April 2022 Southwest Edition by Autobody News

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Tesla Linked to More Development Around Gigafactory Texas by Simon Alvarez, Teslarati

It appears Tesla is gathering land for more projects around the Gigafactory Texas area. As per recent filings with the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation, plans seem to be underway to construct an $11 million, 220,000-square foot warehouse just across the Colorado River, close to Tesla’s massive electric vehicle plant. The filing indicated the land is owned by Horse Ranch LLC, an entity that has been linked to Tesla CEO Elon Musk. Horse Ranch LLC

has been in the process of acquiring hundreds of acres worth of land near Gigafactory Texas. Jared Bir-

Credit: Gail Alfar/Twitter

chall, who sits on the board of the Musk Foundation and who manages Musk’s family office, has been listSee Gigafactory Texas, Page 24

GM and Some Other Automakers Suspend Business to Russia by Jamie L. LaReau, Detroit Free Press

General Motors is suspending its business in Russia following the country’s invasion of Ukraine. GM spokesman George Svigos said Feb. 28 the reason for the suspension was “due to a number of external factors, including supply chain issues and other matters beyond the company’s control.” The week before, the Russian military invaded Ukraine in what is the biggest attack in Europe between two states since World War II. Many Western nations have institut-

ed sanctions against Russia prompting many companies to idle operations there. GM’s presence in Russia is small. It sells about 3,000 Cadillac and Chevrolet vehicles a year in the country and it has limited supply chain exposure, Svigos said. In a statement, GM said: “We are working in real time through the implications for our operations of the sanctions announced this week. We continue to monitor developments and take action to implement mitigation strategies as appropriate.” See Suspend Business, Page 14

Vol. 40 / Issue 4 / April 2022

Signs of Optimism Among Auto Dealers Despite Slow Start to Year Facing a slow start to the year, and with concerns over inflation and the economy, automobile dealer sentiment softened in Q1, marking the third consecutive quarter-over-quarter decline in current market sentiment. Still, at 57, the current market index remains above the positive threshold in the latest Cox Automotive Dealer Sentiment Index (CADSI). The index reading of 57 indicates more U.S. automobile dealers feel the current market is strong compared to the number who feel

the current market is weak. The key drivers of sentiment saw marginal shifts in Q1. The threemonth, forward-looking market outlook index rose modestly—reflecting the typical spring bounce—and, at 64, is above the 59 recorded in Q1 2021. The overall profit index saw a small decline to 54, down from 57 last quarter, but remains well above any point before the COVID-19 pandemic. The price pressure index, likewise, increased slightly in Q1 but See Signs of Optimism, Page 20

Auto Dealer Service Departments Trying to Navigate Parts and Staffing Challenges: J.D. Power The combination of vehicle owners needing service more often due to accumulating mileage at pre-pandemic levels along with the disruption of the auto parts supply chain and significant staffing shortages is causing auto dealership service departments to navigate unique capacity challenges, according to the J.D. Power 2022 U.S. Customer Service Index (CSI) Study, released March 9. Wait times to schedule service appointments for one- to three-yearold vehicles have increased by nearly one full day among owners of premium and mass market vehicles (to 4.5 and 4.3 days, respectively). Overall customer service satisfaction is 848 (on a 1,000-point scale.) “Dealer service departments are in a pivotal position to improve customer satisfaction and provide greater customer convenience, even though many challenges—including the parts supply chain disruption and the availability of new-vehicle loaners—are out of their control,” said Chris Sutton, vice president

of automotive retail at J.D. Power. “Proactive communication with customers is one solution for dealerships to mitigate a disruptively tough situation. “Simply implementing text or email alerts can greatly improve customer satisfaction,” Sutton said. “Additionally, letting customers know what is happening at each step along the way, including why it is taking longer to book an appointment or providing any updates in parts delays, can help improve satisfaction.” The study, now in its 42nd year, has been redesigned this year to include emerging features such as valet service, remote vehicle servicing and online/smartphone app payment options to gauge the effect these processes have on the service experience. The study measures satisfaction with service at franchised dealer or aftermarket service facilities for maintenance or repair work among owners and lessees of one- to threeyear-old vehicles. See Staffing Challenges, Page 22

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CONTENTS

Advertise in our Classified Section for $50 per column inch!

REGIONAL

Car Repossessions on the Rise �� 42

ABAT Hosts Webinar to Help Collision

CCC Appoints Chief HR Officer �� 44

800-699-8251

CCC Report Reveals Accelerated Innovation in

AUTOBODY

Employees �� 16 CyberLandr Relocates to Austin, TX, to Build RV/Camper for Tesla Cybertruck �� 11 NABC® to Host Golf Fundraiser Presented by Hertz in Oklahoma �� 10 Tesla Giga Fest at Giga Texas: Attendance Figures, Time, Other Details Revealed �� 10 Tesla Gigafactory Texas Giga Fest Set for Public Hearing on March 22 �� 12 Tesla Linked to More Development Around Gigafactory Texas �� 1 Texas Multi-Store Owner Receives Regional Maaco Cup Recognition �� 19

CREF Opens Grant Applications �� 43 Ford to Collaborate with Universal Technical Institute on EV Training Curriculum �� 48 Ford Will Sell Explorer SUVs with Missing Chips Due to Global Shortage �� 42 Ford’s EV and ICE Reorganization Will Have Huge Impact on Dealers �� 46 GM and Some Other Automakers Suspend Business to Russia �� 1 GM Names Global Purchasing Lead �� 36 GM, Lucid Motors & Rivian Share EV Collision Repair Considerations �� 4 GUNIWHEEL™ Makes the Collision Repair

COLUMNISTS Anderson - Destructive Weld Testing a Crucial Step You Should Be Paid to Perform �� 28 Attanasio - Painter/Technical Director Creates Amazing Art, Island-Style �� 32 Yoswick - ‘Who Pays for What?’ Survey Looks at Billing Practices Related to EVs, Accessing OEM Info �� 34 Yoswick - Collision Repair Shops Should

World Go Round One Wheel at a Time �� 30 Mitchell Diagnostics Platform Surpasses 30,000 ADAS Calibrations �� 24

AirPro Diagnostics, 1Collision Partner �� 28 All SCRS RDE Sessions Online �� 48 Auto Dealer Service Departments Trying to Navigate Parts and Staffing Challenges: J.D. Power �� 1

Audi Wholesale Parts Dealers �� 51

Kia Motors Wholesale Parts Dealers �� 47

Auto Data Labels �� 52

Larry H. Miller Ford Mesa �� 28

AutoMart Mitsubishi �� 33

Mac Haik Ford-Lincoln �� 31

Axalta Coating Systems �� 5

Matrix Edge �� 7

BMW of South Austin �� 39

Mazda Wholesale Parts Dealers �� 44

BMW Wholesale Parts Dealers �� 42

Mirka USA �� 11

Bob Utter Kia �� 30

Mitsubishi Wholesale Parts �� 40

NOROO Paint & Coatings �� 17

Registration Open for YANG Conference �� 46

Chevyland �� 36

North Freeway Hyundai �� 20

Rivian Electric Truck Maker Sued by

Christopher’s Dodge-Ram �� 16, 33

Northside Chevrolet �� 35

Classifieds �� 50

Part of the Club �� 33

Dominion Sure Seal, Ltd �� 10

Peak Kia �� 33

Eagle Abrasives �� 25

PPG �� 13

Emich Chevrolet �� 33

Santa Fe Kia �� 32

Equalizer Auto Glass Tools �� 12

SATA Dan-Am Company �� 21

Finnegan Chrysler-Jeep-Dodge-Ram �� 2

Schmelz Countryside �� 33

Fisher Acura �� 33

Schomp Mazda �� 22

Shareholder for Recent Price Shifts �� 43 Rivian Hires COO �� 11 Russia Accused of Toyota Cyberattack �� 40

Signs of Optimism Among Auto Dealers Despite Slow Start to Year �� 1 Tesla Model 3, Model Y Receive Latest Round of Price Increases in U.S. and China �� 40

ACA Announces Membership Head �� 50

Kia America �� 15

Certified Automotive Parts Association �� 14

Sherwin-Williams Donates to CIF �� 38

NATIONAL

Audi South Austin �� 39

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

MOPAR Wholesale Parts Dealers �� 41

Animals in Workplace �� 38

‘Presumptions’ �� 36

Serving Texas, Oklahoma, Louisiana, New Mexico, Arkansas, Colorado, Arizona, Utah and adjacent metro areas. Autobody News is a monthly publication for the autobody industry. Permission to reproduce in any form the material published in Autobody News must be obtained in writing from the publisher. ©2022 Adamantine Media LLC.

Car-Part.com �� 18

SEMA Announces VP of Marketing �� 14

with Collision Techs Making Repair

Publisher & Editor: Jeremy Hayhurst General Manager: Barbara Davies Contributing Writers: John Yoswick, Janet Chaney, Toby Chess, Ed Attanasio, Stacey Phillips Advertising Sales: Joe Momber, Norman Morano, (800) 699-8251 Office Manager: Louise Tedesco Digital Marketing Manager: Bryan Malinski Art Director: Rodolfo Garcia Graphic Designer: Vicki Sitarz Online and Web Content Editor: Abby Andrews Accounting Manager: Heather Priddy Permissions Editor: Randi Scholtes Office Assistant: Dianne Pray

Platform Measures Auto Body Damage �� 22

Check Policies Related to Drugs/Alcohol,

Yoswick - Examples Demonstrate Problems

www.autobodynews.com

P&C Insurance Economy Amid Disruption �� 48

INDEX OF ADVERTISERS

Repairers Attract and Keep Good

ltedesco@autobodynews.com

Tesla Model Y $24,000 Repair: Everything You Need to Know �� 44 Tesla Raises Prices Across Entire Vehicle Lineup, Model X Plaid Sees $12.5K Rise �� 50 TrueCar Introduces Online Marketplace �� 12 Why America Isn’t Getting the Volkswagen ID. Buzz Cargo �� 19

Fisher Honda �� 33

Scoggin-Dickey Parts Center �� 8-9

Flatirons Subaru �� 33

Spanesi Americas �� 29

Ford Wholesale Parts Dealers �� 45

Steck Manufacturing Company �� 14

Fowler Honda �� 32

Stevinson Toyota West �� 33

Freeman Mazda �� 38

Subaru Wholesale Parts Dealers �� 43

Garcia Honda �� 24

Symach �� 12

GM Wholesale Parts Dealers �� 49

Toyota of Laredo �� 19

Honda-Acura Wholesale Parts Dealers ��26-27

Toyota Wholesale Parts Dealers �� 34

Horne Kia �� 16

Volkswagen Wholesale Parts Dealers �� 46

Hyundai Wholesale Parts Dealers �� 46

Wrenchers �� 23

Industrial Finishes and Systems �� 37

autobodynews.com / APRIL 2022 AUTOBODY NEWS 3

GM, Lucid Motors & Rivian Share EV Collision Repair Considerations by Stacey Phillips

Sales of alternative power vehicles, including electric vehicles (EVs), currently represent about 5% of all U.S. light-vehicle sales—but that share is expected to reach 45% by 2035, according to research by the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA).

Goforth shared information about GM’s steps to help transform the automotive industry and some of the technologies being used to maximize power, range and flexibility. “We’re looking at technologies we need today and in decades to come and we’re investing heavily in those new technologies to bring them to market,” she said. “We can’t go

Representatives from GM, Lucid Motors and Rivian spoke at the SCRS OEM Collision Repair Technology Summit. Pictured, left to right, are Kye Yeung, European Motor Car Works; Ron Reichen, Precision Body & Paint; Dan Black and Kelly Logan, Rivian; Andrew Hall and Andy MacDonald, Lucid Motors; and Jennifer Goforth and John Eck, GM.

GM, Lucid Motors and Rivian representatives discussed the unique platforms they have developed and how their offerings differ from traditional vehicles during the OEM Collision Repair Technology Summit at the 2021 SEMA Show. The session was part of the Society of Collision Repair Specialists (SCRS) Repairer Driven Education Series. Following their presentations, Kye Yeung, president of European Motor Car Works, and Ron Reichen, owner of Precision Body & Paint, moderated a panel discussion. The session explored construction and repair considerations, and how the collision repair industry must adapt. “The inevitable growth of this market makes the perfect fit for a summit that has always had an eye on the developing landscape of modern vehicles, with a focus on emerging trends that influence repairability and collision industry preparation,” said Aaron Schulenburg, SCRS executive director. GM

Jennifer Goforth and John Eck, collision manager for GM, discussed the OEM’s EV strategy and the GM Collision Repair Network.

forward alone.” She said GM is passionate about its zero crashes, zero emissions, zero congestion strategy. “The key to this vision is electrification,” said Goforth. The electric architecture powering the OEM’s newest technologies, such as Ultifi and Periscope, is GM’s Vehicle Intelligence Platform. Goforth also discussed GM’s research and development regarding safety. “At GM, safety is in our DNA. There is nothing more important than ensuring the safety of our loved ones,” she said. “Most of all of our crashes that happen are due to driver error, so we’re focused on bringing new technologies that can reduce human error such as automated rear braking, forward and side collision alerts.” The company is looking at technologies that reduce distractions while driving, such as hands-free communications and touch-free navigation. GM plans to launch 30 new electric vehicles by 2025. “That doesn’t mean that we are giving up on combustion engines,” noted Goforth. “Those are going to

4 APRIL 2022 AUTOBODY NEWS / autobodynews.com

be an important part of our portfolio for the next 10 or more years.” Goforth explained that repairing vehicles with internal combustion engines will be essential for the next 20-30 years because they will be on the road for many years. With a tremendous amount of technology coming out, Goforth said there will be many repairable parts. However, right now, some will not be serviceable, such as critical structural components and batteries. Eck shared information about the GM Collision Repair Network, which will continue to focus on recognizing facilities that invest in tools and training to ensure an excellent customer experience. “Our focus is on a safe and proper repair that utilizes all of our service information,” said Eck. This includes a heavy emphasis on diagnostics and inspections.

