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Question:

Our armed response company has roof lights that lens bar or lamps emit an intermittently-flashing diffused white light. We however have certain traffic officials that claim this is illegal. We have been to the metro offices and are advised that their is nothing wrong. Our problem is however that my officers are continually harassed whilst opposition companies are not. Can I draw  a copy of the act somewhere and place it on the cars or get an approval letter somewhere so as to resolve this matter?

Answer:

The correct provision is reg 176. See subreg (6). Please note it is illegal to have your direction indicators fitted higher than roof height. Some security companies fit such lights and put the hazards on when responding. That is not legal.

Please note that security companies are not considered by legislation to be an emergency service and may not exceed the speed limit or disobey road signs. Section 58 and 60 of the Act apply.

Identification lamps

Reg 176.     (1)        A bus or a goods vehicle, the gross vehicle mass of which exceeds 3 500 kilograms, and which is not a motor vehicle referred to in subregulation (2), (3) or (5), may be fitted above the windscreen with two or more identification lamps and each such lamp shall—

(a)        not exceed a capacity of 21 Watts;

(b)        be visible from directly in front of the motor vehicle to which it is fitted; and

(c)        emit a green or amber light.

(2)        An ambulance, fire-fighting or rescue vehicle may be fitted with a lamp or lamps emitting an intermittently-flashing red light in any direction.

(3)        (a)        Subject to paragraph (b), no person shall operate a motor vehicle fitted with, or in or on which is displayed, a lamp or lamps emitting a blue light or capable of emitting a blue light.

(b)        The provisions of paragraph (a) does not apply to a motor vehicle operated by a member of the Service or a member of a municipal police service, both as defined in section 1 of the South African Police Service Act, 1995 (Act No. 68 of 1995), or a traffic officer, or a member of the South African Defence Force authorised in terms of section 87(1)(g) of the Defence Act, 1957 (Act No. 44 of 1957) to perform police functions, in the execution of his or her duties.

(c)        A motor vehicle referred to in paragraph (b) may be fitted with a lamp or lamps emitting an intermittently-flashing—

(i)         blue light;

(ii)        blue and amber light;

(iii)       blue and red light; or

(iv)       blue, amber and red light,

in any direction which may, at the will of the driver, display the word “stop”.

(4)        A motor vehicle which is—

(a)        a vehicle employed in connection with the maintenance of public road;

(b)        engaged in the distribution and supply of electricity;

(c)        engaged in the supply of other essential public services;

(d)        operated in terms of the authority granted by the MEC in terms of section 81 of the Act;

(e)        a breakdown vehicle;

(f)         a refuse compactor vehicle;

(g)        a vehicle carrying an abnormal load and the vehicle escorting it if any,

may, but a breakdown vehicle shall, be fitted with a lamp or lamps capable of emitting an intermittently-flashing amber light in any direction: Provided that such lamp shall only be used at the place where the breakdown occurred, where the maintenance or other work or an inspection is being carried out, when such breakdown vehicle is towing a motor vehicle, or in the event of a vehicle carrying an abnormal load.

(5)        A motor vehicle used by a medical practitioner may be fitted above the windscreen with one lamp emitting an intermittently flashing red light in any direction: Provided that such light may only be used by such medical practitioner in the bona fide exercise of his or her profession.

(6)        A vehicle driven by a person while he or she is engaged in civil protection as contemplated in section 3 of the Civil Protection Act, 1977 (Act No. 67 of 1977), may be fitted with a lamp or lamps emitting an intermittently-flashing green light in any direction.

(7)        A vehicle—

(a)        owned by a body or person registered as a security officer in terms of the Security Officers Act, 1987 (Act No. 92 of 1987); and

(b)        driven by a security officer as defined in section 1 of the said Act in the course of rendering a security service, also defined in section 1 of the said Act,

may be fitted with a white lens bar containing a lamp or lamps emitting an intermittently- flashing diffused white light in any direction, and containing a notice illuminated by a white light containing the word “security” and the name of the owner of the vehicle in black letters:  Provided that the said lamp or lamps shall not be capable of emitting a rotating or strobe light.

