Sep 13, 2024 Mobility

JLR reveals ‘Rover’, the robotic guard dog that uses AI to serve and protect

JLR’s EV build and test facility in Coventry – which plays a crucial role in the luxury vehicle manufacturer’s plan to electrify all of its brands by 2030 – has added an unlikely colleague to its list of new recruits, in the form of a four-legged robotic dog dubbed ‘Rover’. With the test facility a complex and energy-dense environment, with thousands of assets that requires constant monitoring,…

Sep 12, 2024 Mobility

Sasol Turbodiesel ultra-low sulphur (ULS) 10ppm now available in KwaZulu-Natal

Proudly South African fuel brand, Sasol has announced that South Africa’s cleanest diesel, locally produced fuel, Sasol Turbodiesel ULS 10ppm will be available from selected Sasol fuel stations in Kwa-Zulu Natal from 5 September. Sasol was the first oil company to launch this innovation in South Africa, aligning with its transition towards cleaner fuels. Created through Sasol’s innovative,…

Sep 12, 2024 Mobility

An experience of comfort and convenience: AVIS Point 2 Point re-enters market as your trusted travel companion

AVIS is thrilled to announce the re-entry into the market of its successful and trusted transfer service, Point 2 Point (P2P). As the preferred transfer service for thousands of business and private customers for nearly 17 years, P2P makes its return dedicated to bringing back safe, efficient, reliable, and comfortable transportation solutions. “Due to the unprecedented nature of the Covid-19…

Sep 12, 2024 Mobility

World’s strongest battery paves way for light, energy-efficient vehicles

When cars, planes, ships or computers are built from a material that functions as both a battery and a load-bearing structure, the weight and energy consumption are radically reduced. A research group at Chalmers University of Technology in Sweden is now presenting a world-leading advance in so-called massless energy storage – a structural battery that could halve the weight of a laptop, make the…

Sep 12, 2024 Mobility

inDrive Introduces New In-App Safety Features Ahead of Festive Season

With the festive season fast approaching, road safety concerns are on the rise. This year, the Department of Transport reported a staggering 1,184 fatalities over the 2023/24 festive period. As a people-driven company, and the second most downloaded app globally for two consecutive years, inDrive is dedicated to enhancing safety for both drivers and passengers. Aligned with its mission to…

Sep 11, 2024 Mobility

Vertiv Introduces Cloud-Based and Vendor-Neutral Fleet Management and Monitoring Solution for Edge and Distributed Physical Infrastructure Environments in EMEA

Vertiv™ Environet™ Connect offers an easy-to-use interface with customisable views and flexible dashboarding that works on mobile and desktop environments. As AI workloads pivot to the network edge, the need for enhanced visibility at these remote data centre sites has become increasingly apparent. Recognising this, Vertiv (NYSE: VRT), a leading provider of critical digital infrastructure and…

Sep 11, 2024 Mobility

Over 320 Million searches for cars: 2024 AutoTrader Mid-Year Car Industry Report NOW LIVE

Gain insights into the market demand, supply and top performers in 2024. Download the latest report NOW

Sep 11, 2024 Mobility

Off Road Vehicles for farmers

Linhai has launched its much-anticipated T-Archon 550L 4-seater Off Road Vehicles promising affordable go-anywhere ability for farmers in all conditions. The Linhai can carry a substantial load in its easy-to-reach load bin and is suitable for lugging anything from farm implements to feeds, chemicals and even seeds and is well adapted to light utility work wherever the average bakkie is simply…

Sep 10, 2024 Mobility

The best time to sell your car

So, you’re looking to part with your car and you’re more than ready to get on with it. Just stop before you do. Knowing WHEN to sell is just as valuable as the bells and whistles of your vehicle. How you go about it is also a key factor. We’ve gone into detail on points and conditions that you should consider before saying goodbye to your wheels. How to sell your car at the right time The timing…

Sep 10, 2024 Mobility

From Cradle to Grave – time for a more structured legislated approach

Lack of access to the complete history of a vehicle from Cradle to Grave is hindering efforts by industry players to establish transparency and disclosure in the market and open the doors to a safer mobility solution which meets the needs of all stakeholders and builds confidence within the greater automotive value chain. For years the South African Motor Body Repairer’s Association (SAMBRA), a…

Sep 10, 2024 Mobility

Demand for pre-owned cars outpaces new cars by more than two-to-one

The prolonged economic downturn experienced across multiple sectors in South Africa has resulted in markedly depressed sales in the new car segment over the past 12 months. This is evident in the monthly new car sales data released by naamsa | the Automotive Business Council. As consumers seek more affordable mobility alternatives, a noticeable trend has emerged in favour of pre-owned vehicles…

Sep 09, 2024 Mobility

Plugging the gap: global EV charging infrastructure needs to grow more than 500% by 2030

Konect, Gilbarco Veeder-Root’s end-to-end emobility ecosystem business, offers fuel retailers opportunity to grow and future-proof their businesses while helping meet global need for more EV chargers and drive transition to electric mobility Key markets in the electric vehicle (EV) transition are falling behind in their stated goals for public charging infrastructure, according to latest figures…

Sep 06, 2024 Mobility

AI smart telematics will make SA safer

With Artificial Intelligence (AI) adoption accelerating, fleet telematics systems are set to expand their route optimisation, vehicle diagnostics and driver behaviour capabilities, to shape mobility and safety in a way that could affect present, future and even historic events. Justin Manson, Sales Director South Africa at Webfleet, Bridgestone’s globally trusted fleet management solution, looks…

Sep 06, 2024 Mobility

Logistics Sector Out to Bring Up the Rear in Transformation

A strong contingent of industry leaders, representing all modalities in the logistics sector, air, sea, road, rail, freight forwarders and e-commerce from the public and private sectors ,gathered in Johannesburg to position an industry-wide collaborative drive to accelerate transformation for the logistics sector – a sector that is at the forefront as a key contributor to the national economy, an…

Sep 06, 2024 Mobility

Prepare for summer driving

As South Africa heads into spring, research shows the importance of preparing for the coming heatwaves of summer. The CEO of MasterDrive, Eugene Herbert, says that drivers should take the time to remind themselves or their employees about the importance of defensive driving as the most effective means to prepare for summer driving. According to data from United States Department of…

Sep 06, 2024 Mobility

Hydrogen Pioneers: BMW Group and Toyota Motor Corporation take collaboration to the next level to offer Fuel Cell Electric Vehicle (FCEV) options for passenger cars

BMW plans to launch its first-ever series production fuel cell electric vehicle (FCEV) in 2028, thereby offering customers an additional all-electric powertrain option with zero local emissions in a BMW. The BMW Group and the Toyota Motor Corporation are pooling their innovative strength and their technological capabilities to bring a new generation of fuel cell powertrain technology to the…

Sep 06, 2024 Mobility

MasterDrive Fleet Safety Awards entry praised by previous winners

MasterDrive, a leading driver training organisation, is gearing up for its third annual Fleet Safety Awards on 20 November. This prestigious event aims to recognise and reward excellence in road safety across the transport industry, with over R200 000 in prizes up for grabs. The 2024 Fleet Safety Awards have several categories that cater for different roles within organisations, including Best…

Sep 05, 2024 Mobility

Jeep® Gladiator enters arena for Bakkie of the Year competition

The Jeep® Gladiator has begun a gruelling test across multiple disciplines in its quest to be crowned South African Bakkie of the Year. The competition, which is now in its second year, is open to all double cab 4x4 pickup derivatives launched after September 2023. There are three classes defined by engine output: 100-125kW; 121 – 160kW and 161kW upwards. This year sees the addition of a new…

Sep 03, 2024 Mobility

Department of Transport on the wrong track with appointment of preferred bidder for new licences

The announcement by the Department of Transport (DoT) yesterday (SUBS:: Sunday, 1 September) on the appointment of French technology company IDEMIA Identity and Security as the preferred bidder to produce new smart driving licence cards for the country, has raised more questions than answers in relation to the process. The Automobile Association (AA) says it is incumbent upon the DoT to answer…

Sep 02, 2024 Mobility

Why Following This Simple Rule Could Cut Your Time in Traffic by 40%

“A simple behavior change can significantly impact traffic congestion and commute times," says Dominic Wyatt, International Drivers Association Motoring Expert. Have you ever considered how much of your life is spent in traffic? The potential to significantly reduce that time is not just appealing- it's entirely feasible. Imagine cutting your time in traffic by 40%, converting those wasted hours…

Sep 02, 2024 Mobility

SAPICS Affiliate Partner | Attend the Annual IMM Institute Conference 2024

The IMM Institute welcomes all marketing and supply chain professionals to participate in its Annual Conference. This year, we have broadened our focus beyond marketing to encompass the vital role of supply chain integration. The conference theme thus reflects the critical importance of uniting these functions in today's global market. IMM Institute Conference 2024 Fusion of Functions: Marketing…

Sep 02, 2024 Mobility

Carjackings see significant decrease

Stats SA released the 2023/24 Victims of Crime Survey which revealed some concerning rises in most crime but a decline in carjackings. The survey says since the 2022/23 report there was a 28.9% decrease in carjackings but a 2.5% increase over the last five years. Theft of motor vehicles also, however, saw 19.2% increase. Despite the decrease over the last year, citizens remain at high-risk for…

Aug 30, 2024 Mobility

Success at ‘Women with Drive – ALIVE!’

Women with Drive returned to the Festival of Motoring, for the third time, today. This year’s iteration, ‘Women with Drive – ALIVE!’ represented the dynamic, ever-evolving nature of business which is full of possibility for women in the industry. The CEO of MasterDrive, Eugene Herbert, says, this year Women with Drive shone a light on empowerment, upliftment and motivation. “The theme brings…

Aug 29, 2024 Mobility

Taser, snacks, tyre plug kit … just some of the must-haves every woman should have in her car

Are women better drivers than men? The age-old debate rages on, but cartrack.co.za did recently report: “Today in South Africa, women exhibit a higher likelihood of responsible driving behaviour than men. And, considering local role-players like poor road conditions and high-accident rates, ‘responsible driver’ is a fitting definition for ‘better driver’”. Dewald Ranft, Chairperson of the Motor…

Aug 29, 2024 Mobility

Unitrans Passenger celebrates gender diversity achievement at Secunda Depot

Unitrans Passenger's ongoing commitment to gender diversity is paying off in Mpumalanga at the company's Secunda Depot, which has achieved a higher-than-average ratio of female bus drivers. This milestone underscores Unitrans commitment to fostering an inclusive workplace and highlights the growing representation of talented women in the transportation industry. "We believe in creating social and…

Aug 29, 2024 Mobility

Vigilance pays off when you’re on the road

The last thing on your mind while driving your new “baby’ off the showroom floor is that you could have a gun in your face and be robbed of your car in an instant. Why? Firstly, because hijacking remains rife in SA and, secondly, you may not realise your new car is a favourite among hijacking syndicates and highly sought after on the black market. Charnel Hattingh, Fidelity Services Group Head of…

Aug 29, 2024 Mobility

Are electric trucks viable in SA? A local logistics company has put a Fuso eCanter to the test

Earlier this year, Daimler Truck Southern Africa announced that it would launch a comprehensive line-up of battery-electric trucks – ranging from the eCanter to the eActros. The former was trialled by national logistics provider City Logistics to establish its variability as an intra-city transport option. The four ton eCanter was put into duty from City Logistics’ Gosforth Park depot in…

Aug 29, 2024 Mobility

South Africans clock up 21 used car searches per second!

An impressive 21 used car searches took place every second in South Africa during the first half of 2024. This is one of many fascinating insights to emerge from the 2024 AutoTrader Mid-Year Car Industry Report. The theme of this year's report is #RethinkAutoSales, and – as George Mienie, CEO of AutoTrader, explains – traditional car selling methods are becoming outdated. “Hence, new data points…

Aug 29, 2024 Mobility

A Suitable pallet truck for every application

Clark has expanded its range of electric pallet trucks with four new models for pedestrian operation. The new pallet trucks are from the WS and SWX series with load capacities from 1.2 to 1.6 tonnes. The compact and manoeuvrable pedestrian stackers are suitable for transporting goods over short distances, for use in space-critical aisles and for loading and unloading trucks. They ensure smooth…

Aug 26, 2024 Mobility

Safetember Conference 2024 - Addressing Workplace Safety and Mental Health Challenges

Safetember, the highly anticipated annual conference, is set to take place on September 3rd, 2024, at the Montecasino Ballroom in Johannesburg. This year’s conference will focus on the pressing issues of motor vehicle accidents and mental health in the workplace, bringing together industry leaders, policymakers, and experts to discuss solutions to these critical challenges. Motor Vehicle…

Aug 26, 2024 Mobility

Hyundai’s Cargo range have become formidable LCV competitors

From a humble beginning five years ago at a fitment centre in KwaZulu-Natal, Hyundai Automotive South Africa’s Grand i10 Cargo has grown to a formidable and somewhat unique competitor in a relatively new segment in the local motor industry. The idea to launch the compact and manoeuvrable Grand i10 Cargo in 2019 as a light commercial vehicle with a secure and large, practical boot space proved to…

Aug 23, 2024 Mobility

Bridgestone Fleet Care to Showcase Data-Driven and AI-Powered Fleet Solutions at IAA 2024

Bridgestone will return to IAA TRANSPORTATION on 17 -22 September 2024, in Hanover, Germany, to showcase the company’s industry-leading technological advancements in fleet solutions. The Bridgestone exhibit will demonstrate how Bridgestone Fleet Care combines telematics and tyre technologies to offer commercial fleets a tailored, data-driven approach to vehicle and fleet management. With…

Aug 23, 2024 Mobility

The new Avo Auto Care offer makes it easy for MFC vehicle finance clients to keep their vehicles in showroom condition

Owning and maintaining a vehicle in South Africa is becoming increasingly costly. The price of items like tyres, exhausts, brakes and shock absorbers continues to rise, putting pressure on vehicle owners' budgets. However, while it can be a financial challenge to afford these essential auto spares, putting off the replacement of worn components – especially tyres – can be a significant safety…

Aug 23, 2024 Mobility

FAW Trucks Southern Africa Champions Female Leadership In The Automotive Industry

One of the core value propositions upon which the FAW brand has been built, is the significant initiative to promote gender diversity and inclusion. FAW Trucks Southern Africa is empowering women to shape the future of the commercial vehicle industry. By trailblazing the way forward and promoting female leadership, the company is redefining traditional stereotypes within the automotive and…

Aug 23, 2024 Mobility

FUCHS develops new multipurpose lubricant for the agricultural industry

A multipurpose lubricant for the agricultural industry has been developed locally by FUCHS LUBRICANTS SOUTH AFRICA. Known as AGRIFARM UTTO FLEX, it is ideal for transmissions, final drives, hydraulics, and oil immersed brakes of agricultural and even certain off-highway equipment, explains Greg Tarr, Application Engineers Manager. “It is a premium lubricant for the agricultural industry offering…

Aug 22, 2024 Mobility

Building environmental sustainability in ecommerce through smart shipping software

Simple but clever things to consider The findings of PwC’s inaugural Voice of the Consumer Survey paint a clear picture of consumers’ changing attitudes towards goods that are responsibly sourced and do no harm to the environment. The findings, released by the professional services multinational in May, are based on insights amassed over 15 years of consumer research by collecting the…

Aug 21, 2024 Mobility

Enviro Automotive Expands EV Reach with Local Partnerships

Enviro Automotive, a leading importer and distributor of battery electric vehicles (BEVs), is expanding its local market reach through strategic partnerships, offering prospective EV buyers a more comprehensive and accessible approach to affordable EV ownership. Enviro Automotive, the official importer of the DFSK, Dayun, and SRM EV ranges, announced a new distribution partnership with WilGin…

Aug 21, 2024 Mobility

Car sales shift up a gear in July

Used car sales rise 14% month-on-month. Consumer confidence rose in July, evidenced by an uptick in both new and used car sales. Contrary to popular belief, an increase in new car sales IS good news for the used car market. “The increase in new car passenger sales indicates that consumers are in a better financial position. What’s more, new car sales fuel future used car sales and newer vehicles…

Aug 20, 2024 Mobility

Everything you need to know about the increase in hijacking incidents

It’s an unfortunate reality that hits close to home for many South Africans, and car-related crimes only seems to be increasing year after year. From car theft and hijackings to safety nets, there are a few things we should all take into account the next time we’re going to and from work as well as school. While we may have a good idea of where crime hotspots are throughout the cities, many of us…

Aug 20, 2024 Mobility

Bus operators to be recognised for road safety

MasterDrive in association with the South African Bus Operators Association is proud to announce the SABOA Fleet Safety Awards will be taking place this year! Those operating bus fleets can enter either their organisations, fleet managers or operators for their dedication to promoting road safety. The CEO of MasterDrive, Eugene Herbert, expands: “The Awards are an opportunity to reward…

Aug 20, 2024 Mobility

Automotive Feasibility Sprint Study open to applications

The Advanced Propulsion Centre UK (APC) have today, 19 August 2024 launched an opportunity for academic institutions and commercial organisations to submit proposals to undertake feasibility sprint studies which aim to break new ground on topics related to accelerating the transition to more sustainable transport. The opportunity is the first initiative of the APC’s Academic Advisory Group (AAG)…

Aug 19, 2024 Mobility

Fourth consecutive fuel price drop expected for September

Fuel prices are set to decrease across the board in September, marking the fourth consecutive time this year that fuel prices have dropped in South Africa. The Automobile Association (AA) says based on unaudited mid-month data from the Central Energy Fund (CEF) petrol, diesel, and illuminating paraffin will cost less in September than at any other time this year. The current data indicates that…

Aug 15, 2024 Mobility

Boost forklift safety

Forklifts are seen across many organisations from warehouses to factories and even in mass supermarkets. Accidents involving forklifts are also commonplace with international statistics estimating they account for 1% of workplace incidents but these tend to be more serious. Even though they only account for 1% of accidents, these result in 11% of serious accidents at work. Regulation in South…

Aug 15, 2024 Mobility

GWM leads the way with South Africa’s first full hybrid bakkie

In a first for South Africa, GWM has launched a full Petrol Electric Hybrid Bakkie. The all-new P-Series P500 Double-Cab bakkie is the first bakkie to have a 325-volt electric motor in South Africa, and the second most powerful double cab bakkie in the segment. First revealed at the 2024 NAMPO trade show in May, the all-new GWM P500 is part of GWM’s consolidated brand portfolio. GWM P500 is the…

Aug 15, 2024 Mobility

A method that paves the way for improved fuel cell vehicles

More efficient and longer-lasting fuel cells are essential for fuel cell-powered heavy-duty hydrogen vehicles to be an alternative to combustion fuelled counterparts. Researchers at Chalmers University of Technology, Sweden, have developed an innovative method to study and understand how parts of fuel cells degrade over time. This is an important step towards the improved performance of fuel…

Aug 14, 2024 Mobility

Traffic advisory: Bakwena informs Rustenburg residents & motorists of temporary bridge closure

Because of the current N4 dual carriageway construction between Buffelspoort interchange and Dr Moroka interchange, Bakwena Platinum Corridor Concessionaire (Pty) Ltd, (Bakwena) must temporarily close the Kruger Street bridge. Road users and residents are advised that the Kruger Street bridge will be closed from 21 August 2024 until 30 July 2025. Previously the closure was scheduled to commence…

Aug 14, 2024 Mobility

Michelin’s Total Cost of Ownership whitepaper shifts mindsets in the transport industry to promote sustainability and drive efficiency

Michelin has recently launched its latest research - Unlocking the Power Of TCO: A Fleet Manager’s Guide to Efficiency and Sustainability – an industry first aimed at shifting the mindsets of South African transporters to run more efficient and sustainable fleets. The 2023 Decarbonising South Africa’s Transport Sector report noted that, in South Africa, transport is the third largest emitting…

Aug 14, 2024 Mobility

The eSprinter Arrives in South Africa: Leading the Charge in Electric Vans

For the first time, an electric van bearing the Mercedes-Benz star is available in South Africa. The new eSprinter combines cutting-edge technology with the iconic versatility of the Sprinter range. Designed to meet the demands of modern urban businesses, the eSprinter delivers exceptional efficiency, impressive range and ample load capacity, making it a game-changer for businesses who are…

Aug 14, 2024 Mobility

3 keys to road safety for women

In South Africa the upliftment and empowerment of women in society is at the forefront of mind in August. An essential part of empowerment is ensuring women play a role in their own safety on the road. Capable drivers are not only safe drivers but can undertake basic maintenance while also safeguarding against physical threats. The CEO of MasterDrive, Eugene Herbert, says every driver must be…

Aug 14, 2024 Mobility

Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport: South Africa empowers women in logistics,  transport and supply chain with upcoming conference

The Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport: South Africa (CILTSA) is proud to announce its second Women in Logistics, Transport and Supply Chain Empowerment Conference. Themed “The How To’s of Success for Women”, the event takes place on Friday, 25 October 2024, at the Birchwood Hotel and Conference Centre in Boksburg, Johannesburg. "We recognise the crucial role women play in the success…

Aug 14, 2024 Mobility

GetWorth Expert Tips: How Much do Cars Depreciate in South Africa?

South Africans spend real time behind the wheel, adding up to a mind-boggling number of kilometers driven each year. But every mile and minute chips away at your car’s value, a process known as depreciation. Car depreciation is the loss in value from when you buy your car to when you sell it. There are three main components: The age of the car - even a car sitting in a garage tends to lose value…

Aug 12, 2024 Mobility

Ford announces Bronco and Mustang inspired e-bikes

Ford announces that it would be working with bike company N plus to introduce two new e-bikes inspired by the automaker’s most iconic brands, the Bronco and Mustang. There’s nothing new about car companies working with bike manufacturers to co-develop e-bikes in the hopes of exciting gear heads. GM, Porsche, Jeep, Polestar, and others have tried to do the same, with varying degrees of success.…

Aug 08, 2024 Mobility

Transport Education & Training Authority set on empowering women in the Transport & Logistics Sector

In an era marked by progress and evolving societal norms, the imperative to empower women in traditionally male-dominated sectors such as transport and logistics has never been more urgent. Beyond mere diversity metrics, true empowerment begins with equipping women with the skills, insights, and business acumen necessary to compete on equal footing with their counterparts. The transport and…

Aug 07, 2024 Mobility

Never buy sight unseen

Buying a car can be one of the most exciting but one of the more expensive purchases you can make if you don’t do your homework properly. With the plethora of online portals now available to buyers, buying a car has never been easier, but the South African Motor Body Repairers’ Association (SAMBRA), a proud association of the Retail Motor Industry Organisation (RMI), says they are increasingly…

Aug 07, 2024 Mobility

Training indispensable to autonomous vehicles

Anyone who has had the opportunity to cruise down the highway with adaptive cruise control and lane assist in their vehicle may wonder why, with so much less required of its drivers, is training even necessary? A study conducted on level three automation shows why driver training is essential for a smooth transition to the next level of autonomous vehicles. Level three automation involves…

Aug 07, 2024 Mobility

Electrifying achievement! 916.74 kilometres on a single charge sets new Guinness World Records™ title

Webfleet, Bridgestone’s globally trusted fleet management solution, has broken the Guinness World Records title for the longest journey by an electric car on a single charge of 916.74 km (569.64 miles). The new benchmark in electric vehicle (EV) performance was achieved by Webfleet-sponsored drivers Kevin Booker and Sam Clarke, supported by co-pilot Richard Parker of Webfleet, in a Ford Mustang…

Aug 07, 2024 Mobility

ESG Data: The Fuel for Industry Transformation

The critical role of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) data in driving sustainable growth and operational efficiency within the transport, logistics, and supply chain sectors was the focal point of the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport: South Africa’s (CILTSA) ESG Conference. Held on 25 July in Johannesburg, the event centred around the theme “From Data to Decisions:…

Aug 07, 2024 Mobility

SAPRA welcomes continued drop in fuel price

Good news for cash strapped South Africans is that the downward trend in fuel prices continues this with month with yet another price decrease on product prices for petrol, diesel and illuminating paraffin from midnight tonight, 6 August. Chairman of South African Petroleum Retailers Association (SAPRA), representing the interest of numerous petroleum retailers in South Africa and a proud…

Aug 06, 2024 Mobility

Practical freight industry solutions to meet SA’s environmental challenges

Appalling rail conditions are seeing the road freight sector growing but also becoming an increasing emitter of greenhouse gases Rampant cable theft and destruction across South Africa’s beleaguered rail network may drive growth in the road freight space. Still, it is coming at a high environmental cost. Earlier this year, Rirhandzu Mashava, the Department of Transport’s deputy director general…

Aug 06, 2024 Mobility

Women’s motor car preferences are changing

Women are active buyers and sellers in South Africa’s motor vehicle markets and are paying 74% more for their new and used vehicles, on average, than they did in 2014. Lightstone’s analysis of data gleaned from their transactional systems shows the average price for a used vehicle financed by a woman buyer climbed from R172 600 in 2014 to R297 800 in 2024, while the average price of a new vehicle…

Aug 06, 2024 Mobility

Italtile reaps the benefits of supply chain and transport optimisation initiative

Supply chain is an organisation’s strength, but it can also be their Achilles heel if it is not managed efficiently, says James Mason, group IT executive at Italtile Limited. In a compellingpresentation at the 2024 SAPICS Conference, Africa’s leading event for the supply chain profession, Mason shared Italtile’s supply chain journey and the remarkable results of a supply chain integration and…

Aug 05, 2024 Mobility

Transport businesses bombarded with criminal offences

The Free Market Foundation rightly maintains that the government should not criminalise the actions of ordinary people. Excessive state interference and bureaucracy in private economic affairs undermines economic growth and should be undone. A prime example of government measures that unduly criminalise human action is the legislation which governs land transport. The principal statute governing…

Aug 05, 2024 Mobility

Everrati and Mercedes-Benz SL specialists Hemmels join forces on electric W113 ‘Pagoda’

