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Tata to take offIndian auto giant plans global assault with host of new models in key segments

Megapixel concept

By BYRON MATHIOUDAKIS in INDIATATA Motors is in the midst of the biggest new-model expansion period in its 68-year history with an armada of passenger, SUV and commercial vehicles coming over the next five years.

Designed to rocket the Indian car-maker – and owner of Jaguar Land Rover – to global mainstream player status, the Mumbai-based manufacturer is planning three facelifted or all-new releases annually until 2017, followed by at least one every year after that until 2020.

Tata will also compete in a number of new segments, including the compact crossover and small SUV classes, with vehicles that are engineered from the outset with global – and not just

India’s – market needs top of mind.The product offensive is part of

Tata’s ‘Horizon Next’ phase of vehicle development, announced in June by Tata Motors managing director Karl Slym.

Billed as a roadmap to 2020 and beyond, the new strategy takes into account the convergence of stricter assorted legislation and consumer tastes, as India’s burgeoning middle classes move away from basic transportation to vehicles closer aligned to more mature markets’ needs and wants.

“We’re a mass-manufacturer company, and therefore our portfolio needs to be continued to be developed in the areas where we see those volume sales both internationally and domestic,” Mr Slym

told Australian journalists, including GoAuto, at the Xenon pick-up launch in Pune, India, last week.

“Success comes from platforms which you can use and spread the assets, to make sure we can use that global platform in a number of countries.

“So you’ll see us enter segments which are of high volume and ones that stretch beyond one particular market and therefore allow us to be able to play in a number of international markets, and we expect to do so.

Continued next page

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Tata expansion relieson regional expertise

By BYRON MATHIOUDAKIS in INDIATATA Motors managing director Karl Slym has emphasised the importance of successful global distribution partnerships as the Indian brand embarks on its biggest model offensive to date.

With at least a dozen facelifted or all-new vehicles coming by the end of this decade, the ex-General Motors veteran wants to use the experience and feedback of locally based distributors in each market to help better shape future models.

Tata has already signed on various new international business and distribution partnerships – including one with the Walkinshaw Group’s Fusion Automotive, based in Melbourne. Their first joint venture will be the launch of the Xenon pick-up truck range in October.

According to Mr Slym, regional dialogue is the best way to improve Tata’s quality and customer focus, and underscores the two-way benefits of its international business plan.

“The requirements for strong partners who understand the countries in which we’re looking to in our international business (is paramount),” he told Australian journalists at the Xenon launch in India last week.

“We don’t want to have to land in a foreign country and expect to do the best we can without local employees; we want to merge the capabilities of Tata Motors with strong capabilities in the countries we want to grow our business in. And our relationship with Fusion is a true example of that.”

FULL STORY: CLICK HERE

Tata to take off

Continued from previous page“Certainly customer expectations

around the world are coming together closer and closer, so there is a smaller gap between what a customer is looking for from one country to another.”

Underpinning its passenger car program is an all-new front/all-wheel-drive-capable transverse-engine modular

architecture currently in development. Scalable in both track width and

wheelbase length, the platform is expected to accommodate everything from the B-segment light car replacement for the ageing Vista/Manza models (the latter undergoing a facelift for next year) to the brand’s first monocoque-bodied compact SUV.

The modular architecture is also expected to underpin Tata’s first true Toyota Corolla-sized small car, and a mini-van/crossover to eventually replace the slow-selling Aria seven-seater wagon.

At the bottom end of the market, the globally recognised Nano will expand as a sort of sub-brand, from “the world’s cheapest new car” to siring larger and (relatively) more upmarket variants for worldwide consumption, including, reportedly, the United States.

FULL STORY: CLICK HERENano’s second life – next page

Megapixel concept

Aug 28, 2013 Page 3

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Tata aims to shift positionof ‘cheapest car in world’to smart global city model

Nano’s second life

By BYRON MATHIOUDAKIS in INDIATATA’S budget Nano is set to evolve into a global city car as the Indian auto giant seeks to shake the ‘world’s cheapest car’ stigma and become a key passenger player both in India and abroad.

According to Tata Motors managing director Karl Slym, the company has an opportunity to harness the Nano’s international fame – or notoriety – by turning it into its own B-car ‘sub-brand’ and moving it onto the world stage.

The current Nano is only available in India, with sales down a significant 83 per cent in the first six months of this year.

According to Mr Slym, any global derivatives would be both more expensive and more advanced.

“The Nano is going to be its own brand, its own lifeline,” Mr Slym told Australian journalists at the Xenon pick-up drive program in Pune, India, last week.

“We have some international markets that only sell commercial vehicles, but we put the Nano in the dealership,

and it attracts so many people into that dealership that then buy commercial vehicles.

“They have it there because of the attraction of its own. Nano certainly has a very global attraction, and we’ll do a lot more to canvas and develop the Nano.

“We still want affordable, of course, but it will move. A smart city car is what you can expect from the transformation of the Nano.”

The Pixel concept car from the 2011 Geneva motor show looks to be a strong pointer to the direction Tata is moving, though whether it will be a Nano replacement or a larger sibling is not yet known.

“If you take the real small-car segment – which is the next size up (from the current Nano) … that’s a place we don’t also fare very well with our portfolio,” Mr Slym said.

“And knowing that in India that segment is around 80 per cent of sales due to various things etc, and then knowing that the rest of the world is

going smaller, this is not only of a domestic importance for us, but also of a global importance as well.

“Now that doesn’t have to be the Nano, because we do have a portfolio of (other) cars.”

The Nano is already on the path to improved functionality and comfort, with the current-generation petrol-powered runabout poised to gain alternative fuel choices (compressed natural gas and diesel), power steering and even a rear hatch (currently ‘boot’ access is only via the rear seat).

While it is unlikely that Tata will take on the Volkswagen Up’s lead by offering a family of different body styles for the next-generation Nano, Mr Slym suggested that a raised version in the vein of the Xenon Tuff Truck Concept created by the Walkinshaw Group-owned Australian distributors Fusion Automotive is under consideration.

FULL STORY: CLICK HERELight shines on Xenon – next page

Pixel concept

Nano

Aug 28, 2013 Page 4

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Tata Motors set to launchfresh attack on ute sectorwith circa-$30,000 Xenon

Light shines on Xenon

By BYRON MATHIOUDAKIS in INDIAINDIAN brand Tata’s new line-up of light trucks led by the Xenon pick-up will launch in Australia in October, boldly positioned between the cheap-and-cheerful Chinese Great Wall range and mainstream Japanese contenders.

The Xenon has been on sale in Queensland via a private importer for several years, but will be relaunched by recently appointed distributor Fusion Automotive with a broader model range and extra safety equipment and standard features.

And while Australia’s light commercial market has seen a number of little-known brands from developing nations pitch their wares here with small success, Tata’s local distributor is confident of snaring a piece of the growing pie.

The Xenon will form the vanguard of a number of different styles of vehicles from the Indian industrial giant, eventually encompassing heavy trucks, medium trucks, buses and passenger cars.

Initially, six Xenon models will materialise, all based on the up-spec

XT variant sold in India since February 2009, and offered in three body styles: cab-chassis, single-cab pick-up and dual-cab pick-up.

Other than saying that they will sit well beneath the $35,000 mark, Tata will not reveal pricing until launch. However, the range – which will include 4x2 and 4x4 drivelines – will be positioned above entry-level Chinese pick-ups such as the Great Wall V-series that is priced between $17,990 and $25,990 driveaway.

Significantly, electronic stability control will be fitted standard on all Australian-delivered Tata utes from January production, although the first wave will go without the life-saving safety technology.

Trends indicate the company will have its work cut out making headway against mainstream Japanese rivals. Light commercial vehicles as a whole are up 10 per cent this year, but sales of entry fare from lesser-known brands are trending in the opposite direction.

Great Wall sales are down 37.7 per cent this year as importer Ateco Automotive battles heavy discounting from rivals and

an ageing range, while fellow Chinese brand Foton – which, like Tata, positions its Tunland ute as a more premium alternative to Great Wall – has barely made a dent on the local market.

The same applies to fellow Indian brand Mahindra, while sales of the Chinese-made ZX ute are still limited to the Perth market.

The only engine available for now is a Euro 5 emissions-rated 2.2-litre four-cylinder common-rail turbo-diesel producing 110kW of power and 320Nm of torque, and paired solely to a five-speed manual gearbox. All will have a tow rating of 2500kg.