Regards

Alta

Alta Swanepoel and Associates

Question: 

“I would like to know what the law is regarding a safe stopping distance at a stop sign if I stop behind another car at a stop sign or robot.”

Answer:

There is no law or rule in regard to actual measurable distance. The K53 defensive driving standard requires that you maintain a clear space around your vehicle at all times. So one would leave enough space behind the other vehicle so that if that driver were to allow the vehicle to roll back due to lack of attention or driving skill, it would not bump into your own vehicle. Also, if he were to move off and you moved forward, and he then suddenly stops again because the road is not clear to move into the intersection, you should be able to stop safely behind him without bumping into that vehicle.

It basically boils down to judgement in order to maintain a safe and clear space between vehicles at all time.

Gavin Hoole
Learner’s Licence & K53
Driving Licence Test Info
www.K53.GavinHoole.ws

• 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.

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.

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 2^nd 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!

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

From the iconic Prius to the super-frugal Yaris HSD, Toyota with its burgeoning range of hybrids, is changing the way people drive. However, a nagging myth that persists around environmentally-friendly vehicles is their power or rather, perceived lack of it.  Toyota has ‘tuned’ into this and thanks to advanced electronic mechanisms which intelligently strike the ideal balance between performance and efficiency according to the driver’s needs, has answered this concern.

Case in point is the all-new Auris HSD (Hybrid Synery Drive) which was recently launched onto the South African market. Built at Toyota’s manufacturing facility in the UK, it’s anticipated that this latest eco-warrior’s European sales mix will be approximately one third full hybrid. Generating class-leading emissions of just 87 g/km, virtually no NOx or particulate matter, the new Auris Hybrid also delivers significant cost of ownership benefits arising from lower taxation in many European countries as well as reduced service and maintenance charges.

But as Kerry Roodt, General Manager of Marketing Communications, points out, it delivers so much more: “The Auris HSD entrenches Toyota’s position as the standard for green motoring by offering a level of refinement, practicality, performance and affordability that rivals conventional petrol and diesel cars. It also thrusts the newcomer into the forefront as a mainstream proposition, accessible to the largest possible audience.”

Hybrid-specific Exterior Design

The Auris Hybrid shares the same dynamic exterior styling and extensive interior re-modelling introduced with the new Auris. However, hybrid models (in mid XS trim and high-grade XR guise) go a little further by incorporating unique detailing to identify them as the flagships of the model range.

For instance, the lower grille and lower rear bumper diffuser are finished in a hybrid-exclusive graphite metallic paint colour, and the Toyota bonnet and tailgate logos are in hybrid blue. There are hybrid logos on the front wings and a hybrid mark on the tailgate. The rear combination lamps incorporate hybrid-only LED lights.

Both 15” silver (XS) and 17” graphite (XR) alloy wheels are of a new design unique to the Auris Hybrid.

Hybrid-specific Interior Design

It goes without saying that Auris Hybrid models benefit from the same all-new interior design with more space, greater comfort and improved sensory quality including extensive use of soft-touch materials and leather for improved tactility.

A repackaging of the battery pack under the rear seat means that luggage capacity is now equivalent to that of other models in the range (a class-leading 360 litres).

The Auris Hybrid has an exclusive meter and Eco Drive Support monitor design within the driver’s instrument binnacle, a hybrid blue shift-by-wire gear lever and hybrid-exclusive instrument panel ornamentation.

XS grade versions feature premium quality cloth trim and a hybrid blue brushed aluminium instrument panel finish, whilst high grade XR models boast Ice Grey leather dashboard inserts accompanied by leather upholstery.

