TomTom releases Congestion Index for South Africa

Satellite navigation specialists TomTom has released its Congestion Index for South Africa, highlighting congestion levels in three cities including Johannesburg, Durban and Cape Town.



How the Congestion Index works

The methodology that is used in the Congestion Index compares travel times during non-congested periods (free flow) with travel times in peak hours. The difference is expressed as a percentage increase in travel time. Local roads, arterials and highways are taken into account and all data is based on actual GPS based measurements and the sample size is expressed in total number of measured kilometres for the period.

The Congestion Index evaluates congestion levels in cities at different times of the day and different days of the week. The most congested day, average free flow speed, time delays and congestion levels on highways and local roads are also included.



Traffic congestion levels by city – summary

Johannesburg




Johannesburg is the most congested city in South Africa with a congestion level of 32%. The worst times to travel in Johannesburg are on Monday mornings and Thursday afternoons. The best times to travel in Johannesburg are Friday mornings and Wednesday afternoons. The most congested specific day in Johannesburg was 15 March 2012. Motorists travelling in Johannesburg can expect a delay of 37 minutes for every hour driven in peak hour traffic. 



Cape Town



Cape Town is the second most congested city in South Africa with a congestion level of 27%. The worst times to travel in Cape Town are on Monday mornings and Friday afternoons. The best times to travel in Cape Town are on Wednesdays. The most congested specific day in Cape Town was on 16 March 2012. Motorists driving in Cape Town can expect a delay of 34 minutes for every hour spent in peak hour traffic. 



Durban



Durban is the least congested city in South Africa with a congestion level of only 16%. The worst times to travel in Durban are on Monday mornings and on Friday afternoons. The best times to travel in Durban are on Wednesdays. The most congested specific day in Durban was on 23 May 2012. Motorists driving in Durban can expect a delay of only 15 minutes for every hour spent in peak hour traffic.

City Congestion Comparison



City Delay Congestion Morning Peak Evening Peak Highways Non-Highways
Johannesburg 37 mins 32% 88% 65% 18% 39%
Cape Town 34 mins 27% 82% 56% 23% 33%
Durban 15 mins 16% 45% 31% 13% 26%




Volvo V60 Diesel Hybrid Production Increased

Volvo Car Corporation is increasing production of its Volvo V60 Diesel Hybrid from 1 000 units for 2013 to between 4 000 and 6 000 units for the 2014 model year. The assembly of the world’s first diesel plug-in hybrid has now been integrated on the same assembly line used for Volvo’s other models at the Torslanda plant in Gothenburg, Sweden.

Volvo V60 Diesel Hybrid production is a world first

“We are first in the industry to integrate a plug-in hybrid in an established production flow together with other car models. The integration in the standard production flow gives the plug-in hybrid buyer the possibility to choose in principle all options available for the standard V60” says Peter Mertens, Senior Vice President Research and Development at Volvo Car Corporation.

The additional equipment and systems used for the  Volvo V60 Diesel Hybrid has resulted in parts of the final assembly line being rebuilt and modified to allow for the smooth integration of 300 additional parts used for the V60 plug-in hybrid compared to an equivalent V60.

For example, the electric motor along with its drive shafts is fitted on the same station as the final drive on the standard four-wheel drive models. The cooling system and the high voltage cables are assembled on the Pallet, which is used to assemble the car’s drive train and chassis parts. The battery pack is lifted in through the car’s tailgate, short side forward and it is then spun a quarter of a turn in the passenger compartment, a manoeuvre that takes 60 seconds and carried out with less than 20 millimetres to spare.

“The 11.2 kWh lithium-type battery is the single most complex system in the car. The precision manoeuvre to get it in place is an excellent example of the state-of-the-art assembly process,” says Peter Mertens.

Increasing demand for Volvo V60 Diesel Hybrid

The Volvo V60 Diesel Hybrid is the result of collaboration between Volvo Car Corporation and Swedish electricity supplier Vattenfall who have jointly financed the development project.

