Category: Mobility

ARC360 conference to explore the future of vehicle repair

4 March 2025
Bodyshop, Environment, Insurance, Mobility, People, Salvage, Supplier, Technology, Training, Vehicle Repair and Words

The ARC360 Conference 2025 is the must-attend event for professionals in motor claims, vehicle repair, and mobility. Taking place on Thursday 22 May at the British Motor Museum, Gaydon, this year’s conference promises unparalleled insights, networking opportunities, and cutting-edge discussions on the evolving dynamics of the industry.

With the theme ‘A New Era – The Changing Dynamics of a Sector’, ARC360 2025 is set to bring together industry leaders, including over 25 leading insurers, 80+ key repairers, and more than 10 vehicle manufacturers, alongside influential voices from across the supply chain.

Whether you are a business owner, decision-maker, or industry specialist, this is your opportunity to gain a competitive edge in an industry undergoing rapid transformation.

This year’s event boasts an exceptional roster of industry leaders, offering exclusive insights into the challenges and opportunities shaping the future of vehicle repair.

Key speakers already confirmed include:

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

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

Further names are set to be revealed in the coming weeks.

The event promises to deliver one of the most engaging, interactive and future focused events in the motor claims/vehicle repair calendar providing:

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

ARC360 2025 is proudly supported by its Corporate Partners: BASF, CAPS, Entegral, Enterprise, NWVA, Mirka, S&G Response, and Solera Audatex; Partners: e2e, Prasco, and Repairify, along with Vehicle Manufacturer Partner: Stellantis. Onyx and Thatcham Research join as event sponsors, reinforcing the conference’s reputation as a key industry gathering.

Secure your place now and be part of the conversation shaping the future of vehicle repair. For ticket bookings and sponsorship opportunities, contact Liane at liane@iloveclaims.com.

For a glimpse of last year’s insights, visit ARC360 2024 Recap

ARC360 News – Friday 28 February 2025

28 February 2025
Bodyshop, Environment, Finance, Insurance, Mobility, People, Salvage, Supplier, Technology, Training, Vehicle Repair, vehicle sales and Words

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Vehicle production down in January as sector faces global headwinds

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

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

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

Stellantis publishes full year 2024 results

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

Aston Martin to cut 170 jobs in cost-cutting drive

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

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

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

Stellantis expands its Eurorepar parts range

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

BMW delays electric Mini over ‘uncertainty’

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

Dacia announces a sub-£15k electric city car

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

ILC forges partnership with BTCC rising star

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

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

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

Survey unveils key barriers to employing apprentices

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

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

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

Car repair costs accelerate to ‘all time high’

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

Inspiring the Next Generation at ‘Future First’ Insight Day

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

Local authorities need more funding to improve road safety

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

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

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

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

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

The IGA seeks industry input ahead of crucial meeting

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

First Line has welcomed Kevin Neaverson as Commercial Director.

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

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

Silverlake champions low-cost routes into motorsports

28 February 2025
Bodyshop, Mobility, People, Supplier, Training, Vehicle Repair, vehicle sales and Words

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

26 February 2025
Bodyshop, Mobility, People and Words

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Survey unveils key barriers to employing apprentices

25 February 2025
Environment, Finance, Insurance, Mobility, People, Supplier, Training, Vehicle Repair, vehicle sales and Words

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

The findings reveal that the top concern is a lack of time for training, scoring 31%. With increasing pressures around profit margins, KPIs and key to key times, dedicating time for teaching can be a challenge.

In close second, concerns about cost registered 28%. Businesses seem wary of the upfront and ongoing investments required but it has been proven that apprentices, when well-managed, can become profitable within the first year.

The difficulty in finding suitable candidates received 25% of the responses, indicating that many companies experience challenges in recruiting the right skills for their operational needs.

Meanwhile, uncertainty about the overall apprenticeship process scored 13%. This suggests that while process related hesitations exist, they are less prominent than time and cost concerns.

Apprenticeship Central is committed to supporting businesses to overcome the challenges that hold them back from investing in the next generation of talent.

Through the RECRUIT service, it offers a Pre-Employment Programme which identifies only the best candidates and connects businesses with local, motivated young talent—streamlining the entire candidate search and onboarding process.

Complementing this, RETAIN service offers ongoing support, safeguarding expertise and proactive retention strategies to ensure apprentices remain engaged.

Their tailored solutions tackle resource constraints, manage all administrative tasks and handle the necessary legwork, allowing businesses to focus on the technical elements of an apprenticeship.

Stellantis expands its Eurorepar parts range

24 February 2025
Bodyshop, Insurance, Mobility, Supplier, Vehicle Repair, vehicle sales and Words

Following the successful launch of Eurorepar Body Parts last year, Stellantis has announced that the range has been extended with an additional 20 new bumpers and 14 front grilles.

This brings the total number of Eurorepar body parts available to 254, covering a wide range of popular models across the Stellantis passenger car and commercial vehicle brands.

The Eurorepar parts range is designed to meet the needs of a market where cost control is a key customer expectation. It helps to maintain the fleet of older vehicles by controlling repair costs, and also meets the economic criteria required by insurance companies.

Parts, available to order via Audatex, GT Estimate & PartsLink24, come with a minimum two-year warranty, competitive pricing, and a guaranteed 1:1 fit.

ARC360 News – Friday 21 February 2025

21 February 2025
Bodyshop, Environment, Finance, Insurance, Mobility, People, Salvage, Supplier, Technology, Training, Vehicle Repair, vehicle sales, wellbeing and Words

ARC360 conference set to unlock the future of vehicle repair

With the motor claims, vehicle repair and mobility sectors continuing to undergo significant change, ARC360’s 2025 conference is set to offer a unique opportunity to stay ahead of the curve.

Taking place on Thursday 22 May at the British Motor Museum, Gaydon, the event is already set to bring together over 25 leading insurer brands, more than 75 key repairers and in excess of 10 vehicle manufacturers, along with some of the industry’s most influential supply chain voices. Full story

Leading voices in the UK automotive repair industry came together at Oulton Park for the AutoRaise Power Panel, a discussion on the future of apprenticeships, industry perception, and breaking down barriers to entry.

Solus, an Aviva company, has announced that Managing Director Simon Smith has become a gold member of the Automotive 30% Club.

Fix Auto UK has appointed Fix Auto Bedford to its network. Formerly known as Quality Repair Centre or QRC for short, the business is owned by Marcin Macioszek and serial entrepreneur Ali Khan.

As an NBRA partner, ILC attended the Ageas Group and NBRA/VBRA Equipment EXPO in Wolverhampton this week, which explored the latest innovations.

Elder and Paton’s Angus Site is now officially a Tesla Approved Bodyshop.

Karen Jakes from Thatcham Research and Martyn Rowley from the NBRA have passed the £25,000 fundraising barrier. They are Trekking the Sahara Desert to raise funds for BEN.

Bolton-based Perfect Finish has passed its latest BSI Kitemark BS10125:2022 audit with 100% compliance.

Perfect Paint is now an official approved Genesis Select Accident Repairer for the Milton Keynes area.

Gillbrand Accident Repair has announced it will offset the costs of installing nine EV Chargers with solar roof panels that will generate 70KWH per hour.

SprayStyle Body Masters has announced it will unveil a new bodyshop in Newcastle-Under-Lyme this summer. To support the development it has appointed automotive Director Dave Willet.

On 7-8 June Lloyds Motor Group Bodyshop Manager Tim Parkinson will take on the Cateran Yomp in aid of the Army Benevolent Fund.

Fix Auto Basingstoke is now PAS2060 certified, meaning its vehicle repair services are fully carbon neutral.

Liam Kenny Motor Body Repairs has successfully passed its latest Mercedes-Benz audit.

Stellantis unveils STLA AutoDrive, hands-free and eyes-off autonomous technology

Stellantis has unveiled STLA AutoDrive 1.0, the Company’s first in-house-developed automated driving system, delivering Hands-Free and Eyes-Off (SAE Level 3) functionality. STLA AutoDrive is a key pillar of Stellantis’ technology stragety, alongside STLA Brain and STLA Smart Cockpit, advancing vehicle intelligence, automation and user experience. Full story

Polestar adds car keys in Apple Wallet, enabling users to lock, unlock, and start their vehicle with iPhone and Apple Watch

Thanks to an over-the-air (OTA) software update, Polestar 3 customers can now enjoy the convenience and added benefits of their car keys in Apple Wallet. Drivers can automatically unlock or lock, and start their vehicle while leaving their iPhone in their pocket or by simply wearing their Apple Watch. Full story

Fireman Access, an exclusive innovation by Renault Group, is now available with a free licence

Renault Group has decided to make the Fireman Access patents freely available to the entire automotive industry. Car manufacturers and parts suppliers can now obtain a free licence for this innovation through the open collaborative platform at www.renault.fr/universalpatent. In return, as part of this collaborative principle, licensees agree that any upgrades will be made available to other members of the community. Full story

Toyota develops new fuel cell system, contributing towards a future hydrogen society

Toyota has announced development of a third generation fuel cell (FC) system as part of its continuing efforts towards realising a hydrogen society. The all-new system is designed to meet the particular needs of the commercial sector, offering the same durability as conventional diesel-powered engines. Full story

Kia February’s front runner as UK’s hottest used car

Auto Trader has revealed the hottest used cars in February, with Kia models taking the top two spots. Both the Kia Ceed (petrol, up to a year old) and the Kia Carens (5-10 years old) are currently taking an average of just 11 days to sell, which is significantly faster than the overall market average of 29 days. Full story

NBRA challenge to non-payment of repairers by EDAM administrators

It has been reported that at least 93 bodyshops are unlikely to receive any payouts on the money owing since EDAM went into administration. The NBRA suggests the number of bodyshops who will not get paid is even higher than the number reported, but is working to challenge to the non-payment. Full story

AutoRaise Power Panel sparks industry action at Oulton Park

Leading figures from the UK’s automotive repair sector gathered at Oulton Park for the AutoRaise Power Panel, a landmark event designed to tackle the pressing issues facing the industry. Chaired by outgoing Dave Sargeant and incoming Simon Smith, the discussion focused on shaping the future of apprenticeships, changing industry perceptions, and removing barriers to entry for new talent. Full story

Enterprise Car Club announced as the new provider for Newcastle City Council

Enterprise Car Club has been announced as the new provider for Newcastle City Council, offering Newcastle businesses and residents access to pay-as-you-go vehicle hire from a wide range of locations across the city. Vehicles are provided by Enterprise Car Club from designated parking bays in the city centre and in residential areas. Full story

Thatcham Research partners with Elixirr to deliver more value for its insurance members

Elixirr, the established, global award-winning challenger consultancy, has partnered with Thatcham Research, the leading provider of automotive risk intelligence. Elixirr will deliver greater value for Thatcham Research’s members through its custom-built Value Optimiser model. Full story

National Windscreens announces new site in Luton

National Windscreens continues to expand its UK network with the opening of a purpose designed, 4,600 sqft fitting and calibration centre in Luton. This new centre is designed to meet that demand, with four fitting and calibration bays, complete with specialist LED lighting that facilitates use of the latest ADAS calibration technology by highly trained technicians. Full story

Annual Press Conference on February 28

On Friday, February 28, 2025, the Annual Press Conference of BASF SE will be held in Ludwigshafen, Germany. At 11am. (CET) BASF’s Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors Dr. Markus Kamieth and CFO Dr. Dirk Elvermann will present the 2024 financial results. Full story

Elevating polishing with the help of the new Mirka AIRP 300

Mirka UK is expanding its robotic polishing tool range with the launch of the new Mirka AIRP 300, a cutting-edge solution designed for high-precision and high-efficiency polishing. This new rotary polisher provides an alternative to traditional oscillating polishers and is suitable for use across a range of industries, including automotive. Full story

International Assistance Group expands NWVA partnership

International Assistance Group has expanded its relationship with NWVA Nationwide Assistance Group, by selecting them as Assistance Partner for roadside assistance solutions in Spain. Full story

Colleges Week 2025: Building brighter futures using WorldSkills UK benchmarking resources

Colleges Week 2025, organised by the Association of Colleges (AoC), will take place from Monday 3 to Friday 7 March. This year, the focus will be on celebrating the vital role that colleges play in shaping brighter futures for learners, giving them the skills and confidence to succeed in the workplace. Full story

New Careers Advice Toolkit empowers young people to explore apprenticeship and technical career paths

WorldSkills UK has launched a new Careers Advice Toolkit designed to inspire and empower young people to explore apprenticeship and technical career opportunities. This easy-to-use digital resource provides engaging employability skills and career information, helping students make informed decisions about their future. Full story

VRAC’s Parts Platform will have an estimated 5 million+ parts

In an era where technology is evolving at an unprecedented pace, a ground-breaking new Parts Platform led by the Vehicle Recyclers’ Association Certification (VRAC), is setting a new standard for innovation across our industry. Full story

FMG Repair Services launches in-house skills competition across the UK

Accident repair specialist FMG Repair Services continues its support of the next generation of industry talent with the creation of an automotive body repair competition for its apprentices. Full story

Supreme Court allows NFDA to intervene in motor finance case, Treasury bounced out

The National Franchised Dealers Association (NFDA) has been given permission to intervene in the motor finance case taking place in the Supreme Court. It emerged that the Treasury had not been given permission to intervene and will now have to watch events from the sidelines. Full story

Government apprentice requirement reduction a ‘bad fit’ for automotive

Government plans to reduce maths and English requirements for apprentices over 19 could increase overall numbers says Easy2Recruit, but the agency helping garages hire overseas talent is urging the automotive sector to instead work to attract higher-qualified candidates who would thrive in the high-tech industry of tomorrow. Full story

Lloyds puts aside a further £700m for compensation over car finance scandal

Lloyds Banking Group has been forced to put aside a further £700m for potential compensation over the ballooning car loan commission scandal, in a move that knocked its annual profits by 20%. The latest provision brings the sum it will hold back for payouts to almost £1.2bn. Full story

Number of supercars in the UK hits new record with more than half Ferraris

New research has revealed that the number of supercars in the UK is up 4% as the total hit 23,323 for the year ending June 30, 2024. The data from accountancy group UHY Hacker Young showed that Ferrari was the most popular supercar brand in the UK, with 14,714 currently on the road. Full story

Plugged-In: EV Collision Insights 2024 Year in Review

Claims frequency for collision-damaged, repairable battery electric vehicles (BEVs) rose to 2.71% in the US and 3.84% in Canada in 2024, a year-over-year increase of 38% and 34% respectively. US total loss frequency for BEVs increased to 10.2% in 2024 (up from 8% in 2023). Full story

Quarter of drivers affected by bright headlights drive less at night as a result

A quarter of drivers (25%) who find vehicle headlights too bright are driving less at night as a result, while 22% say they wish they could, a major new study on headlight glare from the RAC shows. Findings from what is believed to be the most in-depth research into motorists’ views on the issue reveal that three-quarters (75%) of those who drive less do so because intense headlights make the experience uncomfortable or more difficult. Full story

Industry Insights has welcomed Alan Cottrill to the motor claims business consultancy team.

Charlie Holmes, Customer Services Executive at Thatcham Research, is running the Reading Half-Marathon to raise funds for Ben.

ARC360 conference set to unlock the future of vehicle repair

19 February 2025
Bodyshop, Mobility, Supplier, Technology, Training, Vehicle Repair, vehicle sales and Words

With the motor claims, vehicle repair and mobility sectors continuing to undergo significant change, ARC360’s 2025 conference is set to offer a unique opportunity to stay ahead of the curve.

Taking place on Thursday 22 May at the British Motor Museum, Gaydon, the event is already set to bring together over 25 leading insurer brands, more than 75 key repairers and in excess of 10 vehicle manufacturers, along with some of the industry’s most influential supply chain voices.

This year’s theme, ‘A New Era – The Changing Dynamics of a Sector’, sets the stage for essential discussions on the key trends, challenges, and opportunities shaping the industry today and in the future. Through expert-led sessions, interactive discussions, and an extensive supplier exhibition, attendees will gain:

  • Insights into market trends and the evolving role of ESG in the sector
  • A better understanding of how technology is influencing claims and repair decisions
  • Exclusive perspectives on insurer priorities and how supply chains can align
  • Valuable takeaways on repair, salvage, and recycling strategies
  • The chance to network with senior industry leaders and decision-makers

The event is backed by ARC360 Corporate Partners: BASF, CAPS, Entegral, Enterprise, NWVA, Mirka, S&G Response, and Solera Audatex, alongside Partners: e2e, Prasco, and Repairify, and Vehicle Manufacturer Partner: Stellantis. Onyx and Thatcham Research also join as event sponsors.

