Category: Archive

„Najnovšia Škoda Octavia prekonala očakávania a priniesla o niečo viac moderny aj do stále pomerne konzervatívneho európskeho automobilizmu.“ 

   Priaznivci aj odporcovia boleslavskej automobilky sa zhodnú na tvrdení, že najnovšia Škoda Octavia prekonala očakávania a priniesla o niečo viac moderny aj do stále pomerne konzervatívneho európskeho automobilizmu. Aktuálnu Octaviu je možno priamo porovnávať s predchádzajúcou generáciou Audi A4, čo je dobrá správa pre každého jedného vodiča vyžadujúceho výborné jazdné vlastnosti, ktoré nebudú obmedzovať žiadny štýl jazdy. Či vodič preferuje bezpečnú a pohodlnú jazdualebo jemne agresívnu, nová Octavia mu bude po chuti.

 Najzásadnejšou zmenou v dizajne novej Octavie je masívne využívanie praktického minimalizmu. Ten je reprezentovaný predovšetkým jednoduchším dizajnom predných a zadných svetiel a kompaktnosťou interiéru. Škodovka vždy dbala na to, aby sa v jej vozidlách cítili dobre všetci pasažieri, preto nie je interiér orientovaný výhradne na vodiča. Všetky podstatné ovládacie prvky v prednej časti kokpitu sú preto zarovnané k stredovému panelu tak, aby boli na dosah aj spolusediacemu. Vodič tiež ocení, že dizajnéri Škodovky opäť stavili na jednoduchosť a prehľadnosť priestoru za volantom. Biele indikátory a číslice na čiernom podklade pôsobia moderne a sviežo, súčasne majú veľký podiel na bezpečnom kontrolovaní stavu jazdy aj v noci. Niektoré dizajnové variácie predovšetkým áziských automobiliek sa totiž časom ukazujú ako nie celkom praktické práve počas dlhých nočných ciest. V autopožičovni AVIS nájdete novú Škodu Octavia s 1,6-litrovým benzínovým motorom TDI a 6-stupňovou manuálnou prevodovkou. Súčasťou výbavy je aj bohatá zbierka technológií aktívne alebo pasívne sa podieľajúcich na bezpečnosti posádky.

The Avis car rental offer also includes the seventh generation Golf, which is celebrating one success after another in both the civilian and corporate worlds.

The Golf is an icon and, to some extent, a symbol of progress in the automotive industry, as it has always brought modern technology to the everyday world. The current seventh generation of this no longer quite small German hatchback once again pushes the boundaries of technology, comfort and driving characteristics.

The latest generation of the Golf draws attention to itself at first glance. It has a distinctive face with sharp shapes, a compact body with sophisticated details and a surprisingly premium interior. The Golf never tried to present itself as a luxury car or a higher-class vehicle, but it still manages to appeal with a valuable interior with high-quality materials, precise fit of individual elements and a wide center console more typical of sedans and limousines.

   The design direction that is now typical for Volkswagen responds to the global demand for modern-looking cars with a relatively unified appearance across the entire model range. As a result, the Golf bears a striking resemblance to the latest Passat and also shares many similarities with the large Touareg.

   In Avis, the vehicle is available with a 1.2-liter gasoline engine, which is combined with a manual 6-speed gearbox. This combination, together with front-wheel drive, allows the driver to actively regulate the vehicle's consumption, which, however, is still at a reasonable level of only 4.1 l/100 km. The wider equipment includes cruise control, CD/MP3 player, multi-collision brake, XDS differential, electric windows and rear, air conditioning, start/stop system, brake energy recovery and an on-board computer.

   However, for every driver, the high level of safety and comfortable driving are especially important, which in the case of the Golf is at a higher level than in other competing hatchbacks. Therefore, it becomes a very sensible choice, which is not questioned even by the desire for an emotionally charged drive.

Whatever you've seen or heard about the city of Detroit and what's happened there over the past ten years is still less tangible than visiting the city in person.

Even on the plane, my fellow passengers warned me about safety and avoiding certain parts of the city. However, when I arrived on Sunday afternoon, I decided to leave the hotel and go into the city.

   On the way along the highway, I was surrounded by a lot of factories and chimneys. After entering the city, I was surprised, the surroundings were gaping with emptiness. Emptiness after the non-existent legendary buildings, which until recently belonged to the largest corporations not only in the USA, but also in the world. Gradually, I came to a large glass building, the headquarters of the former unit in the global automobile market. It seems that not only the car factory, but also what was once a very nice building, has seen its best days. Next to it is an exhibition center, which is adjacent to the hockey stadium of the Detroit Red Wings hockey club.

