Technology Archives - Page 17 of 80

ARC360 News Update – Friday 22 March 2024

22 March 2024

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

Stellantis becomes first ARC360 Vehicle Manufacturer Partner

Stellantis – a constellation of 14 iconic automotive brands and two mobility arms – has become the first ARC360 Vehicle Manufacturer Partner.

As a result, Stellantis will be working closely with ARC360 across all its activities helping to shape content, sharing insights and supporting events. It also means Stellantis branding will appear as a Vehicle Manufacturer Partner on all ARC360 marketing activities alongside its Corporate and Insurer Partners.

ARC360 conference ‘gaining ground together’

ARC360’s ‘future technology’ themed conference is gaining ground as a growing number of sector stakeholders confirm their presence at the event.

Taking place on Thursday 27 June 2024 at the Manufacturing Technology Centre (MTC) in Coventry, the event will follow up on last year’s highly acclaimed specialist electric vehicle (EV) event to further explore just how technology is shaping the future of the industry.

Saga and Steer join New Generation agenda

Andy Cain, Head of Claims – Customer Operations at Saga plc and Nicky Sutherland, Director of People & Culture at Steer Automotive Group are the latest key names set to join ILC’s New Generation in Claim Conference.

Sponsored by Carpenters Group and Enterprise, and supported by recently announced Ambassadors: Activate Group; Gemini Accident Repair Centres; Kennedys Law; and S&G Response, the New Generation in Claims Conference 2024 takes place on 25 April at etc venues Manchester.

Bodyshop Briefs

Fix Auto Lichfield owner Andy Johnson completed the formidable 3,000km Panda Raid driving challenge across the Moroccan desert and raised an impressive £12,000 for a Birmingham Children’s Hospital charity in the process. For anyone wishing to support Andy and Sam’s exploits, please visit the Carter The Brave Just Giving Page; https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/carterthebrave

Mustoe’s Specialist Vehicle Body Repairs has once again achieved PAS 2060 status.

Foray Motor Group has transitioned to the new BS10125:2022 standard.

M&A Coachworks has rejoined the network of Lotus Approved Bodyshops after a five-year absence.

Direct Line Group’s flagship Technology Centre in Birmingham hosted Chief Executive Adam Winslow recently, when he witnessed first-hand the cutting-edge innovations taking place.

The overall winners in the Steer Apprentice Skills competition have been announced, with Nathan Hoe from Steer Sleaford and David Lindert from Steer Romford taking top honours in Automotive Body Repair and Automotive Refinishing respectively.

Industry News

Repair volumes tell a complex tale

While there has been a fall in repair volumes during February, the evidence on the ground can be slightly different according to where in the UK you are and what sort of work you do.

According to data by Trend Tracker, volumes fell significantly from January to February, but January saw a marked increase on December and, taken together, volumes over the first two months of this year were actually four per cent higher than the same period in 2023.

Government decision will ‘exacerbate’ skill crisis

New immigration requirements that come into force on 4 April, raising the salary threshold for skilled workers coming to the UK from £26,200 to £38,700, could exacerbate an already extreme skills crisis in the industry, according to the National Body Repair Association (NBRA).

The NBRA is ‘deeply concerned’ that these requirements will exclude a raft of new talent that could otherwise have boosted the UK automotive workforce.

BASF boss shares battery recycling insights

Director of Business Management Battery Recycling at BASF Julian Proelss has discussed battery innovation and explained how BASF is ‘closing the supply chain loop’ in the latest episode of S&P Global’s Energy Evolution podcast.

PartsXchange partners with LKQ Academy

PartsXchange has announced a new training partnership with LKQ Academy. The partnership continues PartsXchange’s journey to becoming a one-stop hub for its users.

Symach launches EV refinishing solution

Symach has unveiled a new refinishing solution tailored to electric vehicles.

Its Cutting-Edge DryTronic Infrared Technology offers a safer, more energy-efficient alternative to conventional drying methods, directly curing vehicle coatings without generating excessive heat.

H&S revealed as number one risk

A new report by WTW and Clyde & Co has revealed that health and safety is the number one risk concern for directors.

It was cited as the prime worry for 84% of respondents, followed by cyber-attack (79%).

Autoglym joins eBay

eBay has announced that UK car cleaning product manufacturers Autoglym has launched a dedicated store on its platform.

Ball tickets now available

Automotive charity Ben has announced that tickets are now available for its annual industry celebration, the Ben Ball.

Taking place at Old Billingsgate Market on 11 December and supported by Auto Trader, the theme for this year’s event is the roaring 20s.