With industry leaders already confirmed to join discussions from Allianz, Ageas, Steer Automotive Group, NBRA, National Accident Repair Group, and S&G Response, this is the chance to be part of the conversations shaping the future of the industry.

Secure your place now – for attendance or sponsorship opportunities – contact Liane at liane@iloveclaims.com.

For a look at last year’s insights, visit ARC360 2024 Recap.

NBRA challenge to non-payment of repairers by EDAM administrators

18 February 2025
Bodyshop, Finance, Mobility, People, Supplier, Vehicle Repair and Words

 It has been reported that at least 93 bodyshops are unlikely to receive any payouts on the money owing since EDAM went into administration.

The NBRA suggests the number of bodyshops who will not get paid is even higher than the number reported, but is working to challenge to the non-payment.

It said, “Following EDAM’s administration, well over £750,000 is owed to repairers, and the group’s administrators have stated that they don’t intend to pay.

“As the repairer’s trade body, NBRA feel it’s their duty to challenge this and do as much as possible to ensure that bodyshops are paid. Because this is an ongoing administration, there are some complex legal issues to overcome, but NBRA have sought external advice to improve their chances of securing payments. They’re confident that there will be constructive discussions with the administrators in the near future, and this confidence is based on a solid legal foundation.

“To help secure a positive outcome, it’s important that NBRA’s case isn’t undermined by sharing any further details of which companies are affected, or financial details of how much is owed. A united repair industry will be much better placed to support affected companies and secure a settlement for every repairer involved.

“As part of this united front, NBRA would encourage any affected repairers to get in touch via the survey link, so that we can all work together to find the right legal advice and reach the best possible resolution.”

https://lnkd.in/e7bhrhUp

AutoRaise Power Panel sparks industry action at Oulton Park

18 February 2025
Bodyshop, Environment, Mobility, People, Supplier, Technology, Vehicle Repair and Words

Leading figures from the UK’s automotive repair sector gathered at Oulton Park for the AutoRaise Power Panel, a landmark event designed to tackle the pressing issues facing the industry.

Chaired by outgoing Dave Sargeant and incoming Simon Smith, the discussion focused on shaping the future of apprenticeships, changing industry perceptions, and removing barriers to entry for new talent.

A key theme of the discussion was the need to rebrand the automotive repair sector to attract new talent. With the industry often perceived as dirty or outdated, there was broad agreement that a modern, professional image must be promoted to bring in a more diverse workforce – including more women.

Simon highlighted the urgent need for inclusivity, noting that even basic facilities, such as female toilets in workshops, are still missing in many bodyshops.

The panel agreed that the industry must take active steps to create welcoming environments that encourage talent from all backgrounds.

TV personality and bodyshop owner Richard Hammond joined the event via live feed, offering his perspective as both a public figure and business owner.

He reinforced the need for practical training, better support systems, and a stronger industry push to attract and retain skilled technicians.

He said, “We need to open the doors to all types of people in the automotive sector—not just because it’s the right thing to do, but because we need every possible mind working on the industry’s future. This is about more than just apprenticeships—it’s about making sure everyone sees a place for themselves in automotive repair, engineering, and beyond.”

Meanwhile, former apprentice Rosie provided a powerful insight into how many young people view apprenticeships as a fallback option rather than a long-term career.

She stressed the need for clearer career pathways, improved working conditions, and competitive pay to make the trade more attractive to younger candidates. Mentorship also took centre stage, with discussions on how newly qualified apprentices could mentor the next generation.

This approach is set to be formally developed through the new AutoRaise Youth Voice Committee, ensuring apprentices are actively involved in shaping the future of training.

The event also highlighted the AutoRaise Bursary Fund, which provides financial assistance for small bodyshops to take on apprentices.

Attendees highlighted the need for further collaboration with education providers to expand funding opportunities and ensure apprentices get the support they need, and one of the most pressing takeaways from the event was the need for government reform of the Apprenticeship Levy.

The panel discussed how adjustments could make training more accessible and financially viable for bodyshops and education providers alike.

The AutoRaise Power Panel showcased a shared commitment to tackling the sector’s biggest challenges. Attendees left with a renewed sense of urgency and a clear plan of action to drive positive change.

Emma Speed, MD of Autoraise, said, “This event reinforced that while the challenges are significant, the industry is ready to take them on. Collaboration and action will be key to making apprenticeships more attractive, accessible, and successful.”