Vol 15 • June 2009

Tyre services – is the industry under charging?

One-on-One with Goodyear MD Jean-Jaques Wiroth

Goodyear invests in plant upgrades

Tyre conference to complement Tyrexpo Africa 2010

First Dunlop Zone store arrives in Ballito

Focus on tyre services

A set of 4 Dunlop SP Sport 6060 tyres to the value of R7 000!

 Introduction • 1

Contents A note from

One-on-One
Goodyear MD, JJ Wiroth brings wealth of experience to table........................... 2
the editor
Focus on It’s been an interesting, unusually
Tyre services offer excellent GP potential, but is it being exploited?.......... 8 active couple of months, particularly
Tyrexpo Africa 2010 for the manufacturing sector which
Organisers confirm conference plans as exhibitors sign up for 2010...... 19 saw Goodyear SA launch no less than
three new products in the first quarter
Retail
of this year (see our coverage on
Malas DriveStyle centre cements presence in Pretoria............................................... 21
page 28). The company also acquired
Retreading a new Managing Director in Jean-
Leader Tread welcomes M61 POSITION tread to fleet............................................... 23 Jacques Wiroth (see our exclusive
Manufacturing interview with him on page 2) in April,
Goodyear invests in plant upgrades..................................................................................................... 27 who succeeds Derek de Villiers after
Dunlop Tyres statutory name change. ............................................................................................. 27 lifelong service to the South African
Goodyear launches three new products....................................................................................... 28 tyre business. Meanwhile, Continental Tyre SA announced key management
Port Elizabeth skyline............................................................................................................................................ 30 changes within its operation while Indian-based Apollo Tyres, which became
More management changes at Continental. ............................................................................. 30 a household name in the South African tyre industry a few years back
Ask the tyre experts..................................................................................................................................... 33 courtesy of its acquisition of Dunlop Tyres, has made its mark on the global
tyre arena yet again, by acquiring a 100% stake in the European-based tyre
Bandag
maker, Vredestein.
Bandag’s customised service offering for national fleets.............................................. 34
If adventuring runs in your blood, you won’t want to miss our story on Kingsley
Dealer profile
Holgate and his team, who departed on yet another one of his humanitarian-
Right on track! Dunlop Zone store arrives in Ballito. ...................................................... 36
cum-conservation adventures last month, this time in the hopes of making a
Talking tyres positive difference towards conservation for generations to come.
Tyre Safety – Time for shock tactics.................................................................................................. 38
Our feature story examines the hotly-debated topic of tyre service charges,
Conti Corner which haven’t risen by much in the last decade. We ask: Should tyre-related
For the love of tyres............................................................................................................................................... 40 services such as wheel balancing, wheel alignment, consumables and the
4 x 4 Adventure like come at a price? There appear to be two schools of thought on the
Making history! Kingsley Holgate off on new expedition.......................................... 43 subject with some favouring the notion of upping prices to more realistic
levels and others preferring to attract greater numbers to their doors by
Innovation charging very little – if at all – for these services. We’ll let you be the judge.
Goodyear wins first Automechanika South Africa Innovation Award......... 44
And speaking of tyre services, one lucky reader stands the chance to win
World news a set of four Dunlop 6060 tyres to the value of R7 000, courtesy of the
Goodyear named America’s most respected Automotive Company.......... 46
Dunlop Zone range of stores! These high performance silica-based tyres
New Porsche Panamera to be launched on Continental Tyres. ......................... 46
(W and Z rated) boast a technologically advanced silica compound that
Apollo Tyres buys Vredestein Banden BV................................................................................... 46
adds flexibility and elasticity to the tyre, offering exciting new levels of
Competition, Subscription, Website................................................................................... 48 performance and fuel economy. Enter the competition via our competition
site www.satreads.co.za, or fax (011) 658-0010.
Editor Liana Shaw Publishers Sky Publications cc
Photography Wray Shaw PO Box 702 Stay warm… till we meet again in September.
Douglasdale, 2165
Technical Consultant Wray Shaw
Reproduction Trend Dynamix Tel: (011) 658 0011
Fax: (011) 658 0010
Printing Trend Dynamix
Cell: 082 851 6777
Distribution Prestige Bulk Mailers E-mail: satreads@mweb.co.za
Advertising Liana Shaw Website: www.satreads.co.za EDITOR
2 • One-on-One

Goodyear MD,
JJ Wiroth brings wealth
of international
experience to table
Former Goodyear MD, Derek de Villiers, officially retired in March

of this year after a long and colourful career in the tyre industry.

His successor, Luxembourg native Jean-Jacques Wiroth, assumed

responsibility for Goodyear’s South African subsidiary on 1 April

2009 following a 27-year career with Goodyear in Europe and

the USA respectively. He brings with him a wealth of international

experience which will stand him in good stead as he steers the

company through tough times as a direct consequence of the global

economic crunch. We caught up with him in Johannesburg during

one of his recent visits to the city from Port Elizabeth where he and

his family will be based.

 One-on-One • 3

We believe your family will be joining you from Germany in due course?
Yes, my 10-year old daughter will be concluding her school year in June,
after which she and my wife will join me in Port Elizabeth. Our recent house-
hunting exercise reaped the desired results and we’ve found a house we
like, one that we can call home.

It must be tough on the family having to relocate to a foreign country?

In many respects that’s true, particularly for my wife who will be obliged
to find new markers by way of essential services such as shopping,
hairdresser, doctors and so on. My daughter on the other hand is delighted
at the prospect of living in Africa – a continent she perceives as being
terribly exciting.

While moving away from home and family is always tough, this is not my
first international assignment - we’re pretty used to packing our bags and
jetting off to new destinations. As challenging as settling in a new country
invariably is, we feel blessed to have lived and worked in so many different
parts of the world, a lifestyle few will ever have the privilege to experience.

Talk us down the career path that led to your current post.
I joined Goodyear in 1982 having completed my studies in chemical
engineering and went on to spend the next 13 to 14 years with the Goodyear
Technical Centre in Luxembourg developing tyres for the passenger tyre
market. Next, I moved over to the business side as Product Manager
Consumer Tyres Europe, where I spent the next four years. This was
followed by an international assignment to the USA as Marketing Director
after which I returned to Europe in 2001 where I assumed responsibility
for the OE business for Europe, Africa and the Middle East. In 2005 I was
appointed Managing Director for Dunlop* Europe, a position I held until
April of this year when I came to South Africa.
* Goodyear Dunlop is a joint business venture in Europe.

What attracted you to your current position?

Over here there are boundless opportunities begging to be exploited –
both in South Africa and further afield into Africa. And unlike more mature
markets to which I’d previously been exposed, the African market has great
growth potential.

That is why I was excited when asked to take over this assignment. I soon
came to realise that the potential for growth and improvement in this
market was considerable. With that also came the realisation that although
this market will always differ from those I’d become familiar with, Goodyear
has a wide footprint in Africa. Our aim is to be the leading tyre company on
the African continent and I’d like to play a part in that.

Does your assignment come with a time limit?

There is no contractual requirement regarding my South African assignment,
but all my previous experiences have been periods of about four years.
4 • One-on-One

Are you looking forward to it?
Yes, I am. As I’ve already mentioned, when compared with others, this
market is unique, presenting its own set of challenges and opportunities.
Everything in South Africa is different – the market, the mentality of the
customers, the income situation, priorities.
Has there been time for you to form an initial impression of the SA
tyre market?
I’ve made my first impressions but no doubt these will be overhauled
over the next few months. For now, let’s just say I’ve noticed the product
mix is very different – the German tyre market is sophisticated, high-end
and predominantly aimed at the high performance motorist, whereas in
South Africa we still see a greater number of standard tyres and lower
speed-rated tyres.
But perhaps the biggest anomaly I’ve been exposed to here is that of
multiple alliances. Nowhere else in the world do you find dealers aligning
themselves to a string of different brands under one umbrella.
What about the image and look of our tyre stores – how do they
compare to those in other parts of the world?
Much like other parts of the world, the market appears characterised by a
mix of both elementary and premium outlets, although I’m not convinced
I’ve encountered enough stores at this time to make an educated
assumption, however, I have been impressed with the appearance of the
tyre stores. What I believe is the same in all countries, is the continuous
battle of consumers for improved service.
Is raising service levels an immediate area on which you’d like to
concentrate?

On the upside and as alluded to earlier, the German market is very mature Yes. I would like to see the company becoming more efficient.

which leaves very little room for growth. In contrast, the

opportunities here are endless, provided one does their
homework and follows through in the execution.
What is your view of tyre distribution? Do you favour
of the concept of company-owned stores over
independent outlets?
Germany has the full spectrum of possibilities in terms
little room for growth.
of distribution – large wholesalers, company-owned
stores, strong independents, internet platforms – thereby
allowing for opportunistic trading. In contrast, the South
African market is well segmented and structured and this
requires a more strategic approach in the way new tyre
companies interact with the distribution chains.
In your view, do company-owned stores have the edge
over independent concerns?
Retail requires a very entrepreneurial, hands-on management style, which
is not always in line with corporate objectives.
How do you hope to achieve this?
❝ First of all, by living what I preach. When it comes to
service levels staff don’t always recognise where they may
The German be falling short. It’s only by alerting them and raising their
market is very sensibilities to service that improvements can be made.
mature which leaves
Service is the differentiator in any industry. Best of all it
does not require massive investment.
In contrast, the
Speaking of investment, you currently invested a
opportunities here considerable sum by way of plant upgrades in Uitenhage?
are endless. We’ve invested in new machinery and equipment to the
sum of R70 million, with further upgrades planned for the
❞ future. In today’s trading climate the only way leading tyre
companies can stay ahead of the game is by developing
new products on an ongoing basis – the plant upgrades
will help us achieve our goals in this respect. Our relentless push for
new products will secure additional funding where required and will ably
demonstrate that the South African operation is worth investing in.