FULL STORY: CLICK HERE Tata’s tough Aussie ute – next page

GOAUTO TAKES A FIRST DRIVE INTATA’S XENON UTE: CLICK HERE

THE VERDICT

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HSV designer has hand inTuff Truck ute concept asXenon campaign kicks off

Tata’s tough Aussie ute

By BYRON MATHIOUDAKIS in INDIATHE local distributor for Indian industrial conglomerate Tata Motors has unveiled a concept vehicle that is based on the forthcoming Xenon ute and was developed in the suburbs of Melbourne.

On display at the National 4x4 and Outdoors Show and Fishing and Boating Expo in Melbourne, which opened last weekend, the Xenon Tuff Truck Concept is under consideration for production at an undisclosed future date.

“We want to gauge public reaction first,” said Fusion Automotive managing director Darren Bowler, who heads up the newly appointed Australian Tata distributor.

“The acceptance I am looking for is brand appeal. If you look at the Xenon and the toughness and appeal that it offers in its segment, doing the Tuff Truck Concept immediately boosts that

brand appeal from day one.“But at the moment it is purely a

concept. I’d love to put it in production someday, but the reality is there needs to be the market demand for it first.”

Among other appearances, the Tuff Truck will star on Tata’s stand at the New Delhi International Motor Show next February.

Created in part to help launch the Tata brand nationally with a bang in Australia after years of low-volume distribution by Queensland dealer Upton’s Motors, the concept vehicle features a number of unique items created under the supervision of Julian Quincey of the Walkinshaw Automotive engineering and design centre in Clayton, Victoria,

who is best known for his work on HSV’s range of Commodore-based performance cars.

Fusion is a wholly owned subsidiary of the Walkinshaw Group of companies.

Using the production Xenon Dual Cab pick-up as a starting point, the Melbourne designers decided upon a satin-finish grey known as Arden (from the Jaguar Land Rover paint palette), contrasting with darker plastic cladding to help slim down the overall height.

They then took to altering or restyling all the non-metal and glass parts of the vehicle’s exterior.

FULL STORY: CLICK HERE One step at a time: Fusion – next page

Aug 28, 2013 Page 6

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New local Tata distributorstarts small but also looks to secure other car brands

One step at a time: Fusion

By BYRON MATHIOUDAKIS in INDIAFUSION Automotive will start small with the distribution of Tata vehicles in Australia as it works on establishing the Indian brand as a viable choice in the packed local market.

Only one model range will be available at launch, the Xenon ute, but a sequence of additional commercial and passenger offerings are earmarked for launch over the next few years.

The reason for this slow-burn, according to Fusion managing director Darren Bowler, is a desire not to overburden the supply chain and flood the market with a comparatively little-known brand on our shores.

“The key is for us to establish the brand, show the strength in that brand, to show that the product is of quality, and is a product that it can fit into the Australian market,” Mr Bowler told GoAuto at the Xenon drive program in India last week.

“That’s why we’re coming in and just working our way with one model and six variants of that model … rather than

flooding the market, having too many models, pushing the volume, having too many dealers and having an oversupply of vehicles.

“It just creates a stress for everybody.”This will give Fusion breathing room

before it brings Tata’s Ultra medium-sized truck, Prima heavy truck and a bus range (probably the Marcopolo) to market within the next three years.

Beyond that, from about 2016, a number of as-yet unreleased next-generation

Tata passenger vehicles – likely to be a compact SUV and a Toyota Yaris-sized B-segment hatch currently served by the Vista – are earmarked for Australia.

However, Fusion will not reveal what they might be, electing instead to concentrate on the initial light

commercial vehicle push. Part of the Walkinshaw Automotive

Group (which includes Holden Special Vehicles), Fusion is also looking to other automotive brands beyond Tata Motors.

“Like any business, we would be silly not to look at what other options there are,” Mr Bowler said.

“Everybody wants to be in China … we’ve been there, we’ve had a look, we’ve had discussions, as we’ve been to India obviously with Tata. Now, that’s our focus, and will be our focus for quite some time.

“But certainly there are other things happening in the outside world, and globally you’ve got to look outside your own backyard to grow your business, so nothing is out of the question.”

FULL STORY: CLICK HERE

Xenon

Darren Bowler

Aug 28, 2013 Page 7

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Local three-star rating oncards but Mercedes set tolaunch with upgraded van

Citan safety revision

By BARRY PARKMERCEDES-BENZ is poised to roll out engineering changes to its Citan light van that it hopes will improve the underperforming crash record of the vehicle.

The Citan, a city-friendly delivery van, shares its underpinnings with the Renault Kangoo, and was due to go on sale in Australia about now.

However, a less-than-stellar three-star crash rating awarded to the Mercedes-Benz version of the van in European New Car Assessment Program crash testing has delayed the Citan’s sale here for at least another six months as Renault and Mercedes-Benz scramble to fix safety problems identified in the test.

Mercedes-Benz’s global vice-president of sales and marketing for the car-maker’s commercial van division, Klaus Maier, said the German company was “not really happy” with the Renault-sourced Citan’s crash result.

He said Mercedes-Benz had teamed up with Renault in the light commercial vehicle joint venture because, at the time,

the French brand’s previous-generation Kangoo had earned four stars – the best crash rating in the segment.

“We’ve almost finalised now the technical solution (to fix problems identified in the crash test), and we also decided to do a recall,” Mr Maier said during a visit to Australia late last week.

The recall will involve about 3500 Citan vans already sold in Europe, and will fix a side-curtain airbag that snagged on

a seatbelt anchorage in both a front-on and side impact test.

However, other engineering changes flagged by Mr Maier will help to prevent a gap from opening between the rear sliding door and the major structural pillar behind the front seats, posing a hazard to occupants’ limbs.

Mr Maier said it was still too early for the car-maker to go into details about what changes would be made to the van.

“I think it will be too early to release all the information (about the changes being made to the Citan), but we are in the early stage,” he said.

“We also have to work together now with suppliers to get enough parts ... to recall the 3500 vehicles.”

He said Australia would get a “corrected” version of the Citan when it goes on sale here early next year.

Mr Maier said Mercedes-Benz would reconsider having the Citan reassessed for its crashworthiness once the changes had been made on the vehicle, although it was unlikely to receive a four-star rating.

FULL STORY: CLICK HERE Chinese vans no threat, yet – next page

Citan

Klaus Maier

Aug 28, 2013 Page 8

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Mercedes deems Chinesebrands to be a long wayfrom delivering the goods

Chinese vans no threat, yet

By BARRY PARKWORKPLACE safety and value for money will help Mercedes-Benz keep its foothold in Australia’s commercial vehicle market if the expected flood of cheap Chinese-made vehicles arrives, the head of Mercedes-Benz’s van division says.

Speaking on a visit to Australia last week as part of a whistle-stop tour of the German brand’s world markets, Mercedes-Benz global vice-president of sales and marketing for the car-maker’s commercial van division, Klaus Maier, said a growing awareness that for many couriers the driver’s seat is the office – and that there are obligations to provide a safe workplace – would slow the Chinese brands’ rollout here.

“The first experience of the Chinese manufacturers, it was not so successful for passenger cars,” Mr Maier said.

“They did some crash tests in Europe (German road safety authority ADAC crash-tested the Chinese-made

Brilliance BS6 mid-size sedan in 2007 and it performed extremely poorly) and what we can see now is that they do not go to mature markets such as Australia, the US market and Europe.

“They go now to (emerging markets such as) South America, and they will gain the experience. And definitely we will have to take them seriously.”

Mr Maier said he expected the Chinese commercial vehicle manufacturers to follow a similar path to the Japanese and Korean brands that now dominate the passenger car market.

Helping them, he said, was the fact that European car-makers were willing to set up joint ventures with Chinese brands, and transfer technology that

would help the Asian car-makers advance their products.

“I will take them when we see them over the next 10 or 15 years,” Mr Maier said. “I’m sure what helps us is ... that the driver’s seat is seen as a workplace and definitely the level of safety may not be the same in a Chinese vehicle so far.”

Mr Maier said the Chinese brands had already established a strong foothold in South America and were starting to dominate sales, but ultimately it would come down to what represented the best value to Australian buyers.

FULL STORY: CLICK HERES500 plug-in hybrid – page 18

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Emissions regulations andother federal eco-vehicleincentives overdue: BMW

Let’s get serious on CO2

By MIKE COSTELLOBMW Group Australia managing director Phil Horton last week joined a growing chorus of car company chiefs suggesting greater government incentives be introduced for electric and alternate fuel cars.

