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More selling days boost April vehicle sales in South Africa

  • Sales increase by 8 312 units in April
  • More selling days boosted by higher daily sales rate
  • Exports continue to increase
Market segment April 2012 April 2013 % change
Passenger vehicles 29 516 34 346 +16.4%
Light commercial vehicles 11 007 14 045 +27.6%
Medium commercial vehicles 731 904 +23.7%
Heavy commercial vehicles 364 403 +10.7%
Extra Heavy commercial vehicles 920 1 123 +22.1%
Bus 70 99 +41.4%
Vehicle exports 17 657 22 907 +29.7%
Overall market (local) 42 608 50 920 +19.5%

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

South Africa’s 58 vehicle brands sold a combined 50 920 units in April as they benefitted from an uninterrupted sales month and high levels of marketing activity.

According to the National Association of Automobile Manufacturers of South Africa (Naamsa) sales decreased by 17.54% over the blockbuster March 2013, but it increased by 19.5% over the same month in 2012.

“The industry definitely benefitted from the extra selling days we gained in April,” says Calvyn Hamman, Senior Vice President for Sales and Marketing at Toyota South Africa Motors, in reference to the fact that the Easter holidays were celebrated in March this year.

“Even when one combines the two months the trend is very positive when compared to the same period in 2012. Not only did the industry have more days in April to sell, but they also sold more cars per day, increasing their daily sales rate from 1 937 units per day in April 2012 to 2 122 units.”

The increase in daily sales, says Hamman, is evidence of the high level of marketing activity, the many new model launches and continued replacement demand amongst private buyers. Further to this the continued low interest rate environment and customers’ anticipation of future price increases contributed to the increase in sales.

Replacement demand is borne out by statistics provided by Toyota Financial Services (TFS). Finance applications processed by TFS increased by 15.7% over March and by 25% over the same month last year.

Toyota retained its market lead for the year to date after selling 9 896 cars in April, while the Hilux is South Africa’s most popular car with local sales of 3 227 units. The Hilux is also spearheading Toyota’s continued export success. With exports of 7 222 units in a total export market of 22 907 units Toyota is now responsible for one in every three cars exported from South Africa.

“Sales have grown by 7.5% in the year to date and we expect it to continue at this pace or slightly lower for the remainder of the year,” says Mr Hamman.

Sydney Soundy – Head of Standard Bank Vehicle Asset Finance reveals and comments on vehicle sales numbers for May

Sales Performance Summary – Total by Market Segment (NAAMSA flash includes Namibia, Lesotho, Swaziland & Botswana):

General Comments on April 2013 NAAMSA sales:

 

  • Year on Year (April 2012 versus April 2013) sales increased by 19.5%, equating to 8,312 vehicles compared to the same time last year. Importantly the average sales per day April 2013 outsold 2012 by 2,122 to 1,937.

 

  • However, the industry experienced a decrease in sales volumes in April 2013 compared to March 2013 (-7.3%). The main contributors to this decrease were Passenger & Light Commercial Vehicles in volumes. Medium Commercial vehicles and Busses both had above 10% decrease in growth Month on Month. Only Heavy Commercial and Extra Heavy Commercial vehicle had positive growth but this was in small volumes.

 

  • With Easter falling in March this year April was set to be up month on month in terms of sales volumes. April 2013 has ranked as the best April since 2010. It was the 17th best month in the last 40 months. Taking historical trends in to account the month has done relatively well.

 

General Macro and Industry Comments:

  • There has been no revision on annual GDP this month with the MPC estimating growth at 2.7% whilst the Standard Bank Research team has a projection of 2.5% growth.
  • Inflation is expected to breach the inflationary target in Q3 2013 at 6.3% and regress in Q4.
  • The exchange rate is expected to be around R9.20 to the dollar by mid -year 2013 and end closer to R8.90 by year end according to Standard Bank Research Unit. The exchange rate will impact the vehicle market through VPI and indirectly through the fuel price fluctuations.
  • NCR Consumer Credit Report for Q4 of 2012 reported that there has been a 1.4% increase of credit-active consumers to 19.97 million from 19.67 million in the previous quarter.
  • Consumers are still under pressure despite a low-interest rate environment, deleveraging of household debt has been minimal, with the household indebtedness ratio having improved to 75.8% in Q4 2012 from 76.2% in Q3 2012.
    • With debt to disposable income levels at 75.8% the South African consumer cannot afford to save. In fact South Africa’s personal savings ratio (personal savings to disposable income) has been in negative territory since mid-2005. Thus this indicates that the consumer uses what little disposable income they have to service their debt costs.

