprit project was close to production and may still see the light of day.
FULL STORY: CLICK HERE
Jul 31, 2013 Page 20
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GoAuto NewsJohn Mellor’s
AssistAnt sAles MAnAger / senior sAles ConsultAntIn a brand that is performing stronger every month, Paul Wakeling Volkswagen are seeking applicants who are ready to help customers take the next step in their motoring journey.
Previous motor industry sales experience is essential, with the successful candidate being charged with supporting the New Vehicle Sales Manager in running a youthful team.
A focus on process, success and helping customers is essential and will be some of the many criteria applicants will be judged by.
Paul Wakeling Volkswagen has proven very successful in being a leading Volkswagen dealership, if you’re ready to help us achieve more then send your details to [email protected]
PWG-3698-EMP
Overseas interest strongin 2013 AADA convention
By JOHN MELLORTHE 2013 AADA National Dealer Convention, to be held at Surfers Paradise in September, has attracted a record number of international delegates with a growing number of guests from China, America and New Zealand.
The AADA has confirmed two groups of 20 dealers from China and New Zealand will attend the event.
Discussions are also underway with India’s Dealer Association (FADA), with a number of Indian auto representatives expected to travel to Australia for the 2013 event which runs from September 11-13.
Organisers say that Chinese dealers in particular are showing a strong interest in Australian dealership operations and strategies, and that the China Automobile Dealer Association (CADA) is currently exploring ties with the AADA.
Convention organiser Patrick Tessier told GoAuto that Chinese dealers “are desperate to learn about the benchmarks and KPIs (key performance indicators) employed in dealership operations in Australia and in other markets”.
Speakers will include international marketing expert David Kain, the head of Google’s automotive channel sales Chris Fong, and the former vice-president of Yahoo! Commerce group Tony Surtees.
Australian Victoria Cross recipient Benjamin Roberts-Smith will share his experiences from the front line and reflect on hard work and discipline in business.
For more information, or to register online, go to: aadaconvention.com.au.
Fairer code
Government to change Franchising Code of ConductBy IAN PORTER
CAR companies in Australia will no longer be able to demand dealers make heavy investments in their dealerships without justifying the need first, under changes the federal government is about to make to the Franchising Code of Conduct.
In addition, the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) will become a more powerful watchdog in the franchising sector, able to audit a franchisor’s compliance with the revised code, issue infringement notices and even levy fines.
In addition, there will be an express obligation for franchisors to act in good faith, extending the unwritten common law requirement for good faith behaviour.
The proposed changes to the Franchising Code of Conduct have been formulated in response to an independent review of the code by Alan Wein, a co-founder of the House homewares franchise, formerly an adjunct professor at the RMIT School of Business Management and now
principal at Wein Mediation, which works in commercial and contractual areas including franchising and trade practices.
The review was commissioned by federal minister for small business Gary Gray and parliamentary secretary for small business Bernie Ripoll.
The insistence on major dealership upgrades by franchisors has been a bone of contention for dealers in recent years as car-makers have sought to improve their image by demanding expensive upgrades of dealer premises.
An assessment of the government’s position drawn up by lawyers HWL Ebsworth indicates franchisors will have to demonstrate that the required “significant” expenditure is reasonable when it has not been included in the initial franchise agreement.
The term “significant” is yet to be defined, but in the government’s response to the Wein review, Mr Gray said it would likely be defined as either a percentage of turnover or profit.
FULL STORY: CLICK HERE
Jul 31, 2013 Page 21
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GoAuto NewsJohn Mellor’s
.NET Developers Required
Pentana Solutions is seeking experienced and motivated .Net Developers to join our growing global development team. You will be responsible for building and enhancing the large range of Pentana Solutions applications and solutions that we offer to our growing client base. Reporting to our .Net development manager, this will be a key role within the development team. These roles are based in Melbourne at our global head office.
