October 2008

Primarily known for their work in automotives, these days Harrop Engineering works with a very diverse product line including; railways, mining, medical instrument parts, defense and hi-fi components. Harrop manufactured automotive products include a diverse range of superchargers, brake upgrades, traction control products for passenger vehicles and 4WD’s, inlet manifolds and suspension components, plus many more.

Bridging the Electronic Divide The APA Journal spoke to Mr Desmond Tan, Automotive Marketing Manager, Fujitsu a few weeks ago and we were graciously received by a few others from the company as well, including Tiew Le – Fujitsu Corporate Communications Executive and Sri and Ahjay Rai from Porter Novelli, who was mediating the teleconference.

By Dayman Steptoe Although many a good bushman – no doubt more experienced than myself - has advised and written on this topic before, the fundamental pillars of safe travel in remote country always stand firm, and unchanged. Much of the knowledge passed around has arisen as a consequence of the misfortune of others, lack of insight, or sometimes just a little confusion between base and apex.

August/September 2008

Hankook Tyre is a leading global tyre manufacturer and a rising force in the global automotive world with an ever-increasing reputation for quality and innovation.

All the things that make your car go Vroom. Doesn't matter whether it goes under the bonnet, under the car or on the wheel!

Competition Systems are a small motor sport electronic provider, specializing primarily in motor sports but providing service and parts to also the occasional road car.

Like most absent-minded people I've also experienced leaving the car headlights on all day while I was at work and when I got out to the parking lot after a really late shift you can imagine my frustration when I tried starting the car with a dead battery.

Durst has a long history of providing equipment designed for performance, durability and economy, as evidenced by the current product range, covering Auto Electrical Test Benches, Ignition System Analysers, Battery Load Testers, Electronic Regulator Testers, Battery Chargers and Load Banks as well as high performance Multimeters, Oscilloscopes and other Computer Safe Testers that are such an important addition to today's workshops.

June/July 2008

When I decided to invest in a Toyota 4Runner for a magazine project, my partner thought I was raving mad. She looked at me stunned and continued to make subtle hints every time we passed a petrol pump at how high the price of petrol was, not to mention the lack of space parking the monster in a unit.

A quick chat with Derek Hermenn of Force Tools Australia and immediately you realise that efficiency is the key in his book of organisational directives. We spoke very briefly but at the same time covered a vast array of product showcases, partnerships and synergies that are being formed with them.

In 1996 a successful group of repairers and accountants had an idea - to create a network of like minded, innovative repairers sharing common goals.

April/May

Thailand International Trade Fair for Automotive Parts, Equipment and Service Suppliers 6 - 9 March 2008

Sydney, Australia, Feb. 1, 2008— Autodesk, Inc. (NASDAQ: ADSK) today announced that Triple Eight Race Engineering Australia (Triple Eight Australia) has been named as the Autodesk Inventor of the Month for January 2008.

When it comes to a tyre manufacturer Just 5 km/h can make a difference between holding a corner and going out of control. You have to keep this in mind when buying a tyre in the future. But then again how can we keep abreast with the changes or advancements in the tyre world.

The motor vehicle; personal or for business, is an integral part of today’s society and has contributed to the development and prosperity of Victoria, along with the whole of Australia. Unfortunately, motor vehicles are known to produce adverse environmental impacts, particularly in urban areas. One of these impacts is road traffic noise, and is a growing source of concern for the community.

Hanover, March 2008. Continental's comprehensive range of SUV tyres has been further expanded again this season. The leading German tyre manufacturer now carries no fewer than six summer tyre models for 4x4 vehicles. Many 4x4 manufacturers, including Audi, BMW, Land Rover, Mercedes, Porsche and Volkswagen, have already issued original equipment releases. Continental has 60 new sizes for 4x4 cars, SUVs and crossovers this year, with releases issued for speeds of up to 300 km/h.

While off the weather-beaten trail, you always tend to wonder whether or not your tyres could withstand the onslaught of agate edged rocks or loose gravel or endless kilometres notched up while driving in the bush. Tyre pressure is something a lot of people fail to give any importance or consideration to in this day and age of digital advancements. In the end.

In 2008 Ultima’s impressive range of shock absorbers continues to expand with new applications now available unique to Ultima.

February

If you want to see and feel an improvement, look no further than a Nolathane Swaybar. We are performance handling specialists. Our products are engineered from the ground up, tested and proven.

Historical new heights have been reached in China’s automotive industry and China is now the second largest automotive market in the world.

Harnessing the force of two high-performance and innovative companies in the top tier of the global automotive supplier industry, Hanover-based Continental AG heads into a new era after closing the deal for acquisition of Siemens VDO Automotive AG.

November

Welcome to the final issue of APA Journal for 2007. I can't believe how quickly this year has past, and how many positive changes APA has made in such a short time. I would like to take this opportunity to thank our past editor – Nicole Azzopardi, for all of her hard work this year.

