December 2022 Midwest Edition

Industry Veteran Frank Terlep Sells Company, Receives Three Awards at SEMA, Named CIC Chair

By Stacey Phillips Autobody News

A little over three years ago, Frank Terlep co-founded Auto Techcelarators to help the auto, collision, glass, insurance and truck industries properly estimate, calibrate and validate advanced driverassistance systems (ADAS) repairs and calibrations.

As CEO, Terlep and his team developed Test Drive CoPilot™, a platform designed to change how ADAS safety system verification test drives are performed, managed and documented. They also created Calibration CoPilot™ to properly operate and manage ADAS service and calibration businesses, and

ADAS CoPilot™, an ADAS and calibration information, knowledge and repair procedure mobile app and web portal.

The entrepreneur has worked in the automotive industry for more than 40 years, dating back to 1984, when he launched his first technology business with a $100,000 investment from an angel investor and developed one of the first software applications for the automotive aftermarket industry.

Since then, he said he has helped design and launch the industry’s first Windows-based estimating and management system, the first online parts procurement platform, the first mobile app and digital marketing platform, as well as a remote scanning

REGIONAL NEWS

Carvana Sues Michigan After Officials Suspended Its License to Sell Cars

By Jamie L. LaReau Detroit Free Press

Car dealership Carvana accused Michigan Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson of violating state laws after the state suspended the license of the Carvana dealership in Novi, MI, earlier in October, and it wants the courts to intervene.

On Oct. 13, Carvana filed injunction motions with the Michigan Court of

Claims asking for an immediate stop to the secretary of state’s “illegal and irresponsible attempt to shut down a growing Michigan business with tens of thousands of customers over what amounts to technical paperwork violations involving title and transfer issues,” Carvana spokesperson Kristin Thwaites told the Free Press in an email.

The motions accuse the state

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REGIONAL NEWS

College of Lake County’s Collision Repair Program Receives Equipment, Training Donation

To help make sure students are getting the best education, College of Lake County (CLC) in Illinois works to get students the best equipment to learn and practice with.

A donation to the auto collision and repair program from the Alliance of Automotive Services Providers of Illinois (AASPI) gave students a KECO glue pulling system and a one-day onsite training for faculty and students.

A KECO glue pulling system is used to remove dents from vehicles

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

in a way less likely to cause damage. The students and faculty were

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In October, Auto Techcelerators, co-founded by Frank Terlep, was acquired by Opus IVS™, a global diagnostics, ADAS calibration, programming and on-demand remote support company

REGIONAL NEWS

3M, CREF Host Student Career Fair to Connect Students for Skilled Trades in the Collision Repair Industry 26

Carvana Sues Michigan After Officials Suspended Its License to Sell Cars 1

College of Lake County’s Collision Repair Program Receives Equipment, Training Donation 1

Energy Analyst Says EV Charging More Expensive than Gas 51

Focus Advisors Represents Mills Body Shops in Sale to CollisionRight 33

Honda Makes Major Investment in Ohio to Create New Electric Vehicle Hub 6

Michigan’s Latest $526M Tax

NATIONAL NEWS

Auto Care Alliance Announces Calendar 47

Auto Care Alliance Partners with Broadly 20

Axalta Promotes Muse to VP of Sales 26

CCC Introduces Diagnostics Enhancements 30

CCC Names New Executive 33

CIF Announces 3M as Annual Donor38

Classic Collision Adds 3rd Location in North Carolina, Expands Again in Texas 48

Dynabrade Awarded Certification 34

Equalizer® Gives Back this Holiday Season 48

Gas Demand Declines as Recession Fears Weigh Down Oil Market Expectations 20

Incentive Harshly Criticized 42

Mullen Buys Bankrupt ELMS, Indiana Plant for $240 Million 20

Officials Kick Off Tour of Illinois to Highlight Manufacturing Sector 52

Ohio Auto Repair Shop Expands with 2nd Location 34

ONE Announces Battery Gigafactory in Michigan 47

Panasonic to Start Building Kansas Battery Factory 8

VIA Motors Announces New Headquarters and Technical Center in Michigan 38

COLUMNISTS

Mike Anderson

What You’re Missing by Not Researching Battery Disconnect and Reconnect Procedures 10

Abby Andrews

Collision Repairers Learn How to Negotiate with Insurers to Get Paid for All Work 46

Driven Brands Celebrates Opening of 1,000th Collision Repair Location in North America 30

Stacey Phillips

ALLDATA’s ADAS Quick Reference Tool Receives SEMA New Product Award in ADAS Category 24

Collision Repairers Find Cost Savings & Quality Care with SCRS National Health Care Plan 18

Industry Veteran Frank Terlep Sells Company, Receives Three Awards at

I-CAR Recognized for Skills Training 52

Kia Recalls 71,000 SUVs for Fire Risk 54

Minnesota Law Firm Files Class Action Complaint on Behalf of Kia and Hyundai Theft Victims 42

More Than 745,000 Stolen Vehicles Reported So Far in 2022 52

NABC Donates 9 Vehicles, Presents Awards, Inducts Hall of Eagles Members at SEMA Show 22

New-Vehicle Monthly Payment Hits Another Record High in October 51

SCRS Study Concludes Blend Time is Greater than Full Refinish 55

SEMA, Named CIC Chair 1

Mitchell Awarded 3rd Patent for Collision Repair Diagnostics, Showcases Product Enhancements at SEMA 32

Prestigious Awards Announced at Collision Industry Red Carpet Awards Breakfast During SEMA 2022 21

Spanesi Americas Introduces FLASH Portable Pulling Column 40

SUN Collision Repair Information Software Helps Technicians Find OEM Repair Procedures 36

John Yoswick

Economist Tells Collision Repairers at MSO Symposium: ‘Beware the Economic Narrative’ 50

How Will Results from SCRS ‘Blend’ Study Be Used Moving Forward? 16

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of suspending Carvana’s license without a hearing, which deprived Michigan consumers the chance to get their purchased vehicles in a timely manner. The court papers also allege Benson’s suspension of Carvana’s license violates the Michigan Vehicle Code, which Carvana said mandates a hearing be held prior to the suspension of a dealer’s license.

discovered by state regulatory staff investigating multiple consumer complaints about title problems with their vehicles.

The Michigan Department of State cited the violations as “imminent harm to the public,” a claim Carvana has called “baseless.”

The two filings consist of a complaint for injunctive relief and a temporary restraining order and injunctive relief.

Carvana’s court filings come on the heels of a petition it started after the state suspended its license. It asked for customer support to keep Carvana’s business running without interruption. It read: “We believe Carvana is being singled out in order to protect antiquated paperwork and legal requirements that we don’t feel are in the best interest of customers.” Carvana said in its court filing that 2,900 people had signed the petition.

“arbitrary and abrupt actions” of suspension have angered and disappointed customers, “some of whom have literally been stranded without a vehicle they had counted on to get them to work, doctor’s appointments or the grocery store.”

“The state will not be intimidated. Carvana would be better off spending its time and money remedying the problems the state has identified. It is more likely to draw attention to the state’s claims and scare away customers than it is to scare off the state.”

ERIK GORDON UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN BUSINESS PROFESSOR AND LAWYER.

due to the “Secretary’s sudden and baseless suspension of Carvana’s Michigan License,” the complaint stated.

The court filing goes on to say the suspension also poses a “catastrophic” threat to the livelihoods of the 115 people who work for Carvana in Michigan and “the damage to Carvana’s reputation and goodwill posed by the suspension order is incalculable and irreparable.”

The filings ask the courts to stop the secretary of state’s “disruptive actions” and instead to work with Carvana to fix what Carvana calls “technical issues” as quickly as possible.

“We’re confident the facts and the truth will come to light through the court process,” Thwaites said.

Gordon said don’t count on it because courts are reluctant to issue injunctions.

Benson’s spokesperson Angela Benander said the office does not comment on pending litigation.

Carvana’s filings likely won’t succeed, said Erik Gordon, University of Michigan business professor and lawyer.

“It is a sign of weakness that won’t work,” Gordon said. “The state will not be intimidated. Carvana would be better off spending its time and money remedying the problems the state has identified. It is more likely to draw attention to the state’s claims and scare away customers than it is to scare off the state.”

In a news release, the state said Carvana LLC, owned by Paul Breaux and located off of Novi Road near I-96, committed several violations of the Michigan Vehicle Code. The alleged violations were

Benander said in a statement the Michigan Department of State looks to protect consumers and “the Department does this in strict accordance with state and federal laws and does not provide special treatment to any dealership, including large, national corporations.”

Benander said state officials met with Carvana on multiple occasions to explain Michigan law and suggest ways for it to comply, but “Carvana continued selling vehicles without titles to scores of Michigan families, putting the residents at risk of legal violations, fines and other penalties.”

Carvana’s Thwaites said in a statement the state’s decision to suspend Carvana’s operations “has brazenly violated state law in addition to its own rules, regulations and due process requirements while making false and reckless statements through press releases rather than engaging in constructive dialogue to remedy what are essentially technical paperwork issues.”

Thwaites said Michigan’s

In the filings, Carvana said that, as of Oct. 10, 71 customers were awaiting delivery of cars they bought and that the state told Carvana it could proceed with those previously scheduled deliveries. But then the state allegedly refused to allow Carvana to do so because paper titles had not yet been signed over to the customers. As a result, 48 customers are experiencing delays

“The person who wants the court to order someone to do something has to convince the court that money (damages) is not enough to remedy the harm,” Gordon said. “The person has to convince the court that an order forcing the other side to do something or stop doing it is the only way to do justice. That’s why an injunction is called an extraordinary remedy.”

Honda Makes Major Investment in Ohio To Create New Electric Vehicle Hub

Honda on Oct. 11 announced two major investments in Ohio, including $700 million to re-tool several of its existing auto and powertrain plants for production of electric vehicles and $3.5 billion with LG Energy Solution (LGES) to establish a previously announced joint venture facility to produce the battery modules to power them, pending final government approvals.

The JV battery plant will be located in Ohio’s Fayette County, about 40 miles southwest of Columbus.

The announcement, held 45 years to the day after Honda announced its first production facility in Ohio Oct. 11, 1977 will transform Honda’s Marysville Auto Plant (MAP), East Liberty Auto Plant (ELP) and Anna Engine Plant (AEP) for the electrified future, including the creation of more than 300 new jobs.

Honda plans to begin production and sales of Honda EVs in North America in 2026, based on its new Honda e:Architecture. The $700 million re-tooling will enable AEP associates to produce the battery case, to be combined with the battery modules from the JV plant on a sub-assembly line at MAP,

with the complete battery unit then installed in EVs built by associates at both MAP and ELP.

These Honda facilities, along with the new EV battery plant, will serve as a new EV hub in Ohio, and play a key role in developing the company’s knowledge and expertise in EV production that will be shared across Honda’s North American auto production network in the coming years. Honda’s EV hub will leverage the company’s longstanding production, product development, and purchasing operations located in Central Ohio.

As part of its goal to achieve carbon neutrality for all products and corporate activities by 2050, Honda announced a vision to make batteryelectric and fuel cell electric vehicles represent 100% of its vehicle sales by 2040 in North America.

“This is a very challenging time for our entire industry, but also a very exciting time as Honda invests in full electric vehicle production in the Buckeye State,” said Bob Nelson, executive vice president of American Honda Motor Co., Inc. “Honda has built hybrid-electric vehicles in Ohio for a number

of years, and the experience and expertise of our associates in manufacturing, product development and purchasing will serve as an important foundation as we transition to the electrified future.”

Honda produced and sold a record of more than 100,000 electrified vehicles in the U.S. last year, including the Accord Hybrid, CR-V Hybrid and Insight hybrid sedan. Honda’s new investment in its Ohio plants will support production of electric vehicles and EV components.

New EV Battery Production Joint Venture

Honda will obtain the battery modules from a new joint venture (JV) between Honda and LGES, subject to customary closing conditions, including regulatory approvals. That JV production facility represents a commitment to invest $3.5 billion in Fayette County, OH, and will employ 2,200 associates, who will produce pouchtype batteries to be provided to Honda plants for EV production.

Pending regulatory approvals, the joint venture between Honda

and LGES will be established in 2022, with the overall investment projected to reach $4.4 billion. The two companies plan to begin construction in Fayette County in early 2023, in order to complete the new production facility by the end of 2024. This will enable the start of mass production of battery modules using advanced pouchtype, Li-ion cells by the end of 2025, with an annual production capacity of approximately 40GWh.

“Honda is proud of our history in Ohio, where our U.S. manufacturing operations began more than four decades ago. Now, as we expand Honda’s partnership with Ohio, we are investing in a workforce that will create the power source for our future Honda and Acura electric vehicles,” said Nelson. “We want to thank the leaders of the state of Ohio, as well as in Fayette County, Jefferson Township, Jeffersonville and Washington Court House for welcoming this new joint venture between Honda and LG Energy Solution and giving us another Ohio community to call home.”

— Source: Honda

Training Donation

trained in how to use it onsite at CLC.

“I was honored to have been invited to attend the training along with several of my colleagues,” said CLC student Luis Guevara. “I was impressed with the versatility of the glue pulling system and its many advantages and speed in the use of the system. I was able to apply what I learned that Friday during training right away on Monday at work.”

AASPI was introduced to CLC’s program by adjunct faculty Eddie Santiago, who has taught at CLC for six years and is a member of the AASPI Board of Directors. Members of AASPI, including Executive Director Julie Lombardo, toured the college’s facility in June.

Impressed by the facility and course curriculum, Lombardo submitted a nomination on behalf of CLC’s ACR program to the KECO Quarterly Collision Educators Giveaway to try and further help the program.

“AASPI is committed to the cuttingedge technological advancement of the collision repair industry,” said AASPI President Bob Gottfred. synergies represented in introducing the KECO Advanced Glue Pulling

System at the College of Lake County are emblematic. Merging high-end technical training at the college level prepares graduating students with the knowledge to hit the ground running in their careers.”

Obtaining newer and more modern machinery gives CLC students the chance to gain skills and experience they wouldn’t have otherwise been able to until they started their career.

