Mazda BT50 launch confirmed

The new Mazda BT50 bakkie – the third generation – is due for launch locally in the middle of next month and this iteration has been redesigned from the ground up. 

As an evolution of Mazda’s Kodo (Soul of Motion) design, it is immediately evident right from the front of the vehicle with the prominent front grille, and the 3-dimensional signature wing that extends out towards the side. 

The design of the headlights is distinct and sharp, taking in cues from Mazda’s SUV range. The Mazda BT-50 isn't all about utility, but bold evolution, designed with the goal of being a vehicle that customers can take pride in owning. 

The interior cabin space has been carefully crafted to express Mazda’s commitment to human centric design so everything from dashboard, steering wheel, seats and centre console has been redesigned to ensure drivers feel connected to their vehicle and as comfortable as they can be. 

It is a refined and smooth interior that aims for a level of comfort on par with a luxury SUV, by combining sleek and modern elegance with strong functionality. 

As with all Mazda models, the BT-50 comes standard with a generous level of features, including MZD Connect Infotainment System with a 7-inch or 9-inch display screen, Apple Carplay and Android Auto, Reverse camera, Parking sensors, LED headlamps, Hill Launch Assist, Hill Descent Control, Trailer Sway Mitigation, seven crash bags and Cruise Control. 

The model line-up consists of three derivatives: Active, Dynamic and Individual, and has been aligned with that of the passenger car range. The Active model features a new 1,9-litre diesel engine with automatic or manual gearbox, producing 121 kW of power and 213 Nm of torque. 

The Dynamic and Individual models feature the new 3,0-litre engine driving through 6-speed automatic gearbox and producing 140 kW of power and 450 Nm of torque. The Individual model is available with the 4x4 drivetrain, whereas all other models are available in the 4x2 drivetrain. 

Craig Roberts, MD of Mazda Southern Africa says: “We could not be prouder or more excited to launch the BT-50 in Southern Africa now. The vehicle has a long history locally, and internationally. It has been re-imagined and re-built from the ground up, with all the utilitarian value of a double-cab bakkie, and all the comfort and technology expected of an SUV. We are confident it will be met with enthusiasm by our customers and media alike, as a true stand-out and another bold reflection on our Japanese Heritage.” 

The new BT-50 received a 5 Star ANCAP Safety rating in 2020, issued by the Australasian New Car Assessment Program. The All-New BT-50 will come standard with a 3-Year Unlimited Kilometre Mazda Service Plan, 3-Year Unlimited Kilometre Mazda Warranty and a 3-Year Unlimited Roadside Assistance.

 Mitsubishi Xpander revamped

Two models feature in the revised Mitsubishi Xpander range in South Africa – both powered by the same 1,5-litre engine with the option of manual or automatic. 

“As the name suggests, the Xpander is all about broadening one’s horizons, whether that be in terms of lifestyle choices, or family dynamics,” says Nic Campbell, General Manager of Mitsubishi Motors South Africa (MMSA). 

“With the introduction of this very exciting addition to our line-up, we hope to strengthen our positions in both the MPV and compact SUV segments of the local market.” 

The interior of the new Xpander might be all MPV, but the exterior is SUV, so it’s equally well suited to everyday commuting, family road trips and leisure activities. 

With a turning circle of 5,2 metres, the Xpander handles with the agility of a much smaller vehicle. The suspension in the Xpander has been solidly reinforced, which enhances the driving comfort. 

At the heart of the look is Mitsubishi’s so-called Dynamic Shield Design, which is intended to express not only performance, but also protection. Front-face configurations of past-generation Mitsubishi models served to protect both the occupants and the vehicle. The new face with its black central area builds on this approach, but enhances it by adding a hint of sportiness and performance. 

With sporty alloy wheels – 15-inch on the manual model and 16-inch of the automatic derivative – and wide flared fenders, the Xpander has clear headlights, daytime running lights and L-illuminated LED taillights that extend onto the tailgate add to the overall look. 

