The price of all fuel will, from midnight tonight (3 August), hit record highs across the country, outstripping by some margin the priciest fuel has ever been in South Africa. According to the Automobile Association (AA) fuel first hit record highs in April when 95 ULP in Gauteng was priced at R17.32 a litre, and R16.61 at the coast. Record highs were again recorded in July with the price pegged at R17.39 inland, and R16.67 at the cost.
The last time fuel was priced above R17/l was in October/November 2018 when the price reached R17.08 for 95 ULP in Gauteng. In the same months a litre of fuel was priced at R16,49 at the coast, the priciest it had ever been before.
However, these figures pale against the R18.30/l (Gauteng) and R17.58/l (coast) which come into effect for August. Petrol 95 ULP is now 23.15% more expensive than it was in January in Gauteng, and 24.15% more expensive at the coast. Diesel is between 20.31% and 21.13% more expensive in Gauteng and the coast compared to January numbers. The biggest shock is the steep increases to illuminating paraffin prices; a litre of paraffin in Gauteng is now 30.31% more expensive than it was in January and 33.84% more expensive at the coast than in the beginning of the year.
The AA says given the fluidity of the two key factors which influence the local fuel price – the Rand/US Dollar exchange rate and international petroleum product prices – it’s impossible to forecast the trajectory of future fuel price movements in the coming months.
The eagerly awaited Land Cruiser 300 is set for an August debut on local soil.
Following months of speculation, concept renderings and spy-shots, the first production models are ready to be shipped to eager buyers.
On the design front, the ‘300’ features a dramatically different profile to its ‘200’ predecessor. The front façade features a large and prominent radiator grille with sculpted rectangular headlamps on each side, that blend seamlessly into the grille.
U-shaped radiator openings underpin a strong design while the bonnet features the signature Land Cruiser ‘channel’ down the centre. The rear features large trapezoidal taillamps with stylised light guides which are complemented by large Land Cruiser lettering and the Toyota Insignia.
New Platform
The Land Cruiser 300 serves as the flagship to the Toyota SUV-range, and carries an enviable reputation as the ‘Master of Africa’. The ‘300’ model is a ‘ground-up’ design, featuring an all-new TNGA (Toyota New Global Architecture) platform designated as TNGA-F. The F indicates the first ladder-frame execution of TNGA – a fact that should find favour with off-road enthusiasts.
New Engines
An all-new engine line-up propels the newcomer; buyers have the choice of a 3.5-litre V6 Twin Turbo petrol engine or 3.3-litre V6 Turbodiesel. Both powerplants focus on delivering increased efficiency, improved torque output and elevated levels of refinement versus the outgoing V8-variants.
The petrol V6 offers 305 kW @ 5200 rpm with a stout 650 Nm available from 2000 rpm, while the new diesel delivers 225 kW @ 4000 rpm with a ‘stump-pulling’ 700 Nm available between 1600 and 2600 rpm. Top speed is pegged at 210 km/h for both variants. The new engines are mated to a new slick-shifting 10-speed automatic transmission with low-range functionality.
Fuel consumption figures are listed as 12.1 l/100 km for the Petrol and 8.9 l/100 km for the diesel – with CO2 emissions checking in at 291 and 238 respectively.
New Grades
The Land Cruiser 300 also introduces a new grade line-up, namely GX-R, ZX and GR-S. GX-R remains the utility-focussed model and serves as the entry point to the range, while the ZX replaces the VX-R as the luxury model.
For the first time on Land Cruiser, a GR Sport (aka GR-S) grade will be offered which serves as the off-road performance model. As such the GR-S features bespoke exterior styling and trim, rugged 18″ alloy wheels, while adopting an off-road-biased specification list – without skimping on any comfort or convenience. This model joins the other Gazoo Racing (GR) products, and expands the GR brand into Land Cruiser territory for the first time.
The ZX model in turn takes on a more ‘image-focused’ persona, with unique 20″ alloy wheels, chrome detailing and luxury-oriented interior trim. The Land Cruiser 300 range thus offers three distinct character profiles to choose from – Utility, Luxury and Sporty.
