Mobivia, Europe’s largest independent provider of automotive maintenance and repair services, announced that Carter-Cash, brand of the Mobivia group, specializing in distribution of tires, auto parts and fast maintenance services at low prices, has merged with online retailer Yakarouler following the acquisition of Yakarouler’s assets in June 2021, according to a press release dated September 21. With the move, the Yakarouler brand will disappear, and Carter-Cash will absorb Yakarouler’...

US tire manufacturer The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Co. announced that it has introduced a new addition to its Wrangler lineup of tires, the Wrangler Boulder MT, according to a press release dated September 21. Created for the off-road adventurer and constructed to take on the toughest terrain — including mud, sand and rocks — the Goodyear Wrangler Boulder MT is engineered with three-ply Duraply Technology for confidence over the toughest terrains, while helping protect against damag...

Dana Inc., the Ohio, US-based global supplier of drivetrain and propulsion systems as well as aftermarket solutions, announced that it has introduced the new Ultimate Dana 80 bracketless crate axles that allow for easy installation on virtually any application, according to a press release dated September 19.  The axles feature “Dana 80 housing and a full-float design” and contain ultrastrong 4-inch tubes with 5-inch or 8-inch wall thickness, and Spicer 40 spline nickel chromoly stee...

US-based paints, coatings and specialty-materials manufacturer PPG announced that its board of directors has elected PPG President and CEO Tim Knavis as chair of the company’s board of directors and CEO, effective October 1, according to a press release dated September 26. Knavish succeeds Michael McGarry, who served as chairman and CEO from 2016 to 2022, and is retiring as executive chairman, also effective October 1. Knavish joined PPG in 1987 at PPG’s global headquarters in Pittsburgh,...

Lithia & Driveway, an automotive retailer in North America that also provides a suite of financing, leasing, repair and maintenance options, has announced that it intends to enter in a strategic partnership with Pinewood Technologies and acquire the UK motor and fleet management divisions of Pendragon PLC, the UK's third-largest automotive dealership group, according to a press release dated September 18. This acquisition will round out Lithia's presence in the UK market and is expected t...

US-based retailer of aftermarket automotive parts and accessories AutoZone has reported net sales of $5.7 billion for its fourth quarter ended Aug. 26, 2023, an increase of 6.4% from the fourth quarter of fiscal 2022, according to a press release dated September 19. Net income for the quarter increased 6.8% over the same period last year to $864.8 million, while diluted earnings per share increased 14.7% to $46.46 from $40.51 in the year-ago quarter. For the fiscal year ended Aug. 26, 2023, s...

Italian tire manufacturer Pirelli announced that it has created a bespoke logo to identify tires that contain at least 50% materials of bio-based and recycled origin, according to a press release dated September 20. The new marking, which depicts two arrows in a circle and will be adopted on new products, allows customers to choose more sustainable tires. The latest Pirelli marking was used for the first time on the P Zero E, which contains more than 55% of materials of bio-based and rec...

Dana Inc., the Ohio, US-based global supplier of drivetrain and propulsion systems as well as aftermarket solutions, announced that it has introduced a new line of Victor Reinz Victor-Lock reusable differential gaskets designed for severe-duty applications, according to a press release dated September 12.  The company said these premium gaskets feature resilient FoamFlex facing material bonded to a steel core with selective silicone beading to enhance sealing stress and improve loading i...

UK-based engineering services provider Ricardo PLC announced that it has developed the Ranger Hex, a six-by-six vehicle conversion designed to offer a significant improvement in payloads of up to 3,800 kg over the harshest of terrains, according to a press release dated September 12. The vehicle comes with a hybrid drivetrain to maintain performance and improve fuel consumption.  This new conversion benefits from Ricardo’s expertise and experience in creating high-quality, cost-effecti...

Hyundai Motor America has announced that it is now offering customers who purchase or lease select Hyundai electric vehicles a complimentary ChargePoint Home Flex Level 2 charger and up to $600 off installation, according to a press release dated September 21. This new offer is available to customers who purchase or lease a new 2023 or 2024 Ioniq 5, 2023 or 2024 Ioniq 6, or 2023 Kona Electric through Hyundai Motor Finance beginning September 21 through October 31. Customers who purc...

The Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association (AAAA) announced that new research survey findings have revealed that one in every two workshops has lost a technician in the last year, with one in four having lost a master technician, according to a press release dated September 6. The survey shed important light on the state of the automotive industry's skills shortage and technician salaries across Australia. The survey, commissioned by the AAAA and its research partner Fifth Quadran...

SK Networks, a subsidiary of South Korean petroleum conglomerate SK Group, engaged in the businesses of energy and information technology distribution as well as car rental, announced that Speedmate, its all-inclusive car care brand, has launched car detailing services with the German premium brand Sonax Car-care, according to a press release dated September 5. Speedmate announced that it had opened a "car servicing/detailing multi-shop" at the Ikea Goyang store with Alles, the loca...

