Study reveals European vehicle manufacturers drive economic growth

A recent study by the European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association (ACEA) has unveiled that every euro invested by European vehicle manufacturers generates over €2.5 in value added to the broader economy.

This significant finding underscores the pivotal role the automotive industry plays in Europe’s economic landscape.​

The study highlights that the automotive sector is not only a cornerstone of Europe’s industrial framework but also a catalyst for economic prosperity. The industry’s investments ripple through various sectors, amplifying economic activity and job creation.​

Key Findings:

  • Economic contribution: For every euro invested by vehicle manufacturers, more than €2.5 is added to the economy, reflecting the industry’s multiplier effect.​
  • Employment impact: The sector supports millions of jobs, both directly within manufacturing and indirectly across related industries such as supply chains, retail, and services.​
  • Innovation and R&D: Automotive companies are among the top investors in research and development, driving advancements in technology, safety, and environmental sustainability.​

Eric-Mark Huitema, ACEA Director General, emphasised the industry’s commitment to fostering economic growth and innovation: “The automotive sector is a driving force for Europe’s economy. Our investments not only lead to cutting-edge technologies and sustainable mobility solutions but also stimulate economic activity across the continent.”​

The study also sheds light on the industry’s resilience and adaptability, especially in the face of global challenges. Despite economic fluctuations, vehicle manufacturers have continued to invest, innovate, and contribute substantially to the economy.​

The findings of this study carry significant implications for policymakers. Recognising the substantial return on investment from the automotive sector, there is a strong case for supportive policies that encourage further investment and innovation. Such policies could include incentives for research and development, infrastructure development for new technologies like electric vehicles, and education and training programs to equip the workforce with necessary skills.​

Moreover, as the industry transitions towards greener technologies, continued support will be crucial to maintain its economic contribution while achieving environmental goals.​

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ARC360 News – Friday 23 May 2025

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Volvo Cars harnesses AI and virtual worlds to advance vehicle safety

Volvo Cars is leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) and advanced virtual environments to enhance the development of its safety software, including driver assistance systems (ADAS), with the goal of creating even safer vehicles.

By synthesising incident data collected from the advanced sensors in their new cars – such as emergency braking events, sharp steering manoeuvres, or manual interventions – Volvo engineers can reconstruct and analyse these scenarios in detail. This process enables a deeper understanding of how incidents occur and how they can be prevented in the future.

This innovative approach is made possible through a computational technique known as Gaussian splatting. This method allows for the creation of a vast array of realistic, high-fidelity 3D scenes and subjects derived from real-world visuals. Within these virtual environments, engineers can manipulate various factors – such as adding or removing road users, altering traffic behaviours, or introducing different obstacles – to explore how these changes impact safety outcomes.

“We already have millions of data points of moments that never happened that we use to develop our software” says Alwin Bakkenes, Head of Global Software Engineering at Volvo Cars.

“Thanks to Gaussian splatting we can select one of the rare corner cases and explode it into thousands of new variations of the scenario to train and validate our models against. This has the potential to unlock a scale that we’ve never had before and even to catch edge cases before they happen in the real world.” 

The use of such advanced virtual testing environments allows Volvo to conduct extensive testing and development without the logistical constraints and potential risks associated with real-world testing. This approach not only accelerates the development process but also contributes to Volvo’s commitment to a ‘better tomorrow’ by prioritising safety and innovation.​

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ARC360 Conference 2025 success as the industry moves into a new era

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ARC360 News – Friday 23 May 2025

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Industry-leading speaker line-up set for ARC360

The ARC360 Conference 2025, set for Thursday 22 May at the British Motor Museum, Gaydon, is set to be one of the most influential industry gatherings of the year.

With a focus on “A new era – the changing dynamics of a sector,” the conference will bring together leading insurers, repairers, vehicle manufacturers, and supply chain experts to explore the evolving landscape of motor claims and vehicle repair.