Specification Highlights
All models boast a comprehensive specification level including LED headlamps with integrated DRLs, keyless entry with auto-door-lock, park distance control, an electric parking brake, climate control with rear zone, power driver-seat adjustment, Multi-Information Display (MID), built-in Navigation (with Tracks 4 Africa support on GX-R), multiple power outlets with charging port, Crawl Control and Drive Mode Select.
The ZX and GR-S additionally feature power fold-down third-row seating, a power-operated back door with hands-free function, heated steering wheel with wood accents, JBL 14-speaker audio system with DVD playback and 12.3″ screen, Multi-Terrain Monitor with Panoramic View, seat heating & ventilation for first- and second-row passengers, a wireless charger and tyre pressure monitoring. All models have Apple CarPlay/Android Auto functionality.
The ZX model adds a Wi-Fi enabled rear-seat entertainment system with wireless headphones, while the GR-S model features a high-tech E-KDSS* system to maximise off-road capability. Both variants also feature additional drive mode select modesand a Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM) system for superior vehicle control.
*E-KDSS is an evolution of the acclaimed Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (KDSS), which links the wheels via hydraulically-supported stabiliser bars – providing excellent wheel articulation and body-roll control.
Toyota Safety Sense is fitted to both the ZX and GR-S grades and offers a full suite of active safety aids with autonomous driving technologies such as Lane Trace Assist and all-speed radar cruise control. The usual supporting functions such as Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM), Lane Departure Alert, Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA) with braking, and Adaptive High Beam are also included.
Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Active Traction Control (ATRC) and Hill Assist Control (HAC), join Trailer Sway Control (TSC), Downhill Assist Control (DAC) and the obligatory ABS, EBD and Brake Assist (BA) driver support systems.
Colours & Trims
The GX-R is available with two textile interior trims, Black or Neutral Beige.
The ZX model offers buyers a choice of three interior colour schemes with Black, a Black & Dark Red combination or Neutral Beige being the options.
The GR-S features GR-specific interior trim with a choice of either Black or a Black & Dark Red combo.
Exterior hues are as follows;
Colour
GX-R
ZX
GR-S
Glacier White
X
X
X
Pearl White Metallic
X
X
X
Satin Silver Metallic
X
X
Graphite Grey Metallic
X
X
X
Raven Black
X
X
X
Attitude Black
X
X
X
Ruby Metallic
X
X
X
Avant-Garde Bronze
X
X
Moonlight Ocean
X
X
Classic White
X
X
Model Line-up
Land Cruiser 300 GX-R 3.3D – R 1 283 200
Land Cruiser 300 ZX 3.3D – R 1 765 500
Land Cruiser 300 ZX 3.5T – R 1 797 100
Land Cruiser 300 GR-S 3.3D – R 1 811 900
Land Cruiser 300 GR-S 3.5T – R 1 842 900
* Petrol ZX models will go on sale early August with the diesel and GR-S derivatives following shortly thereafter.
Peace of Mind
All LC300 models are sold with a 9-services / 90 000 km service plan with service intervals set at 12-months or 10 000 km (whichever occurs first). A 3-year/100 000 km Warranty is included across the board. Customers can also purchase service, maintenance plan and warranty extensions from their nearest Toyota dealer.
In just 99 days, one of SA’s most beloved nameplates will spawn an all-new model – the much-anticipated locally-built Toyota Corolla Cross.
The Corolla name has a rich and diverse history spanning 12 generations, and while locally it has been limited to sedan, five-door hatchback and station wagon variants, globally it has been offered in a multitude of guises and configurations.
With the introduction of the Corolla Cross – the world’s favourite car enters new territory and signifies the first-ever Corolla SUV/Crossover. This newest iteration of Corolla will proudly share showroom space with its Quest, Hatch and latest-generation Sedan siblings.
Corolla Cross Concept
The Corolla has continued to evolve in line with the needs of the times and of the regions it is sold in. By adding a new model to the Corolla series to suit the growing demand of SUVs, the enhanced Corolla lineup enables customers to select the model that better suits their diverse lifestyles and life stages.
