Tesla’s Gigafactory in Berlin — Tesla Giga Berlin — hosts the world’s largest free electric vehicle charging park, according to a report published by Teslarati on April 11. The report cites the finding by the German Automobile Association (ADAC), which said that automaker’s facility in Grünheide houses a sprawling network of 546 charging stations. It further said that Tesla Giga Berlin became the largest free EV charging park after surpassing an EV charging hub situated in Merkling...

Audi has been testing approaches to implement used raw materials for new purposes after their initial usage has ended in its MaterialLoop program since 2023. After initially focusing on technical feasibility, the company said it has now become the first car manufacturer to develop and implement an economically viable recycling concept for recyclates from end-of-life vehicles together with its partner TSR Resource. In this process, steel scrap from vehicles at the end of their life cycle is turne...

The Rematec Amsterdam event was held recently, reinforcing its status as a pivotal event for the remanufacturing industry, which plays a significant role in sustainability, circular economy and future mobility, according to a press release. The trade show, hosted at RAI Amsterdam, attracted a diverse group of global participants including core suppliers, original equipment manufacturers, associations and startups, all focused on advancing the remanufacturing field. This year's event emph...

The 16th edition of the CLEPA Aftermarket Conference, which took place April 2–3 in Brussels, shone light on the evolutionary trends within the European automotive aftermarket, with a particular emphasis on data and software innovation. Attended by over 200 participants including industry experts, policymakers and representatives from the European Commission, the event echoed the sector's rapid adaptation to technological advancements and regulatory changes, according to a press release. CL...

BYD plans to soon start deploying its newly launched 1,000-kW ultrafast-charging stations in Greater China, according to a news report published by CarNewsChina on March 26. According to the news report, BYD plans to deploy the first batch of 500 ultrafast chargers in early April while preparing for the commercial launch of the Han L sedan and the Tang L sport utility vehicle models. BYD had unveiled its 1 MW charging station on March 17, saying that its ultrafast charger can charge a comp...

Stellantis Pro One, a commercial vehicle unit of Stellantis, announced a collaboration with Qinomic, a French high-tech firm focused on sustainable mobility solutions. They have introduced a retrofit system designed to convert light commercial vehicles (LCVs) with combustion engines into electric vehicles. The new technology will initially be available in France on midsize Stellantis Pro One vans, which collaborated on the initial project development together with SUSTAINera, the Stellantis C...

The Auto Care Association, MEMA Aftermarket Suppliers, Consumer Access to Repair (CAR) Coalition, Commercial Vehicle Solutions Network (CVSN), Preventative Automotive Maintenance Association (PAMA) and NFIB announced that they welcome the introduction of the “Right to Equitable and Professional Auto Industry Repair” (REPAIR) Act. This bipartisan bill was introduced by Senators Ben Ray Luján (D-NM) and Josh Hawley (R-Mo.) and is a critical step toward ensuring that consumers can repair their...

Magneti Marelli Parts and Services, the division of Marelli dedicated to the distribution of spare parts and automotive components, announced that it is set to enhance its filter range significantly by introducing approximately 300 new codes by 2025. The company said it will enhance focus on air and cabin filters, whose replacement becomes important with the arrival of spring, when these components become essential for protection against pollen and atmospheric particulate matter. The ...

ChargeTronix, a prominent electric vehicle charging solutions provider, announced the launch of its new EV charging systems, which include the innovative 1,280-kW Nexus Distributed Charging System and the third-generation 240-kW chargers. These cutting-edge products are designed to support the increasing adoption of EVs in the US by catering to both fleets and passenger vehicles. The 1,280-kW system can charge up to 16 EVs simultaneously, making it an ideal solution for large truck stops...

Shanghai has launched its first pilot project on large-scale, vehicle-to-grid (V2G) interaction on March 31, according to a news report published by China Daily on April 3. The report, which cited an announcement from the State Grid Shanghai Municipal Electric Power Co., said that Shanghai is among the first batch of nine pilot cities for promoting large-scale V2G applications in Greater China. Shanghai is expected to conduct four V2G pilot projects, it said, adding that these are part of ...

Continental has announced a significant shift in its Commercial Specialty Tires division, deciding to concentrate on Material Handling, Earthmoving and Port Operations Tires while discontinuing its Agricultural Tires business by the end of 2025. This strategic decision came after a thorough review of the business segment, which revealed that the agricultural tires market has been facing considerable disruptions, making it increasingly commoditized and misaligned with Continental's future...

The latest findings from the "Who Pays for What?" survey conducted by Collision Advice and CRASH Network reveal a growing trend among auto repair shops in billing insurance companies for the time spent setting up and using spectrophotometers, or color-match cameras, according to a report by Repairer Driven News. More than 20% of shops now report charging for this labor, with a notable increase in the number of shops stating they are regularly compensated by the eight largest national insurers...

