June 2023 Southeast Edition

Parents Sue Kia After Teens Killed in Stolen Crashed SUV

By David A. Wood CarComplaints.com

A New York Kia Sportage crash that killed four teens and injured two others was allegedly caused by Kia even though the 2021 Kia Sportage was stolen and traveling 100 mph when it crashed into a wall.

column and using a USB cable to bypass the security system.

It’s believed the first class action lawsuit was filed in 2021 for Wisconsin customers where the problem allegedly first began.

The online videos show exactly how to steal the Hyundai or Kia vehicle, and then to make the theft a “challenge,”

REGIONAL NEWS

Top Industry Speakers Share Insight During Southeast Collision Conference in Virginia

By Stacey Phillips Autobody News

At the second annual Southeast Collision Conference in April, collision repair professionals had the opportunity to participate in various educational sessions, attend a tradeshow with more than 50 exhibitors showcasing their products and services, and network with industry peers.

The two-day event in Doswell, VA, was hosted by the Carolinas Collision Association (CCA) and the Washington Metropolitan Auto Body Association (WMABA). A membership awards dinner was held the evening before the show

REGIONAL NEWS

celebrating those who work in the industry.

Jordan Hendler, executive director of WMABA, and Josh Kent, executive director of CCA, planned the event for the industry to gather and learn about

l CONTINUED ON PAGE 26

The wrongful death lawsuit was filed by two mothers of two of the deceased teens who claim the crash would not have occurred if Kia would have installed engine immobilizers in the Sportage.

According to the lawsuit: “An engine immobilizer is a critical piece of electronic security technology that serves as a crucial tool in minimizing the risk of vehicle theft. Immobilizers prevent vehicles from being started unless a unique code is transmitted from the vehicle’s key.”

In 2021, criminals began posting videos online about how to steal Hyundai and Kia vehicles by breaking into the vehicle, removing the steering

criminals are encouraged to post their own videos showing how they stole the vehicles. The lawsuit said, “numerous countries have adopted legislation requiring immobilizers as standard equipment for new automobiles.”

But what the lawsuit doesn’t mention is the U.S. isn’t one of those countries, as engine immobilizers are not required by U.S. laws.

The Kia Sportage Crash

The New York Kia Sportage crash occurred Oct. 24, 2022, after a 16-yearold boy drove the stolen Kia into a wall at 100 mph, killing four teens: Marcus Webster, 19, Swazine Swindle, 17,

l CONTINUED ON PAGE 17

Charlotte, NC, Auto Repair Shop Owner Sentenced For Coding 15K Vehicles

To Avoid Emissions Inspections

Jamal Saymeh, 59, of Charlotte, NC, was sentenced May 1 to a year and a day in prison followed by two years of supervised release for fraudulently coding more than 15,000 vehicles that would have otherwise failed the required state emissions inspection, a violation of the Clean Air Act.

Saymeh was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Frank D. Whitney, who also ordered Saymeh to pay a $1.2 million fine and $82,026 in restitution to the State of North Carolina, announced Dena J. King, U.S. attorney for the

Western District of North Carolina.

Michael Sparks, special agent in charge of the EPA’s Office of Inspector General (EPA-OIG), Charles Carfagno, special agent in charge of the EPA’s Criminal Investigation Division (EPACID), and Col. Michael Oates of the North Carolina Department of Transportation License and Theft Bureau (NCDOT) joined King in making the announcement.

Saymeh is the owner and operator of Friendly Auto Repair (FAR) shop in

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Columnist Mike Anderson: Calculating the ROI in ‘Growing’ Your Own New Body Techs 28

Columnist Abby Andrews: WIN Hosts Annual Educational Conference 16

Columnist Ed Attanasio: Karleigh Johnson Has Her Eyes on SkillsUSA National Gold 22

Columnist John Yoswick: Shifting Customer Preferences, Tech, Staffing Issues Inspire Changes in Shops

Jordan Hendler, left, executive director of WMABA, and Josh Kent, right, executive director of CCA.

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Mike Anderson Explains at SCC Why Collision Repair Facilities Must Be Extraordinary

By Stacey Phillips Autobody News

If collision professionals want to dominate, they need to “Be Extraordinary,” according to Mike Anderson, owner of Collision Advice. To do so, he said repairers must deliver an extraordinary customer experience, research OEM repair procedures, keep up with new developments and grow a team where people want to be part of the organization.

“In today’s collision repair industry, it is no longer enough to just be average,” said Anderson during a presentation held in April during the Southeast Collision Conference in Virginia. “You have to be extraordinary!”

When Anderson travels across the country, the No. 1 question he is asked is whether shops should renew their OEM certifications.

“The answer is yes,” said Anderson. “Certifications matter because of the subscription-based model OEMs are moving toward, which will change everything.”

There are two types of OEM subscriptions, Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) and vehicle ownership. SAAS allows users to connect to and use cloud-based apps over the internet. For example, drivers can sign up for heated seats or navigation.

With vehicle subscription programs, drivers pay a monthly fee to swap out cars. Anderson said many luxury brands, such as BMW, Cadillac, Lexus and Volvo, have rolled out programs where insurance and maintenance costs are included and only certified shops can fix the automobiles.

“There is going to be a paradigm shift where OEM referrals are going to start influencing where vehicles are going to go because of subscription-based apps,” explained Anderson.

He said a well-thought-out subscription program enables customers to make a shorter commitment compared to a lease, include all expenses associated with operating a vehicle in a monthly payment, select what cars they drive, use on-demand features and personalize OEM interaction.

For auto manufacturers, vehicle subscriptions provide an annuity revenue stream and the opportunity for frequent interactions to help understand consumers’ transportation needs.

Delivering an Extraordinary Customer Experience

Anderson said many shops expect getting certified will automatically

bring in customers.

“That’s a mistake,” said Anderson. “We need to accept responsibility for getting work to the door.”

This entails gaining customers’ trust and spending time on the front end, educating them about why the shop is the best choice.

“When somebody wrecks their car and calls the body shop, they feel negative emotions,” said Anderson.

“We need to make them feel better that they have contacted the right place and everything will be OK.”

days a week, 365 days a year, which includes the company’s online reviews and certifications.

OEM Repair Procedures

Anderson also shared information about connected cars. In 2019, there were nearly 50 million (up from 29 million two years earlier), and 7 in 10 households are expected to have one by 2023, according to Statista and CCC Intelligent Solutions. By year-end, it is anticipated 73.6% of vehicles will be connected through telematics, meaning the OEM will be notified following an accident.

Before a repair, Anderson recommended shops check the OEM procedures to determine if the car is connected and put it in service mode. Otherwise, when it is disassembled, the OEM, the dealership service department and/or customer will likely receive a notification there is a problem.

and ladies’ nights out. He also suggests geofencing, which puts an electronic internet fence around specific GPS coordinates. Once a potential customer pulls up the GPS coordinate on the phone, the shop’s ad appears.

For shops becoming EV certified with a charging station, Anderson advised claiming the station and adding a listing on apps like PlugShare.

Electric Vehicles

After asking for a callback number, he suggested mentioning the shop is certified and technicians have advanced training.

“If you are truly certificated, that is a differentiator,” said Anderson.

Anderson explained customers are looking for “social proof.”

“Just because you say you’re good doesn’t mean you are,” he pointed out. “They want social proof that you can be trusted.”

Examples are posting a listing on an OEM shop locator and sharing online reviews.

Anderson said the top indicator impacting customer experience is being informed. With the supply chain shortage, for example, he recommended providing the “no update” update when parts are on back order.

“You can’t tell customers parts are on back order and then not call them for three weeks,” said Anderson. “You need to call every week or every couple of days and say, ‘I have nothing new to report.’”

Today’s customers, according to Anderson, have liquid expectations, meaning they are fluid and everchanging.

“We’re moving to a world where consumers expect concierge service,” he noted.

Before the pandemic, 36% of accidents occurred outside of 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., according to NHTSA statistics. Since then, Anderson said that percentage has increased to 43%. As a result, he stressed the importance of having a digital presence 24 hours a day, seven

In Anderson’s experience, the two main reasons shops don’t research OEM procedures are lack of time and knowledge.

“You need to learn how to use technology to give your people back more time,” he advised.

With 30-45% of cars projected to be electric by 2030, Anderson said shops will need to make decisions based on the demographics in their area. The Western U.S. continues to see the highest rates of battery electric vehicle (BEV) adoptions and BEV repairable claim frequency, according to the National Automobile Dealers Association (NADA). Some parts of the country, including the Mountain and Eastern regions, are experiencing a more rapid increase in BEV claim frequency.

“This suggests that the trend is expanding across the country, especially as charging infrastructure becomes more prevalent,” Anderson noted.

He said EVs will do what aluminum did not—separate the shops.

“Lack of knowledge on an EV will not only hurt the vehicle, but it can also kill you,” he shared.

He encouraged shops to learn when to remove the high-voltage battery, the ideal storage area, how to monitor and check it, and fire suppression.

Growing a Team

By using technology to conduct tasks such as entering parts invoices, analyzing the VIN and sending texts to customers, Anderson said it provides time for employees to research procedures.

Learning a manufacturer’s safety inspections is also essential.

“Most OEMs, if not all, will have safety inspections for vehicles involved in a collision,” Anderson explained. These include seat belts, steering columns, trim panels, pedals, etc.

As part of a total loss, Anderson reminded shops to remove a driver’s data, including their contact list and garage door code.

Marketing

Anderson recommended shops implement marketing programs at community events such as first responders’ classes, Recycled Rides programs, car club open houses

Since the pandemic, Anderson said there are fewer people doing more work. Nearly 80,000 collision technicians are needed between 2020-2024, according to the TechForce Foundation in 2020. He advised shops to grow their teams by participating in programs such as the Collision Engineering Program, powered by the Enterprise RentA-Car Foundation and Ranken Technical College.

The program was designed to attract and develop entry-level talent for the collision industry and enhance the retention and advancement of technicians.

With the industry competing with employers like Amazon, Anderson recommended building a culture, evaluating how technicians are paid and the benefits offered, including flexible work schedules and career paths.

“I don’t believe in stealing fish from another man’s pond,” said Anderson. “We need to recruit by offering a more competitive compensation package.”

Mike Anderson and team members Charel Lock, left, and Tracy Dombrowski, with Jeff Hendler.

Mike Anderson, owner of Collision Advice.

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‘Hertz Electrifies Atlanta’ Launched

Hertz chair and CEO Stephen Scherr and Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens launched Hertz Electrifies Atlanta, a public private partnership aimed at accelerating the adoption of electric vehicles and expanding the environmental and economic benefits of electrification throughout Atlanta.

As part of the partnership, Hertz aims to bring up to an additional 4,000 rental EVs to Atlanta— including models from GM, Tesla and Polestar—for availability to leisure and business customers as well as rideshare drivers. In partnership with bp, Hertz will support the installation of up to eight public fast chargers at its Hertz Uber Rental and EV Charging Location near Hartfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport.

In addition, Hertz is partnering with Atlanta College and Career Academy (ACCA) to help bring EV education and training opportunities to its students and making summer job opportunities available through the city’s Summer Youth Employment Program.

“We are thrilled to partner with Mayor Dickens in launching Hertz

Electrifies Atlanta, particularly given the city’s position as a global transportation hub and an important center of innovation and commerce,” said Scherr. “As Hertz creates the largest electric vehicle rental fleet in North America, we are proud to bring a range of EVs to our broad customer set in Atlanta, and to work with Atlanta College and Career Academy to help train the EV workforce of the future.”

The initiative aligns with Dickens’s pledge to put Atlanta on track to meet City of Atlanta Historic Clean Energy Plan goals to transition to 100% clean energy by 2035. In addition, Hertz’s partnership with Atlanta College and Career Academy and participation in the Youth Employment Program underscores the Mayor’s Year of the Youth initiative.

“The City of Atlanta wants 100% clean energy for 100% of Atlantans by 2035, and publicprivate partnerships like the Hertz Electrifies Atlanta initiative will help us move closer to our goal,” said Dickens. “This initiative will help ensure our students have access to

a high-growth industry and be part of our green energy future.”

Atlanta is home to Hertz’s third largest total fleet and third largest EV fleet in the U.S., which will expand significantly through Hertz Electrifies. Additionally, Atlanta is an important location for EV rideshare driving, through a partnership between Hertz and Uber. Nearly 50,000 drivers on the Uber platform have rented electric vehicles from Hertz through the partnership, traveling more than 260 million miles with zero emissions nationally and 15 million miles with zero emissions in Atlanta.

As part of its work with Atlanta College and Career Academy, Hertz is donating a Chevy Bolt and providing EV educational and training materials to enable the school to incorporate EV technology into its auto servicing curriculum.

Atlanta is the third city to partner with Hertz through Hertz Electrifies, as part of a multi-city rollout of this national public-private initiative.

Source: Hertz

1Collision Offers SCRS Membership

1Collision has aligned with the Society of Collision Repair Specialists (SCRS) to make membership available to all businesses in the network.

1Collision’s focus on corporatelevel support to affiliated collision repair centers spans all business areas—business planning, operations and office management, training, purchasing power, industry relations, human resources and recruiting support, marketing, web presence and more—making SCRS a logical partner in delivering resources to network members.

The network locations span Arizona, California, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, New York, Tennessee, Utah, Virginia, Washington and Wisconsin in the U.S., and in 2020, 1Collision merged with CSN Collision Centres in Canada, expanding the North American footprint.

Companies looking to support SCRS through membership can email info@scrs.com or visit www. scrs.com/join-scrs.

Source: SCRS

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Fully Restored Porsche 914/6 Stays in Family for More than 50 Years

By Ed Attanasio Autobody News

Brent Maxwell, 37, manager of the national accounts team for TRANSTAR, shared a story about a classic Porsche 914/6 in his family since 1970. His father, Jack, bought it while serving in the U.S. Army in Germany and it has been in the family ever since.

