News Archive

Cape Town - Clare Vale goes to the second race of the season in Cape Town after a solid start to the season opener at Kyalami. The race takes place on the 13th of March at the Killarney circuit near Table View. After the first round Clare is lying 7th in the Super GT championship. Only under-steer problems late in the race resulted in her missing out on a 3rd place finish. She will be looking forward to CT where the team will have an opportunity to get the setup right and get her on the podium.

Clare, a former Hout Bay resident, is looking forward to returning to her home track and hopes that the home town backing will help her get that podium finish. The racing promises to be close and she will be hoping to use the race to cement her challenge and take her Gatorback RAM Mustang to the front of the field.

Clare on the Killarney race: "I love racing at Killarney, and the big V8s are always exciting to drive at sea level. We've been working hard on our set up gremlins so we're looking forward to some close racing in Cape Town!"

ROSSLYN, PRETORIA - Following reports of a recall of selected Nissan vehicles by Nissan North America, Nissan Africa Regional Office reports that vehicles imported into Sub Sahara countries by Nissan National Sales companies are not affected.

"We would like to assure our customers that the recall pertains to vehicles sold predominantly in North America." said Nissan Africa Regional Office General Manager, Jim Dando.

Toyota South Africa Motors (Pty) Ltd (TSAM) fully supports the programme announced by Deputy Minister Jeremy Cronin and the Department of Transport to retrofit illegally converted panel vans to comply with all safety requirements of the Taxi Recapitalisation Programme (TRP).

At a media briefing last week, the deputy minister indicated that all 2 353 panel vans that were illegally converted into passenger-carrying minibuses will be modified within a six month period starting April 2010. The refit process includes the strengthening of seat and seatbelt anchorage points.
"Toyota South Africa Motors welcomes the steps taken by the Department of Transport to make illegally converted panel vans compliant with all safety requirements under the TRP," says Dr Johan van Zyl, President and CEO of Toyota South Africa.

"We have always believed such a programme must be undertaken under the auspices of the relevant transport and safety standard authorities. We therefore welcome this initiative to ensure these vehicles comply with the safety standards as set by the SABS and the National Regulator for Compulsory Standards (NRCS) in terms of the TRP."

Dr Van Zyl again emphasised that Toyota South Africa Motors have always condemned the practice of illegal conversions of panel vans to taxis. "We have clearly communicated this position on an ongoing basis since the first incidents of illegal conversions were detected in 2005.

"For us the safety of taxi commuters is paramount and we have highlighted our stance on this by emphasising that illegally converted panel vans do not offer the same level of structural strength and rigidity as a Quantum minibus or Ses'fikile taxi," says Dr Van Zyl.

It has also been TSAM's view that all conversions of Quantum taxis should be investigated and that any transgressions should be punished.

Says Dr Van Zyl: "We therefore fully support the ongoing investigation by a Special Investigation Unit into possible fraudulent actions and other criminal activities in this regard."
TSAM once again states that the Ses'fikile taxi has been approved by all regulatory bodies and complies fully with all requirements. The Ses'fikile is frequently tested in all operating conditions to ensure that the vehicle continues to provide high levels of quality, durability, reliability and safety.

The announcement by General Motors that it will wind-down the HUMMER brand will have no impact on our operations in South Africa.

While we will no longer distribute and sell HUMMER vehicles in South Africa, we remain fully committed to looking after our customers through our network of HUMMER approved dealers. HUMMER customers can be assured that we will continue to offer full after sales support and that we will honour all warranty agreements.  

In May 2009 we halted HUMMER H3 production and commenced the process of consolidating our manufacturing operations at our Struandale production facility. This is progressing well and is enabling us to further improve efficiencies, while strengthening our position as we look to grow our business in the future.

We have a product portfolio plan in place which will enable us to achieve the 50000 Automotive Production Development Programme volume requirement  by 2012. This incorporates new product programmes for the replacement Corsa Utility and the Isuzu KB as well derivatives from these vehicles. To date we have announced that we will be investing R700 million in new tooling and facility upgrades to accommodate these new programmes.