“Working with industry is very important for the ACR program because we pride ourselves in staying current and exposing students to valuable networking opportunities with our industry partners,” said ACR Department Chair Octavio Cavazos.

Source: College of Lake County

Panasonic To Start Building Kansas Battery Factory

By Simon Alvarez Teslarati

Tesla battery partner Panasonic said it intends to start the buildout of its Kansas plant in November, and is looking to start mass production there by March 2025.

With its Kansas plant, Panasonic is making a serious play for the fast-growing EV segment in the U.S.

Panasonic is already supplying batteries for Tesla through Gigafactory Nevada. The upcoming Kansas plant is expected to provide batteries for Tesla’s Gigafactory Texas facility.

In July, Panasonic announced it had picked Kansas as the site for its new battery factory; later reports suggested the Japanese conglomerate is looking at a possible Oklahoma facility as well. Panasonic said it expects the upcoming Kansas plant’s initial production capacity to be around 30 GWh.  Kansas officials have shared their excitement for Panasonic’s

new battery plant. State officials said in July the facility is expected to create up to 4,000 jobs with an investment of up to $4 billion.

In a statement, Kazuo Tadanobu, president of Panasonic Energy Co., explained the company is looking to strengthen its battery production capacity in North America.

“As the global shift to EVs accelerates, we are looking into ways to strengthen our battery production capacity in North America and meet the growing demand from our automotive partners,” Tadanobu said.

As noted in a Reuters report, Panasonic would be producing 2170 cells in its Kansas plant. However, expectations are also high that the Japanese company would be producing Tesla’s newer and larger 4680 cells in the facility. Tesla and Panasonic are currently working together to develop 4680 cells, with the Japanese battery maker expected to start production of the new batteries in Japan during its next fiscal year.

What You’re Missing by Not Researching Battery Disconnect and Reconnect Procedures

During a recent collision industry seminar I was teaching, I asked if there were any technicians in the class, and several people raised their hands.

I asked them: “If I walked into your shop, and asked you if you research the procedures in the OEM repair manual before you disconnect a battery, what would you say?”

It’s a question I’d like you to consider right now as you start reading this article.

In that class, I heard one tech muttering something quietly, and I asked him what he said.

“I would say if you don’t know how to disconnect a battery, you shouldn’t be working on cars,” he replied.

battery. The OEM may in turn contact the customer via text or email, or sometimes even alert the dealership service department to ask them to reach out to that customer.

Your failure to research the procedures prior to disconnecting that battery just created a bad customer service experience.

So before you ever disconnect a battery, determine whether the vehicle is connected, and if so, determine if you need to place it in “service mode” first.

Another consideration is “wait time.” Every automaker I’ve researched says you have to wait a certain amount of time after you turn the vehicle off before you disconnect the battery. It’s not a one-size-fits-all

reconnect procedures for a Ford that said the vehicle must be driven for a certain amount of time and distance so the engine can relearn or reprogram itself. I’ve seen other OEMs say when you reconnect the battery you have to do a steering angle sensor procedure.

So now that you’ve read this article, I’m going to ask you again: If I walked into your shop, and asked you if you research the procedures in the OEM repair manual before you disconnect a battery, what would you say?

Oh, and another incentive for taking this important step: The “Who Pays for What?” survey found that among the shops performing the OEM battery reconnect procedures, nearly two-thirds (63%) said they are paid for that labor “always” or “most of the time” by the eight largest national insurers.

At Collision Advice, we recently

That’s a fair statement, I told him. But then I took him—and the rest of the class—through the OEM procedures for a particular vehicle, showing him what that automaker states you need to be aware of before you disconnect a battery. Yet I think most of you, like that tech in my class, would acknowledge that no, you’re not researching the OEM repair procedures before you disconnect a battery.

So let’s talk about this. First, one of the things you need to know before you disconnect a battery is whether the vehicle is connected to telematics. This is only going to become more important moving forward as more vehicles are “connected” to things like General Motors’ OnStar or Toyota/ Lexus Safety Connect.

What we’ve found is, in some instances, if the vehicle is connected and you disconnect the battery, it may send an alert through the telematics to the automaker to say something happened to this car’s

Mike Anderson — From the Desk of Mike Anderson

Industry trainer Mike Anderson worries too few shops are researching automaker information related to disconnecting and reconnecting vehicle batteries

“Every vehicle manufacturer that I’m aware of has certain procedures that must be done when you reconnect a battery.”

MIKE ANDERSON COLLISION ADVICE

and calibration software platform. He also authored a book, “Auto Industry Disruption, Who and What is Being Disrupted and What to Do About It.”

In October, Auto Techcelerators was acquired by Opus IVS™, a global diagnostics, ADAS calibration, programming and on-demand remote support company.

that everyone in the automotive, collision, glass, truck and insurance companies can benefit from.

The acquisition will also allow us to expand the sales and marketing of our existing Auto Techcelerators CoPilot suite to existing and future Opus customers in North America, the UK and Australia.

Q:With the sale of the company, what will your new role be?

A:My new title is vice president of ADAS solutions. My focus will be on designing, developing and delivering this platform. It will also include educating the industry on the importance of proper diagnostic, ADAS, calibration and validation processes and documentation.

presentation the next morning so I could attend the SEMA Awards Breakfast and receive the award.

When someone like me invents something from an idea and receives this type of award, it validates all the blood, sweat and tears it took to launch a product like Test Drive CoPilot.

It was also very satisfying to have Test Drive CoPilot receive runner-up in the new ADAS Product Category, be selected as a top five finalist in the SEMA Launch Pad competiton, and receive the SEMA Global Media Award.

standards.

Q:As the new CIC chairman, what is your goal during your term and what are you most excited about?

At the 2022 SEMA Show held in November in Las Vegas, NV, Terlep was honored for his hard work and dedication over the years. During the event, he was inducted into the Hall of Eagles, the collision industry’s Hall of Fame; received a SEMA Best New Product Award in the category of Collision Repair & Refinish; was given a Chairperson’s Award for co-chairing the CIECA Emerging Technologies Committee; and was named chairman of the Collision Industry Conference (CIC).

Autobody News recently had the opportunity to ask Terlep about his accomplishments and what he attributes his success to.

Q:What prompted the sale of Auto Techcelerators to Opus IVS and how will this impact Auto Techcelerator’s focus?

A:The sale to Opus IVS started with a phone call from Brian Herron, the CEO, inquiring if we had an interest in selling our company. After multiple phone calls and a trip to the Opus IVS office, it became apparent that our organizations had many synergies and business opportunities if we integrated Opus IVS solutions with our technologies.

Based on the synergies and opportunities, the decision to sell the company to Opus IVS was easy.

I think the acquisition will allow Opus IVS to make a much bigger impact on the industry when it comes to ADAS services, calibrations and validation. When we combine our technologies, we hope to deliver a single end-to-end diagnostic, ADAS, calibration and validation platform

Based on previous experiences with Auto Techcelerators and other corporations, I am sure I will be involved in other aspects of the company, such as business development, marketing, sales, etc. I want to help the company and its employees be successful.

Q:Congratulations on the awards you received during the SEMA Show, including being inducted into the prestigious Hall of Eagles. Only a few distinguished individuals receive this honor for their contributions toward the betterment of the industry. What do you attribute your success to?

A:Humbled… honored… thankful… When I started in this industry in 1984, I had no idea my “collision industry adventure” would take me to where I am today. When I look at the names of previous inductees, I never thought my name would be added to this list of industry icons.

I am thankful and blessed to have met thousands of great people in this industry who have had a positive personal and professional impact on me and allowed me to learn from them.

I attribute my success to hard work, perseverance and always striving to “do the right thing,” as well as listening and being willing to help anyone who needs it.

Q:What was your reaction to receiving the SEMA New Product Award for Test Drive Co-Pilot?

A:I was at dinner with some of my new Opus teammates when I was told. As you can imagine, I was shocked, excited, happy and satisfied! I had to call Jordan Hendler, the administrator of CIC, at 8 p.m. the night before the CIC meeting to reschedule my committee

What is the importance of being involved as the co-chair of CIECA’s Emerging Technologies Committee and helping to create new standards for the collision industry?

A:Being co-chair of the Emerging Technologies Committee with Gene Lopez from Seidner’s Collision allows us to “see around the corner” on what and potentially how “the next big thing” will affect our industry and how CIECA needs to get involved. CIECA plays such an important role in data and technology and I believe the Emerging Technologies Committee plays a critical role in helping CIECA understand and prepare for future

A:I am humbled and honored to be selected as the next CIC chairman for 2023 and 2024. I know I have a lot of big shoes to fill but I am excited about the opportunity. Darrell Amberson, the past chair, really raised the bar, so I hope to raise the bar even further. I am most excited about my opportunity to lead an organization and work with committed people who can positively impact the collision industry.

I have a few goals and objectives during my term. This includes continuing to “raise the bar,” as past chairs Jeff Peevy and Darrell Amberson have done over the past four years. I would also like to position CIC as THE industry event to learn from, contribute to, participate in, network, challenge industry norms, debate, have fun and leave each meeting wanting to come back. I will challenge “the body” to become more engaged, more vocal and, when appropriate, more provocative. Overall, I want to leave CIC better than it was when my term ends.

Q:

Frank Terlep was inducted into the Hall of Eagles, the collision industry’s Hall of Fame, during the SEMA Show

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How Will Results from SCRS ‘Blend’ Study Be Used Moving Forward?

By John Yoswick Autobody News

With the Society of Collision Repair Specialists’ release in November of the results of its hands-on study demonstrating that blending of a panel takes an average of 31% more time than a full panel refinish—rather than the 50% less time allocated in the three estimating systems— the association was asked during CIC where the issue goes moving forward.

“Here’s the beauty of CIC: That’s up to you,” Aaron Schulenburg of SCRS said during the conference held during SEMA in Las Vegas. “Our goal was to capture data, and present it in a transparent manner, and to share it with the industry so you can have the dialogue you need to have. I don’t know where that occurs or how that occurs, but I think there’s a big disconnect between what we’ve identified and what exists today.”

The study came about because the three estimating system providers each establish its own refinish labor allowance for any given panel, and while those labor times

for the same panel may differ from one estimating system to another, all three companies use 50% as a blend calculation.

“Our members have long challenged that,” Schulenburg said this past summer, before the study was completed.

The association’s 35-page report on the study—which can be downloaded at scrs.com/

a full refinish and a blend panel using the same paint colors on new F-150 panels supplied by Ford.

Across all colors, the average blend time among the five paint lines were between about 128% and about 134% of full refinish time.

“What’s remarkable to me, with all the different [paint] companies and [their] different processes, is how close the [percentage differences] are among all of the companies,” Robb Power, senior manager of refinish solutions for PPG, said at CIC. “I would have never thought it would come in that close. To me, that adds validity to what we see in those results.”

to capture credible data, to have real conversation, that helps motivate positive change in the industry,” Schulenburg said.

Attracting And Training New Employees

Another panel discussion at CIC in Las Vegas focused on employee recruitment and retention.

Jim Guthrie, president of Car Crafters, which operates five shops in

blendstudy—details how it was conducted, with painters employed by each of the five major paint companies following their company’s process guidelines for spraying both

Schulenburg said it’s clearly an issue that needs to be addressed with the information providers, who were invited to attend the SCRS study but who were “not present” over the two days. He said he feels it is an appropriate topic for CIC’s Paint and Materials Committee to address moving forward, but regardless, he said, it “can and should be addressed with the information providers [as] an issue that has been brought to them through our work with different associations…for years.”

“That was the goal from the onset,

New Mexico, said his company uses a “recruitment card” as part of its effort to attract new employees. Guthrie said all his employees have the cards, which include a QR code that can be scanned to link to the company’s “career page” where someone can fill out and submit an application.

ENGINEERING MEETS ARTISTRY

A New Generation of Spray Guns

Professional painters understand they are a direct reflection of their work. It is critical to have tools that are engineered for their craft and deliver optimal performance.

The DV1 spray gun family revolutionized the spraying process using superior atomization for ease of application and reduced paint consumption.

www.devilbissdv1.com

Robb Power of PPG said the consistency in the results SCRS blend study among five different paint manufacturers “add validity” to the findings

“That was the goal from the onset, to capture credible data, to have real conversation, that helps motivate positive change in the industry.”

AARON SCHULENBURG SCRS EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Guthrie said collision repair businesses can develop an internal promotion to encourage employees to hand out the card to potential hires. If a referred potential employee gets hired and stays for six months, the employee who handed out that card may get $500, for example, “and if they stay another six months, they get another $500,” Guthrie said. “Whatever the promotion is that you

through bumper tools, door panels and bumper repair.” Students learn a skill, then can use it in the shop.

“It takes somebody off the street, teaches them the basics, the theory, and then they go put it into practice,” he said.

Once a student in the program can demonstrate the skill, and has the tools to perform it, they are “signed off for that particular function, whether it’s drilling spot welds or whatever.”

Within two or three years, he said, students are “advanced to a point where they’re basically a B-tech. It’s a way they can earn while they learn.”

Reasons Why Insurers Receive A Low Grade

a prior year’s survey completed by more than 1,100 shops, showed differences exist even among insurance companies receiving a similar grade.

Not surprisingly, some of the reasons commonly cited by shops for giving an insurer a low grade were payment-related issues: an insurer seeks “unreasonable” discounts on parts or labor, or is viewed as “slow to pay.”

However, many of the reasons are primarily process-related rather than payment-related. While only 3% of shops grading one insurer said they gave that insurer a “C-” or lower

insurers, but only 27% of shops felt that was true about one of the other insurers receiving a similar low grade.

These findings, Yoswick said, offer insurers “something of a roadmap for improving their relationship with shops without thinking that the only thing that would make shops happier is paying them more money.”

Change In CIC Leadership

Also at CIC in Las Vegas, Darrell Amberson was recognized at the end of his two years serving as chairman of the conference.

want to come up with within your own shop. The recruitment card has been a neat little tool for us.”

