The American Property Casualty Insurance Association (APCIA) is the primary national trade association for home, auto, and business insurers. APCIA promotes and protects the viability of private competition for the benefit of consumers and insurers. APCIA has issued a statement, on 3 October, supporting two recently released white papers focused on the impact of right to repair legislation in the auto industry. The white paper “Right to Equitable and Professional Auto Industry Repair (RE...

Clore Automotive, a Kansas, US based manufacturer of automotive battery service equipment for professionals and consumers, has announced that Eric Batdorf will join the company as vice president and chief financial officer (CFO) in a press release dated 5 October. Batdorf will succeed Mike Canipe, who will retire as executive vice president and CFO at the end of 2022. Batdorf brings to Clore deep expertise and extensive experience leading finance and operational teams in a variety of manufact...

BendPak, California based workshop equipment manufacturer and distributor, has introduced the EV2400SL EV battery pack and powertrain lifting system in a press release dated 4 October. This push-around full-rise scissor lift table is designed to make replacing both electric vehicle (EV) battery packs and internal combustion powertrain components more efficient. The patent-pending design offers all the benefits of BendPak’s former SL24EVT lifting system with several user-friendly enhancements. ...

In a press release dated 3 October, First Brands Group (formerly TRICO Group) is a global automotive parts company headquartered in Michigan, US, that develops, markets and sells premium products through a portfolio of nine market-leading brands. They have added 82 new part numbers to its Raybestos braking portfolio of friction, rotors and hydraulics that cover over 25 million vehicles in operation. “As we celebrate the 120th anniversary of Raybestos this year, we remain steadfast to our co...

In a press release dated 4 October, The MANN+HUMMEL Group, the  German components supplier and filtration expert, has successfully finalized the sale of its global high-performance plastic parts business to Mutares SE & Co. KGaA (ISIN: DE000A2NB650), following close consultations with employee representatives, the approval of all relevant regulatory authorities and the fulfillment of other customary closing conditions. The business that comprises products other than filtration and se...

German supplier of automotive components, tires, and aftermarket replacement parts, Continental, has announced that the Continental WinterContact™ TS 870 came first in the Auto Express 2022 Winter tire test, having secured top position in six testing areas including snow braking and snow circle, rolling resistance, dry handling, wet circle, straight, and curved aquaplaning. A really strong result for the tire from the popular WinterContact™ tire range in a press release dated 30 Septemb...

With operations throughout Europe, the United States, and Southern Africa, Ecobat is a leader in the collection, recycling, production, and distribution of energy storage solutions. In a press release dated 3 October, Ecobat Battery European Marketing Manager, Thom Poole, said “The lithium battery, which is generally the battery of choice for vehicle manufacturers (VM) globally, is an incredibly effective power storage solution. It is virtually maintenance-free, is lighter than a traditio...

In a press release dated 3 October, The Auto Care Association announced the addition of Ted Hughes as its new senior director of community engagement and AWDA executive director. Hughes will lead the association’s efforts to evolve community engagement among its members while also serving as the liaison between the association and its Aftermarket Warehouse Distributors Association (AWDA) community. In his role as senior director of community engagement, Hughes will be a key leader in e...

In a release dated 26 September, Continental Aftermarket US, a supplier of OE-engineered aftermarket replacement parts and advanced diagnostics, announced that it has expanded its direct-fit replacement Door Systems Program with new part numbers and increased application coverage. Claimed to be designed to provide OE fit, form, and function, this includes power window motor/regulator assemblies, power window regulator assemblies, and door lock actuators. Continental said its power w...

Auto Care Association, a US-based industry body representing independent manufacturers, distributors, and repair shops, has announced in a press release dated 27 September that it has added Lisa Foshee to its government affairs team. Foshee will hold the role of SVP, government affairs and general counsel. In her role, Foshee will provide leadership and direction for the association’s federal and state legislative and regulatory efforts. These efforts include educating legislators...

In an effort to boost technology-enabled insurance, India’s insurance regulator, the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI), in July this year permitted general insurance companies to introduce concepts such as “pay as you drive” and “pay how you drive” for own damage (OD) coverage. Following the announcement, activity in the usage-based insurance (UBI) space, a type of motor insurance that tracks mileage and driving behaviors, has picked up and should gather p...

Bridgestone Americas has announced an investment of USD60 million to expand its Bridgestone Bandag, LLC manufacturing plant in Abilene, Texas, according to a press release dated 22 September. The 50,000-square-foot expansion of the Abilene plant is aimed at the growing demand for the company’s tread rubber products, driven by the rapid growth of its retread business. The expansion includes an immediate increase in operational activity by running on six- and seven-day production schedules, a...

