ARC360 News – Friday 30 June 2023

Plug in to the EV-olution!

Just days remain before ARC360’s specialist electric vehicle (EV) event, which takes place on Tuesday 4 July at the Manufacturing Technology Centre (MTC) in Coventry.

The event, which will feature experts from across the vehicle incident repair supply chain, will address the impact of EVs on FNOL, repair capabilities, cost inflation, skillset requirements, health & safety, repairability, replacement vehicles and end-of-life vehicle management.

Talking sense with Chris Mcilduff

Chris Mcilduff, Chief Customer Officer at Davies Consulting, has highlighted how technology combined with the human touch can deliver excellence in customer journeys.

Speaking during ARC360’s latest podcast, he also explained how processes and training can directly improve customer support.

Production continues upwards momentum

UK car production rose for the fourth consecutive month in May, up 26.9% year on year, according to the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders.

Meanwhile, UK commercial vehicle manufacturing grew 36.9% in May.

BASF closes EV battery loop with new site

BASF has opened Europe’s first co-located centre of battery material production and battery recycling.

Based in Germany, the facility will produce high-performance cathode materials and also serve as a battery recycling plant.

Ben celebrates World Wellbeing Week

Automotive charity Ben has emphasised how good mental and physical health can both influence and be influenced by wellbeing.

To mark World Wellbeing Week, Ben has urged colleagues in the automotive industry to take care of their health and wellbeing as the industry and wider workplace undergoes a significant transformation.

Centre of Excellence set for expansion

The WorldSkills UK Centre of Excellence is expanding. It will now be open to all Further Education (FE) Colleges, independent training providers, and Higher Educational Institutions throughout the UK and is expected to benefit more than 140,000 young individuals and nearly 5,000 educators over the next three years.

What’s shaping claims and repairs in 2023?

The automotive repair and motor claims landscape has been shifting substantially for the last four years. Covid was a key driver in this transition, with inflation, skills shortages and supply chain challenges – not to mention changing customer habits – only accelerating the evolution.

In this article, we speak to ILC partners e2e Total Loss Vehicle Management and Repairify to find out how they are adapting to meet new demands and satisfy customers.

The IMI secures EV training contract in China

The IMI has announced a new collaboration with the Chinese Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security to train teachers and students at Shandong Polytechnic and Technician College in EV technology.

Repairability critical to car design

Thatcham Research has said that prioritising repair in car design principles is essential for improving the total cost of ownership and sustainability outcomes.

It is encouraging manufacturers to collaborate with it to find design solutions to support repairs and reduce the pressure on repair networks.

Repairify achieves ISO 14001 certification

Repairify sites Luton and Peterlee have both been awarded ISO 14001 certification, which sets out the standard for an environmental management system.

The two sites are the first within the Repairify group to achieve the environmental accreditation.

Thatcham Research celebrates 10 years of escribe

Thatcham Research has marked the 10th anniversary of its online escribe repair methods tool by providing a valuable insight into how emerging vehicle technology is altering the profile of the UK car parc.

Escribe provides access to more than 500,000 repair methods and technical information across over 1,000 models.

CMA clears Copart/Hills deal

The proposed acquisition of Hill Motors by Copart looks set to go ahead after the Competition and Markets Authority provisionally cleared the deal.

The CMA said, “The CMA has provisionally concluded that the completed acquisition by Copart of Hills Motors has not and may not be expected to result in a substantial lessening of competition in the supply of salvage services in the UK.”

Aston Martin signs EV contract with Lucid

Aston Martin has signed a landmark new supply agreement with EV technologies company Lucid Group to accelerate its plans to develop luxury EVs, backed by a £2bn investment.

Steer Group named in UK’s top 100

Steer Automotive Group has been named in The Sunday Times 100, which recognises the fastest growing private companies in the UK.

The company has been expanding exponentially ever since it was founded with four sites by Richard Steer in 2018.

BMH celebrates 1,000th E-Type replacement bonnet

British Motor Heritage (BMH) has produced its 1,000th replacement E-Type Jaguar bonnet. Each one comprises 82 individual parts and takes no less than 70 man hours to construct.

SMMT calls for industrial strategy to secure £106bn EV prize

The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders believes there is a £106bn windfall awaiting the UK economy if the transition to net zero is successful.