Key Responsibilities:
Key Skills:
• Undertake development tasks entailing the design, coding, testing and documentation of applications, database software etc. • Analyse, modify and maintain programs and procedures• Prepare documents detailing the design, operations, troubleshooting and maintenance of applications• Undertake the programming tasks that provide structured framework for .Net development• Provide technical support to clients and other associates
• Bachelor of Computer Science or equivalent • VB.NET or C#.NET, SQL and Problem solving skills• Ability to communicate effectively with all levels of associates• A self-initiated, self-motivated personality with high standards for all completed work• Ability to work under pressure• Demonstrates an enthusiastic, positive and CAN DO attitude
If you seek a challenging role in an innovative company, please forward your resume to [email protected] by August 9, 2013.
Quality is the priority asoil filter supplier investsin hi-tech Altona facility
Ryco opens $3m centre
By IAN PORTERGUD Automotive, owner of the Ryco filter brand, has invested more than $3 million in a new Australian office, laboratory and warehouse set-up designed to maintain market leadership.
And the new laboratory will not only help Ryco improve the design of its filters: it will also play a part in maintaining the lifestyle of an Indian tribe in Arizona.
The highlight of the new premises at Altona North, near the Toyota assembly plant, is a $400,000 state-of-the-art filter-testing machine that can test oil, fuel and hydraulic fluid filters.
Speaking at the opening ceremony last week, GUD Automotive CEO Bob Pattison said it was unusual for a company that does not manufacture filters to have such a precision unit.
“Our design philosophy is to design and develop filters that meet or exceed the performance in the key areas of efficiency, life and flow of the genuine
product,” he said.GUD Automotive used to make filters.
It was established in 1940 as a filter manufacturer and, over the decades, made original equipment filters for all Australian car-makers until it was no longer viable.
In 2005 it contracted out production to Chinese suppliers, at the same time setting down stringent quality standards that helped make it the leading filter brand in Australia. The new filter-testing machine would underwrite product quality and help develop improved standards in future.
“We want the 20,000 independent workshops who are competing against the Ford dealer or the Toyota dealer
to stay in business, so that servicing your car remains competitive,” Mr Pattison said.
“They’re relying on us to give them a filter they are sure will give them the performance they need.
“When a vehicle owner has the vehicle serviced by an independent, the manufacturers don’t try to cancel the warranty when the independent uses a Ryco filter.”
Mr Pattison said the new machine, supplied by Bonavista Technologies of Tulsa, Oklahoma, would speed the research and development process and improve speed to market.
FULL STORY: CLICK HERE
GUD Automotive CEO Bob Pattison (centre) with Bonavista Technologies president Gary Ferrell (left) and Ryco engineering manager George Dearden
Jul 31, 2013 Page 22
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GoAuto NewsJohn Mellor’s
Unique & Exciting Career OpportunitySenior TeST engineerAPV Engineering and Testing Services Pty Ltd is one of two NATA (ILAC) accredited mechanical and environmental test laboratories in Australia.APV Tech Centre provides full vehicle crash testing, dynamic sled testing, R&D, certification, consumer and production testing, and specialised engineering and field support to a wide range of industries. See www.apvtechcentre.comAn opportunity for a Senior Test Engineer exists within this technically challenging and rewarding organisation in Melbourne, Victoria. Responsibilities include the co-ordination of crash test programs, development of long term customer partnerships, recommendation and effective communication of test configuration parameters, report writing and analysis
and technology development. Test programs can range from vehicle crash safety testing and development, to occupant safety and product testing for defence, aviation and other industry applications.Within the organisation, you will be required to communicate effectively to colleagues and customers. Accompanied with a qualification in engineering you will have a sound understanding of applied physics and mathematics.APV is an equal opportunity employer and supports work-life balance. With a corporate objective of organisational growth and diversification, this role provides long-term career development opportunities.For further details please contact Natasha Hickling on (03) 9355 5840 or [email protected]
ANCAP slams poor LatinAmerican crash standards
By BARRY PARKLATIN Americans, it seems, are a lot less important to car-makers than you and me. That’s the message coming out of the latest round of crash tests from the Australian safety watchdog’s Latino cousin.