Inside, the flexible seating can be configured to suit a variety of needs, ranging from carrying passengers and luggage to transporting lifestyle-focused items. The second and third-row seats have a 60/40 split, while the seats of the third row can be folded completely flat and stowed to create additional space in the cargo area. The latter also features a floor box with lid for safe storage of smaller items. 

Full automatic air-conditioning with a manual rear overhead cooler, power windows all round, USB port in the front, 120 Watt power sockets to supply every row of seating and storage compartments under the seats come as standard. 

Driver comfort is ensured through a tilt and telescopic multifunction steering wheel that features Bluetooth voice control for hands-free communication and a multi-information display. The rear-view camera has a high resolution that delivers optimal visibility and a wide field of vision.  

The 1,5-litre DOHC 16-valve aluminium block engine features Mitsubishi’s Intelligent Innovative Valve Timing Lift Electronic Control (MIVEC) system and ECI multipoint fuel injection and pushes out 77 kW at 6 000 r/min, with 141 Nm of peak torque on tap at 4 000 r/min. 

Safety feature include crash bags for the driver and front passenger, seatbelt pre-tensioners with force limiters, an anti-lock braking system with electronic brake force distribution (EBD), as well as an impact-absorbing structure at the front-end of the vehicle. Additional safety for young occupants is provided through ISOFIX child seat anchors. 

The Xpander also benefits from an advanced all-direction collision reinforced impact safety evolution (RISE) body construction with side impact bars. Coming-home and welcome lights enhance the overall safety, security and practicality. 

The new Mitsubishi Xpander is covered by a 3-year/100 000 km manufacturer’s warranty and a 2-year/30 000 km service plan. The price also includes 5-year/unlimited mileage roadside assistance. Service intervals are set at 15 000 km/1 Year whichever comes first. 

Pricing

Xpander 1.5L M/T: R299 995

Xpander 1.5L A/T: R319 995

 Fleet solution to AARTO regulations

With the implementation of the AARTO Amendment Act now imminent, business operations needing to transport workers have little time in which to act – transporting those workers on the back of a bakkie has been illegal for some time, but will be vigorously policed under AARTO. 

A solution to this problem is JAC Motors' X200 2,8-litre turbo-diesel workhorse in a double-cab configuration that can accommodate six people inside the cab and still offer a 1,3-tonne payload with a large load area. The X200 is the only forward-cab workhorse in the local market that offers a double-cab derivative in this segment of the market. 

The four-cylinder turbo-diesel engine mounted under the front seats produces 80 kW at 3 600 r/min and 240 Nm of torque between 1 800 r/min and 2 000 r/min. 

"The X200 double-cab allows you to safely and legally transport workers and goods with the same 1,3-tonne payload the single-cab workhorse competitors are offering," says Karl-Heinz Göbel, CEO of JAC Motors South Africa. "Our product also features a powerful 2,8-litre turbo-diesel engine, anti-lock braking, a factory-fitted air-conditioner and, for just over R300 000, it retails for less than the competitors' single-cab workhorses." 

A forward-cab design is more practical than a standard bakkie and its main benefit is the increased load box size with a much larger load volume, making these rugged workhorses ideal for business and industrial use. 

The X200 offers an elevated driving position allowing the driver to see and judge traffic better on the open roads, and it further improves visibility when parking at loading bays. A forward-cab design also incorporates other advantages that drivers and fleet owners appreciate, such as the easy entrance and exit for drivers and crew in many load stop-and-drop situations. 

Front- and rear crumple zones, side-impact protection bars, height-adjustable headlamps and an immobiliser further add to occupants' safety. Remote-controlled central locking with motion-lock at 40 km/h and an engine that cannot ignite when the clutch is not engaged further contribute to the safety credentials of the X200.  

Although the X200 was developed for the harshest working conditions, it features standard equipment such as a height-adjustable steering wheel, power windows, a Radio/CD/MP3 player with Bluetooth, and speakers fitted in the front doors. It also offers ample stowing space located in various places inside the cab. 

The X200's double-wishbone independent front suspension and ladder-frame chassis design allow for excellent manoeuvrability and solid handling regardless of its load size. In addition, the maximum use of axle capacities for ideal payload weight distribution also contributes to optimal handling in heavy urban traffic and on open roads. 