Autotech skills survey reveals substantial challenges

Autotech Recruit’s annual Automotive Recruitment Trends Survey, carried out between December and January, has revealed that 52% of respondents said a lack of skills was impacting their ability to meet demand and 56% said it reduced their ability to maximise profitability.

Vehicle technician was cited as the most difficult job role to fill by 70% of respondents.

Leon roars into first place

New data from Auto Trader has revealed that the SEAT Leon is the fastest-selling used car in the UK, taking an average of 10 days to leave retailers’ forecourts. That is more than twice as quick as the overall average of 26 days.

The Vauxhall Crossland and Vauxhall Grandland X were ranked second and third.

Vizion introduces BYD EVs

Vizion Drive is now delivering the first BYD electric vehicles to the sector.

Featuring the latest innovations, the BYD Dolphin is available on a monthly rental basis as both a management and a courtesy vehicle.

BMW 5 Series tops infotainment charts

What Car? has ranked the top 20 car infotainment systems on the market, with the BMW 5 Series coming out on top with an overall score of 87%. Touchscreen and voice control features were tested on a range of models to determine the outcome.

VM News

Vauxhall boss calls for EV funding support

The Managing Director of Vauxhall James Taylor has written to Prime Minister Rishi Sunak calling for more financial support for private EV buyers.

In a letter published in The Sun, he calls for VAT on public charging to be reduced from 20% to five per cent ‘so people who can’t charge at home pay the same tax as those who have a driveway.’

JLR launches EV recruitment drive

JLR is recruiting 250 electrification engineers for its Gaydon and Whitley sites. This includes more than 40 battery experts to work in advanced energy storage systems, battery cell design, and cell stack assemblies.

Stellantis backs LiDAR startup

Stellantis Ventures is investing in SteerLight, which develops new generation high-performance LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) sensing technology.

Its technology senses the surrounding environment in three dimensions with higher resolution and precision, and at a lower volume production cost.

Fisker receives financing boost

Fisker has received nearly £119m additional funding from an existing investor.

Meanwhile, negotiations continue with a vehicle manufacturer to develop one or more electric platforms. The deal would also include investment.

Škoda reveals sustainability successes

Škoda has published its Sustainability Report alongside its Annual Report for the first time.

The report revealed its carbon footprint per car had reduced from 41.2 tonnes of CO2 emissions in 2018 to 38 tonnes this year. It plans to reduce that further to 24.7 tonnes by 2030.

Volkswagen Group enhances Mobileye collaboration

Volkswagen has expanded its autonomous vehicle technology development collaboration with Mobileye.

The two companies will work together to develop new self-driving functions such as automated overtaking on multi-lane highways and automated navigation around roundabouts.

People

Nick Spiers has been appointed Network’s Global VP of Strategic Operations

Tomas Dawe has been appointed Junior Software Developer at Charles Trent.

Gavin White has taken an Automotive Ambassador role with Activate Business Finance.

FMG Repair Services has appointed Howard Jordan as ATA VDA Vehicle Damage Assessor.

Kevern Thompson has been appointed Chief Executive Officer at WhoCanFixMyCar.

Craig Salter, who is part of The Institute of Automotive Engineer Assessors, has joined Freedom Assessors.

More Insights

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

16-04-2025

Repair sector urged to act now to secure apprenticeship talents

14-04-2025

ARC360 News – Friday 11 April 2025

11-04-2025

Corporate Partners

Partners

Associate Partners

ARC360 conference ‘gaining ground together’

22 March 2024

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

ARC360’s ‘future technology’ themed conference is gaining ground as a growing number of sector stakeholders confirm their presence at the event.

Taking place on Thursday 27 June 2024 at the Manufacturing Technology Centre (MTC) in Coventry the event is supported by Corporate Partners: BASF, CAPS, Copart, Entegral, Enterprise, Mirka, Nationwide Vehicle Assistance, S&G Response, Solera Audatex; along with Partners: Gemini ARC, Repairify, Prasco; and Sponsors Activate Group and Thatcham Research.

A host of key insurance influencers from Allianz, Arch Insurance, Aviva Insurance, Direct Line Group, esure, First Central Services UK Ltd, Hastings Direct, Haven Claims, LV= General Insurance, Markerstudy Insurance Services Ltd, NOVO Incident Management, NFU Mutual and QBE are already confirmed to attend the event which follows up on last year’s highly acclaimed specialist electric vehicle (EV) event to further explore just how technology is shaping the future of the industry.

