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 9 May 2025

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09-05-2025

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ARC360 News – Friday 2 May 2025

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02-05-2025

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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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ARC360 News – Friday 9 May 2025

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09-05-2025

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ARC360 News – Friday 2 May 2025

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02-05-2025

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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 9 May 2025

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09-05-2025

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ARC360 News – Friday 2 May 2025

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02-05-2025

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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. 

Some of the expert names set to take to the stage focusing on areas such as FNOL, repair capabilities, cost inflation, skillset requirements, health & safety, repairability, vehicle valuations and end-of-life vehicle management include: 

  • Derren Martin, director of valuations, cap hpi 
  • Adrian Watson, head of engineering research, Thatcham Research 
  • Dave Sargeant, managing director, Gemini ARC 
  • Maria Loukadaki, motor repair specialist – future technology specialist, Direct Line Group 
  • Raul Yuste Sepulveda, global key account manager – battery recycling, BASF 

Many of the UK’s leading insurers, vehicle manufacturers and vehicle repairers set to attend the event include insurers AA, Direct Line Group and Markerstudy; vehicle manufacturers JLR, Lotus and VWG; repair groups Apollo Motor Group, Penning’s Ltd and Rye Street Group; and independent repairers Accident Express; Castle Coachworks and Fylde Coast Accident Repair Centre. 

A limited number of tickets remain available to the event, to book visit: https://www.iloveclaims.com/product/arc360-gaining-ground-together-2023/ 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 

One free ticket is available per repairer, please email rachael@iloveclaims.com to secure now. 

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ARC360 News – Friday 9 May 2025

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09-05-2025

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ARC360 News – Friday 2 May 2025

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02-05-2025

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Fix Auto UK introduces new ADAS calibration capabilities

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.

Ian Pugh, Fix Auto UK’s Managing Director, said the technology is a game-changer and its simplicity and useability ensures it can be operated by anyone from a newly inducted apprentice through to a senior technician.

He said, “We’re in an age where our repairers face the necessity to complete ADAS calibrations on almost every modern vehicle but it’s a procedure that can dramatically slow down the whole repair process. Being part of a global organisation, I reached out to my overseas colleagues to see what products were available that can speed up and simplify the process.

“AUGGIE is a phenomenal piece of kit. A real game changer. AirPro Diagnostics developed it to deliver with precise accuracy in any environment even with a vehicle parked on an uneven surface. It is so simple to use, after brief training anyone can use it which enables a vehicle to be taken out of a workshop, freeing up valuable space for the next repair.”

Michael Quinn, President AirPro Diagnostics, said, “AirPro is proud to launch into the UK, with the Fix Auto UK Group agreement. We know Ian and the UK network to be the most operationally disciplined bodyshop group in the UK and we look forward to working closely with his Franchise Partners and delivering our unmatched capabilities in diagnostics and cost-effective ADAS calibration equipment and services to ensure a complete and safe repair for motorists.” 

Maria Charlton, AirPro UK Managing Director, said, “We are extremely confident in our ability to safely service and calibrate the majority of vehicles serviced by Fix Auto UK, our North American track record of thousands of satisfied shop clients can readily attest to this fact.”

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ARC360 News – Friday 9 May 2025

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09-05-2025

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ARC360 News – Friday 2 May 2025

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02-05-2025

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ARC360 News – Friday 16 June 2023

Specialist EV event to set new standards

Understanding the impact of electric vehicles will be taken to the next level at a groundbreaking event hosted by ARC360 next month.

The EV-olution; Gaining Ground Together, taking place at the Manufacturing Technology Centre, Coventry, on 4 July, will feature experts from across the sector to consider the rapid growth of EVs and how the technology is reforming the repair and motor claims landscape.

The specialist event will bring together insurers, VMs, and the UK’s leading repairers to consider everything from FNOL, repair capabilities, cost inflation, skillset requirements, health & safety, repairability, replacement vehicles and end-of-life vehicle management.

Fix Auto UK expands network with Kidderminster site

Fix Auto UK has announced that new state-of-the-art repair centre Fix Auto Kidderminster will join the network.

Fix Auto Kidderminster will be fully operational by the end of June, supported by a 12-strong team and featuring a spraybooth and 11 work bays with ramps.

Glusurit and Summers ARC mark 40-year partnership

BASF’s premium paint brand Glasurit has celebrated the 40th anniversary of its partnership with Ashford-based Summers Accident Repair Centre.

