ARC360 News – Friday 7 July 2023

EV market realigning after price collapse

The crash in value of electric vehicles has been startling but it will not continue as the perfect storm that saw prices plummet by as much as 40% begins to pass.

This is according to Derren Martin, Director of Valuations at cap hpi, who said the rare circumstances that converged to disrupt the EV market are now easing.

He was speaking during ARC360’s specialist EV event, EV-olution; Gaining Ground Together, which was held at the Manufacturing Technology Centre, Coventry this week.

Steer Group acquires Apollo and Balgores

Steer Automotive Group has accelerated its growth plans by acquiring the combined businesses of Apollo Motor Group and Balgores Motors.

The two businesses total 32 repair locations, £90m turnover and 700 staff.

Apprenticeship Central launches new engagement service

Apprenticeship Central, the apprentice recruitment and retention specialist serving the automotive aftermarket, has launched ENSURE, a unique safeguarding service for businesses who employ apprentices.

A Wiser approach to training

In the latest ILC podcast, Crescens George, CEO of Wiser Academy, shares his passion for training and development and discusses how best to recognise and nurture talent.

Steering the future with more jobs

Steer Automotive Group has been recognised for creating jobs in the automotive sector by being included in the 2023 E2E Job Creation 100 Track.

New car market up by a quarter

The new car market surged by more than a quarter in June, making it the 11th straight month of growth.

According to the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders, 177,266 vehicles were registered in the month, meaning almost a million (949,720) new cars joined UK roads in the first six months of 2023, with total registrations up 18.4%

Thatcham Research calls for EV collaboration

Repairs of electric vehicles are about 25% more expensive than ICE equivalents and take 14% longer.

This is according to a report, The Impact of BEV Adoption on the Repair and Insurance Sectors, produced by Thatcham Research and funded by Innovate UK.

Gemini ARC celebrates apprentice success

Gemini ARC has recognised the successes of its rising stars at the company’s third annual apprenticeship awards held at the Manufacturing Technology Centre near Coventry.

The repair group has a proud history of supporting apprentices and has recently celebrated becoming an IMI Approved Centre.

Top award for Kinnell

Michael Kinnell, Manager at Stewart Roden Motors Bodyshop, has been named Stellantis Audatex Estimator of the Year, Northern Region.

Brand approval for Fix Auto Leicester

Fix Auto Leicester has announced it has become an approved Toyota and Lexus repairer.

Winn winning with exceptional growth

North East-based Winn Group is planning to grow its workforce from 500 to 700 in the next 12-18 months.

The company offers integrated accident management services and has seen turnover increase by 139% in a year.

Gemini achieves IMI Approved Centre Status

Gemini has secured ‘Approved Centre’ status from the IMI, paving the way for the repair group to create its own training development, qualifications and CPD programmes.

This follows several months of collaboration to ensure Gemini’s training standards meet IMI-approved levels.

The IMI renews British Motor Show partnership

The Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI) has renewed its partnership with the British Motor Show.

It will sponsor an all-new Tech Hub at the 2023 show, which will feature replica service bays to showcase new repair technologies and promote careers within the industry.

Ford ends production of top-selling model

Ford is ending production of its top-selling Fiesta model, with its place on the factory line taken by the new electric Explorer SUV. This is part of Ford’s $2bn transition to an all-electric future.

CMA says competition failing among fuel providers

The Competition and Markets Authority has said ‘something needs to change swiftly’ to restore fuel price competition in the market.

In a new report, it says the industry needs ‘to be held to account’ after retailers rose prices sharply but were slow to reduce them again.

People

Executive director of the National Body Repair Association (NBRA) Chris Weeks will replace Anthony Heard as managing director of Braintree Motor Group (BMG).

Nikki Nagra has joined the claims and cash collection operations team at Edam Group

Andy Gratton has been promoted to Managing Director at Ring Automotive,

Allianz UK has appointed Benjamin Turner as Chief Information Officer.

Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles has appointed Tom Macintyre as Head of Direct Sales in the UK.

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ARC360 News – Friday 11 April 2025

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ARC360 News – Friday 30 June 2023

Plug in to the EV-olution!

