There are a set of images doing the e-mail rounds at present showing images of the Cape Town Stadium in the recent lightning storm.

It took me a bit of time (10 seconds using everyone’s favourite search engine if truth be told) to track down the photographer. He uses the internet handle GOTTOGRAPHY and we presume his first name is Simon as some overly familiar older ladies in his group refer to him as SI!

We can understand the older ladies having a bit of a thing for feeling Si up owing to his classic good looks in this image from his Flickr Account – “To all the MILF’s I’ve Loved Before …..”

Anyway, back to the other objects of lust doing the e-mail rounds (Click on any of the images to ORDER from SI):

Cape Town Stadium Lightning

Cape Town Stadium Lightning

Cape Town Stadium Lightning

Cape Town Stadium

Non-profit organisation, the Cape IT Initiative (CITi) and the IEEE Computer Society Chapter (IEEE South Africa Section) are bringing together industry, government and academia to discuss the growth and future of software and software engineering at the third Software Engineering Colloquium in Cape Town on 16 March 2010.

This Colloquium aims to establish tangible and immediate programs to build the South African software industry and create value through engineering.

“One of our primary aims is to put local software engineering on the map,” explains Jenny McKinnell, CITi’s executive director. “And to help achieve this, we have asked some very high-level individuals in the industry to partake in the Colloquium.”

Some of these role players include Prof Sonia Berman, Head of Computer Science Department at the University of Cape Town; Prof Johannes Cronje, Dean of Informatics & Design at Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT); Prof Nico Beute, Former Dean of Engineering at CPUT; Jo-Ann Johnston, Chief Director of Trade and Sector Development for the Provincial Government of the Western Cape; Jenny McKinnell, Executive Director of CITi; Dr Joseph Balikuddembe, Systems Analyst for Sanlam Personal Finance; Dr David Hislop, CTO of Korwe Software, and Sian Evans, Attorney at Michalsons, Sian Evans & Associates, among others.

Attendees will include professors, lecturers and students from UCT, the University of Stellenbosch, the University of Western Cape and CPUT, as well as representatives from industry and government.
The technical advisory committee has been meeting extensively over the past few months, and has identified pertinent issues through a series of conversations and eight multi-stakeholder roundtable discussions.

While the Colloquium is not exclusively aimed at software engineers, the agenda is being driven by them. The engineers believe that without the software engineering profession being adequately recognised and accredited, there cannot be a continued growth of world-class software creation locally.

“The bottom line, is there are real people doing real work in this country in terms of software engineering,” says Dr David Hislop, CTO for Korwe and IEEE Senior Member. “They need to be not only recognised, but empowered in the industry.”

Some of the key issues that the technical team believes need to be addressed include the reference model of the Cape software industry; the ICT skills crisis and skills pipeline; innovation, research funding and access to capital; rewards and recognition for software innovators, inventors, designers and architects; legal compliance, IT governance and King III; and the professional recognition of software engineers. Agile development, cloud computing,and open source (FOSS) will also be discussed.

In a survey commissioned prior to the 2007 Colloquium which included input from SMEs based in the Western Cape, as well as software customers and development partners from the bigger enterprises, government departments and training institutions, issues surrounding a shortage of skills arose. “In terms of the supply of skills locally, it has been stated generally by respondents that there is definitely a shortage of adequate skills from the local employable workforce and that it hence makes sense to hire expatriates or even sometimes repatriate skilled workforce from overseas,” the report stated.

The report also highlighted a gap between what is being taught and what is needed by industry identifying “intellectual laziness for innovation and continuous learning” as a major cause of the brain-drain of the ‘gems’ and stagnation of average skills locally.

“Today, three years after the Second Colloquium, the ICT skills crisis remains an issue of critical concern to our industry and academic institutions,” says McKinnell. “It is clear that addressing the issue requires that we speak as one voice and take action. We are hoping that the discussion at the Colloquium will result in the creation of a multi-stakeholder initiative to grow the skills pipeline.”

These issues and more will be addressed and explored at this year’s Colloquium.

This post was submitted by Bonita.

Pat van Eyssen, NSRI Table Bay station commander said: “At 08h50 on Sunday, 07 March, NSRI Table Bay, NSRI Melkbosstrand, Lifeguards, the SA Police Services, a Police Dive Unit, Cape Town Fire an Rescue Services and the Metro Ambulance and Rescue Services launched a search for a 33 year old Khayelitsha man reported to have gone missing in the surf while allegedly trying to evade being apprehended by Crime Watch members at Milnerton Beach after allegedly stabbing a female believed to be his girlfriend.