Underpinning the entire event will be a keen focus on what is arguably the most critical factor across the entire industry right now – people and skillsets. Throughout the day, discussions will link back to how the industry – as a combined entity – can help make the automotive incident repair sector a career destination of choice.

Already confirmed to join discussions on the day are:

Andrew Jobling, Supply Chain Lead, UKGI Supply Chain, Aviva
Ulrike Lucas, Head of Procurement & Supply – Allianz Claims, Allianz Insurance plc
Dawn Marsden, Head of Claims Supplier Management and Engineering Services, esure

Further key event announcements are pending in the coming weeks, set to provide even more insight and truly bring the event and advancing vehicle technologies to life.

Tickets for the event are on sale now – click here to book

A limited number of special repairer guest passes are available, to join the waiting list please email mark@iloveclaims.com.

To find out more about the opportunities available to get involved in the event – exhibition or sponsorship, or how to become an ARC360 Partner contact mark@iloveclaims.com or liane@iloveclaims.com.

For a full overview of last year’s event, click here.

More Insights

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

16-04-2025

Repair sector urged to act now to secure apprenticeship talents

14-04-2025

ARC360 News – Friday 11 April 2025

11-04-2025

Corporate Partners

Partners

Associate Partners

ARC360 News Update – Friday 15 March 2024

15 March 2024

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

First names revealed for ARC360 future tech agenda

Three key persons of influence from the insurance sector are the first speaker names revealed for ARC360’s ‘future technology’ themed conference in June.

Taking place on Thursday 27 June 2024 at the Manufacturing Technology Centre (MTC) in Coventry – sponsored by Activate Group and Thatcham Research – the event will canvass insights from across the sector and beyond in a bid to explore how the motor claims incident repair sector is transitioning towards a high-tech future.

Bodyshop Briefs

Fix Auto Tewkesbury owner Kevin Dunlop is on his way to becoming a multi-site operator after receiving the keys to a new 55,000sqft facility that will operate as Fix Auto Hereford. A former packaging distribution centre, the site is now being transformed into a fully-equipped 11-bay bodyshop repairing upwards of 40 cars a month.

FMG Repair Services will open its 66^th site in Chadderton, Greater Manchester, in the coming months. FMG has also announced that it has extended it incident management contract with estate agents Connells.

Fix Auto Mid Devon & Newton Abbott’s Alena Woolacott was presented with her Inspiring Automotive Woman award at the IMI annual awards dinner.

Kudos Bodyworks has unveiled its second site, based in Biggin Hill, Bromley.

KC Auto’s Atherton site has passed its latest BS10125:2022 audit.

Shildon-based Alan Reed ARC has announced that its technicians have completed EV training with partner Tesla. The site has also invested in dedicated structural aluminium repair bays.

JCT600 Accident Repair Centre Bradford and Sheffield has attained Lotus approval

Stanways Autobodies has unveiled its new, purpose-built site, designed to enhance efficiency and reduce waste in our repair process.

Glasgow-based Agmors Coachworks has expanded into a new site in the city.

Turners Accident Repair, which operates five sites across Yorkshire, has announced that Stuart Turner has been appointed Chairman and Tom Turner promoted to Managing Director. Meanwhile, Graham Pickering has been named Director of Operations and Dawn Swales is promoted to Director of HR.

Chartwell has once again been awarded its Official McLaren Approved Bodyshop Certificate.

Industry News

New data reveals growing appetite for sustainable solutions

Solera has announced the results of a new study surveying over 8,000 drivers across Europe which reveals the industry isn’t matching customers’ appetite for green vehicle repair options.

Less than a quarter (23%) of European drivers have heard from their auto insurer about sustainable policy options and when their vehicle was repaired, less than a third (32%) were offered the choice between new or used parts. This is despite over half of drivers (53%) saying they are genuinely concerned about the environmental impact of vehicle repairs and maintenance.

Trend Tracker publishes Monthly metrics

Trend Tracker’s latest monthly report on the status of the UK vehicle incident repair market has revealed that repair costs rose six per cent between February 2023 and 2024.

Its latest Monthly Key Metrics report also found that key-to-key times were 30% down over the same 12-month period, while cycle and lead times were down 14% and two per cent respectively.

Meanwhile, volumes were up by four per cent.

Automotive skills shortage as severe as ever

The automotive industry skills shortage shows no signs of abating, according to a new report published by the Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI).

Its UK Automotive Vacancy Overview report has found that there are 4.3 vacancies for every 100 employees in the sector, with 23,000 automotive jobs currently unfilled.

Copart expands with Gloucester site

Copart UK is expanding storage capacity in the south west of England with a new 30-acre site in Gloucester.