With “Corolla Meets SUV” being the key phrase for the development of the Corolla Cross, the model was designed as a new type of SUV that combines all the key Corolla credentials with utility – in a manner that exceeds customer expectations.
The TNGA platform (GA-C) has enabled the Corolla Cross to achieve high-quality performance, a comfortable ride, and outstanding quietness. In addition to its exceptional comfort, the Corolla Cross provides a spacious cabin, easy entry into and exit from the car, class-leading luggage space suitable for all scenarios, and safety equipment inherited from the Corolla series. In this way, the new model realises comfort, utility, and peace of mind for customers.
The Corolla Cross will slot in above the C-HR and below the RAV4 models, both in terms of size and powertrain configuration.
By Dr. Gill Pratt: Chief Executive Officer of Toyota Research Institute (TRI) and an Executive Fellow of Toyota Motor Corporation, shares his thoughts on the necessity of hybrids and plug-in to maximise our limited battery supply and reduce carbon.
I love electrified vehicles. I love them not only because I’ve worked on their development for decades, but because I’ve been deeply concerned about greenhouse gases and climate change since I first learned about them from my father, who worked for the Air Pollution Control division of the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection.
Today, I live with my family in California, and like my neighbors last year, we watched the sky turn orange with smoke due to extensive wildfires. On the opposite side of the spectrum, we now see unprecedented floods in Europe. Regardless of how much of today’s extreme weather events are directly attributable to climate change, I feel passionately that to prevent even worse catastrophes, we must achieve carbon neutrality, and soon.
Today, besides owning a Toyota Sienna Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV) and RAV4 Prime Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV), I also own a Tesla model X Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV). I love them all.
In line with my concerns, starting in the late 1980s as a graduate student, research scientist, and faculty member at MIT, I designed power electronics that helped MIT’s solar-electric vehicle team win races around the world. Later I helped our team captain, James Worden, create Solectria Corporation, which made electric vehicle components, early electric vehicles and photovoltaic inverters.
Today, besides owning a Toyota Sienna Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV) and RAV4 Prime Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV), I also own a Tesla model X Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV). I love them all.
You would think that with all my experience, I would be an enthusiastic proponent of ditching the Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) and switching as soon as possible to pure Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs). I am not.
Following Science
As a scientist, I know that as with many other natural and man-made systems, a diversity of EV drivetrain types is a better way to prevent climate change than a monoculture of only BEVs. Why is this? For two reasons: First, producing a battery cell costs money, uses natural resources, and produces significant greenhouse gases.
I love my Tesla Model X BEV. But commuting 30 miles in it every day — the average US commute — and recharging it every night is wasteful of the carbon reducing potential of most of its over 300-mile (482km) range battery.
Sometimes we take the Tesla on long trips. But most of the time, 90% of its battery cells aren’t doing any good, and would reduce carbon much more if they were harder at work in other types of electrified vehicles, including HEVs or PHEVs.
For example, we hardly ever put gas into our RAV4 Prime PHEV, which has a battery ⅙ as large as our Model X BEV
– Dr. Gill Pratt: Chief Executive Officer of Toyota Research Institute (TRI) and an Executive Fellow of Toyota Motor Corporation
Maximizing the benefit of every battery cell produced requires that we distribute them smartly.
This means putting them into a greater number of “right sized” electrified vehicles, including HEVs and PHEVs, instead of placing them all into a fewer number of long-range BEVs, like my model X. This is particularly important because presently it is difficult to recycle the kinds of batteries used in BEVs. If we are to achieve carbon neutrality, we must pay attention to all parts of the “3R” process — Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle.
For example, we hardly ever put gas into our RAV4 Prime PHEV, which has a battery ⅙ as large as our Model X BEV. For the same investment in batteries as our single Model X, five other RAV4 Prime customers could reduce their carbon footprint too.
Don’t I think we should try to increase battery production, lower the carbon footprint of electric power plants, and expand rapid charging stations as quickly as possible? Of course I do.