It has launched its Manifesto 2030: Automotive growth for a zero-emission future and called on every party to create the conditions for a 10-fold rise in annual battery electric vehicle (BEV) production to more than 750,000 units per year by 2030.

Allianz launched EV salary sacrifice scheme

Allianz Holdings has partnered with ElextriX to introduce an electric vehicle salary sacrifice scheme for its UK employees. The scheme also includes home charging, breakdown cover, and fixed cost motor insurance for three years.

Drivers DIY to reduce costs

A new survey by the RAC has revealed that nearly a quarter of drivers (23%) are either not servicing their cars regularly or doing it themselves to cut costs.

People

The Institute of the Motor Industry has appointed Daksh Gupta, Vice President of BEN, as a Vice President.

PPG has named Alisha Bellezza Vice President, Global Automotive Coatings.

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Automotive production continues forwards momentum

UK car production rose for the fourth month in a row in May, surging by 26.9% year on year to 79,046 units.

This is according to the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), which reported that manufacturers produced 16,762 more units than in the same month last year.

Meanwhile, combined hybrid electric, plug-in hybrid and battery electric vehicle volumes were up 95.4% to 27,636 units and representing 35% of all cars made in the month.

Commercial vehicle production also rose in the month, up 36.9% to 10,813 units.

Mike Hawes, SMMT Chief Executive, said, “Another month of growth for UK car production is good news and a sign that, despite challenging economic conditions, the industry’s foundations are strong. But with weak GDP growth, high inflation and rising interest rates, it’s crucial that UK car factories stay globally competitive. All political parties must recognise the strategic importance of this sector and back our call for an industrial strategy that supports local production, assures export market access and attracts further investment to safeguard our future.”

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CMA reverses Copart/Hills decision

The proposed acquisition of Hill Motors by Copart looks set to go ahead after the Competition and Markets Authority provisionally cleared the deal. 

It originally concluded in May that the acquisition could ‘substantially’ reduce competition in the UK vehicle salvage sector.

However, after reviewing evidence from customers, it has reversed these findings.

Kirstin Baker, chair of the independent panel of experts conducting the most recent investigation, said, “We’ve gathered new evidence which means we no longer consider that this deal raises competition concerns in the vehicle salvage sector. We conduct these thorough investigations to fully understand issues affecting competition in that market. The purpose of the provisional findings stage is to gather responses and review the evidence before we make a final decision.

“In some cases, new evidence comes to light which causes us to change our mind as we have done here.”

Jane Pocock, Chief Executive of Copart UK & Ireland, said, “This decision is testament to the thoroughness of the CMA process and reflects both the significant hard work of all the Copart teams involved and the unwavering support shown by our customers, both of which I am very grateful for.

“We are incredibly excited about the opportunity, and what it brings to our existing customers and of course to the wider market. Equally, we are looking forward to formally welcoming Ian Hill and his great team to the Copart family. 

“We remain committed to our mission of ensuring that we serve our customers and the wider automotive sector by providing market leading green parts, total loss, and remarketing services.”

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Steer Group named in UK’s top 100

Steer Automotive Group has been named in The Sunday Times 100, which recognises the fastest growing private companies in the UK.

The company has been expanding exponentially ever since it was founded with four sites by Richard Steer in 2018.

In the last 12 months it has made a number of significant acquisitions, including AW Accident Repair Centre and Artis Accident Repair Centres, and has also been enhancing its footprint in the North East with the acquisitions of Tyne Tees Vehicle Repair Group, North East Accident Repair Centres, and Vertu Accident Repair Centre Newcastle.

The business, which now includes more than 60 sites and employs around 1,500 colleagues, also opened a state-of-the-art flagship site in High Wycombe which specialises in repairing premium and luxury vehicle brands.

Richard Steer, chief executive, said: “This prestigious accolade reflects our unwavering commitment to excellence and our remarkable growth trajectory. We extend our deepest gratitude to our insurer partners and vehicle manufacturers for their invaluable support and collaboration, which has played a crucial role in our success. We are immensely proud of our dedicated teams whose hard work, passion, and innovation have propelled us to this significant achievement. This recognition motivates us to continue delivering a Measurably Different customer experience and to set new benchmarks in the industry. Together, we will move towards a future filled with continued growth and success.”

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Repairify achieves ISO 14001 accreditation

Repairify sites Luton and Peterlee have both been awarded ISO 14001 certification, which sets out the standard for an environmental management system. 