To mark the occasion, BASF colleagues visited Summers to explore the site and discuss the production of other BASF products, including nematodes.

Further, Glasurit UK, supported by STEM Ambassador lead Natalie Wong, will volunteer 40 hours to one of Summer’s chosen local primary schools.

Halo unveils new training facility

Halo has launched a new Centre of Excellence Training Facility to support the continued skills development of colleagues.

The centre combines diverse training programmes and expert mentoring.

Devonshire Motors secures VM approval

Devonshire Motors ARC has become an approved repairer for Toyota and Lexus for the all-new body and paint programme. Certification means all colleagues are trained to VM standards and equipment and tooling meets VM approval.

Intelligent Motoring taps into Synetiq parts pipeline

Intelligent Motoring has joined forces with salvage expert and green parts provider Synetiq to offer customers quicker repair times and discounted prices through the use of reclaimed parts.

EV accreditation for White

Assistant Bodyshop Manager at EV Bodyshops Luke White has gained IMI Level 3 Electric Hybrid accreditation.

Gold star for Silva Brothers

Silva Brothers Autos has achieved BSI approval for its products and services.

Thiago Mendes de SouzaThiago Mendes de Souza, Garage Manager, said, “This achievement reflects the hard work, expertise, and dedication of our team. We have diligently worked to ensure that our processes, systems, and practices align with the highest industry standards.”

Turners set for site expansion

Sheffield-based Turners Accident Repair is expanding after acquiring a new17,684 sqft site. The business will move from its 9,500 sqft unit on the same industrial estate.  

Morelli culture commended by in prestigious list

Morelli Group has been recognised in the inaugural ‘The Sunday Times Best Places to Work 2023’ list.

Andrew Moring, Marketing Director, said, As a family business entering our 66th year, with 4th generation family members in the business, it is important for us that our staff feel valued and happy at work. We continue to have staff passing 25 years’ service with our oldest serving member of staff well past the 40-year mark.”

Perfect 10 for Activate Group

Activate Group has been listed at number 10 in the UK Women-Powered Businesses Report from J.P. Morgan Private Bank.

The recognition underpins the company’s commitment to promoting equality throughout the workforce.

Lexis Nexis launches one-stop data solution

Lexis Nexis Risk Solution has released a new product to help insurers gain a more granular view of the vehicles they are insuring.

Lexis Nexis Vehicle Insights provides a single source of accurate, real-time information on the vehicle’s ADAS systems, current status, valuation and maintenance history. These deep insights will vastly improve risk assessment and enhance the customer experience from quote to claim.

‘Ghost driver’ paves way for autonomous cars

The University of Nottingham has carried out a real-life study to gauge pedestrian reaction to self-driving vehicles.

The aim was to identify which designs and signals from an autonomous car were trusted most by pedestrians.

Ford opens European EV production site

Ford has opened the Cologne Electric Vehicle Center in Germany to manufacture its next generation of EVs for the European market.

The site is expected to produce upwards of 250,000 vehicles every year.

In-car distractions reach record high

A new survey has found that more than 10 million UK drivers could be driving erratically due to in-car distractions, with 15% admitting to being distracted by sat-navs and 10% saying they check their smart watches while driving.

Meanwhile, 35% said they regularly eat and drink while driving, and 10% admit they still use their phones behind the wheel.

Car parks wilting under weight of modern cars

New guidance from The Institution of Structural Engineers has said that car parks in the UK need to evolve to cope with bigger and heavier cars.


Nyobolt reveals six-minute charge concept car

Nyobolt has unveiled a new concept electric vehicle that can fully charge in six minutes.

The Nyobolt EV weighs just over one tonne, offers a 250km range, and uses a 35kWh battery that can fully charge with existing infrastructure in six minutes.

MS Amlin unveils AI-powered claims triage process

MS Amlin has launched a new claims triage solution that uses AI to assess damage and direct vehicles to an appropriate repairer, while at the same time providing claims adjusters with a full view of both the claimant and the claim. 

The solution is a result of MS Amlin’s newly-formed partnership with Genpact.

E-roads lead to the future

S&G Response believes roads that charge EVs while they drive could be part of the UK highways infrastructure in the future, but not for a while.

The technology is already being employed in South Korea and Sweden, but introducing it to the UK could be delayed due to cost implications.

ABI to appeal mixed injury verdict

The outcome of mixed injury motor claims processed by the Official Injury Claim (OIC) portal is still uncertain after the Supreme Court granted the Association of British Insurers permission to appeal a landmark ruling.

