Colin-on-Cars - Merc offers online ease

From the comfort of an office or favourite recliner at home, the Mercedes-Benz V-Class luxury cruiser is now available to order online.

Thanks to the Mercedes-Benz Online Store, prospective owners of the V-Class may order their dream car online, in just a few clicks. Nationwide, interested parties can browse a selection of preconfigured V-Class vehicles at the Mercedes‑Benz Online Store and secure their order, easily and conveniently.

“We are excited to offer our customers the convenience and flexibility of purchasing their chosen V-Class online," says Nadia Trimmel, the President of Mercedes-Benz Vans South Africa. “Our goal is to make the purchasing process seamless and enjoyable, offering our customers the best digital experience possible.”

With the online store, customers can explore different V-Class models and view available colour options as well as vehicle specifications.

This feature allows customers to find their ideal V-Class, which reflects their individual style and personality, at the click of a button.

To purchase a V-Class online, simply follow these five steps:

- Visit https://www.mercedes-benz.co.za/shop-v-class to find your dream V-Class.

- Choose your preferred payment option and confirm your order with Mercedes-Benz.

- Your personal offer will be sent to your email inbox immediately.

- Finalise your payment and invoice details.

- Your vehicle will be prepared and delivered right to your doorstep or the Mercedes-Benz agent of your choice for collection.

Vehicles in the online store are subject to availability whilst stocks last.

Furthermore, prospective customers may choose between various leasing and financing products with attractive rates. Down payments and instalments can be conveniently calculated online and tailored to individual needs.

Specifically, Mercedes-Benz Financial Services provides exclusive options to help customers find the right financing solution for their needs and can choose between an Agility Finance option or an instalment agreement from Mercedes-Benz Financial Services.

When choosing Agility Finance - exclusive to Mercedes-Benz Financial Services - prospective customers can now drive their very own brand new V300d Exclusive from R20 399 a month.

https://bit.ly/3AVCbRJ

Colin-on-Cars - Ford revved up for Eston encounter

Following a week of intense testing of its T1+ Ford Ranger in Morocco, Neil Woolridge Motors and the Ford Team are geared up for a good result on the Sugarbelt 400, the second round of the 2023 South African Rally Raid Championship (SARRC).

For the Neil Woolridge Motorsport (NWM) Ford Castrol Team, the second round will be a crucial opportunity to make the most of the significant upgrades it has introduced on its class FIA T1+ EcoBoost V6-powered Ford Ranger, which is built at NWM’s facility just north of the race venue, in Pietermaritzburg.

Leading up to the Sugarbelt 400, NWM embarked on week-long in-depth testing and development program on the T1+ Ranger in Morocco with its global rally-raid partner, M-Sport.

“Our intensified testing program in conjunction with M-Sport started straight after the Desert Race last year, and has allowed us to accelerate the development of our T1+ Ranger well beyond what we could achieve on our own in South Africa,” says NWM team principal Neil Woolridge.

“At this stage we don’t have a large customer base of T1+ vehicles competing around the world as do some of our rivals do, so all of the information gleaned from these tests is invaluable in ramping up our development of the vehicle to ensure we extract the best possible performance and durability,” Woolridge says. 

“It was clear at this year’s opening SARRC race that we have the package to challenge for top results, and we are looking forward to making the most of all the hard work put into our T1+ Ranger at Eston, and for the rest of the season.”

Gareth Woolridge and Boyd Dreyer (#277) are the top-placed NWM Ford Castrol crew after finishing second at the Nkomazi 400. The dynamic young team scored their first overall championship win at the final round of 2022, and they are eager to add more silverware to the trophy collection.

Gareth Woolridge and Boyd Dreyer

Team-mates Lance Woolridge and Kenny Gilbert (#234) had their first outing together at the 2023 season-opener in the second NWM T1+ Ranger. They posted the second-fastest time during the qualifying sprint – despite it being motorcycle racer Gilbert’s first time in the navigator’s seat.

Unfortunately, a damaged hydraulic clutch pipe halted their progress on the first race loop and forced them to retire, so their objective for the Sugarbelt 400 will be to secure maximum points to kickstart their 2023 championship challenge.

On the privateer front, the NWM-supported crew of Wors Prinsloo and Andre Vermeulen (#241) surprised many of the top competitors by finishing ninth overall in the T1+ category, and seventh amongst the four-wheel drive cars in their first national race with the T1+ NWM Ford Ranger.

