Advance Auto Parts, Inc., with holdings including Advance Auto Parts stores and Carquest Canada, has announced the completion of its U.S. 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 U.S. 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 U.S. 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 p...

General Motors (GM)'s decision to discontinue the support of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for vehicles on its Ultium EV platform led to the emergence of aftermarket solutions, notably from a company named White Automotive. This company offered a retrofit option for several GM vehicles, including the Chevrolet Blazer EV, Equinox EV, Silverado EV, the GMC Sierra EV, and the Cadillac Lyriq. GM has intervened to prohibit the installation of these aftermarket kits. The installation of this retro...

Australia's automotive aftermarket has experienced substantial growth, with parts imports surging to $4.05 billion (USD 2.53 billion) in 2023-2024, marking a 50% increase from $2.70 billion (USD 1.69 billion) in 2013-2014. This growth, primarily occurring 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 ris...

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 Corporation (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 m...

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 SUVs, notably the model year 2021 to 2024 Elantra and the model year 2022...

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 Mobility Solutions believes that SS&M's customer-centric approach aligns perfectly with 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 mark...

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...

The Fuchs Group, a Germany-based independent supplier of lubrication solutions, has officially inaugurated the expansion of its production facility in Isando, Johannesburg, South Africa. With an investment of €26 million, this expansion strengthens the position of Fuchs Lubricants South Africa in key industries such as automotive, mining, original equipment manufacturing, industrial and specialty, the company stated in a release. The company’s efforts to expand in South Africa began with ...

Rivian is set to offer its R1S and R1T owners the opportunity to enhance their vehicles' driving range and performance through paywalls and over-the-air (OTA) upgrades. Specifically, the refreshed dual-motor versions of these electric vehicles will have access to a Performance upgrade, as shared by RivianTrackr and confirmed by Rivian's software leader Wassym Bensaid. This upgrade, accessible via the vehicles' infotainment screen, enhances power and torque significantly, reduces acceleration tim...

Meko (previously Mekonomen Group), an automotive spare-parts distributor based in Sweden, has announced that it is accelerating its business in the tire segment and entering a strategic partnership with Goodyear. The initiative aims to achieve sales of 1 million tires, valued at 1 billion kronor (about $99 million), by the end of 2026. The partnership ensures efficient distribution in the Nordic region, thereby strengthening Meko's position in one of the key growth segments of the aftermarket. ...

DENSO, a supplier of original equipment (OE) sensors to vehicle manufacturers worldwide, strives to deliver high-quality products necessary for vehicles. However, the brand often faces challenges from counterfeit products, which not only fail to match the quality of DENSO's offerings but also jeopardize the brand's reputation. To tackle a specific threat posed to its Hybrid wiper blade range, the company has initiated efforts to educate its customers and those responsible for fitting its OE blad...

Finland-based original equipment (OE) and replacement tire manufacturer Nokian Tyres has unveiled the Nokian Tyres Surpass AS01, a tire designed for ultrahigh-performance vehicles, claiming the tires incorporate cutting-edge technology and materials for durability and performance. The tire features sidewalls that are reinforced with Aramid fibers, a puncture-resistant material also used in bulletproof vests, aiming to provide exceptional durability and safety. With a 55,000 miles tr...

Automotive supplier Dana has announced its financial results for the fourth quarter and the full year of 2024. For the full financial year, the company reported a 2.6% year-over-year decline in sales to $10.3 billion. Lower sales impacted Dana’s earnings before interest and taxes, which fell 28.5% year over year to $226 million. The company concluded the financial year with a net loss of $57 million against a net income of $38 million in 2023. However, Dana’s adjusted net income improved to ...

The Fuchs Group, a Germany-based independent supplier of lubrication solutions, has announced significant changes to its executive board, as the terms for CFO Isabelle Adelt and Chief Technology Officer (CTO) Sebastian Heiner are set to conclude on Oct. 31 and Dec. 31, respectively, without plans for renewal. To ensure a smooth transition, Fuchs has appointed successors. Esma Saglik, with a substantial background in financial management and experience as CFO at Rehau Industries since 202...