Everrati, creator of the world’s most iconic, sustainable luxury electric cars, redefined and futureproofed with cutting-edge zero emission powertrains, has joined forces with Mercedes-Benz SL restoration specialist Hemmels to create the world’s most luxurious and technically advanced fully electric Mercedes-Benz W113 SL ‘Pagoda’. Following on from the recent launch of Everrati’s own electrified…

Aug 05, 2024 Mobility

Write a script for safety

Research continually points to medical professionals as having the highest risk on the road. This is primarily due to long working hours. A new study from the Occupational Medicine Journal in the USA says it is not only doctors at high risk, but pharmaceutical sales representatives are also at greater risk for car crashes due to their specific job challenges. In South Africa recently, we also see…

Aug 01, 2024 Mobility

Dual-voltage charging stations key for global EV adoption, says GlobalData

The automotive industry is undergoing a significant digital transformation focused on improving vehicle performance, safety, and sustainability. The key innovations driving this change include advanced EV discharge prediction, sophisticated collision avoidance systems, and dual-voltage charging stations. Among these, dual-voltage charging stations are particularly crucial in boosting EV adoption…

Aug 01, 2024 Mobility

Blow the whistle on non-compliance

Right to Repair South Africa is well known for advocating for consumer choice. Developments across the industry since the coming into effect of the new Guidelines for Competition in July 2021 have really supported consumer choice and made motorists think twice about the service they actually need. “For most South Africans shopping around is natural, so why should this be any different when it…

Aug 01, 2024 Mobility

UD Trucks Southern Africa announces new partnership with GC Truck Centre to enhance service reach in Harrismith

UD Trucks Southern Africa (UDTSA) is pleased to announce a new partnership agreement with GC Truck Centre, establishing them as the official service dealer in Harrismith - Free State. This strategic partnership reaffirms our commitment to ensuring that our customers have ready access to reliable and efficient service support. It promises to bring significant benefits to the Harrismith region,…

Aug 01, 2024 Mobility

Survey highlights gender inequality in the supply chain profession

Coinciding with Women’sMonth in South Africa, The Professional Body for Supply Chain Management (SAPICS) has announced the results of its latest Women in Supply Chain Leadership Survey. It revealed that women in the supply chain profession earn less than their male counterparts and the majority of them have faced gender discrimination in the workplace. A worrying 64% of the female respondents…

Aug 01, 2024 Mobility

The untapped potential of running your EV off your home solar system

The price of petrol has soared well above R20 in the past two years, with inland petrol reaching a nearly two-year high of R25.15 per litre last month – and set to rise yet again in August. These skyrocketing fuel prices have sparked rising interest in Electric vehicles (EVs) and home solar systems to charge them. This is according to Rein SnoeckHenkemans, CEO of Alumo Energy, a leading provider…

Aug 01, 2024 Mobility

One and two star disappointment in latest African crash tests

Global NCAP’s new #SaferCarsForAfrica crash results reveal a disappointing two star occupant safety rating for the Kia Pegas and Renault Triber and only one star for the Maruti Suzuki Ertiga. Global NCAP’s crash test protocols assess frontal and side impact protection for all models, as well as Electronic Stability Control (ESC). Pedestrian protection and side pole impact protection assessments…

Jul 31, 2024 Mobility

New 700 model boosts Hino sales in SA

Hino South Africa’s 700 Series truck range is celebrating its first year on the local market by contributing to more than double the brand’s share of sales in the extra-heavy segment in the past year. It was also an important launch in that two derivatives in the new 700 range were the first Hino models in South Africa to be offered with Guaranteed Future Value (GFV) financing. During the period…

Jul 30, 2024 Mobility

Successful KwaZulu-Natal Supply Chain Conference Charts Path for Future Growth

More than 300 delegates attended eThekwini Municipality’s recent KwaZulu-Natal Supply Chain Conference with Smart Procurement World to address the imperative to enhance KwaZulu-Natal’s infrastructure and manufacturing capabilities in order to ensure the region’s sustainable growth and resilience. KwaZulu-Natal’s largest supply chain and procurement conference was a resounding success, according…

Jul 30, 2024 Mobility

Winter Car Maintenance: Six Key Parts that Take the Most Strain

As winter sets in across South Africa, it's crucial to pay attention to certain parts of your car that endure the most strain during the colder months. Vishal Premlall, national director of the Tyre Equipment Parts Association (TEPA) a proud association of the Retail Motor Industry Organisation (RMI), shares insights on how to keep your vehicle in top condition during winter. 1. Battery: One of…

Jul 30, 2024 Mobility

Armormax are now approved by Ford

Leading South African Luxury Armoured Car builder Armormax are now recognised as a Qualified Vehicle Modifier (QVM) by Ford Motor Company South Africa. The QVM program is a global standards recognition structure that intends to gauge the ability of a final stage manufacturer to produce a consistent quality level throughout the product line, through control over the engineering, fabrication and…

Jul 30, 2024 Mobility

Fleet Safety Awards 2024: More time, more prizes for early entry

On 17 July, the Early Awards’ Entry Period should have concluded but following an influx of requests to extend this, MasterDrive is extending the Early Entry Period to 17 August 2024 instead. For those that have already entered, do not fear! Some of the prizes will be awarded now, to avoid waiting any longer. Excitement is building to win one of these fantastic prizes. The CEO of MasterDrive,…

Jul 30, 2024 Mobility

Is car maintenance the same as repair?

Many common breakdowns and expensive repairs can be prevented by conducting proper and regular car maintenance. Car maintenance, also called ‘preventive maintenance’, is a proactive approach to keeping your vehicle in excellent working condition, saving time and money on expensive repairs. Mechanical problems are often caused by insufficient or poor maintenance. “Most mechanical problems don’t…

Jul 30, 2024 Mobility

Electric vehicles: the next big industry boom in South Africa?

By Greg Cress, Africa Principal Director of Automotive and eMobility at a leading global professional services company, Accenture. The transportation industry is a leading contributor to global warming, placing immense pressure on it to transition from unsustainable operations in line with the Paris Agreement's emission reduction targets for 2050. This urgency for change is felt everywhere,…

Jul 30, 2024 Mobility

How South Africa’s vehicle retail landscape is adapting to change

South Africa’s choice of motor vehicle segment and body shape is changing – perhaps permanently – and, as a struggling market adapts to new realities, brand favourites face challenges too. South Africa’s motor retail industry landscape over the past 15 years has been affected by slow economic growth, poor infrastructure, political uncertainty and a series of global shocks, including the financial…

Jul 30, 2024 Mobility

Zero Carbon Logistics signs MOU with SANY Global as technology providers for South Africa’s first  electric truck highway

Zero Carbon Logistics has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Chinese multinational company SANY as their official technology providers for the planned rollout of its off-grid electric truck charging network on the N3 electric highway, a first for South Africa (see photos and videos here). This partnership demonstrates that SANY, a top tier Chinese and global company, is eager to enter the…

Jul 29, 2024 Mobility

Rollover Prevention Training Awarded!

The Africa Supply Chain Excellence Awards took place this week to recognise different industries and MasterDrive was privileged to be recognised as one of the finalists. According to the organisers, the event is a testament to the spirit of innovation that propels Africa’s supply chain profession forward. MasterDrive was a finalist in the ‘Training and Talent Management Category.’ CEO, Eugene…

Jul 26, 2024 Mobility

Armormax care goes beyond just vehicle armour

Leading South African Luxury Armoured Car builder Armormax are introducing a safety-focussed program for their customers called Armormax Care. Marketing Manager Michael Broom explains “Out of habit we always ask our clients- how safe do you feel? You have taken the right steps in armouring your vehicle so you should now feel quite safe in your car. But what about everywhere else? At home, in…

Jul 26, 2024 Mobility

FAW Trucks Southern Africa Addresses The Evolving South African Truck Market With Confidence

FAW Trucks Southern Africa, a leading global player in commercial vehicle manufacturing, reaffirms its commitment to growth in the dynamic South African truck market. As the industry experiences steady expansion, FAW Trucks SA remain at the forefront, delivering cutting-edge solutions and building lasting partnerships with businesses worldwide. Key Developments in the South African Truck Market…

Jul 26, 2024 Mobility

JAC Motors launches X200 2.8L TDI 1.5-tonne forward-cab at R295,566

JAC Motors announced the introduction of new X200 2.8L TDI derivatives at a starting price of R295,566 (VAT excl.). These additions enhance the popular X200 forward-cab range, making it more affordable for entrepreneurs and transport operators to acquire economical, rugged workhorses. This move follows customer research indicating that prospective buyers of forward-cab bakkies seek more…

Jul 25, 2024 Mobility

Africa gears up for a new era of smarter mobility 2024

Africa is on the move, with rapid urbanisation and to navigate this exciting yet challenging landscape, Smarter Mobility Africa summit 2024 is set to convene with industry leaders, policymakers, and innovators on October 2-4 2024, at the Gallagher Convention Centre in Johannesburg, South Africa. Review the full programme here: https://share-eu1.hsforms.com/18UHWtUSJSiKqpjcPIG4DZAewv4c The 6th…

Jul 25, 2024 Mobility

Heavy duty vehicle production forecast presents exciting £2.4 billion opportunity for UK businesses

Decarbonisation and a drive towards net zero in the heavy duty vehicle (HDV) sector could help to realise an estimated £2.4 billion growth opportunity, according to the latest insight report from the Advanced Propulsion Centre UK (APC), titled “UK HDV supply chain opportunities to 2035”. This APC insight forecasts the UK will produce almost 35,000 heavy goods vehicles (HGVs) and buses by 2035,…

Jul 25, 2024 Mobility

StoreDot predicts Extreme Fast Charging (XFC) is becoming a mainstream EV requirement, initially debuting in premium vehicles

StoreDot, the pioneer and world leader in extreme fast charging (XFC) silicon battery technology for electric vehicles (EVs), forecasts that XFC technology is becoming a mainstream feature required by all EV drivers, after initially entering the market as a premium offering in high-end EVs. StoreDot's vision aligns with growing consumer expectations for shorter charging times and longer range,…

Jul 24, 2024 Mobility

President of South Africa Signs Groundbreaking Procurement Bill into Law: A New Era for Supply Chain Professionals

Today marks a significant milestone for the supply chain industry and the broader economic landscape of South Africa. President Cyril Ramaphosa has officially signed the much-anticipated Procurement Bill into law, ushering in a new era of efficiency, economic transformation, and support for local production and services. This landmark legislation is set to revolutionise procurement practices…

Jul 24, 2024 Mobility

Sinayo becomes largest shareholder in bus and taxi underwriter, CTU

Black women-owned investment company, Sinayo Global, confirmed today that it had successfully acquired a further 20% stake in bus and taxi underwriting manager, CTU, boosting its shareholding to 30%. Significantly, this establishes Sinayo as the largest shareholder in the 33-year-old entity, having acquired most of the new shares from previous majority shareholders, the Hollard Insurance Group…

Jul 24, 2024 Mobility

Urgent focus on education as SA gears up for EV evolution

E-mobility is a global topic that is becoming increasingly important. Over 14 million e-vehicles were sold worldwide in 2023, 35 per cent more than in the previous year. In South Africa, the Electric Vehicles White Paper ("White Paper") published in 2023 by the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition, represents a decisive step in the transformation of the South African automotive industry…

Jul 24, 2024 Mobility

The Power of Connected Vehicles in shaping the future of mobility

Decoding how connected vehicles can act as a catalyst for building safer, sustainable transportation In today’s increasingly digital transformative world of mobility, connected vehicle architecture has emerged as a cornerstone of innovation, rapidly transforming how fleet owners interact with vehicles and the ecosystem. Initially focused on simple location services, connected vehicles today…

Jul 24, 2024 Mobility

Business or pleasure? Eeco shows that you can have it all!

You can be small and still have it all, especially if you drive a Suzuki Eeco. Suzuki Auto South Africa has set out to prove this by delivering an Eeco delivery vehicle to a number of pre-selected small businesses. It picked these small organisations with the help of friends of the brand who each shared the name of an entrepreneur that could do with some help. Each of these entrepreneurs and…

Jul 23, 2024 Mobility

SVI’s Ford-approved armour now available for Everest

SVI Engineering, leading specialist manufacturer of armoured products in South Africa, is pleased to announce the availability of Ford-recognised B4 and B6 discreet armouring packages for the Everest, with the converted version of the brand’s latest-generation SUV enjoying full factory backing. Thanks to SVI’s Qualified Vehicle Modifier (QVM) status with Ford, both of these concealed armouring…

Jul 22, 2024 Mobility

An MFC guide to help steer you to car finance success

In South Africa, owning a car is much more than a convenience – it's a cultural symbol of success and independence. From the moment we start earning, most of us begin thinking about buying a car, and as our careers progress, upgrading to better models become the norm. For most South Africans, buying a vehicle involves some form of finance; however, vehicle finance can be complex, with numerous…

Jul 22, 2024 Mobility

How to reduce tyre theft

Recent reports noted there is an increase in the theft of tyres and rims from drivers’ properties. Walking outside to find your vehicle on bricks is not a new or uncommon occurrence. Yet, it is rising with speed necessitating taking extra precautions to protect yourself from this loss. The CEO of MasterDrive, Eugene Herbert, says four new tyres can set a driver back a few thousand Rand. “If…

Jul 18, 2024 Mobility

How Well Do You Know RTMS?

In today's fast-paced transport industry, safety, compliance, and sustainability are more critical than ever. The Road Transport Management System (RTMS) is a pivotal tool designed to help transport operators navigate these challenges. But how well do you know RTMS? Let’s dive into the essentials of RTMS and understand how it can transform your transport business. What is RTMS? The Road Transport…

Jul 18, 2024 Mobility

Ensuring your Child’s Safety on South African Roads

As a parent, your child’s safety is your top priority. In South Africa, where crime and challenging driving conditions are common, leveraging technology and community resources can significantly enhance your efforts to protect your children. Here’s how you can use various tools and applications to support family safety in everyday scenarios, such as driving to school or university and returning…

Jul 18, 2024 Mobility

New findings could lead to safer, more stable metal batteries

Metal batteries have the potential to deliver more energy, at a lower weight, than the popular lithium-ion battery. The problem, however, is that the technology currently has too short a lifespan due to the highly reactive nature of the lithium metal within these batteries. New research from Chalmers University of Technology, Sweden, shows where the problems lie and how to overcome them by…

Jul 18, 2024 Mobility

Seabourne Logistics Partners with MyWalk Project to Transform Hospital Waste into School Shoes, Fostering Sustainability and Social Impact

Seabourne Logistics, a prominent player in the logistics industry, is proud to announce its collaboration with the MyWalk Project, an initiative aimed at repurposing disposable hospital dripbags, oxygen masks and associated tubing into brand new school shoes. This innovative partnership not only addresses the pressing issue of healthcare waste but also provides disadvantaged children with a vital…

Jul 18, 2024 Mobility

SATC: Transport industry on an exciting growth path

The region’s leading transport conference showcased a range of transport and policy innovations, and a community of stakeholders committed to driving the sector forward as an engine of social growth. The South African Transport Conference (SATC) held in Tshwane this week offered an exciting snapshot of an industry in the midst of rapid evolution, committed to growth and upskilling, with a…

Jul 17, 2024 Mobility

Minor relief, if any, expected for fuel prices in August

Following two consecutive months of substantial fuel decreases, the tide appears to be turning and South Africans can expect either minor relief at the pumps in petrol prices and slight increases to diesel and paraffin prices in August. According to the Automobile Association (AA), current unaudited data from the Central Energy Fund (CEF) is indicating these trends at mid-month. These trends are…

Jul 17, 2024 Mobility

Make Your Own Ranger Load Box Dividers to Create Multiple Storage Zones

The Ford Ranger has been built to help you get more out of life, whether you’re on the worksite, the campsite, or the school run. It’s full of smart features and ingenious design, like a drop-in bedliner1 on selected Ford Ranger variants that allows you to create partitions in the load box. “Specially moulded slots in the drop-in bedliner allow owners to make their own wooden partitions and…

Jul 17, 2024 Mobility

Opinion Piece: The missing puzzle piece - how breathalysers can transform road safety in South Africa

South Africa grapples with a grim reality on its roads. A staggering 58% of road fatalities involve alcohol, yet the true extent of this crisis remains obscured by a critical flaw: inaccurate post-accident data collection. This lack of reliable data hinders the implementation of effective law enforcement policies to curb drunk driving and its devastating consequences. The current system suffers…

Jul 16, 2024 Mobility

Drones deliver medicine, mail, money and spare parts to hardest-to-reach locations

Drone technology is taking off and cargo drones are being used successfully in supply chains around the world, to deliver things ranging from critical medicines, mail and money to spare parts and tissue samples. At the recent SAPICS Conference in Cape Town, Africa’s leading event for the supply chain profession, a panel of experts discussed the potential for drones to optimise supply chains for a…

Jul 16, 2024 Mobility

The Evolution of Electric Vehicles in Africa

With the growing need for sustainable solutions, the rise of electric vehicles is a huge green flag! Electric vehicles operate on batteries that can be recharged and prevent pollution by not emitting any gases into the atmosphere. Nowadays, next-generation batteries are used in electric vehicles that offer higher storage capacity, efficiency, and safety to electric vehicles. According to the…

Jul 16, 2024 Mobility

Township delivery services: Unlocking socio-economic benefits

Township delivery services are not just about convenience; they are pivotal in driving numerous socio-economic advantages. Delving beneath the surface of these services reveals a thriving industry that fosters employment, generates income, enhances mobility, contributes to crime reduction, and bolsters local businesses. According to Mpudi Maubane, National PR, Communications & Sponsorships Manager…

Jul 15, 2024 Mobility

New Light Vehicle inflation tracking below CPI

Used and New vehicle prices move in different directions New Light Vehicle price inflation in South Africa rose 5% year-on-year (y-o-y) in April 2024, the third successive month where New Vehicle price inflation has come in below Headline CPI (5.2% in April, as released by StatsSA). Andrew Hibbert, Auto Data Analyst & Team Lead at Lightstone, a provider of comprehensive data, analytics and…

Jul 15, 2024 Mobility

Opening of Parliament Address: President must announce incentives for Electric Vehicles

Zero Carbon Charge calls on President Ramaphosa to announce in his Opening of Parliament Address on Thursday that the new Government of National Unity (GNU) will prioritise the transition to electric vehicles (EVs), and set out measures to do this. The Minister of Electricity and Energy’s recent announcement that he plans to be “ultra-aggressive” on the rollout of renewable energy to ensure it…

Jul 15, 2024 Mobility

The invisible enemy in South Africa's logistics industry

The South African logistics industry is the backbone of the nation's economy, playing a vital role in driving trade and ensuring smooth supply chains. However, this sector, like many others, faces a hidden threat: internal fraud. While external incidents like cargo theft usually seize headlines, the damage inflicted by employees who exploit their positions of trust can be equally, if not more,…

Jul 12, 2024 Mobility

Volvo Trucks Shares Essential Tips for Truck Drivers During Extreme Weather Conditions

With South Africa in the grips of winter, icy conditions and disruptive storms have swept through the country in recent days. Many serious road accidents have already been reportedas a result of these extreme conditions, included several trucks that have skidded off roads orjackknifed. With more winter storm systems expected to hit the country in the next few days and weeks, Volvo Trucks South…

Jul 12, 2024 Mobility

Tips for driving through fog

Driving through fog will affect visibility, and it will also make it harder to gauge the distance between your vehicle and others. To stay safe and ensure road safety, it’s important to reduce speed and increase following distance, and to know when and how to use fog lights. Sometimes when driving through fog you can only see a few metres ahead, or the fog suddenly becomes thicker, and you can…

Jul 12, 2024 Mobility

FAW Trucks Southern Africa Clinches Gold At Nada Dealer Awards

FAW Trucks Southern Africa proudly secures the coveted Gold Award at the prestigious NADA Dealer Awards. This achievement reflects the company's unwavering dedication to delivering exceptional service and support to its customers and dealer network within the commercial vehicle industry. NADA Dealer Awards: Celebrating Excellence The NADA Dealer Awards, now in its 28th year are hosted annually by…

Jul 11, 2024 Mobility

Audi South Africa expands charging network with the addition of 150kW DC rapid public chargers in key national locations

Marking the third wave of investment into public charging infrastructure, Audi South Africa is again playing a major role in continuing to prepare South Africa for a future of widescale electric mobility. Following extensive investments in 2022 and 2023 – during which time Audi and its strategic partners GridCars and Rubicon added more than 120 DC and AC public charging points to the national…

Jul 11, 2024 Mobility

More disclosure across the entire value chain

The Retail Motor Industry Organisation (RMI) applaud the proactive stance being taken by the National Consumer Commission (NCC) to protect consumer rights. Prudence Moilwa, Head of Complaints and Investigations at the NCC was recently interviewed on the latest tribunal ruling where two used car dealers were fined and forced to refund their customers cash paid for inaccurately representing the…

Jul 11, 2024 Mobility

Digital taxi initiative WOWS SA Transport Conference

Delegates at the 42nd Southern African Transport Conference (SATC) currently underway at the CSIR International Convention Centre in Tshwane were surprised to find colourful minibus taxis parked inside the foyer of the venue. This was a departure from previous years, but proof of the ongoing integration of South Africa’s taxi industry into the mainstream of the country’s transportation planning…

Jul 10, 2024 Mobility

Understanding transport to design a better quality of life

SATC conference hears how transportation design can help society achieve its greatest aspirations. Transportation has a fundamental role in supporting a thriving society. However, in fulfilling this purpose, it is also dependent on certain foundational factors and policy levers. Understanding the complex interactions between these factors, as well as societal goals and transportation itself, is…

Jul 10, 2024 Mobility

 Bakwena's mid-year report: progress and plans for safer roads in 2024 

Bakwena Platinum Corridor Concessionaire (Pty) Ltd is pleased to share significant progress in enhancing the N1N4 route's safety and travel experience. With a dedicated investment of R300 million for 2024, Bakwena's construction and maintenance efforts are already delivering improvements, ensuring safer and smoother journeys for all road users. Bakwena prioritises the safety of their road users…

Jul 10, 2024 Mobility

Supply chain community urged to “unlearn” in order to fight climate change

Experts stress that to fight climate change, it is critical to transform supply chains as they produce around 60% of all carbon emissions globally. But while greener supply chains are a growing imperative, the supply chain community is “unengaged” on the topic, according to international author and renowned circular supply chain specialist Deborah Dull. United States-based Dull was speaking at…

Jul 10, 2024 Mobility

Celebrating 15 Years of Defying Expectations – The New Rimac Nevera 15th Anniversary Edition

In 2009, Mate Rimac started Rimac Automobili having been told not to bother building a car company in Croatia – it was impossible. In 2011 he set a whole host of world records in his self-converted all-electric BMW based on an 1984 3-series, having been told all he was building was a washing machine. Then, in 2018, Rimac Automobili announced the world’s first all-electric hypercar, with…

Jul 10, 2024 Mobility

Stellantis Extends Benchmark Hybrid Powertrain to More Nameplates to Satisfy European Customer Demand

Leveraging its unique multi-energy approach, Stellantis is swiftly reacting to the quick ramp-up of customer orders in Europe for hybrid models, especially those with the newest eDCT advanced hybrid technology. The Company will offer 30 hybrid models this year and plans to introduce six more through 2026. Hybrid variants deliver exceptional driving experience while ensuring reduced CO2 emissions…

Jul 09, 2024 Mobility

Battery hassles during the Winter months

Battery issues are a common complaint from car owners during the Winter months. Dewald Ranft, Chairman of the Motor Industry Workshop Association (MIWA), a proud association of the Retail Motor Industry Organisation (RMI) says the cold can be tough, especially on weak batteries. “As it gets colder it becomes harder for the engine to turn over because the oil inside the engine thickens which…

Jul 09, 2024 Mobility

TETA: New skills for a new era of transport

The South African transport sector is in the midst of a fundamental overhaul of its training and upskilling infrastructure, to capacitate the sector for radical socialand technological change. This was the word from MaphefoAnno-Frempong, CEO of the Transport Education Training Authority (TETA), during a keynotepresentation at the 42nd South African Transport Conference. Opening the conference,…

Jul 09, 2024 Mobility

Value-added products help protect your prized vehicle, but might impact interest and monthly payments

The number of registered cars in South Africa has been on a steady increase for as long as the records show. According to the National Traffic Information System (NaTIS) data, South Africa had 11 760 886 registered self-propelled vehicles in January 2023. This is a sizable increase from the 9 600 412 vehicles recorded at the end of 2015, which supports the view that car ownership remains an…

Jul 09, 2024 Mobility

Creecy commits to fixing SA transport

New transport minister pledges to address SA transport challenges, and highlights progress made, as she opens 42nd Southern African Transport Conference. The South African transport sector is not working as it should, but the new South African government is committed to addressing the nation’s many, serious transport challenges over the next five years – and is already making good progress. This…

Jul 08, 2024 Mobility

Leading transport operators are not born. They are made.