Having raced the Class T NWM Ranger V8 previously, the team is on a fast learning curve getting to grips with the exceptional performance of their new T1+ Ranger, and learning just how hard they can push it in the roughest terrain – and they are sure to be a regular feature in the top 10 results.

The Sugarbelt 400 is well known for its spectacular scenery, set in the mountains and lush green sugarcane plantations surrounding Eston. The event is based at the Beaumont Eston Farmer’s Club which serves as the race headquarters, designated service park and start-finish.

The action commences on Friday 12 May at 12:30 with the short 52km Pirelli Qualifying Race, which determines the starting order for the main race on Saturday. Adding some strategic thinking to the mix, the top 10 teams will draw their starting positions from slowest to fastest, which always adds a dash of intrigue.

On Saturday, the crews will complete two loops of 160km each, starting at 08:00 and separated by a compulsory 30-minute service stop. Spectators have access to numerous viewing points located along the route to see the cars in action, along with free entry to the service park.

Fans can also follow all the action and track the position of the crews throughout each of the 2023 season’s seven races using the RallySafe app, which can be downloaded free of charge for iOS and Android devices from the relevant app stores.

https://bit.ly/3LXc2Iy

Colin-on-Cars - Update for Isuzu mu-X

There has been a top-and-tail for the Isuzu mu-X 7-seater SUV with the addition of an entry-level variant as well as a new four-wheel drive option.

“The ISUZU mu-X is renowned for its sleek and modern styling, exceptional comfort, superb performance, advanced technologies and impressive safety. This makes it a fantastic family-oriented vehicle ideally suited to those with active lifestyles,” says Kevin Fouche, Department Executive: Product Planning and Programme Management at ISUZU Motors South Africa.

“We are delighted to be expanding the mu-X range with a four-wheel drive version of the 3.0 LSE to give our customers an even greater choice. We previously offered only the LS and range-topping 3.0 Onyx with a 4x4 drivetrain, so the new 3.0 LSE 4x4 will appeal to more customers wishing to head off-road and explore more remote destinations.”

A total of five 3,0-litre mu-X models are now available, comprising the 3.0 LS and 3.0 LSE which can be specified in 4x2 and 4x4 versions, as well as the 3.0 Onyx 4x4 – all of which use Isuzu’s six-speed automatic transmission.

“Along with the broader line-up, we have given the mu-X an even more sophisticated and dynamic appearance on the outside, and introduced several new interior features that add a further touch of class and practicality,” Fouche adds. “We are also launching a stunning new colour to the range called Norwegian Blue, and making privacy glass standard across the entire range to further reinforce the premium look and feel of the mu-X.”

Outside

On the outside, the mu-X now sports dark Magnetite finishes for the radiator grille, front and rear bumpers, front fog lamp bezels, roof rails and side steps, replacing the  Tungsten silver and chrome that defined the previous model. The rear combination lamps have also been given a refresh that continues the theme.

Also new to the LS models is the fitment of 18-inch alloy wheels that are shared with the LSE, replacing the 17-inch versions used previously. A matching full-size 18-inch alloy spare wheel is now provided on the LS and LSE in place of steel rims. The Onyx gains even more curb appeal thanks to new 20-inch machined alloy wheels.

On the LSE and Onyx models, there is now a power tailgate with a step sensor integrated into the rear bumper for hands-free access to the rear luggage compartment. The power tailgate is linked to the Passive Entry Start System (PESS), and can also be operated via a button on the key fob.

The interior has also been tweaked and door and instrument panel garnishes echo the dark Magnetite accents featured on the exterior, leather seats are now standard across the range and incorporate eight-way power adjustment and manual lumber support for the driver, along with four-way power adjustment for the front passenger.

LS models gain front and rear parking sensors. On the LSE, an auto-dimming rearview mirror is now standard, along with paddle shifters mounted on the steering wheel.

The new four-wheel drive LSE model shares Isuzu’s 3,0-litre turbo-diesel engine with the rest of the range, which develops 140 kW at 3 600 r/min, along with 450 Nm of torque from 1 600 r/min to 2 600 r/min.

An electronically controlled part-time four-wheel drive system allows easy switching between two-wheel drive (2H), 4x4 high range (4H) and 4x4 low range (4L) using a rotary dial on the centre console.

