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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

German oil and additive specialist, Liqui Moly, has announced the launch of its thinnest motor oil to date with the Special Tec AA 0W-8 for Mazda and Toyota models, according to a press release dated July 26. The motor oil meets the latest JASO GLV-1 standard, as required for hybrid models from Mazda and Toyota. The abbreviation AA in the product name stands for Asia & America. The company believes modern engines require ever more modern motor oil and that hybrids have special requirem...

Advanced Intelligent Chassis Systems (ADVICS) Aftermarket North America, a supplier of original equipment (OE) brake system components for the aftermarket, announced that it has expanded its brake pad offerings with five new ADVICS OE brake pads, according to a press release dated July 24. The expansion adds approximately 5 million vehicles in operation (VIO) coverage to the existing product offering, the company said. Significance: All five of the new brake pad part numbers are OE, with c...

Dongfeng Motor Group Co. Ltd., a mainland China-based automotive company, has announced that it will showcase its range at the MIMS Automobility Moscow 2023 to be held at the Expocentre in Moscow from August 21–24, according to a press release dated August 19. This participation in MIMS Automobility Moscow 2023 marks the first time that Dongfeng is exhibiting primarily automotive parts. The purpose of this exhibition is to showcase Dongfeng's advanced technology and main products in the fie...

Dana Inc., the Ohio, US-based global supplier of drivetrain and propulsion systems as well as aftermarket solutions, has introduced Spicer-branded, nodular-iron performance differential covers, which are engineered for off-road performance and help protect the intricate differential parts on a vehicle, according to a press release dated August 15. These differential covers have the added advantage of coming preprimed from the factory so that enthusiasts can efficiently customize the color of the...

Tremec, a US-based torque-transfer solutions company and a subsidiary of Mexican conglomerate KUO, has announced the acquisition of a provider of plug-and-play electric vehicle conversion systems, Electric GT, according to a press release dated August 17. The acquisition will enable Tremec to strengthen its product offerings in the rapidly growing internal combustion engine to battery-electric vehicle (ICE-to-BEV) vehicle conversion market, the release added. The acquisition has giv...

UK automotive trade body Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) has announced that the UK’s used car market rose by 4.1% during the second quarter of 2023, with 1,832,267 units changing hands, according to a press release dated August 9. The increase equates to an additional 72,583 transactions compared with the same period in 2022, reflecting sustained growth in the new car market and improving availability, the release added. SMMT believes easing supply chain disruptions h...

Continental Aftermarket US, a supplier of original equipment (OE)-engineered aftermarket replacement parts and advanced diagnostics, announced that it now offers the ATE Original line of brake pads in over 150 different friction-material formulations, according to a press release dated July 21. The ATE Brake Pad line includes 293 part numbers with application coverage for over 104 million vehicles in operation. ATE is the brake brand of the German automotive supplier that offers a huge range ...

India’s largest automaker Maruti Suzuki has announced that its pre-owned car brand, Maruti Suzuki True Value, has achieved a landmark milestone of selling 5 million pre-owned cars, according to a press release dated August 9. Introduced in 2001, True Value is a one-stop destination to buy and sell quality pre-owned cars. Maruti Suzuki True Value offers a systematic integration of technology and industry experience to make the whole process of buying and selling cars transparent and convenie...

Standard Motor Products (SMP), an automotive parts manufacturer and distributor, announced that it has released 207 new part numbers in its July new product announcement, according to a press release dated July 26. The product release provides new coverage in 71 different product categories, and 78 part numbers for 2022 and 2023 model-year vehicles, the company said. The company’s Standard and Four Seasons brands continue to expand coverage for hybrid and electric vehicles. A door handle re...

Holley Inc. (Holley), a US-based manufacturer of high-performance aftermarket products for car and truck enthusiasts, announced the launch of its latest innovation in its fast-growing product category — electronic fuel injection (EFI) with the introduction of the Sniper 2 EFI, according to a press release dated August 2. The Sniper 2 EFI is a self-tuning, easy-to-install, EFI conversion for common four-barrel style carburetors. The Sniper product line was first introduced in 2016 and h...