Q:Why is this vehicle considered so rare and coveted by collectors?

A: Basically, the difference is the six cylinders. 118,978 914s were made, and only 3,332 had six cylinders. The Porsche 914 was a joint development between Porsche and Volkswagen and was the new Porsche entrylevel model in 1970. The two-seater, also known as the “VW Porsche,” was a mid-engine sports car. Striking design features included the very long wheelbase for the vehicle length, short overhangs, the removable roof center panel made from glass fiber-reinforced plastic as well as the wide safety bar. The 914 also featured pop-up headlights.

ordered it before he left the U.S. without seeing a picture, but knew it was a mid-engine two-seater. When he first got to Germany, he was driving a little Volkswagen Bug until it was ready. He had it delivered to Belgium because there was no sales tax, and then rode the train down and picked it up and drove it back into Germany.

At the time of its launch, the 914 was available with two engines. 914 had a 1.7-liter flat-four engine with 80 hp from Volkswagen. The 914/6 had a 2.0-liter flat-six engine with 110 hp from the Porsche 911 T. In the six-cylinder models, the ignition lock was located to the left of the steering wheel, where it is typically found in Porsche vehicles. The wheels of the 914/6 are 14-inch Fuchs mounted with five wheel nuts, and the car was built by Porsche at the main plant in StuttgartZuffenhausen.

Q: How did your father Jack acquire the car?

A: Yes, he was an Army captain at that time and ran a motor pool over in Germany. He special

The 914/6 obviously is the rarest of the 914s. It’s a first year but then it’s also a U.S. spec Euro delivery car. He knew he was going to bring it back to the States, so he ordered the U.S. version. But they actually delivered it in Europe, which is pretty

apart sometime in the 1980s. It sat disassembled for a long time. I mean, it was at that time the cars weren’t as valuable as they are now. The shop that ended up doing some of the restoration work was Huber Restorations in Tulsa, OK. They are known for their work on Porsche, Mercedes, German cars, etc. and do amazing work.

Q:You were able to paint the vehicle while in tech school?

and finished what had been done by the previous restoration shop. I had some friends of mine that were students who helped me paint it. In 2016, I repainted the exterior at Straightline Auto Restoration, after my dad rebuilt the motor, and it was finally roadworthy and what it looks like now, as far as having the interior done and everything else like that completed on the vehicle.

Q:Does the car get used on a regular basis?

The 914/6 has been in the family since 1970.

“In 2005…it was my first paint job that I’d ever done outside of what we learned in class on a few panels.”

BRENT MAXWELL

This two-seater, also known as the “VW Porsche,” was a mid-engine sports car.

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Estimating Systems Expected To Make Changes Based on Paint Blend Study

By John Yoswick Autobody News

During an open board meeting of the Society of Collision Repair Specialists (SCRS) in mid-April, the association’s leaders discussed what changes might occur within the estimating systems based on the blend study SCRS conducted last year.

“The research, the work, resulted in positive movement for the industry, and we’re excited to identify what the end result looks like,” said Aaron Schulenburg, executive director of the association.

Less than three weeks later, users of CCC Intelligent Solutions’ estimating system learned that by the end of the year, they will have the option to input their own refinish blend time or set their own default blend value. MOTOR Information Systems, developer of the underlying

Autatex, he said during April’s meeting, is “still looking at how they are going to address it,” but in the interim has showed how its system allows a user to make changes to the blend calculation.

“That’s great to have those tools, but the question still needs to be addressed because it is still our belief that the formulas aren’t representative of the tasks that are actually being performed today,” Schulenburg said.

He said the blending process also may be different than it was 30 years ago when the blend formulas were established. He said Mitchell noted two of the five paint companies in the SCRS study applied sealer on the blend edge—something called for in those companies’ training materials.

“There’s nothing in [Mitchell’s Complete Estimating Guide] that says applying sealer on the blend edge isn’t considered a blend,” Schulenburg said. “If [Mitchell] is not considering it a blend operation [when that step is done], that means they haven’t factored that operation into the times they’ve applied for blend. So it’s either not a blend, or the times need to be adjusted.”

User Agreement Opens Scan Tool Data to China

are subject to, particularly in light of privacy agreements they may have with other entities, including insurance companies.

“Think of a USAA, that insures [four]-star generals. Think of a GEICO that insures government employees,” Schulenburg said. “What are their expectations of shops within their network to maintain the privacy of those individuals? Would they want that information shared in this manner under the jurisdiction of the People’s Republic of China? I don’t know. But it seems like it’s worth talking about as an industry.”

Insurance Commissioners Address the Industry

Issues related to “prevailing rate” were among the topics two state insurance commissioners discussed in their presentation at the SCRS meeting. Michael Bradshaw, vice chairman of the SCRS board and operations manager for his family’s North Carolina body shop, told them most insurers in his state don’t conduct labor rate surveys, and when asked, insurance company representatives tend to say they are told the prevailing rate by their supervisor, or say, “We go into shops, and that’s the rate they will take.”

Bradshaw pointed to what he sees as a key difference.

“The only thing I would say about the medical industry is that they are licensed professionals,” he said. “Even bad doctors have had a lot of education, a lot of ongoing training. In our industry, in [most] states, there’s no licensure requirement. There’s no equipment or training requirements. So the difference among body shops is vast,” yet they are all told there’s one “prevailing rate.”

One reason White may not be familiar with the issue came out in his opening comments.

“A question I framed to my team was: Do we get a lot of complaints that involve collision repair shops either directly or indirectly,” White said. “The answer I got was ‘No, not really.’ Not as many as you might expect.”

database used by CCC, said it “reviewed information from multiple sources and has concluded that the current formula reflects an estimate for one particular scenario but does not necessarily reflect the many variations encountered with modern vehicle finishes and design.”

Blend times, the company’s statement about the change reads, should be based on “the judgment of an estimator or appraiser following an on-the-spot evaluation of the specific vehicle and refinish requirements in question.”

“This is a great example of an action that we had previously requested prior to the study, that is now only taking place because of the study results and the industry support that followed,” Schulenburg said in response to MOTOR’s announced change.

SCRS believes its study last year demonstrated blending takes more time than a full panel refinish, rather than the 50% less time allocated in the three estimating systems. Schulenburg said SCRS is having “similar conversations” with the other estimating system providers as well.

Also during the SCRS meeting, held in April in Richmond, VA, Schulenburg showed under the terms of the licensing agreement of at least one aftermarket scan tool, the user is agreeing to allow the data collected through the tool to be transferred to the company in China, “subject to China laws, including those governing the privacy and security of your information.”

The shop user is also agreeing to notify and acquire consent for such

“It’s not a survey. There’s no statistical data,” Bradshaw said. “That’s the biggest frustration within this industry.”

Scott White, commissioner of insurance for Virginia since 2018, acknowledged it was a topic he discussed with his staff prior to speaking at the SCRS meeting.

He said that was true both in absolute terms—the actual number received—and as a trend, with the department receiving “a lot more” complaints five or 10 years ago.

“Which kind of surprised me,” White said. “It may not be an accurate reflection of what’s going on out there. The caveat is we aren’t seeing all the problems that are probably out there.”

North Carolina Commissioner of Insurance Mike Causey, on the other hand, said his department gets “a large volume of complaints, all kinds, and I’d say auto insurance [complaints] are a majority over homeowners’.”

Causey said he, like shops, sees differences among insurance companies as well.

collection and transfer of vehicle data “from each customer or prospective customer,” and to the use of the information by the scan tool company “and third parties.”

Schulenburg said he’s turned the issue over to the Collision Industry Conference committee on data privacy and security. He said shops need to be aware of such enduser licensing agreements they

“I did ask this question because I didn’t know, and I was told the prevailing rate is the [DRP] network rate,” White said. “That seems pretty easy to find out. But maybe there’s a difference in how we’re looking at it.”

He pointed to what he sees as a similar situation in the health care industry, where providers and insurers may disagree on what is the “commercial reasonable rate.” But

“Some do a really good job of handling claims, paying claims quickly. Others are terrible,” Causey said. “The consumer certainly has to shop around. But again, anything you bring to the attention of regulators, if you give it to our office and say, ‘We’ve noticed this, this is the documentation we have,” we’ll get our folks on it and investigate it and try to get to the bottom of it.”

SCRS’ Aaron Schulenburg, right, introduces state insurance commissioners Mike Causey, left, and Scott White, center, before their presentations at the association’s open board meeting

Scott White, Virginia’s insurance commissioner, said his department gets few complaints related to collision repair claims

North Carolina Commissioner of Insurance Mike Causey said some insurers pay claims quickly while others are “terrible.”

“The research, the work, resulted in positive movement for the industry, and we’re excited to identify what the end result looks like.”

AARON SCHULENBURG AEXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, SCRS

Crash Champions Takes Part in NABC Recycled Rides® Giveaway For Orlando Single Mother

In a celebratory giveaway event April 25, the Crash Champions Collision Repair Team proudly partnered with the National Auto Body Council® (NABC), GEICO and local partners to change the life of a deserving local single mother and her family.

“My entire family is incredibly grateful for this wonderful donation,” said Medina. “The vehicle gifted to us today will allow us greater work opportunities, more family time and the chance to do many of the activities that so many take for granted, from running errands to visiting doctors. To all the wonderful people at NABC, Crash Champions, GEICO and 1-800 CHARITY CARS, thank you.”

Medina is a single mother of two who is also the primary caregiver to her elderly mother. Before the giveaway, she did not have a reliable means of personal transportation.

said Matt Ebert, founder and CEO of Crash Champions. “We know the difference that reliable personal transportation can make, especially for single mothers in need. We’re grateful to play a small role in making a positive impact in the life of Ms. Medina and her deserving family.”

With the addition of 44 individuals, there are now 2,224 automotive service professionals who are recognized as World Class Technicians by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE).

Reina Medina, who was nominated by The Arc of South Florida, is now the proud owner of a restored vehicle donated as part of the NABC Recycled Rides program.

After hearing her story, local collision repair technicians from Crash Champions stepped into action, volunteering their time and skill to restore a donated 2019 Nissan Altima. The vehicle was donated by GEICO and restored to like-new condition in time for the giveaway.

“Our team is always proud to step in and take part in NABC Recycled Rides giveaway events,”

Crash Champions has taken part in five NABC Recycled Rides giveaways this year and is a Level One partner with the organization. NABC Recycled Rides is a transformative program that unites several areas of the automotive collision repair industry in pursuit of restoring and donating vehicles to individuals and families in need of reliable transportation. Since the inception of the NABC Recycled Rides program in 2007, members of the NABC have donated more than 3,000 vehicles valued at $42 million.

Crash Champions is a leading provider of high-quality collision repair service, serving customers at more than 600 repair centers across 36 states.

Source: Crash Champions

A joint program of ASE and the Auto Care Association, the ASE World Class Technicians’ program recognizes an exclusive group of highly skilled professional technicians. ASE has added a special section to its website at www.ase. com/worldclass with a roster dating back to the start of the program in 1986. To receive world-class recognition, an automotive service professional must attain 22 specific ASE certifications.

Among the estimated 887,000 technicians in the U.S., only 2,224 have earned world class recognition in more than 30 years.

Recognition includes a certificate signed by the presidents of ASE and the Auto Care Association, an embroidered shoulder insignia, a personalized plaque and a medallion kit.

Source: ASE

Lincoln parts are available.

“We know the difference that reliable personal transportation can make, especially for single mothers in need. We’re grateful to play a small role in making a positive impact in the life of Ms. Medina and her deserving family.”

— MATT EBERT CEO OF CRASH CHAMPIONS

Coding 15K Vehicles

Charlotte. In addition to auto repairs, in 2017, FAR became licensed by the North Carolina Department of Transportation to perform emissions inspections. According to filed documents and court proceedings, between 2017 and 2022, Saymeh used his business to execute a scheme to falsely change the information of vehicles that would have otherwise failed the required state emissions testing, so that they were no longer required by the state’s registration system to have a passing emissions test. According to court records, in some instances Saymeh executed the scheme by doing “county swaps,” meaning by falsifying in the system the county of registration for 11,568 vehicles, from a county that required an emissions test to a county where no emissions testing was required. In other instances, Saymeh changed in the system the characterization of 3,622 trucks, from light duty trucks that require emissions inspections to heavy duty trucks that do not require such testing. During the relevant time period, court documents show Saymeh falsified the information for at

least 15,190 vehicles that would have otherwise failed their state emissions inspections. In exchange for falsifying vehicle information, Saymeh received cash payments from customers that far exceeded what customers would have paid to have an emissions inspection.

In addition, Saymeh paid the State of North Carolina only $0.85 per nonemissions/safety inspection, instead of the $6.25 per vehicle charge he should have paid for an inspection.

“Vehicle emissions testing is required to protect the health and safety of our communities,” said King. “As part of my Office’s Environmental Justice Initiative, we will hold polluters accountable for their actions and protect communities harmed by environmental violations.”

On Dec. 14, 2022, Saymeh pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to defraud the Clean Air Act and two counts of violating the Clean Air Act. Saymeh will be ordered to report to the federal Bureau of Prisons upon designation of a federal facility.

In making the announcement, King thanked the EPA-OIG, EPA-CID and NCDOT for their coordination and investigation of the case.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Steven Kaufman, of the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Charlotte, prosecuted the case.

Source: U.S. Attorney’s Office Western District of North Carolina

BBB Investigating WV Classic Car Sales Company

By Jim Michaels News-Talk 1480 WHBC

The Canton, OH, office of the Better Business Bureau is alerting consumers to a West Virginiabased company it said is ripping off would-be buyers of high-end automobiles. A BBB Scam Tracker submission and other complaints indicate Woolie Auto Sales and Trucking in the Fayetteville, WV, area has collected up to $22,000 from several customers interested in signing an online purchase agreement. That’s when they say all communication with the company ends. To add to the confusion, there is a legitimate truck sales business by that name in Fayetteville. The BBB said the Woolie it is investigating is using an internet bot site to make older advertisements look authentic. The BBB said a Google search can authenticate such an ad.

