Technical 21 www.aftermarketonline.net FEBRUARY 2025 Gearing up for a transformative year The rise in tech-driven vehicle systems and EV sales will continue in 2025, but as drivers keep traditional ICE vehicles longer, there will be sustained demand for garages and repair shops, says FixMyCar CCO Marc Russell As we enter 2025, the UK automotive market finds itself at a crossroads — facing both opportunities and challenges. While last year closed with betterthan-expected numbers, the industry is still catching up. New car registrations remain nearly 12% below pre-pandemic averages, reminding us that the road to recovery is far from smooth. This comes at a time of significant change: the global shift toward EVs, affordability concerns, supply chain disruptions, and the growing importance of predictive maintenance and repair technologies in an increasingly digital world. The industry’s focus is no longer just on selling cars — it’s about keeping them running efficiently, safely, and sustainably. As the market moves toward cleaner technologies, the repair and maintenance sector is also adapting. Momentum toward EVs will continue this year. Global EV sales are projected to reach 26 million by 2030, accounting for 28% of all new vehicle sales, while major automotive manufacturers are investing heavily in electrification and autonomous vehicles. The UK’s automotive landscape will see a further shift towards battery electric vehicles, plug-in hybrids, and hydrogen-powered models. However, the challenges for UK consumers remain: the availability of affordable models and the infrastructure to support them. Despite growth in charging networks, many EV owners still face range stress, inconsistent charging options, and higher costs associated with transitioning to electric. Meanwhile, the automotive industry is undergoing a revolution in vehicle servicing through data-driven maintenance. As connected car technologies evolve, predictive maintenance is transforming the automotive repair market. New vehicles are now equipped with advanced sensors and telematics systems that provide real-time diagnostics and predictive insights. AI-powered systems can analyse sensor data to predict component failures before they happen, enabling timely interventions. This trend is supported by substantial investments, such as the EU’s €500 million (£415 million) investment in connected and automated mobility research from 2021 to 2027. This technologydriven approach will be crucial for improving vehicle reliability, safety, and efficiency. It also shifts the dynamic between service providers and vehicle owners. As sustainability becomes a priority, and consumers seek more flexible transportation options, subscription models, shared mobility services, and vehicle leasing are growing in popularity, especially among younger drivers. This shift toward access over ownership will influence vehicle design and manufacturing this year. Automakers will need to consider new business models, such as offering vehicles as part of mobilityas-a-service (MaaS) platforms, which provide users with greater flexibility to use vehicles as needed, without the long-term commitment of ownership. Moreover, consumer demand for flexibility is extending beyond vehicle ownership and into vehicle servicing. Mobile repair services, digital-first customer engagement, and online platforms will become essential to automotive services. The increasing reliance on digital channels will require automotive businesses to adapt to a tech-savvy customer base offering seamless and efficient services. While EV adoption is increasing, many UK consumers are struggling with the affordability of new cars. Vehicle prices have risen faster than wages and interest rates still high. As a result, many buyers are turning to the used car market — a trend that’s unlikely to slow down anytime soon. The UK’s used-car market improved by 4.3% between last July and September, as drivers continue to look towards older cars for their next vehicle purchase. For the automotive repair industry, this shift presents a significant opportunity. Older cars require more frequent maintenance and repairs. Despite the rise in AI, demand for traditional garage services will continue
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