Stellantis and metals recycler Galloo announced that they have signed a memorandum of understanding to explore the formation of a joint venture focused on End-of-Life Vehicle (ELV) recycling, according to a press release dated June 5. The Stellantis-Galloo JV will work with selected Authorized Treatment Facilities to collect ELVs from the last owner, enabling the recovering of parts for reuse, remanufacturing and recycling. The service is expected to launch at the end of 2023 w...

Michigan-based global supplier of powertrain technologies, BorgWarner, has announced that Rohan Weerasinghe is expected to serve as non-executive chairman of Phinia, the spin-off company of its Fuel Systems and Aftermarket segments, according to a press release dated June 7. Weerasinghe retired from Citigroup Inc. in December 2021, where he served as general counsel from 2012. Prior to this, he served as the senior partner for the law firm of Shearman & Sterling, the release add...

TBC Corp., a distributor of automotive replacement tires based in the US, and a joint venture between Japan’s Sumitomo Corp. and French tire manufacturer Michelin, announced that it has reached an agreement to divest its company-owned retail portfolio to Mavis Tire Express Service Corp., according to a press release dated May 24. As per the transaction, TBC will transfer 595 retail locations to Mavis and will also provide wholesale and tire distribution for Mavis, the release...

Japanese trading company Marubeni Corp. announced that MAIHOIII LLC, a subsidiary of Marubeni, has acquired Automotive Parts and Services Holdings LLC (APSH), according to a press release dated May 9. APSH provides online distribution of automotive repair parts and mobile inspection (on-site inspection/verification of customer repair claims) to insurance companies offering vehicle service contracts in the US. Marubeni observed that since vehicle inspection regulations in the US...

Sojitz Corp., a Japan-based company engaged in trading business, investment and financial activities, announced that it has acquired full ownership of Albert Automotive Holdings Pty. Ltd., a wholesale and retail used-car business that is part of the Dutton Group, according to a press release dated May 16. Sojitz has been dealing in certified pre-owned cars through its authorized dealers in Japan and other countries, and operates a designated pure-play used car dealer for premium brand ve...

Mercedes-Benz Mobility AG has announced the appointment of Andrew Cornelia as president and CEO of Mercedes-Benz HPC North America, its subsidiary responsible for the development and operation of the company’s high-power charging network in North America, according to a press release dated May 31. The company also announced the appointment of Christopher Trainor as CFO of Mercedes-Benz HPC North America, with both appointments effective June 2023. In their new roles, Cornelia and Trainor...

According to a press release dated June 1, Veoneer has announced the completion of the sale of its Active Safety business to Magna, a mobility-technology company and an automotive supplier. The transaction was first announced Dec. 20, 2022. "Today is a great day for all stakeholders of Veoneer's Active Safety business. The combination with Magna will create a leading global supplier for [advanced driver assistance systems, or ADAS] and secure a compelling long-term home for the Active Safety ...

Fenix Parts, a US-based recycler and reseller of automotive parts, announced that it has completed its acquisition of the assets of Fox Auto Parts in Belleville, Michigan, according to a press release dated 5 June. This is the largest acquisition by Fenix Parts since the it was acquired by affiliates of Stellex Capital Management, a private equity firm, in April 2018. Fox is a full-service and self-service automotive recycler and auto repair facility servicing the Detroit, Ann Arbor, and Nort...

US-based automotive aftermarket supplier and remanufacturer BBB Industries has announced that it has acquired Inter-Turbo, a Polish manufacturer of turbochargers and other components, through its wholly owned subsidiary Budweg Caliper A/S, according to a press release dated May 31. Inter-Turbo is based in Katowice, Poland and manufactures turbochargers, injectors and diesel particulate filters (DPFs). Founded in 2009 by Blazej Michalik and Marek Jasiok, Inter-Turbo services more than 16,000 m...

Volvo Car Canada Ltd has announced the appointment of Andrew Parravano as Director of Sales effective June 2023, according to a press release dated June 1. Volvo Car Canada provides marketing, sales, parts, service, technology, and training support to the 38 Volvo automobile retailers across Canada. Prior to taking up the role, Parravano served as Director of Customer Service for the Volvo brand in Canada – a position he has held since 2020. He will now take the lead on all sales related in...

Australian automotive distribution company and provider of vehicle parts, accessories, equipment, service and solutions, Bapcor, announced the construction of its second centralized-distribution center, according to a press release dated May 29. The 41,580-square-meter Bapcor Distribution Centre is located in the Brisbane suburb of Redbank, Australia. When operational, the center will consolidate seven existing Brisbane-based warehouses into one purpose-designed facility, the compan...

US-based paints, coatings and specialty-materials manufacturer PPG announced the opening of a Color Creation Lab in China, in collaboration with automaker Chery Automobile Co. Ltd., according to a press release dated June 1. At the facility, located in Wuhu, China, PPG color stylists and Chery designers will create new colors tailored to specific vehicle designs, from initial color recommendations to final materials for application in Chery’s manufacturing plants, the release added. ...