Here are more tips from the BBB:

• Watch out for prices that are too good to be true. It is probably a

scam. Scammers know that used cars are in high demand and will tempt shoppers with great deals.

• See the car before you buy it. Always make an in-person inspection and take a test drive before you purchase a vehicle.

• Do not give in to threats or pressure. Resist the urge to act immediately. Always take time to consider a purchase, especially a vehicle that costs thousands of dollars.

• Do not wire funds for a car. Scammers often ask for wired funds because they are hard to track, and there is no way to get your money back. It is best to make large purchases by check or credit card.

• Do not believe everything you see. Scammers are great at mimicking official seals, fonts and other details. Just because a website or email looks official does not mean it is. For example, if a business displays a BBB Accredited Business seal, you can verify its legitimacy by going to BBB.org and looking up the company yourself.

2735LB

P235/70R16SL 16X7.0J

GVWR: 5880LB/2667KG WITH

REARGAWR: 3325LB 1508KG P235/70R16SL 16X7.0J

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Vin Labels

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Emission Labels

VEHICLEEMISSIONCONTROLINFORMATION

Conformstoregulations:2016 MY

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Fuel: Gasoline

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Caution Labels

Tire Pressure Paint Code Labels

Rivian Expands its Certified Collision Network as Production Increases on Adventure EVs

By Stacey Phillips Autobody News

Since the first collision repair facility joined Rivian’s Certified Collision Network (RCCN) in Oregon in July 2020, more than 30,000 Rivian electric adventure vehicles have been manufactured and 135 shops are part of the RCCN program.

Frank Phillips, senior manager, certified collision North America at Rivian, discussed the OEM’s certified collision network program during the AkzoNobel ACOAT Selected North American Performance Group (NAPG) event in Florida earlier this year.

and more.

Phillips said the OEM has created a unique culture with a personalized customer experience.

“We have loyal customers who have stood in line for four years in some cases—when the Rivian was launched in 2018—to get their vehicle,” said Phillips. “We still have several others patiently waiting to get theirs. It’s important to us to create an experience that returns that loyalty.”

Rivian has established a similar experience and culture with its certified network program.

“We believe it is really going to disrupt what many of the OEM programs around the country have done traditionally when it comes to certification,” said Phillips. “We want to make sure that shops are properly trained, educated and equipped to fix the Rivian safely and properly.”

He said Rivian’s approach is to revolutionize the industry by creating an efficient and highly trained collision repair network.

“That’s our focus every day,” he said. “When we wake up and come to work, we start thinking about how we are going to help our collision certified network become better and continue to improve.”

and then develops clear, effective and efficient repair and calibration procedures, ensuring compliance.

The procedures are then sent to the collision research and development workshop, where a hands-on validation of the repair procedures, tools and equipment is performed at the OEM’s collision center to ensure accuracy and quality.

with its certified network and facilities have with customers.

“It’s about ascertaining that are you committed to working with a customer who is in a bad situation and you’re going to deliver the same type of experience Rivian provides its customers,” explained Phillips. “I’ve got to know without a shadow of a doubt that you’re going to stand beside me shoulder to shoulder as we venture into this new car business.”

Those interested in being part of the network must go through a credit check and sign a participation agreement.

After getting set up with the required tooling and equipment, collision repairers are provided training. Once the equipment is onsite and training is complete, a facility goes through a final validation before working on Rivian EVs.

Rivian was founded in 2009 as Mainstream Motors by Robert “RJ” Scaringe and later renamed Rivian, a wordplay on the Indian River in Florida, where Scaringe grew up. The company, headquartered in Irvine, CA, began focusing on autonomous and electric vehicles (EVs) to create products and services that help the planet transition to carbon-neutral energy and transportation.

Today, Rivians are built in the U.S. at the company’s approximate 4 millionsquare-foot manufacturing facility in Normal, IL, a former Mitsubishi factory.

Currently, three products are being produced. The OEM’s flagship R1T, introduced in September 2021, was ranked “Best EV Ownership Experience among premium Battery Electric Vehicles” by J.D. Power in 2023.

The company also manufactures a seven-passenger SUV, the R1S, which received the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) TOP SAFETY PICK+ for the 2023 model year. In addition, Rivian has been contracted to develop and manufacture 100,000 electric delivery vans (EDVs) for Amazon.

Currently, Rivians can be purchased online. As part of owning one, the auto manufacturer offers insurance policies to customers in 48 states through Rivian Insurance Services, LLC. The agency provides auto, homeowners, renters, umbrella

The certified network consists of four programs, one for its passenger vehicle line, another for the OEM’s commercial line, which allows facilities to repair Amazon EDVs, and a third for the business-to-business segment. In addition, a new program is being introduced this year for diagnostic certification focused on calibration.

In addition to Phillips’ counterpart in Amsterdam, Hank Berkhof, the team is led by Kelly Logan, senior manager of collision repair, and his engineering team, which includes Dan Black, manager of service engineering; David Sosa, manager of the R&D workshop; Brandon Chittenden, manager of service vehicle data; and Taylor Jozwiak, technical collision repair operations manager.

Phillips said they are all experienced technicians who have worked in body shops in different capacities. “They’ve all been boots on the ground in that difficult situation that you guys find yourselves in every day, and that’s fixing the car that has been wrecked,” he said.

The team regularly visits its network shops to offer support and ensure their success. In addition, Rivian has a vendor program geared toward business-to-business relationships.

Rivian’s service engineering department uses CAD to determine how to repair cars safely and properly

“We do everything from paint to structural repairs,” explained Phillips. “It’s important that we make sure our paint color matches the availability of formulas.”

Collision centers that are part of Rivian’s certified repair network are then provided with the vehicles’ repair methods and procedures.

“Independent collision centers have made the commitment to partner with Rivian and we want to provide the tools and information needed to deliver an excellent customer experience,” he said.

The company’s data is housed at CCI Global Technologies, Rivian’s data aggregation partner, along with ITAS, the management tool used by network members.

“It allows shop owners to manage all of the things required for the program in a very interactive way,” Phillips explained.

Since joining the company in 2020, Phillips has visited more than 1,000 body shops, evaluating locations to qualify them for certification. Rivian is actively seeking additional facilities to take part in the program.

“To become certified, centers must meet specific requirements such as being up to date on training, having the specialty tools necessary to perform repairs and being conveniently located,” he explained.

Phillips said the OEM has high standards for those interested in joining.

“If you’re a well-equipped shop and you’re currently working on modern vehicles, you’re going to have the majority of the things required to be on the program,” noted Phillips.

A key element of the program is based on relationships. These include the relationships Rivian has

Shops can also expect postcertification actions where team members conduct a quality assessment to ensure the proper equipment is used and OEM procedures are followed.

“It’s really focused on the customer and repair quality is how we deliver the best outcomes,” said Phillips.

Rivian manufactures its batteries and drive units in-house, as well as many of the components. Currently, only certified collision centers have access to Rivian parts. In the future, the auto manufacturer expects to offer unrestricted parts to non-certified collision centers for structural components, such as fenders and bumpers.

However, with the car’s sensors and cameras, Phillips said almost every repair on a Rivian EV will require calibration. As a result, facilities must have access to a diagnostic capability. This can be an in-house operation or as of 2023, a partnership with a Rivian Certified Diagnostic Center (RCDC), a new certification added to the certified network to better support this repair requirement.

“We want to ensure the vehicles are fixed safely and properly, but also deliver that customer experience that we all expect,” he said.

Rivian’s flagship R1T was ranked “Best EV Ownership Experience among premium Battery Electric Vehicles” by J.D. Power in 2023.

Rivian has been contracted to develop and manufacture 100,000 electric delivery vans (EDVs) for Amazon

Frank Phillips, manager, certified collision North America at Rivian.

Announced For

The upcoming ASE Instructor Training Conference will feature speakers from leading transportation industry organizations. Hosted by the ASE Education Foundation, the premier training event will be held July 17-20 in Concord, NC, and will be attended by high school and college instructors from auto, truck and collision repair programs nationwide.

The 2023 ASE Instructor Training Conference will include presentations on changes in brake service; heavy duty lubricants, fuels and coolants; digital multi meter features and training; combining testing techniques, diagnostic tooling and service information to solve dilemmas; unlocking the power of discussion; TPMS system types and how they operate; and parts needed to do an engine swap.

For more information and to register, visit www.eventsquid. com/event.cfm?id=19408

Source: ASE Education Foundation

‘Hertz Electrifies Orlando’ Launched

Hertz Chair and CEO Stephen Scherr and Orlando, FL, Mayor Buddy Dyer launched Hertz Electrifies Orlando, a public private partnership aimed at accelerating the adoption of EVs and expanding the environmental and economic benefits of electrification across Orlando.

As part of the partnership, Hertz aims to add up to 6,000 rental EVs to its existing fleet in Orlando, for availability to leisure and business customers as well as rideshare drivers. To help expand charging, Hertz will support the installation of up to 50 public fast chargers across the Greater Orlando area, in partnership with bp.

In addition, Hertz is working with Orange Technical College (OTC) to help bring EV tools and training to its auto servicing students. Hertz is also making summer jobs available through the city’s Summer Youth Employment Program.

“We are thrilled to partner with Mayor Dyer to launch Hertz Electrifies in Orlando, the largest rental car market in the world,” said Scherr. “It seems fitting that we

are launching this public private partnership during National Travel & Tourism Week, given the city’s enormous importance as a destination for travelers around the globe. Hertz is excited to expand our EV offerings to our diverse customer set in Orlando, and to partner with Orlando Technical College to help bring EV education and training opportunities to students.”

Hertz Electrifies Orlando aligns with Dyer’s 2030 Electric Mobility Roadmap goals to accelerate EV adoption in multiple transportation sectors and develop a robust charging ecosystem to reduce emissions that harm public health, bolster climate change resilience and increase access and affordability for all communities.

“We have the opportunity to transform our transportation landscape as we work to be the most sustainable city in the southeast,” said Dyer. “Our partnership with Hertz Electrifies will help us meet our goal of accelerating electric vehicles and expanding charging

infrastructure. We are making Orlando ready for the future and working to ensure that everyone experiences the benefits that electric mobility options can bring, including our future workforce.”

To help support the next generation of EV technicians, Hertz is donating an EV to OTC and providing EV education and training materials that will enable the school to incorporate EV technology into its auto servicing programs.

“Having access to electric vehicles provides critical hands-on experience with new technology for students in Orange County,” said Dr. Maria Vazquez, superintendent of Orange County Public Schools. “We are truly grateful for Hertz for donating this vehicle and we look forward to a future partnership to increase education and training opportunities.”

Orlando is the fourth city to partner with Hertz through Hertz Electrifies, as part of a multi-city rollout of this national publicprivate initiative.

Source: Hertz

WIN Hosts Annual Educational Conference

By Abby Andrews Autobody News

The Women’s Industry Network (WIN) held its annual Educational Conference, May 1-3 in San Antonio, TX, themed “Reimagining Tomorrow,” offering a three-day chance for women in the collision repair industry to connect, learn and celebrate.

This was the second year the conference offered attendees the choice to attend in person or virtually.

Hiring and Retaining Employees Panel Discussion

On the second day, Jamie Shackleford of Caliber moderated a panel discussion on “Hiring and Retaining Good People,” joined by Jennifer Mayer of the TechForce Foundation, Keith Schaefer of Universal Technical Institute, Sullivan of GM, Mica Carawan of USAA, Olivia Peterson of Gerber Collision and Glass, and Yohanna Peet of Caliber.

top of their game when repairing these extremely sophisticated vehicles rolling out today.”

Schaefer said the industry has to “stop using economics to repair cars” and pay employees more.

“We have to compensate them if we’re going to keep young people in the industry,” he said. “They have to buy tools to build more skills, to buy more tools, etc. That is something that’s aggravated me forever. They don’t see an end.”

prototype development, augment the aftermarket repair supply chain and allow for the customization of parts, providing the “ultimate personalization opportunity.”

In her opening remarks May 1, WIN Board Chair Tanya Sweetland thanked everyone for taking the time out of their schedules to invest in themselves and their futures. She said WIN recently hit a new record number of members—800, more than half of whom represent sponsor organizations.

The three-day event featured many inspiring speakers, including Gina Schaefer, founder and CEO of a chain of Ace Hardware stores in Washington, D.C.; Patricia Walsh, an engineer, Paralympian and world record holder in the 140-mile paratriathlon distance; Shayla Rivera, a NASA aerospace engineer who is now a corporate trainer, speaker, comedian, writer and professor; Maysoon Zayid, a comedian, actress, writer and disability advocate; and Megan Sullivan, collision program manager for GM.

Also packed into the event were an NABC Recycled Rides presentation to two U.S. military veterans, a recognition of WIN scholarship winners and a gala awards ceremony, to recognize this year’s Most Influential Women winners.

Attendees also had two opportunities to give back, making no-sew blankets and writing cards for the troops via the nonprofit Soldier’s Angels, and participating in a walk to raise money for WIN’s scholarship fund.

The panelists talked about how to market the industry to Gen Z’ers aging into the workforce, cast a wider net when “fishing” for talent and retain good employees. Petersen said the industry should be looking for people with any hands-on skills, to “find ways to translate skills that may seem completely unrelated into something they can do in collision repair.”

“Anyone is a [job] candidate,” Peet said.

“The pond is pretty darn dry,” Mayer said. “We need to talk about how to stock the pond and bring people into the industry. Less than 3% of techs are women, so if you want to solve the tech shortage, welcome women.”

Mayer also said Gen Z is socially conscious and wants to have a positive impact, so it’s important the collision industry tells them why what they’d be doing matters.