It has acquired a former Cazoo site which will provide storage for an additional 30,000 vehicles per annum.

Prasco highlights the benefits of replacement parts

Prasco has emphasised the benefits of choosing high-quality aftermarket crash repair parts in a new blog.

It highlights cost, durability and the range of options as the main advantages of using replacement parts in repair.

NWVA on Spanish steps

Nationwide Assistance Group has announced that it hopes to open its new Spanish office in the next few months.

Insurance hikes explained

Activate Group has sought to explain the 34% increase in motor insurance.

It attributes these hikes to higher operational costs for repairers, a shortage of repair capacity, challenges around parts supply, the cost of courtesy cars, and the impact of new technology such as EVs and ADAS.

Top tips to manage stress

Automotive charity Ben has released advice on how colleagues in the industry can deal with increasing stresses.

It has compiled a list of coping strategies that its own Life Coaches use to improve their wellbeing and cope with pressure.

Outsorc celebrates global successes

Outsorc has announced that in the last 12 months its network management platform MONITRR completed more than 200,000 assessments and audits across nearly 50 manufacturer programmes, with an average session time of just over two minutes.

Silverlake secures EV dismantling skills

Silverlake Automotive Recycling colleagues have completed an IMI-accredited dismantling training course with ELEVATE.

The NA International EV dismantling course equipped two Silverlake colleagues with the skills to make high voltage vehicles safe and then remove high voltage components and batteries.

Axalta Refinish secures LV= and Allianz agreement

Axalta Refinish has been named a preferred supplier to both the LV= and Allianz networks after signing five-year partnerships.

It will deliver refinish technology to both through its premium refinish brands Cromax, Spies Hecker, Standox as well as Axalta’s brand U-POL.

Time ticking down on in-vehicle touchscreens

New regulations limiting the reliance on touchscreens in vehicles will be introduced from January 2026 after research has found that they reduce road safety.

Meanwhile, Euro NCAP will change its testing rules to penalise vehicle manufacturers who do not provide physical switchgear for operations including indicators, hazard lights, the horn, and windscreen wipers.

SMMT urges AV Bill support

The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders has called on parliament to quickly pass the Automated Vehicles (AV) Bill to enable the UK to capitalise on the benefits of autonomous driving.

It says self-driving technology could add £38bn to the UK economy by 2040 while preventing 3,200 road deaths and 53,000 serious accidents.

Thatcham Research named IMI Partner of the Year

Thatcham Research has been named Partner of the Year by the Institute of the Motor Industry.

It was presented with the award at the IMI’s annual dinner in recognition of their 30-year partnership, during which time Thatcham Research became the first training provider to develop MET and VDA EPA standards with the IMI.

Key partnerships for PartXchange

PartsXchange has accelerated its ambition to become a one-stop hub for the collision repair industry by signing two new partnerships.

AllThingsCX has been named its new communications partner, while customers will now be able to connect remotely to a network of technicians following a new agreement with Complete Diagnostics.

MIB announces uninsured driver crackdown

The MIB has announced a new initiative launched in conjunction with West Midlands Police targeting uninsured drivers.

Operation Scalis allows officers to focus solely on uninsured driving for a period of 22 days. Almost 70 vehicles were seized in the first six days of the operation, with 16 more days planned in the coming months.

Ghost broking conviction

A 26-year-old man has been sentenced after selling over a dozen fake car insurance policies to drivers.

Following an investigation led by City of London Police’s Insurance Fraud Enforcement Department (IFED), supported by the Insurance Fraud Bureaa, Aviva, esure, Markerstudy, Mulsanne, and Sabre, Mohsin Yousaf was sentenced to 20 months’ imprisonment, suspended for 18 months.

VM News

Ford unveils third Dunton laboratory

Ford has opened its new Propulsion Development Laboratory at the Dunton Campus following a £24m investment.

The third new lab opened on site in two years, it will develop and test EV powertrains.

Breathe gives life to faster Volvo charging

Volvo has announced a new partnership with Breathe Battery Technologies to access its latest charging software, which it claims can take a battery from 10% to 80% in 30% less time.

People

Copart has announced that Jay Adair will step down as Co-CEO and take up the role of Executive Chairman. Jeff Liaw has been appointed at sole CEO.

3M has appointed William Brown as Chief Executive Officer. He succeeds Michael Roman, who has been named Executive Chairman.

James Toms has been named Sales Director South at Morelli Group.

Halo ARC has appointed Trenton Dambrowitz as Chief Technology Officer.