   The auto show began with a press day on Monday. The Detroit Auto Show, also called the North American Auto Show, is the most famous. It is necessary to state that this auto show is different. Different from any other like it. I will only mention a few of my observations that are unique to the Detroit Auto Show, but at the same time they are a kind of view on the current state of the automotive industry.

   The new and largest limousine in its line was introduced by the KIA car manufacturer with the K900 model. A very important parameter for the launch of this limousine on the North American market is the competition, which speaks about where the model wants to go. It is a clear competitor to the Mercedes-Benz E-class, BMW 5-series and Audi A6. However, what is already noticeable in this upper middle-class car is the design approach and especially the incredible price, which is up to 30 percent lower in the USA compared to the competition from Germany. We will see how the possible launch of the model on the remaining markets, including Europe, will turn out.

   Another novelty was the introduction of the youngest member of the luxury German car manufacturer Porsche in the small SUV category – the Macan model. The Porsche Macan falls between the already existing large Cayenne and the lower ranks of other daughter models. The technology used gives the driver all the advantages of the large Cayenne, but with the fact that the vehicle is designed for smaller families, or families with children who have a relationship with luxury SUVs. To my surprise, there was really very little space in the rear seats and I am convinced that the vehicle, when fully occupied, will only be able to be used for two adults and their children or only for short distances in cities.

   Another German automaker with sports roots introduced not only a concept, but also a fully functional electric vehicle, the BMW i8, which, as everyone believes, will soon be offered by the Bavarian automaker, which is not lagging behind its competitors in this segment.

   But what was the biggest highlight of the Detroit Auto Show? I can say with certainty that the automotive industry as such has overcome the consequences of the crisis and it seemed that the auto show was completely flooded with new products not only in the lower and middle class. The German automaker Audi is also reaping success in the USA, where for the first time in history it sold a total of 158 thousand vehicles and in December 2013 it can boast of record sales of more than 17 thousand vehicles. Globally, total sales also increased to 1.5 million vehicles.

   At the auto show, car manufacturers are interested in presenting not only new models, but also concepts. I didn't sense any hint of concern about further developments here.

   A very interesting observation was also the large number of Asian-looking young people who were running from car to car, constantly taking notes and taking pictures of everything. The interesting thing was that they were taking pictures of details that an ordinary person would not notice. Small welds, handles and other specific parameters on new cars and studies. Looking at them, the only and one hundred percent correct answer came to my mind – industrial espionage.

   In the past, however, it has been secretive and much more sophisticated than this one I had the opportunity to see in Detroit. However, I believe that this time it will benefit consumers and the largest automakers will be able to defend their technological leadership in the near future.

Vladimir Orth

The past year was a positive one at the Skalica golf resort, and 2014 looks very promising again.

    The year 2013 will be remembered as a good year at Golf Resort Skalica, in which the resort was once again able to boast of defending its good reputation as a host. Thanks to very favorable weather, the season ended on November 18th, and in addition to several smaller tournaments, Golf Resort Skalica also provided space for larger, more important tournaments.

   The biggest tournaments were the Slovak Junior Open and the Ega Challenge Boys Trophy, which served as a qualification for boys under eighteen for the European Championships. The success and praise in these cases will be confirmed by partners, players and spectators, despite the fact that the season started slower and is certainly among the more demanding ones.

   To some extent, Golf Resort Skalica tried to solve the gradual improvement of the 2013 season preventively, when it ensured itself against possible periods of drought. For this purpose, a water well was drilled, which will make it possible to comfortably organize events even in the event of a more severe drought.

   "Despite the fact that the previous season was difficult, I think we managed it," said Peter Kadlíček, manager of Golf Resort Skalica, regarding the past 2013 season. However, the aforementioned maintenance of the reputation of a good host and a quality golf resort is not in itself a guarantee of constant satisfaction of players and partners, therefore this progress must continue in the upcoming season in 2014. In the spirit of constantly improving options, layouts and services, the Golf Resort Skalica offer will include innovations capable of appealing to both stable and new players.

   New for the new season are mainly a new price list with new packages, added discounts and for socially or family-oriented players, special days will be available for certain groups (for example, Seniors) or for families. In the spirit of improving the technical background of the golf resort, it will continue. After last year's provision of a water well, the Driving Range will also be modernized this year. However, the adjusted price list, more options for specifically focused players and the modernization of the technical portfolio are something that is still somehow in the background and should have been the basis of every good space for demanding golf fans. However, the visible and determining prestige of the resort lies in its ability to host and implement top tournaments and events of a national and international nature. The Czech PGA Tour will begin in May, and the European Girls Team Championship for girls under eighteen will take place in the summer. Great confidence is invested in this event, as the organizers expect up to twenty teams from all over Europe to participate.