The initial verdict was that victims should be compensated separately for whiplash and other injuries, but the ABI will now appeal the result in the Supreme Court.

Claims costs soar by 14%

Motor insurers paid out £2.4bn in motor claims in the first quarter of this year, up 14% on the same quarter last year.

According to latest ABI data, this was the highest quarterly payout since it started collecting data back in 2013 and 11% up on the last quarter of 2022.

Meet the team

e2e Total Loss Vehicle Management has introduced Autospares & Salvage, a key member of its network of independent, innovative vehicle recycling and salvage firms.

The Northants-based company recovers vehicles from across the region and offers three key services: the re-marketing of repairable vehicle salvage; the provision of quality reclaimed parts; and end-of-life vehicle disposal and recycling.

People

Randy Kobat has been named president of Repair OnDemand.

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ARC360 News – Friday 9 May 2025

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09-05-2025

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ARC360 News – Friday 2 May 2025

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ARC360 News – Friday 9 June 2023

Industry leaders set for specialist EV event

Many of the UK’s leading insurers, vehicle manufacturers and vehicle repairers are set to discuss how electric vehicles (EVs) are set to change motor claims at ARC360s specialist EV event.

Amongst some of the leading names set to attend include insurers Aviva, esure and Zurich; vehicle manufacturers Stellantis, Tesla and Toyota; and repair groups Halo ARC, Fix Auto UK and Steer Automotive. 

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

Gemini sets the standard

Gemini Accident Repair Centres has announced that 15 of its sites have now achieved the new BS10125:2022 repair standard.

Gemini Macclesfield and Chesterfield are the latest to be accredited, joining Redruth, Rotherham, Telford, Manchester, Cannock, Wakefield, Bodmin, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Nuneaton, Nottingham, Spalding, and Peterborough.

Copart shows support for Pride Month

Copart has underlined its support for the LGBTQ+ community by marking Pride Month with two initiatives.

It has announced it will sponsor the Milton Keynes Pride Festival for the third year in a row, while at the same time it is rolling out diversity and inclusion training to its more than 1,300 teammates.

Apprenticeship demand on the rise

Apprenticeship Central has reported a large increase in businesses looking to take on apprentices this year.

It offers a comprehensive recruitment and retention outsource solution through three services – Recruit, Nurture, and Ensure – and says demand has increased in single- and multi-skilled programmes, as well as those for VDAs.

Six of the best for Gemini

Gemini Accident Repair Group has announced that six Vehicle Damage Assessor (VDA) apprentices have now become IMI-accredited.

They are Gemma Bright (Gemini Redditch), Daniel Ward (Gemini Nottingham), Jacob Ray (Gemini Pensnett), Luke Sargeant (Gemini Worcester), Lewis Walker (Gemini Telford), and Ashley Ablett (Gemini Leeds).

Movac Group under new ownership

Movac Group directors Robert Lang, Craig Matthews and Keith Parvin have acquired the company after a management buy-out.

The change of ownership is part of a strategic five-year growth plan intended to establish it as one of the strongest independently-owned distribution companies in the UK.

Badge of honour for Individual Solihull

Individual Solihull has announced it is now an official Ferrari bodyshop after undergoing specialist training to ensure that repairs, tooling and facilities meet the brand’s exacting standards.

Alton Cars promoting repair over replace programme

Alton Cars Group is working with Cornerstone Technologies to develop its repair over replace programme, improving both profitability and sustainability while at the same time reducing its reliability on parts supply.

Cornerstone Technologies is delivering a comprehensive training programme to VDA’s covering both advanced plastic and push to paint.

Peggs unveils new state-of-the-art site

Birmingham-based repairer Peggs Accident Repair Centre has cut the ribbon on a brand new, state-of-the-art repair facility.

EVs drive Volvo sales surge

Volvo Cars has reported a 31% increase in global sales in May, driven primarily by the sale of its electric models.

The manufacturer sold 60,398 units in the month to take its annual total to 275,312, a 14% increase on the same period during 2022, while sales of its fully electric and plug-in hybrid cars rose 55% to account for 40% of all sales.

Repairify to unveil new diagnostics solution

Repairify is set to release a new diagnostics, calibrations, and programming solution for local and remote diagnostics.

The asTech All-In-One tablet-based solution, due for release on 12 June, will enable bodyshops to identify repairs and carry out remote and local calibrations.

Postcode lottery when it comes to EV techs

New research by The Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI) has revealed significant location gaps in qualified technicians to work on electric vehicles.