Japanese trading company Marubeni Corporation and Lithia & Driveway (LAD), a US-based automotive dealer group, have entered into a Letter of Intent for a strategic alliance to jointly participate in the commercial vehicle fleet management business in North America, expand Marubeni’s automotive-related business, and develop new business in the electric vehicle (EV) field, according to a press release dated 6 September. With a large vehicle sales and service network in North America, LAD ...

Dorman Products, a US-based aftermarket supplier of OE dealer exclusive parts has announced the appointment of Michael Dickerson as vice president of Investor Relations & Risk Management effective 26 September, according to a press release dated 29 September. Mike served most recently as vice president of Investor Relations and Corporate communications for The Aaron’s Company, Inc. and its predecessor Aaron’s Inc., and held similar positions at Gannet Co., Inc., The Babcock & Wilc...

Italy-based National Association of the Automotive Industry Supply Chain (ANFIA) has announced that its Aftermarket Barometer, a statistical survey within the ANFIA Components Group, has revealed that the aftermarket turnover of the association’s group companies grew 13.6% in the first half of 2022 compared to the same period of 2021, according to a press release dated 28 September. The aftermarket turnover is considered as the turnover of component manufacturers towards the independent afterm...

German automotive supplier HELLA, which operates under the umbrella brand FORVIA, has announced that the merger of HELLA and Faurecia opens up new opportunities for the independent aftermarket by allowing the companies to pool their OE expertise, according to a press release dated 12 September. As a result, Faurecia Service product lines can now also be purchased through HELLA. This starts with Easy2Fit exhaust systems, which were specially developed to meet the requirements of wholesalers and w...

Lumileds, a global lighting solutions supplier with headquarters in the United States and the Netherlands, announced the launch of the next-generation Philips Ultinon Pro9100 LED range that’s claimed to deliver automotive OEM level performance, according to a press release dated 13 September. Equipped with “Lumileds LUXEON Altilon TopContact LED” exclusively used by carmakers, these LED automotive headlight bulbs offer optimized consistency and performance with up to 350% more brightnes...

North America-based automotive aftermarket parts retailer Advance Auto Parts has announced the departure of Michael Creedon Jr., executive vice president, US stores, effective 30 September and he will be succeeded by Herman Word Jr, who has been promoted to executive vice president, US stores and Carquest Independents, according to a press release dated 26 September. Word joined Advance in February 2003 and has served in his current role as Division President, Carquest North America, leading ...

MS Motorservice, the aftermarket sales arm of German powertrain and thermal parts supplier Rheinmetall, has announced the launch of an electric pump designed for purging activated carbon filters (ACF), according to a press release dated 22 September. The company claimed to be the only supplier in the aftermarket to offer the component. “ACF pump 7.11390.00.0” was developed by Pierburg in Germany and launched as a world first in 2018, according to the release, which added that since t...

We attended the long awaited return of Automechanika in Frankfurt. The aftermarket trade show has been absent, in physical form, since 2018.

Europe / United Kingdom

Canada-based Lithion Recycling and US automaker General Motors have announced that GM Ventures, the automaker's investment arm, has made a strategic investment in Lithion's Series A financing round, supporting a new GM-Lithion strategic partnership agreement to pursue a circular battery ecosystem using Lithion's advanced battery recycling technology, according to a press release dated 22 September. This collaboration between GM and Lithion will focus on: validation of Lithion's recovered batt...

German lighting major OSRAM has presented a comprehensive aftermarket product portfolio at the recently concluded Automechanika Frankfurt 2022, according to a press release dated 12 September. In addition to LED, xenon, and halogen products and a portfolio for equipping and maintaining vehicles, the company presented a range of battery charging and battery testing devices designed especially for professional automotive service shops for the first time. For the off-road segment, the compa...

In a release dated 19 September, Continental Aftermarket US, a supplier of OE-engineered aftermarket replacement parts and advanced diagnostics, announced that it has introduced a new floor display as a part of its ClearContact Commercial Duty Wiper Blades program. The display can accommodate an assortment of up to 70 wiper blades that can be selected by the retailer or service facility and the company will help customize a product mix that best fits the customer’s sales and applications needs...

In a release dated 7 September, Continental Aftermarket US, a supplier of OE-engineered aftermarket replacement parts and advanced diagnostics, announced that it has added a new line of filtration products to its aftermarket products portfolio. The new line features a wide range of OE quality oil, fuel, air, and cabin filters for applications on domestic and import cars, vans, SUVs, and light trucks. Continental says its oil filters are manufactured using advanced technologies and innovative ...