Furthermore, he urged the federal government to follow the lead set by Europe and parts of the US to encourage a general move into greener vehicles – alternate fuel or not – through imposing tougher emissions regulations and getting thirsty old ‘clunkers’ off the road.

Incentives for electric car owners in parts of Europe and the US include free trips on toll roads, reduced road and car taxes (stamp duty, for instance), dedicated road lanes and immunity to congestion charges applied in megacities.

The German luxury car-maker will join a small clique of car-makers – most

notably Nissan, Mitsubishi and Holden – selling electrified vehicles Down Under when it introduces the image-boosting i3 hatchback in mid-2014: “a massive, massive thing for the company”,

according to Mr Horton. EV and plug-in hybrid sales

barely trouble the industry scorer here in their short existence, with only 167 sold this year, two-thirds of which have gone to non-private buyers.

The i3 will join models such as the Nissan Leaf EV and the

Holden Volt and Mitsubishi Outlander plug-in hybrids (the latter due early 2014), albeit from a higher starting price of around $70,000.

Nissan Australia CEO Bill Peffer and

his counterpart at global alliance partner Renault, Justin Hocevar, have both called for more government support to get EVs off the ground here this year. Renault remains keen to introduce the Zoe EV hatch here in the near future.

A lack of substantial government policy that encourages the purchase of zero- or low-emission cars (beyond, perhaps, a partial luxury car tax exemption for cars that use fewer than 7.0 litres of fuel per 100km) is often cited as a factor in these low sales – alongside the dearth of charging infrastructure, high entry costs and so-called ‘range anxiety’.

FULL STORY: CLICK HERE More reports – page 13-14, 16, 24-25

Phil Horton

i3

Aug 28, 2013 Page 10

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ROAD SAFETY PLEDGETHE federal opposition has thrown its support – and a $2.2 billion funding commitment – behind a campaign to reduce road trauma throughout Australia.

Opposition leader Tony Abbott last week announced a Coalition government would “improve road safety through greater investment in roads, targeted training to learner drivers and parents, closer co-operation with state and territory governments and through undertaking a major study into road trauma”.

“The Coalition’s ‘Policy to Improve Road Safety’ will deliver better roads as the central part of our plan to cut the road toll and road trauma,” the release announcing the policy said.

“We will also target the driving skills of young people, who continue to feature disproportionately in deadly accidents.”

FULL STORY: CLICK HERE

Abbott uses Volvo’s truck plant to highlight case forsubsidy-free auto industry

‘This is proof’

By TERRY MARTINFEDERAL opposition leader Tony Abbott has revealed in no uncertain terms his desire for Australia’s automotive industry to operate without government assistance.

Releasing the Coalition’s manufacturing policy at Volvo Group Australia’s factory in Brisbane last Wednesday, Mr Abbott highlighted the trucking group’s operations – which include building Mack and Volvo trucks at the Wacol assembly plant – as proof that vehicle manufacturers could be profitable without government subsidies.

When asked whether he was prepared to let Holden and Toyota follow Ford in closing down their car-making operations in Australia, Mr Abbott said he would “cross those bridges if and when we get there”.

He added that he was happy to “talk through things” with Holden, whose manufacturing future hinges on the outcome of negotiations with the winner of the September 7 federal election, but declared he was only interested in having “an adult discussion” based on the value the nation would receive in return for more taxpayer funding.

“I’m very pleased to be here at Volvo today because this is proof that we can make things, make sophisticated things in this country without a government subsidy,” Mr Abbott said.

“We can make sophisticated things in this country without a government subsidy and do so profitably and export from this plant.

“This plant proves that you do not need to write blank cheques for businesses in order to have a strong and dynamic manufacturing sector in this country.

“If we get the economic fundamentals right, then we give our businesses generally including our manufacturers the best opportunity to invest, to employ, to compete, to innovate and to succeed.

“So that’s why at the core of our policy for manufacturing industry is to abolish the carbon tax, abolish the mining tax, get the workplace relations pendulum back to the sensible centre, to cut red tape and generally work with the businesses of Australia rather than against them,” he said.

FULL STORY: CLICK HERE

Tony Abbott at Volvo’s Wacol truck assembly plant, Brisbane

Aug 28, 2013 Page 11

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By BARRY PARKFORGET low-slung, sleek supercars. Aspiring architects focusing on the future of motoring are doodling sport utility vehicles, one of Australia’s top car designers says.

Holden chief designer Richard Ferlazzo said he was seeing more student work focusing on emerging trends rather than the traditional supercar-based breeding ground that has fed this generation of top talent.

“I can definitely see a shift in the type of vehicles that students are drawing,” Mr Ferlazzo said. “It used to be all sportscars and cars with a sporty image. Now I’m seeing a lot more SUVs, and the kids are wanting to draw them.

“They’re (SUVs) kind of cute to draw because there’s lots of things you can do to embellish them. However, all these things they add to the drawing add cost when it comes to making the car, so they’re going to find that cost, not their imagination, is going to limit what they can do.”

FULL STORY: CLICK HERE

Young car designersare drifting to SUVsVF Monaro!

Fans rejoice, Holden cool on unofficial VF two-doorBy TIM NICHOLSON

HOLDEN designers and Melbourne-based styling house Dsine International have joined forces on a coupe version of the recently released VF Commodore, but the program is unofficial and not destined for production.

Quick to dampen the hopes of enthusiasts urging a return of the much-loved Monaro nameplate, Holden has confirmed that the striking two-door model is nothing more than a design exercise.

That did not stop social media outlets going into overdrive last week with the release of these computer-generated images and a video, which are the result of a collaborative effort between Holden designers Peter Hughes and Simon Gow and design house Dsine.

GM Holden senior manager of PR

and technology communications Andrea Matthews told GoAuto the design concept was worked on entirely out of hours and is “definitely not slated for production”.

Ms Matthews said it was unlikely the coupe concept would become a show car highlighting GM design, adding that the exercise was more of a “what if?”

Despite ongoing uncertainty about Holden’s manufacturing future, the Australian car-maker is still pushing ahead with its export program of the VF-based Chevrolet SS to the United States.

If the SS proves successful, a two-door version could be on the cards, reawakening a program that previously saw the reborn Holden Monaro exported as a Pontiac GTO to the US, and as a Vauxhall Monaro VXR to the UK.

FULL STORY: CLICK HERE

Bespoke Sales Manager - Prestigious OpportunityThis is a blue chip opportunity for an exceptional Sales Manager to lead our Melbourne Bespoke Sales Operation. Based on your experience and expertise, you will be expected to guide the business to increased levels of performance and customer experience that will set the benchmark in the automotive industry. Your contribution to our success will present you with the opportunity to take your career to a new level with a recognised market leader and innovator.We are looking for a true professional to join our team who has:• A proven track record in sales management, or a related discipline, that highlights achievement of business KPIs• Minimum of 10 years experience with luxury brands• Experience in wholesale, valuation and used vehicle retailing is desirable• Demonstrated ability to lead and motivate a successful team, to achieve results• �Excellent�communication�skills�in�conjunction�with�first�class�customer�service�skills• Entrepreneurial leadership capabilities• Strong attention to detail• �Tertiary�qualification/s�in�business,�or�a�related�discipline,�is�preferred• Established networks in the automotive, luxury brands or vertical industries

This is a rare opportunity to showcase your talents and expertise in a prestigious environment that will allow you scope for personal growth and�further�development�within�the�business.�An�attractive�package�will�be�offered�commensurate�with�your�experience�and�qualifications.

Sales Executive / Rolls-Royce Brand Manager This�is�an�exceptional�and�rare�opportunity�for�a�driven�and�professional�Sales�Executive/Brand�Manager�to�represent�the�pinnacle�of�automotive�luxury�brands.�Your�ability�to�achieve�challenging�targets�on�a�consistent�basis�combined�with�first�class customer service skills is essential.To be successful in this role you will have:• A proven track record in luxury brand sales, but not limited to automotive• �A�passion� for�developing� lasting� relationships�with�our�valued�customers,�and�as�with�any�first�class�service�you�are�

expected to respond to the demands and expectations of our customers• Excellent communication skills• Expertise and credentials that outline a successful track record of achieving business KPI’s• �A�tertiary�qualification�in�business,�or�a�related�discipline,�is�preferred

Based in our Bespoke facility at the base of Eureka Tower, you will have the opportunity for personal growth and further development within Australia’s largest prestigious automotive group. An attractive package will be offered commensurate with your�experience�and�qualifications.