Standard driver aids across the Isuzu mu-X range, including the LS models, comprise Electronic Stability Control (ESC) with Traction Control, anti-lock brakes with Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist System (BAS), Brake Override Accelerator (BOA), Hill Start Assist (HAS), Hill Descent Control (HDC), Trailer Sway Control, Cruise Control, as well as front and rear parking sensors with a rearview camera.

Passive safety features include driver and front passenger crash bags, front seat side bags, curtain bags and driver knee bag.

The mu-X LS is equipped with a 7-inch touchscreen system with integrated Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and Wi-Fi, plus front and rear USB charging ports.

The LSE and Onyx models gain a tyre pressure monitoring system, blind spot monitor, rear cross traffic alert and rear radar.

The infotainment system is upgraded to a larger 9-inch touchscreen on the LSE, complemented by a total of eight speakers compared to the six on the LS model. range-topping 3.0 Onyx.

The mu-X is sold with a 5-year/90 000 km service plan, 5-year/120 000 km warranty and roadside assistance, and 5-year/unlimited distance anti-corrosion warranty. Service intervals are every 15 000 km or 12 months.

https://bit.ly/3NDiuWD

Africa Automotive: Mecho launches service tracker app

For fleet owners and private vehicle owners alike, keeping track of work in progress with repairs is hard but, sometimes even tougher is finding the right person to do the job.

MechoAutotech, a Nigerian platform providing global automotive spare parts and vehicle repairs and maintenance services, will launch a version v2.0 of its vehicle management app that connects vehicle owners to qualified and vetted mechanics.

Mecho will also launch Mecho Mart, a marketplace for high-quality aftermarket spare parts and original OEM spare parts for wholesalers and enterprise fleet owners. The soon-to-be-launched products signal a shift in strategy as Mecho looks to double down on improving Nigeria’s $6BN fragmented and informal automotive aftersales market which is characterised by substandard automotive spare parts and frequent stockouts.

Preserve

With the app, customers can access financing to pay for vehicle repairs and maintenance to preserve their cash flow. After undergoing an easy and fast verification process, eligible customers can receive overdrafts of up to 10-million naira, which are deposited in the Mecho app wallet.

 Customers also have more flexible servicing options: they can drop off their vehicles at any of Mecho’s 100 partner workshops in Lagos, Abuja and Port Harcourt, or arrange for pick-up.

In the new improved 2.0 Mecho app, customers can track all their expenses, maintenance requests, and vehicle history. Corporate fleet owners can manage multiple mechanics, including Mecho and other third-party service providers, to streamline the maintenance and repairs process in one easy-to-use app.

Mecho will also roll out an IOT integration allowing corporate fleet owners to track their vehicles. The 2.0 vehicle management app will be free to use.

Also in Q3, Mecho will launch Mecho Mart, a marketplace for high-quality aftermarket and original OEM spare parts for wholesalers and enterprise fleet owners.

Genuine

Customers will be able to buy genuine auto parts such as tyres, shock absorbers, brake pads, lubricants and filters. Using the marketplace, spare parts wholesalers can stock up on inventory with top-quality parts, secure financing, and increase profit by avoiding stockouts.

With support from Global Brains, a Japanese venture capital firm that invested a seven-figure sum in the company, Mecho aims to build partnerships with global automotive aftermarket spare parts manufacturers to source genuine and affordable spare parts to build a reliable vehicle spare parts supply chain in Nigeria.

“When we launched in the market two years ago, we focused on providing high-quality vehicle maintenance services. But over time we learned that we had to prioritise fixing the broken automotive spare parts supply chain – a more urgent problem in the industry and a bigger driver of its value.

“Spare parts represent $6BN out of Nigeria’s $8BN vehicle aftersales market. Since we pivoted our business, we have serviced more than 50 corporate fleet owners and spare parts wholesalers and provided spare parts from 5 global automotive manufacturers. By improving the availability of high-quality spare parts, we believe that we can play a role in improving Nigerians’ vehicle longevity and road safety,” says Olusegun Owoade Mecho Autotech CEO/co-founder.

Nigeria has more than 12 million registered vehicles of which more than 90% are imported used vehicles. Given the predominance of used vehicles, the automotive aftersales industry is highly fragmented and informal with a broken aftermarket spare parts supply chain. Spare parts wholesalers struggle to access high-quality and original parts and suffer frequent stockouts as they are unable to access working capital to purchase inventory.

https://bit.ly/3nt7SPp

Colin-on-Cars - N is for new

‘N’ stands for ‘new’ and JAC Motors has expanded the N-Series of trucks in South Africa with the addition of the N140 9-tonne powered by a Cummins 4,5-litre engine.

