Car insurance premiums soar by 58%

Average car insurance premiums rose by 58% in the last 12 months to £995.

According to the latest Confused.com Car Insurance Price Index, produced in association with WTW, the 58% rise represents an increase of £366 and means premiums have risen for nine consecutive quarters.

Meanwhile, EV premiums have risen even more sharply due to longer repair times and the specialist knowledge required to repair them.

Tim Rourke, UK Head of P&C Pricing, Product, Claims and Underwriting at WTW, said, “The cost of car insurance spiralled in 2023 primarily due to the soaring price of used cars, although there is evidence of a market readjustment with values having slipped for the last four months.

“Insurers have also had to pass on the rising cost of spare parts and materials, more expensive repairs as cars become more sophisticated, labour shortages, extended vehicle loan times and a spike in personal injury claims.”

Steve Dukes, CEO at Confused.com, added, “The crumb of comfort will be that increases are somewhat smaller than in previous quarters, so many will be hoping this is a sign of a more stable period ahead. With things as volatile as they are, there’s a real need within the industry for more insight and sharing what we know. This can only benefit both businesses and customers as insurers make better, more informed decisions when it comes to pricing to try and stabilise the market even further.”

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Copart announces further expansions

Copart UK has begun 2024 by announcing two new significant expansions.

It is developing its Sandtoft Super Centre into a huge 130-acre site which will be its largest in the country, and is also unveiling a new operation centre in St Helens which will increase capacity in the region by 50%.

This news follows the introduction of two other new Copart Operation Centres in Northamptonshire and Scotland, alongside expansions to a range of existing sites.

Jane Pocock, CEO of Copart UK and Ireland, said: “We’re very excited to be making this announcement as we continue to move forward on our ‘Land and Expand’ strategy. The investment into this additional capacity demonstrates our continued commitment to our customers by enabling growth, EV handling, and increased volumes due to the expected forecast of further extreme weather events.”

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ARC360 News Round-Up – Friday 12 January 2024

Bodyshop briefs

  • Fix Auto UK has announced that K&R Coachworks has joined its network and will now operate as Fix Auto St Albans.
  • Croydon-based Kudos Bodyworks has become an NBRA member.
  • Coachworks Renovations has taken another step towards sustainability by buying zero carbon electricity.
  • Custom Coachworks has cut the ribbon on a third bodyshop, situated in Burgess Hill.
  • Evolution Repair Group has signed an agreement with Accident Credit Group to support further growth.
  • Summers Accident Repair Centre in Ashford has been appointed as a Lotus approved bodyshop.
  • Walton Accident Repair has secured manufacturer approval from Toyota and Lexus.
  • Ipswich Accident Repair Centre has been awarded an Enterprise Customer Service Award, achieving a World Class Quarterly Net Promoter score for Customer Repair. 

Industry News

Red Sea instability causing knock-on effects

The NBRA has warned of increased parts supply disruption and rising costs within the UK repair sector as a result of instability in the Red Sea.

ARC360 Partner, Prasco UK has said its customers are unlikely to be affected by the situation even though the Doncaster-based parts supplier is experiencing rising shipping costs and up to a two-week delay in receiving goods because of the escalating problems. 

Repair costs creep up in December

Average repair costs rose to over £2,900 in December, a six per cent increase on the same month in 2022, according to data released by Trend Tracker.

It found that with the Christmas break, the number of repairs in the month fell from November tracking at 97% of the total number of repairs in December 2022.

Tech challenge

New technology presents the greatest opportunity to the industry, according to an ARC360 exclusive interview with Ben Routh, Apprentice Repair Technician, Activate Accident Repair, Leeds.

Entegral unveils Bodyshop 360

Entegral has released Bodyshop 360, a mobile app that enables bodyshops to leverage their own data to make quicker and better decisions.

Copart continues expansion

Vehicle remarketing and recycling specialist Copart has announced two significant developments with expansion of its Sandtoft ‘Super Centre’ and its new Operation Centre in St Helens.

Sandtoft sees the acquisition of an ex-IAA/Synetiq site of 20 acres which adjoins the 65 acres of land added recently, creating the largest Copart ‘Super Centre’ in the UK.

Meanwhile, capacity in the North West has increased by 50% with a new 16-acre Operation Centre in St Helens.

Warning signs despite strong sales

EY UK & Ireland Automotive Leader David Borland has warned of difficult times ahead for EV sales. The new car market increased by 9.8% in December while LCVs sales surged by 36% in the month, but BEV sales slowed in both November and December.