Audi India, the Indian arm of the German luxury-car manufacturer, has inaugurated a new pre-owned car facility, Audi Approved: plus in Noida, Uttar Pradesh, India, according to a press release dated August 4. This new facility is the 24th Audi Approved: plus facility in India. Speaking at the inauguration, Balbir Singh Dhillon, head of Audi India, said, “Audi Approved plus has grown by 53% in the first half of 2023 and we are confident of continued growth in the pre-owned car segment. There...

Ireland-based automotive aftermarket player, Serfac Ltd., has announced that it offers an extensive range of quality braking components from top brands at great prices, providing aftermarket retailers with a wide choice and an extremely competitive sales proposition, according to a press release dated July 18. The company is a distributor of several braking brands such as Borg & Beck, Brembo, Blue Print and Febi, and is well-positioned to cover any braking order, the release added. Althou...

German lighting major Ams Osram has announced an innovation in automotive forward lighting with the launch of Eviyos 2.0, a new type of intelligent multipixel LED that enables fully adaptive, dynamic headlight operation and image projection, according to a press release dated July 19. Eviyos 2.0 can selectively illuminate the road ahead to maximize the driver’s view in high-beam mode without creating the glare typically experienced by other road users. The chip’s 25,600 individually contr...

Schrader TPMS Solutions, the automotive aftermarket brand of Sensata Technologies and a global manufacturer of tire pressure monitoring systems (TPMS) for automotive, heavy vehicles and off-road vehicles, announced that its TPMS Retrofit Kits are back in stock, according to a press release dated July 21.   The company said its retrofit kits are an easy way to monitor tire pressure in vehicles built before 2008 that were not equipped with a TPMS system (before it was mandated by the Trans...

Direction-Plus, an Australia-based supplier of accessories for diesel passenger 4x4 vehicles, has outlined its range of aftermarket products such as prefilters, catch cans and automatic transmission coolers, according to a press release dated July 24. Direction Plus offers two types of 4WD water-filtration products — Fuel Manager, which features the traditional visual inspection water-catchment bowl, and PreLine-Plus by Mann & Hummel, which offers an in-car visual and audible alert...

Digital-mapping firm Here Technologies has announced that its enterprise-grade anonymization tool is now available for businesses to utilize in self-hosted development environments, according to a press release dated July 18. Called Here Anonymizer, the tool processes real-time and historical location data, making it possible to preserve data privacy. Location data is particularly privacy-sensitive with its spatial and temporal components. The tool can be used by customers in multiple ma...

Ireland-based automotive aftermarket player, Serfac Ltd., has outlined shock absorbers from Monroe, a brand it distributes in Ireland, saying that the link between original equipment (OE) and aftermarket technology is a key benefit of choosing Monroe shocks, according to a press release dated July 18. As an OE supplier, Monroe has gained unique insight to vehicle manufacturers’ desired ride and handling characteristics for new vehicle models. Years later, when many of these vehicles en...

Australia’s Burson Auto Parts, a supplier of automotive parts, tools and workshop equipment, has said that as electric vehicles become more prominent on Australia’s roads, Australia’s automotive workshops need to be able to accurately diagnose and service these vehicles. In a release dated July 24, the company outlined its Autel EV diagnostic solutions for workshops to allow prompt and accurate servicing. According to Phillip Scott, Burson’s Diagnostics category manager, the way works...

Japan-based The Yokohama Rubber Co. has announced that it will introduce the Advan Sport EV, a new ultrahigh-performance summer tire for electric vehicles, to overseas markets including Europe from this autumn, according to a press release dated July 12. Yokohama Rubber plans to offer the new tire in 16 sizes. Based on Yokohama Rubber’s Advan Sport V107 tire for high-performance cars, the new Advan Sport EV was developed to contribute to the low-electricity consumption and quietness desired...

Dorman Products (Dorman), a US-based aftermarket supplier of original equipment (OE) dealer exclusive parts, has announced the release of almost 400 new motor vehicle parts in July 2023, according to a press release dated July 28. The company said the month's new product launches included 151 repair solutions that were exclusive to the aftermarket. Significance: The new releases feature a Dorman OE Fix-branded engine coolant thermostat housing assembly. Dorman said the original coolant the...

According to a press release dated July 27, a new dedicated joint Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association (AAAA) and the Auto Innovation Centre (AIC) campaign has been launched to support the country's aftermarket with battery-electric vehicle (BEV) training and product development opportunities, and to further aid in promoting the sale of BEVs among vehicle fleets in the state of Victoria, Australia.  The AIC has taken into its possession two new BEVs, a Ford F-150 Lightning ...