Lumileds, a global lighting solutions supplier with headquarters in the United States and the Netherlands, announced the launch of new Philips Ultinon Drive 2000 series LED auxiliary driving lights claimed to offer “the superior illumination from LEDs in a durable, road-legal range that’s accessibly priced,” according to a press release dated 13 September. The company says the Philips Ultinon Drive 2000 series produces “outstanding forward visibility”, projecting an optimized beam p...

Autel Europe, provider of EV charging solutions and automotive aftermarket products, announced that it presented its products and solutions at the recently concluded Automechanika Frankfurt 2022, according to a press release dated 14 September. The company showcased its AUTEL MaxiCharger DC Fast (Gen2), a collection of point-of-sale (POS) systems that allows customers to charge easily with a wide range of payment options. The MaxiCharger DC Fast is claimed to offer IP54 protection against wea...

Motive Retail, a US-based global systems integrator, announced that ‘MAXXTRAXX’ by Scott Systems will be the first shop management system (SMS) to fully integrate with FordParts.com, thanks to help from their integration platform, Motive Integrator eXchange (MIX), according to a press release dated 15 September. Motive Retail an integrator focused on modernizing the automotive retail experience by enabling real-time data flow between all parties in the ecosystem. Scott Systems is a software ...

Dayco, a US-based engine products and drive systems supplier for the automotive and aftermarket industries, announced the introduction of a carbon fiber belt called Dayco POWER CTX for heavily modified UTVs (Utility Vehicles), SXS (side by sides), and snowmobiles, according to a press release dated 8 September. The latest addition to Dayco’s powersports belt line is claimed to outperform and outlast original equipment belts. The belt’s design is said to integrate a patented carbon hybrid ...

Europe / Finland

The automotive aftermarket division of German automotive component supplier and service provider Bosch presented a wide range of innovations and new developments for the workshop market at Automechanika Frankfurt from 13–17 September, according to a press release dated 13 September. The company showcased its DAS 3000 tool for the exact adjustment and calibration of the sensors and camera systems that support modern driver assistance systems on vehicles of different makes. The tool permits p...

ZF Aftermarket, the aftermarket arm of German automotive supplier ZF Friedrichshafen reiterated its focus on new products for the car chassis at the recently concluded Automechanika Frankfurt 2022, according to a press release dated 13 September. The new products included, for the first time, Sachs air springs for passenger cars, Wabco air suspension compressors and TRW brake caliper repair set, the release added. “The chassis has a decisive influence on the safety, comfort and efficiency o...

Hengst Filtration, a Germany based specialist in liquid and air filtration, presented its portfolio of filtration solutions for passenger cars and commercial vehicles at the recently concluded Automechanika Frankfurt 2022, according to a press release dated 8 September. The company’s expanded filtration range includes 3,200 products. In addition to standard filtration applications in motor vehicles, the company also presented industrial air filtration solutions as well as hydraulic filters ...

Brembo, an Italy-based manufacturer of brake components and systems, announced the launch of its Greenance Kit Concept, a jointly developed new range of combined special alloy discs and dedicated brake pads that expand its aftermarket line-up, according to a press release dated 13 September. Derived from the company’s innovation in the OE market, Brembo’s latest solution aims to combine top braking performance with a lower environmental impact, while also increasing disc life, the relea...

The recently concluded Automechanika Frankfurt 2022 played host to the largest UK aftermarket overseas trade mission since pre-pandemic 2019, with a dedicated UK Pavilion organized by UK automotive trade body Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), according to a press release by SMMT dated 13 September. A total of 22 companies with businesses ranging from engine remanufacturing and suspension system design services to specialist components, lubricants, and tire  sealants represe...

ZF Aftermarket, the aftermarket arm of German automotive supplier ZF Friedrichshafen announced that it has introduced a variety of new products and services that allows commercial vehicle (CV) workshops to take advantage of the opportunities associated with the digitization of CV fleets and the establishment of new drive and mobility concepts trends, according to a press release dated 13 September. These introductions took place at the recently concluded Automechanika Frankfurt 2022. At the trad...

US-based Repairify Inc, the parent company of vehicle diagnostic solutions firm asTech, has announced that asTech has introduced changes and expanded its offerings with an aim to streamline shop workflow for a shorter repair cycle and a more profitable shop, according to a press release dated 15 September. The company says one of asTech’s notable new offerings is the diagnostic Rules Engine, a robust and proprietary rules engine that can suggest when an alternative to the OEM scan tool can ...

