Insight | Issue 2

COMMUNICATION IS THE KEY

Welcome to the second edition of Insight

Ford Accident Repair Network Magazine Go Further

Fifty years after debuting one of the world’s most popular cars, Ford is marking the milestone by revealing a Mustang 50 Year Limited Edition. Created to honour five decades of Mustang heritage, only 1,964 examples of the 50 Year Limited Edition will ever be built when it goes on sale this autumn.

Based on the all-new 2015 Mustang GT fastback with performance pack, the 50 Year Limited Edition is designed to provide customers with outstanding performance and a unique appearance that will be instantly recognisable on the road. The only options for the 50 Year Limited Edition are the choice of two exclusive colours and a six-speed manual or automatic transmission.

Welcome to Insight 2.

We have seen the winter off and now heading into the Summer and the planning for our October conference is well under way with the Ford Accident Repair Centres and suppliers booking their places every day.

The magazine has received a fantastic response from the industry and it has been created for everyone to contribute as we can see in this issue.

Ford Accident Repair Centres investing in the future, paint companies letting us now about the future and future technologies and vehicles featured which gives everyone a flavour of what Insight is all about.

We hope you enjoy the new look Insight issue two.

FORDIMPACT2014 Conference & Awards Communication is the key

Wednesday 29th October 2014 Ricoh Arena, Coventry

FORD IMPACT 2014

EXCELLENCE AWARDS

The 2014 FORDIMPACT Conference is all booked and the planning starts right now. This great event is back at the fantastic Ricoh Arena in Coventry.

With a great line up of speakers, a bigger and better supplier village and new this year will be our very own Ford Excellence Awards to reward and applaud our own 2014 Bodyshop Hero’s, so get Wednesday 29th October 2014 in your diary and make sure you don’t miss this great event.

We already have confirmed for the supplier village Allianz, Auto Industry Insider, ACIS, Audatex, Axalta, bodyshop Magazine, Bodyshop Solutions, Car-o-liner, Eyebox, Ford Accessories, HBC, Mirka, NIBS, Polywaste, PPG, Sata, Stanners, Symach and Vizion and it’s filling up fast. But we have even more room this year as we move the whole conference into a larger arena.

Our speaker line up will be announced nearer the time but if you are interested in our supplier village just contact:

Dave Reece at: dreece6@ford.com or phone me on 07982 923864

Advance Ford Accident Repair Centre investing in the Future.

‘Conceived to meet the high standards set by vehicle manufacturers and most importantly our customers’ Grenville Taylor—Accident Repair Centre

PROFILE

Matthew Cullen Marketing Specialist Ford Motor Company

Matthew joined Ford of Europe as part of their Marketing Sales and Service Graduate scheme in January 2012 and has recently moved into his second role as a Marketing Specialist working within the wholesale and collision team.

Matthew has experienced a broad range of roles within his first placement in Ford of Europe Marketing Communications, as an Experiential Marketing Specialist.

During the time working on various projects including; Product Knowledge Training, Digital Asset Creation, Event Management, Live Streaming as well as Brochures.

Recently receiving an employee achievement award to recognise the successful delivery of his employee learning project, which now offers online product training on all new vehicles to Ford employees world-wide.

Matthew will be working hard on the FORDIMPACT Conference to be held at the Ricoh Arena in Coventry in October.

If you need to know more about Advance Accident Repairs just give Grenville a call on 01246 858500

Advance Accident Repairs Holmewood Industrial Estate Hardwick View Road Chesterfield. S42 5SA

www.advanceaccidentrepairs.co.uk

KM 547 355

We’re in the money

First winner of the Ford Write off Avoidance monthly Prize Draw receives £1200 back for using the programme.

Days Motor Group was launched in 1926 and has been managed by three generations of the Day family.

It is today the largest dealer group in Wales with a culture of continuous development that benefits our customers, our company and our 500 employees.

Within the Days Group there are two Accident Repair Centres, in Garngoch and Llanelli. The largest, is in Garngoch, Swansea, the Llanelli Bodyshop is a much smaller operation, but provides the same quality of service.

We at Day’s Motor Group Accident repair centre are thrilled to win the January draw, as you know we have been very proactive with the write-off avoidance program from the start, it has benefitted both the VDA and the accident repair centre.

I feel that the Ford program is the best one out there as it offers an incentive to the VDA and it has a big impact on the accident repair centre, where we would be righting cars off we are now repairing them, that’s what we are here for.

The Ford program is so quick and easy, we do not have to worry about our key to key times, as a fast quick response allows the VDA to be ordering the parts the same day as we have networked to Doug and his team, avoiding any delay, by repairing the older car it benefits both the

dealership and Ford as the dealership get a repair and Ford sell the parts and this also stops the possibility of the customer buying a different brand, a win-win for both.

I don’t understand why all bodyshops do not use this program as the only extra work you have to do is send it to Doug and his team as you use the assessment that you are sending to the insurance company anyway.

I’d like to take this opportunity to thank Doug Bunker and his team for all the support that we have received from the very start of the program helping us to repair more cars in this difficult time.

As we are also a multi franchise business it is important that the team are also aware of all the other write avoidance programmes now being offered by the vehicle manufacturers.

We are in the business of repairing vehicles and looking after our customers and the Ford Write Off Avoidance programme helps us to do both. By focusing on the write off programme we have managed to save in two years 156 vehicles, keeping 156 customers happy and generating in the region of £400k worth of incremental revenue for the business.

It has to make sense?

John Bowler Ford Accident Repair Centre Manager

We are in the business of repairing vehicles and looking after our customers and the Ford Write Off Avoidance programme helps us to do both.

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THE BEST WAY TO PREDICT THE FUTURE IS INVENT IT A.KAY

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FORD

WRITEOFFAVOIDANCE 2014

Saving vehicles the Ford way...

The 2013 Write-off Avoidance programme was a resounding success.

THE PROGRAMME ACHIEVEMENTS INCLUDED:

1,119

VEHICLES SAVED

£

£3.2m INCREMENTAL BODYSHOP REVENUE

£2,875 AVERAGE REVENUE PER REPAIR

The programme continues for 2014, with some notable improvements: Scope extended to include all PAS125 bodyshops (excluding insurer-owned sites), as well as bodyshops that have approval from any vehicle manufacturer.

Already this year we have saved over 200 vehicles, and we expect to save hundreds more.

A discount of up to 50% off RRP is available on air-bags and air-bag modules.

Feedback indicates that the Ford programme is the best and easiest to use. Just network your Audatex assessment to VBR036CM, or e-mail it to repairuk@ford.com.

Completed repairs are entered into a monthly draw, the winning bodyshop receives the invoice value of OE parts as a one-off payment (up to £1,200).

Since re-launching the programme 4800 Ford vehicles have been saved generating £12.4m worth of incremental revenue for repairers and it’s as easy as this:

Just network your Audatex assessment to VBR036CM, or e-mail it to repairuk@ford.com

Simple and Quick Assessments AudaMobile puts the power in the hands of the Vehicle Damage Assessors (VDA) by fundamentally allowing them to capture damage and calculate assessments whilst at the side of the vehicle, increasing ‘right first time’ estimating and avoiding a costly supplementary estimate.

Engaging with Customers In addition, AudaMobile enables bodyshops to engage better with customers, helping to improve conversion rates as work is assessed and priced with the customer at the vehicle.

For teams of assessors on the road, which is becoming more and more commonplace, AudaMobile has proved invaluable for mobile estimating and boosting business efficiency. This also provides opportunities to up-sell services by offering additional repairs for non-claim related damage, such as scratches and minor dents. By having the latest technology at their finger-tips, bodyshops look more professional and improve the customer experience.

A Growing Suite of Solutions AudaMobile is the perfect complement for AudaVIN+, and forms part of a growing portfolio of solutions designed to increase ‘right first time’ assessments and reduce repair cycle times. Paul Sykes explains “Both the AudaMobile App and AudaVIN+ strengthen our stable of vehicle damage assessment and claims management solutions, ultimately geared towards improving profitability for bodyshops. Fundamentally, both have been developed as a direct result of what our customers are telling us they need in a competitive marketplace.”

THE CREATIVE SPARK IN THE AUTOMOTIVE INDUSTRY Working with all sectors and disciplines of the automotive industry, Pure have developed a deep understanding of how the automotive industry works; its issues, its customers and its opportunities and offers a full spectrum of services for marketing and design both on and offline.

The Pure approach results in a refreshing change within the auto industry bringing hi-level design solutions within the reach of the smaller enterprises.

The scope of Pure’s services embrace all media; brand, creative design, presentations, web and 3D based design.

Branding | Creative Design | Advertisments | Design for Print | Design for Digital

creativity without limits

e.DNA ADAPTIVE, RESPONSIVE AND SO MULTITASKING While your reading this magazine e.dna has taken estimate requests , its asked for feedback via text message, blogged the latest news, helped people make the right choice on their next purchase, booked people on events around the globe, its feeding the latest news, its blogged, its socialising, its advertising and its finding Hercules the cat a new home and that’s just today, imagine what it can do tomorrow. e.DNA more than just website design

CMS | Websites | Blogs | Custom Built Solutions | e.Marketing | Social | Apps

t: 07917 667510 | marcus@purevc.co.uk | www.purevc.net

VDA away? - don’t struggle

Ask James...

Your Vehicle Damage Assessor is the hub around which the repair process revolves. So how do you cope when they go on holiday, or if they are taken ill, or worse, if they hand in their notice unexpectedly?

“I have used ARC Support Services several times now in differing roles with excellent results”

All of these situations have the ability to very quickly de-stabilise, leaving a successful smooth flowing business facing some serious issues, and further more, we all know that quality staff don’t grow on trees. For many of your Work Providers, VM Standards and matters of compliance, the lack of a qualified VDA is a MAJOR non conformity as well as a serious liability, both ethically and financially.

Highly Recommend 5*

It’s not as simple to just ‘double up’ on such a pivotal position within the repair process. In the majority of business, that practice operates in the negative factor of profitability i.e Cost of Training & Development - V’s - an Under Utilised Resource. To have such a vast amount of your investment doing something else until they MAY be required (if they don’t then go off to find more money for their newly gained skill set) is a very expensive, poor business practice.

As an independent company, ARC Support Services Ltd are able to assist repairers, much of it at short notice, with short term VDA support when the repairer finds themselves in such a situation. Additionally, when you employ our services for short term VDA assistance we will also be happy to advertise (for free) the available position, through our social networking activity which is prolific and constant.

If you would like to utilise our VDA services as part of your business continuity plan, to reinforce and support the estimating and assessing function of your business, use our ‘Contact Me Please’ form, which can be found on all pages of our website, we guarantee to reply to your enquiry, quickly.

Chris Browne, Bodyshop Manager, Pertwee and Back (Great Yarmouth)

We have worked with ARC Support Services since 2008 they always deliver a first class quality service” Highly Recommend 5* Carl Nichols VDA MIMI, Director at Barton and Nichols Ltd (Llangefni, North Wales)

Ford Reveals Ka Concept Vision for Small Global Value Car Showcasing Clever Design and Tech at an Affordable Price

New Ford Ka Concept reveals Ford’s vision for a practical choice for urban drivers, offering advanced technology only usually found in larger cars. This Global small value car showcases clever design and remarkable fuel efficiency at an affordable price; is equipped with technology including SYNC with Voice Control and AppLink, and MyFord Dock that stores, mounts and charges phones and satnavs.

Ka Concept was revealed in Europe at a special “Go Further” event in Barcelona. A production version of the Ka Concept will reach European showrooms in a couple of years.

OFFICIAL PRESS RELEASE

BARCELONA, BARCELONA,Spain, Spain,– –Ford Fordrevealed revealedthe theKa KaConcept, Concept,the the company’s vision for a practical all-new global company’s vision for a practical all-new globalsmall smallcar car offering offeringadvanced advancedtechnology technologyand andclever cleverdesign designtotokey key markets around the world at an affordable price. markets around the world at an affordable price.

The TheKa KaConcept Conceptcommunicates communicatesefficiency efficiencyand andprecision. precision.

Bold, elongated headlamps and a long, lean Bold, elongated headlamps and a long, leanlook lookwith with sweeping, sweeping,curved curvedlines linescreate createa asense senseofofmovement. movement.

Able Abletotoseat seatfive fivecomfortably, comfortably,the theKa KaConcept Conceptisisequipped equipped with technology usually found in larger with technology usually found in largercars. cars.MyFord MyFordDock Dock enables enablesoccupants occupantstotostore, store,mount mountand andcharge chargemobile mobile devices devicessuch suchasasphones phonesand andsatellite satellitenavigation navigationsystems; systems; SYNC with Voice Control and AppLink SYNC with Voice Control and AppLinkenables enablesdrivers driverstoto activate activateapps, apps,play playmusic musicand andmake makephone phonecalls, calls,while while keeping both hands on the wheel and eyes on keeping both hands on the wheel and eyes onthe theroad. road.

“The “TheKa KaConcept Conceptbuilds buildson onFord’s Ford’ssmall smallcar carexpertise expertiseand and success to offer the design and technology customers success to offer the design and technology customers worldwide worldwidewill willbe belooking lookingfor forover overthe thecoming comingyears,” years,” Odell said.

“Consumers increasingly expect Odell said. “Consumers increasingly expecttotoseamlessly seamlessly transfer transfertheir theirmobile mobiledevices devicesfrom fromhome, home,totocar, car,toto Ford workplace, Fordhas hassold soldmore morethan than1.8 1.8million millionKa Kacars carssince sincethe the workplace,and andthe theKa KaConcept Conceptshows showshow howtechnology technology vehicle enabling them to do just that, will be extended vehiclewas wasfirst firstlaunched launchedinin1996 1996and andthe thecompany company enabling them to do just that, will be extendedtotoan an projects projectsthat thatworldwide worldwidethe thesmall smallcar carsegment segmentwill willincrease increase attainable attainablesmall smallcar.” car.” by by35 35per percent centfrom from4 4million millionunits unitsinin2012 2012toto6.2 6.2million million AAproduction productionversion versionofofthe theKa KaConcept Conceptwill willreach reach units unitsby by2017.

2017.

European showrooms in a couple of years.

European showrooms in a couple of years.

The Thefive-door five-doorconcept conceptwas wasrevealed revealedininEurope Europeby byStephen Stephen Odell, Ford executive vice president, Europe, Middle Odell, Ford executive vice president, Europe, MiddleEast East and andAfrica, Africa,atata aspecial specialevent eventininBarcelona Barcelonaattended attendedby by about about2,500 2,500Ford Forddealers, dealers,employees employeesand andjournalists. journalists.

The stars are coming out tonight The much anticipated shortlisted finalists for the largest Bodyshop Awards event of the year comprises of a total of 21 companies that will be presenting 32 awards to over 130 finalists within their respective bodyshop networks or to bodyshop employees, in what will prove to be another fantastic evening.

The awards host for the evening will be Rob Brydon who is known to us all in many guises - perhaps most famously as Uncle Bryn in Gavin and Stacey, as host of the panel game "Would I Lie To You" or more recently with his hit TV show with Steve Coogan, The Trip. Rob also is the BBC's prime time host for their new quiz programme on a Saturday evening, The Guess List.

The post awards entertainment will be provided by the stunning Motown's Greatest Hits band How Sweet It Is who are fresh from their UK concert hall tour and will kick-off the Party in the Park to continue the evening's celebrations.

Mark Bull, director of ABP Club, the event organiser's says: We continue to be completely blown away by the interest shown in the 2014 British Bodyshop Awards and are extremely proud to see how it has grown yearon-year. With today's announcement

by Covéa and JLR, the finalists are almost complete for the award categories that will see excellence being recognised and rewarded, in what we're sure will be another fantastic event for the third successive year.

"We thank our Headline Partner, PPG Industries and our Diamond Partners:

3M, Ageas, Audatex, Circle Leasing, Enterprise Rent-a-Car, Farécla Products, I Love Claims and Mirka UK and SIA, who join ABP, for their tremendous support, which enables the industry to come together for this fantastic occasion.

The British Bodyshop Awards is a unique celebration of the UK's Body Repair Industry where the best performers will be awarded by insurers, accident managers, independent networks and vehicle manufacturers.

Gethyn Davies, Markets Director UK & Ireland Refinish, PPG Industries (UK) adds: PPG is extremely proud to be Headline Partner for the third year running for this market leading and most prestigious industry event.

We enjoy working closely with ABP and we're sure that we’ll help them make this year s BBA a tremendous success for repairers and we look forward to celebrating the success and excellence of our industry with you. The very best of luck to all of the finalists; we look forward to seeing you there!

To keep up-to-date with the very latest information or to reserve your place at the industry's most exciting awards evening, please visit www.britishbodyshopawards.com

i-Range Induction Heaters The i-Range induction heating units are brand new to the UK. These compact units are designed for mechanical heat expansion applications without damaging surrounding areas on the vehicle. A safe, localised cold heat source taking cold steel to 800°C in less than 3 seconds!!

Why Induction Heating?

• • • • • •

Induction Heating gives instant heat due to a magnetic field penetrating the required area directly.

Non-contact heating: no direct contact required, it heats through paint, coatings or rust without removing them.

Penetrates heat only where heat is required and therefore does not damage any surrounding parts i.e. plastics or rubber Works on all Steels, Aluminium and Copper.

No naked flames like Oxy/Acet (reducing insurance premiums).

No rental of gas cylinders or other consumables.

Introducing the i-Range

The Stanners i-Range has 3 models to meet all requirements. The units are upgradeable via USB for new software releases (for use with future developments within induction heating). Each of our units is built to the highest quality, and designed for use in all environments: The i10 is a 3-Phase machine perfect for light commercial use and larger workshops.

The i4 is a 240V Single phase machine, great for the mobile worker and small garages/ bodyshops.

www.heatinductors.com

The i12 is a 3-Phase machine ideal for heavy commercial use and industrial application

Repair Focus

Repair Focus offers body repair professionals, product suppliers, technicians, insurers and anyone interested in the repair of modern vehicles, the opportunity to get acquainted with the latest technologies and repair solutions.

On display on 12th June will be a selection of vehicles likely to appear in bodyshops in the near future, with advice from Thatcham experts on the best techniques for effective and safe repair.

Topical seminars and demonstrations will take place throughout the day, and will be complemented by a trade show of the industry’s leading suppliers, featuring the innovative new products and equipment to make your business a success.

The Thatcham/bodyshop Craft Awards will once again provide a competitive edge as the UK’s top panel and paint technicians compete for the sought after title.

As visitors have come to expect from the country’s leading vehicle research centre, Repair Focus will be packed full of networking opportunities with many of the leading figures and opinion leaders from the vehicle repair and insurance communities alongside the technologies and techniques that will shape your future.

REPAIR FOCUS

the Methods Edition:

insight into future repair solutions

12.06.14

There’s much more to see and do at this year’s action packed event.

For more information, please call 01635 293 113.

With Thatcham’s Automotive Academy as the central hub, Repair Focus will also provide the backdrop to the Auto Body Professionals club platinum meeting (booking via www.abpclub.co.uk)

to book your free place visit

thatcham.org/repairfocus or call us on

01635 293113

thatchamresearch

@ThatchamMIRRC

Make it happen. With PPG Make it happen. With PPG

D8430 Spot Blender D8731 Aerosol Spot Blender The convenient solution to a first class invisible repair

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Spot Blender from PPG delivers a market leading final appearance with no visible fade out edge with minimal polishing required.

For more information contact your local PPG Sales Representative or visit www.ppgrefinish.com The PPG LOGO is a registered trademark of PPG Industries Ohio, Inc. Š 2014 PPG Industries, all rights reserved.

Auto Industry Insider

Independent news & technical information for the auto industry Andrew Marsh, Auto Industry Consulting Ltd

Repair methods and the repairer where next?

Let’s start with something a little unusual – and it does not affect UK repairers, yet. In the USA Ford Motor Co will start deliveries before the end of 2014 on the next generation of the single biggest selling model in the USA, the F-150. The news? Yes it has a steel chassis with more exotic steel alloys than before (just as Chrysler and GM have done) but all - yes, all – the body work is aluminium. Imagine – in one step Ford in North America have completely changed the face of repairability.

Does that mean aluminium intensive vehicles could appear overnight here?

Not quite.

new C class which has the same type of aluminium/steel alloy hybrid construction as the new S class.

Does that mean aluminium will replace steel? No.

The issue here is instruction.

What it does illustrate is how a manufacturer takes known technology from niche sectors into mainstream, and there is no easy way to gradually ramp up volume. Hence the step change. When we see the images of the cab and load bed, the techniques used are remarkably similar to another company – one once owned by Ford of North America. JLR. Yes, it would seem Ford invested wisely and observed keenly in their 10 or more years of prep for the ‘overnight’ step change. Make no mistake – F-150 has caused huge ripples in the USA, and such a change to a volume selling car here would do exactly the same thing. Watch out for the aluminium intensive ‘small’ Jaguar, or more immediately – the

Not one repairer in the land be they business owner, panel creator, paint artiste or tool wielding tech can ever know everything about all vehicles all the time. Each area of expertise is all about how to implement information – study, understand and then perform the repair activity. The key to this is access to data, and there are lots of sources to choose from – ranging from Motor Insurance Industry funded ‘researched’ data through commercial offerings. But all systems should use vehicle manufacturer data at the core, because the manufacturer knows exactly how to repair the vehicle.

PAS 125 does not mandate the source of methods, but BSi are greatly relieved to know the information has been based on information from manufacturers.

The face of revolution – outwardly the 2015 F-150 looks almost identical to the current production vehicle, but use of technology has trimmed more than 300kg off the vehicle weight with no loss of performance or size

Why use any system?

Quite simply there are no rules about how data is presented, so each manufacturer takes their own unique view – from never having a front wing, to never sectioning a sill and many other quirks besides. For a repairer where more than 50% of the throughput comes from other vehicle makes, accessing vehicle manufacturer data is an expansive headache. The advantage in a ‘system’ offering is a one stop where the data is presented in the same way regardless of the type or make of vehicle.

Let’s look at one important aspect. Panels.

For most vehicle manufacturers these items move relatively slowly, are often bulky and need to arrive at the repairer in perfect condition. Most manufacturers adapt the production supply of panels to feed the aftermarket stock requirement. Here there are at least three routes: Keep the whole production including painting inside the original source. This is tricky since the paint plant is configured to paint whole bodyshells rather than single panels.

Keep the pressing at the original source, by running the occasional out of normal hours run. Then the finishing can be completed by a third party, who then return the finished articles to the distribution system.

Out source the pressing and finishing to a third party, who then return the finished articles to the distribution system.

This is the problem.

A repair is explored by the vehicle manufacturer as an

integral part of the each new vehicle design/engineering process. Each repair is timed and costed, since this is directly related to potential warranty costs. In turn the situation can arise – especially for panel – that it is more efficient to press a whole panel than to produce a sectioned panel, but the repair method is for a sectioned panel only. The repairer can purchase a panel, but the method may require partial use.

Bottom line – if the panel repair is not described, the repair could be possible but is not supported by the vehicle manufacturer. Hence we know if the damage has gone into a firewall, for example, and there is no replacement panel available the vehicle should be destroyed or re-shelled.

Since re-shelling is very rare, we know the vehicle is more often than not finished.

Methods do not describe every possible scenario, but do give a robust framework about what is possible to do with a vehicle repair which does not compromise the integrity or safety of the finished vehicle. Each structural repair is not only developed but then durability tested to ensure it can be released to the collision repair business, and undergo crash testing to ensure occupant safety is not compromised either.

Methods are just one of the important components for successful repair. The most important part is the skill of the repairer, followed by good information to assist, good quality parts that fit and the right tools to put the whole thing together.

Without skilled repairers nothing would happen.

Vehicle body shell manufacturing is geared around complete shell production. So getting panels for repair requires careful planning.

International Bodyshop Industry Symposium

19 - 21 May 2014 | Hotel Arts. Barcelona | www.ibis2014.com To book your place at the year’s most exclusive event, contact Nicola Keady on 00 44 (0)1296 642826 or nicola@ibisworldwide.com

OUR PARTNERS

Quindell

Auto Industry Insider Independent news & technical information for the auto industry

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Plastic Fantastic the car of the future Axalta aims to fully integrate plastic coatings into the vehicle manufacturing process Dr. Thimo Lothert from Axalta Coating Systems spoke at the Car Body Coating Intensive 2014 conference, in Leipzig, Germany. He presented insights into the challenges and complexities associated with plastic coatings in the automotive industry.

Axalta has a history of more than 145 years in liquid and powder coatings, and Dr. Lothert, Axalta Research Supervisor, has more than 16 years of experience in OEM coatings.

formulated coating composition for the end-use application process with the achievement of good flow for maximum appearance. And finally, technological durability is key.

Plastic coatings have to demonstrate excellent adhesion, adequate scratch resistance and flexibility, and be capable of being cured at lower temperatures to prevent damage to the plastic substrate during bake cycles.

Coatings provide plastic automotive parts with aesthetically pleasing visual colour effects – matte, high-gloss, pearl and metallic – and can also provide protection against premature mechanical or thermal failure. To achieve these objectives, plastic coatings from Axalta are designed to meet three specific and important criteria set by automotive OEMs. The first is colour harmony – the coated plastic parts have to match perfectly with the rest of the vehicle. Secondly, the appearance of the plastic part, once coated, must also look comparable, in terms of flow and levelling, to the rest of the vehicle, with no imperfections such as excessive orange peel, pinholing or air bubbles. This can only be achieved through a specifically

‘Coatings for plastic substrates are increasingly relevant as there are more plastic parts on vehicles – from bumpers to spoilers and tail gates to door handles – and the size of those parts is increasing in view of plastic’s advantages over metals,’ Dr. Lothert explained. ‘Plastic is lighter than metal and provides better durability than metal substrates. Plastic substrates are popular with designers, providing more options when presented with complex geometries. Overall, the flexibility, favourable performance in crash tests and lower cost make plastic an extremely attractive substrate for car manufacturers.’

Axalta’s close cooperation over many decades with leading global car manufacturers has enabled

the company to understand the challenges presented by plastic substrates, and has developed the coating systems to meet them.

‘We strive to perform better every day so we collaborate closely with automobile manufacturers to develop better coating products for the vehicles of today and tomorrow,’ explained Panos Kordomenos, Axalta’s senior vice president and chief technology officer. ‘We know car manufacturers want to produce vehicles that are lighter, stronger and more fuel efficient, and which have parts made from a variety of materials other than metal, including composites and plastics. Axalta offers a wide range of coating systems and application technologies that address these needs, providing excellent protection and appearance.’

‘Axalta’s depth and breadth of experience in coatings makes us a global leader,’ concluded Dr. Lothert. ‘Our goal, therefore, is to fully integrate plastic coatings into the vehicle manufacturing process, optimizing the primer, basecoat and clear coat to deliver exactly what the car manufacturers need.’

Standox embraces changes in the automotive market Standox, sees bodyshops and paint shops faced with numerous challenges.

“Increasing competitive pressure, the growing role played by insurers and new technologies all demand a flexible response from bodyshops,” says Standox EMEA Brand Manager Olaf Adamek. These challenges not only relate to advances in paint technologies and refinishing techniques, but also to advances in automotive engineering such as new propulsion technologies and intelligent driver assistance systems. These have caused refinishers to fear the loss of accident business over the medium term, according to Adamek.

He recommends that bodyshops understand the introduction of such systems as an opportunity and rely on efficient repair techniques to address them. “Less severe accidents mean fewer total write-offs, resulting in more work for damage repair professionals,” he says.

In this difficult market situation, Adamek believes the key task for paint manufacturers is to provide bodyshops with exactly those products and services which enable them to deliver perfect results every time. But Adamek warns not to forget that the needs and requirements of bodyshops differ considerably. Large

repair centres and those cooperating with insurance companies will put a premium on efficiency and the highest possible vehicle throughput, while others may attach greater importance to maximum application safety and easy processing.

“Moreover, bodyshops’ requirements differ from country to country,” he says.

“Because of these different requirements, we offer our partner bodyshops flexible product systems which meet their specific needs,” Adamek explains. The Standohyd water-based paint system plays an important role and can be applied using the extremely efficient one-visit application technique.

products to the market. Adamek says, “Currently we are working on a new clearcoat which will offer several unique properties and a primer that can be used on different substrates.

We support our customers not only with forward-looking products, but also with comprehensive consultancy services and training opportunities,” Adamek adds. “We have only just developed a modern e-learning tool, which will soon be available.

It will allow refinishers to undergo further training on an in-house basis in line with the bodyshop’s time management needs.”

In the field of colour management, Standox also relies on customised solutions. “We lead the industry in the development of digital colour tools, but we are aware that not all our customers want such high-tech devices in their bodyshops. This is why we continue to improve and to update our proven Colorbox system,” he says.

“We support our customers not only with forward-looking products, but also with comprehensive consultancy services and training opportunities”

Standox will continue to bring highly productive and flexible, easy-to-use

Olaf Adamek.

Standox EMEA Brand Manager

Introducing

AutoRaise

AutoRaise is a bodyshop apprenticeship and business improvement programme which provides innovative, industry-led training for bodyshop technicians and senior managers.

With the speed of change in our industry, bodyshops are becoming increasingly aware of the need to invest in training that equips managers with the expertise to lead a sustainable, profitable business, and provides technicians with the skills to cater for new vehicle technologies and ever more sophisticated methods of repair.

Thanks to a collaboration between Chris Oliver, Managing Director of Fix Auto Dagenham and Chair of the National Association of Bodyshops (NAB) and Barking & Dagenham College, a new programme has been developed that addresses this need. Launched in September 2013, the AutoRaise programme has become available through the Employer Ownership of Skills pilot funded by the Department of Business Innovation and Skills (BIS) and the Skills Funding Agency (SFA).

The AutoRaise multi-skill bodyshop apprenticeship and business improvement programme is delivered at a choice of two dedicated automotive training centres in North London (SC Body & Paint Skills) and Bristol (S&B Automotive Academy). The two year AutoRaise Level 2 and 3 apprenticeship uniquely combines the new IMI-accredited Multi-Skill Diploma with the depth and breadth of training to enable technicians to attain senior ATA qualifications in Panel, Paint and MET. The AutoRaise apprenticeship is complemented by two management training programmes designed to drive positive change for bodyshop growth: the AutoRaise Lean Academy and Executive Excellence.

The apprenticeship and management programmes combine to develop managers capable of leading change through formulation and deployment, and apprentice technicians trained to understand all elements of the repair process and encouraged to explore new technologies.

"There is no other programme like this for bodyshops today” Paul Cunningham Commercial Director, Fix Auto Dagenham

Since its launch, the AutoRaise programme has been embraced by the industry with bodyshops of all sizes recognising the value of training developed specifically to meet their needs.

AutoRaise has launched its inaugural ‘AutoRaise Apprentice of the Year Award’ with the winner to be announced at the forthcoming British Bodyshop Awards. The four finalists have been chosen from those apprentices employed by early adopters of the programme; Balgores Motors, Parkford Coachworks, Fix Auto Croydon and Fix Auto Dagenham.

Chris Oliver said: “AutoRaise represents a step change for our industry and thanks to the support of Barking & Dagenham College, we’re in a position to take bodyshop learning and performance to new heights. “AutoRaise is particularly relevant in the vehicle manufacturing arena; providing a collision repair training solution capable of responding to all the exciting new vehicle developments that are taking place.”

For further information on AutoRaise and Barking & Dagenham College contact: Keith Crossman or Robert Brooks on 020 8090 3020 or text keyword AutoRaise and your full name to 88020.

The AutoRaise web site is www.bdc.ac.uk/autoraise.

Top 5 Reasons to Choose AutoRaise 1. It's FREE for 16-18s, excluding the ATA Assessment at the end of the programme.

2. You could receive a £1,500 age grant. If you have not employed an apprentice in the last 12 months, you could receive a £1,500 Age Grant for each 16-24 year old apprentice you take on (up to a maximum of 10).

3. It's been developed by the industry, for the industry so you know it is fit for purpose.

4. It helps your business to stay ahead of vehicle manufacturing developments and repair methodologies.

5. It future proofs your business by building a loyal, engaged and educated workforce.

Making an insurance claim is never high on anyone’s list of fun things to do, but Ford owners have expert help at hand.

Ford Accident Management is a fully managed service for handling your claims, vehicle recovery, repair and courtesy car when you’ve had an accident. Our service is free and available to all Ford owners.

Just call our One Call number, 020 3564 4444 or Ford Accident Management directly on 0800 587 3673.

Once we’re involved, you can just sit back and let Ford do all the hard work for you.

Download the smartphone app to use in the event of an accident.

www.miford.co.uk

PRESS RELEASE

UV Speedprime

Speed up and save time with Nexa Autocolor UV Speedprime NEXA AUTOCOLOR® are proud to introduce the next generation of UV primers offering significant improvements to efficiency and profitability of bodyshops.

The new UV technology from Nexa Autocolor brand cures in just 4 minutes; and offers up to a 91% process time saving based on internal testing of a standard size repair in a bodyshop environment.

This development in UV primer technology sets new benchmarks in speed without compromising on final repair appearance. Lee Berridge, Technical Manager comments “The total process time for application and cure is 5 minutes, this means considerable savings in time per job, and for busy bodyshops this allows increased throughput and productivity”.

The UV Speedprime is easy to use with a simple 1 visit application and no flash off requirement; this offers significant time saving compared to conventional 3 coat application of a traditional primer.

The new UV technology from Nexa Autocolor brand, UV Speedprime, can provide a real improvement to the efficiency and profitability of a bodyshop. It can provide significant savings in terms of time, material and energy costs, and is ideal for increasing throughput and reducing key to key times.

Lee adds “Feedback from our customers who have trialled this product has been fantastic; they cannot wait for launch! The measurable improvements in key to key times and energy savings delivered by UV Speedprime offers significant process benefits to bodyshops” Nexa Autocolor brand is committed to the innovation of new products and repair processes and the launch of UV Speedprime is the proof of this commitment.

For further information about UV Speedprime from Nexa Autocolor brand visit www.nexaautocolor.co.uk or contact your local Nexa Autocolor® representative for more information.

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For more details please contact: Bob Chaloner telephone07887 747062 e:bob.chaloner@snapon.com

Symach FIXstation Symach is delighted to launch the new FIXstation, a modern and innovative solution to ensure high productivity and fast delivery for one or two panel repairs.

This workstation allows a multi-skill technician to perform four repairs per day without moving car - an average of one complete repair every two hours - guaranteeing key to key delivery time in less than half a day.

Today, in a bodyshop, one panel repairs represent 25-35% of the total jobs, FIXstation is the new solution to make these repairs competitive in terms of costs and key to key times.

The FIXstation Catalogue can be viewed via the link or if you'd like to see all of the other products click here.

If you would like to see our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/symachsrl To contact Symach for more information: info@symach.com

FORD

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Don’t let your customers Ford be written off until you have contacted Ford Write Off Avoidance. We have saved over 4000 Fords by supporting repairers.

Increase your revenue and profit and keep your customers satisfied and it’s as easy as sending your Audatex estimate to Ford.

Glasurit 68 line 68 Line is the fast and efficient Commercial refinish paint programme from Glasurit and its leading edge coatings technology is already revolutionising commercial refinishing by bringing new levels of speed and efficiency to commercial bodyshops of every size.

68 Lines’ superb performance ensures significantly improved opacity, so it covers in just one and a half coats, cutting material consumption over traditional materials by 30%. Even the drying time shows a 25% improvement over conventional systems - 68 Line dries in just 30 minutes at 60ºC. Complementing the 68 Line system is Glasurit 90 Line CV, a primer filler/topcoat system specially designed for coating high-quality commercial vehicles. As commercial vehicle liveries become ever more elaborate, accurate colour matching in both metallics and solid colours is vital to today’s commercial bodyshop by simply and quickly achieving a finish quality standard on a par with that for cars.

Colour availability is immediate for 68 Line and 90 Line CV users, thanks to Color Profi System 2, so you can accurately match and mix over 50,000 colours on site through the 57 mixing bases and 20 Multi-Effekt mixing bases. Glasurit Automotive Refinish has an extensive colour library of commercial vehicle colours and thanks to the efforts of Glasurit’s extensive Colour Matching Laboratory; the commercial colour database continues to grow and has the additional support of our colour hotline.

GLASURIT THE PAINT WITH A WARRANTY. The Glasurit Warranty has been developed to provide customers with the assurance that the Glasurit Ratio Truck System, including 68 Line and 90 Line CV refinish technology will provide the ultimate protection for their vehicles.

Glasurit’s comprehensive range of automotive refinishing paint systems, focuses on eco-efficient waterborne basecoats and high-solids paints. By using these systems all legal solvent-reduction requirements can be complied with anywhere in the world, and with regard to appearance and durability, the products meet the same quality standards as solvent-borne paints.

Glasurit Automotive Refinish is approved by most of the leading vehicle manufacturers for aftermarket repair worldwide and chosen by them for its colour expertise.

BODYSHOP MARKETING Helping bodyshops win more profitable work John Thompson

Local Marketing Don’t step over your doorstep. Tools, tips and techniques Driving down the motorway have you ever noticed the Transits and vans heading North and South?

Every day you see businesses from Newcastle heading into London and businesses from Bristol heading to Glasgow and so on. This always makes me think why don't they work on their own doorstep?

Like you, I’m sure there are good reasons but wouldn’t it be more sensible, logical, cost effective to work local to your base?

The answer is obviously ‘yes’ but how does this relate to Accident Repair, I hear you say?

Let’s think for a moment, how many bodyshops travel to areas vast and wide to collect and deliver work? It’s the majority, why? Because ‘that’s what’s always been done’, ‘it’s what the work providers want,’ ‘it’s ‘easy’ and it’s because we don’t stop to think about changing.

Here’s a few things to think about;•

How many people have accidents in local catchment area?

•

How many of them know you exist?

•

Of those who know you, how many know all the services and products you can offer?

So the challenge is ‘how do you let local people know?’

Imagine if you could increase the volumes of repair work from your local area, what are the benefits for you?

Reduced costs, reduced recovery and delivery, more chance of repeat work, increased referrals, you become more ‘accepted’ in your area, you get more work, you make more profits, the list goes on. So how do you win it?

Here are several ‘sectors’ you can start looking at and activities you can start doing immediately without costing you money. These include friends/family, local schools and colleges, local free mags, local fleets, local business promotions and events, dealership database, car parks/ retail parks plus utilising social media and asking for referrals. Below we’ll take a look at some of them in more detail.

Just take a minute and jot down your answers and thoughts on any of the following questions.

•

How many staff and friends do you have?

•

How many people does the average person know well?

•

How many of them have vehicles?

•

How many of your staff have children/relatives with kids in school?

•

What are schools and colleges always looking for?

•

How could you help them?

•

How do you get them on board?

•

How many of your customers work in a company?

•

How many of those companies have vehicles?

•

How many of these people would visit you before they have an accident?

•

How can we change that?

•

If you’re a dealership linked bodyshop, how many customers does the company hold on its database and how can you access it (also think “what’s in it for other depts?”).

That’s a lot of questions and by now you’re probably thinking “what can I/we do to win more of that work “

So let’s give you some low or zero cost tips that may help you.

If it was parked in a retail car park, by the entrance or exit, how many people would see it?

Retail Customers.

You could move it around the car park a couple of times per day. Yes we know it takes a bit of time, but where else can you get you name and number seen in the right place, at the right time for free, or maybe a few pounds a day?

‘Supermarket sweep’ Think of those supermarkets and retail parks, lots of shops means lots of staff. Do you know the HR person or staff liaison officer at your local ASDA or Tesco’s? Do you know who looks after HR at the local large employer?

Why? A part of their job is to help, support and offer benefits to their staff. So, if you provide a great local service; special offers, excess vouchers, smart repair facility, you may even do tyres and servicing, contact them and let them know. It’s not all about giving referral fees either. Many large companies may not endorse that approach however they often have a nominated Charity that you could offer to make donations to. (This also provides joint PR opportunities).

Why not make one call or better still, ask next time you’re shopping!! Just ask at the customer service desk for the relevant person, also, while you’re next at the supermarket, think about this...

A large supermarket will have tens of thousands of people go there every week, most of them drive there.

Every day cars are reversed into, collide with posts in the supermarket car parks. Lots of these customers go to customer services to either report or complain.

Could you offer your services to those customers? Could you offer a special discount for work directed to you? Have a word with the store or Customer Services Manager.

Retail car parks.

Do you have a company van or courtesy car with your logo and number on? Where do you park it on Saturdays and Sundays?

You can advertise in the major car parks but it can be expensive, so look to independent car parks.

Would you like 52 ‘warm leads’ into local companies?

A warm lead is where someone is already aware of you or you have a good contact and connection via another person; in this case your customer.

The chances are some of your day to day customers work for a local company, and the chances are you do a good quality repair job to their vehicle. (If you don’t then you’ve got bigger issues than winning work).

So think of this… when you deliver their completed repaired vehicle, ask the owner or driver if everything was ok?

Then, if it’s positive, ask them who they work for? Do they have company cars/vehicles? Who looks after them?

Often customers who have had a good service from you will be glad to help - BUT… you have to ask!!! Don’t just expect them to tell you.

(If your vehicles are delivered to home/work then ensure you’re drivers are comfortable and competent to do this. If you’re not sure then personally follow up and ask yourself).

52 warm leads? Imagine if you asked all your customers – and only 1 a week proved to have a contact.

That will give you your 52 leads – however the chances are you will get a higher number of leads…as long as you ask for them!!

BODYSHOP MARKETING Helping bodyshops win more profitable work John Thompson

Yes but!! I can hear you thinking…

Remember there are no magic wands, there is just you and your team, some simple actions and techniques you can all use. All of the tips we have given take a few minutes and if you allocate the time and effort you will see results.

Examples. Let’s look at some examples of what you can do quickly and easily;A small bodyshop held a couple of open days, at very low cost, for local car owners club and drew in over £10,000 worth of repairs as a direct result.

Another bodyshop set up an automated emailing system that keeps their name in front of every customer, past present and future, ensuring they are kept up-to-date with advice and tips – this alone generates more enquiries to the bodyshop.

Signage; A small bodyshop in a residential area, by a school, didn’t get much walk in business; they placed an ‘A’ board on the main road and, hey presto, his walkins increased, often saying “we didn’t know you were here”; even though they had been there for over 15 years.

A large shop decided to approach the valeters operating at their local large supermarket. The valeters give leaflets from the bodyshop to every customer, in return the bodyshop give their full valets to the guys; the result? A significant increase in retail customers.

An independent bodyshop had a large employer very close to them, with lots of employee traffic stopping at a ‘T’ junction to exit work. The bodyshop placed a banner directly opposite the junction with words that related to the employees business, the result? An increase in work and enquiries directly from those employees.

“Networking” - One large bodyshop

started asking customers about where they work and what they did, as a way of building rapport with customers. As a direct result they now are being advertised to over 3000 employees, in one company alone, via an intranet and notice boards by one contact. The direct result of being interested in your customers. Sometimes you just don’t know who your customers are and what they do until you ask.

What have those businesses got in common – they are the minority of bodyshops who are taking direct action and improved their sales as a result.

Some quirky tactics that worked; A commercial repairer bought ‘sandwich bags’ and gave them out to the local roadside cafes etc, they hit their target market, van drivers and owner drivers.

Another repairer has an agreement with his local DIY mega store that he can park a ‘liveried’ van on the premises with leaflets, again hitting the ideal target market.

As you can see from the examples, sometimes it’s not about spending lots of money, it’s about thinking like a customer. Think of how many customers are on your doorstep and yet they probably don’t know you’re there. So do the basics first, spend the big bucks later. (And of course there’s always social media).

In summary there are plenty of potential customers around you, they just don’t know you and what you can do for them.

Changing that position is up to you. If you take a few minutes each week you can and will see an improvement in your profits and a reduction in your costs.

For further information or for details of the examples please contact John Thompson on 07860 510004 or email ford@bodyshopmarketing.co.uk

“Your Industry, Your Association, Your Voice” NAB Membership includes: FREE Legal Advice FREE Health and Safety Advice FREE Human Resource Assistance FREE Conciliation Service PLUS a host of discounted solutions.

Membership of NAB gives you access to an organisation valued throughout the industry. Our expertise will assist you in the dayto-day running of your business.

From as little as £10.50 + VAT per week, NAB Membership represents great value.

Tel: 0845 305 4230 | enquiries@rmif.co.uk | www.rmif.co.uk ALL NAB MEMBERS WITH PAS125 QUALIFY TO USE THE FORD WRITE OFF AVOIDANCE PROGRAMME

Getting Smarter in the Repair Sector Increases Profits

Michael Nixon, CEO of Inter-est: “Effective use of technology will be key to determining the winners in the fiercely competitive repair sector.”

At Inter-est we are dedicated to “making things better, making things faster.” But what does that really mean – in practical terms – for the accident repair network? And what will it mean tomorrow?

I’ll start by referencing four of our guiding principles – how we do what we do. These are the keys to delivering real returns to our customers. Returns which they measure in the amount of money or time they save by using us. We start out by asking very straightforward questions – that can prove very revealing. Why are claims handled how they are? Isn't there a better way?

We are very interested in areas where software can do things quicker and/ or better than people. Automating lets staff focus on adding value where they can and will make the most difference.

Increasing the use of technology generates additional data. But what does all the information mean?

Really? How can it best add value?

How can data help you to beat your competitors? True visibility gives control and consistency. And added profitability.

Doing things better and quicker creates more value in a business.

Clients measure the improvements

we bring and their contribution to the bottom line.

or tablet the vehicle is directed onwards accurately and efficiently.

Our sector is fiercely competitive.

The winners will be marked out by their ability to set themselves apart from the competition. By doing things better and faster than has been the case up to now.

Inter-cept empowers FNOL handlers - typically at a call centre - to make a value-based analysis quickly and accurately. Is the vehicle a write-off?

Does it need full in-shop repair? Can the repair be done in just one day fixed site or mobile? These are the kind of rapid decisions that Inter-cept accelerates - with full software support online for the call centre operatives whatever their level of expertise.

So, how do these key principles – illustrated by the icons – apply to our sector and the repair network today?

For a long time our industry has been fairly stagnant and set in its ways. There have been incremental improvements over the years but I believe the time is now overdue to go further still. Simply processing more data more speedily bears less and less additional reward.

The innovations I have in mind include Inter-cept, the First Notification of Loss (FNOL) solution. When auto claims are first reported, Inter-cept performs triage akin to A&E in hospitals, improving service and decision-making, and saving time and money.

The underlying principles are simple, as illustrated in the very first “restaurant napkin” sketch behind the system: information arrives for analysis, taking into account relevant criteria - as represented by the sliders images are added from a smartphone

As a result, work on the accident damaged vehicle can be directed accurately - at once - to the most appropriate facility, avoiding unnecessary costs and delays.

Already Inter-cept is delivering commercial returns on active duty - as Stephen Fry, Head of Strategy & Commercial at Equity comments: “Having utilised Inter-cept within our FNOL operation for a period of time, we have noticed a significant increase in the amount of Total Losses that are identified at this stage. This has seen a significant improvement in settlement values, customer satisfaction and reduced indemnity costs by way of bypassing the traditional engineering process previously adopted.”

Inter-cept is taking off because it

The Sketch that Gave Birth to Inter-cept

works, saving money, and I am talking about tens of millions of pounds a year across a large insurer’s portfolio of vehicle policies.

Making Inter-cept effective has pulled together discrete disciplines, as well as the necessary codecrunching behind the technology itself: combining multiple forms of data (DVLA/valuation/repair) to derive accurate costs that are both meaningful and relevant to the decisions in hand, adopting the same mindset as a trained VDA (including “heuristics” – the rules of thumb that only come with years of experience and can be translated into “just knowing” the right questions and course of action) communicating via questions and language that are accessible to the policy holder while still yielding up the insights required – “has the dashboard moved?” and so on. The results benefit insurers - of course – and the whole industry too, including repairers.

For a long time, problems have simply been down-streamed, and decisions left too late, whereas they can now be taken accurately up front. Bodyshops should no longer be lumbered with vehicles that are economically unrepairable. We are getting the right jobs to the right place at the right time. Bodyshops will only receive repairable vehicles. Notifications will

have meaning, and repairers will book in more meaningfully.

With such process improvements, more can be achieved with the same effort, and there are opportunities to cut costs further and improve margins. High quality approved repairers are valuable, and going forward everyone will work more effectively and efficiently.

So, now that Inter-cept triage has progressed from concept to commercial reality, where next?

We definitely foresee smart deployment growing ever more powerful. With access to live data from the bodyshops we will be matching required resources and time allocation against capacity and capability within the repair network: •

how many hours have you got available this week?

•

of what type?

•

how does that profile best match the jobs in the pipeline (which have been accurately assessed)?

We are confident we know the way ahead. Now the timescales will be determined by the market. Effective use of technology will be key to determining the winners in the fiercely competitive repair sector.

For more information or questions about Inter-est, you can contact them on +44(0) 1625 616020 or email them on info@inter-est.net

www.inter-est.net

PAS 125 and the new British Standard BS 10125 Why is there a new standard under development?

Since its first publication in 2007, PAS 125 (Automotive services - Specification for vehicle damage repair processes) has become an established and recognised industry wide standard for repairing vehicles up to 5 tonnes. It has set the benchmark for carrying out vehicle damage repair work, and has been crucial in helping bodyshops UK wide achieve consistent and accountable standards of repair.

As the standard has matured, the natural progression was for it to become a British Standard. Building on the experience gained from using PAS 125, a National Technical Committee for Automotive Services, known as SVS/20, has been formed. The responsibility of SVS/20 is to facilitate the drafting of the new British Standard for vehicle damage repair, which will be known as BS 10125 (Automotive services - Specification for vehicle damage repair processes).

This will be based on PAS 125 and it’s anticipated that BS 10125 will be published at the end of 2014 with PAS 125 eventually being withdrawn.

What does this mean for the repair industry?

The expertise and insight gained from PAS 125 will be drawn upon when drafting the new BS 10125, and SVS/20 will continue to oversee the British Standard once it is published. Once BS 10125 has been published, revisions or changes to it will be considered by the technical experts sitting on SVS/20. The work of the committee and the public consultation period that all British Standards are subject to (where the widest possible audience is asked to submit comments on a draft standard) will ensure the applicability of and the technical requirements included in BS 10125 will always be up to date.

Organisations represented on SVS/20 include industry bodies, repairers, insurers, consumers, training organisations and auditors. This means that the key stakeholders in the automotive services industry play a direct part in drafting and keeping BS 10125 current in order to meet the needs of their industry.

How to comment on the draft BS 10125

1 June 2014 is the date that the draft version of BS 10125 will be made available for public comment. During this two month period, everyone in the industry (and anyone else that has an interest in the standard) is encouraged to read the draft and submit any comments they may wish.

The version of BS 10125 that is circulated for public comment can be found on the BSI Draft review System (DRS) at: http://drafts.bsigroup.com/ In addition, there is a function on the DRS home page labelled Share where users can send the link to colleagues they think may be interested in commenting on the draft. We actively encourage readers to make as many colleagues and organisations as they can aware of BS 10125 so that comments can be collected from the widest possible audience.

Once the public consultation period is over, all the comments received will be considered by SVS/20 and the changes that they see fit will be made to the draft version of BS 10125. The wording of the revised draft will then be considered

by SVS/20 and once the experts are happy with it, BS 10125 will then be published as a full British Standard.

Depending on the level of interest and the number of comments received regarding the draft BS 10125, it is anticipated the full British Standard will be published at the end of 2014.

What does the new standard mean for bodyshops who have a BSI Kitemark™ today?

For bodyshops already operating with a BSI Kitemark BS 10125 is good news. A full British Standard brings with it a greater level of recognition from the general public and industry alike. For those who are already independently assessed against the requirements of PAS 125 and have a BSI Kitemark, the combination of a BSI Kitemark and a British Standard will give vehicle repair customers greater reassurance.

The auditing process is unlikely to change for BS 10125. It is likely that a re-audit to the requirements of BS 10125 will take place within one year after the standard is published.

What does the new standard mean for bodyshops who are considering a BSI Kitemark™?

Bodyshops interested in adopting best practice don’t need to wait until BS 10125 is published, PAS 125 is still relevant.

The auditing process used for PAS 125 is unlikely to change with BS 10125, and bodyshops can continue to use their BSI Kitemark as a key differentiator for their business. Being BSI Kitemark approved brings great benefits to bodyshops, from making sure that staff have the correct training, to improving repair quality and increasing efficiency. It means they can provide reassurance to their customers that safe repairs are at the heart of their business.

At BSI we’re dedicated to making sure that all bodyshops know exactly what is happening and when, and we’ll be providing useful support to help new and existing clients through that process.

For more information or to register interest in receiving information on the new British Standard please visit: www.bsigroup.com/vehiclerepair For enquiries regarding the work of SVS/20 please contact the committee Secretary: Mr Charlie Duncombe, BSI, 389, Chiswick High Road, London, W4 4AL Telephone: +(0)208 996 7141 | Email: Charlie.duncombe@bsigroup.com *Our grateful thanks go to Tim Clarke of Howard Basford, Birkenhead, for the kind use of their bodyshop in the production of photography.

GYS Make Big Changes to UK Bodyshop Proposition for Welding GYS, the largest provider of Welding equipment to Bodyshops across Europe, the French manufacturer has changed its distribution strategy from previously an exclusive arrangement with Stanners Equipment to working with a wider range of distributors with technical support provided directly by GYS. This enables Bodyshops to work with perhaps their existing everyday suppliers (typically their paint or parts supplier) for a wider range of services with the added advantage of technical support direct from GYS, the manufacturer.

Neil Pulsford (UK Commercial Director) commented ‘Our decision to take direct control of the distribution of our range brings us in line with how we operate in Germany and France. Our early impressions are that this has been very well received by the market, Bodyshops are pleased to be able to have direct contact with the equipment manufacturer and by working with their existing suppliers costs to the Bodyshop appear to more competitive.

GYS has been present with its own subsidiary in the UK (Warwick) since 2008 and now has a team with a team of 17 people including Technical Sales Engineers in the field to provide support to Bodyshops.

New for 2014 New in the range for 2014 is the Energy Dynamic Control technology now fitted across the range of C Arm Spot Welders. EDC - allows the fully automatic operation of the Spot Welders with no operator input as to the parameters required. This saves time and reduces the risk of errors.

This technology is now fitted to the 2014 model range which are now available for demonstration.

2014 Promotion GYS have also launched a promotion featuring ‘bundle’ deals on many of the major product offering additional value, this 16 page document is available through distributors.

The 60 page GYS Car Body Equipment catalogue contains the widest range of equipment covering Spot Welding, Dent Pulling and MIG Welding / Brazing equipment as well as a myriad of smaller bodyshop tools click here to view

IBIS POLAND IS A GYS France RETURN TO THE BP 4159 53941 Saint-Berthevin COUNTRY Laval cedexTHAT France Fax : +33 (0)2 43 68 35 21 HOSTED www.gys.fr THE E-mail : contact@gys.fr EXCELLENT IBIS CEE sionals GYS GmbH 2012 AND 2013.

Formations agréées Ref. 52 53 0068153

MADE IN FRANCE MANUFACTURER SINCE 1964

ANS

• YE

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JA RS •

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Professor-Wieler-Straße 11 52070 Aachen - Deutschland Tel : +49 (0) 241 / 189-23-710 Fax : +49 (0) 241 / 189-23-719 www.gys-schweissen.com E-mail : aachen@gys.fr

GYS Ltd

Unit 2 Spartan Close Tachbrook Park Warwick - United Kingdom - CV34 6RS Tel : +44 (0) 1926 338 609 Fax : +44 (0) 1926 429 764 www.gys-welding.com E-mail : uk@gys.fr

Picture credit:marchello74 /shutterstock.com

GYS India

20, Huzur Road - Near Anna Statue Coimbatore - 641018 Tamil Nadu - India Tel : +91. 88708. 71111 E-mail : s.kumar@gys.fr

GYS China

Lot N°15 6666 bd Songze 201706 Qingpu Shanghai - China Tel : +86 (21) 6221 4461 Fax : +86 (21) 5226 0067 www.gys-china.com.cn E-mail : contact@gys-china.com.cn

Bao Zhi Long Electrical Equipment (JV GYS) Room: 203C Building: N°1 N°518 Shen Wang Road Minhang District Shanghai - China Tel1 : +86 (21) 52217650 Tel2 : +86 (21) 52217651 Tel3 : +86 (21) 52217652 Fax : +86 (21) 52217653 www.bzl-china.com E-mail : mz@bzl-china.com

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Contact: Neil Pulsford UK Commercial Director t: 07817 279231 e: n.pulsford@gys.fr Terry Oxley Technical Sales Engineer t: 07463 332714 e: t.oxley@gys.fr

2014 www.gys.fr

Q U A L I T Y A N D S I N C E

I N N O V AT I O N 1 9 0 4

WHEEL ALIGNMENT FA S T

A C C U R AT E

EASY

P R O F I TA B L E

More more information please contact Bob Chaloner 07887 747062 e:bob.chaloner@snapon.com

www.snapon-equipment.co.uk

Andrew Hooker, Future Vehicle Engineer

In the last issue I talked about how “anyone can repair a Ford”, or to be more precise, how Ford is hardly lagging in new technology, and that it’s a ‘naive assumption that Ford is a generic car’.

Last year, with minimal fanfare, Ford was demonstrating 3D printing at the Geneva motor show. 3D printing, or Additive Layer Manufacturing, generates a lot of excitement, and Ford is not the only vehicle manufacturer exploring this technology. It’s an understood and accepted technology in the aircraft industry with some ambitious claims. Will we one day fly out on our holiday to Marbella on an aircraft which has wings that are a single component, printed in metal and/or composites?

Possibly. But this is some way off from being a technology that’s suitable for commercial aircraft volumes, to being a solution for 234,570 Focus in a single year such as 2013.

That this technology enables some good solutions to vehicle engineering headaches is beyond dispute.

Complex coolant and other fluid patterns can be managed with single piece components where there is no risk of a join interfering with the flow. And perhaps on premium cars some single piece solutions to eliminating those hard to prevent creaks of facia and door trim panels would be welcomed by NVH (Noise, Vibration, Harshness.

The vignale of the future could have limited inclusions of this type of component?

The engineering company, EDAG, has gone so far as to suggest that one day, though certainly not in the immediate future, we may be printing a complete car body.

Perhaps we’d be better advised to look at the recent tests by the Ministry of Defence, printing components for Tornado combat aircraft at the front line in Afghanistan.

Does this point to a real potential advantage for vehicle manufacturers, beyond the inherent properties of the materials and the components themselves? For low volume, low value components, could a radical alternative to a complex global component supply chain for low profit parts be in licensed local printing on demand within the Ford dealer of the future? Stock holding reduction benefits for the manufacturer and the dealership? No back-orders?!

At Geneva this year Ford had a great presentation with the C-Max solar energy concept. Clearly this concept was designed to take the efficiency of a plug-in hybrid vehicle that stage further by using ‘renewable’ energy to charge the battery pack. Ford has applied for a patent on the system for a car-port that features solar panels that effectively track the position of the sun across the sky to focus the energy into the roof panel receptors of the C-Max. This is all clever and very impressive stuff, and 3D manufacturing and renewable energies will both probably become part of the automotive technology we see one day. But perhaps the cleverer work is what we can barely see in terms of development of automotive construction and production that we shall see this year and beyond. But whilst this development work is quietly going on ‘under the radar’, it shall have a big impact on us in repair.

The drive to reduce vehicle weight continues as there is no real relaxation of emissions targets and all vehicle manufacturers are aware that although European legislation is the toughest, others are gradually catching up. The two biggest factors in vehicle weight are the powertrain, and the vehicle body. Downsizing of engines continues with EcoBoost, one example of engines being far smaller, though more efficient and powerful than previous generations could achieve. But physical downsizing can only go so far, and we can expect to see component light-weighting throughout the powertrain with the use of composites and aluminium increasing for steering, suspension and ancillary components.

There is some feeling amongst the car manufacturers that further significant weight reduction in the body can only be achieved by materials other than steel, and by more efficient construction and joining technologies.

Aluminium inclusion will increase, and consequentially adhesive joining will see significant increase too. From many manufacturers we’ll see a big increase in the use of composite materials; fibre reinforced plastics including glass and carbon fibres. Meanwhile a new generation of steels is starting to appear with properties that will set engineers thinking of how and where to include them.

Each manufacturer will likely follow their own weight-loss strategy, be that aluminium intensive structures, new generation of advanced steels, or composite intensive, though a mixture of materials will be popular for many for the foreseeable future, with ‘the right material in the right place’. Indeed, some will pursue different strategies for cars in different segments and price points. It’s highly likely as technology develops and the demand to reduce weight continues that some may even change the strategy.

To service these strategies the technology providers and suppliers are developing new joining technologies that will also present us with new challenges. Welding technology will evolve with spot-welding of aluminium growing in frequency, but remote laser welding will be an area of significant growth. Replicating laser joints in repair is not currently possible, though I wouldn’t discount this being possible one day, so for now we’ll need to find

safe and robust alternatives for those joints.

Friction welding is another area of growth and rapid development as for mixed material construction this solution is very effective. Adhesive bonding is another method of joining that will also see big growth for joining different materials, but this is restricted by the thermal expansion characteristics of these far more than friction welding is. It is not insignificant that friction stir welding, whether spot or linear joining, is quicker and does not have the curing time that can slow the car body production cycle time.

But the chemical industry is far from idle and we are seeing new adhesive technology emerging, and with this comes new ideas on bonding. Some of these methods and techniques may challenge our current understanding of how we apply adhesive, and what compound we apply and where. In some cases the structural and crash performance of a vehicle could well be compromised by the use of the wrong adhesive method, as much as an incorrect sectioning of a High Strength Steel panel.

Fasteners including self-piercing rivets are very much in the spotlight for joining composite materials and since these do not apply a thermal influence they are seen as a good method. However the stresses a fastener can place on a material and join are every bit as significant as temperature, so a new generation of fasteners is emerging.

How and where these are applied is an area of intense research as mechanical fastening could allow for greater repairability in the future, but only if applied correctly.

So, shows like Geneva reveal the shiny supercars and luxury brands that draw the journalists and public alike, and that’s good as we all within this industry need a continued demand from consumers for a better car.

But these have little overall impact on global emissions compared to the volumes of the big brands, so whilst a new Lamborghini is a great attraction, it is the work of the dominant brands, Ford amongst these, in developing new vehicles, that we really need to watch. The need for accurate data, training, correct tools and equipment, and skills to diagnose and repair correctly, will be more important than ever before, but perhaps too an opportunity for those who do invest in staying at the forefront of repair technology.

All Ford Approved used cars offer the following benefits:

Ford approved offers new, more secure deals for used car buyers

•

Less than five years old and have covered less than 70,000 miles

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A full service history

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A stringent 160-point mechanical and safety check

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Complete finance and mileage check

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Are sold on a 30-day no-quibble exchange basis

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7 Day Driveaway cover insurance

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A minimum one-year Ford Protect warranty

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12 months’ Ford Roadside Assistance

Buying a used car can be fraught with problems and unforeseen expense, which is why Ford has got together with its UK dealers to design Ford Approved – a new way to source and secure a quality pre-owned Ford.

All Ford Approved used cars leave the forecourt with a certificated pledge that they have undergone a rigorous 160-point quality verification, include a full service history, have been checked for mileage accuracy and outstanding finance, come with a minimum 12-month approved warranty, and 12 months’ Ford Roadside Assistance.

To qualify for Ford Approved status cars must be Ford models owned by the dealer, be less than five years old and have covered less than 70,000 miles. They are sold with a 30-day no-quibble exchange offer as well as drive-away insurance.

The Ford Approved car locator, which can be accessed directly from www.ford.co.uk, allows buyers to search the entire UK Ford dealer network stock to find the exact model, colour and specification they desire.

Ford Approved stands out from used-car schemes operated by other manufacturers, thanks to its advanced search technology, which means customers can learn more about the features on any particular car by viewing video or pictures. “Customers are interested in searching for a particular car by price and distance from their home and also in refining their search to include key specification items, for example the colour or whether it

has alloy wheels, and arranging the available cars by these variables,” said Ford Approved project manager Dr Andrew Paton.

“This advanced search technology, coupled with the suite of ‘peace of mind’ promises offered to buyers, makes Ford Approved distinct in the marketplace.”

Last year Citizens Advice and the National Trading Standards Institute launched a campaign to highlight the problems faced by buyers in the used car market.

Citizens Advice helped consumers with more than 84,000 problems in the previous year, making secondhand cars its most complained-about issue. Three out of four complaints involved cars bought from independent dealers.

“Ford Approved offers two-fold peace of mind,” adds Dr Paton. “Buyers can be assured the car is of a suitable quality and they will be looked after by Ford Roadside Assistance, by Ford Motor Company and by our National Dealer network.”

The Ford Approved website is live and available for vehicle searches now, and many Ford dealers have already implemented the programme, with more joining daily.

Technology that listens to you Bluetooth® with Voice Control lets you enjoy the advanced communication features of your Ford, without compromising your driving experience.

You can make and receive hands-free calls, select music, find directions (available on Mondeo, Galaxy, and S-MAX), and even adjust the temperature with just a spoken command. It’s really easy to use – and makes driving safer and more enjoyable for both you and your passengers.

You can connect a number of different mobile music sources to your Ford audio system and listen to the music of your choice in high quality stereo sound. Bluetooth® integrates seamlessly with many of the technical features of your Ford as well as your own gadgets, such as iPod® and smartphones.

It’s amazing what you can do with the power of your voice. Bluetooth® with Voice Control lets you make and receive calls, change radio stations or CD tracks and adjust your climate settings safely on the optional EATC, simply by speaking. You can also stream music wirelessly from an iPod or mobile phone to your car radio using a Bluetooth® connection.

You can operate your iPod or iPhone very easily just like you usually do using the Ford audio system. For the best operating comfort and optimal sound quality, we advise using the original Apple USB cable.

U-POL has just launched a new high build primer aerosol called DYNAMIC with a revolutionary flow control nozzle.

Initially available in grey, the primer  range will be extended to include other colours and an Etch primer. The unique flow control nozzle provides the user full control of the product at all times.

Simple adjustment of the nozzle provides a fan pattern or a line and by twisting the button itself the user can choose light, medium or heavy coverage of the panel.

DYNAMIC can be used as a high build or spot primer and achieves a great finish with less product. The excellent anti-corrosion properties provide protection for any surface and the high adhesion properties means it will work on painted surfaces, steel, galvanised, aluminium, fibreglass, SMC and plastics For further information, please visit:

www.u-pol.com

Want to promote your product in the next issue?

Let me know dreece6@ford.com

UNLEASH THE PIXEL working to deliver creative solutions over digital platforms newsletters | magazines | proposals | brochures | catalogues

VIV Mackinnon the team and Steve Mullen from FMC

Prize Draw Winners The first Allianz prize draw for individual Ford Accident Repair Centre fulfilling all the operating criteria has taken place and Steve Mullen from Ford and Dan Lloyd from Allianz have been on a road trip presenting the winners with their Hampers in March.

FARC Manager Tony Edwards and Dan Lloyd of Allianz

FARC Manager Michael Coupe and Dan Lloyd of Allianz

digital.purevc.net

Well done to our winners Panelcraft UK in Swindon, Furrows of Telford and Think Ford in Farnborough.

The besT bodyshop manager you will ever employ! winneR

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ABP CluB RePAiReRS’ ChoiCe AwARd BeST MAnAgeMenT SySTeM winneRS FoR The lAST FiVe yeARS

Bodyshop Management Systems Tel: 01924 463419

info@emacs.co.uk

www.emacs.co.uk

Benfield open £5.8million Ford dealership in Sunderland The North East’s largest Independent motor group, Benfield has continued its capital investment programme with the opening of a new £5.8 million Ford dealership on Newcastle Road, Sunderland.

The new flagship Ford development officially opened its doors to customers on Monday 27th January 2014 after an 8 month construction period.

The impressive £5.8 million development is now one of the largest Ford dealerships in the North East region and Benfield are proud to be bringing such a prestigious development to Sunderland.

Mark Squires, Benfield’s Chief Executive, said, “We are delighted with this impressive new Ford development and to be again flying the flag so brightly for Ford in Sunderland.

“The Ford brand is steeped in tradition and has a great and successful history in this region. Moving into Sunderland in this way is a natural geographic fit for Benfield and we are very much looking forward to developing and expanding the Benfield brand.”

Pictured right. Benfield Motor Group chief executive Mark Squires, with chairman John Squires and Mark Ovenden Managing Director Ford of Britain.

Sikkens proudly presents

Ian Bates Painter McLaren Body Shop

“Our job is to stay ahead of the competition.

This turbocharged system promises a first place finish�

Watch the new trailer:

WWW.SIKKENSVR.COM

Winning

together Ford has joined forces with AkzoNobel, a world leader in paints and coatings, in a global partnership designed to help its dealerships and bodyshops beat the competition today and shape up for the opportunities and challenges of tomorrow. Amongst AkzoNobel’s keys to sustainable business success are its premium vehicle refinishing brands, Lesonal and Sikkens. As well as AkzoNobel’s expertise in speeding up the repair processes without compromising the quality of the finish!

AkzoNobel has a track record of cutting the cost per job by driving efficiencies into the repair process. This has been proved in relationships with a variety of partners, including many leading car manufacturers, delivery centers, dealerships and bodyshops, as well as rental, leasing, insurance and accident management companies. In every case the guiding principle of ‘winning together’ has helped businesses to become fit for the future and stay ahead of the market. Delivering a quality finish in no time at all!

With Lesonal and Sikkens paint systems Ford dealerships and bodyshops can look forward to: •

Customer satisfaction resulting from innovative products and superb colour matching

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Optimisation of repair processes through tailored training, on site and at specialised center

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Increased profitability thanks to services both around and beyond the paint process

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Improved performance driven by workshop surveys and expert consultation on projects

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Instant advice via a service hotline and easy direct contact with local sales representatives and application engineers

Innovative solutions to boost business AkzoNobel partners gain from the company’s non-stop innovation, which regularly brings fresh solutions to the bodyshop. It was AkzoNobel that introduced the world’s first computerized paint mixing system, Mixit, back in the 1980s. More recently it has created a gamechanging basecoat system, using new binder and pigment technology, as well as innovative bodyfillers, primers and clearcoats. These are all designed to boost business performance by cutting repair time, reducing energy consumption and minimising the risk of failure.

Products harnessing UV curing technology, such as Sikkens Autosurfacer UV and Lesonal UV Filler, have made major strides in lowering material consumption, cutting drying time, reducing energy used and minimising the risk of contour mapping on sensitive OEM surfaces. Plus solutions developed to dry at ambient temperatures are enabling bodyshops to capitalise on the growing ‘Express Repair’ market. These give repair businesses the ability to fast-track straightforward jobs and optimise the use of the spray booth.

Again the result is quality repairs which are both quicker and cut the consumption of both energy and materials; meaning healthier profits.

Sustainable solutions for the future In developing innovations like these, AkzoNobel is careful to consider ecological and human as well as economic sustainability. It offers products below VOC limits, free of chlorate and lead, and it aims to maximise the use of renewables in manufacturing. Its technical engineers, trained in health and safety, seek to make workshops riskfree and environmentally friendly.

A network of local AkzoNobel distributors and representatives is available to give further information and advice on the product range.

The colour specialists Essential to any bodyshop is the ability to find and mix the right colour. AkzoNobel’s expertise has created colour tools for fast, reliable matching and efficient, convenient mixing.

Its Automatchic 3 colour checker is a hand-held spectrophotometer which measures colour automatically and forwards the information to a PC. Its software then searches for the formula and, if necessary, optimises it.

There is also a tinting facility which helps deal with difficult colours. Much faster than traditional methods of matching, Automatchic 3 allows colour formulas to be found without a code, prevents mistakes and reduces the need for manual tinting or reworking. The device comes complete with calibration tools, accessories and a handy carrying case.

AkzoNobel’s Colour Manager is software which allows bodyshops to find the right colour recipe quickly and efficiently. Easy to use functions supply all the necessary job and customer-related information, from recording the mixing processes to tracking material costs, and simpleto-follow modules take users through the entire process

Much more than a paint supplier To maximise the benefits gained from its products, solutions and workshop optimisation initiatives, and to make sure that painters keep pace with changes in technology and substrates, AkzoNobel’s professional trainers offer customised training programs covering every aspect of the repair system – from surface to clearcoat. This makes sure bodyshops can be confident in delivering quality repairs and great colour as efficiently and impressively as possible.

Whether you need implementation or operational advice, training or help to solve of a problem the Lesonal and Sikkens refinishing experts are on hand to support businesses with the service they need to prepare them structurally and operationally to meet repair challenges today and into the future.

AkzoNobel has works very closely with the Ford team and has a large footprint within the global Ford bodyshop network. Whatever it takes to reduce key-to-key times, increase throughput and boost customer satisfaction, you can be confident that AkzoNobel will work with Ford’s teams to make it happen.

Innovative IT Solutions for the Auto Repair Industry t: 01625 860 545 | e: sales@autoflow.ltd.uk

www.autoflow.ltd.uk

AllenFord Eddie Coe, Manager and James Packman our very own Write Off Avoidance Stars. Over 100 Fords saved using the Ford Write Off Avoidance Programme in 2013.

On track to do the same this year. Well done ‘Team Eddie’

Honda (UK) is pleased to announce the launch of their Total Loss Avoidance programme for Cars and Bikes, in conjunction with MSX International.

Honda (UK) is keen to consider support of the repair of Honda vehicles that are considered to be a borderline writeoff by the insurer, therefore supporting bodyshops with extra work and Honda dealerships with part sales opportunities and customer loyalty.

The programme is open to any bodyshop using a Honda approved parts supplier.

Honda (UK) Borderline Write-Off Avoidance Programme (BWA)

Doug Bunker & James Packman

James Packman & Eddie Coe

It’s easy, just Audamail assessment to MSXTLA1

Lincoln MKX Concept New Lincoln revealed the MKX Concept at the Beijing Auto Show. The MKX Concept offers a strong indication of the next-generation global sports utility vehicle.

By 2016, the next-generation global sports utility vehicle will become the third of four all-new Lincoln vehicles due in the U.S. and one of five new vehicles for China.

This reveal in Beijing marks the first time Lincoln has stepped beyond U.S. borders to reveal a concept vehicle.

Defined by an aerodynamic, sloping teardrop roofline, the Lincoln MKX Concept’s aircraft-inspired modern silhouette underscores a sophisticated and powerful appearance. Attention to detail, such as the brushed aluminum side mirrors and floating aluminum body-side rocker molding engraved with the Lincoln logo, contribute to the vehicle’s contemporary design.

Dynamic side undercuts, a high beltline and 21-inch, machined aluminum wheels further the well-proportioned design. At the rear, the Lincoln MKX Concept offers a new interpretation of the Lincoln signature full-width taillamps.

The signature Lincoln splitwing grille accentuates the front end. The artistic interpretation of the grille features horizontal lines that continue as strips of LED accent lights below each headlamp. These strips of light glow sequentially as part of Lincoln’s updated approach detection feature, one element of Lincoln Experiences.

Mustang Re-enacts Empire State Building Feat Bill Ford, Executive Chairman, Ford Motor Company, with a 2015 Ford Mustang convertible that has been assembled on the 86th floor observation deck of the Empire State Building in New York The celebration of 50 years of the Ford Mustang continues atop the Empire State Building where an all-new Mustang has been placed on the 86th floor observatory – the second time in history a car has topped the building. The only other car display on the Empire State Building observation happened in 1965 with a Mustang convertible.

Getting the vehicle up to the display space proved to be just as challenging 50 years later considering helicopter and crane delivery could not be used in either instance.

http://www. at.ford.com/

Together.

Working in harmony.

More than just a world leader in innovative sanding and polishing products, Mirka is also renowned for its outstanding customer support strategy.

Continually ensuring that the Mirka customer support service is second to none.

Discover: www.mirka.co.uk

Quality from start to finish.

Your Invitation to Exhibit at the

FORDIMPACT2014 Conference & Awards Communication is the key

The Ricoh Arena, Coventry Wednesday October 29th 9.30 am to 4.30pm Great speakers and a fun packed Trade Fair in the supplier village.

If you would like to exhibit at the Ford Impact Conference please contact:Dave Reece Email@ dreece6@ford.com Phone: 07982 923864 If you plan to stay over either before or after the event I suggest you make your arrangements early. The Ricoh does have a hotel on site and there are several hotels local to the event.

FORD IMPACT 2014

It’s Bigger, It’s Better, It’s Back

EXCELLENCE AWARDS

Cortex is Vizion's portal for its members and partners providing you with the means to communicate and store relevant documentation and criteria applicable to the brands your business supports and is supported by.

More importantly, your CSI results and analysis can also be viewed here to see how your bodyshop is performing via league tables; scores can be emailed and analysed and you can see via the predefined questions, benchmarks on improvement or praise to your team.

Information and downloads relevant to you can also be viewed and downloaded 24/7 365 days a year.

Cortex is an ever evolving site and as it grows you will see special offers and information exclusive to Vizion Members. This is your site and we would welcome any suggestions or requests that you would like to see.

If you are a Vizon member you would of had your login details mailed to you, if you need assistance, then email cortex@vizionnetwork.co.uk

log on now: www.vizionnetwork.co.uk/cortex.aspx

COMMUNICATION IS THE KEY Ford Accident Repair Network Magazine

Watch out for Issue three in August 2014 If you would like to contribute to the Ford Insight magazine Please contact Dave Reece at dreece6@ford.com

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