Just days remain before ARC360’s specialist electric vehicle (EV) event, which takes place on Tuesday 4 July at the Manufacturing Technology Centre (MTC) in Coventry.

The event, which will feature experts from across the vehicle incident repair supply chain, will address the impact of EVs on FNOL, repair capabilities, cost inflation, skillset requirements, health & safety, repairability, replacement vehicles and end-of-life vehicle management.

Talking sense with Chris Mcilduff

Chris Mcilduff, Chief Customer Officer at Davies Consulting, has highlighted how technology combined with the human touch can deliver excellence in customer journeys.

Speaking during ARC360’s latest podcast, he also explained how processes and training can directly improve customer support.

Production continues upwards momentum

UK car production rose for the fourth consecutive month in May, up 26.9% year on year, according to the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders.

Meanwhile, UK commercial vehicle manufacturing grew 36.9% in May.

BASF closes EV battery loop with new site

BASF has opened Europe’s first co-located centre of battery material production and battery recycling.

Based in Germany, the facility will produce high-performance cathode materials and also serve as a battery recycling plant.

Ben celebrates World Wellbeing Week

Automotive charity Ben has emphasised how good mental and physical health can both influence and be influenced by wellbeing.

To mark World Wellbeing Week, Ben has urged colleagues in the automotive industry to take care of their health and wellbeing as the industry and wider workplace undergoes a significant transformation.

Centre of Excellence set for expansion

The WorldSkills UK Centre of Excellence is expanding. It will now be open to all Further Education (FE) Colleges, independent training providers, and Higher Educational Institutions throughout the UK and is expected to benefit more than 140,000 young individuals and nearly 5,000 educators over the next three years.

What’s shaping claims and repairs in 2023?

The automotive repair and motor claims landscape has been shifting substantially for the last four years. Covid was a key driver in this transition, with inflation, skills shortages and supply chain challenges – not to mention changing customer habits – only accelerating the evolution.

In this article, we speak to ILC partners e2e Total Loss Vehicle Management and Repairify to find out how they are adapting to meet new demands and satisfy customers.

The IMI secures EV training contract in China

The IMI has announced a new collaboration with the Chinese Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security to train teachers and students at Shandong Polytechnic and Technician College in EV technology.

Repairability critical to car design

Thatcham Research has said that prioritising repair in car design principles is essential for improving the total cost of ownership and sustainability outcomes.

It is encouraging manufacturers to collaborate with it to find design solutions to support repairs and reduce the pressure on repair networks.

Repairify achieves ISO 14001 certification

Repairify sites Luton and Peterlee have both been awarded ISO 14001 certification, which sets out the standard for an environmental management system.

The two sites are the first within the Repairify group to achieve the environmental accreditation.

Thatcham Research celebrates 10 years of escribe

Thatcham Research has marked the 10th anniversary of its online escribe repair methods tool by providing a valuable insight into how emerging vehicle technology is altering the profile of the UK car parc.

Escribe provides access to more than 500,000 repair methods and technical information across over 1,000 models.

CMA clears Copart/Hills deal

The proposed acquisition of Hill Motors by Copart looks set to go ahead after the Competition and Markets Authority provisionally cleared the deal.

The CMA said, “The CMA has provisionally concluded that the completed acquisition by Copart of Hills Motors has not and may not be expected to result in a substantial lessening of competition in the supply of salvage services in the UK.”

Aston Martin signs EV contract with Lucid

Aston Martin has signed a landmark new supply agreement with EV technologies company Lucid Group to accelerate its plans to develop luxury EVs, backed by a £2bn investment.

Steer Group named in UK’s top 100

Steer Automotive Group has been named in The Sunday Times 100, which recognises the fastest growing private companies in the UK.

The company has been expanding exponentially ever since it was founded with four sites by Richard Steer in 2018.

BMH celebrates 1,000th E-Type replacement bonnet

British Motor Heritage (BMH) has produced its 1,000th replacement E-Type Jaguar bonnet. Each one comprises 82 individual parts and takes no less than 70 man hours to construct.

