Auto X News

  • Farming and Solar Solutions in South Africa
    The future of all industry sectors depends on harnessing and using sustainable energy solutions. This is especially true for those in the local agricultural industry, who have been subjected to Eskom’s unreliable electrical services. While adopting sustainable practices is good for the environment, those with the space could create a new source of income and revolutionise traditional farming methods.   Time For Sustainability To Play Its Role In Farming Farming has always been connected to the environment. Agriculture relies on natural resources such as water, soil, and sunlight. However, with the world facing bigger challenges from climate change, the…
  • How Do I Maintain My Solar Installation
    It shouldn’t come as a surprise, but load-shedding will continue to be a regular occurrence for South Africans. However, with the planned blackouts going into their 17th year, some early adopters of off-grid power solutions might want to start performing solar maintenance. But you may wonder, “How do I maintain my solar installation?” Maintaining your solar so the components work well is important because these systems can be expensive to replace. Nedbank estimates that a hybrid solar solution with eight solar panels and two batteries (brand not specified) will cost homeowners between R115,000 and R120,000. As such, we can…
  • The Challenges and Opportunities of Running a Motorcycle Delivery Service in South Africa
    When COVID-19 shut down the world, e-commerce delivery services boomed. Locally, motorcycle delivery services like Uber Eats, Mr D Food, and Checkers Sixty60 were flung into an unprecedented growth trajectory. The online food market in South Africa is projected to reach US$2.40 billion in 2024. The biggest international player, China, is expected to reach a value of US$448.90 billion. With so much potential, running a motorcycle delivery service in South Africa seems to be bursting with opportunities. But as with any business undertaking, there are many challenges to overcome. Before discussing the opportunities or challenges, let’s list what you’ll…
  • Top 5 Transformative Developments in Car Safety
    Generally taken for granted or, indeed, only acknowledged after the fact, the bouquet of modern car safety features fitted to most new vehicles has thankfully evolved at a generally faster pace than the cars themselves. That said, these five innovations in automotive safety have undoubtedly saved many lives over the years:   1. THE THREE-POINT SEATBELT While the lap-type, two-point seatbelt had been around since the 1800s, it wasn’t until then president of Volvo Cars Gunner Engellau tragically lost a relative in a motor vehicle accident that the push towards a more effective way of securing occupants within their…
  • Cars Entering South Africa 2024
    New year, new you, and now maybe you’re looking for a new car. But what brands and models will grace us with their presence on the dealership floor in 2024? If you forgot about the gems that drove onto our streets last year, you can look back at the excitement around the new vehicles in 2023. But let’s not dwell on the past; rather, let’s take a look at what cars are entering South Africa in 2024. Some Facelifts And The Volkswagen Tiguan Volkswagen SA is looking to pull a rabbit from their hat in 2024. Volkswagen AG board…
  • A Buyer’s Guide to Selecting Best Inverter
    As South Africans grapple with yet another year of load shedding, many will be taking steps to become self-sufficient during power outages. To power your home during a blackout, one should consider purchasing an inverter. But what should you look for when selecting the best inverter? Choosing the best inverter for your needs is crucial. Here is our comprehensive buyer’s guide to help you make an informed choice when selecting the best inverter. Determine Your Power Needs: When purchasing an inverter, you will encounter various numbers. Look for the AC output power rating, which indicates how much you can power with your inverter…
  • The Ultimate Guide to Choosing The Right Boat Battery
    For boating enthusiasts in South Africa, the significance of a reliable and efficient boat battery cannot be overstated. Whether you’re cruising along the scenic Wild Coast, exploring the tranquil Breede River, or embarking on an all-day fishing expedition on Arabie Dam, fitting your aquatic craft with the right boat battery is a lifeline that ensures the best maritime experience.   Understanding Your Boating Needs The initial step in selecting the correct boat battery is understanding your boating needs. Consider the type of vessel you own, the typical duration of your journeys, and the electrical demands of the onboard equipment….