It found that only seven local authorities across England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland have 10% or more EV-qualified technicians while more than 150 have less than two per cent.

ADAS safety ratings revealed

Euro NCAP and Thatcham Research have released the latest ADAS safety ratings, with the Alfa Romeo Tonale getting a ‘moderate’ score while the Nissan Ariya and Renault Astral were both rated ‘very good’.

Jaguar Land Rover unveils new unifying identity

Jaguar Land Rover has unveiled its new corporate identity as it brings Range Rover, Defender, Discovery and Jaguar together under one roof.

What Car? tackles EV fire fears

What Car? has questioned fears that EVs are more likely than petrol or diesel vehicles to catch fire.

It has cited results of a Freedom of Information request submitted by Air Quality News that revealed the London Fire Brigade tackled 54 EV fires in 2019, compared with 1,898 fires involving petrol or diesel cars.

Stellantis to set up new recycling venture

Stellantis and leading metals recycler Galloo havesigned a Memorandum of Understanding to negotiate the formation of a joint venture focused on End-of-Life Vehicle (ELV) recycling.

The service is expected to launch at the end of 2023 with an initial focus on France, Belgium and Luxembourg, before expanding across Europe.

New vehicle sale surging

Both the new car and new light commercial vehicle markets have enjoyed consecutive months of growth, according to new figures from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders.

It found that new car registrations grew 16.7% in May to 145,204 units, making it 10 months of continuous growth.

Meanwhile, LCV registrations grew by 15.3% in May compared to last year, reaching 25,359 units, making it the fifth consecutive month rising sales.

AkzoNobel announces China supply deal

AkzoNobel will supply its full water-based Sikkens range to Porsche China, enhancing sustainable operations in the region.

Gemini trio set for 3 Peaks charity challenge

Three colleagues from Gemini Accident Repair Centres will join LV to take on the Yorkshire 3 Peaks Challenge, raising funds for Family Action. They are Dan Dillon, Account Manager, James Gough, Accounts, and Kristina Grove from Marketing.

People

Direct Line Group has named Mike Collyer as Area Network Controller.

Allianz Holdings has appointed Serge Raffard as the new Managing Director, replacing Steve Treloar.

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ARC360 News – Friday 9 May 2025

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09-05-2025

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02-05-2025

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New vehicle sales surging

Both the new car and new light commercial vehicle markets have enjoyed consecutive months of growth, according to new figures from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders.

It found that new car registrations grew 16.7% in May to 145,204 units, making it 10 months of continuous growth. Year-to-date sales have now risen to 772,454 units, which is 16.8% up on the first five months of last year.

Alternatively-fuelled vehicles continue to drive increases, with plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) rising 23% in May to reach a 6.2% market share and hybrids (HEVs) growing 22.2% to comprise 12.3% of all registrations. Electric vehicles are up 58.7% on last May, with 24,513 joining the roads to secure a 16.9% market share.

Meanwhile, LCV registrations grew by 15.3% in May compared to last year, reaching 25,359 units, making it the fifth consecutive month rising sales.

Mike Hawes, SMMT Chief Executive, said: “After the difficult, Covid-constrained supply issues of the last few years, it’s good to see the new car market maintain its upward trend and the fact that growth is, increasingly, green growth is hugely encouraging. Transforming the market nationwide, however, and at an even greater pace means we must increase demand and help any reticent driver overcome any concerns about electric vehicles. This will require every stakeholder – industry, government, chargepoint operators and energy companies – to play their part, accelerating investment to drive decarbonisation.”

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ARC360 News – Friday 2 May 2025

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Volvo sales volumes surge

Volvo Cars has reported a 31% increase in global sales in May, driven primarily by the sale of its electric models.

The manufacturer sold 60,398 units in the month to take its annual total to 275,312, 14% increase on the same period during 2022. 

Sales of its fully electric and plug-in hybrid cars rose 55% to account for 40% of all sales, with upticks reported in Europe (40%), the US (14%) and China (49%).

Meanwhile, the Volvo XC60 was the top-selling model with sales of 18,052 cars, followed by the XC40, (17,596) and the XC90 (9,058).

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ARC360 News – Friday 9 May 2025

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09-05-2025

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ARC360 News – Friday 2 May 2025

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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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ARC360 News – Friday 9 May 2025

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09-05-2025

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08-05-2025

ARC360 News – Friday 2 May 2025

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02-05-2025

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