Geotab USA Inc., known for providing connected vehicle and asset solutions, has announced a partnership with Autocar, a manufacturer of custom-engineered vocational trucks. This collaboration entails the factory installation of Geotab's GO devices in all internal combustion engine (ICE) trucks produced by Autocar. The integration enables Autocar to leverage near real-time, enterprise-grade telematics data to improve its production, warranty and service offerings, notably enhancing its "Always...

AUTEL Energy Europe has announced a strategic partnership with Mer, a European electric vehicle charging company, to expand AC electric-vehicle charging solutions across Europe, focusing on key markets such as the Nordics, the UK, Germany and Austria. This collaboration aims to integrate AUTEL's MaxiCharger AC products into Mer's growing charging network, thereby enhancing the availability of charging plugs and supporting the continent's shift toward electric vehicles. AUTEL's MaxiCharge...

Finnish DC fast-charging equipment manufacturer Kempower has supplied its charging solutions for electric trucks to Danske Fragtmænd in Denmark, the company announced March 25. Kempower’s high-power charging equipment is installed at Danske Fragtmænd’s depot in Aalborg, Denmark. The facility allows for the charging of up to four trucks at a time and is designed and developed by Kempower’s partner GodEnergi A/S, the company said. The site has a Kempower Satellite charging system, wi...

India-based tire manufacturer, Apollo Tyres Ltd., announced the appointment of Rajeev Kumar Sinha as its new chief manufacturing officer. In his new role, Sinha will be responsible for overseeing the global manufacturing operations of the company, which includes strategy and planning, performance optimization, plant management, integrated manufacturing services (IMS), corporate industrial engineering (IE), and the implementation of Advanced Manufacturing Systems, including AI and machine learnin...

The Motor & Equipment Manufacturers Association (MEMA) Aftermarket Suppliers, an association in North America representing motor-vehicle component manufacturers, announced the addition of Steve Gisondi, Dorman Products' vice president of Marketing, to the executive committee of the Marketing Executives Council (MEC). In his role at Dorman Products, a US-based aftermarket supplier of original equipment (OE) dealer-exclusive parts, Gisondi leads a team that handles various aspects of m...

Ziebart, a US-based provider of detailing, films and structural protection services, announced that it is expanding its international footprint with strategic moves in Canada and Mexico. The company has renewed its 60-year-old master franchise license with Driven Brands Canada, the owner of Uniban Canada, effectively reinforcing its presence in the Canadian market with 91 stores operating under the VitroPlus and UniglassPlus brands. The company said this renewal marks a continuation of Z...

A significant electric vehicle charging project has been announced in Brighton, which is being touted as the largest on-street installation of EV chargers in the UK. Chargepoint operator char.gy said it will fit more than 6,000 kerbside chargers for Brighton and Hove City Council (BHCC) after securing a £130 million contract, aiming to encourage EV adoption among drivers without off-road parking. This initiative is expected to facilitate access to charging near homes and enable the utilizati...

BendPak, a California, US-based workshop equipment manufacturer and distributor, announced that its Ranger Division has introduced the Ranger Select service program, aimed at enhancing the setup and operational training for new Ranger wheel service equipment such as wheel balancers, tire changers and brake lathes throughout the US. The program is focused on combining the delivery of equipment with professional installation and support services. Through Ranger Select, factory-trained specialis...

DriveItAway Holdings Inc., a firm involved in the automotive digital mobility platform space, announced the expansion of its service offering with the launch of the DriveItAway Business Preferred Program. The program is designed to cater to small commercial businesses, providing a flexible lease subscription program that allows these businesses to drive and potentially purchase quality vehicles without a long-term financial commitment or strict credit requirements. This initiative aims to ser...

VSE Corp., a provider of aftermarket distribution and repair services, announced that it has completed the sale of its fleet business segment, Wheeler Fleet Solutions, to One Equity Partners for up to $230 million in total consideration. “The sale of our Fleet business marks the completion of VSE’s strategic transformation into a pure-play aviation aftermarket parts and services provider,” said John Cuomo, president and CEO of VSE Corp. “With our full focus now on the aviation afterma...

Solera, a US-based company involved in vehicle life-cycle management software as a service (SaaS), announced the launch of the Solera Fleet Platform, an advanced AI-driven platform aimed at revolutionizing how fleet intelligence is unified, optimizing efficiency, and providing unparalleled visibility and control over fleet operations. The platform integrates Solera's best-in-class solutions, leveraging over 40 years of experience and data to establish a fully connected and intelligent fleet e...

The Moran Family of Brands, a franchisor of automotive services, announced that it has awarded seven new franchises and two resales in the first quarter of 2025. The company said the move is aimed at capitalizing on the automotive industry's momentum, which is expected to experience the highest and fastest growth in 2025, increasing by 3.5%, according to the release.  The company is a franchisor of general automotive repair, transmission repair, automotive accessories, and window tint an...

Innovative Control Systems (ICS), which operates under OPW Vehicle Wash Solutions and is a subsidiary of Dover, a US-based manufacturer and solutions provider of equipment and components, consumable supplies, aftermarket parts and software, has launched an advanced AI-powered license-plate recognition (LPR) solution. The AI-LPR technology enhances the existing ICS Auto Passport LPR product, known for simplifying the process of license-plate recognition for vehicle wash club members through a ...