Service Technician - Aston Martin / Rolls-Royce Due�to�our�continual�growth,�we�require�a�qualified�and�experienced�Service�Technician�to�join�our�skilled�team.�Operating�within�our�Southbank�service�centre�you�will�have�accurate�diagnostic�skills,�work�well�within�a�team,�demonstrate�‘fix�it�right�first�time’�quality�of�work�and�appreciate�all�aspects�of�luxury�products.Essential Criteria• �Qualified�technician• Experience with the BMW brand or other European brands• ��A�genuine�desire�to�produce�efficient�and�quality�work• Strong communication & organisation skills• Strong attention to detail• Be well presented• Have a current drivers licence & a clean driving record

Remuneration�will�be�commensurate�with�your�experience�and�qualifications.

For further information or to apply, please contact Kim Nguyen, Human Resources Manager on 03 8698 3579 or email kim.nguyen@inchcape.com.au

Outstanding Career Opportunities at TrivettA U S T R A L I A ’ S L A R G E S T P R E S T I G E A U T O M O T I V E G R O U P

AUSTRALIA’S LARGEST PRESTIGE AUTOMOTIVE GROUP

Inchcape are an EEO employer. Creating the ultimate customer experience.

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Aug 28, 2013 Page 13

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Extra value, equipment headline model upgrade for BMW’s steel-roofed roadster

Z4 with more

By MIKE COSTELLOBMW has given the niche Z4 folding hard-top roadster a subtle update to keep it fresh and visible against rivals such as the Mercedes-Benz SLK, Audi TT and – for the top-spec version at least – Porsche’s new Boxster.

But it’s not the minor tweaks to frontal styling and trim that headline the revised version, according to BMW Australia. Rather, it is a sharpened value equation that sees up to $9000 of “extra value” packaged in.

The three-variant, rear-drive, folding metal-roofed range continues as before, but all pick up extra equipment, and the two entry versions are now fitted standard with the ZF eight-speed automatic transmission that previously cost an extra $3500.

For purists, a six-speed manual remains a no-cost option on both four-cylinder offerings – the sDrive20i and sDrive28i – but since roughly 90 per

cent of Z4 buyers have historically opted for the auto, BMW does not expect many takers.

The six-cylinder sDrive35i flagship remains a seven-speed dual-clutch auto proposition only, with standard paddle shifters and copious throttle pops and

blips on downshifts. The entry sDrive20i

now retails for $79,900, an increase of $2400 which BMW claims is more than countered by

$9000 worth of extra equipment ($3500 of this is accounted for by the now-standard auto transmission).

Standard features now include 3D satellite navigation, a hi-res 8.8-inch

dash-top display, internet connectivity, and a revised smartphone music interface and voice control system.

This new spec comes in addition to existing equipment such as a rollover protection system, 17-inch alloy wheels with run-flat tyres, heated side mirrors, cruise control with auto braking, front and rear parking sensors, bi-Xenon headlights with LED daytime runners, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, rain-sensing wipers, heated leather seats, dual-zone climate control and Bluetooth with audio.

The sDrive28i adds new 18-inch wheels, wheel-mounted paddle shifters and bigger seat bolsters, plus the new infotainment and internet system mentioned previously. As before, it also features an 11-speaker audio system and ‘ambient cabin lighting’.

The starting price of $89,900 is $100 cheaper than before.

FULL STORY: CLICK HEREMore reports – next page

PRICING:Z4 sDrive20i (a) $79,900Z4 sDrive28i (a) $89,900Z4 sDrive35i (a) $119,545

Aug 28, 2013 Page 14

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Your key responsibility will be to raise the profile of the society through membership drives, promotional activities, social media, new online services, engagement of younger engineers and technicians, and to reach into new areas; including vehicle importers, heavy transport, repair workshops and other industry sectors. You will need a general/operations management background, ideally in a non-profit organisation, experience in areas such as fundraising, membership promotions, sponsorships, etc. A small business background with marketing skills would also be an advantage.You will preferably have stature and strong contacts across the automotive/mobility industries. At a personal level you demonstrate drive and motivation, take a hands-on approach, are personable and capable of projecting a professional image. You communicate well and can present to large groups. You are also competent with business software packages. The hours of work and salary package are both negotiable based on the credentials of the successful applicant. To learn more about SAE-A please visit: http://www.saea.com.au/about-sae/Applications close Thursday 19th September 2013. Please send your resumé to Rose De Amici via email: info@sae-a.com.au

SAE-A is a non-profit organisation that serves the needs of its members and promotes the relevance of mobility related technologies to governments, industry and the community. It is an influential Society, for many years recognised nationally and

internationally as the key automotive Society in the Australasian region.

SAE-A iS SEEking A nEw ExEcuTivE DiREcToR

Aggressive A-Class priceposition from Mercedesforced BMW to respond

‘Single-minded’ move

By MIKE COSTELLOBMW Group Australia managing director Phil Horton says arch-rival Mercedes-Benz need not have been so aggressive with the pricing of its segment-topping new A-Class.

Mercedes launched the fully redesigned A-Class small car in February with sharper pricing than its key competitors, the BMW 1 Series and Audi A3, and a longer-than-expected list of standard features.

By the time the new model rolled into showrooms, Mercedes had already taken more than 1000 pre-orders, and by June some dealer waiting lists had blown out until the end of the year.

In response, Audi launched its new-generation A3 in May with an identical starting price of $35,600 plus on-road

costs to the A-Class. One month later, BMW cut the opening gambit to – you guessed it – $35,600, and dropped prices and added extra equipment to the range.

Speaking at the launch of the facelifted Z4 roadster in Queensland last week, Mr Horton said BMW’s nemesis from Stuttgart could have justified a higher pricing structure across the range.

“I think they’ve actually been more aggressive than they probably needed to, because I think the car looks good,

it’s a pretty good car and they stuffed it full of kit, it’s a very interesting proposition and of course now they can’t provide all those cars,” he said.

“Clearly from that point of view, it was a very single-minded attempt to push into areas where that brand hadn’t been before and clearly to an extent they’ve succeeded with that.”

FULL STORY: CLICK HEREBMW plugs in X5 – page 16

Latest BMW 3 Series brings more kit, higher prices across sedan and wagon rangeBy TIM NICHOLSON

SWEEPING price rises have added up to $3000 to the cost of a BMW 3 Series prestige car – but buyers will get more standard kit for the extra outlay.

Most variants, including the relatively new entry-level 316i that arrived in Australia in June, are up by $1400, with the 316i now starting from $52,300 plus on-road costs.

Prices for the diesel 320d sedan and

both sedan and Touring versions of the 320i and 318d rise by $1400, with prices ranging from $57,800 for the 318d sedan to $64,000 for the 320i Touring.

The more generously specified 328i, in both sedan and Touring guise, is now $3000 dearer than before, with the sedan now retailing for $68,900, while the wagon starts from $72,900.

Other changes include a $2355 boost to the 335i sedan to $93,400, while the petrol-electric ActiveHybrid 3 is up by $2000 to $99,700.

FULL STORY, PRICING: CLICK HERE

Mercedes A-Class

316i

F R A N C H I S E E X P R E S S I O N O F I N T E R E S T

Foton, China’s largest commercial vehicle manufacturer, has now landed in Australia’s light commercial

and passenger vehicle market.

• The first shipment of Foton vehicles in Australia is the Cummins Powered Tunland 4x4 and 4x2 dual cabs utes – which are on sale now – see our website www.fotonauto.com.au

• Single Cab Cummins Powered Tunland variants in 4x4 and 4x2 will arrive in the last quarter of 2013.

• Van and Mini Bus are scheduled for release early 2014, to be followed by SUV and CUV releases later in 2014, and passenger vehicles planned for 2015.

We currently have 21 dealership outlets trading around Australia, and are now looking to expand our dealer network to meet customer demand. Accordingly, we are now seeking further Expressions of Interest for franchises nationally.

If you are interested in representing the Foton Brand, please submit your details including location, existing franchises held, facilities and proprietors contact details by CoB Friday 20 September 2013 to: Mr Paul Vuko, General Manager and Dealer Development Manager, FAA Automotive Australia, Po Box 678, Ashmore City QLD 4214 or email: paulv@fotonauto.com.au

Please note that all Expressions of Interest will be held in the strictest confidence.