BM Catalysts, a UK-based producer of aftermarket emissions products, has announced the addition of 16 new references to its product range. This expansion aims to extend coverage to over 4 million vehicles across the UK and Europe, encompassing a variety of components such as one Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) unit, three catalytic converters and 12 pipes, which in total cover 107 vehicle fitments. Notably, a significant portion of these new additions, specifically 13 references, adher...

German automotive supplier and tire manufacturer Continental has outlined its commercial vehicle tire testing methods. It said it tests under challenging weather conditions and conducts years-round tire testing at its internal tracks, including the largest European site, the Contidrom in Jeversen, and others in the US and Scandinavia, with a special focus on winter tire testing in Arvidsjaur, Sweden. In a statement, Test Engineer Joachim Blass, with 20 years of experience at Continental, high...

Transtar Aftermarket Solutions, which operates as a division of NexaMotion Group (NMG), has recently expanded its product offerings to include new general repair parts that are frequently used by transmission repair shops. This strategic addition will make these parts accessible in over 50 of Transtar's locations across North America. Consequently, the majority of Transtar's 70 locations will now offer these general repair parts, significantly enhancing their availability to customers who req...

The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Co. has unveiled its latest innovation, the Cooper WORK Series Regional Haul All-position (RHA) 2 tire, aimed at enhancing the performance and efficiency of superregional and regional all-position commercial vehicle operations. Known for its durability and longevity, the Cooper WORK Series RHA 2 has earned the SmartWay verification, indicating its environmental efficiency and contribution to long miles to removal and even wear. This new tire is specifically craf...

The Hankook Tire Gauge Index, a survey conducted by the global tiremaker Hankook Tire, has revealed that younger drivers, specifically Gen Z and Millennials, are indicating a shift toward prioritizing financial preparedness for vehicle maintenance and unexpected repairs, and showing a significant interest in car personalization for 2025. The survey indicates a shift among US drivers toward planning for vehicle care costs, with 25% of US drivers saving annually for routine maintenance and unex...

Advance Auto Parts Inc., an automotive aftermarket parts provider in North America, has announced its financial results for the fourth quarter and the entire year ended Dec. 28, 2024. The fourth quarter saw net sales of $2.0 billion, marking a 0.9% decrease from the previous year, with comparable store sales down by 1.0%. The company reported a gross profit of $347.1 million or 17.4% of net sales, with adjusted gross profit at $778.6 million. The operating loss stood at $820.0 million, o...

BP has launched its first new format electric vehicle charging and convenience hub at Cromwell Road on the A4 in Hammersmith, London, the company announced Feb. 20. The company said the site has been reconstructed, removing fuel refilling stations and installing five ultrafast BP Pulse 300-kW chargers. Each EV charger is capable of charging two cars simultaneously under the shelter of a canopy. The EV charging site also accommodates a redesigned convenience store, with an upgraded cafe, to ca...

ProMAXX Tool has unveiled a new repair kit specifically designed for the Ford 6.7-liter (L) Power Stroke Diesel engines from 2021 onward. It is called the Ford 6.7L Power Stroke EGR Tube Broken Bolt Repair ProKit (PMXN200PRO-008). The kit, featuring 8-mm hardened-steel inserts, is an addition to the already available exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) kit for 6.7L engines manufactured between 2011 and 2020, which utilizes 6-mm inserts. The innovation behind this new repair kit lies in its abilit...

US-based Add On Systems has unveiled Fleet Safety Suite, a platform designed to centralize fleet risk management into a cohesive solution. This new platform aims to address the common challenge within the industry of disparate data silos, which often hinders fleet efficiency and profitability. By amalgamating crucial fleet management functionalities, the Fleet Safety Suite facilitates real-time decision-making and forward-looking risk management. It offers features such as live incident alert...