This year’s event boasts an exceptional speaker line-up featuring some of the most influential names in the industry:

  • Chris Downing, Head of Sales and Operations, Stellantis
  • Adrian Furness, CEO, Activate Group
  • Michael Golding, Network Manager, Allianz
  • Eddie Longworth, CEO, e2e
  • Paul Llewellyn, Head of Claims (Motor), Ageas
  • Kate Nash, Head of Outsourcing & Supply Chain Management, Tesco Insurance
  • Peter Randhawa, Director of ESG & Special Projects, Steer Automotive Group
  • Martyn Rowley, Executive Director, NBRA & VBRA Commercial
  • Sally Jones, Managing Director – Coatings UK, BASF
  • Vic Turner, CEO, NARG
  • Andy Whatmough, Managing Director, S&G Response

Further key speakers are due to be announced in the coming week.

Adding to the excitement, BTCC rising star Ronan Pearson, who recently signed to Toyota Gazoo Racing UK for its 2025 Kwik Fit British Touring Car Championship campaign, will be on hand throughout the day.

Mark Hadaway, ILC Content Director and ARC360 Co-founder, commented: “The ARC360 Conference 2025 is designed to provide industry professionals with the knowledge, insights, and connections they need to navigate an ever-changing sector. With such a diverse and experienced speaker line-up, this year’s event will challenge perceptions, inspire new thinking, and help shape the future of vehicle repair.”

ARC360 2025 is proudly supported by Corporate Partners – BASF, CAPS, Entegral, Enterprise, NWVA, Mirka, S&G Response, and Solera Audatex: Partners – e2e, Prasco, and Repairify: Vehicle Manufacturer Partner – Stellantis: and Event Sponsors: Onyx and Thatcham Research.

With a packed agenda and an unmissable speaker line-up, ARC360 2025 is the must-attend event for those driving the future of vehicle repair.

For sponsorship opportunities, contact Liane at liane@iloveclaims.com or to book tickets, visit ARC360 Conference 2025

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ARC360 News – Friday 14 March 2025

ARC360 Conference 2025: shaping the future of vehicle repair

The ARC360 Conference 2025 is set to be one of the most influential industry gatherings of the year, bringing together leading insurers, repairers, vehicle manufacturers, and supply chain experts to explore the changing dynamics of the motor claims and vehicle repair sector.

Taking place on Thursday 22 May at the British Motor Museum, Gaydon, this year’s conference will explore the theme: A new era – the changing dynamics of a sector. Full story

This week marked a major milestone for Fix Auto UK, as the network celebrates 20 years since its first franchise partner signed up to the pioneering concept of independent bodyshops working together under a single brand. Full story

KC Autos Blackburn received a 100% pass for its recent BS10125:2022 audit from BSI.

Mustoe’s (Fix Auto Caldicot & Bristol) is now an official Nissan approved bodyshop for the Caldicot area.

Autotech Group with four sites in Taplow, Slough, reading and High Wycombe has passed it latest BSI Kitemark.

R&R Autos has passed its BSI Kitemark BS10125:2022 audit.

Revive! North Yorkshire has launched to deliver smart repairs in areas including Harrogate, Northallerton, Catterick and Skipton.

BASF Coatings and NIO agree on strategic partnership for automotive coatings

BASF Coatings, a leading global supplier of innovative coatings solutions, and NIO, a pioneer in the global smart electric vehicle market, have announced the signing of a Letter of Intent (LoI) aimed at establishing a strategic partnership to enhance cooperation in the automotive coatings sector. This collaboration marks a significant step towards achieving a long-term and mutually beneficial relationship, focusing on automotive exterior coatings for NIO’s electric vehicles. Full story

Four Superbrains for the Neue Klasse: More intelligent, more efficient, more powerful

The BMW Group is the first automotive manufacturer to launch a completely newly developed digital nervous system for all drivetrain variants and vehicle segments. It is more intelligent, more powerful and more efficient and will be rolled out for the first time in the models of the Neue Klasse. Four high-performance computers, also called “Superbrains”, consolidate the computing power for the most important customer functions: infotainment, automated driving, driving dynamics, and basic functions such as vehicle access, climate control, and comfort. Full story

Lexus leads on BEV technology innovation, launching Steer-by-wire and virtual manual gear shifting

Lexus reaffirmed its strategic status as the battery electric vehicle technology leader in the Toyota group with the announcement of technical innovations it will bring to Europe’s BEV market in the coming year.

