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www.aftermarketonline.net NOVEMBER 2021 AFTERMARKET 41 require bespoke VM equipment in order to be successfully programed for fitment. It helps massively if the garage is aware of which parts require which programming tools so that they can factor the cost of main dealer intervention into the original quote – and decide up front if they can make a profit. Flex Ray And so, to Flex Ray (FR). What exactly is it, how does it work and what does it have to do with a piece on EPS? In essence, the concept of Flex Ray is a bit like going from broadband to fiber, and basically refers to the intercommunication through all electronic parts via the cars own mini ethernet. At the moment the current wired-up technologies in vehicles are up to their limit when it comes to sharing data across the vehicle. FR has a much larger bandwidth (ability to send receive far more data) resulting in greater control over safety systems and management of all components. This is paramount with the constant expanding technologies in cars and their components. As more and more vehicles are utilising FR, the parts have to be compliant. Flex Ray started to increase in prominence from around 2014. At Shaftec, we have been working on this project for some years. We knew this was coming up fast and we understood that growth within the aftermarket was inevitable. We now have the capability to read the racks prior to beginning the remanufacturing process. This allows us to incorporate the programming and acceptance of FR, ensuring reliable fitment without coming into electronic blockers. This has required a massive amount of work into R&D as well as greatly expanding the physical space being used within our facility to accommodate for the differing technologies in steering. In terms of our technology, we are as globally up to date as is currently possible. Moving further into 2021, we have everything in place to continue to be the supplier of choice across our key areas for the UK garages and factors of the UK. Sales are buoyant, stockholding is strong and therefore availability is second to none. All of that coupled with our objective of continuous investment in machinery, testing, manufacturing, quality and process control all mean we are best placed to best serve the market across our chosen areas. We have ambitious yet realistic plans and I have no doubt that we will achieve great success. We will forge ahead to further solidify Shaftec’s brand presence within our existing markets, and at the same time explore new avenues and opportunities allowing continued growth within the UK and European aftermarkets. Shaftec offer real choice and availability for premium quality remanufactured parts. With an unbeatable product range and market leading availability it’s the right choice for you. SHAFTEC.COM EVERYDAY YOU MAKE 35,000 CHOICES MAKE THE RIGHT ONE DRIVE STEER STOP About Shaftec: The company was founded in 1979 and the Shaftec brand introduced in 1995. The midlands-based business is believed to have been the first UK remanufacturer of CV joints and driveshafts and is recognised as a market leader in the remanufacturing sector. www.shaftec.com