8 AFTERMARKET JUNE 2023 BIG ISSUE www.aftermarketonline.net With the cybercrime threat to businesses increasing, and the digitisation of industry ongoing, the Autotech Group is looking to help the automotive aftermarket both protect itself and incorporate new tech to increase productivity via a new division; Autotech Connect. Through the new division, Autotech Group has set-up partnerships with hardware, software, training and IT providers to bring expertise to businesses in the automotive aftermarket. Autotech Group CEO Gavin White explained: “Our intention is to help aftermarket businesses understand the threats and opportunities created by software and connected vehicles and, through our partners, help them navigate the challenges with the aim of increasing productivity, reducing risk and exploring potential solutions. “For many years, we have talked about the skills shortage, how aftermarket businesses are struggling to keep up with the evolving vehicle marketplace and the need for training. The industry, particularly independent businesses, is permanently on the back-foot, pedalling to keep up and they are now facing further issues presented by evolving vehicle technology.” The offering also promotes the benefits of assisted Reality (AR) devices, as Gavin noted: “Using AR is a tremendously exciting opportunity and, if used correctly, can help streamline processes and empower vehicle technicians as the most up-todate technical information they need will be right in front of them. However, AR is just one small part of addressing the challenges facing the industry.” He added: “There is a journey to undertake, and the digital foundations must be laid to allow the aftermarket to capitalise.” Perfect storm Autotech Connect received its official launch at the Millbrook proving grounds, where representatives from the Autotech Group and a number of the experts they have brought together were able to explain the context in greater detail. Opening proceedings, Gavin White said: “Autotech Connect is the latest brand from our stable. We are primarily known as a training business, but this is not a big step in a new direction for us. It is stitching what we do together. It is extremely vital in terms of who is coming into the sector. You see what is whizzing around us. The skills set in the industry is not where it needs to be. We are on the fourth generation Toyota Prius and we are still talking about making the apprenticeship cover EVs and hybrids. It astounds me we are not teaching the skills that are needed. I don’t think the MOT Consultation is as big a threat as what we are here to talk about. The agenda AUTOTECH CONNECT: TAKING ON CYBERSECURITY/TECH CHALLENGE The growing cybersecurity threat has prompted the Autotech Group to launch its latest division: Autotech Connect Above: Autotech Group has set-up partnerships to bring expertise to businesses in the automotive aftermarket
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