Insurance, Mobility, Supplier, Technology, vehicle sales and Words
BMW Group is collaborating with Amazon Web Services (AWS) to develop new cloud technologies that will enable it to better leverage data generated by modern and future connected vehicles.
Today there are already more than 20 million connected BMW Group vehicles on the road, sending upwards of 10 billion enquiries – around hazard detection, ADAS and OTA updates – to the cloud-based infrastructure that manages connected vehicles.
The partnership with AWS will create a self-service portal enabling BMW Group developers to access all relevant data with just a few clicks. Only BMW Group will have access to the data, with AWS only providing infrastructure and services.
Nicolai Krämer, Vice President Vehicle Connectivity Platforms, said,“We already have around 20 million extensively connected vehicles on the road today. When the ‘Neue Klasse’ is launched, our offboard cloud platform, powered by AWS, will process roughly triple the volume of vehicle data compared to the current generation of BMW models. Together with AWS, we will continue to create innovative solutions, allowing us to develop new, data-driven functions and make them available to customers faster.”
Bodyshop, Environment, Finance, Insurance, Mobility, People, Salvage, Supplier, Technology, Training, Vehicle Repair, vehicle sales and Words
ARC360 is offering free access for repairers to its forthcoming ‘Gaining Ground Together’ themed event taking place on Thursday 24 November at the Manufacturing Technology Centre, Coventry.
The move comes as ARC360 steps up its efforts to bring the repairer and supply chain communities together by providing a platform of collaboration and understanding for all stakeholders.
The day will include a host of ‘quickfire’ sessions focused on providing greater insight and context to market conditions. It will deliver a ‘state of the nation’ look at market data and how it actually translates to everyday operations and future planning; explore procurement and battling the challenges of rising claims inflation; and the importance and impact of ESG on the supply chain.
The event will also include an exclusive look at the latest technology to be deployed within the technician training environment.
Mark Hadaway, co-founder of ARC360 said, “ARC360 has been developed around the core theme of Gaining Ground Together. Offering access to November’s event, at no cost, to repairers is very much a part of that approach in providing a platform for insight and knowledge sharing to support the long-term sustainability of the sector.”
ARC360 is supported by Corporate Partners: Solera Audatex; BASF; BMS; CAPS; Copart; EMACS; Entegral; Enterprise; Innovation Group; Mirka; Nationwide Vehicle Recovery Assistance; and S&G; along with Partners: Repairify; The Green Parts Specialists; Indasa; and Prasco UK; and Associate Partners: Gemini ARC; Trend Tracker; and Thatcham Research.
Bodyshop, Environment, Insurance, Technology, Vehicle Repair, wellbeing and Words
ARC360 offers free access to repairers
ARC360 is offering free access for repairers to its forthcoming ‘Gaining Ground Together’ themed event taking place on Thursday 24 November at the Manufacturing Technology Centre, Coventry.
The move comes as ARC360 steps up its efforts to bring the repairer and supply chain communities together by providing a platform of collaboration and understanding for all stakeholders.
Innovation Group provides claims and technology solutions to the insurance and automotive industries. It says the deal will support further innovations as well as the continued roll-out of Gateway, its digital claims management solution that connects all stakeholders on a single, independent platform.
Motor Claims Conference provides high-level insights
It will consider applications from anyone within the vehicle repair industry but is particularly keen to appoint experienced professionals from automotive sectors such as education, marketing and management.
FuelActive works by drawing fuel from near the surface of the tank, avoiding contamination from water and sediment that settles near the bottom. This reduces fuel consumption and CO2 emissions by as much as five per cent.
The London-based smart repairer, which has seen revenues grow fourfold in the last 18 months, employs skilled technicians empowered to use their own expertise and experience to estimate repair costs and timings and price jobs accordingly.
Director Paul Cunningham said, “Slough run an incredible business and thoroughly deserve the award. We work closely together and share best practice, so sharing the award seemed the obvious thing to do.”
Meanwhile, Fix Auto UK franchise partners were also shortlisted in the Single Site Bodyshop of the Year category (Fix Auto Penzance and Fix Auto Redhill), the Advanced Technologies Technician category (Ian Phillips of Fix Auto Redhill) and VDA of the Year (Mark Thomas, Fix Auto Mid Devon).
Introduced ease the burden of rising repair costs, the fee will remain in place from October until March, when it will be reviewed in line with market conditions.
Mark Green, Allianz Claims Supply Chain Manager, said, “As we head towards winter where there is general industry uncertainty and volatility, we are pleased to announce that Allianz will be introducing an Energy and Inflation support fee for all new repair instructions.”
Chris Ryder, Network Director, Avant, said, “The Energy & Inflation supplement will be a much welcome shot in the arm to our repairer partners.”
Environment, People, Salvage, Supplier, Technology and Words
UK salvage and remarketing experts Copart has completed a six-month trial of FuelActive, a new solution that delivers 92% cleaner fuel to engines.