Guthrie said his company tries to have six to 12 entry-level employees participating in its “earn while you learn” program, which uses a basic curriculum that “starts with the simple EPA/OSHA stuff, and then goes

Also at CIC, John Yoswick of CRASH Network shared data from that publication’s annual “Insurer Report Card” survey, showing the reasons shops give some insurance companies’ claims practices a lower grade can be based more on the processes that insurer uses rather than payment-related concerns.

The Insurer Report Card allows collision repair professionals to grade the insurance companies they interact with based on how well each carrier’s policies and practices help ensure quality repairs and customer service. The data shared at CIC, from

because they view that company’s claims staff as inexperienced or poorly trained, for example, more than one in four shops cited that as the reason they gave one of the other insurers a similarly low grade. Almost 80% shops said one insurer requires more digital images than other

“We want to thank you for all you’ve done because you’ve certainly raised the bar,” Jeff Hendler, a past CIC chairman who has been CIC administrator, told Amberson.

“Together with our committees and chair people, we work to elevate our industry to higher levels of performance, professionalism, technical expertise and business acumen,” Amberson said of CIC in his closing comments.

“I believe we are making a difference.”

Frank Terlep of Auto Techcelerators will begin his term as CIC chairman at the next meeting, being held Jan. 19 in Palm Springs, CA.

Darrell Amberson was recognized at CIC in Las Vegas as he concluded his two years as chairman of the conference

A panel discussion at CIC included representatives of all the paint companies that participated in the SCRS “blend study.”

Collision Repairers Find Cost Savings & Quality Care with SCRS National Health Care Plan

By Stacey Phillips Autobody News

Following the Society of Collision Repair Specialists (SCRS) announcement in September that it implemented a national health care solution for members, Executive Director Aaron Schulenburg said the program has received an overwhelmingly positive response from the collision repair industry.

carrier.

Schulenburg, Dunn and Frazer shared details about the program.

Schulenburg: In 2018, the SCRS board began focusing on how we could best serve member requests around human resources and benefits programs. We found that health care was their biggest challenge. They said it costs a fortune, they get bad coverage they can’t use, spend a ton of money, and feel they don’t have better options.

We’ve worked closely with both companies and have been impressed with the importance they have placed on touching base with the industry and ensuring members understand the plan.

Q:

“Since launching the plan, we’ve been able to save companies within the collision repair space close to $650,000 in premiums,” said Schulenburg. “That’s the tip of the iceberg and doesn’t account for the out-of-pocket expenses families can save.”

Schulenburg said the plan is saving companies up to 20% versus the renewals they are receiving from their current insurance providers. Additionally, he said the plan is unique in that it provides $0 deductibles, employee choice in their out-of-pocket maximum, and a list of no-cost services, such as primary care, urgent care, specialty care, labs and imaging, generic prescriptions and mental health care. He said most plans do not cover these services until an employee meets the deductible.

During the time when most employers go through open enrollment, collision repairers could stop by the SCRS booth at the SEMA Show and learn about the health and retirement plans available from two organizations involved in setting up and managing the programs, Decisely and Gravie. They included Decisely’s CEO and co-founder Kevin Dunn and SVP of Business Development Eric Frazer, and Abir Sen, co-founder and co-CEO of Gravie, the insurance

We worked with Decisely, a firm specializing in benefits brokerage and HR services, and launched the SCRS 401(k) Multiple Employer Plan (MEP) first because it was easier to put together for members. Health care is a complicated area of the industry, so we relied on Decisely to help navigate the available options. We also engaged with Gravie, the plan provider, to learn more about their product Comfort™.

Our goal was to find a national program for SCRS members. We wanted it to reduce costs for employers and employees and improve the quality of care. We needed it to be something that gave our industry a distinct advantage to help recruit entrants. We didn’t need to just compete with larger businesses in our own space; we needed to compete with industries offering more competitive benefit plans.

Q:

Why did you team up with Decisely and Gravie?

Schulenburg: Decisely was the right partner because it was as important for them as it was for us to find the best plan for the industry.

Gravie’s cofounders also made it clear how important it was to change how people interact with health care. We found they could offer a sustainable plan and deliver average savings between 10 to 15% versus members’ existing plans.

Gravie’s plan utilizes the Aetna and Cigna PPO networks, which most people are familiar with. The result is a familiar experience without the familiar costs and obstacles.

What did you want the plan to include?

Frazer: In 2018, association health plans were a common topic in national news. Regardless of the political climate and the winds of change in regulatory agencies and state insurance organizations, we wanted to find a plan that could rival large corporate buying power. We’re happy we found a solution.

Dunn: Small businesses feel the brunt of high premium costs. Because they often have a small number of employees, they are underwritten with a high premium. It’s unfair that they are not part of a scaled product. That’s what Decisely was able to offer.

We sourced health care like large corporations such as Delta Airlines or FedEx because the collision repair industry is part of an amalgamation of a group of like-minded people. We wanted a plan that could help attract people to join the industry and retain them. We’ve found that an employee will stay at a company three and a half times longer if there is a benefits plan.

Q: What makes the program unique?

Frazer: When basic needs such as primary and specialist care, labs and generic prescriptions are covered at no cost, this meets 88% of health care needs for most people. That’s a 180-degree difference from other programs.

Dunn: With traditional plans, you pay a $50-$200 co-pay as part of your premium. The SCRS plan eliminates those costs, so there is no copay, whether that’s for a doctor’s appointment, an MRI or prescription.

Schulenburg: By offering an affordable insurance plan with no co-pay, you get a healthier population with people who take their prescription drugs and go to the doctor.

This program is about giving health care solutions that people can use today. One of our early adopters employs a technician whose wife is pregnant. When the couple

compared their existing plan to this new one, they found they would save $6,000 in out-of-pocket expenses on the birth of their child. That’s a meaningful difference.

Q: Who is eligible to join?

Schulenburg: Anybody in the collision repair industry can shop the plan and learn about its benefits. Those who choose to participate must be SCRS members.

Q: Why should employers evaluate the plan?

Schulenburg: We encourage all employers, whether they already have a plan, to look at the available options and get a free quote. Imagine if you could leverage a 10% or 15% savings. That is a substantial amount of money that could be reinvested into your business and/or employees.

Dunn: It’s a challenging environment with inflationary concerns and high costs. This plan is great for employers to save on premiums and put money back into employees’ pockets. If you can save a family $6,000, the employee will remember that and be a cheerleader for the company.

With the savings, many employers are taking part of that money and investing it in other plans, such as vision, dental and setting up a life insurance policy.

Frazer: If you want a different result, you must do something different. Gravie’s program SCRS has secured for members is already showing results.

While the plan can help larger SCRS members, it also helps level up the playing field for small- and medium-sized members so they can compete, recruit and retain like a Fortune 500 company.

Schulenburg: There are things that SCRS does that are important as an association and there are things that we can do that really make a difference in people’s lives. This plan can change a lot of people’s lives.

For more information, visit www.scrs. com/healthcare.

Q: Why was the health care plan initiated?

Collision repair businesses had the opportunity to stop by the SCRS booth at the SEMA Show and learn about the health and retirement plans available from two organizations involved in setting up and managing the programs, Decisely and Gravie

Mullen Buys Bankrupt ELMS, Indiana Plant For $240 Million

By Dan Mihalascu InsideEVs

After acquiring a 60% controlling interest in Bollinger Motors in September, Mullen Automotive recently bought bankrupt Electric Last Mile Solutions (ELMS) and its assets, including the plant in Mishawaka, IN.

The EV startup received approval from the U.S. Bankruptcy Court on Oct. 13 to acquire ELMS’s assets in a $240 million cash transaction.

The California-based startup said the former ELMS plant in Indiana will provide it with the capability to produce up to 50,000 vehicles per year.

Furthermore, the deal will accelerate the launch of the Mullen Five crossover, Bollinger B1 SUV and Bollinger B2 pickup by more than 12 months. This confirms the B1 and B2 are back on the table after Mullen became the majority owner of the Michigan-based startup.

While the Mullen Five and Bollinger B1/B2 retail vehicles will be made at the newly acquired Indiana plant, the Mullen Class 1

and Class 3 Commercial Delivery vehicles will be assembled at Mullen’s existing facility in Tunica, MS. The site will become the Commercial Manufacturing Center and will produce all Mullen and Bollinger Class 1 to 6 commercial vehicles.

“Mullen’s acquisition of Bollinger was one of the largest transactions of its kind in the EV market. Upon closing the ELMS transaction, the company will be in a position to strategically leverage all its acquired assets to shorten its production path and aggressively expand into the commercial and consumer EV market,” said David Michery, CEO and chairman of Mullen Automotive.

The Auto Care Alliance announced a new corporate partnership with Broadly, a service that helps repair facilities attract leads, connect with customers and automatically request reviews.

Broadly is among the first 15 companies to join with the ACA to support the organization and its members.

The Mullen Class 1 and Class 3 commercial vehicles will be the first to arrive on the market in 2023, while production of the Mullen Five will begin in 2024 in Indiana. The company also plans to build the 1,000-horsepower Mullen Five RS “ultra-high-performance EV sport crossover,” claimed to be capable of 0-60 mph acceleration in under two seconds and a top speed of 200 mph.

Gas Demand Declines As Recession Fears Weigh Down

Market Expectations

17.

By Andrew Gross AAA

Fears of a global economic recession led to a major drop in the price of crude, down $7, which helped to minimize pump price increases the week of Oct. 10.

Meanwhile, domestic gasoline demand decreased as fewer drivers fueled up in the first half of October. According to the Energy Information Administration (EIA), gas demand decreased nationally from 9.47 million b/d to 8.28 million b/d, and total domestic gasoline stocks increased by 2 million bbl to 209.5 million bbl.

Lower gasoline demand, amid increasing supply and fluctuating oil prices, has contributed to the national average moving downward. If demand continues to drop coupled with a slide in oil prices, drivers could see increases in prices at the pump start to slow and even come down through the week of Oct.

The national average pump price for a gallon of gas decreased three cents to hit $3.88. The Oct. 17 national average of $3.88 is 20 cents higher than a month ago and 56 cents more than a year ago.

The nation’s top 10 largest weekly decreases: California (-28 cents), Wisconsin (-23 cents), Oregon (-19 cents), Nevada (-18 cents), Michigan (-16 cents), Washington (-14 cents), Alaska (-12 cents), Indiana (-12 cents), Ohio (-12 cents) and Arizona (-10 cents).

The nation’s top 10 least expensive markets: Georgia ($3.25), Texas ($3.30), Mississippi ($3.33), South Carolina ($3.37), Arkansas ($3.38), Tennessee ($3.38), Louisiana ($3.40), Florida ($3.40), Alabama ($3.43) and Missouri ($3.46).

Source: AAA

Mullen said the Indiana factory, which previously produced General Motors’ Hummer H2 SUV and SUT vehicles, the MercedesBenz R-Class as part of a contract manufacturing deal and ELMS Urban Delivery vans, is the main benefit of the ELMS acquisition. Besides bringing additional production capacity, the plant will enable a significant reduction of Mullen’s previously forecast overall spend.

The deal also gives Mullen Automotive control over ELMS’s intellectual property rights and inventory---including finished and unfinished vehicles, part modules component parts, tooling, raw materials and more.

Broadly offers responsive websites, automated web chat, pay-over-time customer financing, text and email communication, mobile payment options and a dashboard featuring insights and reports.

Members of ACA will receive up to 25% off a subscription to Broadly Premium. Further details about the Broadly special offer for Auto Care Alliance members can be found at www.autocarealliance.org/broadly.

Source: Auto Care Alliance

The Mullen Five electric crossover at the 2021 LA Auto Show.

Prestigious Awards Announced at Collision Industry Red Carpet Awards Breakfast During SEMA 2022

By Stacey Phillips Autobody News

Members of the collision repair industry gathered at the Collision Industry Red Carpet Awards Breakfast on Nov. 2 during the SEMA Show in Las Vegas, NV.

Prestigious awards and recognitions were given out by

Collision, and Frank Terlep, of Opus IVS, received a Chairman’s Award for extraordinary leadership cochairing the Emerging Technologies Committee, which has spun off several other committees to develop standards.

Enterprise Holdings was named CIECA’s Company of the Year. “The company chosen this year truly supports CIECA and its mission in many more ways than just volunteering on committees,” noted Martinez, who recognized Kim DeVallance Caron for her dedication.

CREF

Pictured, left to right, are CIECA Chairman Phil Martinez; CIECA Chairperson’s Award recipients Gene Lopez of Seidner’s Collision Centers and Frank Terlep of Opus IVS; and CIECA Executive Director Paul Barry

the Collision Industry Electronic Commerce Association (CIECA), the Collision Repair Education Foundation (CREF), Greco Publishing, the Inter-Industry Conference on Auto Collision Repair (I-CAR), the National Auto Body Council (NABC) and the Society of Collision Repair Specialists (SCRS).

“This awards breakfast is important for our industry… and I appreciate the companies, organizations and individuals who have supported this effort,” said Jeff Peevy, the master of ceremonies and I-CAR’s vice president of technical products, programs and services. “It’s a beautiful and very respectful thing that we do to make this industry better for the future generations coming.”

The event was sponsored by participating organizations.

CIECA

CIECA Chairman Phil Martinez, senior technical consultant at Mitchell International, announced CIECA’s awards.

Three Architecture Committee members received an Outstanding Contribution Award for working on the next generation of collision industry standards—CIECA API Standards (CAPIS). They included Committee Chair Dan Webster from Enlyte, Andy Bober from Entegral and Mike Hastings from Car-Part. com.

Gene Lopez, of Seidner’s

Brandon Eckenrode, managing director of CREF, announced Rod Habel, director of training for Sherwin-Williams, received a Fueling the Future Award, which recognizes an individual or company that has gone above and beyond helping the collision repair school program students and instructors.

“He has always been there for schools and students across the country,” said Eckenrode.

Two instructors shared what Habel’s support has meant to them and their programs. Jay Abitz from Freedom High School in Wisconsin said the generous donations from Habel and Sherwin-Williams have really changed the trajectory of their program.