In the South African context I’m still making up my mind. For the time
being, company-owned distribution networks appear to be working. The
question that remains is: Is equity distribution the optimum solution?
Is this where we should be investing our money, or should we be
focusing on upgrading our production plants and introducing new, more
sophisticated products?
It’s only a matter of time before internet platforms begin gaining ground
in this country and this will pressurise the market in becoming more
efficient, resulting in a ‘highly populated pond where only the strong will
survive’.
We recently attended the launch of three brand new products for the
passenger, light commercial vehicle and 4x4 markets respectively, in Port
Elizabeth. Will you be launching other new products this year?
Yes, we are hoping to launch new truck tyre products later this year. As I’ve
just mentioned, our plan is to continue investing in new products in a bid
to remain at the edge of leading technology and fend off competition from
inferior brands.
Of course this poses a great challenge from a cost perspective which is
why it’s imperative that we become lean and efficient in all aspects of our
operation. There is no more space for redundant cost – in the current
6 • One-on-One

climate we have to trim ourselves down to make every penny available Is the OTR global shortage showing any signs of subsiding?
towards the development of new products, upgrades to plant facilities and As far as I’m aware and where it affects the local market, the shortage
the like. is much reduced except for a few specific applications. However, this
is because the mining industry has slowed and not because production
Achieving this will require a significant mindset shift with respect to our volumes have increased.
people who will hopefully embrace the notion that change is not only good,
it’s essential to the long-term survival of the company. Bottom line – tyre manufacturers globally need to invest in additional
capacity, but as this side of the business tends to fluctuate, there’s some
What challenges are you facing as manufacturers with respect to raw
resistance from the powers-that-be.
material prices?
The emergence of the BRIC (Brazil, Russia, India, China) countries has
More important, the OTR shortage has compelled us to streamline our
created a global shortage in raw materials and as a result, markets are
planning, make more accurate forecasts and so on.
currently volatile and difficult to predict. This is obviously of growing
concern to tyre manufacturers worldwide who are largely obliged to absorb
What is your view on the future of run flat tyres?
rising raw material costs in order to limit the adverse effects
This is a subject that’s close to my heart. I was part of the
on the consumer.
❝ OE team back in 2001/2 when the product was being

What of recent rumours that Goodyear was cutting 5 000 created and when the decision was taken to invest heavily

jobs worldwide in light of the credit crunch?
As is the case with all other industries, the present economic
climate forces us to go through a consolidation process
which has resulted in reducing our global employee base
by 5 000 jobs.
What about the South African operation?
In the interests of not laying off production people, we’ve
decided to adapt our production instead and are now
operating on a six-day week.
How would you describe the performance of Goodyear’s
North American Division?
As I have no responsibility for North America it would be inappropriate for
me to comment.
Tough times require in this new technology. We implemented specific building
machines for this technology and collectively, as Goodyear,
of new tyre companies we are still regarded as the market leaders in this area.
It was hoped the motor manufacturers would follow hot on
to become creative
the heels of BMW in introducing run flat tyre technology
to their vehicles but the roll out has been slower than
and think economically.
expected. However, I’m still confident that run flat tyres are
the way of the future, particularly for a country like South
❞ Africa where personal security could be compromised in
the event of a flat tyre.
Moreover, RFTs offer complicated production line-up opportunities which
the professional tyre dealer can capitalise on, as they can’t just be fitted
anywhere.

How would you sum up the effects of the economic crunch to the global
What is your vision for Goodyear SA for the next five years?
tyre industry and more specifically to Goodyear?
My aim is to strengthen our position in the marketplace by updating our
That’s an interesting question. The global industry is very fluid at present
product portfolio. A newly appointed Manufacturing Director together with
with the centre of gravity – traditionally in the west – now shifting to
increased efficiencies in all areas – headquarters, retail points, franchise
the east. This trend will obviously affect production footprint and costs.
programmes etc – will ensure we achieve our objectives.
Manufacturers must now ask themselves: How do we become leaner/more
efficient, not only in terms of production but in business as well? Which
countries should we invest/disinvest in? Is our production footprint cost- How do you relax outside of work?
efficient? I used to be very involved in sports (something I’ve largely neglected in
recent years) so I’m enjoying getting back into exercise via regular visits to
In short, tough times require of new tyre companies to become creative the gym. I also like to read, I am a keen traveller and have an appreciation
and think economically. for good food and wine.
8 • Focus on

Tyre services offer excellent gp
potential, but is it being exploited?
With tyre margins steadily eroding, the
distribution trade is on the lookout for
creative ways to boost profit margins. As
such, tyre dealers and fitment centres are
offering the full spectrum of under-body
services (shocks, exhausts, towbars, brakes,
batteries) alongside traditional offerings
such as wheel rotation, balancing, alignment
and more recently - nitrogen in tyres - all
of which proffer excellent opportunities to
add value to the sale and boost margins. But
in a market that largely resists the notion of
paying for ancillary services, could it be that
valuable opportunities to boost revenue are
under-utilised in favour of ‘securing the tyre
sale at all costs’?
Focus on • 9
Recent findings reveal an unusually high number of tyre dealers charging
a nominal fee for services such as wheel balancing and alignment, despite
the onset of technologically superior cars - all sporting sophisticated
suspension systems - which has prompted the trade to invest heavily by
way of new equipment and personnel.
Says Malcolm Paul, Managing Director of Supa Quick Century City in Cape
Town: “Wheel balancing and alignment fees have not risen by much in
10 years, despite higher inflation and mounting operating costs. There is
resistance on the part of the industry to hike service prices for fear of losing
tyre sales to competitors, despite the latest hi-tech equipment which sells
for considerably more and requires higher-calibre technicians to operate.
This has resulted in an anomaly in the market with GPs on tyres having
shrunk by about 10%, on the back of mounting costs incurred via the
purchase and day-to-day running of sophisticated machinery.”
Says Nic Kruger, Managing Director of Wheelquip SA representing Corghi:
“Manufacturers such as Corghi are in close collaboration with motor and
tyre manufacturers in order to create technological solutions for the service
and fitment aftermarket industry.
“In my view, the fitment industry is not charging sufficiently for their
services. The knock-on effect is that not enough time and money is being
spent on training of operators and maintenance of equipment – particularly
with today’s more technologically advanced equipment which requires
more frequent servicing and incurs higher maintenance costs.”
Concurs Wynand Visser, owner of two Hi-Q stores in Gauteng: “We’re our
own worst enemies in this industry. Ten years ago we were charging around
R140.00 for wheel alignment on a standard 1.3 Mazda vehicle. If you were
to compare prices today, our charges haven’t risen by much in a decade.”
Similarly, Paul says his dealership in Cape Town charges in the range of
R250.00 incl VAT for wheel alignment, irrespective of the make or vehicle
or degree of difficulty. He further claims that, as an industry and unlike
other service providers, they are not charging for consumables.
More alarming still, a number of high-profile dealerships we spoke with
claim they often don’t charge for wheel balancing or alignment as a means
of attracting customers to their doors.
10 • Focus on
Wheel balancing is often ‘given away’
in lieu of the tyre sale.
Says Visser: “To my mind, this commonly-used sales ploy makes business
sense only if the dealer is making a good margin on the tyre sale which is
seldom the case with mass-line commodities (entry-level sizes).”
According to Paul, the only way to rectify the situation is for the industry as
a whole to take a collective decision to up its prices on services (the topic
recently came up for discussion at one of their Dealer Forum Meetings).
The question is how does the industry achieve this without opening itself
up to possible collusion?
Furthermore, the distribution trade is primarily made up of independents
and franchise groups who would find it difficult to dictate to their franchisees
with respect to arriving at a uniform pricing structure, as they are largely led
by the needs and dynamics of their respective geographic locations.
Suggests Paul: “Perhaps the situation calls for a company-owned
distribution company to take the ‘bull by the horns’ and increase service
prices accordingly as an inducement for others to follow. The consumer
has become desensitised to price increases (the order of the day with all
products and services) and will likely accept this new reality, provided the
escalations are not outrageous.”