ZF Aftermarket has expanded its parts offerings in the first half of 2023 for vehicles in the US and Canada, adding 285 new listings to its ZF, Lemförder, Sachs, TRW and Wabco branded portfolios, as announced in a press release dated July 18. The company has introduced 47 new part numbers for TRW brake-pad sets, extending availability to nearly 11.9 million more vehicles in operation (VIO). The company also expanded its offerings for Lemförder window regulators, motors and related...

Canadian tire distributor Groupe Touchette has announced the acquisition of alloy-wheel design, manufacturing and distribution company Fastco Canada, through a press release dated July 11. Groupe Touchette specializes in value-added tire distribution services and has a presence across Canada with more than 50 distribution centers. The company services car manufacturers, car dealerships, independent tire retailers and end customers. Fastco is a manufacturer and distrib...

US-based Innova Electronics Corp. has announced the launch of its original equipment manufacturer-level professional Smart Diagnostic System (SDS) Tablets and RepairSolutionsPRO app. It is the first line of products that the company has developed specifically for professional automotive use, with inputs from ASE-certified technicians, automotive repair students, existing customers and insights from service center visits. According to a news article dated July 24, the new product line con...

US-based Amsoil said that its new range of 100% motor oils are targeted at customers who want boosted protection and performance, according to a news article dated July 24. The company's 100% synthetic high-mileage motor oil is purpose-built for the unique demands of high-mileage engines to help extend vehicle life. It is engineered for vehicles with over 75,000 miles, and the product helps reduce oil consumption and preserve horsepower, the company said. This 100% synthetic high-mileage moto...

US-based Dana Inc., which offers Spicer nodular-iron performance differential covers, has announced that these will have the added advantage coming preprimed from the factory so that enthusiasts can efficiently customize the color of their differential cover, according to a press release dated July 25. Dana said that the Spicer Performance differential covers are designed and engineered for performance applications and to meet the demands of any environment. The differential covers ...

Rislone's new diesel DPF Clean — Diesel DPF, Exhaust & Emissions System Cleaner cleans the fuel, exhaust and emissions systems of diesel vehicles to restore power and performance. It reduces regeneration cycles, extends diesel particulate filter (DPF) life, saves fuel and turns off check-engine lights. It unclogs blocked DPFs and reduces the need for frequent highway driving to accelerate regeneration, making it an ideal solution for diesel cars, SUVs and trucks that ar...

UK-based manufacturer of aftermarket emissions products, BM Catalysts, announced that it has expanded its range with nine new references, including seven new catalytic converters and two pipes, according to a press release dated July 17. Significance: The nine new references provide coverage to 327,150 vehicles in the European car parc, with six of the nine new parts being Euro 6 compliant, meeting the most stringent Euro emissions standards, the company said. Complementing its regular ran...

Ireland-based automotive aftermarket player, Serfac, has announced that it is now stocking the latest lubricants for hybrid vehicles from Wolf Lubricants, according to a press release dated July 18. Wolf’s Hybrid Range currently includes 45 products for hybrid vehicles, including eight specialty engine oils that offer a 100% coverage of the hybrid car parc, the release added. Serfac believes as a result of rising fuel prices and environmental concerns, the hybrid vehicle market is now thriv...

US-based manufacturer and distributor of automotive aftermarket parts, Motorcar Parts of America announced that it recently added more than 50 new late-model vehicle brake pad and rotor part number applications to its catalog, according to a press release dated July 18. Significance: The company said the new parts provided additional coverage for more than 5 million vehicles. The new part numbers are available to the professional installer market through the company’s Quality-Built and...

Burke Porter Group, a US-based supplier of original equipment manufacturer testing solutions, has announced the creation of a new Aftermarket business unit to address the demand for advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) calibration, according to a press release dated July 19. The company also announced that it has appointed Doug Kelly as president of the new division, responsible for leading its development, growth and ongoing support. Kelly will report to CEO Jeffrey Moss. Kell...

ZF Aftermarket, the aftermarket arm of German automotive supplier ZF Friedrichshafen, announced that it is expanding its product and service offerings for the passenger car aftermarket in Mexico and showcased its offerings at INA PAACE Automechanika from July 12–14, according to a press release dated July 12. The company said it is adding TRW brake discs, rotors and drums to its portfolio of braking products for passenger cars in the region. The TRW brand designs original equipment (OE...