"Our affordable X200 double-cab, which is unique in its market segment, is the best urban logistics solution for transport operators. Its powerful and reliable engine, balanced transmission, excellent payload, low running cost, and people carrying ability make it an asset in every transport operator's stable," says Göbel.

 Touring package offered on Porsche 911 GT3

Regarded by many Porsche aficionados as the true ‘purist’ model, the 911 GT3 is now being made available with the Touring Package that can also be combined with the 7-speed PDK dual-clutch transmission at no extra cost. 

Porsche, interestingly called ‘broken shoes’ in China, first used the name ‘Touring package’ on an to an equipment variant of the 911 Carrera RS from model year 1973. Already then, the focus was on purist 911 design and elements of a classic interior. Porsche revived the idea again in 2017, and offered a Touring package for the previous generation of the 911 GT3, the Type 991. 

The most conspicuous difference on the exterior is the omission of the fixed rear wing of the 911 GT3 but he necessary downforce at high speeds is guaranteed by an automatically extending rear spoiler. 

Silver-coloured trim strips made of high-gloss anodised aluminium on the side windows are another distinguishing feature that underline the newcomer’s discreet appearance. The front end is painted completely in the exterior colour. 

The interior with extended leather items in Black is particularly elegant and is available exclusively for the GT3 with Touring package. The front of the dashboard and the upper side sections of the door trim panels have special surface embossing. 

The 911 GT3 with Touring package also offers the atmosphere of a classic sports car in the interior. The steering wheel rim, gear/selector lever, cover of the centre console, armrests in the door panels and the door handles are covered in black leather. The partial leather interior features black stitching. The seat centre panels are covered with black fabric, and the roof liner is also black. The head restraints bear embossed Porsche Crests. The door entry guards and trim elements on the dashboard and centre console are made of brushed black aluminium. 

Porsche also offers almost all the optional equipment for the 911 GT3 in combination with the Touring package. This includes all exterior and wheel colours, LED headlights with Porsche Dynamic Light System and Porsche Dynamic Light System Plus, various assist systems, the ceramic brake PCCB, the lift system on the front axle, all seat variants, the Chrono package and the audio systems. 

Porsche Design also offers a very special chronograph for customers of the 911 GT3 with Touring package. The timepiece features a movement with flyback function. The winding rotor evokes the vehicle’s wheel design and is available in six different versions corresponding to the vehicle configuration.

 

 Land Rover develops prototype hydrogen-powered Defender

Jaguar Land Rover sees the hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicle (FECEV) as complementary to battery electric vehicles (BEV) and is currently developing a prototype Defenderwith testing scheduled to begin this year. 

The FCEV concept is part of Jaguar Land Rover’s aim to achieve zero tailpipe emissions by 2036, and net zero carbon emissions across its supply chain, products and operations by 2039, in line with the Reimagine strategy announced in February.  

FCEVs, which generate electricity from hydrogen to power an electric motor, are complimentary to battery electric vehicles (BEVs) on the journey to net zero vehicle emissions. Hydrogen-powered FCEVs provide high energy density and rapid refuelling, and minimal loss of range in low temperatures, making the technology ideal for larger, longer-range vehicles, or those operated in hot or cold environments. 

Since 2018, the global number of FCEVs on the road has nearly doubled while hydrogen refuelling stations have increased by more than 20%. By 2030, forecasts predict hydrogen-powered FCEV deployment could top 10 million with 10,000 refuelling stations worldwide. 

Jaguar Land Rover’s advanced engineering project, known as Project Zeus, is part funded by the government-backed Advanced Propulsion Centre, and will allow engineers to understand how a hydrogen powertrain can be optimised to deliver the performance and capability expected by its customers: from range to refuelling, and towing to off-road ability.  

The zero tailpipe emission prototype New Defender FCEV will begin testing towards the end of 2021 in the UK to verify key attributes such as off-road capability and fuel consumption. 