RAC, a UK-based breakdown-service provider for both private and business drivers, announced that Tesla has installed the public electric vehicle charger in the UK, which is designed to be used by cars from any manufacturer, according to a press release dated August 25. The company’s V4 Supercharger has charging speeds of up to 250 kW and Tesla’s Combined Charging System (CCS) compatible units are built with a contactless card payment facility. EV owners will be able to use the 3-meter&nbs...

US-based retailer of aftermarket automotive parts and accessories AutoZone has announced that Tom Newbern, currently executive vice president of Operations, Sales and Technology, has been promoted to COO, according to a press release dated September 18. Additionally, Jamere Jackson, current CFO and executive vice president of Finance and Store Development, has been promoted as CFO where he will continue to lead the Finance and Store Development teams, according to the release, which added tha...

UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has delayed a ban on new petrol and diesel cars as part of exemptions and delays to several of the country’s green policies in a major change to the government's approach to achieving net zero by 2050, according to an official press release dated September 20. The government has moved back the ban on the sale of new petrol and diesel cars by five years, so all sales of new cars from 2035 will be zero emission, according to the statement, which added that the mo...

Meko (previously Mekonomen Group), an automotive spare-parts distributor based in Sweden, announced that it has the first workshop SERMI-approved by the European Commission's appointed control body Digidentity, making it the first company in Sweden to live up to the EU's new safety rules for car workshops, according to a press release dated September 20. The workshop is named Mekonomen Brännlunds Motor in Gävle, Sweden. Independent workshops and mechanics who want to be able to work wi...

UK-based engineering services provider Ricardo PLC announced that the US Army has awarded Ricardo’s Defense business unit, located in Michigan, US, a contract valued at over $385 million to continue production and delivery of antilock braking system/electronic stability control (ABS/ESC) retrofit kits, with an order completion date of March 15, 2026, according to a press release dated September 11. The ABS/ESC retrofit kits are for use on the US Army’s High Mobility Multipurpose Wheeled V...

Global supplier of automotive fluid-handling components TI Fluid Systems (TIFS) announced that it has agreed to acquire Cascade Engineering Europe (CEE), a Hungarian-based leader in the design and manufacturing of thermal-fluid connectors and other complex plastic injection-moulded components for the automotive industry, according to a press release dated September 5. CEE has a strong reputation for its technical expertise and product quality, with in-house capabilities from design and develo...

Phinia, the spin-off company of the Fuel Systems and Aftermarket segments of Michigan, US-based powertrain technologies supplier BorgWarner, announced the appointment of Juan Thomaz to the role of vice president and general manager of Aftermarket in the Europe, Middle East and Africa region, according to a press release dated September 7. Thomaz will be tasked with continuing to drive growth in the market for the Delphi, Delco Remy and Hartridge brands. The company said Thomaz takes...

Denso announced that it has introduced updates to its PowerEdge-branded range of aftermarket wipers, according to a press release dated September 11. The company said that while PowerEdge wipers are not part of the Denso range, they have been developed according to the company’s quality standards “to meet the requirements of the aftermarket’s mid-price, high quality segment.” The wipers benefit from the full Denso service offering, encompassing ordering, delivery, logis...

Continental Tires has announced that Edwin Goudswaard took charge of the company’s research and development (R&D) activities on September 1, according to a press release dated September 19. He succeeds Boris Mergell, who took over as head of the User Experience business area at Continental Automotive, also on September 1, the release added. Continental said that to make the production, use and recycling of tires more environmentally friendly, it is investing in the R&...

SK Networks, a subsidiary of South Korean petroleum conglomerate SK Group, engaged in the businesses of energy and information technology distribution as well as car rental, announced that it is bringing in SK Rent-a-car as a wholly owned subsidiary by owning 100% equity in the latter, according to a press release dated August 18. SK Networks currently holds 72.9% equity in SK Rent-a-car. SK Rent-a-car, launched as a consolidated legal entity between SK Networks’ Car Rental Business divisio...

Ring Automotive, a UK-based supplier of vehicle lighting, auto electrics, workshop tools and auto accessories, announced that it has launched a professional heavy-duty lithium jump starter with a host of features that workshops will find incredibly useful, according to a release dated September 12 from the UK aftermarket industry body, the Independent Automotive Aftermarket Federation (IAAF). The jump starter (RPPL1000) is able to withstand the tough conditions of a workshop, but is also ligh...

The acquisition of Magneti Marelli Parts & Service, the aftermarket division of Marelli Holding, by the US-based First Brands Group, has been terminated, according to industry sources. The purchase attempt by the Group, a global automotive parts manufacturer serving the worldwide automotive aftermarket through multiple brands, was reported by some news websites earlier in 2023 and was expected to be completed by April. First Brands markets and sells products through a portfolio of bran...

