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Sudheer Bandela,
Assistant Manager, Field Service & Warranty Group, Isuzu

Mauritius serves as an essential bridge for Isuzu’s expansion in Africa

  • The use of mobile phones while driving is indeed a growing concern worldwide. It’s one of the leading causes of accidents due to distraction.
  • Isuzu expects to introduce electric trucks to the Mauritian market soon.

In this interview with BIZWEEK, Sudheer Bandela, Assistant Manager of the Field Service & Warranty Group at Isuzu, discusses the importance of vehicle maintenance and road safety practices. With over 17 years of industry experience, Bandela emphasizes the value of a simple, five-minute morning vehicle check to identify potential issues early and ensure safe operation. He also talks about the common practice of neglecting the owner’s manual, encouraging drivers to become more familiar with basic maintenance guidelines to extend vehicle life. Bandela introduces Isuzu’s Eco-Drive initiative, which promotes efficient driving to reduce emissions and operating costs. He addresses the growing concern of mobile phone use while driving, advocating for continuous awareness and training programs. He also shares Isuzu’s strategies for entering the electric vehicle market and highlights the company’s partnerships that support its presence in Mauritius and other parts of Africa.

The five-minute vehicle check is often compared to a crucial morning ritual. Can you explain why this check is so important?

Absolutely. The five-minute vehicle check plays a critical role in preventing potential issues before they escalate. When a vehicle is parked overnight, any leaks, damages, or mechanical problems may become evident by the morning. For instance, signs of oil or transmission fluid leaks can be spotted on the ground after an eight-hour parking period. By identifying such issues early, drivers can seek timely repairs and prevent more severe and costly damages. This small routine step ensures that vehicles are safe and ready for operation, minimizing risks on the road.

 

Based on your experience, do you find that drivers consistently perform these morning checks?

Unfortunately, while some drivers make an effort to do these checks, many do not approach them with the seriousness they require. Most drivers may only do a superficial check of the wheels or start the engine to see if everything seems fine, but they don’t perform a thorough inspection. If more drivers were diligent with these checks, it could significantly reduce the incidence of major road failures and accidents.

 

Just as many of us use smartphones without fully understanding their features, drivers often operate vehicles without knowing essential maintenance practices.

 

You drew an interesting parallel in your presentation, comparing the way people use vehicles to how they use smartphones without understanding all the functions. Could you share more on this?

Yes, it’s an analogy I often use to highlight a common behaviour. Just as many of us use smartphones without fully understanding their features, drivers often operate vehicles without knowing essential maintenance practices. Many do not take the time to read the owner’s manual, which contains valuable information that can prevent minor issues from becoming major problems. If drivers and fleet managers were more proactive in familiarizing themselves with the manual, they could better maintain their vehicles and enhance their lifespan, reducing unexpected breakdowns.

 

You’ve worked extensively in different regions. How do maintenance practices differ between places like Dubai and Mauritius?

The differences in vehicle maintenance practices are largely influenced by regional climates and operating conditions. For example, in colder regions, vehicle maintenance includes steps to ensure that engines can generate the necessary heat for start-up. In hot regions, like the Middle East, vehicles need more frequent maintenance due to higher operating temperatures that can accelerate wear and tear. In Mauritius and many African countries, awareness of regular, periodic maintenance is generally lower. While some maintenance is done, it may not be as systematic or informed as it could be.

 

What advice would you give to drivers and fleet operators to improve vehicle longevity and safety?

Private cars are well-cared for since they are personal assets, but commercial trucks, often seen as company property, don’t always receive the same attention. This difference in care can lead to higher incidents of breakdowns and operational inefficiencies. My advice to fleet operators and drivers is to approach truck maintenance with the same sense of responsibility as they do with their own cars. Regular checks and proper maintenance help ensure road safety, and can save costs in the long run.

 

Can you tell us more about Isuzu’s Eco-Drive initiative and its key features?