To deliver Project Zeus, Jaguar Land Rover has teamed up with world class R&D partners, including Delta Motorsport, AVL, Marelli Automotive Systems and the UK Battery Industrialisation Centre (UKBIC) to research, develop and create the prototype FCEV. 

Ralph Clague, Head of Hydrogen and Fuel Cells for Jaguar Land Rover, says: “We know hydrogen has a role to play in the future powertrain mix across the whole transport industry, and alongside battery electric vehicles, it offers another zero tailpipe emission solution for the specific capabilities and requirements of Jaguar Land Rover’s world class line-up of vehicles. The work done alongside our partners in Project Zeus will help us on our journey to become a net zero carbon business by 2039, as we prepare for the next generation of zero tailpipe emissions vehicles.”

 Honda 'evolutionises the NC750X

Gaining 2 kW more power and throttle-by-wire with three riding modes, the Honda NC750X takes a grand evolutionary step from the initial variant launched back in 2012 (and updated in 2016 and 2018).

The storage compartment (where the fuel tank would normally be), capable of holding a full-face helmet and Honda’s Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT) are features that set the NC750X apart. 

More peak power for the NC750X’s EURO5-spec engine plus an extra 600 r/min to the redline are the headline changes, thanks to work on valve timing and intake/exhaust efficiency. Shorter ratios for first, second and third gears smarten response while a slipper clutch reduces lever load and keeps the ride smooth on rapid downshifts. 

Throttle-by-wire (TBW) brings with it adjustable engine character through three default rider modes - Rain, Standard and Sport plus a customisable User mode. Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC) now has a finer level of input over three levels, while the Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT) option features Automatic shifting schedules that integrate with the riding modes, as well as User control. 

It is also 6 kg lighter, thanks to a new frame and detail improvements around the engine and bodywork. There’s also a sharper, more minimalist edge to the bodywork, with fresh style for both LED headlight, taillight and rear indicators, while the redesigned storage space grows in volume and usability. 

Seat height is reduced 30 mm, the screen offers more wind protection and a new LCD dash is an attractive addition.   

The design of the NC750X’s liquid-cooled, SOHC 8-valve parallel twin-cylinder engine ensures punchy performance in the low-to-mid range. Its relatively long-stroke architecture and specially shaped combustion chamber combine with the high-inertial mass crankshaft to produce large amounts of effortless torque from very low revs. 

The addition of a slipper clutch for 2021 reduces lever load by 20% and manages rear-wheel lock up under fast down changes of the manual 6-speed gearbox while decelerating. 

The NC750X engine sips fuel ­– with a measured consumption of 28,3 km/l (WMTC mode) providing a near 400 km range from the 14,1-litre underseat fuel tank. 

With TBW now managing engine performance and character there are three modes for the rider to choose from for various riding conditions. Mode selection is managed between the left-hand switchgear and the LCD display. 

SPORT gives more aggressive delivery of engine power and braking, with low HSTC intervention and DCT mode 4. 

RAIN delivers engine power and braking least aggressively, has high HSTC intervention and Level 1 for the DCT shift pattern. 

STANDARD delivers a balanced middle point for engine power delivery, engine braking and HSTC intervention, plus mode 2 for the DCT. 

USER offers custom options of low/medium/high for delivery of engine power and engine braking, low/medium/high/off for HSTC, and four different shift patterns for DCT. 

Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC) is fitted as standard on both the manual and DCT NC750X. It now offers much softer, finer control as it manages rear wheel torque thanks to TBW, over 3 levels as opposed to 2: 

Level 1 allows the minimum intervention for some rear wheel spin – on gravel or dirt for instance, and its level of control is reduced from the previous design. 

Level 2 is the default setting and provides traction for general riding conditions. 

Level 3 provides maximum control for slippery roads. 

HSTC can also be switched OFF. 

The ‘easy and direct’ DCT technology delivers consistent gear changes up or down and very quickly becomes second nature in use. It uses two clutches: one for start-up and 1^st, 3^rd and 5^th gears: the other for 2^nd, 4^th and 6^th, with the mainshaft for each clutch located inside the other for compact packaging. 

