-
Welcome to Auto Parts Forum
Whether you are a veteran automotive parts guru or just someone looking for some quick auto parts advice, register today and start a new topic in our forum. Registration is free and you can even sign up with social network platforms such as Facebook, X, and LinkedIn.
AACF Launches 65th Anniversary Fundraising Initiative
-
Similar Topics
-
By Counterman
SmartParts has announced the launch of DR!VE+ in North America at the 2025 NEXUS Business Forum in Abu Dhabi. This marks a major step in its global expansion. The launch follows strong growth in 2024 for the exclusive global aftermarket brand for NEXUS members worldwide. The first phase of the North American aftermaket expansion will introduce a 13,700-part Chassis range, with additional product lines to follow. DR!VE+ will serve as the unified brand for NEXUS North America members. SmartParts also introduces a new DR!VE+ battery range, reinforcing its commitment to a comprehensive aftermarket offering.
NEXUS Accelerates North American Aftermarket Expansion
To capitalize on growing market opportunities, NEXUS said it decided 18 months ago to speed up the deployment of the DR!VE+ brand. The aging car parc and transformation of the aftermarket are driving demand. The first phase of the North American aftermarket expansion will focus on the Chassis range, offering 13,700 part numbers. A roadmap will introduce multiple additional product lines over the next 18 months.
“This joint initiative marks a key milestone in the history of NEXUS North America,” said Robert Roos, president of APSG and NEXUS North America.
2024 Growth and 2025 Plans for SmartParts
SmartParts welcomed over 20 new
link hidden, please login to viewmembers and increased revenue by 50% in 2024. This success expands its reach to more than 80 members and customers in 50 countries, the company said. SmartParts aims to further increase its turnover in 2025. The company added it will fast-track expansion into North America, India and Asia. New DR!VE+ Battery Range to Meet Market Demand
SmartParts is unveiling its all-new DR!VE+ battery range at the NEXUS Business Forum. The lineup targets both light vehicles and heavy-duty applications. It is segmented into four categories—DR!VE+ Platinum (AGM), DR!VE+ Performance (EFB), DR!VE+ Essential (SLI), and DR!VE+ Access (Commercial Vehicles only). This range includes 61 part numbers, covering 99% of market demand and catering to older vehicles, hybrid models and commercial applications.
Future Growth and Global Expansion
The
link hidden, please login to view portfolio expanded by more than 1,100 part numbers in 2024. This brings the total to over 11,000 part numbers. SmartParts will continue expanding the range in 2025. The company remains committed to strengthening its position as the global aftermarket brand exclusive to link hidden, please login to viewmembers. “2024 has been an exceptional year for SmartParts,” said Pascal Popis, CEO of SmartParts. “With sales more than doubling compared to last year, this growth reflects the strong commitment of NEXUS members, the power of the DR!VE+ brand and the dedication of our team.”
The post
link hidden, please login to view appeared first on link hidden, please login to view.
link hidden, please login to view -
By Counterman
Valvoline announced the launch of its new passenger car motor oil formulas for both the U.S. and Canada. The company said these formulas surpass the updated International Lubricant Standardization and Approval Committee (ILSAC) GF-7 standards, which formally went into effect on March 31.
Valvoline added that its current ILSAC GF-6 certified synthetic
link hidden, please login to view motor oils already meet all requirements of the new ILSAC GF-7 specification. The company said its engine lab in Ashland, Ky. allows Valvoline to perform critical engine sequence tests that help define industrywide performance requirements every five to seven years. “These days, everything seems to move just a little bit faster, and our engines have to work even harder to keep up with the pace of our busy lives,” said Dr. Michael Warholic, senior global technology director at Valvoline Global Operations. “By helping car owners maintain their vehicles’ performance and longevity, Valvoline’s dedication to the development of the ILSAC GF-7 standards is protecting engines not just for today, but for the needs of tomorrow as well, delivering improved performance levels in almost every area.”
link hidden, please login to view said its ILSAC GF-7 full synthetic technology was tested in a single engine for over 500,000 miles across three years without the need to replace any critical component, while significantly reducing sludge and deposits compared to an ILSAC GF-6 quality oil. The ILSAC GF-7 specification continues the A and B designations started with the ILSAC GF-6 upgrade in 2020. The ILSAC GF-7A designation applies to all SAE 0W-20 viscosity grades and heavier. ILSAC GF-7A is backward compatible with all previous GF-6A, GF-5 and older ILSAC specifications. The ILSAC GF-7B designation applies to SAE 0W-16 viscosity grade oils and is backward compatible to ILSAC GF-6B only.
As ILSAC GF-6 designated motor oils are phased out of distribution channels after the March 31, 2025, GF-7 launch, Valvoline said its new motor oils meeting the ILSAC GF-7A standard will include the “Starburst” API mark on all bottles, while ILSAC GF-7B-compliant oils will have the API “Shield.” Oils meeting API SP will feature an updated API “Donut” with SP designation.
“Advances in engine oil performance wouldn’t be possible without the dedication, expertise and leadership of our Valvoline engineers and scientists, who work tirelessly to help define and shape the industry standards, continually raising the bar to benefit us all,” said Warholic.