Suzuki’s Alto, a Chevrolet-badged city car based on an old version of Holden’s Barina, Renault’s Clio and a Nissan compact sedan all have received a zero-star rating – the lowest score possible – in the latest Latin New Car Assessment Program that rates vehicles for their crash safety.
The Latin American vehicle safety group’s Australian counterpart wasted little time before weighing in on the result.
“These zero-star-rated cars are built by companies that produce good, safe, five-star cars at affordable prices for buyers in other parts of the world,” ANCAP chairman Lauchlan McIntosh said in a statement last week. “It is astonishing that these big-name manufacturers are prepared to build and sell cars in this region which fail to meet even basic global safety standards.”
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Safety watch
Local large cars, big SUVs top used car safety reportBy TIM NICHOLSON
AUSTRALIAN-BUILT large cars and family SUVs are the safest used cars on our roads while budget small cars built in the 1990s are the most unsafe, according to a safety report from the NRMA.
The Used Car Safety Rating report rates the safety of used vehicles using data collected from more than six million vehicles involved in police-reported road crashes, and more than 1.4 million road users from Australia and New Zealand between 1987 and 2011.
The report was jointly conducted by the NRMA and the NSW Centre for Road Safety and covers a total of 216 models.
NRMA applies a star rating to each vehicle, with five stars equating to an ‘excellent’ result and one star reflecting a ‘very poor’ outcome for the vehicle, while a rating of ‘Safe Pick’ is for five-star vehicles that are less likely to injure other road users.
The star rating is not related to the system used by the Australasian New
Car Assessment Program (ANCAP) to determine the safety of new cars sold in Australia.
NSW Centre for Road Safety general manager Marg Prendergast said the risk of death or serious injury was nine times higher when comparing the worst and best vehicles built from 1996 onwards.
Ms Prendergast also made special mention of used commercial vehicles, saying it was “pleasing to see the proportion of commercial vehicles scoring good or excellent has increased significantly in this update, with three commercial utilities scoring a Safe Pick rating – a first for this type of vehicle”.
The vast majority of Safe Pick cars were manufactured from 2001 onwards, said Ms Prendergast, showing the benefits of newer vehicles’ typically longer list of safety features.
She said 109 vehicles achieved a rating for ‘excellent’ or ‘good’, and 54 for either ‘poor’ or ‘very poor’.
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2006 Toyota Aurion
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We are seeking a GM/DP for Western NSW who has the ambition to own a Country Dealership. This is a well regarded and profitable Dealership in an attractive area of regional NSW.• Turnover approximately $10m.• Major franchise with strong market share.• Above average positive earnings.• Strong growth potential in back end.• Experienced management and staff.• Ideal for an experienced, ambitious GM.• Finance available for equity participation.
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Mazda6 Grand Touring wagonThe latest Mazda6 is lighter, stronger and better equipped than its predecessor, bridging the gap between mainstream and luxury in a number of important areas. However, we wonder whether buyers might be better off shopping in the lower reaches of the range, since the second-from-the-top Grand Touring wagon does suffer for its gorgeous 19-inch alloys. In this case, the wheels do not maketh the car…
GM OUTLOOK STRONGGENERAL Motors’ recovery from chapter 11 bankruptcy continues, with the US car-making giant recording its 14th straight quarterly profit since the government-led restructure in 2009.
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HACKING MADE EASYCOMPUTER hackers will demonstrate to the world how they are able to take over a car’s electronic network and play around with its settings – including disabling the brakes.
Chris Valasek, the director of security intelligence at US-based computing security group IOActive, and Charlie Miller, a security engineer at social media company Twitter, will present a paper this week at an international meeting of hackers showing how they were able to take control of a car.
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‘Dire effect’
FBT reform to cut car sales by up to 20 per cent: FCAIBy TERRY MARTIN
SALES of Australian-built vehicles are set to fall by almost 20 per cent, and total new-vehicle sales will be hit by at least 10 per cent, if the federal government’s proposed changes to fringe benefits tax rules are implemented, according to the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries (FCAI).