  • How a Solar PV Installation Affects the Value of Your Property
    Currently rivalling braai-side conversations about the Springboks’ chances of winning in the forthcoming Rugby World Cup in France and whether a Ford Ranger is even a match for a Toyota Hilux, talk of which neighbours spent what on their respective load-shedding “fix” is all but guaranteed to spark debate in many South African homes. Whether you’re able to spend whatever it takes to become altogether less reliant on the national grid, or you’ve chosen to navigate a balance between affordability and keeping only must-have appliances and conveniences running during periods of unstable power delivery to your home, depending on…
  • 5 South African Classic Car Gatherings
    Within South Africa, lie some of the world’s most exquisite classic cars, each with its own captivating story. While some of these automotive gems stay tucked away in secrecy, others graciously make appearances for display from time to time. Curious to witness their timeless allure? Here’s your exclusive guide to where you can feast your eyes on some of these stunning beauties.   1. Knysna Motor Show Long before the annual Simola Hillclimb event drew massive crowds of enthusiasts and an ever-expanding line-up of some of the fastest cars and drivers in the country to compete against the clock,…
  • The differences between on-grid and off-grid solar power PV systems
    Already battle-weary when it comes to a traditional reliance on a functioning national grid, rumours of the imminent introduction of new, yet-to-be-explored stages of load-shedding events have many South Africans escalating plans for a move away from this dependence on a national energy supply. Solar PV is proving one of the most popular means of independent power generation for many homes across a predominantly sun-drenched South Africa. Of the three main types of solar PV systems available, the homeowner has a choice between being off-grid, partially off-grid (hybrid) or on-grid, the latter also known as grid-tied. As the name suggests, off-grid implies that…
  • 5 Significant Motor Vehicle Safety Innovations
    Generally taken for granted or, indeed, only acknowledged after the fact, the bouquet of modern car safety features fitted to most new vehicles has thankfully evolved at a generally faster pace than the cars themselves. That said, these five innovations in automotive safety have undoubtedly saved many lives over the years:  1. The three-point seatbelt While the lap-type, two-point seatbelt had been around since the 1800s, it wasn’t until then president of Volvo Cars Gunner Engellau tragically lost a relative in a motor vehicle accident that the push towards a more effective way of securing occupants within their respective…
  • 5 Iconic Cars Built Exclusively in South Africa
    From skilled designers to respected engineers and line managers, together with world-class assembly lines and a reputation for a broadly excellent work ethic, South Africa has for many years remained a significant player on the global automotive scene. A market that also hosts a huge fanbase of car enthusiasts, Mzanzi has also produced some of the most sought-after limited-edition cars in modern motoring. 1. BMW 325iS The “Gusheshe” as it’s fondly referred to in South Africa is a car introduced locally in 1989 for the purpose of making it eligible for racing by meeting certain standards, known as homologation….
  • Rentech Celebrates Solar Show Success
    The Solar & Future Energy Show Africa, spanning two days, concluded on the 26th of April at the Sandton Convention Centre in Johannesburg. The show has emerged as a prominent fixture in the region’s solar energy industry and attracted some 15 000 attendees and over 300 exhibitors from across the globe, including the United States, China, India, Israel, Thailand, South Korea, and Germany. With a sprawling exhibition area, the show has matured into one of the most influential events in South Africa’s new energy sector. During the exhibition, Rentech had the privilege of engaging with a diverse array of visitors,…
  • Can You Run Your Home Exclusively via Solar Energy?
    With pressure on both the cost and, indeed, reliability of South Africa’s troubled national energy grid, many consumers are exploring ways of becoming less reliant on this supply. While in our part of the world, harnessing the power of the sun offers one notable alternative; is it plausible to rely solely on solar?  As the South African consumer prepares for a sixteenth straight year of so-called load-shedding (power cuts), the news of an imminent 18.65 percent increase in the cost of this broadly unreliable basic service has proved to be a catalyst for many households to explore viable options of becoming…
  • 5 Facts About Solar PV
    The fastest-growing source of global renewable energy is showing no sign of slowing in terms of both investment and, indeed, adoption. In a market that enjoys as much annual sunlight as South Africa, isn’t it time we look to properly harness this impressive resource? Let’s take a closer look at some facts about the making use of solar power: It’s been around for a while In 1839, a then 19-year-old French physicist Alexandre Becquerel discovered the photovoltaic effect, the ability to generate energy from the sun’s rays. Later, in 1941, American scientist Russell Ohl working for Bell Laboratories would…
  • What the Future of Solar PV Might Look Like
    A well-established means with which to harness clean energy using the power of the sun, various innovations in solar PV technology look set to make this science both generally more accessible, but also altogether more aesthetically pleasing. While we’ve come a long way in terms of what’s achievable via a strategically positioning series of solar photovoltaic (PV) panels mated within a power grid, such is the rate of innovation within this hugely significant industry that it may not be long before this technology more seamlessly integrates into our everyday lives. We look at five of the most pertinent future-focused updates likely coming our…
  • Tips for Storing Your Leisure Vehicle’s Battery