“An extensive search which included 25 rescue swimmers deployed into the surf to conduct a sweeping line search, a Fire and Rescue Services rescue rubber-duck, an NSRI rescue craft and a Lifesaving rescue rubber duck has revealed no sign of the missing man.

“Police will continue with the ongoing search operation.

“The female involved in the incident was transported to hospital in a stable condition by a Metro ambulance.”

Executive Mayor Alderman Dan Plato joined hundreds of children on Tuesday 2 March 2010 to break the record of the largest number of people simultaneously performing the Diski Dance, South Africa’s official 2010 FIFA World Cup™ dance.

The event was organised by Cape Town Tourism to coincide with countrywide celebrations marking the 100-day countdown to the kickoff of the World Cup, and took place on the Cape Town Stadium concourse.

A total of 570 schoolchildren from local communities and another 80 guests – 650 in all – performed the dance – a sequence of moves based on soccer tricks – under the instructions of Amanda Maartens from Cape Town fusion band CODA, to cheers, laughter and music, as part of Cape Town Tourism’s Live It! Love it! LOUDER! campaign. “Diski” is the slang word for soccer in Xhosa.

Cape Town Tourism believes it broke the previous record of 600 by SA Tourism in London.

“It was a big commitment to organise everything, but it was worth it, and we’re very happy we pulled it off. It was a very real experience, seeing it from the kids’ perspective – their energy and excitement and honour to come together and display it,” said Leanne Pohlmann, Cape Town Tourism 2010 Marketing Manager.

The children were originally trained to dance for the opening ceremony of the Peace Cup, which was cancelled, and were taught the Diski dance in an attempt to create a pool of resources that could hopefully assist with welcomes and Public Viewing Area entertainment during the World Cup™, said Pohlmann.

The participants came from areas such as Atlantis, Athlone, Langa, Khayelitsha, Mitchells Plain, Stellenbosch and Kayamandi.

Plato called on the children to be ambassadors for the FIFA World Cup™ and also to support Bafana Bafana, whether the national side wins or loses. He reminded them that the FIFA World Cup™ belongs to them as much as anyone else, and then delighted the crowd with his own Diski Dance moves.

“Cape Town is one of the world’s premier tourism destinations, and in preparation for the FIFA 2010 World Cup™, we have spent massive amounts of money on making Cape Town an even more accessible and enjoyable destination. These improvements are taking shape as the World Cup™ approaches, and we look forward to them benefiting residents and visitors for decades to come,” he said.

Cape Town Tourism spokesperson Lianne Burton said: “In just over three months, Cape Town will be on the centre stage of the sporting world. Our young people are leading the way to Live it! Love it! LOUDER! as we near the 2010 FIFA World Cup™. Hosting a successful, friendly FIFA World Cup™ has a direct impact on our children’s legacy. Now, more than ever we need to join in on their enthusiasm in welcoming our visitors.”

She added that despite initial concerns, ticket sales and hotel bookings are now on the rise, and Cape Town is more or less ready for the World Cup™.

Managing international perceptions will be a challenge, and the months ahead will be focused on countering negative and skewed perceptions. But despite this, the worldwide television coverage will give an opportunity to show that Cape Town is not only a proven lifestyle and events capital, but it is also capable of hosting a mega-event, Burton said.

Cape Town’s top film producers and industry specialists will be honoured at the second annual awards ceremony to showcase and recognise excellence in the local film industry.

The Imbongi Awards ceremony will be hosted by the Cape Film Commission (CFC) and the City of Cape Town on Saturday 6 March 2010 at the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC).

“Over the past nine years, Cape Town’s film industry has grown from an exotic, niche industry into a flourishing multi-billion rand industry attracting big budget features, commercials and stills production,” says Alderman Felicity Purchase, Mayoral Committee Member: Economic Development and Tourism.

“The phenomenal growth in this industry has injected millions of rands into the local economy, providing a tremendous return on the City’s ongoing investment in Cape Town’s infrastructure and positioning Cape Town and Western Cape as a globally competitive industry destination,” says Purchase.

“The prestigious Imbongi Awards will showcase the very best film production talent and facilities in Cape Town and the Western Cape,” says Mansoor Mohamed, Executive Director: Economic, Social Development and Tourism.

“As one of the biggest commercial and stills production destinations in the world, Cape Town and the Western Cape enjoy increasing attention from advertising agencies and big brands employing internationally experienced production crews with the facilities to back it all up. The Imbongi Awards builds upon Cape Town’s strong reputation for production craft by honouring individuals and companies for outstanding achievement in pre-production, production and post production,” says Mohamed.

