Finance Archives - Page 12 of 38

ARC360 News – Friday, 26 April 2024

26 April 2024

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

Vehicle technology conference piques interest

More than 40 of the UK’s most influential names from within insurance are already confirmed to attend ARC360’s specialist ‘future vehicle technology’ conference, taking place on Thursday 27 June 2024 at the Manufacturing Technology Centre (MTC) in Coventry.

From the frontline

ARC360 hosted its third Breakfast Think Tank this morning, when more than a dozen industry experts representing repairers, insurers, mobility and data providers discussed the recent decline in repair volumes. A full overview of the session will be published next week.

Bodyshop Briefs

The Vella Group has acquired Axiom Accident Repair Centres, which comprises two repair sites in Peterborough and Daventry.
Whaley Bridge ARC, which is part of the Stellantis approved network, has been recognised as the world’s first carbon negative bodyshop.
Turners Accident Repair has signed a 10-year lease on a new 20,000 sqft site in Ripon, Yorkshire. The new facility will add to existing sites in Doncaster, Leeds, and Sheffield.
Fix Auto Loughborough has announced that it has secured Stellantis vehicle manufacturer approval.
Devonshire Motors ARC has achieved a 100% score in its BMW/MINI audit, retaining the approval it’s held since 2008.
Steer Automotive supported Automotive Work Experience Week by inviting Luke Saunders to its site in Portsmouth. He will now begin a MET apprenticeship when he finishes college.
Shorade Bristol is officially carbon neutral after achieving the PAS 2060 standard.
Revive! is celebrating after four franchisees, East Anglia, Surrey, Northampton, and Trafford, all turned over more than £1m last year.
Fix Auto Penzance was named Stellanis Audatex UK Estimator of the Year – Southern Region, ahead of Rackhams Auto Body Centre and Bodytek Taunton.
M&L Coachbuilders has passed its initial BS 10125:2022 stage 2 audit.
Komoo has opened its first site in the Midlands. Its new Rugby repair facility is its fourth new site of the year.
MG Cannon has installed Glasurit’s all-new waterborne basecoat system, Glasurit 100 Line, in all six of its sites.

Industry News

An interview with…

With more than one million daily transactions from 300,000 global customers in over 100 countries it’s fair to say Solera is big business. Its solutions empower smarter decision-making for anyone involved in vehicle-lifecycle management via AI-enabled technologies which utilise its vast vehicle, repair, performance, and telematics data. Here, we catch up with Arnaud Agostini, Regional Managing Director at Solera and Tom Hart, Claims Sales Director, UK & Ireland at Solera to find out more.

Fall in premiums only short term

Comprehensive car insurance premiums fell by five per cent to an average of £941 in the last three months, according to the latest Confused.com Car Insurance Price Index produced in association with WTW.

However, this is still 43% (£284) higher than they were 12 months ago.

Copart steps up preparations for Gloucester launch

Copart is gearing up for the first auction at its new site in Gloucester, scheduled for next month. The Gloucester development will provide storage for an additional 30,000 vehicles per annum.

Ben launches personal MOTs

Automotive industry charity Ben has introduced free mental and physical health checks through one-on-one conversations with a qualified health professional.

The health checks will also suggest positive steps to support better living and working.

ABI unveils Premium Finance Principles

The Association of British Insurers (ABI) has announced a range of new principles to manage consumer costs around premium finance.

The Premium Finance Principles underline what fair practice should look like and revolve around five elements: transparency, affordability, fair value, proportionality and accountability.

Emissions down despite growing car parc

The UK car parc hit a new high last year, with the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders revealing the number of cars on UK roads rose by 1.7% to 41,404,589.

However, with almost half a million EVs and plug-in hybrid registered, average CO2 emissions per car dropped by 2.1%.

Automotive production suffers March dip

UK car production fell by 27.1% to 59,467 units in March, according to the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders.

Meanwhile, commercial vehicle output was down by 19.2% in the same month.

Denso launches aftermarket brand

Mobility supplier Denso has unveiled a new standalone aftermarket brand, MobiQ, which will be dedicated to new digital smart mobility products that can be retrofitted to improve driver safety.

Government launches future skills inquiry

The Industry and Regulators Committee is seeking views from industry about what skills will be needed in the future and how policy can support apprenticeships and training.

Written submissions are invited by 30 May.

Repair complaints soaring

Service and repair complaints to the Motor Ombudsman have reached record highs in each of the last two quarters.

It received 1,604 new complaints between January and March, which is 35% higher than the same period last year and also up on the 1,372 complaints received in the final quarter of last year, which was the previous high total.

Motor trades tops vacancy charts

New figures from the Office of National Statistics have revealed that there are around 23,000 vacancies in the UK motor trades industry, which includes the automotive aftermarket.

Together with hospitality, it is the industry with most severe skills gap in the UK.

VM News

Mobility challenges revealed in global Forum

The second Freedom of Mobility Forum has highlighted key mobility priorities as the industry evolves to meet future challenges.

Initiated by Stellantis and entitled, “How will our planet accommodate the mobility needs of eight billion people?” the global digital debate urged the sector to prioritise innovations around sustainability, address challenges collaboratively, and focus on the needs of economically diverse populations.

Ford launches EV subscriptions

Ford has introduced a new Ford E-Transit subscription service for business owners.

Available on monthly contracts that can be extended indefinitely, Ford Drive enables businesses to increase their fleets flexibly while also trying electric models without commitment.

Innovation the trump card for ACEMAN

MINI has unveiled the MINI Aceman, a mid-size all-electric crossover with a raft of new innovations.

Four surround view cameras and 12 ultrasonic sensors help the model identify and initiate parking manoeuvres into tight spaces, while the Parking Assistant Plus option enables parking via a smartphone.

Hyundai establishes Amazon space

Hyundai Motor Europe has launched its own Brand Space on Amazon where customers can view the range of models, link to local Hyundai dealerships, configure features and schedule test drives.

People

Ben Townsend has been appointed as Head of Automotive at Thatcham Research.
Charles Trent has promoted Harry Merton to the role of Senior Supervisor.
Andy Morris has been appointed Proprietor at AKS Accident Repair Centre.
BASF SE has appointed Dr. Markus Kamieth as its new Chairman. He succeeds Dr. Martin Brudermüller.
Martin Gray has been named National Fleet Manager at CUPRA & SEAT UK, Volkswagen Group UK.

