The voice of the independent garage sector November 2024 www.aftermarketonline.net 18Right to repair Standing up for garages 23 48 Tech detectives On the move Case of a ‘noisy’ Porsche Latest appointments Meet our champions on page 24
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Editor’s comment 3 www.aftermarketonline.net JUNE 2024 Editor John Shepherd john@aftermarket.co.uk +44 (0) 1732 370 345 Head of Sales Angela Lyus angela@aftermarket.co.uk +44 (0) 7823 736 629 Managing Director Ryan Fuller ryan.fuller@dfamedia.co.uk Operations Manager Emma Godden-Wood emma.godden-wood@dfamedia.co.uk Marketing Manager Hope Jepson hope.jepson@dfamedia.co.uk Production Design Anthony Wiffen anton_print_1@mac.com +44 (0) 7851 612799 Finance Department accounts@dfamedia.co.uk +44 (0) 1732 370 340 Contributors David Banks Martin Brown David Eszenyi Peter Lawton Published by DFA Media Group 192 High Street Tonbridge Kent TN9 1BE +44 (0)1732 370340 ISSN 2516-9149 Aftermarket is published 10 times a year and is sent free of charge to applicants meeting the publisher’s criteria. All others may subscribe at £60 per anum, £120 Europe and £150 rest of the world. While every care is taken to provide accurate information, the publisher cannot accept responsibility for any errors or ommisions, no matter how caused. All rights reserved. No part of the publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means without prior consent of the publisher. The views of contributors do not necessarily represent the views of the publisher. Copyright: DFA Aftermarket Media Ltd 2024. Average net circulation July 2023 to June 2024 21,945 Championing investment in skills and expertise The American businessman, investor, and philanthropist Warren Buffet is credited with saying that ‘the most important investment you can make is in yourself, your skills, and your knowledge’. That quote came to mind while I was at last month’s awards night, marking the culmination of our annual Top Technician and Top Garage competitions. All of the contenders have so much to be proud of and it was fantastic to see their hard work and skills honoured and celebrated by their peers. We have a full roundup of this amazing event starting on page 24 of this issue, but I cannot let this opportunity pass to praise all involved – not least the event partners whose support was key to making the finale of the competitions an unmissable event. At a time when we are all infinitely aware of challenges our sector faces it is clear that the skills gap is one of the most pressing issues to be addressed. As we report elsewhere in this issue, business leaders within the automotive aftermarket have already called on the new government to help breathe new life into the sector, including a proposal for tax cuts on training and other business investments. But there is plenty of cause for optimism in the garage business too, despite the difficult economic circumstances. I know from the news we report and those we interview for Aftermarket — here in the magazine and online — that there is still a great deal of business activity out there. There are motor factors building new facilities and expanding existing sites. We have also seen acquisitions in the automotive industry that will benefit the aftermarket and wider parts supply chain Meanwhile, more bodyshops are understanding the importance of becoming ADAS-capable. While others have some catching up to do, there is training and ongoing support available for independent garages to reap the rewards of technical advances in motoring. And while there is still some reticence among the motoring public to fully embrace electric vehicles, that will change as vehicle costs tumble, advanced battery technologies remove fears of range anxiety and charging infrastructure improvements. That in turn will spur garages to ensure they become EV-equipped, not least to retain existing customers tempted to switch to electric from ICE vehicles. Training and learning new skills on the part of workshops will be key for that transition too. When it comes to staffing up for all these opportunities garages should also be prepared to look beyond the automotive aftermarket to see whether there are candidates who can better fill skills gaps. According to one recent survey, some 40% of candidates for aftermarket jobs in the southwest of England came from allied business sectors, demonstrating an ongoing trend toward skillsbased talent acquisition as opposed to recruiting purely for aftermarket expertise. You can read all about that and much more in the following pages. Enjoy the issue! John Shepherd Editor
News 4 www.aftermarketonline.net NOVEMBER 2024 Contents 6 News in review 20Technical 18 Business 28 Product focus 16 Insight 24 Top Technician/Top Garage Evolving the MOT test to keep up with innovation 16 Standing up for the ‘right to repair’ 18-19 Communicating benefits of services and tech 20-23 Celebration of excellence as winners and finalists named 24-27 Showcasing the latest brands and innovations for the auto market 28-30 In-depth roundup of the latest industry developments 6-15
News 5 www.aftermarketonline.net NOVEMBER 2024 31 Features Remanufacturing 31-34 Steering and suspension 36-38 Clutch and transmission 39 Filters 40-41 Bodyshop equipment 42-43 Motor factors 44 48On the move Latest industry appointments in the garage sector 48-49 46 50 On the road TeaBreak Aftermarket innovations take centre stage in Frankfurt 46-47 50 45 Skills and training Aftermarket attracting broader skills base, survey says 45 Subscribe to