Comments on Vehicle Sales Outlook:

  • Vehicle sales volumes may still be boosted by the following factors:
    • The Prime Interest Rate remains at its lowest for over thirty years, and has and will play a major part maintaining the South African consumer’s appetite for debt.
    • The rand has been under pressure against all major currencies, this will have a negative knock-on effect on Vehicle Price Inflation (VPI). However VPI has so far remained below CPI.
      • VPI for Q1 of 2013 for new car prices is at 2.4%. This is up from Q4 of 2012 by 0.2% and up from 2012 annual 2.2%.
      • VPI on Used cars have in contrast decreased Quarter on Quarter. Q1 of 2013 is at -1.4% compared to Q4 of 2012’s 3.6% and 2012’s annual 2.2%.

 

  • The following factors are expected to provide subduing effects on vehicle sales numbers:
    • The expected low GDP growth projected at 2.7% by the Reserve Bank, and 2.5% by Standard Bank Research team.
    • Increases in food, energy and transport costs (including toll fees) will impact on consumer disposable income.
    • Household Debt to Disposal Income remains high at 75.8% (Q4 of 2012).
    • Despite the decrease in fuel prices (73 cents in petrol and 55.6 cents in diesel) for the consumer on Tuesday, 30 April fuel prices remain a major cost for motorists and fleet operators. Fuel prices have risen by 24.4% in petrol (inland) and 16.4% in diesel (inland) since Jan 2012 (Jan 2012 to April 2013). Further, the price of fuel in the country has gone up by 258% and 376% in petrol and diesel respectively since 2001.
    • Carbon Emissions tax increases have come into effect as of April 2013.

Some statistics on Standard Bank related numbers:

  • For the period January to Mar 2013 Standard Bank experienced growth of 11% in applications compared to the same period in 2012 and 17% when comparing 2011.
  • The average contracted original settlement term per deal is 56 months (59 months for Personal customers, and 53 months for Commercial/Business customers). The actual settlement term per deal is 44 months (44 months for Personal and 43 months for Business Customers).
  • Applications with RVs requested represent 14% of all applications.
  • Applications with deposits requested represent 32% of all applications.

 

Other Observations:

  • Daily Customer Buying/Financing Trend:

The general buying trends reflect that in the last half of the month an average of about 64% of deals are concluded/financed. A moderate shift occurs from the middle of the month, and then a sharp shift occurring closing towards the end of the month.  The table below illustrates this trend.

 

Deal Volumes

2012

2013 (YTD)
1st to 7th

17%

16%
8th to 14th

19%

20%
15th to 22nd

24%

26%
23rd to 31st

40%

38%

 

This trend differs when compared to the finance application volumes received, where the highest volumes are in week 3 of each month, with week 4 still experiencing high volumes.

 

Application Volumes

2013 (YTD)
1st to 7th

20%
8th to 14th

23%
15th to 22nd

30%
23rd to 31st

27%

 

This trend is further illustrated when expressing a typical month in a graphical format, where there is a consistent climb, with up ticks at certain times during the month until the end of the month, where the sharp increase is experienced.

Potential explanations for this trend are:

  • Debit order date – customers generally get paid from the middle of the month to the end of the month, and thus set their debit orders on, or after their pay day. This gives less of an incentive to conclude the deal at the beginning of the month.
  • Sales targets and commission – the need for dealers (and dealer salespeople) to meet their monthly targets drives them to push for closing of the deals before month end, resulting in more sales activity towards the end of the month to meet targets, and for sales people to ensure they earn sufficient commission to cover their monthly income requirements.

 

Sport Utility Vehicle (SUV) Trends:

The Luxury SUV market (priced above R450 000) has seen significant growth for 4 consecutive years. Brands such as Audi, BMW, Mercedes, Jeep, Land Rover, Lexus, Porsche, Volvo, Toyota and VW make up this category of vehicle.

  • The growth and penetration levels experienced in this segment highlights that the value for money, versatility and comfort of SUV’s meets the demand by a SUV loving South African car market.
  • The annual penetration into the overall passenger market has gradually grown Year on Year since 2006 with this segment having a penetration of 4.7% in 2012 (Excluding all AMH & AAD figures).
  • Since 2010 annual growth for this vehicle segment has risen by 15.7%, 28.9% and 40.6% Year on Year for 2009/10, 2010/11 and 2011/12 respectively. This annual growth has been at higher rates than the passenger market. The passenger market has growth year on year by 27.3%, 19.5% and 9.7% for 2009/10, 2010/11 and 2011/12 respectively (Excluding all AMH & AAD figures).