Kenny McMillian from Kennedy King College in Illinois also shared his sentiment. “I would like to express my

globally as the ‘go to’ in collision repair,” said Alicia Figurelli, Greco’s Publishing’s senior vice president.

“My dad passed away in May and this is a memory of him,” said Anderson. “He helped me understand what quality was and customer service, and I’m grateful for that.” He added he was truly humbled and grateful for the award.

I-CAR

I-CAR’s awards were announced by John Van Alstyne, CEO and president. Bill Condron at Sawgrass Ford received the Jeff Silver Memorial Award, named after the industry

Garoutte gave accolades to those in attendance and those who weren’t.

“Our mission and vision are to make the collision industry the best it can be and put on its best face for the communities where we live and work,” said Garoutte.

SCRS

During the last presentation of the morning, Danny Gredinberg, administrator of the Database Enhancement Gateway (DEG), received the 2022 March Taylor Kina’ole Award. It was presented by Aaron Schulenburg, executive director of SCRS; Barry Dorn, vice president of Dorn’s Body & Paint; Toby Chess; and Dale Matsumoto, president of Auto Body Hawaii

“This is a very special, meaningful award for all of us,” said Schulenburg.

Pictured, left to right, are Barry Dorn, Dorn’s Body & Paint; Dale Matsumoto, Auto Body Hawaii; Toby Chess; Danny Gredinberg, Database Enhancement Gateway, and recipient of the SCRS 2022 March Taylor Kina’ole Award; and SCRS Executive Director Aaron Schulenburg

leader who was considered the pioneer of I-CAR Gold Class and Platinum recognition programs.

“Just as Jeff showed the difference one person can make, our award recipient believes there is something he can do about the pervasive talent shortage,” said Van Alstyne. “He’s made it a personal mission to recruit new talent in the industry he loves. Just as important, he takes the time to nurture the newcomers and support the continuing professional development of everyone he works with.”

Eveland Bros., Collision Repair, Inc., a family-owned and operated operation, received the Russ Verona Memorial Award.

When March passed away, Schulenburg said it was important this his legacy of Kina’ole—doing the right thing at the right time for the right reasons—was honored, acknowledged and rewarded. It also became a mantra for SCRS and many others.

“True Kina’ole really happens naturally. It has a deeper meaning,” said Matsumoto. “It doesn’t happen in your head. It happens here… in your heart.”

Chess, the 2021 recipient of the March Taylor Kina’ole Award, said March was a great mentor and stood for what Kina’ole is. March regularly arrived at his shop at 5 a.m. to communicate with the information providers on times that were not right in the database.

“When he got up to 200 of them, he said, ‘I can’t do this anymore. They are coming in faster than I can handle,’” recalled Chess. That was the birth of the DEG.

special thanks and gratitude to Rod Habel and all he has done for our program at Kennedy King College over the years, as well as everyone at Sherwin-Williams who embraced our collision program,” he said.

Greco Publishing

Mike Anderson from Collision Advice received Greco’s Publishing’s Industry Icon Award. “Our inaugural industry icon award winner is known locally, regionally, nationally and

“Our award-winning collision repair center invests heavily in the education of its staff who hold I-CAR Platinum credentials and are certified by ASE and dozens of OEMs,” said Van Alstyne. The business has adhered to I-CAR’s Gold Class standard continuously since 1993, making it one of a very small group of shops in the country to reach this milestone.

NABC

Rather than handing out awards, NABC President and CEO Bill

When announcing the award recipient, Dorn said Gredinberg is tireless with the DEG, just like March, getting up early and staying up late to do the right thing for those who don’t have a voice. “[Danny] has shown us time and time again that he cares and he cares selflessly about what goes on and he embodies what Kina’ole is.”

“I love giving back because there was a time when I needed help and I was reaching out to resources that were available through the DEG,” said Gredinberg. “I’m very fortunate to be part of a great industry that has given me so much.”

Bill Condron, left, recipient of the I-CAR Jeff Silver Memorial Award, with I-CAR CEO and President John Van Alstyne, right

The National Auto Body Council® made a big splash raindrops and high winds included during its 2022 NABC SEMA Celebration at this year’s SEMA Show on the SEMA Reveal main stage outside the Las Vegas Convention Center.

of the industry leaders who comprise the Hall of Eagles, the collision industry’s Hall of Fame, which honors exceptional individuals whose longterm efforts have reached beyond their jobs and self-interest to make significant contributions towards the betterment of the industry.

The 2021 and 2022 Hall of Eagles inductees are Dan Risley, Petra Schroeder, Doug Webb, Tim Adelmann and Frank Terlep

NABC® Awards Announced NABC® then presented its annual awards the NABC Changing and

The Recipients Included:

Alex Ramirez, U.S. Navy veteran, nominated by Forgotten Not Gone, received a 2017 Nissan Sentra donated by GEICO and repaired by Caliber Collision.

John Bush, U.S. Army veteran, selected by U.S. Vets, received a 2018 Kia Optima donated by GEICO and repaired by Service King/Crash Champions.

Rosemary Smith, U.S. Army veteran, nominated by Welcome Home Troops, received a 2019 Honda HR-V also donated by GEICO and repaired by Service King/Crash Champions.

presentation by Chapman Collision.

Ofelia Valencia Chavez, U.S. Army National Guard active duty, selected by Las Vegas Vet Center, received a 2016 Jeep Renegade donated by Farmers and repaired by Classic Collision.

Angelique Corrente, minister and caregiver for her nephew, nominated by Lake Mead Christian Ministries, received a 2015 Hyundai Tucson donated by Nationwide and repaired by Faulkner Collision.

The celebration showcased NABC annual awards, the Hall of Eagles recipients and the NABC Recycled Rides presentation to nine deserving Las Vegas families. The 2022 NABC SEMA Celebration was held Nov. 2 right in front of the world’s largest automotive aftermarket event. More than 300 NABC members, guests and colleagues joined in the celebration. Alan Taylor of “The Drive” radio network was the emcee for the event.

Saving Lives award and the NABC President’s Award.

The NABC Changing and Saving Lives Award recognizes the individual in the collision repair industry who has delivered exemplary service in the NABC mission of Changing and Saving Lives Every Day, far beyond their role in the industry.

Michael Quinn was selected as the recipient, and his daughter Emily accepted on his behalf.

Recognition Of NABC F.R.E.E. 5,000th First Responder

The event kicked off with the recognition of a special milestone in the NABC First Responder Emergency Extrication™ program, which recently saw it’s 5,000th first responder participate in an education event.

Kyle Medeiros, chair of the NABC F.R.E.E. committee, and George Avery, NABC F.R.E.E. program manager, joined Faulkner Collision and collision center manager April Lausch, and Nationwide Insurance associate vice presidents Scott Dunfee and Scott Sherry, who donated 10 vehicles, to recognize Jamie Keenhold, an EMT and first responder with the Bath, PA, Firefighters and Ambulance Corp.

Hall Of Eagles For 2021 And 2022 Inducted

The next milestone was the recognition

The NABC President’s Award, which formally recognizes companies for their leadership of and commitment to improving the collision repair industry, is designed to honor the NABC member company that supports the vision of the NABC through donation of their time and resources. Enterprise Rent-a-Car was voted as the recipient, and Scott Sampley, vice president of replacement and leisure division for Enterprise, accepted on behalf of the organization.

NABC Recycled Rides Presented To Nine Recipients

Then, attention turned to the NABC Recycled Rides presentation, featuring vehicle donors GEICO, Farmers Insurance®, Travelers, Allstate, Enterprise, Nationwide and Hertz, and collision repair partners Caliber Collision, Fix Auto USA, Crash Champions/Service King, Chapman Collision, Classic Collision, Faulkner Collision and Gerber Collision.

Porsche Harris, single mother with three children, selected by Family Promise of Las Vegas, received a 2017 Kia Sedona donated by Travelers and repaired by Fix Auto USA.

Victoria Earwin, single mother with two children, selected by Family Promise of Las Vegas, received a 2020 Jeep Cherokee donated by Enterprise and prepared for

Tony Carriedo, single father of one, nominated by Family Promise of Las Vegas, received a 2020 Nissan Altima donated by Hertz and repaired by Chapman Collision.

Katherine Hall, single mother of two, selected by Family Promise of Las Vegas, received a 2019 Nissan Sentra donated by Allstate and repaired by Gerber Collision and Glass.

When each recipient opened their trunk they found a car care kit donated by Meguiar’s, and those with young children received car seats donated by Enterprise partner Longhouse Solutions.

Source: NABC

Pictured, left to right, are Debbie Teter, Scott Sampley, Emily Quinn, Stacy Bartnik and Clint Marlow.

Hall of Eagles.

ALLDATA’s ADAS Quick Reference Tool Receives SEMA New Product Award in ADAS

By Stacey Phillips Auotbody News

Founded in 1986, ALLDATA is known for providing OEM automotive repair and collision information. The company said more than 400,000 technicians use ALLDATA’s software solutions for faster diagnostics, updated OEM information covering 95% of vehicles on the road, and simpler shop management.

At the November SEMA Show in Las Vegas, NV, ALLDATA received a 2022 SEMA New Product Award in the Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) category for its new ADAS Quick Reference tool. The annual awards program recognizes cutting-edge new products introduced to the automotive specialty-equipment market.

The company previously received a PTEN Innovation Award this year.

During the show, ALLDATA representatives shared information about the company’s latest enhancements and provided live demonstrations of its OEM repair information products, diagnostic tools and shop management software, including ADAS Quick Reference, ALLDATA Inspections, and its new partnership with Nexpart Multi-Seller.

“We’re always looking for ways to help shops boost productivity and streamline the workflow process,” said Satwinder Mangat, president of ALLDATA.

ALLDATA Collision®, which makes it easy for customers to find ADAS repair information in one place.

A:ALLDATA’s ADAS Quick Reference provides one-click access to vehicle-specific ADAS information direct from the OEMs.

Shops can easily filter by system, component or location. The ADAS Quick Reference tool links directly to the ADAS system or component by name, such as Backup Camera or Lane Departure System. It also provides the location of the component, identifies removal/ replacement requirements that could result in extra labor for calibration or sublet costs, and displays basic calibration information, required tools and prerequisites for servicing ADAS components.

Having all the ADAS information in one place helps shops save time and prepare more accurate estimates and detailed blueprints based on OEM requirements and procedures.

vehicle, look up or add a new customer, check off a digital inspection sheet, and email it to the customer—all in minutes.

The tool works with ALLDATA Repair®, ALLDATA Collision® and

invoices in real-time.

ALLDATA Inspections gives shops flexibility to check in customers at their vehicles, identify services that are required or due soon, and deliver trustworthy advice on the spot for a better overall shop experience.

Is there anything you would like to share about ALLDATA’s

A:We’re excited about ALLDATA Find-A-Fix, a new information source that provides top-ranked diagnostic solutions for a specific vehicle and Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) based on data-driven analysis for trusted repairs. It’s currently included at no additional cost for a limited time with ALLDATA Repair® and ALLDATA Collision®.

Autobody News had the opportunity to talk to Mangat about the award and the company’s new products.

Q:What was your reaction to receiving the SEMA New Product Award?

A: We were thrilled! ADAS was a huge topic at SEMA, and we were honored to be recognized for this latest update to ALLDATA Repair® and

A:It was great to be back in full force for the first time since 2019. There was a ton of buzz about ADAS this year. That was certainly the case at the ALLDATA booth, where attendees lined up for demos of the new award-winning ADAS Quick Reference tool.

We were also excited to showcase our new partnership with Nexpart Multi-Seller. The tool makes it easy to add parts from leading vendors to an estimate, check local product availability in real-time, and quickly order from preferred suppliers.

ALLDATA Shop Manager now includes Nexpart Multi-Seller parts ordering, providing 24/7 access to leading suppliers in one place, including the AutoZone catalog.

In addition, show attendees could see how ALLDATA Inspections, another new tool, enables shops to jumpstart the customer check-in process curbside and perform digital vehicle inspections (DVIs).

ALLDATA Shop Manager, so that the entire service team can share customer and vehicle documentation for estimates, repair orders and

Another product on the horizon is ALLDATA Repair Forecaster. It generates a list of known failures for the next 12 months or 10,000 miles based on year/make/model/engine (YMME), location and odometer reading. This allows customers to use information from ALLDATA to share predicted repairs with customers.

For more information, visit www. alldata.com/en.

ALLDATA Inspections makes it easy to greet customers at the

Satwinder Mangat, president of ALLDATA, accepts the 2022 SEMA New Product Award for the company’s new ADAS Quick Reference tool

ALLDATA team members at the 2022 SEMA Show included, left to right, Christopher Mochan, Ric Martinez, Robert Gomez, Pat Castillo, Daniel Dimapasoc, Bryan Goux, Ryan Deugaw, Diane Flood, Crystal Brahm and Terry Louizos

Q: What are some features of the product that will benefit collision repair shops?

Q: What did you showcase during the SEMA Show?

Q: How will ALLDATA Inspections help collision repairers?

A:

Q:

future focus?

Axalta Promotes Muse

Axalta Coating Systems Ltd. On Oct. 31 announced Jim Muse has been promoted to VP of sales, Global Refinish, effective Jan. 1, 2023.

Muse will return to Axalta’s Global headquarters in Glen Mills, PA, and will report to Troy Weaver, senior vice president Global Refinish.

Prior to this promotion, Muse was Axalta’s vice president, EMEA Refinish, where he was responsible for Axalta’s Refinish Business in Europe, Middle East and North Africa. Muse first joined Axalta in 2013 as part of the North American refinish leadership team and was awarded the Axalta Senior Leadership Award in 2015 for his noteworthy contributions to the company.

Muse was also instrumental in the success of Axalta’s initiative to secure and grow market share with multiple location collision shop operators, mega-dealers and nationally recognized collision shop networks.

Source: Axalta

3M, CREF Host Student Career Fair To Connect Students For Skilled Trades in the Collision Repair Industry

The week of Oct. 3, more than 200 students from across the Minneapolis–Saint Paul metropolitan area attended a skilled trade career fair event hosted by the Collision Repair Education Foundation (CREF) in partnership with 3M at its global headquarters in St. Paul, MN.

