Ashok Leyland, an Indian commercial vehicle manufacturer, has announced a strategic partnership with Cholamandalam Investment and Finance Co. Ltd. (Chola) to facilitate inventory financing for Ashok Leyland dealers, according to a press release dated June 6. In a bid to enhance operational capabilities, the new alliance aims to provide 130 Ashok Leyland dealerships nationwide with an array of comprehensive inventory funding options to address their working capital requirements effectivel...

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

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

The Society of the Irish Motor Industry (SIMI), the official voice of the motor industry in Ireland, announced that it has elected Paddy Magee as its president, according to a press release dated May 29. Magee is the Country Operations director of Renault Ireland, based at their headquarters in Dublin. He is responsible for the Renault and Dacia brands in Ireland, and a network of 33 dealerships around the country. He has worked in the motor industry for 25 years, of which 20 years have ...

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 ...

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

UK’s Maverick Diagnostics, a provider of original diagnostic tools and technical support, and Irish electric vehicle sales and sourcing specialist Next Eco Car, have announced a partnership that sees the latter become a distributor of AVILOO, an independent battery test for EVs and plug-in hybrids, according to a press release by UK aftermarket industry body Independent Automotive Aftermarket Federation (IAAF) dated May 19. Maverick Diagnostics is the supplier of AVILOO tests in t...

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...

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...

MAM Software, a UK-based provider of business-management software and product-cataloging solutions, announced that it will be showcasing the latest developments to its current software and displaying brand-new additions to its expanding portfolio of products at the upcoming Automechanika Birmingham 2023 at the National Exhibition Centre (NEC), Birmingham, UK, from June 6–8, according to a press release dated May 12. MAM Software will shed light on their core business belief that "digit...

The cooperation between The Mobility House GmbH (The Mobility House) and Reev combines the development of intelligent charging infrastructure as well as charging and energy management with integrated billing. Reev is expanding its portfolio and is now also offering its customers the charging and energy management system ChargePilot from The Mobility House, while The Mobility House is integrating Reev's billing solution, according to a press release May 11. The software company Reev,...

Blink Charging Co. (Blink) announced May 9 that its first quarter 2023 total revenues increased 121% to $21.7 million compared to $9.8 million in the first quarter of 2022. Blink achieved an increase of 216% in service revenues to $4.8 million in the first quarter of 2023 compared to $1.5 million in the first quarter of 2022. It reported 911% increase in network fees to $1.6 million in the first quarter of 2023 compared to $0.2 million in the first quarter of 2022. Additionally, it ...

RAC Motoring Services (RAC) has named clean-energy company Egg, a Liberty Global PLC company, as its newest electric vehicle (EV) charging partner, meaning it will now promote Egg’s home EV chargers to drivers as well as provide exclusive offers to RAC members, the company announced May 10. Egg’s 7 kW fast home EV chargers, available in both tethered and untethered versions, are now listed alongside options from the RAC’s existing charger partner and are available to purchase ...

Charles Trent Ltd. (Charles Trent), a UK-based vehicle dismantler and largest used-parts seller on eBay, said demand is rising for secondhand car parts. They currently recycle more than 30,000 vehicles a year, processing 250,000 car parts which are sold worldwide, as reported on the BBC news website May 5. EBay said used car-part sales grew by 10% in 2022. Laura Richards, eBay's Vehicle Parts lead, said, "There is a shortage of parts in the market due to supply chain issues with Bre...

LKQ's Euro Car Parts Ltd. (LKQ Euro Car Parts), alongside seven other leading suppliers to the aftermarket, has announced the launch of a unique new garage concept to help the industry’s professionals navigate the ever-changing automotive landscape and deliver best-in-class service, according to a press release dated May 5 by the Independent Automotive Aftermarket Federation (IAAF). Developed in conjunction with MPM Oil, Pagid, Schaeffler, Shell, Valeo, Varta and ZF Aftermark...

Driven Brands Holdings Inc. (Driven Brands), an automotive services company in North America, announced that Gary W. Ferrera has been appointed executive vice president and CFO, effective May 10, 2023, in a press release dated May 8. Ferrera will report to President and CEO Jonathan Fitzpatrick and succeeds Tiffany Mason. "Gary is a proven leader who brings deep experience leading financial teams, a strong track record in successfully driving growth strategies and M&A exper...

eBay has relaunched its "Certified Recycled Portal" with sales increasing by over 10% YOY 2021/2022, a claimed 3 million kg saved from landfill and 16,000 metric tons of CO2-avoided emissions in the UK, according to a May 3 press release on Vehicle Recyclers' Association (VRA). “With an increasing number of parts required and an ever-greater focus on the environmental impact of everything we do and buy, Certified Recycled parts available through eBay deliver cost savings of up to 70% c...