– DR. GILL PRATT: CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER OF TOYOTA RESEARCH INSTITUTE (TRI) AND AN EXECUTIVE FELLOW OF TOYOTA MOTOR CORPORATION
Second, what is best for the average person is not best for every person. Different people have different needs and different circumstances. In some parts of the world, people have access to highly renewable electric power and BEV rapid charging stations. In many other parts of the world, rapid chargers are rare, or electricity is generated with high carbon emissions resulting in BEVs putting more net carbon into the air over their lifetime than PHEVs and in some cases even HEVs.
So, even if the best choice for the average person someday becomes a BEV, it will not be the best way for every person to contribute to reducing carbon emissions, or for the most carbon emissions to be eliminated.
Don’t I think we should try to increase battery production, lower the carbon footprint of electric power plants, and expand rapid charging stations as quickly as possible? Of course I do.
Image: Toyota BZ4X Concept
But I also know that in many countries (including the US) much of the easier carbon reduction of electric power plants has already been achieved through conversion of coal and oil burners to natural gas (lowering carbon output by roughly half). Further improvement, such as conversion to green or blue hydrogen, or replacement of thermal power plants by new nuclear, photovoltaic, wind and geothermal plants will be harder, cost more, and take longer, at time scales comparable to and beyond the lifetime of new vehicles.
I believe, as does Toyota, that it would be a tremendous mistake for governments around the world to prescribe narrow solutions like insisting that all vehicles be BEVs.
– DR. GILL PRATT: CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER OF TOYOTA RESEARCH INSTITUTE (TRI) AND AN EXECUTIVE FELLOW OF TOYOTA MOTOR CORPORATION
Ending Carbon Emissions ASAP. So where does this leave us?
The atmosphere accumulates carbon over long periods of time, so the carbon we emit now will be with us for a century or more. Our responsibility is clear: We must eliminate carbon emissions as soon as possible. As a scientist, I know that, to paraphrase Einstein, the solution of how to eliminate carbon as soon as possible should be as simple as possible, but no simpler.
As a result, I believe, as does Toyota, that it would be a tremendous mistake for governments around the world to prescribe narrow solutions like insisting that all vehicles be BEVs. Instead, the better solution is to allow manufacturers to innovate across a diversity of drivetrains and drivers to choose the low-carbon drivetrain that suits their circumstances best.
Carbon is the enemy, not ICEs. In many parts of the world for some time to come, PHEVs and even HEVs will generate comparable or less lifetime carbon than BEVs. We have open-sourced a modeling and simulation tool that shows this. Now to be clear — I still love BEVs, and Toyota expects BEVs and FCEVs will make up 15% of its U.S. sales by 2030.
We are also heavily investing in R&D on new types of batteries, including solid-state batteries and AI tools for discovering and optimising battery performance. But neither Toyota nor I think this is all we should make. By keeping HEVs, PHEVs, BEVs, and FCEVs in the lineup, 70% of Toyota’s vehicles will be electrified by 2030.
This approach — of diverse solutions for diverse circumstances — is exactly what the phrase “think globally, act locally” means to me. And I sincerely believe it is the best way to reduce the most carbon emitted into the atmosphere as soon as possible.
The eighth generation Volkswagen Golf GTI is coming to South Africa soon and we have the pricing.
The eighth generation Volkswagen Golf GTI will retail in South Africa from 1 September 2021 and we have the pricing.
The most digitally advanced Golf GTI has been given 11kW more power than its predecessor. The 2.0l turbocharged engine now develops 180kW with a torque peak of 370Nm. The four-cylinder engine is coupled with a 7-speed dual clutch transmission. It takes 6.4 seconds to complete the 0 – 100km/h sprint.
Volkswagen’s launch plans for the Golf 8 GTI includes a digital South African premiere in July as well as countrywide customer events which will allow enthusiasts to be among the first to experience the award-winning Golf GTI.
Recommended Retail Price (VAT and emissions tax included)
Golf GTI 2.0 TSI 180kW DSG® R669 300
The Volkswagen Golf GTI comes standard with a 3 year/120 000km warranty, 5 year/ 90 000km EasyDrive Service Plan and a 12-year anti-corrosion warranty. The service interval is 15 000km.
The fifth-generation Kia Sportage has been carefully crafted from the ground up and features premium safety features to make it the ultimate family SUV.