Aug 28, 2013 Page 16

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Production potential highas powerful, green eDriveSUV concept breaks cover

BMW plugs in X5

By TIM NICHOLSONBMW has revealed a plug-in hybrid version of its X5 SUV that sips just 3.8 litres of fuel on the combined European cycle, making it more frugal than a Toyota Prius.

The Concept X5 eDrive will debut at the Frankfurt motor show next month and is based on the third-generation X5 SUV that was revealed in May.

The petrol-electric plug-in concept uses a four-cylinder petrol engine combined with a 70kW electric motor and a high-voltage lithium-ion battery for an electric-only range of 30 kilometres when fully charged.

By combining the plug-in hybrid drivetrain with its xDrive all-wheel-drive system, BMW says this allows the X5 eDrive to “demonstrate the typical qualities of an SAV (sports activity vehicle) – assured traction and optimised stability in all weather and road conditions, coupled with increased agility through dynamically taken corners – in

outstandingly efficient fashion”.The concept eDrive can travel at

speeds of up to 120km/h on battery power alone, while a boost function adds an extra hit of power during acceleration.

BMW claims the petrol-electric X5 has a 0-100km/h sprint time of less than seven seconds.

Three driving modes are available, including intelligent hybrid drive for a balance between sportiness and efficiency, pure electric for zero-emissions driving, and a “save battery” mode to maintain the battery charge.

The exterior mostly mimics the new X5, but includes a number of styling touches to emphasise the SUV’s green credentials.

The slats in the kidney grille, air intake

surrounds and rear bumper highlights all feature accents of BMW’s ‘i’ blue colour from its upcoming electric vehicle sub-brand, while the X5 eDrive also receives specially designed roof rails and exclusive 21-inch alloy wheels.

FULL STORY: CLICK HERE

GAME ON FOR BMW’S VIRTUALM1 REPLACEMENT: CLICK HERE

Aug 28, 2013 Page 17

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British off-road brand tointroduce diesel-electric hybrid twins here in 2014

Range Rover hybrid nod

By TIM NICHOLSONLAND Rover has confirmed diesel-electric hybrid versions of its Range Rover and Range Rover Sport models will launch in Australia next year, following their debut at the Frankfurt motor show next month.

Set to arrive in local showrooms in the second quarter, Land Rover claims the two powerful, lean-sipping models will be the first diesel hybrid SUVs available anywhere in the world.

Mercedes-Benz recently became the first brand in Australia to offer a diesel-electric hybrid vehicle, based on the E-Class sedan, but there is no sign yet of an SUV such as the M-Class to follow from the German luxury car manufacturer.

Another contender, the Volkswagen

CrossBlue, is still in concept form and unlikely to debut as a production-ready model for some time.

Both the Range Rover and Rangie Sport models are powered by the British brand’s familiar high-output 215kW/600Nm 3.0-litre SDV6 turbo-diesel engine, which in this case combines with a 35kW/170Nm electric motor to produce 250kW of power and 700Nm of torque between 1500 and 3000rpm.

In terms of raw output, this puts the

powertrain on a par with the Range Rover’s regular 250kW/700Nm 4.4-litre diesel V8.

Both hybrid SUVs are driven through all four wheels via the ZF eight-speed automatic transmission from standard diesel models. Land Rover says the entire hybrid system, including the lithium-ion battery pack and electric motor, weighs less than 120kg.

FULL STORY: CLICK HERE

On-demand 4WD, nine-speed auto, driver-assist tech to feature on 2014 EvoqueBy BARRY PARK

A NINE-SPEED automatic transmission and on-demand all-wheel-drive system will head up major changes to the Range Rover Evoque due in Australia next year.

The changes, part of a midlife refresh for the luxury compact SUV, will arrive in Australia in March, and include a number of driver-assist packages that add to the safety of the vehicle.

Key to the new Evoque, though, is an all-paw system that can allow it to act like a front-wheel-drive car, and flick drive to the rear wheels in the blink of

an eye when needed.“Active Driveline, fitted as standard

to all Si4 models, is the world’s first ‘on-demand’ four-wheel-drive system which enhances agility and improves fuel efficiency by operating in front-wheel-drive only during steady-state driving at speeds above 35km/h,” Range Rover said.

FULL STORY: CLICK HERE

Aug 28, 2013 Page 18

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Mercedes extends S-Classrange with plug-in S500

By TIM NICHOLSONMERCEDES-BENZ has released details of a plug-in hybrid S-Class sedan that sips about the same amount of fuel as a motor scooter.

Consuming just 3.0 litres of fuel for every 100 kilometres it travels, the petrol-electric S500 will make its debut at next month’s Frankfurt motor show.

It follows on from the 4.4L/100km S300 BlueTec Hybrid and 6.6L/100km S400 Hybrid featuring diesel- and petrol-electric drivetrains respectively, but the range-topping S500 is the first plug-in hybrid model in the flagship S-Class family.

Mercedes-Benz Australia is understood to be assessing the S500 Plug-In Hybrid for the Australian market, but it is believed the variant is not the top priority for the local S-Class line-up that launches here in December.

The S500 Plug-in Hybrid combines a 245kW/480Nm 3.0-litre turbocharged V6 petrol engine with an 80kW/340Nm electric motor, and is capable of an electric-only driving range of just under 30km.

Mercedes claims the S500 Plug-In generates just 69 grams of carbon dioxide per kilometre and says the 3.0L/100km combined-cycle fuel economy figure “sets a new benchmark for luxury saloons that just a few years ago was thought virtually impossible”.

FULL STORY: CLICK HERE

Flagship focus

Audi to reinstate S8 in Australia with limo overhaulBy MIKE COSTELLO

AUDI has given its flagship A8 limousine a midlife upgrade to counter Mercedes and its all-new S-Class.

The range will hit Australia in the second quarter of 2014, headlined by the potent S8.

Chief among the changes are more powerful and efficient petrol and diesel engines, extra active safety technology and optional new LED headlights.

Most of the fundamentals stay the same. The car still weighs as little as 1830kg – featherweight for this class – thanks to its 231kg aluminium bodyshell. The outline remains familiar, but Audi has tweaked the grille, front bumper and bonnet design.

The new headlights are called Matrix LEDs. The high-beam hardware comprises 25 individual diodes per unit that can be dimmed individually, and the units can curve around corners

and – by syncing with the navigation system – use predictive data to alter light distribution for the road ahead.

A familiar quartet of petrol or diesel engines remains, although all have been fettled. Audi Australia currently offers an all-diesel line-up, and – with the exception of the generation-first petrol S8 – this will continue with the facelift.

The 3.0 TDI six-cylinder diesel now produces 190kW (up from 184kW) but consumes only 5.9 litres per 100km/h, down 10 per cent. The larger 4.2 TDI V8 jumps from 258kW/800Nm to an even more gargantuan 283kW/850Nm.

The quattro all-wheel-drive S8 sports a 4.0 TFSI V8 engine with 380kW sent to all four wheels via an eight-speed automatic transmission. A sports differential on the rear axle distributes torque where it is most needed, improving roadholding.

Audi says S8 fuel consumption is kept to a low 10.1L/100km thanks to efficiency technology such as cylinder deactivation. When the car is running on four cylinders, ‘antiphase’ noise similar to that used on noise-cancelling headphones is piped through the cabin.

FULL STORY: CLICK HERE

Aug 28, 2013 Page 19

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1300 654 665 www.thewarrantygroup.com.au

Partner with the ExpertsThe Warranty Group is one of the largest global single source providers of warranty services to manufacturers and dealers in over 30 countries. Our programs are designed to promote retention and brand loyalty in a competitive market. The Warranty group owns the underlying insurance entity, providing financial stability and peace of mind for our partners.

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LEXUS TEASE EXPOSED LEXUS has released a single darkened image of a concept car due at next month’s Frankfurt motor show – but thanks to a little electronic detective work GoAuto can tell you even more about it.

We have enhanced the image to extract as much detail from it as we can, revealing a wild-looking concept car expected to preview the luxury car-maker’s first foray into the compact SUV segment.

FULL STORY: CLICK HERE

Porsche cuts $3900 from911 Turbo baseline but Smodels climb by $18-20K

911 Turbo uppercut

By TIM NICHOLSONPORSCHE’S performance flagship, the 911 Turbo, will be cheaper than its predecessor when it arrives by December, but its harder-core Turbo S sibling will cop a price rise of up to $20,300.

The 911 Turbo Coupe will start at $359,800 plus on-road costs, a $3900 drop from the $363,700 pricetag of the previous-generation model.

Meanwhile, the price of the range-topping and even more potent Turbo S in Coupe guise is now $441,300, up $18,000.