Gen Z also wants to know why they should learn a skill, how they will be able to put it to use even if they change careers, what pay and career advancements they can expect and how they can achieve an acceptable work-life balance.

“People fall into the insurance and collision industries,” Carawan added. “We don’t do enough to talk about how exciting this career is.”

To retain employees, Sullivan said, help them see their path forward.

“A college grad is not just looking at the data analyst job [GM] is offering them, but looking at the lifelong career they could have with your company,” she said.

Petersen said when an employee has the drive to improve, employers should do whatever they can to help them. She suggested compensating for training, to keep employees “at the

Embracing New Technology

On the third day, Charlotte Creech, executive director for innovation for USAA, presented “The Future is Now,” in which she discussed how embracing advancing technology— rather than fearing it—can create unlimited opportunities amidst the unprecedented headwinds currently faced by the collision repair industry.

“There are real opportunities for us to serve our customers well while running our businesses more efficiently, by reducing friction and pain points during the repair cycle,” Creech said.

Creech gave examples of technology USAA is working with, “to help spark some interest to see what the future might look like.”

3D printing could speed up

Connected data—telemetry—is already transforming how USAA and its customers do business, as it can be used to write usage-based policies and get the repair process started immediately after sensing a collision. That same data could help collision repairers by enabling virtual estimations and streamline parts ordering.

USAA is using digital learning modules, which offer more flexibility and immersive, hands-on training for new claims adjusters. The same can work for collision repairers, Creech said. Porsche dealership technicians are already using smart glasses to link to the OEM’s tech support, allowing them to see in real time what the technician is seeing and help them troubleshoot issues.

“We can’t implement everything overnight; we have to plan for the long term,” Creech said.

WIN Conference Committee cochairs Yolanda Sandor and Blair Womble announced next year’s conference is set for May 6-8, 2024, in Newport Beach, CA. Registration will open in late 2023.

Jamie Shackleford, far right, of Caliber moderated a panel discussion on hiring and retaining employees, which included panelists, far left to right, Jennifer Mayer of the TechForce Foundation, Keith Schaefer of UTI, Megan Sullivan of GM, Mica Carawan of USAA, Olivia Peterson of Gerber Collision and Glass and Yohanna Peet of Caliber.

Kevin Payne Jr., 16, and Ahjanae Harper, 14.

The teens who died were ejected from the Sportage.

The 16-year-old driver suffered minor injuries and was released from the hospital. At the time he was charged with criminal possession of stolen property and unauthorized use of a vehicle, then released to later appear in court.

Currently he is facing much more serious charges, including four counts of second-degree manslaughter.

Another occupant of the stolen Sportage was a 14-year-old girl who was hospitalized and later released.

The Kia theft lawsuit was filed by the mothers of Kevin Payne Jr. and Swazine Swindle, and both mothers claim the only reason their children are dead is because the Kia Sportage was not equipped with an immobilizer.

The lawsuit alleges the teens lost their lives “because of the reckless and negligent behavior of Kia” which “caused their beloved sons’ premature deaths.”

Hyundai and Kia Theft Lawsuits

Since the Hyundai and Kia theft videos began appearing online in 2021,

more than 200 lawsuits, mostly class actions, have been filed against the automakers blaming them for the thefts and resulting damage, injuries and deaths. Those lawsuits allege all 2011-2021 Hyundai and Kia models are defective, and at least 17 state attorneys general have joined the bruhaha and told Hyundai and Kia to recall all the vehicles. In addition, multiple insurance companies have also sued the automakers.

However, federal safety defect recalls are issued for safety defects, not because criminals break into vehicles and steal them.

Furthermore, numerous cities have filed lawsuits against the automakers by alleging it isn’t the fault of teenage criminals in their cities that have caused the thefts. Those cities claim Hyundai and Kia caused the problem because non-mandated engine immobilizers were not included on the stolen vehicles. One of those cities that sued is Buffalo, where the four New York teens died in the stolen Kia Sportage. Although multiple cities and states blame Hyundai and Kia for the thefts, some of the teens involved in the thefts have been arrested, but they were immediately released from custody.

In one incident which occurred in New York, two boys, ages 15 and 16, stole a Kia, crashed the vehicle then fled the scene. Police later found the

two teens and took them into custody. However, they were only issued appearance tickets and released.

This was after the 16-year-old had already been issued an earlier appearance ticket and released after stealing a Hyundai vehicle two weeks before. And days ago, Chicago teens stole a Hyundai which crashed into a vehicle carrying a family in a Ford truck. Chicago police said two boys, ages 17 and 14, face one misdemeanor count of criminal trespassing. The crash killed a 6-month old child.

Most Stolen Vehicles in 2021

More than 200 lawsuits and other actions claim the thefts and crashes were caused by a lack of engine immobilizers in all 2011-2021 Hyundai and Kia models. If the problem is due to a lack of engine immobilizers, then it follows model year 2011-2021 Hyundai and Kia vehicles would be on the top of the list for most stolen models.

However, in 2021 before teenage criminals were being influenced by online videos, no Hyundai or Kia model made the top 10 most-stolen vehicle list in 2021 based on data from the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB).

Top 10 Stolen Vehicles For 2021

1. Chevrolet Pick-Up (Full Size)

2. Ford Pick-Up (Full Size)

3. Honda Civic

4. Honda Accord

5. Toyota Camry

6. GMC Pick-Up (Full Size)

7. Nissan Altima

8. Honda CR-V

9. Jeep Cherokee/Grand Cherokee

10. Toyota Corolla

The research doesn’t track how many of those stolen vehicles were equipped with engine immobilizers. Additionally, lawyers haven’t announced if the above automakers will be sued because criminals broke into and stole the vehicles.

Hyundai and Kia have always insisted teenagers are causing the problems, not a lack of immobilizers. The automakers say all the vehicles meet federal safety standards, but because of all the heat poured on them, Hyundai and Kia are taking action to make it more difficult to steal the vehicles.

The Kia theft lawsuit was filed in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of New York: Sherisse Payne, Individually, and as the Proposed Administrator of the Estate of Kevin Payne, Jr., and Tysheen Daniels, Individually, and as the Proposed Administrator of the Estate of Swazine Swindle, vs. Kia Corporation, et al.

The plaintiffs are represented by MLG Attorneys At Law, APLC, and Richmond Vona, LLC.

Shifting Customer Preferences, Technology, Staffing Issues Inspire Changes in Collision Repair Shops

By John Yoswick Autobody News

A Greek philosopher once said the only constant in life is change, and that certainly applies to the life of a collision repair business owner. Six shop owners shared what changes they’ve recently made within their business.

Tom Ricci, owner of Body & Paint Center in Hudson, MA, pointed to two such changes at his 21-employee business.

“I have had multiple problems with our last four or five bookkeepers. They just never seem to work out,” he said. “So I outsourced bookkeeping. It’s been almost a year now and it’s worked out, between cleaning up the last two or three years that other people made a mess of, and really making it simple moving forward. I don’t need an in-house bookkeeper anymore. It’s been a breath of fresh hair having this outsourced help.”

Ricci said he also began doing more ADAS work in-house as of last December.

“I got quite comfortable with the training and utilizing it the way we should have been utilizing it earlier,” he said. “We’re doing it now for any cars that need it, in-house. I was surprised by how much space it really does take, but we do have the space for it. We have 15,000 square feet, and not all of it was being 100% used all of the time. We started out with two managers learning how to do it. Now the production manager is training a lower-level tech that has been with us for about three years. We had moved him a couple different places in the shop, but this really struck a chord with him. He got real excited about learning how to do it.”

Changing Customer Communication

Rosann Kramer of Runway Auto in South Burlington, VT, spent 16 years working for one of the automotive paint companies before buying the shop in 2014. She said a three-month backlog of work and continued challenges with getting parts has led to some changes in customer communications.

“We are spending way more time talking to customers, explaining how long they are waiting to get their car fixed, the parts issues that everybody has, explaining rental car coverage,” Kramer said. “Previously we always told customers, ‘If possible, go through your own insurance because they’re advocating for you.’ Now it’s

the opposite. If they’re a claimant, we tell them, ‘File with the other [party’s] insurer because you could be in a rental car for three to six months.’

“Another change: I used to call customers and leave them a voicemail. But a lot of people never answer their phone, don’t have voicemail set up or it’s full,” Kramer continued. “So now we do email. I let them know when they drop off their vehicle that unless something

and more. I probably use the word ‘empathy’ about 10 times a day right now. Just listen to them, understand, tell them you’re on their side and that we’re doing everything we can.”

Technology-Focused Changes

Frank Rinaudo of Frank’s Accurate Body Shop in Slidell, LA, said his shop repairs 20 to 25 EVs a month, about a third of the company’s overall monthly car count.

doesn’t feel like we have enough to accomplish all the tasks we need to do daily.” Silva said she’s trying to bring in new technology to help.

“We’re using RepairLogic now to source [repair] procedures a little more efficiently,” she said. “All our technicians have a Gmail account, and we can send the link [from RepairLogic] to them and they can click on that and all the procedures are right there on their laptop. And we can attach that link into CCC. We’re no longer printing out 100 pages and rescanning those into CCC.”

Another change: “We’re also doing a lot of paint invoicing now because those paint material rates just do not cover what we’re spending,” Silva said.

Recruiting Changes

Mark Probst, owner of two Probst Auto Body shops in rural towns in Illinois, said he’s changed how he hires new technicians.

“We haven’t hired an experienced technician in, gosh, seven or eight years,” Probst said. “We decided we were going to grow them ourselves, in-house. We’ve been fairly successful at it. Right now between the two locations I think I have four full-time techs in their 20s. I’ve got two kids still in school working here part-time.”

changes, I will email them once a week with an update. That does seem to be working. But it’s just a lot more time spent on the education process.”

On the opposite side of the country, Melanie Allan of Craftsman Collision in Long Beach, CA, also pointed to changes in customer communication.

“I told a customer yesterday that we left them a detailed voicemail, and got back, ‘Oh, I don’t listen to those,’” Allan said. “So we are texting everybody everything. It seems to work.”

Allan learned the business working at her father’s collision repair shop in Vancouver, Canada, first as a bookkeeper, then moving into operations, marketing and management. She now oversees a shop that employs 22 people.

She said she also is working to address other changes she’s seeing in customers.

“As much as you try to educate them, tell them that parts are often a question mark, some customers are unreasonable, even when we try to set their expectations,” she said. “We tell them there are variables. They just hit the roof. We’re seeing that more

“Our processes on intaking those vehicles has changed, and is still changing,” he said. “We got some photos and information from other shops about electric cars that arrived and looked fine one day but by the next day they were a burnt mess because of thermal runaway. Even cars that didn’t look damaged that

Probst has also been able to regularly hire students from a community college about 40 miles from his shops.

badly. So it’s really important that we protect ourselves. We bought a thermal imaging camera so we can detect heat in the battery and monitor that in a quarantine to validate if we’re seeing an increase.”

Second-generation shop owner Tiffany Silva of Accurate Auto Body in Richmond, CA, said they have increased staffing the past three years to keep up with demand, but even with 25 employees, “it still

“I’ve been real happy, and at this point, there would be a lot of considerations before I would hire an experienced tech anymore,” he said. “We’ve had really good luck growing our own.”

He said he believes in getting the idea of working in the collision repair industry into students’ minds early on.

“We have kindergarteners come to our shop for field trips every year,” he said. “Last year, I talked to a class of fourth-graders. Last week, one of my managers went to talk to junior high students. I don’t think we can plant those seeds early enough. I have three teenagers at home, and so I know that many kids don’t know what they want to do. I don’t think there’s any time too early to plant those seeds.”

Melanie Allan of Craftsman Collision in Long Beach, CA, said her shop no longer leaves voicemails because customers don’t listen to them. They send texts instead

“We’re also doing a lot of paint invoicing now because those paint material rates just do not cover what we’re spending.”

TIFFANY SILVA OWNER, ACCURATE AUTO BODY, RICHMOND, CA

Please contact these dealers for your Honda or Acura Genuine parts needs.