“The V60 Plug-in Hybrid is a unique car, a historic step not only for Volvo Car Corporation but for the entire car industry. The first year’s 1,000-car batch was sold out even before the car reached the showrooms and the order books for next year’s cars are already filling up,” concludes Mertens.

VW CrossPolo available with Urban Ice package

The VW CrossPolo is now offered with an optional Urban Ice package which is designed to improve the model’s exterior and interior styling.

??VW CrossPolo Urban Ice package

The Urban Ice package is exclusively offered in Oryx White pearlescent exterior paint which was previously only available on the new Beetle. The Urban Ice package further includes black roof rails, tinted rear windows, piano black-painted side mirrors and 17-inch black Budapest alloy wheels.

The interior includes a silver-painted centre console, black roof liner, heated Alcantara/Meteor sports seats and grey stitching for the carpets and hand brake housing.

The VW CrossPolo is available in two variants namely the 77kW 1.6-litre variant and the 77 kW 1.6-litre TDI.

Volkswagen CrossPolo Price?

Volkswagen CrossPolo 1.6 R217 200
Volkswagen CrossPolo 1.6 TDI R238 500
Urban Ice package R9 800

Nissan LEAF gets upgrades

Nissan has announced the release of the updated LEAF Electric Vehicle (EV) in Japan for 2013. An additional Nissan LEAF model has been added to the model range and a wide range of enhancements and equipment upgrades have been made. The Nissan LEAF is considered to be the world’s best selling EV, with over 43 000 units sold worldwide since December 2010. The Nissan LEAF will be introduced in South Africa in 2013.

Nissan LEAF gets style and equipment makeover

?Exterior and interior features

The 2013 Nissan Leaf features revised alloy wheels, optional LED headlights with auto-levelling, front fog lights and seven body colours to choose from including Dark Metal Grey, Brilliant White Pearl and White.

The interior is in elegant black with leather seats available as an option. Luggage space has increased from 330-litres to 370-litres and sound entertainment is provided by the BOSE Energy Efficient Series sound system. The multifunction display has also been updated while an Around View Monitor offers assistance while parking.

Powertrain Updates?

The electric motor, inverter and DC/DC converter is now integrated which has resulted in a 30% reduction in volume and a 10% mass reduction. The second-generation Nissan LEAF also weighs 80kg less than before thanks to its combined powertrain unit, integrated functions and streamlined battery module and case structure.

The Leaf’s range has also been extended from 200km to 228km at full charge. The Nissan Leaf is a zero-emission Electric Vehicle (EV) and does not emit any CO2 or exhaust fumes during operation.

The Nissan LEAF will be launched in South Africa in 2013 and further details regarding the South African line-up will be made closer to its launch.

Mercedes-Benz G-Class gets makeover, new models

The Mercedes-Benz G-Class off-roader has received a significant upgrade with new exterior details and a newly appointed interior. The G-Class range has also been expanded to include the G 500 variant as well as the range-topping G 63 AMG.

“Our G-Class has been a force to be reckoned with for the last 33 years and in its latest evolutionary stage, offers state-of-the-art, powerful engines, and further improved range of luxurious appointments and the very latest safety features. With its now legendary off-road capabilities, the design of the G-Class remains true to its routes and unmistakable styling,” says Selvin Govender, Divisional Manager, Mercedes-Benz Cars.

Mercedes-Benz G-Class is a powerful off-roader

??Engine Capability??

The base model G 350 BlueTEC is fitted with a 3.0-litre V6 diesel engine that produces 155kW at 3 400rpm with a maximum torque figure of 540Nm available between 1 600 and 2 400rpm. The petrol alternative is the G 500 which is fitted with a powerful 5.5-litre V8 engine that develops 285kW with a maximum torque figure of 530Nm. Both these models are fitted with a 7G-TRONIC PLUS automatic transmission as standard.

The top-end G 63 AMG is fitted with a 5.5-litre V8 bi-turbo engine that produces 400kW and 760Nm of torque. This model is fitted with an AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS 7G TRONIC automatic transmission and comes with ECO start/stop function as standard.