Alliance Automotive Group UK (AAG) has announced the acquisition of Tayna Ltd., a Welsh e-commerce platform focused on vehicle batteries, according to a press release dated September 1. The company said that with this acquisition, it aims to expand its battery distribution capabilities in the region. The acquisition would also allow it to develop its digital skill set in the long term.  Tayna, a digital e-commerce company based out of Wales, UK, and established in 2003, specializes in pr...

US-based CRP Automotive, a manufacturer of replacement parts including steering, electrical, suspension, fluids, plastic and gaskets, among others, has announced a new range of replacement coolant hoses for Tesla battery-electric vehicles (BEVs), according to a press release on September 18. Through its Rein Automotive brand, CRP Automotive’s new line of Tesla coolant replacement hoses offers 29 stock keeping units (SKUs). In order to ensure that these replacement parts continue to play a c...

Indian automotive components manufacturer Anand Group has announced the formation of a joint venture with South Korea’s HL Group, with the aim of doubling the former’s aftermarket business in the domestic market while at the same time also expanding the latter’s presence in the country, according to a press release dated September 13. The JV company, HL Anand Automotive Parts Pvt. Ltd., is expected to establish two dedicated distribution centers in the next two years and add about 1,200...

In order to ease the labor force challenges in Australia, the Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association (AAAA) is looking to understand what are the circumstances that would encourage retired master technicians to come back into the workshop on a part-time, part-day basis to make a unique contribution to the industry while at the same time, bringing their wisdom and experience to educate junior technicians, according to a press release dated September 18. This labor shortage is one of the...

US-based Cloyes, a specialist in the design, development, manufacturing and distribution of timing-drive systems and engine components for global original equipment manufacturers and the automotive aftermarket, has announced the launch of timing-system kits for 2009–2018 Volkswagen engines, 2013 General Motors engines and 2011–2020 Ford engines, in which all kits include a turbocharger, according to a press release dated September 15. The new kits by Cloyes are applicable to more tha...

Japanese tire specialist, The Yokohama Rubber Co. Ltd., announced through a press release dated September 15 that it has begun production of its ultrahigh-performance summer tire — the Advan Sport EV, designed specifically for premium battery-electric vehicles (BEVs) — and other high-performance tires, using electric power derived from a new proprietary solar-panel power generation system and procured renewable energy. Its Shinshiro-Minami, Japan, plant, where the...

German oil, additives and car-care specialist, Liqui Moly, has announced the launch of its Dual Clutch Gear Oil 8100 to cater to the increase in the number of vehicles with automatic transmission or automated manual transmission, according to a press release dated September 11. The company said that globally, two out of three registered vehicles are equipped with this technology. Liqui Moly said it is expanding the range of applications for its gear oil and it can be used in almost all wet du...

Japan-based Denso Corp. announced that Denso Aftermarket has expanded its oxygen sensor range with 10 new part numbers, according to a press release dated September 8. The range links to 64 original equipment references, catering for 745 applications covering more than 15.5 million European vehicles. Significance: Some of the notable applications that the additions to the lambda sensors range cater to include Dacia Duster, Logan and Sandero, Mercedes C- and E-Class, Nissan Qashqai, Renault Cl...

The UK arm of French engine lubricant manufacturer Motul has announced the launch of its NGEN range of high-performance engine oils for cars and motorbikes, according to a press release dated September 12 from the UK aftermarket industry body, the Independent Automotive Aftermarket Federation (IAAF). The NGEN range of regenerated oils contain a high proportion of raw materials from renewable resources. The range includes NGEN 5 and NGEN 7 for motorbikes, and NGEN Hybrid for hybrid cars. Th...

The shareholder committee of Hella GmbH & Co. KGaA announced that it has appointed Stefanie Rheker as a new member of the management board, according to a press release dated September 11. Rheker will assume responsibility for the automotive supplier's global Human Resources management and will take up her role in the second quarter of 2024 at the latest, the company said. Human Resources is currently managed at management board level by Michel Favre in addition to his role as CEO. R...

Japan-based Denso Corp. announced that Denso Aftermarket has expanded its range of alternators and starters with nine new references introduced into the range, according to a press release dated September 8. The company claims it has a global market share of over 25% in the aftermarket component. Significance: The new additions span both passenger car and heavy-duty applications. Two alternators and three starters cater to car references linked to 18 original equipment part numbers covering 8...

Meyle, a Hamburg, Germany-based replacement parts manufacturer for the independent aftermarket has announced that after more than 28 years at the helm, majority shareholder Karl Gaertner is stepping down from the Meyle AG Executive Board effective September 1, according to a press release dated September 7. Gaertner is handing over the reins to board members Dirk Damaschke and Marc Siemssen who are now managing the company together. Gaertner will remain chairperson of the executive board of t...

Chinese aftermarket and diagnostic equipment supplier Launch Tech announced that it participated in the MIMS Automobility 2023 Expo from August 21 to 24, and showcased a range of its innovative products, according to a press release dated September 6. The MIMS Automobility Moscow is an international trade fair specializing in auto parts, vehicle components, and products and equipment for vehicle maintenance. It takes place annually at the IEC Expocentre in Moscow. The expo brought together to...