Awards will be made in 10 categories including the Chairman’s award and the 2010 awards. The 10 categories are: Best contribution to marketing Cape Town and the Western Cape through film content, Technical Service Provider of the Year, Best Producer/Production Manager, Best Locations Professional, Excellence in Animation, Excellence in VFX and Post Production and Best contribution to Skills Development and Transformation.

“The film industry has been able to attract a significant amount of productions to Cape Town and the Western Cape which in turn contributed significantly to the growth of the film industry and the economy of the Western Cape. In addition these productions have further contributed to the marketing of Cape Town and the Western Cape as a desirable location and industry for film productions. The Imbongi Awards is thus our way of paying homage to those individuals and companies who have all contributed to this success,” says Laurence Mitchell, Head of the CFC.

FIFA Secretary-General Jerome Valcke has described the newly-built Cape Town Stadium as “perfect.”

“It’s just an amazing stadium, and all the teams who play in Cape Town, will play in a perfect place.”

Without wanting to be biased regarding other host cities, he said Cape Town is “one of the most beautiful in the country”.

He was visiting the city’s 68 000 seater stadium as part of the FIFA Local Organising Committee “state of readiness” roadshow of 2010 World Cup™ facilities in South Africa on Monday, 1 March 2010.

Valcke addressed 125 national and international journalists, along with Western Cape Premier Helen Zille, Executive Mayor Alderman Dan Plato, and Head of the Local Organising Committee, Dr Danny Jordaan.

Valcke added that the Cape Town Stadium rye grass pitch will be treated as a benchmark for all other new World Cup stadiums.

The visit came one day ahead of the official 100 days until kickoff. Celebratory events were held countrywide.

The City of Cape Town celebrated this milestone with a media event at Signal Hill to launch the official 2010 FIFA World Cup™ coin, which has been specially created in honour of the tournament. Mayor Dan Plato kicked off a soccer ball to mark the occasion.

The City has also urged Capetonians to wear soccer shirts or jerseys in support of this occasion.

Valcke said that South Africa’s preparations for the World Cup™ were largely on track, and the country as a whole is 80% ready to host the tournament.

Motorists are advised to expect some disruption to the free flow of traffic at the intersection of Boundary Rd and the R27 for the weekend of Friday 5 – Monday 8 March 2010.

A median closure at the intersection of Boundary Road and the R27 (Marine Drive) will be in effect. This is to allow for work to be conducted for the construction of Cape Town’s new Integrated Rapid Transit (IRT) system, specifically for work on the transport corridor along the R27 from Milner Road to Racecourse Road.

Engineers will commence work after the morning rush hour peak on Friday 5 March and will finish their work before the morning rush hour period on Monday 8 March 2010.

Motorists travelling past this intersection should please note the following alternative routes that will be in place to accommodate the flow of traffic. Directional information signage will be erected as well.

Motorists travelling along Marine Drive outbound will not be able to turn right into Boundary Road, instead having to detour via Loxton Road, back along Union Road.

Motorists travelling along Marine Drive inbound will not be able to turn right into Lagoon Beach, instead having to detour via Milner Road.

Motorists travelling along Boundary Road towards Marine Drive will be forced to detour via Union Road, into Loxton Road and back onto Marine Drive.

The City apologises to residents for the inconvenience and thanks them for their patience during construction. The City has tried to reduce the inconvenience by ensuring that alternative routes are available during this period and by instituting these road works out of peak traffic periods.

Short term insurer Santam has agreed to co-sponsor the Energy Efficiency Forum for commercial property, which is run by the City of Cape Town, Eskom and the South African Property Owners’ Association (SAPOA).

The Energy Efficiency Forum provides owners and managers of commercial and public buildings with a platform for practical, shared learning and collective action. Efficient use of electricity has become increasingly important in view of steeply rising electricity tariffs and the medium-term shortage of South Africa’s electricity supply. The need to reduce operating costs, the risk of future power cuts and carbon emissions all add up to the urgent need for a concerted effort to improve energy efficiency, particularly for the larger electricity users.

The next forum meeting is scheduled for 9 March 2010. Commercial property owners and managers who would like to attend should contact Melissa Van Harte of SAPOA by e-mail to MVanHarte@omigpi.com

The forum is also endorsed by the Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT), the Cape Town Partnership, the Green Building Council of South Africa (GBCSA) and the Provincial Government of the Western Cape.