An Increasing number of motor dealers
are offering tyre services in-house.
Motor dealerships offer tyre-related services
In a bid to contain costs and ensure better quality control, the country’s
motor dealerships (servicing divisions) are already either fully geared or in
the throes of bringing many of these tyre-related services in-house.
Says Rob Gearing, of BMW SA: “This has been standard practice with
BMW for a number of years now as a way of ensuring quality control and
resolving potential conflicts arising from fluctuating service levels as a result
of outsourcing services such as wheel balancing and alignment.”
Concurs Pieter Verster, National Service Engineer, Operations Manage
for Ford: “We are being encouraged to stop outsourcing these types of
services as much as possible in order to provide our customers with a
complete service and keep our workshops operating to full capacity.”
And according to Christopher Khumalo, Aftersales Manager: Audi SA,
they too are in the process of investing considerable sums of money in
equipment so as to be able to carry out these functions in-house.
Says Khumalo: “Technology continues to evolve at such a rapid rate
– particularly on our range of vehicles – that it makes sense to equip
ourselves with the latest, state-of-the-art technology to perform these
tasks ourselves, both as a surety to our customers that their vehicle is
being properly maintained by highly-skilled technicians and as a means of
boosting margins.”
Echoes Wheelquip’s Kruger: “It is possible the motor dealers are increasingly
doing more work in-house as a result of ageing equipment used by the
Focus on • 11 13
historic service providers – the fitment industry. Tyres and suspensions
have changed dramatically over the last few years, thereby making it
difficult to render a first class aftermarket service with older equipment. If
the fitment industry is to remain competitive and place itself in a position to
render a service of equal calibre to the motor dealership service divisions,
they possibly need to invest in the latest technology.”
Mystery shopper exercise yields surprising results
While the concept of offering their customers a ‘one-stop-shop’ service
without having to outsource makes for good business practice for the motor
dealerships, our recent mystery-shopper exercise revealed that some were
‘milking this for all that it was worth’. Certainly by industry standards, some
service outlets were charging exorbitantly high servicing fees, particularly
when it comes to wheel alignment.
Auto Atlantic (BMW service dealer) in Cape Town charges R500.00 excl
VAT to correct wheel alignment on a BMW 3 Series while Aurec Auto (also
in Cape Town) quoted us a staggering R1 120 excl VAT for the same make
of vehicle.
Similarly, taking your vehicle for wheel alignment to the Audi Centre in Cape
Town will set you back by R355.00 excl VAT while Daimler Chrysler said that
to correct wheel alignment on a C-Class 180 Mercedes-Benz would cost in
the region of R1 000.00 excl VAT.
In contrast, setting the wheel alignment on a BMW 3 Series at a nearby
Tiger Wheel & Tyre outlet would cost as little as R225.00 excl VAT!

Which begs the question: “Is the motor trade exploiting its clientele or
could the tyre industry be selling itself short in this department?”
Let’s face it, the consumer is unlikely to question the final amount reflected
on the invoice, having grown accustomed to spiralling servicing fees over
the years. And with the exception of a minor few with industry knowledge,
when it comes to costs of this nature, most people are none the wiser or
simply don’t want the inconvenience of taking their vehicle to yet another
service provider to correct wheel balancing and alignment. Chances are
they will foot the bill for having the work done in-house, even if it costs a
little more.
Interestingly, of the motor dealers we spoke with, only Hyundai, according
to Michael Rohde, head of Aftersales, has adopted a different approach and
is charging clients as little as R85-100 for in-house wheel alignment – an
interesting departure from the norm and one to look out for.
As for the tyre sector, a few experienced dealers have thought to
capitalise on this new trend by offering to run these in-house servicing
departments on behalf of the motor dealers, with little success it would
seem.
Focus on • 13
Claims Visser: “We embarked on a trial run with a leading motor dealer which
simply didn’t work for us due to a lack of cooperation and understanding on
the part of their service advisors. I don’t believe these service providers are
sufficiently geared or knowledgeable enough to supply their customers with
the same level of service on tyres and related services the tyre and fitment
centres can, nor are they passionate about the product. In the end, installing our
machines in their premises on a full-time basis proved counter-productive.”
Adds Visser: “I don’t believe the motor dealers pose as much of a threat
to the tyre industry as some might think,” thereby challenging the current
mindset that has the distribution trade edgy at the prospect of a new source
of competition from the motor trade.
Paul disagrees, claiming growing competition from the motor trade further
impacts on an already saturated trading platform that is vying for the same
slice of the pie.
In the meanwhile, in a bid to stay ahead of the game and as a way of offering
their customers a value-add service that is unique to the trade, tyre outlets
are focusing their sights on less conventional offerings such as wheel
washing (see sidebox) and nitrogen in tyres.
Wheel alignment prices haven’t
risen by much in ten years.
NITROGEN
14 • Focus on
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lives increased from 3-4. Pressure retention improved by 13%”
(Fast ‘n Fresh). “Marked decrease in monthly tyre costs, being
below tyre costs of previous 3 years.” (Kempston Truck Hire)
Mining: “Nitrogen has definite advantages over air and we
recommend the use of Nitrogen.” (Bridgestone OTR division)
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14 • Focus on
Nitrogen in tyres
Nitrogen units, which sell for around R32 000 a piece, are another popular
way for the tyre trade to augment profits, particularly for dealers who
purchase units from the likes of Nitralife (the company offers financial
packages to help buyers who can either rent or buy the equipment).
Says Rob Sowry, Managing Director of Nitralife: “A dealer can easily recoup
the expenditure in only nine and a half months, if he were to calculate it on
two cars a day at R20.00 per wheel or R80.00 per car for 21 days of the
month. Three cars a day will generate a profit of R5 040 per month, with
recovery on the investment in only 6.3 months.
“Equally, if one had to rent a unit, three cars a day would equate to R3
540.00 nett profit monthly - an encouraging figure given a very conservative
estimate (most dealers do up to 20 cars a day)” claims Sowry.
Each installation comes complete with 1000 green valve caps to identify
tyres filled with nitrogen as well as 500 glossy A5 pamphlets explaining the
merits of nitrogen to potential clients.
Adds Sowry: “Whichever way you look at it, nitrogen can work for the
dealer. He has something more to sell, R20 per tyre equates to less than
2% of the cost of a passenger tyre, plus nitrogen can give the client up to
20% improvement in tyre mileage – a claim that has been endorsed by the
ASA (Advertising Standards Authority).”
Presently, over 350 tyre shops across South Africa have nitrogen generators
(from about four suppliers) installed to offer nitrogen to the public. Nitrogen
inflation has gained massive ground since 1996 when it was first launched
in South Africa, with well over 500 units installed and working in tyre shops,
trucking companies and mines.
Final word
The way forward may be murky but it is clear the motor trade is moving in
an entirely different direction to that of the tyre sector in terms of providing
an in-house solution and not being afraid to charge for it. What’s equally
clear is the consumer does not appear to be questioning the pricing on
wheel-related services, or if they do, they’re assuaged by the convenience
aspect of a complete service offering under one roof.
In contrast, the tyre fitment sector appears to be caught between a rock
and a hard place with many dealers recognising the need to up their prices
to more realistic levels whilst simultaneously acknowledging this might
cost them the sale, particularly if their competitors continue flaunting rock-
bottom prices or worse still, make a point of giving these services away
for free!
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16 • Focus on
New product offerings:
From Wheelquip SA – representing Italian manufacturer,
Corghi:
A new model of the highly-successful 3D aligner – the
Exact Blacktech X – has just been launched in SA. Used locally
by numerous tyre shops, automotive workshops and dealerships
(Maserati being one), the new aligner can be used in a pit, on a scissors
lift as well as on a four-poster lift. Plus, it has interface to and can
align vehicles equipped with ESP, adaptive suspensions, dynamic
steering, electric power assisted steering and adaptive lighting
systems. It is also preset for Romess tools.
Also new: the E4040 four-post hoist with built-
in plates and turntable recesses, which was
especially designed to complement the Exact
Blacktech X aligner.
And: Corghi’s new large tyre changer – the AGTT1600
– can handle wheels from 14inch up to 58inch, with a
weight of 2 500kg (worked directly off the floor thanks
to the new ergonomic design). All working tools stay
perpendicular with the wheel during operation and
controls can be supplied in radio mode.
From Hofmann Megaplan:
The Weight Wizard – a new function designed to reduce the cost of
ownership of a balancer by limiting the quantity of wheel weight
required to balance a wheel to within a satisfactory tolerance.
Traditionally when carrying out a ‘dynamic’ balance the machine
looks at the dynamic imbalance (side by side) by looking straight
at the rim in 2 planes (inner/outer). Weight Wizard eliminates
the static imbalance (the part the driver actually feels) and
(based on several key parameters), calculates the minimum
amount of corrective weight needed to bring the dynamic
residual imbalance within acceptable limits.
Also new: A 220 volt mobile truck balancer (for use in
your shop or on site) that is a fully equipped with all stud
adaptors for truck, a large adaptor for Iveco wheels as well
as passenger car cones.
And: The Drester Wheel Washer: Cleans wheels properly in 30
seconds – makes for a cleaner shop environment and better
balancing results. Tyre dealers are reporting nett profits of around
R3 600.00 per month (calculated on 720 wheels) when including
this service offering with regular wheel balancing (charged at
around R5.00 per wheel).
See your
business
climb to
new
heights
4th, 5th, 6th
March 2010
Sandton
Convention Centre,
Johannesburg,
South Africa

CCESSORIES AND WORKSHOP

SHOW FOR TYRES, A EQUIPMENT
ONE STOP
An International Event
ECI International Ltd, Speldhurst Business Park, Langton Road, Speldhurst, Kent TN3 OAQ, England
Tel +44 (0)1892 863888 Fax +44 (0)1892 863828 Email: sales@eci-international.com
www.eci-international.com