Meanwhile, rental firm Hertz is selling about 20,000 EVs from its US fleet due to falling demand.

BASF signs EV battery deal with Stena

BASF has signed a black mass purchase agreement with Stena Recycling as part of a broader collaboration to develop electric vehicle battery recycling solutions.

Mirka delivers top tier sanding solutions

Mirka has underscored its status as quality supplier of sanding solutions to Tier 1 suppliers of automotive industry. Tier 1 suppliers deliver body parts which match the quality and surface perfection of the complete vehicle.

SYNETIQ announces new EV battery partnership

SYNETIQ is collaborating with clean-tech innovator Allye Energy to focus on the sustainable transformation of end-of-life EV batteries.

The partnership will focus on repurposing battery packs for MAX Battery Energy Storage System (BESS), which SYNETIQ will provide through its many industry agreements.

FCA takes immediate motor finance measures

The Financial Conduct Authority is conducting a review of historical motor finance commission arrangements and sales as a result of rising customer complaints.

It has paused the eight-week deadline for motor finance firms to provide a final response to relevant customer complaints for 37 weeks, while customers will also have 15 months to refer complaints to the Financial Ombudsman rather than six months.

Indasa unveils new mixing system

Indasa Abrasives has launched a new two-part Mixing System which helps technicians maximise productivity by mixing and applying paint more easily.

Positive outlook for sales

Cox Automotive Europe is predicting that new vehicle registrations this year will grow 6.1% to 2.02 million units, while used car sales will surge to nearly 7,4 million.

Innovations in the pipeline

Business Development Manager at GT Motive Steven Hames is predicting a wave of new cloud-based innovations this year, based on customer feedback and requests.

Autoglass joins YPO framework

Autoglass has enhanced its sustainability credentials by joining the YPO Vehicle Glass Repair and Replacement Framework.

This comes after several green initiatives, such as opening three solar-panelled modulars that operate entirely off-grid, operating a repair-first strategy where possible, and recycling 100% of the glass waste it generates.

Storm celebrates ISO 9001 certification

Storm Auto Services has announced it has secured the management standard ISO 9001, which is required by many insurers.

IMI identifies key skills drivers

The IMI had identified the key issues that will drive a fresh focus on skills in the sector.

Its report, Driving Auto Forwards, believes increased manufacturing, a growing focus on diversity and sustainability, and new technology in vehicles will demand new skills.

ACG expands NBRA partnership

Accident Credit Group has announced it will be a Gold Supplier Partner to the NBRA in 2024.

As part of the agreement, ACG will work closely with the NBRA to deliver support and funding solutions to its members.

Ben highlights coaching support

Automotive charity Ben is highlighting how it can support colleagues in the industry make positive changes to their lives this year.

Its Coaching Service is available to anyone who is working or has worked in the automotive industry, and can support individuals in their careers, boost their confidence and even improve their lifestyle with better eating habits, self-care and work-life balance.

Bumper growth

Car servicing platform Bumper has secured £37m Series B funding to drive further growth. Supported by investors such as Autotech Ventures, Shell Ventures, JLR’s InMotion Ventures, Porsche Ventures and Revo Capital, Bumper has doubled in size every year since 2020 and now services more than 5,000 dealers.

VM news

Stellantis updates carbon footprint plan

The Stellantis Multi Brand Accident Repair Programme has worked with ECA Business Energy to update its PAS 2060 carbon footprint and management plan. It will now purchase carbon credits through the Net Zero Group this year.

Volvo unveils new sustainability targets

As part of its new sustainability ambitions, Volvo Cars has announced that by 2030 it plans to reduce its CO2 emissions per car by 75%, achieve 30% average recycled content across its fleet, and reduce water use in its operations by 50%.

People

  • Andy Hamilton has started his new position as President and Executive Managing Director of LKQ Europe.
  • Gary Smith has returned to Europcar Mobility Group UK & Ireland as Managing Director, a position he held from 2016 to 2020.

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Red Sea instability causing knock-on effects

The NBRA has warned of increased parts supply disruption and rising costs within the UK repair sector as a result of instability in the Red Sea.

The Red Sea is a vital shipping lane between the Mediterranean Sea and Indian Ocean, but regional conflict has closed the Suez Canal, forcing ships to take much longer and more hazardous journeys.