Minister of Community Safety, Lennit Max and City of Cape Town Mayco member, JP Smith will today launch a 30 day blitz on seatbelt and number plate compliance, and cell phone usage while driving.

At 13h00 today, Minister Max and Transport Minister Robin Carlisle will travel in separate Ghost Squad police cars to personally observe the operation.

Over the next month, a team constituted of provincial and City of Cape Town traffic officials will conduct a variety of mini-blitzes throughout the metropole to clampdown on the three traffic offences.

The CoCT processed 1874 number plate offences, 661 cell phone offences and 3034 safety belt offences in January.

Minister Carlisle said: “The blitz is the first of a rollout of special traffic enforcement operations for 2010 under the banner of the provincial government’s Safely Home campaign which aims to halve road fatalities in the province by 2014. The province and city are determined to avoid the spike in road carnage of recent years.”

Minister Max was emphatic that the blitz will help change perceptions about seatbelt compliance.

“Many motorists only wear a seatbelt to avoid a fine or arrest. We want motorists to buckle up because they can save lives by simply wearing their seatbelts. Too many lives have been lost on our roads due to human negligence. Research shows that we can reduce road fatalities by at least 30% by enforcing seatbelt compliance”.

Minister Max also urged motorists to take personal responsibility for the safety of their passengers. “Every motorist must also ensure that their passengers buckle up. Motorists who fail to do so will be prosecuted without fear or favour”.

A recent study by the Automobile Association (AA) showed that South Africa’s average seatbelt wearing rate for all occupants is 56%. This is too low compared to international practice.

Cllr. Smith highlighted the real dangers of using a cell phone while driving. “Using a cell phone while driving, be it talking or texting, has the same consequences as drunk driving. It results in avoidable accidents and fatalities. We hope this blitz will significantly reverse the reckless trend of using a cell phone while driving”.

The mini-blitzes are rooted in “back to basics” government, Max observed. When basic traffic laws are adhered to, citizens’ adherence of all traffic laws increases dramatically.

Research shows that a staggering 80% of all road accidents can be attributed to human factors in South Africa. The Human Factors Quarterly Journal crisply states: “Cell phone distraction causes a multitude of deaths and injuries yearly”.

The same study reveals that motorists who engage in cell phone conversations while driving are less capable than drunk drivers with blood alcohol levels exceeding 0.08. The ubiquity of cell phones in our society fuels these alarming statistics.

Lets be careful out there people!

On Monday 1 March at 18h08 NSRI Kommetjie, NSRI Hout Bay, NSRI Bakoven and the Metro Red Cross AMS helicopter were activated following reports of a small yacht being swept out to sea between Kommetjie and Hout Bay and appearing to be in difficulty in gusting 45 knot winds.

During the search the Metro Red Cross AMS helicopter located the yacht 5 nautical miles off-shore of Llandudno but they were under motor power and heading towards Port in Cape Town.

Ian Ruthven, NSRI Hout Bay duty coxswain, said that their progress was monitored until they were safe in port.

It is believed they sustained motor failure to their small yacht but were swept off-shore in the strong gusting winds before managing to get their motors started.

On Monday 1 March at 17h38 NSRI Bakoven and the Metro Red Cross AMS helicopter were activated following reports of two surf-skiers in difficulty 1 nautical mile off Mouille Point lighthouse.

NSRI Bakoven launched their rescue craft Spirit of Rotary – Table Bay, the Metro Red Cross AMS helicopter responded, NSRI rescue vehicles and the Metro Ambulance and Rescue Services responded.

Johnny Albert, NSRI Bakoven duty coxswain, said that the 2 surf-skiers, friends from the United Kingdom, one from Northern Scotland and the other from London, had launched from the Three Anchor Bay slip-way into gusting 40 knot off-shore winds but the less experienced surf-skier, the man from London, had quickly capsized his craft and his friend was trying to assist him to get back on his surf-ski, without success, while the 2 men were being blown out to sea. They were not wearing life-jackets.

2 passing surf-skiers attempted to assist them but faced getting into difficulties themselves and had to abandon their attempts.

A fishing trawler was diverted to the scene by the Transnet National Ports Authority, but, being too large to render a rescue themselves they stood-by on-scene to provide a shelter to the 2 surf-skiers from the wind while rescue resources responded to the scene.

A smaller fishing boat that happened to be passing by at the time took both men and one of their surf-ski’s on-board their vessel and on the arrival of the NSRI rescue craft both men were transferred onto the rescue craft and brought in to the Three Anchor Bay slip-way where they were treated for mild hypothermia and released requiring no further assistance.