Each clutch is independently controlled by its own electro-hydraulic circuit. When a gear change occurs, the system pre-selects the target gear using the clutch not currently in use. The first clutch is then electronically disengaged as, simultaneously, the second clutch engages. 

With the DCT gearbox, the rider may choose Manual mode, using paddle-style triggers on the left handlebar to change gear, or Automatic mode. In Automatic mode for the NC750X,  four different shifting schedules operate, with three defaults: Level 1 is the most relaxed, and is used within Rain mode; Levels 2 and 4 shift up at higher revs and are linked with Standard and Sport riding modes.   

The NC750X has a sharpened identity thanks to redrawn, smaller upper and lower fairings accentuated by the fuel tank. A new LED headlight and running lights form a strong frontal signature. 

Improving wind and weather protection, the screen is also new. The side panels and side covers are slimmer and, along with the seat unit, are underlined by the exhaust muffler, further emphasising the mass-forward stance. 

Honda’s development engineers started with the tubular steel diamond frame and, through a careful redesign (using varying tube thicknesses and weight) not only saved 1,8 kg over the previous model but also freed up more useful space for the storage compartment by relocating the battery and redesigning the airbox.

Technical Specifications

ENGINE
Type	Liquid-cooled 4-stroke 8-valve, SOHC parallel 2-cylinder. EURO5 compliant.
Displacement	745cc
Bore & Stroke	77mm x 80mm
Compression Ratio	10.7: 1
Max. Power Output	43.1kW @6,750rpm
Max. Torque	69Nm @ 4,750rpm
Oil Capacity	4L
FUEL SYSTEM
Carburation	PGM-FI electronic fuel injection
Fuel Tank Capacity	14.1 litres
Fuel Consumption	MT: 28.3km/l (WMTC mode) DCT: 28.3km/l (WMTC mode-Tested in D-Mode)

Pricing

NC50XA 21YM: R126 000 including VAT

NC750X DCT: R135 500 including VAT

 Kia Pegas boosts sedan choices

In stark contrast to global trends, Kia is keeping the sedan alive with the introduction of its new Pegas that will compete in the A/B segment of the market with an entry-level price of R225 995. 

Powered by a 1,4-litre engine, the Pegas will appeal to fleet buyers that traditionally favour the sedan body shape and who make up the vast majority of new vehicle purchasers’ in South Africa each year. 

Equally, the new Kia Pegas offers families and first-time buyers a combination of technology and space that fulfils their everyday needs. 

Measuring 4 300 mm long, the Pegas is one of the largest vehicles in the A/B-class, yet remains compact enough to easily thread through urban traffic. Its long (2 570 mm) wheelbase means the Pegas offers ample cabin space for all passengers, front and rear, while its large boot makes it one of the most versatile cars in its class. 

Typically Kia, the wide, horizontal ‘face’ incorporates the brand’s tiger nose’ grille, a DNA signature common to all Kia vehicles around the world. 

Inside, there is a 7,0-inch touchscreen infotainment system incorporating a reverse camera with dynamic guidelines, a standard fitment throughout the range (alongside rear park-distance control sensors). The system also boasts Bluetooth connectivity, a USB port and wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It can be controlled handsfree and safely via switches on the steering wheel. 

Depending on the model grade, the Pegas’ interior is trimmed in either smart cloth or high-quality artificial leather and all variants offer cupholders and a central armrest for the driver. Further adding to comfort levels, electrically adjustable side mirrors and windows are included on the entire range. The 475-litre boot is the largest in the compact sedan class. 

The new Pegas is powered by the latest incarnation of Kia’s 1,4-litre multi-point injection petrol engine, producing 69 kW at 6 000 r/min and maximum torque of 132 Nm at 4 000 r/min. The engine drives the front wheels and is available with a choice of a five-speed manual transmission or a four-speed automatic. 

Two trim levels will be available. Feature highlights on the entry-level LX derivative include 7,0-inch infotainment with Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, remote central locking, rear-view camera with rear park distance control, air-conditioning, front and rear power windows, electrically operated mirrors, 6 speakers, steering wheel remote controls, 14-inch steel wheels and automatic headlamp activation. 