   Following this tournament, the K+K Monarchy Trophy of the six countries of the former Austria-Hungary (Seniors) will be welcomed to the lawns of the Skalica Golf Resort.

   Next season, players can once again look forward to the popular club tour "Trdlo", which took place last year in early September. Just like last year, the prizes for it in the form of a beautiful glass Trdlo were donated by RONA, the official partner of the club tour.

   Continuation of successful and popular events from last year will be the domain this year as well, and in addition to the club Trdlo/RONA, players and spectators will have the opportunity to participate in tournaments with an entertaining character - opening Texas, a night tournament, and the like.

"At the end of the summer, we host the Slovak Open, the international Slovak individual championship. Everyone is welcome, whether as players or spectators," added Peter Kadlíček.

Text: Erik Stríž / Peter Kadlečík
Photo: Ratelio Iglesias for Golf Resort Skalica

V dnešnej dobe sa stal svet neporovnateľne menším a bežný zákazník neporovnateľne počítačovo zručnejším, než pred desiatimi rokmi. Za tento fakt vďačíme sociálnym sieťam a produktom, ktoré nabádajú spotrebiteľov nosiť si internet so sebou vo forme smartfónov, notebookov a tabletov.

   Spotrebitelia sú čoraz netrpezlivejší, ani ja nie som výnimka. Od aplikácií sa očakáva, že budú hladko integrované a sprístupnené pre všetky počítače, laptopy a mobilné zariadenia. Váš produkt teda musí byť dostupný vždy a všade, aby udržal krok s týmto novým druhom zákazníkov. Ako prvé vás napadlo nájsť niekoho, kto zlepí dokopy iPhonové a iPadové aplikácie – a problém je vyriešený, však? Nuž, ani nie.

   Nechápte ma zle, som rovnakým fanúšikom operačného systému Apple, ako hocikto iný. Problém iPhonových aplikácií spočíva v tom, že nie všetci vaši zákazníci používajú Apple produkty. Niektorí uprednostňujú Android Symbian a niektorí, verte či nie, používajú obyčajný telefón s klasickými funkciami, ktoré sú obmedzené na na telefonovanie a zasielanie SMS správ.

V prípade desktopovej alebo DOS aplikácie je viac, než pravdepodobné, že bude kompatibilná iba s jedným operačným systémom (väčšinou Windows). Dni, kedy všetci koncoví užívatelia fungovali na Windowsoch, sú dávno preč a dnes diktujete užívateľom vy, aký OS budú potrebovať. Dostupnosť produktu iba určitej skupine operačných systémov limituje potenciálnu veľkosť daného trhu a nedovolí užívateľom aplikáciu využívať naplno.

   Stačilo však zameriavania sa na prekážky a problémy, venujme sa ich riešeniam. Vývoj natívnych aplikácií na každý operačný systém a mobilné zariadenie by bol príliš drahý a udržiavať ho v chode by sa rovnalo nočnej more. Nezamerajme sa preto na systémy ako také, ale radšej to na ich spoločného menovateľa. Všetky majú internetový prehliadač, s výnimkou „barebones“ telefónov, ku ktorým sa dostaneme neskôr. Všimnite si však zvolený výraz „internetový prehliadač“ namiesto pripojenia na internet, pretože samotná schopnosť pripojenia sa do siete ešte zďaleka neznamená, že váš koncový užívateľ je aj skutočne schopný sa na internet pripojiť.

   Dovoľte mi rozobrať výhody, ktoré so sebou prináša vývoj nezávislej aplikácie. Sú nimi:
• dostupnosť kdekoľvek na ktoromkoľvek zariadení (napr. Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS, Android, atď.),
• prenos dát v reálnom čase,
• spustenie konečným užívateľom nebude vyžadovať siahnutie, inštaláciu ani administrátorské práva,
• vaši užívatelia budú vždy pracovať s najnovšou verziou vášho produktu.

   Hore spomenuté výhody sa vzťahujú rovnako na užívateľov, ako aj na IT oddelenia a softwarových inžinierov. Je nutné zdolať isté bariéry v oblasti dizajnu, no úmyslom tohto článku bolo predstaviť smer, ktorým sa softvérový dizajn bude v budúcnosti uberať. Smerujeme k vyriešeniu otázky schopnosti webových aplikácií naplniť komplexné požiadavky dnešných zákazníkov.

