US-based automotive service-equipment provider Hunter Engineering has announced that it is now providing updated alignment specifications via its WinAlign software, according to a press release dated May 3. The vehicle information-database update release, which also included updates for other WinAlign features, became available May 1. The release covered new models — those not yet in existence at the time of the previous release — as well as model year updates, including origina...

Klarius Products, a UK-based manufacturer of aftermarket emissions control components, announced that it is prepared to meet the demand for professional technical support and high-quality automotive parts that is on the rise with the increasing average age of vehicles on UK roads, according to a press release dated May 25. The company is positioning itself as the go-to expert for catalytic converters (CATs), diesel particulate filters (DPFs) and selective catalytic reduction (SCRs). It s...

US-based used-car history provider Carfax, part of S&P Global Mobility and a company that owns the world’s largest vehicle-history database, has revealed that as per its data, over 2.5 million vehicles tagged with “Do Not Drive” or “Park Outside” safety recalls remain unrepaired as of May 1, according to a press release dated May 17. “Do Not Drive” and “Park Outside” notifications are recalls issued by automakers and federal safety officials. A “Do Not Drive” recall ...

Hyundai has announced that Hyundai Motor Group Metaplant America (HMGMA), Hyundai Motor Group’s first dedicated electric vehicle mass production plant, has signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) for a training partnership with Savannah Technical College (STC) on May 10. The first program with this partnership is a new EV professional certificate and those that complete the program will be preferred for employment with HMGMA. The certificate was designed at the request of Hyund...

The Maryland governor has signed the state’s new auto glass calibration rules into a law May 8, and the law goes into effect from October 2023, according to a press release by the Auto Glass Safety Council dated May 11. Significance: The auto glass safety law will require glass shops to inform customers before repairing or replacing auto glass for their advanced driver assistance system (ADAS)-equipped vehicle, if recalibration is required, and to provide a written statement that ...

French automotive supplier Valeo announced that it unveiled its latest technologies to the Latin American aftermarket at Automec 2023 held in São Paulo, Brazil, from April 25–29, according to a press release dated May 16. Throughout the five-day event, Valeo said it aimed to strengthen its relationship with Latin American repair professionals through a dedicated space that offered training, services and an abundance of tailor-made content. One such example is Valeo Service’s la...

The Sterling Group (Sterling), a US-based private equity firm, has announced the establishment of Premier Tire & Service (Premier), a company that will aim to become a one-stop tire and auto-service solutions provider, according to a press release dated May 18. Sterling will partner with John Adams, an executive with 25 years of experience in the automotive aftermarket industry and former CEO of Full Speed Automotive, to build the Premier platform. Premier will seek to acquire indepe...

The European Commission has prolonged the Motor Vehicle Block Exemption Regulation (MVBER) for five years, meaning that it will now be applicable until May 31, 2028, according to a press release dated April 17. The European Commission has also updated the Supplementary Guidelines for the sector. It said the revised guidelines will help companies in the automotive sector assess the compatibility of their vertical agreements with EU competition rules, while ensuring that aftermarket o...

RAC, a UK-based breakdown service provider for both private and business drivers, announced that electric car subscription service Onto has chosen the RAC as its servicing and roadside-assistance services partner, according to a press release dated May 11. The RAC is now responsible for servicing 6,000-plus Onto vehicles, which make up the largest electric car fleet in the UK, the release added. Servicing will be carried out by the RAC’s mobile team of expert electric vehicle (EV) technicia...

BMW has announced that Digital Key Plus is now also available for smartphones with Android operating systems, according to a press release dated April 24. Customers with compatible devices from Samsung or Google can use it to unlock and lock their BMW and start the engine without even getting their phone out of their pocket, the release added. Until now, Digital Key Plus has only been compatible with iPhone and Apple Watch. The vehicle reacts automatically when approached or receded in t...

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...

The Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association (AAAA), the peak body representing Australia’s electric vehicle (EV) Automotive Service and Repair industry has announced that it welcomes the release of the government’s National Electric Vehicle Strategy, adding that the automotive service and repair industry will be an important component of ensuring the EV Strategy succeeds, according to a press release dated April 20. Australia’s first National Electric Vehicle Strategy was rel...

Autel U.S., a provider of automotive diagnostics products, announced that it has launched its redesigned advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) website pages, providing customers with a comprehensive resource for shops looking to add ADAS calibrations to their list of services, according to a press release dated April 24. Autel U.S. is a subsidiary of China-based Autel Intelligent Technology Corp. The company believes with 99 million ADAS-equipped vehicles already on North American ro...

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...

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...

