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Program Groups All In On AWDA Aftermarket Challenge
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By Counterman
In our cover story for
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AMN/CM: What did your organization accomplish in 2022 that you are most proud of?
BH: I am most proud of the work our communities have done to engage and develop the industry. AWDA celebrated its 75th anniversary this year and as I noted during their awards ceremony, AWDA is represented on every single Auto Care community and committee and is engaged in every aspect of the industry. Women in Auto Care drew the largest crowd at the AAPEX stage during their awards ceremony, their breakfast had a waitlist, they raised more than $100k for scholarships and the registration for their upcoming Leadership Conference is the highest ever. YANG (Young Auto Care Networking Group) had record-breaking attendance at their reception at AAPEX and donated more than $20k to the Automotive Aftermarket Charitable Foundation in 2022 through various fundraisers, including their Top Golf meetup that was attend by more than 160 young executives nationally. Automotive Content Professionals Network started off our Connect Conference in May with record attendees and continues to set the example for welcoming newcomers to the industry. Auto Care has invested in all our communities through increased staff representation and the creation of a community engagement department to facilitate the collaboration and growth of all Auto Care communities.
AMN/CM: How is the ongoing Right to Repair issue impacting your business?
BH: From an industry perspective we have seen ongoing awareness of Right to Repair in our sector as well as agriculture and consumer electronics. The more exposure this consumer issue receives, we gain increased mindshare of legislators and regulators. The Auto Care Association has been helping to vigorously support our position to implement the will of the voters in the Massachusetts court case, and after numerous delays we are hoping to have a ruling soon. We are also working with CARE to support a ballot initiative in Maine to further expand our state strategy. We are also working with AASA, SEMA and the CAR coalition to reintroduce our REPAIR Act in Congress, which would provide a nationwide/federal solution for the access of telematics data and are encouraged by the momentum around the issue that we see. The European Union, Australia, South Africa and our Canadian colleagues all have Right to Repair initiatives taking place and we are working hand-in-hand with them to provide support and guidance as needed. We are also working with other aftermarket associations around the globe to support their Right to Repair initiatives and are in the process of developing a global Right to Repair positioning statement that unifies our industry in our approach.
AMN/CM: What do you feel is the greatest threat facing the automotive aftermarket right now?
BH: The biggest threat is two-fold: meeting the challenges of today’s technology on the vehicle and finding young men and women to repair and maintain those vehicles. Our industry has always adapted to technology. However, the financial investment required by a shop to keep up with that technology has become increasingly difficult. ADAS calibration, for example, requires more than $100k in equipment, not to mention the amount of space required to conduct those calibrations. Attracting talent to our service bays requires an investment on all our parts by providing scholarships and apprenticeships. I firmly believe that a national apprentice program is long overdue, and such a program will help reduce student-loan debt while providing good-paying jobs. Our good friends and members at Dynamic Automotive in Frederick, Maryland, are a great example of a progressive shop working with state and local governments to provide meaningful apprenticeship programs that groom qualified technicians for the next generation of technology.
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By Counterman
You can’t turn a corner these days without seeing a headline about electric vehicles. In recent years, this caused some consternation in the automotive aftermarket, with internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles being the bread and butter for this industry. However, new data shows there will continue to be room for – and a need for – products for both incoming electric and ICE vehicles.
According to data from the Joint EV Trends and Outlook Forecast from MEMA and Auto Care Association, while EVs are beginning to penetrate the U.S. car parc, ICE vehicles will maintain the majority share through 2040. By 2030, the average estimate for approximately 30% of new car sales will be electric vehicles, according to PwC, which partnered with the associations on the joint forecast.
That being said, over the past several months, we have seen a significant uptick in industry activation surrounding vehicle electrification, in a variety of ways.
Within the automotive aftermarket, we are beginning to see a mindset shift, moving from skepticism surrounding the idea of EVs into more companies seeing the opportunities available in this rapidly growing space. Take for example longtime diagnostic products provider Autel entering the market this past June with the launch of its new Autel Energy division, which released the MaxiCharger Home and Commercial Level 2 AC chargers, available in 40-amp and 50-amp flexible charging configurations, compatible with all plug-in electric vehicles.
In the automotive repair equipment space, BendPak recently introduced its EV2400SL EV battery pack and powertrain lifting system. This push-around full-rise scissor lift table is designed to make replacing both electric vehicle battery packs and internal combustion powertrain components more efficient, the company said. The patent-pending design offers all the benefits of BendPak’s former SL24EVT lifting system with several user-friendly enhancements.