The two sites are the first within the Repairify group to achieve the environmental accreditation.

Repairify met the required certification by ensuring its UK sites are compliant with specific environmental criteria and demonstrated strict monitoring processes and awareness of environmental policies. These include effective waste management, battery containment, spillage kits, energy usage, and fire regulations.

Phil Peace, Managing Director, Repairify, said, “The business’ objective is to be environmentally stable and reduce our carbon footprint.  By monitoring our waste carefully, handling it correctly and reducing it significantly, we have been able to achieve ISO 14001 at our first attempt.”

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Ben celebrates World Wellbeing Week

Automotive charity Ben has emphasised how good mental and physical health can both influence and be influenced by wellbeing.

To mark World Wellbeing Week, Ben has urged colleagues in the automotive industry to take care of their health and wellbeing as the industry and wider workplace undergoes a significant transformation.

It says that wellbeing is generally how comfortable, healthy or happy we are within our own lives. It is unique to each person and can mean different things to different people. However, Ben offers the tools to help people learn about, develop and manage each area of their own wellbeing.

Support and coping mechanisms for everything from financial stress to anxiety and depression is available on the website www.ben.org.uk/gethelp, through a confidential text support service and via the company’s helpline (08081 311 333).

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ARC360 News – Friday 23 June 2023

Scene set for specialist EV event

Some of the leading names from across the motor claims sector are set to share their insights at ARC360’s forthcoming specialist EV event – The EV-olution.

Sponsored by Control Expert and Thatcham Research, along with ARC360 Corporate Partners and Partners, the event takes place on Tuesday 4 July at the Manufacturing Technology Centre (MTC), Coventry.

Fix Auto introduces new ADAS capability

Fix Auto UK has announced a new partnership with US-based AirPro Diagnostics to enhance ADAS calibrations within its network.

AirPro Diagnostics is a pioneer in remote vehicle diagnostics and calibration products, and will initially bring into the UK its unique ‘AUGGIE’ mobile system that enables ADAS calibrations to be easily and swiftly completed outside of the workshop by any productive.

The shape of claims to come

Claims and motor repairs are evolving rapidly as new technologies and new ways of working disrupt the landscape. These changes are putting pressure on bodyshops and insurers and to move with the times to ensure they continue to offer a safe and streamlined service to drivers.

Here, Solera Audatex considers the implications of the fast-changing landscape.

Benathlon and Big Breakfast on charity menu

Automotive charity Ben is inviting the automotive community to take part in two charity initiatives this autumn, the Benathlon in September and its Ben’s Big Breakfast in October.

CMA publishes provisional findings to Copart/Hills merger

The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has published responses to its provisional findings in the proposed acquisition of Hills Salvage and Recycling by Copart UK.

The CMA launched an investigation into the proposed deal after fearing it could result in a reduction in competition in the vehicle salvage and spare parts sectors.

Enterprise reveals repair winners

Enterprise hosted its 2023 Repair Partner Event on 15 June when insurers, repairers and suppliers from across the network converged to hear business updates, topical industry discussions and celebrate outstanding service in the last year.

The full list of winners is available here.

Mirka unveils one-step polishing solution

Mirka has introduced a new system to help customers achieve a glossy surface finish in just one step.

The Mirka PRO Finishing solution, aimed at manufacturers, combines Mirka’s know-how in power tools, abrasives and polishing compounds to deliver a consistent and reliable result.

Fix Auto Swansea to join the network

Fix Auto UK is enhancing its footprint in Wales with the news that Fix Auto Swansea West will join the network.

The site is managed by Matthew Davies and Paul Gravell, whose team of 12 now repairs up to 80 vehicles a month.

Chaplane achieves VM approval

Colchester-based Chaplane Accident Repair Centre has become an approved repairer for Toyota and Lexus.

Payne eases into skills shortage debate

Chris Payne, Head of Networks and Engineering, Home and Motor, at LV=, attended The Future of Automotive Skills, hosted by the Industry and Parliament Trust, to promote the industry and discuss the skills shortage currently impacting the sector.

RAC delivers repairs to customer’s door

The RAC is now offering mobile servicing and repairs to enable people to get their cars serviced on their driveways or at work.

RAC Mobile Mechanics now covers the 20 biggest towns and cities, with plans for even wider coverage before the end of the year.