Ring Automotive, a UK-based supplier of vehicle lighting, auto electrics, workshop tools and auto accessories, announced that it has launched three new worklamps that provide light solutions for all professions, according to a release dated 19 April from the UK aftermarket industry body Independent Automotive Aftermarket Federation (IAAF). The company says all three worklamps are lightweight, durable and flexible. The RWL400 is a battery operated worklamp that has a dual light head and two ha...

Lumileds, a global supplier of original equipment manufacturer (OEM) and aftermarket automotive lighting and accessories, announced the expansion of the Philips Xperion 6000 range of automotive professional work lamps with the launch of the Penlight, Headlight and the Under-Bonnet Light, designed to tackle inspection tasks even in tight spaces that are tricky to reach, according to a press release dated April 17. The company said that features such as presence-sensing and magnetic and teles...

Earthling Automotive, formerly known as Luscious Garage, a US-based electric vehicle (EV) repair shop, announced that it has opened its doors to provide expert EV and hybrid repair services in the San Francisco Bay Area, according to a press release dated April 3. Under the leadership of CEO Carolyn Coquillette, Earthling Automotive aims to serve the growing EV market and set a new standard for the independent automotive repair industry, the release added. Coquillette is the co-foun...

LKQ Europe, a subsidiary of Switzerland-headquartered LKQ Corporation, a distributor of automotive aftermarket parts for cars, commercial vans and industrial vehicles, has announced its partnership with CECRA, the European Council for Motor Trades and Repairs, according to a press release dated March 23. This partnership is built on shared objectives and common interests, including access to vehicle data, electric vehicles (EVs), green deal and the ongoing skill development of automoti...

BORG Automotive, a Denmark-based automotive parts remanufacturer, announced that it has produced and posted two new installation videos that describe what is important when assembling exhaust gas recirculation valves and turbochargers, according to a press release dated March 23. Through the videos, BORG Automotive advises workshops in an easily understandable way about things to pay particular attention to when installing a turbocharger and EGR valve. In addition, workshop employees lea...

German trade fair, congress and event organizer Messe Frankfurt, and India’s apex component industry body Automotive Component Manufacturers Association of India (ACMA) have reiterated that ACMA Automechanika New Delhi — the exhibition of auto parts, auto components and products for car aftersales service — is scheduled to be held from February 1–3, 2024, at Pragati Maidan, New Delhi, according to a press release dated April 3. Set to return in 2024,...

Launch Tech UK will be exhibiting at Automechanika Birmingham 2023, as the vehicle diagnostics and garage equipment specialist prepares to showcase the latest innovations from the company to garages and workshops at the National Exhibition Centre (NEC), Birmingham, UK, from June 6–8, according to a press release dated April 6 by Independent Automotive Aftermarket Federation (IAAF). Technicians visiting the Launch Tech stand will have the chance to see and get hands-on with its pro...

Aftermarket parts supplier, WAI Global, announced that it will be exhibiting at Automechanika Birmingham 2023 at the National Exhibition Centre (NEC), Birmingham, UK, from June 6–8, according to a press release dated April 5 from the UK aftermarket industry body, Independent Automotive Aftermarket Federation (IAAF). The company will showcase its range of rotating electrics, starter motors and alternators, window regulators, wiper motors, ignition products and engine management products...

Lucas Oil Products, a US-based distributor of automotive additives and lubricants, has outlined its preventive maintenance products for the trucking and fleet management market, according to a press release dated March 29. It added that its products improve performance, reduce friction and heat, and improve fuel mileage in all driving conditions. The company said fleet managers were turning to Lucas Oil to keep vehicles in operation longer than ever due to the rising costs of replac...

UK-based manufacturer of aftermarket emissions products, BM Catalysts, has outlined the importance of servicing diesel vehicles regularly and correctly, which will ensure proper diesel particulate filter (DPF) function, according to a press release dated March 2. The company said this will help ensure diesel vehicles can continue to be a viable option in the UK car parc. BM Catalysts has observed that diesel vehicles remain a major part of the UK car parc and suggested that whe...

UK motorists strongly support keeping the first Ministry of Transport (MOT) tests at three years, in new research by UK automotive trade body Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), according to a press release dated March 22. In a poll of British car owners by Savanta, a UK-based data and market research company, 67% said they were concerned that extending the MOT would put lives in danger with three quarters agreeing that the typical £35-£45 cost of a test is a price ...

US-based carmaker Ford has announced that FordPass Rewards members can now redeem their points toward accessories purchases online, according to a press release dated March 1. Customers can visit accessories.ford.com to shop for a wide variety of accessories from roof tents and superchargers to trailer hitches, floor mats and pet harnesses, the release added. They can also shop for interior, exterior, electronic, wheel accessories and more. Ford said members can use their points, pay with a c...