More Insights

ARC360 News – Friday 9 May 2025

09-05-2025

Step up for Ben

08-05-2025

ARC360 News – Friday 2 May 2025

02-05-2025

Corporate Partners

Partners

Associate Partners

An interview with…

26 April 2024

Bodyshop, Finance, Mobility, People, Supplier, Technology and Words

A simple but huge question to kickstart things: How does Solera leverage data to streamline motor claims for insurers, repairers and vehicle owners?

AA: Solera has been developing its automotive database since the early 1980s so we have a massive data lake detailing some 400 million claims. Each year we are managing more than 20 million claims in Europe and some 50 million in total around the world which makes us the leader in this sector by far. We leverage that fantastic database to allow us to cover 99.8% of the UK vehicle parc and through our insurer and repairer customers speed up the claims workflow and claims management process.

A key objective is to help the industry better triage a claim via photos that can be taken by the driver helping to save a lot of time and also direct and indirect costs.

Our database now connects with our Visual Intelligence (VI) – a powerful image recognition system – that allows us to recognise any automotive picture. This helps the whole industry to pre-estimate the value of the claim and better triage.

TH: Just to add to the point around coverage – it’s so fundamental. If you’ve got a claim without the exact data it becomes a very manual process which adds time, brings in extra friction, inflates cost and increases operational overheads plus falls outside of data managed workflows. But we have all the necessary data in one place which means estimates can be done right, first time, every time.

Solera’s data goes way beyond what might first be thought of as claims information but is vital in creating the full picture. How does all this information play into the claims piece?

AA: The VIN description is an example of data that is extremely important at the starting point of any claims management process. Exact identification of any vehicle is becoming more and more complex but our system allows precise information to populate from the very outset of the claim.

This has been a long-term project from our side. We have a specific team that is dedicated to what we call ‘data acquisition’. So we have people all around the world connected with the OEM industry and our job is to ensure their data is available across the claims and repair sectors.

Every year we invest £100m in data acquisition and the maintenance of our database, and we have more than 500 people that are working daily on this specific topic.

On this subject, we have just signed an agreement with Chinese manufacturer BYD, which looks set to be a very significant global player in the coming years.

With so much data available, how can the various stakeholders within the claims process identify the data most relevant to them and harness it effectively to deliver a more efficient service?

AA: We are continually developing our software and technologies to provide claims stakeholders with faster, more intuitive, seamless and customer-centric solutions.

Deployment of our VI technology is really set to take that to the next stage. We are at the early stages in the UK but the technology has already been deployed in more than 55 countries around the world, so we have a very deep knowledge of how things should work. But, of course, every country has specific nuances and the UK is a very complex market. We are therefore working very closely with the regional team to integrate this latest technology in a smooth fashion.

TH: To add to the point on accessing the data – the key is ‘at the point of need’. When we talk to customers via our consultative approach we understand the industry, we understand the pain points and we can share that experience. We then explore how can we collaborate to come up with a solution.

We partner with companies like Willis Towers Watson in the UK to provide actuarial and underwriting insight around inflation. That’s not necessarily our direct expertise, but we partner with the right people to deliver. Similarly with cap-hpi and some of their areas of expertise, we provide APIs for very specific data such as windscreens. There’s lots of people repairing and replacing windscreens and it really is important you get the right information to support part specification, fitment and ADAS calibration.

AA: Additionally, we are also now helping the whole industry to better manage sustainability targets with Sustianable Estimatics providing users with the ability to quantify CO2 emissions of activities.

So for any claim, we are able to help define what the CO2 emissions are. This will help the industry to better assess its emissions levels; provides the structure to work within mandatory frameworks and report yearly results; and ultimately set and work towards future targets.

Tell us a little more about Sustainable Estimatics: What has been the response from across the market?

AA: We launched in Europe in December 2023 and have had incredible success since. Everybody wants to start working with Solera on this specific matter because Scope three is extremely complex to analyse.

It is thanks to our external relationships which includes the likes of shipping companies and research centres that allow us to collect all the necessary information for analysis through our AI system.

We are, of course, constantly working to speed up the CO2 definition process, by working closely with all stakeholders to develop better relationships and outcomes. For example, we can provide individual repairers with exacting information on their emission levels which means in their relationship with an insurer they are able to optimise decision-making around repair or replace, process management or the adaptation of green parts.

And this whole area is key when you consider today’s customer too who’s buying decisions are influenced by sustainability.

Not only can it help optimise claim costs through improved decision-making and working practices but provides greater customer appeal and satisfaction.

How can repairers work with Solera to maximise data and gain a competitive advantage?

TH: We’ve been focused on making the data much more interactive so it can be analysed with systems such as Solera Analytics to truly drill down into the detail and allow more intelligent decision-making, for example around repairability.

For instance, when we champion repair over replace, the estimate can be backed by analysis within Solera Analytics which might ask: If I make this change and I can repair two or five percent more bonnets, how is that going to effect on my bottom line?

So it’s more around thinking more strategically about behaviours and how that can be used.

Do you feel repairers – specifically independents – use the information available to them ‘enough’ or can it be further optimised?

TA: There’s a huge spectrum of repairers out there, some whom are constantly analysing data to drive profitability. I would like to think our data and tools are a key component of that.

Also on the spectrum there will some repairers that probably don’t use utilise the system as much. So, I’m sure there’s a lot of untapped potential for those businesses and in those data sets.

What role can Solera play in easing the sometimes ‘fractious’ relationship between repairers and insurers?

AA: For me it’s simple – a repairer needs an insurer, and an insurer needs a repairer. We act as an independent provider in the middle to ensure that the cost calculation of a claim, provides the right value for all stakeholders.

TH: Added to that is the connectivity we offer which allows straight-through processing, speeding up all elements of the claim by sharing consistent data and insight which ultimately helps build trust. In essence, it provides one single version of the truth – a transparent, auditable process which benefits all stakeholders.

What are the major trends you see impacting the repair sector at the moment?

TH: I think consumer behaviour, specifically linked with sustainability. We’ve done some extensive research in this space identifying the willingness of consumers to go for green policies and we’ve seen changes over the last few years in the policy wording of many insurers which now includes reference to green parts usage.

We have evolved our offering and are now connected to a number of the green parts providers so that when the repair is calculated, at point of need, they’re able to see real-time availability.

Has AI reached a tipping point in the repair sector, and is its increased adoption being driven by the industry or consumer attitudes?

