July 2024 - Page 3 of 4

Fix Auto Penzance upgrades wheel refurbishment capabilities

12 July 2024

Bodyshop, Mobility, Supplier, Technology, Vehicle Repair and Words

Fix Auto Penzance has invested in a state-of-the-art laser-guided diamond-tipped cutting machine to enhance its alloy wheel refurbishment capabilities.

Owner Stuart Cameron bought the DCR Pro machine from Portsmouth-based DCR Systems after seeing the technology in action at the network’s National Conference sponsors’ exhibition in May.

He said, “We have been developing our alloy wheel refurbishment proposition for the last four years. When I saw the brand-new DCR Pro unit during our Conference I realised just how efficient it is and how it would improve our own capabilities. It takes our efficiencies and capacities to a whole new level. It is incredibly user-friendly which will enable us to easily train others within the bodyshop team.”

Joel Cameron, Operations Director at Fix Auto Penzance, added, “It is a significant investment and one we really were not planning on making this year. Having witnessed just how efficient and effective the new unit is, the investment is necessary to enable us constantly evolve our proposition.”

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Autonomous vehicles: Renault Group opts for different strategies for passenger cars and public-transport vehicles

12 July 2024

Environment, Mobility, People, Supplier, Technology, vehicle sales and Words

A realistic strategy for passenger autonomous cars.

There are six levels of autonomous driving, which depend on the extent to which the automation system requires the driver’s input. They range from 0 (no automation) to 5 (no input). In the case of passenger cars, Renault Group has chosen to concentrate its efforts on Level 2 automation, notably with Active Driver Assist.

This system, which is available on most Renault range vehicles, includes contextual adaptive cruise control, i.e. Adaptive Cruise Control plus Lane Keeping Assist and geolocation data interfacing with mapping data. The vehicle, as a result, adapts predictively to the road’s configuration and speed limit, based on combined data from its front camera and maps.

The next level – where the driver could release the steering wheel and do something else while the car drives itself – is not a priority in the near term.

Over the coming years, the recipe will remain the same: Renault will continue to build vehicles with market-leading driver assistance systems to make mobility ever safer and more enjoyable. Their electric and electronic architecture will remain scalable, so the Group will be able to add autonomous driving features if technological breakthroughs enable them and customer expectations warrant them.

To read the full article: click here.

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Ben raises awareness around financial support

12 July 2024

Bodyshop, Supplier, Vehicle Repair, vehicle sales, wellbeing and Words

Automotive industry charity Ben is raising awareness around the support it offers to those facing money worries after receiving nearly 16,000 enquiries and offering more than 600 grants in the last year.

In addition, its support services team has provided hundreds of automotive individuals with financial information, advice and guidance while also helping them with the wider impact on their mental health and emotional wellbeing.

This comes after Ben’s research found that 70% of those working in the industry worry about money. This is up 10% on last year.

Rachel Clift, Health & Wellbeing Director at Ben, said, “Cost-of-living pressures are still having a significant effect on many people in our automotive family. As a parent myself, I know that families now face the added costs that the summer holidays bring, as well as the back-to-school expenses. This is why we need to make sure everyone in our automotive industry knows that Ben is here for them.

“If you’re worrying about how you’re going to afford your food shop or your bills and the effect this is having on your mental or physical health, please get in touch. You’re not alone, Ben’s here for you. The sooner you get in touch, the sooner we can help you get back on track. If you’re struggling or at breaking point, contact our free and confidential helpline today.”

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Dacia and Swift suffer in new Euro NCAP safety ratings

12 July 2024

Mobility, People, Supplier, Technology, Vehicle Repair, vehicle sales and Words

Euro NCAP has released new safety ratings for a range of models.

The Dacia Duster and Suzuki Swift both achieved just three stars, while the Mercedes-Benz E class, the VW Passat, Skoda Superb and Skoda Kodiaq all achieved five stars

Meanwhile, the BMW x2 and Renault’s Espace and Rafale were rated as five-star twins to 2022-tested cars.

Both the Dacia Duster and Suzuki Swift prioritise affordability over safety features. While they meet legislation around autonomous emergency braking, emergency lane-keeping systems, intelligent speed limiters, and driver fatigue detection, they offer little more.

Meanwhile, the Mercedes-Benz E class, VW Passat, Skoda Superb and Skoda Kodiaq all provide exemplary levels of occupant protection, although the E-Class was close to losing a star against Euro NCAP’s latest protocols around pedestrian protection.

The BMW X2 is rated as five stars against 2022 protocols although it offers only poor pedestrian pelvis protection, with the Renault Espace and Rafale also awarded 2022 ratings.