Goodyear has announced that it is set to strengthen its light commercial vehicle (LCV) tires offering by introducing an expanded cargo tire range in the premium segment, with reliable top-quality tires that give fleets a solution which helps to reduce downtime and keep them moving, according to a release dated July 12. Throughout 2023, a total of 24 new sizes will be available among Goodyear EfficientGrip Cargo 2, Goodyear Vector 4Seasons Cargo and Goodyear UltraGrip Cargo with the company of...

Chinese aftermarket and diagnostic equipment supplier Launch Tech announced that it exhibited its product range at the Automechanika Ho Chi Minh City 2023 in June, according to a press release dated June 29. Held from June 23 to 25 in Vietnam, the regional trade fair for the automotive service industry proved to be an excellent platform for the company to connect with its customers, the release added. At the exhibition, Launch said it showcased a range of popular products tailored to meet the...

Mann+Hummel announced its Cleaner Mobility Platform in a press release July 11 for emission-neutral driving in clean ambient air. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that 7 million people die prematurely each year from particulate matter, nitrogen oxides and other air pollutants, all over the world. That is more than 10% of annual deaths worldwide. Anyone can be affected. That is because 99% of the world's population breathes air that does not meet WHO quality standards. One of the ...

The Company is following a major trend in terms of design. The headlamp offers excellent light output and is ideal for a wide range of highly demanding applications. Thanks to its solid housing and robust construction, it can be used in harsh environments and for heavy-duty applications. For example, its high vibration resistance makes it ideal for use with construction machinery, while the IP 6K9K protection rating makes it particularly dust-proof and resistant to high-pressure cleaning. The Sl...

MEYLE, a Hamburg, Germany-based replacement parts manufacturer for the independent aftermarket has announced that it is expanding its product range to include the two component brake discs for common BMW and Mercedes models, according to a press release dated July 4. The new brake discs are now available and offer customers the usual original equipment (OE) qualities such as accurate fit, low offset, reduced weight and the associated fuel savings and decrease in CO2, the release added. T...

French automotive supplier Valeo has announced the launch of Canopy, claimed by the company as the first wiper designed to reduce CO2 emissions by 61% compared to a Valeo wiper blade, according to a press release dated 29 June. The company said the move is part of its strategy to contribute to a more sustainable aftermarket. Valeo Canopy’s rubber blade is made of more than 80% natural, renewable or recycled materials such as cane sugar, vegetable oils or carbon black from recycled tires. An...

Dana Inc., the Ohio-based global supplier of drivetrain and propulsion systems as well as aftermarket solutions, announced that it has introduced two new sizes of its Victor Reinz Reinzosil room-temperature vulcanizing (RTV) silicone, according to a press release dated June 26. Originally available in 70 milliliter tubes, Reinzosil sealant is now also offered in 20 milliliter cans and 310 milliliter cartridge tubes for larger jobs, the release added. The company said the product has the abili...

Australia’s Burson Auto Parts, a supplier of automotive parts, tools and workshop equipment, has announced that it showcased its range at the Autocare 2023, an automotive convention organized by the Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association (AAAA) from June 9–10 in Brisbane, Australia, earlier in June, according to a press release dated June 26. The Burson stand showcased the latest workshop equipment from ADAS calibration frames, EV diagnostics to charging systems and the latest spec...

US-based paints, coatings and specialty-materials manufacturer PPG announced that its new research has demonstrated energy savings and other manufacturing benefits for tiremakers with the use of PPG AGILON performance silica technology, according to a press release dated 28 June. The research showed that PPG Agilon silica provides nearly 50% energy savings and cuts manufacturing time by a third compared to conventional silica by eliminating one mixing step. The new PPG research also found add...

The Australian arm of Dayco, a US-based engine products and drive-systems supplier for the automotive and aftermarket industries, has announced that it showcased its range at the Autocare 2023, an automotive convention organized by the Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association (AAAA) from June 9–10 in Brisbane, Australia, earlier in June, according to a press release dated June 27. Dayco Australia said it used this major event to showcase the global company’s constantly expanding rang...

