Solera data unpicks EV versus ICE repair costs
Solera has announced findings of global research comparing the repair cost trends of electric vehicles and internal combustion engines.
The study examined more than 92,000 repair estimates and found that, overall, EV repair costs are 29% higher while EV parts costs are 48% higher on average.
WorldSkills winners to be revealed
The National WorldSkills finals have been taking place at a number of training and education providers throughout the UK this week, with the winners set to be announced at a glittering ceremony at Bridgewater Hall, Manchester this evening.
Among the 51 disciplines that have been tested include Automotive Body Repair, Automotive Refinishing, Automotive Technology and Heavy Vehicle Technology.
Prasco unveils seamless service
Leading supplier of independently certified non-OEM replacement parts Prasco UK is redeveloping its website to make it more intuitive and user-friendly.
The Doncaster-based operation has developed a series of new functions to ensure the process of searching for parts, ordering and then monitoring through a real-time tracked delivery service is as seamless as possible.
Ben announces strategic vision
To meet rising demand for its services, automotive charity Ben has announced a new five-year strategic plan that will see its care and village services transferred ‘to the stewardship of new operators.’
Since 2018, Ben has managed a 300% increase in enquiries through its confidential helpline and supported over 200% more individuals through its support and specialist services.
Mirka celebrates 80th anniversary
Mirka UK parent company Mirka Ltd is celebrating its 80th anniversary this year. Since being founded in 1943 it has grown to become one of the world’s leading manufacturers in the surface finishing industry.
Gemini ARC secures GQA approved training centre status
Gemini Accident Repairs has been named an Approved Training Centre to deliver GQA National Qualifications.
The initial four qualifications offered by Gemini include GQA Level 3 Award in Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) Awareness; GQA Level 3 Award in ADAS Awareness and Competence; GQA Level 3 Award in Competence and understanding in 4-wheel alignment; and GQA Level 3 Award in Understanding the principles of 4-wheel alignment.
GT Motive launches parts lists checker
GT Motive has unveiled GT QCheck, an automated webservice that analyses and corrects a parts’ lists to improve accuracy, reduce order mistakes and optimise delivery expenses.
M&A Coachworks marks Porsche milestone
Longworth-based M&A Coachworks has this month completed its 10,000th insurance repair for Porsche since securing approved repairer status in 2015.
Dozen up for Komoo
Komoo has opened its 12th site and first in Northern Ireland. Located in Bangor, County Down, the site will be managed by Carl Henderson.
Standard success
L&I Eaton Sheffield has achieved BSi 10125:2022 accreditation.
Dwane Walsh, Site Manager, said, “I’m delighted with all the staff for their support and commitment to achieving accreditation – it was challenging but demonstrates our commitment to being one of the UKs leading accident repair centres.”
Big achievement for XL Motors
Coventry-based repairer XL Motors has secured Lotus Bodyshop Approval.
On the up Down Under
Thatcham Research is touring Australia with partners Suncorp Group, sharing insights around sustainable vehicle repairs, EVs and skills with the industry.
Head of Repair Sector Services Dean Lander and Group Product Manager, Automotive and Repair Karen Jakes have already delivered sessions to local technicians and businesses in Melbourne and Sydney.
Walton celebrates Stellantis success
Walton Accident Repair has achieved full multi-brand approval status for the Stellantis UK Accident Repair Programme.
Polestar4 in production
Polestar has begun production of its new SUV Coupe, Polestar4, at the Geely-operated facility in Hangzhou Bay.
Roll out to Chinese customers is expected by the end of this year before orders open to UK customer early next year.
Dark days for broken glass claims
Vehicle claims for broken glass has risen this month in line with the darker nights. According to Auto Windscreens, this is a familiar trend when the clocks go back, with most broken glass claims attributed to ‘break ins’.
However, overall, body glass claims have halved since 2011, coming down from 1,171,000 to 729,000.
Team UK honoured at Houses of Parliament
Team UK’s success at EuroSkills Gdańsk 2023 was celebrated at a special event at the Houses of Parliament, London. The team collected nine medals, including one gold, and two bronze medals, plus six Medallions for Excellence.
IMI announces Budget wishlist
The IMI has announced its automotive industry ‘wishlist’ ahead of next week’s Autumn Budget.
It is calling for increased funding for apprenticeships, greater support for SMEs to offer apprenticeships, further education around ADAS, and more incentives for drivers switching to alternative fuelled vehicles.
SMMT produces manufacturing manifesto
The SMMT has joined industry bodies from the four other main manufacturing sectors in the UK to produce a manifesto to secure continued growth.
Alongside the Association of the British Pharmaceutical Industry, the Aerospace, Defence, Security and Space Group, the Chemical Industries Association, and the Food and Drink Federation, the SMMT has called for a fresh focus on skills, policies to promote innovation, and further collaboration with business to support sustainability.
Mercedes-Benz expand valet parking solution
Mercedes-Benz has announced its automated valet parking solution, Intelligent Park Pilot, is now available in its E-Class Saloon and Estate, the EQE SUV and the EQS SUV.
The solution allows drivers to exit the vehicle in the carpark and let the car drive itself to a pre-booked space.
Skills gap stifling growth
A lack of skills was cited as the main obstacle to growth by 22% of SME respondents to a survey by the Federation of Small Businesses.
That figure was at 28% for manufacturing businesses and 23% for those in technical sectors.
LKQ Euro Car Parts launches graduate programme
LKQ Euro Car Parts has launched its first Graduate Scheme. The new three-year programme will help graduates progress into the financial sector through continued learning and dedicated mentors.
Seal slides into UK market
The fully-electric BYD Seal has launched in the UK this week. Featuring a 15.6-inch centre console and the latest innovations in front and rear lights, the model can accelerate from 0-100km in 3.8 seconds and is fully rechargeable in just 26 minutes.
Car of the Future revealed
Nine-year-old Oliver Gorrod has created the ‘Car of the Future’ after entering the nationwide MINI Minds competition, which challenged children aged 4-10 to imagine their perfect car.
Oliver’s winning solution is fully electric, with a camouflaged design to blend into the natural environment.
Politics and football colour buying habits
A study by Cazoo has revealed the 23% of drivers would rule out buying a car if its colour represented a political party or football team they don’t like, with 47% of under 30s saying they’d refuse to buy a car in the colour of a political party they don’t support.
Cybertruck drivers could face Tesla lawsuit
Business Insider has reported that buyers of Tesla’s new Cybertruck could be sued for £40,000 if they sell the vehicle within a year.
The Cybertruck will be released on 30 November, with a quarter of a million set to be produced by 2025.
AutoRaise on the road
AutoRaise has been promoting the industry to the next generation during a series of visits to apprentice and school-leaver events.
It has been showcasing the tools and technology within the automotive sector, and highlighting the career opportunities that exist within the industry.
People
Kaylie Skitt has been appointed as senior financial controller by Smart Repairs.
Messe Frankfurt UK, organisers of Automechanika Birmingham and UK Garage & Bodyshop Event, has named Joanne Knowles as Event Director.