Lumileds, a global lighting solutions supplier with headquarters in the United States and the Netherlands, announced the launch of the new Philips Ultinon Pro5100 range of LED headlight bulbs that are up to 160% brighter and have up to 5800K color temperature, according to a press release dated 13 September. The lamp comes in a new compact design making it easy to install in an even wider range of car models, the release added. The headlight bulbs are claimed to offer razor-sharp vision witho...

US-based coilover and air ride suspension company, FV Suspension, has announced plans to introduce its “2022 Honda Ridgeline Air Struts and 2022 Ford Explorer St Coilovers” at the SEMA show 2022 slated to be held from 1–4 November at the Las Vegas Convention Center, according to a press release dated 19 September. FV Suspension manufacturers high-performance suspension for different car brands and models and claims to be “one of the few coilover and air suspension manufacturers that s...

Other Asia / Australia

Michigan-based global supplier of powertrain technologies, BorgWarner and Hubei Surpass Sun Electric (SSE) today announced that they have entered into an agreement under which BorgWarner has agreed to acquire the Electric Vehicle Solution, Smart Grid, and Smart Energy businesses of SSE, according to a press release dated 20 September. The transaction has an enterprise value of up to CNY410 million (around USD58 million), of which approximately CNY267 million (around USD38 million) would be de...

Lumileds, a global lighting solutions supplier with headquarters in the United States and the Netherlands, announced the launch of three new Philips Xperion 6000 flood lights with a smart-zoom function for the workshop segment, according to a press release dated 12 September. The professional Philips Flood, Flood Audio, and Flood Mini work lights offer mechanics and auto professionals the durability, flexibility, and battery lifetime expected from professional-grade equipment, the release added....

German automotive supplier HELLA, which operates under the umbrella brand FORVIA, positioned itself as a comprehensive solution provider in the aftermarket at the just-concluded Automechanika Frankfurt 2022, according to a press release dated 8 September. The company said it offers extensive product and service solutions for the independent aftermarket to successfully manage change as the trend toward automated driving and e-mobility leads to a significant increase in complexity for inde...

US-based Repairify Inc, the parent company of vehicle diagnostic solutions firm asTech announced that it will be participating at the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) show 2022 slated to be held from 1–4 November at the Las Vegas Convention Center, according to a press release dated 13 September. According to the release, Repairify will have a bigger presence than before, giving attendees the ability to experience asTech’s capabilities along every step of the collision repair...

TES and Strides Mobility have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to collaborate on lithium-ion battery recycling, energy storage initiatives, and electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure expansion in Singapore, according to a press release dated 17 September. Terence Ng, executive chairman of TES, said, "This is a great day for all Singaporeans who care about e-mobility. It is our privilege to work closely with Strides Frontier as it begins to take significant steps on its journe...

Europe / Germany

Honda Cars India, the Indian arm of Japanese carmaker Honda, has announced a nationwide service camp across its authorized dealership facilities in 239 cities from 21–30 September as a part of the company’s efforts to enhance the ownership experience, according to a press release dated 20 September. As part of the service camp, Honda customers can avail offers on value added services such as “Exterior, Interior enrichment, Anti-rust Treatment and more," the release added. Duri...

Lumileds, a global lighting solutions supplier with headquarters in the United States and the Netherlands, announced the launch of what it calls “the first road-legal H4-LED in France” from its Philips Ultinon Pro6001 LED retrofit range, according to a press release dated 22 August. The new bulb is claimed to deliver up to 230% brighter light, and its plug-and play-design allows do-it-yourselfers and mechanics to install it on their own. According to the company, designing a safe, road-le...

Hella Gutmann, a partnership between European diagnostic brand Gutmann Messtechnik and German automotive supplier HELLA, which operates under the umbrella brand FORVIA, announced that it showcased its development in automizing vehicle diagnostics with artificial intelligence (AI) and big data technology at the just-concluded Automechanika Frankfurt 2022 trade fair, according to a press release dated 30 August. The Hella Gutmann ‘Automated Diagnosisʼ (AD) is said to save workshops valuable ...

Schrader, a brand of Sensata Technologies, and a global manufacturer of tire pressure monitoring systems (TPMS) for automotive, heavy vehicles and off-road vehicles, announced that it exhibited its TPMS solutions at the recently concluded Automechanika Frankfurt 2022, according to a press release dated 10 September. The company said that at the show, it introduced a new bundle offer, featuring the S57 TPMS programming tool. The S57 tool is the first tool with a touchscreen display in Schrader...