    Returning home after a well-earned end-of-year break, before preparations for the new work and school year begin, it’s a good idea to ensure your favourite leisure vehicle’s battery is setup for its corresponding period of rest. Often taken for granted, the intricate workings of any vehicle’s electrical system, including its battery, require a level of maintenance and upkeep in order to be able to perform optimally when called upon. From caravans to motorboats and motorcycles, in the case of a leisure-focused vehicle, while we’d all prefer to be able to make more frequent use of these items, it’s inevitable…
  • 6 Facts About Your Car’s Battery
    The heartbeat of a modern automotive engine bay, we take a closer look at what makes your car’s battery such a crucial component Since the broad adoption in the 1920s of an electric starter function in automobiles, the role of an accompanying source of energy within the packaging of a car’s engine bay has proved significant. Seamless in its workings, the evolution of this crucial component may not generate the same headlines as, say, headlights, yet there’s still plenty of innovation worthy of acknowledgement in the way the modern car battery functions. 1. Battery technology is at the forefront…
  • Why it’s important to register your car’s battery
    From a plethora of electronic device chargers to a child’s favourite cuddly toy, the list of forget-me-not items to be considered before leaving home for your end-of-year family holiday destination can prove daunting. Including a timely service of your vehicle, here’s why you should consider registering your new Willard car battery. Just like the often-mocked South African adage that the box is your guarantee, as a consumer, your power lies in the ability to accurately trace the purchase of an item back to an exact date and time. Whether for reasons of dissatisfaction, unreliability or a simple decision change,…
  • ELS FOR AUTISM GOLF FINAL IS ALL FUN IN THE SUN
    The Els for Autism Series 2022 Golf Series recently reached its finale with a two-day event held at Sun City. The Els for Autism Series golf days, which took place throughout the year at some of South Africa’s finest golf courses, make up a considerable source of income for the work Els for Autism does in South Africa, and the spectacular Sun City was a fitting backdrop to end the year. Days one and two of the event were held at the Sun City Golf Course and the Lost City Golf Course respectively, with 108 players competing for top…
  • Food & Trees for Africa
    AutoX has donated funds to go toward tree-planting in 2022 in Gauteng, Western Cape and KwaZulu Natal provinces. The donation equated to 620 trees being planted at 16 beneficiaries across the three provinces along with staff tree planting volunteer day in each region. Click here, to download the full report….
  • 5 Most Common Car Battery Faults
    The optimal operation of your car’s battery aside, it’s good practice to ensure that every component is functioning to its potential. This means timely servicing and checking systems to safeguard against even the smallest fault creating a knock-on effect on the ultimate flow of performance. A slow starting engine Reliant on several factors, processes and even a chemical reaction to work efficiently, the first sign that your car’s battery is taking strain or, indeed, needs to be replaced is a slow crank of the engine it’s mated with. Before rushing to replace it, however, consider whether the prevailing outside…
  • AutoX Continues Sponsorship of Els for Autism Golf Series
    AutoX, battery manufacturer of Willard and SABAT Batteries, continues where it left off last year when it secured the naming rights sponsorship for the Els for Autism South Africa 21/22 Golf Series. The Els for Autism Foundation was established in 2009 by Ernie and Liezl Els a few years after discovering that their son, Ben, was impacted by the disorder, which affects 1 in 59 individuals. Els for Autism aims to provide families across the globe with best practice interventions and support. In early January 2011, Ernie and Liezl Els embarked on a goal to create a service that…
  • AutoX Brands Shine at Automechanika
    The recent Automechanika Johannesburg trade fair for the automotive aftermarket, organised by Messe Frankfurt South Africa and staged at the Expo Centre, Nasrec, from 7-10 June 2022, provided a blend of product displays and activations. Corné Strydom, Sales & Marketing Executive for AutoX, had this to say about the presence of three of its brands, Willard®, VARTA® and Rentech® at Automechanika, “With hundreds of exhibitors and with visitors from Sub Saharan Africa and around the world, this was a great chance to show off some of our feature brands.” “Our Willard brand is fiercely proud of its local roots….
  • How to Safely Handle Your Car’s Battery
    Whether you’re an advocate for DIY or the option of “leaving it to the experts” isn’t available, working around your car’s battery can prove hazardous. It’s worth noting the following precautions before taking to your toolbox. Considered Clothing An impressively complex component, the inner workings of a car’s battery include any number of potentially harmful materials, liquids, and fumes. While appropriate gloves are a must (no, not your open mitts), also consider whether the rest of your body, as well as your favourite cardigan are suitably protected against any unforeseen spills or damage. This includes eye- and footwear. Recommended…
  • A Local Brand That Has Stood the Test of Time
    If you were looking for a true-blue indigenous brand which has been a stalwart in the local parts aftermarket for decades, Willard® Batteries would most certainly pop up on your radar. For over 65 years, Willard Batteries has reflected the South African spirit of combining international state-of-the-art technology with local ingenuity and knowhow. With a strong brand name and reputation, Willard Batteries recently took podium position and was voted as South Africa’s favourite battery brand for 2021. This is not a first for the brand, having been rated amongst consumers as their favourite battery brand of choice in the…
  • Rentech furthering leopard conservation through major sponsorship
    Renewable energy solutions provider Rentech’s sponsorship of 200 Rentech 6v, 4.5AH batteries and 5 Noco Genius Gen 2 chargers for the non-profit Cape Leopard Trust is set to contribute invaluably towards research and conservation of leopard populations in the Cape region….