"A trademark of the N-Series is its excellent fuel efficiency across the range. The new N140 continues in that tradition," says Karl-Heinz Göbel, Chief Executive Officer of JAC Motors South Africa. "Add to that its low cost of ownership, robust chassis design and durable drivetrain, and you have a truck suitable for various modern-day transport applications."

The N140's Euro 3, Cummins 4,5-litre ISB four-cylinder turbo-diesel engine produces 154 kW at 2 300 r/min and 740 Nm of peak torque between 1 200 r/min and 1 800 r/min. 

This powerplant features advanced fuel injection technology that delivers more power using less fuel, resulting in lower operating costs. Durability is also essential, and this engine includes wear-resistant components such as a cast-iron cylinder block and forged steel crankshaft, making it ideal for long-lasting use, minimising downtime and maintenance costs. 

Emissions

Compliant with Euro 3 regulations, the turbo-diesel engine reduces harmful emissions, providing a greener option for operators looking to minimise their environmental impact while maintaining a high level of performance.

The N140 is paired with a synchromesh six-speed manual transmission and a hydraulic-assisted clutch. The drivetrain setup allows for low engine RPMs at cruising speeds, reducing fuel consumption.

"Cummins and JAC Motors have a 25-year successful relationship. In 2018, the two companies formed a joint venture, resulting in a number of our trucks being fitted with high-quality, clean and fuel-efficient engines with world-class technological and powertrain capabilities," says Göbel.

The N140 has a heavy-duty ladder-frame chassis stamping and welding treatment process and sits on a front and rear semi-elliptical multi-leaf spring suspension providing better stability and less chassis roll in all load states and on any road surface.

The N140 supports a wheelbase of 5 300 mm and offers a payload of 9 000 kg. Its dimensions are 8 890 mm (L) x 2 348 mm (W) x 2 475 mm (H), making it suitable for various body applications.

The N140 features a Dual-circuit Air Brake system, including an Air Dryer, an anti-lock braking System and a Load Sensing Proportioning Valve (LSPV) for increased stopping power and driver control to prevent wheel lock-up under emergency braking conditions.

"The N140 offers the built-in flexibility of a chassis-cab design that allows for specific configurations based on unique transportation needs. With its powerful and fuel-efficient engine and robust suspension, it is suitable for various transport applications," says Göbel.

The ergonomically designed cab has wider door apertures, footsteps and safety climbing handles that allow for easy entry and exit, which is less tiring for the driver and passengers. 

The reinforced cab floor increases driver protection, while the double rear-view exterior mirrors improve visibility. LED Daytime Running Lights, height adjustable headlights, a reverse warning buzzer, a seatbelt warning alarm and a tilt-and-telescoping multi-function steering wheel with radio and cruise control settings are all standard as are an air-conditioner, power windows, a 12V Accessory Power Outlet, and a radio with an MP3 player and Bluetooth, including a USB. 

"The N-Series appeals to a broad customer base across various industries. In our experience, customers want affordable, safe and dependable trucks to run and maintain. Trucks also need to offer comfortable and well-equipped cabins, must be economical and easy to operate," adds Göbel.

The N140 9-tonne is available in chassis cab configuration. It offers the company's two-year/unlimited km manufacturer's warranty and 24-hour roadside assistance for peace of mind ownership. JAC Motors supports an extensive dealer network across Southern Africa and offers specialised service support and consistent parts supply to ensure minimum downtime.

https://bit.ly/3nt2Ulz

Colin-on-Cars - Daimler Truck opens new headquarters

Although it has been operating as an independent company for some time, the transition of Daimler Truck Southern Africa was formalised this week with the official opening of its purpose-designed headquarters and campus near Pretoria.

The 12-hectare site houses the main offices, training centre, used and new vehicle retail facilities and a dedicated Daimler Truck Financial Services company.

Karin Rådström, Member of the Board of Management Daimler Truck AG, and CEO of Mercedes-Benz Trucks, says: “I am excited to be part of the DTSA headquarters’ inauguration, re-affirming our commitment into one of our strategic markets in Africa.

Karin Rådström

“The investment not only underlines our positioning as a global player in the commercial vehicle world, but also shows our keen passion for people and the diversity for which South Africa is renowned. The new headquarter sets the team up properly to serve our customers in this very important market for Daimler Truck.”

