People Archives

ARC360 News – Friday 13 June 2025

13 June 2025

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

Komoo has opened its 21^st location and fifth new site for 2025 in Slough. The site is headed up by Bodyshop Manager Mark McKenna.

L&I Eaton’s Nottingham site has achieved BS10125 BSI Kitemark accreditation.

Repairify has donated £1,000 to AutoRaise following its efforts in raising £500 for the charity at Automechanika Birmingham and then fund matching the sum.

Fix Auto UK has reached a major milestone in its employee wellbeing programme, with its 200th team member completing Mental Health First Aider training. Read more

Cougar Accident Repair Centre Ltd is sponsoring the Caring Hero Award at the Annual Luton & Bedfordshire Awards.

BP Rolls has released a new video showcasing its five specialist divisions: Accident Repair, Auto Logistics, Signs & Graphics, Fleet Services, and Maxus EV Sales. Read more

Nicola Mccolm has started a new role as Production Manager at ABL 1 Touch Group Ltd.

Storm Auto Services now has access to Volvo, Renault Truck and Daimler Truck OE diagnostic equipment.

Auto Assess Apprenticeships has released a new update brochure. Read more

BYD’s new EV chargers are as fast as petrol pumps – here’s when they’re coming to the UK

BYD isn’t content with its EVs outselling Tesla, now it wants to take on the American electric car giant with its own BYD network of megawatt super-fast chargers. Read more

JLR appoints 50 specialists to boost resilience of new electric vehicle supply chains

LR has hired 50 specialists to maximise the resilience of new electric vehicle supply chains and uphold ethical standards, amid ongoing geopolitical uncertainty as it transforms to deliver its next generation of pure electric models across all its brands by 2030. Read more

Top engineer maps out Genesis strategy for high performance, next-gen powertrains

From developing new propulsion systems to integrating the latest technologies into an evolving lineup, nothing excites Manfred Harrer more than a tough challenge. At Genesis, there just never seems to be an end to them. Read more

Volvo Cars signs recycled steel deal with SSAB

Volvo Cars has signed a new agreement with Swedish steel firm SSAB for the supply of high-quality, recycled and near zero-emissions steel starting from 2025. Volvo Cars is the first car maker to sign a supply agreement with SSAB for recycled, near zero-emissions steel for serial production deliveries. Read more

XPENG announces new G6 and G9 ultra smart SUVs for Europe

XPENG, a leading global smart electric vehicle (EV) manufacturer driven by innovation and advanced AI technology, is proud to unveil the new versions of its Ultra Smart Coupe SUV XPENG G6 and Ultra Smart Premium SUV XPENG G9 for the European market. Read more

How OEMs are navigating the UK ZEV mandate through different business strategies

The UK automotive industry stands at a critical juncture as the 2024 Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) Mandate reshapes manufacturing and sales strategies. With manufacturers required to have achieved 22% ZEV sales in 2024, escalating to 80% by 2030, there is a clear trajectory away from ICE (internal combustion engine) vehicles. Our analysis reveals how different business approaches are yielding varying degrees of success in this rapidly evolving regulatory environment. Read more

Driving innovation – 38,000 jobs on the horizon as pilots of self-driving vehicles fast-tracked

Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander has confirmed that the government will fast-track pilots to spring 2026, introducing self-driving commercial pilots on England’s roads. Firms will be able to pilot small scale ‘taxi- and bus-like’ services without a safety driver for the first time – which could be available to members of the public to book via an app – before a potential wider rollout when the full Automated Vehicles Act becomes law from the second half of 2027.  Read more

Comment: Government must prioritise public trust in adoption of Automated Vehicles

This week, the UK Government has launched public consultations on the safe adoption of Automated Vehicles (AVs), enabling expert voices from the automotive sector to share their thoughts. The UK’s only not-for-profit automotive risk intelligence centre, Thatcham Research, will be engaging with these consultations, sharing industry-leading research and insights to support the Government in welcoming these vehicles onto UK roads. Read more

Worse for wire! Increased tech in cars means wires beat bumpers for crash repairs – AA Accident Assist

Vehicle technology is changing the world of vehicle repairs, as AA Accident Assist reveals that wiring looms were the most repaired part of a car following a crash. After repairing more than 14,500 vehicles last year, 99% required new wiring looms to help get them back on the road. Read more

