Environment, Insurance, Mobility, Supplier, Technology, vehicle sales and Words
Euro NCAP has announced the final set of safety results from the year, with 15 models assessed and 11 achieving a top five-star rating.
It tested the very first electric pick-up on the European market, with the eTERRON 9, produced by Chinese firm Maxus, achieving a highly commendable five stars.
Among the SUVs tested, the Lexus LBX, the Volvo EX30, and the MINI Countryman all achieved five stars, whilst the MG ZS Hybrid scored a lower four-star rating.
Euro NCAP also tested the prestigious new electric Porsche Macan and the Sabaru Forester, as well as two Chinese electric arrivals on the European market, the Deepal S07 and the Leapmotor C10, with all models achieving the top safety rating.
Among larger SUVs, the Hyundai SANTA FE achieved four stars as a standard rating but that rose to five stars if a customer selected its optional safety technologies, while the Mazda CX-80 also got a top rating of five stars.
Meanwhile, the Audi A5 was also awarded a maximum five-star score and the new electric version of the Renault 5 and Alpine A290 got four-star ratings.
Dr. Michiel van Ratingen, Secretary General Euro NCAP, said, “As we close 2024 with this final set of safety ratings, these results highlight considerable progress across all vehicle classes, even as industry faces significant challenges.
“Despite these pressures, many manufacturers remain steadfast in their commitment to improving road safety, integrating advanced technologies, and prioritising the protection of all road users.”
Bodyshop, Environment, Finance, Insurance, Mobility, People, Salvage, Supplier, Technology, Training, Vehicle Repair, vehicle sales and Words
Bodyshop News
KC Autos has unveiled a new state-of-the-art facility in Bredbury, Stockport, featuring advanced equipment such as scissor lift ramps, the latest Hunter Wheel alignment system, and cutting-edge USI Italia Chronotech booths.
Selsia Vehicle Accident Centres has strengthened its middle management team with the appointment of Max Dickson as Operations Manager and Diana Sics as Accounts Manager.
Kris Hurd has been appointed as FMG Repair Services’ Operations Director (Bodyshops). He will oversee operations across the group’s 65 bodyshops, driving growth and customer-focused excellence.
Vehicle Bodycare Centre has unveiled its renovated front of house, featuring a first-floor setup with a manager’s office, accounts office, boardroom, open-plan desk pods, and a dedicated kitchen area, as well as upgraded workshop amenities.
Chesterfield Car Clinic has appointed Nicola Lodge as Bodyshop Administrator.
Page Automotive Group has appointed Declan McCluskey as Managing Director.
VM News
Nissan has ‘12 to 14 Months’ left
A new report suggests that the automaker’s days are numbered. In an interview with the Financial Times, two unnamed Nissan executives said the company has “12 to 14 months to survive.” Full story
Volkswagen Group and SAIC strengthen long-standing partnership
The Volkswagen Group is strengthening its successful 40-year partnership with SAIC Motor for the long term. In Shanghai, both companies signed an extension of their joint venture agreement until the year 2040. Full story
Vauxhall owner to close Luton factory
The owner of Vauxhall has announced plans to close its van-making factory in Luton, putting about 1,100 jobs at risk. Stellantis, which also owns brands including Citroen, Peugeot and Fiat, said it would combine its electric van production at its other UK plant in Ellesmere Port in Cheshire. Full story
Lotus dealers to get hybrids as carmaker drops EV exclusive strategy
Lotus dealerships will begin selling ‘hyper hybrid’ versions of its luxury cars as the carmaker shifts from its exclusively electric vehicle strategy due to consumer reticence. It is the latest in a number of brands which had set out to be at the forefront of the zero emissions vehicle market, in line with governmental policies, but which has now reacted to the slower than expected adoption of EVs globally. Full story
Ford calls for incentives to buy electric cars as backlash grows
Ford UK has called on the government to introduce incentives to encourage drivers to buy electric vehicles (EVs) as an industry backlash grows over sales targets. Lisa Brankin, Ford UK’s chair and managing director, told the BBC that without demand, a government mandate to produce and sell more EVs “just doesn’t work.” Full story
Improved automated parking
Mercedes-Benz has further improved the Active Parking Assist with PARKTRONIC. With 4kmph, the system now parks twice as fast as before. Full story
Industry News
Alarm bells ringing as EV transition hits auto industry
The UK automotive industry has called for urgent government intervention to safeguard the sector and Britain’s zero emission vehicle transition. The call comes as new analysis by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) reveals that weak demand for EVs and the need to fulfil ever-rising sales quotas will cost the industry some £6bn in 2024, and even more next year. Full story
