Remanufacturing 42 www.aftermarketonline.net MARCH 2025 Technical expertise to sustain the aftermarket Autoelectro’s Harnek Bhogal looks back at what shaped 2024 — from an industry and company perspective — and what will likely mould the British remanufacturer’s activities over the coming months One of the most notable trends over the past year was the rise in demand for 48V mild hybrid electric vehicles (MHEVs). The Ford Puma and Kia Sportage were the two most popular new vehicles, according to recent figures from the Society of Motor Manufacturer and Traders, with both models offered in mild hybrid form. At Autoelectro, a remanufacturer and supplier of starter motors and alternators founded in 1986, our figures were similar. We saw an increase in 48V MHEV enquiries too, particularly when dealer stock was unavailable or on extended backorder. In these situations, customers have often been left with two choices: either wait weeks without a vehicle or turn to the aftermarket. We’ve stepped up to fill this gap, having parts readily available consistently. Quality is a critical consideration for these multifaceted and costly components; technicians cannot afford to fit substandard parts, especially when dealing with intricate systems. Belted starter-generators (BSGs), for example, are incredibly complex units and differ significantly from conventional alternators. In fact, they are no longer referred to as just ‘alternators’ at all but as BSGs, to reflect their advanced functionality. Whilst there is uncertainty surrounding whether there will be a new petrol and diesel car ban in 2030 or 2035, the government has confirmed that new hybrids will be available until 2035. Consequently, we are confident that hybrids — and demand for them — will continue on the steep trajectory for years to come. With experience spanning nearly 40 years and the increasingly specialist ability to remanufacture in-house, using the latest OE specification test equipment, we are well-placed to support technicians fitting our units daily by providing part-specific technical information — whether it’s contained within the iconic Autoelectro red box or sent following an enquiry. Sticking with MHEVs and 48V technology, to illustrate the point, we have discovered that many warning lights and ECU control faults are mistakenly attributed to the BSG. In fact, they originate from the vehicle’s ECU system. This type of information is vital for technicians, and we are committed to communicating these technical insights, not just for MHEVs either, throughout this year to ensure professionals are knowledgeable and confident. At Autoelectro, as the last British volume remanufacturer of starter motors and alternators, we have shown resilience. We have complete control over production and supply chains; this has shielded us from delays and availability issues, giving us a significant advantage into 2025, where uncertainty in global logistics shows no sign of abating. As the year progresses, we’re excited about several new initiatives, including our innovative part identification scheme. Unique to Autoelectro, this service leverages our technical expertise, allowing us to identify starter motors and alternators for obscure applications through images shared via email or WhatsApp. It’s another example of how we’re using our knowledge to provide value to our customers. Last year showed our ability to adapt, innovate and lead in a changing market. Autoelectro stocks around 5,000 part numbers distributed throughout the UK and Ireland. As we look ahead to the rest of the year, we remain dedicated to supporting the automotive aftermarket with quality, expertise and sustainability at the heart of everything we do. Visit www.autoelectro. co.uk for more information about Autoelectro. Committed to communicating technical insights vital for technicians Harnek Bhogal
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