   Otázky typu „Čo v prípade, ak užívateľ nemá pripojenie na internet?“ sú len jednými z mnohých obáv v prípade webových aplikácií. Čo keď moji užívatelia nebudú súhlasiť s tým, aby boli ich dáta hostované na internete. Je nereálne a prakticky nemožné očakávať od používateľov mobilných zariadení, aby ocenili tú istú aplikáciu na obrazovke desaťkrát menšej ako klasicky monitor. Napriek tomu, že rozobrať od základov tematiku dizajnu a
implementácie webových aplikácií by postačilo na ďalší článok, riešenia týchto otázok sa dajú pochopiť pri základnom prehľade o tom, ako internetový prehliadač vôbec funguje.

   Keď je do internetového prehliadača zadaná adresa, ten spracúva súbory v danej lokalite. Prehliadač nezobrazuje iba stránky uložené na serveroch, ale aj stránky uložené buď lokálne alebo na pevnom disku. Online a offline zobrazovanie stránok, zabezpečovanie užívateľských dát a optimalizácia smartfónov zostávajú naďalej otázkami v prípade všetkých softvérov, ale autor tohto článku verí, že webové aplikácie majú potenciál zodpovedať tieto otázky a zároveň ponúkajú obrovské výhody v porovnaní ku klasickému dizajnu užívateľských programov.

Keď som čítal Platónov dialóg, podobenstvo o jaskyni, nerozumel som mu a až bratia či súrodenci Wachowski mi (a nielen mne) pomohli preniknúť do sveta tejto idey, keď uviedli v roku 1999 svoj prelomový Matrix.

   Čo je a čo bude realita, je skutočne terra incognita a správny uhol pohľadu. Existencia je lotéria s najväčším jackpotom, aký je k dispozícii. To, ako dušou špekulant vedieť čo nakúpiť, čo bude realitou zajtrajška, to by malo nedoziernu cenu. A práve takáto myšlienka ma prenasleduje, či nevidíme niečo, čo o pár rokov bude zrejmé. Ale môžem sa aj úplne mýliť. To je luxus predpovede bez záruky. Takou je vlastne každá predpoveď. Takže toto je tá zmätená myšlienka, ktorá vrhá množstvo tieňov, až sa za ňou črtá nová realita. Svet je pred veľkou zmenou, zmenou videnou cez optiku aktivít podstatných subjektov na trhu. Nazvime to druhou priemyselnou revolúciou. A pozrime sa aj na implikácie, ak by to tak bolo, pretože práve tie sú zaujímavé predovšetkým. Samozrejme, AK…

   Druhá priemyselná revolúcia, reprezentovaná javom, ktorý nazvem plne automatizovaný výrobný proces v prvom rade a plne automatizované produktové rady a služby následne. Začneme otázkou. Prečo Google nakupuje firmy zamerané na robotiku? Prečo to robia aj jeho konkurenti? To nebude len tak. Prečo sa zaoberajú práve týmto? Rozmýšľajte na tým. Ďalšia otázka. Ak vidíte progres v oblasti smatfónov, tabletov a prakticky všadeprítomnosť modernej technológie, kam to môže smerovať? Budú autá potrebovať našu asistenciu, keď už dnes vedia zaparkovať samé? Bude potrebné riešiť naplnenie chladničky, keď to zvládne sama a bude potrebné chodiť do práce, keď všetko môžete urobiť z domu?

   A podstatná otázka: ak zvážime prínos z integrácie technológií v oblasti komunikácie, presnej mechaniky (nanotechnológie), robotiky z exponenciálne narastajúcou výpočtovou kapacitou (nehovorme o umelej inteligencii), aké nám to dáva možnosti? Objem dát, s ktorými vieme pracovať sa systematicky znásobuje, vďaka GPS sa orientujeme všade, mechanika je za bodom zlomu v oblasti doručenia akéhokoľvek požadovaného spektra úkonov, to a ďalšie parciálne pokroky dávajú v integrovanej podobe ťažko domysliteľné možnosti.

   Čo teda môžeme očakávať? Stavil by som na plne automatizovaný výrobný proces, ako na výnimočne efektívnu záležitosť. Sedem dní v týždni a 24 hodín denne pri konštantnej kvalite. Personálne náklady sa zmenšia na nepodstatnú položku, kvalita bude garantovaná, produkcia výrazne narastie. Všetko sa zlacní. Hranicou bude práve marža, pretože tá môže tvoriť rozhodujúcu časť ceny, produkcie bude však viac a teda toto celé zmení prudko spotrebiteľský trh. Čaká nás veľká doba konzumná.

