From our Blog

The weekend began with positive news at Automark, Toyota’s Nangwenya Branch in Lusaka, as Nchanga Rangers Football Club received a pre-owned Toyota MarkX for their Head Coach, Robert Tembo. The handover ceremony, which took place on 28th September 2024, saw Club President Shapi Shachinda officially present the vehicle on behalf of the club’s Executive Committee (ExCo).

In this purchase, Nchanga Rangers entrusted Automark Zambia with their vehicle needs, marking a new level of confidence in the Automark brand. The Toyota MarkX, complete with a six-month warranty and after-sales service, will enhance Coach Tembo’s mobility, enabling him to fulfill his official duties with greater efficiency.

During the handover, Mr. Shachinda emphasized the club’s commitment to providing its staff with the tools required for optimal performance. He noted that the purchase of the Toyota MarkX aligns with the Executive Committee’s vision of boosting operational efficiency and driving excellence within the team.

Lennon Shinde, Sales Consultant at Automark Zambia, expressed his appreciation for Nchanga Rangers’ decision to choose Automark. “We are honored that Nchanga Rangers selected Automark Zambia for this important purchase. We extend our best wishes to Coach Robert Tembo for safe and successful journeys in his new Toyota MarkX.”

On behalf of Automark Zambia and CFAO Mobility, management also extends their best wishes to Coach Tembo for safe and efficient drives ahead.

This handover highlights the reliability and excellence of Automark Zambia’s services, and we are proud to support Nchanga Rangers in enhancing their operational capabilities.

We just wrapped up an exciting handover ceremony at the Toyota Cairo Branch, officially kicking off our sponsorship of the King of the Drag Race, taking place tomorrow, 28th September 2024! As a proud sponsor, we’re committed to ensuring a thrilling and successful event. Here’s what we’re contributing:

Two Scrutineering Bays

Our Toyota Nangwenya workshop is ready with two scrutineering bays to ensure driver and vehicle safety before hitting the track!

One Recovery Truck

In case of any breakdowns, our recovery truck is on standby to keep things running smoothly throughout the race.

Six Branded Gazebos

We’re providing six 3m x 3m gazebos at key locations, including the ticketing office, start line, flying finish, and end control, to give essential coverage for race officials and attendees.

One Pole Moroccan Tent for the Steward’s Office

A stylish Moroccan tent is set up as a dedicated space for race stewards to manage and oversee the event.

Two Pole Moroccan Tents for Competitors and Fans

We’ve set up two additional Moroccan tents for competitors and fans, ensuring everyone can relax and enjoy the race in comfort.

Fuel Cards for Winners

We’re excited to award fuel cards valued at K20,000 to the winners, helping them refuel and continue their journey with ease.

Toyota Gazoo Racing Jackets

As a special prize, winners will receive three exclusive Toyota Gazoo Racing jackets—an iconic token of recognition for their outstanding performance on the track!

We can’t wait to see Zambia’s best racing talent battle it out! Good luck to all competitors—may the best racer be crowned the next King of the Drag Race!

TOYOTA GAZOO Racing World Rally Team travels to Rally Chile for round 11 of the 2024 FIA World Rally Championship on September 26-29, targeting a strong result on South American roads as it continues the championship fight.

Following a demanding Acropolis Rally Greece earlier this month where its performance went unrewarded, the team is highly motivated to bounce back. It has assembled a strong driver line-up to fight for victory in Chile, with Kalle Rovanperä, Elfyn Evans and Sébastien Ogier all present and nominated to compete for manufacturers’ points.

World champions Rovanperä and Ogier have both won three rallies this year, tallies they were unlucky not to add to on their most recent starts in Finland and Greece respectively, and Evans is similarly eager to return to top form following an unfortunate couple of events.

TGR-WRT also welcomes rising star Sami Pajari back for a second outing in the GR YARIS Rally1 HYBRID in Chile following his impressive debut at Rally Finland, where he finished fourth overall and recorded his maiden stage win. As part of the team’s commitment to develop young talent on different roads around the world, the main objective is for Pajari to expand his experience at the highest level on Chile’s varied gravel roads.

Chile returned to the WRC calendar last year, four years after its 2019 debut, with a rally based in Concepción around 500 kilometres to the south of capital city, Santiago. The gravel roads in the forests of the surrounding Biobío region combine technical and faster sections with a mix of smooth and abrasive surfaces.

After shakedown and a ceremonial start in Concepción on Thursday, the rally will begin on Friday with a familiar loop of three stages to the south-east to be repeated following mid-day service. The rest of the rally’s stages take place across the Biobío River to the south, overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Saturday is the longest day with 139.2 competitive kilometres across another two loops of three stages, and includes sections not driven previously – as does Sunday when two stages will be driven twice without mid-day service.