Organisers confirm conference plans for Tyrexpo
Africa as exhibitors sign up for 2010 exhibition
Plans for a tyre industry conference held as part of the next staging of
Tyrexpo Africa in Johannesburg in March 2010, have been announced by
event organisers ECI International.
ECI wants to extend the scope and pulling power of the exhibition and has
been encouraged to add a conference session by exhibitors and media
sponsor SA Treads in South Africa. The one day conference will focus on
key issues in tyre and rubber manufacturing, tyre retailing, developments in
technology and the impact of new legislation. Keynote speakers will be drawn
from the South African industry, together with major international players.
“Tyrexpo Africa has established itself as an important trading event over the
past five years and now we are keen to broaden its appeal to participants
by staging a top quality industry conference,” explained ECI sales director
Rowena Suthers.
“At the same time, we do not want to dilute the prime focus on doing
business in the exhibition hall, but by striking the right balance we are
confident the conference can add to everyone’s experience and value from
being at the exhibition,” she added.
Early response from exhibitors to Tyrexpo Africa has been described as ‘very
positive’ by ECI, with 40 per cent of floor space at the Sandton Convention
Centre already taken by a combination of African and international tyre,
accessories and equipment companies.
Pieter Kruger of Cape Town based Tubestone, said: “We support Tyrexpo
Africa as it is the only major tyre show for Africa. Our focus is to advertise
our products from various suppliers to customers all over Africa. Our aim
is to supply into Africa and the show actually assist us with this by bringing
in potential customers. The show is run very professionally and because of
this it is growing in size and influence. Tubestone will once again focus as a
one stop shop solution for the smaller customers into Africa.”
Another South African exhibitor, Charl de Villiers of Tyrecor, commented:
“We’ve certainly seen great benefit from our involvement in the exhibition,
both in South Africa and more widely in other African markets. It gives us
an excellent platform to promote our major tyre brands, including Infinity
and Alliance, and we’re looking forward to building on that at the next show
in March 2010.”
In addition to Tubestone and Tyrecor, companies already committed to
the show include BKT, Chemvulc, Crowntyre, Enercell, L-Guard, Nitralife,
Rubberking, SA Tyre Distributors, Shandong Wanda Boto, Shandong
Fenglun, Speedway Tires, Stamford Tyres, Star Tyre Group, Techking,
Treadsdirect and Tandem Tyres amongst others.
Ty r e x p o A f r i c a 2 0 1 0 • 19
For a full exhibitor list and details please visit www.eci-international.com.
The third staging of Tyrexpo Africa will take place at the Sandton Convention
Centre, Johannesburg (SCC) on 4, 5 and 6 March 2010.
Tyrexpo Africa 2010 Conference Line-Up
Diarise Friday 5th March 2010 to attend a not-to-be-missed
Conference running alongside Tyrexpo Africa 2010 (4,5,6 March,
this dedicated tyre trade show is biennial and will be hosted at the
Sandton Convention Centre for the third time in a row).
To be chaired by the respected Roger
McCleery (Motoring Correspondent
and Radio Presenter), the Conference
line-up has been specifically designed
to address current issues and
concerns affecting the tyre industry
at large.
Key international figures will address
the forum on topics such as the
economic crunch and its effect on
the global tyre industry, short, medium and long-term effects of the
global recession, raw material pricing and availability as well as the
overall effects of globalisation.
There will also be a special focus on the retail sector with a prominent
international figure speaking on challenges facing today’s modern
tyre outlet, price discounting, customer perceptions, staff motivation
and the added value factor.
Respected local industry figures will also address the delegates,
outlining legislation issues and highlighting challenges/opportunities
for the industry, while a reputable representative from the transport
sector will speak on relevant issues impacting South Africa’s transport
fleets with respect to roads, diesel costs and tyre costs.
Be sure to secure your place at this important medium (a first in
the South African tyre industry). Online registration will be open at
the end of June via www.eci-international.com). An attendance fee
of R150.00 per person will be payable on the day and delegates will
have the opportunity to visit the show after the conference as Friday
5th March is late night with the show closing at 8.00pm.
 Retail • 21

Malas DriveStyle Centre

cements presence
in Pretoria as a one-stop
fitment centre
Now three years old, the Malas fitment centre – or DriveStyle Centre
as some like to refer to it – continues to draw Pretoria motorists to
its doors in droves, courtesy of its unique service delivery offering and
competitive pricing.

Unlike anything the South African public had ever witnessed, this premium
centre - specialising in a comprehensive product and service offering for
all applications - began trading on 17 January 2007 in its own premises that
Malas continues to attract Pretoria
made provision for no less than 50 fitment bays, 200 parking bays, the motorists in droves.
largest alignment section in the world, undercover workshop, a sizeable
gourmet restaurant and 24-hour security.

We first paid a visit to this remarkable outfit to mark its official inauguration
three years ago, only to be confronted with a scene that astonished us –
all 50 bays were occupied! More amazing still, the queues of cars waiting
for service extended all the way around the block! Three years later and
despite the credit crunch, the picture looks very much the same, especially
on Saturday mornings which probably rate as the busiest for this one-of-
a-kind operation.

Malas management attribute their unprecedented success to two things:

an extensive product range at unbeatable prices and their obsession for
service. Malas Drive Style Centre is a multi-brand retail centre in every
sense of the word, offering a broad spectrum of local and international
tyre brands as well as over 100 different wheel designs under the MRW
umbrella. Voted the best place to buy tyres in Pretoria courtesy of its ability
to provide fast, convenient, expert service, this operation prides itself in
being able to flaunt a complete service offering under one roof.

Value-adds such as shocks, brakes, exhausts, nitrogen, towbars as well

as free-fitting, balancing and scratchless fitting (a first in SA) have further
contributed to the prosperity of the centre.

Three years down the line, Malas Drive Style Centre continues to evolve
into a highly-professional, structured retail centre.

Watch this space for more exciting developments emerging from this
exciting tyre group – we will update you in future issues! ED

Leader Tread welcomes M61 ALL POSITION
tread to the fleet
Leader Tread has introduced road safety, comfort
and agility by welcoming the M61 all position tread to
the family. According to the company, this breaking
ground innovation is sure to be proved as one of
the finest on the road, attesting that Leader Tread
products surely lead the way in on and off the road
performance when put to the test.
Allegedly, the M61 is an on road genius that is excellent
for limited on/off road applications suitable for bus
operations and local rigid trucks, where stop start factors
play a role in tyre wear coupled with torque forces.
The product is designed to operate for over the road
applications on all wheel positions from Long Haul,
Regional, City/Metro and limited On/Off applications.
The M61 has been improved and elevated to form the
newly 5 Rib Tread Design that features 2 wide shoulder
Retreading • 23
ribs and 3 central ribs. This feature adds value to
the driving experience, influencing stability, good
mileage, combating lateral scrub, enhances wet
and dry road adhesion and provide for good
lateral traction.
The M61’s advancement is also traced in
the fact that it has wide, open and tapered
tread grooves; effective in curing one of
the major destructive and irritable factors
which obstruct tyre performance and
durability: stone ejection.
Leader Tread concludes the great working
combination of all the designed features of
the M61 tread will provide the best value for
fleets.
THE GOODYEAR
HIGHWAY HEROES ARE HERE!
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OVUV\Y[OVZLJVTTLYJPHSKYP]LYZ^OVZLZLSÅLZZHJ[ZVMOLYVPZTOH]LZH]LK[OLKH`TH`ILL]LUZH]LKSP]LZ

0[»ZJHSSLK;OL.VVK`LHY/PNO^H`/LYVLZHUK`V\HYLPU]P[LK[VNL[PU]VS]LK/H]L`V\^P[ULZZLKHJHZLVMSPMLZH]PUNIYH]LY`VUV\YYVHKZ&
+V`V\RUV^VMHKYP]LY^OVOHZWLYMVYTLKHUV\[Z[HUKPUNO\THUP[HYPHUHJ[&

Nominate them as your Highway Hero! Go to www.goodyear.co.za

;OL/LYVVM[OL`LHY^PSSILJYV^ULK^P[OMHTLHUKMVY[\UL¶UH[PVUHSTHNHaPULL_WVZ\YL9PUJHZOHUKH[YPW[V3\_LTIV\YN,\YVWL

;VNL[OLY.VVK`LHYZ[YP]LZ[VTHRL[OLYVHKZVM:V\[O(MYPJHZHMLYMVYHSS You can help – nominate your Hero!