Building on the comprehensive features tally, EX models add leather steering wheel, faux-leather seat trim, front fog lights, driver’s seat height adjuster, cruise control, chrome-coated door handles, 14-inch alloy wheels and side repeater lamps. 

Safety specification across the range includes anti-lock braking with EBD, disc brakes all-round, dual front crash bags and ISOFIX child-seat anchoring points. 

“With great connectivity features and comprehensive safety specification, the Pegas ticks all the boxes while offering maximum value,” says Gary Scott, CEO of Kia South Africa. “There’s lots of life in the compact sedan market and the Pegas is poised to draw young families and first-time buyers to the Kia brand.” 

Retail Price incl. VAT

Pegas 1.4 LX Manual    R225 995

Pegas 1.4 EX Manual    R236 995

Pegas 1.4 EX Auto        R251 995 

All Pegas models ship as standard with Kia’s Unlimited Kilometre, 5-year warranty (inclusive of Roadside Assistance), as well as a prepaid 4-year / 60 000 km service plan.

 

The race for Dakar 2022 is now on with entries open to crews that have never competed in the legendary event – this R650 000 prize from Toyota SA Motors going to the team that wins the Dakar Challenge at next weekend’s Toyota 1000 Desert Race. 

The Toyota 1000 Desert Race, the iconic marathon event on the South African Cross-Country Series (SACCS) calendar, has found a new home for 2021. Additionally, the name has changed to incorporate TOYOTA GAZOO Racing SA, and as such the race will now be known as the TGRSA 1000 Desert Race. 

It remains the longest and toughest event on the local calendar and will again offer Dakar hopefuls the opportunity to compete in the Road to Dakar. 

This race-within-a-race offers privateer crews the opportunity to win a free entry to the world’s toughest automotive race, the Dakar Rally. 

In 2017 it was Treasury One’s Hennie de Klerk who won a free entry to the Dakar Rally, when he was the first of the registered Dakar Challengers to cross the line in Botswana. The Pretoria-based businessman did South Africa proud when he and navigator Gerhard Schutte not only completed the Dakar, but also won the Rookie of the Year Award in their SA-built Volkswagen Amarok. 

Winners in 2018 and 2019 were not able to take up the Dakar challenge for various reasons, but this year the Road to Dakar is even more valuable than before. For 2021, the prize will comprise not only a free entry to the Dakar Rally, but it will also include a cash prize of 8 000 euros which will go towards securing the funds necessary to compete in the race. 

“The Desert Race has long been seen as the toughest automotive race on the African continent, and as such it is a perfect fit for our Dakar-winning Toyota Hilux race cars,” says Toyota SA Motors Vice-President for Marketing, Glenn Crompton. “It is a point of pride for us as Toyota SA Motors to offer up another stern challenge this month – but also to offer this incredible opportunity for privateer crews to truly make the most of the Desert Race.” 

Crews hoping to follow in the footsteps of De Klerk and Schutte need to register for the Road to Dakar before tackling the TGRSA 1000 Desert Race. 

The winning competitor can choose to enter the next Dakar or the following one, effectively giving the team a maximum of 18 months to prepare for the race. This means that crews who have previously won the Dakar Challenge or Road to Dakar, but have not been able to take up their prize, are eligible to win again in 2021. 

This year’s Toyota Gazoo Racing SA 1000 Desert Race will take place on June 18-20, in a new location around the town Upington in the Northern Cape. Despite the move to a new area, the race will retain its key characteristics as the only marathon event on the South African Cross-Country calendar: The race distance remains set at 1000 km; and the race will again take place over a total of three days. 

“The Desert Race is the only marathon event on the SACCS calendar, and as such it offers us an unparalleled opportunity to test our Toyota Hilux in conditions that resemble those found on many Dakar stages,” says Toyota Gazoo Racing SA Team Principal, Glyn Hall. 

It’s the longest, toughest event of the year – and it’s one the Ford Castrol Cross Country Team relishes, especially as this will be the first opportunity to prove the capability of the all-new FIA-class Ford Ranger, designed and manufactured by Neil Woolridge Motorsport (NWM), on a marathon event that covers a punishing route of almost 1000 km over three days. 