An increased demand for road transport, largely driven by the rail service challenges South Africa has faced, has left many local supply chains heavily reliant on road fleet operators. This increased demand has led to growing pains as the industry adjusts. “The factors that will determine the leading transport operators in the near future are very different to those that have traditionally been…

Jul 08, 2024 Mobility

OMODA & JAECOO partner with Absa for vehicle finance

OMODA & JAECOO are pleased to announce a new partnership with Absa, a collaboration aimed at providing South African new-car buyers with fuss-free vehicle finance solutions. At the start of June 2024, the fast-growing automotive marques – which are together known as Brand O&J – entered into a vehicle-finance alliance agreement with what is one of Africa’s largest diversified financial services…

Jul 08, 2024 Mobility

Historic Regional Logistics and Transport Conference to Unlock Sub-Saharan Africa's Potential at the Futuroad Expo

The Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport’s branches in South Africa and Zimbabwe have announced their first-ever collaboration – at the Futuroad Expo taking place from 19 to 21 November at the Nasrec Expo Centre in Johannesburg. The Institute will be hosting a three-day conference under the theme “Unlocking Sub-Saharan Africa's Potential: Transforming Transport and Logistics for a…

Jul 08, 2024 Mobility

Peugeot integrates ChatGPT as standard across its entire line-up

Having been one of the first car manufacturers to integrate ChatGPT into its models during a large-scale pilot phase, PEUGEOT is now making artificial intelligence standard across its entire range. Integrated into the emblematic i-Cockpit® and activated via the voice assistant "OK PEUGEOT", ChatGPT answers all of your questions and offers an array of innovative services. ALLURE: PEUGEOT is now…

Jul 08, 2024 Mobility

Renault Group joins New Energies, the Coalition for transport and logistics

Renault Group recognizes the importance of decarbonizing the transport and logistics industry and is committed to playing an active role in this transition. By joining the New Energies Coalition, Renault Group aims to collaborate with industry experts to develop innovative and sustainable solutions for the supply chain freight, and the utilization of AI in supply chain operations. Renault Group…

Jul 08, 2024 Mobility

The new BMW R 1300 GS Adventure

The new BMW R 1300 GS Adventure: When it comes to motorcycle adventure and long-distance touring, this is the rock in the surf. An almost completely newly designed model with enhanced adventure expertise across the board. "The appearance of the new BMW R 1300 GS Adventure is sure to attract attention. The big GS is not only visually different from its almost dainty sister. Never before have…

Jul 05, 2024 Mobility

SAPRA hopeful fuel prices will continue to drop

It would appear things are on the up for cash-strapped South Africans, thanks to the elections and, most recently, a drop in fuel prices. The Gross National Happiness Today (GNH.today) project reported this week that the happiness levels in the country have been trending upward since the election results were announced last month and, giving citizens even more reason to smile, fuel prices dropped…

Jul 05, 2024 Mobility

Hino continues its domination of customer service survey

Hino South Africa has continued its dominance of the quarterly DataTrack customer service survey filling top positions in all aspects of the research for each of the first two quarters of 2024. “Not only was Hino top in the combined score for each quarter, but also headed the tables for the various segments, being sales, service and parts,” explained Itumeleng Segage, Hino General Manager. “This…

Jul 04, 2024 Mobility

Stellantis Joins with France’s CEA to Pursue Next-Generation Battery Cell Technology

Stellantis and CEA, one of the world’s most innovative research institutions, today announced a new, five-year collaboration that targets in-house design of next-generation battery cells for electric vehicles. This joint research program includes designing advanced technology cells with higher performance, a longer lifespan and a lower carbon footprint at competitive costs, which can lead to more…

Jul 04, 2024 Mobility

Which Fleet Safety Awards’ category fits?

Entries for the Fleet Safety Awards have been open for almost two months giving entrants plenty of time to look at the different categories available. While some may immediately know which categories are the perfect fit for them, others may hesitate, uncertain which of the five to enter. The CEO of MasterDrive, Eugene Herbert, says the categories in the Fleet Safety Awards cater to a wide range…

Jul 04, 2024 Mobility

Electric taxis: A complicated process

There are many economic and environmental benefits to seeing the South African taxi industry move towards electric vehicles. But achieving that would mean dealing with a complex web of issues, a new paper notes. South Africa’s minibus-taxi industry is a key part of the country’s economy, providing affordable, accessible mass transport. At the same time, the taxi fleet uses carbon-emitting…

Jul 03, 2024 Mobility

Stellantis Invests Additional $55 Million In Archer Following Recent Flight Test Milestone

Stellantis N.V. (NYSE: STLA / Euronext Milan: STLAM / Euronext Paris: STLAP) and Archer Aviation Inc. (NYSE:ACHR), a leader in electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, today announced Archer has received an additional $55 million investment from Stellantis under the companies’ strategic funding agreement following the achievement of its transition flight test milestone last month.…

Jul 03, 2024 Mobility

Recovery in the logistics sector continued in May, albeit at a slower pace

The Ctrack Transport and Freight Index (Ctrack TFI) increased in May to reach an index level of 125.6, an increase of 1.7% compared to April’s level, and 2.5% above year-ago levels. This marks the third consecutive monthly increase in the index and an early signal that the transport sector’s contribution to overall GDP could again move into positive territory in Q2. The sub-sectors of the index…

Jul 03, 2024 Mobility

Parents, these are the top 7 car seat mistakes

South Africa’s road traffic fatality rate is well above the global average, and road traffic accidents are still one of the top causes of death in children younger than 10 years old. It's crucial to ensure a child passenger’s safety by using a car seat if there’s one available and using a seatbelt. However, when it comes to car seats, there are some common mistakes that could impact their…

Jul 03, 2024 Mobility

Winds of Ministerial change through core Departments

The President's announcement of the new Cabinet on 1 July 2024 raises concerns about political motivations, rather than a focused effort to address the country's pressing issues. Despite the rhetoric about "delivery," there are indications that the selections may be driven more by political calculations than a genuine desire to tackle the critical problems facing the nation, such as issues with…

Jul 03, 2024 Mobility

TORSUS and Rheinmetall Military Vehicles Partner to Develop Special Operations Vehicles

TORSUS, manufacturers of the world’s toughest, heavy-duty off-road buses, and Rheinmetall Military Vehicles (RMMV) has today announced a strategic partnership to address the evolving needs of special operations forces. The agreement, signed at EUROSATORY 2024 with the support of MAN CEO, Alexander Vaskamp, focuses on adapting MAN TGE and TORSUS TERRASTORM models to meet the latest strenuous…

Jul 03, 2024 Mobility

Ampere leads a groundbreaking battery strategy for Renault Group with LFP technology and Cell-to-Pack solutions

Ampere, the European intelligent EV pure player, today announced an ambitious battery plan integrating LFP (Lithium Iron Phosphate) technology alongside the NCM (Nickel Cobalt Manganese) batteries currently used by Renault Group. This decision is an effective and cutting-edge response to market volatility and change in technologies. Ampere works hand in hand with its suppliers LG Energy Solution…

Jul 02, 2024 Mobility

Affordability choking SA new vehicle sales

With yet another year-on-year decline in new vehicle sales, leading vehicle and asset finance house, WesBank, says affordability is the biggest factor limiting growth. This view is supported by the TransUnion SA Vehicle Pricing Index that showed that new vehicle prices rose 4,7% for the first quarter of 2024 compared to last year. The marginal increase in the average loan amount is evidence that…

Jul 02, 2024 Mobility

Fuel price drop – time to relax?

After several consecutive increases of fuel prices, motorists will be elated by the decrease in fuel prices this week by R1.10 per litre for ULP95 and 45c per litre for diesel. Waiting for the petrol price decrease is, however, not the only way motorists can reduce their fuel spend. While prices will see a considerable drop, does this mean motorists can relax when it comes to conserving fuel? The…

Jul 02, 2024 Mobility

How to raise the bar in port operation efficiency and productivity

In the ever-evolving world of maritime logistics, optimising the efficiency and productivity of port operations is essential for staying competitive. With global supply chains becoming increasingly complex, port operators are under pressure to improve efficiency, productivity, and safety. Lenny Naidoo, acting National Operations Manager at Heavy Lift, a division of CFAO Equipment SA, says the…

Jul 02, 2024 Mobility

Hino’s offer seen as “too good to be true”

Hino South Africa’s Guaranteed Future Value (GFV) financing offer for leasing a Hino 700 truck-tractor impressed visitors on the Hino stand at the recent Nampo Harvest Day Agricultural Show in Bothaville, that some believed it was too good to be true. This was until the offer was spelled out in detail and they could understand how it works and that it was, indeed, an amazing, flexible finance…

Jul 02, 2024 Mobility

Why aftersales is the most important part of your vehicle purchase

Purchasing a vehicle, whether it’s brand new or pre-owned, is a big financial commitment and buyers need assurance that their purchase offers value for money and low risk. There’s nothing better than the feeling of taking home your new vehicle and Mazda wants its customers to enjoy that ownership for many years. This is why Mazda now offers a 5-year / unlimited km warranty on all its vehicles. As…

Jul 02, 2024 Mobility

Is there a “best time” to buy or sell a used vehicle?

When it comes to selling or buying a pre-owned car, several factors come into play. However, one often overlooked aspect that can significantly impact these transactions is understanding the optimal times to engage in such processes. According to Rikus Blomerus, Chief Marketing Officer at WeBuyCars, strategic timing can greatly influence outcomes such as maximising returns in the pre-owned car…

Jul 02, 2024 Mobility

JLR and Meridian extend audio collaboration for electrified future

JLR has extended its long-term engineering collaboration with British audio innovator Meridian to supply and develop high-performance in-car audio technology for its next generation of electric vehicle architectures. Since 2010, JLR has been working with the Cambridge-based audio specialist to develop the audio systems in all vehicles across its house of brands: Range Rover, Defender, Discovery…

Jul 01, 2024 Mobility

Aramco to acquire 10% equity interest in HORSE Powertrain Limited, the new global powertrain solutions company established by Renault Group and Geely

Aramco, one of the world’s leading integrated energy and chemicals companies, has signed definitive agreements to acquire a 10% equity interest in HORSE Powertrain Limited, the new global powertrain solutions company, alongside Renault Group, Zhejiang Geely Holding Group and Geely Automobile Holdings Limited (“Geely”). HORSE Powertrain Limited was formed on May 31, 2024, by Renault Group and…

Jul 01, 2024 Mobility

Armoured Mobility reveals its Battle-Tested Land Rover on Display in Sandton

Armoured Mobility has once again demonstrated the superior capabilities of its armoured vehicles by putting them through the most extreme tests imaginable. Our battle-tested Land Rover, showcased at Securex 2024, was subjected to an array of gunfire, from handguns to high-powered rifles, and emerged with zero penetration into the cabin. This impressive display solidifies Armoured Mobility's…

Jul 01, 2024 Mobility

Koelnmesse celebrates 100th anniversary with opening of Confex

To mark its 100th anniversary, Koelnmesse is hosting a grand opening ceremony for Europe’s most cutting-edge event and congress centre: Confex. The technologically and environmentally groundbreaking new building creates new opportunities for innovative event formats in the region. After almost three years of construction, a core element of the one-billion-euro investment programme Koelnmesse 3.0…

Jul 01, 2024 Mobility

Group launched to strengthen links between academia and the automotive industry

On Friday 21 June 2024, the Advanced Propulsion Centre UK (APC) marked the beginning of a new academic and industry partnership via the launch of the Academic Advisory Group (AAG) created to address automotive industry challenges. Commenting on the inaugural meeting of the group, Stakeholder Engagement Director at the APC, Philippa Oldham said: “In order to sustain and develop the academic…

Jun 28, 2024 Mobility

Good fuel price news expected for July

Unaudited data from the Central Energy Fund (CEF) is indicating decreases to fuel prices – particularly significant drops to petrol prices – for July which, says the Automobile Association (AA), will bring much needed relief to embattled consumers. The Association says all fuel prices are anticipated to fall when the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy (DMRE) officially adjusts prices for…

Jun 27, 2024 Mobility

Volvo’s electric trucks reach 80 million kilometres in five years

Volvo’s electric trucks have driven more than 80 million kilometres or 2000 laps around the world since Volvo launched its first electric truck models in 2019. These trucks have reduced CO2 emissions and at the same time improved the working environment for drivers significantly. New monitoring data for Volvo’s fleet of electric trucks reveal that they have driven more than 80 million kilometres…

Jun 26, 2024 Mobility

LEVC’s e-mobility transition accelerates as new L380 luxury MPV goes on sale in China

LEVC celebrates another landmark in its history with the start of sales of its L380 Multi-Purpose Vehicle (MPV) in China, the first of a new range of innovative, spacious, fully electric models, which will see the brand accelerate its transition from a high-end taxi manufacturer to a leading provider of e-mobility solutions. Details for pricing and specification have been confirmed for the…

Jun 26, 2024 Mobility

Clark Announces American Homecoming

Clark Material Handling is pleased to announce the establishment of its Global Headquarters in the United States. This move returns a premier American brand, the creator of the modern forklift, from Korea back to the US and lays the foundation for a global growth strategy that begins with a homecoming. Clark’s Global Headquarters will merge with Clark Material Handling Company (CMHC), in…

Jun 25, 2024 Mobility

GetWorth: Unlocking the Value of Your Vehicle Trade-In

As automotive markets continue to evolve, trading in a vehicle has become an increasingly popular option for consumers looking to upgrade their driving experience. Wesley Procter, Head of Sales at getWorth, sheds some light on the benefits of trading in a vehicle. "One of the biggest challenges in this industry is to determine a realistic value for a car. We offer an innovative solution for…

Jun 25, 2024 Mobility

New EX30 leads Volvo to 46% share of South Africa’s EV market

Volvo Car South Africa is pleased to report that the new Volvo EX30 is already proving exceptionally popular with local buyers, having accounted for almost a third of total electric vehicle (EV) sales in the country over the first four months of 2024, while also claiming the title of SA’s best-selling electric car. Over the same period, the Volvo brand boasted a remarkable 46% share of the…

Jun 25, 2024 Mobility

Changes in Legislation and Theft, Fraud, and Corruption identified as top concerns for the Transport and Logistics sector in 2024

The transport and logistics sector is facing significant challenges in 2024, with changes in legislation and regulation, as well as theft, fraud, and corruption, identified as the primary concerns, according to the latest Allianz Risk Barometer. They are followed by Business interruption (26%), Cyber incidents (23%) and Natural catastrophes (22%). The report, based on insights from over 3,000…

Jun 25, 2024 Mobility

Seeing through the mist

Schools have broken up for the winter holidays and drivers may be preparing for trips to warmer weather in Durban, a break in Cape Town or to visit family across South Africa. As it is winter, one is more likely to encounter misty conditions which can significantly impact visibility and therefore road safety. MasterDrive recommends following these tips when driving in misty conditions: If weather…

Jun 25, 2024 Mobility

Here’s what to do if you’ve been in a car accident

By Keletso Mpisane, Head of Blink by MiWay Car accidents are scary and overwhelming ordeals. Unfortunately, they can happen at any place and time. This makes it important for drivers to equip themselves with the knowledge to cope when in a crash. It's difficult to focus while the shock and injuries of an accident are fresh. This is why Keletso Mpisane, Head of Blink by MiWay says, “it’s crucial…

Jun 25, 2024 Mobility

Digital wallet usage becomes ‘habit’ for SA consumers

Digital wallet payments in South Africa are now a habit, with consumers preferring to use contactless payments. So said Lineshree Moodley, Visa SA country manager, unpacking the results of the SpendTrend24 report in Sandton, this morning. A Visa and Discovery Bank compilation, the report is based on data from 2019 to 2023, consisting of over 13 billion transactions made on more than 60 million…

Jun 25, 2024 Mobility

Failing to plan, planning to fail

As drivers take full advantage of downtime during the school holidays and set their sights on holiday destinations across South Africa, it is essential to place emphasis on the subsequent preparation and planning of these holidays. This will help create a worry-free, relaxing journey and, consequently, holiday. The CEO of MasterDrive Eugene Herbert says, “Planning long-distance journeys is of…

Jun 21, 2024 Mobility

Recognising South Africa’s heroes: The #ThankYouTrucker campaign returns

The trucking industry forms the backbone of South Africa’s economy, ensuring the seamless movement of goods across the country. To honour the exceptional individuals who drive this critical sector, IVECO, in partnership with the Road Freight Association (RFA), proudly announces the return of the #ThankYouTrucker campaign. Now in its fourth year, the #ThankYouTrucker initiative is dedicated to…

Jun 21, 2024 Mobility

FAW Trucks Southern Africa Celebrates 30th Anniversary with Historic Vehicle Swap

FAW Trucks South Africa, marks its 30-year milestone with a touching exchange. In a symbolic gesture, FAW swapped out one of the last remaining 4th-generation models from a loyal customer’s fleet. FAW commemorated a loyal customer's long-standing partnership with the brand by replacing one of the very first units in their fleet, a 2009 15.180FLS model, which happens to be one of the last…

Jun 21, 2024 Mobility

Hijacking: 7 ways to avoid becoming a statistic

The latest figures from the SA Police Service show that 66 cars are being stolen daily across South Africa – an increase of 6.5% from 2023. Information from Tracker shows that hi-jackings account for 55% of vehicle crime incidents among their customer base. So how do you reduce your chances of becoming the latest statistic? It’s all about staying alert when you’re behind the wheel, says King…

Jun 21, 2024 Mobility

What’s in a name?

Replacing parts can be a costly issue, but since the implementation of the Competition Commission’s new Guidelines in July 2021, the consumer is finally allowed to shop around and use “non-original” spare parts which generally come with a more competitive price tag. “But,” says Gunther Schmitz, Director and Chairman at Right to Repair South Africa, “It is hard for the consumer to know which parts…

Jun 21, 2024 Mobility

Look after your car this winter

With the winter cold setting in across South Africa, now is the best time to perform maintenance on your vehicle. The AA says many problems that stay unnoticed during warmer months can be exacerbated with lower temperatures and that checking these problems now is a good way to extend the life your vehicle. “Research shows that people tend to drive less during winter. This is an ideal opportunity…

Jun 20, 2024 Mobility

Reimagine Africa's Future: Smarter Mobility Africa Summit 2024

Connecting. Collaborating. Creating. The Smarter Mobility Africa summit is your gateway to the future of urban transportation in Africa. We connect visionary leaders, influencers, and organizations to the information and connections they need to unlock a world of opportunity. To register or book a stand visit https://wearevuka.com/mobility/sma-summit/ or email mobilitymarketing@wearevuka.com 2024…

Jun 20, 2024 Mobility

Early Awards Entries: Your Headstart to Victory

The Fleet Safety Awards 2024 have officially kicked off, and entries are steadily pouring in as organizations and individuals take advantage of the upgraded and simplified platform. However, MasterDrive is sweetening the deal further by offering incredible prizes to those who seize the opportunity and submit their entries before 17 July, marking the Early Awards Entries period. Not only does the…

Jun 20, 2024 Mobility

Car buying more stressful than house purchases according to young people

Young people in the UK find the thought of buying a car more stressful than buying a home, according to a new survey. The ‘2024 Consumer attitudes to AI’ survey carried out by tech company Phyron also discovered that the majority of people under the age of 40 are increasingly open to AI (artificial intelligence) assistance where it has the potential to reduce stress and save them money. Young…

Jun 20, 2024 Mobility

Alfa Romeo Junior VELOCE debuts new 280-CV 100% electric motor

A few days ahead of the dynamic debut of Alfa Romeo Junior, where insiders will be testing the brand's new compact sports car at the Balocco Proving Ground (Vercelli province), the Alfa Romeo engineering development team has finalized the dynamic development of the project. Tests have shown the output of the electric motor to be 280 hp, in line with the Giulia, Stelvio and Tonale VELOCE models.…

Jun 20, 2024 Mobility

Know your rights with the NFO – get back to basics

South African consumers across the board find themselves increasingly under pressure due to the high cost of living and other factors outside their control, such as the increasing food and petrol prices, with most of their budget going towards essentials. “What is concerning, is the shrinking budget allocation on essential items, such as education, healthcare and savings,” says Howard Gabriels,…

Jun 19, 2024 Mobility

MasterDrive Driver Search for the win!

The MasterDrive Driver Search completed on a high this year with its winner securing first place in his class at the Simola Hillclimb in May. Winner, Shuaib Dhansay, impressed not only with his driving skills that placed him first in his class but with his positive attitude in the face of unexpected contingencies. The General Manager of coastal regions at MasterDrive, Eugene ‘Gino’ Nourse, says…

Jun 19, 2024 Mobility

Top supply chain conference unpacks South Africa’s ports and logistics crises, life-threatening drug shortages, earth-saving sustainability initiatives

The 46th annual SAPICS Conference saw more than 750 supply chain managers from 30 countries across Africa and around the world meet in Cape Town to explore this increasingly important profession’s current challenges and opportunities, to learn and share knowledge. The conference is the leading event in Africa for supply chain professionals. According to The Professional Body for Supply Chain…

Jun 19, 2024 Mobility

Positive outlook for most fuel prices for July

Unaudited mid-month fuel data from the Central Energy Fund (CEF) is indicating a decrease to prices for all fuels in July, with ULP93 currently showing the biggest decrease. But, says the Automobile Association (AA), this may change ahead of the official adjustment by the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy (DMRE) at the end of the month. Based on the current data, ULP95 is showing a…

Jun 19, 2024 Mobility

Empowering Learning: Daimler Truck Southern Africa donates computer lab to Phelindaba Maths, Science, and ICT School of Specialisation

Daimler Truck Southern Africa officially opened The Computer Lab at Phelindaba MSI SOS in Atteridgeville. The computer lab is now equipped with computers, screens as well as a projector and screen for the teacher. The need for a donation towards the computer lab was established in 2023 when DTSA visited the school to hand over Mathematical and English handbooks and study guides to learners and…

Jun 19, 2024 Mobility

You’ll love these garage design ideas

A well-designed garage should be able to store your car and still have some space for other storage items, whether it’s household junk, boats, motorbikes, bicycles and/or items such as gym equipment. “Your garage is one of the most useful spaces in your house. Obviously, it’s a place to store your car, but it also offers additional storage space and could even be a workshop,” says Jarrod Berman,…

Jun 18, 2024 Mobility

Addressing operational efficiency and port congestion in SA Ports: A factual analysis of the World Bank CPPI report

The recently released World Bank (WB) Container Port Performance Index (CPPI) report is damning - harming the reputation of our container terminals. At the outset, it is important to mention that the WB reports on a 2023 period, which does not take into account corrective action taken since then, nor does it measure progress achieved since Transnet has been under new management as part of the…

Jun 18, 2024 Mobility

Most important investment in the youth

Youth Month not only marks a significant day in South Africa’s history but is an important month to consider the future of the country’s youth. An essential aspect of equipping the youth to reach their full potential in the future is providing the skills to handle one of today’s biggest threats to their safety. According to the Road Accident Fund (RAF), 40% of road deaths involve the youth. The…

Jun 14, 2024 Mobility

Car sales contract in May off the back of election anxieties

Both the new car market and used car market hit the skids in May. New car passenger sales fell by -11.7% year-on-year while used car sales were not that far behind, falling by -10.5% year-on-year and -3% month-on-month. “While the drop in sales is indicative of a market that is coming under pressure, one must be cognizant of consumer uncertainty surrounding the elections, which impacted May car…

Jun 14, 2024 Mobility

Global electricity demand for EVs to skyrocket 630% by 2030

Last year - 2023 - proved exceptionally impactful when it comes to global electric vehicle (EV) adoption as EV-driven energy demand rocketed more than 120% compared to 2022. Major changes are evident in Europe, the United States, and China. Finbold found that the largest change in absolute terms took place in Europe and went from 11,000 gigawatt hours (GWh) annually to 28,000 GWh. In relative…

Jun 14, 2024 Mobility

Stellantis commits to robust customer care promise

Stellantis has committed to a series of guarantees for customers owning its vehicles within their warranty period. The company’s Customer Care Promise puts the customer at the very centre of the ownership experience, delivering service commitments aimed at benchmarking the greatest customer satisfaction in the industry. “Whilst customers are at the heart of Stellantis, their satisfaction with…

Jun 13, 2024 Mobility

Mercedes-Benz South Africa Unleashes the New Vito: Elevating Connectivity and Comfort

Mercedes-Benz Vans is pleased to introduce the new Vito to the South African market. Taking connectivity and comfort to the next level, the new Vito offers a distinct upgrade in terms of design, equipment, driver-assistance systems and functionality. Most notably, the new Vito has made a significant leap forward in terms of connectivity, allowing commercial customers to benefit from…

Jun 13, 2024 Mobility

HYVIA and HYPE announce partnership to accelerate decarbonized hydrogen mobility

YVIA, a joint-venture between Renault Group and Plug dedicated to hydrogen mobility, and HYPE, an independent pure player in zero-emission mobility and a pioneer in hydrogen taxis, have announced a partnership to accelerate decarbonized hydrogen mobility, supported by: A shared vision: decarbonized hydrogen mobility is one of the solutions needed to make the necessary energy transition a success…

Jun 13, 2024 Mobility

SVI AK47 Golf 8 GTI unveiled as armoured rapid-response hot hatch

SVI Engineering, leading specialist manufacturer of armoured products, is proud to reveal the new SVI AK47 Golf 8 GTI, a bullet-resistant rapid-response vehicle based on Volkswagen’s popular hot hatch and developed specifically for South Africa. Offering protection against handguns and rifles up to 7.62x39 mm – importantly, including the pervasive AK47 – the discreetly armoured SVI AK47 Golf 8…

Jun 11, 2024 Mobility

Armoured Mobility to Exhibit at Securex South Africa 2024

Armoured Mobility is excited to announce its participation in Securex South Africa 2024, the continent’s premier security and fire exhibition. The event will be held from June 11-13 at the Gallagher Convention Centre in Johannesburg, offering the ideal platform for Armoured Mobility to showcase its latest innovations in armoured vehicles. Securex South Africa attracts security professionals,…

Jun 11, 2024 Mobility

Who adjusted the temperature???? Why your car needs some extra TLC in winter

With temperatures plummeting in many regions around South Africa, coupled with flooding and icy conditions, Vishal Premlall, national director of the Tyre, Equipment, Parts Association (TEPA), a proud association of the Retail Motor Industry Organisation (RMI), talks about why it is important to get your car ‘winter ready’ and what this means. “The weather in general is becoming more…

Jun 11, 2024 Mobility

Tips for buying a used car

Navigating the maze of options when purchasing a used car demands careful consideration. Before investing, identify your budget and priorities. Ensure to include items like extended warranties and maintenance costs in your plans. “With these car care plans in place, you can drive your new, previously loved vehicle with peace of mind,” advises Jarrod Berman, Managing Director of MotorHappy, a…

Jun 10, 2024 Mobility

Renault Group positions itself at the forefront of innovation in automotive logistics with Exotec