Extended shipping routes could disrupt the timely delivery of parts – Tesla has recently suspended most car production at its Berlin factory due to a lack of components – while also leading to increased operational costs for bodyshops.

The NBRA said, “The ripple effects of tensions in the Red Sea are reaching far beyond the realm of geopolitics, impacting industries worldwide. The body repair industry in the UK has and is grappling with supply chain disruptions, increased costs, and operational challenges as a result of extended shipping journeys.

“Navigating these issues requires a strategic approach, with businesses in the sector needing to adapt to the evolving landscape of global trade and maritime security. As the situation unfolds, it becomes imperative for stakeholders in the body repair industry to monitor developments closely and proactively implement measures to ensure the resilience of their operations.”

ARC360 Partner, Prasco UK has said its customers are unlikely to be affected by the situation even though the Doncaster-based parts supplier is experiencing rising shipping costs and up to a two-week delay in receiving goods because of the escalating problems. 

Kelvyn Waugh, Managing Director for Prasco UK, the country’s leading supplier of independently certified replacement parts, stated that this week he has seen freight costs double compared to the pre-Christmas period meanwhile items that should have been delivered are still in transit.

But, because of the closely working partnership between Prasco’s procurement team and its suppliers, measures were put into place as early as last October to ensure stock levels at the company’s distribution hub are at record levels.

Kelvyn said: “We’ve been closely monitoring the situation in the Red Sea for some time and we have taken measures to ensure that, hopefully, our customers will not be affected.

“Seasonally, because of the demand in replacement parts needed at this time of year, we always increase our supplies in the early autumn. However, we have taken that to another level by increasing our orders to ensure our stock levels are at the highest levels we have ever had.”

Kelvyn added: “While the costs in shipping have increased since the start of the year, at the moment I have no plans to pass those added costs onto our customers.”

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SYNETIQ announces new EV battery partnership

SYNETIQ is collaborating with clean-tech innovator Allye Energy to focus on the sustainable transformation of end-of-life EV batteries.

The partnership will focus on repurposing battery packs for MAX Battery Energy Storage System (BESS), which SYNETIQ will provide through its many industry agreements.

Tom Rumboll, UK Managing Director for IAA and CEO of SYNETIQ said: “We’re excited to work with Allye to repurpose entire EV battery packs and address a key challenge in our industry. Having a safe, climate-conscious, and affordable solution for EV batteries is crucial to maximising their environmental and economic benefits.”

Jack Levy, COO and Co-Founder of Allye, added: “Our unique approach to repurposing the whole EV battery pack is the most sustainable way to deliver energy storage at scale, making best use of the finite resources available and helping ensure every EV battery has another chance to deliver what it was designed to do. Our approach allows us to build battery systems that provide flexibility and circularity at their core, by integrating cells of mixed chemistries, assorted voltage ranges, varying capacity and mixed state-of-health.”

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ARC360 News Round-Up – Friday 5 January 2024

Bodyshop briefs

  • Fix Auto Basingstoke is developing a dedicated van and LCV repair centre to sit alongside its existing bodyshop.
  • Steer Automotive Group has acquired prestige repairer Fastlane Paint & Body, which has sites in Guildford, Ascot, Heathrow and Elstree.
  • Northern Ireland-based bodyshop Porters Bodyshop has secured BMW and MINI approval.
  • Fylde Coast ARC has received the Enterprise Customer Service Award for achieving a World Class Quarterly Net Promotor Score for customer repair.
  • East Bilney Coachworks Thetford has received a positive recommendation for transition to BS10125:2022.
  • Shorade UK has acquired DB Auto Repairs and Paint, which will now operate as Shorade Cheltenham.

Industry News

Car sales up for 17th month

New car sales were up 9.8% in December to make it 17 successive months of growth.

According to the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders, sales for the year were up 17.9% to 1.903 million units, while 314,687 new EV registrations is a higher total than 2021 and 2022 combined.

Growth for Nationwide Assistance Group

Nationwide Assistance Group has welcomed DJ Spall Recovery, which provides recovery services across the UK, into its group.

Meanwhile, the group has also cut the ribbon on a new Nationwide European Office in Alicante.

IMI updates NOS

The IMI has released draft versions of new Electric and Hybrid Vehicle National Occupational Standards (NOS). It has also developed two new NOS for assessing the condition of EV high voltage batteries and EV conversions.

SYNETIQ tackles HGV emissions

SYNETIQ has announced a new initiative to drive HGV fleet decarbonisation. Working in collaboration with automotive and mechanical engineering masters students at Sheffield Hallam University, it will explore alternative fuels for its fleet.