FuelActive works by drawing fuel from near the surface of the tank, avoiding contamination from water and sediment that settles near the bottom. This reduces fuel consumption and CO2 emissions by as much as five per cent.
Phil Briggs, Director of Operation Centres, Transport & Engineering at Copart, said: “This FuelActive trial is yet another ‘Greenest Fleet on the Street’ initiative we are exploring as part of our Plan-Net-Zero commitment, which is designed to address all aspects of our operations against our ambition of achieving carbon neutrality in the shortest possible timescale.
“We’ve already made significant investment into the latest telematics and camera technology across our transport fleet, providing unique data and insight into driving styles and fuel consumption, and we’re actively exploring the option of hydrogen fuelled vehicles going forwards.
“The initial findings from the trial are very positive and we look forward to sharing the results after further analysis.”
The trial is part of an ongoing strategy of sustainability, which has already seen Copart ensure Euro VI compliancy across its transporter fleet, invest in JCB loaders with lower fuel consumption and emissions, invest in single and three-car transporters to enhance efficiency and partner with HGVC to deliver carbon neutral training to its drivers.
Bodyshop, People, Supplier, Training, Vehicle Repair and Words
AutoRaise is looking to support further growth by appointing new members to its Board of Trustees.
It will consider applications from anyone within the vehicle repair industry but is particularly keen to appoint experienced professionals from automotive sectors such as education, marketing and management.
It said, “Some of the current Board of Trustees have continued in their tenure for longer than was required; this was to ensure both the smooth running of the charity and to get AutoRaise into an enviable financial position post pandemic. It is now time to welcome some new like-minded industry professionals who can give their support, experience, and a little time to secure the objectives of the charity.
“AutoRaise will engage with all applicants to assess the candidate’s suitability, experience and skill set against the available roles. Successful applicants will be formally elected as officers of the charity and be allocated key responsibilities within a specific Trustee role with a level of expectancy around activity and input.”
The charity dedicated to promoting apprenticeships within the industry is also seeking volunteers to offer occasional support for specific projects, campaigns, initiatives, and events.
Anyone interested is invited to email Jennifer Evans at jen.evans@autoraise.co.uk before Friday, 28 October 2022.
Bodyshop, Environment, Finance, Insurance, Mobility, People, Supplier, Technology, Training, Vehicle Repair and Words
ILC’s Exclusive Motor Claims Conference took place last week at London’s tallest event space, providing the perfect opportunity for a high-level overview of developments across the market.
Headline sponsored by Enterprise Rent-A-Car, and sponsored by EDAM Group and LexisNexis Risk Solutions, the event covered a host of topics from the rise of insurtechs to credit hire, movements within the repair sector and shared opinions on challenges across the sector.
Hosted by ILC MD, Mark Hadaway the day got underway with a fascinating insight into ‘Motor Insurance in a Modern World’ documenting the rise of insurtech Marshmallow courtesy of Insurance Director, Paula (Coulthard) Griffiths.
Paula highlighted how behind the ‘tech’ element of Marshmallow sits “predominantly ‘non-insurance people’ with a relentless focus on customer experience” which combined with an ongoing appetite for research and development has provided solid grounding for the insurers exponential growth.
Panel sessions offering highly candid discussions around credit hire, personal injury and data insights all provided deeply insightful aspects to the agenda and gave the sense the industry was increasingly invested in understanding the internal challenges and opportunities that exist.
An ‘open session’ – using slido audience participation technology – also ensured all attendees had their say on some of the hottest topics of the day – 80% suggesting that the industry was yet to settle into a ‘new normal’.
The day also included two fireside type interviews – one with Richard Steer, CEO of rapidly expanding Steer Automotive Group and another with Geoff Carter, CEO of Sabre Insurance. Both offered highly engaging insights into their respective business operations and views of the sector, as well as hinting at further positive advances in the future.
Concluding the event, Mark said, “There is no doubt with all that is happening economically, politically and geopolitically we find ourselves in very uncertain times yet from what we have heard today the industry is evolving to ensure it is fit for purpose with the agility to cater for future customer needs.”
Finance, Insurance, People, Supplier, Technology and Words
Allianz X, the digital investment arm of Allianz Group, will acquire Innovation Group subject to regulatory approval.
Innovation Group provides claims and technology solutions to the insurance and automotive industries. It says the deal will support further innovations as well as the continued roll-out of Gateway, its digital claims management solution that connects all stakeholders on a single, independent platform.
With more than 1,200 clients across the globe, Innovation Group will maintain its operational independence, brand and culture following the deal.
Tim Griffiths, CEO of Innovation Group, said, “Allianz X’s support will accelerate the roll-out of our industry-leading platform, Gateway, open up new opportunities for growth and enable us to deliver market-leading services for our clients. We are delighted to have the backing of Allianz X as we enter the next phase of our development.”
Dr. Nazim Cetin, CEO of Allianz X, said, “Innovation Group’s digital solutions bring together all the relevant parties and data to facilitate smooth, efficient and transparent claims management, from first notification of loss to repair and settlement, which is what the market is increasingly demanding. It’s a future-ready business with lots of potential and we want to help unleash it.”