CLEPA, the European Association of Automotive Suppliers, has urged the entire aftermarket value chain to prepare for the challenges of servicing such vehicles over the next few decades amid the shift to battery-electric vehicles (BEVs) and the rise in adoption of connected vehicles, according to a press release dated April 5. These challenges for the service industry were the focus of the 14th edition of the CLEPA Aftermarket Conference 2023, with the theme "Driving Service Innovation". ...

Australia-based Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) platform, 5IQ, announced the launch of 5IQ Automotive Software, its fully integrated automotive workshop software that is aimed at modernizing every facet of automotive workshop operation, according to a press release dated April 3. The software is developed in Australia and has been specifically tailored for Australian automotive service and repair businesses. This comprehensive cloud-based software solution offers complete automation for man...

UK-based manufacturer of aftermarket emissions products, BM Catalysts, has shared some insight into the importance of using new fittings when replacing an emissions control product, in an effort to position its range of fitting kits to technicians, according to a press release dated March 20. Mark Blinston, commercial director at BM Catalysts, said, “Fitting kits are a small but important factor to take into consideration when buying or fitting a replacement emissions control product. BM Ca...

North America’s The Shyft Group, a company involved in specialty vehicle manufacturing, assembly and upfit for the commercial, retail and service specialty-vehicle industry, announced a new service body operation in Lebanon, Tennessee, just east of Nashville, according to a press release dated March 14. The new, purpose-built 70,000-square-foot facility will serve as a sales branch as well as operations for upfit, mounting, fabrication, undercoat and paint services to Shyft’s se...

The UK and Ireland arm of Alliance Automotive Group (AAG), a European automotive aftermarket distributor, announced that it will be the headline sponsor at Automechanika Birmingham 2023, taking place at the National Exhibition Centre (NEC) Birmingham, UK, in June 6–8, 2023, according to a press release dated March 20. The event is the UK’s leading exhibition for the automotive aftermarket and supply chain sector. It is expected to attract over 500 exhibitors from 23 ...

The Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association (AAAA) announced that a national modifications summit has been created to protect the future of aftermarket manufacturers, according to a press release dated March 22. Called National Light Vehicle Modifications Summit, the inaugural event is taking place at Autocare, Australia’s largest automotive training convention, on June 9 in Brisbane and the event is touted as an initiative for the aftermarket to collaborate and influence national v...

Audi will issue over-the-air (OTA) software updates across its Q4 e-tron and Q4 Sportback e-tron lineup, it said in a press release dated March 14. Audi is updating all vehicles from the start of series production, up to and including model year (MY) 2022 vehicles with software version 3.2. The new software comes now as standard in series production for MY 2023 vehicles. The software update offers added value while charging. The “preferred charging time” function helps customers char...

The Inter-Industry Conference on Auto Collision Repair (I-CAR) organization announced that American Honda Motor Company has enhanced its partnership with I-CAR, via a press release dated 9 March. I-CAR will support Honda/Acura with future delivery of 10 required online courses for collision-repair facilities in their network.  The release read that the transition to I-CAR’s learning management system will support technicians with streamlined training that are easily...

The Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association (AAAA) announced that it has joined other global association leaders to support the critical global right-to-repair movement by signing the new right-to-repair position statement, according to a press release dated 9 March.  The statement enumerates the core beliefs of the movement, and the objectives and intended outcomes of right-to-repair legislation. It sets forth 10 best-practice principles to develop a framework ...

US-based automotive service equipment provider Hunter Engineering has announced that it has provided several equipment-specific return on investment (ROI) calculators on its website, as it prides itself “on the substantial return on investment its equipment delivers,” according to a press release dated 8 March. The collection of calculators is available under its new ROI Hub section on the website. “One of the first questions that comes up when deciding to invest in Hunter equipmen...

Auto Care Association, a US-based industry body representing independent manufacturers, distributors, and repair shops, announced in a press release dated 9 March that it has joined other global association leaders to support the critical global right-to-repair movement by signing the new right-to-repair position statement. According to the release, the statement enumerated the core beliefs of the movement and the objectives and intended outcomes of right-to-repair legislation. The docum...

RAC, a UK-based breakdown service provider for both private and business drivers, has announced the launch of a new payment plan, which is claimed to affordably enable drivers to spread the cost of their services and Ministry of Transport (MOT) tests, according to a press release dated 24 February. The move was prompted by research that showed motorists are cutting back on car maintenance to save money. Data for the RAC Report on Motoring shows that 9% of all drivers have been cutting back by...