One of the surf-ski’s was lost to the sea and it is expected to wash ashore.

Stuart Burgess, NSRI Gordon’s Bay duty coxswain said: “On Tuesday, 02 March at 18h54 NSRI Gordon’s Bay duty crew were activated following reports of red distress flares being activated in the vicinity of Harbour Island.

“The NSRI Gordon’s Bay members were on base at the time preparing for a monthly crew meeting and immediately launched our rescue craft.

“On arrival on-scene a group of surf-skiers were found approximately ¾ nautical miles off-shore and it was established that one of the surf-skiers, a 49 year old local man, had sustained a suspected heart attack while taking part in a regular organised “downwind” paddle from Gordon’s Bay to the Strand in which 28 surf-skiers were taking part.

Sea conditions were gusting to 30 knot South Easterly winds and choppy seas.

“The surf-skier, who was being kept out of the water by three fellow paddlers who were using their surf-ski’s to keep the man’s body afloat, was immediately transferred on-board our rescue craft and he presented with no pulse and no breathing and Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) efforts were immediately commenced by our NSRI paramedic while the rescue craft returned to our rescue base.

“Once ashore paramedics continued with CPR but after all efforts to resuscitate the man were exhausted he was declared dead.

“A brief search was then conducted for two men on a double surf-ski who had assisted in the rescue but they were found safe.

“While it is suspected that the man suffered a heart attack a post mortem will determine the exact cause of death.”

Refined all-electric Joule debuts at the International Motor Show in Geneva: Joule, the revolutionary electric vehicle from South African company Optimal Energy, is on display at the 80th International Motor Show in Geneva in a form tantalisingly close to the planned production version.

Designed by South African-born Keith Helfet, Joule has been developed from a static display model and engineering prototype into a pre-production prototype by Zagato’s Total Design Centre, and Joule deservedly forms the centrepiece of a stand at Geneva shared by Optimal Energy and the iconic Milanese design house.

The Optimal Energy-Zagato-Helfet team has made a number of changes to Joule and the car shown in Geneva is somewhat different, especially at the rear, from the version first unveiled in Paris two years ago. This car was hand-built on the outskirts of Port Elizabeth, South Africa by Hi-Tech Automotive, which is responsible for building a marketing and test fleet of approximately 100 vehicles. These will double as research and development units, some of which will be on South African roads by the start of the Soccer World Cup in June.

The Interior of the All Electric Joule

Joule’s mantra is Born Electric. A key strength and differentiator of Optimal Energy is freedom from many of the constraints that affect traditional car companies. As virtually the only automotive manufacturer focused exclusively on electric cars for the mass market, everything Optimal Energy does is directed towards achieving that goal. Not only has this fresh approach led to the creation of a new kind of car, but it will ultimately also lead to a new way of buying a car and a new kind of customer ownership experience.

Full-scale production of Joule will begin at the end of 2012, with cars in showrooms by mid-2013. Key design goals for the finished product include a range of 230 kilometres based on the New European Driving Cycle (NEDC) or 300km using the Urban Dynamometer Driving Schedule (UDDS), integration with existing charging infrastructure, a genuine freeway cruising capability, seating for five, a 4-star NCAP safety rating and a retail price of €24 300 in today’s terms.

Optimal Energy has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with EDAG, a German automotive full service supplier, to industrialise the Joule. EDAG has built an outstanding reputation working with many well known carmakers over the past 40 years, and in partnering with EDAG, Optimal Energy is ensuring that the best of German automotive engineering will be integrated into the series production Joule.

Optimal Energy has also signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Energy Innovation Group (EIG), a South Korean lithium battery cell supplier, to explore the potential of setting up a manufacturing facility in South Africa, for the non-exclusive supply of cells to Optimal Energy. The Industrial Development Corporation of South Africa (IDC), as potential investor, is party to this Memorandum. The IDC is currently an investor in Optimal Energy.

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) of South Africa has just announced its 2010 – 2013 Industrial Policy Action Plan, in which the commercialisation of South Africa’s electric car is specifically addressed. This includes the provision of appropriate support to encourage local manufacture of EV’s and related components, infrastructure roll-out for such EV’s, creation of testing facilities, provision of demand stimulation mechanisms and public education on the use and benefits of alternative energy source vehicles. These are major steps towards reaching Optimal Energy’s vision of establishing and leading the electric vehicle industry in South Africa and expanding globally.