Sensata Technologies, a US-based supplier of sensors and sensor-equipped solutions to the automotive industry, announced the launch of its Gigavac GTM400 and GTM500 bidirectional contactors for applications up to 1,500 Vdc and 400A and 500A, according to a press release dated September 12. The new contactors are said to be ideal for high-power applications that require reliable switching and DC circuit protection like energy storage systems, DC fast charging stations, and heavy-duty vehicles, th...

SQM Lithium Ventures, the corporate venture arm of the lithium business of Sociedad Quimica y Minera de Chile, the world's second-largest lithium producer, announced that it has invested $2,574,500 in Altilium, a UK-based clean technology group focused on supporting the transition to net zero, according to a joint press release dated September 12. The investment is part of Altilium’s Series-A funding round. Altilium is the second company to join the portfolio of SQM Lithium Ventures. The in...

UK’s Maverick Diagnostics, a provider of original diagnostic tools and technical support, has announced the launch of its Automotive Training Academy's innovative online training platform, according to a press release by the UK aftermarket industry body, the Independent Automotive Aftermarket Federation (IAAF), dated September 7. The move is in response to the pressing demand for up-to-the-minute training amidst the rise of electric vehicles, hybrids and intricate vehicle systems, the release ...

Lumileds, a global supplier of original equipment manufacturer and aftermarket automotive lighting and accessories, announced the launch of the new Philips Ultinon Access range of automotive headlight bulbs that enables the shift from halogen to LED, according to a press release dated September 4. The company said it has made installation of the bulbs simple as there is no need for compatibility checks or adapter rings. The Philips Ultinon Access LED bulbs have a compact body and their direct...

German components supplier and filtration expert Mann+Hummel has outlined the future filtration solutions for the electromobility sector, saying that cabin air filters will remain an essential component of future vehicles — regardless of the drive system, according to a press release dated September 5. Talking about the growing maintenance potential of cabin air filters, the company said it is critical to replace them at regular intervals and this presents an opportunity for the indepe...

The Motor & Equipment Manufacturers Association (MEMA) Aftermarket Suppliers, an association in North America representing motor-vehicle component manufacturers, has announced that it recognizes the step forward made by the Massachusetts Office of the Attorney General and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) in identifying the need to address protocols for the open access implementation of the Massachusetts Data Access Law, according to a press release dated August 23. ...

SunCar Technology Group Inc. (SunCar), a provider of digitalized enterprise automotive aftersales services and an online auto insurance intermediation service in China, evaluated the potential of a partnership with insurance firm Starr Strategic Holdings, according to a press release dated September 8. The company said its Chairman and CEO Ye Zaichang recently met with X. Rick Niu, the president of Starr Strategic Holdings LLC. Starr Strategic Holdings is the division of Starr Insurance ...

Lithia & Driveway, an automotive retailer in North America that also provides a suite of financing, leasing, repair and maintenance options, announced the acquisition of the Arden businesses representing BMW, MINI and Motorrad in Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells, according to a press release dated September 1. Commenting on the acquisition, Neil Williamson, Regional President, United Kingdom, said, “Following LAD’s entrance into the UK with the Jardine Motors Group earlier this year, we ...

Xpel Inc., a US-based provider of aftermarket automotive products, including automotive surface and paint protection, ceramic coatings, headlight protection and automotive window films, has announced the appointment of John North to its Board of Directors effective immediately, according to a press release dated 29 August. North is said to have a deep knowledge of the automotive industry with proven experience in global retail operations, finance, acquisitions and integrations. He currently s...

US tire manufacturer The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Co. announced that it has introduced a new addition to the Cooper Discoverer family of tires, the Cooper Discoverer Road+Trail AT, according to a press release dated August 31. Featuring an aggressive tread pattern and a bold sidewall, the new Cooper Discoverer Road+Trail AT is claimed to have been engineered to deliver a smooth, quiet ride regardless of terrain while the vehicle navigates turns both on and off road. The thick interlocking t...

French automotive supplier Valeo announced that at IAA Mobility 2023 in Munich, Mobileye and Valeo have formed a new partnership to deliver software-defined best-in-class imaging radars for next-generation driver assist and automated driving features, according to a press release dated September 4. By joining forces, both companies say they can quickly bring a new technology to automakers worldwide that enables more intelligent vehicles. As a key part of sensing systems for automated driving,...

In a press release announcement on September 4, Continental has unveiled its new tire concept Conti CityPlus at Internationale Automobil-Ausstellung (IAA) Mobility 2023 in Munich. The new tire technology increases the total energy efficiency of a tire by up to 10%. The results are lower CO2 emissions from passenger cars with combustion engines and longer driving ranges for electric vehicles (EVs). This was achieved by optimizing the tire behavior during stop-and-go traffic in urban driving situa...