Renault Group is today presenting its new-generation logistics facility in Villeroy, which is 100% automated and equipped with the system from Exotec, a French industrial robotics company. This collaboration is a world first for a car manufacturer. Skypod® robots facilitate the work of operators by picking items at height, thereby eliminating the risk of falling. The time it takes to prepare…

Jun 10, 2024 Mobility

Beware parking pitfalls

If asked what the top three locations of car accidents are, it is unlikely parking lots would be quoted by many. Yet, it is one of the most common places for collisions. According to statistics from the National Safety Council in the USA, there are over 50 000 accidents in parking lots each year accounting for approximately 20% of all car crashes. What may be even more surprising than those…

Jun 07, 2024 Mobility

Mystery shopper OEM research provides startling results – 36% of OEM dealers non-compliant

Results from a mystery shopper exercise conducted by Right to Repair South Africa, (R2RSA) covering 99% of the automotive brands available in South Africa, has revealed some startling results with as many as 36% of OEMs showing total non-compliance to the Guidelines and 5% providing false information. Kate Elliott, R2RSA Chief Executive Officer says they are concerned by the false information…

Jun 07, 2024 Mobility

Bakwena volunteers ensured smooth national & provincial elections along the N1N4 route

Bakwena Platinum Corridor Concessionaire (Pty) Ltd (Bakwena), had 38 of their volunteers assist at 8 voting stations during the elections held last Wednesday the 29th May 2024. These volunteers, through the assistance of Bakwena, have been trained in partnership with the South African Red Cross Society in First Aid level 1, 2 and 3 and form part of Bakwena’s Disaster Management Teams within the…

Jun 07, 2024 Mobility

Spikes vs tyres: SVI puts heavy-duty runflat rings to the test

In response to a marked increase in spiking incidents around South Africa, SVI Engineering, leading specialist manufacturer of armoured products, has conducted real-world testing to demonstrate the effectiveness of the “Flats Over” runflat tyre safety band system. In recent months, authorities have noted a significant increase in spiking incidents, particularly on main routes around Gauteng and…

Jun 06, 2024 Mobility

MOL and Volvo Penta unite to develop full electric 4X4 RoRo tractors

MOL and Volvo Penta are collaborating on trials for a pioneering electric 4X4 RoRo tractor, the RME225, utilizing DFDS's facilities at the Port of Ghent. This collaboration focuses on integrating a purpose-built electric driveline aiming to support customers in remaining competitive and profitable through the energy transition. The initiative aims to elevate material handling operations for fleet…

Jun 06, 2024 Mobility

Win 50K in new Fleet Safety Awards entry – simple and easy

The third Fleet Safety Awards was launched in May and the number of entries is steadily climbing. Following valuable lessons learnt from last year, the entry process is significantly simplified and improved. There are now only three simple steps to enter the running to be Awarded as a leader in road safety. The CEO of MasterDrive, Eugene Herbert, says several changes are responsible for the…

Jun 05, 2024 Mobility

Ethekwini sets the stage forsustainable growth and supply chain resilience with Kwazulu-Natal’s largest supply chain and procurement conference

KwaZulu-Natal’s largest supply chain and procurement conferencewill return to Durban this year after a four-year hiatus. Hosted by eThekwini Municipality in partnership with Smart Procurement World, the fifth KwaZulu-Natal Smart Procurement World eventwill bring together stakeholders committed to enhancing the region’s infrastructure and manufacturing capabilities to drive sustainable growth and…

Jun 05, 2024 Mobility

Building relationships with commercial drivers for safer roads

South African roads are gripped in an ongoing safety crisis, with thousands of fatalities every year across the country. Justin Manson, Sales Director at Webfleet, Bridgestone’s globally trusted fleet management solution discusses how fleet owners can foster better relationships with drivers to create safer roads, protection of goods and better overall driver well-being. The Department of…

Jun 05, 2024 Mobility

From Chaos to Clarity: Mastering ESG Data for Informed Decision-Making and Smarter Business Strategies – CILTSA ESG Conference

The Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport: South Africa (CILTSA) is tackling the growing challenge of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) data and data management with its upcoming conference, “From Data to Decisions: Utilising ESG Data for Smarter Business Strategies.” Taking place on Thursday 25 July at the Fairways Hotel in Randpark, Johannesburg, this one-day event will…

Jun 05, 2024 Mobility

Fuel price cuts bring school holiday cheer to families and retailers alike

Winter has finally arrived and so has a respite in the fuel price as of Wednesday 5 June, just in time for families who will be looking forward to the upcoming school holidays. Lebo Ramolahloane, Vice Chairman of the South African Petroleum Retailers Association (SAPRA), representing the interest of numerous petroleum retailers in South Africa and a proud association of the Retail Motor Industry…

Jun 05, 2024 Mobility

Recovery in the logistics sector continued during April 2024

After declining notably in the first two months of the year, the Ctrack Transport and Freight Index (Ctrack TFI) increased in March and April to reach an index level of 123.4, an increase of 2.8% compared to March’s level, and 1.5% above year-ago levels. Except for the two sub-sectors (sea freight and storage & warehousing) that declined, activity in all other sub-sectors advanced on a monthly…

Jun 04, 2024 Mobility

Charged for success with lithium-ion batteries

Within South Africa’s unpredictable energy environment, the lithium-ion battery has emerged as the star player for operations wanting to ensure their material handling equipment experiences as little downtime as possible. From forklifts and pallet jacks, to automated guided vehicles (AGVs), lithium-ion batteries offer unparalleled advantages, including longer lifespan, faster charging times and…

Jun 03, 2024 Mobility

Supply chain professionals will meet in Cape Town to explore diverse topics - from AI, blood, circularity and drones tofinance, healthcare, piracy and ports

Hundreds of supply chain practitioners from across Africa and around the world will meet in Cape Town next week for the annual SAPICS Conference, Africa’s premier skills development, knowledge sharing and networking event for the profession. Hosted by the Professional Body for Supply Chain Management (SAPICS), this year’s gathering represents a vital opportunityfor supply chain managers to…

Jun 03, 2024 Mobility

Prioritising fleet driver safety

The convenience of e-commerce transactions during and following the upheavals of Covid has catalysed South Africa's embrace of online retail and fuelled a substantial contribution to heightened activity within the nation's freight and logistics sector. As reported by Mordor Intelligence, the industry's 2023 value of R402 billion has a projected upward growth trajectory to around R590 billion by…

May 31, 2024 Mobility

AI-controlled stations can charge electric cars at a personal price

As more and more people drive electric cars, congestion and queues can occur when many people need to charge at the same time. A new study from Chalmers University of Technology in Sweden shows how AI-controlled charging stations, through smart algorithms, can offer electric vehicle users personalised prices, and thus minimise both price and waiting time for customers. But the researchers point…

May 31, 2024 Mobility

Changing the Rhythm of Trucking at RFA Convention 2024

“Cometh the hour, cometh the trucker … Remember that YOU are my Man in the Arena”. These powerful words and significant call to action, spoken by Road Freight Association (RFA) Chairperson Penwell Lunga, were the high impact opening of the 2024 Convention. Themed ‘Changing the Rhythm of Trucking’, RFA Convention 2024 took place on 24 and 25 May at the Arabella Hotel in Hermanus, Western Cape. In…

May 31, 2024 Mobility

Renault Group and Geely announce the creation of leading Powertrain Technology Company, “HORSE Powertrain Limited”

Following the joint venture agreement signed on July 11, 2023, and after having obtained the approval of the relevant authorities, Renault Group, Geely Holding Group (Geely Holding), Geely Automobile Holdings Limited (Geely Auto) (collectively referred to above as “Geely”) have officially created HORSE Powertrain Limited, headquartered in London, United Kingdom. Luca de Meo, CEO Renault Group…

May 31, 2024 Mobility

Unique “mobility hotel” to accelerate green transport in Gothenburg's inner city

Sweden's first Mobility Hotel is now opening in Nordstan, one of Sweden’s largest shopping and business centres. The mobility hotel will facilitate the quiet and emission-free transport of goods and people in the inner city. It’s a large-scale and smart investment in combined micromobility and micrologistics. The city centre of Gothenburg will be more spacious, cleaner and even nicer. A handful…

May 30, 2024 Mobility

Toyota, Subaru and Mazda Commit to New Engine Development for the Electrification Era Toward Carbon Neutrality

Toyota Motor Corporation (Toyota), Subaru Corporation (Subaru), and Mazda Motor Corporation (Mazda) have each committed to developing new engines tailored to electrification and the pursuit of carbon neutrality. With these engines, each of the three companies aims to optimise integration with motors, batteries, and other electric drive units. While transforming vehicle packaging with more compact…

May 30, 2024 Mobility

JLR rapidly trains more than 20,000 colleagues and partners in readiness to build luxury electric cars

Luxury car manufacturer JLR is today announcing significant progress in upskilling its workforce for electrification. More than 20,000 JLR colleagues and partners have been trained in electrification and digital skills as part of JLR’s Future Skills Programme. The UK’s largest luxury car manufacturer has trained: More than 2,400 manufacturing employees in its UK production facilities with EV…

May 30, 2024 Mobility

Road Freight SME Masterclass Delivers Key Insights on Driving SME Vertical Growth

The Road Freight SME Summit recently hosted an enlightening masterclass webinar featuring two industry stalwarts: Oliver Naidoo, Managing Director of JC Auditors, and Phuti Semenya, CA(SA), founder of Maysene Logistics. The event, expertly facilitated by Florence Musundwa, founder of the Road Freight SME Summit, provided attendees with invaluable insights into the critical role of systematic…

May 30, 2024 Mobility

Axalta Announces Partnership with Solera, a Global Leader in Vehicle Lifecycle Management 

This partnership reinforces Axalta’s commitment to sustainability. Axalta (NYSE: AXTA), a leading global coatings company, today announced a partnership with Solera, a global leader in vehicle lifecycle management. Through this partnership, Axalta’s conventional and Fast Cure Low Energy (FCLE) refinish paint systems will be integrated into Solera’s Sustainable Estimatics platform, enabling Axalta…

May 29, 2024 Mobility

Vote Fleet Safety Awards

Today South Africa is going to the polls for their sixth democratic elections. While the importance many attach to making their mark towards a democratic society is evidence of their strong views, there is another issue where South Africans and organisations should make a difference. This is in the promotion of road safety. South Africa’s notoriety for a high crash and road fatality and injury…

May 29, 2024 Mobility

Tiggo 8 Pro MAX gets full marks from ANCAP

The flagship Chery Tiggo 8 Pro MAX has received another feather in its cap. On Friday, 24 May, this model received a prestigious five-star rating, the highest possible, from the Australasian New Car Assessment Program (ANCAP). The ANCAP star ratings indicate the level of safety a vehicle provides for occupants and other road users in the event of a crash, as well as its ability — through…

May 29, 2024 Mobility

Getting car insurance for the first time? Here are the questions you should be asking

Getting car insurance is an important first step towards financial responsibility. Anything can happen on the road and “insurance is there to help you manage big costs, should something go wrong,” says Keletso Mpisane, head of Blink by MiWay. But insurance rules and lingo can be confusing or overwhelming for first-time buyers. Here are some answers to the big questions you may have when looking…

May 29, 2024 Mobility

Rise of procurment demands a new breed of multi-skilled, strategic thinking, tech-savvy procurement professionals

Procurement is on the rise and there is growing demand for a new breed of procurement professionals, according to Debbie Tagg, chief operating officer of Smart Procurement. “Gone are the back-office penny pinchers of old. Procurement professionals today are strategy shapers, value-generators, innovators and relationship builders involved in all aspects of the business, and who have a seat and…

May 28, 2024 Mobility

Volvo to launch hydrogen-powered trucks

Volvo Trucks is developing trucks with combustion engines that run on hydrogen. On-road tests with trucks using hydrogen in combustion engines will begin in 2026, and theglobal commercial launch is planned towards the end of this decade. Trucks that run on green hydrogen provide a significant step to Volvo achieving its net zero goal and supporting customers to reach their decarbonisation…

May 28, 2024 Mobility

Skipping your car service? Think about the risks

A vehicle is a valuable investment that makes your life easier – getting you to work so you can earn a salary, taking you to visit much-loved family members and friends and helping you transport heavy items from A to B. It makes sense to look after it and protect it just as you would any other item of value. “Just like you get routine check-ups for good personal health, your vehicle benefits much…

May 27, 2024 Mobility

New Multimodal Inland Port Association launched at Transport Forum

A significant milestone was reached in the South African logistics sector with the recent launch of the Multimodal Inland Port Association (MIPA). This new association was launched during the Transport Forum, an online event on 23 May 2024 attended by over 250 delegates, with a distinguished panel from industry, Transnet and academia. The event marked what many are calling the dawn of a rail…

May 27, 2024 Mobility

Use the FORCES to prep for winter

While many provinces may still be experiencing four seasons in one day, the definite cold weather that comes with June is just weeks away. Use this time wisely and get your vehicle ready for winter. The CEO of MasterDrive, Eugene Herbert, says a useful acronym was created by the RAC in the UK to help drivers prepare for winter. “The FORCES acronym helps drivers effectively run through a winter…

May 24, 2024 Mobility

Tesla sells over 30 Cybertrucks daily in 2024

Amid the slowdown in the general electric vehicle market, Tesla's Cybertruck model is emerging as a crucial asset for the company in navigating the current market conditions. The company is now experiencing a steady growth in Cybertruck sales in the United States. Data acquired by Finbold indicates that in the first quarter of 2024, Tesla sold 2,803 Cybertruck units. The Elon Musk-led firm sold…

May 24, 2024 Mobility

Zero Carbon Charge rolls out R15.4 billion off-grid, PV solar-powered electric vehicle charging station development

Zero Carbon Charge (ZeroCC) has officially rolled out the Northern Cape development of 21 off-grid electric passenger and light commercial vehicle charging stations and 15 electric off-grid truck charging stations in the province. This infrastructure investment will total R15.4 billion, of which the electric vehicle charging sites for passenger vehicles are expected to be completed and…

May 23, 2024 Mobility

Leaders in logistics unpack risk resilience

The business environment in South Africa is fraught with risks. Now that the elections are looming, experts in the logistics industry are urging companies to put measures in place to ensure that they can mitigate any risk and uncertainty that may ensue. The last four years have been categorised by risk on the part of South African companies. First came COVID-19. Then, the July 2021 riots, which…

May 23, 2024 Mobility

Safeguarding Cargo Transport Amidst Rising Risks

Civil unrest, riots and crime are persistent threats businesses across South Africa pay extra attention to in the run-up to and after the national elections. These risks hold significant implications for transport operators, notably those in cargo/freight transport and logistics by road, with hard lessons learnt from the riots of July 2021 that saw over R50 billion in resulting damage and 340…

May 23, 2024 Mobility

JLR signs deal with Fortescue for advanced EV battery intelligence technologies in luxury vehicles

JLR has signed a multi-year deal to use Fortescue’s advanced battery intelligence software, Elysia, in its next-generation electric vehicles. The software will help enhance JLR’s luxury vehicles with improved battery longevity, safety, and performance. Starting with the new Range Rover Electric, launching later this year, Fortescue’s Elysia software will monitor all future JLR EVs. This will help…

May 23, 2024 Mobility

GetWorth: Crazy days in the used car market

The used car market has had a crazy few years. For many people, their car is their largest or one of their largest assets and it is worth keeping up with what is happening in the market. Used car company, getWorth, has been gathering data and building sophisticated pricing algorithms for years, which gives them deep insight into the used car market. getWorth Chief Technology Officer, Mark…

May 23, 2024 Mobility

Illegal used car imports: Costing the country and consumer dearly

Each year, around 30,000 illegally imported used cars find their way into SA For years, Africa has been the dumping ground for inferior used cars from abroad. South Africa outlaws the importation of used vehicles. But each year around 30,000 illegal used car imports (often referred to as ‘grey imports’) leak into South Africa, coming from countries that import second-hand vehicles like SA’s…

May 22, 2024 Mobility

The invisible enemy in South Africa's logistics industry

The South African logistics industry is the backbone of the nation's economy, playing a vital role in driving trade and ensuring smooth supply chains. However, this sector, like many others, faces a hidden threat: internal fraud. While external incidents like cargo theft usually seize headlines, the damage inflicted by employees who exploit their positions of trust can be equally, if not more,…

May 22, 2024 Mobility

Daimler Truck Southern Africa powers up with the launch of its eActros and eCanter range in South Africa

In line with Daimler Truck’s global ambition to offer 100% CO2 neutral trucks and buses by 2050, DTSA introduced its first fully battery-electric truck range in the presence of media, customers, dealers, and key stakeholders at an exclusive event in Lanseria. Launched at the event was the Mercedes-Benz eActros 300, comprising a 4x2 and 6x2 rigid, along with a truck tractor variant. Also launched…

May 22, 2024 Mobility

CSIR simulation helping to improve truck flow on N4 corridor

A sophisticated simulation model, developed by a dedicated team at the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) in Pretoria, is proving an important and very worthwhile tool in improving the flow of trucks on the N4 road transport corridor. These trucks, mostly loaded with export minerals, travel from the mines in the North-West, Mpumalanga and Limpopo provinces, to the port of…

May 22, 2024 Mobility

Harvesting success through the power of partnerships

From lithium-ion batteries to fork vibration dampeners and other innovative solutions, advances in technology are reshaping the agricultural industry. To reap the benefits of this technological shift, farmers need to partner with industry-leading experts who can join them on their journey to sowing the seeds of prosperity. Partnerships between farmers and industry stakeholders can be a catalyst…

May 21, 2024 Mobility

AutoTrader Convention inspires dealers to see things differently 

Dealers need to see things differently and view the industry through a fresh lens. That was the key message at this year’s AutoTrader Dealer Convention. Held recently in Sandton, the theme of the convention was #RethinkAuto – and the dealers present at this key industry event were encouraged to rethink strategy, technology and connection. The convention – hosted by the largest motoring…

May 21, 2024 Mobility

Material Handling launches Vector A-series Man-Up Combis to revolutionise warehouse operations

With the warehouse industry requiring ever-greater efficiencies, Toyota Material Handling, a division of CFAO Equipment South Africa, has introduced the new Vector A-series Man-Up Combi – an articulated forklift truck that revolutionises warehouse operations and promises heightened agility, unmatched precision and elevated safety standards. The Vector-A series Man-Up Combi features high rack…

May 21, 2024 Mobility

WesBank deciphers the popular vehicle finance options available to car buyers

Few things in life can compare to the joy of buying a new car. The feeling is compounded when it’s one’s very first dream car. Getting behind the wheel of that dream car, however, requires a level of liquidity or financial muscle that most people just don’t have. To bridge this affordability gap, banks have developed a number of vehicle finance products and services to suit different customers’…

May 21, 2024 Mobility

Parkopedia to improve public EV charging experience for BMW and MINI drivers

Parkopedia has expanded its partnership with BMW Group to provide EV drivers with additional EV Point of Interest (POI) data, enabling them to make more informed decisions about when and where to charge their vehicles. This new functionality provides EV drivers with photos and ratings for charging locations, alongside Parkopedia-provided essential information such as the precise location of the…

May 21, 2024 Mobility

Vehicle ownership versus e-hailing: the modern mobility tipping point

As South African households navigate economic uncertainties, the convergence of declining affordability and tech adoption is redefining mobility preferences across generations. E-hailing services offer a cost-effective solution not just for first-time buyers, but all South Africans, offering alignment with their financial means and tech-savvy lifestyle. By leveraging emerging tech solutions that…

May 20, 2024 Mobility

AutoTrader Data shows Suzuki gaining traction in the used car market 

Used car sales grew 7% year-on-year in April 2024 with total sales amounting to R11.7 billion. While this looks to indicate a market that might be slowly recovering, the fewer public holidays in April this year does not perhaps reflect an accurate comparison. In the used car market, Volkswagen retained its second spot behind Toyota despite losing that position to Suzuki in the new vehicle market.…

May 20, 2024 Mobility

Visitors to NAMPO Score Big with Rugby Star Kwagga Smith at Husqvarna Stand

On Thursday, 15 May 2024, over 25,000 people passed through the gates of NAMPO, an increase of more than 8,000 compared to Day One. Was it the appeal of meeting rugby star Kwagga Smith at the Husqvarna stand that drew so many people? “We will never know,” says Timothy Isabirye, Marketing Manager. “What I can say for sure is that Kwagga added undeniable magic on Thursday. Visitors to our stand…

May 17, 2024 Mobility

MiWay Blink rebrands as Blink by MiWay, recommits to seamless customer experience 

MiWay Blink is proud to announce a brand refresh that sees the insurer change its name to Blink by MiWay, together with a refreshed visual identity. The rebrand coincides with MiWay Blink’s third anniversary and points to both the success and evolution of the brand in a relatively short space. Apart from the name change, the brand’s visual identity including the colour palette, logo, iconography,…

May 17, 2024 Mobility

LEVC's TX Access Taxi Revolutionises Visitor Experience at Cliveden-National Trust

LEVC proudly announces a new partnership with Cliveden-National Trust, bringing sustainable and accessible transportation to the historic estate in Buckinghamshire by supplying them with a TX Access taxi. As a leader in electric vehicle innovation, LEVC is committed to enhancing mobility solutions that align with the values of conservation and accessibility, like that of Cliveden-National Trust.…

May 17, 2024 Mobility

VIVATECH 2024 : PEUGEOT designs the future of driving pleasure with Hypersquare

PEUGEOT, a major player in technological innovation, electrifies VivaTech with its bold concept car INCEPTION, ushering in a new era of electric mobility. On its stand, PEUGEOT presents its vision of the future embodied by the revolutionary Hypersquare steering control– the innovation that redefines the driving experience of tomorrow. ALLURE: The French public can discover the INCEPTION concept…

May 17, 2024 Mobility

Changing weather causing havoc for road users

Drivers urged to act with caution given changing weather patterns Extreme weather conditions, coupled with the deteriorating rate of South Africa’s roads, is creating a ‘perfect storm’ for road users. This is the view of Molebatsi Langa, head of strategic accounts at Old Mutual Insure, who says that the well-publicised impact of climate change and changing weather patterns is also putting…

May 17, 2024 Mobility

84-year old pensioner a victim of unscrupulous dealer – Another 49 reasons for SAIA to make Code 2 data accessible

An 84-year old pensioner in Bela Bela has not only lost his original Toyota Corolla which he trustingly traded into a dealer online, but has also been unwittingly been sold a 2021 Suzuki Brezza with just 28 525 km on the clock for R230 000. What looked like a dream car at the initial physical inspection in Johannesburg, has been found, on subsequent inspection, not only to be a code 2 vehicle…

May 17, 2024 Mobility

Audi South Africa offers peace-of-mind motoring with enhanced Audi Freeway Plan Extension option

All new Audi vehicles are sold with the Audi Freeway Plan (AFP), a comprehensive five-year/100,000km service and maintenance programme designed to afford customers hassle-free motoring and increased value for money during the duration of the contract. Now, Audi owners have the option to extend the AFP to a maximum of 15 years and/or 300,000km (previously 10 years/300,000km), again setting a…

May 16, 2024 Mobility

Mahindra celebrates milestones with largest-ever Nampo exhibit

Mahindra South Africa is registering record numbers of visitors at this year’s Nampo Harvest Day show near Bothaville. This year, the group has moved to the centre of the Grain SA exhibition grounds where it has set up a larger-than-ever display of its full line-up of vehicles and agricultural equipment. One of the newly paved walkways, aptly named Mahindra Street, leads from the main gate to…

May 16, 2024 Mobility

EVs for the environment?

The pollution and energy challenges across the world inspired the South African government to dedicate a month to energy education. This year Energy Month is in May. Electric Vehicles (EV) are often propagated as one solutions to carbon pollution, yet, opinions are divided making it a controversial issue. Research on EVs reveals both their positive versus negative effect on the environment and…

May 16, 2024 Mobility

Why own a car when you can subscribe to it?