Aisin Corporation, a Japanese corporation that develops and produces components and systems for the automotive industry, and a company that claims to be the fifth largest “Tier One auto supplier” in the world, showcased its systems and products at the recently concluded Detroit Auto Show 2022, according to a press release dated 12 September. The company presented its EV systems and initiatives that contribute to heat management and weight reduction in support of future mobility, carbon ne...

MAHLE, a Stuttgart-based global supplier of powertrain and thermal components, announced in a press release dated 19 September that its Supervisory Board has appointed Arnd Franz as its CEO and Chairman of the Management Board of the MAHLE Group starting 1 November. The 57-year-old has been CEO of Switzerland-based LKQ Europe since 2019 and is now returning to MAHLE, where he had previously worked for 18 years. In a second announcement, the release stated that its CFO Michael Frick is leaving...

US-based distributor of replacement parts, components, and systems, LKQ Corporation, has announced that Varun Laroyia, executive vice president and chief financial officer (CFO), has been appointed as chief executive officer and managing director of LKQ Europe, according to a press release dated 19 September. Laroyia succeeds Arnd Franz, who is leaving the company to join MAHLE Group as its chief executive officer, where he spent 18 years prior to joining LKQ Europe. Rick Galloway, chief fina...

Webasto Charging Systems, a subsidiary of Webasto Group, has launched the Webasto Go, a Level 2 mobile electric vehicle (EV) Charger, for electric vehicle (EV) owners at the Fully Charged LIVE North America 2022 Show, which took place 10–11 September, according to a press release dated 9 September. The mobile charger is now available in the US and Canada for EV-owners to purchase at major retail stores or directly on the Webasto EV Solutions website. Further roll outs are planned for the rest ...

The European aftermarket arm of Japan-based DENSO Corporation has revealed its strategy behind optimizing its lambda sensor range “for smart consolidation”, which the company says has resulted in “maximizing benefits without incurring negative impacts,” according to a press release from Auto Resource UK dated 5 September. The company observed that thanks to continual advancements by parts manufacturers, there is a trend for wholesalers to stock a smaller, but just as widely appli...

Solera, a US-based company involved in vehicle lifecycle management software-as-a-service (SaaS) has announced a strategic partnership with DigniFi, a leading FinTech platform for the automotive industry for a financing option that is claimed to make unexpected repairs more affordable, according to a press release dated 9 September. Solera will offer access to DigniFi financing options to consumers seeking payment solutions for a range of vehicle repairs made by auto repair and body shops as ...

North America / United States

Brembo, an Italy-based manufacturer of brake components and systems, is showcasing its entire range of replacement solutions divided into four product families at the ongoing Automechanika Frankfurt 2022 trade fair for the automotive service industry from 13 to 17 September in Frankfurt, Germany, according to a press release dated 13 September. The company says its range mirrors the on-going expansion of its replacement product offering and overall product strategy. Significance: The four of ...

German automotive supplier HELLA, which operates under the umbrella brand FORVIA, has announced that thanks to the merger of HELLA and Faurecia, independent workshops now have the opportunity to access the repair service of Clarion Europe SAS, a subsidiary of Faurecia, via HELLA Tech World, according to a press release dated 13 September. HELLA Tech World is HELLA's workshop portal that offers car mechanics comprehensive expert knowledge, checklists, and instructions for smooth repairs. By in...

NTN, a Japan-based manufacturer of precision mechanical parts and components including hub bearings and driveshafts, has announced that it is showcasing a range of its products at the ongoing Automechanika Frankfurt 2022 trade fair for the automotive service industry from 13 to 17 September in Frankfurt, Germany, according to a press release dated 8 September. At the aftermarket trade show, NTN is exhibiting a wide range of products including auto tensioners, timing belts, and bearings for ge...

German automotive component supplier and service provider Bosch has announced that it is bringing a new drive unit consisting of an electric motor plus an integrated inverter for vans and small and medium-sized trucks into series production, according to a press release dated 15 September. The inverter is said to control the electric motor and establish the connection to the high-voltage battery. Bosch says it has reduced electrical losses by more than 20% with new power semiconductors, which...

Spanish bearings manufacturer, Fersa Group, has announced that its subsidiary Fersa Bearings has formed a strategic partnership with Knorr-Bremse TruckServices, the commercial vehicles aftermarket brand of Knorr-Bremse AG, according to a press release dated 8 September. With headquarters in Munich, Germany, Knorr-Bremse is the global supplier of braking systems and other systems for rail and commercial vehicles. With the partnership, Knorr-Bremse TruckServices will become a strategic sales pa...

