Insurance Archives - Page 43 of 63

ARC360 News Round Up – Friday 8 April

8 April 2022

Bodyshop, Environment, Finance, Insurance, People, Technology, Vehicle Repair and Words

Register Now…

webinARC – people & skills 2022

1.30pm Wednesday 27 April

In this webinARC we look at the latest trends in recruitment, upskilling and wellbeing from a industry undergoing rapid evolution.

Gemini focuses on talent development

Gemini Accident Repair Group has launched a national search for its next cohort of apprentices. The group has a proven record of developing talent, with more than 13% of its workforce on an earn and learn scheme.

It is now hoping to increase that number by recruiting even more technician and vehicle damage assessor apprentices, offering competitive rates of pay, tools and uniforms to successful applicants.

Vella Group joins Climate Pledge reception

The Vella Group marked its commitment to improving sustainability by attending the Climate Pledge’s Spring Reception at The Gherkin in London. The Climate Pledge is an international initiative comprising more than 300 organisations that have committed to achieving net zero by 2040.

The evening was attended by Vella Group Finance Director Brendan Miller and Head of Commercial Tom Hadfield.

The Group said, “Signing the Climate Pledge means we are not focusing on this alone, but also working with some of the world’s biggest companies to create a colossal impact.”

Perfect storm driving up motor claims

Aviva has published a report highlighting the factors that are driving up motor claims inflation, which is now at 7.5%.

The report examines the effects of disruption to the supply chain, Brexit, Covid-19, developing vehicle technology, whiplash reforms, and even climate change, while considering some of the actions that can be taken to subdue the impact.

Car sales stall in March

New car registrations decreased by 14.3% in March, according to the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders, with just 243,479 units sold.

However, battery electric vehicles (BEVs) enjoyed a record month with 39,315 sales of zero emission cars. This is an increase of 78.7% on the same month last year and represents a 16.1% market share.

Meanwhile, new light commercial vehicle registration dropped 27.6% to 40,613 units in March.

Inflation raising the risk of underinsurance

Inflation has reached its highest level for 30 years, driven by rising demand, the rising cost of materials and stock, which are now at their highest level in 40 years, and continued supply chain issues.

Nick Hobbs, Chief Distribution and Regions Officer, Allianz, has said this has made index linking critical to avoid the potential for underinsurance.

He said, “Index linking is commonly used in buildings insurance, but is not limited to buildings. Changes and developments in the macroeconomic environment can affect the value of other assets, such as stock, materials and parts.”

Kick-off approaching for charity football match

Steve Plunkett is nearly 70% of the way towards his target of raising £17,000 for Brain Tumour Research through the Plunky’s All Stars football match, which will take place at the home of Peterborough United on 24 May.

He said, “We’re chasing £17,000 to beat last year’s £16,500. Why not? We normally raise anything from £800 to £1,200 on the night, so I’m fairly confident that we will get close.”

Further sponsorship for the event is still required.

Thatcham Research confirms new test centre

Thatcham Research will develop a new centre of excellence at Gamston Airport after acquiring Gamston Aviation Limited.

The UK’s only ‘not-for-profit’ insurer-funded automotive research centre will use the facility for the testing and research necessary to ensure new mobility technology is introduced safely and effectively. This includes active-safety and assisted and automated driving systems.

Fix Chelmsford plans multi-site expansion

Danny Ashwell, Managing Director at Fix Auto Chelmsford, has revealed a programme of expansion that could see his single-site operation quadruple in size within the next four years.

He revealed his intentions after signing the papers to take over a 10,000sqft building which will be transformed into Fix Auto Braintree, a new addition to the Fix Auto UK network.

The new site will be the result of a £230,000 investment but will be the first of two additional developments already in the pipeline.

AW docuseries explores evolution of sector

AW Repair Group’s seventh episode in the AW: A Career for Life docuseries sees Technical Development Executive Steve Hoe share more than 30 years’ experience in the industry and the evolution of vehicle crash repair.

Starting out as a paint technician and now Technical Development Executive Steve explains how AW Repair Group is investing in the future with knowledge, skills, and equipment to be able to repair complex vehicles on a daily basis.

Watch Steve’s story here.

webinARC follow-up with Andrew Hooker

Following on from the recent Vehicle Technology webinARC (see below) – we caught up with panellist Andrew Hooker, Head of Technical at Solus Accident Repair Centres to pose some questions received from those tuned in.

Siemens brings Enterprise mobility to employees

Siemens UK has extended its partnership with Enterprise to offer all its employees 24/7 access to Enterprise Car Club’s 1,400-plus on-street fleet via an automated rental programme.

Enterprise’s car club is available in 200 towns, cities and communities across the UK, while dedicated car club vehicles are also located at Siemens offices in Lincoln, Hull, Aberdeen, Congleton and Manchester. The partnership has already helped Siemens reduce its pool cars in the UK by a third.

Sherwin-Williams completes Sika acquisition

Sherwin-Williams has acquired the European industrial coatings business of Sika AG. Sika, which manufactures and sells corrosion protection coating systems, and its 115 employees will now become part of Sherwin-William’s Performance Coatings Group operating segment.

Sherwin-Williams Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, John Morikis said, “This business brings us unique technology and additional manufacturing and services capabilities in line with our strategy of acquiring complementary, high-quality, differentiated businesses that support our growth and profitability targets.”

Road usage settling into old rhythms

The impacts of Covid-19 on road usage and driver behaviour is waning, although certain shifts that took place during the pandemic are still in effect.

According to data released by ERS, there are now about 10% more HGVs on UK roads than before the pandemic and fewer cars, while rush hour traffic remains staggered due to flexible working hours.

It further warned that fleets are facing challenges in both replacing and repairing vehicles due to a shortage of new models entering the market and lack of repair capacity.

Rewind…

“The industry needs to be educated about the safety implications of EVs so it will allow technicians time to do the right thing.”