GM’s 2024 Chevrolet Silverado EV RST.

With the technology integrated into vehicles, Eck stressed the importance of scanning, calibration and checking diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs). “Making sure things are working as designed is critical to us,” he said. “We’re going to continue to create and add more support to the industry and make ourselves accessible.” GM’s OnStar Insurance, expected to launch in all 50 states this year, will be an important component. “We’ve been learning over the last few years post-collision how we can help customers navigate, but with OnStar Insurance expected to be national in 2022, they are going to be expecting a network that is fully supportive of driving safe and proper repairs for customers’ needs,” said Eck. Eck said GM ensures that repairers have the most current information. “Working with the industry, we’ve learned how to be hardware agnos-

tic,” he explained. “That has helped us add flexibility to the marketplace and understand what is going on from a cost structure and not making [repairers] buy OEM tools specific to GM.” GM offers technical documents for repairers to use during estimating/blueprinting. Examples include service bulletins, safety protocols, Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) documents, position statements and post-repair inspections. For certified inspections, virtual and in-house audits are offered to shops. Over the last year, GM worked with SCRS to create a post-inspection form to help repairers negotiate with insurance carriers. “We want to continue to work with SCRS to find solutions like that to help you as the repairer make safe and proper repairs,” he said. Lucid Motors With global headquarters in Silicon Valley, CA, and an assembly plant in Casa Grande, AZ, Lucid Motors began delivery of the company’s first customer vehicle—the Lucid Air—in late 2021. Andy MacDonald, senior manager of Lucid’s global body repair program, and Andrew Hall, head of vehicle safety, provided an overview of the Lucid Body Repair Program. Currently, 50 shops in the U.S. and Canada are going through the certified program approval process, which they joined by invitation only. “As we ramp up production and vehicle parts grow, we will add to that number of shops,” said MacDonald. “We are interested in working with shops that can deliver high-quality repair capability and excellent customer service. That’s the cornerstone of what SCRS believes in and it’s a privilege to work with you.” MacDonald estimated there will be about 100 shops in the program in 2022 and that number will continually increase. Approved body shops will be trained and equipped to complete repairs, including all mechanical work. “Lucid’s program will restrict structural repair parts, such as aluminum safety systems parts and high voltage parts, to the approved network—those who are technical-

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ly trained and we know are capable of repairing the vehicle,” explained MacDonald. Lucid’s repair methodology is developed in close partnership with the OEM’s crash testing program. After working with 11 different OEMs over his career, Hall’s philosophy is to bring the Engineering, Serviceability and Body Repair teams together to be as effective as possible.

The Lucid Air on display at Lucid Motors’ studio in Short Hills, NJ.

As a start-up company with limited resources and an aggressive schedule, Hall noted Lucid Motors doesn’t have an unlimited number of crash cars for testing. As a result, vehicles are crashed more than once after being rebuilt by the service teams. For example, a car that has been front crash-tested at 35 mph is rebuilt to do a side crash test. Through this experience, Hall said Lucid Motors has demonstrated the capabilities of rework. This allows the OEM to bring in the service team a lot earlier and offer cost efficiencies for the business. “We’re also a lot further ahead with repair procedures than we would normally be,” he said. In terms of training, Lucid plans to offer online education to deliver fundamental system knowledge requirements to shops. This includes approximately 10 days of structural repair training and 15 days of mechanical. The instructor-led courses will cover structural aluminum repair, cosmetic repair, visual damage assessment, high voltage systems, mechanical, diagnostics and ADAS. One of the biggest challenges for shops, according to MacDonald, is the mechanical side of the business. “There is no simple repair anymore,” he said. “The days of doing a quick spot repair on a front-end bumper or rear-end are gone now because you have to align the vehicle

and then calibrate it for ADAS.” As a result, Lucid is building measurement processes to determine how well vehicles are repaired. “With so much technology in vehicles, it’s of paramount importance that when accidents happen and we’re required to repair the vehicles, you have the right level of equipment and training in place to bring that car back to a pre-accident condition,” said MacDonald. “Safety is important for the lifecycle of the vehicle and it is for every OEM moving forward to meet the challenges we are going to face as we move into the ADAS world and safe driving,” added Hall. “For us, it’s about providing education and transparency… so insurers, repairers and customers all understand what we need to do to deliver the best possible service,” said MacDonald. “A safe and proper repair goes without saying.” Rivian Rivian representatives included Kelly Logan, global body repair program senior manager, and Dan Black, manager for service engineering in collision repair.

The 2022 Rivian R1.

Logan helped create Rivian’s Certified Collision Program with Frank Phillips, collision program manager, and now manages the program. “Having the opportunity to create an OEM collision repair program from scratch is a great honor,” he said. “We want a highly trained network that can repair our cars and that aligns to what SCRS represents.” Logan and Phillips devised two networks that fall under the umbrella of Rivian’s Certified Collision Program. The Rivian Certified Collision Center network focuses on passenger cars, the R1T electric truck and the R1S SUV. The Rivian Certified Fleet Center network includes commercial vehicles such as the 100,000 electric

6 APRIL 2022 AUTOBODY NEWS / autobodynews.com

delivery vans Rivian is building for Amazon. The program’s mission is: “Revolutionizing the collision repair customer experience with an efficient and highly trained collision repair network.” “It used to be easy to fix cars,” said Logan. That has changed with mixed materials and light-weighting in the auto industry, with efforts focused on removing mass and increasing efficiency to extend range and increase miles per gallon.

“Some of the equipment and joint accessibility does not exist in the aftermarket so we’re always developing new solutions that we can provide to repair the vehicle correctly and restore the strength of the vehicle to ultimately perform correctly the second time around.” With cameras and sensors being used in automobiles, Black said preand post-scans are required on every vehicle and calibration is paramount. “That’s the only way to restore our vehicles correctly,” he said. He recommends shops analyze

“It’s something you have to have training and tooling for to be able to repair vehicles properly,” he said. The Rivian team has been connecting with great collision centers over the last year. “We want everyone to know that just because you didn’t get chosen for the Rivian collision network today doesn’t mean it’s forever,” said Logan. “As our vehicle population grows, we are going to continue to need more highly-skilled collision centers.” Black heads the service engineering side of the business and works with technical specialists and service engineers to create collision repair procedures. They perform hands-on validation of the repair procedures, tooling and equipment through their R&D Workshop team at their flagship location in El Segundo, CA. As part of the repair procedures, Rivian will include information about different substrates used. The goal is to assist shops in understanding what can and cannot be executed to restore a car to its pre-accident state. “At the assembly plant, we can execute a variety of controlled vehicle construction processes with advanced equipment,” said Black.

the diagnostic systems and document the results before beginning repairs to determine the work required. “From my experience at a manufacturer that is developing advanced technology, Driver + systems (Rivian’s suite of advanced driver-assist features) are becoming more sensitive,” said Black. “As we move forward, frequencies are greater and the sensitivity of systems are higher so repair procedures are very critical to follow because you can easily introduce an issue into the vehicle without knowing it.” Logan said the Driver + system will be standard on all Rivians, and ADAS calibrations will be required. “When you look at collision repair and what it takes to repair a car properly today, the lines between service repair and collision repair are now blurred,” he said. “A collision center needs to know just as much as a service center.” To keep cycle times low and fix cars, Logan said it is necessary to have the correct tools, training and knowledge. “We’re just at the forefront of it,” he said. “It’s something that isn’t going to go away anytime soon.” Visit https://rde.scrs.com.

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NABC® to Host Golf Fundraiser Presented by Hertz in Oklahoma

Tesla Giga Fest at Giga Texas: Attendance Figures, Time, Other Details Revealed

The National Auto Body Council® will host the first golf fundraising event of 2022 at the Golf Club of Edmond, all in conjunction with Collision Industry Week in Oklahoma City. The NABC Round Up Pars for Cars Golf Fundraiser presented by Hertz will take place April 12, with a 1 p.m. CT shotgun start. Greens fees are $175 for individuals and $700 for foursomes and include box lunch and NABC industry reception following the event. Players can register here: https://www.nabcgolfevent.org/ Sponsorship opportunities are available for the event for companies that want to showcase their brand to the collision repair industry. Sponsorship packages can be purchased here: https://www.nabcgolfevent. org/2022okcsponsoropportunities. html As part of the day’s festivities, NABC will unveil the NABC F.R.E.E.™ Demonstration Vehicle Presented by Genesis Rescue Systems. The NABC First Responder Emergency Extrication (F.R.E.E.™) program is designed to offer first responders and rescue squads critical

by Joey Klender, Teslarati

information on the latest technologies and materials in late-model vehicles. The vehicle was donated by Allstate and repaired by Crash Champions and 417 Dent Pros. The vehicle wrap was provided by 3M, Safelite donated the glass, URG donated replacement parts, All Star Auto Lights provided the headlights and towing was provided by Smith Auto Transfer and HONK for Help. Genesis Rescue Systems will transport the vehicle around Texas, Oklahoma, Kansas, Missouri, Illinois, Arkansas and Louisiana over the next three years as part of an education program for first responders. At the NABC industry reception, the NABC Recycled Rides® program will present a vehicle donated by Hertz to a local resident in need. 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 program in 2007, members of the NABC have donated nearly 3,000 vehicles valued at some $42 million. Source: NABC

10 APRIL 2022 AUTOBODY NEWS / autobodynews.com

Tesla’s Giga Fest at Gigafactory Texas is officially set for April 7, and new documents released March 8 reveal the plans for the event, including attendance figures, time and other details. The event will start at 4 p.m. and end at midnight, according to new documents from Travis County Commissioner’s Court. The event will celebrate the opening of Tesla Gigafactory Texas, the automaker’s second U.S.-based production facility. Tesla plans to allow up to 15,000 people at the Giga Fest at Gigafactory Texas, the documents revealed. Admittance will only be allowed for patrons with a ticket and invitation, according to Tesla’s mass gathering permit application, received by the Travis County Fire Marshal’s Office on Feb. 18. This is considerably large, and CEO Elon Musk has said priority will go to residents in the Greater Austin area before more attendees are sent invitations.

Tesla said it will require ID at entry and wristbands will be worn by those 21 years of age and older who can legally drink the alcohol available. Tesla will also hold tours of the Gigafactory Texas facility, just like it did at the Giga Fest the automaker held in Germany to commemorate the near-completion of Gigafactory Berlin. Tesla is waiting for EPA certification of the “Austin-made” Model Y before it can begin initial deliveries. The Travis County Commissioner’s Court will also have a public hearing on March 22 to receive comments regarding the issuance of the mass gathering permit for the Giga Texas event.

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Rivian Hires COO

CyberLandr Relocates to Austin, TX, to Build RV/Camper for Tesla Cybertruck Stream It, Inc., the creator of CyberLandr, which transforms Tesla’s Cybertruck into the ultimate adventure vehicle and mobile tiny home, officially announced it relocated its research and development facility to Austin, TX.

The move is another milestone in growth momentum for CyberLandr, just on the heels of its December launch of an equity crowdfunding campaign on StartEngine that makes investment in CyberLandr available to everyone. In the few weeks since the announcement, the crowdfunding campaign has quickly raised more than $540,000, and CyberLandr preorders have grown to more than $110 million.

The new Austin facility is located off State Highway 183 in south Austin, just six miles from Austin-Bergstrom International Airport and nine miles from Tesla’s Austin headquarters and Gigafactory. “Securing a location in Austin and continuing our equity crowdfunding campaign are essential steps in the development of CyberLandr,” said Stream It CEO and co-founder Lance King. “Making this move to Austin and into this facility, along with the investments we’re receiving through StartEngine, are allowing us to accelerate prototype development and testing.” CyberLandr recently completed a 3,000-mile field test with its latest prototype and review by Sandy Munro and his team. Munro and Associates has a 30-year track record of helping companies reduce time-to-market research and development, engineering and manufacturing costs all while increasing the quality of products, processes and systems.

Cyberlandr is currently using a flat-bed pickup truck enhanced with a 12kWh lithium-ion battery pack and 6kW inverter to simulate a Cybertruck during its testing and prototype phase. CyberLandr enhances each user’s lifestyle by transforming Tesla’s Cybertruck into a mobile tiny home, equipped with a bedroom, living room, kitchen, bathroom and office when deployed. This structure disappears completely within the bed— or “vault”—of the Cybertruck when stowed. This functionality results in zero additional aerodynamic drag, minimizing its effect on range. This also means that, unlike other RVs, Cybertruck with CyberLandr can access more places on and off-road— allowing it to fit in normal parking spaces, traverse drive-thrus and fit in parking garages and home garages. Source: Stream It, Inc.