Hosting the world premiere of its new RZ luxury electric SUV in Brussels, the company revealed that this model will introduce both a steer by wire system and Interactive Manual Drive, a software-based system which replicates the experience of manual gear shifting. These innovations demonstrate how Lexus is combining advanced hardware and cutting-edge software to realise its ambitions to develop software-derived vehicles. Full story

Incentives needed to convert ‘electric sceptics’ to EV benefits  

The automotive industry has called on government to act fast to convert Britain’s electric sceptics to the benefits of EVs, by using purchase incentives to stimulate greater demand. Such measures would boost the market by a further 15% on top of current outlooks – delivering a total of two million new EVs by 2028, increasing business for chargepoints, insurance, maintenance and other sectors, whilst drastically reducing road transport emissions. Full story

Toyota expands its battery electric model range across Europe’s core segments

Toyota is delivering on its promise to introduce a series of new battery electric models to the European market, strengthening the role they play in the company’s multi-pathway technology approach to achieving carbon neutrality in the region by 2035. This week, Toyota has revealed the latest additions to its BEV range, demonstrating how concepts shown previously have been successfully developed into production-ready models. Full story

The most common car insurance claims

Accidental damage without injury – such as a collision where no one was hurt – is the most common type of car insurance claim, Which? research has found.Our survey of 4,719 car insurance customers who’d made a claim in the past two years revealed accidental damage without injury accounted for 49% of claims.  Windscreen damage came second, with 16%. While 12% of claims were for accidental damage with injuries, and 11% for theft or burglary. Full story

Drivalia appoints Motor Assist for accident management and mobility solutions

Drivalia has signed up Motor Assist to support its expansion with a range of accident management and mobility solutions. Full story

One in three school leavers struggle to find apprenticeships

The future of the accident repair industry depends on a strong pipeline of new talent and apprenticeships are a crucial way to bring young people into the sector, offering hands on experience and a direct path into skilled employment. However, similarly to employers, school leavers are also struggling to navigate the apprenticeship landscape. Full story

CarInsurent Reveals Emerging Trends in Rental Car Insurance Claims for 2025

Recent data analysis has identified significant trends shaping the landscape of rental car insurance claims. A detailed examination of industry patterns highlights key insights into claim frequency, common causes, and evolving consumer behaviours in rental car insurance. Full story

Government announces Implementation Programme for Automated Vehicles Act: What insurers need to know

The UK is taking significant steps towards integrating automated vehicles (AVs) into everyday life, with the recent launch of the Automated Vehicles Act Implementation Programme (AVAIP). This programme sets the stage for the safe deployment of self-driving vehicles on UK roads by 2027 and outlines a comprehensive framework for their regulation, trialling, and ongoing operation. Full story

Over 40 uninsured vehicles taken off Luton roads in just 8 hours

An intensive day of action has seen 43 uninsured vehicles taken off the road across Luton.

On 11 March, the Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire and Hertfordshire Road Policing Unit (BCH RPU) and MIB (Motor Insurers’ Bureau) worked together to focus on LU1, LU2, LU3 and LU4 post code areas, reminding drivers it is their responsibility to ensure appropriate motor insurance is in place. Full story

Tracker and the Police shut down 60 illegal chop shops in 2024

Tracker and UK police forces uncovered a record 60 illegal ‘chop shops’ in 2024. This compares to just two chop shops found in 2020 and underlines the rapid growth of organised crime gangs in using chop shops to dismantle stolen cars, strip them of parts and sell them on for profit. It’s a lucrative business for the unscrupulous, but in 2024, not only did Tracker and the police shut down an unparalleled number of chop shops, but they also made significant strides in outsmarting thieves by making 144 arrests – an increase of 80% year-on-year. Full story

Government must act on car insurance costs

The DUP’s Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart is seeking an urgent meeting with the Transport Secretary to discuss how Government will tackle the dramatic rise in car insurance premiums, which have increased by 42% in the last financial year, according to the Office for National Statistics. Full story

Repairify Italia celebrates one year of growth and success

In February 2025, Repairify Italia is celebrating its first anniversary, marking a year of considerable growth and success. Since its launch in 2024, the company has quickly established itself as a leading supplier of remote diagnostic products and services for the independent aftermarket and glass repair sectors across Europe.

Paul Barton has started a new role as Network Relationship Lead at Avant Repair Network.