US-based paints, coatings and specialty-materials manufacturer PPG announced that it has inaugurated a battery-pack application center (BPAC) in Tianjin, China, according to a press release dated June 1. The $30 million facility features a full range of capabilities to test the application of PPG coatings technologies, materials and systems for electric vehicle battery packs, allowing customers to accelerate the development of new EV technologies, the release added. The BPAC will include...

US-based automotive components original equipment manufacturer, and aftermarket ride control and emission-products manufacturer, Tenneco, announced the opening of a 9,600-square-meter engineering center that will serve the company’s European Ride Control and Advanced Suspension Technologies (AST) businesses, according to a press release dated May 24. The new Monroe European Engineering Center is located approximately two kilometers from Tenneco’s manufacturing complex, in Gliwice, ...

Global automotive supplier Webasto announced that it showcased its extensive range of electromobility products at the recently concluded Battery Show Europe in Stuttgart, Germany, according to a press release dated May 22. Its showcase included various traction batteries for passenger cars and commercial vehicles, and its proprietary battery management system (BMS). The company exhibited its first battery for fully electric passenger cars manufactured at the new battery plant in Dangjin,...

India-based tire manufacturer, Apollo Tyres Ltd., has announced that it is now sourcing 100% of its natural rubber supplies from companies who have committed to sustainability throughout the supply chain, aligning with the code of conduct set out by the Global Platform for Sustainable Natural Rubber (GPSNR), according to a press release dated May 24. The new initiative, which came into full effect recently, and forms part of Apollo Tyres’ Global Sustainability Strategy, applies to the suppl...

Global leading tire company Hankook Tire & Technology and global petrochemical company Kumho Petrochemical Co. Ltd. (KKPC) have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) for the development of eco-friendly tires, utilizing Eco Solution-polymerized Styrene-Butadiene Rubber (Eco-SSBR), according to a press release dated May 23. To respond to the growing demand for sustainable raw materials and products, both companies will cooperate in developing eco-friendly tires using recycled...

Hyundai Motor India Ltd. (HMIL), the country’s second-largest carmaker, has signed a memorandum of agreement (MOA) with Shell India Markets Pvt. Ltd. (Shell India) to install 60 kW DC fast chargers across 36 of its electric car dealerships in India, the company announced May 17. The MOA was signed between HMIL and Shell India in the presence of Jae Wan Ryu, executive director of HMIL, and Sanjay Varkey, director of Shell India, at HMIL's headquarters in Gurugram, Ha...

RIGID Industries, a US-based firm supplying high-performance LED lighting for off-road racing professionals and enthusiasts, has announced that automotive aftermarket executive Mitch Williams has joined the company as its new president, according to a press release dated May 2. According to the company, Williams joins RIGID Industries with a proven track record of driving growth and building high-performing teams over a nearly 40-year career. Most of his experience comes from holding leadersh...

Blink Charging Co., a US-based owner, operator and provider of electric vehicle charging equipment and services, has announced the commissioning of its new integrated battery storage and DC fast charger (DCFC) unit that will integrate with four Blink EV chargers at the Southport Plaza in Philadelphia, according to a press release dated May 16. The company said this marked the first battery-storage-energized DCFC chargers to go online in the state. The n...

Klarius Products, a UK-based manufacturer of aftermarket emissions control components, announced that it has expanded its range with new exhaust parts tailored for the Honda Civic Type R, according to a press release dated May 26. Significance: Klarius said its premium replacement exhausts are designed to match original equipment manufacturer standards and keep drivers on the road for longer. “The Honda Civic Type R is renowned for its performance-oriented features, bold s...

German supplier of automotive components, tires and aftermarket replacement parts, Continental, announced that it has launched its new generation of electronic-brake systems for Electronic Stability Control (ESC), called the MK 120 ESC, according to a press release dated May 17. This marks the first time that the MK 120 ESC enters series production worldwide. The new generation of conventional electronic-brake systems has been put first into production in the Chinese market by supplying ...

Sweden-based SKF, a supplier of rolling bearings, seals, mechatronics and lubrication systems, announced the appointments of David Johansson as president, Industrial Region Europe, the Middle East and Africa; Kerstin Enochsson as president, Automotive; and Hans Landin as senior vice president, Group Commercial Excellence Bearings; according to a press release dated May 25. Commenting on the move, Rickard Gustafson, president and CEO, said, “To reach our potential, we need to ...

Eyeing a huge growth potential, LG Electronics is expanding its electric vehicle charger solutions business to strengthen its position in the fast-growing EV charger segment, the company said May 25. In an event, LG celebrated the commencement of EV charger products manufactured by HiEV Charger (formerly known as AppleMango). HiEV Charger, an EV charging solution company, was acquired by LG, GS Energy and GS Neotek in 2022. HiEV Charger unveiled its product which features four differe...

