Technology progressions

Modern motoring has benefited greatly from the insights gained from research.
Mariselle Stofberg
Elizabeth Joseph

Fleet managers and individual car owners have much more to consider than a driver resting their foot on the clutch, or one who simply rides the accelerator.

Shell and Vivo Energy with the help of Space Dimension know all about this, and have shown their involvement by launching the Shell Card, and in promoting this, they hosted the first ever Drone Challenge.

The programme was filled with inclusivity and the drone experts had the opportunity to showcase their skill. There were many proud moments but also moments to break a sweat as they competed to get through the obstacle course at minimum speed.

Yochanaan Coetzee won with a time of 1:34, which was tough for the other contestants to beat. He was overjoyed and with the festive season well on its way, he won a Shell card loaded with N$3 000 worth of fuel.

“It’s very exciting to see corporate giants such as Shell Namibia get involved in the development and popularisation of innovations such as UAV/Drone operations. This event truly gave the drone enthusiast the opportunity to compare notes, share experiences and even show off their skills, in front of an audience, which, very importantly, representatives of the NCAA were a part of.

“The Shell Card Drone Challenge has made a huge difference in helping bridge the gap between the enthusiast and the authorities, which will go far in helping both parties work together to formalise UAV operations in Namibia, whether for leisure or commercial operations,” he said.

He says what’s especially exciting is the discussions around an UAV league in the works. He further mentions that it’s a forward-thinking initiative by Vivo Energy, who have proven their innovative approach to business through products such as their Shell Fuel Card, which takes cashless payment systems to a whole new level thanks to its imbedded safety and reporting tool.

“This holiday is going to be an epic aerial adventure, because thanks to my new Shell Card, I can visit the furthest reaches of Namibia, and capture new and exciting perspectives with my trusty DJI Drone.”

The Shell Cards enable businesses of any size to buy petrol, diesel, lubricants and other products at selected Shell service stations and retail outlets across their national Namibian network.

Whether you have a small number of vehicles that deliver locally, a fleet of vehicles operating countrywide or have employees who use their own vehicles and claim mileage, they offer many benefits.

Some of these include cost reduction, better consumption, mileage capture and records.