Catch up on ARC360’s most recent webinARC focusing on vehicle technology and featured:

Andrew Hooker, Head of Technical, Solus Accident Repair Centres

Franco Iannotta, Bodyshop Development Manager, Volkswagen Group UK

Phil Peace, Managing Director (International), Repairify

Available to watch or to read.

More Insights

ARC360 News – Friday 25 April 2025

25-04-2025

ARC360 Conference 2025: Unpacking the future of claims and collision repair

16-04-2025

ARC360 News – Friday 11 April 2025

11-04-2025

Corporate Partners

Partners

Associate Partners

webinARC follow-up with Andrew Hooker

6 April 2022

Insurance, Mobility, People, Supplier, Technology, Training, Vehicle Repair and Words

Following on from the recent Vehicle Technology webinARC – we caught up with panellist Andrew Hooker, Head of Technical at Solus Accident Repair Centres to pose some questions received from those tuned in.

Based on the volume of EVs, how will the sector recruit and train the technicians of the future?

As I touched on in the online debate, I believe we need to recognise a new skill level within our technicians, or perhaps different levels of Bodyshop MET technician, much as there are junior, senior, and master technicians in the main dealers. There will be a need for ongoing learning and skills development, and we should be looking for those with the will and confidence to progress themselves.

Perhaps new recognition comes with us as an industry having confidence to call out the automotive sector as being highly technical and recognizing how sophisticated the vehicles we work on are, and communicating this to potential ambitious candidates of the future to get excited about.

I would suggest this is a mix of VM and independent training. There is much commonality in EV’s and how to handle them and these can be addressed by many UK training providers, but also some brand/model specifics, and VM training/learning would benefit technicians.

What training and development will we need to make available to ensure we build that infrastructure?

The VM should provide some of the expertise to enable their customers to get the service they need and deserve. Whilst it is a competitive marketplace, the customer has the right to take their car to an independent repairer, even if just for tyres or wiper blades. The VM could help set the framework for UK wide training & qualifications that enable these vehicles to be maintained properly. There will always be specialisms and the experience and frequent exposure to VM specific technology should still enable the main dealers to have a competitive advantage to compete against cheaper independents, but a safe and skilled UK workforce would mean we all see safer cars, and cars that are maintained properly. All parties could gain by having a higher skilled workforce pool to fish from.

What is clear is that the competency and training frameworks of today need to evolve far faster, to reflect the pace of technology.

Academia, research Centres, OES, and training schools/colleges have their part to play too in collaboration and listening to the industry (their customers) to provide what they need, with Standards providers enabling, and not hampering, development.

What qualifications will these technicians require to hold to work on these vehicles?

Clearly ‘awareness’ is a minimum. This is not just pertinent to EVs, but also to automated driving systems, body structures, software derived systems etc, so as not to compromise any of these.

Beyond that, the highest available qualification; this seems to breed competence AND confidence. Certainly, within Bodyshop operations we cannot presume an EV to be ‘safe’ as it has sustained damage, so we need technicians and support teams who can recognize and manage the risks. This could be as simple as the vehicle being jacked up inappropriately.

The UK would benefit from a universally recognized qualification system, with VM and the independent training/skills sectors agreeing. This would create greater transparency across the sector and make the automotive sector safer and more professional. This is a big ask for the VM to accept, but their customers may make the wrong choice without this clarity, and the reality is that many will choose another service provider as is their right.

With the development of technology within the vehicle will there become a point that only VM aligned bodyshops can repair accident damaged vehicles correctly and safely?

No. These will have variances of competency/skills and a staff turnover like any other, so they too face a risk. We also should remember that these vehicles have been engineered well, for the Electric drivetrain not to sustain damage. As volumes grow, we shall see more unsafe and challenging repairs, but the majority should be safe enough if the repair is planned and managed appropriately.

However, again there may be much to be gained from the VM recognising the benefits to them and particularly for their customers if a broader range of service providers have the required capabilities so that their brand vehicles are maintained and protect their asset value and residual values.

More Insights

ARC360 News – Friday 25 April 2025

25-04-2025

ARC360 Conference 2025: Unpacking the future of claims and collision repair

16-04-2025

ARC360 News – Friday 11 April 2025

11-04-2025

Corporate Partners

Partners

Associate Partners

Thatcham Research confirms new test centre

6 April 2022

Insurance, Mobility, Technology, Training and Words

Thatcham Research will develop a new centre of excellence at Gamston Airport after acquiring Gamston Aviation Limited.

The facility, which will also enable greater focus on the assessment of the performance and safety benefits of these systems, will be dual operational with aviation being managed alongside vehicle research and testing.

Jonathan Hewett, Chief Executive at Thatcham Research and Director at Gamston Aviation, said: “Our investment marks the beginning of an exciting new era for Thatcham Research, and ensures we continue to be at the forefront of technological advances. We are expanding our extensive research and testing capabilities, whilst supporting and retaining aviation at the aerodrome.

“The long-term vision for the site will see the inception of a first-class vehicle research and testing facility, and provide leading insight to the automotive industry, legislators and insurers.”

Construction on the multi-million-pound investment is anticipated to begin in the summer 2022, with dual-operations beginning from Autumn 2022.

Hewett said: “In addition to research and testing, our investment provides commercial viability for the site, ensuring it continues to play a key role in the region. We are working closely with all stakeholders to ensure a smooth transition to dual-operations, and will continue to provide regular updates on the project and its progress.”

More Insights

ARC360 News – Friday 25 April 2025

25-04-2025

ARC360 Conference 2025: Unpacking the future of claims and collision repair

16-04-2025

ARC360 News – Friday 11 April 2025

11-04-2025

Corporate Partners

Partners

Associate Partners

Facing down the tech challenge

4 April 2022

Bodyshop, Environment, Finance, Insurance, People, Supplier, Technology, Training, Vehicle Repair and Words

The latest ARC360 webinar focused on vehicle technology, and while electric vehicles and ADAS were inevitably identified as key issues, the fundamental message to come out of the session was that development in this area is as broad as it is fast, with virtually every aspect of the vehicle affected.