German automotive and industrial component supplier Schaeffler AG has announced that executives from its workshop portal, REPXPERT, will deliver Zoom-based training for the independent aftermarket over two sessions on 1 March 2023, according to a press release dated 25 January. The REPXPERT executives providing the training will include Simon Cooper and Alistair Mason. They will be joined by other members of the REPXPERT team, and the training will focus on the subject of ‘Future Technology...

Japan-based DENSO Corporation has elaborated its warranty returns policy, which it said will enable claims by workshops to be dealt with quickly, efficiently, and as hassle-free as possible, according to a press release dated 14 February. The supplier said that to avoid unnecessary problems and delays, it is important for workshops to know and follow the correct procedure to ensure that the claim is handled smoothly, efficiently, and with the minimum possible delay, which means there are...

German automotive and industrial component supplier Schaeffler AG has announced that it has added three new dates to its ever-expanding double clutch training calendar on its popular workshop portal, REPXPERT, according to a press release dated 14 February. The company said the move is aimed at giving workshops more opportunities to take advantage of its training. Kicking off at the Tool Connection training center in Southam in England on the 26 and 27 April, the IMI (Inst...

According to a press release dated 10 February, Auto Care Association along with MEMA Aftermarket, Consumer Access to Repair (CAR) Coalition, and Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) applauds US House of Representatives Neal Dunn, Brendan Boyle, Warren Davidson, and Marie Gluesenkamp Perez for reintroducing the ‘Right to Equitable and Professional Auto Industry Repair’ (REPAIR) Act in the Congress. Auto Care Association is a US-based industry body representing independent ...

Automechanika Birmingham, the UK’s largest supply chain and aftermarket trade show has announced that it will be offering visitors the chance to connect with exhibitors more easily than ever before at this year’s show, via the use of an innovative networking app, according to a press release dated 14 February by UK aftermarket industry body Independent Automotive Aftermarket Federation (IAAF). Taking place from 6 to 8 June 2023 at the NEC, Automechanika Birmingham 2023 will include 500 le...

German automotive and industrial component supplier Schaeffler AG and German automotive manufacturer Bilstein, announced that they have extended their cooperation on Schaeffler’s popular workshop portal, REPXPERT, according to a press release dated 14 February by the UK aftermarket industry body Independent Automotive Aftermarket Federation (IAAF). The range of content includes product information, fitting hints and tips, practical advice, and vehicle-specific installation instructions. Exa...

Semcon, an international technology company offering aftermarket solutions, has announced that it has been commissioned to develop the digital workshop information for one of Polestar’s upcoming electric vehicle (EV) models, according to a press release dated 15 February. The new project involves diagnostics, service, and spare parts information and is planned to run through end of 2023. Making sure that workshop technicians can perform service and repairs as effectively as possible require...

The UK aftermarket industry body Independent Automotive Aftermarket Federation (IAAF) has announced that it is educating consumers on the safety benefits of carrying out regular Ministry of Transport (MOT) tests, according to a press release by IAAF dated 10 February. The association observed that its social media channels saw mixed responses from motorists to its move to stop the UK Department of Transport’s plans to change the first MOT test from when cars are three years old to four year...

The UK aftermarket industry body Independent Automotive Aftermarket Federation (IAAF) has announced that it has bolstered its lobbying capability and broadened its support offering with the addition of 1,500 new garage members, according to a press release by IAAF dated 17 February. In December 2022, IAAF had announced plans to strengthen its representation of the broadest range of automotive businesses across the aftermarket supply chain, by offering membership to independent garages. Since ...

The UK Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has circulated its draft legislative proposal concerning revisions to the current Motor Vehicle Block Exemption Regulation (MVBER), according to a press release dated 10 February by the UK aftermarket industry body Independent Automotive Aftermarket Federation (IAAF). The Secretary of State is likely to accept all recommendations by the CMA on the revised MVBER to create a new UK Motor Vehicle Block Exemption Order (MVBEO), the release added. The...

The US-based Automotive Service Association (ASA) is asking independent repair shops to send a letter to their US House of Representatives members encouraging them to join the newly established Vehicle Data Access Caucus, according to a press release dated 10 February. The US House of Representatives Vehicle Data Caucus is a bipartisan group formed by US Congressman Earl “Buddy” Carter and US Congressman Darren Soto to address the issue of vehicle data access. Representatives Carter and S...

CLEPA, the European Association of Automotive Suppliers, has announced that it believes access to in-vehicle data requires the urgent introduction of regulatory guidance, according to a press release dated 8 February. The urgency was also recently outlined by the Independent Service Providers (ISPs) group in a letter sent to the European Commission President, Ursula von der Leyen, CLEPA said. CLEPA believes the continued delay risks access to the untapped potential in creating real competitio...

The Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association (AAAA) has announced that it welcomes the release of the new Australian standard for electric vehicle (EV) service and repair, according to an official announcement dated 2 February. The standard, ‘AS 5732 Electric Vehicle Operations – Maintenance and Repair’ contains new safety framework for independent service and repair workshops and it includes workshop layout, specialized tools, and protection equipment for technicians to safely and ef...

US-based paints, coatings, and specialty materials manufacturer PPG has announced that its SEM Products business has launched a ‘VCS Versatile Cup System’ for the automotive refinish market, according to a press release dated 2 February. The VCS hybrid system, which includes multifunctional cups, liners, and lids, combines the benefits of vented hard cups and sealed liner systems, helps increase body shop productivity. The VCS system is said to reduce the amount of cleaning solvent needed...

ZF Aftermarket, the aftermarket arm of German automotive supplier ZF Friedrichshafen, has announced that it has significantly expanded its training offering with new, free online training courses that include a guide to installing air springs and CDC shock absorbers alongside training courses on transmission technology, according to a press release dated 31 January. The company believes the courses on high-voltage technology, driver assistance, and safety systems are becoming increasingly imp...

Volkswagen Passenger Cars India has announced that it has inaugurated a new sales and service touchpoint in the city of Bhubaneshwar, according to a press release dated 20 January. The company will have a six-car display area in the showroom, which will host vehicles such as its sport utility vehicle (SUV) Taigun, the Virtus sedan and the Tiguan SUV. The 2S facility is said to provide a range of aftersales service through its “expansive 19-bay workshop that is operated by skilled ...

UK automotive trade body Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) has announced that its ‘Meet the Buyer’ event will return to Automechanika Birmingham 2023 in June, as part of an all-new Automotive Supply Chain Forum from Automechanika organizer Messe Frankfurt, according to a press release dated 19 January. Meet the Buyer brings together automotive purchasers with suppliers who can meet their specific requirements. With automotive supply chains increasingly squeezed by global d...

Experience more with a Volkswagen service: hassle-free, transparent, and peace-of-mind ownership experience, as the service touchpoint comprises of a 24-bay workshop that will cater to the service, maintenance, and accident repair requirement of our esteemed customers, managed by highly skilled and trained technicians. Customers situated at a distance from the service shop can avail the door-to-door service initiative—Volkswagen Assistance and Mobile Service Unit. Volkswagen Passenger ...

Bilia Norge AS, has signed an agreement with Great Wall Motor to be an importer and dealer of their car brands in Norway, according to a press release dated 23 January. Billia Norge AS is a European car dealer that offers servicing and sales of cars, transport vehicles, and trucks plus supplementary services such as financing and insurance. The establishment of Great Wall Motor includes import operations as well as dealer operations with car sales and aftermarket services, the release added...

asTech, a company involved in remote diagnostics, calibrations, and programming for the collision and mechanical repair markets, and a division of US-based Repairify Inc, has announced the full deployment of its patented “Rules Engine”, which is said to present users with the most accurate and cost-effective diagnostic scan type for the vehicle throughout the blue printing process and repair workflow, according to a press release dated 11 January. According to asTech, the new feature...

Rotary, a US-based maker of hydraulic vehicle lifts and wheel service products, announced the launch of its new line of fully automatic air conditioning diagnostic and recharging equipment through its recently announced partnership with TEXA, according to a press release dated 6 December. Rotary is the manufacturer of vehicle lifts and wheel service products for use in professional automotive service, commercial truck and transit industries. The company is part of Vehicle Service Group, an op...

A new report from the UK-based think tank Social Market Foundation (SMF) into upskilling UK technicians to service and repair electric vehicles has highlighted the importance of effective legislation to ensure the aftermarket has sufficient access to parts, information and connectivity under Motor Vehicle Block Exemption Regulation (MVBER), according to a press release dated 6 January by Independent Automotive Aftermarket Federation (IAAF). A key part of shifting to cleaner road transport wil...

UK-based aftermarket supplier First Line Ltd. has announced a solution for the failure of the wiper motor for Renault Clio, according to a press release dated 5 January by Independent Automotive Aftermarket Federation (IAAF). The company said the issue can be caused by heavy rainfall, following which drain hole can be potentially blocked resulting in the motor becoming submerged in water. Citing the example of the Renault Clio MkII and MkIII from 2001>2014, the company said workshops need ...

The proportion of fleet servicing, maintenance and repair (SMR) spend on fleet cars aged four years old or over has increased by more than a half since the pandemic, rising from 28% in 2018 to 43% in 2022, according to an analysis by UK-based e-commerce firm Epyx, which facilitates SMR transactions for fleets. The average SMR invoice price for those older vehicles is 24% higher than for those aged below four years, “showing how keeping them on the road is proving expensive for businesses,�...