AA: Today, with your smartphone, you are using artificial intelligence every day and you do not see it. Within the Solera environment, this is exactly the same. The AI is really developed in order to make our customer usage more easy and faster. It allows us to anticipate what our customers want today and deliver it.

How is Solera working with vehicle manufacturers to deliver even greater insights and connectivity to the aftermarket?

TH: We invest huge amounts in data acquisition and the global automotive data centre has those relationships with vehicle manufacturers across the globe to ensure that local data, for example parts and pricing, is injected into the system in the most up-to-date, seamless fashion.

Via our consultancy division we work closely with vehicle manufacturers pre-launch around residual values in specific markets and vehicle lifecycles – from market entry through to end of life. It’s a vast undertaking but ensures we have the intelligence available for customers.

In what way might Solera mitigate the risks of a growing skills gap in the repair aftermarket or the claims industry?

TH: We believe data is a big enabler in helping narrow the skills gap and it’s really about helping to guide technicians on the shopfloor: the right data at the point of need, easily accessible and seamlessly integrated; vehicle health check diagnostics systems fully integrated into the estimatics platform; and troubleshooting guides within the Autodata application.

With the changing dynamic of the vehicle parc its essential to stay current and reference points like this are key to ongoing development.

What is Solera’s overall strategy for 2024 and the near future?

AA: Firstly, it is to continue to ensure that the database used by our repairer network here in the UK continues to be ahead of the needs of the market. We are working with vehicle manufacturers across the globe to deliver on this.

The second point is around innovation. We have a duty to provide the latest artificial intelligence provisions to all clients, sector stakeholders and the wider industry. This includes our drive on sustainability.

Clearly, supporting the planet is the primary objective but there is also a legal requirement in reporting CO2 emissions and – perhaps linking back to skillsets – there is a need in terms of brand equity and industry image to communicate and demonstrate just how we are advancing.

The third, and final, focal point is to take care of all our people – that’s everyone internally but also all our partner.

More Insights

ARC360 News – Friday 9 May 2025

09-05-2025

Step up for Ben

08-05-2025

ARC360 News – Friday 2 May 2025

02-05-2025

Corporate Partners

Partners

Associate Partners

Vehicle technology conference piques interest

26 April 2024

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

More than 40 of the sectors most influential names from within insurance are already set to attend ARC360’s specialist ‘future vehicle technology’ conference.

Taking place on Thursday 27 June 2024 at the Manufacturing Technology Centre (MTC) in Coventry, ARC360 is supported by Corporate Partners: BASF, CAPS, Copart, Entegral, Enterprise, Mirka, Nationwide Vehicle Assistance, S&G Response, Solera Audatex; along with Partners: Gemini ARC, Repairify and Prasco.

The specialist event is sponsored by Activate Group and Thatcham Research along with Stellantis which will host the ‘Stellantis Zone’ on the day.

More than 40 of the UK’s most influential names from within insurance are already confirmed to attend the event which follows up on last year’s highly acclaimed specialist electric vehicle (EV) event to further explore just how technology is shaping the future of the industry and how businesses can optimise their value in the supply chain.

Some of the leading insurers represented at the event include: Action 365, Ageas, Allianz, Arch Insurance, Aviva Insurance, Broker Direct, Collingwood, Direct Line Group, esure, First Central Services UK Ltd, Hastings Direct, Haven Claims, LV= General Insurance, Markerstudy Insurance Services Ltd, NOVO Incident Management, NFU Mutual and QBE.

Mark Hadaway, Co-Founder of ARC360 said, “This level of engagement amongst insurers is testament to what ARC360 has created under our ‘gaining ground together’ banner. It truly provides an environment for insight, knowledge sharing and partnership for all ARC360 stakeholders.”

Underpinning the entire event will be a keen focus on what is arguably the most critical factor across the entire industry right now – people and skillsets. Also included will be a dedicated ‘business growth’ session to reflect the changing times within the sector.

Tickets for the event are on sale now – click here to book.

A limited number of special repairer guest passes are available, to join the waiting list please email mark@iloveclaims.com.

To find out more about the opportunities available to get involved in the event – exhibition or sponsorship, or how to become an ARC360 Partner contact mark@iloveclaims.com or liane@iloveclaims.com.

For a full overview of last year’s event, click here.

More Insights

ARC360 News – Friday 9 May 2025

09-05-2025

Step up for Ben

08-05-2025

ARC360 News – Friday 2 May 2025

02-05-2025

Corporate Partners

Partners

Associate Partners

ABI unveils Premium Finance Principles

26 April 2024

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

The Association of British Insurers (ABI) has announced a range of new principles to manage consumer costs around premium finance.

The Premium Finance Principles underline what fair practice should look like and revolve around five elements: transparency, affordability, fair value, proportionality and accountability.

The ABI addressed rising motor insurance prices by announcing a number of steps in February, with premium finance a key element of that.

It has now committed to five key principles:

Transparency: When setting out any cost for paying by monthly instalments, insurers should provide a clear comparison of the total cost of paying annually and the total cost of paying monthly. Insurers should also publish up-to-date, clear information about their common or average premium finance charges.

Affordability: When deciding on their premium finance offering to customers, insurers should have regard to the fact that many consumers cannot afford to pay for their insurance up front, in one lump sum and so charges for paying by monthly instalments can fall hardest on those who can least afford it.

Fair value: Insurers must ensure that costs associated with monthly instalments represent fair value. As part of this, insurers should consider how any income from premium finance compares to their income on the core premium.

Proportionality: Insurers should ensure that charges are reasonable, relative to the costs of providing premium finance for monthly payments. Insurers should also consider charges relative to comparable and accessible alternative payment options, such as a credit card.

Governance and Accountability: Insurers must regularly review the cost to customers of premium finance, using suitable information or data to ensure any charges remain appropriate. They should ensure the right level of senior management accountability for their approach taken on premium finance charges and its impact on consumers.

Mervyn Skeet, Director, Head of General Insurance policy said, “The principles announced are one of a raft of actions we are taking to tackle the cost of motor insurance, which we know is putting pressure on households, especially those on lower incomes. We are doing all that we can within our reach as a trade body for insurers and hope that other organisations involved with premium finance follow our lead.

“We’re also looking to investigate policy steps that could help low-income households specifically, as well as deliver on our broader Roadmap to tackling costs. This includes a call on the government to reduce insurance premium tax (IPT), especially when they are bringing in record tax revenues as a result of higher prices.”

The impact of these principles will be published in an ABI report next summer.