“I think steering and suspension are just about the only things that haven’t changed in the last 10-15 years,” said Franco Iannotta, Bodyshop Development Manager at Volkswagen Group UK.

He was joined on the panel by Andrew Hooker, Head of Technical at Solus Accident Repair Centres and Phil Peace, Managing Director (International) at Repairify, both of whom agreed that change was taking place across the board.

Winners and losers

Andrew said, “Technology is moving forward and it’s very diverse. Of course, there is lot of noise around EVs and ADAS, but materials and structure is another area where there is great change and I think it will challenge repairers, creating winners and losers.”

He also introduced a new term to the automotive lexicon – the snowflake car – which describes how ‘function on demand’ is becoming more and more prevalent, creating a situation where no two cars are exactly the same.

“This will be a significant challenge for the insurance sector,” he warned, explaining that some drivers will turn off or disconnect certain features while other drivers might install upgrades, creating vastly different insurance propositions from what is fundamentally the same product.

Underlining the diverse nature of the challenge facing the sector, a live online poll asked attendees to name the area of their business most impacted by vehicle technology, with answers split across the board. Less than one in three (30%) said processes, 27% said the impact was mostly financial, 36% said skillsets, with customer care (10%) and recruitment (seven per cent), also factors.

EVs

But despite that, there is no doubt that the most fundamental change impacting vehicle technology today is the electrification of the car parc. A second poll saw 69% of respondents cite EVs as the stand-out factor, ahead of ADAS (40%), connectivity (36%), and materials/structure (27%).

The need for training and tooling to safely repair these vehicles has been well-documented, but Andrew said that if the industry is going to respond positively to the surge in EV demand then it needed to remember who it was working for.

Clarity and communication

He said, “There has been a lack of clarity and communication with the customer around ADAS for a number of years; we mustn’t make that mistake with EVs. We need to remember we’re working for the customer, and that the whole idea is to get the driver back in their car quickly and efficiently, and at the same time build confidence that we – as a sector – can handle EVs. To do that we need to stop operating in silos. Working together is more critical than ever and that means getting the right tools and the right knowledge to the person who is managing the customer.”

Franco agreed but said that true co-operation will only happen when all sectors of the industry appreciate the implications of repairing EVs. He pointed to the difference between disconnecting and de-energising a car, saying that one takes less than a minute and the other can take more than an hour.

He said, “The industry needs to be educated about the safety implications of EVs so it will allow technicians time to do the right thing.”

Online poll: What are your concerns around EVs?

54% – skills and knowledge
47% – site facilities/charging options
30% – vehicle recovery/handling
25% – handling information
18% – customer experience
8% – volumes

Attitudes

In many ways then, adapting to EVs and the myriad other changes taking place within car development is a matter of attitude. The automotive aftermarket is well-versed now at dealing with change – “As an industry, we’re very open,” Andrew said – but it could be that lasting adaptability will depend on new blood entering a sector that is restricted by an ageing workforce.

Phil said, “Mindsets are evolving, but are they evolving as quickly as technology? Possibly not. That’s no one’s fault, but it is a massive challenge because the skillsets we’re going to need in the future are also changing. Somehow we need to start bringing through new blood. We really can’t do that quickly enough.

“So how do we attract people to the industry? We need to take the industry to them. We need to go to schools and colleges and show the younger generation how exciting the sector is and build new career paths around them.”

Investment

Of course, this has been the objective for a number of years, with only limited success so far and ultimately every business will have to take it upon themselves to ensure they are future-proofed and relevant going forward.

This will require investment in both people and facilities, and for many business owners the biggest quandary is knowing where to invest.

Franco said, “It all comes back to the why: why should people bring their cars to you, why should people come and work for you? You need to understand the why before you can do anything else.”

Delving deeper into this, the next ARC360 webinar will take place on Wednesday, 27 April, when People and Skills will be under the spotlight.

ARC360 would like to thank its Corporate Partners BASF, BMS, CAPS, Copart, Emacs, Entegral, Enterprise Rent-A-Car, Innovation Group, Mirka, Nationwide Vehicle Recovery Assistance, S&G Response, and Sherwin Williams as well as Partners asTech, The Green Parts Specialists, Indasa and Prasco UK, and associate partners Gemini ARC, Thatcham Research and Trend Tracker.

More Insights

ARC360 News – Friday 25 April 2025

25-04-2025

ARC360 Conference 2025: Unpacking the future of claims and collision repair

16-04-2025

ARC360 News – Friday 11 April 2025

11-04-2025

Corporate Partners

Partners

Associate Partners

ARC360 News Round Up – Friday 1 April

1 April 2022

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

Register Now…

webinARC – people & skills 2022

1.30pm Wednesday 27 April

In this webinARC we look at the latest trends in recruitment, upskilling and wellbeing from a industry undergoing rapid evolution.

BASF extends WorldSkills support

BASF’s Coatings division has extended its partnership with WorldSkills International for a further three years, with a view to continuing the partnership beyond that. The agreement underlines BASF’s commitment to developing new talent in the automotive refinish industry.

Fabien Boschetti, Director, Global Marketing, Automotive Refinish Coatings Solutions, said, “Vocational skills are more important than ever. Young people will lead us on the road to global economic recovery and help us confront future challenges. BASF is proud to partner with WorldSkills International for the next three years through this agreement.”

The 46th WorldSkills Competition takes place in China from 12-17 October, with competitors from more than 60 countries taking part.

Meanwhile, BASF has reaffirmed its ambitious climate targets. In an update it confirmed that by 2030 it aims to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions by 25 percent compared with 2018 and is maintaining its goal of net zero emissions globally by 2050.