Carlock Honda Birmingham

800-987-0819

205-949-5457

Dept Hours: M-F 8-6 robert thompson@carlockcars com

AutoNation Honda

Clearwater Clearwater

888-205-2564

727-530-1173

Dept Hours: M-F 7-7; Sat 8-5; Sun 10-3 santosr1@autonation com

AutoNation Honda

Hollywood Hollywood

800-542-8121

954-964-8300

Dept Hours: M-F 7-7; Sat 7-5; Sun 9-5 hernandeze@autonation�com

Classic Honda

Orlando

888-893-4984

407-521-1115

Dept Hours: M-F 7-7; Sat 8-4 parts@classichonda com

Headquarter Honda

Clermont

800-497-2294

407-395-7374

Dept Hours: M-F 8-7; Sat 8-5 pepe guevara@headquarterhonda com

ACURA

FLORIDA

Acura of Orange Park Jacksonville

888-941-7278

904-777-1008

Dept� Hours: M-F 7-8; Sat 7-5; Sun 9-3 msweeney@acuraoforangepark com

Duval Acura Jacksonville

800-352-2872

904-725-1149

Dept Hours: M-F 7-7; Sat 8-5

Cecil adams@duvalacura com

Hendrick Honda

Pompano Beach

Pompano Beach

954-425-8244

Dept Hours: M-Fri 7-6; Sat 7-5; gerardbruno@hendrickauto com

Holler Honda Orlando

407-442-1938

Dept Hours: M-F 7-6; Sat 7-4 parts@hollerhonda com

Rick Case Honda

Davie

877-544-2249

Dept Hours: M-F 7-7; Sat 7:30-4 robbutton@rickcase com

South Motors Honda Miami

888-418-3513

305-256-2240

Dept Hours: M-F 8-7 mfranceschi@southhonda com

Carey Paul Honda

Snellville

770-985-1444

Dept Hours: M-F 7-7; Sat 7-6 gperkins@careypaul com

Ed Voyles Honda

Marietta

800-334-3719

770-933-5870 Direct

Dept Hours: M-F 7-7; Sat 7-6 hondaparts@edvoyles com

FLORIDA

Rick Case Acura Fort Lauderdale

800-876-1150

954-377-7688

Dept Hours: M-F 7:30-6; Sat 8-5 rubenramos@rickcase com

Jackson Acura Roswell

877-622-2871

678-259-9500

Dept Hours: M-F 7-6; Sat 7:30-6 kmcmillan@jacksonacura com

Gerald Jones Honda Augusta

800-733-2210

706-228-7040

Dept Hours: M-F 7:30-6; Sat 8-5 tdunn@geraldjoneshonda com

Honda Mall of Georgia

Buford/Gwinnett

678-318-3155

Dept Hours: M-F 7-7; Sat 7-5 cdunlap@penskeautomotive com

Milton Martin Honda Gainesville

770-534-0086

678-989-5473

Dept Hours: M-F 7:30-6 robertthomas@mmhonda com

Honda of Newnan

Newnan

678-423-8183

Dept Hours: M-F 7-6; Sat 7-4 samuel trapani@henrickauto com

Nalley Honda Union City

866-362-8034

770-306-4646

Dept Hours: M-F 7:30-7; Sat 8-5 hondawp@nalleycars com

Patty Peck Honda

Ridgeland

800-748-8676

601-957-3400

Dept Hours: M-F 7:30-6; Sat 8-5 pmartin@pattypeckhonda com

Nalley Acura Marietta

800-899-7278

770-422-3138

Dept Hours: M-F 7-7; Sat 7-5 byoung@nalleycars com

Flow Acura

Winston-Salem

800-489-3534

336-761-3682

Dept Hours: M-F 7:30-6; Sat 8-1

www flowacura com

Apple Tree Honda

Asheville

800-476-9411

828-684-4400

Dept Hours: M-F 8-5; Sat 8-4 appletreeparts@hotmail com

Crown Honda Southpoint Durham

855-893-8866

919-425-4711

Dept Hours: M-Thu 7-11; Fri 7-6 Sat 7-5; Sun 11-5 www southpointhonda com

McKenney-Salinas Honda Gastonia

888-703-7109

704-824-8844 x 624

Dept Hours: M-F 7:30-5:30 parts@mshonda com

Vann York Automall High Point 336-841-6200

Dept Hours: M-F 7:30-6; Sat 8-3

Breakaway Honda Greenville

800-849-5056

864-234-6481

Dept� Hours: M-F 8-6; Sat 8-5 fmarshall@breakawayhonda com

Piedmont Honda Anderson 800-849-5057

864-375-2082

Dept Hours: M-F 7:30-6; Sat 8-5 swhite@piedmontcars�com

Karen Radley Acura Woodbridge

800-355-2818

703-550-0205

Dept Hours: M-F 7:30-5:30; Sat 8-3 coreythompson@radleyautogroup com

SO. CAROLINA

TENNESSEE VIRGINIA

Airport Honda Alcoa

800-264-4721

865-970-7792

Dept Hours: M-F 7:30-6:30; Sat 7:30-5 parts@airporthonda com

AutoNation Honda

West Knoxville Knoxville

800-824-1301

865-218-5461

Dept Hours: M-F 7:30-6 rossd1@autonation com

Wolfchase Honda

Bartlett

800-982-7290

901-255-3780

Dept Hours: M-F 7-7 ekerr@wolfchasehonda com

Checkered Flag Honda Norfolk

800-277-2122

757-687-3453

Dept Hours: M-Sat 7:30-6 honda checkeredflag com

Hall Honda Virginia Beach

800-482-9606

757-431-4329

Dept Hours: M-F 8-7; Sat 8-5 fox@hallauto com

Valley Honda Staunton

800-277-0598

540-213-9016

Dept Hours: M-F 7:30-5:30; Sat 9-5 bwimer@myvalleyhonda com

West Broad Honda Richmond

800-446-0160

804-672-8811

Dept Hours: M-Fri 7:30-6:30; Sat 8-5 wbhonda@aol com

Honda

VIRGINIA

and Acura Genuine Parts is an online ordering portal for repair facilities to order parts directly from the Honda/Acura Dealer(s) of their choice.

Karleigh Johnson Has Her Eyes on SkillsUSA National Gold

By Ed Attanasio Autobody News

High school senior Karleigh Johnson at Ratteree Career Development Center (RCDC) in Irving, TX, is a SkillsUSA star. She took the gold medal at the SkillsUSA district competition in February, held in Waco, TX, and then captured first place at the state finals in Corpus Christi, TX.

entered SkillsUSA and performed admirably, though he wasn’t able to get past the state level. He told himself one day he would get a student to take the whole thing. One of his students, Hector Martinez, won the state competition his first year, but a technicality kept him from going to nationals. The next year, Martinez finished second in the state, just like Cano.

And then in 2000, Cano finally found his collision star, a student named Geronimo Medrano, who won nationals under Cano’s tutelage. “He was a special kid and now he is doing well out in the industry, which is so satisfying,” Cano said.

For the past 23 years, Cano has been looking for his second champion, and Johnson may be the answer. SkillsUSA is a national membership association serving high school, college and middle school students who are preparing for careers in trade, technical and skilled service occupations, including collision repair. It’s is a partnership of students, teachers and industry working together to ensure America has a skilled workforce. SkillsUSA helps each student excel.

week of the class,” Cano said. “She asked ‘Could I be in your class?’ and I asked why. She said, ‘I know how to do mechanical already, and I want to learn collision repair now.’ She was direct and very respectful and I had a sense that she would be a good student. She is smart and wants to

SkillsUSA competition, because she is a competitor and comes prepared.”

Cano always trains his students to compete, on top of the knowledge and skills he shares with every student about fixing and painting cars.

“Karleigh is already doing the same things professionally at Toyota of Irving, so it’s not going to be that much different,” he said. “I always tell all of my SkillsUSA students to focus carefully on every detail; get everything done right the first time and take what I have taught you into practice.”

There will be a bigger crowd at nationals, but Johnson does not seem to be nervous when she thinks about her upcoming trip to Atlanta.

Johnson was the sole female participant in the collision repair technician competition at state and now is headed for SkillsUSA Nationals, June 19-23 in Atlanta, GA. Johnson’s instructor at RCDC, Felix Cano, is proud of his prize pupil. She is his only student to reach the national competition this year, of five who competed at the district level. Cano has 52 students in his collision repair program at RCDC, five of whom are young women.

The SkillsUSA Nationals are like the Super Bowl of high school collision repair, and Cano is a wellknown top teacher and coach. He is competitive himself, so whenever Cano has a contender like Johnson, he’s thrilled. He is delighted with Johnson’s presentation to date, and anticipates a strong performance in the nationals.

When she isn’t in class, Johnson works at Toyota of Irving as a technician, where they are also enamored with her work.

When he was a tech student, Cano

More than 340,000 students and advisors join SkillsUSA each year, organized into more than 19,000 local chapters and 52 state and territorial associations. In 201718, 19,500 teachers served as professional members and SkillsUSA advisors. Combining alumni membership, the total number reached annually is more than 421,000. SkillsUSA has served more than 13.5 million members since its founding in 1965.

More than 600 business, industry and labor organizations actively support SkillsUSA at the national level through financial aid, in-kind contributions and involvement of their people in SkillsUSA activities. Many more work directly with state associations and local chapters. Commitment by industry to the annual national SkillsUSA Championships is valued at more than $36 million.

The initial meeting between Cano and Johnson was random and wonderful.

“She was watching us weld and doing body work during the third

learn—everything you could want in a student.”

Cano sensed something with Johnson that intrigued him immediately, he said.

“Some students don’t want to compete, but Karleigh has those killer eyes,” Cano said. “When she decides to solve a problem or take on a challenge, she will succeed. That’s why I thought she would do well in the

“When I get up there, I have the ability to stay calm,” she said. “I don’t get hyped up and I go with the flow. Mr. Cano tells me to stay cool and do my best.”

Hopefully her best will bring her the gold, she said.

“I have been training for this for so long and learned so much along the way,” Johnson said. “Winning the SkillsUSA Nationals would help me in college and lead to other opportunities—so I am definitely excited!”

Karleigh Johnson, left, a student at Rateree Career Development Center, with her teacher, Felix Cano, at SkillsUSA Regionals

“I have been training for this for so long and learned so much along the way. Winning the SkillsUSA Nationals would help me in college and lead to other opportunities—so I am definitely excited!”

— KARLEIGH JOHNSON COLLISION REPAIR TECH STUDENT

Barrett-Jackson Palm Beach Auction Wraps Up With $1.5 Million Ford GT

Big sales, exciting moments and enthusiastic bidding made for a great Super Saturday at the 2023 Palm Beach Barrett-Jackson Auction. The last of the more than 600 incredible collector vehicles made their way across the stage April 15, with additional auction world-record sales logged. The top seller was a 2020 Ford GT Heritage Edition with its $1.5 million sale. The auction arena went wild on a number of occasions—notably when the first retail production VIN 001 2024 Chevrolet Corvette E-Ray 3LZ rolled onto the block. The arena was on its feet when the car sold for $1.1 million with 100% of the hammer price benefiting DonorsChoose, an organization committed to education. The generous winning bidder was NASCAR team owner Rick Hendrick

In an especially kind gesture, Michelle Mauzy, noted philanthropist and longtime member of the BarrettJackson family, donated an additional $50,000 to the nonprofit, bringing the total raised for DonorsChoose to $1,150,000. Following the exciting moment on stage, Craig Jackson, chairman and CEO of Barrett-Jackson, and Steve Davis, president of

Barrett-Jackson, were presented with commemorative gavels by Michael Sawaya, president of the New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center, to celebrate the addition of the inaugural New Orleans Auction, slated for Sept. 28-30. The day’s second charity vehicle, Lee Iacocca’s 2009 Ford Mustang Iacocca 45th Anniversary Edition, brought more heartfelt moments to the block when it sold for $150,000. The entire hammer price of this vehicle benefited the Ellis Island Honors Society Inc., which creates scholarships and supports cultural events and programs around the nation. The sale included a painting of the car that was created during the auction. The other big stars of the show that drove top sales April 15 included a 2020 Ford GT and a 2005 Ford GT, both from the Steve Todhunter collection, which crossed the block for $990,000 and $440,000, respectively. A 2018 Porsche 911 GT2 RS sold for $434,500, while a 1962 Chevrolet Corvette custom convertible followed with a $401,500 sale. Rounding out the Top 10 sales was a 2019 Porsche Speedster that sold for $396,000, a 2018 RollsRoyce Phantom for $363,000, a 2018

Porsche 911 GT2 RS for $346,500, and a 2017 Ferrari 488 Spider that brought the winning bid of $330,000.

The morning’s Automobilia Auction also saw impressive sales, with a spectacular 1930s-40s Phillips 66 embossed porcelain neon sign selling for $43,125. Another top sale was an incredible 1940s Marathon Oil Ethyl Gasoline gas pump globe, which sold for $27,025. Rounding out the top three was a 1957 Bowser gas pump in Ferrari regalia, which went to its new home for $18,975. Chip Foose joined Jackson and Davis on the podium for the sale of a 1967 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500E that earned $264,000 with its sale. Shawn Shelby, grandson of Carroll Shelby, also made an appearance on the auction podium for the $176,000 sale of a 2022 Ford Shelby GT500 Heritage Edition from the Brian Kelly collection.

Barrett-Jackson is grateful for the tremendous support received for the Palm Beach Auction—from each of the fantastic bidders, consignors, sponsors, exhibitors, guests and fans, as well as the South Florida community, and looks forward to seeing everyone at our 2023 Las Vegas Auction at the convention center June 22-24.

The National Institute for Automotive Service (ASE) announced the creation of EV technician/shop personnel electrical safety standards. The purpose of the standards is to provide guidance, document and establish electrical safety requirements, standards, procedures and safe work practices relating to the development of an electrically safe working area for service professionals in North America working on or around electrified vehicles (xEVs). The intent is to minimize exposure to these hazards and their associated impacts.

In addition to the EV Standards, ASE has developed a new testing and certification program for all xEV vehicles including light duty and medium/heavy duty hybrid/ electric vehicles (EV) based on the standards.

To learn more about the new standards and program, visit www.ase.com/ev.

Source: ASE

Cole Strandberg

EVs: Opportunities Outweigh Challenges for Collision Repair Shops

As the automotive industry continues to shift towards electric vehicles (EVs), collision repair businesses have a significant opportunity to stand out by investing in the training and equipment necessary to repair EVs properly.

While EVs offer many benefits, including reduced emissions and lower operating costs, they do

EVs also have unique structural components that require specialized knowledge and training to repair. For example, many EVs have aluminum or carbon fiber bodies that require specialized welding techniques. Repair businesses must have the necessary training and certification to perform these repairs properly. Failure to do so can result in additional damage to the vehicle or even compromise its safety.

This, among other reasons, will likely force collision repairers to specialize. While this evolution toward specialization among collision repairers is already underway, this process will likely only continue to speed up as cars continue to become more advanced and parts become even more difficult to obtain.

of the benefits of EVs, many will be looking for repair businesses that have the skills and expertise to repair their vehicles properly. By investing in training and equipment, repair businesses can position themselves as leaders in a rapidly evolving

to stand out by investing in the training and equipment necessary to repair EVs properly. While this investment can be challenging, it can also pay off in the long run by positioning businesses as experts in the field, attracting new customers and benefiting from the growing demand for skilled technicians to repair EVs.

With the right investment in training and equipment, collision repair businesses can remain competitive and grow their business in an increasingly electrified transportation sector.

present unique challenges when it comes to collision repair.

One of the main differences between repairing an EV and an internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicle is the safety considerations. In an ICE vehicle, the primary safety concern is fuel, while in an EV, it’s the high-voltage battery system. Highvoltage batteries require specialized knowledge and equipment to disconnect and remove them safely from the vehicle during repair. Collision repair businesses must invest in safety equipment and ensure their technicians are properly trained in handling and disposing damaged batteries.

Another challenge for collision repair businesses is the need for specialized diagnostic equipment to identify and repair faults in the electrical system. EVs have complex electrical systems that require specialized diagnostic equipment to interface with the car’s computer systems and determine the extent of the damage. This diagnostic equipment can be expensive, and not all repair businesses may have the resources to invest in it.

However, this investment can pay off in the long run, as it allows technicians to accurately identify the damage and ensure the vehicle is fully repaired to its original standards. Additionally, this investment serves as a moat, of sorts, against the competition. For shops willing to invest, the growth opportunities provided by EVs are immense.

Investing in the training and equipment required to repair EVs properly can also represent a significant opportunity for collision repair businesses. As more consumers choose EVs over ICE vehicles, the demand for skilled technicians to repair these vehicles is only going to increase. By positioning themselves as experts in the field, collision repair businesses can set themselves apart from their competitors and capitalize on this growing demand.

Moreover, manufacturers are now providing more support to collision repair businesses that wish to invest in training and equipment to repair EVs properly. For example, Tesla has developed a collision repair program that provides collision repair businesses with access to specialized training and equipment to repair its vehicles. Rivian offers a helpline for shops within their collision program, providing real-time assistance from a real person for any technical questions or issues shops might have.

In addition, some manufacturers are also providing repair businesses with access to online resources and support to help them repair EVs properly. These resources can include technical manuals, repair procedures and diagnostic tools, all of which can help repair businesses accurately diagnose and repair damage to EVs.

Finally, investing in the training and equipment necessary to repair EVs properly can also help repair businesses attract new customers. As more consumers become aware

industry and attract new customers who are looking for quality repair services.

In conclusion, as the automotive industry shifts towards electric vehicles, collision repair businesses have a significant opportunity

If you’re interested in the world of EVs and their impact on the collision repair industry, be sure to check out The Collision Vision, Autobody News’ collision business-focused podcast. In Episode 6, we feature Kelly Logan, senior manager for Rivian’s collision repair program. We’ll have more EV-focused content coming soon. You can find information about The Collision Vision at www. autobodynews.com/podcasts.

“As the automotive industry shifts towards EVs, collision repair businesses have an opportunity to stand out by investing in the training and equipment necessary to repair them properly.”

COLE STRANDBERG

topical issues impacting the industry and how to address them.

“The conference went beyond our expectations,” said Hendler. “Bringing the regional industry together, as well as many from across the country, to take part in the educational opportunities and tradeshow was a win for all those who made the effort to come.”

“The highlights for me included the awards dinner, where we had the opportunity to celebrate the men and women who make the magic happen in the shop,” said Kent. “I also enjoyed seeing new faces walking around the tradeshow floor and the fact that our people from the Carolinas showed up and participated.”

During the show, KECO Body Repair Products had the unexpected opportunity to showcase the benefits of glue pull repair (GPR) on a Lucid Motors EV door dent that was noticed while on display.

Danny Hacker, technical sales representative and master GPR trainer at KECO, used the company’s L2E system to repair the dent in front of show attendees at their booth.

“Hacker was able to effectively demonstrate the advantages and

effectiveness of GPR techniques on EVs with no need to power down the Lucid,” said Chris White, president of KECO.

Throughout the event, classes were held as part of the Collision Professional Repairer Education Program (P.R.E.P.) and taught by nationally recognized speakers. Mike Anderson kicked off the sessions with his class “Be Extraordinary!”

information about properly identifying labor types and rates.

“There was a time when a vehicle repair consisted of 70% body labor, 20% mechanical labor and 10% frame,” said Shoemaker. “The evolution of vehicle design has dictated a change in that ratio, but collision centers are still accounting for labor as if nothing has changed.”

He stressed the importance of assigning technicians to repairs based on their skill set, whether nonstructural, structural, mechanical, electrical/ diagnostic or refinish. When steps are taken to do this, he said that a repair on a modern vehicle often has a ratio closer to 20% body, 60% structural and 20% mechanical, not including ADAS calibrations.

evolve,” he noted.

Frank Terlep, VP ADAS Services for Opus IVS, said there will be nearly 100 million ADAS-equipped vehicles on North America’s roads in 2023 and more than 4.2 million will need some type of ADAS services or calibration. During his presentation, Terlep discussed the opportunities, challenges, sales, marketing and operational requirements to open and operate a successful and profitable ADAS service and calibration business or division.

“If you want to operate an efficient and profitable business, you need to standardize and automate as many workflows and processes as possible, reducing paperwork while increasing and improving your organization’s documentation, documentation sharing and communications,” said Terlep.

More than 200 attendees showed up hours before the doors opened to hear Anderson talk about what it takes to stand out above the crowd.

John Shoemaker, business development manager for BASF Automotive Refinishes NA, shared

“Knowing that labor sales are the primary profit center of a collision center, explaining that labor rates should be based on the costs to perform the labor and identifying specific labor skillset will allow collision centers to maintain profitability as vehicle design and repair requirements continue to

In a joint presentation by Danny Gredinberg, website administrator of the Database Enhancement Gateway (DEG), and Scott Ayers, Blueprint Optimization Tool (BOT) project development manager for the Society of Collision Repair Specialists (SCRS), the speakers talked about repair planning resources for shops and how to “Write Your Strongest Sheet.” Gredinberg and Ayers highlighted free resources to maximize repairs and discussed

Danny Hacker, technical sales representative and master GPR trainer at KECO, showcased the benefits of glue pull repair (GPR) on a Lucid Motors EV door dent.

how SCRS’s Blueprint Optimization Tool (BOT) can help capture missing dollars and support charges with information from the DEG.

“The biggest takeaway using the resources is that DEG is free and BOT is inexpensive,” said Gredinberg. “There is no reason that with two critical resources, we are still missing

getting the most out of what you are already doing during the repair process in the shop every day.”

In Josh McFarlin’s Collision P.R.E.P. session, the executive VP of operations for AirPro Diagnostics talked about how shops can make more profit and maintain better control of cycle time by keeping

using a DISC (dominance, influence, steadiness and conscientiousness) assessment with employees. Developed by psychologist William Moulton Marston and taught by Tony Robbins, Olson said DISC details people’s dominant traits in different categories: analytical, driver, amiable and expressive.

“Not everyone fits into one category 100%,” explained Olson. “The population is roughly divided equally into all four groups, so it is highly likely that most companies have one of each or more.”

Michael Bradshaw, vice president of K&M Collision, shared the step-bystep process of an OEM-compliant repair during his presentation, “Repairer to Repairer: Stop Estimating and Start Repair Planning.”

The educational program also included two panel discussions. One focused on preparing shops for EV repair and management. In addition to Bradshaw and Barry Dorn of Dorn’s Body and Paint, it included OEM representatives Kelly Logan, Rivian; Mark Allen, Audi; and Jake Rodenroth, Lucid Motors.

Bradshaw also moderated a repairer panel that addressed industry issues and opportunities while navigating the future. It included body shop leaders Frank Rinaudo, Frank’s Accurate Auto Body; Dorn; Phil Rice, Huber Collision; and Ron Reichen, Precision Body & Paint

necessary/required operations that can also be supported by p pages/ not included operations, as well as an ability to question the labor time if it doesn’t make sense.”

“Consistency is the biggest key to success, whether using the BOT or making sure that you consistently write the strongest sheet you can every time,” explained Ayers. “These resources are designed to help you make sure that you are constantly

ADAS calibrations in-house. From radar recalibrations after a bumper repair to cost-effective static and dynamic calibration solutions, he discussed the pros, cons and cost considerations for multiple approaches.

Mark E. Olson, CEO of VECO Experts, discussed how organization and process can lead to shop profitability.

Olson talked about the benefits of

Bradshaw detailed the processes and documentation used to capture all operations accurately within a repair blueprint. This includes identifying the required repair, documentation best practices and using OEM repair information and industry resources for capturing non-included operations. He also discussed the differences between an estimate and a thorough repair blueprint. “The blueprinting process is crucial to ensure a proper repair, shop efficiency and overall profitability,” Bradshaw noted.

“Local tradeshows, like the Southeast Collision Conference, allow local vendors to have an impact and to show off their products and services,” said Kent. “They also provide shops education on topics that are relevant today in their shops and see they are not alone.”

“Overall, the CCA and WMABA teams pulled together a great and memorable experience for collision repairers who took the time to come and invest in themselves, their team and the future of their businesses,” said Hendler.

Panelists in an EV discussion included, pictured left to right, Michael Bradshaw of K&M Collision, Barry Dorn of Dorn’s Body & Paint, Kelly Logan of Rivian, Mark Allen of Audi and Jake Rodenroth of Lucid.

Calculating the ROI in ‘Growing’ Your Own New Body Techs

More collision repair shops are recognizing they’ll never be able to find all the experienced body technicians they will need, and they instead will need to develop one—or more—themselves. So they are hiring an apprentice, and either training them in-house or sending them to training while they work part-time in the shop.

period at the school. The student also finishes the program with a starter tool box and I-CAR credits.

How long will it take the shop to recoup its investment in that student and start generating a return? Let’s work through the math.

It’s that model of schooling coupled with work experience that makes me a huge supporter of the Collision Engineering Program (www. beacollisionengineer.com). Now in place at seven post-secondary schools—and growing—around the country, the Collision Engineering Program puts students through a two-year training regimen in which they rotate eight weeks at school, then eight weeks working within a shop.

I see many of my client shops doing the math and realizing they can receive a good return on their investment in helping a student complete a training program at a school that’s part of the Collision Engineering Program, or at one of the other quality collision repair training programs around the country.

In some cases, these shops are telling these prospective apprentices: If you successfully complete the program, in addition to your other pay and benefits, we’ll pay your monthly student loan payments as long as you’re working within our business.

So how does that pencil out? Obviously, the cost of a student’s training can vary based on the school’s tuition, and on whether the student is attending a local school or needing room and board to attend a program elsewhere. But just for the purpose of this article, let’s say the cost the shop is committing to is $40,000. In this example, that covers two years of tuition and room and board while the student is spending each eight-week

Prior to the pandemic, we were seeing the average body technician generating about $53,000 to $63,000 a month in gross sales. That number has risen in the last few years as the average number of parts per job— as well as ADAS-related steps—have increased overall repair costs. And I’ve seen technicians at shops with great estimators, particularly if they are working on higherend vehicles in markets with higher labor rates, producing as much as $75,000 or $80,000 per month in sales.

But again, for purposes of this exercise, let’s say the body technician you’re investing in is able to produce $60,000 a month in gross sales.

Now, say your shop is making a 43% gross profit. That’s unloaded without taking employee benefits into account. I know some shops making less than that, and some making more. But let’s stick with 43%.

If you calculate 43% of $60,000, that technician is generating $25,800 in gross profit per month for that shop. For technicians reading this article, understand that is gross profit. That’s not net profit for the shop owner. Out of that gross profit, the shop has to pay its rent and utilities, pay its taxes and pay for its administrative staff, pay for training and the estimating system costs, etc.

So now let’s divide that $25,800 by the 180 clock hours the technician in this example works in a month (four weeks of 45 hours each). That technician is producing $143.33 in gross profit per hour. Again, this is just for the purposes of this article; some technicians produce more, others less.

Let’s just say your apprentice is able to produce $100 an hour in gross profit. It will take 10 weeks, at 40 hours per week, for that technician to generate gross profit equal to the $40,000 you invested in their education.

Again, that doesn’t take into account a lot of things, like the cost

of health insurance you provide, uniforms, vacation pay, workers’ compensation insurance premiums, etc. But even if you calculate it will take twice that long, 20 weeks, that’s still not a particularly long period for your investment to start providing a return.

technicians to OEM or other ongoing training. But if that training improves their productivity or efficiency, the exercise we just walked through can show you the potential return on that investment.

Aside from that, think of the loyalty you’re building in that technician who knows his or her student debt is being paid by the business as long as they work there.

I know with most shops being extremely busy these days, owners often hate the idea of sending

It’s also a good calculation to perform when you think of anything that pulls that technician away from working steadily on vehicles. Every time that technician has to go look for a part or a tool, every time that technician is writing their own supplement notes or having to walk to the office for something, that’s costing your shop the equivalent of $100+ per hour in gross profit. That’s one of the reasons I’m a huge proponent of having an estimator/ repair planner working out in the shop, to help ensure the technicians are able to stay on task.

In any case, I think we all have to start thinking a little out of the box in terms of recruiting and retaining technicians, and making an investment into “growing your own” can have a significant return.

“How long will it take the shop to recoup its investment in that student and start generating a return? Let’s work through the math.”

MIKE ANDERSON

NABC Announces 2 New Team Members

The National Auto Body Council announced April 19 it has welcomed two new team members to the organization, Alison Ilg and Katy Schaan, to support the its growing membership, national programs and operations. Ilg will handle public relations and marketing for the NABC, its premiere programs and its members. Ilg has spent her career helping businesses create and implement results-oriented national and trade media relations, internal communications and social media programs. From mid-sized companies to Fortune 500 corporations, her expertise focuses on B2B and B2C initiatives, as well as internal communications. Schaan joins NABC as the executive administrator, bringing years of experience in bookkeeping, payroll, administrative support and business operations through her company, Haven Street Consulting. She has served as the VP of operations for a small Midwest-based real estate investment company, overseen payroll integrations with external vendors, and led multiple functional areas for a technology company.

Source: NABC

Atlanta Residents Receive NABC Recycled Rides

On April 19, two deserving Atlanta area residents, including a military veteran, received a donated vehicle to provide them independence and the ability to work and take care of their families, thanks to the National Auto Body Council (NABC) Recycled Rides® program along with car donor Farmers Insurance and repair partners Classic Collision and Caliber Collision, whose teammates donated their time and skills to restore the vehicles. The presentation was held at the 13th annual I-CAR Golf Tournament, located at The Golf Club at Bradshaw Farm in Woodstock, benefiting the Collision Repair Education Foundation (CREF). The deserving recipients were selected by The Warrior Alliance and Family Promise of North Fulton/DeKalb.