More Insights

ARC360 News – Friday 9 May 2025

09-05-2025

Step up for Ben

08-05-2025

ARC360 News – Friday 2 May 2025

02-05-2025

Corporate Partners

Partners

Associate Partners

Copart steps up preparations for Gloucester launch

24 April 2024

Bodyshop, Environment, Finance, People, Salvage, vehicle sales and Words

Copart is gearing up for the first auction at its new site in Gloucester, scheduled for next month.

The Gloucester development is part of the company’s continuing strategy of expansion to meet growing demand for its storage, salvage and remarketing services, as the UK car parc continues to expand and increase in diversity.

The company said, “Here at Copart, we’re proud of our ability to collect, handle, and store vehicles quickly, efficiently, and with minimal environmental impact. And we want to keep moving forward, always. That’s why we’re continuing to invest into expanding our landbank and operational network across the UK.

“Our Gloucester site will provide storage for an additional 30,000 vehicles per annum, significantly boosting vehicle storage capacity for our customers operating in the Southwest of England. Alongside our other new sites in Corby, East Kilbride, and St Helens, we are in closer proximity to more communities and customers than ever before, ready and prepared to provide our expertise and support whenever we are needed.”

More Insights

ARC360 News – Friday 9 May 2025

09-05-2025

Step up for Ben

08-05-2025

ARC360 News – Friday 2 May 2025

02-05-2025

Corporate Partners

Partners

Associate Partners

Fall in premiums only offers short-term relief

24 April 2024

Finance, Insurance, Mobility, People and Words

Comprehensive car insurance premiums fell by five per cent in the last three months, according to the latest Confused.com Car Insurance Price Index produced in association with WTW.

A £54 decrease means average comprehensive premiums are now £941.

However, this is still 43% (£284) higher than they were 12 months ago and prices are expected to rise again in the coming months.

Tim Rourke, UK Head of P&C Pricing, Product, Claims and Underwriting at WTW, said, “After a series of record highs in 2023 took car insurance premiums into uncharted territory, the latest pricing data suggests the relentless rise in prices may finally be turning a corner. Even with inflation easing, however, more vehicles with advanced technology that require complex and expensive repairs and higher rental vehicle costs, increased frequency and severity of claims and ongoing supply chain issues risk a perfect storm of issues that can be expected to continue to put pressure on car insurance premiums.”

Steve Dukes, CEO at Confused.com, added, “While the cost of car insurance may have dropped at the beginning of this year, customers are still paying historically high prices for their car insurance. Premiums are still more expensive year-on-year, so as an industry, there’s still an important role to play in helping customers to understand where they could be saving money.”

More Insights

ARC360 News – Friday 9 May 2025

09-05-2025

Step up for Ben

08-05-2025

ARC360 News – Friday 2 May 2025

02-05-2025

Corporate Partners

Partners

Associate Partners

ARC360 News – Friday, 19 April 2024

19 April 2024

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

Key repairers subscribe to ARC360 conference

Some of the leading lights within the repair community have already confirmed their attendance at this years ‘future vehicle technology’ themed ARC360 conference taking place on Thursday 27 June 2024 at the Manufacturing Technology Centre (MTC) in Coventry.

Consumer Intelligence to kick start New Generation discussions

Catherine Carey, Head of Marketing at Consumer Intelligence is set to kick-start ILC’s New Generation in Claims Conference 2024 by revealing research findings centred on careers in insurance.

Titled ‘Perception Vs reality: redefining careers in insurance’ the session will explore the contrast between how current insurance professionals view their careers and the common misconceptions held by outsiders.

Bodyshop Briefs

Accident Express Direct is transitioning to BS 10125:2022 after receiving a positive recommendation.
Steer Automotive Group won the People Team of the Year Award at the British HR Awards. The group was shortlisted in three categories.
Llandudno-based Hefin Jones Vehicle Body Repairs has passed its first BS10125 audit.
Komoo Wigan has secured BS 10125:2022 certification after achieving 100% compliance.

Industry News

Repair market facing over-supply issue

New insight from Trend Tracker suggests that after a period of capacity challenges in vehicle repair, the market could be about to enter a new phase.

It says a combination of greater investment in the sector coupled with falling demand could create a dynamic where supply outstrips demand, although it warns that the continued skills crisis could go some way to balancing that in the coming years as the industry struggles to attract the 107,000 EV technicians and 25,000 ADAS technicians that will be needed by 2030.

EV values continuing to fall

A new white paper into the UK used car market has revealed a dramatic fall in EV prices compared to their petrol and diesel counterparts.

The INDICATA Market Watch found a 20% fall in used EV prices in just six months during 2023, meaning they began 2024 more than 42% cheaper than both used petrol and used diesel cars.

New voices wanted for Diversity Group

The IMI is looking for more people to join its Diversity Task Force Working Group. Members will have the opportunity help shape the future of the industry by taking part in group meetings and sharing examples of best practice.

Plastrepair celebrates IMI approval

Plastrepair, which develops speciality tools and materials for plastic repairs in the vehicle repair sector, has announced that its training programme has now secured IMI approval.

MIB tackles uninsured driving

The Motor Insurers’ Bureau has launched a new initiative in collaboration with police forces to remove uninsured drivers from the road.

In the first of a series of one-day operations, it worked with officers from South Wales, Gwent, Avon and Somerset, Wiltshire, and Thames Valley Police to seize a number of uninsured vehicles from motorways across the region.

FCA warns of unexpected DCA costs

The FCA has written to motor finance firms urging them to maintain the financial resources needed to absorb the costs of discretionary commission arrangements (DCA), following its own review into the issue.

This includes planning for any additional operational costs from increased complaints and meeting the costs of resolving those complaints.

HELLA launches IMI-approved academy

HELLA has unveiled its new IMI-approved academy at its Chipping Warden head office.

The state-of-the-are facility provides classroom-based learning with hands-on workshop training.

Last day of AWE24

The inaugural Automotive Work Experience Week concludes today.

Introduced jointly by the Institute of the Motor Industry, School of Thought Automotive and Autotech Academy, the initiative is urging all employers to play their part in fighting the skills crisis by committing to a week’s work placement for at least one young person this year.

Inchcape sells retail operations

Inchcape is selling its UK retail operations to Group 1 Automotive for £346m as part of its strategy to become a distribution-focused business.

The deal includes more than 80 forecourts and is expected to be completed by the end of the third quarter.