The post
link hidden, please login to view appeared first on link hidden, please login to view.
link hidden, please login to view -
By Counterman
PRT announced the latest additions to its portfolio of complete strut assemblies and shock absorbers in the North American Aftermarket. The 27 new products represent more than seven million vehicles in new coverage.
The launches include important models like the Chevrolet Malibu, Dodge Challenger and Suzuki SX4, in addition to brand new applications including the Chrysler Voyager and Pacifica 2023, as well as the Ford Transit 250 and 350 HD 2023, among others.
“At PRT, we are continually investing in research and development of new products, bringing innovative and premium-quality solutions from OE to our clients in the aftermarket,” said Bruno Bello, director of global marketing at PRT. “The new items are in stock in the U.S. and ready for shipment!”
For more information, call 1-770-238-1611, visit
link hidden, please login to view, or follow @prtautoparts. The post
link hidden, please login to view appeared first on link hidden, please login to view.
link hidden, please login to view -
By Counterman
line announced details of its sixth annual Mechanics Month initiative. Beginning Monday, March 3, the annual campaign celebrates what Valvoline called the often-unsung heroes of the mobility industry and beyond: the mechanics who keep the world moving forward.
According to Valvoline, this year’s theme, “The Future is in Your Hands,” shines a spotlight on mechanics across the globe, highlighting their expertise, skill and heart for the critical work they do each day. From independent workshops to dealerships, construction sites to fleets, mechanics solve problems that others can’t. Yet, fixing machinery is only part of the job; mechanics serve as educators and partners to their customers, offering peace of mind when it matters most, Valvoline said.
“Valvoline Global is proud to honor the important contributions of mechanics worldwide,” said Jamal Muashsher, chief executive officer of Valvoline Global. “Mechanics Month is about recognizing the mechanics in our local communities who not only maintain the present – but also shape the future – by keeping people around the world moving forward.”
Global Recognition of Local Mechanics
As part of Mechanics Month,
link hidden, please login to view teams in over 60 countries will celebrate local mechanics, working with community members to acknowledge their service. Notable celebrations spanning multiple regions include: Providing over 100 toolboxes, including safety gear and Valvoline-branded merchandise, to mechanics at workshops throughout Thailand. Hosting thank you dinners featuring games, prizes and live entertainment for mechanics and their families throughout Southeast Asia. Teaming up with Hendrick Motorsports for surprise deliveries of Valvoline Mechanics Month packages to hardworking team mechanics in the U.S. Working with select distributor and school partners to offer dozens of scholarships across Mexico and El Salvador. Offering brand and product training to over 200 mechanics and various scholarship programs and initiatives throughout China. The company will also feature mechanics in global web and social media spotlights during the month of March.
Grand Prix Meets Gratitude
As the Official Lubricant Partner of the Aston Martin Aramco Formula One® (AMAF1) Team, Valvoline Global will further collaborate with its AMAF1 partner to highlight the importance of continuously building a pipeline of talented mechanics.
For the second year in a row, AMAF1 will participate in Valvoline Global’s Aspiring Mechanics Program as they invite students from Milton Keynes College (United Kingdom) to learn from F1 mechanics.
The Valvoline Global Aspiring Mechanics Program, established in 2024, is focused on educating and supporting future mechanics as they grow their skills. Through this program, the company aims to play a direct role in minimizing the growing shortage of mechanics globally, while raising awareness of the importance of the trade, Valvoline said.
Join the Celebration
You can learn more about Valvoline’s celebration of mechanics by visiting
link hidden, please login to view and by following Valvoline Global’s social channels. The post
link hidden, please login to view appeared first on link hidden, please login to view.
link hidden, please login to view -
-
By Counterman
link hidden, please login to view announced the appointment of Ken Jaycox to its Board of Trustees. Jaycox brings a wealth of leadership experience and industry expertise to the foundation, further strengthening AACF’s mission to support automotive aftermarket professionals and their families in times of need, the nonprofit said. Jaycox serves as senior vice president, commercial, and is a member of
link hidden, please login to view executive committee. His professional background spans more than 30 years, during which he has demonstrated exceptional leadership in national and local sales teams, technology transformation, and e-commerce. Before joining AutoZone, Jaycox was senior vice president and chief commercial officer for United States Steel. His career began in the beverage industry, where he honed his expertise on Coca-Cola’s Commercial leadership team across the United States.
Jaycox holds a Bachelor of Arts in Communication and Marketing from Saint Louis University. Outside of his professional life, he enjoys spending time outdoors, reflecting his passion for connecting with nature.
“I’m honored and excited to join the
link hidden, please login to view Board of Trustees and join in the support of my fellow automotive aftermarket industry members and their families,” said Jaycox. “We are thrilled to welcome Ken Jaycox to the AACF Board of Trustees,” said John Kairys, executive director. “Ken’s compassion, deep care for others, and commitment to making a difference align perfectly with our mission. His leadership will be instrumental as we continue to provide hope and help to those in need within our industry.”
The post
link hidden, please login to view appeared first on link hidden, please login to view.
link hidden, please login to view
-
Recommended Posts
Join the conversation
You can post now and register later. If you have an account, sign in now to post with your account.
Note: Your post will require moderator approval before it will be visible.