15025

Goodyear invests in plant upgrades
Goodyear has invested to the sum of R70 million by way of plant upgrades
in its Uitenhage plant in a bullish and decisive move that indicates the
manufacturer’s long-term commitment to the South African market.
The investment includes four new tyre building machines (as a means of
increasing capacity to build the latest innovative tyre designs) and four new
tyre presses to complement the improved Wrangler tyre building designs
(ATSA) with superior curing technologies to provide the most advanced
performing 4x4 tyre on the market. In addition, six new tyre force variation
machines with in-line balance capability (to ensure effective quality control
and thereby, superior products) have been installed.
Says Olivier Martel, newly-appointed Manufacturing Director: “We’ve
invested in some of the most highly-technologically advanced equipment
available in new tyre manufacturing. The new machinery offers improved
precision of manufacturing for enhanced tyre uniformity, while investment
into the finishing area (force variation machines and in-balance) ensures
that only tyres that meet or exceed our customers’ expectations are
delivered into the market.”
Dunlop Tyres statutory name change
Dunlop Tyres International (Pty) Limited company name has been
changed to Apollo Tyres South Africa (Pty) Limited to reflect the name of
its proprietor, Apollo Tyres Limited, India. The statutory name change has
Manufacturing • 27
The new investments will benefit passenger product ranges together with
the new generation truck tyre range which requires upgraded machinery to
be able to support the new Max Technology.
More important, Martel claims the investment into the plant is ongoing
and will continue into the foreseeable future, with numerous projects in
various stages of execution being implemented at the Goodyear plant. One
such example is recent approval for the upgrading the Compound Mixing
area which will increase the capacity of mixing the latest technologically
innovative silica tread and sidewall compounds – a projected investment in
the region of R30 million.
Adds Martel: “Our philosophy is simple: develop the best innovative tyre
designs and manufacture them on the best equipment available in the
industry, utilising world-class materials and manufacturing systems.”
“This latest investment into the South African plant is testament to the
positive belief Goodyear has in the South African market, the South African
economic future and the skills and infrastructure available within the
Goodyear Uitenhage manufacturing facility,” concludes Martel.
not affected the management structure and operations of the company and
the Dunlop brand remains the product brand manufactured and distributed
by the operation in South Africa and its 30 trade mark territories.
28 • Manufacturing
Goodyear launches three new products
Nissan Tiida’s on Goodyear Duragrip at Aldo Scribante Racetrack.
Three’dom on Wheels event - Wrangler ATSA experience.
Three’dom on Wheels event - evening launch function.
At a recent launch that saw more than 500 members of the industry, staff and
press converging in Port Elizabeth, Goodyear SA released three exciting new
tyres.
It was the first time in recent history that the tyre giant – with plant and head office
in the Port Elizabeth metropole –chose to platform new products from its beautiful
home base of the Eastern Cape. Goodyear felt this was the ideal opportunity to
bring customers back to its roots, while at the same time giving them a taste of
all the province has to offer, not least of which are its fabulous beaches, first-rate
game reserves and reputation for friendliness – three good reasons to visit again
and again.
The brand new range – Duramax G22, DuraGrip and the legendary Wrangler’s
newest 4x4 stablemate, AT/SA – is a trio of motoring wishes granted by Goodyear’s
engineering team. The tyres are said to be technologically advantaged, specifically
designed to carry motorists safely, economically and enjoyably over any terrain
they may choose to roam.
Says Jean-Jacques Wiroth, Managing Director for Goodyear SA: “The new
products are ‘the lifeblood that ensures the consistent improvement of any
business. Furthermore, they confirm Goodyear’s perception amongst consumers
as a ‘fast-paced innovator in the industry’, as well as reinforce the company’s
commitment to the southern African area.”
TAXI TOUGH: DURAMAX G22
Allegedly, Goodyear’s Duramax G22 is able to take on the most demanding road
and traffic conditions and has been engineered specifically for South Africa’s
bright, brash and breezy minibus taxis, which are particularly hard on their tyres.
Thanks to its combination of unique construction and material features – ideal for
South African minibus taxis facing the varied road and weather conditions of the
country – this tyre is tough, long lasting and built to handle heavy loads without
sacrificing comfort or economy. A new tread compound featuring the latest
silica enhanced polymer technology means a longer tread life, while the tread is
designed to reduce stone retention and help prevent punctures.
Goodyear’s Duramax G22 is also said to deliver the critical benefits of responsive
handling and improved traction in all conditions.
LITTLE CITY SLICKER: DURAGRIP
DuraGrip, the first tyre in Goodyear’s trio of rubber musketeers, was developed
to cope with all the stop-start pressures of constant city-driving, in all weather
conditions. Described as the tough tyre that goes the distance, Goodyear claims
it is light, safe and endlessly energetic – the ideal tyre for the 21st century tribe of
affordable cars on the road.
Says Dustine Gascoyne, Marketing Director for Goodyear SA: “Continuous
driving in big cities puts very specific demands on a vehicle and its tyres. The days
of small, cheap cars with compromises on design, quality or performance are long
gone. Today’s city drivers demand a good-looking, reliable and safe, small car to
get by in the city. They want optimal performance and reliability in their vehicle,
and of course tyres play a crucial role in fulfilling this demand. With DuraGrip,
Goodyear has developed a tyre that is specifically made to provide consumers
with optimal performance during city driving.”
RUGGED, RELIABLE FREEWHEELER: WRANGLER AT/SA
For exceptional, on and off-the road performance, there is no companion more
dependable, says Goodyear, than its Wrangler tyres, now made even more durable
with revolutionary SilentArmor Technology in the all-new AT/SA range. High-
tensile steel belts improve the tyre’s strength and resistance to punctures, while
the added benefit of Kevlar – a material five times stronger than steel – promises
a smooth, quiet ride, as this material helps to absorb road noise. And with the
Durawall sidewall reinforcement increasing the Wrangler AT/SA’s resistance to
punctures and cuts, the tyre is designed to taken on the toughest terrains.
30 • Manufacturing
Port Elizabeth’s skyline changes!
The skyline visible when travelling along the N2, past Algorax has
changed. The reason is a new red and white striped concrete stack.
The new stack has been erected to house the three drier stacks at the
Algorax plant. The main advantage is that it will protect against corrosion
of equipment in the future and is aesthetically more pleasing. The three
existing drier stacks will be removed by the fourth quarter 2009.
This new stack is just one of the fifteen improvement projects previously
announced by Algorax, which are now past their design and engineering
phases and well on their way to completion. The projects totalling around
one hundred million Rand, are due for completion end 2010.
Some of the other significant projects, of which several have already been
completed, include:
• Upgrading of the boundary wall and planting of new grass, alongside John
Tallant Road.
• Replacement of the warehouse wall and roof, facing onto John Tallant
Road.
• Upgrading design features of the primary bag filters for improved
performance.
• A substantial improvement in gas conveyance systems has been achieved
by the replacement of improved drier seals and production relief valves.
• Improvement on pulse jet cleaning equipment on the bag filters has been
achieved.
• Improvements in effluent and wastewater handling systems will not only
reduce water usage, but also improve the overall working environment.
• A complete overhaul of the plant illumination systems to improve working
and safety conditions.
• A packaging system upgrade in the warehouse to improve working
conditions and contain dust.
• Carbon black silo corrosion upgrades, which will not only have structural
benefits but also improve the aesthetics of the plant.
More management changes at Continental
With effect from July 1, 2009, Mr Claudio Boezio, Managing Director
of Continental Tyres SA and also in charge of Finance, Controlling and
IT CTSA, will be leaving the company to pursue other professional
activities.
CORAX® manufactured at the Algorax plant, is primarily used as a rubber
reinforcing filler, which is used in numerous rubber product applications.
Essentially, carbon black together with Evonik Degussa precipitated silicas
and organo silanes, used in the rubber compound, determine the property
of that compound - whether it will have a high wear and tear resistance,
superior flexing or stretching properties, or low heat build up. The product
is introduced into the rubber compound in the initial stages of rubber
mixing together with the other additives which go into make up a particular
compound.
Algorax will continue, by means of existing practices and the implementation
of the new projects identified, to strive for continuous manufacturing and
environmental improvements, which will have a positive impact on the plant
and its surrounding environment and community.
2010 will be a year of two-fold celebration at Algorax, not only will it
culminate in the completion of the improvement projects, but will also
signify the company’s 50th anniversary.
Algorax is the sole producer of CORAX® carbon black in Southern Africa.
Current capacity is sixty-five thousand metric tons, with eleven grades
being manufactured to meet the requirements of the South African tyre and
rubber industry. The majority of CORAX® is sold into the tyre sector. The
balance, being sold into the retread and mechanical rubber goods sectors.
In the manufacturing of its products, the company has taken responsibility
for environmental protection, quality, occupational health and safety. In
demonstrating such commitment, the Environment, Safety, Health and
Quality Management System complies with the requirements of ISO 14001.
The objectives of which are to conserve natural resources and raw materials,
to reduce negative impacts on air, land and water, commitment to best
environmental practice, to improve environmental awareness, to prevent
workplace accidents and to meet relevant legislative requirements.
Mr Boezio joined the company in 2000 as Financial Manager and took up
the additional role as MD in 2005. Mr Dieter Horni, head of Marketing &
Sales Replacement Truck Tires for Germany, Austria and Switzerland, will
take over as Managing Director CTSA at the same time.
 Ask the tyre experts
Ask the tyre experts
With Marvin Bozarth and Kevin Rohlwing, Tire Industry Association
Q Q
Are there any benefits to nitrogen inflation?
A A
The primary benefit of nitrogen inflation is the fact that it bleeds out
of the tyre at a slower rate than regular air. Tyres inflated with air will
naturally lose 1-2 psi per month. When inflated with nitrogen, the rate is
much slower, so tyre pressures will not need to be adjusted as often. The
most important thing to remember is that tyres should still be checked at
least on a monthly basis. Even if they are inflated with nitrogen, the inflation
pressure cannot be ignored or neglected.
Q
Can overtorquing a lug nut cause a wheel to become loose?
A
Absolutely. Every stud has a yield point where it can be stretched
beyond limitations and then become incapable of retaining any bolt
tension which reduces or limits the clamping ability. The recommended
torque range for a wheel fastener takes this into account, so staying
within the range ensures the yield point will not be reached. Using an
impact wrench to tighten the nut until it stops moving is often referred to
as the “good-and-tight” method. This practice often results in significant
overtorque, which can damage the studs and accelerate component wear.
If enough studs are damaged, the lack of force will cause the wheels to
become loose.
Q
Can I patch a tire without installing a rubber stem?
A
Only if you want to destroy the casing and increase the chances for a
belt separation down the road. While this practice may stop the leak,
it exposes the belt package and body cables to moisture, which results
in corrosion. If the corrosion spreads far enough, the casing will have to
be scrapped. Likewise, if the damaged belt package and body cables are
not removed and trimmed back to solid rubber, the instability of the area
during operation will cause the damaged cable ends to unravel leading to a
belt separation. In order to preserve the integrity of the tire and the casing
after a puncture repair, the damage must be removed and the injury must
be filled with a cured rubber stem.
• 33 Se question Have
nd
it t
os
atr a
ea
ds
mw ?
@
e b.c
o.z
a
How important are valve caps?
That depends on the definition of a valve cap.
If you’re talking about a plastic dust cover, they
are somewhat important. If you’re talking about a
metal valve cap with a sealing ring in the base, then Marvin Bozarth
they are very important. According to the valve stem
manufacturers, the self-sealing metal valve cap is the
primary component for air retention. The valve core
can, and sometimes does, leak. But a proper valve
cap will almost guaranty that the end of the valve
will not leak air. Metal inflate-through caps are the
best bet, because they make it easier for technicians
and drivers to check air pressure without losing the
sealing ability of the regular metal valve cap. Kevin Rohlwing
Q
How many times can you retread a truck casing?
A
Once again, it depends. In some applications (like waste or rubbish
hauling) multiple retreads are common. For most fleets in the United
States, the first retread is for the drive axle, and the second retread is for
the trailer. A few companies will approve a third retread if certain inspection
criteria are met and the casing receives a shallow tread depth trailer retread.
To submit a question to be answered in a future edition of Southern
Africa Treads, please send your questions to satreads@mweb.co.za.
Marvin Bozarth is the senior technical consultant for the Tire Industry
Association (TIA) and has more than 40 years of tire and retreading
experience. Kevin Rohlwing is the senior vice president of training for TIA
and has over 26 years of tire experience. TIA offers some of the most
comprehensive tyre service training programs for both commercial
and automotive tyre service professionals in the world. For more
information on these programs, or for more information on TIA, visit
www.tireindustry.org or email training@tireindustry.org.
 34 • Bandag