Ben is marking World Mental Health Day by encouraging colleagues in the industry to access its range of services if they are struggling.
It has found that 50% of automotive workers are suffering with worry, stress, anxiety, low mood or depression, or loneliness. This has been exacerbated by the pandemic and the cost of living crisis, quite apart from the challenges faced by the industry itself in terms of supply disruption, electrification and a lack of skills.
Rachel Clift, Health & Wellbeing Director at Ben, said, “One free and confidential chat with Ben could help you to get back on track – we can connect you with the best tools and services that are tailored to help you to overcome whatever it is you’re facing. Whether it’s signing up to a SilverCloud (CBT) programme, counselling or talking therapies, life coaching or financial assistance, we have a range of services and support designed to empower people to improve their circumstances and face life’s challenges with hope and positivity.
“Everyone deserves to live their best life, and this shouldn’t be something that is brushed under the carpet. Problems that are bottled up can escalate and end up in a state of crisis, so we always recommend sharing your worries with a trusted, friend, colleague or family member – or with us via our free and confidential helpline.”
Held in association with the Managing General Agent Association (MGAA) at 155 Bishopsgate, London on 28 September, the event attracted some 300 visitors making it one of the largest claims events of the year.
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The experiential event will aim to continue helping to create an environment for collaboration, interaction and innovative thinking across the incident repair sector.
Admiral announces major new repair network strategy
In a statement, the insurer said, “Our new network model will enable us to focus on strategic partnerships with a select number of industry-leading suppliers. This means we can more closely manage our customer journey and have the optimal performing repair capacity for today, and for future business growth.”
From 1 October and for a period of six months it will pay bodyshops in its network £75 plus VAT for every repair they carry out on its behalf.
Meanwhile, LV= hosted its first LV= Sole Site Forum since before the pandemic at F1 Williams on 8 September, when representatives from all 28 of its sole sites heard about future network strategies and opportunities to strengthen relationships and collaboration.
It welcomed the way they reallocated resources to make interim payments quickly, while proactively communicating with policyholders throughout the claim. However, the FCA also raised concerns over delays and the service provided to some vulnerable customers. It has now published its findings, including examples of good and bad practice, to help insurers deliver a fair and consistent service to customers throughout the claims process.
Motor Parts Direct delivers vehicle parts to more than 14,000 customers in the passenger and light commercial sector through its network of 175 branches.
The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders reported that there were 225,269 new registrations during the month, an increase of 4.6% on September 2021 but still 34.4% below pre-pandemic levels. EVs made up 16.5% with 38,116 units.
GT Motive has collaborated with JDK Technology to enhance its imaging services for bodyshop customers.
JDK’s solution enables photos to be sent directly from the claimant to the repairer, with images now directly integrated into the GT Global estimating platform ensuring everything is visible in a single location.
GTA announces interim rates agreement
Motor Insurers and credit hire companies have signed an interim agreement to increase certain hire rates.
The agreement, which applies to subscribers to industry protocol GTA and will remain in place until 30 June, is expected to ease the financial pressures by seeing credit hire companies accepting lower average hire rates in return for faster payments.
Transport Centre delivering Plan-Net-Zero strategy
One year after joining its Customer Excellence Centre, the Transportation Control Centre now manages a fleet of nearly 500 vehicles, with collections tailored to reduce emissions and improve efficiency.
Meanwhile, by adopting the latest technology the centre is also able to monitor driver behaviour and manage peaks in demand.
Bentley Aftersales Managers Jonathan Morris and Adam Causer visited the company’s Derbyshire site to present the trophy to Chartwell Group Director Chris Brightmore.
The company said, “Chartwell is immensely proud of this title, and we hope it demonstrates our continued commitment to delivering our Gold Standard service.”
Its Mirka Essentials range includes coveralls (light line or carbon line), safety glasses (with UV and IR protection), and masks (offering protection against solid particles, dust and odours).
Seven inspectors carried out a thorough assessment of the facilities and also conducted a range of interviews before delivering its judgement.
Tools of the Tech-Trade
In this episode, we speak with Phil Peace, Managing Director (International) of Repairify – a leader in advanced technology tooling and remote diagnostic support.
Mirka has received Gold accreditation from Investors in People (IIP), which recognised its excellent internal and external relationships and strong management team.
IPP also praised the company’s culture for engaging and empower colleagues while also supporting continuous professional development and upskilling.
Craig Daycock, Managing Director of Mirka, said, “We are absolutely thrilled to be accredited with the Gold award from the IIP. This recognition highlights how the sustained investment in the processes and structure to aid the development of our staff to support their customers and all our stakeholders has helped them grow both individually and as part of their team.
“The Mirka UK management team is committed to continuing to invest in these areas because we understand first-hand how continuous professional development benefits our customers and the business, and how it has made our staff feel empowered and trusted within the organisation.”