Do you remember buying your first car? The feeling of picking up the keys for the first time, smelling that new car smell, and getting out onto the road. This may be a fond memory for many drivers, but the truth is that car ownership is cumbersome and costly in this age of economic austerity and constriction. Given the market’s evolution, in my view, the question drivers will be asking in the…

May 16, 2024 Mobility

Stellantis variety for all at NAMPO 2024

The Stellantis stand at NAMPO 2024 shares lots in common with the legendary harvest day exhibition as it celebrates connectivity for sustainable growth. The products on display from FIAT, Citroën, Alfa Romeo, the Jeep® brand, PEUGEOT and Opel are making mobility as relevant for farmers as agriculture in a digital age. “This year, NAMPO resonates with Stellantis as it drives innovation in the…

May 16, 2024 Mobility

Feeling cash strapped? Are you in for a minor car service or a major service? Know the difference

On top of four consecutive petrol price increases, worries about the upcoming election and consumers generally feeling cash strapped, probably the last expense you need right now is another car service. You may be one of the thousands of South African motorists who are reaching your car service mileage marker and it’s time to book your car in for a service. So, are you in for a minor service or a…

May 16, 2024 Mobility

Volklec launches to manufacture electric vehicle batteries in the UK

olklec, a new UK manufacturing business making batteries for electric vehicles, is launched today. Based in Coventry in the West Midlands, with the vision of Powering Electrified Mobility, it is set to manufacture sustainable batteries for on-road, off-highway and track vehicles. In an innovative UK technology collaboration, Volklec is working with UKBIC, the UK Battery Industrialisation Centre…

May 16, 2024 Mobility

Green hydrogen must be used and produced wisely to harness its full potential – Danfoss

A new Danfoss Impact paper reveals that with hydrogen production set to consume more than half of today’s electricity demand by 2050, energy efficiency in its production is paramount. Decisive steps must be taken to scale its production for use in the hard to abate sectors, without putting an unmanageable strain on renewable energy production or financial resources. Danfoss calls for a nuanced…

May 15, 2024 Mobility

The five extra minutes that could save your life

Buying tyres or component parts for your car is often a grudge purchase, and to be honest, for most people visiting a tyre fitment centre does not quite hold the same appeal as browsing through a hardware store for new gadgets. “The reality,” says Les Richardson, Vice Chairman of the Tyre, Equipment, Parts Association (TEPA) a proud associations of the Retail Motor Industry Organisation, (RMI),…

May 15, 2024 Mobility

SANRAL N2/N3 EB Cloete upgrade, road closures: all you need to know

The South African National Roads Agency SOC Limited (SANRAL) has announced the following temporary road closures for the placement of bridge beams for the new King Cetshwayo Bridge on the M13 over the N2. North Bound Closure: 20:00, Saturday 18 May 2024 to 04:00, Sunday 19 May 2024. South Bound Closure: 20:00, Sunday 19 May 2024 to 04:00, Monday 20 May 2024. This major road network is and has…

May 15, 2024 Mobility

Road safety in peril: Cellphone distractions are the biggest culprit, unveils Discovery Insure

Cellphone distractions now top the list of risky driving behaviours in South Africa, new research by Discovery Insure reveals. Discovery Insure revealed findings of its recent study at the UN launch event of the UN-JCDecaux campaign for road safety held last night at Discovery’s office in Sandton. The launch in South Africa of the UN Global Campaign for Road Safety, in partnership with JCDecaux,…

May 15, 2024 Mobility

Toyota South Africa Motors enlists ROCKET to provide emergency roadside assistance for customers

Drive with peace of mind! Toyota South Africa Motors partners with ROCKET to provide 24/7 emergency roadside assistance for their customers from R250 per year through the MyToyota app. With the Road Traffic Management Corporation reporting over 10,000 fatal crashes taking place on South African roads every year, TSAM saw the need to enhance and protect the customer experience by partnering with…

May 15, 2024 Mobility

CNG-Diesel Dual Fuel Option Adds Strategic Value to ISUZU Truck Range

Fuel consumption is the biggest operational cost in any truck fleet. Addressing this issue with a Compressed Natural Gas - Diesel Dual Fuel (CNG-DDF) option for 20 ISUZU models, places ISUZU trucks at the top of a volatile fuels market in offering strategic fuel solutions for reliable, cost-effective, and consistent mobility. Automotive use of CNG is a proven technology - up to 14 million NGVs…

May 14, 2024 Mobility

Volkswagen Group Africa emphasises commitment to renewable energy

Transitioning to renewable energy is more than just a means to avoid the disruptive effects of power outages for Volkswagen Group Africa (VWGA), but rather a conscious step towards reducing the environmental impact of fossil fuels. Recognising the effect of fossil fuels on global climate change, VWGA is striving to minimise its dependence on these energy sources. As the nation celebrates Energy…

May 14, 2024 Mobility

SAPICS hosts AGM and appoints new Directors

At its recent Annual General Meeting (AGM), SAPICS (The Professional Body for Supply Chain Management) shared the successful outcomes of an organisational restructuring embarked on last year. The association also reaffirmed its commitment to elevating, educating and empowering supply chain professionals across Africa and announced the appointment of three new directors who bring a wealth of…

May 14, 2024 Mobility

Celebrating 60 Years of ISUZU Trucks: A Legacy of Innovation and Excellence in South Africa

Six decades ago, ISUZU Trucks began its journey in South Africa with a simple yet powerful vision: to provide reliable, durable, and innovative commercial vehicles to meet the evolving needs of businesses across the nation. As we celebrate our 60th anniversary of truck, we reflect on a rich history filled with milestones, achievements, excellence, and a steadfast commitment to offer transport…

May 14, 2024 Mobility

Unitrans enhances last-mile fuel delivery with state-of-the-art technology

Leading supplier in bulk tanker fuel transportation and supply chain solutions, Unitrans, is optimising supply chains by leveraging cutting-edge technology to enhance last-mile fuel delivery to forecourts, leading the charge towards greater efficiency, safety, and customer satisfaction. Unitrans has invested in safe and cost-effective solutions to ensure fuel is delivered promptly and efficiently…

May 14, 2024 Mobility

TG Lynes brings electric truck to London streets

Heating, plumbing and air movement materials supplier TG Lynes has become one of the first businesses to operate a 7.5 tonne electric truck on the streets of London. Enfield-based TG Lynes is leading the sustainable transport charge by investing in a UK-manufactured Tevva battery-electric truck to carry out local deliveries around the capital. Fully electric 7.5 tonne trucks are just entering…

May 13, 2024 Mobility

FIAT supports for the second year the World Meeting on Human Fraternity with its electrified fleet

FIAT proudly announces its continued support for the World Meeting on Human Fraternity (WMHF) for the second consecutive year. Organized by the “Fratelli Tutti” Vatican Foundation under the theme #BeHuman, in Rome on May 10th and 11th, this gathering aims to foster dialogue and cooperation among global luminaries from diverse fields to address pressing societal challenges. Central to FIAT’s…

May 13, 2024 Mobility

Less choices and higher prices in Entry segment share of Passenger market

Lightstone data reveals how Entry segment trends have fluctuated over the past decade For the first time in 10 years, South African vehicle buyers have less brands and vehicle-types to choose from. Add to that, they are paying more for their Entry segment vehicles. And, while the Entry segment has maintained its share of the Passenger market over the last decade, it has not shown the kind of…

May 13, 2024 Mobility

Why traditional instrument clusters could become a thing of the past

Design is a dynamic discipline. Take, for instance, the humble automobile. Today’s vehicles look exceedingly different to those of years gone by, having evolved in dimensions, proportions, ergonomics and indeed overall styling. The global automotive market’s inevitable shift towards electric vehicles (EVs) has accelerated this usually fairly gradual change, since dedicated flat-floor platforms…

May 10, 2024 Mobility

Getworth's expert tips: escaping the car loan sinkhole

More and more consumers are finding themselves in financially exposed positions with their car loans. When you owe more on your car than its current market value, it's called being "underwater" on the loan. According to Chantellé Henning, Head of Finance and Insurance at getWorth, this is a distressingly common scenario among car owners. Henning shares, "We often get enquiries from customers…

May 10, 2024 Mobility

A guide to keeping high mileage cars running smoothly

Today’s cars are built to last, but as the kilometres on your car continue to climb, it becomes increasingly important to take a proactive approach to car maintenance. “High mileage cars require a little extra love and special attention to keep them running smoothly and reliably. While there are lots you can do daily to maintain your car, an Extended Warranty will help you avoid any unexpected…

May 09, 2024 Mobility

Opinion Piece: Localise lithium and cobalt battery manufacturing to move Southern Africa up the value chain

Lithium, nickel, and cobalt are three of the key minerals used in the manufacture of electronic vehicle (EV) batteries, and all of these minerals are mined in Southern Africa. However, the raw materials are exported, and batteries are then manufactured in other countries, with the finished product being shipped back. This is a significant opportunity missed, to not only move countries like South…

May 08, 2024 Mobility

Opinion piece: Harmonic filters and the quest for power quality in utility environments are an integral part of the transition to clean energy generation

While there is a growing need for renewable energy as countries around the globe seek to reduce their dependency on fossil fuels, the potential drawbacks that come with this transition cannot be ignored. In the realm of utility environments, which encompasses municipalities and renewable energy providers such as Independent Power Producers (IPPs), due consideration must be given to the critical…

May 07, 2024 Mobility

Forklift evolution with the supply chain over the last decade

Forklifts have made a considerable impact on the Material Handling spacesince industrial production scaled up drastically between the 17th and 18th century. Consequently, there was a need for faster, safer, and more efficient mechanisms for moving materials. According to Jozua Coetzee, Eazi Access Business Development Manager: Sales &After Sales, “Manufacturers are constantly trying to improve…

May 07, 2024 Mobility

New Multimodal Inland Port Association leads logistics transformation in Southern Africa

Enhancing logistics performance, reducing costs, and boosting efficiency are on the horizon as a new industry body gears up to launch. The Multimodal Inland Port Association (MIPA) will début at the upcoming Transport Forum event on May 23rd, from 09h00 to 12h15. This milestone occasion will bring together industry stakeholders, policymakers, and enthusiasts for an online gathering focused on…

May 07, 2024 Mobility

Manage your fuel - A healthy car is not a fuel guzzler

With South African’s reeling from the fourth consecutive month increase in the petrol price this year, keeping your car in tip top performance, managing the number and length of ones trips as well as the speed one travels, has never been more critical. Vishal Premlall, national director of the Tyre, Equipment, Parts Association (TEPA), and the South African Petroleum Retailers Association…

May 06, 2024 Mobility

Prolonged Use of Your Car Accelerator Can Lower Blood Pressure: Here's How

The visual sign that informed subjects of the acceleration affected the activity of the autonomic nervous system when it appeared long enough before the acceleration. Also, our results showed the importance of the interval between the sign and the event and the relationship between the gradual representation of events and their quantity. Dominic Wyatt, an expert motorist from the International…

May 06, 2024 Mobility

Chery proves long-distance performance of PHEV models

To alleviate any new energy vehicle (NEV) range fears that might still exist, Chery recently put two of its flagship models through its paces in a real-life, long distance endurance test. From 25 to 26 April Chery tested the endurance capability and long-distance driving performance of the Tiggo 9 PHEV (plug-in hybrid electric vehicle) and the Arrizo 8 PHEV sedan over a meticulously planned…

May 06, 2024 Mobility

Air freight led a welcome recovery in the logistics sector during March 2024

After declining notably in the first two months of the year, the Ctrack Transport and Freight Index (Ctrack TFI) increased in March to an index level of 119.7, an increase of 1.1% compared to February’s level, though just marginally up on a year ago. Except for the two smaller sub-sectors (pipeline transport and storage & warehousing) that declined, all other sub-sectors increased on a monthly…

May 03, 2024 Mobility

"Armoured Mobility Responds to Rising Crime Rates with 'Arrive Not Dead' Campaign"

In the wake of alarming crime statistics plaguing Gauteng, Armoured Mobility, a leading provider of armoured services and solutions, provide a lifeline for those who refuse to be held hostage by fear. The ARRIVE NOT DEAD slogan is a testament to our services and solutions being resilient in the face of adversity. It is a response to the unsettling rise in crime rates, particularly in…

May 03, 2024 Mobility

Blip of positivity for April new vehicle sales

New vehicle sales showed a blip of positivity during April, increasing 2,2% year-on-year to 38,172 units. But the market will be wary of it being false hope against the pending elections, high interest rate environment, and the seemingly relentless eight-month run of negative growth until now. Considered within more context, April sales were a significant 5,836 units down on March, a month that…

May 03, 2024 Mobility

Get ready: RFA Convention 2024 is just around the corner!

Preparations are well underway for the highly anticipated annual Road Freight Association (RFA) Convention, set to be held from May 24 to 26 at the Arabella Hotel & Spa near Hermanus in the Western Cape. Organisers are gearing up for a dynamic gathering of industry leaders, experts, and enthusiasts, promising a programme packed with innovation, insights, and networking opportunities. "The road…

May 02, 2024 Mobility

Fleet Safety Awards 2024 open!

The Fleet Safety Awards 2024 is launching today, revealing a completely refreshed entry and judging site. As from now, candidates can submit their entry into the running to be crowned one of the winners in November. The CEO of MasterDrive, Eugene Herbert, says the launch of the Awards was planned for the month of May because of its significance to the organisation. “During May, we celebrate our…

May 02, 2024 Mobility

Mixed Messages on MaaS Market Readiness

IDTechEx’s Analysis of New Driverless Vehicle Testing Data From California DMV Author: Dr James Jeffs, Senior Technology Analyst at IDTechEx Over the last three to four years, the driverless robotaxi industry has begun to flourish. Driverless services are coming online in multiple cities across the US and China. IDTechEx’s recent report, “Future Automotive Technologies 2024-2034: Applications,…

May 01, 2024 Mobility

How to explain car troubles to a mechanic

If you’re experiencing a problem with your car, the motor technician will need as much information as possible to properly diagnose and repair the problem. You don’t have to diagnose the problem yourself, but no one knows your vehicle better than you do, so it’s important to know how to clearly communicate car troubles you’re experiencing. “The mechanic will want to know when you first noticed…

May 01, 2024 Mobility

Your phone a killer

As driving while distracted (DWD) month has just ended, MasterDrive issues a reminder of how tragic DWD can be. In a world governed by constant connectivity, it is no surprise DWD is one of the most prevalent threats and rapidly growing concerns in road safety. Awareness of the potentially catastrophic consequences associated with checking a message has never been as important to share as its…

May 01, 2024 Mobility

FedEx donates 200 bicycles to help students reach schools in rural Africa

FedEx Express, a subsidiary of FedEx Corp. (NYSE: FDX) and one of the world’s largest express transportation companies, has donated 200 bicycles and its maintenance kits to youth from underserved communities in rural Africa. In collaboration with Qhubeka Charity, the bicycles were donated to children in the age group of 17-19 years belonging from a secondary school in the Uitkyk region of South…

Apr 30, 2024 Mobility

Armoured Mobility Introduces South Africa's First Porsche Panamera with B6 Armour

Armoured Mobility proudly unveils a revolutionary milestone in automotive security with the introduction of South Africa's inaugural Porsche Panamera Turbo built with B6 Armour. This groundbreaking achievement has really exceeded the protection demands of our discerning clientele. The convergence of opulence and safety has been captured perfectly with this build. Our team of seasoned experts have…

Apr 30, 2024 Mobility

Storedot and Polestar showcase world’s first electric vehicle 10-minute charge with silicon-dominant cells

StoreDot, the pioneer and world leader in extreme fast charging (XFC) battery technology for electric vehicles, and Polestar, the Swedish electric performance car brand, today revealed a groundbreaking milestone by demonstrating pioneering battery technology that charges an electric vehicle in just 10 minutes. Demo shows a Polestar 5 fitted with StoreDot’s XFC cells charging from 10% to 80%…

Apr 29, 2024 Mobility

World Hydrogen Summit 2024 – Rotterdam: HYVIA & Renault Netherlands at the forefront of hydrogen mobility in Europe

FOCUS ON HYVIA IN NETHERLANDS: CUSTOMERS AND DEALERS, PIONNERS OF H2 ENERGY TRANSITION Major customers experimenting H2 mobility with HYVIA Major players in Netherlands have chosen Renault Master Van H2-TECH to decarbonate their fleets, like: Warmtebouw, managing climatic and sanitary installations, who has completed around 25 000 km in 6 months with its Renault Master Van H2-TECH, GP Groot, a…

Apr 29, 2024 Mobility

A first for Africa! SVI’s Armoured X3 certified by BMW AG

SVI Engineering, leading specialist manufacturer of armoured products, is pleased to announce the availability of a new BMW-approved protection package for the Rosslyn-built X3 M40i, marking the very first time that BMW AG has performed an armouring certification on the African continent. Fulfilling the requirements of ballistic resistance class NIJ Level IIIA (comparable to B4) and thus…

Apr 29, 2024 Mobility

Top 10 risks facing the transportation and logistics sector

Opinion of Russell Davis, property manager – Aon broking centre at Aon South Africa. The transportation and logistics industry has been battling the operational and commercial fallout of multiple global crises, including the COVID-19 pandemic and geopolitical conflicts. Because of the industry’s significance for the global economy, risks and challenges facing the industry will continue to receive…

Apr 26, 2024 Mobility

Michelin’s Total Cost of Ownership whitepaper shifts mindsets in the transport industry to promote sustainability and drive efficiency

Michelin has launched its latest research - Unlocking the Power Of TCO: A Fleet Manager’s Guide to Efficiency and Sustainability, an industry first aimed at shifting the mindsets of South Africa transporters to run more efficient and sustainable fleets. The 2023 Decarbonising South Africa’s Transport Sector report noted that, in South Africa, transport is the third largest emitting sector, with…

Apr 25, 2024 Mobility

Powerful insight into KZN logistics

MasterDrive concluded their Power Brunch in association with MICHELIN Connected Fleet on Friday. It was a highly insightful event sharing essential information affecting the transport and logistics industry with a special focus on the province of KwaZulu Natal. The CEO of MasterDrive, Eugene Herbert, says the event also provided potential solutions to issues plaguing the industry. “A topic of…

Apr 25, 2024 Mobility

ISUZU and Engen gear up for another 1 Tank Challenge

With fuel consumption remaining a priority for many motorists, ISUZU Motors South Africa, in partnership with Engen, will again showcase vehicles and fuels that are available for those looking to drive cost effectively. This event follows the success of the inaugural challenge last year and will feature the new Isuzu MU-X 1.9 TD LS. Participants will drive from Johannesburg to Gqeberha via East…

Apr 24, 2024 Mobility

Tell your workshop you want ‘green’ car parts

The South African automotive aftermarket is a significant contributor to the country’s economy through the adoption of ‘circular economy’ practices, says Attie Serfontein, National Director of ARA (Automotive Remanufacturers’ Association). It’s all about automotive remanufacturing – breathing new life into used vehicle parts as opposed to simply discarding them. Automotive remanufacturing is a…

Apr 24, 2024 Mobility

New Clark sales partner for Austria

With Schauer Gabelstapler GmbH, Clark Europe has brought a new sales partner for Austria on board. The company, based in Gabersdorf in Steiermark, will be responsible for Clark Europe's sales activities in Steiermark, in Kärnten, Niederösterreich, Wien and Burgenland. Schauer Gabelstapler GmbH was founded in 2013 by Karlheinz Schauer as a sole proprietorship. After a very short time, the company…

Apr 24, 2024 Mobility

Want to switch to an EV? Make sure you understand the insurance implications first

Despite South Africa’s long-standing energy issues and there being considerably more expensive than their fossil fuel equivalents, interest in electric vehicles (EVs) is growing in South Africa. While sales of hybrids and EVs still account for less than 1.5% of all new cars, they did jump 65% between 2022 and 2023. Those numbers will keep growing, especially as such vehicles become more…

Apr 24, 2024 Mobility

We invite you to participate in the leading event in Africa for Supply Chain Management

For 46 years supply chain professionals from around the world have gathered in South Africa at the SAPICS Annual Conference to exchange ideas, experiences and expertise in all things supply chain. Register now for the Conference and be part of a transformative experience at the SAPICS Conference 9 – 12 June 2024, Century City Conference Centre. The programme can be viewed here:…

Apr 23, 2024 Mobility

Securing Your Bottom Line: How to Mitigate Risk in Africa's Transport and Supply Chains

With rising security threats impacting the logistics, transport and supply chain industries, the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport in South Africa (CILTSA) is bringing together leading experts for its crucial Safety and Security Seminar. Taking place on 22 May in Sandton, Johannesburg, the seminar will equip attendees with the insights and strategies needed to navigate today's…

Apr 23, 2024 Mobility

Driving forward - innovations transforming the future of transportation

Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) are reshaping transportation operations by revolutionising both route planning and predictive maintenance Revolutionising transportation efficiency with AI and ML The global transportation industry, while still expanding, faces a slowdown attributed to various factors, notably the enduring impacts of the pandemic. Despite this, projections…

Apr 23, 2024 Mobility

Daimler Truck Southern Africa bolsters driver wellbeing with the successful completion of the Pool Transport Fleet Owner Workplace Wellness Programme

Daimler Truck Southern Africa is earnestly dedicated to driver wellbeing and in partnership with Trucking Wellness, thousands of truck driver lives have been positively impacted by providing access to primary healthcare through fixed roadside wellness centres, fully-fledged mobile wellness centres and the DTSA key account customer’s Fleet Owner Workplace Wellness Programme. On 19 April 2024, Pool…

Apr 22, 2024 Mobility

5 Unexpected Places You Can Go with Bigger Car Tires - You Won't Believe #3

"Life is too short to travel the same road twice," says Dominic Wyatt, a Motoring Expert from the International Drivers Association. This piece of wisdom becomes quite literal when your car is equipped with bigger tires or a consideration when planning to upsize your tires. For the zealous motorists, larger tires are the gateway to a world of thrilling, untamed landscapes that were previously…

Apr 22, 2024 Mobility

Vanity Mirrors in Cars Might Put Your Life in Danger, Expert Reveals

The potent mix of vanity and velocity: car accidents linked to driver distraction have skyrocketed by 30% globally. Many raise an eyebrow at the sinister contribution of vanity mirrors installed in modern cars to these grim statistics. The safety threats posed by such non-essential features underscore the urgent need for auto manufacturers to rethink their priority lists. Dominic Wyatt, renowned…

Apr 19, 2024 Mobility

Darker for longer – have you checked your car lights are working?

Winter is almost here and already we are starting to see the sun coming up later and setting earlier. Coupled with longer hours of darkness, motorists also often have to deal with street lights not working and unpredictable load shedding schedules. For motorists travelling to and from work, the combination can be treacherous. Making sure the lights on your car are working should be a priority,…

Apr 19, 2024 Mobility

2024 Easter travel at a six year high

…but most don’t leave their home province South Africans travelled more than 2.3 billion kilometres over the Easter long weekend (Thursday 28 March to Monday, 01 April) in 2024, the highest number recorded in six years of tracking data and 12% up on 2023. Joe Spring, head of Location and Commerce at Lightstone, a provider of comprehensive data, analytics and systems on property, automotive and…

Apr 19, 2024 Mobility

A tonne of driving skills

The Sunday Times published an article this weekend on the increasing purchase of armoured vehicles by South Africans. Buying one of these vehicles is a valid decision for many according to a report compiled by the Global Initiative against Organised Crime. In 2022, there were at least 140 targeted murders in the country. Added to this are deaths and injury as a result of carjackings going wrong.…

Apr 18, 2024 Mobility

Tiger Wheel & Tyre’s Testing of Worn Versus New Tyres Yields Sobering Results

Tiger Wheel & Tyre today released the results of four key tyre tests conducted by the company at the Gerotek testing facility in Pretoria, in March this year. Using identical VW Polos, one fitted with new and the other with worn 15” tyres, professional drivers put the tyres through their paces. Advanced driving instructor Daniel Barbosa and race driver Paige Lindenberg were shocked by the…

Apr 18, 2024 Mobility

SA’s top-selling used EV last year was a Volvo

Volvo Car South Africa’s position at the forefront of the fast-growing new-energy vehicle space has been cemented, this time by the fact that the XC40 Recharge was the country’s most sold used electric vehicle in 2023, according to data from AutoTrader. The XC40 Recharge accounted for 20% of all EV sales through that platform. AutoTrader’s figures furthermore show that the XC40 Recharge…

Apr 17, 2024 Mobility

Introducing the TAC-6, built by Armormax Defence

Armormax Defence introduces its TAC-6 to the world: a ground-breaking platform that sets new standards in technology and performance for this class of vehicle. So why the need for a 6-wheel drive Land Cruiser that can be lightly armoured, heavily armed and fill a number of operational roles? Simply because all other solutions available are either too light and incapable, or too heavy and large to…

Apr 17, 2024 Mobility

Which Driving Job Fits Your Personality Best? Find out Here

"In the world of professional driving, it's crucial to understand how your role defines you," advises Julianna Marshall of the International Drivers Association (IDA). She stresses that driving involves more than simply operating a vehicle; it requires embodying traits tailored to each specific role. Whether it's the patience of a school bus driver or the quick thinking demanded of an ambulance…

Apr 17, 2024 Mobility

5 Ways to make a fellow driver’s day 

There’s something about driving that can make even the mellowest among us see red. Whether it’s because we have been cut off in traffic, have not been let into a lane you desperately need to get into, or have been overtaken by someone driving way over the speed limit, we have all had moments where we have leaned on the hooter, flashed our lights, or screamed at another driver. That anger, while…

Apr 16, 2024 Mobility

Volvo Trucks First to offer Electric Truck Rentals

Volvo Trucks South Africa has announced the introduction of a new Equipment-as-a-Service (EaaS) model for electric truck rentals in the country. Since the launch of the Volvo Electric Trucks locally in 2023, the company has brought in a range of configurations to suit the South African market. These new units have been going through homologation and internal testing. “We recognise that the high…

Apr 16, 2024 Mobility

Gen Z leads the way for the future of mobility – car subscriptions

In a consumer market pushed forward by convenience, the way we move from point A to point B is undergoing a remarkable transformation. This has been largely spearheaded by a new generation of cash-rich consumers who have a different idea of what value for money really means. Traditionally, owning a car symbolised freedom and independence, but for Gen Z consumers, the allure lies in experiences…

Apr 16, 2024 Mobility

Three steps that can save your life on the road

By Keletso Mpisane, Head of MiWay Blink. Motorists who’ve spent years behind the wheel can get blasé about vigilance and road safety. Intersections and overtaking manoeuvres that once seemed daunting can become routine, breeding complacency. This false sense of security where we believe everything is under control leads us to lower our guard, inviting mistakes. South Africa is ranked last on a…

Apr 15, 2024 Mobility

Millennials and Gen-Zs still prefer private mobility, reveals WesBank data

Young South Africans, aged 35 and younger, have demonstrated a growing preference for private mobility. This can be seen in recent WesBank data that shows a consistent increase over the past three years in the number of vehicle finance applications for new and pre-owned cars by Millennials and Gen-Zs. The upward trajectory was tracked from 2021 when 722 505 vehicle finance applications were…

Apr 15, 2024 Mobility

Distracted driving the new epidemic

April is the international month of awareness for driving while distracted (DWD). The importance of this month cannot be understated with statistics that reveal how easily people will drive distracted and with the lack of priority placed on reducing it. Far too many drivers are unaware that DWD is just as serious an offence as what driving under the influence is. The CEO of MasterDrive, Eugene…

Apr 15, 2024 Mobility

Volvo Cars uses biogas to achieve its first climate-neutral plant in China

Our Taizhou manufacturing plant has switched to biogas, making it our first plant in China to achieve climate-neutral status. The plant’s switch from natural gas will result in a reduction of more than 7,000 tonnes of CO2 per year. Despite being a small share of our total Scope 1-3 emissions of 43 million tons, securing climate-neutral energy for our Taizhou plant is an important step towards our…