Drop-top variants naturally command a price premium over their hard-top siblings, with the Turbo Cabriolet down by $1300 to $388,800 and the more powerful and generously specified Turbo S Cabriolet up by $20,300, with a new starting price of $463,100.

As previously reported, power for the 911 Turbo comes from an upgraded

3.8-litre bi-turbo flat-six engine producing 383kW (up 15kW) and 660Nm (up 10Nm), while S models benefit from an extra 22kW for an even more impressive total power output of 412kW. Maximum torque for the Turbo S remains at 700Nm.

The new-generation 991-series model is also only available with a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission – no manual gearbox for the purists – and has a new all-wheel-drive system. Porsche says the all-paw system features a water-cooling function that can push more torque to the front wheels, if necessary.

The 911 Turbo’s impressive performance figures include a 0-100km/h sprint time of 3.4 seconds in the Turbo (using the Sport Chrono pack’s launch control function) – 0.2s quicker than the previous model – and 3.1s in the Turbo S.

FULL STORY: CLICK HERE

PRICING:911 Turbo Coupe (a) $359,800911 Turbo S Coupe (a) $441,300911 Turbo Cabriolet (a) $388,800911 Turbo S Cabriolet (a) $463,100

Aug 28, 2013 Page 20

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Fleet SaleS Manager – Ford Experience

Cnr Ferntree Gully and Dandenong Road, Oakleigh VIC 3166Ph 03 9564 3777 • Fax 03 9568 3410 • www.newoakford.com.au

NEw Oak FOrd has an exciting opportunity for an experienced Ford fleet specialist to take over the current client data base and manage and grow the fleet sales operation at Oakleigh. Ideally you will demonstrate professionalism and perseverance and have a proven Ford track record. Your outstanding leadership qualities will ensure you have the ability to build a strong and vibrant Fleet team.

This challenging Monday-to-Friday role comes with an attractive salary package and the opportunity for further career development and advancement throughout the Preston Motors group.

to apply for this role please send your resumé with a covering letter to Brendan lenarcic, Dealer Principal, on email: blenarcic@prestonmotors.com.au or for further information please phone 0418 367 148. Applications will be treated in strictest confidence.

PMMARK OF SERVICEESTABLISHED1912

PRESTON MOTORS

Hot Hyundai ‘R-spec’ i30turbo still a long way off

By MIKE COSTELLOHYUNDAI may be developing a turbocharged i30 ‘R-Spec’ to rival the Golf GTI hot hatch, but any road version is a long way off, says the company’s Australian arm.

The Korean brand last week launched its new locally developed i30 SR sports hatch, powered by a 129kW 2.0-litre normally aspirated engine pinched from the i40. This naturally led to speculation that the company would look to add a more potent turbocharged version down the track.

While some Australian media rushed to report a turbocharged model was already in the works, Hyundai said there were “no plans in place” for the car’s development.

At last week’s launch, Hyundai Motor Co Australia director of marketing Oliver Mann spoke of brands with “three levels” of performance in their respective hatch ranges. The company calls the SR a “level-two” car, which is warmer than the average but not hot enough to compare to the Mazda3 MPS and Golf GTI/R.

“The small hatch market today is defined by manufacturers who offer three different performance levels,” he said. “Level-one entry cars typically offering between 90kW and 115kW, level-two models with enhanced performance and dynamics, and level-three variants with up to 200kW.”

FULL STORY: CLICK HERE

221kW Golf R

VW reveals R-rated Golf ahead of 2014 launch hereBy BARRY PARK

VOLKSWAGEN has revealed a new version of its flagship Golf R, featuring a three- and five-door hatchback more than twice as powerful as a Toyota Corolla, yet using no more fuel.

The new R, due at next month’s Frankfurt motor show and featuring all-paw underpinnings mated to a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine cranked up to 221kW in European specification, officially strips 0.8 seconds off the previous model’s 0-100km/h sprint, dispatching it in 4.9s when mated to a six-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.

VW’s official release does not mention the torque output of the range-topping Golf, but the same engine is used in the Audi S3. Australian versions of that car will produce 206kW and 380Nm after its hot-weather detune.

Volkswagen Australia will not say if the R sold here will get the same detune when it arrives before the middle of next year, priced around the $50,000 mark.

The R-badged Golf mated to a six-speed manual gearbox is a little slower – 5.1s from 0-100km/h – but that is still a 0.6s improvement over the previous

slightly detuned 188kW R – VW usually strips off a few kilowatts to account for Australia’s hotter weather – launched here just over two years ago.

The new R’s top speed is electronically limited to 250km/h. It features a special front airdam, side skirts and rear diffuser to help it stand out from the regular Golf range.

However, while performance steps up into V6 territory, fuel consumption drops to something more akin to a manual version of a Toyota Corolla.

On the official European cycle, VW claims the Golf R will sip just 7.1 litres of premium fuel every 100 kilometres it travels – assuming the driver is not constantly tempted to tap the engine’s deep well of potential.

Once again, the engine’s power is laid down to all four corners – shod in new 18-inch alloys wearing the thinnest strip of liquorice we’ve seen on a Golf so far – via a Haldex coupling that can vary the drive from front to rear.

Down the rear, the R once again wears the now traditional quad-exhaust system.

FULL STORY: CLICK HERE

Aug 28, 2013 Page 21

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page size

A3

project

AUSTRALIAN AUTOMOTIVE GROUP PTY LTD T/A POWER FORDclient

2011/11project number

T01 Carchitectcad technician

date

11/06/13

drawing titlePROPOSED ADDITIONAL SHOWROOMLOT 1 DP 599607, No 17 VICTORIA AVE CASTLE HILL NSW 2154

0m

SCALE (m)

issuedrawing numberThis drawing is protected under the Copyright Act 1968 and is thecopyright of Michael Z Avramidis. Do not reproduce, modify or

transmit this drawing without the permission of Michael Z Avramidis.

Do not scale this drawing. Use figured dimensions only. Confirm alldimensions and levels on site prior to commencement of any work,

preparation of shop drawings or fabrication of components.

Christine J. AvramidisMUZE DESIGNSB. Design (Computing)41 Olphert Avenue, VaucluseSYDNEY N.S.W 2030

Michael Z. AvramidisB. Arch R.A.I.A Mem No 443ARCHITECT Reg No 268241 Olphert Avenue, VaucluseSYDNEY N.S.W 2030

Telephone: 02 9337 1250Facsimile: 02 9388 7496

Mobile: 0418 254 342Email: mavramid@bigpond.net.au

Telephone: 02 9337 1250Facsimile: 02 9388 7496

Mobile: 0409 467 086Email: inspire@muzedesigns.com

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N O T T O S C A L E

Brand managerAs Brand Manager you will be responsible for the day-to-day running of the sales department, reporting directly to the Dealer Principal. You will have an analytical mindset with the ability to actively drive business, manage promotional campaigns, train and mentor staff, and contribute to sales through direct client contact while leading a team to exceptional levels of customer service.

new car salesReporting to the Brand Manager, you will be responsible for actively identifying and securing new business while maintaining relationships with existing customers and ensuring excellent levels of customer service are maintained. You will be a proven sales-performer and team player who is ready to establish yourself in an all-new, purpose-built showroom with an exciting model line-up.

If you are keen to advance your automotive career with a progressive dealer group then please send your resumé with a covering letter to David Donnan, Dealer Principal, Castle Hill Renault at ddonnan@powerford.com.au or call confidentially on (02) 9680 4799.

Castle Hill Renault is part of the Australian Automotive Group and is proud to be Australia’s Newest Renault Dealership. We are now looking for bright and energetic people ready to join us on this exciting journey and contribute to, and benefit from, our planned growth.

Piping-hot 200kW/330Nmhatch breaks cover ahead of Frankfurt world debut

Peugeot unleashes 308 R

By TIM NICHOLSONPEUGEOT is set to unveil another R-badged performance car – but this time around it is taking aim at the top end of the hot-hatch market and has the equally new Volkswagen Golf R in its sights.

The production-focused 200kW/330Nm 308 R Concept will debut at next month’s Frankfurt motor show, with the French car-maker using the same punchy 1.6-litre turbo-petrol engine from the RCZ R coupe.

This makes the 308 R more powerful than the 184kW/360Nm Ford Focus ST and the 169kW/350Nm Volkswagen Golf GTI that will arrive in Australia later this year, but is around 20kW shy of the upcoming 221kW Golf R – although the latter is expected to be detuned by the time it arrives in Australia.