   Ak sme tak ďaleko. Ale ak sme tak ďaleko, aké to bude mať implikácie na ekonomiku ako takú? Čoho bude viac a čoho menej? Kto budú víťazi a kto porazení? Porazení budú určite pracovníci s nízkou kvalifikáciou. Víťazom bude spotrebiteľ a ideový tvorca. Vzdelanie výrazne narastie na hodnote. Len vysoká kvalifikácia bude pridanou hodnotou s vysokou cenou. To môže úplne zmeniť vzdelávací systém. Stane sa nevyhnutným v živote jednotlivca, výrazne sa rozšíri a predĺži. Môžeme hovoriť o priemysle vzdelávania. Musím sa pozrieť na tituly spojené so vzdelávajúcou sa spoločnosťou, žeby akcie univerzít? Úmyselne to nedomyslím do finále, téma
je veľmi populárna v sci-fi literatúre a pán Asimov je pre mňa autorita, s ktorou polemizovať nebudem. Ak aj nebudeme so Skynetom viesť otvorený konflikt (J. Cameron to vidí inak :-)), tak asi vo svete, ktorý poznáme, neostane kameň na kameni. To zmení celý S & P index na nepoznanie. Svet sa na začiatku priemyselnej revolúcie za jednu generáciu zmenil viac, ako za stáročia predtým a v blízkej dobe to nebude inak. Je to však už tu?
Neviem. Vidím však, že internetové firmy skupujú firmy vyrábajúce roboty, komunikujeme všade, autá parkujú autonómne. Čo nevidíme? Čo je na rysovacích doskách? Bude Google General Electric druhej priemyselnej
revolúcie? Nemusím byť kontrarián, aby som kupoval tituly zamerané na budúcnosť. Tá môže patriť integrátorom, ktorí vedia preniesť do praxe kompetencie, ktoré sme nadobudli a zatiaľ tvorili samostatné sektory. Sektory prestávajú existovať, držte si klobúky. Pôjdeme z kopca a pomalé to určite nebude. A keď sa mýlim, tak si nájdite svoju ideu, nikto vám nebráni. Ako povedal Nietsche v predhovore k svojmu Antikristovi: „Ešte mojim čitateľom nedorástli uši, aby ma počuli“. Ospravedlňujem sa za toto zmätené zamyslenie, ospravedlnením mi snáď môže byť snaha pozrieť sa za horizont a čítať z náznakov a tieňov.

Preto sa podľa tohto názoru určite pri investovaní neriaďte. Ale ak u vás vyvolá úsmev, tak som viac, ako spokojný 🙂
P.S.: Google má P/E nad 30, prečo? S čím to trh počíta?

The free market is the biggest driver of economic growth in our society. The development of international trade has had an unparalleled impact on the growth of the planet's total GDP. Where is it headed with its further development?

Vladimir Zalesky
(33) | Bratislava | CFO United Group

   The last major change in this area was the end of the Cold War and the opening of trade relations between the West and the East. The result is also the enlargement of the European Union and the expansion of its free market. This had a positive impact not only on the new members, but also on the old ones. The "old" Europe had to deal with protectionist sentiments at home, as well as concerns about the employment of its citizens. However, the positive impact on companies, which at that moment received a supply of cheaper labor, is indisputable. Further loosening of barriers to the free movement of people and capital is necessary today and is one of the ways to increase efficiency in individual countries of the European Union.

   Switzerland seems to be taking the opposite path. It is not yet clear how the country will deal with the results of the referendum and the restrictions on work for foreigners approved in it. The main question hangs over the bilateral agreement
between Switzerland and the EU. Abolition would not benefit either side. However, the most important thing is happening to the east of us. The occupation of the sovereign territory of Ukraine by foreign troops probably reminded many in our country of 1968. The situation is significantly different, but in the main points it is identical. The aggressor is the same country, and even the argument is again made by some kind of invitation, or rather, by protecting the inhabitants from bad Western influences.

   What impact will this have on the economy in the future? It is difficult to predict exactly at this point. Past experience suggests that Europe will take a more accommodating (i.e. fearful) stance and nothing significant will happen.
It probably won't be long before the US either. The US leadership doesn't seem to be the strongest at making drastic decisions. And Russia knows it.

    Of course, a military solution would probably be one of the worst. The diplomatic solution, which is currently being favored by all Western parties, has a chance of success, but it would need to proceed much more quickly.
and more forcefully than before (why does (not only) Slovakia still have its diplomat in Moscow?). It is therefore quite likely that the situation will lead to economic sanctions. However, politicians are mainly concerned about the impact it will have on the economy of "our" countries. Restricting trade with Russia is potentially the biggest risk to economic growth in the entire developed world. The impact specifically on the Slovak economy, which is oriented almost unilaterally towards car exports, would be catastrophic. Who would want to do that, right?

   A second Cold War is probably not waiting for us, but the possible economic impacts of the current situation will probably be noticeable in the future and will affect both sides. The intended sanctions will be felt primarily by the European Union, which is more closely tied to Russia than the USA. Sanctions may limit intended and ongoing investments even at this moment before their implementation. There is an assumption that banks will not want to participate in financing projects in Russia at the moment. In Slovakia, the biggest economic issue is probably changes in tax laws. Specifically, the registration tax (so-called loss tax) and the electronic VAT return. Nothing positive is expected from the registration tax, other than a short-term filling of the state treasury. We assume that after the initial selection and cleaning of the market of dormant companies and a serious effort to do something about Slovakia's catastrophic unemployment, this measure will be canceled.

   However, the electronic VAT return has the potential to significantly improve the functioning of tax collection. The main question remains whether the system will be able to work effectively even after several months and correctly match relevant invoices, and whether the state administration will treat all findings equally.

   We recommend that all businesses be extra cautious when dealing with unverified clients. Initial reports from banks indicate an increase in fraudulent attempts, so it can be assumed that certain groups are looking for profits in other areas after the possibility of VAT fraud has become more difficult.

Značka AVIS Lease prináša svojim zákazníkom na slovenskom trhu všetky štandardy, ktorými sa vyznačuje značka AVIS vo svete.

   Profesionalitou svojich zamestnancov a kvalitou poskytovaných služieb operatívneho leasingu a správy vozového parku sa snaží okrem dobrého dodávateľa pre svojich klientov stať aj ich partnerom, ktorý im uľahčuje každodenný podnikateľský život a pomáha realizovať vytýčené ciele a posúvať sa vpred. A to nielen pri spoločnostiach, ktoré sú súčasťou nadnárodných koncernov, s veľkými vozovými parkami, ale aj pre malých podnikateľov s jedným alebo dvomi vozidlami.

   Čo toto všetko znamená v praxi a čím sa snažíme odlíšiť od konkurencie?

   Zamestnanci AVIS Lease sú súčasne aj poradcami – nesnažia sa automaticky spracovať požiadavku klienta na kalkuláciu, ale ich úlohou je čo najoptimálnejšie poradiť klientovi pri výbere vozového parku, jeho optimálnej štruktúry a nastavenie správnej dĺžky splácania a času obnovy vozového parku.

   Poradenstvo pri výbere služby – organizácia a zaistenie servisnej údržby a opráv a ich kontrola, vedenie administratívy nákupu pohonných hmôt a sledovanie spotreby, monitoring vozidiel, nákup pneumatík, poradenstvo pri ich výbere, ich výmena a uskladnenie, 24 hodinová medzinárodná asistenčná služba i náhradné vozidlá. Štruktúra splácania a zahrnuté služby sú nastavované tak, aby čo najviac vyhovovali každodenným potrebám klientov.

   Každodenná realita však prináša potrebu zmien. Pravidelne sledujeme kilometrové nájazdy vozidiel klientov a v prípade vyššieho alebo nižšieho nájazdu navrhujeme klientom rekalkulácie tak, aby finančné prostriedky na operatívny leasing vynakladali čo najefektívnejšie, takisto predĺženie alebo skrátenie splácania podľa individuálnych potrieb klienta.

   Zabezpečujeme mobilitu klientov už od momentu akceptovania záväznej kalkulácie od objednávky vozidla – za cenu leasingovej splátky poskytujeme náhradné vozidlo rovnakej kategórie pred dodaním nového až do času jeho dodania a počas servisu alebo nepojazdnosti poskytujeme náhradné vozidlá za zvýhodnených podmienok aj tým klientom, ktorý nemajú náhradné vozidlo zahrnuté v kalkulácii. Nechýbajú ani akcie pre klientov s možnosťou vyskúšať si nové modely vozidiel.

   Všetko toto je každodennou náplňou práce našich zamestnancov, ktorých cieľom je plnenie individuálnych potrieb každého klienta a vybudovanie dlhodobého partnerského vzťahu.

   AVIS na Slovensku je známy tým, že obsadzuje do svojej ponuky takmer každú zaujímavú novinku automobilového trhu. Mnohé z nich sa objavia v AVIS-e ešte skôr ako v prvých motoristických magazínoch alebo reláciách, zákazníci si tak majú možnosť odskúšať novinky medzi prvými na Slovensku.

   S novými modelmi prichádzajú aj nové technológie, ktoré hýbu svetom automobilového trhu, každý zákazník tak má možnosť zoznámiť sa s modernými technológiami, ktoré zvyšujú bezpečnosť, spríjemňujú jazdu alebo znižujú spotrebu.