BASF reveals more demo dates

BASF is thrilled to announce the upcoming demonstration sessions for Glasurit100Line and AraClass primers and clearcoats. The sessions will be delivered at both ITAS – International Technical Automotive Systems, Milton Keynes and Eyebox Training & Conference Centre , Coventry. Sessions will be held from 9am to midday, followed by lunch. Read more

The ESG Imperative in Claims: How Recycled Parts Help Meet Sustainability Targets

Sustainability is no longer optional in the automotive and insurance sectors. With increased pressure from regulators, stakeholders, and consumers, companies are feeling the urgency to integrate ESG practices into their strategies. For the insurance industry, claims handling is at the forefront of this shift. Read more

One in eight describe themselves as a nervous driver following a collision, research reveals

New research from Aviva reveals that one in eight (12%) say they are now a nervous driver after experiencing a car accident as a driver. The survey of 4,000 adults, commissioned by Aviva, finds that 55% of UK residents have been involved in a collision while driving. Read more

Apprenticeship Central calls for action

Apprenticeship Central used its platform at Automechanika 2025 to challenge the automotive industry to stop talking and start acting on its skills crisis. Read more

Ezi-methods hosts golf day success

The third annual Ezi-Methods Golf Day teed off in style at Old Thorns Golf Resort in Hampshire, bringing together UK and Australian figures from across the vehicle repair sector for a day of competition, camaraderie, and cue sports. Read more

Three family members sentenced for role in £60,000 insurance fraud scheme

Three members of the same family have been sentenced for their role in an insurance fraud scheme, involving fake motor insurance being sold to the public, in an act known as Ghost Broking. Read more

Scammer sentenced after selling fake motor insurance and using victims’ details to declare ‘fault’ of collisions

A man has been sentenced to 12-months imprisonment, suspended for 12 months, with a requirement to complete 150 hours of unpaid work, after selling two fraudulent motor insurance policies to unsuspecting members of the public and then using their details to attempt to file fraudulent claims against them.  Read more

‘I stole my car back after police could not help’

A west London couple said they tracked down and reclaimed their stolen Jaguar after police were “too stretched” to help. Mia Forbes Pirie and husband Mark Simpson discovered the theft from outside their home in Brook Green, Hammersmith, on the morning of Tuesday, 3 June. Read more

Claire Hart and Sam Newman have been promoted to Sales & Business Development Directors at Entegral.

The IMIhas announced the appointment of Graeme Potts, CEO, Eden Motor Group and Trustee and Chair of the Audit Committee, Ben Automotive Industry Charity, as Chair of the Board, and Adrian Wallington BSc FIMI, former Commercial Director, Marshall Motor Group and current Chief Commercial Officer at Huws Gray, as a new Non-Executive Director.

Lee Titchner has started a new role as Parts Director at Wrightbus.

Automotive charity Ben has announced key appointments to its senior leadership team, marking a significant step in its transition to a focused health and wellbeing charity. Read more

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Ben reveals new leadership team

13 June 2025

People, Supplier, Training, wellbeing and Words

Automotive charity Ben has announced key appointments to its senior leadership team, marking a significant step in its transition to a focused health and wellbeing charity.

The restructure supports Ben’s evolving strategy and CEO Rachel Clift’s vision, who took up her post in 2024. The new team brings together established leaders from within the organisation and fresh expertise from the wider sector.

Martin Smith has joined as Director of Finance, Governance & Impact. With over two decades of charity sector experience, Martin will lead finance, technology, and data teams, while also overseeing Ben’s charitable impact on an interim basis.

Matt Wigginton, a familiar face at Ben since 2015, becomes Director of Growth & Development. He will spearhead income generation, fundraising, and industry engagement efforts, leveraging his background in both commercial and non-profit environments.

Meanwhile, Ellen Plumer moves into the newly created role of Head of Awareness & Experience. After 10 years at Ben in senior communications roles, she will now focus on raising awareness and improving stakeholder experience across all touchpoints.

Sarah D’Addio, who had been serving as Interim HR Manager, is appointed Head of HR. With over 20 years’ experience in both strategic and operational HR, D’Addio formally joins the senior team to help drive forward Ben’s people strategy.