Renault South Africa has scored a hat trick in CAR magazine's best buys and automotive achievement awards.

In addition to being awarded Motor Company of the Year by CAR's panel of judges, two Renault vehicles - the Koleos and the Scenic/Grand Scenic - won in their respective Top 12 Best Buys for 2010 categories.

Renault had undergone "a significant turnaround in its local operation" according to the panel of judges all of whom applauded Renault for "revitalising its market image by recognising and rectifying its shortfalls and improving the company's total operation."

The new Scenic and Grand Scenic range won the title Best Buy MPV/SW.  The judges said that Renault, creator of the MPV category in Europe, had always produced models that captured the essence of multi-purpose people transport. "The new Scenic range oozes practicality from every pore and provides good value too," they agreed.

The Koleos was voted Best Buy Compact SUV. Renault's first model into the popular SUV segment, the judges dubbed Koleos "a clever mix of MPV and soft-roader - a first-time effort that is right on the button."

"We are very gratified to see that the extensive changes implemented within our company have been recognised and rewarded by a panel of expert judges serving a publication as well respected as CAR," said Xavier Gobille, Managing Director of Renault South Africa.

"Notwithstanding that 2009 was a challenging year for the motor industry, Renault successfully bucked the trend, introduced 11 new models in just 12 months and defied negative market trends by doubling our market share. We now have the freshest product range in South Africa - value-added products that are extremely price competitive in each of the market segments in which Renault competes.

"In naming Renault South Africa, Motor Company of the Year 2010, I would like to thank CAR magazine and everyone involved in the process for bestowing this prestigious accolade on our company and the Renault brand."

In a world premiere at the Geneva Motor Show on 2 March, Renault will unveil its brand-new coupe-roadster, Wind.

Wind is a two-seater coupe-roadster of 3.83 metres in length which features a highly innovative way of opening up. With its novel electric roof that pivots open in just 12 seconds, Wind brings a completely different take on a car for drivers who enjoy open top motoring.

Wind is aimed at motorists who lust after a car that is not only distinctive and compact, but also convertible and practical enough for everyday use.

Although Wind's compact dimensions make it a nimble machine in and about town, it is the only car of its class to provide just as much luggage space (270dm3 VDA) whatever the position of the roof.

True to Renault's brand signature 'Drive the Change', Wind makes passion affordable for everyone.

We're not sure if or when it will be available in SA - but we have it on our wishlist...

Toyota South Africa Motors have been able to isolate the Auris, new generation Verso and Corolla as part of the technical study of all the vehicles that are sold in South Africa. This would imply that these three model ranges will in all possibility be included in the South African recall programme.

Toyota has not excluded any other vehicle yet and will be in a position to clearly communicate which model ranges and specific date ranges for those recalled models by next week (the week of 8-12 February).

Internationally acclaimed artist Jeff Koons has been announced as the next in a distinguished line of artists who will be creating a BMW Art Car in what is the 35th anniversary year of the programme.

Speaking from his New York studio, Jeff Koons said: "I always thought it would be an honour to work on a BMW Art Car, I look forward to participating in a tradition set forth by such great artists as Calder, Penck (right), Lichtenstein, Stella, and Warhol."

The Koons BMW Art Car will be revealed later in the year. Details of the model and preliminary design will be announced in due course.

Koons will join an illustrious group of artists that include Andy Warhol, David Hockney, Jenny Holzer, Roy Lichtenstein, Frank Stella, Robert Rauschenberg, and Alexander Calder - each of whom has made a unique artistic statement about the appearance and meaning of cars.

BMW Art Cars

Since 1975, artists from around the world have turned BMW cars into art, signifying a particular period, through the Art Car program. In 2007, the last installment was revealed with Olafur Eliasson's "Your Mobile Expectations: BMW H2R project."