Wallbox, a leading global supplier of electric vehicle charging and energy management solutions, has signed a strategic partnership with UK-based charge-point operator (CPO) Believ to jointly roll out Wallbox’s rapid and ultrarapid charge-point solutions across the UK, the company announced Feb. 18. The partnership will introduce Wallbox's comprehensive DC fast-charging portfolio, including the company's 60-kW, 120-kW, 150-kW and 220-kW Supernova models, significantly expanding the ava...

K-Tool International, an aftermarket company catering to mechanics, announced that it has introduced a new line of air-pressurized, metal oil drains designed to facilitate the oil change process for automotive professionals. The product line includes two models: An 18-gallon oil drain and a 30-gallon oil drain, both intended as mobile waste containers and drain tanks. The 18-gallon model, designated as KTI74552HD, comes with several features including an 8-inch discharge hose equipped with a ...

Mercedes-Benz has introduced a new digital payment function aimed at enhancing convenience for its customers when paying service invoices in the aftersales business. This development is part of the company's ongoing efforts to advance digitalization in its operations. The innovative payment solution offers customers a broad array of payment options, including a flexible installment plan that features a swift credit check without the need for intricate contractual procedures. Initially piloted...

Mitchell, a US-based provider of repair information solutions and a subsidiary of Enlyte, has released its latest Plugged-In, EV Collision Insights report. The report provides an overview of annual trends in the collision claims of battery-electric vehicles (BEVs), mild hybrid electric vehicles (MHEVs) and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs). The report has revealed that following a second consecutive year of record sales for new electrified powertrain cars, claims frequency ...

Rockford Fosgate has announced the launch of a new rear subwoofer kit designed specifically for Polaris RZR vehicles, promising a substantial bass upgrade without compromising on design. The kit is compatible with select models from 2020 to 2024, including the Pro-XP, Turbo-R and Pro-R four-seat variants. Featuring a 400-W subwoofer that requires no drilling or complex installation steps, this plug-and-play solution offers ease of installation and seamless integration with existing Rockford F...

Shell Rotella, a line of heavy-duty engine oils, gear oils and coolants for diesel engines, has launched a new product, Shell Rotella ELC HD, a high-performance extended life coolant designed specifically for heavy-duty applications across diesel, gasoline, natural gas and LNG engines. The new coolant has been developed to adhere to the stringent requirements of on- and off-road applications, ensuring optimal performance and reliability. In a statement, Julie Wright, Shell Rotella brand ...

SunCar Technology Group Inc. (SunCar), a provider of digitalized enterprise automotive aftersales services and an online auto insurance intermediation service in mainland China, recently took part at the National Automotive Circulation Industry New Year Forum and Consumer Promotion Conference held in Beijing. The company was represented by Vice President Gu Saiye, who emphasized the company's commitment to enhancing dealer competitiveness through its technological solutions during her keyno...

Driven Brands, a US-based automotive aftermarket repairing and servicing company, has announced its COO Daniel Rivera as the incoming president and CEO, effective May 9. The announcement followed Jonathan Fitzpatrick's notification of his intent to step down from the roles of president and CEO on the same date, a position he has held since 2012. Fitzpatrick will transition to a non-executive chair of the board role and continue to serve as a senior advisor throughout 2025 to ensure a smooth h...

US-based Auto Care Plus (ACP), operating under the Straightaway Tire & Auto brand, an independent, full-service aftermarket automotive repair and service platform, has recently completed the acquisition of Quick Stop Tire Shop, a tire service and automotive care provider located in Plaistow, New Hampshire. The acquisition adds a 17th location to ACP's southeastern New Hampshire operations, further solidifying its market presence in the region, the company said, adding that Quick Stop Tire...

Victory Auto Service, a subsidiary of US-based Straightaway Tire & Auto, an independent, full-service aftermarket automotive repair and service platform, has announced the acquisition of Stillwater Auto Clinic. The expansion extends Victory Auto Service's footprint into the eastern Minneapolis metro area, reinforcing its commitment to partnering with trusted neighborhood auto repair shops. Stillwater Auto Clinic, known for its auto repair services within the Oak Park Heights com...