Alex Omeltschenko has joined Exclusive Vehicle Assessors.

More Insights

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

16-04-2025

Repair sector urged to act now to secure apprenticeship talents

14-04-2025

ARC360 News – Friday 11 April 2025

11-04-2025

Corporate Partners

Partners

Associate Partners

First names revealed for ARC360 future tech agenda

15 March 2024

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

Three key persons of influence from the insurance sector are the first speaker names revealed for ARC360’s ‘future technology’ themed conference in June.

Taking place on Thursday 27 June 2024 at the Manufacturing Technology Centre (MTC) in Coventry – sponsored by Activate Group and Thatcham Research, and supported by Corporate Partners: BASF, CAPS, Copart, Entegral, Enterprise, Mirka, Nationwide Vehicle Assistance, S&G Response, Solera Audatex; along with Partners: Gemini ARC, Repairify, Prasco; and Associate Partners: Thatcham Research and Trend Tracker – the event will canvass insights from across the sector and beyond in a bid to explore how the motor claims incident repair sector is transitioning towards a high-tech future.

Confirmed to join discussions on the day are:

Andrew Jobling, Supply Chain Lead, UKGI Supply Chain, Aviva
Ulrike Lucas, Head of Procurement & Supply – Allianz Claims, Allianz Insurance plc
Dawn Marsden, Head of Claims Supplier Management and Engineering Services, esure

Following up on last year’s highly acclaimed specialist electric vehicle (EV) event, ARC360 will further explore just how technology is shaping the future of the industry. A host of other key influencers from Allianz, Aviva Insurance, Direct Line Group, esure, First Central Services UK Ltd, Hastings Direct, Haven Claims, LV= General Insurance, Markerstudy Insurance Services Ltd, and NOVO Incident Management are already confirmed to attend.

Mark Hadaway, Co-Founder of ARC360 and Content Director of ILC, said, “We are delighted to have Andrew, Ulrike and Dawn set to join us for discussions during the day – sharing vast expertise and insight on how vehicle technology is shaping the future of motor claims, supply chain interactions and customer experience.”

Further key event announcements are pending in the coming weeks, set to provide even more insight and truly bring the event and advancing vehicle technologies to life.

Tickets for the event are on sale now – click here to book.

A limited number of special repairer guest passes are available, to join the waiting list please email mark@iloveclaims.com.

For a full overview of last year’s event, click here.

More Insights

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

16-04-2025

Repair sector urged to act now to secure apprenticeship talents

14-04-2025

ARC360 News – Friday 11 April 2025

11-04-2025

Corporate Partners

Partners

Associate Partners

Automotive skills shortage as severe as ever

14 March 2024

Bodyshop, Environment, Mobility, People, Technology, Training, Vehicle Repair and Words

The automotive industry skills shortage shows no signs of abating, according to a new report published by the Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI).

Its UK Automotive Vacancy Overview report has found that there are 4.3 vacancies for every 100 employees in the sector, with 23,000 automotive jobs currently unfilled.

New tech such as electric vehicles and ADAS has contributed to the shortage of key skills, with 52% of job postings in January for vehicle technicians, mechanics, and electricians.

Steve Nash, CEO, said: “The gap between vacancies in automotive and all other UK sectors highlights the multitude of unique and ongoing challenges we face. With our sector currently facing around 23,000 vacancies, it’s critical that everything is done to encourage more job seekers to consider a role in automotive.

“The IMI’s ‘There’s More to Motor’ campaign is already spreading the word about the wide range of opportunities for school leavers, apprentices and career changers. Since launching last summer, we have already reached millions of individuals, many of whom have never held an automotive role. However, the reality is that, even with such a high level of success, it takes time for that to translate into reducing the vacancy rate.”

More Insights

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

16-04-2025

Repair sector urged to act now to secure apprenticeship talents

14-04-2025

ARC360 News – Friday 11 April 2025

11-04-2025

Corporate Partners

Partners

Associate Partners

Trend Tracker publishes Monthly Key Metrics

14 March 2024

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

Trend Tracker’s latest monthly report on the status of the UK vehicle incident repair market has revealed that repair costs rose six per cent between February 2023 and 2024.

Its latest Monthly Key Metrics report also found that key-to-key times were 30% down over the same 12-month period, while cycle and lead times were down 14% and two per cent respectively.

Meanwhile, volumes were up by four per cent.

Director Paul Sell said, “Repair costs continue to climb higher than the current rate of annual inflation but have slowed from the double figure increases seen in 2023 to six per cent year-on-year now. This has been consistent across the last three months suggesting this is starting to find a new level.