EVs and petrol to dominate car sales by 2027

A new report predicts that EVs will make up 34% of all new car sales by 2027, with 701,893 registrations compared to 722,537 (35%) petrol sales. Diesel meanwhile will plummet to just three per cent.

According to Cox Automotive’s Fuel Type Forecast, petrol cars will however still dominate used car sales (62%), ahead of diesel (30%), with EVs languishing on a 5.9% market share.

SMMT wins workplace gold

The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) has gained gold accreditation from Investors in People (IIP), recognising it as one of the best places in the UK to work.

Just 17% of organisations seeking IIP accreditation secure gold.

BASF collaborates on hybrid hypercar battery

BASF has collaborated with RML Group to develop an immersion-cooled battery for a high-performance hybrid hypercar. It features a capacity of 4.2 kWh and weighs less than 75kg.

Meanwhile, the company has been named as a 2023 Supplier of the Year by General Motors (GM), making it the 17^th time in 32 years it has won the accolade.

BASF has also emphasised how its innovative engineering solutions can support manufacturers meet sustainability targets around recyclability and low product carbon footprint.

Tyre recycling service cutting costs by 30%

Purchase Direct has introduced a new waste tyre collection and disposal service through its sister company, Outsourced Waste, which is delivering savings of over 30%.

BIBA and NOVO unveil EV insurance solution

The British Insurance Brokers’ Association and NOVO have launched a new motor insurance scheme that offers BIBA members like-for-like replacement mobility, access to EV-qualified repairers, and specialist EV claims management.

NFDA survey shows VM relationships trending upwards

The relationship between dealers and manufacturers is on an upward curve, according to the winter edition of the NFDA’s Dealer Attitude Survey.

Carried out between January and March, the survey attracted 2,321 responses with average scores up in 47 of the 56 questions.

VM News

JLR unveils BESS in class

JLR has partnered with energy storage start-up Allye Energy to develop a new portable Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) that can store 270kWh of energy, the equivalent of nearly a month’s worth of power for the average UK home.

Nissan on course to deliver all-solid-state batteries

Nissan aims to launch EVs with all-solid-state batteries by 2028 and has shown off the production line in Japan where they will be developed.

All-solid-state batteries will have twice the energy density as lithium-ion batteries, will offer shorter charging times and lower costs.

Polestar cuts emissions by nine per cent per car

Polestar’s first sustainability report has revealed that emissions per car sold last year were down by nine per cent, while the company cut absolute emissions by five per cent.

People

Avant Group has appointed Mark Adkins as new Technical Project Manager.
Danielle Fenwick has joined the customer care team at 1^st Choice ARC.
FMG (Fleet) has named Helen Keenan as Account Director.
WhoCanFixMyCar has appointed Amada Webb as Chief Finance Officer and Craig Livings as Chief Technology Officer.

More Insights

ARC360 News – Friday 9 May 2025

09-05-2025

Step up for Ben

08-05-2025

ARC360 News – Friday 2 May 2025

02-05-2025

Corporate Partners

Partners

Associate Partners

ARC360 News – Friday, 12 April 2024

12 April 2024

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

Leading names back ARC360 event

Activate Group and Thatcham Research are the two latest names to show their support for ARC360’s ‘future technology’ themed conference taking place on Thursday 27 June 2024 at the Manufacturing Technology Centre (MTC) in Coventry.

The event is also now sponsored by Activate Group and Thatcham Research – both of whom will be present on the day – along with recently announced event partner Stellantis which will be hosting the ‘Stellantis Zone’.

Carpenters and Enterprise lead New Generation support

Carpenters Group and Enterprise are the two leading names to show their ongoing support of ILC’s New Generation in Claims Conference 2024 takes place on 25 April at etc.venues Manchester.

The New Generation in Claims programme for 2024 has been backed by Ambassadors: Activate Group, Edam Group, Gemini ARC, Kennedys, S&G Response and Solera Audatex.

Bodyshop Briefs

esure Group has unveiled its latest state-of-the-art bodyshop in partnership with Halo ARC, based in Saffron Waldon.
The Vella Group has retained its PAS 2060 certification for a third year in a row after reducing emissions by six per cent in 2023 and becoming the first UK repairer to join the AkzoNobel Sustainable Repair Network last month.
Fix Auto UK has welcomed three more East Anglia-based repairers to its network. Bressingham Car Bodyshop will now operate as Fix Auto Diss, Autodoc has transitioned into Fix Auto West Norwich, and Red Rocket Accident Repair Centre will now operate as Fix Auto Great Yarmouth.
Redhill-based Finesse ARC has successfully passed its first Volkswagen Group paint and body audit.
Crewe-based dealer group Swansway Motor Group will open a new all-electric car dealership in Crewe following a partnership with Chinese manufacturer BYD.
Knaresborough-based Great North Auto Services is opening a second site in Harrogate.
Allied Vehicles Group-backed Fix Auto Glasgow North has acquired Fix Auto Wigan as part of a wider growth strategy that will see more acquisitions in the coming three years.
Perfect Paint MK has announced it has achieved ISO 9001:2015 accreditation.

Industry News

Repair costs contribute to record payouts

Motor insurers paid out a record £9.9bn in compensation in 2023, up 18% on 2022.

The Association of British Insurers said the increase was driven by repair costs rising from £4.7bn in 2022 to £6.1bn. Meanwhile, claims volumes rose 10% to 2.3 million.

Enterprise Flex-E-Rent bolsters numbers

Enterprise Flex-E-Rent is recruiting more than 100 new technicians across its 28 UK depots.

It is also expanding its training programme, which now provides up to 4,000 bespoke career planning and training hours to technicians every month.

Industry leaders unveil inaugural Automotive Experience Week

The School of Thought Automotive, the Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI) and Autotech Academy are collaborating to launch the industry’s first ever Automotive Experience Week.

Taking place from 15-19 April, AWE24 is a call to action with employers encouraged to offer a week’s placement to at least one young person during the year.

Silverlake announces significant fleet investment

Silverlake Automotive Recycling has invested in its fleet to meet growing demand.

It has added six new transporters to offer greater capacity for salvage collections, and four new vans to deliver reclaimed parts to bodyshops.

SYNETIQ secures safety certifications

IAA company SYNETIQ has achieved a key safety milestone by securing a globally recognised certification.

It has announced that its management team has attained the IOSH Managing Safely qualification while its board and directors have achieved IOSH Directing Safely.