Following wins on gravel on four of the last six events, the GR Yaris Rally2 will take part in a WRC2 round outside of Europe for the first time. Spanish driver Jan Solans, a winner in the category in Portugal in May, makes the trip to Chile together with the Teo Martín Motorsport team.

Kalle Rovanperä (Driver car 69)
“We’re going to try and do everything we can to help the team fight back in Chile. The roads there are fast and flowing like in Finland but the characteristics of the gravel and the road base is really different, so managing the tyre wear is the biggest thing, I would say. It was not the easiest event for us last year, but we had the speed at least and together with the team we have tried to learn from that so that we can have a clean weekend and be fighting for the podium places. We had really good pace in the last rallies that we did during the summer in Europe and hopefully we can have a good comfortable feeling from the start of the rally.”

Kalle Rovanperä / Jonne Halttunen

Elfyn Evans (Driver car 33)
“I really enjoy driving the roads in Chile and I’m looking forward to the event. There’s a bit of a mix in character from day to day: the first is a bit more technical with crests, quite similar to Finland in a way, and then the second is a bit more wide and open, even a little like Wales. It was quite a strong event for us last year in terms of pace at least. We just underestimated how abrasive it would be in the dry conditions, which cost us a chance to challenge for victory, so we need to keep that in mind depending on how the weather is when we get there. After a difficult couple of events for various reasons, we’re definitely looking for a more positive outcome at the end of the weekend.”

Elfyn Evans / Scott Martin

Sébastien Ogier (Driver car 17)
“Our challenge in Greece didn’t end in the way we were hoping and the gaps in both championships moved in the wrong direction, but we won’t give up and we’ll keep giving our best in these last three rounds of the season because things can still turn around. I didn’t go to Chile last year, but my memories from 2019 are of a nice event with stages that are enjoyable to drive, as well as a good atmosphere like we often have when we go to South America. So I’m happy to go back there. There will be a mix of some sections I know and some that will be new for me, but I’m never afraid of that challenge. Recently our pace has been pretty strong and we’ve been scoring higher than our rivals on average, and I hope we can carry that on.”

Sébastien Ogier / Vincent Landais

Sami Pajari (Driver car 5)
“I’m really excited to get back in the Rally1 car in Chile. I hope it can be a really enjoyable event for me. I competed in Chile for the first time last year in WRC2 and the pace was quite good. The roads there are nice and a bit similar to some of the stages in Finland: mostly quite fast and flowing, with of course some specific challenges as well. I’m hoping I can have a similar weekend like in Finland – try to enjoy the driving and get better with every kilometre – and not feel any pressure in terms of the result. The main thing is just to get more experience in this car and all the seat time that I can.”

Map Rally Chile Bio Bío 2024

On behalf of Toyota by CFAO, we extend our deepest condolences to the Ticklay family on the passing of Azim Ticklay, a true legend in motor rally and a great friend to Toyota Zambia. Azim shared an extraordinary relationship with our team, one built on years of mutual respect, admiration, and a shared passion for motorsport. He was a trusted partner and a cherished member of our extended Toyota family.

Azim will forever be remembered as the driving force behind Ticklay Motorsport, a fearless adventurer who turned every race into a spectacle with his iconic Toyota Land Cruiser. He didn’t just race; he redefined what it meant to compete, showing us all that a Land Cruiser — a vehicle built for rugged terrain and endurance, could also become a champion on the track. He often declared, “The Land Cruiser is built for Africa,” and in the motor rally world of Zambia, he was nothing short of a hero. We couldn’t agree more, as Toyota.

Though he is no longer with us, his memory will forever be etched into the Land Cruiser legacy and the history of motorsport. His spirit, energy, and relentless passion for life continue to inspire us all.

Go well, Mr. Azim Ticklay. You showed us the impossible, and for that, we will always be grateful.

Did you know that using counterfeit oils can cause serious damage to your engine? Many drivers may not realize the risks involved in using substandard oils that fail to meet the quality standards required for their vehicles. Counterfeit oils often lack the essential additives and protective properties needed to keep an engine running smoothly. Over time, these inferior oils can lead to reduced performance, increased fuel consumption, and even severe engine damage, resulting in costly repairs.

Toyota Genuine Motor Oil is specifically designed to meet the stringent standards set by Toyota for all its vehicles. Unlike counterfeit options, genuine oils are formulated to offer superior protection against engine wear, sludge buildup, rust, and corrosion. They maintain the perfect viscosity, ensuring optimal lubrication in various temperatures and driving conditions. This reduces friction, enhances fuel efficiency, and helps prolong the life of your engine.

