BY Aurelia Mbokazi-Kashe

Alan Rosenmeyer from MotorMatters has been a motoring journalist for ten years, a journey that has come with trials and tribulations. Across his platforms including CHANGECARS and ALL THINGS MOTORING he has earned a loyal following for his relatable content, quirky-style of presenting as well as his signature hats.

How did you become a motoring journalist and when did your career begin?

I was born with a passion for cars and family legend has it that I 
could name every car we passed at about 3 years old. From there, I 
always had an interest in cars and even sold cars for 1 year along the way. 

Was it easy to break through? What were the major challenges for you?

My official career in motoring began 10-years ago when I moved to 
Johannesburg. I’d had some experience presenting the Breakfast show on a 
small community radio station and wanted to further my presenting 
career. 

I went for an audition at Chai FM, the Jewish radio station in 
Johannesburg. They had no vacancies but had open slots and asked me what 
show I’d present if were given a slot……I immediately said a motoring show 
and instantly thought of the name MotorMatters. 

What was your very first motoring launch you attended and what stood out about it?

My first ever launch was the BMW 4 series launch in the Western Cape 
at the end of 2013. I was amazed at how we were treated like royalty. Imagine someone waiting for you at arrivals with a little board saying 
BMW. Also, the opportunity to drive a sporty and upmarket car like the 4 series was amazing. 

What was the very first car you drove and please describe the feeling?

I can’t actually remember but I did get a number of BMW’s very early 
on, I couldn’t believe my luck.

What was your most embarrassing moment as a motoring journalist?

It must be the incident on the Hyundai i30N launch. Absolutely not 
my fault, but in avoiding what could have been a serious accident 
the car ended up in a ditch. Luckily neither my 
co-driver or myself were injured but the car was badly damaged. 
The worst part was that an irresponsible journalist (who was not a Guild 
member and was not at the launch) got hold of pictures of the damaged car and splashed them all over social media stating that “this is what happens when you allow incompetent drivers to drive fast or powerful cars”. Secondly, the 
Hyundai management referred to me as “Ditch Guy” for a long time but 
still invited me to their events. 

Describe your journey to becoming a South African Car of The Year (COTY) jury member. What unique qualities do you bring to COTY?

I joined the Guild early on in my career because I recognised the 
importance of being part of a professional body in your chosen career. 
Being a member adds to your credibility in the industry and some OEM’s 
prefer to deal with Guild members. From then on, I have worked at being 
seen as a professional in all aspects of my work and upholding the Guild 
standards and ethics in everything I do. It took time but when you work 
hard, you will be noticed. Eventually, I was elected as a trainee juror 
and then as a full juror for the past 2 years.

It takes a lot of logical thinking and experience of as many different 
vehicles as possible to make a good juror. The ability to evaluate and 
compare cars to the natural competitors within the specific segment and 
not just be impressed by the fastest or most expensive and luxurious car.

What do you look for in the Car of The Year and name your two favourite finalists that have what it takes to become this year winner.

To win COTY requires a combination of many factors. What does this 
car have that has moved the market? How does it compare to 
the other contenders in its category? Most importantly, in the current 
market, does it offer value for money? 

This year was extremely close for me with a number of cars that I believe have a very good chance of lifting the crown. If I’m forced to pick 2 personal favourites then they will probably be the Suzuki Fronx because of it’s value proposition and the Toyota Corolla GR for it’s performance and handling abilities.

What item do you take from the hotel from launches?

If I take anything its the shower gel.