Dr. Michiel van Ratingen, Secretary General Euro NCAP, said, “This latest release reveals a growing split between the safety ambitions of different car brands.The difference in star ratings is partly due to the segments in which the cars compete, but Euro NCAP also believes it is a matter of a brand’s priorities.

“Some, like Mercedes-Benz, Škoda, VW, BMW, and Renault, are convinced of their customers’ commitment to safety and its higher worth in the product offering.For Dacia and Suzuki, the emphasis is on affordability, but consumers should be in no doubt that there are competitor vehicles to the Duster and the Swift available on the market, which offer considerably higher levels of safety.”

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Copart expansion to continue in St Helens

12 July 2024

Bodyshop, Environment, Mobility, People, Supplier, Vehicle Repair and Words

Copart has announced that it will open a new Operation Centre in St Helens.

As part of its Land and Expand strategy, the new 19-acre site will provide further storage capacity for up to 24,000 vehicles in the region.

Jane Pocock, CEO of Copart UK and Ireland, said: “We’re passionate about continuously growing and improving our services to customers, so we’re very excited to announce that building works at our new St Helens site are rapidly progressing.

“In line with our Plan-Net-Zero sustainability commitment, the site is being constructed responsibly and designed to be inclusive, energy efficient, and eco-friendly. “Once complete, St Helens will boost vehicle storage capacity for our customers operating in this area of the country by 50%.”

Further land acquisition and expansion of existing sites will continue throughout the year.

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ARC360 News – Friday, 5 July 2024

5 July 2024

Bodyshop, Environment, Finance, Insurance, Mobility, People, Salvage, Supplier, Technology, Training, Vehicle Repair, vehicle sales, wellbeing and Words

EV exposure increasing according to ARC360 poll

Nearly seven in 10 respondents to a live poll conducted during ARC360’s Future Vehicle Technology event cited their exposure to EV claims was now moderate or high.

Bodyshop Briefs

Steer Automotive Group has announced the acquisition of Gemini Accident Repair Centres, furthering its mission to provide unparalleled automotive repair services across the UK. This acquisition includes all 38 sites of Gemini, expanding Steer’s footprint from Edinburgh to Cornwall.
Fix Auto Coalville has celebrated its 50^th anniversary after being founded by Roger Billett in 1974.
Scottish vehicle repair centre Anderson Clark Motor Repairs will now be run by its employees after being sold to a newly-formed trust.
Fylde Coast ARC has passed its unannounced BSI Kitemark audit with flying colours.

Industry News

Stellantis repair network joins NBRA

Stellantis has announced that its entire accident repair network has joined the NBRA.

This significant development brings Stellantis and its accident repair programme, representing nine of the 14 global brands in the UK, into a formal association with the NBRA.

Motor premiums up 34% in a year

New data has revealed that the average quoted price of car insurance rose by 34% in the year to May. This is according to the latest Consumer Intelligence Car Insurance Price Index.

GSR2 makes ADAS mandatory from 7 July

The European Union’s New Vehicle General Safety Regulation (GSR2) comes into effect on 7 July, making a number of ADAS features mandatory in vehicles.

These include Intelligent Speed Assist (ISA), Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB), Driver Drowsiness and Attention Warning (DDAW), and Emergency Lane Keeping Systems (ELKS).

Copart unveils Chelmsford Operation Centre

Copart UK has opened a new Operation Centre in Chelmsford, Essex. The new 30-acre site is part of an ongoing expansion strategy with further announcements to come.

Falling capacity creating bottlenecks

Falling capacity in the refurbishment sector is hitting remarketing, creating substantial bottlenecks in preparing cars and vans for sale, according to the Vehicle Remarketing Association.

Irish motor insurance damage costs soar 126%

The cost of Irish motor insurance claims rose 126% to £160m in the first half of 2023.

Drivers reminded to check insurance

Motor Insurers’ Bureau is reminding drivers to check their vehicle is properly insured, after a YouGov study showed 10% of the British public are not aware that it is compulsory for any vehicle used on a public road.

Silverlake hosts Brazilian recycling delegation

Silverlake hosted nine members of the Brazilian Automotive Recycling Association recently to showcase UK best practice around vehicle recycling.

The tour covered all aspects of automotive recycling including processing vehicles for auction or dismantling for reclaimed parts.

Stella partners with global leader in automotive solutions Assurant

Stella has announced a strategic partnership with Assurant, a global leader in insurance solutions. This collaboration aims to redefine automotive cover with a focus on delivering tailored insurance solutions specifically for women.

SYNETIQ colleagues scale Three Peaks for charity

Colleagues at SYNETIQ, an IAA company and one of the UK’s leading integrated vehicle salvage, dismantling, and recycling companies, have completed the Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge, raising over £4,000 for suicide prevention charity ANDYSMANCLUB.