The all-new Sportage symbolises the pioneering DNA of the Kia brand. The past success of the Sportage is deeply rooted in a mindset of constant reinvention. Under the new Kia brand, a fifth generation Sportage once again brings an innovation that elevates the brand to the next level.
Advanced powertrains – the heart of all-new Sportage
The all-new Sportage will be launched with a comprehensive range of powerful, responsive and efficient powertrains, including the very latest-generation clean gasoline and diesel IC engine technology.
A high-tech 1.6-litre TGDI powertrain will be offered in the all-new Sportage line-up, generating 132 kW and 265 Nm of torque.
The 1.6-liter TGDI engine is mated to a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission (7DCT), while a 6-speed manual transmission is also available.
Also included in the launch line-up is a new and highly efficient R2.0-liter diesel engine featuring an advanced variable geometry turbocharger that helps it to develop 137 kW and 416 Nm of torque.
The 2.0 four-cylinder unit has been designed in response to tightening emissions regulations and features an array of sophisticated technologies to drive down emissions output and enhance real-world fuel efficiency. The new R2.0-liter diesel engine comes with an extensively re-engineered 8-speed automatic transmission.
Leading the way in safety
With safety being a top priority during development, the fifth-generation all-new Sportage is one of the safest vehicles in its class; safety restraint and structure system applications, including driver airbag, passenger airbag, side curtain airbags and low-side airbags.
The all-new Sportage feature Kia’s acclaimed Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) technology helps the Sportage to avoid potential hazards. This includes:
Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (FCA),which helps avoid collisions with objects in front of the vehicle while driving.
Highway Driving Assist (HDA),which helps maintain a set distance and speed from the vehicle ahead when driving on a highway, while also helping centre the all-new Sportage in its lane.
Navigation-based Smart Cruise Control (NSCC),which helps drive the all-new Sportage at a safe speed on the highway using real-time navigation data.
Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist (BCA),which provides a warning to the driver when operating the turning signal to change lanes, should there be a risk of collision with a rearside vehicle.
Remote Smart Parking Assist (RSPA),which helps the driver to remotely park or exit a parking spot from outside the vehicle
Due for global market launch later this year, more information on the all-new Sportage will be made available in due course.
Stellantis South Africa has been recognized as the most-admired car company in the country by the South Africa Guild of Mobility Journalists (SAGMJ).
Stellantis South Africa has been recognised as the most-admired car company in the country by the South Africa Guild of Mobility Journalists (SAGMJ). The accolade was announced at the media group’s Annual General Meeting on 26 June.
Awarded for the first time in the SAGMJ’s 59-year history, the accolade recognises Stellantis’ professionalism and commitment to customers and media alike across all its brands.
Stellantis is the result of a historic merger of equals (Fiat Chrysler Automobiles and Peugeot S.A. ‘Groupe PSA’) in one of the largest motor industry deals in the last decade. Combining two strong business entities with diverse backgrounds, wide-ranging talents, and inspiring heritage has created a broad-based platform of iconic brands to exceed customer expectations.
We’re delighted by the South African media’s recognition and admiration of Stellantis
– Leslie Ramsoomar, Managing Director of Stellantis South Africa
As a result, Stellantis is now a major motor industry force in the South African landscape. Representing 72 dealerships across the country selling eight brands (Abarth, Alfa Romeo, Citroën, Fiat, Fiat Professional, Jeep, Opel and Peugeot) and there are growth plans to open 12 new facilities by the end of the year.
“We’re delighted by the South African media’s recognition and admiration of Stellantis,” said Leslie Ramsoomar, Managing Director of Stellantis South Africa. “Not only is the media an important constituency for us, enabling us to get our story out to South African consumers and industry stakeholders, but it is a proud endorsement for us of the efforts that go into creating the ultimate customer experience across our brands.”
All the brands in the global Stellantis stable
Speaking at the SAGMJ’s AGM, Chairman Carl Wepener cited Stellantis’ professional managerial style and incredible knowledge displayed during all launches, the company’s commitment to journalists and customers alike, and passionate commitment to all the brands in the group amongst the criteria considered for the award.