Apr 11, 2024 Mobility

Ford Revolutionises One-Ton Van Productivity with the New Transit Custom

Ford South Africa has commenced the introduction of the new Transit Custom commercial vehicle range with the launch of the Base Long Wheelbase Van initially, with additional derivatives to follow later this year. The next generation of Europe’s best-selling one-ton van is designed to help small and medium businesses reduce cost of ownership, work more effectively and achieve new levels of…

Apr 11, 2024 Mobility

E-Commerce could boost SA’s SME transporters

Since the pandemic, unprecedented numbers of people have embraced technology and shifted to e-commerce. Consequently, transport companies have increased demand. Justin Manson, Sales Director at Webfleet South Africa, Bridgestone’s globally trusted fleet management solution, sees this shift as a significant opportunity for existing and emerging transport companies. According to Statista, revenues…

Apr 11, 2024 Mobility

Tips for buying a new car for your business

Starting a new business is an exciting journey, and as a new entrepreneur, every decision you make can have a significant impact on your venture’s success. Barend Smit, Marketing Director of MotorHappy, a supplier of motor management solutions, says when selecting a new car for your business, choose a vehicle that is in line with your business needs and be sure to factor in the overall cost of…

Apr 10, 2024 Mobility

Trailer Manufacturer Powering Ahead with Solar

Solar power supplied 67% of all electricity used in February this year at three of leading South African truck body and trailer building company, Serco’s factories and offices in South Africa. And Serco’s goal is to push that figure up to 75% following further investment to raise the ratio even higher in the medium to long term. Serco CEO Clinton Holcroft said environmental sustainability was a…

Apr 10, 2024 Mobility

Combating Cape Town wind

Cape Town experienced challenging weather conditions over the weekend. In one instance, both the trailer of a truck and a caravan were blown off a bridge. Additionally, trees have fallen across the road and a warning was issued to drivers to stay off the road. Similar warnings were issued for today as well as advising of a level nine storm warning. The CEO of MasterDrive, Eugene Herbert, says…

Apr 08, 2024 Mobility

Announcement on the future of e-tolls

We refer to the Government Gazette 50418, published 28 March 2024 regarding the withdrawal of the toll declaration of National roads, referred colloquially as the e-toll roads. The above Government Gazette gives effect to the declaration of the Gauteng e-toll routes, to non-e-toll as of the 11th April 2024 at 23:59:59 hrs. Your SANRAL Account will no longer be billed for e-toll fees/transactions…

Apr 08, 2024 Mobility

Strain still evident in the logistics sector during February 2024

After declining abruptly in January, the Ctrack Transport and Freight Index (Ctrack TFI) subsided further in February to an index level of 118.6, a drop of 0.8% compared to January’s level of 119.6 and the lowest since February 2023. Although the pace of decline has subsided compared to January, the heavy-weighted road and rail freight sectors were the main drivers of the further deterioration.…

Apr 08, 2024 Mobility

Formula E: Accelerating the electric vehicle transition

The popular all-electric motorsport world championship is helping to develop the next generation of electric vehicles, writes Langa Dube, Regional Director at TCS South Africa & Rest of Africa. Much of the technology that goes into electric racing cars today willbecome part of consumer EVs tomorrow. The era of the Electric Vehicle (EV) is upon us. Almost all of the world’s leading economies have…

Apr 08, 2024 Mobility

Volvo Trucks South Africa Appoints New Sales Director

Volvo Trucks South Africa has announced the appointment of Anders Friberg as the company’s new Director of New Truck Sales. Effective 1 April 2024, Friberg will be based at the Volvo Group Southern Africa headquarters in Johannesburg. With extensive experience across the commercial vehicle industry and various international brands, Friberg brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to his new…

Apr 04, 2024 Mobility

New YouGov Survey Results Unveiled Today During Freedom of Mobility Forum

YouGov, in partnership with the Freedom of Mobility Forum, released exclusive results of a new survey measuring the appetite for change in mobility habits for respondents across five countries. The results were unveiled live during the second annual Freedom of Mobility Forum and fueled the fact-based discussions with the international panel of experts and university students from three…

Apr 04, 2024 Mobility

CILTSA hosts seminar on navigating safety and security risks in logistics, transport, and supply chain

Safety and security are critical components of logistics, transport, and supply chain management, yet recent statistics reveal a concerning reality. According to the Transported Asset Protection Association (TAPA), South Africa has witnessed over 40,000 crimes impacting supply chains in the past year alone, based on data from the South African Police Service (SAPS). These incidents encompass a…

Apr 03, 2024 Mobility

What saves the most fuel?

There are various ways in which you can save fuel – yet, which gives you the most fuel savings*? Fuel prices are going up at midnight for the third month in a row. Petrol will go up by between by 58c and 67c per liter (grade and region dependent). Diesel will rise by 3c inland and decrease by 4c in costal regions. This is inclusive of the levy increases announced in February. MasterDrive has…

Apr 03, 2024 Mobility

Safety critical components in your car – here’s what you need to know

We all understand the importance of vehicle maintenance but in any vehicle there are certain safety critical components and motorists need to be aware of these and ensure they are maintained regularly,” says Vishal Premlall, National Director of the Tyre, Equipment, Parts Association (TEPA), a proud association of the Retail Motor Industry Organisation (RMI). “Our roads are plagued with…

Apr 03, 2024 Mobility

Greenpower Park: trailblazing UK Centre of Electrification and Clean Energy and West Midlands Gigafactory to spearhead the green industrial revolution

Clean Electrification Skills Cluster: With the West Midlands Gigafactory as its anchor tenant, the Greenpower Park campus will create an holistic environment for battery research, industrialisation, manufacturing, testing, recycling and electrified logistics - designed to drive advancements in zero emission EVs, public transport, aviation, and energy systems Unprecedented Investment: Centre of…

Apr 03, 2024 Mobility

Renting, leasing, or subscribing to your next vehicle – which model works best for the modern consumer?

In a world dominated by economic change and innovation, traditional vehicle ownership models are constantly being challenged by alternatives and various financing options to suit the modern consumer. According to GM of Sales and Marketing at subscription-based and Toyota-led Kinto One South Africa, Slade Thompson, the future of car ownership is changing and it’s going to have a drastic impact on…

Mar 30, 2024 Mobility

Prepare for safe and smooth holiday travel with tips from WesBank

With school holidays and the Easter weekend fast approaching, many families and travelers are gearing up for road trips to explore the beauty of South Africa and spend quality family time together. To ensure a hassle-free and enjoyable journey, WesBank offers essential tips for preparing your vehicle and paperwork before hitting the road. Lebo Gaoaketse, Head of Marketing and Communication at…

Mar 30, 2024 Mobility

The fully electric Volvo EX30 named 2024 World Urban Car

Small and mighty indeed – we are celebrating today, because our fully electric Volvo EX30 has landed a big accolade at the prestigious World Car Awards. Beating a competitive field of nominees, the EX30 was awarded the title of 2024 World Urban Car in a presentation held yesterday at the New York International Auto Show. Our smallest ever SUV was also named as one of the top three cars in the…

Mar 30, 2024 Mobility

Jam-packed weekends = fatigued driving

The greatest risk drivers embarking on a trip for only the four-day weekend face a great risk in the form fatigued driving. Leaving on the Friday, returning on the Sunday with a full weekend in between, can inevitably result in drowsy driver retuning home on Sunday. The CEO of MasterDrive, Eugene Herbert, says there are a few things that drivers can do to prevent driving while tired. “The first,…

Mar 30, 2024 Mobility

Renault Group's Sandouville plant is set to build a revolutionary generation of electric LCVs for Flexis SAS

Renault Group announced today that the Sandouville site is to build a revolutionary generation of electric LCVs for Flexis SAS, the new joint venture set up by Renault Group, Volvo Group and CMA CGM. Marking the event, Luca de Meo, CEO Renault Group, and Thierry Charvet, Chief Industry & Quality Officer, Renault Group, welcomed Bruno Le Maire, Minister for the Economy, Finance and Industrial and…

Mar 27, 2024 Mobility

Adventurer Lexie Limitless Completes Record-Setting 30,000 km Drive Around the World in New All-Electric Ford Explorer

Adventurer Lexie Alford (@LexieLimitless) today set the official record for being the first person to circumnavigate the globe in an electric vehicle, using the new all-electric Ford Explorer. Six continents, 27 countries and more than 30,000 kilometres were travelled on electric power alone, ahead of the finish line in Nice, France. "On this epic adventure, I met incredible people from many…

Mar 27, 2024 Mobility

Expert Reveals: Drive Assist Features Linked to Increased Crash Incidents

As the world swiftly transitions into the era of intelligent, autonomous vehicles, we are prompted to consider both the promise and the peril of such technological advancements. While driver-assistance systems are designed to augment safety, it's a grim paradox that they also contribute to numerous accidents each year. In this difficulty lies a crucial question: Are these mishaps chiefly a result…

Mar 27, 2024 Mobility

Supporting fleets to prioritise peak season safety this Easter

The Easter holiday season is upon us yet again and this presents both opportunities and challenges for businesses, especially those in transportation and logistics. With national roads experiencing an increase in volumes of traffic during peak season, drivers must prioritise safety, while still maintaining efficiency and cost-effectiveness. Statistics reveal the pressing need for enhanced road…

Mar 27, 2024 Mobility

Renault Group and the CEA continue to innovate for the car of tomorrow

Renault Group and the CEA are continuing to innovate together. After the bi-directional high-efficiency charger for electric vehicles announced for 2023, it is now the turn of on-board comfort to combine the technical expertise and creativity of the two partners. After 2 years of research and testing, resulting in the filing of around ten patents, Renault Group and the CEA have developed a…

Mar 27, 2024 Mobility

Easter weekend travel tips

225 people died in 185 fatal road accidents over the four-day Easter weekend in 2023 – an increase of nearly 40% from the weekend’s death toll in 2022. As we head for the hills (or the bush or beach) over the upcoming long weekend, there are a number of things we can do to help ensure our safety on the roads, and staying focused tops the list. King Price Spokesperson, Sakina Ntuli says that…

Mar 27, 2024 Mobility

Opinion Piece: Revolutionising road safety: Combating drinking and driving and police corruption in South Africa with cloud technology

The fight against drinking and driving is an ongoing battle often exacerbated by the prevalence of police bribery. In many instances, citizens are willing to take the risk of driving under the influence, knowing that a bribe could buy their freedom. However, cloud-linked breathalyser technology holds the key to reducing both the dangers of drunk driving and the corrupt practices of many police…

Mar 26, 2024 Mobility

Government (and road users) must do better this Easter

While the government has in the past implemented several seasonal road safety campaigns, particularly over the Easter period, road fatalities are still increasing over this period and more needs to be done to improve the situation. The Automobile Association (AA) says government’s interventions have had a limited impact in terms of reducing fatality numbers, and that it’s time to adopt a new…

Mar 26, 2024 Mobility

Accident Data can Increase Trust in South Africa’s Automotive Industry

Transparency has become one of the cornerstones of consumer trust in today’s digitally connected market. In the automotive sector, the inclusion of accident data into vehicle verification reports can be a game-changer for all stakeholders from consumers and financial institutions through to auto dealers and insurers. To address a long-standing industry gap, TransUnion has reintegrated accident…

Mar 26, 2024 Mobility

The roads more (or less) travelled

Mixed signals from December’s motor vehicle travel and service station stops Motor vehicle travel to South Africa’s big three airports jumped, on average, 9% during December 2023 compared to twelve months previously, but service station stops dropped by 14% year-on-year. Joe Spring, Head of Location and Commerce at Lightstone, provider of comprehensive data, analytics and systems on property,…

Mar 26, 2024 Mobility

LDV South Africa opens its doors

LDV – a historic brand with a bright future – is entering the South African market. The brand will be headquartered in Sandton, Gauteng, from where it will serve a national network of dealers. A national dealer network is currently being appointed, with construction on the first LDV dealership in Sandton, Gauteng already completed. A national parts distribution warehouse agreement is nearing…

Mar 22, 2024 Mobility

Delta Launches 500kW DC Ultra-fast Electric Vehicle Charger UFC 500 for Public and Heavy-Duty Applications

Excellent power-to-footprint ratio of the UFC500 helps EV charging operators address high-power charging needs and space limitation challenges Delta, a global leader in power management and provider of IoT-based smart green solutions, today announced the launch of its 500kW DC Ultra-fast EV Charger UFC 500. Amidst the rise of high-power charging needs and challenges in land acquisition for EV…

Mar 21, 2024 Mobility

VTA offers motorists free motor vehicle safety checks before Easter

Every year around Easter, thousands of motorists get ready to take a well-earned break over the long weekend. Roads during the easter period are however notoriously dangerous and extra precautions need to be taken. It is therefore essential to have a safety check performed on your vehicle to identify potential hazards and prevent additional damage before it happens. In a proactive initiative to…

Mar 21, 2024 Mobility

Stellantis Ventures Invests in Breakthrough, Cost-effective LiDAR Technology for Advanced Driver Assistance Systems

Stellantis Ventures, the corporate venture fund of Stellantis N.V., today announced it has invested in SteerLight, the developer of a new generation of high-performance LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) sensing technology. Employing silicon photonics technology, which combines a universal semiconductor material with the speed of photos, the SteerLight LiDAR senses the surrounding environment in…

Mar 21, 2024 Mobility

How much does it cost to Armour your Vehicle?

South Africa has long grappled with high crime rates, but recent statistics paint a stark picture of the escalating security concerns facing its citizens. According to recent crime data, over 7,700 people fell victim to murder in the last two months of 2023 alone, marking a concerning 2.1% increase compared to the previous year. Additionally, car hijackings remain a rampant issue, with over 60…

Mar 20, 2024 Mobility

DIY car finance application or outsourcing to a dealer

Despite the proliferation of e-hailing services in South Africa, owning a car remains a necessity for most commuters, exacerbated by the generally poor public transport system in many parts of the country. However, the relatively high price of cars means most people who aspire to own a car will have to apply for vehicle finance to make their dream of car ownership come true. So, once you’ve…

Mar 20, 2024 Mobility

Join us at SAPICS 2024 to unlock the essence of People-Centric supply chains

Unlock the essence of People-Centric supply chains - decoding the meaning and exploring strategies to keep the focus on our most valuable asset: People. Don't let technology blind your perspective. Join us at SAPICS 2024 to discover how to strike the right balance. Your supply chain journey starts here! If you are a Supply Chain Professional then this event is for you. This event is designed to…

Mar 20, 2024 Mobility

Begin with the end in mind: How to plan for the eventual resale of your car 

Buying a car is a big and meaningful purchase, and one that requires thought and consideration. We all want to like the car we drive, both in terms of aesthetics and performance which is where the emotion can sometimes overrule the rational. “With some exceptions, a car is not a lifelong commitment. Most people will have a number of cars in their lifetime, as we choose to upgrade, sometimes…

Mar 19, 2024 Mobility

Smart e-performance for all kind of application

Clark is presenting the new S-Series Electric to the public for the first time at LogiMAT in Stuttgart. With the SE25-35 electric four-wheel forklift trucks with load capacities of 2.5 to 3.5 tonnes, Clark Europe is launching the first generation of electric forklift trucks that, like their IC engine counterparts, are characterised by the attributes Smart, Strong and Safe. With their sporty…

Mar 18, 2024 Mobility

Suspended licenses and buying cars

In a recent MasterDrive webinar, many aspects of the AARTO Act were addressed. The National Automotive Dealers’ Association (NADA) participated as a panellist on the ‘Insights into AARTO’ webinar. Brandon Cohen, NADA National Chairperson and RMI Board Member represented the Retail Motor Industry Organisation (RMI) and provided a perspective on how dealerships will be affected. The CEO of…

Mar 14, 2024 Mobility

Is it still worthwhile learning how to drive a manual car?

In many parts of the world, manual transmissions are losing their popularity. However, in South Africa, almost 50% of new car sales still feature manual gearboxes. Given the South African market, it would make sense to learn how to drive a manual car, even if automatics are easier to drive. In Europe and the USA, the percentage of new cars sold with manual gearboxes has significantly decreased in…

Mar 14, 2024 Mobility

NADA Advocates trust in vehicle purchases amidst shifting automotive landscape

In the face of economic and political uncertainty and continued financial strain on consumers, establishing trust becomes paramount for consumers and businesses alike. As the second quarter of 2024 nears, the National Automobile Dealers’ Association (NADA) emphasises the pivotal role of trust in an automotive landscape filled with choices. "Trust plays a pivotal role in the current automotive…

Mar 14, 2024 Mobility

New truck front to save lives

Researchers at Chalmers University of Technology, in Sweden, have developed a new truck front concept to significantly reduce fatal crashes in car-truck collisions. The new truck front comes after the EU regulations for the maximum length of a truck were lifted. Crash tests on the new truck front were carried out by the Swedish Transport Administration, Trafikverket, and show that better truck…

Mar 13, 2024 Mobility

Ronnies Commercial Vehicles East London awarded Daimler Truck Southern Africa Group of Companies 2023 Overall Dealer of the Year

Daimler Truck Southern Africa hosted its Dealer of the Year awards, to recognise dealers and general distributors for their 2023 performance. The theme for the awards evening was fortune favours the brave, to commend dealers and general distributors for demonstrating bravery and emerging victorious in 2023. As a result, Mercedes-Benz Trucks maintained its market leadership position in the Extra…

Mar 13, 2024 Mobility

Carnage for sportspeople

Kenyan marathon runner, Kelvin Kiptum, was killed in a car crash in February. At just 24 years old, he was the world record holder for marathons and was expected to soon break the 2-hour mark. While reports still need to be confirmed, it is believed he fell asleep at the wheel, killing himself, his coach and injuring another passenger. The CEO of MasterDrive, Eugene Herbert, says South Africans…

Mar 12, 2024 Mobility

How consumers can impact the cost of their insurance premiums

Why understanding how premiums are calculated is key to saving Consumers often query the cost of their insurance premiums, questioning why an asset belonging to one individual may cost more to insure, in comparison to another individual who owns the same asset-type. The answer lies in the fact that premiums are determined according to an intricate and complex process of underwriting, which…

Mar 12, 2024 Mobility

Subscription vehicles gain traction in SA says Kinto One

In recent years, South Africa has witnessed a notable shift in how people approach mobility. The emergence of subscription vehicles has presented a compelling alternative to traditional ownership models. While several companies are venturing into this space, one notable player leading the local charge is Kinto One – a subsidiary of Toyota. According to GM of Sales and Marketing at Kinto One South…

Mar 11, 2024 Mobility

SAPICS | Women in Supply Chain Leadership 2024 Survey

The theme of International Women's Day #IWD2024 is 'Inspire Inclusion' and SAPICS would like to explore the experiences and perceptions of men and women from across the SAPICS network as they relate to advancing gender inclusion in supply chain. There is limited data available on this topic in the field of Supply Chain, particularly across Africa and your responses to this survey will help SAPICS…

Mar 08, 2024 Mobility

Hino SA ends 2023 on high note in customer experience survey

Hino ended 2023 on a high note in terms of its customer experience ratings in the DataTrack survey for the fourth quarter of the year. Not only was Hino No. 1 in the combined score, but it also took top position in all three evaluation categories – sales, service, and parts. Hino scored 98.96 out of 100 in the average of the combined score, 99.40 for sales, 98.67 for service and 98.81 for parts.…

Mar 08, 2024 Mobility

Minister of Transport unveils first-of-its-kind Truck Driver Safety and Wellness Symposium, supported by Michelin and MICHELIN Connected Fleet

The Minister of Transport, Ms. Sindisiwe Chikunga, hosted over 220 truck drivers at the first ever Truck Driver Safety and Wellness Symposium held in Boksburg on 6 and 7 March. The Symposium themed “Your wellness is our concern” is a collaborative partnership between the private and public sector primarily focused on the mental and physical wellbeing of South Africa’s truck drivers. In her speech…

Mar 07, 2024 Mobility

Navigating the SA Automotive Sector’s Green Transition

During the 2024 State of the Nation (SONA), President Cyril Ramaphosa placed a huge focus on green energy and introducing Electric Vehicles (EVs). We are set to witness change in the automotive sector. The focus shifts not only to the increased uptake of EVs but also to the evolving carbon tax landscape in SA. EVs will be an important factor in the automotive industry, by potentially driving…

Mar 07, 2024 Mobility

Comprehensive insurance is a must for financed vehicles, cautions WesBank

Insurance is often compared to an umbrella – you hope you won’t need it, but when you do, you are glad you have it. This applies to all types of insurance, including motor vehicle insurance. However, some car owners who have not lodged a claim in a long time believe they don’t need car insurance, and choose to cancel their policy as a result. “That is a very unwise thing to do,” warns Lebo…

Mar 07, 2024 Mobility

CIPS conference and award ceremony to showcase Africa’s procurement and supply excellence

Networking and knowledge-sharing opportunities abound at the two-day event in Johannesburg. The CIPS Africa Transform & Thrive 2024 Conference, which includes the Excellence in Procurement and Supply Awards, will offer a not-to-be-missed opportunity for engagement, growth and innovation as industry leaders, decision-makers, and experts gather to discuss and shapethe future of procurement and…

Mar 07, 2024 Mobility

Broad-based weakness evident in the logistics sector in January 2024

After increasing somewhat in December 2023, the Ctrack Transport and Freight Index (Ctrack TFI) declined notably in January to an index level of 119.3, a drop of 2.1% compared to December’s level of 121.9. The extent of the weakness evident reminds of the pressure the sector experienced amid the KZN looting and flooding episodes – see graph 1. Though the weakness was quite broad-based, the Ctrack…

Mar 06, 2024 Mobility

Safeguarding Against the Ongoing Supply Chain Disruptions

Mitigating Contractual Disputes by exploring ADR and arbitration in resolving supply chain disputes The mining industry relies heavily on a complex network of suppliers, logistics partners, and transporters to ensure the efficient movement of raw materials. However, one of the major challenges faced by corporate mining companies operating in South Africa is the inadequate infrastructure for…

Mar 05, 2024 Mobility

CILT Africa Annual Forum 2024

AFRICA Forum is a major continental event providing a platform for governments, corporate organisations, individuals, students and other stakeholders of the transport and logistics industry to share, learn, and promote professional and business interests. This will be the 17th Africa Forum event. WhereElephant Hills Resort, Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe. Theme “Unlocking Africa’s wealth through…

Mar 05, 2024 Mobility

Michelin Joins Historic Truck Driver Symposium to Drive Change in Safety, Wellness, and Industry Standards

Michelin is proud to be a part of the inaugural Truck Driver Symposium that is being hosted by the Department of Transport (DOT) in collaboration with SaferStops Association (SSA). Scheduled for the 06th and 07th of March 2024 in Boksburg, Gauteng, under the theme 'Your Wellness is OUR Concern”, the event is aimed at tackling issues faced by truck drivers in the transport industry such as health,…

Mar 04, 2024 Mobility

How to save fuel

Despite seeing a R3.20 drop in petrol prices and R4.40 drop in diesel prices between November and January, March will bring the downward movement of the petrol price to a halt. While yet to be confirmed, predictions are that fuel will increase by approximately R1.20 per litre. Projections at the start of 2024 expected no major price fluctuations because of the suppressed oil price expected in…

Mar 04, 2024 Mobility

JAECOO takes to the road

JAECOO is ready to make its debut and has kick started its launch season with the first batch of J7 commercial vehicles having already arrived in South Africa. Recently, OMODA & JAECOO hosted an investment conference for dealers and investors in Kwa-Zulu Natal where the brand presented the exciting JAECOO products and its offering to South African automotive dealers. Brand OMODA & JAECOO also…

Feb 29, 2024 Mobility

Truck Driver Safety and Wellness Symposium commits to real change

The Minister of Transport, Ms Sindisiwe Chikunga, is proud to announce the unveiling of The Department’s programme for the inaugural Truck Driver Safety and Wellness Symposium. The Symposium will take place on 7 March at the Birchwood Hotel and Conference Centre in Boksburg, Gauteng. Ms Chikunga will be hosting the Welcome Dinner on 6 March and delivering the opening address at the Symposium on 7…

Feb 29, 2024 Mobility

Everyone has the right to use the road – but stick to the rules!