Why skills are critical to the future mobility debate

IMI CEO Steve Nash was part of one of a high-profile panel discussion on skills. He formed part of the Auto manufacturing and skills: reshaping the industry in the electric image session at Move.

Tradex joins the IFB’s fraud-fighting membership

Tradex Insurance Company has joined the Insurance Fraud Bureau membership to play a key role in the industry’s collective fight against fraud.

Car sales pass million mark for 2024

New car sales topped a million units in the first half of the year for the first time since 2019, according to the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders.

Sales in June rose by 1.1% to take total sales so far in 2024 to 1,006,763 units. Meanwhile, the UK new light commercial vehicle (LCV) market fell for the first time in June after 17 successive months of growth.

Onyx unveils new BMS

Onyx has launched a new bodyshop management system that streamlines workflows and automates core processes like estimating, job scheduling, and parts ordering. It has been developed specifically to address the challenges of legacy systems.

Ben adds details to flagship fundraising events

Automotive charity Ben has announced more details surrounding its two flagship fundraising events, Ben’s Big Breakfast and Ben Ball.

Motor Ombudsman’s Knowledge Base viewed over 170,000 times

The Motor Ombudsman’s online Knowledge Base, the reference tool designed to provide consumers with responses to queries on car ownership, vehicle maintenance and dispute resolution, has seen a rise in usage during the second quarter of 2024.

Final whistle blows on Plunkys All Stars

The final Plunkys All Stars charity match raised more than £26,000 for its three charities Norkfolk and Waveney Mind, East Anglian Air Ambulance, and the Fire Fighters Charity.

The annual matches, the brainchild of industry stalwart Steve Plunkett, have been played for more than a decade now, raising over £119,000 collectively for valuable causes.

MAHLE Powertrain expands dedicated hydrogen powertrain testing capabilities

MAHLE Powertrain is expanding its Northampton facility to include a dedicated hydrogen powertrain testing capability. The capacity to hold two tube-trailers on-site with rapid switch-over functionality between them will ensure a near-continuous supply of hydrogen.

VM News

Stellantis joins with CEA to pursue next-generation battery cell technology

Stellantis and CEA, one of the world’s most innovative research institutions, have announced a new, five-year collaboration that targets in-house design of next-generation battery cells for electric vehicles.

Geotab and BYD Trucks Europe announce integration

Geotab has announced an integration of its European-based fleet management solutions with BYD Trucks Europe. This collaboration provides BYD Trucks Europe with a robust fleet management solution across Europe.

Commercial Van safety performance improving significantly

The latest Euro NCAP Commercial Van ratings show a significant improvement in the performance of ADAS available on commercial vans. Seven of the tested vehicles (40%) received Euro NCAP’s Commercial Van Platinum rating and performed substantially better than the EU General Safety Regulation.

Toyota to host IAATI conference

Toyota will host the International Association of Auto Theft Investigators UK Branch national vehicle crime conference on 9-10 July at its manufacturing plant in Derbyshire, underscoring it’s commitment to combating vehicle crime.

Rimac unveils Verne EV

Rimac has shifted from hypercars to autonomous transportation with the unveiling of Verne, a new electric, autonomous fleet of taxis to be launched in Zagreb in 2026.

People

LKQ Corporation has appointed Justin Jude as its new President and CEO.
Motor Insurers Bureau has named Angus Easton as CEO.
Mark Whiting has been appointed Bodyshop Assistant Manager at Dick Lovett Group.
Michael Massey has been named Head of Technical Capability & Innovation at FMG Repair Services.
The IMI has announced a strategic transition of its executive team, with Kevin Finn stepping in as Executive Chair during the transition, Azlina Bulmer as Managing Director and Simon Barrell as Chief Financial Officer.
Aston Barclay Vehicle Remarketing has appointed Eddie Thomson as Chief Operating Officer.
Adam Wood is appointed Managing Director Renault brand UK and Country Head Renault Group UK, replacing Guillaume Sicard.

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EV exposure increasing according to ARC360 poll

5 July 2024

Bodyshop, Finance, Mobility, People, Supplier, Vehicle Repair, vehicle sales and Words

Nearly seven in 10 respondents to a live poll conducted during ARC360’s Future Vehicle Technology event cited their exposure to EV claims was now moderate or high.

The event took place at the Manufacturing Technology Centre (MTC) in Coventry, supported by Corporate Partners: BASF, CAPS, Copart, Entegral, Enterprise, Mirka, Nationwide Vehicle Assistance, S&G Response, Solera Audatex; along with Partners: e2e, Gemini ARC, Repairify and Prasco, and sponsored by Activate Group and Thatcham Research along with vehicle manufacturer Stellantis.