Andy Geary has been promoted to Technical Consultant Manager at LKQ Bodyshop Division (UK & ROI).

Rob Larmour has joined Flock Mobility as Head of Operations.

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ARC360 News – Friday 23 May 2025

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Fix Auto UK celebrates 20 years of franchise partners

This week marked a major milestone for Fix Auto UK, as the network celebrates 20 years since its first franchise partner signed up to the pioneering concept of independent bodyshops working together under a single brand.

On 11 March 2005, the directors of Fix Auto Dagenham – Paul Cunningham, Neil Parker, and Chris Oliver – made industry history by committing to an untested model in the UK. Their decision set in motion the development of what is now one of the UK’s leading network of independent vehicle repairers.

Fix Auto UK now boasts 125 repairers working together, repairing more than 150,000 vehicles annually. The network’s commitment to quality and customer service is reflected in its 17,125 Trustpilot reviews, rating Fix Auto UK as ‘Excellent’.

2025 will also mark the 20th anniversaries of Fix Auto Loughborough, Fix Auto Bradford, Fix Auto Keighley, and Fix Auto Weston-super-Mare, with celebrations planned at the Fix Auto UK National Conference in May.

Reflecting on the journey, Group Managing Director Ian Pugh commented: “Our first franchise agreement with Fix Auto Dagenham laid the foundation for what has become the most dynamic and forward-thinking vehicle repair network in the UK. From that single acorn, a mighty oak has grown.”

Paul Cunningham, one of the original franchise partners, added: “Twenty years have flown by, and it feels like only yesterday we signed up to this ambitious concept. Today, Fix Auto UK is a family of award-winning, highly efficient businesses, and in many ways, we’re just getting started!”

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ARC360 Conference 2025: shaping the future of vehicle repair

The ARC360 Conference 2025 is set to be one of the most influential industry gatherings of the year, bringing together leading insurers, repairers, vehicle manufacturers, and supply chain experts to explore the changing dynamics of the motor claims and vehicle repair sector.

Taking place on Thursday 22 May at the British Motor Museum, Gaydon, this year’s conference will explore the theme: A new era – the changing dynamics of a sector.

With over 25 leading insurer brands, 80+ key repairers, and more than 10 vehicle manufacturers already confirmed to attend, ARC360 2025 will provide an unmissable opportunity to gain exclusive insights, connect with key stakeholders, and understand the trends shaping the future of the industry.

This year’s agenda features a high-profile line-up of industry leaders who will share their expertise and perspectives, including:

  • Chris Downing, Head of Sales and Operations, Stellantis
  • Adrian Furness, CEO, Activate Group
  • Michael Golding, Network Manager, Allianz
  • Paul Llewellyn, Head of Claims (Motor), Ageas
  • Eddie Longworth, CEO, e2e
  • Kate Nash, Head of Outsourcing & Supply Chain Management, Tesco Insurance
  • Peter Randhawa, Director of ESG & Special Projects, Steer Automotive Group
  • Martyn Rowley, Executive Director, NBRA & VBRA Commercial
  • Vic Turner, CEO, NARG
  • Andy Whatmough, Managing Director, S&G Response

On hand throughout the day will be BTCC rising star Ronan Pearson who recently signed to Toyota Gazoo Racing UK for its 2025 Kwik Fit British Touring Car Championship campaign.

Mark Hadaway, ILC Content Director and ARC360 Co-founder, said: “ARC360 2025 is all about exploring the transformation happening across the sector and equipping businesses with the knowledge and connections they need to thrive in this ever-evolving landscape. With a fantastic line-up of expert speakers and key industry stakeholders in attendance, this year’s event promises to be one of the most insightful and interactive yet.”

The event is set to deliver:

  • A deep dive into current market dynamics and their impact on businesses.
  • Insights into insurer priorities and opportunities for collaboration.
  • Discussion on how stakeholders can contribute to a ‘future fit’ industry.
  • Interactive sessions with industry leaders on evolving trends and innovations.
  • The chance to align with future opportunities in the vehicle repair sector.

ARC360 2025 is proudly backed by Corporate Partners: BASF, CAPS, Entegral, Enterprise, NWVA, Mirka, S&G Response, and Solera Audatex; Partners: e2e, Prasco, and Repairify; Vehicle Manufacturer Partner: Stellantis; and Event Sponsors: Onyx and Thatcham Research.