“Stellantis’ vision to become a globally recognised entity in South Africa and their management’s commitment to going the extra mile to ensure that journalists are informed of the long-term strategies envisaged, contributed to the success of the Stellantis brand introduction into the local market,” said Carl Wepener, Chairman, SAGJM. “The professional conduct and attention given by senior management to every journalist, irrespective of stature and seniority, when attending vehicle launches as well as granting interviews is a sign of their dedication.”
Finnish race car driver Kimi Räikkönen recently tested the highest-performing sports sedan at the Balocco Proving Ground, the site of development and testing of all Alfa Romeo sports cars since the 1960s.
Kimi Räikkönen recently put his stamp on the Alfa Romeo Giulia GTA and GTAm after paying special attention to the work done on the highest-performing sports sedan the Italian brand has ever produced.
Analyzing the changes made to the car, the world champion racer highlighted the aerodynamics of the 4-door sports sedan saying, “I really like it. We’re looking at a car that can be used on an everyday basis, but that can also be taken onto the track, a car you can really enjoy yourself in.”
It seems the front of the car is lower, making the steering faster. It’s fast, easy to drive, and responsive.
– Kimi Räikkönen
“Of course, it’s better at high speeds in terms of balance. It seems the front of the car is lower, making the steering faster. It’s fast, easy to drive, and responsive,” he added.
The GTA and GTAm also benefit from a special new air extractor capable of increasing the car’s ground effect, thus guaranteeing excellent road holding at high speeds. Once he takes off his racing suit and is away from the spotlight, Kimi Räikkönen is back playing the role of father, taking his children to school. He therefore believes that the Giulia GTA represents the ideal mix for use every day and on the track
The Administrative Adjudication of Road Traffic Offences (AARTO) Act that was expected to come into effect on 1 July 2021, will now be rolled out in a phased approach over the next twelve months. The rollout is expected to take a minimum of a year, with demerits and rehabilitation for bad drivers expected to come into effect between July 2022 and June 2023.
According to Lebogang Gaoaketse, WesBank Head of Marketing and Communication, AARTO remains in principle a much-needed initiative, the purpose of which is to promote safe driving and significantly reduce accidents, injuries, and fatalities on our roads.
“It is well known that most road accidents are preceded in some form or another by a road traffic transgression, so improving our attitudes and behaviour on the road is indeed a matter of extreme importance. The AARTO Act aims to do just that,” says Gaoaketse.
Road traffic injuries and road offences place a massive strain on national economies, but they also have an enormous effect on households
– Lebogang Gaoaketse, WesBank Head of Marketing and Communication
Many road incidents are avoidable, and history provides us with evidence that the right interventions can make a substantial positive impact. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO) – each year, more than 1.3 million people are killed on roads worldwide, and as many as 50 million are injured. It forecasts that there will be almost 1.8 million traffic fatalities annually by 2030.
We encourage road users to please abide by the rules of the road and by so doing, to play a much-needed and positive role in improving safety on our roads
– LEBOGANG GAOAKETSE, WESBANK HEAD OF MARKETING AND COMMUNICATION
Image: Pxhere
“Not only do road traffic injuries and road offences place a massive strain on national economies, but they also have an enormous effect on households. Families may be driven into debt by the loss of a sole income earner in the household, the expenses of prolonged medical care, or the added pressure of caring for a family member who may be disabled as the result of a road traffic injury. The costs also impose significant impact on the health, insurance, and legal systems, and overwhelming sadness and economic consequences to families,” says Gaoaketse.
When the demerit system comes into play, drivers will run the risk of having their drivers’ licences suspended. If they continue to break the rules, they may be required to redo their learners’ and drivers’ licences. In extreme cases they will be permanently banned from driving. Under the AARTO Act, fines will also be significantly increased in an effort to deter drivers from breaking the rules.
“While there have been delays, we support the principles of AARTO. We encourage road users to please abide by the rules of the road and by so doing, to play a much-needed and positive role in improving safety on our roads,” says Gaoaketse.
Continental Tyre South Africa (CTSA) is proud to announce that Martin Buday has officially taken over the reins as managing director, bringing with him, almost two decades of experience in the tyre industry with Continental in various roles in Europe, the Middle East and Africa.