The announcement also marks the departure of three key figures. HR Director Gary Burgham and former CEO Zara Ross, who recently held the role of Transfer Programme Director, have now left Ben following their work on transferring the charity’s care and village services. Finance Director Jonathan Cox has stepped down but will continue to support the final stages of that transition.

“These changes are part of a watershed moment for Ben,” said Rachel. “I want to thank Gary, Zara, and Jonathan for their outstanding contributions. I’m delighted to welcome Martin, Ellen, Matt, and Sarah – each brings a depth of knowledge and passion for our mission. With this new team in place, we’re well-positioned to grow our impact and support even more people in our automotive family.”

More on Ben’s leadership team can be found at www.ben.org.uk/SLT.

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Apprenticeship Central calls for action

13 June 2025

Environment, Mobility, People, Supplier, Training, Uncategorised and Words

Apprenticeship Central used its platform at Automechanika 2025 to challenge the automotive industry to stop talking and start acting on its skills crisis.

Taking to the Body Repair Live stage, Eleanor Baker Barnes delivered a straight-talking presentation titled ‘Unlocking the Potential of Apprentices in the Automotive Industry’. Her message was clear: the time for debate is over, and practical solutions are long overdue.

“Our mission is simple,” she told attendees. “We help businesses find, and importantly keep, amazing apprentice talent and tackle the apprenticeship crisis with a practical, real-world approach.”

Citing hard-hitting statistics, she highlighted the urgency:

One in three employers report challenges attracting new talent.
The Institute of the Motor Industry predicts over 20,000 new technicians are needed by 2031.
Nearly half the workforce is over 45 and nearing retirement.
Despite this, apprenticeship starts have fallen by 25% in the past decade.

“Talking about the skills gap has lost its impact,” Eleanor said. “It’s not the facts that need to change – it’s how we respond.”

She went on to offer a blueprint for action, including how to: attract the right talent, support apprentices once hired, and retain and develop them into long-term contributors.

She also noted that for businesses who get this right, the return on investment can be as much as £20,000 per apprentice, per year.

Eleanor concluded with a rallying call: “The talent is out there, ready and waiting, if we’re prepared to invest in them…”

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Ezi-methods hosts golf day success

13 June 2025

Bodyshop, Environment, People, Vehicle Repair and Words

Ten teams of four hit the championship course despite a mix of sunshine and stormy skies, as the event cemented its reputation as a must-attend fixture on the industry calendar. In a fitting tribute, the winner’s trophy once again honoured the late Bob Linwood, a key supporter of the original event.

Topping the leaderboard was a team comprising industry consultant Phil Travis and Ross Varnam and Paul Allan from the AMG Group in Australia. Travis also scooped the Nearest the Pin award, while Neil Parker of Fix Auto Dagenham clinched Longest Drive honours.

As the sun set, golf clubs were swapped for snooker cues during an evening of entertainment hosted by former world snooker champion John Parrott. Parrott delighted attendees with trick shots, humorous stories, and a light-hearted mini tournament that kept spirits high.

“Our event continues to grow each year and it’s a pleasure to bring together such respected figures from both here in the UK and our friends in Australia,” said Ben Cardy, Ezi-Methods founder. “It’s a setting that encourages both competition and connection. I’m incredibly grateful to all who played a role in making the event such a success.”

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Fix Auto hits mental health milestone

13 June 2025

Bodyshop, Mobility, People, Supplier, Training, wellbeing and Words

Fix Auto UK has reached a major milestone in its employee wellbeing programme, with its 200th team member completing Mental Health First Aider training.

The milestone comes just three years after the initiative was launched. The programme, introduced in May 2022, offers Mental Health First Aid England (MHFA) training to all Franchise Partners and has recently been extended to supplier partners.

Matthew Hewitt, a MET Technician at Fix Auto Leeds North, became the 200th individual to complete the training. He joined 12 colleagues for the latest two-day course held at the group’s Leicester head office and delivered by certified trainer and Regional Business Manager Carl Norton.

The initiative aims to ensure that every Fix Auto UK repair centre has at least two trained individuals who can recognise and respond to mental health challenges. It also encourages open conversations in a sector traditionally silent on the subject.