Confirmed: Government set to rework EV mandate
Changes are set to be made to the UK’s zero-emission vehicle (ZEV) mandate, the government has confirmed, following a backlash from car makers over the rules. The government will now consult with car makers to find “options for a better way forward”. Full story
Government consultation on ZEV mandate: IMI response
Azlina Bulmer, Managing Director, IMI, said, “Representing the interests of our 100,000+ members, we aim to make clear in our response to the consultation that businesses and individuals need the certainty and support to invest in the critical skills required to support an ever-growing electric vehicle parc and to give motorists the confidence to make the switch.” Full story
Car output slips in October as UK and EU markets stall
UK car manufacturing output fell 15.3% in October, the eighth consecutive month of decline, according to the latest figures published by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT). 77,484 units left factory gates, 14,037 fewer than in the same month last year, with plants continuing their retooling to enable production of the next generation of zero emission vehicles. Full story
New and used car market to grow, but acquiring new-to-brand customers critical for 2025 new car success
According to Auto Trader analysis, the new car market is predicted to remain just under the two million car level next year, rising two per cent in 2025 from an estimated 1.94 million registrations to circa 1.98 million. Full story
For advanced metal replacement: bridging the gap between PA66 and PPA with Ultramid T7000
For advanced metal replacement in structural parts, BASF is now offering a portfolio of polyamide (PA) and polyphthalamide (PPA) blends with better, more constant mechanical properties than PA66. Ultramid T7000 outperforms PA66 regarding stiffness and strength in dry state and especially in presence of humidity. Full story
2024 IMI Skills Competitions winners announced
The Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI) has announced the winners of its 2024 IMI Skills Competitions. Following a year-long application and assessment process, winners were announced across four categories: Light Vehicle Technology, Body Repair, Refinishing and Heavy Vehicle. Full story
Apprenticeship Central highlights positive trends
Apprenticeship Central has highlighted three positive trends of apprenticeships in the past 12 months. It found that almost a half of school leavers are now considering the apprenticeship route, with 46% of regarding it as a viable option for further education. Full story
AkzoNobel installs hydrogen-powered spraybooth at new automotive training centre
One of the automotive industry’s first hydrogen-powered spraybooths has been installed by AkzoNobel at a new training centre in Belgium. Designed to go beyond local and legislative requirements, the new spray booth highlights how embracing the latest technologies can contribute to more sustainable operations. Full story
TTC launches new EV eLearning courses
TTC Group has designed and launched two new eLearning modules to bring easily accessible and cost-effective help to businesses making the switch to electric vehicles (EVs). The trusted training and compliance expert has designed a module for drivers new to electric driving, and a second, shorter module, to support existing EV drivers. Full story
Ben launches new Health and Wellbeing survey
Automotive charity Ben has launched its annual Health & Wellbeing survey. The charity wants to hear what health and wellbeing issues have affected automotive people and their families over the past year and what they think their challenges might be in the future. The survey is confidential, takes under 10 minutes. Full story
Farvima deploys Solera’s RNA solution to reduce emissions and improve delivery
Solera has announced that Italian pharmaceutical Farvima has deployed its Roadnet Anywhere to drive the efficiency of its logistics operations. Farvima has opted for a full-suite solution that includes a strategic planner, routing, dispatch, mobile manager for the driver, and analytics. Full story
All Clear Diagnostics and Calibration joins SMMT
All Clear Diagnostics and Calibration has been approved as a member of the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders. Full story
Manufacturers Cause Vehicle Thefts…
The press explains the ease with which vehicles can be taken, vehicle manufacturers are being ´named & shamed´, keyless tech is to blame, and car-makers are urged to ‘sort out their failures’. Think again. Full story
People
Tonny van de Wiel and Henk Berkhof have launched Body Repair Solutions Europe to support businesses future-proof and manage repair programmes.
