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signs. At the same time, feedback indicates that consistently completing the nomination process within the prescribed timeframe can still present practical challenges.” Cost “Members have reported expenditure associated with systems enhancements, additional administrative resources, compliance processes and work required to ensure existing infringement records and processes are ready for the evolving AARTO environment,” said Ntseoane. However, SAVRALA has not undertaken an industry- wide quantification of these costs and Ntseoane said that it would be premature to conclude that they would translate directly into higher rental prices. “Practical implementation is important, precisely because unnecessary administrative complexity ultimately creates costs for businesses,” he added. Customer impact For rental customers, there has so far been little visible change. “For most customers, the fundamental obligation remains the same: comply with South African road traffic laws and understand the provisions of the rental agreement relating to traffic infringements,” said Ntseoane. Some operators have strengthened their customer communication and education around AARTO, while others have not considered changes to customer-facing documentation necessary at this stage. “We have not received evidence suggesting an industry-wide change to deposits or rental agreements specifically as a consequence of Phase 2.” Scams An issue that has emerged since the roll-out is the risk of fraudulent AARTO communications. But SAVRALA has not seen evidence that rental customers are specifically being targeted on a widespread basis. SAVRALA has received member feedback confirming instances of fraudulent AARTO-related emails, prompting operators to exercise caution and verify infringement information through official channels. “We would encourage customers not to act on unsolicited communications requesting payment without first verifying the legitimacy of the infringement through the appropriate official channels or, where relevant, with their rental provider.” Next test AARTO is expected to be rolled out nationwide some time next year, alongside the introduction of the demerit-points system. Demerit points will be assigned to drivers for traffic offences. Drivers start with zero points and the accumulation of 15 points will lead to licence suspension, with repeated accumulation resulting in revocation. “From SAVRALA’s perspective, the period before that next stage should be used constructively to address the practical issues emerging from implementation, including consistency of processes, reliable notification, efficient driver nomination, system capacity and the ability of high-volume fleet operators to administer infringements effectively,” Ntseoane said. He believes the objective should be to ensure that the full system is not only technically ready, but operationally workable, consistent and fair before the consequences associated with demerit points are introduced.