Other Asia / India

VDA or the German Association of the Automotive Industry, has announced that its subsidiary Automotive Quality Institute GmbH (AQI GmbH) has developed a tool that can identify the need for quick-charging points for electric cars along highways throughout Germany, according to a press release dated 7 September. The tool is said to help charging station operators and others expand the quick-charging infrastructure along highways and federal roadways. This innovation focuses on the demand analys...

Spanish bearings manufacturer, Fersa Group, has announced that it will present its solutions for smart mobility at the ongoing Automechanika Frankfurt from 13–17 September, according to a press release dated 8 September. Fersa is also presenting solutions from its subsidiary Perfect Fit Industries (PFI), a US-based automotive bearings company for light vehicles focused on automotive aftermarket sector. Fersa had announced the acquisition of PFI on 16 March. The trade fair for the automotive...

European automotive springs manufacturer Lesjöfors Group has announced that it has signed an agreement to acquire 100% of the shares in Telform, a Turkish spring manufacturer, according to a press release dated 14 September. The move is aimed at expanding its production footprint, in line with its ambition to build the leading spring, wire, and flat strip component group. Telform is a Turkish manufacturer of industrial springs to the domestic and international markets. The customer base is d...

MYELE, a Hamburg, Germany-based replacement parts manufacturer for the independent aftermarket has announced that it is transforming its MELYE HD steering and suspension parts into the first climate-neutral product range in the independent aftermarket with an aim to be climate-neutral by 2030, according to a press release dated 8 September. The company says it has been working to improve the carbon footprint of MEYLE HD steering and suspension parts since 2019 and has managed to significantly...

German automotive and industrial component supplier Schaeffler has announced that it is developing key components and systems for hydrogen mobility for commercial vehicles, according to a press release dated 14 September. The company is demonstrating a fuel cell-powered demonstration vehicle, developed in collaboration with REFIRE, a supplier of commercial hydrogen fuel cell technologies, at the upcoming IAA Transportation show in Hanover. It is also leveraging its bearings know-how to develo...

Brembo, an Italy-based manufacturer of brake components and systems, has launched its latest aftermarket offering, the Enesys Energy Saving System, according to a press release dated 13 September. This new technological solution is said to have been designed to further enhance the sustainability characteristics of a vehicle’s braking system, by reducing wear on discs and pads, potentially resulting in lower harmful emissions and fuel consumption. Aimed at light commercial vehicle profe...

Michigan-based global supplier of powertrain technologies, BorgWarner, along with Delphi Technologies has revealed new products for the aftermarket at the ongoing Automechanika Frankfurt 2022, according to a press release dated 13 September. The supplier’s booth highlights BorgWarner’s electrification solutions aimed at leading the aftermarket into the next stage of e-mobility transformation. The company showcased products from several of its brands such as BorgWarner Aftermarket, BERU, D...

CLEPA, the European Association of Automotive Suppliers, has revealed the findings of a joint study by Roland Berger and it states that the ongoing electrification transition in the automotive sector indicates a massive change for the European aftermarket, according to a press release dated 8 September. The key to this change would be that battery-electric vehicles (BEVs) have around 30% lower demand for traditional aftermarket components and BEV sales forecasts project a 53–82% market share i...

Dorman Products, a US-based aftermarket supplier of OE dealer exclusive parts has announced that it has introduced over 200 new motor vehicle parts, half of which are aftermarket-exclusives, as part of its latest release, according to an official announcement dated 8 September. The new products join a catalog of over 118,000 aftermarket solutions, the company said. September’s release featured new products that include a new engine heater hose assembly, which Dorman says strengthens its pos...

Holley Inc., a US-based manufacturer of high-performance aftermarket products for car and truck enthusiasts, announced financial results for its second quarter ended 3 July 2022, in a press release dated 11 August. The company says that its net sales decreased 7.1% to USD179.4 million in the second quarter of 2022 compared to USD193.0 million in the second quarter of 2021. The decline was due to reduced unit volumes, destocking from our resellers, and reduced consumer demand in certain c...

Europe / Sweden

Lubricant maker Castrol and Sprint Power, a UK-based firm involved in electrified propulsion systems, power electronics and battery systems, are collaborating on a project to develop ultra-fast charging cells and battery packs for battery-electric vehicles (BEVs) and fuel cell hybrid electric vehicles (FCEVs), according to a press release dated 6 September. Under the collaboration, two Sprint Power designed battery modules that will use Castrol ON EV Thermal Fluids to deliver an 80% charge in...

US-based paints, coatings, and specialty materials manufacturer PPG has announced that it will showcase its growing portfolio of paints and coatings for battery-electric vehicles (BEVs) during the North American International Detroit Auto Show and The Battery Show, North America from 13–15 September, according to a press release dated 12 September. Exhibits at both events will include the PPG CORACHAR branded battery fire protection solutions that are claimed to enhance safety and productio...