The opening of the new facility follows a pledge made by Daimler Truck to invest R190-million in South Africa – R170-million going to the building that consumed 180 000 bricks during construction and R20-million used to update facilities on the truck line at the Mercedes-Benz manufacturing site in East London.

Michael Dietz, President and CEO of Daimler Truck Southern Africa Ltd added: “As a team, we are truly humbled by how far we have come since becoming an independent company on December 1, 2021.

“This day marks a great beginning for us and I look forward to further creating a great place to work for our employees, while fully catering to our customers and continuously serving all who keep Africa moving.

“The setting up of this remarkable establishment commenced in quarter one of 2021 and entailed the procurement of the campus, refurbishment of the existing offices, the addition of a dedicated DTSA training facility and notably the construction of the new Daimler Truck Southern Africa headquarter offices.”

Michael Dietz

The new premises were officially opened by Ms Nomalungelo Gina; Deputy Minister of Trade Industry and Economic Development for the Republic of South Africa, Karin Rådström; Member of the Board of Management Daimler Truck AG and CEO of Mercedes-Benz Trucks, Stephan Unger; Member of the Board of Management Daimler Truck AG and Head of Financial Services, Andreas Peschke; German Ambassador to the Republic of South Africa/eSwatini/Lesotho, Andreas von Wallfeld; Head of Daimler Truck Overseas, Michael Dietz; President and CEO Daimler Truck Southern Africa, together with the DTSA Board of Directors.

“The new headquarter is a welcoming home for our team in South Africa. The concept of bringing sales and marketing and Financial Services together under one roof, is taking the right step in our strategy to provide integrated transport solutions for our customers,” says Stephan Unger.

Andreas von Wallfeld, Head of Daimler Truck Overseas, had this to say; “I am very proud of our new home for our team here in South Africa. Having an all-encompassing commercial vehicle campus taking care of all aspects of our business is a benchmark and a truly customer-centric approach.”

With 600 employees across the campus, the DTSA headquarter and TruckStore facilities were designed with a clear intention of creating a sustainable and comfortable workplace with features such as facades and windows screened to limit solar heat gain, while reducing electrical loads.

High-specification low-E double glazing further ensures low heat gains and losses. The roof slopes to the north to allow for future solar installation and rainwater collection on one facade. Parking bays and roof areas are utilised to generate electricity and reduce reliance on non-renewable sources while 752 solar panels provide 350 kWp electricity.

https://bit.ly/3LyjA4E

Colin-on-Cars - More comfort for commuters

Tens of thousands of South Africans rely heavily on taxi services to commute to and from work, these often overcrowded and uncomfortable mini-bus vehicles make the journey quite a chore.

Designed specifically for the South African traveller and landscape, the Mercedes-Benz Inkanyezi offers the ideal balance between functionality and comfort. With a seating capacity of up to 22 passengers plus a driver, the Inkanyezi offers the South African taxi industry maximum efficiency and economy whilst ensuring top-notch safety and comfort.

Speaking of the updated model, Marinus Venter, the Head of Product & Marketing at Mercedes-Benz Vans SA, says: “At Mercedes-Benz Vans, we are committed to continuously seeking new ways to embrace our customers, to provide them with the most desirable vans and services.

“With the latest version of the Sprinter Inkanyezi, I am pleased to say that we have achieved this commitment. By keeping our customers at the forefront of every decision along the way, we have managed to keep all the best-loved features of the original Inkanyezi whilst creating exciting enhancements to further delight our customers.”

At the core of the new Inkanyezi is an updated, all-aluminium OM 654 Engine, which offers a significantly more compact engine design than the previous unit. Additionally, the new design includes an innovative placement of all exhaust-gas-cleaning technologies close to the engine, resulting in low heat losses and favourable working conditions.

Further enhancements to the Inkanyezi include more comfortable seat finishes. The material finish looks both stylish and offers a soft-to-the-touch texture, which is more pleasant for travelling. To match the seats, the Inkanyezi’s interior has also been redesigned with a dark finish, complete with jet-black window frames, to instantly create a luxurious atmosphere.

New technological additions include a Bluetooth radio and speaker system, which has been included as a standard equipment feature in the new Inkanyezi. The vehicle also comes with USB Ports in each row, which are conveniently located for passengers to easily charge their electronic devices.