The Fuchs Group, a Germany-based independent supplier of lubrication solutions, has acquired IRMCO Advanced Metalforming Lubricant Technologies, a US-based manufacturer of metal-forming lubricants known for its innovative solutions in demanding manufacturing processes. With a history dating back to 1914, the Illinois, US-based family-owned company brings over a century of expertise and innovation to the Fuchs Group. This acquisition is aimed at expanding Fuchs' industrial product portfolio by...

Voxx International Corp., a manufacturer and distributor in automotive and consumer technologies, has announced the completion of its sale to Gentex Corp., a US-based supplier of automatic-dimming rearview mirrors and electronics to the automotive industry. This transaction followed an agreement made on Dec. 18, 2024, where Gentex agreed to acquire Voxx in an all-cash deal valued at $7.50 per share. The acquisition received overwhelming support from Voxx stockholders during a special meeting ...

Clarios, a US-based supplier of energy storage solutions to original equipment (OE) manufacturers and the aftermarket, has announced that Varta, a brand of Clarios in Europe, the Middle East and Africa, has launched a new product portfolio designed to simplify the selection of low-voltage vehicle batteries for wholesalers, workshops and fleet operators. This move is in response to the advanced requirements of modern vehicles, including off-grid and leisure applications. The newly structu...

General Motors (GM) prohibited the installation of aftermarket kits for popular infotainment retrofit options, notably from a company called White Automotive, according to a March 20 report from The Drive. The automaker’s decision to discontinue the support of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for vehicles on its Ultium electric vehicle platform led to the emergence of aftermarket solutions from White Automotive, which offered a retrofit option for several GM vehicles. These included the ...

TRW, a notable brand within ZF Aftermarket, has unveiled NOxidation, a groundbreaking brake assembly grease aimed at enhancing the efficacy and longevity of braking systems in modern vehicles, including hybrid, electric and conventional cars. The product offers exceptional corrosion protection and durability for brake components, substantially improving braking performance and ensuring driver comfort. Additionally, it facilitates easier maintenance and quicker disassembly of brake systems whi...

Litens Aftermarket NA announced an expansion to its aftermarket portfolio, introducing 13 new belt drive stock-keeping units (SKUs) designed to cater to over 5.2 million vehicles in operation (VIO). This expansion aims to offer innovative solutions tailored to meet the requirements of contemporary vehicles and repair technicians, focusing on improving efficiency, simplifying installation processes, and minimizing inventory complexity for distributors and repair shops. The newly intr...

Valvoline Global Operations has inaugurated its first London office, a significant step in its global expansion strategy, according to company CEO Jamal Muashsher. This new regional hub in Central London's Fitzrovia district spans nearly 5,000 square feet and can accommodate up to 29 employees. It joins Valvoline Global's existing international hubs in Singapore and Lexington, Kentucky, the latter of which houses the company's global corporate and research and development headquarters. The op...

JD Auto Service has partnered with Continental Tire to introduce mainland China's first instant tire delivery and installation service. This new service combines JD.com's JD NOW platform and Continental Tires' Fast Delivery system to offer customers a tire replacement as quickly as 30 minutes. Customers can order their tires through the JD app or the company's nationwide maintenance network. This also applies to products that are out of stock in local stores. More than 800 tires products are ...

GSF Car Parts has forged a strategic alliance with Borg Automotive, aiming to enhance its product offerings by including a wider selection of vehicle parts for its customers. Borg Automotive is renowned for its expertise in remanufacturing automotive parts to original equipment (OE) quality standards, serving the European aftermarket. Its product range encompasses a variety of aftermarket parts such as starters, alternators, brake calipers, air conditioning compressors, exhaust gas recirculat...

Continental was honored with the Tire Manufacturer of the Year Award at the Tire Technology International Awards event, held in early March, recognizing the company's excellence in sustainable tire manufacturing. Specifically, Continental's achievements in making its Lousado, Portugal, tire plant carbon-neutral earned it additional acclaim. Edwin Goudswaard, head of Research and Development at Continental Tires, expressed pride in being the only manufacturer to receive dual honors in the high...

Advance Auto Parts Inc., with holdings including Advance Auto Parts stores and Carquest Canada, has announced the completion of its US store closure phase, marking a significant point in its transformation plan aimed at long-term growth and success. This step involved the optimization of its retail footprint, resulting in the closure of approximately 700 US stores. Following these closures, over 75% of its remaining stores are now positioned in markets where they hold a No. 1 or No. 2 ra...

Valvoline introduced its latest passenger car motor oil formulas for the US and Canada markets, designed to exceed the newly enacted ILSAC GF-7 standards as of March 31. Valvoline highlighted that its existing synthetic motor oils, already compliant with the ILSAC GF-6 certification, meet the criteria set by the ILSAC GF-7 specification. The company's engine lab located in Ashland, Kentucky, facilitates the execution of essential engine sequence tests, contributing to the establishment of per...