The interactive two-day event was tailored for students seeking insight into the diverse career opportunities available in the collision repair industry along with opportunities to interview with local collision shops for work postsecondary training.

Middle, high school and technical college-level students interested in exploring either skilled trade opportunities or automobile painting and metal work were able to participate in interactive sessions and demos with industry leading professionals. The sessions related to auto body repair included metal work, abrasives and adhesives; the paint sessions allowed students to spray and match colors in a booth and participate in the final

stages of buffing and polishing an automobile at 3M headquarters.

For the first time, 3M and CREF extended the event to include a second day focused on promoting career awareness for students unsure of the path they want to take after high school. Working in collaboration with Saint Paul Public Schools, students were invited to the 3M campus to participate in hands-on demonstrations and conversations with 3M employees regarding their personal career paths and trade backgrounds.

“The collision repair industry, like many skilled trades, is experiencing challenges driven by labor shortages. This opportunity to connect students with industry professionals is invaluable and we hope it creates a spark to bring needed attention to what can be a rewarding career with multiple paths in collision repair,” said Dan Wittek, 3M Automotive Aftermarket Division global application engineer director. “We’re proud to be working alongside the Collision Repair Education Foundation to host this

interactive career fair event and serve as a conduit between the industry and the bright young talent who aspire to be our transportation industry professionals of the future.”

“CREF is honored to collaborate with 3M in this two-day event. The Transportation Career Fairs provide a chance to connect students and employers,” said Tiffany Bulak, CREF program coordinator.

“The addition of the interactive sessions with 3M and the career awareness day is a great example of collaboration and innovation to showcase all the opportunities collision repair industry has to offer.”

Training and education have always been at the core of 3M; it was a 3M training session at an auto body shop that inspired Richard Drew to invent masking tape in 1925. 3M is committed to investing every day for the training needs of current auto body shops and setting up success for the shops of tomorrow.

Source: 3M

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Schaumburg Honda Automobiles

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Victory Honda Plymouth 800-824-4646 734-453-3600

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McGrath Acura of Morton Grove

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Ziegler Honda Kalamazoo 855-513-4477 269-585-5812

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Brookdale Honda Brooklyn Center 800-899-8900 763-331-6880

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Richfield-Bloomington Honda Richfield 800-328-2703 612-866-8197

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Driven Brands Celebrates Opening of 1,000th Collision Repair Location in North America

By Abby Andrews Autobody News

Driven Brands’ collision group on Oct. 18 celebrated the opening of CARSTAR Patriot Auto Body Little Rock in Little Rock, AR—its 1,000th collision repair facility in North America.

From entering the collision market in 2015 with the purchase of 240 CARSTAR locations in the U.S., Driven Collision has quadrupled its footprint across North America in just seven years. Driven Collision now services commercial and retail customers in all 48 states within the contiguous U.S. and all 10 Canadian provinces operating under CARSTAR, ABRA and Fix Auto.

Chase Marchese is the owner of CARSTAR Patriot Auto Body Little Rock. It is his third CARSTAR location; he also owns two in Hot Springs, AR. Before entering the collision repair industry, Marchese served as a medic in the U.S. Army from 2006 to 2011, including deployments to Iraq.

He got his start in the business by managing several repair facilities for a friend, and in 2014, he became an owner of a collision repair facility. He joined the CARSTAR franchise family

CCC Introduces

CCC Intelligent Solutions on Oct. 25 announced the introduction of enhancements to CCC® Diagnostics, a transformative product that meets the evolving needs of an increasingly complex collision repair industry.

The new functionality will simplify the diagnostics process for repairers and drive consistency in the administration of diagnostics billing, including customizable diagnostic profiles and a dashboard to drive diagnostics workflow. These features are further enhanced through CCC Diagnostic’s existing integrations with leading diagnostic service providers.

Through use of the CCC Diagnostics optional enhancements, repairers will be able to configure notifications to their staff to help inform them when deciding which vehicles need a pre- or post-repair scan, as well as which repairs have had a diagnostic operation completed, but not billed. Visit www.cccis.com/ diagnostics.

Source: CCC Intelligent Solutions

in 2019.

“I decided to give it a shot, to see what CARSTAR does for me,” Marchese said. “I had just opened my second location. Now all my shops are running at maximum capacity. I opened my new store in Little Rock and was at maximum capacity within three weeks.

“CARSTAR has boosted my business,” Marchese said. “I don’t believe there is any way to have gotten to where we’ve gotten without it.”

Marchese said he aims to eventually open as many as 14 CARSTAR stores in Arkansas.

“I’m honored to be the 1,000th collision repair location in the Driven Brands family,” said Marchese. “As a businessman and entrepreneur, it is an exciting moment to be able to continue growing my business to

reach new incredible communities in this area.”

Marchese always remembered his service in the Army. He selects a veteran each quarter and repairs their vehicle free of charge.

“I’m proud to combine efforts with my paint vendor, BASF, and Driven Brands to help support a local Arkansas veterans’ charity as part of today’s celebration where we’re each donating $1,000 to Veterans Villages of America in honor of the 1,000th location,” Marchese said.

Marchese said he also hires veterans to work in his shops, as the military tends to instill two traits in its servicemembers important for working in collision repair: integrity and attention to detail.

Marchese is far from the only miniMSO owner within CARSTAR, said Dean Fisher, collision president, Driven Brands.

“Probably 40%-plus of CARSTAR stores are part of an MSO,” he said.

Sabrina Thring, collision COO, Driven Brands, said joining CARSTAR gives owners access to the model CARSTAR has built that supports MSO growth in any market.

“The sky’s the limit,” she said.

Brian Newberry, VP of development, Driven Brands, added

a lot of independent owners, like Marchese, are choosing to join CARSTAR because it has “a lot of boxes on the business plan checked off.”

“We’re a great fit for independents with a growth mindset,” he said.

Fisher said Driven Brands now has 58 ABRA locations, 766 CARSTAR locations and 186 Fix Auto locations.

He said the number adds up to more than 1,000 because Marchese opened his store in early September, and the brands have continued to grow since then.

“We’re still growing as we’re speaking,” Fisher said.

“CARSTAR has boosted my business, I don’t believe there is any way to have gotten to where we’ve gotten without it.”

CHASE MARCHESE CARSTAR PATRIOT AUTO BODY LITTLE ROCK OWNER

By Stacey Phillips Autobody News

Since introducing Mitchell Diagnostics in 2017, Mitchell International, Inc., an Enlyte company, has received three patents for collision repair diagnostics.

The most recent patent—11,462,061—was awarded by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) in October and announced by Mitchell during the SEMA Show in Las Vegas.

The company received its first auto diagnostics patent in 2018 and the second in 2021. The third patent covers the unique methods of using cloud-based technology to bring OEM procedures directly to repair technicians using a diagnostic scan tool.

“The company has continued to enhance its platform with patented and patent-pending technologies designed to assist repairers in meeting the needs of today’s complex vehicles,” said Jack Rozint, Mitchell’s SVP of repair sales. “Our Mitchell Diagnostics patents are just one example of the many things that Mitchell is doing to support

the collision industry in delivering proper, safe and efficient repairs on today’s advanced vehicles, helping to enhance profitability and customer satisfaction.”

Rozint said the latest patent covers key diagnostic workflow enhancements. These include the use of server-based technology to directly link Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) from the scan tool to the associated OEM repair procedure for that code.

With Mitchell Diagnostics, this is accomplished via connection of the scan devices to Mitchell’s cloudbased workflow infrastructure.

This feature was deployed in 2020 through an integration between Mitchell Diagnostics and Mitchell TechAdvisor.

“Linking the DTCs from the scan tool to the associated repair procedure can reduce the time it takes to blueprint and perform collision repairs,” said Rozint. “It can also support technicians in their delivery of a proper and safe repair since they have direct access to the relevant OEM procedures without having to look them up manually.”

When available, the repair

procedures are delivered back to the technician on the scan device. Also included is a way for collision repair facilities to systematically document that the necessary diagnostic and repair procedures were performed. Rozint said allowing shops to upload and easily share diagnostic reports with insurance partners can help

the Diagnostics as a Service (DaaS) platform and integration with Mitchell’s cloud-based solutions, repairers can receive assignments, perform scans, access more than 1,000 dynamic calibration routines, take photos, write estimates, link directly to OEM repair procedures based on DTCs, order parts and manage repair orders. They can also upload standardized scan and calibration reports as well as invoices to share with insurers.

The company said Mitchell Diagnostics has been used to perform more than 4 million pre-, inprocess and post-scans, as well as more than 50,000 dynamic and static calibrations.

At this year’s SEMA Show, Mitchell showcased enhancements made to Mitchell Diagnostics.

expedite claims processing and payment. In addition, repairers have the option to make those reports accessible to vehicle owners so they know the work was completed to OEM standards.

Mitchell Diagnostics was launched in 2017 for the collision repair and automotive claims markets. Through

“The need for diagnostics in collision repair is growing as vehicles get more complex and manufacturers make Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) standard on most new models,” said Rozint. “With our DaaS platform and cloud-based technologies, shops have the tools they need to safely return collisiondamaged vehicles to the road. They

“The company has continued to enhance its platform with patented and patent-pending technologies designed to assist repairers in meeting the needs of today’s complex vehicles,”

JACK ROZINT MITCHELL’S SVP OF REPAIR SALES

can also bring work that they used to sublet

The company also shared with SEMA Show attendees the enhancements made to Mitchell Cloud Estimating. These include support for the repair of electric vehicles (EVs) and a newly introduced product—Mitchell Cloud Estimating TruckMax—for estimating collision damage to medium- and heavy-duty trucks.

He said the patent-pending EV enhancements are especially timely due to the dramatic growth in EV sales and include new features designed to streamline estimate writing for battery electric vehicles (BEVs).

Looking ahead, Rozint said the company’s focus remains on providing innovative technology that supports proper, safe and efficient collision repairs.

For more information, visit www. mitchell.com/solutions/autophysical-damage.

Focus Advisors Represents Mills Body Shops in Sale To CollisionRight

Focus Advisors, an M&A firm specializing in collision repair transactions, announced its client, Mills Body Shops of Evansville, IN, and its four locations have been acquired by CollisionRight, headquartered in Columbus, OH.

most well-respected operations in southern Indiana.

David Roberts, managing director of Focus Advisors, who led the transaction, said, “Don Jr. and Britt have established themselves as top-notch operators with a superb staff and local relationships. It is rare that we have the opportunity to work with second-generation talent who also has 40 years of experience! We very much enjoyed working this team that built a top quality and efficient operation.”

Started in 1955 by the Mills family, Don Decker Sr. and Jack Vickery purchased the company in 1977 and grew it from a single shop to four collision repair locations.

Second-generation operators Don Jr. and his brother Britt Decker continue to run the business today and have grown Mills Body Shops into one of the

“David Roberts, Chris Lane and the whole Focus Advisors team have been a pleasure to work with from start to finish,” said Don Decker Jr., president and CEO of Mills Body Shops. “When it was time to have a professional in our corner, we turned to Dave Roberts and Focus Advisors, which was absolutely the right decision. We are very pleased with the outcome and our choice to partner with CollisionRight.”

Source: Focus Advisors

CCC Intelligent Solutions Inc. strengthened its executive team with the appointment of Michael Silva as chief commercial and customer success officer.

Silva will have overall responsibility to deliver innovative outcomes for CCC’s customers across the P&C insurance economy.

Silva joins CCC from Salesforce, where he was responsible for global and enterprise customers in the financial services segment.

Silva joins CCC following successful tenures at several leading technology companies. He most recently served as SVP of financial services at Salesforce.

Prior to Salesforce, Silva held SVP and general manager roles at IBM, Microsoft and United Health. He has successfully led teams and executed growth strategies delivering several billion dollars of annual revenue. Silva also has P&C insurance operating experience, leading a claims department at Chubb Insurance early in his career.

Source: CCC Intelligent Solutions Inc.

COVERAGE

“Don Jr. and Britt have established themselves as top-notch operators with a superb staff and local relationships.”

DAVID ROBERTS MANAGING DIRECTOR OF FOCUS ADVISORS

in-house, introducing new revenue opportunities for their businesses.”

Dynabrade Awarded Certification

Dynabrade, Inc., a leading industrial abrasive power tool manufacturer, announced it earned ISO 9001:2015 certification for its quality management system.

ISO 9001:2015 is a globally recognized quality management standard developed and published by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO). The certification provides a model for companies of all types and sizes to use in creating an effective quality management system.

Dynabrade’s ISO 9001:2015 certificate (#QSR-1915) was issued by Quality System Registrars, the first U.S.accredited registrar of ISO certifications.

Dynabrade’s certification is for providing quality abrasive power tools and process solutions in all industry markets that require material removal and surface finishing.

Source: Dynabrade

Ohio Auto Repair Shop Expands With 2nd Location

By Warren Scott Herald-Star

The owners of a Richmond, OH, auto repair shop found they lacked space to serve their many customers, so Roadside Hobby expanded to include a location at 519 Canton Road in Wintersville, OH.

Wintersville Mayor Mike Petrella and other village officials welcomed Randy and Sherri Eddy and their new location with a recent-ribbon cutting ceremony.

Randy said they opened the Richmond location, also on state Route 43, five years ago, but he has been repairing vehicles for at least 30 years.

A 1983 graduate of Brooke High School, he was a student in Russ Palmer’s auto repair class.

Sherri, a 1988 graduate of Wintersville High School, said the two met when a family member suggested she take her own car to him for repairs.

A Wintersville native, she had worked for many years at the local Smith Oil station and he had been a maintenance supervisor for various

companies when he decided to open the garage in Richmond.

Sherri admitted she was a reluctant supporter of the idea and saw the endeavor as an expensive sideline for Randy.

repair while the Wintersville garage will offer a variety of mechanical repairs.

“We do everything but rebuild transmissions,” he said.

Randy said with the cost of new and used automobiles rising, many people are working harder to keep their current vehicles in good condition and even restoring those that are showing their age.

Both locations are open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday, and those seeking Roadside Hobby’s services are encouraged to call (740) 317-5766 to make an appointment.