Japan-based Denso Corp. outlined features of the wiper blades from Denso Aftermarket, saying that the blades are the perfect aftermarket choice as they keep windscreens clean and clear, reliably and effectively, helping drivers stay safe on their journeys, according to a press release dated September 1. As a safety crucial component, Denso said its wiper blades are meticulously manufactured and tested to ensure that they meet precise standards of fit and performance. The company sai...

Dana Inc. has announced that its Builder Axle Program allows vehicle owners to order Spicer-branded aftermarket parts that they need to customize their Dana axles, according to a press release dated August 22.  From options such as extra-long tubes cut to length and choice of heavy duty ball joints or upgraded kingpin-knuckle kits, the Dana Builder Axle Program is a builder’s dream for creating their ideal axle, the release added. Significance: “The Dana Builder Axle Program can b...

Manja Greimeier has been appointed as the new head of Original Equipment (OE) for Continental’s Tires Group sector, effective August 1. She will be tasked with the company’s global OE business for passenger and commercial vehicles, according to a press release dated August 30. David O’Donnell, who previously held the position, is now responsible for the global research and development activities for the manufacturer’s passenger car tire replacement business. Greimeier brings to the...

SunCar Technology Group Inc. (SunCar), a provider of digitalized enterprise automotive after-sales services and an online auto insurance intermediation service in China, announced that it has renewed its one-year overseas airport pickup service agreement with Bank of Communications Ltd. (BoComm), the fifth largest bank in China, according to a press release dated September 7. SunCar said its overseas airport service covers 213 overseas airports worldwide, including in the US, the UK, Canada, ...

Hella Gutmann, the workshop equipment division of automotive supplier Hella that operates under the brand Forvia, announced that it has entered into a partnership with Battery Quick Check GmbH, a joint venture of Twaice and TÜV Rheinland, to develop an evaluation procedure for the real state of health (SoH) of an electric vehicle's power pack for workshops, according to a press release dated August 31. Workshops that operate Hella Gurmann’s Mega Macs X diagnostic device in configurati...

Multibrand in-vehicle data provider Caruso announced that it has signed an agreement with Renault Group that allows Caruso’s customers to access the vehicle’s data such as mileage or geoposition without the need to install any additional device, according to a press release dated August 30. The data will be fully compliant with General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). The Caruso data marketplace is currently one of the leading platforms for real-time in-vehicle data in Europe, the relea...

Blink Charging Co., a global manufacturer, owner, operator and provider of electric vehicle charging equipment and services, announced that effective August 25, it has appointed Aric Ohana as president of Blink Mobility, a wholly owned subsidiary of Blink Charging, according to a press release dated September 5. Ohana will join Blink’s executive team in this effort as well as overseeing Blink Mobility’s day-to-day strategic operations, managing a team of highly qualified professionals ded...

Auto-parts supplier Aptiv has announced the opening of a new facility for its Technical Center in Pune, India, according to a press release dated September 5. With a focus on developing safer, greener and more connected mobility solutions, the Aptiv Technical Center will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of mobility in India and worldwide. The company said its team of engineers oversees every facet of the product development journey, utilizing mechanical, system and component ...

Japanese trading company Marubeni Corp. has announced the acquisition of Mexican car maintenance company Radial Llantas (RL) by increasing its stake in the company from 49% to 80%, according to a press release dated August 21. RL is the largest independent car maintenance chain in Mexico. Its services include the sale and replacement of tires and other consumables, and the provision of related maintenance. Since October 2016, when Marubeni first invested in the company, RL’s network of stor...

Chinese automaker Chery Automobile has signed a distribution agreement with Oman’s Saud Bahwan Group, according to a press release dated September 5. Under the partnership, Chery Automobile aims to further expand its overseas sales network and also promote localized operations with the help of the Saud Bahwan Group’s experience. In the future, Saud Bahwan Group will establish Chery showrooms and after-sales service agencies in major cities in Oman, the release added. Significance: “C...

Niterra, formerly called NGK Spark Plug, a Japan-based ignition and sensor specialist, announced that the company has developed a contracted partnership and capital investment with Cars Inc., which provides cloud-system services for automotive garages, according to a press release dated August 29. Significance: Cars Inc. provides a cloud service named Cars Manager that helps clients to increase their profit, customers and efficiency through marketing automation. According to the release, the ...

Online parts supplier PartsInMotion.co.uk announced that it has added Mahle Aftermarket’s air-conditioning product range to its product portfolio, according to a press release dated August 7 by the UK aftermarket industry body, the Independent Automotive Aftermarket Federation (IAAF). Significance: PartsInMotion said it has launched 461 new Mahle references in its product categories, including evaporators, compressors, condensers and blowers. Mahle Aftermarket has manufactured more ...

Nissan Motor Co. has announced the launch of a portable power generator that uses recycled batteries from the Nissan Leaf, according to a press release dated August 31. Nissan has codeveloped the portable generator with JVC Kenwood and 4R Energy Co. Nissan will release this portable battery at Nissan dealerships nationwide from September 9, the release added. JVC Kenwood will launch similar products later in 2023, starting with its official online JVC Kenwood store. Nissan said the Leaf's ...