  • Replacing your car battery? Recycle your used one!
    All batteries, car batteries and the like, eventually need replacing. Although batteries are not thought to be as harmful as they once were, it’s still important to dispose of lead-acid batteries responsibly by recycling them safely….
  • AutoX to Sponsor Els for Autism Golf Series
    AutoX, the battery manufacturer of brands such as Willard Batteries and SABAT Batteries, as well as the importer of VARTA, has acquired the naming rights sponsorship, valued at over a million rand, for the ELS for Autism South Africa 2021 and 2022 Golf Series. The 13-event tour commenced at the Wild Coast golf course on 13 December 2020 and will be followed by planned events in 2021 at the following clubs across the country, the Els Club, St Francis Links, Stellenbosch, Waterkloof, Mount Edgecombe, Randpark, Highland Gate, Silverlakes, Ebotse and Sun City. The ELS for Autism Foundation was established…
  • SA Car Battery Recycling Reduces Reliance on Lead Imports
    By Kelvin Naidoo, Manufacturing and Technical Director of AutoX. AutoX is the manufacturer of the leading automotive battery brands Willard and SABAT and the official distributor of the world renowned VARTA automotive batteries. Lead acid batteries are one of the few battery types that embrace a fully circular economic cycle from manufacture to recycling of over 98% of the battery. An intricate and efficient international infrastructure to close the loop from cradle to grave and back to cradle has been established over many decades, protecting the environment,people and resources. A lead acid battery consists of lead, sulphuric acid and…
  • AutoX’s Re-entry into Renewable Technologies and Standby Power Bears Fruit
    AutoX’s re-entry into the renewable technology market with their brand Rentech, focusing heavily on the solar business, is bearing fruit. The company says demand is rapidly increasing, especially in the domestic and small commercial solar market as well as the motive and standby power markets. Under the Rentech brand, AutoX supplies solar system components and industrial batteries for a range of applications including reserve power for stand-by and back-up applications, gate and garage door motors, Uninterruptible Power Supplies (UPS), solar batteries, motive power for leisure vehicles, golf carts, wheelchairs, marine and 4×4 vehicles, and for traction and materials handling…
  • Winter Months – Vehicle Battery Safety Tips
    During the winter months, people may need to work on their car battery or use battery charging equipment. Because sulphuric acid is contained in batteries, it is important to remember that it is a poisonous and corrosive liquid and will cause burns and irritation to the skin and eyes if not properly managed. Therefore, take precautions when charging a battery because it can give off a fine mist of sulphuric acid that is dangerous. It is important to always handle batteries with care. When working with a battery, keep it upright, and always charge it in a well-ventilated area….
  • Taking Care Of Your Car Battery During The Cold Winter Months
    During these cold winter months, the chances of having a flat battery increases significantly, and even more so if the battery is getting old and your vehicle wasn’t driven much during lockdown. When it is cold, the chemical reactions that take place when the battery delivers charge occurs very slowly, and this makes it difficult for the battery to deliver the current it requires. Batteries don’t like standing idle for long periods, and it’s a true case of prevention rather than cure. Here are some useful tips to ensure the health of your car’s battery and to keep your…
  • Safety Battery Removal & Installation
    With winter now having fully arrived, should your car fail to start, especially in the morning, the battery is likely the culprit. This could be the result of the lockdown and your vehicle not having been driven as much. If the battery needs to be removed, it is recommended that an authorised fitment centre be contacted, otherwise the following procedures should be used for an automotive battery. Battery Removal: Before removing the old battery, take note which terminal Pos+ or Neg — is connected to the ground cable. The grounded cable is usually connected to the engine or chassis….
  • Taking care of your car battery during the lockdown
    Going out and receiving help when your beloved car starts acting up has become difficult thanks to the current lockdown in South Africa. With dealerships and car service shops forced to close, it’s now up to you to ensure your car continues to run smoothly and perform – for a short while at least. Now it’s more important than ever to know how to keep your car in good working condition, but there’s no need to worry, we’re here to help! We’ve compiled some useful information that anyone can follow to ensure the health of your car’s battery and…
  • Car Talk: The dos and don’ts about car batteries
    Heine, our OEM Manager down in PE was recently hosted on Cape Talk radio. He was interviewed regarding ‘The Do’s and Don’t’s about Car Batteries’ listen on the link below, or read the transcription below: Pippa Hudson: Now, we’re making good on a promise in Car Talk today. A promise to do a segment focused on car batteries and how we treat them, and how we can prolong their life, or what we’re doing that is unintentionally damaging their life. A couple of weeks back, you may recall we received a listener query about how often she should expect…
  • AutoX and Corporate Social Investment – 2020 Partners
    AutoX is proud that over the years Corporate Social Investment (CSI) initiatives have become a core component to the business….