   Prvýkrát sa vo flotile objavila technológia full LED svetlometov, ktorú predstavuje nový Peugeot 308. Okrem tejto prevratnej technológie Peugeot 308 prináša aj centrálne ovládanie všetkých palubných systémov na dotykovej obrazovke, počet ovládačov na palubnej doske sa tak výrazne eliminoval. Okrem high-tech noviniek Peugeot prináša výrazne úspornejšiu prevádzku vďaka nižšej hmotnosti a neobvykle nízkemu koeficientu odporu vzduchu. Nový zástupca kategórie compact je tak v spojení s dieselovým motorom predurčený k príjemnému a úspornému cestovaniu.

   Kategóriu compact obohatili aj praktický model Škoda Rapid Sportback a aj ikona medzi hatchbackmi VW Golf siedmej generácie. Tak širokú ponuku v kategórii compact AVIS ešte nikdy nemal, vybrať si ten správny typ automobilu bude jednoduché, každý model vie ponúknuť niečo iné a určite osloví každého vodiča.

   Letné mesiace môže klientom AVISu obohatiť zážitok so športovej jazdy, ktorý zaručene poskytne „nadupané“ Clio RS, ktoré v Renaulte vyladili na ohromných 200 koní, v kombinácii so 6-stupňovou dvojspojkovou automatickou prevodovkou nové Clio RS prekvapí aj tých najnáročnejších automobilových nadšencov.

   Rozšírením vozového parku sa ponuka AVIS-u vzrástla na rekordný počet kategórii. Dnes si tak zákazníci môžu vyberať spomedzi 18 kategórii tých najpopulárnejších modelov a značiek, ktoré automobilový trh ponúka.
Okrem noviniek vo flotile AVIS pripravil aj prevratný spôsob platieb depozitov prostredníctvom e-shopu na stánke avis.sk, kde si zákazníci môžu vybrať typ auta, dobu prenájmu a priamo aj zložiť depozit prostredníctvom elektronickej platby. Jednoduchý spôsob, ktorý klientom ušetrí veľa času pri preberaní vozidla. Veľkou výhodou bude aj online uvoľňovanie zadržaného depozitu, vďaka čomu budú mať klienti späť svoje finančné prostriedky omnoho skôr.

The AVIS Lease brand delivers the level of service typical for AVIS worldwide to customers in the Slovak market.

   The professional attitude of employees together with the level of quality of operative leasing services and high level of fleet standard differentiates us from being just a supplier and transforms us into a partner by supporting the daily business needs while helping them reach their goals and develop. We deal the same way with multinationals with large car parks as we do with small businesses with one or two cars in use.
How does this strategy translate into reality and how do we strive to differentiate?

   AVIS employees are in fact consultant since it is not their job to generate an automated offer. They support clients in optimally structuring their fleet with a balanced payment plan and fleet renewal options.
The services include: full maintenance, repairs and services, fuel economy management, fleet monitoring, tire purchasing and lifecycle plan, tire storage and replacement, 24/7 international assistance services and replacement vehicles. The payment plan and services are tailored to cover a variety of our clients` needs.

   Reality of everyday life brings change. We regularly track the mileage of our client’s vehicles and optimize the contract should the vehicle usage change from the originally anticipated mileage which results in lower spend and we also adjust the payment plan based on each client’s individual requirements.

    We provide full mobility to our clients as soon as the binding offer is accepted. We provide replacement vehicles from the same category until the leased vehicle is delivered for the price of one installment and during regular maintenance periods or temporary malfunction. These favorable conditions apply even for clients whose original contract did not cover the use of replacement vehicles. Last but not least, our clients are able to test all new models on numerous occasions and events.

   All this is daily routine to our employees. Our main goal is to fulfill our clients` needs while building a long team partnership.

   AVIS in Slovakia became famous for adding almost every exciting brand new model to its stables. Many of the new arrivals can be seen in AVIS even before they appear in the trendsetting industry related print and other media. AVIS clients have therefore the unique opportunity to take them for a ride as first in Slovakia.

   There is a technology influx dictating the rules of the automotive industry with every new arrival. Our clients get familiar with modern technologies that enhance safety, improve the quality of their journey and offer lower fuel consumption.

   New Peugeot 308 is the first vehicle in the fleet to feature full LED headlamps. Besides this revolutionary technology there driver enjoys an advanced touch-screen infotainment system thanks to a notable control systems reduction.

   Besides its gadgets the new Peugeot has a high fuel economy resulting from a lighter body and surprisingly low drag coefficient. With a diesel engine this fresh member of the compact car family was designed for comfortable and economical travelling.