Japan-based DENSO Corp. announced that DENSO Aftermarket has expanded its PowerEdge replacements parts brand to include thermal management products with the introduction of air conditioning (AC) compressors, according to a press release dated June 26. PowerEdge is not part of the conventional DENSO range but has been designed to support distributors and workshops to help them fill the gaps in their existing ranges. DENSO says it has leveraged its expertise as an original equipment AC speciali...

Borg Automotive, a Denmark-based automotive parts remanufacturer, announced that in the first quarter of 2023, the company expanded its product range by 116 part numbers, according to a press release dated June 21. The new part numbers include 32 brake calipers, 22 alternators, 22 A/C compressors, 18 starters, 10 steering racks, eight turbochargers, three exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) valves and one steering pump across the company’s Elstock, DRI, TMI and Lucas brands. The company said it...

US-based independent manufacturer and distributor of automotive replacement parts, Standard Motor Products (SMP), announced the release of 156 new part numbers in its June product-expansion announcement, according to a press release dated June 21. This release provides new coverage in 61 different product categories, and 43 part numbers for 2022 and 2023 model year vehicles, the release added. The company’s advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) and collision-repair programs saw the addi...

In a release dated June 8, Continental Aftermarket US, a supplier of original equipment (OE)-engineered aftermarket replacement parts and advanced diagnostics, announced that it has introduced ClearContact Premium Beam Wiper Blades. The company said the product comes with a high-level blade composition that resists ultraviolet (UV) light and harsh environmental conditions to remain flexible and provide a long service life. The synthetic rubber formula delivers a superior all-weather perf...

Continental Aftermarket US, a supplier of original equipment (OE)-engineered aftermarket replacement parts and advanced diagnostics, announced that it is now offering tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) "Tool Bundles" that combine the company’s Autodiagnos TPMS Tools with Continental’s REDI-Sensor TPMS Sensors, according to a press release dated May 23. The company said the Autodiagnos D Tool and the Autodiagnos SE Tool trigger, can diagnose and read 100% of OE and aftermarket pas...

Engine management and ignition specialist SMP Europe announced that it exhibited its product portfolio at the recently concluded Automechanika Birmingham for the first time and the event was a huge success for the firm, according to a press release dated June 7. The company showcased a wide range of products including its new exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) valves, air-mass meters and new nitrogen oxides sensor ranges along with its portfolio of in-house brands, including Intermotor, Lem...

US-based reconditioning software company Rapid Recon has announced the release of a new study that looked at electric vehicles and the challenges the technology has brought to auto dealerships hoping to profit from reconditioning used EVs for resale, according to a press release dated June 19. The complete study, which is available on the company’s website, revealed that the field of EV reconditioning was sparsely explored. Aside from the physical aspects of recondi...

Taking a lead among its peers, Mercedes-Benz is expanding the use of AI and integrating it into the voice control of its vehicles as the next step. By adding ChatGPT, voice control via the MBUX Voice Assistant's Hey Mercedes will become even more intuitive. An optional beta program will start June 16 in the US for over 900,000 vehicles equipped with the MBUX infotainment system, the company announced June 15. Car owners can participate via the Mercedes me app or directly from t...

Amsoil, a US corporation based in Superior, Wis., that primarily formulates and packages synthetic lubricants, fuel additives and filters, has expanded its synthetic European motor-oil line to include new 0W-30 and 10W-60 viscosities, according to a press release dated June 13. These additions are part of an Amsoil-exclusive formula designed for the unique demands of gasoline, diesel and hybrid European vehicles, the release added. Amsoil’s synthetic European motor oil is said to ...

Continental has unveiled the UltraContact NXT tire, made of up to 65% renewable, recycled and mass-balance certified materials, according to a June 14 press release. The tires, which will be available for the European market in July, will carry the highest possible rating of the EU tire label in rolling resistance, wet braking and exterior noise. There will be 19 sizes. “At Continental, safety, performance and sustainability go hand in hand. With the UltraContact NXT, we deliver o...

US-based automotive aftermarket supplier and remanufacturer BBB Industries announced that it has released 19 stock keeping units (SKUs) for its Remy brand of starters and alternators, according to a press release dated June 5. BBB Industries manufactures starters, alternators, hydraulic and air-disc brake calipers, hydraulic and electric-power steering products, and turbochargers for the aftermarket. Through its various acquisitions in Europe, the company also supplies repair parts and brake ...