Once production of Joule begins, CEO of Joule manufacturer, Optimal Energy, Kobus Meiring estimates that Optimal Energy, which currently employs more than 100 highly-skilled permanent personnel, will increase headcount to around 2 300 employees, while a further 8 000 people will be employed in various related and support industries. “We are in the process of selecting a site for our first assembly and manufacturing plant. The location of the plant will be announced later this year,” continues Meiring.

From the start Joule was conceived as a fully electric vehicle (EV), with all aspects of its design – from the styling to the safety features – reflecting this. Legendary ex-Jaguar stylist Keith Helfet came up with a shape that is a breakthrough in design and practicality yet has a drag coefficient that puts it at the forefront of aerodynamic efficiency. Joule will also boast a list of features that will make it exceptionally user-friendly, including clever packaging, an infotainment system, connectivity and navigation. All of these design features will make Joule the most practical and intelligent car that an urban motorist can own.

The Joule is powered by a 36 kWh traction battery. The function of the battery is to provide the energy required to power the electric motor of the Joule. In order to fulfil this function, the battery controller manages the energy transfer during charge, discharge and regeneration, a process that involves complex monitoring processes as well as sophisticated communication with other vehicle systems.

The traction battery consists of a number of modules, each module containing lithiumion cells. These cells are at the forefront of battery technology and safety, and have a high specific energy density. This allows the Joule to achieve the desired range without the mass penalty of older technology batteries.

The battery pack is mounted onto battery trays which slot into the vehicle from below and which can be replaced within few minutes. These trays form an integral part of the structure, and their location serves to ensure a low centre of gravity which reflects in the Joule’s handling characteristics. The Joule range is 300 km according to the Urban Dynamometer Driving Schedule (UDDS) and 230 km using the New European Driving Cycle (NEDC).

The all-wheel disc braking system provides excellent braking performance, including safety features such as ABS. Joule is also equipped with a regenerative braking system which, during deceleration, converts kinetic energy into electrical energy. This is used to recharge the traction battery, thus extending the range of the vehicle. The regenerative braking system operates separately from the standard brakes and is actuated when the accelerator pedal is released. This allows virtual “single pedal driving”, providing very easy and comfortable control of the car.

With its simple, elegant lines and self-assured stance, Joule displays a timeless appeal, which sets it apart from the competition. Styling does not compromise the aerodynamics of the vehicle, and Joule’s design is inherently aerodynamically efficient. This allows for maximisation of the vehicle range, especially important at high speeds. An on-going drag reduction program is in place to improve efficiency. The thermal and reflective properties of the paint and windows are being optimised in order to reduce the energy required to cool and heat the vehicle.

The design of the chassis ensures that the vehicle mass is kept to a minimum without compromising crash safety or handling characteristics. This has been achieved by making the battery tray an integral part of the chassis, maintaining stiffness and strength without adding mass. The judicious use of high strength steels, provided by one of the world’s greenest steel producers, also ensures that mass is reduced without sacrificing strength.

Propulsion is by means of a transversely-mounted synchronous permanent magnet motor providing 75 kW peak power and a peak torque of 280 Nm. The motor drives the front wheels through a 7.4:1 single speed reduction gearbox/differential unit.

Performance is brisk with a 0-60 km/h acceleration time of less than five seconds, 100 km/h coming up in under 15 seconds. Maximum speed is 135 km/h, making Joule perfectly suitable for highway driving.

A uniquely integrated computer developed from EV-specific architecture controls all Joule’s on-board systems and ensures – amongst other things – that the instant torque available on pull-away is properly managed to prevent wheel spin. An integrated, programmable on-board charger ensures that no external charging infrastructure is required and that charging can be synchronised with off-peak electricity.

The Joule is essentially a city car, and its suspension and steering system reflect this. It is equipped with an electric power steering and has a turning circle of under 10 metres for exceptional manoeuvrability.

The front McPherson struts, combined with independent rear suspension, delivers a modern design with superior dynamics and handling. Wheels and tyres form an integral part of a vehicle’s suspension and low rolling resistance tyres contribute to Joule’s efficiency. Custom 16-inch light alloy rims are standard, reducing unsprung mass and contributing significantly to the Joule’s handling characteristics.

The Joule is designed as a five-seater. The two front seats are equipped with adjustment for height, fore/aft and recline. They are separated by a central console which provides armrests and storage space.

The rear seat is moulded with three individual seat positions. The folding backrest allows luggage volume to be progressively increased when necessary, for maximum versatility. Joule has a luggage volume capacity of up to 700 litres, with seating flexibility similar to an MPV.