Repairify reveals record year

Repairify has announced that 2021 was a record year both in terms of scans and acquisitions.

It has revealed that its family of brands completed more than 12.4 million automotive diagnostic scans and delivered over 4.9 million diagnostic reports across the market. This included 938,000 EV repairs and 185,000 ADAS calibration reports.

Meanwhile, Repairify’s asTech has joined CCC Intelligent Solutions’ diagnostics network in the US.

Insurers drive continued CAPS growth

CAPS has reported a 23% increase in usage during 2021, with growth being driven by communication between motor insurers such as Ageas, Direct Line, Esure, LV= and Sabre and their supply chains.

In the same period CAPS also recorded a 10% increase in the number of bodyshops (1,357) connecting with its service as well as 21% increase in other suppliers such as parts and salvage businesses.

NBRA considering new net zero standard

The NBRA is inviting industry input in the potential development of a new carbon neutral standard. The new standard would help accelerate the sector’s progress towards net zero while at the same time providing a clear and uncomplicated approach to carbon offsetting.

To ensure the standard is ‘designed by bodyshop people, for bodyshop people’, the NBRA is now asking industry stakeholders to express their interest in taking part in the development by completing a brief survey.

Fix Auto Dagenham celebrates green certification

Fix Auto Dagenham has secured PAS 2060 certification, as part of its strategy to be fully carbon neutral.

The business achieved certification after significant investment in new equipment and working through a raft of other operational measures.

Commercial Director Paul Cunningham said, “I’ve heard it said before how repair centres aren’t the most environmentally friendly businesses, but, like others in the industry, we have followed the correct path and guidelines to ensure Fix Auto Dagenham meets the right criteria so we can meet the official requirements our industry expects.

ILC breaks £1m fundraising milestone

The I Love Claims (ILC) community surpassed the £1m fundraising milestone for the Rainbow Trust during the Motor Claims Networking Lunch 2022.

Taking place on Friday, 25 March at The Grand Connaught Rooms, London the annual event featured a live auction, silent auction and prize draws to raise funds for the charity which supports families who have a child with life-threatening or terminal illness.

Enterprise enhances rental solutions

Enterprise has introduced new technology enabling in-branch employees to geolocate both rental and car clubs in real time. This means they can inform customers when a car club vehicle is the more convenient option.

Meanwhile, businesses using Enterprise’s ETD booking platform can now also be directed to a car club vehicle automatically when that is the closest and most convenient option.

Apollo apprentices begin Thatcham training

Apollo Accident Repair Group has announced that 40% of its 2022 apprentices have commenced their three-year journey with Thatcham Research. This continues the group’s strong focus on talent development in an effort to fight the industry’s skills shortage.

Jim Swann, Academy Development Manager at Apollo, said: “I’d like to thank Dean [Lander, Thatcham Research] and his team for the warm welcome and superb opportunities available to our Apollo apprentices. We wait in anticipation to see them grow into our next generation of exceptional accident repair and paint technicians.”

AFV production remains strong despite industry stutter

Alternative fuel vehicles accounted for more than a quarter of all vehicles produced in the UK during February, according to the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders.

It found that 15,905 AFV units were produced in what was actually the worst February for UK car makers since 2009. Overall production dipped 41.3% to 61,657 units, 43,351 fewer than the same month in 2021, with production for both the domestic and overseas markets falling 35.8% and 41.8% respectively.

Daniel Hogg’s the limelight

e2e Total Loss Vehicle Management has welcomed Daniel Hogg to its team of motor engineers. He brings with him valuable experience gained during his time with approved bodyshops and also as a motor claims desktop engineer.

Daniel joins a team responsible for providing e2e clients with a full engineering service including repair cost assessment, valuation and vehicle total loss categorisation.

Economical and Solera renew partnership

Economical Insurance has extended a long-standing relationship with Solera by agreeing to a new multi-year agreement to keep using Solera’s AI-driven end-to-end platform to manage claims workflow.

Economical was the first Canadian insurance company to introduce image capture through Solera’s AI-enabled AudaTarget solution.

FMG welcomes apprentices

FMG Repair Services welcomed 13 new apprentices to its site recently as they embarked on their apprenticeship with the Thatcham Research Automotive Academy. They were given a tour of the site, including the Repair Technology Centre and Crash Lab, and offered an overview of what their apprenticeship journey might comprise.

Chris Pennell, Technical Director, said, “Spending time with all the apprentices has been really inspiring and reminds me of when I joined the industry 35 years ago. Apprenticeships are a key part of the future strategy for FMG, and I’m excited to see our new colleagues learn and grow throughout their career with us.”

Technology: the vehicle for change

Covid-19 has caused profound disruption across all sectors, but any anticipated slowdown in vehicle technology has not materialised. If anything, in the areas of electrification and ADAS particularly, the pace of progress appears only to have increased in the last two years.

More Insights

ARC360 News – Friday 25 April 2025

25-04-2025

ARC360 Conference 2025: Unpacking the future of claims and collision repair

16-04-2025

ARC360 News – Friday 11 April 2025

11-04-2025

Corporate Partners

Partners

Associate Partners

Technology: the vehicle for change

1 April 2022

Bodyshop, Covid 19, Insurance, Mobility, People, Supplier, Technology, Training, Vehicle Repair and Words

Of course, vehicle technology encompasses a far broader remit than just these two areas and it’s fair to say that just about every aspect of the vehicle has been subject to recent change.

As Franco Iannotta, Bodyshop Development Manager at Volkswagen Group UK, said during the most recent ARC360 webinar, “I think steering and suspension are just about the only things that haven’t changed in the last 10-15 years.”

Significant impact

But while that is true, it’s also true that it is electric vehicles and ADAS that are having – and will continue to have – the most significant impact on the automotive aftermarket; an online poll held during the same webinar found that 69% of respondents said EVs were a ‘stand out’ issue and 40% said the same of ADAS.