“The Desert Race is a crucial event in the championship, as the race format covers three days and nearly 1000 km of competitive action,” says Neil Woolridge, team principal of NWM. “Unlike previous years where there were two separate races over the weekend, this is one long marathon event covering the full race distance, so reliability and consistency will be key to ensure we have a shot at victory, and are able to challenge for this year’s title.

“It will be our first chance to prove the capabilities of our newly developed FIA-class 3,5-litre twin-turbo V6 EcoBoost-powered Ford Ranger on a longer marathon event. We’ve done a lot of development work on the vehicles over the past couple of months, and have sorted out the induction pipe issue that resulted in both cars retiring from the Sugarbelt 400 in May. 

“We designed our new Ranger to compete at the highest level on long-distance cross-country races around the world, including the most extreme and revered of them all – the Dakar Rally. So, this year’s Desert Race is the ideal platform to showcase the capabilities of our latest-generation Ford Ranger in some of the harshest and most unforgiving conditions we will face all year.” 

The Ford Castrol NWM team has certainly proven its pedigree at this event, with Lance Woolridge and then co-driver Ward Huxtable powering their V8-powered Ford Ranger to the Class T victory in both heats of the 2019 event and, remarkably, the overall win in the second heat against the faster, higher-specification FIA-class competitors. This helped set the duo up to secure their second consecutive Class T championship title. 

Lance Woolridge and co-driver Elvéne Vonk (334) are determined to taste glory once again at the 2021 Desert Race. They claimed victory for the all-new FIA-class Ranger at the season-opening Mpumalanga 400 in March, and are currently second in the FIA-class championship. 

“Retiring from the Sugarbelt 400 was a huge disappointment for us, but I’m confident that we can make up for it at the Desert Race once again,” Lance says. “The competition is intense in the FIA-class, and we are going to have to be on the pace from the moment we set off on Friday’s qualifying session. Based on all the development work we’ve done on the Ranger, I’m really looking forward to seeing what it is capable of in the challenging desert terrain.” 

Team-mates Gareth Woolridge and Boyd Dreyer (377) also performed extremely well at the 2019 Desert Race, finishing second in Class T in both races, and runners-up in the overall results for the Sunday race. They were third overall at the Mpumalanga 400, and are intent on making up for their misfortune at the Sugarbelt 400. Gareth and Boyd are currently placed sixth in the drivers and navigators standings respectively, just 12 points adrift of Lance and Elvéne, and equal on 28 points with three other teams. 

NWM-supported Ford Ranger V8 entries make up the bulk of the Class T entries and are currently placed second to fifth in the championship after consistent finishes in the opening two rounds of the series. 

Malcolm and Frans Kock (T4) are currently the highest-placed NWM Ford Ranger entry in second place in Class T, ahead of Wors Prinsloo/Andre Vermeulen (T41), Christo Rose/Arno Olivier (T58), and Bernard Johnstone (T22). 

The Ford NWM Development Team of Bapi Rubuluza and Fanifani Meyiwa (T49) will have their second outing in the NWM Ford Ranger V8 after a solid finish at the Sugarbelt 400 – their first event together, and a commendable debut in Class T. 

As per the current COVID-19 regulations, the Desert Race remains closed to spectators. However, fans can follow all the action and track the position of the crews using the RallySafe app which can be downloaded free of charge for iOS and Android devices.

 New Land Cruiser breaks cover

Toyota has finally lifted the covers of the all-new Land Cruiser 300 that is build on a Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA) platform that allows for a significant drop in mass to achieve greater efficiencies. 

As the successor to the ‘200-series’, the all-new flagship Land Cruiser 300 has new petrol and diesel powertrains. 

The exterior design shows a rectangular theme with a prominent front façade, while stylised light guides, alongside large horizontal slats with either black or chrome accents (model dependant), maximise the visual impact. 

The U-shaped front radiator openings form an integral part of the design and create a solid appearance. In the rear, trapezoidal LED lamps help enhance the athletic look. 