“Cycle time and critically lead times have started to fall, with key-to-key much lower than this time last year suggesting the ‘new normal’ method of collecting images and information prior to bringing the vehicle in, to pre-order parts to ensure everything is in place, to reduce key-to-key has become the new normal practise, delivering greater efficiency in the workshop.

Finally repair volumes fell in February compared to January, predictably, but remain four per cent higher than equivalent month in 2023, this has been consistent in 2024 so far.

For further details on these metrics, as well as economic factors, vehicle values & sales, salvage values and green parts penetration click here.

ARC360-Trendtracker-March24

More Insights

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

16-04-2025

Repair sector urged to act now to secure apprenticeship talents

14-04-2025

ARC360 News – Friday 11 April 2025

11-04-2025

Corporate Partners

Partners

Associate Partners

Momentum building for ARC360 future tech event

8 March 2024

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

ARC360’s ‘future tech’ themed conference taking place on Thursday 27 June 2024 has already gained the interest of a number of key motor insurers.

Following up on last year’s highly acclaimed specialist electric vehicle (EV) event, ARC360 will further explore just how technology is shaping the future of the industry with key persons of influence from: Allianz, Aviva Insurance, Direct Line Group, esure, First Central Services UK Ltd, Hastings Direct, Haven Claims, LV= General Insurance, Markerstudy Insurance Services Ltd, and NOVO Incident Management already confirmed to attend.

The event, which takes place at the Manufacturing Technology Centre (MTC) in Coventry, will canvass insights from across the sector and beyond in a bid to explore how the motor claims incident repair sector is transitioning towards a high-tech future.

Underpinning the entire occasion will be a keen focus on what is arguably the most critical factor across the entire industry right now – people and skillsets. Throughout the day, discussions will link back to how the industry – as a combined entity – can help make the automotive incident repair sector a career destination of choice.

Mark Hadaway, Co-Founder of ARC360 and Content Director of ILC, said, “Technology is changing the world around us and the vehicle parc is a primary example of this global transition. The entire automotive supply chain is implicated in this evolution and the insurance claims sector, associated supply chains and, specifically for ARC360, the incident repair community play a vital role in determining a bright future.”

Some key event announcements are pending in the coming weeks, set to provide even more insight and truly bring the event and advancing vehicle technologies to life.

Tickets for the event are on sale now – click here to book

A limited number of special repairer guest passes are available, to join the waiting list please email: mark@iloveclaims.com.

To find out more about the opportunities available to get involved in the event – exhibition or sponsorship – or how to become an ARC360 Partner contact mark@iloveclaims.com or liane@iloveclaims.com.

ARC360 is supported by Corporate Partners: BASF, CAPS, Copart, Entegral, Enterprise, Mirka, Nationwide Vehicle Assistance, S&G Response, Solera Audatex; along with Partners: Gemini ARC, Repairify, Prasco; and Associate Partners: Thatcham Research and Trend Tracker.

More Insights

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

16-04-2025

Repair sector urged to act now to secure apprenticeship talents

14-04-2025

ARC360 News – Friday 11 April 2025

11-04-2025

Corporate Partners

Partners

Associate Partners

ARC360 News Update – Friday 8 March 2024

8 March 2024

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

Momentum building for ARC360 future tech event

ARC360’s ‘future tech’ themed conference taking place on Thursday 27 June 2024 has already gained the interest of a number of key motor insurers.

Bodyshop Briefs

Gemini Accident Repair Centres has marked seven years since the launch of their apprenticeship programme by celebrating the progress of two of their first apprentices to progress to Multi-Skilled Technicians.

Chartwell has again been awarded its Official McLaren Approved Bodyshop Certificate.

KC Autos has achieved the new BS10125:2022 vehicle repair standard across all its sites in the north west.

Express Bodyshops has opened its fourth site in Nuneaton.

Novo Automotive’s Witham site has chevied BSI Kitemark status within four weeks of opening.

Activate Accident Repair has announced its new 18,000sqft site in Hampton, Greater London will open for business this month, offering EV, hybrid and LCV repairs.

Fix Auto Oswestry has completed a new 62KW solar panel installation which will deliver up to £21,000 in annual savings while significantly reducing emissions.

Evolution Repair Group has acquired its third site, C&M Bodyshop in Coventry.

D and M Coachworks has continued to invest in training and development of colleagues by attending Cornerstone Technologies’ Push to Paint Training Programme.

Milton Keynes-based Vehicle Crash Repairs is expanding into a new 30,000sqft facility. The new site features state-of-the-art green technology and equipment to support sustainable operations.