Of these, the electrification of the car parc has provided the greatest shift since the pandemic struck. While EVs were a slow burn beforehand, demand has surged since 2020 and the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders reported that, backed by industry investment of £10.8bn since 2011, there are now more than 140 different models available to UK consumers, with EVs accounting for one in six new cars sold.

Rule rather than exception

The growth of ADAS has been more consistent over a number of years, but a point is now being reached where ADAS-enabled vehicles are the rule rather than the exception to the rule. This will become true, literally, in July, when legislation is introduced mandating certain ADAS features in every new vehicle. These include intelligent speed assist, fatigue detector, emergency braking, rear camera, and lane departure warning.

To some degree the industry can claim to be ahead of the game here. In June 2020, at which point there were already 4.5 million ADAS-enabled vehicles in the UK, Thatcham Research worked with its insurer partners to develop the Insurance Industry Requirements (IRR), which established clear guidelines for the safe repair of these vehicles.

Richard Billyeald, Chief Technical Officer, Thatcham Research, said, “IRR brings clarity to repairers and enables the long-term sustainability of ADAS-equipped vehicles. No matter what model is being fixed, it’s essential that manufacturers’ technical specifications are met to reinstate ADAS features safely without compromising performance.”

Repairers

What does all this mean for repairers on the frontline though, who come face to face with these industry shifts before anyone else?

According to ARC360 Associate Partner and leading UK bodyshop group Gemini ARC, it means one thing above all else – training.

Dan Dillon, Technical Training and Development Co-ordinator, said, “The future is already here. We have seen an upsurge of both EVs and ADAS technology in our bodyshops; I’d even go as far as to say that at any one time most collision repairers will have a vehicle in for repairs with some form of ADAS fitted.”

The IRR provides repairers with the correct procedures to follow, but knowing what to do and being able to do it are not the same thing.

Dan said, “We have trained all our managers, VDA’s and technicians with the GQA Level 3 award in Understanding of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems, and the technicians who carry out the calibrations have also achieved the Level 3 award for competence and understanding in the calibration of ADAS.”

He added that ADAS competency has also been added to Gemini’s multi-skilled apprenticeship programme to ensure the next generation of technicians is familiar with the technology from an early stage.

The same commitment has also been shown towards the safe handling of EVs. Gemini trains everyone from front of house to drivers in basic hybrid and EV awareness, while at least two technicians at each site are IMI Level 3 certified to handle hybrid and electric vehicles.

Again, as with ADAS, Gemini has future-proofed the business by adding Level 3 hybrid and EV training to its multi-skilled apprenticeship programme.

Risks

The level of investment required to reach these safety standards, both in terms of vehicle repair and protection for colleagues, is not insignificant. But nor are the risks.

ARC360 corporate partner Nationwide Vehicle Assistance provides collision recovery and storage management services to the sector. It believes the surge in EVs brings with it a substantial threat if skills and training does not keep up.

Jeff Mack, National Account Manager, NWVA, said, “In my opinion the industry is nowhere near ready for the dangers EVs can pose. The infrastructure is not there and recovery agents, dealers and bodyshops are all playing catch up.”

He believes there is a specific threat around the recovery of damaged EVs, especially if there is battery damage. He points out that a range of safety protocols must be adhered to in order make the vehicle safe, but is not convinced agents know or follow these steps. To bridge this gap, NWVA recently hosted its first ever EV Specialist Incident Management course at LJ Transportation. The IMI Level 3 accredited course is designed to equip selected personnel with the skills and knowledge to support operators on-scene.

The EVSIM course helps operators:

understand the risks of each fuel, including hydrogen cells, hybrid and lithium-ion
carry out an accurate risk assessment and decide on control measures
appreciate the insurance responsibility and liability
provide recovery and dismantling solutions

Jeff said, “Some people are still burying their heads in the sand. But I am delighted that we saw the writing on the wall over two years ago and are more ready than most.”

Calibration

Another area of potential risk is incorrect or inaccurate recalibration of sensors following an incident. While ADAS can be a force for good by improving driver safety and reducing collisions and motor claims, it can also be a hazard if recalibration is not carried out correctly.

Autoglass, which operates a fleet of more than 1,000 technicians who serve upwards of a million motorists each year, says that ADAS has completely changed the industry and that it is the responsibility of the aftermarket to ensure it has the skills to adapt. It places training front and centre of its ongoing strategy, but Neil Atherton, Sales and Marketing Director at Autoglass, warns that not all training is created equal.

He said, “We believe technicians need regular training and assessment to ensure they are kept abreast of the latest automotive technologies and how to correctly recalibrate the sensors. Some training programmes that are still used widely in the industry only require a one-off assessment which lasts for an entire lifetime. So a technician could have completed their training years ago and wouldn’t have been properly trained in how to recalibrate the latest technology.

“At Autoglass, technicians are put through the Institute of the Motor Industry accreditation, where technicians are reassessed every two to three years, to ensure that they are always up to date with the latest technology that is present in vehicles.”

Awareness

Interestingly, it’s not just the experts who are having to work hard to keep up. In many cases drivers themselves are either unaware or uneducated about the vehicle tech built into their cars, and either do not use the safety systems correctly or switch them off altogether.

Research from Autoglass found that less than half of drivers (48%) in the UK realise that ADAS sensors and cameras need to be recalibrated after a windscreen replacement. There are also numerous cases of drivers switching off this technology completely.

Neil continued, “We need to ensure drivers are educated on the benefits of the technology to ensure they keep them switched on and maximise the technology’s potential to reduce road accidents. Drivers turning off ADAS technology could also be a particular challenge for the insurance sector, as premiums may have been calculated based on the safety systems being turned on and active.”