Castrol India Ltd. has announced expansion of its portfolio into the auto care segment, with a variety of products that include Castrol Chain Cleaner, Castrol Chain Lube, Castrol 3-in-1 Shiner, Castrol 1-Step Polishing Compound and Castrol Anti-Rust Lubricant Spray, according to a press release dated May 12. The company said it will leverage on its extensive network of distributors, modern trade partners, e-commerce channels, and Castrol Auto service outlets and Bike ...

Trico, a firm involved in automotive wiper engineering, design and technological development, has outlined its range of automotive-windscreen wiper solutions, according to a press release dated May 5. The company said it is leveraging its experience in supplying to over 100 automakers to become a trusted supplier of replacement wiper blades and assemblies for the global automotive aftermarket. The Trico Force range includes wipers with “[Aerofoil-designed] beam blades,” whi...

Ford Motor Co. announced that it has joined the US Joint Office of Energy and Transportation to launch the National Charging Experience Consortium, a new effort to rapidly develop solutions to improve electric vehicle charging across the US, according to a press release dated May 18. Ford will join a cross-industry group of automakers, charging providers, utilities and the US Department of Energy national laboratories to drive innovation and universal enhancements around current and...

Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) owner Tata Motors is expected to pick Britain as the preferred site for a multibillion pound electric-car battery plant to supply its JLR requirements, according to a report by the BBC dated May 24. The report quoted sources saying that although the deal has yet to be signed, engagement has moved from negotiations to drafting and choreography of how the agreement will be presented, and the move would lead to up to 9,000 jobs being created. Significance: The UK gover...

US-based electric vehicle charging operator and software company AmpUp has announced its participation in the ChargeX Consortium, an initiative led by the US Joint Office of Energy and Transportation aimed at shaping the US EV charging landscape, according to a press release dated May 18. The company said its involvement in the ChargeX Consortium signifies its commitment to advancing the charging experience for EV users across the nation. The ChargeX Consortium, led by Argonne National L...

US-based paints, coatings and specialty-materials manufacturer PPG announced that it has showcased its growing portfolio of paints and coatings for battery-electric vehicles (BEVs) at The Battery Show, which took place at the Messe Stuttgart exhibition center in Stuttgart, Germany, from May 23–25, according to a press release dated May 19. PPG’s exhibit included battery-fire protection and thermal-management solutions, as well as dielectric-coating systems that improve performan...

Cummins Inc. announced that it has entered into a definitive agreement with Faurecia, a company of the Forvia Group, to purchase two of Faurecia’s commercial vehicle manufacturing plants and their related activities for €142 million, according to a press release dated May 23. The manufacturing facilities are located in Columbus, Ind., and Roermond, the Netherlands. Faurecia has been a partner and supplier to Cummins for more than a decade, and the Forvia Group’s divestment ini...

Australian automotive distribution company and provider of vehicle parts, accessories, equipment, service and solutions, Bapcor, announced the acquisition of E-Max Australia, according to a press release dated May 18. With the move, E-Max will become an integral part of Bapcor's Commercial Vehicle Group, forming part of the existing wholesale business, Australian Truck Parts (ATP). The E-Max brand specializes in electrical loom and accessories products, providing innovative solutions for...

US-based retailer of aftermarket automotive parts and accessories AutoZone has reported net sales of $4.1 billion for its third quarter ended May 6, 2023, an increase of 5.8% from the third quarter of fiscal 2022, according to a press release dated May 23. Domestic same-store sales, or sales for stores open at least one year, increased 1.9% for the quarter, the company said. Net income for the quarter increased 9.3% over the same period last year to $647.7 million, the company said. Signif...

SunCar Technology Group Inc. (SunCar), a provider of digitalized enterprise automotive after-sales services and online auto insurance intermediation service in China, has announced the completion of what it calls “business combination” with Goldenbridge Acquisition Ltd. (Goldenbridge), a special-purpose acquisition company, according to a press release dated May 17. SunCar said it is transforming the customer journey for car insurance and aftermarket services in China. It d...

MAHLE Aftermarket UK announced that it has promoted Marta Cameron to customer service manager — a role that will see her lead and support the department, as the company continues its commitment to nurturing staff and promoting from within, according to a press release by UK aftermarket industry body Independent Automotive Aftermarket Federation (IAAF) dated May 19. In the new role, Cameron will manage and support the whole UK customer service team, provide assistance to key custom...

NHOA Group-backed electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure company Atlante has forged an exclusive partnership with real estate company Groupe Duval to install about 188 fast and ultrafast charging points across France, according to a joint announcement made by both the companies on April 5. Notably, NHOA Group is engaged in energy storage, electric mobility and EV fast charging infrastructure businesses. Atlante is known for developing fast and ultrafast charging networks in southe...

Holley Inc. (Holley), a US-based manufacturer of high-performance aftermarket products for car and truck enthusiasts, announced the appointment of Matthew Stevenson as the company’s new president and CEO, according to a press release dated May 17. He will replace Interim President and CEO Michelle Gloeckler, who will be remaining with Holley as a member of the board, on June 6, 2023. Stevenson joins Holley from Blue Bird Corp., where he served as president and CEO. While at Blue Bird, ...