The Eco-Drive initiative is a significant effort by Isuzu to encourage more sustainable driving practices. It focuses on stable, non-aggressive driving, which improves fuel efficiency and reduces vehicle wear. This program uses vehicle health reports, similar to medical check-ups, to assess the condition of the vehicle and the driver’s habits. Data from the Driver Recording Module (DRM) is analyzed to identify driving behaviours that could be improved. The main objectives are to reduce unnecessary acceleration and braking, limit clutch usage, and promote the use of engine braking to minimize the use of regular brakes. These practices not only extend the lifespan of the vehicle, but also reduce fuel consumption and emissions.

 

Mobile phone usage while driving has become a global safety issue. How do you view its impact?

The use of mobile phones while driving is indeed a growing concern worldwide. It’s one of the leading causes of accidents due to distraction. Although there are awareness campaigns in many countries, accidents related to phone usage continue to occur. Young drivers, in particular, are more susceptible to distractions. A proactive approach involving continuous training and awareness programs can help instil safer driving habits and reduce the frequency of such incidents.

 

You highlighted the cost-benefit of using authorized service centers over local garages. Can you elaborate on this?

Certainly. While local garages may offer lower prices initially, the quality of service and parts often falls short of those provided by authorized centers. Using genuine parts and lubricants from certified service centers ensures that vehicles are well-maintained and less likely to suffer from severe damage in the long term. In contrast, repairs done by local garages may lead to recurring issues and higher cumulative costs over time, due to the use of substandard parts and practices.

 

Electric vehicles (EVs) are becoming more prevalent. How is Isuzu preparing for this shift?

Isuzu is actively adapting to the rising demand for electric vehicles. We’re currently building momentum, and expect to introduce electric trucks to the Mauritian market soon. This step aligns with global trends toward sustainable transportation, and reflects our commitment to innovation and environmental responsibility.

 

Isuzu is actively adapting to the rising demand for electric vehicles. We’re currently building momentum, and expect to introduce electric trucks to the Mauritian market soon.

 

How would you describe the partnership between Isuzu and Mauritius?

The partnership between Isuzu and Mauritius, facilitated by Axess Motors, has been longstanding and beneficial. Axess has been instrumental in bringing world-class Isuzu trucks to the local market and supporting customers with strong after-sales services. Their large parts warehouse and trained technicians ensure that customers receive comprehensive support, making this collaboration a key part of Isuzu’s regional strategy.

 

Climate change is a pressing global issue. How does Isuzu contribute to sustainability?

Isuzu takes corporate responsibility seriously and has integrated eco-driving principles into its operations. By encouraging practices that reduce fuel consumption and emissions, Isuzu has helped fleet operators lower their carbon footprint. For example, in previous eco-driving seminars conducted in the Middle East, we showed that a fleet of 100 vehicles could reduce emissions by up to 670 tonnes per year through mindful driving practices. This approach is a vital part of our sustainability efforts.

 

Is Mauritius strategically positioned for Isuzu’s expansion in Africa?

Yes, Mauritius serves as an essential bridge for Isuzu’s expansion in Africa. Countries like Kenya, Ethiopia and Ivory Coast are also significant markets for us. In these regions, affordability and application-specific vehicle needs are important. Isuzu meets these requirements by offering tailored solutions that align with customers’ budgets while maintaining quality.

 

After visiting Mauritius numerous times, what are your personal impressions of the country?

Mauritius has always left me with positive memories. Coming from Dubai, which has a hot climate, Mauritius’ tropical weather is a refreshing change. The peaceful environment and warm hospitality make every visit enjoyable. The people of Mauritius are welcoming and accepting, which creates a sense of comfort for visitors. The road infrastructure in Port Louis is commendable, with drivers generally adhering to traffic rules, although there are some areas in the North that could use improvement. Overall, the country’s landscape, climate, and friendly community make it a memorable destination.

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