SMMT calls for industrial strategy to secure £106bn EV prize

The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders believes there is a £106bn windfall awaiting the UK economy if the transition to net zero is successful.

It has launched its Manifesto 2030: Automotive growth for a zero-emission future and called on every party to create the conditions for a 10-fold rise in annual battery electric vehicle (BEV) production to more than 750,000 units per year by 2030.

Allianz launched EV salary sacrifice scheme

Allianz Holdings has partnered with ElextriX to introduce an electric vehicle salary sacrifice scheme for its UK employees. The scheme also includes home charging, breakdown cover, and fixed cost motor insurance for three years.

Drivers DIY to reduce costs

A new survey by the RAC has revealed that nearly a quarter of drivers (23%) are either not servicing their cars regularly or doing it themselves to cut costs.

People

The Institute of the Motor Industry has appointed Daksh Gupta, Vice President of BEN, as a Vice President.

PPG has named Alisha Bellezza Vice President, Global Automotive Coatings.

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ARC360 News – Friday 11 April 2025

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CMA reverses Copart/Hills decision

The proposed acquisition of Hill Motors by Copart looks set to go ahead after the Competition and Markets Authority provisionally cleared the deal. 

It originally concluded in May that the acquisition could ‘substantially’ reduce competition in the UK vehicle salvage sector.

However, after reviewing evidence from customers, it has reversed these findings.

Kirstin Baker, chair of the independent panel of experts conducting the most recent investigation, said, “We’ve gathered new evidence which means we no longer consider that this deal raises competition concerns in the vehicle salvage sector. We conduct these thorough investigations to fully understand issues affecting competition in that market. The purpose of the provisional findings stage is to gather responses and review the evidence before we make a final decision.

“In some cases, new evidence comes to light which causes us to change our mind as we have done here.”

Jane Pocock, Chief Executive of Copart UK & Ireland, said, “This decision is testament to the thoroughness of the CMA process and reflects both the significant hard work of all the Copart teams involved and the unwavering support shown by our customers, both of which I am very grateful for.

“We are incredibly excited about the opportunity, and what it brings to our existing customers and of course to the wider market. Equally, we are looking forward to formally welcoming Ian Hill and his great team to the Copart family. 

“We remain committed to our mission of ensuring that we serve our customers and the wider automotive sector by providing market leading green parts, total loss, and remarketing services.”

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ARC360 News – Friday 11 April 2025

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Steer Group named in UK’s top 100

Steer Automotive Group has been named in The Sunday Times 100, which recognises the fastest growing private companies in the UK.

The company has been expanding exponentially ever since it was founded with four sites by Richard Steer in 2018.

In the last 12 months it has made a number of significant acquisitions, including AW Accident Repair Centre and Artis Accident Repair Centres, and has also been enhancing its footprint in the North East with the acquisitions of Tyne Tees Vehicle Repair Group, North East Accident Repair Centres, and Vertu Accident Repair Centre Newcastle.

The business, which now includes more than 60 sites and employs around 1,500 colleagues, also opened a state-of-the-art flagship site in High Wycombe which specialises in repairing premium and luxury vehicle brands.

Richard Steer, chief executive, said: “This prestigious accolade reflects our unwavering commitment to excellence and our remarkable growth trajectory. We extend our deepest gratitude to our insurer partners and vehicle manufacturers for their invaluable support and collaboration, which has played a crucial role in our success. We are immensely proud of our dedicated teams whose hard work, passion, and innovation have propelled us to this significant achievement. This recognition motivates us to continue delivering a Measurably Different customer experience and to set new benchmarks in the industry. Together, we will move towards a future filled with continued growth and success.”

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ARC360 News – Friday 11 April 2025

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ARC360 News – Friday 23 June 2023

Scene set for specialist EV event

Some of the leading names from across the motor claims sector are set to share their insights at ARC360’s forthcoming specialist EV event – The EV-olution.

Sponsored by Control Expert and Thatcham Research, along with ARC360 Corporate Partners and Partners, the event takes place on Tuesday 4 July at the Manufacturing Technology Centre (MTC), Coventry.