Driven Brands, a US-based automotive aftermarket repairing and servicing company, has announced its decision to sell its US car wash business to Express Wash Operations LLC, doing business as Whistle Express Car Wash (Whistle), for a sum of $385 million. The move, according to Jonathan Fitzpatrick, the president and CEO of Driven Brands, is aimed at reducing the company's debt and concentrating on expanding the Take 5 Oil Change brand along with its other franchised brands that generate stabl...

Magneti Marelli Parts & Services has extended its logistics operations in Poland by enlarging the Sosnowiec Warehouse, a move realized through the renewal of a long-standing partnership with CEVA Logistics. This collaboration, originally established in 2004, has now been extended for an additional five years, lasting until 2029. The Sosnowiec facility, boasting 18,000 square meters of advanced infrastructure, ranks as the second main logistics hub for Magneti Marelli Parts & Services ...

Ionna, an electric vehicle charging joint venture founded by the world’s leading automakers, including BMW, General Motors, Honda, Hyundai, Kia, Mercedes-Benz, Stellantis and Toyota, has partnered with Hubject, a global leader in interoperable EV charging solutions, to integrate the latter’s Plug&Charge ecosystem to allow a more convenient charging experience to its customers, Hubject announced Feb. 19. Integration of Hubject’s Plug&Charge solution will allow Ionna to offer...

Toyota has announced the development of its third-generation fuel-cell system (3rd Gen FC System), aimed at advancing the realization of a hydrogen society. This new fuel-cell system is tailored specifically for the commercial sector, and claims to offer the same durability as traditional diesel engines while featuring improvements in fuel efficiency and significant cost reductions compared to its predecessor. The new 3rd Gen FC System is versatile, designed for installation in a wide range o...

At the upcoming ATA's Technology & Maintenance Council annual meeting in Nashville, Tennessee, in March, Hunter Engineering is set to showcase the HawkEye XL Commercial Alignment System, an advancement from its successful introduction at last year's event. The system, now available internationally, promises accurate alignment measurements for a broad spectrum of commercial vehicles in under four minutes, leveraging long-range camera technology. Enhancements to the HawkEye XL include ...

Elitek Vehicle Services, a subsidiary of LKQ Corp., has introduced its Advanced Driver Assistance Systems Mapping (ADAS MAP) solution, which aims to improve the ability of repair shops to effectively diagnose, calibrate and repair vehicles equipped with ADAS. Developed in collaboration with OPUS IVS, the ADAS MAP software tool is designed to integrate smoothly into repair shops' existing systems, offering a user-friendly interface that promises efficiency and confidence in vehicle repairs. ...

RevolutionParts, a US-based automotive e-commerce company, has introduced new capabilities aimed at assisting aftermarket manufacturers and warehouse distributors in broadening their sales scope, enhancing fulfillment efficiency, and improving the accuracy of product data. The company said the enhanced platform enables seamless catalog integration, unlocking new direct-to-consumer (D2C) and business-to-business revenue streams while simplifying order fulfillment. The company said with the enh...

The Yokohama Rubber Co. Ltd. has announced that through joint research with Bo Nils Johan Persson, a leading expert in the study of rubber friction and contact, it has successfully developed the world’s first theoretical model to predict the rubber wear rates on uneven road surfaces and the size distribution of wear particles. Persson, affiliated with the Peter Grünberg Institute in Germany and the Lanzhou Institute of Chemical Physics in China, owns Multiscale Consulting, a firm aiding va...

Lubrizol, a specialty chemicals company, has announced the opening of a new ESTANE TPU production line at its Shanghai facility. This move is part of Lubrizol's strategy to enhance local production capabilities and support the growing demand for high-quality car paint protection film (PPF) in the Asia-Pacific region. Accompanying the launch, Lubrizol released a white paper titled "New-Quality Consumption, A New Growth Engine for the Car Paint Protection Film (PPF) Industry," which calls for c...