Bandag’s customised service

offering for national fleets
As a means to enhance its product offering to transporters for whom successful tyre
management and curtailing mounting tyre costs is a critical aspect to running a successful
operation, Bandag’s National Fleet Programme is the solution.

Customers can now outsource their tyre needs, especially where it affects multiple depots located
around the country all requiring professional, expert advice and service, alongside consistent
pricing. Bandag will undertake an in-depth analysis on fleet requirements, scrutinise current
fleet conditions and present a customised package (offering any number of related products and
services) tailored to their specific needs. And with more than 50 strategically positioned Bandag and
BTS franchisees located across Southern Africa, this task is made a lot easier, as each franchisee
prescribes to Bandag’s quality standards and service excellence.

Benefits in brief:
• Central billing
• Tailored tyre policy and Service Level Agreement (SLA)
• Consistent pricing across all depots
• Direct contact with Bandag on queries
• Technical back-up and expertise
• Automatic ETA (Emergency Tyre Assistance) qualification – Bandag’s 24/7 Tyre Breakdown
System with 180 registered SPs
• Measurable delivery on Key Performance Indicators as set out in an SLA
• Management Fleet Reviews – feedback and reporting of information compiled in the Bandag
Fleet Performance Solution web interface.
• Access to new products and services as they develop
• Tyre Management software information via ProFleet – the world’s leading Tyre Management
System

Not only does the National Fleet Programme free up valuable time thereby enabling transport
operators to concentrate on other critical aspects of their business, Bandag claims that a fleet’s
success is ultimately Bandag’s success, hence its ongoing promise to ensure vehicle uptime,
optimised cpk and supply of reliable products and performance.

For more than a decade a number of Blue Chip fleets have enjoyed the benefits of Bandag’s National
Fleet Programme with a long list of potential fleets now also showing interest in this distinctive offering.

For more information contact Bandag on (011) 439 6000 or visit www.bandag.co.za.

With the reliability you get from Bandag, your fleet can take on anything. www.bandag.co.za

8182 Bandag Strip Ad.indd 3 5/15/08 4:39:38 PM

36 • Dealer profile

Right on track!
Dunlop Zone store arrives in Ballito

That ‘local is lekker’ is aptly demonstrated in
this, our next dealer profile with well-known tyre
moguls, the Govender brothers (Dan, Kumie,
Naresh and Sagie). Their family-owned store
in Stanger on the north coast –Tyre Track - has
been in existence for 19 years, but it’s their latest
venture in the form of a brand, spanking new
Dunlop Zone store in Ballito that has catapulted
them into the limelight.
Having established themselves in the area for close on two decades, they’ve
built up a formidable reputation, not to mention a growing client base that
extends from Stanger all the way to Ballito.
Says Dan: “Prior to all of the development in the Ballito area, our customers
were compelled to drive those extra kilometres to Stanger to service
their tyre needs. More recently, commercial and residential development
has taken massive strides in the region by way of upmarket residential
estates, private schools and shopping centres, thereby paving the way for
new business opportunities. Already, a number of leading tyre chains is
represented in the Ballito district, but Tyre Track has one thing in its favour
– it is a local outfit with a reputation built solely on local soil!
Coupled to that, the brothers believe in living within their means. Their
approach to expenses is frugal, plus they’ve also made a collective decision
to plough profits back into the business instead of splashing out on fancy
cars and other such luxury items.
Says Dan: “We don’t forget where we come from – we learnt the retail
business from scratch and this has helped us to remain humble. We also
learnt very early on, that the key to success was establishing relationships
with the community. It’s these relationships that have helped us to grow
business to the level it has.”
They own both properties (a major advantage in today’s market) and with
the Ballito store in particular, have made ample provision for future growth
Caption (left to right): Georg Schramm, Sales and Marketing Head, Apollo Tyres South Africa, Dan Govender owner Dunlop Zone Ballito, Onkar Kanwar, Chairman Apollo
Tyres Limited, India, Sagie Govender, owner Dunlop Zone Ballito, Neeraj Kanwar, Joint Chairman, Apollo Tyres Limited, India, Naresh Govender owner Dunlop Zone Ballito
and Luis Ceneviz, Chief Executive Officer, Apollo Tyres South Africa.
Dealer profile • 37
by way of size (measuring 750 sqm in total) and bountiful parking facilities
for customers.
In line with Dunlop’s philosophy, the new Dunlop Zone store is somewhat
tucked away from the main street, but perfectly positioned on land that
has been earmarked for commercial development to coincide with the
establishment of the new brand new airport, only a few kilometres away.
Says Sagie: “This area will soon undergo considerable commercial
development starting off with a massive motor centre, and for this, we’re
ideally placed to service the business. We also foresee additional business
activity in and around the new airport which bodes well for the future.”
For the time being, they are setting their sights on cementing their presence
in the area via competitive pricing, special promotions and keeping their
repeat clients happy. Fortunately for them, their independence and low
overheads afford them the opportunity to ‘beat any price’ – a huge draw
card in these tough economic times.
Adds Dan: “All the staff at the new Ballito store followed us from the Stanger
operation having undergone extensive product knowledge training over the
years, so they know what servicing customers is all about.”
When asked whether they’d noticed a dip in business at the Stanger outlet
with the opening of the Ballito store, the brothers replied that all 15 fitment
bays remained as busy as ever.
Says Sagie: “We’d like to believe that our attention to service together
with the technical advice we offer our customers has stood us in good
stead. In Stanger we’ve established our clientele – all that remains, is
for us to maintain those relationships by not slackening on those service
levels.”
On the look and image of the new Ballito store, Naresh says that first
impressions have a lasting effect.
He adds: “Our new store looks magnificent from the road and customers
are impressed beyond expectation with our luxurious interior finishes.
Customers can relax in the comfort of our leather armchairs in an
environment that is pristine, trendy and in keeping with the high standards
in retail industry, while they wait for their vehicle.”
Eight months after their official opening on 1 October 2008, they are
achieving 15% above projected targets which can only mean one thing –
their investment is paying off!
38 • Ta l k i n g Ty r e s
by Colin Mileman Tyre Safety
Time for shock tactics
Speeding, drunk driving and pedestrians are commonly
identified as the primary causes of SA’s horrendous
road accident statistics. But it’s about time tyres came
under the spotlight too
We’ve all heard it time and time again. Speed kills. Don’t drink and drive.
Caution for pedestrians. But when last did you have a frontal-lobe shake-up
to check the condition of your tyres?
According to Wikipedia, the executive functions of the frontal lobes of the
brain involve the ability to recognise future consequences resulting from
current actions. Or the lack thereof as far as tyres are concerned.
Sadly, tyre safety seems to be extremely low on the list of priorities when it
comes to dealing with South Africa’s appalling road accident plague. We’re
well aware that tyres are seen as a grudge purchase, and they’re typically
treated with even greater disdain as far as ongoing care and maintenance is
concerned.
Recently, I’ve noted with increasing dismay the poor state of tyres on our
roads – from bald rubber where the tread is a long-distant memory to
decimated sidewalls that are little more than a heartbeat away from self-
destruction.
More commonly, though, it’s the flat-tyre syndrome that seems to be hampering
our progress towards achieving a safer automotive nirvana. Next time you’re
sitting in traffic, or walking through a parking lot, spend a few moments casually
observing the state of the surrounding tyres. Odds are you’ll be shocked at
how many drivers are blissfully unaware of the impending disaster they face.
Bridgestone SA, in association with Pick n Pay, have commendably gone out
and assessed 10 000 tyres in major parking areas around the country over
the past 18 months. Their survey has shown that between 15 and 20 percent
of cars have dangerously under-inflated tyres.
That means, of the 9,4-million-odd registered vehicles in SA, between 1,5
and 2-million are driving on the edge – which is a scary statistic!
Naturally, this leads to all sorts of hideous accident-waiting-to-happen
implications: premature wear, so there’s less grip in the wet; reduced traction
due to the limited contact surface; and severe sidewall degradation which
often results in catastrophic, life-ending tyre blow-outs.
South Africans notch up amongst the world’s worst road accident statistics,
producing in the region of 12 000 fatal crashes each year, and killing around
15 000 people as a result. Not that you can equate monetary terms with
lives, but this apparently costs the country around R13-billion per annum,
or an estimated R38-billion in consequential damage to communities and
commerce.
A significant portion of this, I would argue, can probably be either directly
or indirectly attributed to the dire state of our tyres. The official Arrive Alive
numbers indicate that just over 1 percent of fatal accidents are the result of
smooth tyres or tyre bursts.
But aside from tyre hazards such as the aforementioned underinflation, as
well as overloading and punctures, simply considering the extreme tapering
of wet braking performance when tread depth falls below 2 millimetres, tyre
condition can reasonably be assumed to play a much bigger role than the
figures indicate.
 Ta l k i n g Ty r e s • 39