Panasonic Holdings Corp. and Japanese trading company Marubeni Corp. have announced an agreement to establish a joint venture for the purpose of providing fleet management services for commercial electric vehicles, according to a press release dated May 19. The companies believe while the adoption of EVs is gaining traction globally, there are limited numbers of use cases involving large EV fleets in Japan. “Establishing economic rationality and operations unique to EVs is a prerequisi...

US-based paints, coatings and specialty-materials manufacturer PPG has announced that it will deliver paint and clear-film solutions for automotive and industrial customers through PPG Advanced Surface Technologies, a new joint venture formed with Entrotech Inc. (Entrotech), a provider of technology-driven film solutions, according to a press release dated May 23. PPG retains a majority stake in the JV. Paint films are multilayer applications in which at least one layer is made from...

German supplier of automotive components, tires and aftermarket replacement parts, Continental, has launched the AllSeasonContact 2 tire, which was developed with a focus on high efficiency, safety and driving pleasure, according to a press release dated May 22. Continental said it has increased mileage by 15% compared to the previous model while reducing rolling resistance by 6%. The tire provides even better handling on dry roads and has an even shorter braking distance on wet and dry ...

Meko (previously Mekonomen Group), an automotive spare-parts distributor based in Sweden, announced the that Åsa Källenius is leaving her position as Meko's CFO at her own request to take on a new assignment outside the group, according to a press release dated May 19. The company added that the process of recruiting a new CFO will begin immediately and Källenius will remain in her role until a successor is appointed. Significance: "Åsa Källenius has been [CFO]&nbs...

German supplier of automotive components, tires and aftermarket replacement parts, Continental, announced that it has sold its plant in Kaluga, Russia, to Russian company S8 Capital, according to a press release dated May 22. With this step, Continental said it has divested the majority of its activities in Russia as part of its announced controlled withdrawal from the Russian market — a decision taken in response to the war against Ukraine. Continental produced passenger tir...

The Volkswagen Group announced that it has completed the sale of its shares in Volkswagen Group Rus LLC including its local subsidiaries (Volkswagen Components and Services LLC, Scania Leasing LLC, Scania Finance LLC, Scania Insurance LLC) to Art-Finance LLC, who is supported by the Russian dealer Avilon, according to a press release dated May 19. With the registration of the transaction, ownership of the shares in the authorized capital of Volkswagen Group Rus LLC and its subsidiaries i...

German automotive and industrial component supplier Schaeffler AG announced that General Motors (GM) has recognized Schaeffler as one of their Suppliers of the Year for 2022 at GM’s 31st annual Supplier of the Year event in Texas, according to a press release dated May 19. According to the release, GM’s Supplier of the Year recipients are selected by a global, cross-functional GM team for their performance in criteria such product purchasing, global purchasing and manufacturing services, ...

DENSO announced that it has introduced another 140 original equipment (OE) quality parts into its aftermarket program that provides the independent service and repair sector throughout Europe with coverage of more than 50 million additional vehicles, according to a press release dated May 10. The 140 range additions cater to popular models throughout Europe from 36 different vehicle manufacturers, including nine air-conditioning compressors for the most recent Volkswagen application...

Brembo, global manufacturer of high-performance braking systems, announced that it has inaugurated its latest plant expansion in Escobedo, in the state of Nuevo León, Mexico, according to a press release dated May 12. The expansion, which began in 2021, represents a $207 million investment in Mexico and will create 500 jobs, in addition to the 1,100 associates employed since 2016, the release added. Significance: Now fully operational, the 322,917-square-foot Escobedo expansion doubl...

US-based REV Group, a designer and manufacturer of specialty vehicles and related aftermarket parts and services, has announced the appointment of Mark Skonieczny as president and CEO, effective immediately, according to a press release dated May 18. Skonieczny had previously served as interim CEO and CFO. The company has initiated a comprehensive search for a new CFO. Prior to joining REV Group, Skonieczny held positions as vice president and corporate controller of Adient PLC and spent 1...

Japan-based DENSO Corp. announced that it has introduced 33 new rear-wiper blades into its range, from the beginning of May, according to a press release dated May 2. These new references cater for more than 4,600 applications for vehicles as diverse as Audi, Mercedes, BMW, Porsche and Jaguar, to Dacia, SsangYong, Dodge and Chevrolet, and in the process provide the original equipment (OE) quality replacement solution for in excess of 100 million vehicles. Significance: “When replaci...

XPEL, a US-based provider of aftermarket automotive products, including automotive surface and paint protection, ceramic coatings, headlight protection and automotive window films, has announced that for the quarter ended March 2023, the company’s revenues increased 19.5% to $85.8 million, according to a press release dated May 9. Net income grew 46.5% to $11.4 million, or $0.41 per share, compared to $7.8 million, or $0.28 per share, in the same quarter of 2022, the release added...