Avant Recruit and Rowley Spray Booths have joined the NBRA as supply partners.

Industry News

Gemini unveils new Barnstaple site

Gemini Accident Repair Centres has cut the ribbon on its 35^th site.

Based in Barnstaple, the new 7,700sqft cutting-edge facility, which includes state-of-the-art electric spraybooths and EV charging facilities, will handle upwards of 1,000 repairs a year and significantly increase Gemini capacity in the region.

Steer acquires six IRG sites

Steer Automotive Group has expanded its operational footprint with the acquisition of six IRG sites. Established in 1999, IRG has built a reputation as a leading independent network of automotive repair centres.

The acquired sites are located in Whitland, Swansea, Pontypridd, Bristol, Birmingham, and Wolverhampton.

Thatcham Research announces LexisNexis partnership

Thatcham Research has announced a strategic relationship with LexisNexis Risk Solutions.

The new partnership will transform the accessibility, consistency and analytical power of Thatcham Vehicle Risk Data (VRD), which assigns ABI Codes and Group Ratings to vehicles to help insurers assess and rate risk.

Vella Group partners AkzoNobel in sustainability drive

The Vella Group has become the first UK business to be named an official partner of AkzoNobel’s Sustainable Repair Network.

It has achieved level 1 of the three-level certification process, which demonstrates its commitment to reducing its carbon footprint.

Car and LCV sales soar in February

Both the new car and new LCV markets enjoyed record months in February, according to new figures from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders.

It reported that new car registrations rose 14% to 84,886 units, completing 19 months of growth and making it the best February performance for 20 years.

Meanwhile, LCV sales increased 2.2% last month to 17,934 units, the highest number recorded since February 1998.

Cazoo announces major business model shift

Online car buying and selling platform Cazoo has announced it is transitioning to a marketplace business model.

To achieve this transition, Cazoo is now unwinding its inventory through retail and wholesale channels, and will also make operational chances that will include reducing headcount and developing its ecommerce platform, proprietary data, and digital functions.

Cool response to Spring Budget

Jeremy Hunt’s Spring Budget has left the automotive sector underwhelmed with industry bodies labelling it a ‘missed opportunity’.

Despite falling sales in electric vehicles the government has not introduced any incentives to encourage car buyers to go green, while the yawning skills gap has not been addressed either with no changes made to what many consider a failing Apprenticeship Levy.

The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Trader, the Institute of the Motor Industry, and the National Franchised Dealers Association have all said the Budget didn’t deliver what the automotive industry needs.

Ageas celebrates sustainability success

Ageas has collected the prestigious Circular Economy Innovation Award at the Edie Sustainability Awards. It won the award for its Green Parts Initiative working in partnership with The Green Parts Specialists.

Allianz enhances breakdown support services

Allianz Partners has expanded the roadside and breakdown products it offers to mobility providers, fleet owners, banks and insurers.

Its new range is based on three levels of cover: breakdown; accident; and breakdown and accident.

Bridge to develop new skills directory

Bridge Automotive Academy is developing an online directory for bodyshops to show their investments in training and colleague qualifications.

The directory will also enable insurers and work providers to identify those repairers with the skills to carry out repairs safely and correctly.

BASF unveils women’s initiative

BASF is marking International Women’s Day by bringing together 170 women from six leading companies to promote women in leadership roles.

The Connect.Share.Inspire initiative also involves Schneider Electric, Bosch, Bilfinger, Henkel and Bouygues.

Speed critical in salvage sector

S&G Response has highlighted the need for speed when it comes to total loss and salvage. It says accurate decision-making based on good data is critical to a successful salvage strategy.

£360 million to boost British manufacturing and R&D

The UK government is investing a further £360m in UK manufacturing and R&D. Of that, £73m is dedicated to zero-carbon automotive technology.

Aon adds ai capabilities

Global professional services company Aon has acquired Humn.ai’s technology to enhance its commercial fleet services. The acquisition will deliver Aon’s customers with a real-time view into commercial fleet performance to support decision-making and risk reduction.

Vizion named among European elite

Vizion Network has been named as one of Europe’s fastest growing companies by the Financial Times. It was ranked 417 in the FT 1000 Europe’s Fastest Growing Companies list.

ADAS Solutions expands in Gateshead

ADAS Solutions has opened a new workshop in Gateshead. The new site includes cutting-edge technology and skilled technicians to handle all ADAS and EV jobs.

The move is part of wider strategy of expansion.

VM News

Chinese influence in evidence at Geneva Motor Show

The 2024 Geneva Motor Show underlined the growing influence of Chinese vehicle manufacturers on the market.