With Easter a little over a month away, road safety has again come into sharp focus. Recent statistics released by the RTMC (Road Traffic Management Corporation) paint a grim picture. Released at the end of May last year, the RTMC’s State of Road Safety in South Africa (January 2022 to December 2022) notes that 12 436 people died on our roads that year. Forty three percent (5 347) of these were…

Feb 29, 2024 Mobility

The Discovery Pothole Patrol formalises its Academy to create jobs and drive sustainable change

Discovery is proud to announce the official launch of the Discovery Pothole Patrol Academy in partnership with Avis Southern Africa. Following a successful pilot in 2023 with 18 learners, the Academy is now accredited by the Insurance Sector Education and Training Authority (INSETA) to offer a 12-month practical skills training programme providing an NQF Level 3 qualification. In its first…

Feb 28, 2024 Mobility

Exploring ways to minimize the financial impact on fleet operations in South Africa

Operating a fleet business in South Africa comes with its fair share of challenges, especially amidst the backdrop of economic fluctuations, such as inflation and the constant hikes in petrol prices, coupled with the recurring issue of stage 6 load shedding. These factors invariably affect the bottom line of fleet owners, necessitating strategic approaches to mitigate financial strain. One…

Feb 28, 2024 Mobility

Road Freight Association revs up for annual conference at Arabella Hotel, Golf & Spa

The Road Freight Association (RFA) is gearing up for its annual conference, which this year takes place in the picturesque town of Hermanus in the Western Cape. The three-day event, held from May 24 to 26 at the Arabella Hotel & Spa, will bring together key stakeholders, thought leaders, and professionals from the road freight industry for networking, innovative ideas, learning, and…

Feb 28, 2024 Mobility

Insurance implications of switching to Electric Vehicles

(image: Tarina Vlok, MD of Elite Risk, a high-net-worth insurer and subsidiary of Old Mutual Insure) Last week the Minister of Finance announced that producers of electric vehicles in South Africa will be able to claim 150% of qualifying investment spending as an incentive to aid the transition to new energy vehicles. Government has also reprioritised R964 million over the medium term to support…

Feb 27, 2024 Mobility

Change in tactics required to stimulate demand for EVs

The uptake of electric vehicles (EVs) in South Africa has been slow in comparison to other world markets. While local consumer interest in new-energy vehicles continues on an upward trajectory, demand remains subdued due to a number of factors, key among these being the relatively high cost of EVs when compared to vehicles powered by an internal combustion engine (ICE). Following intensive…

Feb 27, 2024 Mobility

An Extra Line of Defence against Crime

South Africans are reeling from the shock of the recently released crime statistics, revealing a nation grappling with escalating violence and lawlessness. According to Police Minister Bheki Cele, the latest quarterly crime report paints a grim picture, with more than 7,700 people falling victim to murder in just three months. This alarming surge in violent crime has left citizens feeling…

Feb 27, 2024 Mobility

Five tips to help your clutch last longer

If you drive a manual car, you use the clutch every time you change gears, so it’s easy to take it for granted. The good news is that the clutch can be maintained quite easily with good vehicle maintenance and driving skills. “If your clutch fails, you won’t be able to change gears,” explains Barend Smit, Marketing Director of MotorHappy, a supplier of motor management solutions. “Just like any…

Feb 27, 2024 Mobility

Decoding lights on your car’s dashboard

If the only light you recognise or do anything about on your dashboard is a warning that you are low on fuel, it may be time to brush up on your car’s other warning signs. Motor Industry Workshop Association (MIWA) chairman Dewald Ranft says it’s almost time for South African’s to be heading off on their Easter Weekend holiday break and in the interests of road safety, any warning lights should…

Feb 23, 2024 Mobility

Awards will showcase African supply chain excellence

Entries are open for the 2024 Africa Supply Chain Excellence Awards. This prestigious annual event, which is now in its third year, acknowledges the vital role played by supply chain management and recognises excellence in the supply chain profession. Entries are invited in a range of categories - from demand planning, procurement and manufacturing, to warehousing, transport, technology,…

Feb 20, 2024 Mobility

Consumers cannot afford levy hike

Association says Minister must think carefully about the impact of increases The Automobile Association (AA) says Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana must think carefully about the negative impact of increasing fuel levies on consumers before making any decision to do so when he delivers his Budget Speech in Parliament tomorrow. The AA says the two largest levies on fuel – the General Fuel Levy…

Feb 20, 2024 Mobility

Stellantis Pro One starts delivery of Hydrogen vehicles to Hysetco, European leader in Hydrogen mobility

In France, Italy & Spain, Stellantis is the best-selling car manufacturer on both electrified & all energy markets, with brand Fiat Professional occupying the number 1 spot as best-selling brand in Italy and a number 1 position for Peugeot and Peugeot e-208 in the electric market in France. The Peugeot Partner/Rifter is the best-selling model in Spain on the all energy market, achieving a 9,7 %…

Feb 20, 2024 Mobility

Paving the way: the benefits of PBS vehicles

As leaders in the mining industry, we are witnessing a significant change pushing us to improve transportation, safety, and environmental sustainability. Using Performance-Based Standards (PBS) vehicles is a big part of this change, stirring up essential discussions in our field. These vehicles are quickly gaining traction in the mining industry, as service providers increasingly acknowledge…

Feb 19, 2024 Mobility

New Volkswagen Amarok gains SVI-developed B6 Discreet Armour

SVI Engineering, leading specialist manufacturer of armoured products in South Africa, has developed a new discreet armouring package specifically for the latest-generation Volkswagen Amarok, handing the locally built double-cab bakkie inconspicuous level B6 protection. Representing the highest grade of civilian-vehicle armour available in South Africa without a special permit, the concealed B6…

Feb 19, 2024 Mobility

HINO SA completes home affairs’ order for 33 mobile offices

Hino South Africa has completed an order for 33 mobile offices for the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Home Affairs. The last units were shipped in mid-February. Unique bodies were built by SA Van Conversions/Bubhezi and mounted on Hino 300 816 chassis/cabs. A group of KZN Home Affairs officials involved in the project visited the Hino assembly plant in Prospecton, near Durban, in December for a…

Feb 19, 2024 Mobility

The point of no return

A study conducted by the Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) says that 9.4% of all fatal traffic accidents on South African roads involve heavy load vehicles. Additionally, statistics attribute between 80 and 85% of truck crashes to human error. Added to this, 73% of the people killed in truck crashes are occupants from other vehicles. The CEO of MasterDrive, Eugene Herbert, says truck…

Feb 19, 2024 Mobility

Your driving superstitions could be fatal

"Superstitions might seem harmless, but they can be risky when driving," cautions Julianna Marshall, a travel expert with the International Drivers Association. Driving demands skill, focus, and responsibility, making it vulnerable to superstitions. Many drivers have heard strange beliefs about driving that can distract from safe habits. Let's uncover and dispel some of these driving myths.…

Feb 19, 2024 Mobility

Webinar gives insight into AARTO

MasterDrive hosted their ‘Insights into AARTO Power Chat’ on 15 February, with almost 700 registrations. The webinar not only provided crucial insights into the AARTO Act but also highlighted the positive impact it could have on individuals and organisations when approached with the correct mindset. Alta Swanepoel, from Alta Swanepoel and Associates, was the keynote speaker and demonstrated the…

Feb 16, 2024 Mobility

As fuel prices increase – what it means for South Africans from a road freight logistics perspective

There are dire forecasts of large fuel increases heading towards the South African economy in March 2024 - diesel by at least R1,40 for 500ppm and R1,50 for 50ppm. The price of petrol - 93 and 95 - will increase by at least R1,30 per litre. The Central Energy Fund (CEF) attributes the forecasted price hikes to rising international fuel prices, which were around 82 Dollars a barrel when the…

Feb 16, 2024 Mobility

OX Delivers secures £1.2 million UK Energy Catalyst grant funding to further strategic roll-out of affordable clean transport for Africa

OX Delivers, UK-based emobility start-up, has received a £1.2 million funding grant from Energy Catalyst as the company readies its next-generation affordable all-electric OX4 truck for production. The £1.2 million Energy Catalyst grant will fund the development of a sustainable energy infrastructure in Rwanda from which OX Delivers EV trucks will benefit from. OX Delivers is already providing…

Feb 16, 2024 Mobility

Tata Motors launches its Ultra range of new-generation, smart trucks in South Africa

Available for versatile applications in two models – Ultra T.9 and T.14 Key features of Ultra Euro IV, turbocharged 3.3/5-litre engine with six speed transmission for best-in-class fuel efficiency Best-in-segment safety with Antilock Braking System Walk-through cabin with dashboard-mounted gear lever, and front parabolic suspension for comfortable ride and handling. 5 Year/500,000 km warranty…

Feb 15, 2024 Mobility

Fuel price shock on the horizon

South Africans can expect a major upward shift in fuel prices in March, delivering yet another blow to already embattled consumers. Commenting on mid-month fuel data released by the Central Energy Fund (CEF), the Automobile Association (AA) notes that the current data is projecting fuel prices to jump the R24/litre mark for both grades of petrol edging close to the R25/l record high seen last…

Feb 15, 2024 Mobility

Factors to consider before downgrading your car

With the cost of living increasing dramatically over the last few years and inflation reaching historical highs, saving money is a priority for many households. If you’re looking to save money by trading in your large family car for a smaller one, there are a few key points to consider before making the move. “Firstly, assess your needs – think about your typical passengers, cargo requirements,…

Feb 15, 2024 Mobility

SA on track for EVs following SONA

During the SONA 2024 that took place on Thursday, 8 February, President Ramaphosa stated that the government was on track to resolve the most important constraints on economic growth by creating jobs through electric vehicle manufacturing. Naamsa has also stated that the sale of electric vehicles in South Africa more than doubled year-on-year in 2023. Sales of new-energy vehicles by 18 industry…

Feb 15, 2024 Mobility

Ford Family Guarantee Brings Customer Experience to Life

Ford South Africa is dedicated to enhancing the customer experience and striving to deliver unparalleled convenience and expert guidance throughout every interaction with its dealer network. As Ford prepares to launch exciting new products, the Ford Family Guarantee focuses on every extension of Ford’s dedicated after-sales service teams. This holistic strategy embraces a customer-centric…

Feb 14, 2024 Mobility

4 trends from the OE market to watch in 2024 and beyond

The original equipment (OE) market has undergone huge change in recent years – especially in Europe. Now, Bridgestone EMEA’s OE team has shared its four major trends that are set to have the biggest impact on an evolving automotive industry throughout 2024 and beyond. The European car market will continue adjusting to the ‘new normal’ From the pandemic in 2020 to 2021’s semiconductor shortage,…

Feb 13, 2024 Mobility

66% of surveyed drivers wouldn’t consider buying an EV

Around two-thirds of non-EV drivers say they will still not be switching to an electric car any time soon. A recent survey conducted by Refused Car Finance shows a number of customers said they would not consider buying an electric car as their next vehicle. Consumers who did not already own an EV were asked whether they would consider an electric car in the future and a vast majority of these…

Feb 13, 2024 Mobility

WesBank outlines key factors to consider when seeking the best vehicle finance deal

The automotive sector has endured sustained pressure for several months now, exacerbated by the relatively high cost of vehicle ownership as a result of increased fuel prices, high inflation and high lending rates, among other factors. The impact has been felt across the board, including the budget and premium segments. “At times like this,” says Lebo Gaoaketse, Head of Marketing and…

Feb 13, 2024 Mobility

Navigating the AARTO delay: will implementation happen?

The Administrative Adjudication of Road Traffic Offences (AARTO) Act is again a subject of discussion following the announcement that the second phase will be delayed. The public is speculating about its future as no date was provided as to when it will begin. Be cautious of perceiving these delays as the end of AARTO which is what South Africans often do. Rather, it is a reprieve, providing…

Feb 13, 2024 Mobility

Vehicle crime ramps up towards the end of the year

Business-owned vehicles remain at greater risk Tracker’s vehicle crime statistics for the period July to December 2023 reveal an increase in the volume of vehicle crime during the last half of the year, with a peak in November during ‘silly season’ – namely, shopping events such as Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and the festive season frenzy. Furthermore, a business-owned vehicle is 56% more likely…

Feb 12, 2024 Mobility

How A Simple 'Pause' Slashes Accident Rates by 47%

"Slowing down saves lives," is no longer an idle lecture for reckless drivers. A groundbreaking study by the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) ties a humble intersection delay to a whopping 47% drop in pedestrian conflicts. Let's delve deeper. The Magic of a Momentary Delay Such reductions in pedestrian mishaps came, against all odds, from extending the beginning of the green signal phase for…

Feb 12, 2024 Mobility

Mobilize PowerBox: the charging station produced in France by LACROIX and marketed by the Renault network

On February 8, 2024, partners from Software République's innovation ecosystem (Orange, Renault Group, STMicroelectronics and Thales) will meet for the industrial launch of the Mobilize PowerBox charging station at the site of the new production line at the Symbiose electronics plant in Beaupréau-en-Mauges (Maine-et-Loire, France). The initial production capacity is 65,000 units/year. The Mobilize…

Feb 12, 2024 Mobility

Beyond Ownership: The Psychological and Economic Shift to Vehicle Subscriptions

GM of Sales and Marketing KINTO at Toyota South Africa Motors, Slade Thompson unpacks the driving factors behind the rise in vehicle subscriptions. In an era where flexibility and choice redefine consumer choices, the traditional concept of car ownership is undergoing a significant transformation. Getting a car still means signing a loan, battling repairs, and praying for resale value. That’s…

Feb 08, 2024 Mobility

These are the things your mechanic wants you to know

Your mechanic holds a treasure trove of insights that can keep your car running smoothly and your engine humming contentedly. However, car ownership also requires some knowledge and proactivity, especially when it comes to a car service and vehicle maintenance. Below are four essential things your mechanic wants you to know to keep your motor happy: Know your car service schedule “Just like…

Feb 07, 2024 Mobility

Zero Carbon Charge signs R1 billion deal  to bring EV super chargers to South Africa

Zero Carbon Charge has signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Chinese energy storage systems manufacturer Shanghai Magic Power Tech Co., Ltd, also known as Magic Power, and its local partner Greencore Energy Solutions (PTY) Ltd, to build and import the first-of-its kind integrated supercharging systems for its 120 renewable charging stations currently being rolled out across South…

Feb 07, 2024 Mobility

Webfleet unveils 5 fleet management trends for 2024

Fleet management is undergoing major advances and 2024 will be a decisive year in two key areas: safety and decarbonisation. In addition, technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) applied to automotive will drive new challenges and opportunities in the sector. Webfleet, Bridgestone’s globally trusted fleet management solution, has compiled the fleet management trends that are on the…

Feb 07, 2024 Mobility

JC Auditors launches groundbreaking initiative for the road transport sector

JC Auditors (JCA), a leader in international certification services, is taking a giant leap forward with a visionary initiative aimed at redefining support for its clients within the road transport sector. Recognising the extraordinary pressures confronting the industry, including surging fuel costs and operational complexities in South Africa, JCA is leading the way in assisting companies reduce…

Feb 06, 2024 Mobility

WeBuyCars unveiling key trends shaping the pre-owned cars market in 2024

Over the past two decades, the market has undergone a transformative journey, shaped by advancements in technology and the increasing importance of online transactions. Entering the year 2024, the automotive market unveils promising opportunities, offering favourable conditions for obtaining pre-owned vehicles in the upcoming months. According to Rikus Blomerus, Chief Marketing Officer at…

Feb 06, 2024 Mobility

Analysing Festive Season road fatalities – 2:3

The Road Safety Partnership South Africa (RSP-SA) has analysed the 2023/2024 Festive Season road fatality rates to provide perspective on whether the decrease in stats was truly dismal. In January, Minister Sindisiwe Chikunga revealed there was a 1.7% and 2.3% decrease in road fatalities and fatal crashes respectively. These stats sparked heated debate over whether the decrease is something of…

Feb 06, 2024 Mobility

Bakwena’s 2024 Road and Plaza Expansion Plans

Bakwena, the Concessionaire responsible for the N1N4 route, is dedicated to maintaining and upgrading its road network to ensure the safety and convenience of travellers. The recent impact of climate change, particularly heavy rainfall, has necessitated constant maintenance to meet international engineering standards. Under the concession contract with SANRAL, Bakwena engages in both periodic and…

Feb 05, 2024 Mobility

SVI launches B6 armoured cab replacement for UD Kuzer trucks

SVI Engineering, leading specialist manufacturer of armoured products, has launched a new factory-backed B6 armouring package for the UD Kuzer RKE 150 truck, incorporating a full cab replacement to ensure the ultimate level of protection. Trading its entire standard cab for a version custom fabricated from bullet-resistant steel and featuring top-quality ballistic glass, the SVI-converted UD…

Feb 05, 2024 Mobility

Big petrol price increases expected in February

Current unaudited fuel data from the Central Energy Fund (CEF) is showing significant increases for all grades of fuel in February. Commenting on the data, the Automobile Association (AA) says the numbers are indicating that the short-lived relief South African motorists enjoyed in the past three months is over. According to the data, 93ULP and 95ULP petrol are expected to climb by between…

Feb 05, 2024 Mobility

Expanding second hand car parc sales good news for independent workshops

Responding to the findings of TransUnion’s latest Vehicle Pricing Index (VPI), Dewald Ranft, Chairman of the Motor Industry Workshop Association (MIWA), a constituent association of the Retail Motor Industry Organisation (RMI), says expanding second hand car parc sales, are definitely good news for independent workshops. Ranft says with so many more second-hand options now available, it is…

Feb 01, 2024 Mobility

ISUZU Trucks Secures 11 Years as South Africa’s Top Selling Cab-Over-Chassis brand

ISUZU Trucks proudly celebrates its remarkable 11-year reign as the number one brand in South Africa's cab-over-chassis’ medium and heavy commercial vehicle (MCV and HCV) segments. Despite market challenges, ISUZU Trucks continues to dominate, reinforcing its commitment to excellence and customer satisfaction. Medium commercial vehicle segment: In 2023, ISUZU Trucks maintained a significant…

Feb 01, 2024 Mobility

E-LION Day 2024: PEUGEOT announces offers 8 years peace-of-mind with "PEUGEOT Allure Care" on the new E-3008

PEUGEOT is enthusiastically and determinedly committed to a radical transformation to become the leading brand in the European electric market by 2025. PEUGEOT offers the widest EV line-up of any European mainstream brand and aims to convince its customers to participate in this evolution by multiplying initiatives to make zero-emission mobility accessible, simple and serene. Following the E-LION…

Feb 01, 2024 Mobility

MasterDrive Driver Search about to select entrants

The MasterDrive Driver Search closed today. The Driver Search has expanded to have national reach this year, presenting more opportunities to more young drivers but it also adds to the competitive landscape for entrants hoping to enter the next round of the search. Last year, the MasterDrive Driver Search launched the inaugural initiative to greater than expected success. The General Manager of…

Feb 01, 2024 Mobility

Reaching the point of Turnaround

The logistics crisis in South Africa is, without doubt, the ‘perfect storm’, strangling the private sector and trade, negatively impacting the fiscal, causing massive knock-on damage to the nation at large. This is a situation that government now recognises as an ‘Achilles heel’ to the national economy. Corrective, regenerative focus from collaborative platforms between the public and private…

Feb 01, 2024 Mobility

UD Trucks Southern Africa remains dedicated to providing transport and service solutions that address today’s logistics challenges

On 31 January 2024, UD Trucks Southern Africa (UDTSA) held its Annual Press Conference at Langhams Executive Conferencing. At this gathering, the company announced its 2023 performance to local media stakeholders in attendance, despite the headwinds in the commercial vehicle industry, presented by both regional and international unpredictable operating conditions. Overall, the new vehicle market…

Feb 01, 2024 Mobility

SAPICS targets young professionals and students to fuel interest and grow talent in skills strapped supply chain field

Reflecting its commitment to addressing youth unemployment in South Africa and the skills deficit in the supply chain field, SAPICS (The Professional Body for Supply Chain Management) will host its Young Professional & Student Conference on 22 February 2024. This is an online event that is free to attend for SAPICS members, full-time students and young professionals under the age of 25. Through…

Feb 01, 2024 Mobility

Vehicle Hijacking numbers down over festive season

Fidelity Services Group confirms that while vehicle hijackings are increasing in general, the group had not experienced any particular spikes in the number of vehicle hijackings nationally over the festive season. Wahl Bartmann CEO of Fidelity Services Group says, “Fortunately no spikes in hijackings were recorded from our perspective over the festive season. However, we are gearing up as the…

Jan 31, 2024 Mobility

The logistics sector ended 2023 on a better note

The Ctrack Transport and Freight Index (Ctrack TFI) increased somewhat in December to end a volatile year for the logistics sector on a better note. At an index level of 121.1 in December, the Ctrack TFI is 8.4% above year-ago levels and 1.9% above the September level, signalling that the transport sector likely contributed positively to Q4 2023 GDP growth. While the improvement is indeed…

Jan 31, 2024 Mobility

Volvo Launches Upgraded Extra Heavy Trucks

Volvo Trucks’ range of extra heavy trucks – the Volvo FH, FM and FMX models – are being upgraded with new technologies and the latest in camera monitoring for even better efficiency, safety and productivity for demanding businesses. The upgrades on the Volvo FH, FM and FMX trucks are the latest in Volvo Trucks’ continuous engineering efforts to optimise its trucks. The Volvo FH Electric –…

Jan 31, 2024 Mobility

IRP2023: Government has underestimated the strain that EVs will place on the Eskom grid

Zero Carbon Charge (Zero CC) has, today, made its submission to the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy (DMRE) on the draft Integrated Resource Plan (IRP). The submission highlights that, based on Zero Carbon Charge’s own research, the draft IRP has not fully taken into account the increased demand that the transition to Electric Vehicles (EVs) will place on the national Eskom powered grid…

Jan 31, 2024 Mobility

HINO SA aims to grow sales volume by 10% in 2024

Hino South Africa has set an ambitious target to grow its sales volume by 15% to 3 800 units in 2024, compared to the 3 300 units it retailed in 2023. This in pursuit of a market share of 10% in the overall South African truck market forecast of 34 800 units in 2024. This was announced by Anton Falck, Vice President of Hino South Africa, at a media briefing at the Toyota Africa Parts Centre,…

Jan 30, 2024 Mobility

Stellantis Pro One Expands Existing Hydrogen Fuel Cell Offer with In-House Production Starting on Mid-size and Large Vans in Europe

Stellantis Pro One commercial vehicle lineup expands its production capabilities of hydrogen fuel cell vehicles with in-house production starting now on both mid-size and large van offers in Hordain (France) and Gliwice (Poland), respectively, boosting the Company’s zero-emissions offerings. The extended lineup and increased in-house, industrial scale production of fuel cell vans helps cement…

Jan 30, 2024 Mobility

Road fatalities halved

Bakwena Platinum Corridor Concessionaire (Pty) Ltd (Bakwena), is pleased to report an overall reduction of fatalities along the Bakwena N1N4 route over the festive period of 12 December 2023 up to 16 January 2024. A total of 5 fatalities (2 of which were pedestrians) were recorded compared to the previous year of 10. This significant reduction is attributed to increased law enforcement visibility…

Jan 30, 2024 Mobility

See more animals with these game drive tips

South Africa’s beautiful national parks and game reserves are a treasure trove of wildlife and natural beauty, attracting visitors from across the country and around the world. One of the best ways to explore our national parks is with a self-drive trip. With more than 20 parks in the South African National Parks group, holidaymakers are spoilt for choice. “Aside from the main deciding factor of…

Jan 29, 2024 Mobility

SAPRA supports diesel probe

(image) Lebo Ramolahloane, Vice Chairman of SAPRA Following newspaper reports this week regarding the probe by the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy (DMRE) into filling stations selling watered down diesel, the South African Petroleum Retailers Association (SAPRA), representing the interest of numerous petroleum retailers in South Africa and a proud association of the Retail Motor…

Jan 26, 2024 Mobility

Deep dive into adulterated diesel

Recently, several news reports warned drivers that at least 70 service stations are selling ‘contaminated’ or ‘fake’ diesel. Many of these reports are causing significant concern amongst motorists as few, if any, are accompanied by advice about what to do to avoid filling up with adulterated diesel. The CEO of MasterDrive, Eugene Herbert, says adulterated diesel has cost and safety implications…

Jan 26, 2024 Mobility

Elevate Your Brand with SAPICS Conference 2024 Sponsorship

SAPICS is excited to offer you an opportunity to elevate your brand and expand your business reach by becoming a sponsor of the 2024 SAPICS Annual Conference which will be held in association with the South African Association of Freight Forwarders. Your support of this world-class event will contribute to the elevation, education, and empowerment of the supply chain community across Africa. Why…

Jan 26, 2024 Mobility

Drunk driving the major offender

As an organisation dedicated to consistent reduction in road fatalities, MasterDrive sees the loss of 25 less lives this Festive Season as a step in the right direction. This 1.7% paired with the decrease from last year shows a promising downward turn in lives lost on our roads. The CEO of MasterDrive, Eugene Herbert, says there is, however, merit to concern this is not good enough. “Despite the…

Jan 25, 2024 Mobility

Decrease in fatalities welcome, but more needs to be done

The small decrease in the number of fatalities on South African roads between the December 2022 and January 2023 festive period and the 2023/2024 period is commendable and signals a slight improvement in road safety efforts by authorities. However, the Automobile Association (AA) remains concerned that the deaths of 1427 road users during the festive period is still too high, and that more needs…

Jan 24, 2024 Mobility

SAPICS Young Professional & Student Conference | 22 February 2024

The SAPICS Young Professional and Student Conference will educate, empower, and elevate students in the profession of Supply Chain Management. With presentations covering supply chain technical subjects, as well as the ever-increasingly important "soft skills" of this interdisciplinary profession. The conference offers a well-rounded programme that aims to share knowledge and insights from…

Jan 24, 2024 Mobility

SA second-hand car buyers need to be more vigilant

Buying a car, even a second-hand one, is a big financial commitment and the buyer needs to know they are getting bang for their buck, along with all the things which they most desire in a car. Safety should always be a top priority but how certain can one be that your chosen vehicle has never been involved in a serious accident? Jacques Viljoen, national director of the South African Motor Body…

Jan 24, 2024 Mobility

Return to the dreaded commute

Productivity and optimal function at one’s business depends on mental alertness and energetic performance. Imagine a scenario where a large percentage of employees are arriving for work already emotionally exhausted. Recent research is suggesting that increased traffic and stressful commutes prevent workforces from performing at their best. While remote or hybrid work practices are still in…

Jan 24, 2024 Mobility

2023 used car sales: Foot still on the gas

Ford Ranger continues to dominate model sales, widening the gap between the Toyota Hilux. The foot has certainly not come off the gas in the used car market. In 2023 the number of used cars sold rose by 4.6% year-on-year. Overall, 367,075 used cars with an average selling price of R399,163 were sold, according to AutoTrader data. Sales of an additional 17,000-odd units in 2023 and increased…

Jan 24, 2024 Mobility

Prepare for scorching temperatures

Weather advisories were issued for parts of the Northern and Western Cape advising of temperatures as high as 40°C. Temperatures this high create dangerous driving conditions. Not only does it pose a risk to your health and wellbeing but if temperatures are high enough it can even damage your vehicle. The CEO of MasterDrive, Eugene Herbert, advises reducing the amount of time spent in the car.…

Jan 23, 2024 Mobility

Essential car maintenance tips for summer

Summer is in full swing, and that means scorching temperatures, long road trips, and plenty of adventures under the sun. While you're busy planning your next beach getaway or game drive, don't forget to give your trusty vehicle some TLC too. “The heat can be tough on your car, but a little preventive car maintenance goes a long way,” advises Barend Smit, Marketing Director of MotorHappy, a…

Jan 23, 2024 Mobility

Mercedes-Benz Trucks retains market leadership in strong heavy commercial vehicle market, expressing deep gratitude to its customers

The automotive business council, NAAMSA, recently released the 2023 new vehicle statistics and for the fourth consecutive year, Mercedes-Benz Trucks claimed the market leader position for heavy commercial vehicles reaffirming why the Mercedes-Benz Actros won the NAAMSA Extra-Heavy Commercial Vehicle of the Year award in 2023. The Arocs range for construction and distribution, significantly grew…

Jan 23, 2024 Mobility

Stellantis Unveils BEV-native STLA Large Platform with 800 Km/500 Mile Range and the Ultimate Flexibility to Cover a Wide Spectrum of Vehicles

Stellantis N.V. has unveiled STLA Large, its all-new, highly flexible, BEV-native platform that is the foundation for a wide range of upcoming vehicles for global markets in the D and E segments. The platform enables several segment-leading capabilities including embedded energy, charging efficiency, high-performance vehicle dynamics and Trail Rated off-road driving. Full-size vehicles based on…

Jan 19, 2024 Mobility

Transport trends: what trucks will you see on SA’s roads in 2024?