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Rivian Automotive, Inc. announced the hiring of Frank Klein as chief operations officer, effective June 1. Klein was most recently president of Austria-based automotive contract manufacturer Magna Steyr, a subsidiary of Canadian-based Magna International. He will be based in Normal, IL, and will report directly to Rivian CEO RJ Scaringe. Klein succeeds Rod Copes, who retired from the position last year. During his time at Magna Steyr, Klein oversaw the company’s shift to the electric mobility manufacturing space, including the production of the first electric vehicle made by a contract manufacturer. At Rivian, Klein will lead the buildout of robust and stable operations processes as well as scaling vehicle production across several new programs. He will reinforce Rivian’s ongoing effort to achieve greater vertical integration in logistics, manufacturing and operations. Source: Rivian

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Tesla Gigafactory Texas Giga Fest Set for Public Hearing on March 22 by Joey Klender, Teslarati

Tesla’s Giga Fest event planned at Gigafactory Texas on April 7 will first have to make its way through the Travis County Commissioner’s Court before it is approved. According to new documents from the court, the Giga Fest event will have its own public hearing, set for March 22. On March 8, the Travis County Commissioner’s Court will hold its weekly meeting. Its third agenda item under “Emergency Services” deals with the imminent scheduling and voting sessions that will either approve or deny Tesla the opportunity to hold its second Giga Fest event, used to celebrate the opening of a new factory. The first Giga Fest, being held in Germany on the property of Gigafactory Berlin, received final approval for production March 4. The public hearing on March 22 is being held “to receive comments regarding the issuance of a Mass Gathering Permit for Giga Texas Event to be held on April 7, 2022, at 13101 Tesla Drive, Aus-

tin, TX 78725,” county documents state. Travis County fire marshals confirmed to Teslarati that Tesla did submit an application for a mass gathering permit, which was under review. Mass gathering permits are required to be submitted by any person or entity that wishes to have a large gathering in Travis County.

According to the fire marshal’s office, a mass gathering is considered any event expected to attract more than 2,500 people, or more than 500 people if at least 51% of the attendees will be under 21 and there will be alcohol sold, served or consumed. It also defines the event as anything that will be more than

five hours long, and any event that may take place between 10 p.m. or 4 a.m. Mass gathering permits are voted on frequently in the commissioner’s court. Three events were voted on during the Feb. 22 meeting. All three received unanimous approval from county commissioners. Tesla Gigafactory Texas is the automaker’s second U.S. electric vehicle manufacturing facility, following the Fremont factory in Northern California. Gigafactory Texas has already started production, but Tesla is still awaiting EPA certification of the new Austin-made Model Y before the vehicles can make their way to customers. Tesla still has yet to release further details regarding the event, like how people will be able to buy or apply for tickets or how many people the company plans to host. The event is planned for April 7 at 13101 Tesla Drive, Austin, TX.

TrueCar Introduces Online Marketplace TrueCar, Inc., is debuting TrueCar+, its online car buying platform. Using TrueCar+, consumers will be able to explore, confirm and complete their car purchase with a dealer, and arrange financing and delivery from the convenience of home. They will also have the option of completing any portion of the transaction at a TrueCar Certified Dealer. TrueCar+ will allow dealers to extend their sales reach well beyond their local area and will provide instant access to a turnkey digital marketplace, reducing the need for investment in infrastructure, tools and technical expertise. Dealers will be able to quickly offer digital capabilities that consumers have come to expect in other segments of retail. TrueCar+ was launched as a pilot in September in Tampa, FL. The pilot has since expanded in Florida. Later, TrueCar+ will scale across the entire country, eventually spanning all 50 states. Source: TrueCar

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SEMA Announces VP of Marketing The Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) has announced RJ de Vera as its vice president of marketing. De Vera comes to SEMA after 12 years at 3M, a Fortune 100 company, including the last seven as global leader of digital marketing and public relations for the Meguiar’s Car Care brand. He will be developing and implementing a modernized multi-channel marketing strategy for SEMA with a digital-first focus to expand brand awareness and build customer affinity for SEMA and its members. Prior to 3M/Meguiar’s, de Vera worked with OEMs including Honda, Lexus, Mitsubishi, Mazda and Scion to build corporate image vehicles. He also helped American Racing, Veilside Japan and Vorsteiner design and market aftermarket parts and accessories, while also consulting on automotive-related marketing initiatives with numerous brands, including Pepsi Co., Valvoline, Boost Mobile, Michelin/ BF Goodrich and Microsoft/XBOX. Source: SEMA

Continued from Cover

Suspend Business GM no longer has any manufacturing plants in Russia, Svigos said. It has only a national sales company that sells to Russia and other Eastern European markets. It is based in Moscow and employs 67 people, Svigos said. The portfolio of vehicles sold come from North America and South Korea. GM is in contact with the team in Moscow to safeguard “our people and our business,” Svigos said. “At this stage, we’re in constant contact with them, multiple times a day and working through the ramifications,” Svigos told the Free Press on Feb. 25. GM put out a statement saying, “Our thoughts are with the people of Ukraine at this time. The loss of life is a tragedy and our overriding concern is for the safety of people in the region.” Morningstar Auto Analyst David Whiston said GM’s reasons for suspending its business in Russia is

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“about war.” But with GM exiting Europe and Russia years ago, except for iconic vehicles, it’s probably a nonissue for the automaker’s stock. “Many firms want to cut ties with Russia given what’s happened, like BP is doing with its nearly 20% stake in a Russian oil firm,” Whiston said. “So GM probably wants to show its disapproval with Russia’s actions too.” Energy giant BP Plc is Russia’s biggest foreign investor. It said it was abandoning its 20% stake in state-controlled Rosneft at a cost of up to $25 billion. Detroit’s other automaker, Stellantis, did not immediately offer a comment on their plans for business in Russia. But Ford Motor Co. spokesman Ian Thibodeau said the company “will provide updates as warranted” on its plans for its operations in Russia. Ford has a 50% stake in three Russian plants, Reuters reported. Thibodeau previously told the Free Press Ford would monitor and manage any impacts on its operations, but was mostly concerned for

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the safety of people in the region. On Feb. 28, Swedish automaker Volvo Cars was the first international carmaker to say it will suspend car shipments to the Russian market until further notice, Reuters reported. Daimler Truck also said it would freeze its business activities in Russia with immediate effect, including its cooperation with Russian truck maker Kamaz. Volkswagen in Russia temporarily suspended deliveries of cars to dealers until further notice on Feb. 28, Reuters reported. Mercedes-Benz Group was studying legal options to quickly divest its 15% stake in Kamaz, Reuters wrote, citing the Handelsblatt newspaper.

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ABAT Hosts Webinar to Help Collision Repairers Attract and Keep Good Employees by Abby Andrews

The Auto Body Association of Texas (ABAT) on Feb. 10 hosted “How to Compete in a Tight Job Market: Fresh Ideas to Attract and Keep Good Talent.” ABAT Executive Director Jill Tuggle said the pandemic has exacerbated the technician shortage by creating a staffing shortage in gener-

al. She said ABAT hosted the webinar to help auto body shops compete for quality staff without resorting to unsustainable tactics, like huge signon bonuses. Speakers during the roughly two-hour broadcast talked about how to cost-effectively offer bene-

fits, no matter the size of the business, refocusing technician training in alignment with trends in collision repair and helping young technicians establish a foothold in the industry that leads to a long-term career. Sean Turner, president of Buffer Insurance, spoke about the best ways to attract and retain top talent with medical benefits. Turner said voluntary benefits do not cost employers anything, but can enhance job postings. “There may be people on this call who currently don’t offer any medical benefits,” he said. “This is for you.” Turner said employers are not required to contribute to “supplemental” lines of coverage, like dental, vision and life insurance, but employees who opt in to that coverage through an employer can use it immediately, as opposed to private insurance plans that can require waiting periods of up to a year. “It’s no cost to you but a huge value to your employees,” he said. He said employers can also of-

fer to increase contributions to employees’ coverage based on length of time with the company or job title, which can incentivize employees to stay, or offer multiple plans with varying deductibles – which only affect the employees’ individual contributions, not the employers’. Turner also talked about “unorthodox” benefits, which can have a higher perceived value than the actual cost to the employer – for instance, rewarding a top-performing employee with a “date night” or vacation package. “It might cost an employer a few hundred dollars, but it will be worth a lot more to the employee,” Turner said. Scott Broaddus of Irongate Capital Advisors talked about the advantages of joining the 401(k) multiple employer plan (MEP) sponsored by the Society of Collision Repair Specialists (SCRS.) Broaddus said while the vast majority of large companies offer retirement plans, only about half of small employers do, because it costs

time and money to higher the appropriate vendors and make sure the plan is in compliance with all federal laws. “As you’re competing for more talent in the broader market, you need to offer something to attract the best talent,” he said. “Good employees expect a good suite of benefits.” Further, many state legislatures are considering or have already passed laws requiring small businesses to offer a retirement plan, or join a state-sponsored plan with few options for employers, to make sure workers are getting the chance to save for retirement no matter where they work. Broaddus said the SCRS Board of Directors has already done the work of interviewing and hiring the right vendors for the plan, which offers the ability for each participating business to customize features while keeping down administrative costs by participating as a large group. For example, Broaddus said, one shop with 33 employees was paying about $18,000 per year for

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administration of its retirement plan, but cut down that expense to $12,600 by joining the SCRS MEP 410(k). As more businesses join the plan, the costs for all participants will keep decreasing. “You get better group pricing, you simplify plan management and you get the same flexibility for your 401(k) plan as if you set it up yourself,” Broaddus said. SCRS Executive Director Aaron Schulenburg encouraged all employers to consider joining the MEP. “If you’re not offering retirement and wonder why you can’t hire people, it’s because you’re not offering retirement,” he said. “It costs you absolutely nothing to explore it.” Tuggle added mandatory retirement legislation has been submitted in Texas but hasn’t passed yet. “But it could,” she said. Keith Egan, of Betag Innovation, talked about refocusing some technicians to specialize in outer panel repair. He said outer panel repair now accounts for about 60% to 65% of all collision repair work. Structural

repair, on the other hand, only accounts for about 15% to 20%, but that percentage is decreasing as the severity of accidents continues to rise and more and more vehicles that would have needed structural repair are now being declared total losses. “In 2021, total losses were more than 10% of claims for the first time,” Egan said. Egan suggested investing in training techs on outer panel repair because those percentages are remaining the same. “It can extend the careers of older techs and accelerate the training of younger techs,” he said. Betag Innovation is developing an outer panel repair specialist (OPRS) accreditation, currently being piloted, Egan said. Egan said he does not think offering signing bonuses is a good way to attract long-term staff. “I do agree with incentives, but not just to come work here,” he said. “They should be based on completing improvement milestones. That will show [employees] value, so they won’t be swayed to leave for another business for a minimal amount of

18 APRIL 2022 AUTOBODY NEWS / autobodynews.com

money, like a signing bonus.” He also suggested changing terminology – calling young technicians “journeyman” or “apprentice” instead of “C tech” – and discussing in the interview what they can expect in terms of career development and how their income will grow as they reach milestones. “Young people want the same things we did,” Egan said, adding employers could talk about helping a young employee set up a savings account to eventually buy a home. “Have those conversations in the interview. You’ll stand out in the hiring process.” Brandon Eckenrode, managing director of the Collision Repair Education Fund (CREF), said his organization is drumming up awareness of careers in the collision repair industry among students.

First, CREF will be at the Austin Auto Show on April 22 for the Central Texas High School and College Transportation Career Fair, meeting with students from a 700mile radius. Second, CREF is using a $100,000 grant from General Motors to be the top sponsor of the American School Counselor Association’s national conference in July in Austin, where it will educate K-12 school counselors on career paths and earning potential in the industry. Third, BASF is hosting a car rebuild fundraiser that will fund a national PSA campaign about the industry, featuring ads on TV, radio and the internet, promoting the collision repair industry. “We are trying to more actively get industry info out to the general public,” Eckenrode said.

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Why America Isn’t Getting the Volkswagen ID. Buzz Cargo

An engineer by trade, Helmuth appreciative of the awards and recMayer opened his first Maaco fa- ognition, but the enjoyment truly cility in 2017 after 13 years in cor- comes day in and day out when you see firsthand how you posiporate America. In four short years, he has tively impact customers and team grown from his first lomembers lives,” Mayer noted. “One of my great cation in Mesquite, TX, mentors used to say, ‘In to seven Maaco locations order to achieve, you spanning the Dallas-Ft. must first understand your Worth area: Maaco Mesnoble purpose.’ That mesquite, Maaco Burleson, Maaco Fort Worth, Maasage is always something that I follow and coach co Dallas, Maaco Wylie, others with. Go out and Maaco Plano and Maaco Helmuth Mayer be great today!” Keller. Visit Maaco.com for more inMayer has received numerous awards in his short time with formation. Maaco. He was awarded Multistore Owner of the Year in 2019, Source: Maaco celebrating his high-performing multi-store operation. In 2020, he received the Syl Young Award, considered one of Maaco’s highest SUBSCRIBE TO recognition, presented to a franchisee who is a champion of the OUR brand in performance, attitude and results. In 2021, Mayer was also awarded runner-up in the Fender Bender Industry Leader Award. Autobody News “My team and I are always

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After years of anticipation and hype, the Volkswagen ID. Buzz is finally here in production form. Several variants will be available, but initially a short wheelbase five-seater passenger version will launch alongside the Cargo model. Both will go on sale in Europe later this year. However, those in the U.S. chasing after a Buzz will have to wait a little longer. Why? Because neither version will reach American shores. The short wheelbase passengerBuzz has been ignored in favor of a long wheelbase seven- or eight-seater model for the American market. It won’t go on sale until 2024 however. Meanwhile a California version, which should be the production Buzz closest to the 2017 Concept, will arrive in 2025. VW has no plans to sell the ID. Buzz Cargo in the U.S., either in short or long wheelbase guise. The reason behind this decision is the Chicken Tax. Simply put, it’s a 25% tariff on

light trucks made outside of America. As a commercial van, the Cargo falls into that category. All Buzz models will be produced in Hannover, Germany. Hence the Cargo would be very expensive if sold in the U.S., making it an unviable option for VW. The Cargo offers 137.7 cubic feet of space, enough for two European-sized pallets. The version revealed March 9 features a 77 kWh, 204 bhp battery pack. A smaller 58 kWh battery can be found on the five-seater ID. Buzz Pure. Both batteries are shared with other ID. models. Although not confirmed, numerous reports are suggesting the long wheelbase Buzz destined for the U.S. will feature a much larger battery, around 100 kWh in size. Exact range figures for the Buzz are yet to be given, but the 58 kWh pack should be good for up to 200 miles per charge. Buzzes equipped with the 77 kWh battery could potentially manage around 250 miles per charge. A larger pack for the long wheelbase Buzz could see that figure pushed to more than 300 miles, but we’ll have to wait and see.