“It’s gratifying to provide needed vehicles for a military veteran and a single mom,” said Gerry Poirier, national APD strategy and process and NABC board member. “We appreciate the opportunity to work with Classic Collision and Caliber Collision on this program.”

The recipients included: Yaka Wyatt, a single mother

with a young child, nominated by Family Promise of North Fulton/ DeKalb, received a 2017 Hyundai Sonata. She had previously lost her home, her previous car and most of her belongings through a series of unfortunate events. Her current vehicle is very old and needs significant repairs that cost more than the vehicle’s value. Since being in the Family Promise program, Wyatt has obtained employment, paid off portions of her debt and rebuilt her credit. This vehicle will allow her to continue caring for her child and progressing in her path to independence.

Jason Mindy, a U.S. Army veteran who served from 1990 to 2004, received a 2016 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport. He was nominated by The Warrior Alliance. Mindy was awarded the Global War on Terrorism Ribbon, Army Service Ribbon and National Defense Service Medal, and has been without a car for more than a year. He relies on public transportation to get everywhere outside of walking distance. Having a reliable form of transportation would give him much more flexibility and freedom to get to VA doctor appointments, be more

active within his veteran community, and be able to have his own means of getting around.

“My first thought was wow, this is going to help me so much,” said Mindy. “I am so grateful to everyone who helped make this a reality.”

NABC Recycled Rides is a unique program in which businesses representing all facets of the collision repair industry team up to repair and donate vehicles to individuals and families in need of reliable transportation. Since the inception of the NABC Recycled Rides program in 2007, members of the NABC have donated more than 3,000 vehicles valued at some $42 million.

Additional partners in the NABC Recycled Rides presentation include 1-800 Charity Cars, Enterprise, I-CAR, Caliber Auto Glass, Axalta, Accurate Wheel Repair, Nalley Hyundai, Suwanee Auto Repair, ProTech, Paintlines, Collision Repair Education Foundation, Troncalli Chrysler/Jeep/ Dodge, Imperial Autosports, TriCounty Chevrolet, PPG, Ultimate Auto Glass and Electronics, LKQ, Copart and AutoNation Hyundai Mall of Georgia.

Source: NABC

Fleming Body Shop Celebrates Grand Opening

By Ryan Kelly

The Mount Airy News

Frank Fleming Body Shop & Collision Center celebrated the grand opening of its new location April 15 at 811 Merita Dr. in Mount Airy, NC, with a cruise in, food trucks and some of the Fleming family racing modifieds.

Red shirts abounded as the red ribbon was cut at the grand opening.

The Fleming Auto Body Shop opening doubled as a good excuse to shine up and show off all sorts of cars and trucks. With the cars’ hoods open and windows down, sticking one’s face into a 1960s Plymouth and getting a whiff of that “old car smell” is a sensory delight for many car lovers. Open wheeled modifieds were lined up for inspection.

AUTOBODY

SCRS Welcomes Static Solutions/Pro-Stat

The Society of Collision Repair Specialists (SCRS) welcomes UK-based Static Solutions, which operates in the U.S. as Pro-Stat, as the newest corporate member of the association.

Parent company Static Solutions has been manufacturing the market-leading Stat-Gun for nearly two decades. The company strives to expand its efforts to educate collision repair professionals on the causes, detrimental effects and solutions to static electricity in spray booth environments.

The new Pro Stat-Gun (green model) demonstrates Static Solutions’ commitment to raising the bar on safety, and now carries Class 1/Division 1 Certification for North America, to comply with National Fire Protection Association and OSHA regulations.

For companies looking to support SCRS through membership, contact the SCRS office at info@scrs.com or visit www.scrs.com/join-scrs.

Source: SCRS

Crash Champions, NABC Recycled Rides Donate Car To Nashville Single Mother, U.S. Army Veteran

In a celebratory giveaway April 26, the Crash Champions Collision Repair Team proudly joined hands with the National Auto Body Council® (NABC), GEICO and local partners to change the life of a deserving local single mother and U.S. Army veteran.

Nicole Leyva, who was nominated for the giveaway by Operation Stand Down of Tennessee, received keys to a fully-restored Kia Optima as part of the NABC Recycled Rides program. “My family and I are very thankful for this meaningful gift,” said Leyva. “For those that have been blessed to never have to worry about transportation, I can promise you that this incredible donation will forever change our lives.” Leyva is a single mother of two who served two years in the U.S. Army. Operation Stand Down of Tennessee, which specializes in connecting local veterans with career opportunities, community and crisis service, nominated her, in part because she works multiple jobs to support her two children. The new vehicle will provide the

family with the freedom of reliable personal transportation.

As part of the NABC Recycled Rides program, local auto body repair technicians from Crash Champions’ Antioch, TN, location volunteered their time to fully restore the vehicle for the event. The vehicle was donated for the giveaway by GEICO. “At Crash Champions, one of our core commitments is to put People First, Always,” said Matt Ebert, founder and CEO of Crash Champions. “The NABC Recycled Rides program is a tremendous opportunity for our team members to give back in a way that is tangible and life-changing. We’re grateful to play a small part in making a positive impact for Ms. Leyva and her family.”

In 2023 alone, Crash Champions has played an active role in six Recycled Rides giveaways in communities across the country. The company is a proud Level One partner with NABC and serves customers across the country at more than 600 high-quality collision repair centers.

Source: Crash Champions

U.S. Seeing Historic 1-Year Drop in Gas Prices

By Tom Gantert The Center Square

The U.S. is witnessing a historic drop in the price of gas at the pump due to the war in Ukraine, according to an industry analyst.

AAA had the price per gallon dropping from $4.48 a gallon a year ago to $3.53 as of May 16.

Patrick De Haan, an energy analysis with GasBuddy, said on Twitter there have only been only four times in history, including now, when the U.S. experienced such a dramatic drop in gas prices.

He said the other times were the 2008-2009 recession ($3.04 Jan. 2008 to $1.79 Jan. 2009); when OPEC increased its production of oil in 2015 ($3.31 Jan. 2014 to $2.12 Jan. 2015); during the COVID pandemic in 2020 ($2.86 May 2019 to $1.87 May 2020). Gas prices listed are from the U.S. Energy Information Administration.

De Haan posted on Twitter: “ ... the entire reason for the $1/gal drop is basically the worst fears after Russia’s

invasion didn’t play out, plus economic headwinds limiting consumption.”

Andrew Gross, energy analyst for AAA, said the oil market took an “overly negative” view of how the war would impact the oil market and that’s why gas prices were so high a year ago.

“Now, they are, ‘Oh. Wait. Russian oil is still getting out,’” Gross said.

The trend of lower gas prices should continue, barring unforeseen circumstances, De Haan told The Center Square.

“That’s typical for summer,” he said. “A peak in price before the summer starts due to the transition to summer gasoline and refinery maintenance, but once the transition is done and refineries are back, supply builds and prices ease.”

The next challenge will be the hurricane season, which starts in the middle of June and lasts until the end of September. Gross said that could have a big impact on the cost of gas going forward.

Maaco Martinsburg Honors Military Families With Grand Opening

Maaco recentlyhosted a communityfocused grand opening event for its new shop in Martinsburg, WV. The new shop, Maaco Martinsburg, is located at 1357 Edwin Miller Blvd.

The grand opening event featured a car show, opportunities to connect with members of the community, and a sponsored booth where attendees could learn more about national military nonprofit Operation Homefront, one of Maaco’s charitable partners.

Operation Homefront’s mission is to build strong, stable and secure military families so they can thrive, not simply struggle to get by, in the communities—our communities—they have worked so hard to protect. As a longstanding partner, Maaco is proud to support Operation Homefront’s mission and to show the military families in the Martinsburg community they are valued and appreciated.

The optimal weather resulted in a turnout of nearly 200 individuals who were fortunate to witness the new shop and its state-of-the-art equipment, peruse the vintage cars and learn more about the critical

mission of Operation Homefront to serve America’s military families.

“I am thrilled with the turnout and support we received at our opening event,” said Jaren Kirkland, owner of Maaco Martinsburg. “As housing costs continue to rise, I greatly appreciate the efforts of Operation Homefront to ensure military families receive the relief and recognition for their resiliency.”

The event also provided opportunity for the partnership to be promoted on local radio and broadcast.

“Many of our own employees and franchisees within the Maaco family have served in the military so causes like these are very close to our heart,” said Daryl Hurst, president of Maaco. “I am deeply proud of our Maaco family for dedicating time to promote and support this incredible initiative. Additionally, I’d like to extend a heartfelt welcome to Jaren and his business partners. I look forward to seeing this location grow alongside their community.”

For more information, visit www. Maaco.com.

Source: Maaco

By Steven Symes Motorious

Surveillance footage showed a group of several thieves break into a showroom in Henderson, NC, find the keys for several cars, and drive them out into the parking lot and into the night.

The incident happened April 16. Ultimately, they got away with a Chevy Camaro, Cadillac Escalade and Audi Q5. All three are expensive rides and the thieves likely knew that, which was why they looked for those specific keys.

For reasons not detailed in a local news report, the thieves abandoned the Escalade the next day in Matthews, NC, where police found it. The suspects are still on the loose and the other two

cars haven’t been recovered. There’s plenty of discussion about why car dealerships don’t take more drastic measures to secure keys at night. Considering they’ve become a favorite target of thieves in the past three years or so, it’s a fair question. Surely they’re losing a good chunk of money when these cars are stolen? Or is the insurance covering everything? But wouldn’t this widespread problem lead to higher insurance rates?

We have heard some dealerships have started moving keys off-site during the night, but this seems to not be a common practice. Of course, that opens a whole new risk of getting held up to the person who transports the keys, or where the keys are kept overnight becoming a target.

Ford Super Duty Roof-Crush Lawsuits

By David A. Wood CarComplaints.com

Ford truck roof class action lawsuits are being consolidated in a Michigan federal court under the case name, In re Ford Super Duty Roof-Crush Litigation.

The jury was told the Ford Super Duty roofs were too weak, and the jury decided about 5 million 1999-2016 Ford Super Duty trucks were sold with defective roofs.

The first Ford roof class action lawsuit was filed weeks after the $1.7 billion jury verdict in the Hill case, and now those class actions will be consolidated into one.

In October 2022, Judge Paul Borman consolidated Beck v. Ford with a related case called Rhodes v. Ford.

North Carolina Maaco Gifts Free Paint Job To Local VFW Post

Maaco recently held its first ever “Love Your Car” campaign, in which Maaco owners gifted one lucky customer with a free paint job. Through this “surprise and delight” effort, owners across the country nominated their customers for the chance to receive the gift.

country.”

Class action attorneys began filing Ford truck roof lawsuits following a $1.7 billion jury verdict against Ford in the wrongful deaths of Melvin Hill, 74, and his wife, Voncile Hill, 62.

The deaths occurred in a 2014 Georgia rollover crash of a 2002 Ford F-250 Super Duty truck.

The crash was alleged9ly caused by a blown tire installed by a Pep Boys service center, which installed the wrong size tire.

The latest action saw Judge F. Kay Behm consolidate Ryan Scott v. Ford, Steven Beck v. Ford, and Curtis Bright v. Ford into the single class action lawsuit, In re Ford Super Duty Roof-Crush Litigation.

The plaintiffs will file a consolidated Ford truck roof class action lawsuit in the Eastern District of Michigan.

A separate wrongful death Ford truck roof lawsuit was recently dismissed in the death of 2001 Ford F-350 driver Mikyley

Rae Reitz

Pete Schwartz, who owns Maaco Greenville, recently completed an estimate for the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 7032 in Greenville, NC. The post is working to undergo building and grounds renovations, and there is one piece that was in need of a makeover. Maaco Greenville was proud to gift the organization with a freshly painted 1941 U.S. Army cannon boom.

“This cannon has been on the front lawn of the Veterans of Foreign War Greenville Post’s lawn for decades,” said Schwartz. “We were honored to work on this project and give the cannon a face lift, as the members of the organization have given so much to the

Veterans of Foreign Wars is a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping veterans in various facets. The organization was founded in 1899 when veterans of the Spanish-American War and Philippine Insurrection created local organizations to secure rights and benefits following their service. From here, the organization has grown tremendously, with posts across the U.S. and more than 1.5 million members.

“At Maaco, we paint anything, but this project was special because it filled my team and I with so much pride,” continued Schwartz. “Seeing the way everyone jumped right in to tackle this project was incredible. I look forward to continuing our efforts in giving back to our deserving community!”

For more information about Maaco, visit Maaco.com.

Source: Maaco

Average Age of Vehicles on U.S. Roads Hits Record High 12.5 Years

With more than 284 million vehicles in operation (VIO) on U.S. roads, the average age of cars and light trucks in the U.S. has risen again this year to a new record of 12.5 years, up by more than three months over 2022, according to the latest analysis from S&P Global Mobility.

The growth is in line with the firm’s prediction from last year that constrained new vehicle sales would continue to impact and put upward pressure on the average age. In addition, the continued rise of light trucks/utilities means the number of passenger cars on the road will fall beneath 100 million for the first time since 1978.

This is the sixth straight year of increase in the average vehicle age of the U.S. fleet. It also reflects the highest yearly increase since the 2008-2009 recession, which caused acceleration in average age beyond its traditional rate due to the sharp decline in new-vehicle sales demand.

In 2022, the average age experienced upward pressure initially due to supply constraints

and inflation reduced consumer demand in the second half of the year. The combined effect caused retail and fleet sales of new light vehicles in the U.S. to drop 8% from 2021’s 14.6 million units to 13.9 million units in 2022, the lowest level

new vehicle sales are projected to surpass 14.5 million units in 2023, according to S&P Global Mobility forecasts, which is expected to curb the rate of average age growth in the coming year.