Kylie Wilson has joined TTC as Public Sector Director In 2024.
ACG has expanded its Corporate Account Management team with the appointment of Dee Padfield.
Bodyshop, Environment, Insurance, Mobility, People, Supplier, vehicle sales and Words
Solera has announced that Italian pharmaceutical Farvima has deployed its Roadnet Anywhere to drive the efficiency of its logistics operations.
Farvima has opted for a full-suite solution that includes a strategic planner, routing, dispatch, mobile manager for the driver, and analytics. The company will roll out the platform for 700 delivery vehicles across 18 warehouses, covering all of Italy.
Using a smartphone app, users can optimise their last-mile routes based on more factors, from cost to customer service and seasonality, to ensure end customers receive goods on time and with complete traceability.
Mirko De Falco, CEO at Farvima, said, “Solera’s new fleet logistics solution will give our fleet managers data insights to help enhance driver satisfaction, safety and risk reduction, and fleet performance. More efficient routing will also help significantly reduce our operations’ carbon footprint.”
Jog Lall, Business Development Director of Fleet Solutions at Solera, added, “Pharmaceutical customers need timely delivery, the correct products, and robust traceability. We look forward to supporting Farvima as they roll it out across their distribution centres and benefit from lower carbon emissions, improved delivery efficiency, and increased customer satisfaction.”
Bodyshop, Mobility, People, Salvage, Supplier, Vehicle Repair and Words
Due to business expansion, Selsia Vehicle Accident Centres has strengthened its middle management team with the appointment of Max Dickson as Operations Manager and Diana Sics as Accounts Manager.
Max is an Associate Member of the IRTE and Society of Operational Engineers, as well as being an Affiliate member of the IMI.
He has been leading and coaching the operations team for nearly eight years and has been involved in all the company’s new business account management functions.
Meanwhile, Diana is an AAT qualified Finance Manager with a financial background in 24-hour recovery, breakdown, truck engineering and repair, as well as domestic building construction.
Marketing Director Neil Marcus said, “Selsia has been established for over 15 years and we have built an enviable reputation as a professional and competent accident repair management organisation. Our next level management team headed up by Max and Diana are poised to take us into the future, and will no doubt put their own personal touches on the business.”
Bodyshop, Environment, Finance, Insurance, Mobility, People, Salvage, Supplier, Technology, Training, Vehicle Repair, vehicle sales, wellbeing and Words
Bodyshop News
Gemini Accident Repair Centres has earned Platinum accredited membership in The 5% Club’s 2024-25 Employer Audit Scheme for the second consecutive year, building on three successful years at Gold status.
Irv’s Auto Body Repairs & VW Restorations in Barrow In Furness has successfully completed its stage two BS10125:2022 assessment, supported by ECS.
Smart Automotive Bodyshop has passed its BS10125 audit with zero non-conformities for the first time.
Thatcham Research has welcomed its second group of apprentices, with 34 new starters joining from Solus and ABL 1 Touch Group. It has now welcomed around 130 apprentices this year.
Stellantis has concluded the final session of its 2024 training series at the Eyebox Training & Conference Centre in Coventry. The programme was delivered by Business Success Global.
Adam Murray will start a new position as Head of Policy, Standards & Accreditation at Solus – an Aviva company.
Page Automotive Group has announced that Declan McCluskey has joined as Managing Director.
GMC Autos is now part of the Volkswagen Paint & Body Network, accredited for Audi, Cupra, SEAT, ŠKODA, Volkswagen, and VW Commercial vehicles.