RepairPal, a US-based auto repair network, has announced a strategic partnership with Lendflow, a fintech company specializing in innovative lending solutions, to provide shops with access to financing options when seeking new tools and/or shop upgrades, according to a press release dated August 29. With the move, the Certified RepairPal shop network will now have the opportunity to quickly access the funds they need to meet staffing demands, stock up on inventory, as well as finance large eq...

Advance Auto Parts, an automotive aftermarket parts distributor in North America, announced that for the second quarter ended July 15, 2023, its net sales stood at $2.7 billion, up 0.8% compared with the second quarter of the prior year, primarily driven by new store openings, according to a press release dated August 23. The growth was partially offset by a decline of comparable store sales of 0.6%. The company's operating income was $134.4 million, or 5.0% of net sales, compared with 7.6% i...

Advance Auto Parts, an automotive aftermarket parts distributor in North America that serves both professional installer and do-it-yourself customers, announced that its board of directors has appointed Shane O’Kelly as president and CEO, effective September 11. O’Kelly will succeed Tom Greco, who has served as president and CEO since April 2016. Greco announced his planned retirement in February 2023 and will stay on as an advisor to ensure a seamless transition. The company announced th...

Clarios, a US-based supplier of energy storage solutions to original equipment (OE) manufacturers and the aftermarket, has announced that it will purchase Paragon GmbH & Co. KGaA's power business that produces batteries and battery management systems for the automobile industry, according to a press release dated August 30. Clarios is the parent company of Varta Automotive, a transportation battery brand in Europe. Paragon is a German supplier of battery systems, air-quality management, m...

Delphi Technologies Aftermarket has outlined the key features of its new-generation diagnostic tool for workshops called the BlueTech vehicle communication interface (VCI). The diagnostic tool supports the J2534 Pass-Thru function that is essential to access full-diagnostics functionality, specifically updating (or flashing) electronic control units (ECUs), according to a press release dated August 11 from the UK aftermarket industry body, the Independent Automotive Aftermarket Fe...

The National Franchised Dealers Association (NFDA), which represents franchised car and commercial vehicle retailers in the UK, has welcomed the policy move that allows vehicle recalls to now appear on the Ministry of Transport (MOT) test certificates, according to a press release dated August 16. The vehicle recall system is a safety mechanism for motorists to return their car to their dealership to have warranty recalls repaired free of charge to adhere to regulations. Apart from the rep...

Lubricants and oils supplier Exol Lubricants has announced the launch of a new product that expands its Taurus Euro range, recommended for use in Scania- and MAN-engined heavy commercial vehicles, according to a press release dated August 11. The new Taurus Euro XFE 5W-20 (M542) is a fully synthetic engine oil that delivers improved fuel consumption, compatibility with after-treatment systems such as diesel particulate filters (DPFs) and selective catalytic reduction systems (SCRs), and outst...

Superior Industries International (Superior), a US-based aluminum wheel supplier, has announced that its subsidiary, Superior Industries Production Germany (SPG), has entered into Protective Shield Proceedings, a court-administered reorganization, according to a press release dated August 31. These proceedings are strictly limited to SPG and its German-based manufacturing facility, operating at the production site in Werdohl, Germany. The company’s operations in the US, Mexico and Poland ar...

US-based REV Group, a designer and manufacturer of specialty vehicles and related aftermarket parts and services, has announced the appointment of Maureen O’Connell as an independent member of its board of directors, effective August 25, according to a press release dated August 30. She succeeds Justin Fish, who has resigned after seven years serving as a board director. O’Connell will also sit on the nomination and governance committee. In addition to REV Group, O’Connell currently is ...

UK-based manufacturer of number plate components, registration plates and number plate production systems, Hills Numberplates, has become a member of the UK aftermarket industry body Independent Automotive Aftermarket Federation (IAAF), according to a press release dated July 28. The Birmingham, UK-based company specializes in manufacturing all components pertaining to vehicle registration plates, and holds a portfolio of globally recognized patents, standards and awards for both number ...

In a major achievement toward its sustainable manufacturing goals, Continental said that its tire plant in Lousado, Portugal, received the International Sustainability and Carbon Certification (ISCC) PLUS. This globally recognized certification confirms the company’s compliance with special sustainability standards at the plant. The certificate also testifies to transparency regarding the traceability of the raw materials used in the production processes. By certifying the raw material...

U.S. AutoForce, a distributor of tires, undercar parts and lubricants to the automotive aftermarket, has announced that it will acquire Pacific Tire Distributors, headquartered in Portland, Ore., according to a press release dated August 22. The acquisition is expected to close on Sept. 11, 2023, the release added. Founded in 2004, Pacific Tire Distributors is one of the largest independently owned wholesale tire distributors in the Pacific Northwest. Based in Portland, it currently oper...