Audi’s S3 pocket-rocket features the

same 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine as the Golf R, but will be pegged back to 206kW/380Nm for this market because of our hot climate, putting it in the same sphere as the 308 R.

While Peugeot is yet to release performance figures, it is likely to match or better the 5.9-second sprint from zero to 100km/h set by the RCZ R.

The 1.6-litre turbo engine is the result of a co-development between Peugeot’s parent company, PSA, and the BMW Group. It is used in different states of tune under the bonnet of a number of models from both groups, including the Mini Cooper S and Citroen DS3 DSport.

Unlike the all-paw Golf R, the 308 R drives through the front wheels via a six-speed manual gearbox. Despite its giddy power output, Peugeot has managed to keep official combined-

cycle fuel consumption down to just 6.3 litres per 100 kilometres.

Peugeot said in a statement that the power of the car required special components for durability, while other parts were reinforced. Even the engine block is specially heat-treated before machining.

While the R looks like a hotted-up version of the regular 308 hatch, Peugeot said only the roof and tailgate carry over from the standard model, with carbon-fibre doors, body panels, front wings, bonnet and bumpers attached to the metal structure.

The R takes on a far more aggressive stance than its donor car, with three large intakes incorporated into the front airdam, highlighting a track that Peugeot has widened by 30mm.

FULL STORY: CLICK HERE

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GoAuto InBrief

John Mellor’s

Aug 28, 2013 Page 22

GoAuto’s latest car review www.GoAuto.com.au

FULL STORY: CLICK HERE

BMW X5 M50dSoft-roader, Toorak tractor, Vaucluse van: SUVs get called a lot of unkind things these days, and in many cases the description might be justified. But are we too eager to criticise a particular vehicle just because of the reputation of others? In many cases if a 4WD doesn’t handle the rough stuff as admirably as a Toyota HiLux or Land Rover Discovery then it gets dismissed as all show and no go. But realistically, how often will the average off-roader be required to summit K2 or submerge up to its windscreen in a river?

SALES MANAGER FOR BRAND NEW, STATE OF THE ART

MOTOR DEALERSHIPS

We require the services of a Sales Manager to join our winning team at our brand new, state of the art Nissan, Suzuki and Renault dealerships.We are an enthusiastic team keen to find the right people to fit in to our culture and overall plan for our group of dealerships. Answering directly to the General Manager, your role will be to liaise with customers regarding their purchasing needs, with a very big emphasis on personal presentation and exceptional customer service skills.The ideal candidate will be experienced and able to demonstrate an impressive track record and commitment to delivering outstanding customer service. Ideally you will also have experience in Nissan, Suzuki and/or Renault sales. You will also need to be a self-motivated team leader who can oversee these established and growing brands. This is a group of progressive brands and we invite you to join our team as we grow them in our local area and beyond.In return you will enjoy a generous salary plus commission and the full use of a company vehicle and unlimited opportunity to succeed in our ever-expanding dealerships. This is a full time position based around a 5 day week, including Saturdays with no Sunday trading. Hours are 8.30am – 6.00pm.We are an equal opportunity employer.If this sounds like you, please email your CV and cover letter to arrange a confidential interview to: Geoff Marshall: gmarshall@easternrenault.com.au

EASTERNAUTO

GROUP

FRESH TOYOTA PRADOTOYOTA has released images and details about its upcoming LandCruiser Prado facelift ahead of a local showroom arrival in October this year.

The update will bring a suite of small revisions to Australia’s top-selling mid-size SUV but, perhaps more significantly, will also see the discontinuation of the slow-selling three-door version – a body style that accounted for less than one per cent of sales.

FULL STORY: CLICK HERE

Q30 comes in

Infiniti concept pushes small-car design envelope

By BARRY PARKLUXURY car newcomer Infiniti has pulled the covers off a concept car that it says blurs the line between city-friendly hatchback, an alluring coupe and an adventure-bound soft-roader.

Due for an unveiling at next month’s Frankfurt motor show, the four-seat Q30 Concept features the same polarising mix of hard-edged lines and alluring curves as existing members of the Infiniti line-up, but with a few futuristic touches.

It will rival the Mercedes-Benz A-Class, Audi A3, BMW 1 Series and Lexus CT200h when it arrives in Australia in production form in about 2015 – if it gets the green light from Infiniti.

The Q30 is an advance on a previous

concept unveiled in 2011. Called the Etherea, the earlier show car sported a supercharged 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine mated to a battery-powered electric motor, producing about 180kW of power.

However, while the Etherea was based on the same platform that underpins the Nissan Dualis and Renault Megane, the Q30 is believed to wear mainly Mercedes-Benz underpinnings.

“The Infiniti Q30 Concept signals the contemporary design vision for a compact Infiniti vehicle which will target a new generation of premium customers,” the luxury arm of Japanese car-maker Nissan said in a statement yesterday.

FULL STORY: CLICK HERE

FORD FACTORY NEWSFORD Australia has started implementing planned production slowdown measures across its Broadmeadows assembly plant and Geelong engine and casting operations in Victoria as it responds to slowing car sales.

FULL STORY: CLICK HERE

MORE BRIEFS ONLINE ► Vuhl confirms 05 sportscar ► Ford studies outer-space tech ► Korea’s clever Armadillo-T ► End of the line for VW Kombi CLICK HERE

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GoAuto Market Insight

John Mellor’s

GoAuto Market Insight – brought to you by Dealer Solutions

DealerSolutions

Means Performance.

Aug 28, 2013 Page 23

By TERRY MARTINTHE arrival of Kia’s Cerato hatchback this month is significant for the South Korean brand as it looks to reassert itself on the Australian new-vehicle sales charts and take an entrenched position among the top 10 brands.

The company is aiming for a five per cent share of the market by 2015, which would put it ahead of where Subaru and Honda are at the moment – and even past Volkswagen – although each of these brands are working on improving their current position.

Volkswagen sold almost 55,000 vehicles last year for a 4.9 per cent share and seventh position in Australia’s Top 10, not far behind Mitsubishi on 5.3 per cent with just under 59,000 new registrations.

Kia, on the other hand, managed 30,758 sales in 2012 – up an impressive 22.4 per cent on 2011 – for a 2.8 per cent share (up from 2.5 the previous year), although a resurgent Honda (35,812 sales, 3.2 per cent share) kept the door closed on a coveted top-10 position.

To crack 30,000 meant Kia Motors Australia (KMAu) reached its stated sales goal, but with sales and share falling this year the company now faces an uphill battle to achieve its ambition of a five per cent slice of arguably the most competitive market in the world.

To the end of July, Kia had sold

17,680 vehicles to be down 2.6 per cent year-to-date, for a 2.7 per cent share (down from 2.9 at the same point in 2012).

In comparison, Subaru sales have fallen by a similar margin (2.3 per cent) and Volkswagen is treading water (up 1.4 per cent YTD), while Honda sales have continued to surge ahead – up 38 per cent YTD – and Mitsubishi has likewise improved its position over last year by no less than 24 per cent.

Kia is confident that sales will improve with the arrival of the Cerato hatch, which is expected to be a more popular variant than the sedan launched four months ago, attracting up to 70 per cent of total sales across the model line.

The company must contend with the crowded and cut-throat small-car sector – by far the biggest market segment in Australia – but has positioned the

hatchback with a high specification and competitive pricing (from $19,990 driveaway) and will draw on the brand’s higher profile and stronger reputation that has bolstered it in recent years.

Year-to-date, Cerato sales are down 28 per cent (3382 units), with the Rio light car its biggest-selling model for now on 5751 units YTD (up 24 per cent) and the Sportage compact SUV also pitching in with 3372 sales (up 24 per cent).

The larger Sorento SUV (1820 YTD) and Optima mid-size sedan (1197) are both running lineball with last year – an upgraded version of the latter is due late this year or early next – while the ageing Carnival people-mover is down 22.5 per cent on 1626 units, soldiering on with a little over 12 months still to run before a new generation arrives.

FULL STORY: CLICK HERE

Cerato hatch the catalystas Kia targets sales boost,five per cent market share

Kia sticks to bold targetsKia v key rivals

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Green issues in the auto worldGoAuto Green

John Mellor’s

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GoAuto Green – brought to you by Titan DMS

Aug 28, 2013 Page 24

By MIKE COSTELLOTHE local chief of electric vehicle leader Nissan says any brand looking to bring an alternate fuel vehicle to Australia will face significant challenges while government incentives stay off the table.