With a packed agenda and unrivalled networking opportunities, ARC360 2025 is an essential event for those shaping the future of vehicle repair.

For sponsorship opportunities, contact Liane at liane@iloveclaims.com or click here to book tickets.

Catch up on last year’s highlights: ARC360 2024 Recap

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ARC360 News – Friday 28 February 2025

Brothers Dan and Ashley Mustoe have opened their second Fix Auto UK repair centre, honouring the promise they made upon joining The Group less than 12 months ago.

iRG Repair Group’s state-of-the-art Cardiff repair facility has received its updated BSI Kitemark certification, officially approving it for structural aluminium repairs.

XL Motors has demonstrated an eight per cent reduction in absolute emissions and a 12% reduction in emissions intensity during its recent PAS 2060 audit.

Grainger Motor Group has opened its sixth Kia showroom in Stapleford, Cambridgeshire.

Dawsongroup has adopted epyx’s 1link Service Network to manage service, maintenance and repair (SMR) for its 13,000-van fleet.

Core Diagnostics has been presented with its IMI Approved Training Centre Award.

Revive! Auto Innovations has delivered just under £24m in network sales during 2024, up 13% year-on-year.

Vehicle production down in January as sector faces global headwinds

UK vehicle production declined by 17.7% in the first month of the year, with factories turning out 71,104 cars and 6,908 commercial vehicles (CVs) for a total of 78,012 units, according to the latest figures published by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT). The performance follows a bumper January last year, when car and CV output surged by 21.0% and 27.5% respectively, and reflects weakness in key markets, notably the EU, China and the UK itself, combined with planned model changeovers. Full story

Faster and further than any Volvo car before: new ES90 adds 300km in 10 minutes and goes 700km on one charge

How about a new, fully electric Volvo car that can go just that little bit further with less charging time? The upcoming Volvo ES90 does exactly that, thanks to our new 800V technology which makes its debut in our latest fully electric model. Full story

Stellantis publishes full year 2024 results

Stellantis has reported that annual net revenues last year were £129.7bn, a 17% fall on 2023, while net profits were down 70% to £4.5bn. John Elkann, Chairman, said, “We are firmly focused on gaining market share and improving financial performance as 2025 progresses.” Full story

Aston Martin to cut 170 jobs in cost-cutting drive

Luxury carmaker Aston Martin is planning to cut 170 jobs in a bid to drive down costs and turnaround a struggling share price. The plans involve axing five per cent of its global workforce, which it estimates will save around £25m. Full story

Maextro S800 luxury sedan released in China as Maybach rival with 6C charging

The Maextro S800 luxury sedan was officially released in China as the domestic rival for the Mercedes-Benz Maybach S-Class. The S800 has all-electric or range-extended powertrain options, 32 ADAS sensors, and up to 635 kW (852 hp). Full story

Stellantis expands its Eurorepar parts range

Following the successful launch of Eurorepar Body Parts last year, Stellantis has announced that the range has been extended with an additional 20 new bumpers and 14 front grilles.  This brings the total number of Eurorepar body parts available to 254, covering a wide range of popular models across the Stellantis passenger car and commercial vehicle brands. Full story

BMW delays electric Mini over ‘uncertainty’

BMW has confirmed it is delaying the reintroduction of electric vehicle production at its Oxford Mini plant. The vehicle manufacturer said “multiple uncertainties facing the automotive industry” had led to its decision to pause work on the £600m upgrade of its plant in Cowley. Full story

Dacia announces a sub-£15k electric city car

Dacia has announced it will be bringing a budget-friendly new city electric vehicle specifically designed for Europe. Bosses promised the yet-to-be-named EV will cost less than £15,000 and be available in just 16 months – meaning it should be here in 2026. Full story

ILC forges partnership with BTCC rising star

ILC, in collaboration with Ben Taylor, Business Development Director – Verisk Claims (Automated Insurance Solutions), has forged an exciting partnership with BTCC rising star Ronan Pearson for the 2025 season. Full story

New Generation interview: Jack Meekings, Head of Network, Engineering and Audit, Innovation Group