Opportunities

However, while the implicit dangers of good technology badly used are very real, so too are the potential benefits of continued progress. Alongside driver safety and greater efficiency within repair, the available data can also revolutionise the insurance proposition and claims journey.

This is already happening with insurers and insurtechs collaborating on an ever-wider scale.

ThingCo, another motor corporate partner of ILC, provides just one example.

It has designed and developed Theo, a telematics device that works for both the insurance company and the policyholder by processing thousands of data points per second. This offers insurers valuable insights into driver behaviour, enabling them to understand risk in real-time, while in the event of a collision a full report detailing location, speed, intensity and liability is automatically sent to the claims centre.

This helps claims handlers understand exactly what has happened before even speaking to the customer.

Accurate understanding

James Bashford, Head of Business Development, said, “ThingCo’s smart FNOL process identifies high volume, low impact crashes which often present a fraud risk. The ability to accurately understand what’s happened in an accident before FNOL agents have talked to the customer allows the insurer to handle the claim in the most efficient way and avoid lengthy disputes.

“Meanwhile, a voice command activates using the device’s inbuilt microphone and speakers so that the customer can immediately confirm or deny the accident, reducing false alerts and putting insurers in much greater control. We identify exactly what has happened, establish if anyone is injured and needs emergency services or other services such as a hire car to get them home.

“In this way, our technology provides the ability to give honest customers the best accident service possible whether at fault or not, with the shortest possible key-to-key times.”

Future

Looking forward, it’s impossible to gauge where technology will go next, although the impacting factors on development can more easily be identified.

Harvesting data will remain paramount, and the debate around who owns that data and who has access to it will intensify, while every vehicle manufacturer in the world will have to develop zero-emission vehicles suited to a carbon neutral environment.

It’s been said before, but so vast and diverse are the challenges that no one company can face them alone. Establishing the right partnerships will go a long way to determining a company’s success or otherwise, but the technology is there for businesses with the right imagination and ambition.

James concluded, “The possibilities are exciting but still very much in their infancy. It can take time to gain consumer acceptance and, in our sector, insurers need to be willing to invest in the technology and offer incentives to help encourage adoption. That can be a leap of faith in a market known for being risk averse.”

More Insights

ARC360 News – Friday 25 April 2025

25-04-2025

ARC360 Conference 2025: Unpacking the future of claims and collision repair

16-04-2025

ARC360 News – Friday 11 April 2025

11-04-2025

Corporate Partners

Partners

Associate Partners

CAPS fits for motor insurers

29 March 2022

Bodyshop, Car Rental, Insurance, Mobility, Salvage, Supplier, Technology and Words

New data shows a 23% increase in the use of CAPS in 2021.

Communication between motor insurers and their supply chains is driving the growth, with Ageas, Direct Line, Esure, LV= and Sabre among the insurers now using CAPS to exchange data directly with their repairer networks.

In the same period CAPS also recorded a 10% increase in the number of bodyshops connecting with its service to 1,357, as well as 21% increase in other suppliers such as parts and salvage businesses.

Chris Payne, Head of Networks and Engineering at LV= Insurance, said, “Our future roadmap is how a technology-enabled supply chain can deliver a digitised customer motor claims journey that benefits everyone and especially the policyholder. The transparency and data CAPS provides is one of its key ingredients.

“CAPS helps streamline our claims processes, and is a key part of a connected supply chain where accurate information is available exactly when a partner needs it to deliver impact. It means that an otherwise disparate network of suppliers can act as one.”

David Neave, Chair of the CAPS National Advisory Council, added, “Managing a motor insurance claim is a collaborative process. Many different businesses with specialist knowledge need to work together in order to repair a vehicle quickly and communicate with the policyholder in a timely fashion. Automation is changing how the sector works and creating more opportunity. This underlines the growth that we have seen in CAPS over the past 12 months.”

More Insights

ARC360 News – Friday 25 April 2025

25-04-2025

ARC360 Conference 2025: Unpacking the future of claims and collision repair

16-04-2025

ARC360 News – Friday 11 April 2025

11-04-2025

Corporate Partners

Partners

Associate Partners

ARC360 News Round Up: Monday 28 March 2022

28 March 2022

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

Register now…

March 2022 webinARC: Vehicle Technology

In this webinARC we hear from a broad cross-section of the industry to explore the changes taking place with vehicle technology and how repair management is changing to keep pace.

Featuring:

– Andrew Hooker, Head of Technical, Solus Accident Repair Centres

– Franco Iannotta, Bodyshop Development Manager, Volkswagen Group UK

– Phil Peace, Managing Director (International), Repairify Inc

Government abandons further whiplash reforms

The Ministry of Justice (MoJ) has announced that part two of the proposed reforms to the soft tissue claims process have been shelved.

Part one of the Reforming the Soft Tissue Injury Claims Process – implemented in May 2021 – related to the small claims limit for PI claims and fixed and a fixed compensation tariff for RTA cases. Part two was expected to be much broader, encompassing referrals, credit hire and rehabilitation.

Industry Leader Interview: Catherine Hulme

“A few years ago, if someone had said we would need all colleagues to be working from home, we would have found every reason not to make it work, rather than making it happen. As an industry the vast majority moved to homeworking very quickly and effectively. I think this has opened up talent pools that we would never have had access to if we wanted colleagues to be based in an office every day.”

Click here to read the full interview with Catherine Hulme, Operations Director, Motor at Innovation Group.

Gemini names new Head of Performance

Gemini Accident Repair Group has strengthened is senior management team with the appointment of Paul Smith as Head of Performance.

He will lead Gemini’s operation team and manage the insurance partner relationships.

Fix Auto creates Peers to peers link

Fix Auto UK has appointed Luke Peers into the newly-created role of Network Manager.

He steps up from his position as Network Performance Consultant and, working closely with Fix Auto UK’s Regional Business Managers and the customer service centre, will manage and facilitate the network’s repair volumes by directly overseeing its regional post-coded deployment process.