News 6 www.aftermarketonline.net NOVEMBER 2024 LKQ UK & Ireland invests in solar to reduce emissions LKQ UK & Ireland has successfully installed nearly 6,500 solar panels on the roof of its central logistics hub, as it pushes ahead with LKQ Corporation’s global goal of achieving net zero emissions by 2050. The 2,948 kilowatt peak (kWp) solar array system will allow the business to offset energy consumption at its T2 facility in Tamworth by up to 32%. The installation, by environmental consultancy Footprint Zero, covers the roof of the 792,000 ft2 T2 building. The site, which is one of the largest commercial buildings in the UK, holds more than 100,000 SKUs, sends out more than 55,000 orders daily and services 40,000-plus garages across the UK every week. ‘Sustainable growth’ LKQ estimated the move has the potential to prevent the emission of 12,554 tonnes of CO2 over the system’s 25-year lifespan — the equivalent of taking almost 3,000 passenger vehicles off the road for one year. The project is the latest in a series of investments by LKQ UK & Ireland into reducing its scope 1 and 2 emissions. Scope 1 includes direct emissions from sources owned or controlled by the company, such as burning fuel in vehicles or factories. Scope 2 includes indirect emissions, such as electricity drawn from the grid. The measures have included the installation of LED lights in 188 of its branches and warehouses to improve energy efficiency, and a pilot scheme for the use of e-scooters and cargo pedal bikes to deliver stock to customers across London and the South of England. Delphi adds parts supplier award to trophy case Delphi has been crowned parts supplier of the year at the prestigious Servicesure Autocentre of the Year Awards 2024, hosted by GSF Car Parts. The award, presented on October 17, came hot on the heels of Delphi’s recent triumph as diagnostic equipment manufacturer of the year at the Auto Trade Expo Awards earlier this month. Delphi said the latest award highlighted its strong relationships with workshops across the UK and reinforced its reputation for supplying innovative solutions that help independent garages thrive. “For us, it has to be so much more than just about supplying OE-quality parts,” said Luke Garratt, UK technical services manager at Delphi. “To ensure workshops have the skills and tools needed to service today’s increasingly complicated and varied car parc, we also offer training, advanced diagnostics, and technical support. “It’s a holistic approach, so garages can meet the evolving needs of their customers and continue delivering exceptional service.” 6FKDHᎱ HU VFRRSV ,ULVK DZDUG Schaeffler Automotive Aftermarket was presented with the CV parts manufacturer of the year trophy during a successful Auto Trade Expo weekend in Dublin for the company, which rebranded as Schaeffler Vehicle Lifetime Solutions UK on November 1. CV territory manager Graham Andrew received the award, which recognised Schaeffler’s commitment to providing genuine OE quality products, including LuK CV clutches, FAG hub repair solutions and INA drive components for truck and bus repairers across Ireland, along with the market leading business and technical support it offers to both workshop owners and technicians. Hertfordshire-based leading automatic transmission specialist Stephens Engineering has launched a recruitment drive to find an experienced mechanic/ fitter and a gearbox rebuilder to join their expanding team. Successful applicants will be able to demonstrate a good working knowledge and high level of expertise in the repair, rebuild and servicing of automatic gearboxes and transmissions, as customers have come to expect from this long established and trusted firm. For the right candidate, a highly competitive salary is on offer with ongoing training. Email bill@ stephensengineering.co.uk to apply to join this busy, modern workshop in Ware. Gearbox specialist Stephens in recruitment drive
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News 8 www.aftermarketonline.net NOVEMBER 2024 LKQ UK & Ireland employees have been praised by Ukraine for donating and delivering aid to the war-torn nation. Eduard Fesko, deputy chief of mission at Ukraine’s embassy in the UK, thanked the group on a visit to LKQ’s Tamworth headquarters with local MPs Rachel Taylor and Sarah Edwards. The visitors were introduced to employees that have gone above and beyond in their efforts to raise funds and to deliver aid to Ukraine. They included LKQ demand planner Dawid Kozlowski, who has coordinated the delivery of more than 200 tonnes of aid since 2022, including 34 ambulances and more than £6,000 worth of prescription medicine. Kozlowski also led LKQ UK & Ireland’s efforts to send more than 1,000 Christmas presents to children across nine Ukrainian cities, with each gift specifically purchased and sent in response to requests from individual children. He was recognised with a volunteer award at 2023’s BBC CWR Make a Difference Awards. ‘Amazing’ Fresko said: “We are forever grateful to management and staff of the LKQ UK & Ireland, and communities in Tamworth and Leamington Spa, for engaging early with the humanitarian effort and carrying on delivering aid to people in need as the war approaches its third winter.” Richard Morgan, executive board adviser at LKQ UK & Ireland, said: “It’s been amazing to see colleagues from all over the country come together and make a real difference. “Some have driven ambulances full of aid and handed them over to our colleagues in LKQ Elit, who have ensured they are delivered to those most in need. “From providing aid relief to Ukraine to supporting our industry charity Ben and local community sports teams, we’re committed as a business to give colleagues the opportunity to support causes that are important to them.” Meanwhile, LKQ recently completed its second annual