Fix Auto introduces new ADAS capability

Fix Auto UK has announced a new partnership with US-based AirPro Diagnostics to enhance ADAS calibrations within its network.

AirPro Diagnostics is a pioneer in remote vehicle diagnostics and calibration products, and will initially bring into the UK its unique ‘AUGGIE’ mobile system that enables ADAS calibrations to be easily and swiftly completed outside of the workshop by any productive.

The shape of claims to come

Claims and motor repairs are evolving rapidly as new technologies and new ways of working disrupt the landscape. These changes are putting pressure on bodyshops and insurers and to move with the times to ensure they continue to offer a safe and streamlined service to drivers.

Here, Solera Audatex considers the implications of the fast-changing landscape.

Benathlon and Big Breakfast on charity menu

Automotive charity Ben is inviting the automotive community to take part in two charity initiatives this autumn, the Benathlon in September and its Ben’s Big Breakfast in October.

CMA publishes provisional findings to Copart/Hills merger

The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has published responses to its provisional findings in the proposed acquisition of Hills Salvage and Recycling by Copart UK.

The CMA launched an investigation into the proposed deal after fearing it could result in a reduction in competition in the vehicle salvage and spare parts sectors.

Enterprise reveals repair winners

Enterprise hosted its 2023 Repair Partner Event on 15 June when insurers, repairers and suppliers from across the network converged to hear business updates, topical industry discussions and celebrate outstanding service in the last year.

The full list of winners is available here.

Mirka unveils one-step polishing solution

Mirka has introduced a new system to help customers achieve a glossy surface finish in just one step.

The Mirka PRO Finishing solution, aimed at manufacturers, combines Mirka’s know-how in power tools, abrasives and polishing compounds to deliver a consistent and reliable result.

Fix Auto Swansea to join the network

Fix Auto UK is enhancing its footprint in Wales with the news that Fix Auto Swansea West will join the network.

The site is managed by Matthew Davies and Paul Gravell, whose team of 12 now repairs up to 80 vehicles a month.

Chaplane achieves VM approval

Colchester-based Chaplane Accident Repair Centre has become an approved repairer for Toyota and Lexus.

Payne eases into skills shortage debate

Chris Payne, Head of Networks and Engineering, Home and Motor, at LV=, attended The Future of Automotive Skills, hosted by the Industry and Parliament Trust, to promote the industry and discuss the skills shortage currently impacting the sector.

RAC delivers repairs to customer’s door

The RAC is now offering mobile servicing and repairs to enable people to get their cars serviced on their driveways or at work.

RAC Mobile Mechanics now covers the 20 biggest towns and cities, with plans for even wider coverage before the end of the year.

EV sales surge 14% globally

New data has revealed that global plug-in vehicle registrations rose 70% year-on-year to 928,000 in April, making up 14% of the overall market.

Pure EVs accounted for 10% of sales.

EVs prominent in Auto Trader awards

Nine out of the 23 winners in the Auto Trader New Car Awards 2023 were EVs. The awards were voted for by more than 220,000 car buyers.

The Kia EV6 was named New Car of the Year, the Tesla Model Y won the Best Car for Families, while the Tesla Model 3 was named Best Car for Long Distances.

EV installations made easy

Breakdown services provider Green Flag has announced a new partnership with charge point installation platform Rightcharge to make it easier for customers to install EV charge points.

Drivers are able to choose the charge point most suited to their needs, and pay for their installation via Rightcharge.

Sleeping Battery to combat keyless thefts

Car Lock Systems has released a new solution to help fight keyless car thefts. Sleeping Battery works by putting the car key to sleep after three minutes of inactivity

Synetiq announces site updates to boost capacity

Synetiq has announced several site upgrades to help streamline operations for the combined IAA and Synetiq business and create cost savings for customers.

LKQ colleagues coast to charity target

Jodie Mullard and Lisa Goodley of LKQ Bodyshop Division are joining colleagues and senior leaders from across the business to raise funds for automotive charity Ben by walking 13 miles along the Jurassic coast on 5 January.