I-CAR, the Inter-Industry Conference on Auto Collision Repair, has announced that Jaguar Land Rover has joined I-CAR’s Sustaining Partner Program, according to a press release dated 19 December. Founded in 1979, I-CAR is a not-for-profit education, knowledge, and solutions organization focused on improving the quality and safety of auto collision repair. The program is designed to fund the various initiatives to ensure that every person in the collision repair industry has the information, ...

The Certified Automotive Parts Association (CAPA), a US-based independent nonprofit standard-setting and certification organization for automotive crash parts, has announced that Magneti Marelli Parts & Services has received CAPA approval to participate in its tier-1 Replacement Parts Verification Program, according to a press release dated 15 December. CAPA was created by automobile insurance companies to develop and oversee a test program guaranteeing the suitability and quality of auto...

Mullen Automotive, a US-based electric vehicle (EV) manufacturer, has announced Randy Marion Automotive (RMA), a commercial dealer group in the US, as the first dealer group partner for Mullen’s commercial EV lineup, which is set to launch in the US in 2023, according to a press release dated 13 December. Randy Marion Automotive will offer sales as well as service and parts for Mullen’s commercial lineup, covering Class 1–6 EV cargo vans and trucks, the release added. “We are exc...

Japanese carmaker Toyota and KINTO Corporation have announced the launch of KINTO Unlimited, a variation of its vehicle subscription service KINTO, for some trim levels of recently launched new generation Prius, according to a press release dated 7 December. The KINTO Unlimited service is expected to enhance value of vehicle ownership period by providing 'Upgrade' and 'Monitoring' support after delivery, the release added. The service, available for a monthly usage fee, is a version of the ca...

SEMA, the Specialty Equipment Market Association, SEMA and Performance Racing Industry (PRI) have announced in a statement that despite strong Congressional backing and extraordinary support from the racing community, the 2021–22 Congressional session is ending without passage of the Protection of Motorsports (RPM) Act, according to a press release dated 22 December. The RPM Act is a legislation to protect Americans' right to convert street vehicles into dedicated race cars and the motorsports...

US-based connected car-sharing marketplace, Getaround, has announced the completion of its previously announced business combination with InterPrivate II Acquisition Corp., via a press release dated 9 December.  In connection with the completion of the business combination, Getaround’s common stock and warrants began trading on the NYSE under the ticker symbols “GETR” and “GETR.WS,” respectively, on 9 December 2022. The business combination was approved at a spec...

US-based car repair and maintenance startup, ServiceUp, announced that it launched its newest service line, ServiceUp for Fleets, to address the growing and complex needs of fleet managers, a press release by Business Wire dated 8 December read. Through its repair technology platform, ServiceUp is modernizing and innovating three of the most time-consuming tasks of fleet managers: vehicle maintenance and repair, repair order status and tracking, and repair order approvals. In s...

US-based automotive undercar repair and tire services player, Monro, has implemented a series of initiatives designed to help customers prepare for winter driving, according to a press release dated 8 December. These efforts are part of a forward-looking strategic plan to position the company as a strong competitor in every market across the country. The company says this fall, it focused its efforts in three key areas: first, to change the way it sell batteries; second, t...

Online car service platform, BookMyGarage, has announced the addition of mobile mechanics to its growing service offering, a press release dated 14 December read. This gives the company's customers the ability to book their vehicle to be serviced or repaired from their home or workplace. The company says that the mobile mechanic services have grown in popularity in recent years. It conducted a survey that showed that more than one-third of its customers have used...

US-based automotive retailer Group 1 Automotive has announced the expansion of its US operations with the acquisition of Mercedes-Benz and Sprinter franchises in Anaheim, California, via a press release dated 1 December.   This acquisition expands Group 1's global relationship with Mercedes-Benz to 17 dealerships in the United States and the United Kingdom. Group 1 owns and operates 204 automotive dealerships, 275 franchises, and 47 collision centers in the US and the U...

AutoNation, a US-based automotive retailer has announced that the company has entered an agreement to acquire RepairSmith, a full-service mobile solution for automotive repair and maintenance, according to a press release dated 12 December.   The acquisition aligns with the company's objective to expand the ability to penetrate its aftersales service market and conveniently respond to customers' needs by broadening the reach of its existing aftersales networ...