Exterior and Interior

Styling ??Exterior modifications are minimal and include LED daytime running lights and new exterior mirrors for all the engine variants. The G 63 AMG however features a new AMG radiator grille with double louvres and is fitted with distinctive bumpers with large air intakes. This model features red brake callipers and 20-inch wheels to complement its styling.

On the inside, the instrument panel has been redesigned to include new controls and trim elements. A TFT colour display is now found in the instrument cluster between the two round dials. A larger colour display screen forms part of the COMAND Online system which incorporates a DVD changer and COMAND Controller and is fitted as standard on all G-Class models. The system offers internet access, navigation, Bluetooth wireless connectivity and the LINGUATRONIC voice operated control system.

Standard Features??

Standard features for the Mercedes-Benz G-Class includes Blind Spot Assist and the parking aid PARKTRONIC. The standard Electronic Stability Program (ESP) has been revised and now includes Trailer Stability Assist and HOLD Function. Safety features such as DISTRONIC PLUS and a reversing camera are available as an option.

Mercedes-Benz G-Class – Price

Mercedes-Benz G 300 CDI Professional R786 900
Mercedes-Benz G 350 BlueTEC R1 335 000
Mercedes-Benz G 500 R1 494 000
Mercedes-Benz G 63 AMG R2 047 000

Mercedes-Benz Ener-G-Force Concept at LA Auto Show

The Mercedes-Benz Ener-G-Force concept design study, based on the iconic G-Class off-roader, will be entering the Los Angeles Design Challenge at the Los Angeles Auto Show at the end of the month. The theme for the Los Angeles Design Challenge takes a look into the future to find the ultimate ‘Highway Patrol Vehicle 2025’.

??Mercedes-Benz Ener-G-Force Concept is police car of the future

To meet the changing demands of the future, the Mercedes-Benz Ener-G-Force Concept is envisioned to be a reliable and fast police vehicle that is environmentally friendly using alternative energy and would be fully capable of supporting police and emergency services around the world. The Ener-G-Force concept also gives a hint to the future of Mercedes-Benz off-roaders.

Gorden Wagener, Director of Design at Mercedes-Benz Cars said, “The Ener-G-Force is the vision of an off-roader that, while reflecting tomorrow’s adventures, also invokes the genes of the Mercedes-Benz off-road icon, the G model. Modern and cool, it could also be a clue about a new beginning for the off-road design idiom of Mercedes-Benz”.

Design Features

The Ener-G-Force, which is modelled after the G-Class with proportions and design elements, was re-designed and updated to create a car of the future. Hubert Lee, Ener-
G-Force Designer said, “Of course we wanted to take a clear step forward, but we also wanted the G’s characteristic features”. The Ener-G-Force has a similar profile but with a higher shoulder line and scaled-down glass areas.

The Ener-G-Force features an expressive radiator grille that incorporates the headlamps. The LED’s in the headlamps form units in the shape of a ‘G’ while the front indicators and position lights are mounted on top of the wings, which is a classic G-class element.

The Ener-G-Force features a G-Class inspired mounted roof with a tripartite glass area and rides on 20-inch rims. At the rear, the Ener-G-Force features a pull-out tool box which holds a variety of tools without opening the tailgate.

Alternative Energy??

The Ener-G-Force stores recycled water in tanks on the roof which is transferred to a ‘hydro-tech converter’, where natural and renewable resources are converted into hydrogen to operate the fuel cells. The electricity generated is stored in storage units in the side skirts. The Ener-G-Force only emits water and has a range of 800km. Four hub-wheel motors are able to adapt individually to the terrain and provide the pulling power for the Ener-G-Force.

The Mercedes-Benz Ener-G-Force Concept is also fitted with a ‘Terra-Scan’ 360-degree topography scanner on the roof which scans the surrounding terrain and adjusts spring and damping rates and other suspension parameters to suit the terrain or the road. The side skirts house either the energy storage units or the hot-swappable battery packs. Changes in the colour illumination of the side skirts indicate the operating and charge status of the battery packs. The Ener-G-Force also features a roof carrier and additional lamps integrated into the roof.

Most popular car brands in South Africa for October 2012

In October 2012, a total of 57 845 vehicles were sold in South Africa, representing an increase of 2 748 vehicles compared to new car sales in September 2012. The passenger car market was dominated by Volkswagen (9 426 units) and closely followed by Toyota (8 013 units). However, the overall market was topped by Toyota with a total sales figure of 12 139 units. The top 3 most popular car brands in South Africa are as follows:

Car Brand Volume Market Share %
1. Toyota 12 139 21
2. Volkswagen Group SA 10 125 17.5
3. General Motors SA 6 716 11.6

Top 3 most popular car brands in South Africa – October 2012

??1. Toyota – 12 139 units

Toyota is considered to be South Africa’s most popular car brand for October 2012 and although Toyota was marginally behind Volkswagen in the passenger car market, Toyota dominated the Light Commercial Vehicle (LCV) segment with sales amounting to 3 724 units.

Toyota’s success in the LCV segment is largely based on the achievements of the popular Hilux which sold 2 283 units in October while the Fortuner sold particularly well with 1 754 units compared to the 967 sold in September 2012. In the passenger segment, the Toyota Etios was the best selling vehicle with sales amounting to 2 625 units and represents a notable increase compared to September’s sales figure of 1 736 units.

Toyota – Best selling models – October 2012

Model Sales: October 2012
1. Toyota Etios 2 625 (&#9650 889)
2. Toyota Hilux 2 283 (&#9660 530)
3. Toyota Fortuner 1 754 (&#9650 787)
4. Toyota Corolla 1 551 (&#9660 36)
5. Toyota Quantum 1 238 (&#9650 77)

2. Volkswagen – 10 125 units??

Although not a threat to Toyota in the LCV segment, Volkswagen is the dominant brand in the passenger vehicle market in South Africa. Volkswagen’s dominance in the passenger vehicle market can be largely attributed to the combined success of both the Polo Vivo and Polo models.

In October 2012, the Polo Vivo was the best selling car in South Africa with a sales figure of 3 341 units. The VW Polo was the second best selling vehicle in October with 2 883 units sold.

Volkswagen – Best selling models – October 2012?

Model Sales: October 2012
1. Volkswagen Polo Vivo 3 341 (&#9660 27)
2. Volkswagen Polo 2 883 (&#9650 500)
3. Volkswagen Golf A6 626 (&#9650 19)
4. Audi A4 Avant 541 (&#9660 132)
5. VW Jetta 6 368 (&#9650 43)

3. General Motors South Africa (GMSA) – 6 716

General Motors South Africa (GMSA) performed well in both the passenger and LCV segments in October 2012. GMSA sales in the passenger segment amounted to 3 458 units, while the LCV segment accounted for 2 994 units.

In the LCV segment, the Chevrolet Utility was the best selling vehicle with 1 763 units sold, followed by the Isuzu KB which sold 1 199 units. The passenger vehicle segment was dominated by the Chevrolet Sonic with 969 units sold while the Chevrolet Spark sold 688 units.

GMSA – Best selling vehicles – October 2012?

Model Sales: October 2012
1. Chevrolet Utility 1 763 (&#9650 347)
2. Isuzu KB 1 199 (&#9650 41)
3. Chevrolet Sonic 969 (&#9650 244)
4. Chevrolet Spark 688 (&#9660 323)
5. Chevrolet Aveo 674 (&#9650 4)

Toyota safety technologies revealed

Details of new Toyota safety technologies that will be made available in its production vehicles to reduce common low-speed parking collisions and high-speed rear-end shunts have been revealed. The announcement was made at the annual Safety Seminar in Japan this week. Toyota also recently announced the opening of its new proving ground for testing its Intelligent Transport System (ITS) that uses radio communications between vehicles, road infrastructure and pedestrians to improve road safety.

New Toyota safety technology to prevent accidents

Toyota has developed two systems to prevent collisions in parking situations where drivers either push the wrong pedal or select the wrong gear. The first Toyota safety system is called the Intelligent Clearance Sonar which detects obstacles that are out of the driver’s sight and automatically applies the brakes if a potential collision is detected. The system will set off an alarm, reduce engine power and apply the brakes to prevent a collision.