Just this past month, GM announced plans to invest a total of $20.5 million across three of its Customer Care and Aftersales parts distribution centers in Tennessee and Michigan to modernize warehouse operations as the automaker prepares for industry growth and electric vehicle readiness.
NAPA also saw the need to invest in preparation for the incoming change and this past fall announced its “NexDrivePowered by NAPA” training program in the U.S. to prepare repair shops for the changes electrification brings in the repair segment.
In January, Shell paid a cool $169 million to acquire EV charging company Volta to “unlock long-term growth opportunities in electric vehicle charging,” the company stated.
Bridgestone unveiled at CES this January it’s new Smart Corner solution, a demonstration of the ability to enhance the performance, comfort and efficiency of electric and autonomous vehicles, while maximizing the lifespan of tires and air springs. The solution combines premium Bridgestone tires and Firestone Airide (previously Firestone Industrial Products) air springs that are engineered specifically for electric and autonomous vehicle applications.
Standard Motor Products said it is committed to providing replacement parts for hybrids and EVs and has added new part numbers specifically for hybrids and EVs through its Standard and Four Seasons brands.
Valvoline and ENEOS both have developed automotive fluids specifically for use in Hybrid and Plug-in EVs.
These are just a handful of examples of businesses that have long been involved in the traditional ICE market segment creating opportunities in the EV market, as well.
From a consumer standpoint, the rate adoption of EVs varies from country to country, with cost (be it cost-savings or cost barriers) being one of the top factors.
According to AMN’s sister publication dedicated to EVs, The Buzz, “While internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles still dominate future vehicle purchase intentions, preference for electrified powertrains continues to rise. Overall, the global shift to EVs is occurring at different speeds as individual markets face varying challenges to adoption, including cost and availability of charging infrastructures.”
Citing data from Deloitte’s 2023 Global Automotive Consumer Study, The Buzz noted that “Despite mounting concerns about climate change and reducing emissions, lower fuel expenses are the top reason consumers choose EVs in the U.S., Germany, India, Japan, the Republic of Korea and Southeast Asia, in an effort to reduce vehicle operating costs.”
In the U.S., intent to purchase hybrid electric vehicles (HEV), plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEV) and all-battery powered electric vehicles (BEV) are each up by 3 percentage points from 2022. Globally, consumer interest in BEVs is highest in China (27%, up 10 points year-over-year).
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By Counterman
eBay Motors announced the launch of
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“People are buying and selling parts online like never before, and eBay Guaranteed Fit helps take the guesswork out of the shopping experience,” said Chris Prill, VP of eBay Motors. “Accurate fitment is critical to completing a project, from simple repairs to major modifications. With today’s launch, eBay Motors is empowering shoppers to browse and buy the millions of parts and accessories on the marketplace with that crucial added assurance.”
The launch of eBay Guaranteed Fit is the latest advancement designed to help people shop the marketplace with confidence and ease, including Authenticity Guarantee for sneakers, handbags, jewelry and trading cards, and the expansion of condition grading for eBay Refurbished, according to the company. eBay Guaranteed Fit is an additional protection under the eBay Money Back Guarantee, and covers most new and pre-owned items in the Parts & Accessories category with more to be added in the coming months.
How It Works, according to eBay:
Input vehicle details – Shoppers enter their vehicle year, make, model, trim and engine information into Finder, or select the vehicle saved in My Garage to search for new and used parts. Discover parts that fit – eBay Motors verifies that the vehicle details match the part compatibility information within the listing. When there is a match, fit is confirmed with a green ‘Fits’ checkmark on the listing. Purchase an eligible part or accessory – When shoppers purchase an eligible part or accessory, they can be sure it will fit their vehicle. Some exclusions apply, including tires and wheels. Access purchase protections – If the part or accessory does not fit the buyer’s vehicle upon arrival, they can return it for free within 30 days for a full refund. The post
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By Counterman
Dayco announced that Craig Frohock accepted the opportunity to join Dayco Aftermarket and Belts as its new chief executive officer, effective Jan. 16.
Reporting directly to the board of Dayco, Frohock is responsible for the business unit’s global operational performance and strategic direction.
For the past six years, Frohock has held several senior leadership roles with Tenneco. Most recently he was the group vice president and general manager of the company’s OE ride-control business, and prior to that he served as the group vice president and general manager of its integrated supply chain operations within the global aftermarket business. He also served as group vice president and general manager of the company’s aftermarket chassis business and the sealing, engine and underhood services business.