Improved Driving Dynamics

Reinforcing Toyota’s commitment to improving the dynamic ability of its vehicles, the new Auris range, including the Hybrid versions, has been designed to offer drivers a more engaging experience. Here’s a summary of some of the chassis revisions that have contributed to its new-found handling prowess:

• Lighter, more rigid bodyshell and lower centre of gravity for improved handling and ride comfort
• Revised suspension for enhanced comfort and improved stability (even bigger news for the HSD derivatives)
• Improved electric power steering system for more engaging driver feedback, response and driving pleasure
• Enhanced NVH measures to reduce both engine and road noise

The big differentiator with Hybrid Auris models is the adoption of a double wishbone rear suspension system. This system has been revised to incorporate optimised trailing arm bush characteristics and, as with the front suspension, newly developed coil springs and shock absorbers featuring reduced spring rates and enhanced damping. In combination these measures have improved ride comfort, stability and handling.

Full Hybrid System Performance

One thing hybrids can do is produce generous amounts of horsepower. To contextualise the new Auris HSD’s powertrain, think of the electric motor as an energy-boosting addition to the petrol engine – alone the electric motor generates torque of 207 Nm; this is supplemental to the 142 Nm generated by the petrol engine at 4000 rpm.

Capable of operating both independently and in combination, the HSD system’s 1.8 litre VVT-i petrol engine and electric motor generate a maximum power output of 100 kW, equipping the Auris Hybrid with a 0-100 km/h acceleration time of 10.9 seconds and a maximum speed of 180 km/h.

Thanks to the improved aerodynamic performance and lighter weight of this next generation model the Auris Hybrid’s remarkably low CO₂ emissions have improved by 2 g/km to 87 g/km (with 15” wheels). In addition, the Auris Hybrid generates virtually no NOx and particulate matter emissions.

Moreover, when operating in the unique, switchable pure electric vehicle (EV) mode not available to mild hybrid vehicles, the Auris Hybrid generates zero CO₂, NOx and particulate emissions, driving for up to two kilometres continuously at speeds of up to about 50 km/h, dependant on battery charge and driving conditions.

The Auris Hybrid’s powertrain is designed to eliminate the need for the petrol engine as often as possible during city driving. Toyota’s own data show that the cumulative effect of full hybrid operation leads to high proportions of zero-emissions driving.

Improved Hybrid Synergy Drive – An Even More Compelling Proposition

The control logic of the Hybrid Synergy Drive system’s seamless, planetary gear (CVT) transmission has been modified to give a smoother, more natural feeling to vehicle acceleration, with a closer relationship between vehicle speed and engine revs.

Advanced engine technologies include a cooled Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) system, an electric water pump, the elimination of the auxiliary drive belt, a reduction in piston ring tensional force and the optimisation of oil pump capacity.

When used in combined with a cooled EGR system, the Atkinson cycle engine offers significant gains in fuel efficiency and the reduction of emissions.

In the Atkinson cycle, compression and expansion are asymmetrical, and the inlet valves close late, which delays compression. This creates a high expansion ratio for less compression, converting combustion energy to engine power more effectively. As a result, the exhaust temperature is lower than that of conventional engines. The cooled EGR system reintroduces cooled exhaust gas into the intake system, further reducing engine operating temperatures.

The adoption of an electric water pump both enhances engine warm-up performance and reduces cooling friction loss, improving fuel efficiency. The elimination of the auxiliary drive belt reduces friction, further improving fuel economy.

With the repackaging of the battery pack under the rear seat, the cooling air intake is relocated from the side of the seats to the seat undercover area. This relocation allows for a lower intake air temperature, enhancing battery cooling and, hence, efficiency. Not forgetting, of course, that now boot space is exactly the same as petrol versions.

Simple Intelligent Park Assist (SIPA)

Fitted as standard on both XS and XR variants, the new Auris HSD features Simple Intelligent Park Assist (SIPA); an Easy Set function making it easier and significantly quicker to use.

The system uses ultrasonic sensors on the front and rear side-bumpers to identify viable parallel parking spaces. It will then automatically apply the correct sequence of steering angles for the parking manoeuvre into the target space without any steering input from the driver; all the driver needs do is control the vehicle’s speed.