The two new engine options are a 3,5-litre twin-turbo Petrol V6 and 3,3-litre turbo-diesel V6. The petrol V6 is borrowed from the Lexus LS500 and delivers 305 kW of power and 650 Nm of tractive effort. 

Outputs from the diesel engine are quoted as 227 kW and 700 Nm - representing a 32 kw increase and 50 Nm hike (versus the outgoing 4.5 turbo-diesel V8). 

Both engine options are coupled to a 10-speed automatic transmission (with obligatory low-range included). 

By using key TNGA design traits, pioneering new welding techniques and reconfiguring the drivetrain placement, the Land Cruiser 300 offers increased torsional rigidity while also being significantly lighter compared to its predecessor. The development team focussed on not only improving off-road capability, but on-road performance and driving comfort too. 

Three grades will be offered locally; utility-minded GX-R, the urban-focussed ZX (replacing the VX-R) and off-road biased GR Sport. Each variant will feature a bespoke specification line-up, in accordance with usage and customer requirements. 

Local introduction is set for August 2021. Click here to view first-reveal video.

 Agilitee rolls out Africa mobility plan

With parts imported from India and the products assembled locally ahead of planned rollout of a full manufacturing facilitiy, Agilitee Africa is on the road to provide greener energy mobility solutions to Africa and beyond. 

The company is a manufacturer and reseller of electric motorcycles, car charging facilities as well as related products on the African continent. 

Agilitee has partnered with eBikeGo Private Limited, India’s largest smart electric mobility platform which offers an electronic mode of transportation in India, to produce and distribute electronic motorcycles in Africa. 

eBikeGo Private Limited is innovative and competitive with expertise in producing quality products for the EV market in India. The company is well-positioned with operations in Mumbai, Bengaluru, Delhi, Amritsar, Jaipur, and Hyderabad to capture a 10% share of India’s two-wheeler market by 2022.  

This will also see a massive rollout of training and transfer of skills to young aspiring entrepreneurs.  

“The future belongs to those who stay conscious in the present moment and realise their decision plays an impact on the future of their children. Innovation is the key to success, but sustainability is the answer to carry us to the future,” said Kriekie Du Plessis Agilitee Chairperson. 

(For a full interview with Ms Du Plessis and COO, Boni Roberts, click on Podcasts at www.colin-on-cars.com – Ed)  

This partnership aims to tackle the reality of climate change and the high cost of fuel coupled with the need for a cost-efficient mode of transport on the African continent. The venture will contribute to minimising air pollution, creating employment and in the long term, contribute to the revival of the African economy amidst the Covid-19 pandemic.  

According to Dr Mandla Lamba, CEO of Agilitee, this is the catalyst for clean energy solutions and carbon reduction in Africa. 

“Our passionate and agile team are pioneering, researching, importing, assembling, manufacturing and franchising electric vehicle and motorbike technology, including battery swapping stations and solar charging facilities across the continent.” 

Agilitee’s vehicles are sustainable, products that are environmentally friendly and cost-effective. The ‘LoadEx’, Agilitee’s first delivery motorcycle, will retail for R35 000, which includes an efficient battery with a capacity of 160 km. The Wild Grace, designed for private use, carries a 330 km efficient battery. 

The ‘Wild Grace’ and the ‘RTF’ (Return to Freedom) will retail at R175 000 and R55 000 which includes the maintenance plan and three-year warranty and servicing for all motorcycles. Agilitee will also introduce  another delivery scooter , that will retail at R11 000 set out for the SME ‘S (small-to-medium enterprise), later in the year with the first pre-orders to roll out in June 2021.  

The company is also developing its assembly plant which is expected to be operational by 2022. The plant is set to be transformed into a comprehensive manufacturing plant within six months to enable all products sold to be 100% proudly South African.  

The company has partnered with two of South Africa’s biggest banks, ABSA and Capitec which will provide financing of the motorcycles for all interested potential consumers and customers. Agilitee have also included a rent to buy option for the RTF, mainly targeted to students starting at R1 300 per month.