Here, we talk to Jack Meekings about how a casual enquiry about Saturday work ignited a long and varied career in the industry, and what impact he thinks Chinese models will have on automotive claims and repairs. Full story

Survey unveils key barriers to employing apprentices

A recent survey conducted by Apprenticeship Central has highlighted the primary obstacles businesses face when considering apprenticeships with the most common being a lack of time for training, concerns about cost and difficulty finding suitable candidates. Full story

New legislation on theft devices marks important step in vehicle security evolution, says Thatcham Research

The UK’s leading automotive risk intelligence organisation, Thatcham Research, welcomes the government’s new Crime and Policing Bill targeting electronic devices used in vehicle theft, while emphasising the need for a comprehensive approach to combat increasingly sophisticated criminal operations. Full story

Car repair costs accelerate to ‘all time high’

The rising cost of car repairs is hitting consumers and repairers hard according to Warranty company AutoProtect which said its average warranty claim in 2024 was £502.07, up 9% year-on-year. AutoProtect cited the Motor Ombudsman’s latest annual survey of vehicle repairers, more than half of repairers expect motorists to reduce essential repairs to save money. Full story

Inspiring the Next Generation at ‘Future First’ Insight Day

Auto Windscreens recently opened its doors to 15 Level 1 students from Chesterfield College for its inaugural ‘Future First’ Insight Day, held during National Apprenticeship Week. The event was organised in partnership with social mobility charity, Future First, to encourage young people to explore career opportunities in the automotive sector. Full story

Local authorities need more funding to improve road safety

Government recently pledged an additional £1.6bn to tackle the pothole plague that some are calling a “national embarrassment”. However, this won’t begin to put a dent in the backlog of potholes that plague the nation as it’s estimated that £15.6bn is needed to repair the local road network. Zurich reported a 19% increase in damage-related claims last year, with potholes causing £2.6m worth of damage to vehicles. Full story

New car registrations down 2.6% in January; EVs take 15% market share

In January, battery electric vehicles (BEVs) made up 15% of the market share, up from the low baseline of comparison of 10.9% in January 2024. Hybrid-electric vehicles surged ahead, commanding nearly 34.9% of the market and becoming again the first most preferred choice among EU car buyers. Meanwhile, the combined market share of petrol and diesel cars fell to 39.4% in January 2025, down from 48.7% one year ago. Full story

£120m to roll-out more electric vans, taxis and motorbikes

Drivers, cabbies and businesses are set to benefit from £120 million in government funding to make the switch to cleaner vans, wheelchair accessible vehicles and taxis easier, faster and cheaper. Future of Roads Minister Lilian Greenwood confirmed that the department is extending the Plug-in van grant for another year, to help van drivers and businesses transition to zero emission vehicles. Full story

The IGA seeks industry input ahead of crucial meeting

The Independent Garage Association (IGA) is calling on independent garage owners and operators to provide critical input ahead of a key meeting regarding the long-standing MOT fee freeze and the financial impact of the recent Autumn Budget. The IGA has been invited to discuss these pressing issues at a meeting on 11March, with the office of Lilian Greenwood MP. Full story

Ross Pengilly has started a new position as Director of Automotive Industry Solutions at Powerverse.

Mike Slater has taken on a new role as Head of Network for Blackthorn Repair Management.

Plasnomic, a groundbreaking initiative dedicated to revolutionising plastic repairs in the collision industry, is proud to announce Brian Driehost as CEO. 

FAI Automotive has appointed Lewis Wykes as Head of Sales (UK and Ireland).

The former chief executive of the National Transport Authority Anne Graham has been appointed chair of the Road Safety Authority.

Bentley Motors has announced the appointment of Axel Dewitz as Board Member for Finance and IT.

First Line has welcomed Kevin Neaverson as Commercial Director.

Audatex UK has restructured its crash repair team with the appointment of Joe Baynham to the BDM role.

Tim Moss has been appointed as the new Chief Executive of the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency.

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ARC360 News – Friday 23 May 2025

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Silverlake champions low-cost routes into motorsports

Silverlake Automotive Recycling is supporting the British Racing and Sports Car Club [BRSCC] as title sponsor of the newly launched DS3 Cup, debuting in 2025 and offering a cost-effective entry point into club racing. 

The Silverlake DS3 Cup is a one-make series featuring the Citroen DS3 1.6VTi.