This year has seen Greg Murphy and Jason Richards drive along side each other for Tasman Motorsport in an exciting driver partnership. Jason has been with Tasman since 2004 and Greg joined him this season in the teams' aggressive attempt at winning the coveted V8 title, assisted by two brand new VE Commodores.

Extensive research among exhibitors and visitors has led to the development of a business strategy to make the Australian Auto Trade Fair (AATF) the premier event in the Australasian automotive industry calendar.

September/October

There is much debate about India's long-term economic growth path, with some predicting that its economy will be the third largest in the world by 2032.

Auto Brake Service (ABS) reports its national annual conference at ClubMed on Lindeman Island was a huge success. Called Good to Great, the event attracted delegates from throughout Australia.

Exide Australia's decision to pump close to $7 million into the upgrade of their local manufacturing facilities is set to change the way the battery giant is seen in the region.

Complementing Australia's most extensive range of emergency lighting, Narva has released Euromax Mini-Bar range to meet the ever growing demand for low profile rotating and strobe emergency lighting.

Goal-setting is crucial to the success of any business, but is particularly important for entrepreneurs who can become distracted with multiple priorities. Goals direct actions, give you something to aim for, and can serve as a yardstick for measuring your business' success.

With rocketing fuel prices and inner city parking restrictions the squeeze on 4WD has begun.

July/August

For many, Friday night at the drags is a perfect night out and for clever aftermarket sponsors it's a perfect way to cash in.

With the average business owner aged between 50 and 59, most of whom are planning to retire within ten years, far too few have any idea of how they will exit. According to the Family Business Australia, Deakin, KPMG study 2006, 67 percent of business owners do not have a succession plan.

Fast-growing all-Australian filter manufacturer Micro Fresh Filters hits the road.

May/June

Many businesses, including those in the automotive industry, have realised their skilled employees are getting older on average. Business owners worry about how they will cope with current customer demand let alone allow for growth of their business

Love it or hate it, the Australia-United States Free Trade Agreement is up and running but what does it mean for your bottom line? APA hones in on motor racing components importer Raceparts Australia and hands out a few aftermarket tips on doing business in the Land of the Free.

Family Business Australia's Philippa Taylor talks shop.

March/April

New Bendix 4WD disc brake pads are purpose designed for 4WD and SUV applications and are right at home around town or off the beaten track.

With new technology developing at break neck speed, retail big boy Autopro steps up to the mark with an advertising tool set to take the meaning of independence to a new level.

Shock absorber specialists Powerdown are soon to once again head O/S for Automechanika Asia.

January/February

With an aim to hone in more on female buying power, Supercheap Auto has launched its first store, located in the traditional female stomping ground – the shopping mall.

Top V8 supercar driver Jason Bright talks about family arguments, Ford Performance Racing and finally living his dream - driving for his own team. Drop Cap please Leaving Ford as one of the hottest men in racing to drive for his own smaller scale outfit, Britek Motorsport was always going to take guts. The Bathurst-winning driver recently walked away from the motor racing giant in favour of making sure his own team hits the top 10. Please put above on facing page to save space if necessary It's a bold move, but Jason Bright is a bold man. Having come up through the ranks the hard way, door knocking for funds in the rural town of Victoria's Newborough to get off the ground, the 33-year-old knows a thing or two about starting from nothing. But from going to Calder and Sandown as a five-year-old with his race mad father, Bright quickly got the fever – and it's never left. “I would have liked to have got into go- k carts at seven but we didn't have the money for it back then,” Bright said. “W

Top V8 supercar driver Jason Bright talks about family arguments, Ford Performance Racing and finally living his dream - driving for his own team.

He's the man with the legendary jingle and the business tenacity of a bulldog, Bob Jane talks about Peter Brock and the building of an automotive empire.

November

The Maverick He's the man with the legendary jingle and the business tenacity of a bulldog, Bob Jane talks about Peter Brock and the building of an automotive empire.

From high school drop-out to top retail performer, Autobarn's youngest franchise owner is now setting his sights on turning his own success into a new lease of life for sick children in Nepal.

September/October 2006

Organised criminals continue to expose the trade to police scrutiny with a steady influx of stolen car parts into the legitimate supply chain.

It's been tipped to save motorists up to $40 bucks at the bowser, but how will the hype translate into dollars on the workshop floor?

A new Supatool storage system from the Kincrome Group is the ideal solution for the tidy garage or workshop.

July/August 2006

National Parts, Australia's largest automotive aftermarket wholesaler, has moved to ensure its business is always operating with the latest world trends by signing a strategic development alliance with the leading U.S. Automotive Distribution Network.

Retail prices in the Australian battery aftermarket were more than keeping pace with inflation prior to recent world price hikes in lead, according to new research.

Carryboy Australia has invested in its Melbourne distribution centre to lift both its quality and range to give national customers the very best products in the quickest time to its distribution network throughout Australia.