 

 

You simply cannot go without car insurance considering these dangers on our roads!

The Arrive Alive website received the following request for assistance:

Could you please forward this email to someone who is a Road Safety Professional who could assist me by expressing an opinion regarding the safety of the public based on the photos below.




We requested more info on specifics with regards to location and are pleased to confirm that these threats have since been repaired. The visitor provided confirmation as follows:

“This road situation in Cape Town has since been repaired, however the lack of urgency ( ten days ) and the attitude of the officials at the top that this was reported to is what is of concern to me.

That is why I need to get an opinion on what the potential danger of such situations can be, before I take the officials to task and I also need to be sure that I’m not making a mountain out of a mole hill and that these situations in the pictures could cause serious damage and/or cause road collisions that may have resulted in serious injury and possibly loss of life.”

Please assist other road users by providing information via the Arrive Alive website

Report for Hazardous road conditions

Mountain biking blazing a trail with MiWay

Photo by Jaco Lups

KwaZulu-Natal mountain biking enthusiasts are gearing up for the MiWay Big 5 Mountain Bike Series. Launched in 2006, the annual challenge sees riders competing in five races taking place in Zululand’s top trails over a period of five months.

MiWay’s sponsorship has helped grow the series and encouraged participation for the sport in KZN, believes Shane Webster, marketing manager of Big 5 Marketing. “Everyone talks about the growth in interest in mountain biking as a result of this exposure. These anecdotes were backed up by the success of 2012 Big 5 Series. Last year’s series saw an average growth rate of 15% and two of the races exceeded 25% growth, that’s simply phenomenal. And the 2013 Series is going to be just as successful,” he says.

Organisers have been working closely with sponsor MiWay to gear up for what stands to be a bumper tournament.

Splashing onto the circuit is new race route and venue: the Pick n Pay Elephant Classic Eshowe. This destination is set in real mountain biking country and the track is being specially prepared by Gareth Chitteden of Zululand Nurseries and Mike Vom Hagen, the well-known event organiser behind the Gratton Triathlon.

It’s not all about the track and riders though; equal importance has been given to looking after fans, families and curious spectators. “We’ve put a lot of attention into making each event a great day out for the whole family. The ever popular Kidz Zones will be a feature at every race, allowing parents of young children to enjoy the ride knowing their children are having great fun in a supervised and safe environment,” says Webster.

The popularity of the Series has allowed the expansion of the age categories with the biggest talking point being the ‘10km Challenge’ where timing of the 10km race will allow the more serious young riders in the under 13 and under 11 age groups to compete for the challenge of all five races and will still allow those who just want to try out the sport to see how they measure up.

Also new for the year is the addition of the Youth Category for the U16’s in the 25km which bridges the gap between the U13 and the U18 Junior section, allowing a fairer competition. And to cater for the older rider, the Grand Master age category will be a feature throughout the series.

The innovative short-term insurer’s participation in the mountain biking arena extends well beyond its numerous sponsorships according to Max Huggins at MiWay. “Mountain biking is a special focus for MiWay, perhaps because so many of us are enthusiasts ourselves. That’s why MiWay offers standalone bicycle insurance; because we understand that for some people a bicycle isn’t simply a line item on a bigger policy.”

Follow MiWayMTB on Facebook (Facebook.com/miwaymtb) and Twitter (@MiWayMTB) for weekly mountain bike TV schedules, news, events and more. Visit mtb.miway.co.za for more information on MiWay’s standalone bicycle insurance – covering you for theft, fire and accidental damage during training and races and en-route there too.

About MiWayMTB

MiWayMTB is an initiative by direct insurer MiWay, to encourage broad participation in MTB.  As well as developing niche insurance products for this fast-growing community, MiWayMTB sponsors races, events and a dedicated SuperSport TV show – MiWayMTB. Community interaction is encouraged through the group’s Facebook page at facebook.com/MiWaymtb, where MTB enthusiasts can also find news, product reviews, event details and race results.

Mtb.MiWay.co.za

Risk mitigation in focus for fleet industry, says Standard Bank

Car Insurance Telematics Testing at Gerotek

With more than 700 000 fleet cards in circulation, the South African fleet management industry is already a major force in offering fleet management solutions. The use of pioneering technology is also seeing the industry evolve to being better able to better control risk for customers, says Standard Bank.

Briefing media at a Standard Bank media event in Johannesburg, Dr. David Molapo, head of Fleet Management within the Vehicle and Asset finance division at Standard Bank, said that the application of technology was increasingly placing control of vital elements of a fleet’s operations in the hands of fleet managers and controllers.

He noted that some of the factors currently driving risks and challenges in the fleet industry include the impact of rising fuel prices, the ability to efficiently manage vehicle maintenance costs, and the fleet ownership versus leasing debate.

“The steady fuel price increases over the past few years have brought increased risk for fleet managers,” he says. “The average transaction for Standard Bank Fleet customers has risen from R515 in January 2010 to R833 in December 2012 for fuel purchases.

“Vehicle maintenance costs on average have also increased by approximately 17% from 2010 to 2012.”

He says that the challenge for the industry in managing the increased costs is to ensure an accurate view of any inefficiencies in the operation of the fleet. “This can translate into better monitoring of driver behavior, and optimising the reporting of fuel efficiency and other costs against national averages.”

In contrast with many European companies, many South African companies still own their vehicle fleets and therefore assume full responsibility for the costs of acquiring, running, maintaining and disposing of fleet vehicles.

“This means that if vehicles are purchased for cash, it impacts on their cash flow,” Dr Molapo says. “Any unexpected vehicle maintenance and repair costs also have to be met by the company. And once vehicles need to be sold, any loss in value is borne by the company.”

In contrast, leasing offers several options, including full maintenance leasing, that remove these risks from the company. Managing fuel costs and maintenance also becomes easier.

The evolution of technology in the industry means that fleet managers can access customised, in-depth information on a regular, and in certain instances, real-time basis, via online platforms. These include daily, weekly, and monthly reports on fuel cost data, and the ability to use predictive modelling for the outcome of variances to their own fleet and operational data.

“This allows for an accurate comparison of a fleet’s performance against set parameters, or even against national averages for fuel consumption and efficiencies,” Dr Molapo says.

He notes that these reporting tools can also allow a manager to see if business rules are being transgressed by drivers. Standard Bank has seen significant success with its transaction authorisation tool, which declines transactions at point of sale if they are outside pre-set parameters.

“Our statistics show that only a small percentage of these declined transactions are due to actual fraud. The remainder is due to the improper use of fleet cards, which would have in most cases gone unnoticed by fleet managers, and resulted in leakages of revenue,” he says.

In March 2013 alone, a total R14.9 million in transactions were declined. Of this, transactions totaling only R2.8 million were approved after liaising with the fleet managers and controllers on the validity of the transactions. Only 2.44% of the declined transactions were actually fraudulent, where lost, cloned or stolen cards were used.

With the increased focus globally on carbon emissions – and the increasing need to factor carbon taxes into costs – solutions are already being developed by the industry to address this new reporting need.

“Standard Bank is able to provide a unique carbon footprint analysis for a fleet,” Dr Molapo says. “Not only will it assist with corporate reporting requirements as they evolve, it also helps to identify vehicles or divisions within a company that cause increased carbon emissions. Appropriate solutions can then be developed.”

An emerging trend in the industry, especially globally, is the move to mobile solutions to fleet management needs. “This is certainly a field that Standard Bank will explore as we refine our offerings to match new technologies,” Dr Molapo says.

Dr Molapo says that there is increasing awareness in the industry that fleet management principles must address all facets of risk mitigation, both current and emerging. “The test of a fleet that is well managed is that it assists in delivering compelling results. This is only possible when appropriate management tools are used.”

Also view:

Fleet Management, Logistics and Road Safety

Insurance Telematics and Driver Behaviour Measurement with Ctrack

Vehicle Telematics, Accident Investigation and Fleet Management

Fleet Insurance for Commercial Vehicles and Road Safety

Telematics Testing at Gerotek with Ctrack

New levels of style and dynamism to the Verso model range

 

  • New exterior design language brings new levels of style and dynamism to the Verso model range
  • Revised interior harmonising instrumentation and switchgear, as well as enhanced cabin quality through new trim detailing

After a brief lull in popularity, trend analysts are once again forecasting that people carriers, especially compact MPVs, will be the darlings of the automotive world as more and more young families outgrow their subcompact and compact sedans and fall for the seductive charms of space that only this breed of vehicle can offer. A large number will, of course, upgrade to an SUV, but there are still many who neither need, nor want the bulk and height of a cross-over. For these discerning customers, roominess, sophistication and a car-like driving experience are paramount. And, that’s exactly what they get in the re-designed 2013 Toyota Verso.

 

As Kerry Roodt, General Manager of Marketing Communications, points out: “Building on the versatility, practicality and roominess of the current generation model, the 2013 Verso brings greater levels of style, dynamism and comfort to the range. It features Toyota’s new design language with a clear family identity, an improved interior as well as enhanced driving dynamics and NVH levels. The clincher is that ‘versatile’ and ‘stylish’ are precisely what many people are looking for when considering the sobering purchase of buying a new family car in the current climate.”

 

New Face

 

The new Verso represents a fresh, more powerful and sophisticated interpretation of the third generation Toyota MPV’s distinctive, dual-zone styling. It retains the dynamic, full-length character line which delineates the bonnet and cabin from the chassis and rear loadspace in profile.

 

Up front, the new Verso features Toyota’s now familiar styling cues, hallmarking it as the latest model in the Toyota family line-up. The attractive new front and rear styling has been designed to reduce the perception of height whilst placing an emphasis on width and length.

 

A cornerstone of the new face is the large, trapezoidal lower grille set within a redesigned front bumper, and a smaller upper grille running full width between the new headlamps. Dominated by a new, larger Toyota badge which is set lower than its predecessor, the upper grille features a central, chrome-plated horizontal trim bar which is visually extended into the headlamp clusters to accentuate the width of the new Verso.

 

Narrower and more aggressively styled, the headlamp clusters themselves incorporate new Daytime Running Lights (DRLs) and come with High Intensity Discharge (HID) lamps on the TX (High) grade. The large lower grille is flanked by integral foglamps with chrome surround detailing. It features a piano black paint finish, twin chrome strips and a full-width, body-coloured lip spoiler, once again accentuating the width of the new Verso and emphasising its broad, planted stance. (Please note that the chrome detailing is reserved for the TX models.)

In profile, the new Verso retains the model’s trademark, dual-zone styling. This is clearly expressed by a strong character line which flows from the leading edge of the front bumper, rising through the lower edge of the doors before sweeping upwards through the C pillar to define the roof-mounted spoiler.

 

The Verso profile is enhanced through smaller, more dynamic, foldable door mirrors featuring integrated turn signal lights, and a choice of two wheels (16” alloys for the SX and TX grades and 16” steel wheels with aero caps for the entry-level S model).

 

To the rear, a new bumper design incorporates an integral low level diffuser, emphasising the width and stability of the new model. The rear lamp clusters feature colour changes to the centre and outer lenses, and, on the boot lid, the Toyota badge is emphasised through the application of a rear license plate garnish

 

The new Verso will be available in a choice of seven exterior colours, of which one is new, namely the Dark Steel Mica.

 

Improved Aerodynamics

 

The new frontal design and smaller door mirrors have helped improve Verso’s aerodynamic performance by up to 10 per cent. This has increased overall efficiency, delivered better NVH and a more comfortable ride, as well as increased vehicle stability.

 

Wind tunnel analysis focused on harmonising the bodywork design, so there was no need to make use of secondary or add-on aerodynamic trim elements. Particular attention was paid to the flow of air beneath the car, with a smooth underfloor with engine, fuel tank and rear floor covers, wheel spats and rear wing-shaped vertical fin. These all have a streamlining effect, control vertical body movement and optimise the front and rear lift coefficients. The result is a flatter straight-line ride, more controlled yaw response and better rear stability.

 

Upgraded Interior

 

The new Verso interior features the extensive use of new trim detailing and a softer feeling, satin black paint finish to enhance perceived cabin quality throughout. The upper glove box is finished in soft touch material, and the door trim, armrest and steering wheel are clad in extra-soft leather.

 

Warm satin chrome trim highlights have been applied to the driver’s instrument surrounds, the instrument binnacle hood rim, the air vents, instrument panel, gear shift bezel and door assist grips. The door handle itself is now finished in a new, two-layer paint coating.

 

The presentation of instrumentation and switchgear has been harmonised through more consistent lighting and font sizing. The driver’s meters are now back-lit in white for improved clarity and legibility, whilst the air conditioning dials and display, and all switchgear including window switches are illuminated in a deep orange for legibility without excessive distraction after dark.