Mevotech, a Canada-based engineering, designer and manufacturer of driveline, steering and suspension aftermarket parts, has announced the addition of 173 new part numbers to its catalog, according to a press release dated 11 May. The company is known for innovative driveline, steering, suspension and wheel-hub repair solutions, the release added. Significance: The latest release includes first-to-market TTX and Supreme branded parts for applications up to model year 2023. Featuring...

Dorman Products (Dorman), a US-based aftermarket supplier of original equipment (OE) dealer exclusive parts, has announced the release of 200 new motor vehicle parts, more than a third of which are aftermarket exclusives, according to a press release dated May 15. The new releases include a first-to-the-aftermarket suspension sway-bar bracket kit designed to fit more than one million 2011–15 Jeep Grand Cherokee and Dodge Durango sport utility vehicles (SUVs) on the road today. When the sway...

German supplier of automotive components, tires and aftermarket replacement parts, Continental, has announced that Jorge Almeida will take over as head of Sustainability at Continental Tires with effect from May 1, 2023, according to a press release dated May 11. He will be responsible for the strategic positioning and global management of the company’s sustainability activities. In his new role, he reports directly to Christian Kötz, head of the Tires Group Sector and member of the e...

As part of its revised strategy on electric vehicle (EV) chargers, BP Pulse will only sell home chargers to fleet customers and will stop selling home-charge units directly to consumers from May 10, 2023, in the UK, the company announced May 10. “As part of an adjustment in its ambitious EV infrastructure plans, [BP Pulse] has confirmed that from 10 May 2023 it will only sell home chargers to fleet customers and stop selling [home-charge] units directly to consumers,” the compan...

BORG Automotive, a Denmark-based automotive parts remanufacturer, announced that it is set to showcase its comprehensive range of remanufactured products at the upcoming Rematec Amsterdam show in June, according to a press release dated May 9. The BORG Automotive Group consists of the distribution companies BORG Automotive Reman, Car Parts Industries (CPI) and SBS Automotive. BORG Automotive Reman delivers to the Independent Aftermarket, and CPI delivers to the original eq...

US tire manufacturer, The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Co., has launched an all-season tire called Cooper ProControl, engineered to help deliver enhanced wet handling and long-lasting, even tread wear, according to a press release dated May 9.  With 60 sizes available, the tire is built for a wide range of vehicles such as commuter touring coupes, sedans — including entry-performance sedans — and small to large sport utility vehicles (SUVs). It comes with "Wear Extending...

French automotive supplier Valeo announced that during the Nexus International Business Forum in Montreal, the company won the “Supplier of the Year” award recognizing the commitment and the ability of Valeo to respond to Nexus community members’ needs, according to a press release dated May 11. Additionally, the company said that AutoDistribution International chose Valeo for their “Supplier of the Year” award. And finally, TEMOT awarded Valeo with a “Special Recognitio...

Holley Inc. (Holley), a US-based manufacturer of high-performance aftermarket products for car and truck enthusiasts, announced results for the first quarter ended April 2, 2023, according to a press release dated May 11. The company said its net sales decreased 13.9% year over year to $172.2 million and gross profit decreased 18.1% year over year to $67.7 million compared to the prior year's first quarter. The company’s net income stood at $4.3 million, or $0.04 per diluted share...

Australian automotive aftermarket-parts distributor CoolDrive Auto Parts has announced that it will showcase its latest technical training offerings, tools and equipment range, and its renewed focus on vehicle diagnostics at the upcoming Autocare 2023, an automotive convention organized by the Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association (AAAA) in Brisbane, Australia, according to a press release dated May 7. Members of CoolDrive’s technical training team will host sessions focusing on wha...

Global automotive supplier of electric mobility and powertrain components Vitesco Technologies announced that sales for the first quarter of 2023 came in at €2.31 billion, up 2.5% over €2.26 billion in the same quarter last year, according to a press release dated May 12. The company said its focus on the electrification business was again strengthened in January when it reorganized its four business units into two new divisions: Powertrain Solutions and Electrification Solutions. Th...

Within Robert Bosch GmbH (Bosch), the newly structured Bosch Mobility will be responsible for its own business focusing on mobility in the software age. A five-strong leadership team headed by Markus Heyn will manage all aspects of the automotive-supply business, as per a press release dated May 4. “For some time now, Bosch has also seen itself as a mobility software company. Now, in response to customer requirements, our structure is changing to reflect this,” explained Heyn. Acc...

ZF Friedrichshafen AG (ZF) is illustrating how the Software-defined vehicle (SdV) can transform mobility with new functions through advanced software and hardware connected systems at the opening of its new West Coast Mobility Hub in Pleasanton, Calif., the company announced in a press release May 3. At the heart of its SdV demonstration is ZF Group’s High Performance ProConnect computing platform, which provides a continuous data loop in connected vehicles that allows for cloud-b...