The last century saw few changes to trucks; their appearances were unchanged, and they were all powered by internal combustion engines fuelled by diesel. However, this century has witnessed impressive change! The transport industry is enjoying one innovation following the next; anything and everything from electric trucks to those with fuel cells and even those without drivers. But which of these…

Jan 19, 2024 Mobility

Cleaner public transport beckons with new project

Buses belching clouds of smoke could be a thing of the past within the next few years if a pilot project to prove the viability of electric buses delivers positive results. By the end of 2025, South Africa’s first electric commuter buses could be on the roads of Tshwane and eThekwini municipalities as part of pilot project funded by the Global Environmental Facility and managed by the Development…

Jan 18, 2024 Mobility

10 jarring facts about drowsy driving

Recent research shows fatigued driving can be just as, and potentially even more dangerous, than driving under the influence. One of the reasons for this, is because of the lack of awareness that many drivers have about just how risky it is and even an underestimation of one’s level of drowsiness. The CEO of MasterDrive, Eugene Herbert, says this emphasises the importance of increasing awareness…

Jan 18, 2024 Mobility

Pre-owned vehicles now as much about choice as price

As much as price is a significant driver of the pre-owned car market, South African motorists are now also enjoying the wide variety of quality vehicles offered. Gone were the days when pre-loved vehicle lots might have had a few fixer-uppers displayed in the back, noted Donovan Enslin, used vehicle manager for the Kelston Motor Group. “I don’t think there is a manufacturer delivering a poor…

Jan 17, 2024 Mobility

Coal train collision exposes vulnerabilities in Richards Bay Ore Line: RFA urges investigation into outdated systems and calls for sustainable solution

The Road Freight Association (RFA) notes the collision of two coal trains on the Richards Bay ore line. Whilst Transnet reports no serious injuries or fatalities, it further notes that the cause of the incident is unknown and will be investigated. However, the event underscores the vulnerability of the multi-ore line due to the inherent risks of outdated manual systems and poor operational…

Jan 17, 2024 Mobility

Negative outlook for fuel prices in February

Unaudited fuel data from the Central Energy Fund (CEF) points to possible increases in all grades of fuel prices in February, except for illuminating paraffin. Commenting on the data, the Automobile Association (AA) says consumers can expect a slight increase of around 11c/l for ULP95, 14c/l for ULP93, and 9c/l for diesel. Illuminating paraffin is showing a slight decrease of around 3c/l. “The…

Jan 17, 2024 Mobility

Catch the early bird discount for Africa’s leading suppy chain conference

Early birds have until 31 March 2024 to qualify for a discounted registration fee for the annual SAPICS Conference and Exhibition, Africa’s leading knowledge sharing and networking event for supply chain professionals. Taking place from 9 to 12 June 2024 in Cape Town, this year’s SAPICS Conference will be held under the theme “Supply Chain Metamorphosis” and hosted by SAPICS (The Professional…

Jan 17, 2024 Mobility

Green electric forklifts for sustainable logistics

Clark at the LogiMAT 2024 Under the motto "CLARK Forklifts: green, sustainable, and strong", the industrial truck specialist Clark will be presenting numerous innovations in the field of electric counterbalance trucks and warehouse technology at LogiMAT in Stuttgart from 19 to 21 March 2024. The highlights of Clark's trade fair appearance in Hall 9, Stand 9D41 include three new electric forklift…

Jan 16, 2024 Mobility

FIAT Professional Ducato is “Large Van of the Year” at the Company Car and Van Awards 2024 in the UK for the 5th time in a row

FIAT Professional Ducato has been proclaimed as the winner of the "Large Van of the Year 2024", continuing its winning streak. For the fifth time in a row, the annual Company Car and Van Awards in the UK has awarded the successful model from FIAT Professional again. The Ducato has been praised for the variety of models on offer and their magnificent ease of handling as well as the vehicle’s…

Jan 15, 2024 Mobility

Stellantis Ventures Invests in Tiamat and Affordable Sodium-Ion Battery Technology

Stellantis Ventures, the corporate venture fund of Stellantis N.V., today announced its participation as a strategic investor in Tiamat, a France-based company that is developing and commercializing sodium-ion battery technology. Sodium-ion technology offers a lower cost per kilowatt-hour and is free of lithium and cobalt. Abundantly available sodium offers benefits in increased sustainability…

Jan 11, 2024 Mobility

Road trip done and dusted. Some basic checks worth considering

Holiday makers who travelled extensively over the festive season would have had their vehicles checked or serviced thoroughly in advance but now the road trip is done and dusted there may be some issues that need attention. Dewald Ranft, Chairman of the Motor Industry Workshop Association (MIWA), a proud association of the Retail Motor Industry Organisation (RMI), suggests, “A quick diagnostic…

Jan 11, 2024 Mobility

Mobility that Utilizes AI and Cultivates Creative Entertainment Space Presenting Evolved AFEELA Prototype at CES® 2024

Sony Honda Mobility Inc. (SHM) exhibited the AFEELA Prototype at CES® 2024 in Las Vegas, Nevada, USA beginning on Tuesday, January 9, 2024 (local time). In advance of CES® being opened to the public, Sony’s press conference was held on Monday, January 8 (local time). Representative Director, President and COO Izumi Kawanishi took the stage to unveil the evolved prototype for the first time. In…

Jan 10, 2024 Mobility

Cheap tyres can have expensive consequences 

A 2021 road safety report by South African tyre manufacturers reveals that 41% of road accidents happen because of a burst tyre. A further 15% of accidents are caused by smooth tyres. TEPA (Tyres, Equipment, Parts Association) vice chairperson Les Richardson says these stats are a symptom of a lack of maintenance and ignorance of the road safety standards. As the only parts of a vehicle in direct…

Jan 10, 2024 Mobility

Stellantis, BlackBerry QNX and AWS Launch Virtual Cockpit, Transforming In-Vehicle Software Engineering

Global automaker Stellantis N.V. led the creation of the world’s first virtual cockpit platform as part of its Stellantis Virtual Engineering Workbench (VEW) enabling the delivery of infotainment tech to customers 100 times faster than previous processes. The new platform uses the QNX® Hypervisor in the cloud from BlackBerry, which is now on early access release via AWS Marketplace within the QNX…

Jan 09, 2024 Mobility

Some Light at the Beginning of a Dim Business Tunnel

Leading truck and trailer manufacturer, Serco, forecasts another challenging year ahead for South Africa with negative factors such as load shedding and congestion at the country’s ports taking their toll. However, CEO Clinton Holcroft is optimistic about prospects for Serco, citing innovation and resilience as the company's beacons of hope and confidence. Looking back on a “tough” 2023, Holcroft…

Jan 09, 2024 Mobility

Opinion Piece: Driving the future - EVs are the ultimate opportunity for South Africa

More sustainable transport is taking centre stage in the Western world, as efforts to address climate change ramp up. Innovations and advancements in Electric Vehicles (EVs) are gaining velocity, with more and more options set to become available. South Africa is also getting on board, with a recent whitepaper by Trade, Industry, and Competition Minister Ebrahim Patel outlining the country’s…

Jan 09, 2024 Mobility

Kia launches Platform Beyond Vehicle business at CES 2024 to go ‘Beyond Mobility’

Kia has revealed its Platform Beyond Vehicle (PBV) future strategy at the 2024 Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas. Kia’s PBV business will initially be based around the introduction of an all-new, modular vehicle, previewed by the Kia Concept PV5. This future vision was presented alongside a multi-phase plan that will see PBVs revolutionise the mobility industry while helping to advance…

Jan 08, 2024 Mobility

Toll fee collections to resume at N2 oThongathi North Ramps on 15 January 2024

Toll fee collections at the N2 oThongathi north ramps will resume on 15 January 2024, the South African National Roads Agency SOC Limited (SANRAL) has announced. This follows the reopening of the M4 Tongaat River Bridge on 14 December 2023. “The M4 Tongaat bridge suffered major damage during the devastating floods of April 2022 and motorists had to use the alternative N2 national highway. The…

Dec 28, 2023 Mobility

2024 to start on positive fuel note for consumers

Despite the volatile Rand and concerns around shipping routes in the Red Sea, local fuel prices are still expected to decrease when they are adjusted by the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy next Wednesday. Commenting on unaudited data from the Central Energy Fund (CEF), the Automobile Association (AA) says the numbers are still pointing to reductions to fuel prices across the board.…

Dec 22, 2023 Mobility

CILTSA Sponsorships 2024

Are you ready to navigate the future of logistics, transport and supply chain? Buckle up – the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (CILT) South Africa is revving up for another year of groundbreaking events in 2024, and we want you onboard! Our events connect you directly with influential decision-makers, thought leaders, and rising stars across the entire logistics and transport…

Dec 21, 2023 Mobility

Safeguard your family on the road this holiday season

In charge of the family vehicle this holiday season? This tyre information can safeguard your family on the road. With your accommodation, bucket list and route planned, the next step before embarking on your festive road trip this year, is to assess if you have the correct tyres fitted to your vehicle for the application, activity and terrain you’re about to tackle. This is a necessary step to…

Dec 20, 2023 Mobility

The metamorphosis of supply chain management

Is your organisation’s supply chain a crawling caterpillar or has it morphed into a sprightly, soaring butterfly? In recent years, supply chains have had to change dramatically. Their metamorphosis has been accelerated by chaotic disruptions ranging from the pandemic, wars and climate catastrophes to the container shipping and energy crises. South African businesses have had to contend with riots…

Dec 20, 2023 Mobility

The perils of potholes: How to protect your vehicle

According to a report published by the South African National Roads Agency, there has been an increase of 67% in the number of potholes in the past five years, which is now estimated to be 25 million. The Johannesburg Roads Agency[1] alone reported that a total of 233 claims were submitted during the third quarter of 2022, with the related damage claim payouts equating to as much as R24 863 137.…

Dec 20, 2023 Mobility

First Volvo EX30 already on route to South Africa

Volvo Car South Africa has confirmed that the new fully electric EX30 is well on its way to local shores, with the country’s first allocation of units already on the water. Scheduled to launch locally in the opening quarter of 2024, the highly anticipated EX30 will touch down as one of the most affordable electric vehicles (EVs) on the market, with the five-strong line-up bearing a starting price…

Dec 19, 2023 Mobility

Make sure your car is safe for the festive season road trip

Summer holiday season has now started, South Africans traditionally pack up their cars and head for the coast or the mountains. Unfortunately, it’s also a time when the mortality rate spikes. The good news is that last holiday season saw the death rate reduce by almost 14%—but that’s still 1451 people lost to their families and friends. “We all want to further reduce mortality rate over the…

Dec 19, 2023 Mobility

Road safety is a national priority

Everybody who gets into a car, whether driver or passenger, is at risk of death. It’s just a fact. Road accidents are part of the system of modern life, as people commute from one destination to another. Every year, road traffic accidents claim the lives of around 1.3 million individuals around the world. Moreover, between 20 to 50 million people suffer from non-fatal injuries due to such…

Dec 18, 2023 Mobility

‘Tis the season for safe travels

With the festive season upon us, there is an undeniable buzz in the air. However, amidst the cheer and excitement, there exists a sobering reality - the devastating annual death toll on South African roads during this period. While this certainly casts a shadow over the merriment of the season, drivers need to be cognisant of several factors before they embark on their journeys, writes Jules…

Dec 18, 2023 Mobility

The PEUGEOT Panoramic i-Cockpit® wins Connected Car Award 2023

The new PEUGEOT Panoramic i-Cockpit® has impressed the readers of AUTO BILD and COMPUTER BILD in Germany and received a Connected Car Award 2023 in the "Entertainment" category. The winners will be presented in issues 50/23 of AUTO BILD and 1/24 of COMPUTER BILD. The PEUGEOT Panoramic i-Cockpit® was introduced for the first time on the new PEUGEOT E-3008. The new Panoramic i-Cockpit® on the new…

Dec 18, 2023 Mobility

3 reality check videos to avoid a fatal crash

With more than 1400 festive season road deaths recorded in 2022/2023, Dialdirect urges motorists to be vigilant during the upcoming December holidays. According to South African authorities, the road offences that occur most frequently over the festive period are excessive high speed, unsafe overtaking, driving recklessly, overloading, and driving with tyres that don’t meet roadworthy standards.…

Dec 15, 2023 Mobility

Don’t swap your family for a text

When you set off to your holiday destination with your family this Festive Season, make a commitment to yourself and them to never use your phone while driving. Give your phone to your ‘co-pilot’ and allow them to answer texts, select the music or whatever task will remove your eyes from the road and cause a potentially tragic collision. Eugene Herbert, the CEO of MasterDrive, says, “Driving is a…

Dec 15, 2023 Mobility

The Ultimate Checklist to Prep Your Classic Car for Summer Adventure

It’s summer, South Africa is on holiday and the open road is calling. But what you do between taking off your classic car’s dust cover and loading your luggage, could determine whether your trip will be the adventure of a lifetime, or the nightmare that nobody forgets. Creative Rides Classic & Collectibles Auctions CEO Kevin Derrick says ahead of a long journey it pays to be prepared – and that…

Dec 15, 2023 Mobility

KIA making its mark in used car sales

The sales gap between Toyota and Volkswagen continues to close. This month’s used car sales story is - in large part - about KIA. In November, AutoTrader’s used car sales data shows that KIA was the brand among the ten best-selling brands to post the highest positive sales growth. And among the ten best-selling models, the KIA Picanto also experienced the highest growth in sales. The KIA brand…

Dec 15, 2023 Mobility

Renault puts Safety First through partnerships with the Road Traffic Management Corporation and Bakwena N1N4 Toll Road Concessionaire

As an established Global entity within the top 5 Passenger Car brands in South Africa, safety is a strong brand pillar for Renault prioritising stringent safety standards within vehicle production and brand initiatives. Renault has been optimising existing safety systems and developing new ones for more than 50 years. The brand has filed over 7,000* safety patents since 1970, according to the…

Dec 15, 2023 Mobility

Managing the increasing risks of the road crucial for SA businesses in peak season

Much focus has been placed on the safety issues pertaining to road freight 2023, given the significant rate at which this mode of transport has grown over the last decade. This growth, coupled with South Africa’s mounting infrastructural challenges, and disruptions caused by ongoing strikes in both the rail and port networks, is a reminder for businesses operating in the sector to ensure that the…

Dec 14, 2023 Mobility

Resource-efficient and climate-friendly with sodium-ion batteries

The transition to a society without fossil fuels means that the need for batteries is increasing at a rapid pace. At the same time, the increase will mean a shortage of the metals lithium and cobalt, which are key components in the most common battery types. One option is a sodium-ion battery, where table salt and biomass from the forest industry make up the main raw materials. Now, researchers…

Dec 14, 2023 Mobility

About:Energy forges ground-breaking technology licensing agreement to advance battery modelling

About:Energy, a world-leading innovator in battery development software, today announces a technology licensing agreement with the University of Portsmouth and the University of Southampton, to advance battery modelling and accelerate electrification across the automotive and energy storage industry. The partnership will see About:Energy develop the universities' proprietary technology,…

Dec 14, 2023 Mobility

Unitrans takes a win in Hollard Highway Heroes competition

As the festive season gets underway, leading transport, logistics and integrated supply chain solutions company Unitrans, has much to celebrate. “Having five employees in the final of the Hollard Highway Heroes competition is testament to the high levels of professionalism and skill of our drivers,” says Derek Lewis, Chief Operating Officer of the People Transport division of Unitrans. Hollard…

Dec 14, 2023 Mobility

Opinion Piece: Creating a talent pipeline is key to ramping up manufacturing and logistics beyond the festive season

Ahead of the peak season that begins in November, enterprises in the manufacturing and logistics sectors need to ramp up to meet increased demand and compressed timelines. They need flexibility with an additional staff component and the ability to scale as necessary, as demand tends to taper off after the first quarter of the year. However, these sectors are also growing industries in South…

Dec 13, 2023 Mobility

Faster, more flexible, better quality: JLR to digitally transform organisation through partnership with Tata Communications

JLR is partnering with Tata Communications, the global commtech (communications technology) player, to future-proof its digital transformation and pave the way for new standards such as Industry 4.0 and advanced analytics. The partnership will power the production of JLR’s next-generation vehicles, a key part of its Reimagine strategy, and provide the connectivity foundation for the next phase of…

Dec 13, 2023 Mobility

The health of your car battery is also important

The Automobile Association (AA) received over 18400 calls to jump-start vehicles across the country this year and expects these calls to increase as temperatures rise. Extreme temperatures, both hot and cold, can affect the performance of your car battery. In hot temperatures, excessive heat can accelerate chemical reactions within the battery and lead to overheating. Car batteries are one of the…

Dec 13, 2023 Mobility

Get your car tech-ready for the December road trip

These days, most of us live increasingly connected lives. While it’s perhaps worth considering “unplugging” – that is, refraining from using your digital devices – for at least part of the upcoming holidays, there’s one time you most certainly should not be without the ability to communicate via such technology. Yes, we’re talking about the humble road trip. During any lengthy journey via South…

Dec 13, 2023 Mobility

DP World drives road safety on South African national routes this festive season

DP World is running a Road Safety Campaign this holiday season in South Africa, where many people use road transport to travel to various destinations across the country. South Africa experiences a high number of road crashes during this season, given the uptick in the number of vehicles on the road. Human error, due to unsafe driving behaviours, is another significant contributor to crashes on…

Dec 12, 2023 Mobility

Dying for a delivery

Growth in deliveries saw a massive increase during the pandemic. In 2020 alone, there was a 30% increase. As we head into the Festive Season, the number of delivery and just-in-time drivers will again increase significantly as more purchases are made. The CEO of MasterDrive, Eugene Herbert, advises giving your drivers extra support during this time. “Delivery drivers face significant pressure on…

Dec 12, 2023 Mobility

GWM ORA 03 – South Africa’s Bargain of the Year!

South Africa’s youngest vehicle brand is also South Africa’s best buy Top Gear South Africa picked the GWM ORA 03 as its Bargain of the Year at its inaugural TopGear South Africa Awards. The Awards were held last week at the luxurious Steyn City Helistop in Johannesburg, and it was attended by representatives from across the automotive industry. In total, 24 awards were made to various vehicle…

Dec 12, 2023 Mobility

Hino put the accent on new energy vehicles at Tokyo Mobility Show 2023

Hino Motors, a leading Japanese truck manufacturer, put the accent on its latest concepts of new energy vehicles (NEVs) at the 2023 Tokyo Mobility Show. This is in line with the company’s recently announced multiple pathways towards carbon neutrality where a variety of energy solutions will be used by Hino, including diesel-electric hybrids, battery electric and hydrogen fuel cells, to meet…

Dec 12, 2023 Mobility

Symbio inaugurates its first gigafactory SymphonHy, Europe's largest integrated site producing hydrogen fuel cells, supporting the deployment of sustainable and…

Symbio, an equally owned joint venture between Forvia, Michelin and Stellantis, is inaugurating SymphonHy today, its first gigafactory, a center of technological and industrial excellence. Located in Saint-Fons, in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region, SymphonHy is the largest integrated fuel cell production site in Europe, confirming Symbio’s role as a technological and industrial leader. The site…

Dec 08, 2023 Mobility

Stellantis and Ample Establish Partnership to Leverage Ample’s Modular Battery Swapping Technology for Use in Stellantis Electric Vehicles

Stellantis and Ample have signed a binding agreement to establish a partnership in electric vehicle (EV) battery charging technology capable of delivering a fully charged electric vehicle battery in less than five minutes. The two partners have agreed to work toward integrating Ample’s Modular Battery Swapping solution in Stellantis electric vehicles. Battery swapping technology allows an EV…

Dec 08, 2023 Mobility

Towing a trailer, boat or caravan this festive season – here’s what you need to know

As the December holidays approach, traffic officials across the country will be on high alert for increased traffic volumes as holidaymakers head off for a much needed December break which is traditionally a high risk period on all South African roads. Stats from the Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC), show that even though the number of fatalities decreased by 14% from 1 808 during the…

Dec 08, 2023 Mobility

Truck drivers implore motorists to consider these driving guidelines this festive season

It's the festive season! Naturally, the roads are busier than usual and motorists want to reach their holiday destinations as fast and safely as possible. But there are a number of dos and don’ts when sharing the roads with trucks. “Truck drivers tend to have a bad reputation, and unfairly so. Many are some of the most experienced drivers on the road if you consider the number of kilometres…

Dec 07, 2023 Mobility

SAPICS 2023 Year End Ezine

SAPICS is proud to share its 2023 Ezine with you all. This publication showcases SAPICS’ activities and achievements this year. It has been a year of consolidation, growth for the Association, transformation and unwavering commitment to SAPICS’ mission. SAPICS exists to educate, empower and elevate the supply chain and operations management community. The team hopes you enjoy reading this…

Dec 07, 2023 Mobility

Hyundai Motor Group’s ‘Uni Wheel’ frees up more space in electric vehicles

The Hyundai Motor Company and Kia Corporation have unveiled the Universal Wheel Drive System — called “Uni Wheel” — at Uni Wheel Tech Day in Seoul, Korea. This paradigm-shifting vehicle drive system will revolutionize the design of future mobility devices. Uni Wheel is a functionally integrated wheel drive system that dramatically improves available space inside an electric vehicle (EV) by moving…

Dec 07, 2023 Mobility

Beware quick-fix generic parts before heading off on holiday

The car is packed and fuelled, the kids miraculously compliant and the weather perfect for long-distance driving. Suddenly a strange noise breaks the mood. The family SUV is not feeling the festive spirit. It is a scenario many South Africans know well. Last-minute mechanical issues ahead of summer road trips are the grinch that stole Christmas. While there may be several reasons for the untimely…

Dec 07, 2023 Mobility

The airports of the future

Technological innovations and a focus on customer experience will be what sets us apart in the future. The number of passengers being transported by airlines around the world has more than doubled in the last six years with recent estimations indicating that demand for air transport will increase by around 4.3% on average per annum for the next 20 years. It’s expected that in a little more than a…

Dec 07, 2023 Mobility

Be safe – not sorry – this festive season

Schools across South Africa officially close for 2023 on 13 December and reopen on 17 January 2024. The expected increase in traffic volumes on the country’s major routes means road users will have to ensure they are vigilant and focussed on the road. The Automobile Association (AA) again urges all motorists, passengers, and pedestrians to be responsible, and play their part in making holiday…

Dec 07, 2023 Mobility

Prepare for Holiday Road Trips with Some Fast and Some Fun Facts from Tiger Wheel & Tyre

In a world of constant change, isn’t it nice to know that some things never change? Like the fact that when 16 December rolls around each year, literally every South African is officially in holiday mode! Are you driving to your holiday destination this year? Tiger Wheel & Tyre is ready to tackle the journey with you. Let’s start with some fast facts and some fun facts. Tyres Fast fact: If you…

Dec 06, 2023 Mobility

Involved in an accident – here’s what to do

December is one of the busiest periods on South African roads when thousands of people will either be making their way home, or leaving for their festive season break. Unfortunately with these high volumes the risk of road accidents also increases and the stats show an unacceptable increase in road mortalities over this period. “If you are involved in an accident en route, knowing what to do can…

Dec 06, 2023 Mobility

Scoring the technological capabilities of your supply chain partner

What to identify in a potential service provider as digital solutions reshape South Africa’s logistics sector The logistics industry demands adaptability. With so many variables in play and supply chain conditions constantly changing, businesses need to be in a position where they can identify risk early and action effective and appropriate responses. A cargo movement update from the South…

Dec 06, 2023 Mobility

Electric Vehicle White Paper: Good start, but more focus on renewable energy needed

Zero Carbon Charge – SA’s first national network of renewable energy charging stations – has welcomed the Electric Vehicle (EV) White Paper released by the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition yesterday. The release of the White Paper signals that government is serious about South Africa’s transition to EVs, and offers some much-needed policy certainty on the way forward. The White Paper…

Dec 06, 2023 Mobility

Compact power pack for demanding applications: The new Clark low-lift truck PWio20 with lithium-ion technology

Clark presents a completely newly developed electric low-lift pallet truck with lithium-ion technology (Li-Ion). The vehicle with the model designation PWio20 has a load capacity of 2000 kg and is designed for more demanding applications in pedestrian operation. The compactly designed pallet truck is extremely manoeuvrable and demonstrates its capabilities particularly when transporting heavy…

Dec 05, 2023 Mobility

Travelstart Looks to Revolutionise Car Rental Experiences

Travelstart unveils exciting enhancements to their Car Hire offering, promising unmatched convenience and value The Car Rentals market worldwide is projected to grow by 2.99% (2023-2027) resulting in a market volume of US$111.70bn in 2027.[1] With this in mind, Travelstart, the leading online travel agency, is thrilled to announce the relaunch of its car hire services with a host of new features…