In addition to title sponsorship, Silverlake is creating a ‘How To…’ video series, guiding competitors through every step of building their DS3 Cup race car – from buying the donor car to completing the build.

Silverlake is a longtime partner of the BRSCC and title sponsor of the C1 Racing Club series. It supports the motorsports sector with the nationwide supply of OEM reclaimed parts, quality-graded, warranty-assured and with full provenance history, while the Silverlake racing team also takes a selection of relevant reclaimed parts to race meetings where they are participating. 

Allen Prebble, Managing Director at Silverlake said, “Silverlake is proud to support the BRSCC in their new venture in the DS3 Cup, to provide another cost-effective sprint racing option for competitors next season. Alongside our continued support and involvement with the C1 Endurance Series for 2025, collectively this shows that Silverlake and the BRSCC are aligned in providing a superb low-cost pathway to get new drivers into motorsport, and it’s a natural fit for us to be involved on all fronts.”

Paul McErlean, BRSCC added, “I’m delighted that Silverlake has chosen to support the new DS3 Cup alongside the Club for 2025 and beyond. This exciting new project is a big step forward, and having Allen and his team on board from the very start is a strong statement of intent. We’re looking forward to seeing the DS3 Cup grow into another successful BRSCC series, and Silverlake’s involvement will play a key role in making that happen.”

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ARC360 News – Friday 23 May 2025

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Rising BTCC star joins over 20 major insurance brands for repairer event in May 

Toyota Gazoo Racing UK rising star Ronan Pearson will make a special guest appearance at ARC360’s ‘A new era – the changing dynamics of a sector’ conference in May. 

The team’s first driver for the 2025 Kwik Fit British Touring Car Championship campaign, Ronan is one of the most highly-rated of the BTCC’s current crop of young guns. The Scot was a multiple race-winner and title contender in the fiercely disputed MINI Challenge prior to joining the touring car grid in 2023, and took his maiden BTCC victory at Brands Hatch last season. 

Ronan will compete in the Speedworks Motorsport-run outfit in a Corolla GR Sport with the season curtain-raiser taking place on 26/27 April at Donington Park.  

He said, “I feel really proud to be representing the world’s number one car brand on the biggest stage in British motorsport – it’s a dream for any young driver.” 

Christian Dick, Team Principal, Toyota Gazoo Racing UK, said: “We are fortunate to have worked with some of the very best drivers in the business during our time in the BTCC so far, and in the space of just two seasons, Ronan has already made a significant impact in the championship and marked himself out as a star of the future.” 

Taking place on 22 May at the British Motor Museum, Gaydon ARC360’s event already has confirmed attendance from more than 20 major insurance brands and over 60 of the sector’s leading repairers.  

The event will provide attendees with an understanding of the current market dynamics, the impacts they are having and what it means for the future of business; an insight into what is top of insurer priorities and what solutions you can offer; chance to contribute to how we all have a role to play in making the industry ‘future fit’; interaction with industry experts on how their specific sectors are evolving and the opportunities it is creating; and the ability to align with the opportunities the future industry will bring. 

Mark Hadaway, Co-Founder of ARC360 said, “We are really excited to have Ronan join us in May for ARC360’s 2025 conference. His achievements to date and future potential match perfectly with the ‘new era’ theme of the event but so too align with ILC’s broader focus on encouraging ‘new generation’ talent into the insurance claims sector. 

“We’re very much looking forward to welcoming Ronan to the community, following his journey and working closely with him in future.” 

The event is supported by ARC360 Corporate Partners: BASF, CAPS, Entegral, Enterprise, NWVA, Mirka, S&G Response and Solera Audatex, along with Partners e2e, Prasco and Repairify, and Vehicle Manufacturer Partner Stellantis. Event sponsors include Activate Group and Thatcham Research.  

To find out more about the event – including the sponsorship opportunities available and how to purchase tickets – contact Liane on liane@iloveclaims.com.  

For a full insight into last year’s occasion, click here to read the Better Tomorrow post-event publication.  

Ronan would welcome the opportunity to speak with any ARC360 community members about exclusive ILC sponsorship packages for the forthcoming season. For more information, contact Ben Taylor on +44 (0)7908 188060.  

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