SMMT secures top employer award

The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) has been named one of Britain’s top places to work after achieving Gold accreditation from Investors in People (IIP), the international benchmark for workplace standards and people management.

Hybrids pull away from EVs

New figures have revealed that used EV sales have fallen across Europe, but hybrids are more popular than ever.

According to INDICATA, a cooling of demand for EVs means they now make up just 4.1% of the online used B2C used vehicle market, while hybrids have grown to a record high of 15.3%.

Autocraft set for European expansion

Autocraft Solutions Group has announced plans to expand its EV battery repair footprint across Europe after securing a £24m finance deal from HSBC.

It plans to launch its REVIVE range of EV battery testing and repair services in southern Europe and Scandinavia.

Drivers in a tight spot

Drivers are paying out £424m every year to repair vehicles damaged due to tight parking bays, according to Churchill, which also revealed that parking space widths are based on 1970s guidelines while cars have increased by 12cm on average since then.

Delphi expands hydrogen parts portfolio

Global aftermarket leader Delphi has expanded its range of hydrogen vehicle parts and components available to the aftermarket.

It now offers 32 replacement component part numbers across braking, steering and suspension, vehicle electronics, and thermal management systems.

Automotive 30% Club announces Small Business Group

The Automotive 30% Club has announced it will launch a new Small Business Group to develop collective solutions to promote gender balance within the industry.

Meanwhile, Hella Aftermarket Managing Director Neil Grant has renewed his membership.

VM News

Euro NCAP announces new safety ratings

Euro NC AP has awarded safety ratings to three crossovers, with the NIO EL6 and Toyota EL6 both receiving five-star ratings.

Meanwhile, the Honda CR-V hybrid achieved a four-star rating.

BMW Group signs tech collaboration

The BMW Group has announced a new collaboration with Croatian tech company Rimac Technology to develop new solutions in EV batteries.

JLR announces strong sales results

JLR has reported wholesale and retail sales increases of more than 20% in the last financial year.

Wholesale volumes rose 25% to 401,303 units while retail was up 22% to 431,733.

Kia sets steep sales curve

Kia has announced sales targets of 4.3 million by 2030, with electric models accounting for 58% (2.48 million) of that.

This represents a 34% increase on the brand’s sales targets for 2024.

Tesla ditches low-cost model

Reuters has reported that Tesla has abandoned plans to develop an affordable EV for the mass-market, due to increasing pressure from Chinese manufacturers.

People

Accident Credit Group (ACG) has appointed Roxanne Cosby as Business Development Manager.
Satty Nanuwa has started a new role as Insurance Business Manager at Autoglass.
AutoGrab has appointed Rupert Pontin as UK Head.
Richard Farrar has been named Head of Operations – Refurbishment at Cox Automotive Europe.
Sydney Jeyes has been appointed Customer Experience Agent at Evolution Repair Group.
The Independent Paint Supplies team has appointed Marc Powell as Technical Sales & Support expert.
Gail Carr has been promoted from van driver at Carlac to Merchandiser for the Manchester area.
Equipmake has appointed Glenn Saint as Business Development Director.

More Insights

ARC360 News – Friday 9 May 2025

09-05-2025

Step up for Ben

08-05-2025

ARC360 News – Friday 2 May 2025

02-05-2025

Corporate Partners

Partners

Associate Partners

ARC360 News – Friday, 5 April 2024

5 April 2024

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

ARC360 & Stellantis partner for conference

ARC360 and Stellantis – a constellation of 14 iconic automotive brands and two mobility arms – have partnered for the forthcoming ARC360 ‘future tech’ themed conference.

The event will feature the Stellantis Zone – created to provide delegates with an immersive showcase of the vehicle manufacturers’ network operations, vehicles and technologies. Stellantis will also be taking to the stage during the event to provide more of an insight into its mission to transform into a sustainable mobility tech company, guided by the clear vision of its Dare Forward 2030 strategic plan – electric vehicles and various other advanced technologies being core to that.

Steer and Saga join New Generation agenda

Nicky Sutherland, Director of People & Culture at Steer Automotive Group and Andy Cain, Head of Claims – Customer Operations at Saga plc will join the agenda for this year’s ILC New Generation in Claim Conference.

Sponsored by Carpenters Group and Enterprise, and supported by Ambassadors: Activate Group; Edam Group; Gemini Accident Repair Centres; Kennedys Law; S&G Response; and Solera Audatex the New Generation in Claims Conference 2024 takes place on 25 April at etc venues Manchester.

In Conversation With… Mick Jennings

ARC360’s Mark Hadaway catches up with Mick Jennings to find out the latest developments from across the business, his latest venture with Maldon Accident Repair Centre and find out more about the man himself.

Bodyshop Briefs

Komoo has opened its third site of the year. Based in Southampton it will serve fleet and rental customers across Hampshire, West Sussex, and Dorset.
M J Warner Volkswagen Bodyshop has passed its latest CARSQA BS10125 audit.
L&I Eaton Edinburgh has received a positive recommendation for transition to the BS10125:2022 standard.
James Alpe has won the Workforce Development award at the Ribble Valley Business Awards.
Peggs Accident Repair Centre has joined the Kia network as an approved repairer.
Veetec has unveiled a new repair site in Hayes, London. Manufacturer approved and BSi Kitemark accredited, the facility offers aluminium and electric vehicle repairs.
Aviva has opened its first Solus site in Wales. The new facility is based in Newport.
Fix Auto Manchester East has become a patron of Oldham-based Mahdlo Youth Zone, a community centre dedicated youngsters between eight and 19 and those with disabilities aged up to 25, for the next three years.

Industry News

EVs in a ‘turbulent place’

There is a perception among some within the market that ‘take-off’ of electric vehicles is stalling, but that thought is misguided with environmental factors and political will ensuring that electrification of the car parc is here to stay.

That was the consensus of ARC360’s second online Breakfast Think Tank, which considered the current status of EV momentum within the claims and vehicle repair markets. The answer, it appears, depends on who you ask.

Cary Group completes Spire Windscreens purchase

Cary Group has acquired Spire Windscreens, which is also part of the National Windscreens consortium.

The deal means Cary Group now controls all but four National Windscreens operations.

Robertsons unveils complete credit hire service

Robertsons has launched a new end-to-end modular credit hire service which includes FNOL, claims monitoring, intervention services, credit hire investigation, GTA and non-GTA payment negotiations, and credit hire fraud detection.

Customers are able to select any or all modules, providing a fully bespoke service that can be tailored to suit individual needs.