   Additional arrivals are the practical Škoda Rapid Sportback and the iconic 7th gen hatchback VW Golf that add to the most diversified portfolio of compact cars in the history of AVIS in Slovakia. Each driver will find his heart’s desire as each model has certainly something different to offer.

   AVIS clients can enjoy their summertime with a sport drive in the new pimped up Clio RS with staggering 200 horsepower combined with an automatic six-speed double-clutch transmission that takes even the most demanding car enthusiasts by surprise.

   Thanks to expanding its fleet AVIS now offers a diversified portfolio with the highest number of categories ever available. Our clients can choose from 18 most popular categories by models and brands in the market.
Besides the new arrivals AVIS launched a revolutionary deposit payment method via e-shop on avis.sk where clients can chose the type of car, length of rental period and directly make an online deposit payment. This saves a lot of time during the handover of the vehicle. All holds will be released electronically and will be therefore quicker at our clients’ disposal.

Multibrand has had a successful year, during which we have implemented numerous campaigns not only within the United Group, but also for our clients. We have acquired new partners with whom we can provide an even more comprehensive portfolio of marketing communication products for our customers.

   Marketing today is no longer just campaigns, but mainly a constant dialogue. Not only from the client to the customer, but also between us and the client, whose expectations need to be understood and estimated. It is important to find a connection between the client's products and potential consumers, which is not an easy task in the current era of stagnant retail sales. It is actually a challenge and a test of professionalism. However, we believe that by working honestly for the client and defending their interests, we will always find this connection. We have the best prerequisites for this, as we have daily experience in the communication of our companies in the group with potential and existing customers, who become stable clients.

   At the time of the editorial deadline for this magazine, we are concluding media communication for the Breitling brand at Multibrand. We are looking forward to the big boards on the D1 bypass in Bratislava, advertising in Hospodárske noviny, and especially the quality spots that will be used on the TA3 news channel.

Martin Viktory

The first ever estate version of the small Clio surprises everyone: with its dimensions, design, engine and even the ride itself.

The segment of smaller estate cars does not have many representatives today, only the Škoda Fabia Combi, Seat Ibiza ST and our Clio Grandtour. Among them, the Renault has the most modern impression, which it owes not only to the shape of the body and front grille, but also to the interior itself. It is thanks to them and the affordability that this charismatic vehicle is a strong competitor for relatively established players.

   Renault and its modern vehicle design have both opponents and supporters, but it has achieved the goal of partial unification of appearance and has indicated the character of individual models through slight differences.
They try to be simply different, rather than as if they should adapt. We find more atypical design solutions on the Clia Grandtour body, all of which are represented by distinctive headlights with a massive manufacturer's logo in the middle of the grille, four side pillars, a slight lowering of the rear of the vehicle and unusual plastic coating of the lower parts of the doors. The interior is a chapter in itself, ergonomics and sci-fi were apparently the central motifs of the French designers' brainstorming.

   The Renault Clio Grandtour is offered by Avis car rental combined with a 1.2-liter gasoline engine, the domain of which is extremely low operating costs and a favorable power of 75 horsepower. With a consumption of only 5.5 liters of fuel per 100 km of driving, this vehicle is ideal not only for the city, but also for longer routes outside the larger Slovak cities. The 1.2-liter unit is combined with a manual 5-speed gearbox, in which the creators won with the accuracy of shifting and the gradation of individual gears.

   The interior of the small, large vehicle provides ample space for four passengers, while those in the front seats can enjoy a modern-looking dashboard and center console. A larger glossy surface with rounded edges contains a color display with basic rotary selectors and control buttons. The distinctive chrome trim of the edges of the individual surfaces continues on the steering wheel with a similar visual treatment in its lower half.

   Despite the fact that the Clio Grandtour is a car for an adult and mature driver, it still tries to appeal to younger generations. The interior design certainly meets this criterion thanks to the wider multimedia and communication equipment, which included a CD/MP3 player, navigation on a color display, Bluetooth connection with a mobile phone and effective safety features. A self-evident part of the interior is fully automatic window control, control buttons on the steering wheel, a central information display with a digital tachometer and air conditioning.

   Renault Clio Grandtour with a length of 4,267 and a height of 1,445 mm can also appeal to people who find hatchbacks too "youthful" and small. The Grandtour designation does not add significantly more space to the vehicle, but it certainly wins in terms of interior space variability. Not only the rear seats can be folded, but also the passenger seat. Clio in its larger version does not lose its fun and aggressiveness, but at the same time it looks a little more serious, mature and, given the extreme variability of space, also useful.