Other standard equipment additions include lightweight parcel shelves on both sides of the van, for passengers to stow their belongings. A remodelled lap belt design ensures maximum safety is matched with maximum comfort when travelling.

https://bit.ly/3UPBR0e

Solberg to star at Simola

Rallycross ace Petter Solberg will be adding spice to the upcoming Simola Hillclimb behind the wheel of the fiery Volkswagen Polo R WRX Supercar.

“We are very excited Petter Solberg will be making his way to South Africa to race in the Polo R WRX Supercar. Solberg’s partnership with Volkswagen started in 2017 where he set up the PSRX Volkswagen Sweden team in partnership with Volkswagen Motorsport. Solberg won the Team's Championship in both 2017 and 2018 before his retirement from full-time racing. We are thrilled to have Petter come out of retirement to race for us in South Africa,” says Mike Rowe, Head of Volkswagen Motorsport.

Petter Solberg

The Simola Hillclimb is renowned as South Africa’s premier motoring and motorsport lifestyle event, garnering significant interest from local competitors and petrolheads, and from around the worldand takes place in Knysna from 4 to 7 May 2023.

Solberg is one of the best-known drivers in the World Rally Championship (WRC), becoming the first Norwegian to win the title in 2003 and wrapping up his career in 2009 with a total of 13 wins. Aside from his success on the WRC stage, Solberg stamped his mark on the World Rallycross (WRX) scene by claiming its first-ever championship crown in 2014, which he went on to repeat in 2015.

Two years later Solberg partnered with Volkswagen Motorsport to create the PSRX Volkswagen Sweden team, which dominated the sport by scoring an astonishing 19 wins from 24 events over the course of 2017 and 2018. Solberg finished third overall in 2017, while the team won both the Driver and Team championships on both occasions – a remarkable success story.

It's not just Solberg’s participation at the 13th Simola Hillclimb that’s of great interest, but also the car he will be driving. Volkswagen is shipping the Polo R WRX Supercar that the team campaigned in the 2018 season to South Africa for this event. Rated as one of the most successful cars of the modern Rallycross era, it is a 419 kW/650 Nm monster that is capable of launching from a standstill to 100 km/h in a mere 1,9 seconds – so it’s guaranteed to shake things up for this year’s King of the Hill challenge in the Modified Saloon Car category!

“Having a star driver of the calibre of Petter Solberg competing in this year’s Simola Hillclimb is a thrilling prospect which significantly elevates the status of our event,” says Ian Shrosbree, MD of the Knysna Speed Festival which owns the Simola Hillclimb. “We appreciate the immense amount of work Volkswagen SA has put into securing Solberg and the remarkable Polo R WRX Supercar, and its commitment as one of our partners for 2023.

“Solberg has a huge following around the world, and it will be great to see him in action in Knysna,” Shrosbree says. “For many people, it will be fascinating to see how the championship-winning Polo R WRX Supercar performs on the 1.9 km Simola Hill, and how it fares against the wild locally-developed cars that dominate the Modified Saloon Car category.

“The participation of Solberg and the Polo, together with another six car brands having official entries in the event, is a vindication of our change of strategy in 2020 to facilitate greater involvement by South African OEMs in the Hillclimb.”

Fierce home-bred competition

The Solberg VW entry certainly ramps up the excitement and anticipation for the epic King of the Hill battle set to play out in the Modified Saloon Car category, but it will be up against a formidable armada of some of the world’s most extreme and powerful tin-top race cars, many of which are purpose-built for the Simola Hillclimb.

Franco Scribante’s radical Nissan GT-R is already a hillclimb legend around the world, using its time attack-inspired multi-wing design along with huge power (estimated to be capable of around 1 500 hp) to devastating effect by claiming the 2019 and 2022 King of the Hill titles. Last year Scribante threw down the gauntlet and set a new record of 38,129 seconds at an average speed of 179.4 km/h – from a standing start!

And, as a four-time King of the Hill (and six-time Classic Car Friday winner), Scribante arguably knows the tight and twisty 1,9 km Simola Hillclimb road course better than anyone.

“We have continued with the development of the GT-R since last year and hopefully sorted out the gearbox so that we can add more boost,” Scribante says. “The competition is always tough, but I believe that a 37-second time is possible, so that’s what we will be striving for this year.”

Scribante’s most fervent challenge is once again expected to come from Reghard Roets in the mean BB Motorsport Nissan GT-R, referred to by the team as ‘Armageddon’. As a three-time Road Car and Supercar King of the Hill winner, Roets had his first outing in the Modified Saloon Car category in 2022 and was regularly trading fastest times with Scribante. Unfortunately, several technical problems hampered the car last year, and Roets wasn’t able to contest the all-or-nothing Top 10 Shootout.