Across the globe many BMW Art Cars have been exhibited in renowned museums throughout the world including the Louvre, the Guggenheim Museums, and the Shanghai Art Museum. They have been displayed at the BMW Museum in Munich, since 2006 and many went on a world tour throughout Asia, Russia, Africa, India, the United States and Mexico.

With over 100 major projects worldwide, BMW Group cultural programs have been an integral part of the company's contributions to society for almost 40 years. Besides contemporary art, architecture and design, classical music and jazz are key components of this engagement.

The internet dashboard, or 'infotainment system' is the next in-car device that could cause a major distraction to drivers, says the IAM (Institute of Advanced Motorists).

Intel and Google are both looking into interactive dashboards, including 10-inch screens above the gearstick which will show 3D maps, web pages and even videos. Other similar systems are being previewed at trade shows.
Peter Rodger, IAM Chief Examiner, said: "If drivers were tempted to use the internet or watch videos on the move, the results could be deadly,"

"If it's not acceptable to read a novel while driving, how can it be acceptable to read a multimedia display? Just how much information can a car driver absorb and still drive responsibly?

"There is a fine line between providing useful extra information and causing a dangerous distraction. This system appears to cross that line," Mr Rodger added.

"Viewing things like restaurant reviews and venue information online while driving should be illegal, and it should be an offence to buy, sell, fit and transmit information for this particular use."

The systems are not designed to be used on the move, but not all systems will be impossible to use while driving. One car manufacturer's version, due out this autumn, bears the notice: "Please only use the online services when traffic conditions allow you to do so safely."

"It should be made clear that the system should only be used when the vehicle is parked," Mr Rodger commented.

Renault has decided to maintain its commitment to Formula One and welcomes the perspective of a strategic partnership with Genii Capital; a Luxemburg-based firm specialising in new technologies, brand management and motor sport.

Following the proposed sale of a large stake of Renault F1 Team to Genii, both partners will operate the team together. The letter of intent signed by the two companies should be concluded in early 2010.

In 2010, Renault F1 Team will retain its name, its identity and the core ingredients that led to the successes achieved in 2005 and 2006. The team will continue to be supplied with engines by its sister company in Viry-Chantillon, Paris, which is also pleased to have received a renewed commitment from Red Bull Racing for the 2010 season.

After 35 years in the sport, Renault today announces a new phase for its F1 programme, consistent with Formula One’s drive for cost efficiencies. Formula One remains one of the biggest sporting spectacles in terms of annual television audiences and media exposure. 

Bernard Rey, Renault F1 Team President, said: "I am delighted to welcome Genii Capital as our new strategic partner as I am sure that their enthusiasm and business expertise will create a new dynamic for the team, the staff, and our partners. Altogether, we look forward to competing again at the highest level in Formula One.

"Today's announcement also confirms Renault's commitment and trust in the sport's governing bodies to improve the green credentials of Formula One."

Renault believes in the positive impact of promoting relevant technologies in synergy with its product plan. "With the ongoing evolutions of the Formula One regulations, Renault will be able to entertain its fans, while promoting a leaner and sounder Championship. We will show Renault's skill when it comes to developing high-performance, fuel-efficient cars" said Bernard Rey, Renault F1 Team President.

The important cost reduction measures, made possible by the collective work within FOTA, have already improved significantly the operating cost base. With the anticipated sale of a stake in its F1 operational base at Enstone to Genii Capital, Renault achieves today another step that will definitely bring F1 participation to an affordable level for the Group. In addition, the new partnership will contribute to procuring the team the resources to compete sustainably at the highest level, and creates a great opportunity to modernise its governance.

Cape Town - A bill passed on Wednesday by the National Assembly will allow drivers' licences to be suspended for excessive speeding. The National Road Traffic Amendment bill fixes a limit of 30km/h above the limit in an urban setting at which the uspension will kick in.

On a rural highway a licence will be suspended if the driver goes faster than 40km/h above the limit. The bill also lays down rules to be nationally observed by the traffic police. They include the wearing of name badges.