I’m not sure how the authorities arrive at this figure, but it’s suggested
that there are almost a million unroadworthy and/or unlicensed vehicles
operating on our roads.
So, aside from being locked up on the side of the road with your children for
an outstanding R100 speeding fine, or being treated like a common criminal
for defiantly raising your cellphone to your ear while driving, when last were
you pulled over to have the roadworthiness of your car’s tyres examined?
If the traffic cops can bolster their coffers by targeting shopping centre
parking areas for overdue licenses, surely they can be equally committed to
critiquing the state of the prevailing rubber of these soft targets?
We don’t want people throwing up their supper when sitting in front of
the box, but an ad campaign that gets them off their backside and heading
to the garage for an urgent – and consequently regular – spot check will
contribute immensely towards reducing the undoubtedly massive role tyres
play in road accidents.
It has to inculcate a sorely deficient level of tyre awareness, and get serial
tyre offenders to seriously rethink their approach towards pushing, or
simply ignoring, the boundaries of tyre performance and durability.
After all, it’s ONLY those four tiny patches of rubber that define the line
between disaster, or living to see another day …

Yes, I’m probably on a hiding-to-nothing on that one, so that means the

tyre industry has to take a stand – and a vocal, visual and highly impactful Colin Mileman is a freelance motoring journalist,
one at that. photographer and advanced driving specialist
with over 13 years of experience in this field. As a
I say it’s time to call out the big guns. Get the creative agencies to earn their
former editor of Topcar and Topbike magazines,
keep by producing hard-hitting tyre safety messages, TV adverts and media
he’s as enthusiastic about cars and bikes as
campaigns to get the tyre safety point across without fear or favour.
they come, and has extensive knowledge of all
Forget about a gentle nudge in the right direction – we need to hammer motoring-related matters, including the topic of
the message home using hard-hitting shock tactics that spell out the dire tyres, having run the annual and highly regarded
consequences of neglecting your tyres. Topcar tyre tests for several years.
Treads_210x1139 21.04.2009 10:44 Uhr Seite 1

o v. 2 009
11.-1 3. N A
H A I · CHIN
SH ANG

Further information:
China United Rubber (Group) Corporation · Phone: +86 10 5865 0277 · Fax: +86 10 5865 0288
E-Mail: reifen.china@chrubber.com · www.reifenchina.com
Messe Essen GmbH · Phone: +49 201 72 44 231 · Fax: +49 201 72 44 435
E-Mail: reifen.china@messe-essen.de · www.reifen-messe.de
40 • Conti Corner
When life throws you a curve ball it takes a special
person to pick up the pieces and move on.
A sterling example of someone who did just that
was Debbie Love, the wife of a former tyre dealer
in Queenstown, who managed to turn adversity into
triumph by continuing to run and even grow the
business in her husband’s tradition. Newton Love
tragically passed away in 2005 after a long illness.
Debbie could easily have elected to sell off his tyre
concerns (he had two at the time) but chose instead
to make the community (not to mention her late
husband) proud by concentrating her energies on
building on Newton’s success. Today, this inimitable
‘Tyre Queen’ is making a resounding success of
managing a total of three tyre stores in the small
farming community that is Queenstown, in the
Eastern Cape.
PROMOTION
For the love
of tyres
A male-dominated industry that placed considerable pressure on her to
prove that she was in fact knowledgeable and capable enough for the
task, only fuelled her resolve further to show the world (family and peers
included) what she was made of. And so began her official career as tyre
dealer…..
Fifteen years later, Debbie continues to own and run their ContiPartner store
(the original store which she holds dear to her heart), the Hi-Q outlet across
the road as well as a Dunlop Zone shop (adjacent to the ContiPartner) which
opened as recently as November 2008. The reason for the split alliances is
not all that difficult to fathom – buying product at the best price, while also
ensuring stock supply in light of her geographic location.
Says Debbie: “Stores in outlying areas do not have ready access to
manufacturers’ warehousing facilities. As such, it’s critical to plan ahead
which is why I order tyres in container loads. This also helps me in
negotiating a more favourable price.”
Interestingly, there are a total of seven tyre stores in Queenstown, three of
which are Debbie’s. She claims that although the market is saturated, her
stores continue to do very well.
 Conti Corner • 41

Explains Debbie: “This is a small community. Newton was well-liked and did
a lot to uplift those less privileged around him. We were big supporters of
The Round Table charity and Newton was equally well-known for his love
of flying (he had his PPL – Private Pilot’s Licence). Even though he’s gone,
my involvement with the community has not waned, something which has
contributed to the support I continue to enjoy from the locals.

“When all is said and done I live by the mantra that people buy from
people,” she claims.

The ContiPartner store in particular, specialises in servicing the fleets in her

Debbie Love.
immediate area (the region is renowned for its quarries and cement works)
while the other two focus on the retail sector, (it’s this diversity in product
portfolio which according to Debbie, serves to differentiate them).

When asked why she chose to continue operating in the tyre business after
Newton’s death Debbie chuckles and says: “What else would I do? This is
all I know. Besides, it was Newton’s dream to run a flourishing tyre business
– realising his lifelong dream has brought me closure.”

On her biggest challenge, Debbie duly responds that while negativity is not
a word in her vocabulary, having to overcome customer perception that
‘she was only a woman and therefore not qualified to advise on tyres’, was
probably the biggest obstacle she’s had to face.

Adds Debbie: “The staff, who are of a particularly high calibre, have
coached me and carried me through the worst times – were it not for them
I doubt I would have been able to continue. I’ve learnt a lot, made my share
of mistakes and continue to face new challenges each day. But it’s fun and
exciting – I can’t wait to come to work every morning!”
The staff have been integral to
By way of gratitude and as an incentive, all three store managers are eligible the success of the business.
for profit share, a vested interest which is calculated at no less than 50% of
the takings of the whole operation.

Says Debbie: “It’s important that they work for themselves as well as for
me. Materially, I have everything I could possibly wish for. Now I’d like to
give them the opportunity to attain some material wealth for them and their
families. Plus, Newton’s premature death has taught me that there’s more
to life than just work. I now strive to find that balance by spending more
time with my boys, my friends and my family. Knowing I can entrust the
business to my staff who will care for it as if it was their own (as in fact, it
essentially is), gives me the peace of mind to place family ahead of work
when necessary.”