US-based Thermal Solutions provider Modine, announced on August 29 the sale of facilities in Temecula, California, and Tampa, Florida, to Protecall. Both the facilities provide aftermarket application services in which HVAC units are coated with anti-corrosion protection, and the sale process is likely to be executed by end of September. According to Neil Brinker, President and Chief Executive Officer of Modine, "This sale continues the process we started in 2021 with the closure of our Pompa...

German oil, additives and car care specialist, Liqui Moly, announced that it has made its car care product category more attractive by relaunching them with several updates, according to a press release dated August 22. The company has undertaken a series of activities such as refreshing the label design, and introducing various new containers and new formulations, the release added. The focus of the relaunch is on the products Gloss Polish, Polish & Wax and Hard Wax. “The new formulati...

Rotating electrics supplier and electric vehicle charging cable specialist WAI Global announced that it has launched the Recharge 3000 portable EV charger, providing professional services with an EV range extension of 10 miles, according to a press release dated August 15 from the UK aftermarket industry body, the Independent Automotive Aftermarket Federation (IAAF). The model sits above its Recharge 2000 model in the range and offers professional services a 3-kW power bank perfect for vehicl...

Training provider LKQ Academy has announced that it will upskill another 1,000 technicians in servicing hybrid vehicles and electric vehicles by the end of 2023, as part of its continued focus on futureproofing the independent aftermarket, according to a press release dated August 15 from the UK aftermarket industry body, the Independent Automotive Aftermarket Federation (IAAF). The announcement follows a successful 12 months for the LKQ Academy, in which it trained more than 2,000 technician...

This report looks into current and potential revenue opportunities for the automotive aftermarket industry that focus on servicing, repairing and maintaining electrified vehicles in operation, including profiles of key tier 1 and aftermarket suppliers producing parts and providing services for these vehicles.

Stellantis has announced its partnership with Charge Enterprises, a US-based electrical, broadband and electric vehicle charging-infrastructure company, in which Charge has become an EV charging installation partner for Stellantis' over 2,600 US dealer network, according to a press release dated August 28. With this announcement, Charge becomes the fourth recommended partner for dealer-EV readiness for Stellantis dealers across the US, joining Future Energy, Vehya and AGI. The move by Stellan...

UK aftermarket industry body, the Independent Automotive Aftermarket Federation (IAAF), announced that it has joined other global association leaders to support the critical global Right to Repair movement by signing the new right-to-repair position statement, according to a press release dated August 11. “The statement enumerates the core beliefs of the movement and the objectives and intended outcomes of right to repair legislation. The document sets out [10] best practice principles...

The Auto Care Association, a US-based industry body representing independent manufacturers, distributors and repair shops, announced in a press release dated August 24 that it hosted a data-standards seminar on August 10 in Santiago, Chile, in collaboration with the Chilean Chamber of Commerce of Automotive Parts and Accessories (CAREP) and Mercado Libre. The seminar was part of the association’s trade promotion initiatives, made possible by the Market Development Cooperator (MDCP) award fr...

Premium Guard Inc. (PGI), a US-based provider of aftermarket automotive filtration solutions, has announced the appointment of Jason Hensley as its vice president of Operations, according to a press release dated August 29. Hensley joins PGI after nearly 30 years of experience overseeing distribution efforts and operations across various organizations in management and supply chain-focused leadership roles. As senior director of Supply Chain Operations at GXO Logistics, he oversaw six distrib...

German oil, additives and car-care specialist, Liqui Moly, has announced that through a new contract, it will continue to be an Official Partner for Formula 1 until 2026 inclusive, according to a press release dated August 24. Liqui Moly has been an Official Partner in the popular racing series since 2019. As an Official Partner, Liqui Moly will continue to have physical and virtual trackside signage at select race events. Additionally, as part of the extension, Liqui Moly will have the oppor...

The Auto Care Association, a US-based industry body representing independent manufacturers, distributors and repair shops, announced in a press release dated August 23 that it appreciated the continued support of the Massachusetts Office of the Attorney General to support the 2020 Data Access Law, and the willingness of the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to revisit its position on the enforceability of the law. The Auto Care Association said it was gratified by the ...

International Automotive Components Group (IAC), a US-based full-service global automotive supplier of powertrain-agnostic interior components and solutions, has announced the appointment of Kevin Baird as its new CEO, according to a press release dated August 15. IAC is privately held and a portfolio company of Gamut Capital Management with over 18,000 employees and operations in North America, Europe and Asia. Its main product lines include: Door-trim panels, overhead systems, floor console...

Klarius Products, a UK-based manufacturer of aftermarket emissions-control components, said it noticed that ordering the correct parts is a common stumbling block for garages under pressure to deliver a quick automotive repair turnaround. To address this issue, it is offering valuable advice and tools to garages to ensure the right part is specified and delivered, according to a press release dated August 22. The company believes that in the fast-paced, detail-oriented world of automotive rep...