EV sales surge 14% globally

New data has revealed that global plug-in vehicle registrations rose 70% year-on-year to 928,000 in April, making up 14% of the overall market.

Pure EVs accounted for 10% of sales.

EVs prominent in Auto Trader awards

Nine out of the 23 winners in the Auto Trader New Car Awards 2023 were EVs. The awards were voted for by more than 220,000 car buyers.

The Kia EV6 was named New Car of the Year, the Tesla Model Y won the Best Car for Families, while the Tesla Model 3 was named Best Car for Long Distances.

EV installations made easy

Breakdown services provider Green Flag has announced a new partnership with charge point installation platform Rightcharge to make it easier for customers to install EV charge points.

Drivers are able to choose the charge point most suited to their needs, and pay for their installation via Rightcharge.

Sleeping Battery to combat keyless thefts

Car Lock Systems has released a new solution to help fight keyless car thefts. Sleeping Battery works by putting the car key to sleep after three minutes of inactivity

Synetiq announces site updates to boost capacity

Synetiq has announced several site upgrades to help streamline operations for the combined IAA and Synetiq business and create cost savings for customers.

LKQ colleagues coast to charity target

Jodie Mullard and Lisa Goodley of LKQ Bodyshop Division are joining colleagues and senior leaders from across the business to raise funds for automotive charity Ben by walking 13 miles along the Jurassic coast on 5 January.

People

Senior Vice President Digitalisation, Automation and Innovation Management at BASF Dr Helmut Winterling will take over responsibility for the DivisionGroup Research from Dr Detlef Kratz.

Sophie Ward has been named Technical Claims Manager at Pen Underwriting UK.

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Mirka unveils one-step polishing solution 

Mirka has introduced a new system to help customers achieve a glossy surface finish in just one step.

The Mirka PRO Finishing solution, aimed at manufacturers, combines Mirka’s know-how in power tools, abrasives and polishing compounds to deliver a consistent and reliable result.

Sanding the imperfections is done with the company’s cordless spot repair sanders and Mirka Iridium SR spot repair discs. The sanded area is then polished using Mirka cordless polishing machines and PRO polishing pads combined with the Pro Iridium 1250 polishing compound.

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CMA publishes provisional findings to Copart/Hills merger

The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has published responses to its provisional findings in the proposed acquisition of Hills Salvage and Recycling by Copart UK.

The CMA launched an investigation into the proposed deal after fearing it could result in a reduction in competition in the vehicle salvage and spare parts sectors.

However, a response has now been published, stating: “The CMA’s conclusions disregard the clear and overwhelming evidence of customers. Not one Copart customer identified Hills Motors as an alternative salvager which could meet their requirements. Not one customer considered Copart and Hills Motors as close competitors. Not one customer expressed any concerns about this merger, and 12 of these 16 customers explicitly expressed positive views.”

The CMA has stated that its concern is future-based, suggesting that while the two may not be direct competitors now they could become so in the future if Hills continues to grow, which could have a negative impact on customers.

The response said, “Customer responses not only indicate a lack of concerns about the merger but also underline customer benefits. This merger was driven by customers. The vertical integration achieved by the merger will provide customers with significant benefits, particularly environmental ones.”

The statutory deadline is 20 July.

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Enterprise repair winners revealed

Enterprise hosted its 2023 Repair Partner Event on 15 June when insurers, repairers and suppliers from across the network converged to hear business updates, topical industry discussions and celebrate outstanding service in the last year.

Winners of the Repairer Awards were:

  • Best Fleet Repair Partner South East: Fix Auto Dagenham
  • Best ECRN Repair Partner South East: Rye Street
  • Best Fleet Repair Partner South West: Auto Art Devon
  • Best ECRN Repair Partner South West: Motofix Swindon
  • Best Fleet Repair Partner North West: KC Autos Northwich
  • Best ECRN Repair Partner North West: KC Autos
  • Best Fleet Repair Partner North East: Shane Graves
  • Best ECRN Repair Partner North East: Alton Cars
  • Best Fleet Repair Partner Scotland: QA Vehicle Solutions
  • Best ECRN Repair Partner Scotland: Arnold Clark
  • Outstanding Customer Service World Class NPS:
    • Alton Cars Mansfield
    • Steer Automotive Group Perry Bar
    • The Vella Group Preston
    • Steer Automotive Group Boston

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