A photo-voltaic solar panel mounted on Joule’s roof will be offered as an option. The energy generated by this panel may be used in various ways, internal environmental control being the most efficient. Electricity generated in this manner could also be fed back into the traction battery or used to power ancillaries such as daytime running lamps or entertainment systems.

The charging system has been designed to be intuitive, automatic and safe, allowing Joule to be simply plugged in and left to charge. Normal charging is from a single phase 230v / 16A supply to a charge point located on the Joule.

The ability to integrate with existing charging infrastructures is of paramount importance, research is being done on how best to design a system that can integrate with current (and future) systems. Integration with modern “Smart Grid” electrical networks is being investigated, so as to optimise energy usage and provide Joule users with the most cost-effective charging options.

Because an EV has minimal mechanical noise, and in Joule’s case, almost no wind noise either, the suppression of interior and road noise is of vital importance. This is addressed in various ways, including careful tyre selection and suspension tuning.Pedestrian safety is vital and Optimal Energy is investigating ways of warning pedestrians of Joule’s approach without generating intrusive noise.

Joule is designed for ease of maintenance. With substantially fewer moving parts, there is considerably less wear and tear, and the regenerative braking system also reduces wear on the braking system. Likely service intervals will be 40 000 km or two years, the absence of oil as a lubricant further adding to Joule’s environmental credentials while saving money.

With Joule’s vehicle control system continuously monitoring the state of health of the vehicle, service information will be regularly downloaded and analysed, allowing a vehicle to be called or scheduled for repair or maintenance before failure occurs. The design is also being optimised to reduce repair times and costs, as these have a significant effect on insurance costs. Attention is being given especially to the repair of damage sustained during city (low speed) use, as this is the environment where Joule will mostly operate. Not only is the pressed steel body designed to be easily recyclable and repairable, but special attention has been given to the extremities and corners to ensure they are as damage-resistant as possible.

Safety was paramount in the design of the Joule, and the design goal is a minimum Euro NCAP 4-star rating when it goes on sale. Airbags, ISOFIX child seat attachment points, stability control and anti-lock brakes, features ensuring the safety of the high voltage electrical systems: all are an integral part of the design.

The world’s largest timed cycle event – the annual Cape Argus Pick ‘n Pay Cycle Tour – will be held in Cape Town on 14 March. Thousands of competitors training frantically in preparation for the event have begun to fill up the city’s roads.

With this increase in the number of cyclists on the roads, the City urges motorists to exercise extreme caution. Tolerance, awareness, and mutual respect are values which must be exercised during this time. If cyclists and motorists are considerate of each other’s needs, the roads will be a much safer place for all.

“Motorists and cyclists both have a legal right to use South Africa’s roads. Cyclists may ride on any public road other than a freeway or where cycling is expressly forbidden. Motorists need to be more tolerant of cyclists and cyclists need to be vigilant and obey the rules of the road,” says Councillor Elizabeth Thompson, Mayoral Committee Member for Transport, Roads and Major Projects.

What cyclists can do:

• Obey the traffic rules
• As road users, cyclists are required to obey all traffic laws and signs. They have to stop at red traffic lights and stop streets and ride in single file.
• Always wear a helmet
• Never get on a bicycle without a helmet. Head injuries are the leading cause of cyclist fatalities, so invest in a good quality helmet that fits properly and is positioned correctly on your head.
• Carry identification with you
• When cycling, carry personal identification with you and an emergency contact name and number for a spouse, relative or friend.
• Be visible
• Cyclists are often not seen by motorists until it’s too late. Increase your visibility by wearing bright, reflective clothing and fitting lights on your bike – especially when riding at dusk or dawn.
• Ride unplugged
• Be aware of what is happening around you and of traffic approaching from behind by listening. Keep your ears unplugged – do not ride with your iPod or MP3 player.
• Use hand signals
• In the interest of courtesy and safety, use hand signals to inform motorists of your course of action.
• Choose your route and time
• Choose your training routes wisely and avoid peak periods and routes with high traffic volumes.
• Enter fun rides for training purposes
• This is the perfect environment for long training rides and to expose yourself to real-time race conditions.
• Safety in numbers
• Avoid riding alone. Group riding will teach you race-riding skills and will ensure that help is readily available in case of an emergency.