MIB warns of uninsured driving spike

The Motor Insurers’ Bureau will invest a further £5m in initiatives to get uninsured drivers off the road in 2024 after warning that cost-of-living pressures could see uninsured driving rise this year.

Car Market Overview January 2024

The latest cap hpi market report is predicting that used car values will continue to fall in the first quarter of 2024, but expects values to decrease at a much slower rate than in recent months.

Thatcham Research welcomes new starters

Thatcham Research welcomed 79 learners from 28 employers to its Automotive Academy during the winter.

They have embarked on courses including Vehicle Damage Paint Technician, Vehicle Damage Panel Technician, Vehicle Damage MET and VDA (Vehicle Damage Assessor).

Driverless car set for UK 2026 launch

Transport Secretary Mark Harper believes driverless cars will be on UK roads by 2026. Legislation is going through parliament now and should enable autonomous driving within two years.

Government falls short of charging targets

The government failed to hit its target of having six or more rapid or ultra-rapid electric vehicle chargers at every motorway service area in England by the end of 2023.

According to the RAC, just 46 of the 119 motorway services reviewed had the target number of chargers.

VM news

BYD outsells Tesla for first time

Chinese EV manufacturer BYD outsold Tesla in the last three months of 2023, with 526,000 sales compared to 484,500.

However, Tesla still sold more cars than BYD over the whole year with 1.8 million EV sales compared to 1.6 million.

Landmark birthday for VW Golf

The Volkswagen Golf turns 50 this year, with more than 37 million units sold during the model’s eight generations.

Key partnership in PEM progress

Hyundai, Kia, and Gore have signed an agreement to collaborate on the development of advanced polymer electrolyte membrane (PEM) for hydrogen fuel cell systems.

EVs drive Volvo sales surge

Volvo Cars has reported that global sales rose 15% last year to 708,716 units, with fully electric sales surging 70% to 113,419.

People

  • Martin Smith has been appointed Director at Nova Automotive Group.
  • ABL1 Touch has named Andrew Goodings as Senior Production Manager.
  • Darren Blacklaw has started a new position as General Manager Vertu Retail Repair at Vertu Motors.
  • Lee Croft has been named Group Operations Data Analyst at Komoo.
  • John Coombs has started a new position as Senior Sales Manager at Autoglass.
  • Steer Automotive Group Farnborough has appointed Jay Commander as Manager.
  • Derrick Paton has been appointed Sales Director – Scotland at Morelli Group.
  • Carlac has named Chris Simpson as Business Development Manager.
  • Andrew Pilkington has started a new role as Deputy CEO, Sales & Marketing at disrupter EV brand VINFAST UK.
  • Scott Thompson has been appointed the new President and Managing Director of Toyota (GB) plc.

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SYNETIQ tackles HGV emissions

SYNETIQ has announced a new initiative to drive HGV fleet decarbonisation.

The project is being run in collaboration with automotive and mechanical engineering masters students at Sheffield Hallam University and aligns with the company’s net-zero strategy.

Elisa Caton, Sustainability Manager at SYNETIQ said, “We’re proud to continue our work with Sheffield Hallam as part of our ongoing commitment to reaching net-zero operational carbon emissions. The project with Sheffield Hallam University is key to achieving important milestones on our journey, and we look forward to exploring alternative and innovative solutions over the coming years as we work together to build a more sustainable future.”

 The transport sector currently accounts for 24% of carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions worldwide. According to the Road Haulage Association, a major issue preventing the reduction of CO2 emissions from HGVs is a lack of infrastructure allowing adequate power for battery or hydrogen-powered vehicles. The SYNETIQ and Sheffield Hallam University project could support a future selection of fuelling options for the sector.

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ARC360 News – Friday 22 December 2023

Thank you & festive cheer

From all of us here at ARC360, we would like to take this opportunity to thank you for your support throughout 2023. We’re really looking forward to working with you all in 2024 to support the sector ‘gaining ground together’. Our next ARC360 Newsletter is scheduled for Friday 5 January.

If you have anything you would like to see included in 2024, please email: alan.feldberg@iloveclaims.com

In the meantime, wishing you all a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.

Market Intelligence Report – November/December

ARC360 has published its latest Market Intelligence report in partnership with Trend Tracker. Read more here.