Enhanced Hybrid Equipment Specification

In keeping with the Hybrid’s elevated status in the model range, even the XS model is stacked in the kit department. As mentioned, externally, both the XS and XR grades get a hybrid-specific front spoiler, daytime running light system as well as front fog lights. XR models are further enhanced by the panorama glass roof (with electric sun cover), rear side window privacy glass and 17” graphite alloys.

Hybrid-specific interior décor includes automatic air conditioning, display touch-screen audio with Bluetooth, multi-information display with unique hybrid instrumentation featuring blue backlighting, reverse camera, steering switches, leather steering wheel, Smart Entry, electrochromatic rearview mirror, rain-sensing wipers and a special metallic finish dashboard insert for XS models.

XR grade versions push the standard equipment envelope even further thanks to additional niceties in the form of separate temperature controls for driver and passenger, front seat heaters with electric lumbar support for the driver, Push Start system, cruise control, and bespoke Ice Grey leather upholstery.

A True Value Proposition

-       Auris HSD XS: R297 900 (incl. VAT)

-       Auris HSD VR: R323 100 (incl. VAT)

Rigorously assessed for performance and durability, and backed up by over 14 years of in-service experience, the full hybrid battery is designed to last the entire life of the car. The new Auris Hybrid benefits from a three year/100,000km warranty, extended to eight years/195,000km on hybrid system components, including the battery. As with other Auris models, the new HSD range 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.

Question:

Common sense tells me, that where there is no designated parking spot the best place to park a moped is on the pedestrian walk, provided it allows sufficient space for pedestrians to get past.

Unfortunately common sense and law are often contradictory terms.

Could you tell me what is legal in South Africa? Does the law distinguish between a 750 cc Harley Davidson and a small moterscooter? Is there a different municipal law in force in Cape Town?

Answer:

A motor vehicle, including a motor cycle may not be parked on a side-walk. If a street is wider than 5,5 m you may park on the side of the road.

Reg 305 applies.

The legislation does not distinguish between the different sizes of vehicles. It simply prohibits motor vehicles on sidewalks as the sidewalk is reserved for pedestrians.

The provision is not in the common law but in the National Road Traffic Act.

Definition of sidewalk

(77) “sidewalk” means that portion of a verge intended for the exclusive use of pedestrians

Regards

Alta Swanepoel

Question:

Can you drive 16 or passenger car with code B drivers licence?

Answer:

A code B driving licence allows you to drive a particular size of vehicle.

In terms of legislation, a code B licence is for a motor vehicle whose tare does not exceed 3500kg or a minibus or bus whose gross vehicle mass does not exceed 3500kg.

If however you want to use the vehicle for the conveyance of passengers for reward, a Professional Driving Permit (PrDP) is required.

A PrDP is also required in a case of a motor vehicle that is designed or adapted for the conveyance of 12 or more persons.

Hopeful that the above answers your question.

Question:

I would like to know if the following road is safe when travelling with motorcycle: from Stutterheim to Morgan bay, the route 63 and then N2 to R349. How are the conditions of these roads?

Thanks so much for your help.

Answer:

The roads you have mentioned are all in good condition for motorcycle riding as I also ride a bike and will travel them with ease. A suggestion is not to travel at night due to possible stray animals but during day time road is in good condition and look forward to welcoming you into the Eastern Cape.

Serving with Honesty, Humility and Integrity

Charles Reynolds

Chief Director Managesment Services

Eastern Cape

For Road Conditions on National Routes also view: www.nra.co.za

Also view:

Motorcycle Safety 101

Question:

I recently captured a photo of this vehicle driving by on the M1 in Johannesburg. [I was in the passenger seat leaning to right  - just in case you want to comment about taking photos while driving] The number plates were not visible. Is this transgressing the Rules of the Road?

Answer:

The car itself is not regulated if it is dirty, but a person may be charged in terms of reg 35 if the numberplate and number on it is not visible.

Regards
Alta

Also view on windscreen safety:

Cracked Windshield, Safe Driving and the Law