US manufacturer of liquid and powder coatings Axalta Coating Systems announced that it has entered into a partnership with Xaar, a manufacturer of drop-on-demand inkjet technologies, to introduce Axalta NextJet, a digital-paint technology for the transportation industry, according to a press release dated August 22. Digital paint, also referred to as overspray-free application, is an advanced paint application that will allow for precise paint placement. Through Axalta and Xaar’s patented t...

Schaeffler India Ltd., a subsidiary of Schaeffler AG, announced that it has acquired KRSV Innovative Auto Solutions Pvt. Ltd. (KRSV), a Bengaluru, India-based company that offers repair solutions to Indian aftermarket workshops via its business-to-business e-commerce platform Koovers, according to a press release dated August 28. Schaeffler said Koovers is an ideal addition to its automotive aftermarket activities in India and will be a key addition to the aftermarket ecosystem — ...

Meko (previously Mekonomen Group), an automotive spare-parts distributor based in Sweden, announced that it is expanding its focus on heavy vehicles through a new strategic collaboration that makes it a supplier to Sweden's largest independent workshop chain for trucks, Malte Månson Verkstäder, according to a press release dated August 23. Malte Månson Verkstäder is the largest Swedish independent service chain for trucks with 17 workshops. The company is in an expansion phase with organi...

Tint World Automotive Styling Centers, a US-based auto accessory and window-tinting franchise, has announced its expansion in New Jersey, US, with the opening of a new location in the Maple Shade, NJ, township, according to a press release dated August 22. "There's something for everyone here, from everyday commuters to automotive enthusiasts, and we're proud to bring the extensive Tint World catalog to Burlington County [NJ]," Maurice Hooks, co-owner of Tint World Maple Shade, said. Tint Wor...

Blink Charging Co., a global manufacturer, owner, operator and provider of electric vehicle charging equipment and services, announced that it has enhanced accessibility and heightened visibility of its EV charging products and services in Mexico, with the launch of a website dedicated to the Mexican market, according to a press release dated August 16. The company observed that Mexico’s EV sales exhibited remarkable growth, particularly toward the latter part of 2021, with this trend gaini...

Apec Braking, an independent braking supplier to clients in the UK and Ireland, has expanded its braking range with 35 new part numbers in August, according to a release dated August 15 from the UK aftermarket industry body Independent Automotive Aftermarket Federation (IAAF). The range extension includes 14 brake fitting kits, one brake adjuster kit, 11 brake calipers, one brake caliper fitting kit, two brake discs, four brake pad sets and two brake cables. Significance: Top app...

The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Co. has introduced the Cooper Cobra Instinct, a hyper-responsive, high-performance tire that delivers decisive maneuvering, according to a press release on August 15. The new Cooper Cobra Instinct combines all-season capability with confident sport performance. The Cooper Cobra Instinct is engineered with an asymmetric tread pattern and sweeping tread grooves for agile traction, enhanced grip and improved braking distance on wet and snowy roads. A signature...

At the Davos 2023 earlier this year, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz made a prediction that by 2045, Germany would be “one of the world’s first climate-neutral industrial nations,” its sourcing of energy supplies would be “almost exclusively from green electricity, heat and hydrogen” and its roads will be “emission-free.”  In 2021, Germany set out the national goal of achieving climate neutrality by 2045, five years earlier than the previous target of 2050. On the way to the ...

Italian carmaker Stellantis has announced that it will extend its B-parts Reuse e-commerce business channel to North America by the end of 2023, according to a press release dated August 16. The news was shared by Alison Jones, senior vice president of Global Circular Economy, Stellantis, during the Motor & Equipment Manufacturers Association (MEMA) Sustainability Summit earlier in August in Troy, Mich. The company currently offers the Reuse e-commerce business in Europe, where it registe...

TMD Friction, a supplier of brake-friction solutions for the automotive and brake industry, has announced its sale to Aequita, a global industrial group with headquarters in Munich said to have a strong automotive division, according to a press release dated August 22. Aequita has acquired TMD Friction from TMD’s Japanese parent company, Nisshinbo Holdings Inc. The transaction is expected to be completed in the fourth quarter of 2023. The financial details of the agreement are not bein...

Delphi has announced the launch of its new range of battery-electric vehicle (BEV) brake pads dedicated to the specific needs of BEV applications, according to a press release dated August 21. This range is among the most comprehensive in the world today, covering the most popular models in the independent aftermarket. The range covers vehicles such as the Nissan Leaf, Tesla Model S/Model 3, BMW i4/iX, Mercedes EQC/EQEE/QS and Porsche Taycan/Cross Turismo. Delphi is introducing 52 p...

Vast-Auto Distribution, a subsidiary of Groupe Del Vasto, a distributor and marketer of automotive parts in Eastern Canada and a shareholder of the Aftermarket Auto Parts Alliance, announced that it has acquired the assets of Pièces d’Autos Victo, Freins Démarreurs Plessis and Pièces d’Autos Thetford, an auto parts wholesalers group located in south-central Quebec, according to a press release dated August 14. Normand Roy, founder of the Quebec-based wholesaler, said he was deligh...