Bodyshop briefs

  • Peggs Accident Repair Centre has achieved BS 10125:2022 certification.
  • Vertu Motors has named John Jones from its Teesside site as Accident Repair Centre Manager of the Year.
  • ChipsAway Glasgow has installed Todd Engineering’s Zeus drive-through solution to enhance operational flow and improve service times.
  • Doseley Motors has announced its Vehicle Manufacture CSAT and NPS 2023 results, scoring 100 NPS from all JLR and VWG respondents. It also achieved five stars from 96% of the respondents on NFU/Vizion Customer Experience feedback.
  • Shoreade UK has won the Business of the Year award at the Paul Avins – Grown Up Business Awards.
  • Halo ARC has passed the 5,000-review mark on Trust Pilot, while still maintaining its 4.9 rating.
  • Wrights Accident Repair Centre has secured BS 10125:2022 certification.

Industry News

Range Rover unveils insurance move

Range Rover has introduced its own comprehensive motor insurance product for customers.

Land Rover Insurance, which ensures repairs are completed by a JLR authorised bodyshop, using only genuine parts, comes with no deposits or interest charges while clients are able to amend or cancel their cover with no fee.

Glasurit extends EcoBalance to commercial vehicles

Glasurit has introduced the EcoBalance portfolio for the commercial vehicle industry with nine products covering the full paint process.

EcoBalance products help save fossil raw materials and are certified to offer a significant reduction in CO2 emissions.

Mirka invests in world-first innovation

Mirka is building an innovative circular grain manufacturing plant in Jeppo, Finland which will reduce its CO2 footprint by approximately 5,000 tons.

Funded by Business Finland, the site will begin producing circular abrasive products by 2026.

R-M unveils new training centre

R-M Global has opened a new state-of-the-art Refinish Competence Training Center in Vantaa, Finland. The new site features the latest training standards and processes.

UK avoids EV tariffs with new EU deal

The UK and EU have agreed to extend trade rules on electric vehicles.

New rules of origin regulations were due to be introduced on 1 January, but that has been put back until the end of 2026, saving manufacturers and customers up to £4.3bn in tariffs and charges.

Cotswold and RWC announce training partnership

Cotsworld Automotive Diagnostics and Training has announced a partnership with RWC Training that will see it support more than 1,000 technicians secure IMI-approved EV/Hybrid certification.

Fix Auto South open for business

The new Fix Auto Leeds South repair centre is now open for business.

The fourth site owned by father and son Stephen and Sam Smith, Fix Auto Leeds South includes two large commercial spraybooths and 10 work bays and will be able to repair 30 vehicles a week.

National ARC continues Progression

National Accident Repair Group has unveiled Progression 2.0, a complete end-to-end solution that tracks the entire repair journey and identifies issues early to minimise delays and reduce costs.

Touchpoints include bodyshop capacity and capabilities and parts availability.

Cary Group enhances sustainable strategy with acquisition

Cary Group will acquire 100% of J Huggins and Son Ltd, a family-owned glass repair and replace business with 17 workshops.

Both operations are part of the National Windscreens consortium.

PartsXchanges adds commercial parts category

Bodyshop marketplace PartsXchange has added truck and LCV parts to its platform.

Customers can now buy commercial parts alongside bodyshop remarketed parts, green parts, dealer parts, and non-genuine parts.

SYNETIQ CEO in line for top Green award

SYNETIQ CEO Tom Rumboll has been shortlisted for Green Leader of the Year in the Yorkshire Leadership Awards.

Winners will be announced on 21 March.

VM News

BMW i5 named Car of the Year

The BMW i5 has been named Carwow ‘Car of the year’ 2024. The i5 isthe eighth generation 5 Series and the first all-electric version of the model.

Mercedes-Benz receives automated light approval

Mercedes-Benz has received a permit to display turquoise-coloured marker lights for automated driving.

The permits were issued in California and Nevada and means Mercedes-Benz becomes the first manufacturer to display special exterior lights during automated driving.

People

  • CEO of Copart Jane Pocock has renewed her membership of the Automotive 30% Club.
  • Paul Reid has been appointed as Scotland Territory Manager at Kamoo.
  • BASF has announced that Markus Kamieth will succeed Martin Brudermüller as Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors in 2024.
  • Vizion Network has appointed Jordan Chinn as Network Manager for Nissan.
  • Mick Walker has been appointed to CCO of Quantum Technical.
  • Derrick Paton has announced that he is leaving Axalta after 27 years. He will step down from his role as EMEA Strategic Account Manager on 29 December.