Don't get annoyed with pump attendants if your petrol card payment takes longer than usual. The Payments Association of South Africa, which regulates all banking transactions, has limited petrol card payments to R350 per transaction in an effort to combat fraud and overspending.

Peter Noke, national director of the SA Petroleum Retailers' Association, said any spending above the limit has to be approved by the bank first. It could take a couple of minutes and he asked motorists to be patient. "We receive complaints about stolen, cloned and misused petrol cards every day," Noke said. "It's not the trader's fault if the transaction is delayed."

Peter Morgan, chief executive of the Fuel Retailers Association, also said that the limit has nothing to do with the owners of petrol stations. According to him, banks do not prescribe how clients have to identify themselves to prove that a petrol card belongs to them. "However, if the situation looks suspicious, the petrol station owner can take action

Porsches, Dodge Vipers, Ford Mustangs, Chevrolet Corvettes, Lamborghinis... All these cars appear on a list of vehicles that Cape Town traffic officials would like as patrol vehicles.

The Mother City's traffic officials reckon their current patrol cars, which include old cars such as Nissan Sentras and Toyota Camrys, are not up to standard when compared to those used in other cities around the globe. Therefore a search has begun for companies that are willing to help the traffic department to make this dream come true.

At the monthly meeting of the Portfolio Committee on Safety and Security on Thursday Heathcliffe Thomas, the head of Cape Town's traffic department, showed one photo after the other of other countries' flashy patrol cars. "We have to have world standards," says Thomas. In Italy and the UK law enforcement officials use Lamborghini Gallardos, while Hummers patrol the streets in China and the US.

Other hot wheels that are a favourite among US traffic officials are Dodge Vipers, Ford Mustangs and Corvettes. Some of these cars have a 0-100km/h acceleration time of below five seconds, while it takes Cape Town patrol cars 13.5 seconds. "We want to find a way to acquire vehicles in this category," Thomas said. The portfolio committee's chairperson JP Smith of the DA pointed out that these kinds of super cars could motivate traffic officials. Smith said it is not necessary to always buy at the lowest end of the scale. However, the luxury vehicles will only be bought if there are private sponsorships for them.

 

Top Gear has become a global phenomenon and, just as the series is about to expand to the US, the BBC has tightened its grip on Jeremy Clarkson.

Clarkson is one of the BBC's top paid presenters. However, in a bid from the broadcaster to keep him happy its commercial arm, BBC Worldwide, has taken a 50% stake in a production company controlled by Clarkson and Top Gear executive producer Andy Wilman. According to The Guardian newspaper their production company, known as "Bedder 6", will concentrate on expanding and exploiting the Top Gear brand around the world.

The Guardian reports that Bedder 6 will control and promote Top Gear merchandising and other commercial ventures. That should include much of what goes on with any production and/or distribution of Top Gear in the US too. Furthermore the newspaper says that the deal incentivises Clarkson and Wilman to become involved in growing the Top Gear brand globally. Top Gear is BBC Worldwide's third-highest grossing show, just behind Doctor Who and Planet Earth. Allegedly the deal was crucial to keep Clarkson with the programme. In short, the better Top Gear does worldwide, the more money Clarkson will be getting.

 

Insurance claims by victims of vehicle theft and hijacking are being rejected because owners fail to install the alarm, immobiliser or tracking device required by their policy conditions.

Brian Martin, South African ombudsman for short-term insurance, has reported a "significant" number of complaints from vehicle owners about such claim rejections. "Vehicle owners must acquaint themselves with their insurer's requirements for theft and hijack cover. The insured person must make sure stipulated devices are fitted." People buying cover from a direct marketer - perhaps by phone - must, Martin said, be given a general explanation of the principles of the relevant contract and any information that could reasonably be expected to enable that person to make an informed decision.

"Any particular requirements or restrictions relating to theft cover should be drawn to the attention of a prospective policyholder by the insurer but the onus remains on the policyholder to make sure they comply with the insurer's requirements and conditions.
Reprinted by kind permission of Toyz Autohouse