The local car industry has this week continued to apply pressure on the Rudd government, which is holding firm on its proposal to remove the 20 per cent FBT statutory formula method for salary-sacrificed and employer-provided vehicles.
This is designed to save taxpayers up to $1.8 billion, helping pay for the government’s early move to an emissions trading scheme.
FCAI chief executive Tony Weber this week described the impact on
new-vehicle sales as “terrible news for car-makers – importers and local manufacturers – who rely on volume to be viable in this country”.
“The FCAI has undertaken analysis and even more concerning is that when we look at our local manufacturers alone, we expect the drop in their sales to be significantly higher – averaging almost 20 per cent,” he said.
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CAR LEASING COMPANY ‘LOST’ ONTAX CHANGE IMPACT: CLICK HERE
FORD ON HIGH IN USADETROIT may have filed for bankruptcy, but one of its favourite sons last week declared its 16th consecutive profitable quarter.
Ford Motor Company made a bigger-than-projected pre-tax profit of $US2.6 billion ($A2.8b) between March and June, buoyed by significant gains in a resurgent North America fast returning to pre-GFC sales levels.
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Jul 31, 2013 Page 24
By BARRY PARKTHINK the roads are becoming increasingly crowded? You may be right, because Australia now has more than 17 million cars on its roads for the first time.
The latest Australian Bureau of Statistics census data looking at the number of cars on our roads shows we have 17,180,596 registered vehicles, up from 16,741,644 just a year ago.
There are now 750 cars per 1000 Australian residents, up from 723 back in 2008, the ABS says.
Toyota is the most popular brand, accounting for more than 2.6 million vehicles. Behind it is Holden, with more than 2.0 million vehicles, and Ford with almost 1.8 million.
More than 71,000 Daewoos still ply our roads despite the brand disappearing in 2004, while Daihatsu, which left Australian new-car showrooms in 2005, still has more than 69,000 vehicles on the road.
Luxury brands BMW and Mercedes-Benz have almost 300,000 vehicles each registered in the census, while fellow German Audi has more than 100,000.
Porsche has more than 24,000 cars in the database, while Range Rover has a healthy showing at just more than 20,000.
However, while you could jump to the conclusion that most of the growth in the 2013 census data comes from booming sales of passenger cars, the ABS data shows that over the past five years, the real growth markets have been light trucks, campervans and motorcycles.
Growth in motorcycles has risen so much over the past year that they have eaten into the number of passenger cars sold around Australia, where the overall number of car registrations has declined. Western Australia and the Northern Territory were the only state
or territory to increase the proportion of passenger cars.
Two-wheeled transport made up 4.3 per cent of sales for the 2013 financial year, while light commercial vehicles – the likes of the Toyota HiLux and Ford Ranger – accounted for 15 per cent of the national fleet.
There are more big trucks on the road, with registrations of vehicles that can carry more than 20 tonnes growing by almost 20 per cent over the past five years, the data shows – and they’re getting bigger.
Prime movers only account for 0.5 per cent of the vehicles on our roads, but the number of trucks that can carry up to 40 tonnes has fallen 15 per cent. This has been offset by a 22 per cent jump in the number of trucks able to haul 60 to 100 tonnes, the data shows.
FULL STORY: CLICK HERE
Latest automotive censusreveals 17.18m registeredvehicles, other key trends
Vehicle count passes 17mMotor vehicle growth rates 2008-2013
Passenger vehicles
Campervans Light commercial
vehicles
Light rigid trucks
Heavy rigid trucks
Articulated trucks
Non-freight carrying vehicles
Buses Motorcycles0
5
10
15
20
25
30
35
%
Source: ABS, July 2013
6
7
8
9
10
11
1971 1977 1983 1989 1995 2001 2007 2013
Average age of registered vehicles
Source: ABS, July 2013
Year
s
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Jul 31, 2013 Page 25
By TIM NICHOLSONCAR-MAKING giants Ford and Toyota have ended their agreement to develop a new hybrid system for light trucks and SUVs, with Ford choosing to go it alone on the rear-drive-based powertrain.