RoboTire, a US-based robotics and automation solutions firm that designs and deploys systems to change vehicles' tires, has announced a partnership with Creamery Tire, a Pennsylvania-based tire service center, according to a press release dated 20 December. Under the partnership, Creamery Tire will deploy RoboTire's fourth-generation tire-changing system at its location in a North Philadelphia suburb, the release added. The partnership between Creamery Tire and RoboTire, who says its systems ...

RepairPal, a US-based auto repair network, has announced that the company has teamed up with Nationwide Report, a website that keeps consumers informed on local accidents and safety reports, according to a press release dated 15 December. Through this partnership, Nationwide Report aims to connect consumers with local automotive repair shops through RepairPal’s certified network, the release added. Established in 2007, RepairPal connects consumers with certified mechanics throughout the U...

RAC, a UK-based breakdown service provider for both private and business drivers, has announced that its latest data has revealed that 12 December witnessed the highest number of breakdowns for a single day on record, according to a press release dated 13 December. Significance: “Yesterday (12 December) was officially our busiest day for breakdowns on record, with around 12,000 drivers needing help, the equivalent of eight every minute of the day. Even our busiest day during the infamous Be...

US manufacturer of liquid and powder coatings Axalta Coating Systems has announced that it has signed a multiyear agreement with Steer Automotive Group, a UK-based independently owned vehicle repair organization, according to a press release dated 5 December. Under the agreement, Axalta is the single preferred paint partner, supplying its premium refinish brand Standox to Steer Automotive Group’s 57 UK sites. The agreement also includes products from U-POL, known for its expertise in refini...

German automotive component supplier and service provider Bosch has announced that it is currently upgrading and significantly augmenting its Esitronic 2.0 online diagnostic software by integrating vehicle manufacturers' original circuit diagrams, according to a press release dated 1 December. This would allow independent workshops to now consult the same detailed information as authorized repair shops, the release added. The company said integrating vehicle manufacturers' original circu...

CLEPA, the European Association of Automotive Suppliers, has announced that a Memorandum of Understanding between the Automotive Skills Alliance (ASA) and European Battery Alliance Academy (EBAA) was signed on 21 November in Brussels, according to a press release dated 25 November. The new partnership aims to create a single pan-European framework to enable the upskilling and reskilling of the automotive workforce across the mobility sector and battery value chain. The collaboration will prov...

US-based Repairify Inc, a US-based company engaged in diagnostics, remote scanning, and programming, automotive intelligence, and calibration services has announced that Allstate, a US insurance company, has added asTech as a preferred diagnostic scanning provider for collision centers participating in its Good Hands Repair Network (GHRN), according to a press release dated 15 November. The partnership provides participating GHRN shops with preferred pricing for asTech devices and its diagnos...

US-based Repairify Inc, a US-based company engaged in diagnostics, remote scanning and programming, automotive intelligence, and calibration services announced it has built and is now successfully operating a two-sided sublet repair marketplace called Repair OnDemand, according to a press release dated 2 November. The company said Repair OnDemand is a marketplace connecting sublet repair professionals with companies that have vehicles in need of repair, such as fleet owners, auction...

Solera, a US-based company involved in vehicle lifecycle management software-as-a-service (SaaS) has announced that it launched a full-service, virtual auto estimating solution to deliver on customer expectations for fast and accurate self-service solutions to simplify the claims process, according to a press release dated 15 November. XpertEstimate is said to bring together Solera’s industry-leading technology and an experienced auto physical damage staff to process estimates quickly, impr...

Rotary, part of Vehicle Service Group (VSG) and Dover has announced a partnership with TEXA that will enable Rotary to expand its automotive service offerings, according to a press release on 30 November 2022. The partnership will position Rotary to offer collision and repair shops a new mobile advanced driver assistance system (ADAS) solution as well as fully automatic air conditioning (A/C) charging stations. "With this exciting partnership, we strengthen our commitment to 'Serving the Shop...

MEKO (previously Mekonomen Group), an automotive spare-parts distributor based in Sweden, has announced that it has launched a new digital booking system that makes it easier for the car owner to book car services, according to a press release dated 16 November. The booking system will be implemented in all MEKO workshop chains from 2023 to improve the customer journey and increase the number of digital bookings. The solution will also be offered to other companies with car-related services t...

The Australian Automotive Service and Repair Authority (AASRA) has announced the appointment of Rodger Nardi as its executive officer, a position created to further strengthen AASRA’s role of managing the day-to-day operation of the Motor Vehicle Information Scheme (MVIS), which became law on 1 July 2022, according to a press release dated 2 December. Reporting to the AASRA Board, Nardi is responsible for developing strategic business plans, overseeing the sustainable growth of AASRA, and d...