Aftermarket braking specialist TMD Friction UK has launched nine new brake pad, disc and drum references under its Mintex brand for various passenger vehicle and light commercial vehicle applications, according to a release dated June 12 from the UK aftermarket industry body Independent Automotive Aftermarket Federation (IAAF). The range included five new Mintex-brand brake pads for Ford Ranger trucks (2011-), for the Tesla Model 3 and Model Y (2017-), and for the KIA Picanto (2017-). Br...

FAI Automotive, a global independent replacement-automotive parts distributor, announced that it has expanded its range of valve covers to now include 34 references, which have been specially developed to be applied to thousands of popular vehicle makes and models, according to a release dated June 12 from the UK aftermarket industry body Independent Automotive Aftermarket Federation (IAAF). The company’s expanded valve cover range includes part numbers VC005 suitable for 2.2 TDCi Citroen, ...

Niterra, formerly called NGK Spark Plug, a Japan-based ignition and sensor specialist, announced the launch of its new exhaust gas and differential pressure sensors (EDPS) range under the NTK Vehicle Electronics brand, according to an undated press release from June. EDPS play a significant role in engine optimization. They are required to provide the engine control units with the necessary information regarding the exhaust-gas pressures and the filling level of the diesel particula...

DENSO Europe announced that it has introduced 33 new rear-wiper blades into its range from the beginning of May, according to a press release by UK aftermarket industry body Independent Automotive Aftermarket Federation (IAAF) dated June 9. The new references cater for more than 4,600 applications for vehicle brands such as Audi, Mercedes, BMW, Porsche and Jaguar to Dacia, SsangYong, Dodge and Chevrolet, covering over 100 million vehicles, the release added. Significance: �...

Nitro Gear & Axle, a US-based manufacturer of gear and axle products for customized 4-wheel drive (4WD) vehicles, has outlined its product range for the Australian market, according to a press release dated June 8. The company said its product packages ensure optimal performance when fitting larger wheels and tires to a vehicle, which is imperative in order to maintain optimal performance, fuel efficiency and power delivery. According to the release, some of the advantages of adjusti...

Niterra, formerly called NGK Spark Plug, a Japan-based ignition and sensor specialist, announced that it has bolstered its aftermarket offering with 29 new ignition coils for global automakers that include Hyundai, Kia, Mercedes-Benz, Porsche, Toyota and Opel, according to an undated press release from May 2023. The products help the company extend customer coverage in South Korea, Japan and in Europe, the Middle East and Africa region, and the products are forecast to cov...

US-based paints, coatings and specialty-materials manufacturer PPG announced the launch of PPG Enviro-Prime EPIC 200R coatings, a suite of electrocoat (e-coat) products for automotive manufacturers, according to a press release dated June 6. The products provide sustainability benefits for customers, including lower-energy use and reduced CO2 emissions at manufacturing facilities. PPG said it is a pioneer in e-coat, which has been used in automotive and industrial applications for n...

Dayco, Tecno System and Monet have entered into an equity agreement positioning the trio for growth in the electrified-propulsion systems space, according to a press release dated June 7. The resulting competence center will be a research and development (R&D) powerhouse that starts with Monet’s know-how and competencies, and ushers them through Tecno System’s industrialization capabilities, all while utilizing Dayco’s 115 years of innovation and world-class manufacturing. Da...

Vitesco Technologies, a leading international developer and manufacturer of state-of-the-art powertrain technologies for sustainable mobility, will join global electric vehicle leaders at the 36th EV Symposium and Exposition held June 11–14 in Sacramento, Calif., according to a press release dated June 7. Vitesco will present its broad portfolio of hardware and software supporting auto industry drive toward electrification.  Electrification solutions on display will i...

New York City on June 6 has sued Hyundai Motor Co. and Kia Corp., accusing the South Korean automakers of negligence and creating a public nuisance by selling vehicles that are too easy to steal, as reported by Reuters on June 7. New York joined a growing list of major cities that have sued Hyundai and Kia over thefts, including Baltimore; Cleveland; Milwaukee, Wis.; San Diego; and Seattle. In a complaint filed in the Manhattan federal court, New York faulted the auto...

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 ...

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...

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...

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 ...

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...

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...