The partnership ended after two years of research and development, with Ford group vice-president of global product development Raj Nair confirming the end of the collaboration to Bloomberg last week.
“Both parties gained from each other’s expertise and insight,” he said. “We’ve developed a lot of expertise in-house and determined we could deliver the system on our own.”
Mr Nair did not discuss timing, but said Ford would continue to work with Toyota on standards for in-car technology and communication systems. The two car-makers already have an agreement to share customer and emergency call centres in China.
The news comes as Ford last week announced a big boost in its US hybrid sales. The Blue Oval now has a 16 per cent market share of electrified vehicles, up from four per cent in the same period last year.
The 400 per cent sales boost saw Ford shift 46,197 hybrid or electric vehicles to the end of June this year, with the C-Max Hybrid and C-Max
Energi plug-in hybrid mini-MPV, and mid-size Fusion Hybrid having the biggest impact.
In the second quarter of 2013, Ford enjoyed a 517 per cent increase in sales over the same period last year, shifting a record 24,217 hybrids, the best quarter-end result so far for the US auto giant.
A statement from Ford confirmed the company was moving forward with its own development of a rear-wheel-drive hybrid system, “based on an all-new architecture to deliver the capability truck and SUV customers demand while providing greater fuel economy”.
Mr Nair said producing the system in-house would allow Ford to roll out hybrid variants to a greater number of models in coming years.
“We know what it takes to build world-class hybrids, and we now will build and leverage that expertise in-house,” he said.
Originally signed in August 2011,
the deal would have seen the two companies work together to engineer a rear-drive hybrid drivetrain for SUVs and light trucks that would appear in Ford and Toyota product in the later part of the decade.
While the hybrid technology was to be developed jointly, each car-maker would independently integrate the system into their future vehicles.
Ford said at the time of the deal the collaboration would allow both manufacturers “to bring these hybrid technologies to customers sooner and more affordably than either company could have accomplished alone”.
Neither company has confirmed which vehicles would adopt the hybrid drivetrain, but there has been speculation Ford’s iconic F-150 utility range would end up with hybrid power, along with a number of SUVs in each car-maker’s line-up.
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Auto giants go own waywith RWD hybrid systemfor light trucks and SUVs
Ford, Toyota hybrid split
Ford Atlas concept
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PENTANA Solutions has announced the return of John Flashman as its new OEM product manager.
Mr Flashman has more than 22 years’ experience in the automotive industry, including 16 years in dealer management solutions.
His most recent roles include a contract position as head of capped- price servicing for Mitsubishi Motors Australia Limited and a stint with Titan DMS.
“As OEM product manager, John will focus on working closely with Pentana Solutions’ OEM partners, facilitating engagement between OEM and its dealer network,” the company said.
FLASHMAN TO PENTANA
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By TERRY MARTINHUNDREDS of workers clocked off for the last time at Holden’s vehicle operations plant in South Australia on Friday after accepting a voluntary redundancy package.
GoAuto understands that just under 400 workers have left the Elizabeth factory as part of the latest round of job cuts announced by the Australian manufacturer in April, with unions saying that more than 500 employees had put their hand up for a package.
A farewell barbecue for employees at the entire site was held, and framed ‘VF team’ photographs presented to departing workers.
Reduced demand for the locally built Cruze small car, sales of which have fallen 24 per cent in the first half of this year, was cited as a key reason
for the latest restructure that has seen production at Elizabeth slowed from 400 cars per day to 335 (including Commodore and derivatives).
Holden says workers are leaving from all areas of its vehicle operations, with no single area targeted.
A further 100 hourly positions are also going in Victoria, with these jobs – some of which are likely to be forced redundancies – to be lost across pre-production workers at Fishermens Bend in Melbourne and validation staff at the Lang Lang proving ground in South Gippsland.