She explained the business’ name was born from the idea it was merely a hobby for Randy, as well as the “Roadside Sam” CB handle used by her late father, Sam Williams

“Five years later, we have two locations and I’m much more appreciative,” said Sherri

Randy said the Richmond location will focus on auto body

Assisting the Eddys at the new location are office manager Jessica Sipes, secretary Lisa Morrow and mechanics C.J. Ralston and Jonathan Blackburn

Many village officials and other supporters joined the Eddys and their staff for the ribbon cutting.

The Eddys thanked many local officials and residents for supporting their new location.

Sherri said, “Wintersville has been fantastic. They have been very welcoming, and we’re happy to be here and serve the community.”

Wintersville, OH, officials welcomed Randy and Sherri Eddy and their staff at their second Roadside Hobby location with a ribbon-cutting ceremony. Credit: Warren Scott

By Stacey Phillips Auotbody News

One of the biggest challenges for collision repair shops across the country is locating OEM repair procedures quickly and costeffectively. To help technicians find the information they need to fix a car properly, SUN Collision Repair Information software was created in 2019 by SUN®, a brand of Snap-on® Incorporated.

Fast forward to the 2022 SEMA Show in Las Vegas, where the company shared information about the ease in which its software can help repairers locate OEM repair procedures and advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) information to help increase efficiency and profits.

“Some vehicles aren’t repaired properly using OEM procedures,” said Chris Bonneau, business manager for SUN. “That could put somebody’s life at risk. We want to make it easier and simpler for shops to fix cars faster, and according to OEM specifications, so they are safe to drive.”

Since the launch of SUN Collision,

Bonneau said the company has been working to ensure the product is user-friendly for technicians and shops, so they can spend less time with the software program and more time fixing vehicles.

“When they are in our program, they aren’t making money,” said Bonneau. “We want them to get the information they need from the OEM and translate that into the repairs, so they aren’t having to spend so much time searching for the content and the right procedures.”

While talking with shops, Bonneau learned many think information is difficult to find because each website is configured differently and requires a unique login. “They also feel they can’t afford to pay for multiple OEM subscriptions,” said Bonneau. “SUN Collision is a cost-effective way to access information in one place.”

The web-based, mobile-friendly product provides comprehensive OEM repair information and procedures for body and frame, paint and finish, and materials for all makes and models of vehicles. To help users find information quickly, the 1Search Plus search engine presents information in a graphical layout. The product also provides interactive

wiring diagrams and a link to ADAS information.

“As ADAS technology becomes more complex and interconnected, repairing ADAS-equipped vehicles presents a greater challenge for collision repair shops,” explained Bonneau.

He said SUN Collision provides the details needed to make it easy to diagnose, repair and calibrate ADAS components such as sensors, cameras, radar systems and control modules.

The database includes a complete lineup of OEM-licensed procedures for both collision and mechanical repairs for 26 standard makes, and is updated regularly. Collision information covers 2004 through 2022 vehicles, and mechanical information dates back to 1964.

Bonneau also shared information about the Tru-Point™ ADAS calibration system launched in January 2021 by John Bean, part of the Snap-On family. The company recently announced purchasers of the calibration system will receive a complimentary two-month subscription to SUN Collision.

“Together, SUN and TRU-Point products provide an all-in-one

solution for OEM collision and repair procedures to help technicians increase productivity,” said Bonneau.

In September, the company announced its partnership with Collision Automotive Repair Services, Inc. (CARS) to offer its collision repair information to members at a discounted price.

Established in 1992, CARS is a stock-based business cooperative that brings collision repair facilities together with vendors and suppliers to gain discounts, rewards, and training on products and services used in their shops.

“We’re excited to partner with the CARS Cooperative and offer a substantial discount to members throughout the United States,” said Bonneau. “Not only will members greatly benefit from the auto repair software, but they’ll also receive a customized training program and best-in-class support to help improve productivity and grow their bottom line.”

For more information, visit suncollision.com.

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VIA Motors Announces New Headquarters and Technical Center in Michigan

VIA Motors, a U.S. based commercial EV manufacturer, on Oct. 25 announced its new 98,000-square foot headquarters and technical center in Auburn Hills, MI.

Supported by a $2.5 million Michigan Business Development Program performance-based grant from the Michigan Strategic Fund, administered by the Michigan Economic Development Corporation, the facility will act as a regional hub for VIA’s vehicle design and testing, including the development of prototype vehicles.

region’s automotive expertise to help global fleets shift towards a zero emission, commercial electric vehicle future.”

VIA Motors offers a full portfolio of electric work trucks from classes 2-5 with a variety of configurations. From box trucks and cutaways to stake trucks and walk-in vans, VIA provides tailored electric solutions for fleets that meet their needs at costs they can afford.

The facility will further boost Michigan’s efforts to position itself as the global leader in the future of mobility and vehicle electrification.

VIA chose Michigan because of the state’s robust supply chain for electric vehicles and mobility.

with VIA should visit https:// www.viamotors.com/via-delivers/ careers/

“Our goal is to provide the best electric work trucks for fleets everywhere, and this facility is critical to achieving that goal,” said Bob Purcell, CEO of VIA Motors. “We’re excited and proud to partner with the city of Auburn Hills and the State of Michigan, tapping into the

In addition, the knowledge and skill level of talent in the auto industry and the state’s leadership in the industry are expected to benefit the company as it continues to grow.

VIA anticipates the facility will be home to a workforce of up to 300 people working in high-wage jobs. The city of Auburn Hills plans to support talent attraction and marketing.

Individuals interested in careers

VIA Motors is in a pending transaction with Ideanomics, a global group with a mission to accelerate the commercial adoption of electric vehicles. Once it becomes part of Ideanomics, VIA can offer a total package that makes it easy for fleets to transition to electric drive---vehicles, charging infrastructure and financing.

VIA’s technical center in Orem, UT, will continue to operate as an R&D facility and hub for the Western U.S. The two technical centers will support VIA’s prototyping, as they finalize their full production manufacturing facility.

Source: VIA Motors International, Inc.

The Collision Industry Foundation (CIF) announced 3M joined in the CIF Annual Donor Program at the Urgent Care tier with a $5,000 pledge.

The Annual Donor Program was designed to bring needed, recurring resources to the foundation, so it can deliver on its mission to ‘Answer the Call’ when those in the industry have been impacted by unforeseen catastrophic events.

“As large as the collision industry has grown, it is still a close-knit community one that 3M has been lucky enough to be a part of for well over 100 years. We’re family, friends and neighbors. Supporting shops through good times and bad is just part of our DNA, so working with CIF to help those in need is an easy decision,” said Jason Scharton, global expertise delivery manager for 3M Automotive Aftermarket.

“For many years, 3M has been known as a steady supporter of this industry and of the CIF cause. We are grateful that 3M also joined the CIF Annual Donor program,” said Petra Schroeder, “Collisionista” and CIF trustee.

Source: CIF

“Our goal is to provide the best electric work trucks for fleets everywhere, and this facility is critical to achieving that goal,”

— BOB PURCELL CEO OF VIA MOTORS

Spanesi Americas Introduces FLASH Portable Pulling Column

By Stacey Phillips Auotbody News

Built to be portable, powerful and flexible, the FLASH Portable Pulling Column was introduced by Spanesi Americas for the collision repair industry. The company showcased the patent-pending product during the SEMA Show in Las Vegas, NV.

Timothy W. Morgan, COO of Spanesi Americas, Inc., said the FLASH is a vacuum-powered tower that uses the shop’s compressed air system (minimum of 102psi required) to create a vacuum seal to the flooring surface, delivering 550 pounds of pulling force using a heavyduty ratcheting system. The FLASH features an adjustable pulling height setup providing precise pulling for straight or down-pulling applications.

“This is a game-changer for collision repair facilities,” said Morgan. “Technicians no longer need to move the vehicle to a bench, frame rack or floor pot to perform light pulling duties on vehicles.”

With the FLASH, he said technicians have the flexibility to repair vehicles in tight spaces with the exact angles needed to remove vehicle damage. Using built-in rear

wheels allows the FLASH to be relocated within the repair facility so there is no need for anchoring to floor pots or moving the vehicle to a frame rack to perform a dent pull.

“With shop footprints becoming smaller, you need to maximize space,” said Morgan. “The FLASH is easy to use and works anywhere, so it is time efficient and can help shops save costs.”

Motors, Thunder Bay, ON, Canada.

Spanesi Americas also displayed its award-winning TOUCH electronic measuring system, the 106EXT structural straightening bench, the MULTIBENCH single-bay repair solution, the Q5.2 three torch MIG/ MAG welding machine, and the PULL UP! repair systems for glue-based cosmetic and structural pulling.

With a range of equipment built for collision repairers, Morgan shared that in late October, Spanesi America’s received OEM certification approval from Lucid Motors. Approved Spanesi products include the 106 and 106EXT Structural Straightening Benches and the TOUCH electronic measuring system. Each piece of equipment underwent stringent reviews for data accuracy by Lucid Motors before being approved for the program.

The company is working to ensure it is at the forefront of vehicle repairs.

industry. Founding partners include the Collision Repair Education Foundation (CREF), BASF and KTL Restorations.

“Spanesi has helped spread the word about Operative Talent and they are also donating equipment to get shops involved with supporting the raffle,” said Brandon Eckenrode, CREF’s managing director. “In addition to Operative Talent, Tim and Spanesi have been long-standing CREF supporters.”

As a sponsor, Spanesi plans to raffle a measuring system and donate the money to Operative Talent. The team also hopes to bring young people into their Chicago, IL, facility and teach them how to measure vehicles and weld.

During SEMA, Spanesi Americas raffled off four FLASH portable pulling columns. The winners were Gene Lopez, Siedner’s Collision Center, CA; Manuel Lim, Fixit Auto Body, CA; Nicole Craig, Coachworks, AZ; and Daniel Trevisanutto, Half-Way

“We understand the importance of working closely with the auto manufacturers to be able to repair a car properly,” said Morgan.

Another development is Spanesi America’s partnership with Operative Talent. Launched this year, Operative Talent was formed to engage and attract future talent to the automotive

“They need hands-on experience to determine if this is the path they want to take,” said Morgan, who started in the industry when he was 14 years old and wants to encourage young people to learn about the opportunities available in the industry. “We’re really excited about being part of this initiative.

“The industry has been given a bad rap that it’s a dirty job, but it’s not,” he said. “It can be a very fulfilling career.”

For more information, visit www. spanesi-americas.com.

Members of the Spanesi Americas team included, pictured, left to right: Timothy Morgan, Jeramy Holloway, Aaron Sworden, Fred Randazzo, Robert Wells, Constantino Uliano and Karl Kirschenmen

Michigan’s Latest $526M Tax Incentive Harshly Criticized

By Bruce Walker The Center Square

Democratic Gov. Gretchen Whitmer said 1,569 jobs will be created, and critics are howling at such a cost to taxpayers for expansions to plants already in Michigan.

Whitmer on Oct. 25 said a $526 million tax incentive that’s more than $335,000 per job is in place for automotive supplier Magna to be used in St. Clair, Highland Park and Shelby Carter Township, MI.

Magna plans to expand the St. Clair plant, which gets the lion’s share at $426.6 million in incentives with expectation to create 920 engineering, production and machinery maintenance worker jobs.

Taxpayer dollars will come from the state’s Strategic Fund, said Whitmer and the Michigan Economic Development Corp. The company, headquartered in Michigan, was founded in 1957, operates 32 facilities in the state and employs more than 10,000 Michigan workers.

According to Macrotrends, the company earned $36 billion in revenues for the 12-month period

ending June 2022.

“This is just the latest example of the utter failure of Michigan’s leaders to develop an economic development strategy that’s based on evidence and market conditions, rather than politics and payoffs,”

John Mozena, president of the Center for Economic Accountability, wrote in an email to The Center Square. “If you go look at online hiring sites, there are more than 6,000 open ‘manufacturing’ jobs in Metro Detroit. When I see an announcement of ‘1,500 new jobs,’ what I see is ‘1,500 more open positions that make it harder for every other employer in the region to meet their hiring needs.’

“If I were a local business owner or hiring manager, I’d be wondering why my state tax dollars were going to subsidize a competitor for highdemand talent and make it that much easier for a major multinational auto supplier to hire away the workers I need to keep my company running,” Mozena said.

James Hohman is the Mackinac Center for Public Policy’s director of fiscal policy. In a blog post, he noted Michigan lawmakers have “authorized $18.4 billion in

business subsidies since 2001.” He emphasized money directed from taxpayers to businesses are direct payments rather than tax abatements.

Since becoming governor in 2019, Whitmer has authorized another $2 billion in subsidies, Hohman wrote, adding that amount equals the annual operating costs of Michigan’s Department of Corrections.

“Since I took office, we have announced over 30,000 good-paying auto jobs, advanced our leadership in mobility and electrification, and brought critical supply chains of chips and batteries from China to Michigan,” Whitmer said in a statement. “Today’s exciting announcement further cements our status as the home of the auto industry and will help ensure that the future of mobility and electrification is designed, developed, tested and built here in Michigan.”

Mozena believes history says something else. “We’ve been subsidizing manufacturers like this in Michigan for decades, and yet we have 185,000 fewer manufacturing jobs in Michigan than we did three decades ago,” Mozena said. “You

could fill both Spartan Stadium and Michigan Stadium with those lost manufacturing jobs. It’s long past time to try something else.”

According to the governor’s news release, Magna supplies seats and powertrains among other automotive accessories and is the only automotive supplier that builds complete vehicles.

In Shelby Carter Township, Magna plans to expand its powertrain business. Officials said 159 jobs will be created with a $96.1 million investment and a $1.3 million Michigan Business Development Program grant. Additionally, the Strategic Fund approved a $369,837 five-year, 50% Alternative State Essential Services exemption for the project. St. Clair is expected to approve a property tax abatement for the project as well as support the construction of a new water tower.

Magna’s Highland Park expansion will be to assemble seat frames and insource trim and foam assembly. The $3.7 million total capital investment includes a $2.9 million Business Development Program grant with the anticipation of creating 490 jobs.

