Month: September 2021

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webinARC Wednesday makes a return as we catch up on developments and insights from across the sector. In this episode we explore what the ‘summer’ has meant for claims; do the numbers tell us anything new; and what can we expect in the coming weeks as work/life patterns resume.

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Report reveals changing EV market

Electric car (EV) insurance is currently more expensive than conventional insurance, largely due to the need for specialist parts but repair costs will improve as OEMs optimise designs.

This is according to a new ‘EV Readiness’ report from Trend Tracker scheduled for publication on World EV Day – Thursday 9 September.

The report is Trend Tracker’s second in the series of quarterly reports and features a wide-ranging industry study, expert insight and analysis of the latest EV market trends.

asTech launches ‘pay as you calibrate’

asTech, a Repairify company, has launched the industry’s first ADAS ‘pay as you calibrate’ initiative removing the upfront costs involved in purchasing ADAS equipment.

The company will offer its digital ADAS equipment with no upfront cost, and repairers will be able to pay as they use the equipment based on a small number of calibrations per week.

Meanwhile, the business has appointed Paul Cunningham as its new head of operations in the UK.

NBRA reveals Greener finalists

The NBRA has revealed the finalists for its Greener Bodyshop Awards which will take place on Thursday 9 September at West Midlands Safari Park.

Chris Weeks, Executive Director, NBRA said, “The level of nominations and interest in these awards is a great testament to the commitment our industry continues to show in doing the right thing, by our people, our planet and our eco-system.”

Trio create new prestige repair operation

A highly respected trio of industry names have teamed up to create Shorade UK Ltd to cater for the growing need for specialist, manufacturer-approved repair facilities across the UK.

The new venture, made up of Steven Shore, Shorade Accident Repair Centre; Mark O’Keefe, Finesse Accident Repair Centres; and Leon Coupland, HTH Dynamics comes after a period of close collaboration between the existing businesses.

Existing sites will continue to trade as independent companies, but will share resources, processes, management, and best practise. Shorade UK will focus on serving prestige manufacturers through the acquisition and opening of new facilities.

Fix Auto Sandhurst undergoes transformation

Fix Auto Sandhurst has completed a major programme of investment which has totally transformed the Berkshire business ravaged by fire in an arson attack in 2020.

Owner Martin Weller has spent an additional £150,000 on top of the insurance money received after arsonists destroyed his offices and part of his main workshop.

The repair centre now boasts a brand-new reception area, offices and storage facilities, while the 12,000sqft workshop has been refurbished with new flooring, efficient LED lighting and three new ramps.

Repairers announce VM approvals

HB Accident Repair Network has been appointed to the Stellantis Multi-Brand Accident Repair Network. The programme currently includes the Peugeot, Citroen, Vauxhall and DS Automobiles brands.

Meanwhile, Fix Auto Blackburn has become a Polestar Approved Accident Repair Centre, adding to its already impressive list of VM approvals.

Remit launches new HGV skills course

Remit Training has introduced a new training course to help technicians convert light vehicle skills to heavy vehicles.

The free 12-week Heavy Vehicle Skills Bootcamp course includes 12 hours a week of online sessions and tutor-led virtual classes, covering the theory elements of servicing and inspection, electronics, electrical systems within vehicles and bespoke EV awareness and safety.

The practical training element will be completed on the job, once the technician is employed in a heavy vehicle setting.

Cazoo acquires Cazana

Online car retailer, Cazoo has acquired automotive data insights specialists, Cazana to further optimise its car buying and pricing across the UK & Europe.

Cazana’s products include real-time vehicle valuation, pricing and stock management tools, and the acquisition by Cazoo will combine its market leading brand, proposition and platform with Cazana’s extensive data, products and expertise.

Alex Chesterman OBE, Founder & CEO of Cazoo said: “I am looking forward to welcoming the Cazana team to Cazoo as we continue our mission to deliver the best car buying and selling experience to consumers across Europe.”