 

A new rheostat switch allows for the simultaneous adjustment of both combination meter and all switchgear illumination, giving consistency to backlighting brightness and intensity throughout the interior.

 

S (Entry) and SX (Mid) grade models feature a range of new seat fabrics. Seat bolster support has been improved on all grades, the bolsters themselves finished in a smoother more durable upholstery.

 

TX (High) grade models are equipped with leather bolsters with double stitching to match that of the armrests. The flagship models are also equipped with Smart Entry & Push Start whilst other grades are available with a folding jack knife key.

 

Despite its highly compact packaging, the Verso offers exceptional interior roominess, and boasts a best-in-class 975 mm couple distance between the first and second row of seats.

 

The Toyota Easy Flat-7 seating system offers true MPV flexibility, with 32 different seating permutations. Providing individual seats in both second and third rows, and a second row seat sliding range of 195 mm, it is acknowledged as one of the most practical, flexible and intuitive seating designs available.

 

Completely flat with second and third row seats folded, the new Verso’s loadspace is 1,575 mm long and 1,430 mm wide. With all three seating rows in place, the luggage volume measures 155 litres. With the third row seats folded, it rises to 440 litres.

The Trunk Management system, located beneath the rear loadspace, is ideal for storing valuable items out of view. Its capacity varies according to five or seven seat usage. This space also provides storage for the luggage tonneau cover when not in use.

 

As befits a true Multi-Purpose Vehicle, the new Verso offers a comprehensive range of storage compartments, including a twin compartment glovebox featuring a cooled upper section large enough to hold a 1.5 litre bottle and an 8.2 litre lower section.

 

It also has a spacious centre console box, generous door pockets, seat back storage beneath aviation-style, fold out tables with integral cupholders (SX & TX), a drawer beneath the front passenger seat (SX & TX), second row underfloor storage, an overhead console incorporating a conversation mirror (SX & TX), as well as driver and passenger pockets for mobile phone and MP3 player storage.

 

Improved NVH

 

Further measures have been taken to reduce the noise, vibration and harshness levels experienced inside Verso, including a redesigned dash silencer with improved sound damping between the engine bay and cabin to maximise the absorption of engine noise.

 

The 2.0-litre D-4D diesel engine has also been made quieter with a reduction in combustion noise.

 

A reduction in wind noise has been achieved by better sound damping on the front pillar, the introduction of smaller, more aerodynamic door mirrors and improved sealing on all door corners.

 

Together these measures deliver a perceptibly quieter on-board environment. As a result the articulation index – the standard measurement of conversation audibility – has improved from 0.76 to 0.83.

Improved Standard Equipment

 

The new Verso carries over the three grade strategy of its predecessor. However, with an enhanced interior and an increase in standard equipment for each grade, it now represents even better value for money.

 

S grade model standard equipment now includes front foglamps and the addition of heating and integrated turn signal lights to the electrically adjustable door mirrors.

 

To the already comprehensive S grade, SX grade adds electrically folding door mirrors, a piano black paint finish front license garnish, a height adjustable front passenger seat, two-tone 16” machine faced alloy wheels, cruise control and Toyota’s touch-screen display screen, which incorporates a back monitor camera.

 

TX grade adds exterior chrome accents, leather seat bolsters, armrest and door trim with double stitching. It features Smart Entry with push start, dual zone automatic air-conditioning, a Sensor Pack (automatic wiper and headlamp operation and an auto-dimming rear-view mirror, rear side window sunshades and High Intensity Discharge (HID) headlamps.

 

The new Verso is equipped with a comprehensive range of active, passive and pedestrian safety features. Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) is now standard across the range, including the S grade model. With the launch of the current generation model, it achieved a maximum, 5-star Euro NCAP crash test rating.

 

Three Powertrains

 

Three engines are available for new Verso in SA, all benefitting from the wide ranging advanced technologies and internal improvement programmes of Toyota Optimal Drive.

 

The range comprises two Valvematic petrol engines – a 1.6 and a 1.8 – and Toyota’s renowned 2.0 D-4D.

 

The 97kW 1.6 Valvematic is matched to a six-speed manual transmission and posts a combined cycle fuel economy of 6,8L/100km and 100km/h comes up in 11,7 seconds.