The last time the show was held, in 2019, 35 VMs unveiled over 130 production models. However, this year saw SAIC and BYD, along with Renault Group, the only manufacturers to reveal to car concepts.

JLR announces new renewable energy drive

JLR has announced a range of new off-grid renewable energy projects, including the installation of a variety of solar panels.

The initiative is part of the company’s target to increase self-generated energy to 36.4% of its global consumption by 2030.

Nissan GB makes gender pledge

Nissan GB has joined the Automotive 30% Club, a network of automotive leaders dedicated to ensuring that at least 30% of key leadership positions are held by women by 2030.

TMC Strengthens Battery Production Capabilities

Toyota has announced it is making Primearth EV Energy a wholly owned subsidiary to enhance its EV battery production capabilities.

Primearth manufacturers hybrid electric vehicle batteries and plans to also develop batteries for pure electric vehicles and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles.

Polestar and Tesla quit automotive body

Polestar has followed Tesla in withdrawing its membership of Australia’s main automotive group, the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries. It is quitting the group in protest of an FCAI campaign which it believes could deter car buyers from switching to EVs.

The FCAI is campaigning against a new vehicle emissions standard which it says will raise prices.

People

Harry Abraham is leaving Halo after 10 years to take up a new role as Group Operations Director at Steer Automotive Group. The Group has also appointed Rickelle Woodbridge as Site Operations Manager at Steer Pontypridd.

Richard Spencer has been named business Development Lead at Allianz Partners UK and Ireland.

Nick Spiers has been appointed Global Vice President Strategic Operations at Fix Network World.

Flyde Coast ARC has named Pete Sadler as new Business Development Manager.

Smart Bodyshop has appointed Mark White as Bodyshop Manager.

Dawn Swales has started a new position as Director of HR at Turners Accident Repairs.

Harvey Stead has been named Chief Operating Officer at Redde Northgate. Melanie Bebbington has been appointed Managing Director of Auxillis and Neil McCrossan as Managing Director of the Northgate businesses.

Matthew Shaw has been appointed National Sales Manager at Paintnuts Bodyshop Supplies.

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HORIBA MIRA joins Euro NCAP network

7 March 2024

Environment, Insurance, Mobility, Supplier, Technology, Vehicle Repair, vehicle sales and Words

Euro NCAP has welcomed HORIBA MIRA to its network of safety and assessment centres.

Expanded accreditation means the HORIBA MIRA laboratory is now recognised as an official site for active safety system testing on passenger cars and light commercial vehicles.

Dr Michiel van Ratingen, Secretary General Euro NCAP, said, “I am delighted to welcome HORIBA MIRA to Euro NCAP’s trusted network of safety assessment laboratories across Europe. We are impressed by HORIBA MIRA’s commitment to support Euro NCAP’s safety programme, but also by its wish to join us in our quest to meet Vision Zero targets. This is great news for us, for consumers, and the automotive industry in the UK.”

Graeme Stewart, Chief Technical Officer HORIBA MIRA, added, “We have been conducting active safety pre-tests for many years and our team is hugely motivated and passionate about helping to shape the future of safety on European roads and beyond, and being part of the collective effort that is driving towards achieving Vision Zero. Euro NCAP exists to create safer roads for everyone. We believe that to achieve this objective and deliver the best results, you must have a people-centric approach.”

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ARC360 set to explore future technology impacts and solutions

1 March 2024

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

Following up on last year’s highly acclaimed specialist electric vehicle (EV) event, ARC360 is back on Thursday 27 June to further explore just how technology is shaping the future of the industry.

The event, which takes place on Thursday 27 June at the Manufacturing Technology Centre (MTC) in Coventry will canvass insights from across the sector and beyond in a bid to explore how the motor claims repair sector is transitioning towards a high-tech future, seeking insights from across the sector and beyond.

Delegates will hear thoughts from insurers, vehicle manufacturers, repairers and many others throughout the supply chain to understand more of how, when and why the sector should prepare for the future.

Mark Hadaway, Co-Founder of ARC360 and Content Director of ILC, said, “We are delighted to once again host a specialist future technology focused event yet with an acute awareness of the people and skills needs throughout the sector right now.

“At first glance, the two seem somewhat of a paradox but in reality both go hand-in-hand in creating an insurance claims and vehicle repair sector that is fit for the future.”

Tickets for the event will go on sale next week.

In the meantime, to find out more about the opportunities available to get involved in the event, contact mark@iloveclaims.com or liane@iloveclaims.com.