In addition, Toyota Genuine Motor Oils are rigorously tested to exceed industry standards. Each batch is engineered to provide the exact level of performance and protection required for Toyota engines. By choosing genuine oil, you safeguard your vehicle from the hidden dangers of counterfeits and ensure consistent, reliable performance.

Protecting your vehicle is about more than just following recommendations—it’s about making a smart investment in your vehicle’s longevity and efficiency. Choose Toyota Genuine Motor Oil and keep your engine running at its best. Don’t compromise on quality; give your Toyota the care it deserves!

Zambia’s biggest Motor Show took place from the 6th to 8th of September 2024 at the Lusaka Polo Club, Showgrounds, celebrating its 14th edition with great success. This prestigious event has become a driving force in the country’s economic landscape, providing a vital platform for industry leaders to showcase their latest offerings and innovations.

We are thrilled to announce that CFAO Mobility once again participated as one of the sponsors, proudly displaying an impressive range of vehicles. Under our Toyota division, we showcased the all-new Toyota Land Cruiser Prado, the legendary Hilux, the RAV4 Hybrid Electric Vehicle, and the sporty Corolla Cross GR. From our Automark division, we presented popular models such as the Mark X, Axio, and C-HR Hybrid. Our efforts were rewarded as we won the award for second-best in the Automotive category.

The event was graced by several dignitaries, including the Minister of Justice, Hon. Princess Kasune, M.P, and the guest of honor, Hon. Elvis Nkandu, MP, Minister of Youth, Sport, and Arts. In his speech, Hon. Nkandu emphasized that the motor show is all about celebrating creativity, innovation, and excellence. He commended CFAO Mobility for its commitment to these values, especially highlighting our focus on sustainability and environmental responsibility.

The guest of honor was particularly impressed by CFAO Mobility’s green initiatives, noting our dedication to environmental preservation through the introduction of Hybrid Electric Vehicles (HEVs). “CFAO Mobility is leading the charge towards a greener future,” he remarked. “Their lineup of HEVs offers innovative solutions to reduce fuel emissions, a critical step in safeguarding our environment for the long term.”

Hon. Nkandu also expressed his admiration for the all-new Toyota Land Cruiser Prado, which made a striking impression at the show. “I was truly wowed by the new Land Cruiser Prado, a vehicle that stands out with its boldness and luxury,” he said. “Built with distinctive features that exude confidence and sophistication, it exemplifies the spirit of innovation that this event celebrates.”

At CFAO Mobility, our commitment to these shows goes beyond generating leads; it’s about embracing the latest automotive trends and showcasing our dedication to innovation, quality, and sustainability. We look forward to participating in many more events, continuing to drive progress and excitement in Zambia’s motor industry

Sébastien Ogier and TOYOTA GAZOO Racing World Rally Team looked on course to secure second position and strong points from Acropolis Rally Greece until final-stage heartbreak.

Ogier was fighting back after losing over two minutes at the end of Friday with a technical issue. On the final morning he stormed into second overall and a good lead of the separate Super Sunday classification with wins in the first two stages of the day.

The subsequent Power Stage offered another opportunity to convert that pace into valuable extra points, but early in the rock-strewn test Ogier would sustain a puncture that led him to run wide in a following corner and roll over.

He and co-driver Vincent Landais were thankfully unharmed and, after a delay while they made some repairs, were able to get their car through the stage and to the final time control in Lamia – at least securing the 13 points they had banked for finishing Saturday in third position.

Sustained hot and dry weather made this one of the roughest and toughest editions of the legendary Acropolis Rally for many years. Elfyn Evans lost significant time with multiple issues during the rally but reached the finish taking points for third in the Super Sunday classification and the Power Stage. Takamoto Katsuta, who stopped with damage on Friday morning, took fifth on Super Sunday and in the Power Stage.

After an impressive Rally1 debut with TGR-WRT at Rally Finland, Sami Pajari and Enni Mälkönen returned to their WRC2 campaign in Greece in their GR Yaris Rally2 car run by Printsport and claimed their third win of the season in fourth place overall. They sealed the win in a thrilling dead heat with Robert Virves (Škoda) after sustaining a puncture in the final stage, and now close to within three points of the championship lead.

It is the fourth WRC2 win in total for the GR Yaris Rally2 in the last six rallies in what were the most demanding conditions it has faced yet in its debut season.