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

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...

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

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...

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...

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

Idemitsu Lubricants America, Inc., a supplier of Japanese original equipment manufacturer (OEM) lubricants in North America, and O'Reilly Auto Parts, an American retailer of automotive aftermarket parts, have jointly announced a nationwide expansion of their partnership, according to a press release dated March 29. As per the agreement, all Idemitsu transmission fluids are now available through O'Reilly's national network of auto-parts stores. Founded in 1911, Idemitsu is a supplier of origin...

Ziebart, a US-based provider of detailing, films and structural protection services announced that it has signed an agreement with multiunit, multibrand franchise operator Christopher King to open three locations in the greater Houston metro area over the next five years, according to a press release dated April 13. According to the firm, King comes to Ziebart with 20 years of management experience within Fortune 500 companies, as well as a solid background in both the automotive an...

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...

Torqata Data & Analytics, a US-based data analytics software company that works with tire manufacturers, distributors and retailers, announced that it has appointed Kirsten Zaremba, Ashley Hoyt and Kate Beirowski to the team, bringing additional experienced women into the automotive industry, according to a press release dated March 31. Torqata also elevated Elizabeth Schneider to vice president of Product. Zaremba has been appointed as the new director of Marketing and she brings ov...

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...

US-based retailer of aftermarket automotive parts and accessories AutoZone announced that Jenna Bedsole will join the company as senior vice president, general counsel and secretary, Customer Satisfaction, according to a press release dated March 30. Jenna will come to AutoZone from Baker Donelson where she served as managing shareholder of the law firm’s Birmingham office. With over 25 years of legal experience, she has successfully represented large employers and public companies in a bro...

RAC, a UK-based breakdown service provider for private and business drivers, revealed that the government has announced a series of new measures that will support the shift to electric vehicles (EVs) as part of the wider plans to transition toward a net-zero future, according to a press release dated March 31.  With the goal of decarbonizing the transport sector, a new £381 million Local Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (LEVI) fund has been introduced, alongside an additional £15 millio...

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...

US-based auto accessory and window tinting franchise, Tint World Automotive Styling Centers, announced the opening of its new location in Benbrook, Texas via a press release dated March 23.  Tint World Benbrook, owned by Mike Richards, offers drivers throughout the Fort Worth, Texas, area premium automotive aftermarket performance and style accessories and services, including the industry's most reliable window-tinting solutions. Significance: Tint World&...

US-based automotive maintenance products manufacturer and service provider, Petra Automotive, has launched  several new maintenance products, according to a press release dated March 27 by PRNewswire.  The new products include: Petra Engine Shield: A new engine oil supplement that features a rebalanced/boosted detergent/dispersant system, enhanced level of soot and wear control, and unique thermal/oxidation inhibitors to protect turbochargers.    Petra ...

US-based car wash operator, El Car Wash, has completed the acquisition of Smart Car Wash and its North Miami Beach, Fla., and West Palm Beach, Fla., locations, according to a press release dated April 4 by PRNewswire. Following the re-opening of these two sites, El Car Wash will operate 30 locations with an additional 30 plus sites in development across Florida and plans to significantly expand its footprint through both greenfield openings and acquisitions of existing car wash...

Motor Supply Co., an e-commerce marketplace company for independent auto shops, has announced the addition of Tom Petersen as its new chief marketing officer via a press release dated March 28 by PRNewswire.  Peterson will lead the company's marketing strategy and initiatives to increase revenue and build brand presence within the automotive aftermarket industry. Mr. Petersen brings over 20 years of experience in strategy and innovation from his eCommerce and retail career...

Group 1 Automotive, Inc., an automotive retailer with 205 dealerships located in the US and UK, announced the expansion of its US operations with the acquisition of Estero Bay Chevrolet in Estero, Fla., according to a press release dated March 28.  The dealership is located near the fast growing city of Fort Myers in Southwest Florida. Estero Bay Chevrolet is the fifth ranked Chevrolet dealership in new vehicle volume in the state of Florida. Si...