Volvo adds new training date

Volvo has added another date for its Product/Technology Update training course.

The course informs delegates of wide-ranging updates to its full range of cars, covering structure and materials, unique repair methods, safety systems, windscreens and ADAS, bumper repairs, SRS and WHIPS systems, as well as hybrid and electric vehicle technology.

The course is aimed at vehicle damage assessors, engineers, accident management companies, fleet providers, training colleges and non-approved bodyshops.

Vella Group twice recognised at industry awards

The Vella Group was twice highly commended at the Modern Insurance Magazine’s Customer Service Excellence Awards.

It was recognised for its commitment to apprentices, particularly in the areas of ADAS and EVs, in the Learning and Development category, and was also highly commended in the Giving It Back to Charity award category following its work with community partners The Mersey Forest and Manchester Young Lives, as well automotive charity AutoRaise.

Marc Holding, Managing Director, said, “It is an honour to be recognised by the judges for the work that we do in two areas that we are so passionate about, and it is a great accolade for all the team members who work tirelessly on our learning and development and community programmes.”

Cripps celebrates Unsung Hero award

Motofix General Manager for Standards and Compliance Sue Cripps won the Unsung Hero award at the Modern Insurance Magazine’s 2022 UK Customer Service Excellence Awards.

The awards celebrate customer service success in the insurer and broker markets.

Cripps has been at Motofix for more than eight years and has more than two decades experience in the industry.

IMI calls for ‘significant change’

The IMI Diversity Task Force has concluded that a lack of diversity is contributing to the skills gap in the UK automotive sector, and that doing what it has always done will not resolve the issue.

It says the sector must broaden its appeal and that ‘significant change’ is required to promote it to a wider demographic and to create a work environment that is inclusive and supportive.

The IMI Diversity Task Force was established in 2021 to understand the challenges under-represented groups face when working in or trying to enter the automotive industry.

Audatex bolsters UK sales force

Audatex has announced that Tim Davis has joined its UK sales team. Davis, who first helped in a family-run bodyshop when he was seven and now has more than 30 years in the sector, will support customers in Wales and down the M4 corridor to Bristol.

Neil Garrett, UK and South Africa Sales Director, Audatex, said, “Tim’s wealth of knowledge across the UK vehicle repair sector will be vital in supporting our repairer customers alongside Stewart Myles, Steven Hames and Steve Warwick.”

Smith secures national ITAS role

Scott Smith has been named National Accounts Director of ITAS. He has been a key part of the company’s expansion over the last two years, supporting the management team with strategic and commercial decisions both within the UK and overseas.

He said, “I am extremely proud and honoured to be given this fantastic opportunity with ITAS. I am grateful to the senior management team and all my colleagues for their support and guidance of the last two and a half years. I am excited with what the future holds with the expansion of the company both in the UK and overseas, and pleased I get to be a key part of that.”

SYNETIQ celebrates carbon commitments

SYNETIQ has announced that more than 200 colleagues have achieved carbon literacy certification since it introduced its carbon literacy training initiative a year ago. The training, which has also been delivered to a range of SYNETIQ customers, helps groups and individuals measure and then reduce their own carbon footprints.

Anne Reade, Client Relationship Manager, said, “I couldn’t have imagined what we’d managed to achieve with carbon literacy in just the first years. The impact of the training sessions we’ve offered have been felt by colleagues, clients and people within our communities, and is already making a massive difference.”

Steer turns spotlight on new talent

Steer Automotive Group celebrated its recently-qualified apprentices at its Apprentices Awards Night, while also enrolling its next wave of talent following successful roadshows in Tamworth, Leicester, Northampton and Luton.

Peter Randhawa, Group General Manager, said, “These were our first set of apprentices passing their year two awards. It’s a massive life skill achievement for them; it will give them the confidence to take a positive step to becoming professionals in their own fields and having fantastic career prospects. We are proud of them all.”

Liability ‘complex and nuanced’ in automated world

Mercedes-Benz has announced it will accept legal responsibility for collisions that occur in cars fitted with an ‘L3’ Automated Lane Keeping System, when directly caused by a fault with its technology. Here Matthew Avery, Chief Research Strategy Officer, Thatcham Research, comments on the ‘complex and nuanced’ issue of legal liability for the first iterations of the technology.

More Insights

ARC360 News – Friday 25 April 2025

25-04-2025

ARC360 Conference 2025: Unpacking the future of claims and collision repair

16-04-2025

ARC360 News – Friday 11 April 2025

11-04-2025

Corporate Partners

Partners

Associate Partners

ARC360 News Round-Up: Friday 18 March 2022

18 March 2022

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

Register now…

March 2022 webinARC: Vehicle Technology

In this webinARC we hear from a broad cross-section of the industry to explore the changes taking place with vehicle technology and how repair management is changing to keep pace.

Featuring:

– Andrew Hooker, Head of Technical, Solus Accident Repair Centres

– Franco Iannotta, Bodyshop Development Manager, Volkswagen Group UK

– Phil Peace, Managing Director (International), Repairify Inc

ARC360 unveils brand new event

ARC360 and ILC’s Motor Claims division have joined forces to introduce the Motor Claims Showcase Event at the CBS Arena, Coventry, on 29 June.

More than 400 key persons of influence from the sector will attend the event, which will focus on best practice across the supply chain – specifically the accident damage sector – while offering a host of engagement opportunities from hands-on exhibitions and in-person networking, through to insightful keynote presentations, open panel discussions, ILC key partner insights and much more.

Thatcham Research secures prestigious IMI award

ARC360 Associate Partner Thatcham Research has been recognised by the Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI) for its Outstanding Contribution to the Motor Industry.

It collected the accolade, presented by ITV Lunchtime News presenter Nina Hossain at a gala dinner hosted by the IMI in London on March 17, in recognition of its unwavering support not only for apprentices during the pandemic but also the wider repair sector through its dedicated research and training programmes.