GSF Car Parts, a UK-based supplier of car parts to the independent aftermarket, announced that its branches are now fully stocked with DR!VE+ Filters, an OE-matching quality range of air, cabin, fuel, and oil filters, according to a release dated 5 September from the UK aftermarket industry body Independent Automotive Aftermarket Federation (IAAF). Covering more than 90% of the car parc, the all-makes filters range is now widely available across the UK, providing workshops with a greater...

Valeo Service, the aftermarket brand of French automotive supplier Valeo, has outlined its range of Ultrasonic Parking Sensors (UPS) for the independent aftermarket that are fitted on the bumpers and sides of the vehicle to enable detection of any obstacles during manual parking, automatic parking, or low speed driving, according to a press release dated 8 August. Its Park4U Remote product is said to perform both perpendicular and parallel parking through the simple use of a smartphone. Valeo...

Bridgestone Americas has announced the launch of the all-new Firestone Firehawk AS V2 all-season ultra-high performance tire designed to deliver sporty performance, according to a press release dated 7 September. Inspired by the INDYCAR Firestone Firehawk rain race tire, the Firestone tire is claimed to deliver high performance in inclement weather, delivering faster lap times than the tire’s predecessor, the release added. The Firestone Firehawk AS V2 tire is backed by a 50,000-mile limite...

MYELE, a Hamburg, Germany-based replacement parts manufacturer for the independent aftermarket has announced that it is unveiling the new MEYLE HD control arm for Tesla Model 3 and Model Y at Automechanika Frankfurt from 13 to 17 September, according to a press release dated 6 September. The solution is in response to an increasing number of drivers of the Tesla Model 3 and Model Y all over the world reporting an irritating squeaking sound from the front axle. A MEYLE development team identified...

German automotive supplier Continental has announced that with higher focus on sustainability in the replacement parts business and for workshops, its Power Transmission Group will unveil a trio of innovations for drive belts and belt drive components at Automechanika Frankfurt from 13 to 17 September, according to a press release dated 31 August. A new timing belt whose profile side is made not from polychloroprene as usual, but from a new and patented synthetic rubber compound will make its...

Automotive aftermarket brand febi, part of the German automotive manufacturer Bilstein, which is a subsidiary of thyssenkrupp, announced that it will be exhibiting at Automechanika Frankfurt from 13 to 17 September with a wide range of products, according to a press release dated 17 August. With over 47,000 references available, febi will showcase the latest in its product portfolio across categories including steering and suspension, braking, filtration, and engine management, for passenger ...

Ford Motor Company has announced that it is launching BlueCruise 1.2 and Lincoln ActiveGlide 1.2 with new features—including hands-free lane changing—and system updates to create more of a human-like driving feel. BlueCruise is the company’s semi-autonomous hands-free highway driving feature and Activeglide is Lincoln's version of Ford Bluecruise. Both updates include three new features: Lane Change Assist enables system to perform a hands-free lane change when requested by the driver t...

German trade fair, congress and event organizer Messe Frankfurt, who is also organizing the upcoming automotive service industry trade fair Automechanika Frankfurt from 13 to 17 September at the Frankfurt exhibition grounds, has revealed the key topics at this year’s event and announced that the exhibitor line-up continues to be international, according to a press release dated 8 September. The key topics include alternative drive systems, training and professional development, resilient su...

BYD (China) and Castrol have signed a three-year partnership to enhance the supply and promotion of Castrol ON advanced EV Fluids for BYD’s zero-emissions vehicles, according to a press release dated 22 August. The agreement builds on existing first-fill agreement, the release added. BYD sold almost 600,000 battery-electric vehicles (BEVs) last year and plans to increase this to a million units in 2022, the release stated, adding that BYD will officially recommend the use of Castrol ON EV T...

MAHLE Aftermarket, the aftermarket arm of Stuttgart-based global supplier of powertrain and thermal components, MAHLE, has announced its participation at Automechanika Frankfurt from 13 to 17 September with a wide range of products, according to a press release dated 4 August. The focus of the company’s presence at the trade fair is the new MAHLE BatteryPRO diagnostics and service solutions for electric vehicles (EVs). In addition, MAHLE is presenting workshop equipment for the calibration ...

The automotive service industry trade fair Automechanika Frankfurt has further expanded its international network of associations by entering into a cooperation with the US-American Association of Diesel Specialists (ADS), according to a press release dated 23 August by German trade fair, congress and event organizer Messe Frankfurt, who is also organizing the upcoming Automechanika Frankfurt from 13 to 17 September. The move is expected to give the trade fair a stronger footing in the US mar...