business-wide ‘Summer of FUNdraising’ campaign. This year, a team of colleagues drove an ambulance the length and breadth of the 280-strong LKQ Euro Car Parts branch network, raising more than £140,000 for charities, including the Ukraine relief effort, over the last two years. Ukraine praises aid from LKQ champions The Institute of the Motor Industry has warned of what it said is a dangerous shortfall in the number of technicians qualified to repair and maintain vehicles featuring ADAS systems. Latest IMI analysis indicated that 13% of vehicles currently have some degree of autonomy. However, the organisation said on September 14 that just 2% of the technicians in the UK (4,425 individuals) are IMI TechSafe registered and qualified to work safely on servicing, repairing and maintaining these complex and potentially life-saving systems. IMI executive chair Kevin Finn said: “The proportion of ADAS-equipped vehicles has grown from 11% in January 2024 to 13% in July, yet there has not been a similar increase in the proportion of ADAS-trained technicians. “As the proportion of vehicles featuring ADAS accelerates, ahead of the introduction of fully automated vehicles, it is critical that more technicians are trained to work on vehicles with this technology.” ‘Catastrophic’ With ADAS the precursor for fully automated vehicles, following the Automated Vehicles Bill 2024 becoming law last May, the IMI is keen to see future legislation take into account the skills required to meet the maintenance and repair needs of the growing ADAS car parc. As drivers become more reliant on ADAS safety features, the risks when failures occur increase dramatically. For example, when lane departure warnings or emergency braking fail at high speed, the outcome could be catastrophic, the IMI said. When vehicles are serviced, many drivers falsely believe the ADAS systems are checked, so they do not seek out specialist checks and maintenance, unwittingly putting themselves and other road users at risk. The IMI launched level 2 and level 3 ADAS qualifications in 2022 and the TechSafe recognition programme provides independent assessment and recognition of the technical competence of technicians working in the UK automotive sector. IMI TechSafe identifies a member’s professionalism and safe working practice in the field of EVs and other safety-critical vehicle systems such as ADAS. IMI warning over ADAS technicians shortfall
News 9 www.aftermarketonline.net NOVEMBER 2024 ‘Busiest Q3 ever’ for referrals to motor ombudsman The past three months have been the busiest ever third quarter of the year for the number of vehicle service and repair dispute cases submitted to The Motor Ombudsman. TMO said on October 28 the total number of service and repair cases logged for the first nine months of 2024 had now reached 4,847 — a yearon-year increase of 29%. Referrals by consumers to TMO’s alternative dispute resolution (ADR) service were up nearly a fifth compared to the same period last year. The drivetrain area of a vehicle drove the most consumer dissatisfaction, followed by the level of customer service provided by repairers when assisting consumers, TMO said. A free-of-charge repair, compensation and a full refund, were the most askedfor resolutions by consumers to help bring their complaint to a close. ‘Strained finances’ Between July 1 and September 30 this year, the ombudsman for the automotive sector received a total of 1,586 new submissions from motorists, up 18% from 1,348 in the third quarter of 2023. This was slightly down on the all-time high of 1,657 service and repair cases logged in the second quarter of this year. The standard of customer service experienced by consumers during a routine service or ad hoc remedial work, accounted for the second highest number of disputes (32%) —higher than the figure of 17% reported at the same time last year. Bill Fennell, chief ombudsman and MD of TMO, said: “With the rising costs of maintaining and operating a vehicle, coupled with the broader financial pressures on households, consumers are more likely to raise a complaint to help recoup any detriment that they may have considered to have suffered, and are submitting far more detailed and comprehensive evidence to bolster their case.” A new report on the auto repair industry suggests garages must amplify transparency, technology and efficiency to meet modern driver demands. According to Making Tracks: The Auto Repair Report by car maintenance marketplace FixMyCar, this year alone has seen several significant events disrupt the status quo of auto repair — including “sustainability pressures and skyrocketing repairer job vacancies”. The report, released on October 29, said EVs remain a lucrative opportunity for mechanics and garages, with EV repair requests having grown by 98% on the platform in the last 12 months. This also highlights a growing second-hand market for EVs, the report said. Drivers increasingly leave OEM servicing cycles and turn to group or independent garages for repairs and maintenance. Consumer demand for speed and efficiency seen in other service industries has also reached auto repair, according to the report. More than 70% of jobs posted on FixMyCar by drivers are confirmed with a chosen garage within 24 hours, with 63% confirmed within the first hour. This race to win work intensifies the competition and demonstrates a need for garages to innovate. Embracing digital tools and technology that streamline operations and make garage bookings more convenient for drivers is increasingly becoming a “must-have” for auto repair businesses to remain competitive. The report also finds evidence that drivers are looking to become more informed about their cars. FixMyCar said the report raised the question of whether it is time for change in the aftermarket. Interim CEO Amanda Webb said: “If the auto repair industry is to maintain its historical strength, our new report finds that garages and mechanics must amplify transparency, technology and efficiency. The data analysis suggests a need for mechanics and garages to modernise and innovate for a new generation of drivers or risk falling behind the competition. “By elevating their standards, improving efficiency and building driver trust with transparent communication, garages can turn the challenges facing the auto repair industry into opportunities for growth.” 7UDQVSDUHQF\ HᎰFLHQF\ NH\ WR DIWHUPDUNHW IXWXUH VD\V UHSRUW