Penske Truck Leasing, a joint venture of Penske Corporation, Penske Automotive Group, and Mitsui & Company, announced that it has reached an agreement to acquire Kris-Way Truck Leasing, Inc., a press release dated March 30 read. Kris-Way is a transportation services company offering full-service leasing, commercial truck rental, contract maintenance and dedicated contract carriage. Penske Truck Leasing is a Penske Transportation Solutions company headquartered in Reading, P...

Cazoo Group Ltd., a UK-based online car retailer, has provided an update on its business performance since the start of the year 2023 and its progress with the business restructuring announced in January, according to a press release dated March 7. The company’s January and February retail sales volumes and revenues were in line with expectations as it focused on unit economics. It said it continues to improve its retail GPU or Gross Profit per Unit which is tracking at aroun...

Cazoo Group Ltd., a UK-based online car retailer, announced that it has agreed to sell its German subscription business, Cluno GmbH, to ViveLaCar GmbH and The Platform Group GmbH & Co. KG, according to a press release dated February 17. The financial terms of the transaction were not disclosed, and the total portfolio included several thousand cars in the German market. Significance: The disposal concluded Cazoo’s withdrawal from the German market as part of its strategy to...

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...

Cazoo Group Ltd., a UK-based online car retailer, announced that it has sold its third party data platform, Cazana, for an undisclosed sum, according to a press release dated February 22. The disposal aligns with Cazoo’s strategy to focus on its core business as the leading online car buying and selling platform in the UK, as opposed to providing data services to third parties, the company said. Significance: “The agreement includes the sale of the Cazana brand, platform and comme...

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...

TEMOT International, a Germany-based automotive spare parts network, announced that Merlin Diesel Ltd., a global supplier of spare parts and test equipment for diesel injection systems headquartered in Lancashire, UK, has joined the International Trading Group, effective January 2023, according to a press release dated March 14. Merlin Diesel is an authorized distributor and service partner for renowned brands. The company supplies customers in more than 100 countries with products for automo...

Lithia & Driveway, an automotive retailer in North America that also provides a suite of financing, leasing, repair, and maintenance options, announced the company's expansion into the United Kingdom with the acquisition of Jardine Motors Group, according to a press release dated 16 March. The group is one of the most successful automotive retailers in the UK, operating more than 50 premium luxury-retail locations and is expected to generate over USD2 billion in annualized revenues, the...

US-based vehicle-glass services and recalibration company, Safelite Group, announced the acquisition of Mark’s Mobile Glass operating throughout central Missouri, US, a press release dated 7 March read. Renee Cacchillo, president and CEO of Safelite Group, said, “We enjoy welcoming new team members to our business and leveraging their talents in providing the quality glass repair, replacement, and recalibration services our customers expect from Safelite. We’re confident that ...

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...

CarParts.com, a US-based e-commerce provider of automotive parts and accessories, has reported its results for the fourth quarter and fiscal year ending on 31 December 2022, according to a press release dated 7 March. Net sales in fiscal year 2022 were USD661.6 million, up 14% from USD582.4 million in fiscal year 2021.  Net loss during the year stood at USD1 million, compared to a net loss of USD10.3 million in fiscal year 2021, the release added. For the fourth quarter of 2022, ...

AUTOBACS SEVEN, a Tokyo-based car parts and accessories retailer, along with its affiliate, Bucks E-Mobility, announced that it has started taking applications for test drives as well as vehicle purchase reservations for the BYD Atto 3 electric sport utility vehicle (e-SUV), according to a press release dated 21 February. The test drive application as well as vehicle booking can be done at two of AUTOBACS SEVEN’s retail locations in Utsunomiya, Japan, called AUTOBAC...

Blue Point Capital Partners and its portfolio company, Transtar Holding Company, announced the acquisition of Pro Form Products, a manufacturer of refinishing and repair products for automotive, aviation, industrial, and marine applications, according to a press release dated 23 February. Based in Ontario, Canada, Pro Form will operate as a subsidiary of Transtar Autobody Technologies, a full-service provider of automotive repair, finish, and industrial coating products. Pro Form’s products...

Repairify Inc., the parent company of vehicle diagnostic solutions firm asTech and Autel US, a wholly owned subsidiary of Autel Intelligent Technology Corp., Ltd. announced an exclusive long-term collaboration agreement for the delivery of Repairify's patented global OEM remote solutions for diagnostics, calibrations, and programming through Autel's remote capable products across North America, a press release dated 1 March read. As part of the agreement, Repairify will integrate its leading ...

