The importance of mobility, and the ability to commute easily, should never be underestimated as factors in assisting South African youth gain employment and take their ultimate places in a market-driven economy, says Datsun South Africa . With the focus this month on South Africa’s youth, it is important to consider their role in society and the challenges they face – and enabling mobility is a key factor in assisting them, says Des Fenner, General Manager of Datsun South Africa. “We live in a country where we are wrestling with the provision of integrated public transport systems. Part of this challenge is the long distances between places like city centres, tertiary education institutions, townships and suburbs. For many South Africans, this equates to lengthy commutes, requiring several changes of buses, taxis and trains.” “With commutes of four hours a day or more being common, the motor car is more than a convenience; it is a life-changing acquisition that provides opport...

For most small and medium enterprises (SMEs), business growth almost always means acquiring a business vehicle. The question is how to optimise its value to the company when the vehicle is new, and then to determine just when it needs to be replaced, says Datsun South Africa . Both questions about buying and replacing a delivery vehicle are critical to SME owners who need to keep a wary eye on cash flow. It is important to ensure that, despite fluctuating fuel prices and the reducing value of the rand, that costs for a business vehicle are kept under control, says Des Fenner, General Manager of Datsun South Africa. “When buying a new delivery vehicle, questions should be asked about three different types of costs. These are the initial price of the vehicle, maintenance intervals and costs, and what expenses can be expected if repairs to the body or engine are required.” Some key considerations to ensure that these are manageable is by: Matching the panel van to its purpose. Conside...