Hellmuth & Johnson announced its clients have brought a class action against Kia America, Inc. and Hyundai Motor America following a nationwide rash of thefts that revealed a major defect in certain Kia and Hyundai models.

According to the complaint, Kia and Hyundai did not install engine immobilizers in many of their vehicles produced before

not match.

Law enforcement acknowledges these thefts are part of a nationwide trend, in part due to social media tutorials that show thieves how to exploit the defect, allowing them to bypass the ignition by breaking off the dash panels and simply using a USB port to start the car. Despite knowing and being made aware of the threat these vehicles pose, Kia and Hyundai have failed to provide any permanent solutions to consumers. Their conduct violates consumer protection laws and breaches the companies’ warranty obligations.

immobilizers prevent the engine from starting without using the vehicle’s authorized key. The system is based on a unique key or fob that contains a transponder chip that transmits a specific code to start the engine. The engine control unit does not activate the fuel system or the ignition circuit if the code in the key or fob does

the case, contact Hellmuth & Johnson partner  Regan at (952) 460-9285.

The vehicle owners are represented by Anne T. Regan, Nathan D. Prosser and Lindsey L. Larson of Hellmuth & Johnson, Minneapolis, MN.

Source: Hellmuth & Johnson

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By Abby Andrews Autobody News

Negotiating with insurers is just part of the repair process and nothing to dread, according to Mike Anderson of Collision Advice.

Anderson and Danny Gredinberg, of the Database Enhancement Gateway (DEG), presented “BulletProof Negotiation Tactics” Nov. 2 at the 2022 SEMA Show, part of the Society of Collision Repair Specialists’ (SCRS) Repairer Driven Education series.

“I’m seeing more and more friction between shops and insurers,” Anderson said. “The goal is to give you negotiation strategies to reduce that friction and get paid more.”

Anderson and Gredinberg gave tips on how to approach negotiations from a fact-based standpoint—with documentation, and where to find it—and finally discussed a collision repairer’s options when an insurer still won’t pay for work.

Anderson said anyone can get a copy of the full presentation

insurance,” Anderson said.

Many people make the mistake of thinking of negotiations as a negative thing, like a fight or an argument, he said, but they’re a discussion aimed at reaching an agreement.

Repairers must negotiate on things like labor times, not-included labor operations, labor rates, alternative parts usage and more, Anderson said.

The negotiation begins the moment you interact with the customer, he said. “The customer is really the boss. Get the customer believing in you before you enter into conversation with the payer.”

Anderson suggested reviewing the vehicle’s owner’s manual with the owner, to show the owner exactly what the automaker says must be done to properly complete the repair.

If your shop is not in a DRP and the insurance company is causing a delay, call the customer every day, Gredinberg said.

“Tell the customer their car is on hold after disassembling, and they may want to call to expedite the claim,” Anderson said. “After you’ve

car out.”

When writing an estimate, it needs to tell a story, with good line notes and quality photos. Attach OEM repair procedures to the estimate, as they can change frequently.

Anderson then went over his “Rules of Negotiation.”

Your Opinion Don’T Mean Jack

“It only matters what you can prove, substantiate or justify,” he said.

Don’T Take The Bait

“When insurers say, ‘No one else charges for that, you’re the only one,’ they’re baiting you,” he said. “Say, ‘I don’t care what anyone else charges for, I want to stick to the facts.’”

Present The Facts

Is it required to restore the car to preaccident condition? Is it included in any other labor operation? Is there a pre-determined time in the database? If not, what is it worth?

“These are questions based on fact, not emotions,” Anderson said.

Use OEM repair procedures; estimating systems; credible internet sources like SCRS, I-CAR, ASE and OEM websites; manufacturer bulletins; scan tools; the vehicle manual; DEGweb.org; and Collision Advice’s “Who Pays for What” surveys to find documentation supporting your position.

If the insurer still is not convinced, the options for the repairer are to perform the operation for free, charge the customer, refuse the job, ask for a hold harmless agreement, right to appraisal, involve the agent or have the customer come on-site and meet with the insurer, but prep the customer first.

“At the end of the day, remember: do you want easy, or do you want worth it?” Anderson said. “This is not a magic bullet, but it’ll increase your chances of reimbursement.”

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ONE Announces Battery Gigafactory in Michigan

By Mark Kane InsideEVs

Our Next Energy (ONE) announced a $1.6 billion investment in a new battery cell manufacturing plant in Van Buren Township, MI.

The location was chosen after a competitive site selection process, evaluating 12 states and a Canadian province. Michigan is considered the best for the gigafactory and also will provide a $200 million state grant. The company has signed a multi-year lease agreement with Ashley Capital for a 660,000-square foot building in Van Buren Township, which will be converted into a battery factory.

The battery plant will be called ONE Circle and is envisioned to produce lithium-ion battery cells and battery packs for passenger and commercial vehicles. According to ONE, the campus will include also raw material refinement and cathode materials production.

Production is expected to start in the second half of 2024, reaching its full annual capacity of 20 GWh by the end of 2027, equivalent to about 200,000 100 kWh EV battery packs.

ONE is very precise in terms of how many jobs it will create: 2,112, adding it will offer “an average annual salary of $67,456 (38% above the ALICE wage threshold), as well as industry-leading benefits and a comprehensive training program.”

“ONE is thrilled to select Michigan for our first cell factory, due to the state’s unique combination of battery talent, proximity to material supply and access to low-cost energy,” said Mujeeb Ijaz, founder and CEO of ONE. “We applaud the leadership of Gov. Gretchen Whitmer and the MEDC team, led by Quentin Messer. In addition, our collaboration and new strategic partnerships with DTE Energy, Van Buren Township and Wayne County have helped ONE build a strong foundation for clean tech manufacturing in Michigan.”

According to Automotive News, ONE has already received orders from automakers for its batteries ahead of production start, but the company declined to name them. Passenger car manufacturers are interested in battery cells, while commercial heavy truck

manufacturers would like to buy entire systems.

Ijaz said by the time the ONE Circle reaches its full capacity, the company might move to another facility; in other words, there is another battery gigafactory in the pipeline. ONE announced its LFP Aries battery systems will be offered beginning in 2023. The company attracted multiple investors, including BMW i Ventures, and is also working on Gemini, a hybrid battery pack two different battery cell chemistries.

Besides LFP, the company develops anode-free lithium-ion battery cell chemistry with a very high volumetric energy density of 1,007 Wh/l. As we understand, those two battery chemistries would be used together in one battery pack.

Later this year, ONE will integrate the Gemini battery system in a BMW iX prototype, with a goal to achieve a range of 600 miles. In December 2021, a Tesla Model S retrofitted with ONE’s proof-ofconcept 203.7 kWh battery was able to cover 752 miles on a single charge at a constant speed of 55 mph.

Auto Care Alliance Announces Calendar

The Auto Care Alliance (ACA) announced a new resource for the aftermarket automotive industry.

The ACA Industry Events Calendar is an available resource for shop owners, technicians, educators and vendors to stay up-to-date with the latest conferences and expos throughout the U.S.

“We found that there wasn’t a comprehensive listing of industry events available. This will provide not only be a valuable resource for industry professionals but will also assist organizations in scheduling future events so as to not conflict with other industry events,” said Sheri Hamilton, executive director for the Auto Care Alliance.

The calendar can be found at www.autocarealliance.org/ industry-events.

Companies and organizations can submit their events to be included by completing the submission form included on the site.

Source: Auto Care Alliance

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EV Manufacturing Boosts Indiana’s Clean Energy Jobs 7%

By Joe Mueller The Center Square

Employment data shows the clean energy industry is rebounding in Indiana from the COVID-19 recession and is expected to continue growing, according to two nonprofit organizations.

In a new analysis of employment data by E2 (Environmental Entrepreneurs) and Evergreen Climate Innovations, clean energy jobs grew 7% in 2021 in Indiana and now employs 86,215 people throughout the state. The sector’s growth rate is two times faster than the overall economy.

Indiana’s job growth in the clean energy sector is attributable advanced transportation manufacturing of electric vehicles which added 4,150 jobs in 2021 and employs 21,078 workers statewide.

More than 49,950 workers are employed in the energy efficiency sector in Indiana, followed by advanced transportation. Renewable energy companies employed 11,435. About 69% of

the Indiana’s clean energy sector is comprised of small businesses employing fewer than 20 individuals.

Midwest Report, an analysis of clean energy and transportation in 12 states. Clean energy jobs grew by 5.4% in 2021 in the Midwest and employs 714,000.

Preskill also highlighted the billions in federal funding from the Inflation Reduction Act coming to support clean energy. She emphasized coordination between state and federal agencies to create policies to remove barriers to clean energy development, such as workforce training programs and expansion of infrastructure for regional transmission grids.

“There has never been more stability and certainty in the market,” Micaela Preskill , the Midwest Advocate for E2, said during a briefing with reporters.

“Clean energy companies know that they can and should set up shop and stay here in the U.S. as the industry is destined to grow.”

The Indiana data was part of the seventh annual Clean Jobs

“When clean energy jobs grow, our economy benefits,” Preskill said. “These are jobs that are available to everyone. Clean energy jobs cover such a wide swath of our economy— construction, manufacturing, innovation, investment, electricity and automobiles. They cover every corner of our 12-state Midwest region and by investing in clean energy. We know we can create thousands of jobs across many occupations in every state in the coming years.”

Equalizer® Gives Back This Holiday Season

Equalizer® is opening up its Tools for Techs program once again this holiday season to go along with its donation to Toys for Tots, to gift a tech with some extra Christmas cheer.

From now until Dec. 14, Equalizer will donate a portion of proceeds from the products included in its Glass Removal Kit (GRK551) to the Toys for Tots Austin, TX, organization.

In addition to Toys for Tots, Equalizer® is asking for nominations for a deserving auto glass installer in its Tools for Techs program. The winning nomination(s) will receive a Glass Removal Kit with their choice of removal tool, such as an Equalizer Ambush™, BlackHawk™, Viper™, Raptor™ or Transformer™ worth up to $2,359 in value.

Submit your nomination for an honorable tech who is deserving of a special start to the new year at equalizer.com/tools-fortechs-2

Source: Equalizer

Classic Collision, LLC, a leading national multi-site collision repair operator based in Atlanta, announced two new closings Nov. 4 the acquisition of Smitty’s Collision in Mooresville, NC, and a CARSTAR Franchise in Houston, TX.

Smitty’s Collision opened its doors 20 years ago with a commitment to bring quality repairs to the Mooresville area.

“We used the most up to date technology to return vehicles to pre-collision condition with a staff that had over 100 years of experience in the collision repair industry, and excited to be a part of the Classic growth in North Carolina,” said Kenny Barber, former owner of Smitty’s Collision.

The Premier CARSTAR was family-owned and dedicated to exceptional customer care throughout the repair process.

“We were absolutely committed to being the industry’s best in attending to our customer’s needs, and confident that Classic Collision will continue

that same commitment to the Houston area,” said Kal Shaban, former owner of Premier CARSTAR.

“We are pleased to welcome both Smitty’s Collision and CARSTAR’s team to the Classic family. We recognize their high service standards and look forward to advancing that once again in Texas and adding our third location in North Carolina market,” said Toan Nguyen, CEO of Classic Collision.

Source: Classic Collision

Credit: Shutterstock

Classic Collision Adds 3rd Location in North Carolina, Expands Again in Texas

“We were absolutely committed to being the industry’s best in attending to our customer’s needs, and confident that Classic Collision will continue that same commitment to the Houston area,”

KAL SHABAN FORMER OWNER OF PREMIER CARSTAR

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By John Yoswick Auotbody News

While inflation, supply chain issues and labor shortages have many on edge about the U.S. economy, Christopher Thornberg offered a fairly positive message to collision repairers at the MSO Symposium in Las Vegas on Oct. 31.

pandemic, but even back in 2019.

“Look, take a step back and recognize that these stories you are seeing year after year are a hell of a lot scarier than the world around us,” Thornberg said. “So beware the narrative. We live in odd times, but it’s not a recession, and indeed I don’t expect any kind of recession in the near term. There is so much pent-up consumer demand in our economy right now.”

He acknowledged higher interest rates are cooling off home prices, but “the fundamentals of real estate are actually still very good right now.” Inflation will burn out on its own, he said. While an inflationary economy is brittle—“If a real shock does pop up, it could cause real problems”— “the scariest thing to me is still the narrative,” he said.

driving. The federal funds rate does not keep people from getting on the road.”

No Quick Drop In Shops’ Backlog Forecast

Also offering mostly good news for body shops moving into 2023 was Bart Mazurek, vice president of consulting services for CCC Intelligent Solutions’ automotive services group. He told MSO Symposium attendees he doesn’t expect the record-high

mid-next year will start to come back down. But I don’t anticipate them going much below four weeks.”

He said claims counts this year are running ahead of 2021 but still aren’t what they were in 2019, in part because downtown traffic and morning commute congestion in major urban markets is still down compared to 2019.

“I don’t anticipate repair volume to come back to pre-pandemic levels maybe ever,” Mazurek said. “A lot of that has to do with vehicles getting smarter, and with ADAS being standard on every new vehicle. Especially in terms of front-end collisions, they’re going to become less frequent and more costly.”

Thornberg, who holds a doctorate in business economics from UCLA and is founder of Beacon Economics in California, said those worried about the current gloom-and-doom headlines about the economy should go back and look at similarly worried predictions not only at the start of the

For collision repairers, a slowdown in the construction industry will free up shipping container capacity for other goods, likely easing supply chain issues, Thornberg said. And someone who finds themselves priced out of the housing market may decide to buy a new car instead.

“If you’re just looking at people buying and driving cars, I don’t expect that to slow down at all,” Thornberg said. “Look at the roads. Everyone is

average backlog of work at body shops across the country to decline much before mid-2023 at the earliest. The labor shortage is a key cause, he said, and there’s actually been some decline in enrollment and graduate counts in collision training programs.