Prior to joining Tenneco, his career included 19 years at Meritor Inc., where he held positions of increasing responsibilities, including leading the aftermarket business.
Frohock earned a bachelor of science degree in mechanical engineering and a master of business administration degree from Oakland University.
“I am incredibly excited to join Dayco, a company with a rich history, a great brand and a strong market presence,” Frohock said. “I’m truly humbled by the opportunity to lead such a capable team as the company enters its next chapter.”
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By Counterman
Robert Bosch LLC announced that it added 212 aftermarket parts to its portfolio in 2022, covering nearly 64 million vehicles in operation across North America.
The new Bosch products, which cover domestic, European and Asian passenger and commercial vehicles, include 74 braking parts; 52 fuel and water pumps; 14 ignition coils; 27 cooling fans, rotating machines, spark plugs and ESP units; 38 sensors; and seven fuel injectors.
Bosch Braking
Bosch released 74 high-quality braking parts for dozens of vehicle makes and models in 2022, including the increasingly important Bosch Police Pursuit brake pads, manufactured to meet the high demands of safety, reliability and stopping consistency for law enforcement.
Additional brake parts released in 2022 include the new QuietCast disc brake pads and Bosch Blue disc brake pads for late-model Asian, European, domestic and heavy-duty vehicles.
Bosch Cooling Fans
Six cooling fans have been released in 2022, covering nearly 1.2 million vehicles. The cooling fans are built to operate at high temperatures and under high loads that are common in traffic and towing conditions. Also, they provide sufficient flow while the vehicle is idle while operating with minimal noise, according to Bosch. The cooling fans are designed for domestic vehicles that may no longer be serviced under warranty but are prime candidates for serviceability in the IAM (independent aftermarket).
Bosch ESP Units
Bosch released two new ADAS and Body Electronics Line ESP hydraulic units, which cover a variety of European applications for Audi vehicles. Bosch ESP hydraulic units are a direct replacement for the original units, ensuring customers get high-quality parts each time. They offer easy installation without the need for any additional modifications to the original fitment.
Bosch Fuel Injectors
Seven Bosch GDI fuel injectors were released this year. They’re direct replacements for many domestic, Asian and European vehicles. The Bosch GDI fuel injector is a key enabler for engine downsizing, while maintaining desired horsepower. Additionally, the injectors provide exact flow and original spray pattern for optimal performance while enhancing a homogenous and lean-burn performance, according to the company.
Bosch Fuel and Water Pumps
Bosch released 52 new fuel-pump parts in 2022, including the Bosch auxiliary water pump, which is equipped with a sealed pump chamber, an independent heating system and an EV- and hybrid-compatible cabin heat- control system.
Additionally, Bosch released new GDI high-pressure pumps, Bosch electric fuels pumps, Bosch auxiliary water pumps and more, all to ensure a long, reliable service life. Bosch’s “Better Than OE Design,” ensures each part is tested to the same rigorous quality standards as OE fuel pumps to improve upon ease of installation and drivability of a vehicle, according to the company.
Bosch Ignition Coils
Bosch released 14 original-equipment ignition coils in 2022, featuring precise, corrosion-resistant connections to provide an extensive service life. The Bosch ignition coil is known for its wide coverage of Ford makes and models and is built to meet and exceed OEM specifications to improve upon the original component.
Bosch Rotating Machines
Bosch released 10 rotating machines in 2022 to cover nearly 1.2 million vehicles in the United States and Canada. All rotating machines are designed for fewer returns and warranty claims to maintain durability. Additionally, the rotating machines are full-load tested to guarantee compliance with strict Bosch performance specifications. The Bosch rotating machines have robust domestic and European coverage.
Bosch Sensors
Bosch has released 38 new oxygen sensors, designed to improve fuel economy while reducing harmful emissions. Bosch oxygen sensors are easy to install and meet or exceed OE performance specifications.
Additionally, Bosch released one new crankshaft sensor, which is designed to accurately detect engine speed – the main control variable for the ignition timing – and one new MAF (mass airflow) sensor, covering late-model Volkswagen and Porsche vehicles, to ensure low levels of harmful emissions.
Bosch Spark Plugs
Bosch has released nine new EVO, Bosch and Bosch Copper with Nickel spark plugs in 2022, all designed to ensure a reliable ignition throughout its service life – even under extreme pressure conditions in modern engines. Through improved design and development materials, the spark plugs are engineered to reduce the chance for damage and optimize vehicle function in the most extreme conditions.
For more information regarding Bosch new and innovative aftermarket automotive parts and technologies, visit
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