The second system is Drive-Start Control which recognises if the wrong gear has been selected when the driver applies the throttle. A warning light will flash and the engine output will be reduced to limit a sudden start or acceleration. Both systems will be introduced in future vehicles.

Pre-Crash Safety System with Collision Avoidance Assist

Toyota has further developed its Pre-Crash Safety (PCS) System with Collision Avoidance Assist that helps reduce the consequence of rear-end impacts, particularly at high speeds.

PCS is already available on various Toyota and Lexus models and uses a millimetre-wave radar to monitor the risk of a collision with the vehicle ahead. In the event of an imminent collision, an alarm goes off along with a warning display to urge the driver to apply the brakes. When the brake pedal is pressed, the system increases the braking force up to twice the average level achieved by drivers, actively reducing speed. The system can slow the vehicle down by up to 60km/h and if the driver does not apply the brakes, the system will automatically do so to minimise the impact.

Intelligent Transport System Proving Ground

Toyota has developed a new 3.5 hectare site to evaluate its Intelligent Transport System technology. The new proving ground simulates an urban environment complete with traffic signals. The site will allow Toyota to test road-vehicle communications using a 700Mhz radio frequency in controlled but authentic road conditions.

Toyota will accelerate its research and development of environmental systems to improve fuel efficiency and driver support systems that can help reduce the risk of accidents with pedestrians and other road users in urban traffic. Safer vehicles and the elimination of road accident injuries and deaths form part of the ongoing Toyota safety strategy.

Cars.co.za excels in 2012 eCommerce Awards

The annual South African eCommerce Awards is designed to recognise and reward South African websites that demonstrate excellence in their use of the Internet as a platform for eCommerce. This year, Cars.co.za did exceedingly well, making it into the Top 20 websites and being placed as the second runner up in the Best Classifieds Website category.

In the Best Classifieds Website category, Property24 was announced as the winner for 2012 while OLX was the first runner-up. Cars.co.za was praised for its fast and accurate search facility as well as its helpful responses to customer queries from both Cars.co.za and the dealerships. The Cars.co.za mobile website was also highly rated for its efficiency and the user product reviews and recommendations of similar products provide additional information which proves to be useful when choosing a car to buy.



The Cars.co.za team would like to thank all its users for their loyal and ongoing support throughout the year. Without you this remarkable achievement would not have been possible, thank you. Cars.co.za will continue to strive for excellence to provide the best online platform to buy and sell cars in South Africa, now and beyond.

Chevrolet Spark EV for LA Auto Show

Chevrolet will debut its Spark Electric Vehicle (EV) at this year’s Los Angeles Auto Show on 29 November 2012. The Chevrolet Spark EV is designed to offer industry-leading EV power with notable range and fast charge capability.

??Chevrolet Spark EV embraces electric power

The Chevrolet Spark EV will be fitted with a oil-cooled, permanent magnet motor that develops 100kW and will be able to accelerate to 100km/h in 8.0 seconds. A 20kWh lithium-ion battery pack will be capable of handling multiple daily DC Fast Charges. The industry-first SAE combo charger will allow DC Fast Charging of up to 80% of battery capacity in about twenty minutes while a full charge using a 240V socket will take less than seven hours. A 120V charge cord will be available as standard and charging can be monitored remotely using a smart phone application provided by OnStar.

Larry Nitz, executive director of GM’s global electrification engineering team said, “Spark EV’s battery has undergone more than 200,000 hours of testing in our global battery systems labs. This testing paved the way to allow our customers to do multiple DC Fast Charges daily to help alleviate range anxiety and improve convenience.

”??The Spark EV team used expertise gained from the Chevrolet Volt Program for its components and systems and the Spark EV uses about 75% of propulsion system components derived from Volt and GM’s hybrid truck programs.

“Spark EV is the latest demonstration of our growing expertise in electric motor and battery technologies – expertise we will need as we grow our portfolio of electric vehicles to address the needs of our global customers,” Nitz said.

The Chevrolet Spark EV will go on sale in the United States in 2013 and there is no indication that the Spark EV will be available in South Africa.