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Continued from Cover

Signs of Optimism remains historically low, indicating fewer dealers feel pressure to lower their prices. “As we enter the spring market, we can see the small green shoots of optimism from the U.S. auto dealers,” said Cox Automotive Chief Economist Jonathan Smoke. “Most dealers have weathered the storm well, and we suspect there is hope the pandemic may finally be waning. Views of the economy weakened modestly, but dealer profits are historically strong and demand remains robust. Those are good signs for the industry.” The Q1 2022 CADSI research was in market from Jan. 24 to Feb. 7, just past the height of the Omicron variant. Importantly, though, the research was done before the Russian invasion of Ukraine, and before gasoline prices in the U.S. moved into record territory. Even before the situation worsened, the U.S. economy index score dropped from 52 in Q4 2021 to 49 in Q1, indicating more dealers felt the economy was weak compared to those who thought it was strong. The score of 49, however, is higher than it was a year ago in Q1 2021 when the index score was 44. “The tragic situation in Ukraine, of course, adds a level of uncertainty to the U.S. economy that will impact the U.S. consumer,” added Smoke. “Higher gas prices, a struggling stock market, inflation and the potential for more supply chain disruptions---these factors will slow any anticipated market recovery and may impact dealer sentiment in Q2. Right now, though, it’s too soon to know how long the situation will last or how bad it will get.” Inventory and Sales One positive sign in the latest CADSI report is a notable jump in the new-vehicle inventory index for franchised dealers. While still historically low at 25, the index increased by 11 points and marked the highest score since the first quarter of 2021. The index for the new-vehicle inventory mix also increased quarter over quarter. “Inventory issues have been the

biggest concern for dealers for more than six months now,” said Smoke. “In our latest study, inventory remains a top priority, but the initial signs of a recovery are there. And that is a positive for the market.” On the used-vehicle side, the inventory index jumped up in Q1 2022 as well, reaching 36, the highest score in the past 12 months. The used-vehicle inventory mix index improved also. However, all index scores associated with inventory remain well below the 50 threshold, indicating dealers are still facing inventory challenges. The view of new-vehicle sales improved for the first time in two quarters, increasing from 45 to exactly 50, meaning dealers were evenly mixed on their opinions of new-vehicle sales. One year ago, the index score was 61, meaning more dealers saw the market as good. The new-vehicle incentives index dropped by one point quarter over quarter, to 23, the lowest level since the question was added to the CADSI in Q3 2019. The incentive index measures if OEM incentives are large (above 50) or small (below 50). The used-vehicle sales index, on the other hand, fell one index point to 52. For franchised dealers, the used-vehicle sales index has now dropped for three straight quarters and is below year-ago levels. There was no change in the used-vehicle sales index for independent dealers, which held steady quarter over quarter at 48, meaning more independent dealers see the market as poor than see it as good. Springtime Optimism? The market outlook for the next three months increased to 64 in Q1 2022, up from 60 in Q4. The score indicates most dealers feel the outlook for the next three months is positive, which reflects the springtime optimism routinely seen in the report. In fact, the Q1 outlook is higher than it was one year ago—ahead of a year of record profits—and at the highest point since Q1 2020, before the pandemic began. The quarter-over-quarter increase, however, was driven mostly by independent dealers; the franchised dealer outlook was, in fact,

20 APRIL 2022 AUTOBODY NEWS / autobodynews.com

flat quarter over quarter at 69. Still, the market outlook index score of 69 for franchised dealers is above pre-pandemic levels. While profits remain historically strong, particularly for franchised dealers, tight inventory and no quick fix in the making are likely weighing on dealers. Overall, Limited Inventory continues to be the top factor holding back business according to the Q1 2022 CADSI. The factors saw little change from last quarter, with the top four factors unchanged from Q4 2021—Limited Inventory, Market Conditions, Economy and COVID-19 impacts. In Q1 2022, Political Climate dropped out of the top five, replaced by Expenses. Dealers Face Rising Costs and Staffing Issues In Q1 2022, the cost index—specifically the cost of running a dealership—was at the highest level since the survey began in 2017. After reaching a record low in Q2 2020 of 51, at the height of the pandemic, the cost index has been steadily increasing.

One factor contributing to rising costs may be staffing. The staffing index, at 46, improved slightly from Q4, but generally remains below pre-pandemic levels. With a score below 50, it indicates more dealers feel their staff is declining rather than growing. As a factor holding back business, more dealers noted Staff Turnover was an issue in Q1 2022 than in the same timeframe last year. In fact, 11% of dealers point to Staff Turnover as a factor holding back business in Q1, compared to only 7% in Q1 2021 and 8% in Q1 2020. In terms of staffing issues, service is the top area of concern, particularly for franchised dealers, followed by sales. The Q1 2022 CADSI is based on 1,146 U.S. auto dealer respondents, comprising 591 franchised dealers and 555 independents. Source: Cox Automotive www.autobodynews.com

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Continued from Cover

Staffing Challenges It also provides a numerical index ranking of the highest-performing automotive brands sold in the U.S., based on the combined scores of five measures that comprise the vehicle owner service experience. These measures are (in order of importance): service quality (32%), service advisor (19%), vehicle pickup (19%), service facility (15%) and service initiation (15%). Following are key findings of the 2022 study: Customers trust dealer service departments: The redesigned study also measures factors relating to trust between a customer and the dealership. On a rating scale of 1 to 7 points, the most important trust attribute is, “I trust the dealership to perform complex repairs on my vehicle,” with an average rating of 6.16. However, the second-most important attribute, “Takes responsibility when a mistake is made and resolves it effectively,” has the lowest average rating (5.91). Your vehicle is ready: The service department sending simple text messages to remind of upcoming appointment dates or to provide a status for in-process work are preferred by 42% of customers. Additionally, owners today gravitate toward other technology channels to communicate with the service department, including making appointments online

(27%) and via mobile app (7%), and paying online (17%). “Dealers who meet customers on their preferred communication channels are gaining an advantage,” Sutton said. “Service departments need to jump on the technology train now or risk being left behind.” Seeing is believing: New to the redesigned study is a metric that measures satisfaction when the service department provides a recommended photo or video of repair work with the customer after a multi-point inspection and before needed work is approved. This additional communication feature is having a positive effect on business and trust, as well as on customer satisfaction. When customers receive a photo or video communication regarding their needed maintenance work, they are three times more likely to have advisor-recommended work done. Additionally, on a seven-point rating scale, dealerships are building a higher level of trust with customers (.39 point higher) than are their counterparts who do not provide a photo or video. If you go to them, satisfaction will improve: New to the study in 2022 is a measurement of satisfaction among customers who select to have their vehicle serviced either by valet (when a dealership picks up the vehicle) or mobile (when the dealership sends a technician to the customer’s location). Overall customer satisfaction among owners

using valet or mobile service is 866 compared to 847 among those who had an in-person dealership visit. Next frontier is battery electric vehicle (BEV) service experience: With BEV sales expected to increase in the coming years, dealers have a significant service quality satisfaction gap to close. Overall service satisfaction among BEV owners (784) is 68 points lower than among owners of gas- or diesel-powered vehicles (852). Additionally, the average number of service visits a BEV owner makes in a year is 1.9 compared with 2.4 among owners of gas- and diesel-powered vehicles. “BEV service is the next frontier for dealerships,” Sutton said. “The automotive industry has to get ready now and get the service experience right with BEV owners or they risk losing them to aftermarket service providers. This includes fully understanding BEV customer pain points like range anxiety, unique maintenance requirements and support for related services such as availability of charging stations.”

Study Rankings Lexus ranks highest in satisfaction with dealer service among premium brands with a score of 897. Cadillac (880) ranks second, followed by Porsche (879), Acura (871) and BMW (866). MINI ranks highest in satisfaction with dealer service among mass market brands for a second consecutive year, with a score of 873. Buick (872) ranks second, followed by Mazda (856), Mitsubishi (854) and GMC (853). The 2022 U.S. Customer Service Index (CSI) Study is based on responses from 67,185 verified registered owners and lessees of 2019 to 2021 model-year vehicles. J.D. Power goes to great lengths to ensure that survey respondents are true owners of the brand they are representing. The study was fielded from July through December 2021. For more information about the U.S. Customer Service Index (CSI) Study, visit https://www.jdpower. com/business/automotive/us-customer-service-index-csi-study. Source: J.D. Power

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Platform Measures Auto Body Damage A new company is launching a software platform that measures auto body damage, providing reporting repairers can share with their insurance partners to assist in negotiating repair times. The product, Dents.co, officially launched Feb. 22 and is available for download on Apple’s AppStore. Dents.co, the first-of-its-kind app, is designed to revolutionize collision repair by bringing existing LiDAR technology into the automotive physical damage industry. The app pairs the laser-driven tech already present in iPhones and iPads with cutting-edge artificial intelligence to seamlessly cap-

ture damages, allowing repairers to share the information with insurance adjusters for assessment. This groundbreaking technology opens the door to a standardized quoting process for body shops and insurers and promises to uncomplicate the estimating process. Source: Dents.co

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Mitchell Diagnostics Platform Surpasses 30,000 ADAS Calibrations Mitchell, an Enlyte company, on March 17 announced its Mitchell Diagnostics platform has been used to perform more than 30,000 dynamic and static calibrations. This milestone—achieved in just over a year since the introduction of the MD-TS21 ADAS target calibration system—demonstrates how advancements in vehicle technology

sold in North America and must be precisely calibrated to OEM specifications following an accident to ensure they continue to function properly. Even sensors and cameras not directly damaged in the accident may require calibration. Bringing the work in-house gives facilities greater control over the repair. It can also assist them in

“The Mitchell Diagnostics product suite has had a huge impact on our business and our repair cycle times,” — Matt Jackson are driving repairers to bring calibration work in-house using Mitchell’s patented diagnostic solutions. The Mitchell MD-500 scan tool can perform dynamic calibrations on more than 1,000 popular vehicle models. When combined with the MD-TS21, the integrated diagnostic system allows technicians to complete static calibrations on hundreds of ADAS-equipped vehicles. ADAS sensors and cameras are featured on most new automobiles

Continued from Cover

Gigafactory Texas ed as the manager of Horse Ranch LLC. According to the recent filings, the warehouse will start construction June 1, with a target completion date of June 1, 2023. Considering such filings are often preliminary, however, there is a good chance the project would still see changes over the course of the facility’s buildout. While Gigafactory Texas is poised to start delivering Model Ys to customers by the end of the quarter, Tesla’s expansion into the area is likely just starting. Just recently, reports emerged indicating Tesla has plans for a “Project Cathode” in the area. Filings for a “Project Bob-

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reducing cycle time, enhancing customer satisfaction and generating additional revenue by not relying on sublet services. “With the rapid increase in vehicle complexity, demand has never been greater for a comprehensive diagnostic solution that supports scanning, static and dynamic calibration, and repair blueprinting,” said Jack Rozint, senior vice president of repair sales at Mitchell. “This latest milestone reinforces our position as a

cat” were also filed in April 2021. Details about “Project Cathode” are slim, though speculations suggest the initiative involves the construction of a battery production facility for the company’s 4680 cells, which will be used for the Made-in-Texas Model Y’s structural battery packs. Similar facilities are planned for Tesla’s other factories like Giga Berlin. The Gigafactory Texas area currently serves as Tesla’s headquarters. It is unsurprising to see the EV maker initiating a number of high-profile projects that could expand its presence in the area. Tesla has mentioned it is looking to build several of its key vehicles in Texas, from the best-selling Model Y to the controversial Cybertruck. Speculations suggest the Model 3 and perhaps the Tesla Semi may also be produced in Texas.

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24 APRIL 2022 AUTOBODY NEWS / autobodynews.com

leader in collision repair diagnostics and demonstrates how we’re helping customers return drivers to the road, both safely and efficiently.” The Mitchell Diagnostics product suite features the MD-500, MDTS21 and the recently released MDOE22 remote OEM scanning service, providing repairers with a complete solution for diagnostic scanning as well as dynamic and static calibrations. The MD-500 and MD-TS21 are powered by Tier 1 supplier Bosch and based on Bosch’s diagnostic licensing agreements with all major OEMs. Using the tools, technicians can perform simple, quick and precise calibrations on front-facing cameras, blind-spot monitors and radar sensors. With the 2020 launch of the MD-500, Mitchell introduced the industry’s first DaaS solution. The allin-one solution lets facilities receive assignments, perform scans, access more than 1,000 dynamic calibration routines, take photos, write estimates, link diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) directly to OEM repair pro-

cedures, order parts, manage a production list of open repair orders and transfer sales activity to QuickBooks Online. Repairers can also upload standardized scan reports, calibration reports and invoices to share with insurance carriers. “The Mitchell Diagnostics product suite has had a huge impact on our business and our repair cycle times,” said Matt Jackson, CEO of Prime Collision Repair in Marietta, GA. “Because of our ability to calibrate and scan in-house, we are able to both generate more income and continue to meet our customers’ needs, providing them with timely repairs.” For more information about the Mitchell Diagnostics platform—including the MD-500, MD-TS21 and MD-OE22—visit the company at NORTHEAST (Booth #200) on March 18-20 or complete the web form. Follow Mitchell on Twitter @MitchellRepair and @Mitchell Claims for collision repair and property casualty updates. Source: Mitchell

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

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autobodynews.com / APRIL 2022 AUTOBODY NEWS 27

From the Desk of Mike Anderson with Mike Anderson

Mike Anderson is the president and owner of Collision Advice, a consulting company for the auto body/collision repair industry. For nearly 25 years, he was the owner of Wagonwork Collision Center, an OEM-certified, full-service auto body repair facility in Alexandria, VA.

Destructive Weld Testing a Crucial Step You Should Be Paid to Perform One of the few discouraging statistics for me from the “Who Pays for What?” surveys we’ve been conducting since 2015 involves destructive testing of welds. Last year, more than 40% of collision repair shops acknowledged they had never sought to be paid for the labor to create test welds and perform destructive testing on them prior to welding on a vehicle to ensure the welder was set-up properly. Let me be clear: I’m less concerned with whether shops are being paid for this work, though I believe they should be, and I hope this article will help you negotiate to get paid for it. What I’m really discouraged and concerned about is that I believe many technicians and shops are skipping this absolutely essential step in the repair process. Ladies and gentlemen, unless you perform destructive testing of welds prior to any welding on a vehicle, you cannot know whether the welds you are doing on the vehicle are proper and will perform as necessary. It would be like an automaker not doing vehicle crash testing before selling a new model of vehicle. It’s a serious liability for your business. If you don’t do this—every time—you run the risk of someone who is in another accident in a vehicle you repaired being seriously injured or even killed because of a

faulty weld. I cannot emphasize this enough: We have a moral and ethical responsibility to make sure our technicians are doing this. It’s not about whether you get paid for it. It’s the right thing

Mike Anderson says shops failing to follow OEM procedures for destructive weld testing would be like an automaker failing to crashtest a new model of vehicle

to do. If we don’t do it, somebody could get hurt. A real-world example of the importance of destructive weld testing came up during an online meeting. At Collision Advice, we facilitate 20 Groups called The Spartans, which includes virtual estimating training sessions once a month. During one of these recent discussions, member Dean Massimini of Autotech Collision Service---one of the most committed shops that I know of in terms of following OEM repair procedures---shared with our members that they make sure their technicians are performing and documenting weld testing every time it

AirPro Diagnostics, 1Collision Partner AirPro Diagnostics is proud to announce it has been awarded strategic partner status with 1Collision. The AirPro tool and calibration devices meet rigorous vehicle manufacturer requirements by having OEM licensed software and multi brand diagnostic applications resident and directly connected to the vehicle. ORION, AirPro’s cloud-based diagnostic management system, is the hub by which all services are

delivered within the company’s 10-Minute Response Pledge. AirPro Diagnostics is backed by a team of uniquely skilled, diagnostic brand specialists who provide reliable, efficient and accurate scanning, diagnostic and ADAS calibration solutions that meet the highest level of quality and safety standards. Call (904) 717-1711 to sign up or visit www.airprodiagnostics.com. Source: AirPro Diagnostics

28 APRIL 2022 AUTOBODY NEWS / autobodynews.com

is needed. He told us they recently were performing a destructive test weld that failed. “We had a malfunction on our welder that we would not have found if we weren’t doing destructive tests,” Massimini said. This is what every shop should be doing. Another recent cautionary example: I was onsite at another shop in South Carolina, and one of the technicians told me how they had been having issues with a welder, and another industry consultant told them to use a different wire. Fortunately, I knew someone at the manufacturer of the vehicle involved. His first question: Has the shop had the software update done on their welder? Sure enough, the welder had not had the most recent update. My friends, performing destructive test welds is not a once-in-

The Ford

a-while labor operation. It must be done on every single vehicle. Recently I had the opportunity to speak with some OEMs considering providing weld coupons with replacement panels. That would be huge. But again, shops must know how to perform this destructive test, and the OEM procedures spell it out for us. I only know of two OEMs that don’t have this in their procedures, and they defer to I-CAR, which provides information on how to perform this test. Roughly 30% of shops across the industry tell us in our “Who Pays” surveys that they are being paid all or most of the time for destructive weld testing when it is necessary and they are doing it. In my next column, I’ll discuss how you, once you ensure your technicians are doing this important step, can join those getting paid for it.

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GUNIWHEEL™ Makes the Collision Repair World Go Round One Wheel at a Time by Ed Attanasio

An auto body shop manager in San Francisco, CA, told me he spends more time moving cars than fixing them. With limited space on the shop floor and literally zero parking in the lot, staging vehicles is a full-time job for an apprentice whose title is “porter.” He wants to train to be a technician, but in the end he’s nothing more than a valet. Fixing cars back to their pre-accident condition is tough enough and, in many cases, moving vehicles safely around the shop is a separate job all on its own.

Director of Marketing Mike Dunlap has seen the market for GUNIWHEEL™ explode. Here he is with Ghetto Bob from Count’s Kustoms and the TV show, “Counting Cars.”

With a mission to safely mount and move vehicles with its universal bolt pattern shop wheels, GUNIWHEEL™ is popular with body shops, car restoration companies, towing companies, wheel repair companies and car dealerships. Its universal four- or five-bolt pattern designs for cars and light SUVs are made of thicker steel for more durability needed in heavy-use shop environments. Easy to mount and safe to install on all hub locations, their skinny compact design frees up work space around the hub, stacks up neatly on racks and stands and eliminates the need for multiple spares laying around. Drivable up to 5 mph, GUNIWHEEL™ rolls easily over hoses, grates, humps and ramps. It can also be used in the paint booth to avoid overspray on expensive wheels and tires. It comes in three sizes based on the vehicle’s bolt pattern and the size of the center bore: the GUNIWHEEL™ 45S, 56 and 80.

Made from polyurethane injection molding, the solid black tire on every GUNIWHEEL™ won’t go flat and features a unique safety feature to prevent over speeding. Evenly-spaced ribs are molded across the width of the tire and will begin to vibrate once speeds reach the speed limit rating of 5 mph. The carbon steel rim has a durable design and is painted orange for quick and easy identification. Each wheel weighs just 34 pounds. Director of Marketing Mike Dunlap has seen the market for GUNIWHEEL™ explode and has been integral to the company’s success. The first big distribution agreement it signed was with LKQ/ Keystone, and shortly thereafter, car rebuilders and many top names in the industry started lining up to try GUNIWHEEL™. “We were at SEMA setting up a small booth for their Ignited event in [2019], and we ran into some of Chip Foose’s builders,” Dunlap said. “They saw the GUNIWHEEL™ and said ‘we love it,’ and two weeks later Chip called us. When a major player like Foose starts recommending a product, people listen, and that’s how we found a whole new group of people who became believers.” Alex Rodriguez owns Dynamic Collision, a mini-MSO with three shops in New York, New Jersey and Florida. He has been using GUNIWHEEL™ products for the past three years and has been an enthusiastic brand ambassador for the company since the first day he tried one. He owns a total of 60 GUNIWHEEL™ products of all different sizes to accommodate every vehicle that comes through his doors. “When I find products that provide solutions for my business, I am never afraid to recommend them and that’s why we often post photos and reviews about GUNIWHEEL™,” Rodriguez said. “Our shops are busy all the time, so we can’t afford to stop or slow down our production. We need to keep the vehicles driveable and moving through the body repair process. They make us more efficient and we’re able to get rid of multiple spare tire racks or digging through the customers’ trunk for spares. Our insurance partners are

30 APRIL 2022 AUTOBODY NEWS / autobodynews.com

always looking at our cycle time, so efficiency is paramount and GUNIWHEEL™ helps us to keep the ball rolling without stopping or waiting.”

to’s indirectly led to the invention of the GUNIWHEEL™, Dunlap said. “We had a high-end body shop in Arizona that we were repairing wheels for and one particular Bentley gave us some trouble. We were having difficulty matching the color on the wheels, so the Bentley sat in the shop as we went back and forth,” he said. “They told us they needed the wheel back so they could finish the repair and get the vehicle out of the shop. So, Sergio thought of a solution, and that’s the genesis of GUNIBody shops use GUNIWHEEL™ to avoid starts and stops WHEEL™.” and keep their production rolling uninterrupted When he came up with Great inventions often start the initial design, Rovito was going as simple solutions for potentially to name it the Uniwheel, but to make complex problems. In 2018, the in- it more unique and personalized, ventor, GUNIWHEEL™ President Rovito added the “G” in honor of and CEO Sergio Rovito, had a com- his daughter, Gabriella. Many peopany that repaired and reconditioned ple call them “Gunis” and the comwheels for body shops and car deal- pany’s motto is “Get your Guni on!” erships. The true genius behind the See GUNIWHEEL™, Page 40 One particular customer of Rovi-

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Day Job/Night Job

Ed Attanasio is an automotive journalist based in San Francisco, California. He can be reached at era39@aol.com.

with Ed Attanasio

Painter/Technical Director Creates Amazing Art, Island-Style I have been telling people for deca- ning. des that car refinishers are truly arHe joined the company as its tists, and every time I see a beautiful technical director back in 2012, Gary Wickert car at SEMA orwith on YouTube or so- where he helps collision repairers cial media, it reinforces my beliefs. with things such as product inventoGreat painters continually refi- ry control, technical support, KPIs, ne their skills and techniques, and work in progress (WIP) and training many of them display their creati- focused on OEM procedures. vity and passion through other meIsland Concepts recently estadiums that often shine brighter than blished a training room as well as painting vehicles. a storage area to house the products with Stacey Phillips In this story, a talented car pain- they provide to collision repair faciter created a side business that car- lities. In addition, there is a separate ves and paints tiki statues, as well area where the company has plans as masks, furniture and skateboard to set up a spray booth and/or prep decks, just to name a few. station for hands-on training. Painter and Technical Director In the past, much of the instStacey Phillips Todd Stogdell, with 52, entered the colruction on the island was conducted lision repair industry three decades by Honolulu Community College as ago, when he was hired at an auto part of its auto body repair and painting program. However, the program closed in the summer of 2021 due to a lack of enrollment because of the pandemic and travel restrictions in with Stacey Phillips Hawaii. With the addition of the new training center, Stogdell said Hawaiian technicians won’t have to necessarily go to the mainland to learn new skills anymore. with Stacey Phillips “Our new facility will enable us to hold classes and offer hands-on skills training,” Stogdell said. “Two years ago, I traveled to New York to be certified as an I-CAR instructor in Fusor’s product line, teaching metal panel bonding, structural adwith Stacey Phillips hesives, seam sealing, plastic repair, fiberglass and composite repairs, so Painter and Technical Director Todd Stogdell we can feature I-CAR classes now, poses with one of his tikis and several of which is great.” his skateboard decks, displayed at Island To get started in the world of Concepts, a paint jobber with a training center tiki figures, Stogdell put out a call in Oahu, HI for tikis on Craigslist and through with Victoria Antonelli body shop in California as a helper. the Hawaiian grapevine, and got luWithin 10 years, he had moved up cky with a few beauties almost imthe ladder to become a production mediately. “I’ve always liked tikis and inimanager, and then decided to relocate to Hawaii. tially I got existing ones to paint and Today, Stogdell works for Is- recondition,” he said. “I am always with Victoria Antonelli land Concepts, a paint jobber in looking for ones that are a little weOahu that is the exclusive paint dis- athered. I could see early on I can tributor for AkzoNobel in Hawaii. get really creative with these and The company serves many of the use my painting skills to make them 200-plus shops on the island, with look awesome. In some cases, I even product support and ongoing trai- surprise myself when I see the finis-

The Legal View

hed product.” As his interest in tikis grew, Stogdell yearned to learn more about the process and reached out to some of the finest carvers on Oahu.

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Stogdell uses his painting skills to make each of his tiki statues vibrant and highly unique

“I met Tonu and Soni at Ohana Island Creations and we have become friends,” he said. “They wanted me to paint a large wooden sailfish

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for them and of course, I said yes. When it was finished, they wanted to pay me and I said just teach me how to carve and that will be my payment.” The history of tiki culture dates back to ancient Polynesia. Such carvings were first discovered in Polynesia, and tiki carvings are said to represent a Polynesian god. They’re an integral part of South Pacific mythology, culture and history. Tiki statues were carved to represent the image of four gods as an embodiment of each of their mana, or power. With well-formed tikis in their possession, people could attain protection from harm, strengthen their power in times of war and be blessed with successful crops. Kane is the god of sunlight and natural life; Ku is the god of war; Lono is the god of peace, winds, See Island-Style, Page 42

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Industry Insight

—John Yoswick is a freelance writer based in Portland, Oregon who has been writing about the automotive industry since 1988. He is the editor of the weekly CRASH Network (for a free 4-week trial subscription, visit www.CrashNetwork.com). Contact him by email at jyoswick@SpiritOne.com.

with John Yoswick

‘Who Pays for What?’ Survey Looks at Billing Practices Related to EVs, Accessing OEM Info

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As new automaker electric vehicle charging was asked for the first time models—or pledges of new EVs on as part of the “Who Pays for What?” the horizon—get announced almost survey in the fall of 2021. with Ed Attanasio weekly, a recent industry survey “I expect to see the percentage found three out of four auto body billing and being paid for this to shops nationally have never includ- grow in the future as electric vehied a fee on their estimates or invoic- cles become increasingly common,” es for recharging an electric vehicle. said Mike Anderson of Collision Advice, who co-produces the surwith Ed Attanasio veys with CRASH Network. None of the three major estimating systems provide a standard calculation for electric vehicle recharge, so the only way to be reimbursed for it is to include a line-item charge. Among those that have billed Audatex says, “We do not inwith Ed Attanasio for vehicle recharging, 31% say they clude any operation, labor alloware reimbursed “always” or “most of ance or costs regarding charging the time” by the eight largest insur- hybrid or electric vehicles.” The ers, though about half say the large company that produces the CCC dainsurers “never” pay for recharging. tabase acknowledges, “Charging of The question related to billwith Ed Attanasio the HV/EV vehicles is not included ing and payment practices for EV in MOTOR estimated work times.”

Mitchell similarly says, “Charging the high voltage system has not been accounted for in any labor operation.”

ing.” Another factor shops will need to consider is how to determine a fee for the electricity consumed by the

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A “Who Pays for What?” survey last fall found about 20% of shops (up from 15% a year earlier) are paid regularly when billing for labor required to conduct OEM repair procedure research

Anderson also pointed out, “Another labor operation that may be needed is driving a vehicle sufficiently to reduce the battery charge prior to painting given that some OEMs say the battery cannot be above a 20% charge during refinish-

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ducted each year. The latest one, focused on not-included body labor operations, is being conducted throughout April. Shops can visit https://www.crash network.com/collisionadvice to take the survey.

tion. But as of last fall, the majority of shops reported they have at least sometimes passed those fees along on their estimates or invoices. Only 42% of shops said they have never sought to be reimbursed for these fees, and nearly one in four

survey found shops are most likely to report having subscribed to the OEM information from high-volume automakers like Nissan, Toyota, Honda, GM and Ford; for each of those OEM information services, more than 60% of shops said they have subscribed. Interestingly, the survey found some differences among types of shops as to how regularly they say

OEM procedures at the time they write an estimate compared to single-location facilities, franchise locations or even dealer-owned shops. The survey found 79% of MSO facilities responding to the survey said they research OEM procedures on “most” or “all” jobs. That compares to 60% of independents, 54% of franchise locations and just 40% of dealer-owned facilities.

“Who Pays for What?” surveys have found 42% of shops say they have never charged for OEM information subscription fees, but that’s down from 57% in 2019

Last fall’s survey also found the cost to access OEM repair information is one for which more shops are billing and getting reimbursed. The surveys since 2019 have asked specifically about the OEM subscription fees themselves, aside from the labor time shops spent actually researching the OEM procedures. In 2019, the majority of shops (57%) said they had never sought to be reimbursed for any charges they incur to access OEM repair informa-

(23%) said they always, or almost always, include a subscription fee charge. “Most shops are incurring fees for OEM repair information, so it makes sense for them to pass along those charges,” Anderson said. “This is not overhead. A shop would not be paying to access OEM procedures for Nissan, for example, if the shop did not have a Nissan vehicle in the shop that needed to be repaired.” Perhaps not surprisingly, the

A “Who Pays for What?” survey last fall found 85% or more of shops conduct pre- and post-repair scans on all or most vehicles

they research OEM repair procedures. Repair facilities that are part of a multi-shop operation (MSO) appear to be more likely to research

Only 7% of MSO facilities admitted OEM procedures are only occasionally researched, and none See ‘Who Pays for What?’, Page 44

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Industry Insight with John Yoswick

Examples Demonstrate Problems with Collision Techs Making Repair ‘Presumptions’

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As A presentation at the Collision one part that came from the factory Industry Conference (CIC) earlier with two attachment methods. So this year included a number of ex- making an assumption that you know with Ed Attanasio amples of vehicle repairs that could what you’re doing because you’ve easily be done incorrectly if a tech- been doing it for a long time is a very nician makes presumptions about dangerous assumption to make.” the process based on past experience VanHulle also shared slides rerather than carefully following the lated to a sectioning procedures for a OEM procedures. front lower rail on a Ford Explorer. Scott VanHulle, manager of with Ed Attanasio One slide of the procedure he shared I-CAR’s Repairability Technical calls for MIG welding. Support and OEM Technical RelaBut in addition, he said, dependtions, cited a Silverado box side in- ing on which of two zones is being stalled at the factory with 10 welds. repaired, “you actually have to make “In the repair, you’re only these panels out of the service part putting seven in,” VanHulle said. that you have to rivet bond over the “Where those three extra welds were, top of the area you just welded. So with Ed Attanasio they want you to put crash-toughened when you’re doing the repair planadhesive in there. If you were to get ning, if you just quickly go through to this point and only then realize that procedure, you might think, ‘Oh you need to have crash-toughened we just need to weld it.’ Well, no, you adhesive, you’re going to have to re- have to make these parts. You have move that part that youEd already have to do the rivets. So if you’re not truwith Attanasio partially installed because there’s no ly understanding the procedure, and way to get the adhesive in there.” have those rivets in-stock, there’s no Jason Bartanen of Collision way the technician is going to know Hub pointed to something simi- what to do, and he’s going to make a lar with the lower outer rail on the mistake or only do part of it.” Chevrolet Bolt. VanHulle said another example “It’s attached [at theStacey factory] with of the increased use of adhesives by with Phillips spot welds and MIG-brazed joints, automakers can be seen in I-CAR’s essentially,” Bartanen said. “But free 51-minute “Repairers Realm” when you do the replacement proce- video on the roof replacement produre, there’s adhesive, spot-welding, cedure for the 2022 Honda Civic. weld-bonding, rivets, rivet-bonding, “The procedure is interesting, but plug welds and with MIG-brazing. Seven if you Stacey Phillips don’t do the proper planning, different attachment methods on that and have the proper pieces in place,

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there’s no way you’re going to put that roof on correctly, especially if you’re assuming it was like the last Honda you did,” VanHulle said. “And this is not just happening with one automaker. All of them are having adhesives show up pretty much everywhere.” The presentation at CIC was similar to a message from American Honda last fall about making repair presumption. Scott Kaboos, assistant manager of collision repair training and technology for American Honda, said students at Honda’s hands-on training facility in Illinois are often surprised the ADAS cameras on one model year Accord will require different targets and processes than those on another. “Even within Honda and Acura, we have so many different systems, so many different calibrations,” Kaboos said. “There is no one standard way [across models] even within our

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own company.” It highlights the need to always check the automaker’s repair procedures for each particular vehicle. Kaboos said a student in one of his classes last fall told him he’d used an aftermarket scan tool on a 2017 Honda Odyssey, and followed that software’s recommendation to use a certain target and to put the camera into calibration mode. “He did that, and fried the camera,” Kaboos said, acknowledging he had to look up the reason why. “It turned out it was a dynamic-only camera. So it allowed it to go into [calibration mode], but then it went into a spiral loop, and would never come out of that function because it wasn’t designed to do a static calibration. He ended up having to buy an $800 camera and get it dynamically calibrated [to get the vehicle] back to the customer.”

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GM Names Global Purchasing Lead

General Motors announced the Phillips ap- cle propulsion calibration and drivwith Stacey pointment of Jeffrey Morrison as ing performance. vice president of global purchasing Morrison has more than 25 and supply chain, effective April 1. years of experience in the global auMorrison replaces Shilpan tomotive industry and has worked for Amin, who was recently appointed GM since 2006. He has led global enGM senior vice president and pres- gineering, procurement and logistics ident, GM International, following organizations for GM in the U.S. and withofStacey Phillips Germany. His previous assignments the announcement Steve Kiefer’s decision to retire after almost 40 include executive roles in electrical systems and advanced technology, years in the auto industry. In his current role, Morrison is strategic planning, chassis systems responsible for GM’s global electri- and global logistics. fied vehicle hardware development, which includes overall electric vehi- Source: GM

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Industry Insight with John Yoswick

Collision Repair Shops Should Check Policies Related to Drugs/Alcohol, Animals in Workplace

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California-based employment law “The ADA does not recognize attorney Corey King discussed a emotional support, comfort, comvariety of topics during the Col- panionship or guarding as a recogwith Ed Attanasio lision Industry Conference (CIC) nized task,” King said. “So your held earlier this year: company drug emotional support animal isn’t proand alcohol policies, stocking up on tected under the ADA. This applies COVID tests and “service animals” even if that person brings you a docin the workplace. tor’s note that says [they] need this As more states legalize marijua- emotional support animal.” na, King said, use of Ed cannabis and If asked about bringing an aniwith Attanasio related products grows. It’s a good mal to work, the ADA requires emreminder, he said, for businesses to ployers to “engage in an interactive ensure their drug and alcohol policy process… and provide reasonable does not include the phrase “under accommodations that will allow disthe influence.” If it does, King said, abled employees to perform the es“that policy is completely untenable sential functions of their job,” King and, I would argue, completely un- said. with Ed Attanasio enforceable.” Ask what kind of animal it is, In a state where the alcohol he said. If the employee’s disability DUI limit is .08, King said, “Do is obvious, the inquiry is over and you really want somebody jumping the dog or horse must be allowed. behind the wheel of that car to test If it’s not obvious, ask if the animal drive it when they blow a is required because of a disability— withwould Ed Attanasio .07? They’re not in violation of the but do not ask for documentation of law or your policy because they’re the disability. If it is, ask what tasks not under the influence by the legal the animal is trained to perform; do standard for alcohol.” not ask for documentation of trainKing also said more employ- ing nor for a demonstration of the ers are getting employee requests animal’s ability. to bring a “service to Phillips the Common tasks include guidwithanimal” Stacey work place. In order to qualify as a ing the visually impaired, pulling “service animal” under the federal a wheelchair, alerting people who Americans with Disabilities Act, it are deaf, calming individuals with has to be a dog or, oddly, a minia- PTSD during anxiety attacks, alertture horse individually trained to ing and protecting a person having perform tasks for a person with a a seizure or reminding a person with with Stacey Phillips disability. mental illness to take prescribed

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SEMA Show Goes On

meds. If all those requirements are met, the animal must be allowed unless it becomes disruptive or a danger. “Now, if someone tries to make an issue of this with you, don’t go this alone,” King said. “Get hold of me, of someone you trust, who knows this stuff, to help you navigate through.” As COVID-related restrictions continue to be dropped around the country, King still suggested businesses encourage their employees to order the at-home rapid COVID tests being offered for free by the federal government. “Check your politics at the door: I guarantee you your state law says something about whether an employee can come back into your workplace after being exposed or testing positive,” King said. “I would almost guarantee you that it’s

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Body Shops Giving Back

going to have a requirement that, before they return, they provide you with a negative test. You want to have those tests around.” King said his daughter had COVID early this year, putting the whole family in quarantine. “The four of us could not go back to school or work without having negative COVID tests, and finding a testing facility is a challenge,” particularly if you want immediate results and don’t want to stand in line with people who think they have COVID,” King said. “You and your employees are [likely] going to have to prove at times they have a negative test in many circumstances. Encourage your employees to get those free tests, and be judicious about when they use them. Those are gold. Save them. They are literally going to set you free and allow you to re-enter the world.”

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Sherwin-Williams Donates to CIF

The Collision Industry Foun- in the 2022 Annual Donor Prowith Stacey Phillips dation (CIF) is delighted to an- gram,” said Rob Mowson, vice nounce Sherwin-Williams will president of marketing, Automoparticipate in the CIF Annual Do- tive Finishes Division of Shernor Program, at the Urgent Care win-Williams. “We understand tier with a $5,000 pledge. that disasters are unpredictable The Annual Donor Program and this donation allows us to was designed to bring needed, give back to the collision indusrecurring resources to CIF, so it try in a meaningful and effective with Stacey Phillips can deliver on its mission to An- way.” Source: CIF swer the Call when those in the industry have been impacted by unforeseen catastrophic events. “As a longtime supporter of www.autobodynews.com CIF, we are proud to participate

My SEMA

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Russia Accused of Toyota Cyberattack by Steven Symes, Motorious

At 7 p.m. local time in Japan on Feb. 28, the largest automaker in the world, Toyota, announced it was the victim of a cyberattack. As a result, the company had to shut down all plant operations March 1, as its supply management system and subsidiaries were affected.The production suspension affects 28 assembly lines in 14 factories located in Japan. Toyota estimates the stoppage will affect about 13,000 vehicles at a time when shortages are common. Toyota issued an official press release saying it will resume all operations starting with the first shift March 2. The plan is to access a backup network between it and suppliers. Restoring the original system is estimated to take a week or two. Both Daihatsu and Hino Motors, subsidiaries of Toyota, have halted operations at some of their plants as well. Also targeted in the cyberattack was Kojima Industries, a plastic components manufacturer and supplier for Toyota. The company is still assessing the extent of the damage done by the attack.

Continued from Page 30

GUNIWHEEL™ product is a universal vehicle bolt pattern Rovito conceptualized and then patented. The company’s road to success has been random and wonderful, Dunlap said, with a string of amazing victories along the way. “We have been nominated for the SEMA New Product Awards every year, and we have always been a bridesmaid,” he said. “But, just to be associated with SEMA has given us a ton of credibility. Then, Kristen Felder at Collision Hub did a video about us as part of her ‘Cool Tools’ series, and that was huge.” Some of the country’s top vehicle restorers praise GUNIWHEEL™. Chip Foose called them “Great rollers for around the shop!” Dave Kindig said, “GUNIWHEEL™ is awesome for us! Perfect for moving our many projects around the shop.” Ryan Evans from Count’s Kustoms said, “These are a staple in our shop.” Goolsby Customs said, “GUNIWHEEL™ is the perfect option for

While nobody has been able to pinpoint the origin of the cyberattack, the timing is suspicious. Japan just joined other countries in putting into place financial and economic sanctions against Russia, thanks to the Ukraine invasion. Sensing potential problems, the Japanese government warned domestic companies to be on guard for possible cyberattacks, only for one of its largest corporations to be targeted hours later. Russian Ambassador to Japan Mikhail Yurlevich Galuzin said in an interview on Japanese TV the week before there would be “consequences” if Japan were to impose sanctions on Russia. He didn’t elaborate what exactly that meant, but many considered it to be a threat. Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida said his government is investigating the cyberattack. They hope to establish whether or not Russia was involved and why Toyota was specifically targeted. For now, no other automakers have reported cyberattacks. However, everyone is anxiously awaiting news the already struggling industry could be knocked back on its heels again.

transporting or just to move things around the shop.” Every year, GUNIWHEEL™ comes up with new products for new applications, with each one gaining industry acceptance and garnering five-star reviews. One of these is the GUNIHUB™ 45, a universal rotating hub used when brakes are disengaged or when a car is stuck in the parked gear. “This product is perfect for cars like Teslas and other electric cars where if the battery is dead, the wheels won’t rotate,” Dunlap said. Another product GUNIWHEEL™ will be releasing in mid2022 is the new GuniSpare, designed for cars without spare tires. It’s a universal emergency spare wheel that will come with one year of roadside assistance and all the accessories needed to change the spare, including a safety vest and a hydraulic jack.

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40 APRIL 2022 AUTOBODY NEWS / autobodynews.com

Tesla Model 3, Model Y Receive Latest Round of Price Increases in U.S. and China by Simon Alvarez, Teslarati

The long range variants of the Tesla Model 3 sedan and Model Y crossover have received a $1,000 price adjustment in the U.S. In China, select variants of the Model 3 and Model Y also received a price increase of about $1,500. With the latest round of price adjustments, the cost of the Model 3 Long Range Dual Motor in the U.S. has increased from $50,990 to $51,990 before options and incentives. The Model Y Long Range Dual Motor now starts at $59,990. The Model Y Performance now starts at $64,990 before options and incentives as well. While Tesla did not specify the reasons behind its latest round of price increases, it is believed the recent adjustments were due to the rising price of nickel, which is used in the Long Range Model 3 and Model Y’s battery packs. This is hinted at by the fact the base Model 3 RWD did not see a price increase. The base Model 3 RWD is equipped with a lithi-

um-iron-phosphate (LFP) battery, which uses no nickel. While the Tesla Model 3 and Model Y remain strong contenders in both the U.S. and Chinese markets, the vehicles have received a number of key price adjustments over the past year. The price of the Model Y Long Range, for example, has jumped about 20% from January 2021. The Model 3 Long Range saw a 10.6% price hike in the same period. Morgan Stanley analyst Adam Jonas warned the rising cost of nickel would likely result in electric vehicles like Teslas seeing a price increase. Just recently, nickel surged above $100,000 per metric ton on the London Metal Exchange, prompting a trading halt. Several reasons are behind nickel’s price increase, though it is believed a driving factor is Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. With potential sanctions being placed on Russian nickel, the supply of the material to Western countries might be constrained in the near future.

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autobodynews.com / APRIL 2022 AUTOBODY NEWS 41 1/6/22 8:41 AM

Ford Will Sell Explorer SUVs with Missing Chips Due to Global Shortage by Ameya Paleja, Interesting Engineering

Amidst the ongoing ship shortage, Ford has decided to ship and sell its Explorer SUVs without the chips that control non-safety features such as heating and cooling for the rear seats, Automotive News reported. The global chip shortage came into the limelight during the pandemic as global supply chains were disrupted. From smartphones to cars, the production of a wide range of goods was affected. Last year, more than 70,000 Ford vehicles were waiting in storage for chips. Ford was to ship cars in undrivable conditions to its dealers last year, where the chips would be installed on availability. However, the company seems to have found a solution around this, and according to recent reports, the cars will be missing a few non-critical non-safety features. Ford’s new strategy will result in its vehicles being sold without a few features. These include the controls of heating and cooling for the rear seats, although these features

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Island-Style rain, sports and fertility; Kanaloa is the god of the ocean. Stogdell appreciates their role on the islands and loves finding out as much as he can about the history behind them and their cultural significance. “Tikis are special here and people look at them as their protectors,” he said. “I love the tradition and the heritage behind every tiki and enjoy the stories behind them. I have quite a collection now and feel connected to them in many ways.” Once Tonu at Ohana Island Creations showed Stogdell how to carve a tiki, he was on his way and excited to create his own from scratch. “Tonu is a fourth-generation wood carver and is a teaching artist of fine art at BYU-Hawaii, so I couldn’t have had a better teacher,”Stogdell said. “The first thing I do when I get a piece of wood is use the chainsaw to do the basic shaping and create a rough version. Then I use a chisel and smaller knives to do

can be controlled from the front seats. It is likely the company expects the shortage will end later this year since it is promising the customers the dealerships will install the chips within a year from purchase. Customers willing to still purchase Ford Explorers without these features can expect a reduction in the final price for this small inconvenience. Last year, Ford shipped its popular F-150 without the automatic start-stop feature and gave a $50 credit to customers who opted to purchase without it. Ford isn’t the only carmaker working around chip shortages in such a fashion. While electric vehicle maker Tesla shipped cars without some USBs, General Motors dropped features like wireless charging and HD radios. Chip makers such as Intel are also investing heavily in manufacturing facilities in the U.S. but it will be a while until one sees the benefits from the move. For now, the chip shortage is here to stay and might even be exacerbated by the conflict in Ukraine.

the fine work, followed by sanding. And then finally I paint them and hit them with the clearcoat.” Stogdell is now using monkeypod wood for many of his creations and is enamored with the results. “Carvers want to use Albesia wood or palm, but I really like monkeypod wood,” he said. “You can find monkeypod everywhere here and it’s perfect for tikis. It’s dark inside and lighter on the outside, so if you can integrate that into the design, it gives the piece more depth and definition.” Creating a buzz and garnering great reviews for his tikis and other items, Stogdell has enjoyed every step of his journey and is always looking for more challenges. “When people say nice things on Instagram (@island_kustom_ concepts) about my tikis, it’s so satisfying,” he said. “Doing the pieces is fun and the accolades are really fulfilling.” www.autobodynews.com

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42 APRIL 2022 AUTOBODY NEWS / autobodynews.com

Car Repossessions on the Rise by Steven Symes, Motorious

The auto industry is in huge upheaval at the moment, thanks in no small part to the ongoing semiconductor chip shortage. As new car supplies remain tight, people are holding onto the old cars, impacting dealers negatively as they need product to move. For them there’s a light at the end of the tunnel: car repossessions are on the rise. That sounds horrible but it’s all detailed out in a recent article from The Economic Times. While that article talks specifically about the Indian market, things aren’t much better here in the U.S. A recent earnings call for America’s CAR-MART detailed the growing rate of vehicle repossessions in this country. Per CFO Vickie D. Judy, government stimulus money has helped shrink car loan charge-offs, even when consumers are financing greater amounts thanks to increased used vehicle prices. Higher car repossession rates also kept charge-offs lower, with the company achieving 28.5% for the past

quarter versus 27.1% a year ago and 26.6% two years ago. Judy also noted the company’s frequency of losses increased in the last quarter. She attributed that to “normalization after the unsustainable historic lows resulting from stimulus payments.” After cars are repossessed and borrowers can’t bring the loan back into good standing, those vehicles go to auction. From there they filter to dealerships, where other consumers can either finance them or pay cash. It looks like this repossession problem may become worse before it gets better. After all, Americans are facing inflation like they haven’t seen in decades. That means vehicle payments can be much higher than before. For those who were barely making ends meet before, it might come down to paying utilities, buying enough groceries, purchasing gas or making the car payment. Having your car repossessed is no fun, especially if it’s your only vehicle, but it’s a situation more people are facing.

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Rivian Electric Truck Maker Sued by Shareholder for Recent Price Shifts by Steven Loveday, InsideEVs

According to a recent story published by Automotive News, a Rivian shareholder has filed a lawsuit against the company due to the recent confusing and misleading price increases, which were followed by a complete turnaround by the automaker. Essentially, Rivian upped its prices significantly, though it was still able to keep its starting prices listed as they were during its IPO. This is because the company will eventually launch dual-motor options that fit the earlier price point. Meanwhile, the EVs currently available saw a big increase. Many Rivian reservation holders were either threatening to cancel their orders or did it. The electric pickup truck maker quickly changed plans and decided people who currently have an R1T or R1S on order will still enjoy the previously agreed-upon prices. People who canceled their order were welcomed to reinstate them at the original prices. If the company’s stock wasn’t

already suffering for a variety of reasons, you can imagine what a huge shift in prices, new product announcements and then a shift back could do to the share price.

Moves like this cause investors to become confused and skeptical, not to mention lose faith in a company even if it eventually changes direction and does what’s seen by most as the right thing. Charles Larry Crews filed a complaint with the U.S. District Court in San Francisco suggesting Rivian “concealed how its R1S SUV and R1T pickup truck were so underpriced that it needed to raise prices not long after its November 2021 IPO.” Crews said the price increases will make people lose trust in Rivian and cause a multitude of potential cancellations. He also said

Rivian’s quick change of direction—along with the apology from CEO RJ Scaringe—was a “futile attempt at damage control.” In a case like this, it can be argued that no matter how the story ends, the damage was already done. Ahead of the lawsuit filing, Scaringe had already made it clear he shares some of the same views that Crews eventually brought forward. While Scaringe’s apology is respectable, Crews can try to use the CEO’s admission about breaking the trust of its customers to support his case against Rivian. In an email to Rivian customers dated March 3, the CEO wrote, “It was wrong and we broke your trust in Rivian.” For those interested in following the case, Automotive News lists it as Crews v Rivian Automotive Inc et al, U.S. District Court, Northern District of California, No. 22-01433.

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CREF Opens Grant Applications The Collision Repair Education Foundation (CREF) offers a solution for instructors seeking to fill gaps in funding, tools, equipment and suppliesby opening its 2022 Collision School Career Readiness Benchmark Grants, which allow schools to receive up to $25,000 in funding. Available at https://www. collisioneducationfoundation. org/collision-school-career-readiness-benchmark/, applications are now open with a deadline of June 1. CREF updated this year’s application to make it more impact-driven, goal-oriented and measurable, breaking it down into five sections: Recruitment, Program Maintenance, Program Additions, Employment and Fueling Innovations. The Benchmark Grant application allows instructors to request specific items needed to help them advance their curriculum, and applying schools that are not selected for grant funds are still eligible to receive a variety of tools, equipment and supplies donated by industry sponsors and supporters. Source: CREF

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autobodynews.com / APRIL 2022 AUTOBODY NEWS 43

Tesla Model Y $24,000 Repair: Everything You Need to Know by Steven Loveday, InsideEVs

Not long ago, we shared a story about a Tesla Model Y that was rear-ended for the second time. It wasn’t drivable after the accident, thanks to a blown “pyro fuse.” The whole situation turned out quite messy. The Model Y’s owner, Ryan Shaw, had previously rented out the electric crossover on Turo, which resulted in it being rear-ended the first time. The Tesla, which Shaw hadn’t yet owned very long, needed a $10,000 collision repair. Fortunately, the Model Y’s repair was covered by the at-fault driver’s insurance, and Shaw also received loss of income and other monetary compensation. However, he was without his new Model Y for a very long period of time, only to have it heading right back into the shop following the second accident. Shaw noted in the previous video the second Model Y collision repair was going to cost around $20,000, though it ended

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‘Who Pays for What?’ said they “never” did the research. However, 4% of dealer and franchise locations admitted to never researching procedures at the time they write the estimate, and 2% of independents said the same. “The only way to write a complete and accurate estimate is to know what procedures will be required to repair that vehicle,” Anderson said. “I do like to see that, compared to five or six years ago, many more shops are making use of the OEM websites directly. I know they all have their own system for locating the right information, but many automakers offer online or

up costing more. While he wasn’t responsible for paying the tab, he knew the repair was likely to take forever. Shaw promised a follow-up video breaking down the cost and length of the repair, along with other details.

Shaw said he learned a lot after two Tesla collision repairs over a short time, and there are details he knows now he wishes he knew before the mess. For this reason, the follow-up video should prove very helpful to other Tesla owners, since it will provide you with a solid idea of what to expect if your car ends up in a collision and needs repair.

in-person training classes on how to efficiently navigate their websites.” Last fall’s survey showed a continued increase in the percentage of shops regularly performing vehicle scans. In 2019, according to the “Who Pays for What?” surveys, about 88% of shops said they performed a post-repair scan on all or most vehicles they repaired. In 2021, that figure rose to 93%. The percentage of shops that said they performed pre-repair scans was also higher, improving to 85% in 2021 from 78% in 2019. “It appears we’re trending in the right direction, but still not fast enough,” Anderson said, noting he believes 100% of repairs should be completed with both a pre- and post-repair scan.