BorgWarner Inc. (BorgWarner), a global product leader in delivering innovative and sustainable mobility solutions for the vehicle market, has been selected to provide high-voltage hairpin (HVH) eMotors to a leading automotive manufacturer in China, according to a May 4 press release. The eMotors will be used in the Chinese automaker’s dedicated hybrid transmission (DHT) and range-extended electric vehicle (REEV), with mass production expected to start in August 2023 in Tianjin, China.&...

Philipp Grosse Kleimann will be the new head of the Aftermarket business unit and a member of the MAHLE management committee from August 1, 2023, as stated in a company press release dated May 4. In this function, he will report directly to the CEO. “Philipp Grosse Kleimann has many years of management experience in the automotive and mobility sector, profound knowledge of service and workshop business and an entrepreneurially oriented mindset,” said Arnd Franz, chairman of the MAHLE...

As part of their strategic partnership announced earlier this 2023, ZF Friedrichshafen AG, a leading global technology company of next-generation mobility, and Wolfspeed Inc., the global leader in Silicon Carbide (SiC) technology, announced their plans to establish a joint European research and development (R&D) center for SiC power electronics in the Nuremberg Metropolitan Region, Germany, as per Wolfspeed's press release on May 3. The new joint research facility...

DENSO, a leading mobility supplier, announced global financial results for its fiscal year ending March 31, 2023, according to a company press release on April 27. Revenue for the fiscal year ending March 21, 2023, totaled $59.5 billion. In Japan, revenue increased to ¥3,705.8 billion (about $27.8 billion), up 5.4% from the previous year, and operating profit was ¥215.6 billion, a 14.1% rise from the previous year. In North America, revenue increased to ¥1,504.1 billio...

Driven Brands Holdings Inc. reported financial results for the first quarter ended April 1, 2023, according to a press release on May 3. For the first quarter, Driven Brands delivered revenue of $562.5 million, up 20% versus the prior year. System-wide sales were $1.5 billion, up 19% versus the prior year driven by 9% same-store sales growth and 7% net store growth. Net income decreased 14% versus the prior year to $29.7 million or $0.17 per diluted share. Adj...

O’Reilly Automotive, a US-based automotive aftermarket-parts retailer, has announced record revenue and earnings for its first quarter ended March 31, 2023. In a press release dated April 26, it said sales for the first quarter increased $412 million, or 12%, to $3.71 billion from $3.30 billion for the same period one year ago. The company’s operating income for the first quarter increased 7% to $717 million from $670 million for the same period one year ago. Net income for the first quar...

TBC Corporation, a distributor of automotive replacement tires based in US, has announced the appointment of Sam Kato as the company’s new president and CEO, according to a press release dated May 1. Kato, who served as TBC’s chief administrative officer for the last two years, replaces Laurent Bourrut who is retiring after completing his assignment. Bourrut will remain an executive advisor to Kato and TBC. According to the company, Kato is a veteran of global automotive businesses for mo...

US-based independent manufacturer and distributor of automotive replacement parts, Standard Motor Products (SMP), announced the release of 373 new part numbers in its April product expansion announcement, according to a press release dated April 26. The release provides new coverage in 87 different product categories, and more than 100 part numbers for 2022 and 2023 model-year vehicles, the company said. As part of the expansion, the company said its collision repair and advanced driver ...

MAHLE, a Stuttgart-based global supplier of powertrain and thermal components in Germany, announced in a press release dated April 25 that in the 2022 financial year, its sales grew by 14% to €12.4 billion. The company said it is reorienting itself in the light of the transformation in the automotive industry, and electrification and thermal management are the core of the corporate strategy MAHLE 2030+. The company believes its sales potential in connection with electric cars to be three ...

Klarius Products, a UK-based manufacturer of aftermarket emissions-control components, has announced that the company is well positioned to cater to the maturing car parc in the UK, according to a press release dated April 26. Citing data by the European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association (ACEA), the company said the average age of a car on UK roads is 10 years old and while this makes it one of the youngest in Europe, its average age is expected to increase. “The symptoms of this m...

South Korean tire manufacturer Hankook Tire & Technology Co. announced that it has won four iF Design Awards in three categories, including Product, Professional Concept and Communication at the iF Design Award 2023, according to a press release dated April 26. Hankook Tire's innovative design achievements, such as the iON evo, an electric vehicle (EV)-exclusive tire, and the Wheel Bot, a robotic wheel system, have been recognized at the ceremony. The first award-winning product...

US-based paints, coatings and specialty materials manufacturer PPG has announced that Christine Camsuzou, currently interim chief procurement officer (CPO), has been appointed vice president, procurement and CPO, effective immediately, according to a press release dated May 2. Reporting to Ram Vadlamannati, senior vice president of Operations, Camsuzou will be responsible for leading PPG’s global procurement team, processes and strategy, the release added. Camsuzou began her caree...