“While supply chain issues will alleviate [next year], that’s not going to cut these backlogs in half,” Mazurek said. “Realistically, they will probably get worse in the interim, and then

That said, strong used vehicle values have kept the percentage of those claims resulting in a total loss vehicle declining the past two years. In the fourth quarter of 2020, total losses accounted for 21.7% of the total claims count, according to CCC data; by the third quarter of this year, that was down to 17%.

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Economist Christopher Thornberg told collision repairers, “The federal funds rate does not keep people from getting on the road.”

“We live in odd times, but it’s not a recession, and indeed I don’t expect any kind of recession in the near-term.”

CHRISTOPHER THORNBERG FOUNDER OF BEACON ECONOMICS

Energy Analyst Says EV Charging More Expensive Than Gas

By Kevin Bessler The Center Square

As Illinois transitions into a more electric vehicle-friendly state, an energy analyst said the cost to charge vehicles may slow the process.NGov. J.B. Pritzker wants 1 million electric vehicles on Illinois roadways by the end of the decade. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, at the end of last year, there were just over 36,000 EV’s registered in Illinois. Energy analyst Bill Cinnamon said the adoption of EVs will hit a brick wall when people realize how expensive it is to charge EVs at work or at public charging stations. And charging costs will continue to escalate as the price of grid electricity skyrockets.

“If we trade gas stations for utility-based EV charging during the day, our costs to drive the car and fuel up those cars is going to cost even more than gas at $3.50 a gallon,” Cinnamon said.

Illinois lags the rest of the country in the number of EV charging stations. Recently, the U.S. Department of Transportation

awarded the state $22 million for the installation of electric vehicle charging stations along interstate highways. “Because of my administration’s work on the nationleading Climate and Equitable Jobs Act and Reimagining Electric Vehicles Act, Illinois stands at the forefront of the emerging electric vehicle industry,” Pritzker said.

State transportation officials have voiced concerns that a new federal initiative to create a national charging network for electric vehicles might be too impractical for rural areas. As the effort to build a network gets underway, a number of rural states are asking the Federal Highway Administration to loosen requirements for how many chargers must be placed at each location, and the distance between each station. Cinnamon said EVs are great for the environment, but only cheaper to operate if you charge smartly.

“If you are planning to buy an EV, you should definitely charge your car at home, ideally from rooftop solar under full retail net metering,” Cinnamon said.

New-vehicle affordability declined again in October with auto loan rates reaching a 20year high as prices increased slightly, according to the Cox Automotive/Moody’s Analytics Vehicle Affordability Index.

The number of median weeks of income needed to purchase the average new vehicle in October increased to 42.8 weeks from an upwardly revised 42.6 weeks in September.

Average Monthly Payment For New Car Hits Another Record High

Supporting affordability, median income grew 0.4%, and incentives from manufacturers increased. All other factors moved against affordability.

The average price paid for a new vehicle in October increased by 0.2% to $48,281, according to Kelley Blue Book. The average interest rate increased another 30 basis points. As a result of these moves, the estimated typical

monthly payment increased by 1.1% to $748, a new record high.

“Higher rates are already shifting access to vehicles and financing towards wealthier consumers,” said Cox Automotive Chief Economist Jonathan Smoke. “Affordability will be challenged for years to come in both the new and used markets. It’s not the Fed’s fault, but it will impact consumer access to transportation.”

New-vehicle affordability in October was much worse than a year ago when prices were lower, incentives were higherand interest rates were much lower. The estimated number of weeks of median income needed to purchase the average new vehicle in October was up 7% from last year when the index stood at 40 weeks.

The next update of the Cox Automotive/Moody’s Analytics Vehicle Affordability Index will be published Dec. 15.

Source: Cox Automotive

By Kevin Bessler The Center Square

Manufacturing officials are hitting the road for a statewide bus tour to talk about the importance of manufacturing in Illinois. The Illinois Manufacturers Association is hosting the bus tour, which will travel to nearly every region of the state. IMA President and CEO Mark Denzler said not only do they plan to visit manufacturing facilities, but also schools and colleges to highlight job opportunities in the sector. “Probably the biggest challenge that manufacturers face is finding qualified workers so we have to change the perception that manufacturing is not dark, dirty and dangerous,” Denzler said. “Manufacturing today is high-tech and clean and sustainable.”

Denzler points to a recent study that found the total economic impact on manufacturing in Illinois is estimated to be around $600 billion every year, the largest share of any industry to the state’s Gross Domestic Product. It is estimated the manufacturing industry supports nearly 30% of all jobs in Illinois, making it among the state’s

I-CAR Recognized For

A panel of international media judges awarded I-CAR a prestigious SEMA Global Media Award in recognition of its new Electric Vehicle (EV) Hands-On Skills Development course.

The five-day EV Hands-On Skills Development course serves as the capstone to eight prerequisite EV courses for collision repair professionals, and is taught by I-CAR’s growing bench of EV experts at I-CAR’s new Chicago Technical Center (CTC) in Vernon Hills, IL.

The SEMA Global Media Awards (GMA) Program recognizes those companies that manufacture specialty equipment products and accessories that would have mass appeal to consumers in countries outside the U.S.

I-CAR was also recognized as a runner-up in the SEMA Best New Products Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) product category for its recently launched Hands-On ADAS Calibration courses.

Source: I-CAR

largest industry sectors. Two new manufacturing academies are scheduled to open this fall, and there is a new law that will require all high schools to offer career and technical education by 2025. There is also an apprenticeship tax credit for manufacturers that train employees. Manufacturing and factory jobs have skyrocketed across the U.S. Manufacturers cut 1.3 million jobs in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. But since then, the most recent jobs report revealed there are almost 13 million people with manufacturing jobs, the most since November 2008.

The IMA bus tour runs through Oct. 14, and will stop in numerous cities, including Decatur, Bloomington, Carbondale and Springfield. “The manufacturing workforce is a major part of our competitive advantage here in Illinois,” said David Boulay, president of the Illinois Manufacturing Excellence Center. “Traveling across the state to celebrate the past, present and future of the manufacturing industry can bring awareness to the accomplishments, opportunities and needs of the industryto build a better tomorrow.”

More Than 745,000 Stolen Vehicles Reported So Far in 2022

Across the U.S., vehicle theft totals are approaching near record highs and new analysis by the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB) indicates these trends show no signs of slowing down.

Vehicle theft data, provided by the National Crime Information Center (NCIC) and analyzed by NICB, indicates more than 745,000 vehicles have been stolen in the first three quarters of 2022, with more than 250,000 having been reported to law enforcement since the end of June. This is a 24% increase compared to this same time period in 2019. If this trend continues, totals could exceed 1 million stolen vehicles nationally by the end of the year and surpass pre-pandemic highs by more than 100,000 stolen vehicles.

“The year may be coming to an end, but criminals are not going on winter break,” said David Glawe, president and CEO of the NICB. “Even as temperatures drop, vehicle owners everywhere need to know that the criminals are still on the hunt.”

Vehicle thefts in the U.S. are

the highest they have been since 2008. According to previous analysis by the NICB, vehicle thefts tend to increase in the last three months of the year during the holiday season. If history repeats itself once again, the U.S. will see thefts trending around yearly highs through the end of the year.

“Remember, practicing good security hygiene is an easy and effective first step all of us can take to protect ourselves and our vehicles,” said Glawe. “Don’t leave your car running and unattended. Always take your keys with you and most importantly, make sure your auto policy is up to date. It is that simple.”

Should your vehicle be stolen, call law enforcement and your insurer immediately. Reporting a vehicle as soon as possible after it is stolen increases the chance of recovery.

If you believe you have been a victim of fraud, call the NICB at 1-800-TEL-NICB. For additional information, visit NICB’s website, WWW.NICB.org.

Source: NICB

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ILLINOIS

Hawkinson Kia Matteson (708) 720-8972 (708) 720-0657 Fax M, W, F 6am-5pm Tu, Th 6am-7pm; Sat 8am-2pm jmihas@hawkinsonnissankia.com www.hawkinsonnissan.com/ez-parts

Raymond Kia Antioch (847) 395-3600 (847) 838-7997 Fax M-F 7am-6pm; Sat 7am-2pm kweber@raymondchevrolet.com

KANSAS

Midwest Kia Wichita

(316) 652-2960 (316) 652-2992 Fax M-F 8am-6pm; Sat 8am-2pm jjensen@midwestkia.com

MICHIGAN

Kia of Lansing Lansing (517) 393-5700 (517) 393-6767 Fax M-F 7:30am-6pm mattr@lansingisyoung.com www.kiaoflansing.com

MINNESOTA

Lupient Kia of Brooklyn Park Brooklyn Park (800) 569-5735 (763) 424-9437 (763) 424-4631 Fax M-F 7am-6pm

Find your local Kia dealership today at www.kia.com

MISSOURI

Lou Fusz Kia St. Louis (877) 221-4151 (314) 595-4942 Fax M, W, F 7am-8pm; Tu, Th 7am-6pm Sat 7:30am-4pm fuszkiaparts@fusz.com www.kia.fusz.com

Napleton’s Mid Rivers Kia St. Peters (888) 816-9729 (636) 926-0683 Fax M-F 7am-6pm; Sat 7am-3pm bprinster@napleton.com pschnare@napleton.com www.midriverskia.com

Suntrup Kia St. Louis (800) 727-8496 (314) 815-3060 Fax M-F 7am-5pm www.suntrupkiasouth.com

NO. DAKOTA

Kia of Fargo Fargo (800) 728-7601 (701) 282-5924 Fax M-F 7am-5:30pm; Sat 8am-5pm

OHIO

Montrose Kia Sheffield (440) 934-6699 (440) 934-5247 Fax M-F 7:30am-6pm bgordon@gomontrose.com www.montrosekia.com

*Kia Genuine replacement parts sold but not installed by an Authorized Kia Dealer are covered for 12 months from purchase date, regardless of mileage, for the part only, and any labor charge is the consumer’s responsibility.

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Serving Illinois, Iowa, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, Ohio, South Dakota, Wisconsin and adjacent metro areas. Autobody News is a monthly publication for the autobody industry. Permission to reproduce in any form the material published in Autobody News must be obtained in writing from the publisher.

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Autobody News P.O. Box 1516 Carlsbad, CA 92018 (800) 699-8251 (760) 603-3229 Fax www.autobodynews.com editor@autobodynews.com

Kia Recalls 71,000 SUVs For Fire Risk

Kia America issued a new recall for certain 2008-2009 Kia Sportage vehicles due to a continued risk of fire, and strongly urges owners of these vehicles to park their cars outside and away from homes and other structures until their vehicles have been repaired.

potentially affected

These vehicles were previously recalled in 2016, and owners will need to have their vehicles repaired again under this new recall.

The recall repair is under development. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed Dec. 22.

Owners may contact Kia customer service at 800-3334542. Kia’s number for this recall is SC253.

Vehicle owners can visit NHTSA. gov/recalls and enter their 17-digit vehicle identification number to see if their vehicle is under recall.

An engine compartment fire originating from around the Hydraulic Electronic Control Unit (HECU) may occur while the vehicle is parked or being driven. Kia said 71,704 vehicles are

Owners can also download NHTSA’s SaferCar app for Apple or Android. Enter the vehicle, tires, car seat, or other vehicle equipment, and the app will push a notification if a recall is issued.

Source: NHTSA

The Society of Collision Repair Specialists (SCRS) has published the results of its blend study research project conducted in August with major North American refinish companies.

To download the “Blend Study Report: A comparative analysis between full refinish and blend operations,” visit www.scrs.com/ blendstudy.

and Mitchell each defines its own refinish times, and each establishes the labor for blend on a two-stage refinish by utilizing a formula of 50% of the full refinish value.

Collision repairers have routinely expressed that blending a panel takes more skill and time to facilitate an invisible transition than the existing formulas reflect.

SCRS worked with AkzoNobel Vehicle Refinishes, Axalta Coating Systems, BASF Automotive Refinish, PPG Industries and Sherwin-Williams Automotive Finishes to perform the research at the Global Finishing Solutions (GFS) Center for Excellence, at the GFS headquarters in Osseo, WI.

less time allocated in the three IP estimating systems.

AARON

donated by 3M and SCRS as well as miscellaneous materials from the research project, were all donated to the Chippewa Valley Technical College (CVTC), in Eau Claire, WI.

Blending a panel adjacent to a panel being replaced or repaired is a necessary process to achieve a proper color match, and is recommended by all the major automotive refinish companies in North America.

The three primary estimating system information providers (IPs) in the U.S Audatex, CCC/MOTOR

The study used 45 new OEM parts, donated by Ford Motor Company, including hoods, fenders and front door shells for the 2018 Ford F-150, and was monitored and audited by DEKRA North America, the world’s largest unlisted expert organization in the TIC (testing, inspection, certification) industry.

The conclusions of this study indicate that blending, on average, took 31.59% more time than a full refinish, rather than the 50%

“The findings suggest that the concerns expressed by our members have not been unfounded,” said SCRS Executive Director Aaron Schulenburg “These results very clearly establish that performing the processes necessary to blend a panel does not take less labor than the processes to fully refinish a panel.”

The study results conclude the existing 50% formula may not be an accurate representation of the comparison between the two tasks.

At the conclusion of the test, all 45 parts donated by Ford Motor Company and 10 part stands

SCRS extends its gratitude to all the individuals and companies who made this research possible. With specific recognition of the contributions from 3M, AkzoNobel Vehicle Refinishes, Axalta Coating Systems, BASF Automotive Refinish, DEKRA North America, Ford Motor Company, Global Finishing Solutions, PPG Industries and Sherwin-Williams Automotive Finishes.

To download the “Blend Study Report: A comparative analysis between full refinish and blend operations,” visit www.scrs.com/ blendstudy.

Support this and other efforts from SCRS through membership, by contacting the SCRS office at info@scrs.com or visit www.scrs. com/join-scrs.

For more information about SCRS, or to join as a member, visit www.scrs.com, call 1-877-8410660 or email info@scrs.com.

Source: SCRS

“These results very clearly establish that performing the processes necessary to blend a panel does not take less labor than the processes to fully refinish a panel.”

SCHULENBURG SCRS EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR