Author:jaco-de-klerk

Taking out the trash electrically May 25, 2022 With the launch of its eActros nearly a year ago, Mercedes-Benz Trucks offers an electric truck suited to specialised applications. But this isn’t the manufacturer’s only electric vehicle rising to the occasion…  Since the start of the eActros series production in October 2021, Mercedes-Benz Trucks has been gradually expanding the range of applications of its e-truck for heavy-duty distribution. The e-truck is available in Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Italy, Spain, France, the Netherlands, […]

Financial freedom through flexible fleets May 3, 2022 The purchase of a business fleet is often hampered by various challenges, long-term contracts, and a significant cash outlay that can hurt liquidity. Thankfully, buying isn’t the only option. The demand from companies opting for traditional vehicle financing has decreased and fleet purchasing decisions have been deferred by many businesses, due to the break in business continuity caused by various lockdowns, weak economic growth, and the uncertainties associated with operating in a […]

Air taxis are on their way! May 10, 2022 People carriers have become more and more high-tech over the past decade, with engine electrification taking centre stage. But this transport segment is set to reach new heights. JACO DE KLERK reports. The global electric bus market size is projected to grow from around 112 000 units in 2022 to more than 671 200 units by 2027, at a compound annual growth rate of 43,1%*. “The advancements in battery pack technologies and electric […]

Leaping forward April 14, 2022 The construction equipment industry is set to grow in the years to come. While this is great for the global economy, it could be devastating for our planet… Electrification may help to curb the consequences. The construction equipment industry is projected to achieve a global market size of US$174 billion by the end of 2032, finds Fact.MR*. Increasing commercial and residential infrastructure projects, especially in Asia, are expected to positively drive market growth. “In 2020, construction […]

Positive growth for MCVs: but will it last?  March 10, 2022 The medium commercial vehicle (MCV) industry looks set to grow. While the situation may change, JACO DE KLERK discovers that the segment is gearing up for market domination, with MCVs predicted to make up over 93% of the global electric truck fleet by 2026. Reflecting on the new South African vehicle sales statistics for the month of February 2022, Mikel Mabasa, CEO of the automotive business council Naamsa, says […]

Rolling upward March 18, 2022 During the pandemic, we have all become accustomed to negative prospects. But the tyre market, both locally and abroad, is beating the odds and is set to rise within the next few years. JACO DE KLERK discovers why. The local tyre market was worth US$2,2 billion last year, as revealed in a recent study conducted by strategic consulting and market research firm BlueWeave Consulting. The study also notes that the market is projected to grow […]

A square deal? February 10, 2022 Are auctions a great way of getting vehicles at substantial savings, or would it be better to stay away? Miami-based STT Logistics Group highlights that auction houses can make the selection process, as well as the actual purchase of second-hand trucks and trailers, a lot easier: “Whether you are looking forward to adding new trucks to your fleet or you simply want to buy one for your trucking business, it seems reasonable to look […]

PoPIA in plain English February 14, 2022 There are many crucial factors involved in the Protection of Personal Information Act (PoPIA). For compliance, it is imperative for transport operators to fully understand all these factors and how they play out in the real world. PoPIA has been established to protect the personal information of entities as well as individuals. Since the commencement of this Act on July 1, 2020, local e-signature provider Impressions Signatures has made it its mission to […]

Treading towards greatness? December 9, 2021 There may be negative perceptions around retreaded tyres, but they remain a highly popular category within the automotive aftermarket. JACO DE KLERK discovers what the future holds for these recycled rollers and busts some myths. Global retread tyre sales are estimated to be valued at US$8,8 billion in 2021, says a study by Future Market Insights (FMI), an international provider of market intelligence and consulting services. “After registering a considerable drop in sales amid […]

All lubed-up and keeping things rolling November 10, 2021 Vehicle manufacturers are embracing the electric revolution, as most are developing, or already offering, their own version of the electric vehicle (EV). But what does this mean for the oils and lubricants industry? JACO DE KLERK investigates. Various experts* have predicted that EVs will become the next big thing, as they will overshadow internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles and, presumably, dominate the world’s roads. “A new set of lubricants and oils […]