 

The 108kW 1.8 Valvematic is available with a choice of six-speed manual transmission or Toyota’s Multidrive S CVT. The latter has been adjusted to give a more “stepped” gear shift feel, with engine revs building in a way that is more closely aligned to vehicle acceleration. The official fuel consumption figures for the manual and CVT respectively are 7L/100km and 7,1L/100km. The 0-100km/h dash is dispatched in 10,4 seconds and 11,1 seconds for the CVT.

 

The 2.0 D-4D turbo diesel powerplant is a real peach of an engine. Using a six-speed manual transmission, it gives better torque delivery at low engine speeds and less combustion noise. 91kW of power are available at 3600rpm and 310Nm comes on stream between 1600 and 2400rpm. This translates into a combined cycle fuel consumption figure of 5,5L/100km and a sprint time (to 100km/h) of 10,1 seconds.

 

Enhanced Dynamics

 

The Verso has been designed to offer all the stability and ride comfort of a conventional passenger car. Revisions to the driving dynamics of the new Verso equip it with even greater body control and more agile handling.

 

Body rigidity has been improved through the addition of extra welding points. The front MacPherson strut and rear torsion beam suspension has been tuned for greater ride comfort, and the electric power steering revised to improve steering feel and feedback.

 

Occupant comfort has also been enhanced through the reduction of interior noise levels. Sound damping on the A pillar and the introduction of smaller, more aerodynamic door mirrors has reduced wind noise. And engine noise has been lowered by a reduction in combustion noise and improved sound damping between the engine bay and cabin.

 

Pricing

 

-               Verso 1.6 S 6-spd manual  R261 900 (incl. VAT)

-               Verso 1.6 SX 6-spd manual  R284 300 (incl. VAT)

-               Verso 1.8 TX 6-spd manual  R314 200 (incl. VAT)

-               Verso 1.8 TX CVT R326 100 (incl. VAT)

-               Verso 2.0D TX 6-spd manual  R329 900 (incl. VAT)

 

The new Verso benefits from a three year/100,000km warranty and comes with a standard five-year/ 90 000 km service plan. The new models are also supported by the ToyotaCare Roadside Assistance Programme which entitles customers to 24-hour roadside assistance, ensuring ultimate peace-of-mind motoring.

Is it illegal to strap the vehicle’s number plate if the numbers and letters are not obscured?

Question:

Is it illegal to strap the vehicle’s number plate if the numbers and letters are not obscured?

Answer:

Yes

Reg 35 applies

 

(5)          The owner of a motor vehicle shall cause the number plate of such motor vehicle to be affixed thereto, from the date of licensing of such motor vehicle, in the manner referred to in subregulation (7), whether or not such motor vehicle is operated on a public road: Provided that the provisions of this subregulation shall not apply in respect of a number plate which is removed from such motor vehicle for the purpose of effecting repairs to such motor vehicle or number plate, and while such motor vehicle is not operated on a public road.

 

(7)        A number plate shall be affixed—

(a)   in such a manner that it is not easily detachable;

(b)   in an upright position or within 30 degrees of such position;

(c)   in such a manner that each letter and figure thereon is clearly legible;

(d)   in such a manner that the whole number plate is clearly visible;

(e)     to the back of a motor cycle, motor tricycle, motor quadrucycle or trailer; and

(f)    one to the back and one to the front of all other motor vehicles.

 

Alta

Alta Swanepoel and Associates

Buying a car privately needn’t be a headache!

Buying a car from a dealer has become an almost seamless process, with much of the paperwork being handled by the dealership itself. The good news is that buying a car through a private sale, whether from someone you know or a private seller, can also be a relatively painless and – even more importantly – safe process.

According to WesBank spokesperson Rudolf Mahoney, if one wants to buy a car from someone else, the process is quite simple. “The buyer can either apply for finance online or phone to speak to a marketer. Once the application has been approved, the buyer simply needs to submit the relevant documents to the financier. All the relevant steps are carefully explained in the process as well as the credit criteria.”

He says that if the buyer organises their private finance through WesBank they can sign the agreement for their new vehicle online and once the documents have been approved, meet a WesBank agent to verify the required supporting documents and organise a copy of the vehicle registration documents (NATIS).

“Depending on who the buyer or seller transacts with, it may also be advisable for specialist third parties to be involved. For example, WesBank uses the services of Title Guard, a private company that facilitates transactions between the buyer and the seller. TitleGuard follows a careful process to enable the vehicle to be properly transferred and registered from the seller to the buyer, while protecting both parties.”

The vehicle must also pass the standard Roadworthy test as well as a 101 Multipoint check, and this is facilitated by a approved supplier such as Dekra Group in order to ensure that the vehicle is fit to be on the road. Mahoney clarifies, “Because WesBank has partnerships in place with companies like TitleGuard and Dekra, the safety and security of the transaction is ensured.”

To mitigate risks, says Mahoney, the two parties should speak to their financiers about the possibility of a risk management solution for both seller and buyer.

“Firstly, checks should be carried out with the insurance companies to ascertain the accident history of the car. Any adverse information can then be shared with both the seller and the buyer of the car before a transaction is concluded. Further checks can also be made to ensure that the car is not circulated or tagged as a stolen vehicle or a rebuilt vehicle which banks do not finance.

“Because the bank acts as an intermediary, money is paid directly to the seller of the car where the car is owned outright. When the car is still under finance, the financing institution will be settled first, and this guarantees that ownership passes to the buyer correctly, the interested parties will only then receive their money. These processes can ensure that the buyer and seller’s interests, as well as the interests of the financial institution, are looked after,” concludes Mahoney.

What is the maximum required safety speed a motor bike should maintain at a gradability of 11 degrees?

Question:

What is the maximum required safety speed a motor bike should maintain at a gradability of 11 degrees?

Answer:

From a legal point of view the required speed of any vehicle is relevant to the speed limit of that particular area, i.e. 60km/h, 120km/h etc. as set out by the relevant road signs.

 

From a safety point of view the, depending if it is uphill or downhill, should be enough to remain in control of the motorcycle at all times. This speed is usually 12km/h and more depending on the situation and road conditions, straight line or in a bend. It is also important that you select an appropriate gear and maintain power to the rear wheel to prevent to motorcycle from stalling while moving off. From the move off point throttle should be rolled gradually and in a smooth manner as to prevent a wheelie or a forward launch.

 

Perhaps you can explain the purpose of this question.

 

Kind Regards,
HEIN JONKER | Editor and Senior Instructor

BIKE TALK | MOTORCYCLE RIDER MAGAZINE, ACADEMY & EVENTS

Also view:

Motorcycle Accident Scene Investigations and Road Safety 

Is your “souped up” car worthy of being at this years Top Gear Festival Street Circuit?

Do you think you have the hottest, most modified wheels around? Is your car souped up to the max and ready to be seen by thousands of people? The team at Top Gear Festival want you, South Africa, to be part of the festivities for this year’s show!

Make sure you get your “Souped Up” car into the running to be part of The Top Gear Festival taking place from 15-16 June 2013 at the Moses Mabhida Stadium. Enter today and don’t miss out! Competition closes on the 2nd May and winners will be announced in the press and on East Coast Radio a few days later.

Sixty winners will be chosen to parade their “Souped Up” car on the Top Gear Festival Street Circuit. This is the same street circuit where visitors will also get the chance to witness Top Gear’s tame racing driver The Stig in action, two-time Formula 1 winner, Mika Hakkinen doing hot laps, as well as enjoy MSA race categories battling it out on the revised circuit which this year has a thrilling chicane and additional hairpin!

But that’s not all… your “Souped Up” car will also be on display all day in the Show and Shine enclosure in People’s Park. Winners are encouraged to bring the whole family for an exceptional day out of motoring fun and excitement.

Getting us off the starting block with the first entry into the “Souped Up” car competition, is a fully restored, rare 1937 Dodge D5 sedan, owned by Robin Lalla, of Durban.  With custom sound installation and chromed bits, the head turner features 18” deep dish Lenso wheels and a 3.0L V66 engine with an automatic gearbox.

So if you think you got better wheels, all you need to do is complete an online entry form on website http://www.topgearfestival.co.za/souped-up, together with three images of your “Souped Up” car. The top 60 cars owners will be contacted by the Top Gear Festival team once the judges have made a decision.

Listen into East Coast Radio for more information.

*Terms and Conditions apply – Please see regulations and requirements below.

  • Persons entering the competition must be 18 years and older, must have a valid driver’s licence and have proof of car ownership.
  • Selected winners will be contacted via email to notify them of further requirements with exhibitors/driver manuals.
  • Vehicle owners must produce proof of ownership, roadworthy certificate, and details of vehicle and valid driver’s licence.
  • For more Terms and Conditions visit www.topgearfestival.co.za

Photo by Denese Lups at Franschhoek Motor Museum

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