May/June 2006

It seems the time has finally come... After 12 years, 72 issues (I think) and countless product launches, trade shows and deadlines, I'm moving on.

Australia's annual motorsport industry showcase, the Australian Motorsport Show (AMS) will return next year following its acquisition by the Showtime Group.

March/April 2006

Super Cheap Auto Racing has acquired the services of gun steerer Cameron McConville for its tilt at this year's V8 Supercar Championship.

If there's a common theme to the calls we receive here at the APA Journal bunker, it's along the lines of `Who makes a particular ball-joint/sensor/brake-pad/whatever and where do I find them?'.

January/February 2006

I don't know about you, but when I was a lad messing about with old cars (as you did) I could never get past the first weekend without fiddling with something under the bonnet.

For all the latest news in the Auto Parts Industry!

Bombshell of the month for January was the news that Super Cheap Auto's chief executive and managing director, Bob Thorn, is leaving.

November/December 2005

Plenty of folks out there are struggling to find the silver lining in the current phenomenon of fuel prices. But I think I might have found one.

While petrol prices seem to be hurting sales of big locally-made cars, it looks like Toyota might be weathering the storm a bit better.

Mazda is really Talking Turkey with its extended range of Genuine Competitive Crash Program Parts.

Two of the best-known names in Australian tyre retailing have joined forces.

September/October 2005

I got the chance recently to have a squizz through Mitsubishi Australia's production plant at Tonsley Park in Adelaide.

Is there perhaps someone in your family or circle of friends who just doesn't get parallel parking?

July/August 2005

Breaking into a market segment from scratch is never the easiest thing to do.

All the latest news in the Auto Parts & Accessories aftermarket.

Billed as a fast-track to business success, the inaugural Thailand Auto Parts and Accessories 2005 (TAPA 2005) will be held this year from September 14 to 18.

ACL has sold its Repco Brabham BT19 Formula 1 racing car and associated spares and memorabilia to Repco.

May/June 2005

KC Tools are designed for the professional, motor mechanic engineering specialist and farmer.

Sydney's darling Harbour is a classy place with plenty of glitz on show, but the recent Australian Automotive Trades Fair was every bit as flashy as its venue.

Toyota's $47 million technical center is now up and running, with the company claiming it's Australia's most advanced automotive design engineering facility.

March/April 2005

Can it really be that governments are waking up to the fact that motorists have had enough of their cash-cow status through speeding fines?

Mazda is really Talking Turkey with its extended range of Genuine Competitive Crash Program Parts.

Septone Products has released a new range of heat resistant paints for engine touch-ups and re-sprays, capable of withstanding temperatures up to 650 degrees-C.

January/February 2005

An era has come to an end. Even in an industry that is constantly changing and evolving, the news that Dyno Dave Bennett had sold his Perfectune business...

By now you should have received your copy of the new Edition 8 Nolathane catalogue. The latest book from Nolathane continues to focus on alignment correction...

All the latest current and relevant news in the Automotive Aftermarket industry.

The ACL Group has announced a review of its options as its shareholders decide what to do with the company that recently sold...

November/December 2004

Pro Quip International has obtained a Federal Court order restraining an importer from promoting, distributing or selling in Australia a particular type of jerry can from China.

ACL has dropped a bombshell by announcing that it has stepped out of the joint-venture production facility it established with Mahle just two years ago.

Mazda Australia is offering body repairers the chance to gobble up their share of $42,000 worth of indulgence at any of the Hyatt group's seven hotels and resorts Australia-wide.

September/October 2004

If you haven't seen an IMAX 3-D film yet, you're missing out.

A long-term family-owned business, Super Cheap Auto, has listed on the Australian Stock Exchange ending 30 years as a private company.

KC Tools recently teamed up with Barnes High Performance Racing as its tool supplier for the 2004-2005 race season.

July/August 2004

In late breaking news...

National Parts has expanded its service with the addition of two key staff.

A well planned and executed incentive program can produce major benefits for retailers or wholesalers...

This year's Australian Automotive Trade Fair held back in May at Darling Harbour in Sydney attracted 145 exhibitors in two halls.

May/June 2004

If you've been to Britain, you can't have missed the giant Comma brand of lubricants, chemicals and car care products.

It was only a matter of time before the world's big car-makers started to get really serious about hybrid technology.

According to Nulon, the world is going red. More specifically...

For the latest news and views for May and June read the good oil.

March/April 2004

For news and views on the Auto Parts and Accessories market.

Users of the 2003 Monroe Ride Control Catalogue can now upgrade the electronic version of the catalogue...

Effective though they may be, when you think about it, old fashioned pyrotechnic flares have a few problems.

Sugar-cane growers in Queensland are up in arms, the Australian film and TV industry is still worried about its survival...

January/February 2004

If you've ever wondered how urethane suspension bushes got their reputation for being too firm for streets use...

For news and views on the Auto Parts & Accessories market.

Toyota dealerships have been hosting a wave of information nights aimed squarely at women.