“While pressure will remain on

to need repair work and service to perform correctly.

recorded in over a decade.

“We expected the confluence of factors impacting the fleet coming out of 2021 would provide further upward pressure on average vehicle age.  But the pressure was amplified in the back half of 2022 as interest rates and inflation began to take their toll,” said Todd Campau, associate director of aftermarket solutions for

Despite economic headwinds,

average age in 2023, we expect the curve to begin to flatten this year as we look toward returning to historical norms for new vehicle sales in 2024,” said Campau.

Favorable Business Pipeline for the Aftermarket

The increased pace of growth of the average light vehicle age benefits the vehicle service industry. An older fleet means vehicles will continue

The aftermarket sector trajectory typically follows growth in average vehicle age, as consumers invest more to keep their aging vehicles running, barring some exceptions. As a result, the most recent S&P Global Channel Forecast, conducted jointly with Auto Care Association and MEMA Aftermarket Suppliers, estimates revenues of the U.S. light duty aftermarket in 2022 have grown to $356.5 billion, up more than 8.5% over 2021. For this year, early indications from the same forecast estimate a potential revenue increase in 2023 of 5% or more, prior to adjustments for inflation and other factors. The newest Channel Forecast is set to be published in June.

According to S&P Global Mobility, the volumes of vehicles ages 6-14 will grow by another 10 million units by 2028, adding to an already favorable volume of vehicles in the aftermarket target range.

“Traditionally, the ‘sweet spot’ for aftermarket repair was considered 6-11 years of age, but with average age at 12.5 years, the sweet spot for aftermarket repair is growing,”

*Kia Genuine replacement parts sold but not installed by an Authorized Kia Dealer are covered

mileage, for the part only, and any labor charge is the consumer’s responsibility.

said Campau. “There are almost 122 million vehicles in operation over 12 years old.”

In total, vehicles older than six years will account for more than 74% of the vehicle fleet in 2028, according to S&P Global Mobility estimates. These vehicles drive the most repair opportunities, and should serve as a positive trend for the independent aftermarket.

New Vehicle Market Skews Further in Favor of Light Trucks

Light truck/utility growth has trended upward for several years, and in 2022, 78% of all new vehicles registered in the U.S. last year were in this category. Given the exponential growth of the sport-utility segment, VIO has shifted as well---with light trucks/utilities representing nearly 63% of the population.

Strong consumer preference for light trucks over cars points to a growing business potential for the vehicle service industry, as light trucks/utilities generally cost more to maintain than cars, and people also tend to keep them longer. The analysis showed within the next 18-24 months, the total volume of passenger cars—sedans, coupes, wagons, hatchbacks---on the road in the U.S. could drop below 100 million for the first time since 1978.

By 2028, it is expected at least 70% of VIO in the U.S. to be light trucks/ utilities.

BEV Average Age Remains Under Pressure

The average age of battery electric vehicles (BEVs) in the U.S. is 3.6 years this year, down from 3.7 years last year. The average age has been hovering between 3 and 4 years since 2017 and is largely compressed as the new BEV registrations continue to grow. According to S&P Global Mobility estimates, new BEV registrations achieved a 58% gain year over year, to nearly 758,000 units in 2022.

However, the average age of BEVs is under pressure as BEVs are leaving the fleet more rapidly than their ICE and diesel counterparts.

According to S&P Global Mobility analysis, of the nearly 2.3 million BEVs registered in the U.S. from 2013 to 2022, about 2.12 million are still on the road today—about 6.6% have left the fleet. When it comes to other fuel types excluding BEVs, of the roughly 158 million sold in the same timeframe, are around 149.8 million vehicles on the road today— reflecting that 5.2% have left the fleet over the time horizon.

Source: S&P Global Mobility

By Iulian Dnistran InsideEVs

A Rivian R1T owner from Ohio was involved in a fender bender that ended up costing about half the price of the truck to repair.

Chris Apfelstadt posted his story on the Rivian Electric Vehicle Discussion page on Facebook, where he said he was rear-ended in his red R1T in early February, but the airbags didn’t deploy and the collision happened at a relatively low speed. He exchanged insurance information with the driver who hit his truck and got a check for $1,600 from the other driver’s insurance company for the repairs to his pickup. But as he later found out, it was nowhere near enough.

Apfelstadt contacted Rivian, which instructed him to go to one of the three certified body shops in Ohio. He chose K-Ceps which, according to him, has a 70,000-square-foot facility dedicated to EV repairs.

The shop mechanics were and meticulously thorough with the repair process, documenting each step with photographs, but

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for some undisclosed reason, they disassembled most of the R1T’s rear section, including removing the rear window. In the end, the repair bill was more than $42,000.

This led some commenters to say something fishy was going on.

“This is 100% insurance fraud on behalf of this authorized repair facility,” one commenter said. “Clearly they are taking advantage of the fact this is an extremely new platform to justify egregious costs. Unless it takes 300 hours to remove the bed and rear glass (for no reason at all it would seem) and reassemble how in the world is this a 42k dollar repair? I’ve seen [Lamborghini] Aventadors have entire rear carbon sections repaired and repainted for less than that…” The owner of the damaged Rivian said the body shop did “an incredible job” and his R1T “looks as nice as the day it was shipped.”

He concluded his post by saying he’ll try to fight the other driver’s insurance company to cover his losses, adding the insurance policy maxes out at $50,000, which is very close to the final expense sheet, considering he also had a rental car during the repair.

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brianmaillet@harperdealerships.com

Regardless of the age of your customer’s Audi, Audi dealers have access to over 200,000 part numbers and are supported by a nationwide network of distribution centers to help ensure non-stocked parts are delivered the next day.

Rivian R1T Fender Bender Lands Owner $42,000 Repair Bill

Order Audi Genuine Parts from these select dealers.

Audi Part Professionals are experts on collision parts, replacement components and mechanical items.

Auto Insurance Shopping, Switch Rates Reach New Highs As Premiums Surge

The nation’s auto insurers are locked in a vicious cycle of inflation, rising premiums and steadily increasing customer defection rates. The result, according to the J.D. Power 2023 U.S. Insurance Shopping Study, released April 27, is a sharper focus on saving money as large numbers of auto insurance customers shop for new policies and switch to new carriers, largely based on price.

“Auto insurance customers are starting to shop for insurance like they shop for gas,” said  Stephen Crewdson, senior director, insurance business intelligence at J.D. Power. “They are taking a much more active stance in seeking out plans that fit their needs and their budgets, which could have a serious longterm effect on carriers that have been working for years to build lifetime value through bundling and other initiatives. In the near term, this shopping trend manifests itself in increased customer interest in usage-based insurance (UBI) plans and some reshuffling of market share among the top carriers.”

Following are some key findings of

Auto insurance shopping increases while customer satisfaction stagnates: Average overall satisfaction among auto insurance shoppers is 861 (on a 1,000-point scale), which is flat from a year ago, even though shopping and switching rates have increased in the same period. The 30-day average shopping rate reached 13.1% in March 2023, the highest rate since June 2021 and well above the 2021 average of 11.4%. The 30-day average switch rate hit 4.1% in March 2023, which compares to an average of 3.4% for all of 2021.

Price hikes spur new-policy shopping rates: Auto insurance costs rose 14.5% in February 2023, more than twice the rate of inflation (6%), making auto insurance account for a steadily increasing share of consumer discretionary spending. Accordingly, among those shopping for reasons of price, 44% say they are price checking and 42% say they are being spurred by a rate increase. Similarly, 41% of those shopping because of a rate increase say that their rate increased 20% or more.

UBI starts to go mainstream: UBI

software to monitor a customer’s driving style and assign rates based on safety and mileage metrics, are now offered to 22% of insurance shoppers and are purchased 18% of the time. Those numbers are up from a 16% offer rate and a 12% purchase rate in 2020. When carriers offer a UBI option, customer satisfaction increases 6 points.

Progressive gains market share as GEICO slows: GEICO raised its rates significantly above industry average throughout much of the second half of 2022 while Progressive raised rates in the first quarter of 2022 and then registered lower-than-average increases during the second half of the year. During the same period, Progressive posted a notable gain in market share, becoming the secondlargest auto insurer in the United States, ahead of GEICO and behind State Farm.

Study Rankings

State Farm ranks highest among large auto insurers in providing a satisfying purchase experience for a third consecutive year, with a score of 877. Liberty Mutual (865) ranks second and Nationwide (861) ranks

third. The segment average is 861.

The Hartford ranks highest among midsize auto insurers for a second consecutive year, with a score of 887. Erie Insurance (878) ranks second and Automobile Club of Southern California (AAA) (870) ranks third. The segment average is 863.

Large insurers have direct premiums written of $4.5 billion or more in personal lines auto, while midsize insurers have direct premiums written of $1 billion-$4.499 billion in personal lines auto.

Now in its 17th year, the U.S. Insurance Shopping Study captures advanced insight into each stage of the shopping funnel and is based on responses from 10,845 insurance customers who requested an auto insurance price quote from at least one competitive insurer in the previous nine months. The study was fielded from March 2022 through January 2023.

For more information about the U.S. Insurance Shopping Study, visit https://www.jdpower. com/business/resource/jd-powerus-insurance-shopping-study

Source: J.D. Power

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By David A. Wood CarComplaints.com

Tesla sudden unintended acceleration events have caused a Greek resident to file a petition with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). According to the petition, the automaker should recall more than 1.6 million vehicles built since 2013.

The Tesla petition was submitted by Greek resident Costas Lakafossis, who describes himself as a mechanical and aeronautical engineer as well as an accident investigator.

The petitioner alleged all Tesla vehicles should be equipped with an “interlock that requires a brake application by the driver in order to shift from DRIVE to REVERSE to reduce the number of sudden unintended acceleration events.”

Tesla Sudden Unintended Acceleration

The typical description of “sudden unintended acceleration” is a problem caused not by the driver

malfunctions of the Tesla vehicle.

In cases of investigations and lawsuits regarding alleged Tesla sudden unintended acceleration incidents, acceleration problems may be caused by defects in the vehicles or by software errors that take control away from drivers.

A recent Tesla lawsuit dismissal is a good example of what is usually meant by “sudden unintended acceleration.”

However, the Tesla petition seems to use the phrase to mean sudden acceleration caused by mistakes made by a driver when the accelerator pedal is applied instead of the brake pedal.

Known as “pedal misapplication,” a driver believes they are pressing the brake pedal when they are in fact pressing the accelerator pedal.

According to the Tesla petition, pedal misapplication is due to a missing interlock feature and by specific “Autopilot features that contribute to increased likelihood of driver errors.”

“Even when driven manually (not in Full Self-Driving mode),

software implement various strategies of automatic braking, not only as a safety feature (i.e. to avoid an accident) but also as a feature that takes over some of the workload of the driver e.g. in stop-and-go traffic or when about to park,” the petition said.

The petition said one feature provides the ability of the Tesla to stop and shift into reverse gear when the driver is ready to park, all without touching the brake pedal.

The petitioner alleged this is a “potentially dangerous ‘party trick’ used for testing related to moving toward full self-driving vehicles.”

In other words, the petition alleged, Tesla drivers press the accelerator pedals instead of the brake pedals because the vehicle and automatic braking “encourages drivers to remove their feet from the pedals and enjoy a technologically advanced self-braking car.”

In addition, the petitioner said automatic braking (not to

as a courtesy to drivers as Tesla allegedly does.

NHTSA has investigated more than 200 Tesla sudden unintended acceleration events in the past and found the incidents were caused by drivers pressing the wrong pedals (pedal misapplications).

But NHTSA safety regulators also said this about pedal misapplication: “There is also no evidence of a design factor contributing to increased likelihood of pedal misapplication.”

The petitioner clearly disagreed and argued Tesla vehicles could be made safer in a way that will prevent or mitigate pedal misapplications.

Although the petitioner seeks a Tesla recall, that’s not how NHTSA works. The petition is a “safety defect” petition to determine if the government should open a formal safety defect investigation into the alleged problem.

NHTSA will investigate the claims made by the petitioner and

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Nominations Open For Techs Rock Awards

The TechForce Foundation opened nominations for its annual Techs Rock Awards.

Winners in five categories will receive a prize package valued at $1,975 from TechForce partners Advance Auto Parts, AutoZone, Cengage Learning, CRC Industries, Ford Motor Company, Nissan, Snapon Industrial and WD-40 Company.

A grand prize winner will receive an all-expenses-paid trip to STX 2024 in Nashville, TN, valued at $3,000 courtesy of Advance Auto Parts, along with additional prizes valued at $6,000 from TechForce partners AutoZone, CRC Industries, Ford Motor Company, Nissan, Snapon Industrial and WD-40 Company.

For more information, and to nominate a tech, visit techforce.org/our-work/techsrock-awards/

Source: TechForce Foundation

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Orlando Volkswagen North Orlando 321-214-3169

Fax: 407-644-9408

M-F 7:30am-6pm; Sat 7:30am-5pm spearce@vtaig.com

GEORGIA

Jim Ellis Volkswagen Atlanta

800-653-5547

770-454-7711

Fax: 770-986-0001

M-Sat 7:30am-7pm

vwwholesaleparts@jimellis.com

VIRGINIA

Checkered Flag Volkswagen Virginia Beach 757-687-3465

Fax: 757-687-3514

M-F 8am-5pm volkswagenparts@checkeredflag.com

Also on autobodynews.com & other podcast platforms

Hours: M-F 7-6; Sat 7-2:30 jmcnamara@griecocars.com

Gus Machado Ford HIALEAH

305-822-8338

305-825-3018 Fax

Hours: M-F 8-7; Sat 7-4 avalle@gusmachadoford.com

Hours: M-F 7-6; Sat 8-4

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