Automechanika Dubai, touted as the Middle East’s largest international trade exhibition for the automotive aftermarket industry, was held at Dubai World Trade Centre during 22–24 November with a vast showcase of present and future products, services, technologies, and insights from industry experts, according to a press release by event organizer Messe Frankfurt Middle East dated 22 November. The 19th edition of the trade show claims to have increased 79% in floor spac...

A leading trade association in North America representing motor vehicle component manufacturers, Motor & Equipment Manufacturers Association (MEMA), has announced a new business structure to better position the organization and the vehicle supplier community for the future, according to a press release dated 18 November. The organization will now operate under one umbrella, MEMA, and represent automotive and commercial vehicle suppliers with two groups: MEMA Aftermarket Suppliers Group an...

MAHLE Aftermarket, the aftermarket arm of Stuttgart-based global supplier of powertrain and thermal components, MAHLE, has announced opening of a virtual workshop, according to a press release dated 5 October.  With a new virtual workshop, MAHLE Aftermarket now makes its products for conventional and alternative powertrains an informative and intuitive experience around the clock. The company is thereby creating a virtual training center for spare parts, battery diagnostics, calibration,...

US-based Automotive Aftermarket Suppliers Association (AASA), has announced the details of its executive conference in 2023 in a press release dated 17 November. AASA announced that their annual Vision Conference will be held 11–12 April 2023, in Chicago, Illinois, US. The AASA Vision Conference will commence with a welcome reception at the Loews Chicago O'Hare Hotel on 11 April 2023, and continue into a full day of presentations, breakout sessions, and networking on 12 April 2023...

CCC Intelligent Solutions (CCC), a leading SaaS platform powering the P&C insurance economy, announced an enhancement to its Carwise.com collision repair services website to make search results more relevant for site visitors, a press release dated 15 November read.  With the filter, users can now view repair facilities with industry or OEM certification credentials, making it easy for consumers to identify repair facilities with specialized experience. This new capability will give&...

NGK Spark Plug, a Japan-based ignition and sensor specialist, has announced the conclusion of joint venture (JV) agreement regarding capital and business alliance with IMC International Metalworking Companies B.V. (IMC) by making the consolidated subsidiary of the company into the JV company, a press release dated 28 October read.  IMC is a global, and a full line supplier of cutting tools group with many outstanding companies handling various types of cutting tools, with advanced techno...

US-based independent retailer of tires and wheels, Discount Tire, has launched a high-tech store concept that offers a mobile-focused, drive-thru experience, via a press release dated 4 October. The new format is inspired by racetrack pit crews and is designed to offer customers a fast and seamless drive-through experience where they can stay in their car from start to finish for all of their tire and wheel needs. The new concept is markedly different from the traditional tire ...

US-based auto accessory and window tinting franchise, Tint World Automotive Styling Centers, announces the relocation of its Mountain View location, according to a press release dated 9 November. Under owners Abdelrahim Afaghani and Sultan Alafghani, the new updated Tint World Mountain View provides the Santa Clara area with premier automotive aftermarket accessories and styling and window-tinting services. The company says that the new location will enhance Tint World’s industry-...

US-based independent manufacturer and distributor of automotive replacement parts, Standard Motor Products, has expanded its comprehensive Collision Repair program, according to a press release dated 3 November. The extensive program offers more than 7,500 parts engineered match the damaged part they are replacing, ensuring correct integration with electronic safety systems Every component is a direct-fit replacement and is designed to correctly integrate with the electronic safety systems fo...

US-based Repairify Inc, a US-based company engaged in diagnostics, remote scanning and programming, automotive intelligence, and calibration services plans to launch in 2023 the Repairify Institute, a comprehensive technical training program for automotive professionals designed to ensure service readiness, according to a press release by PRNewswire dated 3 November. The company unveiled at the SEMA Show 2022. The Repairify Institute will utilize a course development process called adapt...

Driven Brand Holdings, a US-based automotive service company, which houses brands such as ABRA or Auto Body Repair of America, CARSTAR, and Fix Auto USA, under Driven Collision, has announced that it has reached 1,000th collision repair facilities across North America with the opening of a CARSTAR auto body center in Little Rock, Arkansas, southern US, according to a press release dated 19 October. After entering the collision market in 2015 with the purchase of 240 CARSTAR locations, Driven ...

Driven Brand Holdings, a US-based automotive service company, has announced that its Take 5 Oil Change service has opened its 200th US franchised location, in Hutto, Texas, according to a press release dated 6 October. Take 5 Oil Change has doubled its US franchise store count over the last year, the release added. Since acquiring Take 5 Oil Change in 2016 with its differentiated fast, friendly, 10-minute stay-in-your-car oil change model, Driven Brands claims to have scaled the business from...