“This achievement is more than just a number,” said Ian Pugh, Managing Director of the Advantage Group of Companies. “It reflects our unwavering dedication to fostering a supportive and inclusive culture. Supporting mental health within our network is not only the right thing to do, it’s part of who we are.”

The programme’s growing impact has not gone unnoticed. Fix Auto UK is a finalist in the 2025 InsideOut Awards, shortlisted in the Best DE&I for Mental Health Strategy category, alongside Air Canada and Sky.

“Being shortlisted… is a huge honour and a testament to the hard work and commitment of our people,” added Ian. “It reinforces the fact that our people-first approach is making a meaningful impact.”

For Matthew, the training was transformative: “Taking part in this course has been a real eye-opener. It’s empowering to know I now have the skills to support a colleague or family member who might be struggling.”

Fix Auto UK is part of a global network of more than 925 bodyshops and carries out over 150,000 repairs a year across the UK.

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ARC360 News – Friday 6 June 2025

6 June 2025

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

Ian Pugh, Advantage Group of Companies Managing Director of which Fix Auto UK falls within, and Colin Curtis, Managing Director Triple Bottom Line Carbon Consultancy (TBL) have written an article title: Acting with Integrity: Why the automotive sector must go beyond carbon neutrality. Read more

Automotive Bodyshop Industry Specialist, Andrew Harman has celebrated 50 years in the motor industry.

Carl Bateman has joined Avant Consult Ltd as VWG Business Development Manager (Network Development) in its Automotive Division.

D & R Resprays Ltd, Cars Repair Ltd and LLAXA Garage have been welcomed to the Solera Audatex UK family

Fix Auto UK has taken another major step in its expansion across Northern Ireland by welcoming Newcastle Accident Repair into its network. Read more

Stellantis UK Accident Repair Programme has revealed its Audatex UK Estimator of the Year 2024 – Northern Region Winners with Chris Duffy of Pentagon Group Bodyshop Sheffield taking the title, with Derek McFarlane of Mitchell Inglis in second and, in third, Allan Herd of Fix Auto Glasgow West (Allied Vehicles Group).

Stellantis UK Accident Repair Programme has launched the Distrigo Total Loss Avoidance Programme to help the industry keep more cars on the road.

Kia, Porsche, Renault, and Toyota raise the standard for Assisted Driving systems – Tesla and Volvo could do better

The Kia EV3, Porsche Macan, Renault 5, and Toyota bZ4X all scored highly in the Euro NCAP Assisted Driving Grading assessment, designed to evaluate how safely partially automated systems are implemented by vehicle manufacturers. All four vehicles were awarded a ‘Very Good’ rating for Assisted Driving, providing exceptional balance between driver engagement and safety backup. Read more

Volvo Cars introduces world first multi-adaptive safety belt in the upcoming Volvo EX60

Today, Volvo Cars unveils a major safety improvement to the safety belt. The new multi-adaptive safety belt is a world-first technology aimed to further enhance safety for everyone in real-world traffic situations. Read more

The BMW Group’s IT and Software Hubs: A key success factor for digital transformation and the software defined vehicle.

The digital transformation of the BMW Group permeates all value creation processes: from vehicle development to production and sales, it is a key factor in securing the company’s future success. Read more

Assembling EV battery packs with GM’s Kurt Kelty (VIDEO)

At General Motors, our battery strategy is at the center of our vision for an all-electric future. The batteries that power our diverse EV portfolio come together in an area of our manufacturing plants called “Rechargeable Energy Storage System,” or RESS. Read more

Genesis Motor UK announces pricing and specification of new electrified G80

Genesis Motor UK has today revealed full specification and pricing of the New Electrified G80, the most luxurious and comprehensively equipped model in the Genesis portfolio. Read more

NIO announces expansion into seven additional European markets in cooperation with local distribution partners

NIO, a global smart electric vehicle company, is expanding its European rollout by entering seven additional markets in 2025 and 2026, offering local users an innovative, sustainable and premium mobility experience. Read more

New car market returns to growth as discounting lifts EV registrations

The UK’s new car market returned to growth in May, as registrations rose 1.6% to 150,070 units, according to the latest data published today by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT). It was the best May performance since 2021, but still -18.3% lower than in pre-pandemic 2019 and only the second month of growth this year, reflecting brittle consumer confidence and economic turbulence. Read more