Green light at Driver Academy

Training has commenced at vehicle remarking and recycling experts Copart’s new Driver Academy, which aims to deliver 100 new drivers in the first year alone.

The first part of the three-month course, delivered in association with HGVC, sees drivers shadowing a driver mentor, observing daily duties such as safe loading and unloading from multi-car transporters, before candidates move to practical learning on Copart transports, with off-site tests and assessments.

Verisk and GT Motive announce tech collaboration

Verisk and GT Motive have announced a new technology partnership that will streamline workflows, accelerate claims decisions and reduce manual input. The collaboration will see Verisk integrate its IVI motor repair pricing and triaging solution with GT Motive’s claims calculator.

This is expected to provide rapid assessment of potential total loss and repair costs by allowing the GT Estimate calculation module to be accessed directly from within the Verisk IVI application.

Chartwell sets net zero target

Super brand repairer Chartwell has announced it has started its journey towards net zero operations throughout its Derby-based site. It will be working with Evolution Markets to achieve its targets.

Chartwell is an approved repairer for 12 of the world’s leading super car manufacturers, offering a lifetime repair guarantee.

Shorade confirms LKQ Coatings deal

Shorade UK has announced an exclusive new distribution agreement with LKQ Coatings. The agreement extends to all existing Shorade sites – Shorade Cannock, Finesse Dorking, Finesse Redhill – as well as new sites expected to be announced in the coming months.

Shorade, which has the capacity to handle electric vehicle repairs, ADAS calibration, as well as aluminium and carbon fibre repairs, has said the new distribution agreement will not impact operations or delivery dates.

Smart Repairs launch national recruitment drive

Smart Repairs has announced that it will recruit upwards of 100 technicians this year as it seeks to build on a stellar performance in 2021. Turnover for the Leeds-based company rose from £3m in 2020 to £5m last year, and is expected to reach £7m this year, with profits set to exceed £1m.

The cosmetic repairer has recently acquired a new 18,000sqft freehold premises in Leeds and is now looking to expand within the M25, Essex, the north of England and Scotland.

SMMT welcomes EV grant extension

The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders has welcomed the government’s decision to extend the Plug-in Van and Truck Grants for a further two years.

Chief Executive Mike Hawes said: “While the van market saw record electric uptake last year, it remains some distance behind cars, with battery electric vans making up just 3.6% of new registrations. The speed of uptake must be increased, therefore, which requires attractive incentives and significant investment in EV charge points especially those that meet the specific needs of commercial vehicles in every region of the UK.”

Good call from NBRA

The NBRA hosted of the first of 10 planned Independent Repairer calls, set up to allow businesses to share experiences and challenges of operating in a post-Covid-19 and post-Brexit marketplace.

The call addressed keys issues such as parts availability, work provision, mobility, sustainability and staffing issues, as well as the influence of work providers continue to have on efficiencies.

Vella Group makes Climate Pledge

The Vella Group has committed to becoming net zero by 2040 after signing up to The Climate Pledge, an international initiative with more than 300 signatories from 29 countries.

As part of the pledge, The Vella Group will report regularly on its emissions, implement businesswide decarbonisation strategies, and offset any remaining emissions with permanent and socially beneficial initiatives.

FMG extends Alphabet partnership

FMG has signed a two-year contract extension with mobility solutions specialists Alphabet, for whom it has provided a full range of incident management services since 2005.

The contract includes 24/7 incident reporting, repair and downtime management as well as uninsured loss recovery for its leasing customers.

US updates autonomous legislation

The US Department for Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has introduced legislation that for the first time directly addresses the safety of occupants in automated vehicles.

The rule clarifies the standards vehicle manufacturers have to meet when developing vehicles with autonomous capabilities, emphasising that the high level of occupant safety provided to traditional vehicles must be maintained in vehicles with ADS technology fitted.

Feature interview: Dean Lander, Thatcham Research

ARC360 Associate Partner Thatcham Research has been at the cutting edge of vehicle technology since it was established in 1969. Occupying a unique position between motor insurers and vehicle manufacturers, its research is critical to helping the sector understand vehicle safety, security and repair.

Here, we speak to Dean Lander, Head of Repair Sector Services, about the fast development of vehicle tech, and the challenges it poses to repairers.

More Insights

ARC360 News – Friday 25 April 2025

25-04-2025

ARC360 Conference 2025: Unpacking the future of claims and collision repair

16-04-2025

ARC360 News – Friday 11 April 2025

11-04-2025

Corporate Partners

Partners

Associate Partners

Thatcham Research secures prestigious IMI award

18 March 2022

Bodyshop, Insurance, People, Supplier, Technology, Training, Vehicle Repair and Words

ARC360 Associate Partner Thatcham Research has been recognised by the Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI) for its Outstanding Contribution to the Motor Industry.

Dean Lander, Head of Repair Sector Services at Thatcham Research, said, “Thatcham Research remains committed to providing an excellent foundation for future talent, helping to nurture successful and thriving careers in the repair industry. It is tremendously rewarding to have been recognised in this way by the IMI, an outstanding professional body which shares that very same commitment to the development of people.

“We would also like to thank all the apprentices who showed incredible dedication through difficult times to complete their programme. The new skills and fresh impetus they bring are essential to the industry, as we adapt to the new challenges modern vehicles present to repair.”

Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, 93% of Thatcham Research apprentices completed their training, thanks in part to the organisation’s investment in online learning and virtual classroom capabilities.

Steve Nash, Chief Executive of the IMI, said, “Thatcham Research won this award because it’s such a monumentally influential organisation; everyone in the industry is touched by its work. It holds a unique position in the sector and is always pushing the boundaries forward. More than ever before, as technology continues to bring significant change, we need the expertise that Thatcham Research brings to bear.”