Nissan Australia managing director and chief executive Bill Peffer told GoAuto the company had faced a challenging environment since launching the groundbreaking Leaf EV locally last July, with sales yet to rise above niche levels despite two significant price cuts in the interim.

“The issue is the level of sustainable support from the government and then how quickly we can build the infrastructure, and whose responsibility it is to build the infrastructure,” Mr Peffer said.

“It’s been difficult for mature markets to bring in leading product without that support.

“Working in the (United) States on Leaf before coming here, it was a very different proposition in terms of how that market was subsidised and seeded to accept that technology.”

Other developed markets offer significant incentives to EV buyers. The US government, for instance, offers a $7500 federal tax credit, while the State of California offers additional grants and special EV freeway lanes.

Several major European markets such as Germany, France and Britain offer breaks from road and/or congestion taxes. Besides luxury car tax benefits for high-economy vehicles – which does not apply to the $39,990 Leaf anyhow – Australia offers no such policies.

It may be a battle, but being an EV pioneer has many positives, says Mr Peffer.

Mitsubishi beat Nissan to the punch with its i-MiEV when it launched here in late 2011, but has since withdrawn the car from general sale and is waiting for the 2014 plug-in hybrid Outlander.

This means the Leaf is Australia’s sole mass-produced pure EV, although it is regularly grouped together with the plug-in hybrid Holden Volt.

“Virtually everything we’ve done, we’ve done here ourselves, we’ve supported it, so I think we’re learning some lessons in terms of what’s required to be relevant in the space,” said Mr Peffer.

“Every brand that comes to market with an alternate fuel vehicle like an EV is going to face the same challenge as us unless the government supports some degree of infrastructure.

“We don’t make it a point to whinge and complain about policy; we react to the market conditions we’re subjected to. But would I like government support in EV technology to help it grow? Absolutely, yes.”

The sentiments echo those of the local chief of Nissan’s Global Alliance partner Renault, which alongside Nissan has been an early adopter of EV technology with the Fluence ZE battery-swap car – now cancelled for Australia – plus the Zoe and Kangoo ZE overseas.

When asked by GoAuto last month when we might see the Zoe light-sized EV here, Renault Australia managing director Justin Hocevar did not paint a bright picture.

FULL STORY: CLICK HERE

Nissan continues to plugLeaf EV, takes long-termapproach in local market

Nissan firm on EV role

Leaf

Bill Peffer

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GoAuto Personnel

John Mellor’s

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GoAuto Personnel – brought to you by Motor Staff

Aug 28, 2013 Page 25

FORMER TOP BMW EXEC KILLED IN ACCIDENTBy TERRY MARTIN

FORMER BMW Group executive Karl-Heinz Kalbfell was killed in a motorcycle accident on August 17 during a race meeting at the Brands Hatch circuit in Kent, England.

A one-time global head of Maserati, Alfa Romeo, Rolls-Royce and, at BMW, head of product strategy, development, BMW Motorsport and the ‘M’ performance division, Mr Kalbfell was competing in a British Motorcycle Racing Club meeting when the accident occurred during practice.

In a statement, Brands Hatch circuit management said Mr Kalbfell fell after losing control of his bike and was struck by another rider. He was taken by ambulance to a nearby hospital, but later died of his injuries.

In a statement, BMW said: “We received the news of the tragic accident with great sadness. BMW Motorsport mourns an amazing person and a passionate racer. For many years he was a formative figure

and a driving force behind BMW Motorsport and BMW M.

“In these difficult circumstances, our thoughts are with his family.”

A key figure behind the BMW-engined McLaren F1 supercar and the German manufacturer’s F1 racing program, Mr Kalbfell worked at BMW and its

affiliates from 1977 to 2004. He spent the following two years with the Fiat Group and subsequently set up his own international consultancy in 2006.

He worked for a number of automotive companies in recent years, including Lotus, Valmet Automotive and GAZ.

Karl-Heinz Kalbfell

FIAT Chrysler Group Australia has announced that recently appointed chief operating officer and director of sales Matthew Wiesner has left the company, effective immediately.

In a brief statement, the company said that Mr Wiesner, a former head of Skoda Australia who joined Fiat Chrysler in April, had left the company “to pursue other interests” and that chief executive

Veronica Johns will take over his responsibilities “until a suitable replacement is announced”.

GoAuto understands that Mr Wiesner’s departure occurred unexpectedly on Monday and that he is currently assessing his next move.

Matthew Wiesner

WIESNER MOVES ON

NEW BOSS FOR PORSCHE AUSTRALIA SOUGHT AS BARTSCH MOVES TO INFINITIBy TERRY MARTIN

EXPERIENCED global car industry executive and expatriate Australian Michael Bartsch has taken up a new job as vice-president of Infiniti for the Americas region rather than return home to head Porsche Cars Australia.

GoAuto understands that family reasons figured heavily in Mr Bartsch’s decision to remain in the United States.

He was due to take over from Michael Winkler as managing director of PCA on September 1, having served as executive vice-president and chief operating officer for Porsche Cars North America – the

German sportscar manufacturer’s single biggest market – for almost nine years.

PCA has advised that Mr Winkler will leave the Australian subsidiary in the

next few weeks as planned, and that the senior executive team here will otherwise operate as normal until head office finds a replacement.

Mr Winkler has overseen Porsche’s Australian operations since 1995. GoAuto understands that he was offered a senior Asia-Pacific

regional management position based in Singapore after the company announced in May that Mr Bartsch would return

to Melbourne, but declined, preferring instead to remain in Australia – again, for personal reasons.

Mr Bartsch’s appointment, meanwhile, sees the former PCA sales and marketing director charged with improving the position of the Nissan-owned luxury brand in the all-important US market, where sales have fallen nine per cent this year (to just shy of 60,000 units to the end of July).

Porsche sales, on the other hand, have climbed 31 per cent in the US over the same period, to around 25,100 units, and the brand is on its way to another all-time-high annual result.

FULL STORY: CLICK HERE

Michael Bartsch

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GoAuto New Car Diary

John Mellor’s

GoAuto New Car Diary – brought to you by carsales.com.au

Aug 28, 2013 Page 26

AUGLAUNCH FULL NEW CAR DIARY: CLICK HERE

Volvo’s high-riding V40 Cross Country arrives this week as a rival for the BMW X1 and upcoming Mercedes-Benz GLA, with an expected price premium over the standard V40 hatch range.

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Ferrari 458 earns its stripes with aerodynamic and engine tweaks on Speciale editionBy MIKE COSTELLO

FERRARI will premiere the meanest iteration of its mid-engined 458 coupe to date at the Frankfurt motor show on September 10.

In a sign of things to come from the Prancing Horse brand, the 458 Speciale, as it is called, features “advanced active aerodynamics” that will be employed on all new future road-going Ferraris.

The Italian brand has not gone into specifics on exactly how this aero system works, other than to say that moveable components front and rear add downforce and cut drag. The Speciale, it says, is the most aerodynamic production Ferrari to date, bar none.

It recruited fellow Italian auto icon Pininfarina to pen the aggressive, F1-style new front bumper, plus the racier rear diffuser. Ferrari has also ditched the ‘regular’ 458’s triple rear exhaust pipes in favour of a new centrally mounted twin-pipe set-up.

As with previous special-edition Ferraris such as the 360 Challenge Stradale and 430 Scuderia, there is a

special stripe running along the bonnet, roof and boot.

The Speciale also gets a new active safety system called Side Slip angle Control (SSC) that lends extra control at the limit. It is essentially an advanced torque management system that corrects the car’s line by adjusting the amount of torque at each rear corner via traction control and an electronic differential.

The fire-breathing mid-mounted 4.5-litre normally aspirated V8 engine located under a signature glass cover is fettled to produce an extra 20kW. The engine now sends 445kW at a screaming 9000rpm and 540Nm at 6000rpm through the rear wheels.

Specific output, or power per litre, is minutely shy of 100kW, which Ferrari says breaks the record for a naturally aspirated engine in any road car.

The 0-100km/h sprint has been cut to 3.0 seconds dead (down 0.4s) – 200km/h is reached in just 9.1s – while CO2 emissions are kept at 275 grams per kilometre.

Ferrari’s test pilot lapped the Fiorano test circuit in 1m23.50s, which is 1.5s faster than the famed Enzo and only 3.5s slower than the company’s new LaFerrari flagship, which produces more than 700kW and 900Nm.

FULL STORY: CLICK HERE