News 10 www.aftermarketonline.net NOVEMBER 2024 Four UK garages are to pilot new Bridgestone plans for a future network of ‘e-Centres’ to boost the brand’s environmental, social and governance requirements for tyre retailers. Bridgestone unveiled the e-Centres blueprint on October 8 after working on the concept with professional services firm EY. The brand also conducted research in the UK that indicated more than a third of motorists value garages with “responsible recycling practices”. Under the concept, retailers will be assessed against 85 standards before they attain e-Centre or ‘e-Centre Pioneer’ status. Bridgestone said it plans to invest £1 million in assessing hundreds of tyre retailers across Europe over the next couple of years, with the intention of accrediting 150 sites as e-Centres. E-Centre Pioneer depots will represent a massive departure from a conventional garage aesthetically, Bridgestone said. Importantly, they will also adhere to a number of best practices including solar panel installations, staff training on premium product performance and road safety initiatives and “hyperlocal donation campaigns” to support their local communities, Bridgestone said. Renewable energy Bridgestone’s head of marketing for the UK and Ireland Andy Mathias, who is also the e-Centres project lead, said the brand’s own research sought to gain a better understanding of motorists’ mindsets concerning automotive retail and future mobility. According to the research*, 23% of respondents would be more likely to visit a garage if it had proven sustainability credentials, whether it be renewable energy sources or effective adoption of EV practices. In addition, 36% of motorists would pay more to a garage that responsibly recycles its tyres, the research indicated. *The brand’s research was conducted online last January by Research Without Barriers among a representative sample of 2,000 UK car owners. UK garages in Bridgestone ‘e-Centre’ pilot New car registrations edged up by 1% year-on-year in September — driven by growth in the fleet market, according to latest data from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders. The SMMT said registrations were 275,239 in the key ‘74’ plate change month of September. In what is traditionally a bumper month for new car registrations, second only to March, the performance was the best since 2020, but still down nearly 20% on pre-Covid September 2019, the SMMT said. Fleet purchases were up nearly 4% to 149,095 units, representing 54.2% of the overall market. Hybrids Meanwhile, private consumer demand fell by -1.8% to 120,272 units, accounting for 43.7% of registrations, while the smaller business sector saw volumes fall -8.4% to 5,872 units. The uptake of plug-in hybrids grew faster than any other fuel type in the month, up 32.1% to take an 8.9% share of the market. Hybrid electric vehicle registrations rose 2.6%, boosting market share to 14.2%, while petrol and diesel registrations declined by -9.3% and -7.1% respectively, although together they were still the choice of 56.4% of buyers in September, the SMMT said. Demand for the latest battery electric vehicles (BEV) hit a new record volume for any month in September, up 24.4% to 56,387 units, achieving a 20.5% share of the overall market, up from 16.6% a year ago. Heavy EV discounting shored up demand, but the SMMT said this was not enough to shift market share significantly, which edged up from 17.2% in the first eight months, to 17.8% from January- September. It is expected to reach 18.5% by the end of the year. Fleets drove much of this growth, with deliveries rising 36.8% to account for nearly 76% of BEV registrations. ‘Market weakness’ Britain’s new light commercial vehicle (LCV) market grew for the second month running in September, up 8.3% to record the best performance for the month in four years. SMMT chief executive Mike Hawes said the record EV performance was good news, “but look under the bonnet and there are serious concerns as the market is not growing quickly enough to meet mandated targets. “Despite manufacturers spending billions on both product and market support — support that the industry cannot sustain indefinitely — market weakness is putting environmental ambitions at risk and jeopardising future investment.” New car registrations rise, but ‘EV concerns remain’ Mike Hawes