Dawie Joubert

“Although the chink in our armour has been reliability issues, there is no team or driver that has spent so much time over the last year ironing out the niggles with many late nights and early mornings toiling in the workshop, and long days at the track getting Armageddon to turn lap record times for lap after lap,” Roets says. “The engine power, suspension and aero package have been optimised, with car and driver going on a diet to boot. I believe this year is going to be one of the biggest battles yet.”

There are numerous other Nissan GT-Rs sure to be in the mix for the overall title and the class B5 honours for unlimited four-wheel drive cars, including the wild Nissan GT-Rs driven by Martin and Jody van Zummeren, competing against the pair of highly tuned Audi S4 machines of Aldo and Silvio Scribante, and a turbocharged Audi R8 V10 driven by Dayne Riley.

Class B3 is home to the four-cylinder 4WD beasts – and yes, the headline act will be Petter Solberg in his VW Polo R WRX. He will be up against regular Top 10 contender Anton Cronje in his powerful Subaru WRX STi, along with Pierre Bester in a Mercedes-AMG A45 and Knysna resident Tanya Watts in her Subaru Impreza.

Anton Cronje

At the opposite end of the 4WD performance car spectrum is the unusual unlimited SUV and bakkie (pick-up) class. This year sees Ford South Africa taking up the Simola Hillclimb challenge with its recently launched Ranger Raptor, which employs a 3,0-litre twin-turbo petrol engine to produce an astonishing 292 kW. Ford has teamed up with a media partner for its showroom-spec Ranger Raptor entry, and called on circuit racing and cross country ace Anthony Taylor to occupy the driver’s seat.

A second Ranger Raptor V6 will also take to the start line, driven by Knysna’s Fred van Heerden.

The two Fords will face off against BB Motorsport’s Arnold du Plessis in the mean-looking modified Nissan Patrol Black Hawk, which features a 396kW supercharged 5.6-litre V8 engine.

Two-wheel drive action

Several of the two-wheel drive unlimited class B4 entrants will be vying for the King of the Hill crown against the most extreme 4WD machinery, including last year’s runner-up, Charl Joubert in the turbocharged 3,5-litre V6 Honda-powered Lotus Elise, his brother Dawie in the Ferrari 488-engined Lotus Exige, as well as 2021 winner Pieter Zeelie in this Toyota MR2 Super GT.

With constant improvements Zeelie has developed his car into a serious challenger for overall honours and his experience of racing the car, and winning his class, in an international hillclimb in Germany will stand him in good stead for this year’s event.

For the most spectacular on-the-ragged-edge driving, you won’t find much better than Wade van Zummeren in his manic rear-wheel drive Nissan GT-R which he powered into an impressive third place last year.

Two-wheel drive four-cylinder cars slot into class B2, featuring Graeme Nathan who will be back again in the VW Polo SupaCup car, Hyundai South Africa’s Josh Lowe who will compete for the first time in the Hyundai i30N that he races in the Vilaca time attack series, Clare Vale in her Subaru BRZ, and another Knysna local, Mike Verrier, who returns to the Simola Hillclimb this year in a hot VW Golf GTi.

The naturally aspirated race cars in class B7 (eight cylinders and up) comprise Ricky Giannoccaro’s Lamborghini Huracan Super Trofeo, Giacomo Giannoccaro’s BMW Z4 GT3 V8,  Pieter Joubert’s thundering 6,2-litre V8 AMG-powered Lotus Exige and a 1985 7.0-litre Cobra.

As the lone entrant in class B6 for six-cylinder cars, Geoff Goddard Jnr will be behind the wheel of the iconic BMW 325i Shadowline that was raced by the likes of his father, Geoff, and Tony Viana during the heydays of Stannic Group N.

https://bit.ly/43rZgIV

Colin-on-Cars - Electric Volvo truck on the road

The first electrically-powered extra-heavy Volvo truck is on South African roads as part of the homologation testing ahead of delivery to the first customer, KDG Logistics.

Eric Parry, Volvo Trucks SA’s sustainable solutions manager, took the Volvo FM 4x2 truck-tractor through its paces on a trip from the company’s dealer in Durban to its facilities in Johannesburg – a 600 km journey, with only one stop for charging.