Group 1 Automotive, Inc., an automotive retailer with dealerships located in the US and UK, has reported financial results for the first quarter of 2023 with total revenues at $4.1 billion, up 7.4% increase compared to $3.8 billion for the first quarter of 2022, according to a press release dated April 26. Net income from continuing operations for the current quarter was $158.8 million, a 21.1% decrease compared to $201.1 million for the prior year quarter, the release added. The firs...

Stellantis has confirmed that it is finalizing testing of eFuels on 28 engine families to help accelerate the carbon emissions reduction potential of the 28 million Stellantis internal combustion engines (ICE) built since 2014 (Euro 6) in Europe, while remaining committed to selling only battery-electric vehicle (BEV) passenger cars in the region by the end of the decade, according to a press release dated April 20. As part of the toolbox available to reduce carbon emissions and fight against...

A Japan-based parts supplier, Akebono Brake Corp., announced that it has launched a new brake caliper specifically designed for the Toyota 20/30 Series Alphard Vellfire models launched post May 2008, according to a press release dated April 21. Called AWP Brake Caliper AWPK-1101, the new caliper will be available from May 20 and is priced at ¥300,000 or around $2,250. The company is offering a warranty of either three years from the purchase or 60,000 km mileage. There are 1.1 million units ...

The China arm of global automotive supplier of electric mobility and powertrain components Vitesco Technologies announced that it has put its laboratory at the Tianjin, China, location officially into use, according to a press release dated April 25. The Tianjin location now integrates research and development, testing and production functions. The newly opened laboratory is located at the production base of Vitesco Technologies Tianjin, with a total area of nearly 2,000 square meters. The la...

US-based distributor of replacement parts, components and systems, LKQ Corp., has reported revenue of $3.3 billion in the first quarter of 2023, flat from the first quarter of 2022, according to a press release dated April 27. Total parts and services revenue increased 1.5%, according to the release, which added that other revenue fell 19.2% in the first quarter of 2023 primarily due to weaker commodity prices relative to the same period in 2022. Net income for the first quarter of 2023 ...

Hankook Tire America Corp., a subsidiary of South Korean tire manufacturer Hankook Tire & Technology, announced that it has added a new ultrahigh-performance all-season tire designed for sport utility vehicles (SUVs) to its comprehensive Ventus product line, according to a press release dated April 26. Called the Ventus S1 evo Z AS X, the tire is claimed to provide ultimate handling at high speeds, excellent traction in all-season conditions, and uncompromising comfort for luxury SUVs. ...

Global automotive supplier of electric mobility and powertrain components Vitesco Technologies Group AG announced that its supervisory board has appointed Sabine Nitzsche as its new CFO with effect from Nov. 1, 2023, according to a press release dated April 26. Nitzsche succeeds Werner Volz, who will retire from the company. Both will share the month of October to ensure a smooth transfer, the release added. Nitzsche started her professional career at Infineon in 1994. She pass...

After setting up its exclusive electric vehicle (EV) charging hubs in Nuremberg and Zurich in Germany, Audi is now opening its third charging hub, which will be located in Berlin, the company announced on April 6. The premium car brand owned by Volkswagen has joined up with a local partner company in Berlin, using the existing power supply to set up its third EV charging hub. Audi said Frischeparadies is acting as a cooperation partner. Audi's new charging hub in Berlin has four reservable ...

ZF Aftermarket, the aftermarket arm of German automotive supplier ZF Friedrichshafen, announced that it has expanded its product offering in India with the launch of three new TRW products, according to a press release dated April 23. The products launched in the Indian market are TRW shock absorbers, now made in India, TRW brake pads and TRW brake discs. With the new products, ZF said it is supporting the brake repair of passenger cars, a crucial business area in the independent aftermarke...

ZF Aftermarket, the aftermarket arm of German automotive supplier ZF Friedrichshafen, announced that it has expanded its parts offerings in the first quarter of 2023 for vehicles in the US and Canada, adding 116 new listings to its ZF, Lemförder, SACHS, TRW and WABCO branded portfolios, according to a press release dated April 11. The latest additions expand coverage to approximately 26.3 million vehicles in operation. New product numbers include 56 different part numbers for Lemförder wind...

Global automotive supplier Webasto has announced that readers of the German magazines Auto Bild, auto motor and sport und Auto Zeitung voted Webasto’s wallboxes and parking heaters from Webasto as the best in five categories, according to a press release dated 19 April. According to the release, in the parking heaters category, Webasto came up top in all three surveys and its charging stations occupied the first and second place. For the first time, auto motor und sport also asked readers t...

The UK arm of German automotive and industrial component supplier Schaeffler AG has announced that in an effort to demonstrate its commitment to the independent aftermarket sector, a team from its workshop portal, REPXPERT, recently visited Tameside College in Ashton-under-Lyne, UK, to speak to students and bring them up to speed with modern clutch technology, according to a press release dated April 20. The Schaeffler REPXPERT team of Technical Manager Alistair Mason and Digital Marketi...