News 11 www.aftermarketonline.net NOVEMBER 2024 Shaikly Motor Company was named garage of the year in the ‘multilocation’ category at The Blend 2024. Shaikly was also presented with the British independent garage of the year at this year’s outing of the IGA’s British Independent Garage (BIG) awards. At The Blend event in Birmingham on September 28, Intelligent Auto Ltd and Lawson AutoTech received awards in the ‘1-4 staff’ and ‘5+ staff’ categories, respectively. The community’s garage of the year award went to Oldfields Garage, while Laura Guild of Lawson AutoTech received the staff recognition award. The community member of the year award was presented to Diana Whetton of PW Auto Repairs, and Castle Garage Ashby was honoured with the Garage Hive innovator award. At the IGA’s BIG event on September 20, each award winner received a cash prize of £1,000 at the NEC Birmingham ceremony. Winners of other BIG categories were: Supplier of the year, Euro Car Parts; garage management system of the year, TechMan; garage of the year, C R Allen and Sons; marketing strategy of the year, CCM; best newcomer award, Bear and Bee Garage; business improvement award, Mechanic Man; training and development award, Stourbridge Automotive; community hero award, Westgate Tyres; customer service award, Mereworth Motors; consumer choice award, Holmer Green Service Centre; innovation award, Shaikly Motor Company; specialist garage of the year, The MINI Repair Shop; independent used car retailer of the year, Available Car; small independent garage of the year, Oldfields Garage Services; large independent garage of the year, Hillclimb Garage. Automotive industry charity Ben received a donation of £10,000 from the IGA at the prize-giving ceremony. Late payments crackdown bid to support auto SMEs Garages and self-employed workers in the automotive sector are in line to benefit from new government plans to crackdown on the scourge of late payments to small businesses, say ministers. A new Fair Payment Code, replacing the old Prompt Payment Code, will be open to signatories this autumn — and will be designed to push businesses to pay faster, with “an exemplar gold category” for those paying suppliers within 30 days. Small business minister Gareth Thomas said the move will pave the way for a boost for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) by speeding up cash flow. “Small businesses deserve to be paid on time, it’s as simple as that,” he said. Research by Aftermarket shows that the wholesale and retail trade sector, including vehicle repair workshops, accounted for 14% of all SME employment and 35% of SME turnover in the UK private sector in 2021 — according to most recent data from the Department for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy. In the UK, an SME is defined as a business with fewer than 250 employees and a turnover of less than £50,000,000. The Federation of Small Businesses said its data shows that 52% of SMEs in the UK suffered from late payments every quarter in 2022. According to Small Business Commissioner, Liz Barclay, there are more than 5,000 signatories to the existing code, under which firms have committed to paying at least 95% of their suppliers within 60 days and 95% of small suppliers within 30 days. Garages honoured at The Blend, BIG events 01273 891162 info@kalimex.co.uk www.jlmlubricants.co.uk Workshop Hero Products DPF Cleaning Clean a blocked DPF in under 2 hours No need to remove the filter - keep the business in house Get your customers back on the road fast! Dissolves un-burnt oil remnants
News 12 www.aftermarketonline.net NOVEMBER 2024 The best in the business lined up to support the Aftermarket Event, which opened its doors for its launch at Farnborough International last month. LKQ Euro Car Parts CEO Kevan Wooden kicked off the programme when he gave the keynote address on the opening day of the event, focusing on how to ensure success through retaining skills. Wooden also reiterated how increasing growth in the used electric vehicles and hybrids market is strengthening the business case for garages and workshops to invest in skills and equipment. Industry experts focus on business, tech and skills at Aftermarket Event
News 13 www.aftermarketonline.net NOVEMBER 2024 And he noted that only 16% of technicians in the industry are currently trained to level 2 to work on electric vehicles. He also outlined the progress of his company in training, having already upskilled 3,000 technicians in servicing hybrid and electric car maintenance and repair through the LKQ Academy to help address the skills gap. The company is expanding its training nationwide to build the capacity needed for a successful EV transition, Wooden said. Exhibition The Event itself featured an exhibition plus a programme of interactive workshops, informative seminars, comprehensive training and more, with exhibitors from across the sector offering a fresh window on the industry. Workshops included the expertise of industry leaders such as Snap-on and Delphi, while seminars covered a range of topics including the evolving shape of the aftermarket. Amid ongoing concerns about the skills gap being faced by the industry, another session provided a timely update focused on healthy retention in the aftermarket. Jennifer Webb, director of HR Vitals, lead a panel discussion that included the expertise of Antony Jhalley, managing director of AAK Autos, Ellen Plumer, the head of outreach and wellbeing for the automotive industry charity Ben and Ambi Singh, the CEO of Easy2Recruit and the Binley Woods Service Centre. Diagnostics The future of electric vehicles — and what workshops need to do over the coming years in order to stay relevant and profitable — was another important topic of discussion, and featured a panel including Atomic Succes director Andy Crook, HEVRA technical director Peter Melville, Pro-moto director Eliot Smith and TechTopics diagnostics expert James Dillon. A separate presentation by Dillon — looking at how to make money through diagnostics — gave insight into how to unlock the profitability in this field of work, with invaluable hints and tips thrown in for good measure. Co-located with another show, Safety, Health & Wellbeing Live, the Event also gave visitors an opportunity to learn more about workplace safety and occupational health.