Autocraft is mourning the loss of Colin Fielding, one of the founders of Autocraft Telford, who sadly passed away last week.
VM News
Stellantis launches third all-new, multi-energy platform
Stellantis has unveiled the STLA Frame platform, a BEV-native, multi-energy platform engineered for full-size body-on-frame pickup trucks and SUVs. Full story
XPENG announces strategic UK distributor partnership with International Motors
XPENG has announced a strategic partnership with International Motors as its official distributor in the UK. This partnership marks a significant step in XPENG’s global expansion and underscores its commitment to delivering AI-driven, sustainable mobility solutions worldwide. Full story
BMW Group Plant Debrecen picks up the pace
BMW Group Plant Debrecen in Hungary is shifting into first gear with the first near-series fully-electric X models for the Neue Klasse now leaving the production line. Full story
How GM uses AI to improve vehicle software – and safety
Modern cars and trucks are powered by software. That’s true for gas-powered vehicles, EVs, and hybrids. In any current model, software will play an important role in driver safety, navigation, entertainment and operations. Full story
Ford announces measures to achieve long-term competitiveness in Europe
Ford Motor Company today announced restructuring plans to create a more cost-competitive structure and ensure the long-term sustainability and growth of its business in Europe. The company is planning to further reduce its European workforce by 4,000 positions by the end of 2027. Full story
Nissan calls for urgent action on UK Zero Emissions Vehicle (ZEV) Mandate
Nissan has called for urgent action to avoid carmakers being penalised for the slowdown in electric vehicle (EV) sales in the UK resulting from outdated targets in the UK’s Zero Emissions Vehicles Mandate. Full story
Hyundai redefines EV mobility with IONIQ 9 Electric SUV
Hyundai Motor Company today unveiled IONIQ 9, a three-row, all-electric SUV with expansive interior space that fuses cutting-edge design and innovative electric vehicle (EV) technology. Full story
NIO announces its third brand: firefly
NIO has officially unveiled its third brand, firefly, along with its first product sharing the same name. Positioned in the boutique compact car market, firefly aims to further expand NIO’s product portfolio and leverage existing sales channels to drive growth efficiently. Full story
Michael Lohscheller: Keep the faith
It’s 2024 and greenhouse gas emissions are still increasing. Despite all the discussions. Despite all the ambitions and, sadly, despite all the investments that are being made by private sector companies and public bodies. What’s missing? Full story
Copy nothing: A new era for Jaguar
A new era for Jaguar has begun with the reveal of a completely reimagined brand. Full story
Industry News
Trend Tracker values repair market at more than £9bn
Trend Tracker’s ‘UK Motor Claims and Body Repair Report 2024-2025’ has valued the vehicle repair market at more than £9bn this year despite volumes falling in the insurance repair sector. Full story
Euro NCAP releases latest safety ratings
The Cupra Tavascan and MH HS have both achieved top safety ratings in the latest Euro NCAP tests. However, the Ford Tourneo Courier only received three stars. Full story
IMI reveals stagnating skills gap
The latest IMI Automotive Vacancies Report has revealed that the automotive sector continues to struggle to tackle the skills gap. Its analysis of the September 2024 data from the Office of National Statistics (ONS) shows motor trades vacancies at 20,000 with 3.5 vacancies for every 100 employees. Full story
Industry bodies collaborate to tackle EV confusion
Auto Trader, ChargeUK and the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) have joined forces to combat misinformation surrounding electric cars. Full story
WorldSkills UK competition-based learning playbook launches
WorldSkills UK is proud to launch its brand-new competition-based learning playbook, which for the first time brings together the full range of its training and development resources, to support educators in embedding world-class training programmes into the curriculum. Full story
EV breakdowns ‘out of charge’ lowest ever this year
The proportion of electric vehicles running out of charge this year in the UK has dropped to the lowest ever, according to new AA statistical analysis. The figures show ‘out of charge’ EV breakdowns, which are calculated as a percentage of all EV breakdowns, are at a record low in 2024 of less than 2% (1.85%). The rolling 12-month figure for 2023 was 2.26%. Full story
Automotive charity Ben brings back Christmas families project
Automotive industry charity Ben is launching its ‘Christmas families project’ for another year, supporting families who might otherwise have to make impossible choices about heating or eating and whether they can afford Christmas gifts. Full story
People
Steve Plunkett has joined Volkswagen Group UK as Body Repair Channel Manager.