Australia's automotive aftermarket has experienced substantial growth, with parts imports surging to A$4.05 billion in 2023–2024, marking a 50% increase from A$2.70 billion in 2013–2014. This growth that primarily occurred post 2019–2020 reflects a significant development, given the market's previous static state. According to research commissioned by the Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association (AAAA), this increase is not merely due to the rising number of cars but also...

Yokohama Corporation of North America (YCNA) recently announced significant organizational changes that are effective immediately. Jeff Barna, who has been serving as the president and CEO of Yokohama Tire Corp. (YTC), has been promoted and will now also hold the position of president and CEO of YCNA. This promotion entrusts him with expanded responsibilities that include support roles for Yokohama Canada (YTC) and Yokohama Mexico (YTMX). These changes aim to strengthen the corporation's managem...

Standard Motor Products Inc. (SMP) announced the release of 170 new part numbers in the first quarter of 2025, spanning its Vehicle Control and Temperature Control divisions. This expansion includes new components for a broad range of late-model import and domestic vehicles across multiple powertrains. Among the highlighted introductions are ignition coils for various Hyundai cars and sport utility vehicles, notably the model year 2021 to 2024 Elantra and th...

Spectra Premium Mobility Solutions has announced that it is partnering with Specialty Sales and Marketing (SS&M), a sales agency that specializes in the aftermarket for automotive and heavy-duty segments. SS&M has a team of over 25 professionals in every province across Canada that bring expertise and understanding of the Canadian automotive and heavy-duty aftermarket. Spectra Premium believes that SS&M's customer-centric approach aligns perfectly with its mission of exceeding its...

MANN+HUMMEL has expanded its manufacturing footprint with a new plant in Kempton Park, Johannesburg. This facility, encompassing 3,200 square meters in its initial phase, is set to become a critical hub for MANN+HUMMEL's supply chain, catering to the commercial vehicle, passenger car, and off-highway and industrial aftermarket industries in the region. This project is the culmination of a project that began in 2016 when the company identified South Africa, the largest automotive market o...

GKN Automotive has made a significant stride in fostering future engineering talent by inaugurating two new Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) Innovation Labs in India as a pivotal aspect of its global Future Talent Program. The launch of these labs aims to ignite a passion for engineering among the next generation worldwide, with a special focus on enhancing the educational landscape for vulnerable communities in India. By introducing new infrastructure, scienc...

PPG announced the initiation of a new waterborne automotive coatings manufacturing facility in Samut Prakan, Thailand, aimed at bolstering its production capacity of waterborne basecoats and primers in response to the growing demand for sustainably advantaged coatings within the Southeast Asian automotive industry. The plant, which has an annual production capacity of 2,000 metric tons, is equipped with an automated spray application center to improve PPG's service capabilities and enhance it...

Nexus Automotive International (Nexus), a Geneva-based alliance of independent car parts distributors, announced that it has expanded its global reach with the creation of Nexus Automotive Turkey, aimed at capitalizing on the development opportunities within the Turkish automotive aftermarket. Located in Ürmaniye, Istanbul, this new division seeks to leverage Nexus' extensive network, which spans 145 countries and includes 523 members, 2,319 wholesale distributors, 96 suppliers and nearly 10...

Infosys, an India-based global entity in digital services and consulting, has announced its successful partnership with LKQ Europe, a distributor in the automotive aftermarket parts sector. This collaboration focuses on leveraging Infosys Cobalt — a comprehensive set of services, solutions and platforms aimed at enhancing enterprises' cloud journeys — to streamline LKQ Europe's human resources (HR) processes across 18 countries. As part of an ongoing five-year collaboration,&nbs...

Delphi announced that it is deeply invested in incorporating AI into its operations, particularly in the realm of diagnostic solutions (DS) for the automotive aftermarket. The company's dedication to AI-driven innovation is part of its broader mission to enhance user experience and spearhead industry advancement. Delphi's approach to diagnostics is built on two main pillars: User-friendly design and performance optimization. By creating diagnostic systems that are easy to use and by continuou...

Sumitomo Rubber Industries Ltd. has launched ESP 3.0, an application that enables centralized management of truck tire conditions. The application combines air pressure and temperature data from the tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) with groove and appearance data from inspections to provide real-time indication of tire abnormalities. In addition, based on the data obtained, it also provides information regarding tire changes, rotations and retreading. The company has observed that in...

BMW i Ventures announced an investment in Via Science Inc. (VIA), a leading provider of Web3 data protection solutions that ensures all transactions are verified, protected and auditable, no matter where data resides. The investment, which is part of an oversubscribed Series-B funding round of $28 million, will help accelerate VIA’s mission of redefining data protection. “As software-defined vehicles, robots, and edge devices become the norm, securing data flows between sensors, onboard s...

German automotive supplier ZF has announced that effective May 1, Alex Gelbcke will take on the role of head of Europe at ZF Aftermarket, aiming to enhance the company's standing in the European market by improving customer relationships, increasing employee engagement and fostering business growth. Alex Gelbcke comes from LKQ Europe, where his responsibility is CEO Benelux and France. Through various management positions in several well-established companies, including 18 years at Tenne...