Martin Buday has stepped into the position of Managing Director, replacing Shaun Uys who took up a new assignment with Continental Tire in the United States. Previously, Buday served as General Market Manager and MD for the Czech and Slovak markets.
Now on South African soil, Buday is ready to lead the South African operation, which includes Continental’s only tyre manufacturing facility on the African continent, producing world-class tyres for domestic sales – supplying the original equipment and replacement sectors – along with exports to the Americas, the Asia Pacific region, as well as Europe, the Middle East and Africa.
Despite the products being the same around the world, this is a new market for me.
– MARTIN BUDAY, MANAGING DIRECTOR, CONTINENTAL TYRE SOUTH AFRICA
As the only tyre company that supplies seven of the major vehicle manufacturers in South Africa, Continental Tyre SA plays an important role in the local automotive industry.
“Last year was very difficult for all of us, but I am looking forward to this exciting new opportunity to be a part of the Continental team in South Africa,” Buday says.
“For 2021, one of the key objectives for the management team is for CTSA to get onto a growth path again and improve our financial results.
“We need to reignite our winning mindset, motivation, energy and focus on achieving our short and medium-term goals, and at the same time show a high level of flexibility and agility to be able to adapt to the changing market environment. The implementation of Continental’s Vision 2030 strategic program for the tyre business will ensure that we have a solid foundation on which to build,” he adds.
Buday has spent his entire working career in the tyre industry. His association with Continental started in 2007 when the tyre manufacturing giant took over Matador, one of the last independent tyre producers in Europe. Buday had been employed by Matador since his graduation in 2002, having held several positions in marketing and sales over the years.
Buday’s decision to join the South African entity was made in February 2020, mere weeks before the pandemic effectively brought the world to a standstill.
“I’m very happy to finally be in South Africa, and I want to use this opportunity to thank to my colleagues from the executive management team for steering the organisation.”
Buday states. “Despite the products being the same around the world, this is a new market for me, and I have to admit that still I need to gain a better understanding of the market environment.
However, it’s already clear that the South African team is committed and has established a strong presence in the original equipment market and the replacement market.
“Now we need to focus on the long-term sustainability of our business and operations in South Africa, capitalising on our strengths, improving where and how we can, and exploiting all growth opportunities. We need to ensure that we make full use of the opportunities provided by Continental’s Vision 2030 strategy.”
Vision 2030 is focused on the systematic customer-centric alignment of the Continental Tires business area and related activities. In addition, the Tires business area is targeting further profitable growth and, in a fast-changing market environment, aiming to set itself apart from the competition in respect of sustainability, and through digital solutions.
Alfa Romeo is now accepting pre-orders for the iconic Giulia GTA and GTAm – ultimate version of the ultimate four-door sports sedan.
Performance car enthusiasts, get your cheque books out. The legendary – and extremely limited production – Alfa Romeo Giulia GTA and GTAm is headed to South African shores.
The acronym GTA stands for “Gran Turismo Alleggerita” (alleggerita being the Italian term for “lightened”), and it originated in 1965 with the Giulia Sprint GTA, a very special model based on the Giulia Sprint GT, designed as a sports car and presented at the Amsterdam Motor Show staged that same year.
A privilege for a limited number of lucky South African customers…
Thanks to its 2.9litre V6 biturbo engine capable of producing 360kW power and 600Nm of torque, the incoming Alfa Romeo sprints from standstill to 100km in just 3.6 seconds.
Just 500 numbered cars are being built by Alfa Romeo and only 10 of these legendary vehicles will be made available for South African Alfa enthusiasts. The order book is officially open and the sales process will be one-to-one, with a Brand ambassador product specialist following each customer from order to delivery.
Fortunate owners will not only acquire a legendary performance car, will also receive a personalized experience package kit, which includes a Bell helmet in special GTA livery, a full racing set by Alpinestars (race suit, gloves and shoes) and a personalized Goodwool car cover for protecting his or her GTA or GTAm.
We will share pricing and other details as soon as Stellantis makes same available to us.
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