www.aftermarketonline.net MARCH 2024 AFTERMARKET 47 the addition of Tesla.” ALLDATA Europe Managing Director Karol Englert added: “Technicians are looking after vehicles of all makes and models across all powertrains. Therefore, it’s crucial that we continue to improve and add to ALLDATA Repair. If we do that, we’ll ensure our customers, and their customers are satisfied.” As with any vehicle, each EV model will have its own quirks that can trip up technicians. A example on the 2022 Tesla Model Y was recently highlighted by the team at the ALLDATA Repair Info Centre Service. Stephen Derham, Technical Support Specialist, explained: “The vehicle owner revealed to the technician that when the horn was pressed on the steering wheel, it didn’t make the sound – an obvious problem. A basic diagnostic check was carried out, and it was discovered that no supply was present at the horn. Due to the nature of the vehicle and inability to source a fuse for the horn, however, the technician turned down the work. “Thankfully, the ALLDATA Repair Info Centre Service experts, following Tesla’s recent integration to the portal, were able to come to the rescue. Although relatively uncommon, some vehicles can experience an issue with the connector that sits behind the steering wheel, in that it can loosen or even disconnect completely. The horn is supplied through their body control module, so, as the customer stated that there was no power to the horn, it was likely that the issue was linked to the horn connector. “The first procedure was to disconnect the LV power supply and separate the driver’s airbag from the steering wheel. The next task was to check the connector, making sure that male and female parts were thoroughly secured together. The final job was just to reassemble the components, test, and enjoy the sound of a Tesla horn once again.” For more information, visit: www.alldata.com/eu/en/repair-europe Specialised solutions Access to parts is also vital, hence Allied Nippon recently introduced its EV+ brakes range, specifically developed and designed for EVs. The range employs a new friction compound with a scorching treatment, along with Allied Nippon’s BRAKEBOOST Instant Friction layer. Allied Nippon Development Manager and EV+ Project Lead Matt Ellis observed: “The EV market demands specialised solutions, considering the unique challenges posed by the increased weight and speed of these vehicles. “Allied Nippon was early to develop the EV+ range; prototypes were initially shown at Automechanika Frankfurt back in September 2022, but our strategy was to wait for the market to be ready for the product range. With the UK EV parc now topping seven figures, the time has come for EV+.” Matt added: “The upselling potential embedded in EV+ goes beyond offering a product. It’s about providing a greater experience for EV owners and, in turn, maximising revenue in the era of electric mobility.” The initial EV+ range will cover 37 part numbers, including the Nissan Leaf, Renault Zoe, Tesla Model 3, and Jaguar I-PACE. For more information, visit: www.allied-nippon-eu Radical transformation Commenting on how the shift to EVs is affecting tyrebuying among motorists, Yves Pouliquen, Group Head of Sales and Marketing at Apollo Tyres observed: “The automotive industry is undergoing a radical transformation with the shift towards electrification, and that is increasingly having an impact on the aftermarket sector. Purpose-designed EV tyres like the all-season Vredestein Quatrac Pro EV have been developed to address the unique characteristics and requirements of EVs.” In a survey of 1,000 motorists, Apollo Tyres found that 64% would opt for EV-specific tyres, with 84% of drivers aged 25-34 saying they would be very likely or somewhat likely to go down this route. 44% of the total also said they would be willing to pay more for EV-specific tyres. Yves added: “Our research demonstrates that there is clearly an appetite for EV-specific tyres in the aftermarket as customers come to appreciate the need for tyres developed for a specific use case.” Meanwhile, WAI, has added a thermal cut off switch to its EV charging cables. Once a certain temperature is reached on the upgraded cables, the thermal cut-off inside the plug switches off charging. Charging then resumes once the cable has cooled. Commenting on the added innovation, WAI Europe President Richard Welland said: “The intensive use of any electrical equipment brings inherent safety risks, especially the use of EV charging cables at home. We added this feature as we’d seen a rise in reports of people leaving EV charging cables plugged in at home when they go out. This can lead to overheating and safety risks, so our latest EV charging cables have a built-in thermal cut off switch that kicks in if the cable gets too hot.” EV conversion With a view to widening opportunities for garages further still, ICE vehicle electrification is to become part of Delphi Academy’s IMI TechSafe training offering, with classic/iconic car electrification specialist Everrati providing the necessary back-up and expertise. The module, TechSafe Part A, will look at EV conversion, covering mechanical and electrical considerations, thermal management, chassis and weight distribution. It will look at recycling, recovery and new EV technology. Luke Garratt, UK Technical Services Manager at Delphi observed: “We're going to have a wide range of EVs in the market and there’s a growing market for converting cherished older cars. This training showcases EV reengineering best practice and Everrati is a leading example of how to do it at the highest quality and OEM grade standard.” Tony Fong, Head of Engineering at Everrati said: “It’s essential that you assess the suitability, compatibility and controllability of EV components. You need to consider carefully how you source the battery, electrical drive unit (EDU) and charging systems. You’ll also need to consider the safe handling and storage of these parts and decide on the best placement of them on the vehicle with consideration of vehicle dynamics and safety.” Everrati Managing Director Rhodri Darch added: “We have an opportunity to really drive a movement to deal with the 1.4 billion ICE vehicles on the road today by electrifying and making use of that rolling stock, preventing them from going to scrap and giving them a new lease of life. The key thing is to make sure we're doing that safely and responsibly.” For more information, visit: www.delphiautoparts.com/gbr/en/training/training
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