Mitchell 1, a US-based provider of repair information solutions, has announced a partnership with 360 Payments with the aim of streamlining payment processes for workshops. This collaboration is set to offer smoother workflows and enhanced service for both shop teams and their customers by introducing features such as Text to Pay and providing multiple options for consumer financing, among other benefits. According to a statement, the initiative underscores both companies' commitment to ...

Japan-based Hitachi Astemo, a manufacturer of engine management, electric powertrain and integrated vehicle controls for major automotive manufacturers, has announced that it will change its company name to Astemo Ltd., effective April 1. Building on the accumulated achievements under the Hitachi name, Astemo aims to further strengthen the brand and become a leading company in electrification and intelligence of mobility in the software-defined vehicle (SDV) age. To implement the change,...

Japanese brake and friction material firm Akebono Brake Industry Co. Ltd. announced that it launched the Akebono Premium Comfort Business Edition (APC Business Edition) high-performance disc brake pads for one-box cars. The APC Business Edition is an offshoot of the Akebono Premium Comfort (APC) high-performance disc brake pads for minivans, which went on sale in May 2024. Targeting one-box cars that can be used in a variety of ways, the company said the pads ensure effectiveness and com...

US-based automotive service-equipment provider Hunter Engineering announced that it is set to showcase its newly improved HawkEye XL Commercial Alignment System on an international platform at the Mid-America Trucking Show in Louisville, Kentucky, later in March. During the event, which runs March 27–29, Hunter will host live demonstrations at booth #22185. In addition to the HawkEye XL, the company will exhibit a broad selection of HD wheel service equipment designed for durability and eff...

Coats, a smart repair brand specializing in vehicle maintenance systems, service and data, has announced the launch of its new Coats CWA60003D Wheel Aligner, marking an expansion in its range of smart repair solutions. The CWA6000 is introduced as an entry-level offering, designed to complement the more advanced CWA6500, aiming to make alignment services more accessible for shops of all sizes and budgets. Built with a focus on durability, ease of use, and serviceability, the CWA6000 offers es...

Allison Transmission, a global manufacturer of automatic transmissions and electrified vehicle propulsion solutions, has announced the expansion of its service network in Japan and West Africa, in a move to provide worldwide customer support for its growing base of customers using Allison propulsion solutions outside of North America. The initiative is part of Allison Transmission's strategy to meet the needs of its expanding customer base globally, especially as demand for Allison-equipped v...

Wallbox, a global provider of electric vehicle charging and energy management solutions, has achieved a significant milestone in its North American expansion by securing the California Type Evaluation Program (CTEP) certification for its Supernova DC fast charger. The certification confirms that Wallbox's charging technology meets California, US' strict standards for measurement accuracy and billing transparency, crucial for participating in the sale of electricity through EV chargers. Wallbo...

Seeing Machines Ltd., an Australia-based company specializing in AI-powered operator monitoring systems for transport safety, has announced the appointment of John Noble as its new chief technology officer (CTO). Noble, who has been with the company for over 20 years in various engineering roles, will direct the technology strategy and product development to meet increasing safety regulations in the transport sector, especially in Europe where there is growing demand for driver monitoring system...

Meko announced that it is strengthening its focus on commercial vehicles, including trucks, buses and transporters with a goal to achieve the same strong market position in commercial vehicles as in passenger cars. To lead this expansion, Meko has appointed experienced automotive industry leader Nils Hollmann as the head of its newly established Commercial Vehicle division. "We are stepping up our efforts and redefining the market to benefit our customers. Owners and operators of commerc...

DallBogg, a Bulgarian company specializing in auto insurance, has entered into a partnership with Octo, a provider of telematics solutions and data analytics for the insurance and automotive sectors globally. The collaboration marks a significant move toward the digitization of DallBogg's insurance services and offerings, particularly benefiting policyholders, the company said. DallBogg, which has a presence across Europe and operates in Italy through the Insurance Placement Agency (IPA), aim...

Pilot Co., General Motors (GM) and EVgo Inc. announced March 25 that their collaborative network has reached more than 130 electric vehicle fast-charging locations in over 25 states across the US. The charging network aims to offer an elevated experience along popular corridors and major interstates, enabling long-distance EV travel, Pilot, a wholly owned subsidiary of Berkshire Hathaway, said in a press note. “As the busy spring and summer travel season approaches, EV drivers will be ab...

Standard Motor Products Inc. (SMP) has recently announced the expansion of its Gasoline Fuel Injector program. The company has introduced over 1,100 new Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI), Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MFI) and Throttle Body Injection (TBI) injectors, along with Fuel Injector Multi-Packs. These products are designed to provide original equipment (OE)-matching spray patterns and flow rates, which contribute to optimizing fuel mileage, enhancing performance and extending engine life. SM...