Quotes:
Jari-Matti Latvala (Team Principal)
“It’s a difficult moment for us. Sometimes when things start to go wrong direction, they can keep going wrong, and that’s just how it is. It’s been a tough weekend, but Seb is a fighter and after what happened on Friday, he had to push. He needed to try to win the Power Stage and the Sunday standings because with that we would have been able to recover some ground in the championship. What happened in the last stage was unfortunate and we paid a big penalty for it, but at least he and Vincent could bring the car to the finish. We keep fighting, we will not lose that spirit, and we’ll take it rally-by-rally and see what the results will be. One positive to take away from today is that our Rally2 car won WRC2 in the hands of Sami and Enni, and that is something really nice to see.”

Elfyn Evans (Driver car 33)
“After a difficult weekend, today didn’t go as well as we would have liked. Clearly, the speed is still missing unfortunately. In some sections and moments we were still performing OK, but I didn’t feel fully at home to really push with no worries. I was probably too keen to finish cleanly after what’s been a difficult few days. It’s been a big disappointment lately, things have not been going well and we need to get back on the right track. We have some work to do and we’ll look to start again fresh in the next event.”

Sébastien Ogier (Driver car 17)
“We gave everything all weekend. We did a lot right, we had a great feeling in the car and great pace, and we fought as hard as we could until the last stage. Unfortunately we picked up a puncture around a kilometre in, I didn’t react to brake early enough for the next corner, and we rolled. Thankfully we managed to fix the car and bring it back to service, and bring at least some points to the team. It’s been a strange weekend. In many aspects it was close to perfection, but it doesn’t count in rallying if you don’t bring it all to the end. This is not a rally where you want to be taking risks, you need some luck to do so, and it was not on our side. It’s satisfying for me to still be able to compete like this: I enjoy pushing the limits, it’s been fun in the car. But I know very well after all these years that sometimes it doesn’t go your way. I will still be there in the next three events, continuing to give my best and keep fighting.”

Takamoto Katsuta (Driver car 18)
“It’s been a very tough rally. Today on the final day we also had some difficulties. The stages were rough and I tried to take some points on the Power Stage in particular, but unfortunately, we picked up a puncture. This probably cost us the chance to take some more points. It’s been a disappointing weekend and I’m sorry for the team. The car felt amazing at the beginning of the rally, but with my small mistake our chances of a good result were over, so I need to do a better job in future.”

PROVISIONAL FINAL CLASSIFICATION, ACROPOLIS RALLY GREECE
1 Thierry Neuville/Martijn Wydaeghe (Hyundai i20 N Rally1 HYBRID) 3h38m04.2s
2 Dani Sordo/Cándido Carrera (Hyundai i20 N Rally1 HYBRID) +1m46.8s
3 Ott Tänak/Martin Järveoja (Hyundai i20 N Rally1 HYBRID) +2m57.3s
4 Sami Pajari/Enni Mälkönen (Toyota GR Yaris Rally2) +7m01.1s
5 Robert Virves/Aleks Lesk (Škoda Fabia RS Rally2) +7m01.1s
6 Yohan Rossel/Florian Barral (Citroën C3 Rally2) +7m31.9s
7 Kajetan Kajetanowicz/Maciej Szczepaniak (Škoda Fabia RS Rally2) +9m54.0s
8 Fabrizio Zaldivar/Marcelo Der Ohannesian (Škoda Fabia RS Rally2) +11m27.9s
9 Josh McErlean/James Fulton (Škoda Fabia RS Rally2) +12m27.2s
10 Roberto Daprà/Luca Guglielmetti (Škoda Fabia RS Rally2) +13m44.9s
16 Sébastien Ogier/Vincent Landais (Toyota GR YARIS Rally1 HYBRID) +23m44.5s
18 Elfyn Evans/Scott Martin (Toyota GR YARIS Rally1 HYBRID) +24m45.5s
30 Takamoto Katsuta/Aaron Johnston (Toyota GR YARIS Rally1 HYBRID) +41m22.2s
(Results as of 16:30 on Sunday, for the latest results please visit www.wrc.com)

2024 FIA World Rally Championship for drivers after round 10:
1 Thierry Neuville 192 points
2 Ott Tänak 158
3 Sébastien Ogier 154
4 Elfyn Evans 140
5 Adrien Fourmaux 130
6 Kalle Rovanperä 86
7 Takamoto Katsuta 80
8 Dani Sordo 44
9 Sami Pajari 34
10 Esapekka Lappi 33

2024 FIA World Rally Championship for manufacturers after round 10:
1 Hyundai Shell Mobis World Rally Team 413 points
2 TOYOTA GAZOO Racing World Rally Team 388
3 M-Sport Ford World Rally Team 215

What’s next?
Rally Chile takes place on September 26-29 in the forests of the Bio Bío region around the city of Concepción on South America’s Pacific coast. The stages are technical but largely fast with a mix of smooth and abrasive gravel.

Source: https://toyotagazooracing.com