Insurers found to be undervaluing cars

The FCA has found that some insurers are still undervaluing cars when it comes to settlements.

Its review revealed certain insurers continue to offer customers less than their car is worth after it has been written off or stolen.

Vehicle sales maintain strong momentum

The new car market rose 10.4% last month to 317,786 registrations, according to the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders, although this remains 30.6% down on pre-pandemic levels.

The light commercial market also enjoyed a strong sales month, with 52,916 new registrations equating to an 11.1% spike.

Repairify announces Italian expansion

Repairify is expanding its business in Europe with the opening of a new office in Italy led by Business Development Director Santiago Malbran.

SYNETIQ celebrates FORS silver

SYNETIQ’s Winsford site has attained silver accreditation in the Fleet Operator Recognition Scheme (FORS).

To become FORS accredited, the business undertook a combination of site-based audits and theory learning.

Meanwhile, SYNETIQ CEO Tom Rumboll has won the ‘Green Leader’ award at the Yorkshire Leadership Awards.

Mirka reveals upgraded sander

Mirka has unveiled a new electric sander, the DEOS II, which offers 20% more power and user-friendly LED indicators for setting sanding speed.

Thatcham Research announces Cherry partnership

Thatcham Research has signed a two-year deal with Chinese vehicle manufacturer Cherry.

As part of the agreement, it will deliver its ‘Insurability by Design’ programme, which aims to ensure that repairability, sustainability and insurability is incorporated into the design process.

Supermarkets plug in to EV charging

The number of EV charge points at supermarkets rose by 59% last year to 1,616.

More than 600 locations added charge points during 2023 meaning 13% of all 12,839 UK supermarkets now offer EV charging on site.

Euro NCAP reveals latest ratings

Euro NCAP has announced the crash avoidance ratings for eight vans, with Gold ratings awarded to the Citroen Berlingo, Fiat Doblo, Vauxhall Combo, Peugeot Partner, Renault Kangoo and Volkswagen Caddy Cargo and Platinum ratings going to the Mercedes-Benz Citan and VW ID.Buzz Cargo.

Government to look into glare concerns

The government has announced it will commission an independent study into the issue of headlight glare.

This comes after an RAC survey found that 89% of drivers think some headlights are too bright, with 91% saying they have been dazzled by bright headlights and 74% saying they regularly are.

Plunky’s charity matches top £100k

The final Plunky’s All Stars charity football match, which takes place at the Football Development Centre in Norwich on 28 June, has so far raised more than £7,000 for three charities, the East Anglian Air Ambulance (Just Giving) , the Fire Fighters Charity (Just Giving), and Norfolk & Waveney Mind (Just Giving).

Since being launched more than a decade ago, the Plunky’s All Stars matches have raised over £100k for charity.

Automotive production enjoys healthy growth

UK car production rose for the sixth month in a row in February, up 14.6% to 79,907 units.

This made it the best performing February since 2021, according to the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders.

New-look Assessor due for relaunch

The IAEA has announced that newly revamped and refreshed Assessor magazine will be published again in May, with a summer edition coming out at the end of August and an autumn/winter due in November.

Produced by the ABP club, The Assessor will be published four times a year from 2025.

VM News

Volkswagen to introduce Level 4 autonomous driving

Volkswagen has become the first vehicle manufacturer to develop an autonomous Level 4 service vehicle for large-scale production.

This comes after a development agreement with Mobileye, which will manufacture and supply software, hardware and digital maps for the self-driving ID. Buzz AD for commercial use in Europe and the US.

Polestar announces Tesla charging integration

Polestar has become the first vehicle manufacturer in Europe to integrate the Tesla Supercharger network in its own charging app, Polestar Charge, providing drivers with quicker and more convenient access to more charging points.

Drivers slow to U-turn

A new global survey carried out by YouGov in partnership with the Freedom of Mobility Forum has revealed that less than 10% of respondents have made significant mobility changes to reduce their environmental impact.

The survey questioned drivers in Brazil, France, India, Morocco, United States, with the overwhelming feeling that governments are responsible to driving the green revolution.

People

Allianz has named Hannah Weber as new Supplier Relationship Manager.
Adrian Hallmark will join Aston Martin as Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer.
Phil Hodkinson is retiring from his position as National Sales Manager at ACG after 33 years in the industry.
Victoria Turner has joined Ryemarc Group as Executive Director.
AF Accident Repair has appointed Aaron Reece as Parts Manager.
Luke Charlesworth and Tony Billett have joined Avant Consult as new Finance Assistants.
Steer Automotive Group has named Martin Lovell as Regional Compliance Manager.
React has appointed Andrew D’Arcy and Ross Graham as company Directors.
Omari Henry-Coleman has joined Fix Auto UK as Bodyshop Site Coordinator.
Allparts Refinishing has appointed Benjamin Groves as Technical Development Manager.
McLaren Automotive has appointed Jochen Schnez as new Chief Quality Officer.
Garry Winckley has joined Fleet Assist as Director of Special Projects.

More Insights

ARC360 News – Friday 9 May 2025

09-05-2025

Step up for Ben

08-05-2025

ARC360 News – Friday 2 May 2025

02-05-2025

Corporate Partners

Partners

Associate Partners

ARC360 News Update – Friday 22 March 2024

22 March 2024

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

Stellantis becomes first ARC360 Vehicle Manufacturer Partner

Stellantis – a constellation of 14 iconic automotive brands and two mobility arms – has become the first ARC360 Vehicle Manufacturer Partner.

As a result, Stellantis will be working closely with ARC360 across all its activities helping to shape content, sharing insights and supporting events. It also means Stellantis branding will appear as a Vehicle Manufacturer Partner on all ARC360 marketing activities alongside its Corporate and Insurer Partners.

ARC360 conference ‘gaining ground together’

ARC360’s ‘future technology’ themed conference is gaining ground as a growing number of sector stakeholders confirm their presence at the event.

Taking place on Thursday 27 June 2024 at the Manufacturing Technology Centre (MTC) in Coventry, the event will follow up on last year’s highly acclaimed specialist electric vehicle (EV) event to further explore just how technology is shaping the future of the industry.

Saga and Steer join New Generation agenda

Andy Cain, Head of Claims – Customer Operations at Saga plc and Nicky Sutherland, Director of People & Culture at Steer Automotive Group are the latest key names set to join ILC’s New Generation in Claim Conference.