Rematec 2025, the world's leading trade show for the remanufacturing industry, is set to take place at RAI Amsterdam April 8–10. The event will bring together a roster of organizations such as Actronics, AG Cores, Auto Enterprises, Dinex, Elerte Poland, Encory, Melett, Premier Components, Scandinavian Transmission Service, STP Parts, WAI Global and ZF Friedrichshafen. Together, these participants will highlight advancements in sustainable practices and technologies that are shaping the futu...

Rivian has developed a new method to facilitate the refinishing of the door handle trim covers on its R1T and R1S vehicles, responding to feedback from repair shops about the previously complex process, according to a news report by Repairer Driven News. Dan Black, Rivian's Service Engineering Collision senior manager, said that the difficulty arose due to the integration of a near-field communications (NFC) chip in the door handles, which are designed to lie flush with the vehicle and detect...

NTN Bearing Corp. has announced that CEO Ukai has been appointed chairperson of the World Bearing Association (WBA). His term began in September 2024 and will last for two years. Founded in 2006, the WBA is a non-profit, unincorporated industrial association comprising three major regional bearing associations: The Japan Bearing Industry Association (JBIA), the American Bearing Manufacturers Association (ABMA) and the Federation of European Bearing Manufacturers’ Associations (FEBMA). These...

NaaS Technology Inc., a US-listed electric vehicle charging service company in China, has entered into a strategic partnership with Xiaomi Auto, a subsidiary of Xiaomi Group. This collaboration is set to enhance EV charging interconnectivity, user experience and intelligent mobility innovation by integrating NaaS' extensive charging network with Xiaomi Auto. Through this alliance, Xiaomi EV owners will gain access to NaaS' nationwide charging network via the Xiaomi Auto App and in-vehi...

Continental said it is placing an even greater focus on a fleet's total cost of ownership (TCO) when developing commercial vehicle tires, without neglecting sustainability aspects. The move comes as transport and logistics companies, especially in Europe, face economic challenges, with a recent study by Continental, titled The Future of Fleets, highlighting rising costs, economic uncertainties and CO2 emission reduction requirements as major concerns among fleet managers. Continental sai...

Roadzen Inc., a US-based auto insurance technology company recognized for its role in bridging insurance and mobility through AI, has announced its selection by India's largest general insurance company to manage its Roadside Assistance program for another three-year term. This announcement marks the continuation of a partnership that began in 2021, showcasing the insurer's confidence in Roadzen's technology. The insurance company, boasting a Gross Written Premium (GWP) of $5 billion and abou...

Following the supervisory board’s approval of the spinoff last week, Continental’s Automotive group sector has decided to establish the headquarters of the planned independent company in Frankfurt am Main, Germany. The aim is to locate the headquarters of the new automotive company at the current site in the Guerickestraße, Germany, by mid-2025. In total, about 4,230 employees work in the Continental-location in Frankfurt in production, research and development, and administration (as of De...

AsTech and Launch Tech have entered a new partnership, leading to the integration of the asTech Connect app on over 5,000 diagnostic tools available through LAUNCH Tech USA-branded diagnostic platforms. This collaboration between the Texas, US-based asTech and Launch Tech makes the asTech Connect app directly accessible from the latest version of the SmartLink C tool without the need for additional downloads.  Using asTech Connect, mechanical shops can gain remote access to original e...

Automechanika Ho Chi Minh City 2025, scheduled for June 19–21 at the Saigon Exhibition and Convention Center, is poised to highlight Vietnam's burgeoning automotive market and its potential as a global investment nexus, according to the organizers of the event. The event arrives amid Vietnam's automotive sector witnessing significant expansion, influenced by a growing middle-class population and heightened environmental awareness. The anticipated increase in the middle-class demographic to ...

Allison Transmission, global manufacturer of automatic transmissions and electrified vehicle propulsion solutions, has announced a partnership with Daimler Truck North America LLC (DTNA), which will see the integration of Allison's innovative FuelSense 2.0 Neutral at Stop technology across a range of Freightliner and Western Star truck models. This technology, exclusive to trucks equipped with Allison transmissions, aims to enhance fuel efficiency and reduce emissions by minimizing or elimina...

Performance Ride Technology (PRT), a brand under the ADD Group — a manufacturer of shock absorbers, suspension struts and complete strut assemblies — said that it has extended its portfolio of complete strut assemblies and shock absorbers for the North American aftermarket with over 27 new products. The expansion includes applications for a wide range of vehicles, including light vehicles, sport utility vehicles and pickups. Highlighted in the new produc...

Blink Charging Co., a globally recognized owner, operator, provider and manufacturer of electric vehicle charging equipment and services, announced its partnership with Porsche Destination Charging Program to deploy 50 chargers across various premium locations in Mexico, including hotels, retail and restaurants. This collaboration aims to enhance the charging infrastructure for the drivers of fully electric and plug-in hybrid Porsche vehicles, offering convenience at exclusive destinatio...