Andy Caine has been appointed Business Development Manager at Autoglass.
Gallagher Bassett Chief Operating Officer John Fearn has presented the 20 Years of Service Award to our Motor and Property Fulfilment Director, Mark Garnham.
GYS has appointed Grace Hodges as North West Area Sales Manager.
Sara Smith has been named Head of Vehicle Supply and Funding at Fleet Assist.
Anthony McAteer has been appointed Senior European Sales Director at LKQ Europe.
Matthew Simpkins has been appointed Global Head – Industry Strategist – Automotive at Salesforce.
Environment, Finance, Insurance, Mobility, People, Supplier, Technology, vehicle sales and Words
Auto Trader, ChargeUK and the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) have joined forces to combat misinformation surrounding electric cars.
The group has created a collection of user-friendly, simplified facts that offers a more balanced and data-backed view of the reality of owning and driving electric cars.
These facts clarify points such as how electric cars are greener, are no more likely to catch fire than an ICE car, and that the electric range and charging point availability is better than some might think.
The information will be regularly reviewed and updated, and endorsed by the Department for Transport.
This comes after the House of Lords’ Environment and Climate Change Committee published a Report – ‘EV strategy: rapid recharge needed’ – highlighting the confusing messages that exist in the media towards EVs and called for “a ‘go-to’ source of comprehensive, clear and balanced information.
Future of Roads Minister Lilian Greenwood said, “Zero emission vehicles will drive our journey to net zero, which is why this government is committed to accelerating the transition. Ensuring consumers have clear, accurate information when deciding what kind of car to buy is essential. This work by industry is absolutely vital to boosting drivers’ confidence in zero emission vehicles, and I’m pleased to back it.”
Bodyshop, Environment, Insurance, Mobility, People, Supplier, Technology, vehicle sales and Words
The Cupra Tavascan and MH HS have both achieved top safety ratings in the latest Euro NCAP tests.
However, the Ford Tourneo Courier only received three stars.
Testing found that the Cupra offers good protection to all vehicle occupants including children, with an active bonnet to protect pedestrians and good reactive response to cyclists and motorcyclists.
The car also has an indirect driver status monitoring system as standard, detecting driver fatigue although not distraction, as well as a lane support system and Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control.
Meanwhile, the MG backed up its five-star rating in 2019 with another top score. It has good protection for pedestrians and cyclists as well as an effective autonomous emergency braking (AEB) system that responds well to a range of vulnerable road users.
However, Euro NCAP found that the Ford Tourneo Courier fell short of top safety standards. It revealed that in the full-width rigid barrier frontal impact, protection of the head was rated as poor for the small female sitting in the rear seat.Ford has committed to address this before the updated passenger car version will be re-assessed in 2025.
Dr. Michiel van Ratingen, Secretary General Euro NCAP, said, “It may seem that Euro NCAP is setting a tough task for manufacturers, yet we work closely together with industry, encouraging changes in car design that ultimately save lives. As Euro NCAP upgrades its protocols to be more stringent, with new guidelines for safety technologies and in relation to vulnerable users, we are ensuring that as a consumer, you have the best safety equipment available as standard on your new car to make your journey as safe as it can possibly be.”
In other results, the Ford Capri, Renault Rafale and Chery Omoda 5 all received five-star ratings and the Mitsubishi ASX received four stars.
Bodyshop, Mobility, People, Salvage, Supplier, Technology, Vehicle Repair and Words
Trend Tracker’s ‘UK Motor Claims and Body Repair Report 2024-2025’ has valued the vehicle repair market at more than £9bn this year despite volumes falling in the insurance repair sector.
The comprehensive report provides up-to-the-minute and essential commentary on the latest market position, and economic and market developments.
Trend Tracker Director and author of the Report, Paul Sell, said, “Amidst sweeping changes—societal, economic, technological, and environmental—the vehicle repair market continues to evolve rapidly. Success in this space depends on adapting to these shifts while balancing the need for investment in repair sector and managing insurance costs for consumers – by accessing our reports businesses can stay ahead of market change and not be surprised by changes in volumes or costs.
“However, along with the report being available to purchase, now readers can choose to subscribe to access monthly market updates, keeping their finger on the pulse.”
Hot topics include electric vehicles, the repair market size/share and trends, motor insurance and claims trends including average repair costs, repair volumes, cycle time trends, exclusive consumer survey results delivered by Consumer Intelligence as well as dedicated space for both sustainability and growing claims trends such as the use of AI.
The wide-ranging Report includes:
Economic insights and industry-relevant data on the impact of recent budget decisions, and staff retention
The expert view from ECA Business on what impact the Russia Ukraine war and conflict in the Middle East is having on energy costs
The impact of ZEV mandate for automotive in terms of new car sales and EV discounting
The detail behind the numbers: such as an ageing car parc (now at an average nine years old); the ADAS penetration in 2015-2023 models, and what the largest bodyshop group market share really means for the independent repair sector.
Macro data – including the fact there are more cars on the road, increased licence holders and the average trips being taken has increased too, drilling down to industry-relevant questions, such as why are claims still low when most macro factors suggest increases?
Essential data on EV vs ICE repair costs
Comprehensive GWP focuses on top five motor insurers showing growth in GWP (premium drivers) explored in detail alongside latest Confused.com data showing premium falls.
Ensuring repairability: the newly launched Thatcham Research vehicle rating system.
Paul continued, “Our approach at Trend Tracker is to make our data and insight accessible and affordable for the whole market, we can do this through the fantastic support of our sponsors – thank you to Advantage Parts Solutions, The CAPS Consortium, Chartwell Derby – (Powered by Steer), Entegral, Fix Auto UK, LKQ Europe and U-POL Global.
“There are so many people who have contributed enormously to add richness and value to this Report, including Dean Lander from Thatcham Research; Wayne Mason-Drust from NBRA / VBRA; Jade Edwards at Zapmap, Chris Wright from Solera|Audatex, Donna Scully at Carpenters Group; Mark Hadaway from ARC360 and I Love Claims; David Cresswell and Kelly Dalwood at ABP Club, Derren Martin at cap hpi, and Steve Thompson at Trend Tracker’s sister company, Industry Insights.”
Bodyshop, Environment, Insurance, Mobility, People, Salvage, Supplier, Technology, Training, Vehicle Repair, vehicle sales, wellbeing and Words
Bodyshop News
The Vella Group has announced that it has set emissions reduction targets that have been approved against the Science Based Targets initiative net zero criteria.Full story
SMART Bodyshop Solutions has announced the addition of former JC Accident Repairs to its group. The Scunthorpe-based site is the ninth repair site to join the network.
The NBRA/VBRA has announced that Fix Auto Sittingbourne has become its latest member.
Managers at Drive Motor Retail met to recap the successes of the year, including a Stellantis award for its Darlington site and Bury St Edmunds winning an Enterprise Customer award.
Prestige and supercar repairer Chartwell Derby (powered by Steer) has celebrated its 20th anniversary at its Pride Park location.
H&L Motors has achieved a100% pass rate in this year’s rigorous Volkswagen Group Audit, reflecting the company’s dedication to high repair and customer services standards and the use of genuine VWG parts.
Carlac hosted a Spies Hecker training day, showcasing new products, methods and systems. The day was attended by Exclusive Repair Network.
Silverster Crash Repair is now hiring for a new site due to open in February. It is seeking drivers, technicians, and front of house colleagues.
Autocraft Group has achieved a positive recommendation for BS 10125:2022 certification at its Shrewsbury site while Irvs Auto Body Restorations has completeda successful stage 2 BS10125:2022 assessment.
Avant Group has launched a new website promoting its repair network and innovative solutions for all vehicle types.
Revive! East Anglia has won the Trailblazer category in the 2024 BFA/HSBC Franchisee of the Year awards. Last year the business saw turnover rise from £1.2m to £1.7m and is on target to break the £2m barrier later this year.
Chesterfield Car Clinic has announced its sponsorship of Chesterfield Junior Blues U10s, which plays in the NDYFL.
Drive Group Australia has unveiled Drive Group Dandenong, which is its 20th site across Australia and New Zealand.
VM News
Euro NCAP’s results highlight safety as a priority in new car design
This month, three new cars went through Euro NCAP’s rigorous testing: the sporty electric SUV Cupra Tavascan, the SUV MG HS and the MPV Ford Tourneo Courier. The two SUVs achieve Euro NCAP’s top rating of five stars. Ford’s new MPV achieves a disappointing three stars but also comes with a commitment from the company to improve. Full story
Rivian and VWG announce joint venture
Rivian Automotive and Volkswagen Group will create a new joint venture, Rivian and Volkswagen Group Technologies, to develop next-generation electrical architecture. The deal is worth £4.6bn. Full story
UK Uber Drivers Race to Toyota’s All-Electric bZ4X
More than 1,000 of Britain’s Uber drivers have ordered Toyota’s all-electric bZ4X SUV following the launch of a new partnership between the manufacturer and the leading transportation and ride-hailing business. Full story
Volvo Cars sells 30% stake in Lynk & Co to Zeekr
Volvo Cars has announced the divestment of its 30% stake in Lynk & Co to Zeekr in a transaction representing a consideration of about £576m. Full story
NIO delivers at COP29
As a member of Green Car Park of COP29, NIO provided premium mobility services for heads of state and government at the 29th Conference of the Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change. Full story
XPENG achieves MSCI’s ESG highest AAA rating for second year
XPENG Motors has announced it has again secured MSCI’s highest ESG rating of ‘AAA’ for 2024. This prestigious rating highlights XPENG’s leadership in environmental, social, and governance (ESG) initiatives. Full story
Industry News
Automotive Vacancy Rate Tracker: Sector stuck in neutral as vacancies remain at 20,000 while job postings decrease year on year
The latest IMI Automotive Vacancies Report reveals the sector continues to struggle to tackle the skills gap. The IMI’s analysis of the September 2024 data from the Office of National Statistics (ONS) shows motor trades vacancies at 20,000 with 3.5 vacancies for every 100 employees. Full story
Updated uninsured driving hotspots revealed, as police launch week of action to keep roads safe
New hotspots data has uncovered the worst offending areas for uninsured driving across the UK, with Birmingham leading the pack. The data has been released by Motor Insurers’ Bureau to coincide with their annual ‘Operation Drive Insured’ campaign. Full story
One in five cars damaged by potholes has to be written off
Data from leading insurer Allianz reveals that one in five (21%) insurance claims where a vehicle hit a pothole leads to the vehicle being declared an insurance write-off. Since the start of 2023, Allianz has paid out more than £4.6m for 1,266 pothole claims. Full story
New evidence of worsening outlook for electric vehicle market reinforces need for urgent action
S&P Global data reveals a substantial downward revision in BEV market share forecasts for 2025, from 27% in the first half of the year to 21% today. This recalibration signals a major compliance setback for the EU’s 2025 CO2 emission targets, linked directly to the reduced BEV market penetration, stoking concern across EU capitals. Full story
Average motor premiums fall again
Average motor premiums fell two per cent between July and September, according to the Association of British Insurers (ABI). It found premiums fell to £612 after a similar two per cent fall in the second quarter of the year. Full story
Solera and CARSTAR have highlighted the benefits of Qaptar Mobile Inspection, an innovative AI-powered solution which can reduce non-drive estimates from over 90 minutes to 20 minutes or less. Full story
Glasurit solution lowers emissions
Glasurit is promoting the A-C-24 solution which can help bodyshops reduce environmental impact when handling electric vehicles. A-C-24 offers rapid drying in just 20 minutes at 40oC or 10 minutes at 60oC. This can lower CO2 emissions by up to 40%. Full story
Charity challenge
Thatcham Research Group Product Manager Karen Jakes is joining NBRA Director Martyn Rowley to raise money for Ben Automotive Chairity by running 60 miles across the Sahara in four days. They hope to raise upwards of £2,000 for the charity. Full story
People
Damien O’Sullivan has been appointed Managing Director of Volkswagen Group UK, succeeding Alex Smith.