Van market shrinks for sixth month running

The UK’s new light commercial vehicle (LCV) market fell by -11.8% in May with 22,796 vans, 4x4s and pick-ups joining the road, according to the latest figures published today by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT). The contraction marks the lowest May performance since 2022 and rounds off the sixth consecutive month of decline, as weak business confidence holds back fleet investment. Read more

Stellantis & You Partners with Tchek.ai and Launches Smart AI Inspections for Used Car Valuations

Stellantis & You, the UK dealer network owned by Stellantis, has announced the integration of AI vehicle damage inspection for part exchange valuations. Stellantis &You associates across all 28 UK dealer locations can now self-inspect vehicles using Tchek’s advanced AI damage inspection technology, following close collaboration with UK-based all solution provider TyreSwift. Read more

SERMI: What does it mean for the UK?

In the automotive industry, there are numerous rules and regulations that need to be adhered to, whether you are a car manufacturer, a bodyshop or a technician. The latest regulation to be introduced to the industry is SERMI. Before we dive into what SERMI is, let’s remind ourselves of how it came into being. Read more

Accelerated premium falls in May signal further softening in motor and home insurance markets

The latest General Insurance Price Index from Pearson Ham Group shows that premiums for both motor and home insurance declined at a faster pace in May 2025, suggesting a further softening across the personal lines market. Read more

TMO expands the scope of its Codes of Practice to reflect the UK’s evolving automotive landscape

The Motor Ombudsman has unveiled its newly updated Motor Industry Codes of Practice to broaden their scope in line with the changing face of the UK’s automotive sector, which has seen the evolution of legislation, technological innovation, and shifts in consumer buying behaviour.  Read more

Why Smart Adopters Win: Three Key Considerations For Tech Leaders

When it comes to implementing new technologies, there’s a case to be made for the first mover and the fast follower. First movers lead the pack. Fast followers take more time to evaluate technology before investing in it. Read more

Consumer trust in insurers hits lowest point since 2021

Public trust in the insurance industry has dropped to its lowest level in four years, according to the latest Trust in Insurance Index from Fairer Finance. Despite recent falls in car and home insurance premiums after two years of large increases, trust in insurers continues to erode, signalling a deeper, long-term decline in public confidence. Read more

City of London Police leads nationwide crackdown on ‘ghost broking’

The City of London Police’s Insurance Fraud Enforcement Department (IFED) has led a nationwide period of action targeting illegal insurance brokers, known as ‘ghost brokers’, in a coordinated crackdown on insurance fraud. Read more

AX adds more than 500 BMW and Mini cars to fleet

Accident management company AX has ordered more than 500 new cars for its fleet, from BMW and Mini. The firm is expanding the size of its replacement vehicle fleet, provided to customer drivers following accidents. Read more

Robertsons reports vehicle theft surge in urban centres

Robertsons’ latest motor theft report reveals nearly 2,000 theft investigations across the UK and Ireland over the last six months, with sharp regional disparities and a concentration of activity in urban hotspots. Read more

Switch appoints Fleet Assist for SMR across 25,000-strong rental fleet

Scot Group-owned rental firm Switch has appointed Fleet Assist as SMR garage network partner to support its 85 locations and 25,000-plus fleet of cars and vans. Read more

Webinar: Understanding Common Non-Conformities for the Vehicle Damage Repair Kitemark

BSI is hosting a webinar on 19 June to help simplify the BS10125 certification journey. It offers a step-by-step walk-through of the certification guidance document, insights into common non-conformities that have held garages back, and the chance to ask questions directly to Dean Markwell, Automotive Technical Delivery Manager at BSI. Read more

Fleet Alliance sold to Global Vans

Global Vans continues on the acquisition trail with its most significant purchase to date: Glasgow-based fleet management leasing broker Fleet Alliance. Read more

Industry leaders confirmed for exclusive GTA update

ILC is excited to announce a headline session at the Mobility in Insurance Conference 2025, dedicated to providing critical updates and insight into the ongoing evolution of the General Terms of Agreement (GTA). Read more

Danny Clarke has joined Granlyn Specialist Coatings Ltd as Technical Sales Manager

Dan Cooper has started a new role as Ford Body & Paint Apprenticeship Co-ordinator at Calex UK

Pete Sadler has started a new role as Group Data & Analytics Director at Alton Cars Ltd

Phill Bye has started a new position as Sales Director at Switch Car Rental

Mariano Pereyra has started new role as Head of Strategic Account Management – EMEA, BASF Coatings Automotive Refinish Solutions

Jeff Winn, Founder and Executive Chairman, has stepped down from his role at the Tyneside accident specialist Read more

Martin Hall has been appointed as Managing Director ERS, taking responsibility for the performance of Lloyd’s Syndicate 218. Replacing Martin as Active Underwriter, Scott Tillbrook has been promoted following his successful leadership of ERS’ Personal Lines Bespoke, Commercial, and Agriculture portfolios. Read more

Kate Birchell, Motor Claims Supply Manager at AXA has completed her CIPS Level 5 Advanced Diploma of Procurement and Supply

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ARC360 News – Friday 30 May 2025

30 May 2025

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

ARC360 Conference 2025 success as the industry moves into a new era

The ARC360 Conference 2025, held on 22 May at the British Motor Museum in Gaydon, brought together the full force of the UK’s automotive incident repair and motor insurance claims sector for a day of discussion, insight, and collaboration. Read more

Motofix Group is now Tesla approved at both its Yeovil and Oxford centres.

We are pleased to announce that Peter Harris has been appointed in the role of Commercial Director forSolution Repair Group

A team of 13 Vizion Network colleagues will be taking the leap of faith this summer for charity with a sponsored skydive. To show support visit the Just Giving page.

Withybush Coachworks Ltd has successfully passed its initial BSI 10125 Certification audit

Chesterfield based Advanced Paint Repair Ltd has launched a new website.

Lookers Motor Group is developing a new 66,000sqft Lookers Paint & Body Centre building in North Tyneside, part of a £5m vehicle repair hub.

Jade Dalton has started a new role as Site Manager for Steer Automotive Group in Milton Keynes.

Twelve weeks since opening, SmartXpress Preston has passed its BSI 10125 audit.

Joel Cameron of Fix Auto Penzance has won the 2024 Stellantis Audatex UK Estimator of the Year – Southern Region competition. In second place was Scott Burns of Fairlight Coachworks and third was Simon Tilley of KJ Rule Ltd.

Rhys Walters has started a new position as Chief Strategy Officer at Accident Repair Hub.

Car Market Overview – June 2025

This monthly briefing highlights the latest activity across the UK’s new and used car sectors. It presents updated figures on new vehicle registrations through April 2025 and outlines current trends shaping the used car landscape. All statistics and insights are current as of May 23, 2025. Read more

UK car and commercial vehicle output falls in April

UK car and commercial vehicle production fell by -15.8% to 59,203 units in April, according to the latest figures published today by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT). Vehicle output fell to the lowest level for the month since 1952, excluding 2020 when the first Covid lockdown effectively saw manufacturing cease.  The result caps off the sector’s lowest start to the year since 2009. Read more

Toyota Motor Manufacturing UK to produce the Toyota GR Corolla from 2026

Toyota Motor Europe (TME) announced its plan to begin production of the Toyota GR Corolla at Toyota Motor Manufacturing UK (TMUK) from 2026. TOYOTA GAZOO Racing (TGR) was created in 2009, based on the vision and under the guidance of then Toyota Motor Corporation Executive Vice President Akio Toyoda. It has since become the fastest-growing brand in the Toyota Motor Corporation portfolio. Read more

How AI becomes one of your car’s smartest features

rom automated driving to next-generation in-car experiences, artificial intelligence is enabling new dimensions of user experiences and performance beyond the state-of-the-art. Read more

Car insurance hits two-year low

UK drivers are now paying the lowest car insurance premiums in two years, according to new data from Go.Compare. The comparison site’s latest pricing analysis reveals that the average fully comprehensive car insurance quote fell to £413 in April 2025 – a drop of £62 from the previous month and the lowest level since March 2023. Read more

ABI continues focus on road safety with updates to its Salvage Code of Practice

The ABI has updated its Salvage Code of Practice, to bring the guidance in line with new vehicle technology. Setting out detailed guidance for insurers and salvage firms regarding how written-off vehicles should be categorised, the voluntary code helps ensure that unsafe vehicles and parts are not put back onto our roads.  Read more

Higher-level apprenticeship funding to be scrapped as focus shifts to under-22s

The government is promising more training for people aged 21 and under in England, as it presses ahead with controversial plans to scrap funding for postgraduate apprenticeships. From January, only 16 to 21-year-olds will qualify for funding for level 7 apprenticeships – the highest level, considered equivalent to a master’s degree – under the plans confirmed on Tuesday. Read more

New tool by BASF Coatings helps body shops improve their ecological and economic performance

BASF Coatings introduces an innovative Eco Impact Assessment tool under its Refinity brand, a digital business management platform designed to empower automotive refinish partners and customers. The new tool enables body shops to measure performance across ecological, economic, and social aspects. Read more

DEROS RS 600 helps Mirka add to its Red Dot award collection

Mirka now has four Red Dot awards as the new rotary sander, the Mirka® DEROS RS has received the Red Dot Design Award: Product Design 2025 award. Read more

Major apprenticeship reforms from August 2025

From 1 August 2025, significant reforms to apprenticeship rules will be introduced across England, impacting how programmes are structured, funded and delivered. Announced by the Department for Education – and summarised by Apprenticeship Central – the changes aim to improve accessibility, streamline training, and ensure apprenticeships are better aligned with employer needs. Read more

BASF announces upcoming demonstrations

BASF has announced upcoming demonstration sessions for Glasurit100Line and AraClass primers and clearcoats in partnership with Morelli Group at the Eyebox Training & Conference Centre. Sessions take place on Wednesday 23 July, Wednesday 10 September and Wednesday, 12 November and will be held from 9am to midday, followed by lunch and an engaging Q&A session. For those interested in attending, reach out to the Glasurit or Morelli team. Read more

LKQ Publishes 2024 Global Sustainability Report

LKQ Corporation, a global leading provider of alternative and specialty parts to repair and accessorize automobiles and other vehicles, today announced the release of its 2024 Sustainability Report. The report showcases LKQ’s role in driving success as a best-in-class operator for our investors and key stakeholders, while maintaining a critical role in facilitating the growth of the global circular economy. Read more

Mark Roxburgh has started a new position as Head of Preparation at V12 Sports & Classics Ltd

Kerry Livesey has started a new role as Head of Brand Communications & Experience at Vauxhall Motors Ltd

Imogen Comerford has been promoted to Senior Implementation Manager at Enterprise Mobility

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SERMI: What does it mean for the UK?

30 May 2025

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

Article contributed by Repairify

SERMI was implemented after legislation was introduced by the EU parliament (European Directive (EU) No 2018/858) meaning that vehicle manufacturers are required to provide unrestricted and standardised access to repair and maintenance information (RMI) to independent operators (IOs) and remote service suppliers (RSS).

As a result, access to security-related RMI (Repair and Maintenance Information), which also includes diagnostic tools, may be subject to specific security standards and certificates.

The legislation specifically defines security-related RMI as information, software, functions and services necessary for repairing and maintaining vehicle features that prevent theft, enable vehicle tracking, and facilitate recovery. In layman’s terms this means to undertake certain actions or access certain manufacturer information (e.g. relating to keys, immobilers, programming of certain modules, repairers will need SERMI certification)

The UK and what it means

As the industry is aware, it was launched in October 2023, with Sweden being the first country to implement it. From there, we have seen Norway, Finland and Denmark introduce it alongside other European countries, and now it is the turn of the UK.

The UK version of the scheme will be going live shortly, probably in Q3 2025. However, as the UK is no longer part of the European Union, the scheme will be voluntary for OEs to register in the UK.

Some regulations that require manufacturers to opt in or out, often spark controversy among them. However, this is not the case with SERMI, and based on current indications, UK vehicle manufacturers largely support its introduction, which is always a good sign.

Repairer registration

On the repairer side of the industry, businesses must also register with SERMI, and the reason is straightforward. Repairers need the appropriate credentials from SERMI to access the RMI, particularly for security and theft-related information. If a repairer is using a Remote Service Solution (RSS) such as Repairify, both the business and its employees must also obtain SERMI credentials to operate the tool.