What motorists can do:

• ‘Think bike’
• Watch out for cyclists, drive safely and show respect. Be aware of cyclists who may be on your inside when turning. Don’t cut them off.
• Be patient towards cyclists
• A few seconds lost while driving behind a cyclist hardly affects your total journey time.
• Obey the traffic rules
• Keep within speed limits and signal before turning. Always obey traffic laws and signs.
• Give cyclists space and pass wide
• Never force your way past a cyclist. Leave at least a metre (ideally 1.5 metres) between yourself and a cyclist when passing.

Imagine that our earth and every living creature (including ourselves) on it are part of a giant soccer match – but everyone is losing. The Earth United team needs to work a lot harder to ensure that we win the game, and that our earth and the life it sustains are able to carry on.

This is the message of a new environmental education product developed by the City’s Environmental Resource Management Department. Consisting of a poster and a teacher’s guide, the Soccer and the Environment “Making Connections” project is one of more than 40 identified for implementation in South Africa’s 2010 Green Goal Action Plan.

The ‘game’ is aimed at Grade Seven learners, helping them to become more environmentally aware and sensitive to local issues.

The unique feature of Making Connections is that the exploration of environmental issues is developed through the game of soccer, and every soccer action on the poster has an environmental action linked to it.

For example, while learning about First Aid and injuries, Grade Sevens discover that the world is like a human body: the more ‘knocks’ it takes, the more damage is done, and the longer it takes to heal. ‘Injuries’ to the planet include soil erosion, climate change, and water and air pollution.

Our earth has already been weakened by years of damage, so it is more likely to suffer injury. We need to repair it through good environmental practices (injury prevention) and preparedness to step in when disasters occur (first aid)…

The coach trains the players to use their skills and passion for the benefit of the team. You too, Grade Sevens learn, can coach others to become champions for the environment…

Perhaps learners would like to model themselves on the referee instead? The match officials ensure fair play, and uphold the rules of the game they learn. Similarly, government and environmental activists enforce the laws that are there to protect the environment.

With each soccer action or role player, class activities are designed to show learners how to score a ‘green goal’ and make a positive impact on our earth.

The project is funded by the City of Cape Town and the Royal Danish Embassy.

For Cape Town’s IRT system to work, it must be easy for regular passengers to get from their home to an IRT bus station. Once commuters arrive at their destination station it must also be easy to get to wherever they have business.

With this in mind, a key element of Cape Town’s new Integrated Rapid Transit (IRT) public transport system is the transformation of areas along its routes and around its stations into pedestrian-friendly neighbourhoods.

In many places, Capetonians using the IRT will need to make some of their journey on foot. This is a familiar practice for those living in most major international cities, but has not yet become a part of South Africa’s urban culture. But with rising fuel prices, growing congestion on the roads, and more awareness of the impact that cars have on the environment, South African cities are ripe for change.

Walking down the road to a bus station and leaving the car at home, or not owning a car at all, will be a difficult shift for some. Part of the answer is to make walking safer and pleasanter.

To do this, engineers working on the IRT have designed customised upgrades of all streets that intersect with the IRT route based on a comprehensive review of what the pedestrian demands will be, and what the existing challenges are.

Depending on the environment, examples of improvements include installing bollards to prevent parked cars from blocking walkways, creating highly visible markings and signage to warn motorists and direct pedestrians, making sure that all areas are well lit for safety and building new, wider or resurfaced pavements, to make walking a good experience.

Around schools, or where high volumes of pedestrians are expected and space allows, new three metre-wide walkways will be built separate from the road along the trunk or main routes. These areas will also have a lot of visible signage, with large black and white zebra crossings at intersections.

Most upgraded pedestrian areas will extend approximately 500m on each side of the IRT’s main trunk routes, but where necessary, new infrastructure will be built much further than this to link the system to other areas. For example, in the Paarden Island area of the first main trunk route up the West Coast, three solid pathways will be built across the nearby wetland to allow users of the system to access it from surrounding neighbourhoods.

These pathways will have good lighting along their entire length for safety, and will reduce damage to the sensitive local environment by encouraging people to walk in one place. In the same area a pedestrian bridge will also be built to link the IRT to the nearest railway station.

The IRT system is designed to provide universal access to people with disabilities, so all pedestrian areas need to be easy for a person in a wheelchair to use. Extensive research has been done into these improvements, which benefit all pedestrians, and include dropped curbs at all intersections, and wide, even pavement surfaces.

For those who really don’t want to walk, using a bicycle is another option. All IRT pedestrian routes will include cycleways, either as part of the walkway or in painted lanes on the road. These will link up to existing cycle routes where possible and as this network spreads across Cape Town, commuting by bicycle will become a simpler, safer and healthier alternative.