SunCar Technology Group Inc. (SunCar), a provider of digitalized enterprise automotive aftersales services and an online auto insurance intermediation service in mainland China, has announced an expansion of its strategic partnership with Ping An Bank. The enhanced partnership builds upon their existing relationship, which began in 2017. Under this renewed collaboration, SunCar will continue serving as the preferred aftermarket service provider for Ping An Bank's Credit Card Ce...

Topdon, a US-based provider of tools and solutions for professional technicians and do-it-yourself (DIY) enthusiasts, has announced that it recently introduced the ArtiDiag EU, a new diagnostic tool designed for the European automotive market. The device offers comprehensive diagnostic and maintenance capabilities for 15 European car brands, including major names such as BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Audi and their associated brands. Positioned as an advanced tool for automotive repairs, the ArtiD...

Dorman Products, a US-based aftermarket supplier of original equipment (OE) dealer-exclusive parts, has announced the introduction of 164 new automotive repair products for its Light Duty segment, with nearly half of these being aftermarket exclusives. These additions contribute to a catalog of over 133,000 stock-keeping units (SKUs), opening up millions of new sales avenues for parts distributors, retailers and repair shops, and providing more accessible solutions for vehicle owners, the c...

Vincent Charles, previously serving as the head of Media Relations and the deputy head of Communications, has been appointed as the new head of Group Communications at Continental, effective from May 1. He will be taking over from Birgit Hiller, who has decided to leave the company to pursue a leadership role in a different industry.  Continental CEO Nikolai Setzer expressed his gratitude toward Hiller for her remarkable contributions to the company, highlighting her role in realigning C...

Bosch has inaugurated a new metal 3D printing facility at its Nuremberg plant in Germany, marking a significant advancement in its manufacturing capabilities. The company invested nearly €6 million in the center, along with the acquisition and installation of the Nikon SLM Solutions NXG XII 600 metal 3D printer. This strategic investment positions Bosch as the first tier 1 automotive supplier in Europe to operate a facility of this performance class, underlining its commitment to Germany as...

FleetPride Inc., a US-based independent distributor of aftermarket heavy-duty parts and services, has announced its acquisition of OTR Fleet Service LLC, a major player in fleet maintenance based in Houston. The acquisition enables FleetPride to broaden its service capabilities throughout Texas by incorporating OTR's expertise in on-site mobile maintenance and repair services for heavy-duty trucks and trailers. OTR Fleet Service, known for its extensive reach in Texas with service center...

Continental has announced the retirement of Jochen Etzel, CEO of Continental Tire the Americas LLC, effective May 1. Tansu Işık will succeed him in this role and will be the new head of Continental’s Business Area Replacement Tires the Americas. He will report directly to Christian Koetz, executive board member of Continental and head of Continental Tires. The company said Etzel has significantly contributed to the consolidation and competitive strengthening of Continental's tire bus...

Purolator (a division of MANN+HUMMEL), a US manufacturer of oil and air filters, based in Fayetteville, North Carolina, has launched its Purolator 20K Premium Oil Filter, designed for high-performance driving conditions that provides engine protection up to 20,000 miles. The filter is engineered with high-density, synthetic blend media that captures more than 99% of dirt and contaminants. It is optimized for vehicles that experience frequent towing, off-roading, and stop-and-go traffic. Ad...

Polestar, the Swedish performance electric-car brand, has added 2,754 electric vehicle charging points to its Polestar Charge subscription offer in the UK, the company announced March 3. With the newly added charging points to its network, Volvo Cars’ premium EV unit now offers direct access to more than 900,000 individual charging points across European markets for seamless and hassle-free public charging under the standard Polestar Charge. Of these, the company now provides a discounted c...

Valeo has announced that it has expanded its FullPack-branded Dual Mass Flywheels (DMF) product range, reaffirming its prominent role in the automotive transmission system market. Known for manufacturing original equipment clutches, DMFs, and concentric slave cylinders (CSCs), Valeo claims to be at the forefront of innovation, creating advanced transmission solutions not only for passenger cars and light commercial vehicles (LCVs) but also extending its expertise to clutch kits, DMFs, actuato...

A recent report co-authored by the American Trucking Associations' Technology & Maintenance Council and Decisiv Inc. highlights a rise in parts and labor costs for fleets during the third quarter of 2024. According to the latest Decisiv/TMC North American Service Event Benchmark Report, following three consecutive quarterly decreases, combined parts and labor costs rose 2.2% and quarter-over-quarter results were up in 19 of the 25 Vehicle Maintenance Reporting (VMRS) Systems tracked in the r...

The US Department of Transportation's Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) has issued a safety notice concerning the rising distribution of counterfeit and substandard safety devices including air bag inflators, modules, seatbelt pretensioners and other supplemental restraint system (SRS) components. The US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) reported seizing over 211,000 counterfeit automotive parts in fiscal year 2024, mar...

Sweden's Car-O-Liner, a global provider of collision repair equipment to the automotive aftermarket, has announced that German luxury-car maker BMW has officially granted approval for two Car-O-Liner products — the CTR9 fully automatic resistance spot welder and the CDR1 cosmetic dent repair workstation — to be utilized in service and repair operations on BMW vehicles globally. The CTR9 welder is characterized by its lightweight transformer gun with a 355° swivel handle and erg...