In addition, to be registered to SERMI, both the repairer and technician need to meet certain criteria (ie DBS check etc), which is the norm, and like any regulation and scheme, it is important that everyone, no matter how big or small the business is, to be compliant. To ensure compliance there will be a national body in each country that audits the repairer regularly to ensure all the necessary paperwork is in order.

Awareness to prepare

SERMI is now coming to the UK and we need to start raising awareness so that shops can start to be prepared. Whilst it is a new process and new technology, it is designed ot be a good thing, and to protect the industry and consumers alike. Ensuring security related repairs are performed by vetted professionals who meet strict standards ultimately designed to combat car theft – a costly issue that affects the UK and needs to be addressed.

Further details of the scheme can be found by visiting: https://independentgarageassociation.co.uk/trade-topics/sermi/

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Fix Auto expands in Northern Ireland

30 May 2025

Bodyshop, Environment, Mobility, People, Supplier, Vehicle Repair and Words

Fix Auto UK has taken another major step in its expansion across Northern Ireland by welcoming Newcastle Accident Repair into its network. The business, founded by award-winning paint technician Danny Matheson, will now operate under the Fix Auto Newcastle NI banner.

This latest addition marks the sixth site Fix Auto UK has established in Northern Ireland in just four years. It significantly boosts the network’s capacity in the region, now collectively capable of repairing over 650 vehicles per month – a figure that’s expected to grow.

Fix Auto Newcastle NI is strategically located south of Belfast, complementing the services offered by Fix Auto Lagan Side and Fix Auto Saintfield. The site is housed in a modern 4,000sqft facility at the heart of a newly built industrial estate, which offers scope for future growth.

Danny said joining the Fix Auto network was a natural progression: “I’m extremely proud of where I have brought my business to, but I know I need that extra element of help, support and guidance that comes with being part of the network to help me fulfil my ambitions.”

Before joining Fix Auto UK, the business passed the BSI 10125 audit with a perfect score.

Fix Auto UK Operations Director Mark Hutchins praised the appointment: “We have witnessed remarkable growth in Northern Ireland, and our ability to repair vehicles en masse continues to grow. Northern Ireland is firmly established as a key proposition of ours, and Fix Auto Newcastle NI truly fits our criteria of ambition and quality.”

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Major apprenticeship reforms from August 2025

29 May 2025

Bodyshop, Insurance, Mobility, People, Training, Vehicle Repair, vehicle sales and Words

From 1 August 2025, significant reforms to apprenticeship rules will be introduced across England, impacting how programmes are structured, funded and delivered.

Announced by the Department for Education – and summarised by Apprenticeship Central – the changes aim to improve accessibility, streamline training, and ensure apprenticeships are better aligned with employer needs.

A key update is the launch of Accelerated Apprenticeships, which reduces the minimum programme length from 12 months to just eight months. This is expected to benefit candidates with prior knowledge or experience, removing unnecessary repetition and allowing faster qualification. According to Apprenticeship Central, “evidence shows good candidates are turned off from entering new apprentice programmes when duplicating areas previously covered.”

The long-standing “20% off-the-job” training requirement is being replaced with fixed minimum hours per standard. These will be adjusted based on learners’ prior experience. This brings consistency and greater clarity for providers and employers, while reducing time apprentices spend away from the workplace.

A new Foundation Apprenticeship route will launch for young people aged 16–21, and for 22–24-year-olds with additional needs. While maths and English will remain compulsory, final assessments will not be required. Employers offering these roles can receive up to £2,000 in incentives, with a further £666 bonus if the apprentice progresses to a higher-level programme.

“This is a practical, funded route to help more young people into our industry,” according to Apprenticeship Central, which is encouraging businesses to offer entry-level roles to support new talent.

Starting in April 2025, all apprenticeship standards will see their End-Point Assessments (EPA) plans rewritten. This opens the door for greater employer input in shaping how apprentices are evaluated, ensuring real-world relevance.

Additional technical changes include:

Clarified levy fund usage guidance

Level 7 funding for over-22s cut from 2026

Immigration Skills Charge increases to boost UK training investment

Apprenticeship Central, a specialist in apprentice recruitment and retention for the vehicle repair sector, is offering strategic support for employers ahead of the changes.