“We aimed to prove that an extra heavy electric truck like this, can drive long distances. Even though we did not carry any payload, it still gave us a good indication of just what this truck is capable of,” says Parry. “Generally, battery electric trucks are used in regional distribution, operating in and around cities, running from distribution centres to stores, etc. But with proper planning, customers will be able to do so much more.”

Volvo Trucks South Africa is bringing in its complete extra-heavy electric truck range, which includes FH, FM and FMX models in truck-tractor and rigid configurations. Axle combinations will also include 4x2 through to 8x4 models. The full load on the first FM units will be 44 tonnes GCM (Gross Combination Mass). With a drive line that has 490 kW of power and 2 400 Nm of torque, it will definitely not struggle to get the job done.

“Locally, there has been a lot of activity and interest around electromobility, a lot quicker than we anticipated, and the enthusiasm and opportunities in South Africa are there,” says Sally Rutter, Volvo Trucks South Africa’s sales director. “Irrespective of local challenges when it comes to loadshedding and infrastructure, a lot of customers are looking at setting up their own charging infrastructures to accommodate electromobility and their own sustainability goals.”

“These trucks can run meaningful kilometres in a day and if you have your charging set-up optimised, you can extend that range quite comfortably and match your operations to it,” added Parry. “Within regional operations, public charging is not relevant for these types of fleets and having control of their own charging will allow customers to fix their energy costs.”

Volvo Trucks electric trucks are designed to operate in a wide range of climates and environments. This includes higher altitudes and warmer conditions typically found in South Africa.

“These electric trucks will be working commercial vehicles, and are designed to be treated and driven as such,” said Parry. “We are excited about Volvo Trucks’ electromobility future in South Africa.”

https://bit.ly/43fk9qy

Colin-on-Cars - Nissan taps into Africa

Nissan Africa has revised its management structure to strengthen its foray into the African auto market.

“These are clear signals of the importance of Africa to Nissan globally through this new increased focus on the continent” says Joni Paiva who was newly appointed as Africa President. Paiva will also continue his current position as Divisional Vice President, overseeing Sales and Marketing, India.

Sherief Eldessouky has been appointed Managing Director of Nissan Africa with effect from April 1, 2023, replacing Mike Whitfield, who will now become the Group Strategic Advisor for Policies, Political Affairs and External Relations.

Sherief Eldessouky

“I am thrilled about this opportunity, I have been given,” says Whitfield who established Nissan Africa as a regional business unit in 2020 “Africa is a key market with an unmatched growth potential and the way we unlock that will be through a combination of intelligent mobility solutions and creating a coalition of willing countries to develop a thriving and sustainable automotive manufacturing industry.

Mike Whitfield

Eldessouky, who previously combined the twin roles of being Nissan Egypt country director and driving the transformation of Nissan Africa, has spent his life in the automotive industry in a career that has taken him from his native Egypt to Brazil, China, Korea, the United States and Uzbekistan, among others.

He joined Nissan in 2020 as head of the OEM’s automotive manufacturing operation in Egypt and was appointed country director at the end of that year.

“Nissan is well positioned on the continent, with an incredible legacy,” says Eldessouky, our job as a management team has been to establish just how we bring more wealth and value to a region with promising automotive growth opportunities with its rate of 42 vehicles per 1 000 compared to the global average of 182.”

Joni Paiva

“I am confident that with the team we have in Africa and the support that we get from our Nissan colleagues in the rest of the world, that we will achieve this.”

The position of country director Nissan Egypt will be filled by Mohamed Samad, who will return to Cairo from Japan where he has been based. Kabelo Rabotho remains country director for Nissan South Africa.

Maciej Klenkiewicz, currently Managing Director RBU Central Eastern Europe (CEE) will expand current scope to include Independent Markets Africa, making the most of his previous ASEAN importer management experience replacing Hide Kuwayama who is assuming a new position in Nissan’s global headquarters.

“These are exciting times for Nissan Africa,” says Paiva. “We have a very strong management team in place to drive the medium-term plan of ‘Let’s Build’ and to deliver the mobility solutions that Africa needs.”

The appointment are the latest iterations in a raft of changes and consolidations, which have seen Nissan Africa take responsibility for the North African territories of Algeria, Morocco and Tunisia last year.

Visitors and delegates to the Africa Automotive Show and the Intra Africa Trade Fair in Abidjan in November will be able to hear about the full spectrum of growth within Africa of the auto industry, both in terms of sales and manufacturing or assembly.

https://bit.ly/3U75Lgb