As property owner as well as manager, Debbie Love is well placed to reap

the fruits of her labour. More important, she has achieved the impossible,
something which her sons will ultimately be grateful for in the legacy she
leaves behind.
42 • 4x4 Adventure

Making history!
Kingsley Holgate
off on new
expedition
In a bid to remain committed to his personal mantra – Using adventure
to improve life – Kingsley Holgate, his wife Gill, son Ross and their team
of intrepid explorers have embarked on yet another amazing adventure
to promote an equally worthy cause - demolishing boundaries currently
preventing transfrontier crossings, whilst also promoting cultural,
community and nature initiatives.
With the issues of conservation, nature and human upliftment very close
to their hearts, the Holgate team departed from the International Tourism
Indaba in Durban on Monday 11th May on a 120-day expedition that will
map out what is hoped will ultimately become known as the most fascinating
adventure route in the world.
Their route will take them and their Cooper-shod Landrover Discoverers on
a three-month journey from East to West Africa from the Indian Ocean to the
Atlantic, through the rugged Maloti-Drakensberg Transfrontier Park before
moving on into the Lebombo Transfrontier Park which links conservation
areas in Northern Zululand, Mozambique and Swaziland. The expedition
then heads north to the Great Limpopo, a Transfrontier Park that joins the
Kruger National Park with Limpopo National Park in Zimbabwe. Community
conservation areas in South Africa and Zimbabwe will also be incorporated
in the area which span 100 000 km2 when complete.
And that’s just the beginning. Before their 120 days are up, they will have
travelled through nine southern African countries, explored seven Transfrontier
Conservation Areas and 30 National Parks and Nature Reserves.
Supporting Nature, Culture and Community
While worthy initiatives such as the One Net One Life malaria prevention,
“Right to Sight” and “Teaching on the Edge programmes” - mobile libraries
4x4 Adventure • 43
bringing much-needed books to impoverished communities - will continue,
this time around and with the support of the South African Department of
Environment and Tourism and the 9 SADC countries, Kingsley and his team
will also make a humanitarian contribution to the communities adjacent
to these conservation areas by way of new initiatives such as upgrading
soccer fields, initiating a Boundless Southern African Soccer Challenge
and introducing a strong arts and culture element through the delivery of
precious arts materials to schools and the introduction of a Community
Artists Competition, the winners of which will be acknowledged by way of
an all-expenses paid trip to Cape Town.
The communities adjacent to these Transfrontier Conservation Areas were
all made aware of Kingsley’s important mission via a recent gathering that
saw community leaders, tourism officials and representatives of all seven
TCAs come together to provide their endorsement and blessing.
And in keeping with what has become tradition, a new Scroll (made of leather
and canvas) symbolising Peace of Goodwill in support of Conservation,
Community and Nature, has been endorsed by all nine ministers heading
up their respective Environmental and Tourism Departments.
As ever, Kingsley is confident that his Cooper tyres will bring him through
whatever Mama Africa can throw at him, “After all, when you’re exploring
boundless Mama Africa, you need the tyre that truly knows no limits”, he says.
Kingsley has high hopes for this expedition, calling it extremely powerful
and the greatest of its kind in conservation.
For more information on Transfrontier Parks and the Boundless Southern
Africa Expedition visit www.boundlesssa.com/en/
 44 • Innovation

Kurszawski (left), vice president -

Automechanika Messe Frankfurt from
Germany, congratulating Bernie Andrews,
Goodyear South Africa’s Regional Manager,
Gauteng Province.
Goodyear wins first
Automechanika
South Africa
Innovation Award

Goodyear is the winner of the

Innovation Award at the first

Automechanika South Africa

automotive trade fair, which was

staged at the MTN Expo Centre,

Nasrec, from March 18-21. The

presentation of a Gold Award

was made by the vice president,

Automechanika Messe Frankfurt

from Germany, Stephan Kurzawski,

to Goodyear’s regional manager:

Gauteng, Bernie Andrews.

 Goodyear’s winning product on
display at the Automechanika trade
fair in Johannesburg, South Africa.
In the view of the judging panel, the product redefines benchmarks
for the Southern African aftermarket sector in which it competes.
The following quote is printed on the Gold Award – “The technology
constitutes a quantum leap in tyre safety and performance and carries
with it substantial environmental benefits.”
The winning product was the new Max Tyre Technology that delivers tangible
cost savings and improved efficiencies for truck owners, as well as increased
safety and performance. In terms of environmental considerations the
technology provides a substantial reduction in fuel consumption, lessens
harmful emissions and landfill waste.
Lower rolling resistance, better braking capability in the wet, less noise,
pollution, better operation efficiency, greater load capacity and longer
tyres life are some of the claims made of the company’s long haul range of
Marathon LHS II (long haul steer) and LHD II (long haul driver) truck tyres,
which results in lower cost per kilometre.
The Regional RHS II (regional haul steer) and Regional RHD II (regional haul
driver) tyre range – aimed at the largest sector in South Africa’s truck tyre
market – are said to offer similar benefits for shorter haul operations.
Another member of the Max Technology family is the range of Duraseal tyres,
which enables a punctured tyre to repair itself and remain serviceable until it
is retreaded. The result is less downtime and a reduction improved safety.
DRIVEN BY INNOVATION
Innovation • 45
This product was selected from eight finalists out of an original entry of 24
products.
Second place and the Silver Award went to Durban-based PFK Electronics
for the PFK Alcohol Interlock, a tethered alcohol breathalyser-based
immobiliser that prevents a driver from starting a vehicle if over the legally
allowed alcohol limit.
Third place and the Bronze Award went to Bosch for its Aerotwin wiper
blades, a new generation of windscreen wipers characterised by extremely
flat styling, with no joints or brackets.
The aim of the competition is to showcase products perceived to be
pioneering in South Africa’s automotive aftermarket and to award the
winner and finalists through focused exposure at Automechanika SA via
media coverage and display of the finalists’ products on the Retail Motor
Industry organisation’s stand. The arrangements for the Innovation Award
were made by the editor of the RMI’s monthly magazine, Automobil,
Wynter Murdoch.
An eight-person jury, comprising aftermarket and motor industry
experts, an automotive journalist and standards authorities assessed the
products on the basis of design, engineering, perceived economic and
environmental efficiency, user benefit, safety, quality and aftermarket
relevance.
BECAUSE NOT ALL TYRES
ARE THE SAME _
46 • World news
Goodyear again named America’s
most respected automotive company
The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company has – for the second year in a row
– been recognised as America’s most respected automotive company by
the Reputation Institute (RI) and Forbes magazine.
The list, which was released on www.forbes.com, is based on the results RI’s
Global Pulse consumer opinion survey which measures the overall respect,
trust, esteem, admiration and good feelings consumers hold toward the
world’s largest companies.
Scores are based on RI’s seven dimensions of reputation: products/
services, innovation, workplace, citizenship, governance, leadership and
performance. RI said the 2009 survey indicates that consumers are most
influenced by a company’s high-quality products and services.
Says Richard J. Kramer, president of Goodyear’s North American Tire
business: “This recognition is particularly meaningful as it is based on
surveys with the general public – the consumers who buy our tyres and put
their trust in Goodyear every day. Our strategies are clearly working.”
In addition to being ranked highest among automotive companies,
Goodyear ranked No. 32 overall and is the only tyre company to be rated
in the top 150.
(Goodyear, Akron Ohio)
New Porsche Panamera to be
launched on Continental Tyres
The new Porsche Panamera will be launched with ContiSportContact 3
Continental Tyres’ top tyre line, specially adapted by tyre developers
in Hanover to match the chassis of the new sports car and meet
specifications drawn up by Porsche in Zuffenhausen.
This limited series of special tyres for the Porsche will carry the designation
‘NO’ after the product name to distinguish them from the standard edition
ContiSportContact 3. Size 255/45 ZR 19 (100Y) tyres are fitted to the
front axle of the Panamera, with 285/40 ZR 19 (103Y) on the rear. The
alternative sizes 245/50 ZR 18 (100Y) and 275/45 ZR 18 (103Y) have
also been approved by Porsche for the Panamera and carry the special
designation ‘NO’.
The sports tyres approved by Porsche have to meet the high demands
made by Germany’s foremost sports car manufacturer.
Says Uwe Kachel, Tyre Developer: “Despite exacting requirements in terms
of comfort and rolling resistance on the new Panamera, it was naturally
important that these were not at the expense of the sporty handling
characteristics of a Porsche. We spent long hours on computer simulations,
carrying out trials on test beds and doing thousands of test miles on a
range of tracks and racing circuits in Europe to match the tyres as closely
as possible to the car.”
(Continental AG, Hanover Germany)
Apollo Tyres buys Vredestein
Banden bv
India-headquartered Apollo Tyres Ltd has concluded the formal process
of acquiring a 100% stake in the premium European tyre manufacturer,
Vredestein Banden BV, based in the Netherlands.
The acquisition is being made from the parent company, Russia’s largest
tyre manufacturer Amtel-Vredestein NV (AVNV – declared bankrupt on 29
April 2009). An independent tyre company since 1946, VBBV became
a part of Russia’s largest tyre manufacturer AVNV in April 2005. AVNV’s
bankruptcy has not affected the Netherlands-based VBBV, which continues
to remain a viable entity with a ring-fenced financing arrangement and a
turnover of approximately Euro 37 million.
Vredestein’s manufacturing plant is located in Enschede, 1.5 hours from
Amsterdam. Over 70% of the 5.5 million tyres manufactured every year are
high performance, high-speed passenger car tyres with speed ratings up to
300kmph sold primarily in the European Union where Vredestein enjoys
high brand recognition for its performance tyres as well as its secondary
brand – Maloya.
The acquisition strengthens Apollo Tyres’ ongoing plans for the European
market whilst providing Vredestein with opportunities to leverage its
proximity to a larger industry player in terms of costs, people, products and
access to markets beyond the EU (Vredestein has an established network
of sales subsidiaries spanning key countries in the EU and USA). Over 30%
of VBBV’s products are sold in Germany, with the rest being sold across the
EU and other parts of the world, including the US and Middle East.
Comments Onkar S Kanwar, Chairman & Managing Director, Apollo Tyres
Ltd: “This is a strategic alliance for us and will bolster Apollo’s plans for its
European customers. The fit between the two companies spans the entire
spectrum of R&D, products and people to manufacturing and markets. It is
a synergistic match and our aim is to increase Vredestein’s global value in
the coming years.”
(Apollo Tyres HQ – India)
48 • Competition / Subscription

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