Driven Brands, a US-based automotive aftermarket repairing and servicing company, has reported its financial results for the fourth quarter and fiscal year ended 31 December 2022, via a press release dated 22 February.  For the fiscal year, Driven Brands reported revenue of USD2 billion, up 39% versus the prior year. Systemwide sales of the company stood at USD5.6 billion, up 24% versus the prior year with 14% same-store sales growth and 9% net store growth.  ...

O’Reilly Automotive, a US-based automotive aftermarket parts retailer, has announced that after 65 years of operating in the automotive aftermarket space across the United States and Mexico, it has opened its 6,000th store in Fort Gibson, Oklahoma, according to a press release dated 22 February. Significance: Commenting on the announcement, Greg Johnson, O’Reilly’s CEO, said, “As we celebrate 65 years of O’Reilly Auto Parts and the opening of our 6,000th store location, we recognize...

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 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...

Australian automotive aftermarket parts distributor CoolDrive Auto Parts has announced that it has expanded its range of safety equipment for workshops, with automatic defibrillators and associated accessories now available, according to a press release dated 16 February. “This new product range at CoolDrive has been introduced in response to new Australia Standard AS 5732:2022 for workshops working with electric and hybrid vehicles,” said David Haley, category manager at CoolDrive Auto P...

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...

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...

US-based automotive undercar repair and tire services player, Monro, has announced the appointment of Hope Woodhouse to the Board, according to a press release dated 9 February. Woodhouse will serve on the Compensation Committee and the Audit Committee, the release added. The company said the addition of Woodhouse is part of the Board’s ongoing refreshment process. The Board remains committed to its previously announced initiative to identify additional candidates who bring complementary sk...

MAHLE Aftermarket, the aftermarket arm of Stuttgart-based global supplier of powertrain and thermal components, MAHLE, has announced the launch of RemotePRO, a complementary diagnostic system for vehicle service, according to a press release dated 24 January. The RemotePRO is claimed to cover more manufacturers than the competition, allowing independent workshops to perform complex diagnostics and service routines just like authorized workshops, the release added. MAHLE says its specialists c...

US-based auto collision repair provider Caliber Collision has announced the promotion of Todd Dillender from executive vice president, operations to chief operating officer of Caliber Collision, according to a press release dated 2 February. In this role, Dillender will be instrumental in driving market growth, the release added. Caliber says it witnessed significant growth during 2022, expanding its national footprint to more than 1,600 locations nationwide as well as continuing to deli...

O’Reilly Automotive, a US-based automotive aftermarket parts retailer, has announced record revenue and earnings for its fourth quarter and full year ending December 2022, according to a press release dated 8 February. Sales for the fourth quarter increased USD353 million, or 11%, to USD3.64 billion from USD3.29 billion for the same period one year ago. The company’s net income increased USD10 million, or 2%, to USD529 million from USD519 million in the year ago period. For the fu...

The Automotive Industries Association of Canada (AIA Canada) has appointed Stuart “Stu” Klein to the newly created position of senior director, collision, according to a press release dated 3 February. Klein will join the association’s senior leadership team, which helps guide AIA Canada’s support and advocacy for the Canadian auto care sector. He will play a vital role in helping to direct AIA Canada’s efforts involving the collision sector of the industry, the release added. AI...

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...

US-based Fisher Auto Parts has announced that it has acquired Market Street Auto Parts LLC, according to a press release dated 7 February. Founded in 1929, Fisher Auto Parts is said to have approximately 500 company-owned locations and over 100 independent distributors across 18 states. Market Street Auto Parts, a supplier to professional parts installers as well as retail and do-it-yourself customers, has been operating in the North Lebanon County in Pennsylvania for over 16 years, according...

Nexus Automotive International, a Geneva-based alliance of independent car parts distributors, has announced that Freek Blekxtoon, CEO of NEXUS Automotive Netherlands is joining NEXUS Automotive International as NEXUS Workshops Network Development Expert in the Garage Service & Concept department, according to a press release dated 7 February. He has been and associated with the AllPart wholesale network for 20 years. Blekxtoon will take up his appointment from April 2023. In th...

Asbury Automotive Group, a US-based automotive retail and service company has reported its fourth quarter 2022 revenue at USD3.7 billion, up 40% year-on-year and a net income of USD353 million, an increase of 151% from the prior year quarter, according to a press release dated 2 February. For the full year 2022, the company reported a net income of USD997 million compared to USD532 million in the prior year. The company’s total revenue for the full year 2022 was USD15.4 billion, up USD5.6 b...