German supplier of automotive components, tires and aftermarket replacement parts, Continental, has announced that the Continental Hybrid HS5 and Hybrid HD 5 tires won the Product Design category at the Red Dot Award 2023, according to a press release dated April 19. This award is an annual design competition for product and industrial design, brand and communication design, and design concepts. The new Continental Hybrid family of Generation 5 tires have been developed for the rigorous deman...

UK-based remanufacturer and fuel systems supplier, Carwood, has become the latest member to join the UK aftermarket industry body Independent Automotive Aftermarket Federation (IAAF), according to a press release dated 20 April. With more than 50-year’s expertise, Carwood is a leading remanufacturer and technical services provider for the global car, commercial vehicle, off-highway, motorsport and defence industries, the release added.  Carwood’s remanufactured portfolio spans OEM-ap...

MAHLE Aftermarket, the aftermarket arm of Stuttgart-based global supplier of powertrain and thermal components, MAHLE, has announced that it has expanded its product range for engine peripherals in passenger cars, according to a press release dated 14 April. The new product range starts with the introduction of air intake modules, which have been available for selected vehicle types via the parts trade since March 2023 while cylinder head covers and oil filter modules will follow, the company...

BorgWarner-owned Delphi Technologies announced that it has released a total of 87 parts across its product lines as part of the first of several parts announcements to come in 2023, according to a press release dated April 17. Of the five new products to its fuel delivery line, three are first to market fuel pump module assemblies. These new products cover approximately 2.43 million vehicles in operation (VIO) in the US and Canada, covering both domestic and import brands such as th...

German supplier of automotive components, tires and aftermarket replacement parts, Continental, announced that it has expanded the electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure at its three company-owned test sites in Arvidsjaur (Sweden), Jeversen (Germany) and Uvalde (US), according to a press release dated April 20. The company believes more tire tests for EVs require more charging stations and thanks to increased charging capacities, its global test sites are ready for e-mobility...

ZF announced that it has joined the Navigation Data Standard (NDS) Association in which automotive manufacturers, suppliers, map providers and map developers are establishing a global standard for digital maps in standard definition (SD) and high definition (HD), according to a press release dated April 20. ZF contributes expertise in the development of system solutions and sensor technology, and benefits from the open exchange of information on digital map solutions with customers and...

German automotive component supplier and service provider Bosch has announced that following extensive air-quality tests, the independent certification body OFI CERT, based in Vienna, Austria, has officially confirmed the quality of FILTER+pro, the new generation of Bosch cabin filters, according to a press release dated April 5. Among other things, it tested how well allergens were filtered and reduced, as well as the filter’s ability to reduce the risk of germ transmission. The ...

Elgin Industries, a US-based manufacturer of engine and chassis components, announced that it has elevated Chris Anderson to the role of executive vice president, according to a press release dated April 17. In this role, Anderson assumes additional operating responsibility for the company’s domestic and overseas businesses. Elgin serves original equipment (OE) and aftermarket customers in nearly 60 nations from its engineering, manufacturing and distribution complex in Elgin, Ill. Signi...

French fleet management and car leasing company ALD Automotive and the leading electric vehicle (EV) charging network provider ChargePoint Holdings have signed an international agreement to establish a focused EV charging business in Europe for corporate fleets, according to a joint announcement from both the companies on April 4. “The joint initiative aims to create a unique electric Mobility Service Provider (eMSP) to accelerate corporate fleet electrification,” the companies said in a ...

Siligom, a France-based tire distributor and service provider, and Parts Holding Europe (PHE), a distributor of vehicle spares in France, Belgium, the Netherlands, Luxemburg, Italy and Spain, have announced that Siligon’s acquisition of PHE-owned Glass Auto Service has received approval from the supervisory authorities, according to a press release dated April 14. This acquisition enables Siligom, which is already present in the glazing market with more than 90 outlets under the Siliglass b...

Idemitsu Lubricants America (ILA), a supplier of Japanese original equipment manufacturer (OEM) lubricants in North America, has announced the promotion of Michael (Mike) Park from senior director to vice president of its “AMO/OES Divisions & Distributor Accounts”, according to a press release dated April 5. After joining the Idemitsu team in 2011, Park became the architect of the organization's national bulk oil program. He spearheaded the company's nationwide distribution capabiliti...

Dorman Products, a US-based aftermarket supplier of original equipment (OE) dealer exclusive parts, has announced the release of 250 new motor vehicle parts, including 75 aftermarket exclusives, according to a press release dated April 12. This April's new releases include a first-to-the-aftermarket intake manifold runner control (IMRC) motor and arm designed to fit more than half a million 2018–20 Chevrolet Cruze and Sonic cars on the road. The company said when certain models eq...

Premium Guard Inc. (PGI), a US-based provider of aftermarket automotive filtration solutions, has announced the appointment of Jonathan Williams as its North America CFO, according to a press release dated April 10. Williams joined PGI's leadership team after more than 20 years of experience with global and growth-oriented companies in financial leadership roles. He had a recent role with Bridgestone Americas as CFO for the Commercial Tire division. Prior to that, Williams was part of Ni...