People

Senior Vice President Digitalisation, Automation and Innovation Management at BASF Dr Helmut Winterling will take over responsibility for the DivisionGroup Research from Dr Detlef Kratz.

Sophie Ward has been named Technical Claims Manager at Pen Underwriting UK.

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CMA publishes provisional findings to Copart/Hills merger

The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has published responses to its provisional findings in the proposed acquisition of Hills Salvage and Recycling by Copart UK.

The CMA launched an investigation into the proposed deal after fearing it could result in a reduction in competition in the vehicle salvage and spare parts sectors.

However, a response has now been published, stating: “The CMA’s conclusions disregard the clear and overwhelming evidence of customers. Not one Copart customer identified Hills Motors as an alternative salvager which could meet their requirements. Not one customer considered Copart and Hills Motors as close competitors. Not one customer expressed any concerns about this merger, and 12 of these 16 customers explicitly expressed positive views.”

The CMA has stated that its concern is future-based, suggesting that while the two may not be direct competitors now they could become so in the future if Hills continues to grow, which could have a negative impact on customers.

The response said, “Customer responses not only indicate a lack of concerns about the merger but also underline customer benefits. This merger was driven by customers. The vertical integration achieved by the merger will provide customers with significant benefits, particularly environmental ones.”

The statutory deadline is 20 July.

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Enterprise repair winners revealed

Enterprise hosted its 2023 Repair Partner Event on 15 June when insurers, repairers and suppliers from across the network converged to hear business updates, topical industry discussions and celebrate outstanding service in the last year.

Winners of the Repairer Awards were:

  • Best Fleet Repair Partner South East: Fix Auto Dagenham
  • Best ECRN Repair Partner South East: Rye Street
  • Best Fleet Repair Partner South West: Auto Art Devon
  • Best ECRN Repair Partner South West: Motofix Swindon
  • Best Fleet Repair Partner North West: KC Autos Northwich
  • Best ECRN Repair Partner North West: KC Autos
  • Best Fleet Repair Partner North East: Shane Graves
  • Best ECRN Repair Partner North East: Alton Cars
  • Best Fleet Repair Partner Scotland: QA Vehicle Solutions
  • Best ECRN Repair Partner Scotland: Arnold Clark
  • Outstanding Customer Service World Class NPS:
    • Alton Cars Mansfield
    • Steer Automotive Group Perry Bar
    • The Vella Group Preston
    • Steer Automotive Group Boston

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ARC360 News – Friday 2 June 2023

ARC360 event to deep dive into EV data

Derren Martin, Director of Valuations at cap hpi, is set to shed light on the evolving dynamics of the electric vehicle (EV) parc at the forthcoming ARC360 specialist EV event.

Taking place on 4 July at the manufacturing Technology Centre, Coventry – Derren’s data-driven session will explore how the UK vehicle parc is evolving, highlighting what this has meant for used EV values over the last, tumultuous few months and what this may lead to for vehicle valuations in the future.

GT Motive and Davies confirm new collaboration

GT Motive has announced a new partnership with Davies which will see the two organisations share insights, technology and expertise to develop a more streamlined claims and estimating service.

UK automotive industry in ‘recovery mode’

The latest car market overview produced by cap hpi has revealed an automotive industry in recovery mode.  

The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) found that sales in April were up 11.6% on the same month last year, while sales for the first four months of the year are 16.9% higher than in 2022. 

Demand for used cars also remains healthy, with retailers reporting a stronger than expected demand in the first three months of 2023.

Manufacturing moving in right direction

Car manufacturing increased for the third month in a row in April with the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders reporting a 9.9% increase to 66,527 units.

Meanwhile, commercial vehicle output is nine per cent up year-to-date after a 33% surge in April to 10,504.

Thatcham Research shines light on headlamp repairs

Thatcham Research has underlined the growing need to repair rather replace headlamps in its new Headlamp Repair Guide.

Based on in-depth analysis of vehicle headlamp specifications, complexities, technologies, and typical damage, the new guide consolidates repair options in one place, and identifies key components often suitable for repair.

BASF updates sustainability strategy

BASF is updating its sustainability assessment method TripleS (Sustainable Solution Steering) to accelerate and enhance its commitment to the climate. As part of this, it is now re-evaluating all its 45,000 products.

2030 target ‘too much, too early’

The National Franchised Dealers Association has warned that the government’s target toend the sale of new petrol and diesel cars and vans by 2030 is ‘too much, too early.’

It has called for a more ‘balanced’ incremental increase in electric cars and vans, and said continued government support for the switch to electrification is critical to buyer demand.

IMI predicts ticking ADAS time-bomb

A new report from the Institue of the Motor Industry estimates the ADAS skills gap in the UK to be between 3,000 and 9,000 technicians at the moment, and warns that this could rise to 51,000 by 2030.

Synetiq rallies behind Covea charity drive

Synetiq donated two vehicles to Covéa Insurance for its Benidorm or Bust charity rally in aid of the Forget Me Not Children’s Hospice. The company also made a donation to support the event.

AEG update

Solera Audatex has announced its latest AudaEnterpriseGold release, adding 127 new and updated model sheets to the vehicle database.

Labour times, part numbers and paint and material costs are available for all models.

Plunky’s All-Stars on target

Plunky’s All-Stars Charity football match took place at Peterborough United’s London Road Stadium this week, raising nearly £20,000 for The Norfolk Hospice.

Organiser Steve Plunkett, who scored a penalty with the last kick of the match, said, “The support has been incredible for this very special occasion in memory of Mike ‘Yorkie’ York.”

Donations are still welcome.

Laird Assessors joins Industry Insights

Industry Insights has announced that Laird Assessors has joined Connected Solutions as an Associate Engineering Partner.

Laird Assessors is one of the UK’s leading independent vehicle experts, providing accident damage reports and post-repair inspections as well as accident reconstruction, witness statement and criminal reports.

Massey celebrates IMI Fellowship

Michael Massey, Global Senior Application Engineer at 3M, has been made a Fellow by the Institute of the Motor Industry, recognising his commitment to safeguarding the future of the industry.

3M steps up to charity challenge

Team 3M is taking on the Three Peaks Challenge on 17 June, hoping to raise £3,064 – £1 for every metre climbed – for Mind UK and Bowel Cancer UK.

People

Simon McGinn will step down as CEO of Allianz Commercial on 1 July.

Ageas Group has appointed Wim Guilliams as new Chief Financial Officer.

Sharon Harte has become the first female President of the British Coatings Federation. She takes over from Guy Williams.

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Key names revealed for ARC360 EV event

ARC360 has revealed more key industry experts set to join discussions at its forthcoming EV specialist event.

The latest names revealed include:

  • Victoria Turner, CEO, Activate Accident Repair & CCO, Activate Group
  • Erika Woolacott, Managing Director, Fix Auto Mid Devon & Newton Abbot
  • Giovanni Adamo, Senior Engineer, Zego Insurance

The specialist event, sponsored by Thatcham Research and backed by ARC360 Corporate Partners and Partners, which takes place on 4 July 2023 at the Manufacturing Technology Centre, Coventry will bring together leading industry experts and key stakeholders from across the motor claims supply chain to debate the implications of an EV future.

Mark Hadaway, co-founder of ARC360 and Managing Director of ILC, said, “ARC360 is known for its high-level insights and forward-thinking discussions. The level and range of expertise joining discussions at this specialist EV event makes it a ‘must attend’ event for anyone involved in the sector.”

FNOL, repair capabilities, cost inflation, skillset requirements, health & safety, repairability, vehicle availability and end-of-life vehicle management will be just some of the other key topics to come under the spotlight during the day.

To reserve a ticket visit or to find out more about the opportunities available to get involved in the event and place your brand at the heart of the industry’s evolution, contact jonathan@iloveclaims.com or mark@iloveclaims.com

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ARC360 News – Friday 19 May 2023

Known-unknowns of EVs set to test sector

ARC360’s specialist electric vehicle (EV) event is set to discuss the known-unknowns for the vehicle incident repair sector as the vehicle parc transitions to an electric future.

FNOL, repair capabilities, cost inflation, skillset requirements, health & safety, repairability and end-of-life vehicle management will be just some of the key topics to come under the spotlight on Tuesday 4 July at the Manufacturing Technology Centre (MTC) in Coventry.

ILC joins Vella celebrations

ILC’s John Hutchinson recently joined other industry luminaries including AkzoNobel to help The Vella Group Repair Centres celebrate becoming an LV= General Insurance Sole Site and the first ElectriX approved bodyshop in the network.

Gemini claims coveted award

Gemini Accident Repair Centres has been named Auto Repair Company of the Year in the Central England Prestige Awards.

Solera enhances analytics solutions

Solera has unveiled a new feature to help companies control their data and pick out the insights relevant to them. As part of the Solera Analytics platform, the solution will enable managers to create custom reports and delivery schedules.

Copart Cares with continued commitment

Copart is marking Learning at Work Week by highlighting its training and development initiatives.

This includes company-wide Carbon Literacy Training, a Leadership Programme that has now been rolled out to 170 managers, a Driver Academy and the nearly £500,000 invested into apprenticeship schemes.  

Shine! Sparkles with audit success

Shine! UK has successfully passed a BS10125 audit. Shine! is a national network of mobile cosmetic vehicle repair technicians.

Shoreham Vehicle Auctions celebrates EVA status

Shoreham Vehicle Auctions has become the first company in the sector to secure Electric Vehicle Approved (EVA) status.

Developed by the National Franchised Dealers Association and the Energy Saving Trust and endorsed by the Office for Zero Emissions, the initiative recognises a commitment to sustainability and environmentally-friendly operations.

Thatcham Research showcases safety

Thatcham Research hosted senior leaders from Allianz and LV= recently to showcase the value of its research into safe, secure and sustainable mobility.  

All the fours

Four colleagues from S&G Response are embarking on a four-day bike ride across four counties in an effort to raise upwards of £10,000 for the East Cheshire Hospice.

Jonathon, Sean, Tom, and Nick will take on the 444km challenge from Calais in France to Cologne in Germany from 1-4 July.

Synetiq service tackles slow repair times

Vehicle recycling company Synetiq has unveiled a new supply and fit service to support insurance customers facing a sharp rise in catalytic convertor theft claims.

The service aims to overcome the supply chain delays that have increased repair and claim times.

Harvey earns UK call-up

Steer Automotive Group’s Miguel Harvey will represent Team UK at EuroSkills, which takes place in Gdansk, Poland from 5-9 September.

He is part of a 20-strong team taking part in the prestigious skills event and will compete in the car painting category.

HGVs deliver the goods

UK registrations of HGV vehicles are just 2.9% below pre-pandemic levels after sales grew 17.1% in the first quarter of 2023. According to the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), this is the fourth consecutive quarter of growth.

Meanwhile, the UK’s new bus and coach market fell by 0.6% in the first quarter of 2023.

Right-hand drivers left out

Tesla has announced it will suspend the production of right-hand drive Model S and Model X vehicles for the foreseeable future.

Used EV values plummet

The average price of a used electric vehicle has fallen £4,000 since January and £9,000 since last July, according to new figures from Auto Trader. However, the overall used car market reported a 3.6% year-on-year increase in May, with average prices now £17,946.

Rare Rover to be auctioned by Ben

Automotive charity Ben will auction a unique 1993 Rover 216 Honda cabriolet at Automechanika Birmingham on 7 June.

Just one of 207 in existence, the car was restored by Louise Baker, Company Director of Womanic, and Rachel Murray and travelled over 1,500 miles as part of renowned car rally challenge, Bangers4Ben.

Meanwhile, Ben has responded to the rise in mental health issues by compiling a check-list of warning signs that employers can look out for.

People

Mark Pearce has been named MET Team Leader at Thatcham Research.

Thatcham Research has announced that Matthew Avery will leave Thatcham Research after 35 years. He is joining Euro NCAP, For Safer Cars.

BASF will launch new Automotive OEM Coatings Solutions and Automotive Refinish Coatings Solutions businesses in August, led by Patrick Zheng Yu Zhao and Chris Titmarsh respectively.

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