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44 APRIL 2022 AUTOBODY NEWS / autobodynews.com

If you’re without your car for months like Shaw, you’ll still be responsible for insuring it during that time. Rental cars are much more expensive than they once were, and in some areas, they’re much harder to come by. You may be stuck with a rental you don’t necessarily want, and it may cost more than the insurance company is willing to reimburse for. Shaw went into extensive detail about the whole situation and all the processes involved. He filled us in on the specifics related to diminished value, which we found very helpful and informative. Despite all of the concerns, Tesla Insurance coordinated everything with the collision center, the repair turned out excellent, the car’s paint looks better than it did prior and the Model Y’s rear hatch now works more smoothly than it did in the past. The only real issue here would be if Shaw decided he wanted to sell the car, since it has lost a significant amount of value.

CCC Appoints Chief HR Officer CCC Intelligent Solutions Inc. announced the appointment of Christy Harris as senior vice president and chief human resources officer. Harris will lead CCC’s company-wide people strategy, including talent acquisition, employee experience and the continued advancement of the company’s inclusion and diversity initiatives. Harris succeeds Gary Newman, who is retiring after 15 years with the company. Harris will focus on continuing to advance CCC’s award-winning culture. Named a 2022 Best Places Work by Built In Chicago, Austin and Los Angeles, CCC continues to attract and engage top technology and product talent. “CCC has an outstanding reputation as a leading technology company and employer,” said Harris. “I look forward to having a positive impact on the employee experience while building on the company’s commitment to inclusion and engagement.” Source: CCC

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Ford’s EV and ICE Reorganization Will Have Huge Impact on Dealers by Steven Loveday, InsideEVs

As was recently reported, Ford officially announced plans to separate its electric vehicle and internal combustion vehicle business models. Ford CEO Jim Farley made it clear on a number of occasions he’s learning a lot from Tesla, so the fact Ford wants to bank on the growing interest in EVs comes as no surprise. In order for automakers to sell EVs, dealerships will have to be on board. Otherwise, the brand could try to sell online, direct-to-consumer—much in the same way Tesla and Rivian are operating—but it would most certainly cause contention with dealers since it’s against the rules. Ford will, instead, work alongside dealerships to help them adopt a hybrid version of the model. Ford said in its announcement it would handle EV sales differently, combining some sort of direct sales model, along with dealers involved providing expertise, service and support. Plans haven’t yet been finalized.

Registration Open for YANG Conference The Young Auto Care Network Group (YANG), an under-40 community of the Auto Care Association, is now accepting registrations for its annual YANG Leadership Conference. The 2022 YANG Leadership Conference will take place May 20-21 at the Hyatt Regency Orlando in Orlando, FL. The YANG Leadership Conference is tailored to young professionals in the auto care industry to facilitate building connections with peers, learning from industry experts and coming together as one collective industry by sharing the best of ideas and solutions for today’s automotive aftermarket industry challenges. This in-person event provides unique and industry-focused programming opportunities to enhance leadership skills, knowledge and capabilities. Visit autocare.org to learn more about the 2022 YANG Leadership Conference and to register. Source: Auto Care Association

According to Automotive News, Ford’s goals include eliminating inventory, operating with set prices and working out of fewer locations. “It’s going to be much more efficient, a lot more online,” Farley told the publication. “It’s going to be a really different model.”

Farley also said having dealerships involved could give Ford an advantage over Tesla. He noted lack of physical support for customers can be problematic and some fixes simply can’t be handled remotely. “We can do things Tesla can’t do,” Farley added. Farley made comparisons to stores like Target and Home Depot that have a huge online presence and sell products on the internet,

but also have a multitude of physical stores across the country. Dealerships would certainly raise concerns if Ford just attempted to abandon them and sell its cars directly, so the hybrid plan is a compelling option. However, it’s likely some aspects of the automaker’s potential future plan will be a disruption to dealers’ policies and operations. However, Automotive News noted, thus far, it seems dealers are “cautiously optimistic” about what the future may hold. Ford will allow its dealers to decide if they want to sell EVs in addition to gas cars. There are not yet details about whether a dealer could choose to become “EV-only,” though Farley said Ford is “betting on” its dealerships, and they should “get ready to specialize.” Ford National Dealer Council Chairman Tim Hovik made it clear he’s happy Ford is working to cooperate with dealerships. He also said dealers are already learning to deal with a lack of inventory, so having no EV inventory on hand wouldn’t be that different. Another dealership execu-

tive, Vadim Makhlis, shared his support of Farley, though making it clear he’s anxious. “I love the concept but am anxious to see how it plays out,” Makhlis said. “Given Mr. Farley’s leadership the past few years, I do believe if they’re going in this direction, it must be what the consumer wants.” Despite any apprehension from dealers, which is to be expected, NADA spokesperson Jared Allen claimed franchised dealers are “allin on EVs.” He said dealers will be integral in increasing EV adoption. In the end, Ford doesn’t really have another viable option. It can’t abandon its dealerships, and it needs their support in order to succeed. It’s motivating to see the automaker is making every attempt to move into the future while also continuing to support its dealers in the process.

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*Kia Genuine replacement parts sold but not installed by an Authorized Kia Dealer are covered for 12 months from purchase date, regardless of mileage, for the part only, and any labor charge is the consumer’s responsibility. autobodynews.com / APRIL 2022 AUTOBODY NEWS 47

Ford to Collaborate with Universal Technical Institute on EV Training Curriculum by Joey Klender, Teslarati

Ford Motor Company and Universal Technical Insititute (UTI) are collaborating to roll out a new curriculum responsible for training students to maintain and work on electric vehicles. UTI is rolling out a new curriculum in its Ford Accelerated Credential Training (FACT) program. With substantial increases in electric vehicle purchases and ownership in 2021 and forecasts for plenty of additional growth over the next several decades, the need for EVtrained automotive technicians will only increase over the coming years. Ford’s FACT program and UTI plan to train students in the art of servicing high voltage batteries and electric vehicles, as they will become essential to Ford’s business model in the coming years. The Ford EV curriculum will feature blended learning courses on high voltage systems safety, hybrid vehicle components and operation,

All SCRS RDE Sessions Online During the 2021 SEMA Show, the Society of Collision Repair Specialists (SCRS) captured every classroom delivery of Repairer Driven Education (RDE) on video and the content is now fully uploaded and available to watch online at https://rde.scrs.com. The 2021 Repairer Driven Education (RDE) full series product contains both the general sessions plus the OEM Summit sessions. Participants will have access to more than 35 hours of educational programs designed for collision repair businesses and delivered by the nations’ leading subject matter experts. These sessions can be shared with an auto body shop’s entire staff with one subscription, all from the comfort of the business. Current SCRS members are entitled to an online coupon code which will provide them a 20% discount on purchases at https:// rde.scrs.com. For members who have misplaced their coupon code, contact the office at info@scrs.com to receive a new one. Source: SCRS

battery electric vehicle (BEV) components and operation and an introduction to high voltage battery service, as well as a Ford instructor-led class on hybrid and electric vehicle operation and diagnosis, UTI said in a statement.

“Ford has been working with UTI for more than 20 years to ensure our students receive state-of-the-industry training to prepare them for a rewarding, lifelong career in the transportation industry,” UTI CEO Jerome Grant said about the program’s new additions. “Demand for our graduates remains strong, and

by staying at the forefront of new technologies like EV, we are building the workforce of tomorrow and supplying automakers like Ford with the skilled technicians they need to adapt to consumer demand.” Ford will send a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) to every campus the curriculum, currently available at nine of the 14 UTI campuses. The PHEV will be a necessity in students receiving hands-on training, which will eventually lead to the acquisition of a certification in high voltage systems. There will be 11 other required certifications to pass the curriculum, with three additional certification pathways that will require attendance at Ford’s Training Center. The nine campuses are: Avondale, AZ Bloomfield, NJ Exton, PA Houston, TX Lisle, IL

Mooresville, NC Orlando, FL Rancho Cucamonga, CA Sacramento, CA The course will take 15 weeks to complete and students are immediately eligible to enroll in the FACT program after completing UTI’s core automotive or diesel programs. More than 25,000 students have graduated since the program launched in 1999. “Ford has been investing in building a pipeline of qualified technicians for years now, and our alliance with Universal Technical Institute allows us to do that through the Ford FACT program,” said Ford Manager of Technical Support Operations Elizabeth Tarquinto. “The enhancements we’re making to the program ensure that Ford and Lincoln dealers across the country will be able to find certified technicians ready to work on the vehicles of the future, and help them keep up with consumer demand for hybrid and electric vehicle service.”

CCC Report Reveals Accelerated Innovation in P&C Insurance Economy Amid Disruption CCC Intelligent Solutions Inc., a leading SaaS platform for the P&C insurance economy, announced March 15 it has released CCC Crash Course 2022, a data-driven report covering the business, consumer and technology trends shaping the automotive, claims, repair and collision industries. The report offers insights on today’s economic, social and technology trends impacting and reshaping the P&C insurance economy, including shifts in driving behavior, advances in vehicle technology and the record pace of growth in digitization across the insurance economy. CCC Crash Course 2022 marks the 27th year for the industry-leading report, which this year explores the future of digital journeys in the wake of disruption: supply versus demand, labor shortages, inflation, increasing vehicle technology and more complex repairs. The extensive report draws insights based on decades of experience from solutions offered by CCC and its affiliates, including 260 million claims-related transactions,

48 APRIL 2022 AUTOBODY NEWS / autobodynews.com

50 billion miles of driving data, and millions of auto bodily injury and personal injury protection (PIP)/ medical payments (MedPay) casualty claims. “After tracking key trends for so many years, we can confidently say the P&C insurance and automotive industry landscape has been forever changed,” said Susanna Gotsch, senior director and industry analyst, CCC. “The disruption experienced over the last two years has accelerated the pace of innovation driven by everything from supply chain and labor to climate change. There is more urgency than ever for the industry to adapt and evolve with an increased focus on the advancement of digital technologies, user experiences and connected networks foundational to change and growth.” Gotsch continued, “Today’s customer expects a business to provide an always-on user experience. This coupled with managing growing complexities presents both challenges and opportunities for the P&C economy.” Key topics covered in Crash

Course 2022 include: • Supply versus demand imbalances and the impact on U.S. inflation. • Labor shortages and the role its playing in driving up wages and altering experiences across nearly all industries. • The operational future of automakers, insurers, repairers and other providers. • The role of vehicle technology (ADAS, EVs) and complexity in increasing repair costs. • Technologies such as AI, mobile, cloud and the Internet of Things, and their role in user experiences. • Changes in driving behaviors and the impact to frequency and severity of auto accidents and auto casualty claims. In addition to macro trends and topics, CCC Crash Course 2022 also includes industry-level detail on claims frequency and severity, parts costs and use, total loss trends and more. Download the full report here: https://cccis.com/crash-course-2022/ Source: CCC Intelligent Solutions

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autobodynews.com / APRIL 2022 AUTOBODY NEWS 49

Tesla Raises Prices Across Entire Vehicle Lineup, Model X Plaid Sees $12.5K Rise Tesla CEO Elon Musk recently noted Tesla and SpaceX are seeing significant inflation pressure in raw materials and logistics. This is understandable, considering the ongoing war in Ukraine and the sanctions being imposed on

ed the company’s entire vehicle lineup, from the base Model 3 RWD to the top-tier Model X Plaid. The price increases range from $2,000 to $12,500. As can be seen in the company’s online configurator, the Model 3 RWD now costs $46,990—$2,000 more than its previous price. The

Russian commodities. The price of Tesla’s current vehicle lineup appears to have been adjusted accordingly to correspond to these pressures. Fresh off a recent price adjustment for the Model 3 and Model Y in the U.S. and China, Tesla has now implemented an even more substantial round of price increases for its vehicle offerings. But this time around, the adjustments affect-

midrange Model 3 Long Range now costs $54,490, up $3,500. The topof-the-line Model 3 Performance has been adjusted to start at $61,990, up $2,000. On the Model Y’s side, the Model Y Long Range now starts at $62,990, which is $3,000 more. The Model Y Performance now starts at $67,990, also up $3,000. Being Tesla’s flagship vehicles, the price adjustments for the

by Simon Alvarez, Teslarati

ACA Announces Membership Head

Model S and Model X line were much more substantial. The Model S Long Range now starts at $99,990, $5,000 more than its previous price. The Model S Plaid, Tesla’s fastest car as of writing, now starts at $135,990, $6,000 more than its previous price. Tesla’s largest vehicle in its current lineup, the new Model X, received the most notable price adjustments. The Model X Long Range now starts at $114,990, up $10,000 from its previous price. The Model X Plaid now starts at $138,990, up $12,500. While the price adjustments recently implemented by Tesla are some of the company’s most significant yet, demand for the Model 3, Model Y, Model S and Model X still seems fairly strong. A look at Tesla’s U.S. configurator hints the company is still backlogged for several months, with deliveries for some vehicles like the Model X Long Range being estimated as late as January 2023. More affordable cars like the Model Y Long Range are listed with an estimated delivery date of September 2022.

The Auto Care Association announced Todd Finnerty as the director of membership engagement, where he will be responsible for providing leadership and strategic direction for member engagement and retention efforts by developing strong relationships with member companies in the automotive aftermarket industry. In this role, Finnerty will leverage his experience as a former industry participant to more deeply connect and engage with members. He will lead a membership team dedicated to understanding member challenges, presenting solutions and fine-tuning the member experience to ensure seamless, end-to-end service. Having served nearly six years with the association’s membership department, Finnerty is already well-respected and connected with the entire supply chain: manufacturers, warehouse distributors, retailers and shops. Source: Auto Care Association

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autobodynews.com / APRIL 2022 AUTOBODY NEWS 51

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