The company is currently negotiating a new enterprise bargaining agreement with unions in an effort to cut its labour costs further. This could lead to more job losses if workers do not agree to new conditions.
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HOLDEN FACTORY WORKERS CLOCK OFF
By TERRY MARTINFIAT Chrysler Group has expanded its local sales operations with the appointment of three key managers, all of whom will play a significant role as the factory-owned distributor continues to march its American and Italian brands up the Australian new-vehicle sales charts.
Described as “vital to its continued success” and underscoring the importance of fleet business to Fiat Chrysler’s volume aspirations, the new personnel include national fleet sales manager Mark Tavcar, OEM and
light commercial fleet manager Jim Boyd and eastern regional area sales manager for Fiat and Alfa Romeo, Stella McCauley.
While the resurgent Jeep brand continues to underpin sales volume for the group in Australia, the company has markedly improved the sales performance of its main model lines this year across all brands, including Chrysler and Dodge and the two Italian brands it took on from independent importer Ateco Automotive last year.
As GoAuto has reported, Fiat and Alfa are expected to account for at least
10,000 sales combined in the medium term as each model range and dealer network expands.
In the first half of 2013, Alfa Romeo sales are up 52 per cent (to 718 units) and Fiat has grown 150 per cent (to 1533), particularly with the repositioning of the 500 model range. A new Punto also arrives this week.
Jeep sales are up 20 per cent to almost 10,000 units for the first half, while the 300 large car launched a year ago has boosted the Chrysler brand (1315 sales YTD).
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FIAT CHRYSLER GROUP AUSTRALIA BOLSTERS SENIOR MANAGEMENT TEAM
Stella McCauleyJim BoydMark Tavcar
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Jul 31, 2013 Page 27
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Jaguar F-Type ►
Jeep Grand Cherokee facelift
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Renault Megane facelift
Jaguar has the Porsche Boxster firmly in its sights with its striking new F-Type, which launches this week with a $138,645 starting price for the 250kW supercharged 3.0-litre V6 model.
Renault’s concentration on mainstream Clio leaves no room for redesigned TwingoBy TIM NICHOLSON
RENAULT’S focus on its Clio light car means Australia is likely to miss out on the next-generation Twingo city runabout due in Europe next year.
Speaking to GoAuto at this month’s launch of the updated Megane range, Renault Australia managing director Justin Hocevar said the Twingo was not currently high on the agenda for the French car-maker.
“Being able to position the next-generation Twingo suitably under the Clio 4 would be really challenging,” he said.
“And not only challenging from a price-laddering point of view for us, because we are being quite aggressive with Clio 4, it is also the fact that that end of the market is super-competitive. It’s a really low-yield game.”
The current-model Twingo first went on sale Europe in 2007 and is not sold in Australia.
Little is known about the third generation, although it is expected to borrow styling cues from concepts such as the sporty Twin’Run and playful Twin’Z shown earlier this year.
Mr Hocevar said Renault will continue to focus on getting its core models right before considering any additions to its existing local line-up.
“One of the things we have tried to communicate to the market in more recent times is we don’t want to be the jack of all trades, master of none,” he said.
“We would rather be very focused and very good at what we do in B- and C-segment hatches, very good at what we do in compact and light SUV, and we would like to be very good at Renault Sport models.
“And if we can get all those things right and build our volume base, build our dealer network, build our brand presence and credibility in the market then maybe we can start to look at those add-ons.”
Renault will launch the highly anticipated Clio light hatch range
locally in August and has previously hinted that it would compete on price with the Volkswagen Polo and Mazda2.
Last year, Renault’s top-selling vehicle in Australia was the Megane on 1125 units for the year, just edging out its Koleos compact SUV stablemate that recorded 1116 sales.
Mr Hocevar is confident the Clio will overtake the Megane to become the best-selling car for the brand locally, adding that it is “well positioned to”. The current-generation Clio has sold in very small numbers in Australia as it has only been available in Renault Sport hot-hatch guise.
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