US auto dealers are primed to add mobile service in a big way in 2025, meeting consumers’ expectations for convenience and driving dealer profits, according to Curbee, a company that helps dealers implement mobile service with its platform. Curbee enables dealerships to offer mobile service with its platform called Mobile and Remote Service (M.A.R.S.). With Curbee M.A.R.S., dealerships send a van to the job, "using the right route with the right parts, at the right time," the release added....

In 2024, Electrify America is said to have significantly expanded its charging network and improved customer satisfaction by adopting a comprehensive strategy that targeted infrastructure growth and enhanced user experience. The company's charging network saw an impressive increase, reaching over 4,800 public chargers across North America, while customer sessions surged by 50%. To cater to the growing demand for electric vehicle charging, Electrify America focused on installing more chargers ...

US-based automotive service-equipment provider Hunter Engineering has launched its latest tire changer, the TCX53Pro, which it said combines the design of its TCXH chassis with the advanced capabilities of Hunter's hybrid leverless head. This new model is aimed at enhancing productivity and safety with its swing-arm format while being equipped to manage a wide range of tire sizes, including those for electric vehicles. The TCX53Pro features a locking lower disc and dual upper press rolle...

CarParts.com, an e-commerce destination for automotive parts and accessories, has announced that it is considering a possible sale of the company in its efforts to "maximize shareholder value" in response to "inbound strategic inquiries the company has received." To facilitate this process, CarParts.com has obtained the services of Craig-Hallum Capital Group LLC for financial advisory and Wilson Sonsini Goodrich & Rosati, Professional Corporation for legal counsel. David Meniane, CEO o...

Wallbox, a company specializing in electric vehicle charging solutions, has announced the launch of preorders for its newest bidirectional charger, the Quasar 2, exclusively available to eligible Kia EV9 owners and lessees. The Quasar 2, a next-generation bidirectional DC charger, combined with the Wallbox Power Recovery Unit, offers the capability for eligible Kia EV9 drivers to use their vehicle as a backup power source for their homes. This innovative technology can supply power for up to ...

American Tire Distributors has recently concluded the sale of all its assets to a group of well-financed investors keen on fostering long-term growth. This move has led to the formation of a new entity, which will continue to operate under the name American Tire Distributors (ATD). The new company aims to enhance its growth trajectory and establish itself as a significant player within the replacement tire distribution sector. The strategy revolves around concentrating on its primary tire dis...

ZF Aftermarket has expanded its TRW chassis product line in the first two months of 2025 by adding over 130 new parts, thereby extending chassis coverage to about 29 million additional vehicles in operation (VIO) across the US and Canada. The new chassis parts, including control arms, ball joints and tie rods, cater to a wide range of passenger cars and sport utility vehicles from manufacturers such as Audi, BMW, Honda, Mercedes-Benz and Volkswagen, providing access to original equi...

RealTruck Inc., a global aftermarket product and accessory brand catering specifically to truck, Jeep, Bronco and off-road enthusiasts, has officially completed the acquisition of Vehicle Accessories Group (VAI). This is set to significantly expand market opportunities for both RealTruck and VAI by leveraging RealTruck's extensive global aftermarket network and advanced e-commerce platform. In a statement, Carl-Martin Lindahl, CEO of RealTruck, highlighted that VAI's strengths in producing...

Motorcar Parts of America (MPA), a US-based remanufacturer, manufacturer and distributor of automotive aftermarket parts, has announced the expansion of its product lines for the automotive aftermarket, introducing more than 120 new part numbers across a range of components. These newly added parts are designed to extend coverage to an additional 30 million vehicles in operation (VIO), and include starters and alternators, brake calipers, brake pads, and brake rotors. The new offerings are...

Victory Tire & Auto, operating under the Straightaway Tire & Auto brand, has expanded its presence in the Minneapolis market through the acquisition of Burnsville Auto Repair, a local business. The new addition, located in a high-traffic area of Burnsville, features an expansive facility with eight service bays over 6,000 square feet, aimed at bolstering service capabilities for the communities of Burnsville, Bloomington, Eagan, Rosemount and Savage. The integration of Burnsvi...

The Motor & Equipment Manufacturers Association (MEMA) Aftermarket Suppliers, an association in North America representing motor-vehicle component manufacturers, has made a statement on the temporary pause of auto tariffs on Canada and Mexico.  The US administration has temporarily halted the imposition of a 25% tariff, under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA), on compliant automobile products from Canada and Mexico based on the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreem...

SMP Temperature Control Division has announced that it recently expanded coverage for its prepackaged A/C kits (PAC-kits) to offer 530 A/C service kits and 930 complete A/C kits, each covering over 220 million vehicles in operation (VIO). “Our PAC-kits include premium quality components that are assembled and shipped in one convenient package, so service repair technicians have what they need to perform successful A/C repairs,” said Ron Miller, director of marketing, SMP Temperature Contr...