Sponsored by Carpenters Group and Enterprise, and supported by recently announced Ambassadors: Activate Group; Gemini Accident Repair Centres; Kennedys Law; and S&G Response, the New Generation in Claims Conference 2024 takes place on 25 April at etc venues Manchester.

Bodyshop Briefs

Fix Auto Lichfield owner Andy Johnson completed the formidable 3,000km Panda Raid driving challenge across the Moroccan desert and raised an impressive £12,000 for a Birmingham Children’s Hospital charity in the process. For anyone wishing to support Andy and Sam’s exploits, please visit the Carter The Brave Just Giving Page; https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/carterthebrave

Mustoe’s Specialist Vehicle Body Repairs has once again achieved PAS 2060 status.

Foray Motor Group has transitioned to the new BS10125:2022 standard.

M&A Coachworks has rejoined the network of Lotus Approved Bodyshops after a five-year absence.

Direct Line Group’s flagship Technology Centre in Birmingham hosted Chief Executive Adam Winslow recently, when he witnessed first-hand the cutting-edge innovations taking place.

The overall winners in the Steer Apprentice Skills competition have been announced, with Nathan Hoe from Steer Sleaford and David Lindert from Steer Romford taking top honours in Automotive Body Repair and Automotive Refinishing respectively.

Industry News

Repair volumes tell a complex tale

While there has been a fall in repair volumes during February, the evidence on the ground can be slightly different according to where in the UK you are and what sort of work you do.

According to data by Trend Tracker, volumes fell significantly from January to February, but January saw a marked increase on December and, taken together, volumes over the first two months of this year were actually four per cent higher than the same period in 2023.

Government decision will ‘exacerbate’ skill crisis

New immigration requirements that come into force on 4 April, raising the salary threshold for skilled workers coming to the UK from £26,200 to £38,700, could exacerbate an already extreme skills crisis in the industry, according to the National Body Repair Association (NBRA).

The NBRA is ‘deeply concerned’ that these requirements will exclude a raft of new talent that could otherwise have boosted the UK automotive workforce.

BASF boss shares battery recycling insights

Director of Business Management Battery Recycling at BASF Julian Proelss has discussed battery innovation and explained how BASF is ‘closing the supply chain loop’ in the latest episode of S&P Global’s Energy Evolution podcast.

PartsXchange partners with LKQ Academy

PartsXchange has announced a new training partnership with LKQ Academy. The partnership continues PartsXchange’s journey to becoming a one-stop hub for its users.

Symach launches EV refinishing solution

Symach has unveiled a new refinishing solution tailored to electric vehicles.

Its Cutting-Edge DryTronic Infrared Technology offers a safer, more energy-efficient alternative to conventional drying methods, directly curing vehicle coatings without generating excessive heat.

H&S revealed as number one risk

A new report by WTW and Clyde & Co has revealed that health and safety is the number one risk concern for directors.

It was cited as the prime worry for 84% of respondents, followed by cyber-attack (79%).

Autoglym joins eBay

eBay has announced that UK car cleaning product manufacturers Autoglym has launched a dedicated store on its platform.

Ball tickets now available

Automotive charity Ben has announced that tickets are now available for its annual industry celebration, the Ben Ball.

Taking place at Old Billingsgate Market on 11 December and supported by Auto Trader, the theme for this year’s event is the roaring 20s.

Autotech skills survey reveals substantial challenges

Autotech Recruit’s annual Automotive Recruitment Trends Survey, carried out between December and January, has revealed that 52% of respondents said a lack of skills was impacting their ability to meet demand and 56% said it reduced their ability to maximise profitability.

Vehicle technician was cited as the most difficult job role to fill by 70% of respondents.

Leon roars into first place

New data from Auto Trader has revealed that the SEAT Leon is the fastest-selling used car in the UK, taking an average of 10 days to leave retailers’ forecourts. That is more than twice as quick as the overall average of 26 days.

The Vauxhall Crossland and Vauxhall Grandland X were ranked second and third.

Vizion introduces BYD EVs

Vizion Drive is now delivering the first BYD electric vehicles to the sector.

Featuring the latest innovations, the BYD Dolphin is available on a monthly rental basis as both a management and a courtesy vehicle.

BMW 5 Series tops infotainment charts

What Car? has ranked the top 20 car infotainment systems on the market, with the BMW 5 Series coming out on top with an overall score of 87%. Touchscreen and voice control features were tested on a range of models to determine the outcome.

VM News

Vauxhall boss calls for EV funding support

The Managing Director of Vauxhall James Taylor has written to Prime Minister Rishi Sunak calling for more financial support for private EV buyers.

In a letter published in The Sun, he calls for VAT on public charging to be reduced from 20% to five per cent ‘so people who can’t charge at home pay the same tax as those who have a driveway.’

JLR launches EV recruitment drive

JLR is recruiting 250 electrification engineers for its Gaydon and Whitley sites. This includes more than 40 battery experts to work in advanced energy storage systems, battery cell design, and cell stack assemblies.

Stellantis backs LiDAR startup

Stellantis Ventures is investing in SteerLight, which develops new generation high-performance LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) sensing technology.

Its technology senses the surrounding environment in three dimensions with higher resolution and precision, and at a lower volume production cost.

Fisker receives financing boost

Fisker has received nearly £119m additional funding from an existing investor.

Meanwhile, negotiations continue with a vehicle manufacturer to develop one or more electric platforms. The deal would also include investment.

Škoda reveals sustainability successes

Škoda has published its Sustainability Report alongside its Annual Report for the first time.

The report revealed its carbon footprint per car had reduced from 41.2 tonnes of CO2 emissions in 2018 to 38 tonnes this year. It plans to reduce that further to 24.7 tonnes by 2030.

Volkswagen Group enhances Mobileye collaboration

Volkswagen has expanded its autonomous vehicle technology development collaboration with Mobileye.

The two companies will work together to develop new self-driving functions such as automated overtaking on multi-lane highways and automated navigation around roundabouts.

People

Nick Spiers has been appointed Network’s Global VP of Strategic Operations

Tomas Dawe has been appointed Junior Software Developer at Charles Trent.

Gavin White has taken an Automotive Ambassador role with Activate Business Finance.

FMG Repair Services has appointed Howard Jordan as ATA VDA Vehicle Damage Assessor.

Kevern Thompson has been appointed Chief Executive Officer at WhoCanFixMyCar.

Craig Salter, who is part of The Institute of Automotive Engineer Assessors, has joined Freedom Assessors.