News 14 www.aftermarketonline.net NOVEMBER 2024 One of the highlights of the event was a presentation by the founder of School of Thought Automotive Dave Reece. Reece gave an insight into the huge generation gap in the sector and outlined solutions to build a more sustainable workforce well into the future. He also described the activities of The School of Thought Automotive Programme, which was established in 2019 as part of Ready4Work Community Interest Company — a not-for-profit organisation created to elevate the profile of the automotive industry in school years nine to 12, targeting pupils, parents, and educational institutions. School of Thought Automotive is a programme that will benefit young people in their search for a career, and companies looking for their next generation of employees. Work experience “Together we can promote the industry and companies by engaging with education,” Reece said. “The work of making our industry visible to education has been done by the research, development and connections carried out by School of Thought since its launch. It’s now time to move the programme forward and make full use of the hard work. “Our new website (www. schoolofthoughtautomotive.co.uk) has been developed for young people to find out more information about the careers in the industry, what an apprenticeship or internship is and what subjects they need to study.” The website also includes a section showcasing current partners from all parts of the industry, giving visitors the chance to understand that the industry “is more than spanners and spray guns”, Reece said. Apprenticeships “School of Thought Automotive thinks our sector is big enough and important enough to have its own dedicated week in the national event calendar. In collaboration with Autotech Group we launched the very first National Automotive Careers Week, held last April, focusing on work experience.” Having a dedicated week will present Creative lesson in recruitment for next aftermarket generation David Reece (right) hands over the colourful fund-raiser to Ben
News 15 www.aftermarketonline.net NOVEMBER 2024 the automotive sector as an exciting career choice for school leavers, address the current generation and skills gaps, and empower automotive employers to recognise the importance of offering work experience and apprenticeships to young people, Reece said. Meanwhile, work has started on the ‘National Automotive Careers Week 2025’ and Reece is encouraging all businesses in the automotive sector to get involved. He also presented a ‘Kids Art’ mould at the event to Ben, to be auctioned as part of Bangers4Ben. The artwork was the result of an activity at the British Motor Show in August, when School of Thought Ambassador Phil Dawson, from SMART Bodyshop Solutions, brought his airbrushing skills for visitors at the show to ‘have a go’ using moulds supplied by Axalta. Contact dave@ready4work.uk / julie@ready4work.uk or visit www. schoolofthoughtautomotive.co.uk for more information about the School of Thought Partnership Programme, becoming an ambassador, the Special Needs Programme GO4Ward to Work, or enrolling in the portal or National Automotive Careers Week 2025. Aftermarket after hours… networking was top of the agenda as delegates gathered at the close of the first day of the Event for refreshments and light entertainment
Insight 16 www.aftermarketonline.net NOVEMBER 2024 Evolving the MOT test to keep up with innovation Peter Lawton, SMMT head of member sections, on how technologies can boost garage businesses while also driving safety The aftermarket sector is a major contributor to the UK economy. Besides supporting 330,000 jobs, it adds more than £16 billion to treasury coffers every year and helps keep the wheels in motion for other sectors. Central to this success is the role of maintenance, service and repair. Given the evolution taking place in today’s increasingly connected, electrified and automated vehicles, the MOT test must evolve to cater for this new generation technology. The importance of the test to road safety was underlined by the backlash against recent proposals to reduce its frequency, with research showing that three-quarters of consumers agree that the typical cost of a test is a price well worth paying to ascertain if their car is safe or needs attention. So, it’s great news that, after extensive campaigning by SMMT and others, this is being left in its current form. However, the MOT must keep up with vehicle technology — including the increasing fitment of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS). For example, autonomous emergency braking was fitted as standard on almost eight in 10 new cars registered in 2023, up from less than one in five in 2015, and other safety technologies, including adaptive cruise control, overtaking sensors and lane keep assist are available on more new models than not. An evaluation of ADAS and its place within the current MOT was underway with the previous government, and we await to hear the next steps from those now in power. Complex area The review previously explored how a test station will understand what technology is fitted, what should be functioning, whether the vehicle is operating according to the latest software levels and how checks on the functionality and calibration of ADAS components are conducted. Should only mandated ADAS features be subject to testing, or optional features as well? How far can an ADAS system report to a test station on how well it’s functioning? There are more questions besides these to answer; it’s a complex area. It’s clear a regular inspection and verification of these technologies will help ensure they are functioning correctly throughout a vehicle’s lifetime. Sensors and cameras should be checked for defects and a centralised system could be introduced so the same detailed inspections are taking place throughout all MOT centres in the country — not a small job. The introduction of electrified vehicles must also be considered, technicians need to understand the intricacies presented by EVs and possess the tools and knowledge needed to test safely. Farther off is automation. Could a self-driving vehicle automatically present itself for repair if something goes awry and, if so, what need would there be for an MOT? This hasn’t yet been explored in detail but I think it’s fair to say that while opinions vary, most find this concept a little hard to picture. There will always be a critical role for the MOT and while some systems may be able to self-report issues in the future, an inspection cannot be replaced. That government and industry are working to ensure an MOT fit for future generations of road users and improve the UK’s already strong road safety record is extremely welcome.
NITROGEN OXIDE/NOx SENSORS – FROM THE SPECIALIST FOR EMISSION CONTROL www.ms-motorservice.com For peace of mind always use a Garage Equipment Association member. GEA accredited engineers work to an industry code of conduct. Your assurance their skills and knowledge have been independently assessed. IS YOUR EQUIPMENT ENGINEER GEA ACCREDITED? Ask your engineer for his accreditation card ! The Upholders of Industry standards since 1945 The Garage Equipment Association www.gea.co.uk GEA ACCREDITED ENGINEER Name Company Discipline Exp Date ID Number XX123456 XX123456 XX123456 XX123456 XX123456 Integrate your sales, stock management, accounting and reporting processes in one easy-to-use package. Business management software designed for the Automotive aftermarket Used by 7/10 Motor factors For further information or to request a demo, please visit www.mamsoft.co.uk/autopart or call us on 01226 352901
Business 18 www.aftermarketonline.net NOVEMBER 2024 Standing up for the ‘right to repair’ Auto sector firms have come together in a bid to forge a partnership with the new labour government that keeps aftermarket businesses on the road Business leaders across the UK have united to call on the new government to work closely with the automotive aftermarket and to offer for a package of tax cuts and other investment to breathe new life into the sector. A group of the aftermarket’s leading suppliers, repairers and trade bodies has co-signed a list of ‘policy asks’ urging the transport secretary to ramp up industry backing. The ‘Fighting for the Right to Repair’ letter, sent by LKQ UK & Ireland to Louise Haigh, was prepared in partnership with automotive communications consultancy Citypress. The letter was co-signed by Halfords, Kwik Fit, the AA, RAC, Micheldever Tyre Services, Formula One Autocentres, ATS Euromaster, Hella, ZF, TMD Friction, Schaffler, the IMI and the IAAF. In the document, LKQ UK & Ireland CEO Kevan Wooden outlined what he said was the critical contribution of the automotive aftermarket to the UK’s social and economic infrastructure, and of independent repairers in particular in ensuring safe and roadworthy transport is accessible to all. Wooden said: “Significant challenges persist that threaten the independent aftermarket and risk creating a monopoly for the vehicle manufacturers. And they have real implications for the economy, and for consumer choice and affordability. ‘New tone’ “The Department for Transport has an important part to play in resolving these challenges and ensuring the independent sector can continue to compete and thrive.” Five key areas of focus are outlined by the signatories “to engage with government and set a new tone for its relationship with our sector”. LKQ and Citypress consulted the IAAF and their other partners to agree and prioritise the five key requests to support the UK aftermarket’s long-term vitality and viability. Specific to the independent workshop — and critical to protecting consumer choice — was a call to align vehicle type approval and motor vehicle block exemption regulations. The letter said this can eliminate the potential for vehicle manufacturers to restrict access to in-vehicle data, information and other essential inputs that are required to diagnose, service or repair a vehicle, particularly in the context of advanced driver assistance systems. The industry leaders said a wider regulatory framework was needed to tackle access to data and cybersecurity, which is “not dissimilar to the single, mandated allmanufacturer SERMI
Business 19 www.aftermarketonline.net NOVEMBER 2024 A major new survey, Modernizing the Aftermarket, has highlighted the pressing challenges service organisations face as they navigate a complex and rapidly evolving industry landscape. Over a third (36%) said they believed there are not enough technicians/ engineers looking to work within the industry, further compounding issues around the adoption of newer technologies. Aftermarket service software firm Syncron interviewed 600 service and supply chain decision makers, CIOs and CFOs working within service organisations across several European countries including 100 from the UK and Ireland, the Nordics and North America. The survey was conducted last May in partnership with Field Service Associates, with respondents from organisations with a global annual revenue of more than £190 million. The findings were published in September. A third of service organisations said they still relied on manual processes to manage spare parts inventory. Sustainability And nearly all (99%) reported challenges when adopting new technologies, including concerns about data security (41%) and difficulties identifying the right solutions (39%). Sustainability is also a major priority for aftermarket operations, with 95% of respondents indicating plans to transition to a circular economy model within the next 12-24 months, the survey indicated. However, while the drive towards a circular economy is evident, about three quarters (76%) of respondents believed significant improvements were needed in how their organisation tracks circulatory performance metrics and measures the carbon footprint of their supply chain. Sean O’Neill, chief product and technology officer at Syncron said: “As the aftermarket becomes an increasingly powerful commercial engine, those who are prepared to invest in innovative business models, technology, and sustainable practices will be best positioned to lead. “These findings provide valuable insights for organisations looking to stay ahead in a competitive landscape by embracing a data-driven and customerfocused approach.” scheme being rolled out across Europe”. Other issues covered included the need for tax cuts on training and other business investment, to help independent technicians qualify to work on ADASenabled vehicles and hybrids and EVs. Secondary market And more widely, a national automotive employment scheme was highlighted as a critical need — similar to those that have been rolled out across the hospitality sector in recent years. Meanwhile, the document also identified the lack of a secondary market for the refit and refurbishment of EV batteries. Industry leaders said this had the potential to undermine the environmental gains made by the shift away from ICE, and to limit the affordability and accessibility of EVs — with the introduction of a regulatory framework to govern collaboration between the aftermarket and vehicle manufacturers positioned as key to the solution. Fiona Carmichael, head of automotive and mobility at Citypress, praised the initiative to bring together leading voices from the sector to campaign for change. “Many businesses in the UK aftermarket are SMEs, often located away from the more visible main road locations of the main dealers, and to policymakers they are literally out of sight and out of mind,” she said. “But if the UK is to meet its climate obligations, if our roads are to remain some of the world’s safest and if our consumers are to retain a choice for affordable repair and maintenance services, it’s time for the government to recognise the value and contribution that the UK aftermarket provides.” Survey highlights business challenges
Remanufacturing 20 www.aftermarketonline.net NOVEMBER 2024 Technical Communicating benefits of services and tech Repairify Innovations director Martin Brown’s key insights from this year’s Automechanika event, where companies were eager to invest in the future Automechanika is an event where deals are made and partnerships are ratified. It also provides a platform to gain a greater understanding of what is happening in the industry in various parts of the globe, from Europe and Asia to the Americas. Firstly, communication is key to ensuring a business has the necessary knowledge and know-how to succeed, and face-to-face meetings are vital. We enjoyed meeting representatives from 172 countries, and in these conversations, we talked about our products and services and how they could improve companies’ businesses. We also discussed what was going on in the industry in their country and how it compares to the UK market. Experience This exchange of information is an asset to us as it provides our team with a firsthand perspective on market conditions, regulatory issues and requirements regarding what businesses are looking for in diagnostic and calibration services to meet the needs of today’s jobs. Secondly, our team met companies that are looking to invest in products and services that help future-proof their business by having access to the right tools for the jobs so that they can open new business avenues. We noticed that shops are keen to work with partners that can provide them with peace of mind by having the necessary knowledge and experience at their fingertips. Visitors to our stand were particularly interested in our remote services, which provide garages and bodyshops with access to every OEM manufacturer diagnostic tool alongside an IMI-trained technician to assist remotely without repairers having to buy the tools themselves. Calibration Finally, the collision sectors in European countries vary in terms of compliance with ADAS systems and how they are checked and calibrated. In one country, for example, a specific ADAS warning could trigger a notification that you might want to think about getting it calibrated, whereas warnings given in other countries mean automatic calibration back to the manufacturer’s standard. In addition, technicians might not have the knowledge, skills or tools to perform the work, which is an issue that is slowly being rectified as businesses invest in the necessary training from industry bodies such as the IMI in the UK. An event like Automechanika Frankfurt is an asset for the industry because it presents a melting pot of ideas and concepts that show how much the industry is evolving, and it helps businesses meet the evolution head-on by showcasing a myriad of products and services that will support their progress. See Aftermarket’s Automechanika Frankfurt roundup on page 46-47.
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Technical 22 www.aftermarketonline.net NOVEMBER 2024 Greater reliance on more efficient, technology-driven solutions can ease the burden on MOT testing stations and managers, says MOT Juice Putting technology to the test Most MOT experts would support calibration companies being able to upload certificates into the DVSA’s MOT testing service (MTS) on their behalf, according to a survey by MOT Juice. This comes at a time when MOT providers are facing mounting administrative tasks, including a new mandate for testers to manually record their annual training within the MTS. According to the poll of over 5,000 MOT testers & managers, 61% would support calibration companies uploading their certificates into the MTS for them, with 23% opposing and 16% indifferent. These results highlight a clear desire for trusted suppliers to help MOT stations meet their increasing regulatory requirements, MOT Juice said. While it remains uncertain whether the DVSA will mandate the uploading of calibration certificates, such a move would reflect a broader shift towards increased data input and compliance monitoring within the MTS. As outlined in DVSA special notice 02-24, published last April, MOT testers are now required to manually input details of all annual training in their MTS accounts. For almost a decade, MOT testers have needed to maintain comprehensive, DVSA-compliant training logs outside of the MTS, with training providers often managing these records on their behalf. The new requirement for manual data input creates additional workload without clear benefits. This has led many in the industry to advocate for application programming interface (API) integration that would allow automated data transfer between training providers and the MTS throughout the year, eliminating the need for repetitive manual input and reducing the risk of errors. In response to April’s Special Notice, MOT Juice is calling for the DVSA to consider extending the same technological capabilities used for exam result submissions to training records. Such integration would align with the DVSA’s objective of modernising the MOT testing process, enhance transparency, and ensure compliance without overburdening MOT testers with excessive administrative tasks. MOT Juice MD Barry Babister said: “The technology is already there. Automating the submission of exam results has proven successful in recent years. Extending this functionality to include training providers and calibration companies would be a logical next step, especially given the growing volume of data required to maintain accurate records.” Babister said that both the results of the poll and the support for training record API integration send a clear message to the DVSA — MOT providers are eager for trusted suppliers to be able to assist them with administrative tasks, like certificate uploads and training record management. The growing frustration within the industry reflects a desire for more efficient, technology-driven solutions to alleviate the burden on testers and managers. The industry is not asking for less accountability, but rather for a smarter, technology-driven approach to data management. Allowing suppliers to assist with uploading relevant documentation into the MTS would streamline processes, reduce the risk of non-compliance due to administrative errors, and free up MOT testers and managers to focus on their most important responsibility — helping to keep Britain’s roads safe. Barry Babister has been in the motor trade since 1993 and immersed in MOT testing since 1999, as a partner in the Surrey and Sussex based CCM Garages business. In 2014 we launched MOT Juice as a webbased service to help ourselves at CCM and then a few hundred other garages to use our web-based product to attract new MOT test customers. Two years later the DVSA announced that training and exams would move into the sector. As a practical solution, we evolved the back office of MOT Juice to provide training and compliance for MOT test stations. This was the catalyst for MOT Juice. From a small team of three in 2014, we are now a thriving training and compliance provider across the UK.
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