Underlining the interactive element of ARC360 and ILC events, a number of live polls were held during the day to take a real-time temperature of industry feelings to a number of key factors.

When asked current exposure to EV claims, 51% described it at moderate but growing, with 17% saying it was already high. Just over a quarter (26%) said it was still minimal, with only six per cent saying they had yet to have any exposure to EV claims.

Increased costs associated with EVs was identified as the number one learning experience to date by more than 30% of respondents, while eight per cent directly suggested the need for training was the main issue.

In terms of other technologies impacting business, just under half of respondents identified ADAS as the number one influence, ahead of AI.

Meanwhile, the ZEV Mandate, which sets vehicle manufacturers proportional and increasing targets for EV sales, is expected to have a high impact for 26% of respondents. More than half (54%) said it would have a moderate impact with 18% believing its impact on their own business will be minimal.

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GSR2 makes ADAS mandatory from 7 July

5 July 2024

Bodyshop, Environment, Insurance, Mobility, People, Supplier, Technology, Vehicle Repair, vehicle sales and Words

The European Union’s New Vehicle General Safety Regulation (GSR2) comes into effect on 7 July, making a number of ADAS features mandatory in vehicles.

These include Intelligent Speed Assist (ISA), Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB), Driver Drowsiness and Attention Warning (DDAW), and Emergency Lane Keeping Systems (ELKS).

The UK has not yet signed up to GSR2, although Northern Ireland will adopts its protocols, with some fearing this could see the UK falling behind Europe when it comes to vehicle safety standards.

Yousif Al Ani, Principal Engineer – ADAS, at Thatcham Research, said: “Crash avoidance is the future of automotive safety. KSI (killed or seriously injured) statistics amongst vulnerable road users remain stubbornly high at more than 11,000 each year. The key to reducing these numbers is through the wider introduction of active crash avoidance systems.

“The UK is yet to sign up to GSR2. The technology mandated by this directive is already found in most new cars and the UK could be at risk of falling behind in automotive safety by not adopting it.

GSR2 was first applied in July 2022, with Phase One mandating additional technical requirements on new vehicle models.

Phase Two stipulated ADAS features in new vehicles from July 2022 and existing vehicles from July 2024, with Phase Three mandating an increase in scope to include Advanced Driver Distraction Warning (ADDW) and additional pedestrian and cyclist AEB.

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Motor premiums up 34% in a year

5 July 2024

Finance, Insurance, Mobility, People, Supplier, vehicle sales and Words

New data has revealed that the average quoted price of car insurance rose by 34% in the year to May.

This is according to the latest Consumer Intelligence Car Insurance Price Index.

However, the trend could be working the other way. The three months to May saw average quoted premiums fall by 1.3%. This was the first quarterly drop since the last three months of 2021 and follows a 0.5% increase in the previous quarter, which was the lowest rise since November 2021.

That data showed that in May drivers most commonly received a quote between £500 and £749, with 21% of quotes falling in this price range. Around 58% of quotes were below £1,000.

Max Thompson, Insurance Insight Manager at Consumer Intelligence, said, “The escalation of car insurance premiums may finally be at an end, with insurers now reducing premiums and jostling to get to the top of screen on the price comparison website results pages.

“Insurers are making their pricing efforts more visible to consumers. There are now more price cut offers visible on quotes than messages relating to cover benefits, which is the first time this has been the case since July 2022.”

Average overall quoted premiums have risen 122.7% since October 2013 when Consumer Intelligence first started collecting data.

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Ben adds details to flagship fundraising events

5 July 2024

Bodyshop, People, Supplier, Vehicle Repair, vehicle sales, wellbeing and Words

Automotive charity Ben has announced more details surrounding its two flagship fundraising events, Ben’s Big Breakfast and Ben Ball.

Ben’s Big Breakfast takes place from 7-13 October, the same week as World Mental Health Day on 10 October, and encourages everyone in the sector to host breakfast mornings to raise funds for the charity while at the same time chatting with colleagues with a view to opening up about mental health issues.

Meanwhile, the Ben Ball will take place on 11 December and Old Billingsgate Market, with Ben announcing that the 1920’s Great Gatsby-themed event will feature entertainment by the Electro Swing Project.

Matt Wigginton, Director of Partnerships, Engagement and Income at Ben, said, “Ben is on a mission to help more people each year; three times as many by 2030. That’s a bold ambition, but one we know we can achieve with the help of our industry. Events like this are crucial – and these are our two biggest events of the year, so we hope you’ll join us and make a real difference to the lives of those in our automotive family.”

Ben is aiming to raise upwards of £150,000 from the two events.