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ARC360 Market Intelligence: November/December 2023

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ARC360 News – Friday 15 December 2023

ILC releases 2024 events schedule

ILC has released its 2024 event schedule highlighting the dates of its annual key events set for the coming 12 months which includes 27 June as the date for 2024’s ARC360 technology focussed conference with other activity dates to follow. Further details to follow early in 2024.

LV= Sole Site Repairer forum sets the pace

LV= General Insurance hosted the latest annual edition of its Sole Site Repairer forum in late November with the key message to attendees: ‘keep doing what you are doing’.

Tesla tops list of most expensive EV repairs

New figures have revealed that Teslas are the most expensive EVs to repair. According to data released by Activate Group and Gecko Risk, who have formed a new partnership to deliver deeper insights into EVs, the average repair cost for an EV over the last four years is just under £2,600.

Eco Balance delivered to commercial vehicles

Glasurit has released its Eco Balance product range for commercial vehicles. Eco Balance enables faster processes and less material consumption, cutting CO2 emissions without compromising on quality.

Storms cause £53m of vehicle damage

The Association of British Insurers (ABI) predicts that insurers will pay out about £53m for vehicles damaged by Storms Babet, Ciaran and Debi.

Its data found that 7,210 vehicle damage claims were made following the bad weather in the UK during October and November.

Lexus tops charts of rising vehicle thefts

LV= has revealed that car thefts increased by 59% from 2021 to 2022 and predicts further rises this year.

Its data identified that Lexus thefts rose 513% from 2021-2023, Toyota thefts were up 103% and Hyundai thefts were up 81%, while theft hotspots included Birmingham, London, Sheffield, Manchester, and Liverpool.

Strategy summary

Wayne Mason-Drust, Managing Director at Accident Express Group, has presented his views on the five unique business models for bodyshops at the latest Trend Track meeting.

They included the Network Dominator, which operates a vast network; the Flex Master, which is more adaptable; the Efficiency Expert, which focuses on streamlined operations; the Independent Maverick; and the Mobile Maestro.

Ofgem launches consultation around services and costs

Energy regulator Ofgem has launched a statutory consultation on proposals to ensure businesses get reliable service. It is also seeking more clarity on the costs being paid to third party energy brokers.

Bodyshop Briefs

  • Gemini Accident Repair Centres has been named ‘Winner’ for the Best Nationwide Vehicle Repairs Group 2023 in the Midlands Enterprise Awards 2023.
  • Chaplane Accident Repair Centre has achieved BS10125:2022 accreditation.
  • All nine of Fix Auto UK’s wholly owned repair centres have successfully gained their PAS2060 accreditations. They are Fix Auto Barnsley, Fix Auto Colwyn Bay, Fix Auto Crawley, Fix Auto Castleford, Fix Auto Daventry, Fix Auto Henley-on-Thames, Fix Auto Liverpool South, Fix Auto Newport and Fix Auto Paignton.
  • Activate Accident Repair Sunderland and Newcastle has secured BS10125:2022 certification.

Citroën and BASF unveil new sustainable concept car

Citroën has worked with BASF to create a concept car that pushes back the boundaries for sustainable production.

JLR announces digital deal with Tata

JLR has announced a new partnership with Tata Communications to support the efficient development of its next-generation vehicles.

It will deploy Tata’s cloud-based technology to connect all its 128 global sites, providing AI-powered and real-time data capturing, monitoring and analysis to improve production line performance.

Stellantis supports start-ups

Stellantis has recognised 11 new technology start-ups as part of its second annual Stellantis Venture Awards. The awards identify and then support the continued development of innovations in customer-focused technology.

Fisker opens Milton Keynes site

American EV company Fisker has opened a new site in Milton Keynes and is now inviting customers to book a test drive.

ARC360 Podcast 32: Mental Health Matters

In this episode we speak with Carl Norton, Regional Business Manager at Fix Auto UK and, perhaps more relevant to this conversation, the man behind the network’s Mental Health First Aid programme.

Catch up on podcasts

For the full back catalogue of ARC360 podcasts including conversations with Thatcham Research’s Dean Lander, Chartwell’s Chris Brightmore, and Martin Brown of Repairify click here.

People

  • Tom Hart has been appointed Claims Sales Director UK and Ireland at Solera Audatex.
  • Direct Line Group has named Jamie Brown as Senior External Automotive Engineer.
  • Komoo has appointed James Duffin as Northern Territory Manager.

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