Blink Charging and UBS Asset Management's Real Estate & Private Markets division have signed a mutual service agreement to deliver Blink electric vehicle (EV) charging stations and related services to UBS-owned properties across the US, according to a press release published by Blink Charging on 8 September.   Michael D. Farkas, Chairman and CEO, Blink, said, “We are pleased to provide UBS with access to the broad range of Blink products, services and innovative solutions. The Blin...

RAC, a UK-based breakdown service provider for both private and business drivers, has announced that Kia UK has extended its long-running roadside assistance partnership with the company till end-2023, according to a press release dated 7 September. Every new Kia sold is covered by Kia Roadside Assistance, a comprehensive roadside service delivered by the RAC aimed to give drivers peace of mind, whether they are driving in the United Kingdom or elsewhere in Europe. The contract also sees the ...

American Tire Distributors (ATD), a US based independent suppliers of tires to the replacement tire market., has announced the completion of the sale of its Canadian subsidiary, National Tire Distributors (NTD) to Groupe Touchette, according to a press release dated 7 September. With the sale of NTD now complete, ATD says it is moving forward as a more focused organization that is better positioned to serve its customers across the US. The company will continue supporting NTD and Groupe Touch...

MEKO (previously Mekonomen Group), an automotive spare-parts distributor based in Sweden, has announced that the company and Mobivia Fleet Solutions, have signed a partnership agreement to provide fleet customers and also new electric vehicle (EV) producers a complete service and full car fleet maintenance in the respective markets they operate in, according to a press release dated 7 September. MEKO AB and Mobivia both operate a network of sales and services related to automotive maintenance...

MAHLE, a Stuttgart-based global supplier of powertrain and thermal components, announced in a press release dated 9 August, that it has signed a declaration of intent with Siemens for cooperation in the area of wireless charging systems for electric vehicles (EVs). One of their focus areas will be technological standards for inductive charging technology. MAHLE has strengthened its development in the field of wireless charging in recent years. This includes two projects funded by the German F...

Japanese tire manufacturing company Bridgestone Americas has announced that Bridgestone Brazil will invest an additional BRL270 million (around USD52 million) in the expansion and modernization of the tire plant in Camaçari, a city in Bahia, Brazil, according to a press release dated 6 September. This brings the company's total investments announced since 2021 to more than BRL970 million (around USD186 million) for the Bahia plant. This second phase of expansion and modernization of the Bahi...

North America / United States

Japanese luxury car manufacturer, Lexus India, has announced a ‘Lexus Cares Package’ for its owners affected by the incessant torrential rains in Bengaluru, India, according to a press release dated 7 September. Parts of Bengaluru, also known as India's tech capital, have witnessed unprecedented rains over the past few days, halting life in the city amid fears of further disruptions over the coming days. Under the package, Lexus India will extend special support and rates for repairs of t...

Aftermarket braking specialist TMD Friction has launched three new brake discs and eight new brake drums under its Mintex product range, extending its product lines to cover more vehicles, according to a release dated 5 September from the UK aftermarket industry body Independent Automotive Aftermarket Federation (IAAF). The new additions to Mintex’s brake disc range cover 12 vehicle models across five vehicle manufacturers, including Audi, BMW, Cupra, Mazda, Skoda and VW. Brake disc part MD...

Blink Charging Co, a US-based owner, operator, and provider of electric vehicle (EV) charging equipment and services, announced the signing of a preferred supplier agreement with Cushman & Wakefield, a global real estate services firm, for deployment of EV charging stations and related services to Cushman & Wakefield clients throughout the United States, according to a press release dated 25 August. Cushman & Wakefield has agreed to engage its large network of property managers to...

German automotive supplier Continental has announced its participation at Automechanika Frankfurt from 13 to 17 September, according to a press release dated 1 August, saying that it will present aftermarket solutions such as SINDRI, the new, digital, direct vehicle acceptance tool for workshops, the virtual repair support service “Remote Expert,” among other workshop related services and products. According to the company, SINDRI, a tablet application, will showcase how digitalization en...

North America / United States

Schrader, a brand of Sensata Technologies, and a global manufacturer of tire pressure monitoring systems (TPMS) for automotive, heavy vehicles and off-road vehicles, announced electric vehicle coverage for its programmable TPMS sensor line, EZ-sensor, according to a press release dated 31 August. The EZ-sensor, and its latest generation EZ-sensor GO are claimed to provide users with 70% EV coverage for national brands, the release added. The OE quality sensors cover some of the most popular E...