Activate Accident Repair has appointed Lee Johnson as Regional Operations Manager.
Accident Credit Group has appointed Steve Daley as its third Business Development Manager.
Lee Berridge has celebrated 10 years at LKQ Coatings and announced the company is looking to expand its technical team.
Stellantis has announced the appointment of Davide Grasso as Chief Heritage Officer reporting to Carlos Tavares, Chief Executive Officer.
Bodyshop, Insurance, Mobility, People, Supplier, Technology, Training, Vehicle Repair, wellbeing and Words
Steer Automotive Group shone a light on its apprentice talents during the Steer Academy Apprentice Awards 2024 celebration held at 3M’s Innovation Centre.
Hosted by Steer’s Head of Academy & Organisation Development, Steve Hoe the event recognised the depth, diversity and strength of talent now across the business.
Steve said, “Since this time last year, I’m delighted to say our apprentice programme has more than doubled in number. This very special occasion recognises all the hard work of the apprentices, the team and our supporters in making the Academy what it is today. We really are delighted with the progress.”
CEO of Steer, Richard Steer provided an overview of developments across the business emphasising how investment in the future was core to the overarching strategy. He revealed how the business now boasts 340 apprentices (Vs 148 in 2023) which now make up 15% of the overall business workforce. Another key metric highlighted was the uplift in the number of female apprentices, now at 41 compared to 11 in 2023.
“Apprentices are our future,” said Richard, “people repair things – collectively. Knowing we have the technical capability and the people to provide solutions for customers of any type makes me immensely proud.”
The awards went to:
Regional Apprentice of the Year – North East & Scotland Emmi Docherty, Panel/MET Apprentice, Newcastle Central
Regional Apprentice of the Year – East of England Nathan Hoe, Panel Apprentice, Sleaford
Regional Apprentice of the Year – Central, London & Essex Madison Godfrey, Paint Apprentice, Moorside
Regional Apprentice of the Year – South & Wales Liam Fowler, Paint Apprentice, Horsham
Business Support Apprentice of the Year Winner: Dom Motani, VDA, Polegate Highly Commended: Billy Boswell, HR Advisor, Steer People team
Mentor of the Year Chris Flindall, Paint Lead Technician, Brentwood
Paint Apprentice of the Year Rosie Smith, Basingstoke, South & Wales
Panel Apprentice of the Year Harley Chambers, Basingstoke, South & Wales
MET Apprentice of the Year Winner: Sam Keil, Chichester, South & Wales Highly Commended: Finn Flint, Worthing, South & Wales
Trainer of the Year Satpal Thamu, Learning & Skills Trainer, Emtec
Rising Star of the Year Oliver Robinson, Multiskilled Apprentice, Lincoln
Outstanding Achievement Award (new) Miguel Harvey, Paint Technician
Alongside guest speaker British Racing Driver, Max Coates, World Skills Finalist, Lyon Miguel Harvey (Paint Technician at Steer Automotive) provided an insight into his meteoric journey from entering the programme in 2022 to winning a Medal of Excellence of 2024. He highlighted the hard work and dedication involved but endorsed it to his peers as an incredible and rewarding journey to undertake.
The event was sponsored by Axalta, Upol, Toyota Trade Parts, LKQ, Solera Audatex, Storm Auto Services, Enterprise, Stanners Equipment, ASM Auto Recycling, 3M and Synetiq.
The awards were judged by an independent panel of industry experts.