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...

Driven Brand Holdings, a US-based automotive service company, has announced the opening of its 10th Take 5 oil change and car wash in Concord, North Carolina, according to a press release dated 31 January. The company said bringing the oil change and car wash together in one location simplifies the car care experience for customers and drives operational synergies by developing a quick lube and car wash concurrently, further enhancing the unit-level economics. The company has a pipeline of ov...

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...

Driven Brand Holdings, a US-based automotive service company, has announced the appointment of Danny Rivera to the newly created role of chief operating officer effective 20 February 2023, a press release dated 26 January read.  The company also appointed Mo Khalid, who will succeed Rivera in the role of Executive Vice President and Group President, Maintenance, leading both Take 5 Quick Lube and Meineke brands.  Rivera has more than 20 years of experience in the c...

UK-based provider of electric vehicle (EV) charging station, Pod Point, partners with fleet management business, Pendragon Vehicle Management (PVM), according to a press release dated 23 November.  Pendragon Vehicle Management is a division of Pendragon PLC, one of the leading automotive retailers. PVM offers fleet funding, fleet management, and rental options, and has a fleet size of almost 13,000 vehicles.  Through this agreement Pod Point will become PVM’s preferre...

VSE Corporation, a US-based provider of aftermarket distribution and maintenance, repair, and overhaul services for land, sea, and air transportation assets for commercial and government markets, announced the opening of its new distribution and e-commerce fulfillment center of excellence in the greater Memphis, Tennessee area, according to a press release dated 24 January. The new, state-of-the-art 450,000-square-foot distribution center more than doubles the existing warehouse footprin...

MOTOR Information Systems, a US-based supplier of automotive data, launches a new, cost-effective service information solution that provides dynamic, up-to-date vehicle service and repair data to customers, a press release dated 25 January read. The information solution, MOTOR TruTech, is a solution for all service information for performing efficient repairs, providing vehicle service and repair data that is up-to-date and available within days of being published by the OEMs (including ...

Lookers, a UK-based automotive retail and aftersales service company, announced that its aftersales revenues grew 7.5% year-on-year in the fourth quarter ending December 2022, according to a press release dated 11 January. The company said the UK new retail car market grew by 1.0% in fourth quarter (third quarter 2022: -1.5%) and stated that it outperformed the market by approximately 3.1%, “benefiting from a strong focus on its operational optimization strategic priority and omni...

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...

CarMax, a US-based retailer of used cars, has announced that in the third quarter ending November 2022, its net revenue stood at USD6.5 billion, down 23.7% compared with the prior year third quarter, according to a press release dated 22 December. It also announced that the total retail used units sold decreased 20.8% to 180,050 and total wholesale units sold decreased 36.7% year-on-year to 118,757. Despite a decrease of USD165 per unit from the record prior year third quarter, wholesale...

Inchcape, a United Kingdom–based independent, multibrand global automotive distributor, announced that it has completed its acquisition of Derco, an automotive distributor in Latin America with operations in Chile, Peru, Colombia, and Bolivia, in what is Inchcape’s biggest such deal since 1967, according to a press release dated 3 January. The move is expected to extend Inchcape’s distribution leadership in LATAM, bringing significant additional revenue and margin accretive profit to the G...

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...

Konect.ai, an AI-powered SMS platform for automotive dealerships, and TotalCX (formerly InteractiveTel), a provider of AI-driven customer experience management solutions, have announced a strategic partnership and presence at the National Automobile Dealers Association (NADA) show in Dallas on 27–29 January, according to a press release dated 20 January. The partnership is claimed to be a holistic approach to build automation and accountability in auto retail. Konect.ai's platform allows de...

Inchcape, a United Kingdom-based independent, multi-brand global automotive distributor, announced an agreement to enter into a joint venture with CATS Group of Companies and also announced a decision to acquire a controlling stake in CATS, a distributor of luxury vehicles in the Philippines, according to a release dated 17 January. The deal is claimed to expand Inchcape’s global distribution footprint as it enters the Philippines, further building on its presence in the APAC region. It wil...

Lookers, a United Kingdom–based automotive retail and aftersales service company, announced that its chairman, Ian Bull, has notified the Board that he would step down for personal reasons with effect from December 31, 2022, according to a press release dated December 19. The company said that its senior independent director, Paul Van der Burgh, would assume the role of interim non-executive chairman on January 1, 2023. It further added that Sue Farr, non-executive director would assum...