SMTA Scots Auto Scene – Issue 18

OUR MOT QUALITY MANAGEMENT SERVICES ARE INDUSTRY PROVEN

A COMPREHENSIVE SUPPORT PACKAGE FOR OWNERS & MANAGERS OF MOT TESTING STATIONS

1.

3. Assist Authorised Examiners to maintain DVSA standards

MAINTAIN AE STANDARDS CERTIFICATE PROVIDED COMPETITIVE PRICING OVER 800 QMS’ PER ANNUM EXCEEDS DVSA STANDARDS

4. QMS site assessments exceeds minimum requirements as set by DVSA for quality control

5. Protect your income for less than the price of one MOT per month

Why use SMTA QMS?

Currently we carry out over 800 QMS surveys per annum! Participation in the QMS programme and adhering to its standards should also substantially reduce the likelihood for DVSA to consider taking disciplinary action against a Vehicle Testing Station. However, if an incident necessitating this was to occur, then evidence of measures taken by Authorised Examiners to apply standards that exceed DVSA’s minimum standards would be taken into consideration and could lead to a reduction in the severity of any sanction imposed. SMTA members also benefit from free representation and appeals assistance, others will charge you additional costs for this service.

Introduction

Welcome to this edition 18 of our unique magazine SCOTS AUTO SCENE, why is it unique? Because it, like everything else in the SMTA, it is owned by our membership, and if your business is in membership of the SMTA then that means you!

As we have expanded this magazine over recent editions we are seeking to get more membership involvement so please if you have anything that you would like to tell other members about, it could be a new investment in your business, a recent activity your business has taken on or charity involvement, a super satisfied customer comment or even a family event then please feel free to get in touch and let’s see if we can help you to make a special event extra special.

We want to keep this magazine special and would appreciate your help, please get in touch.

So what is in this edition? We have an update on our fantastic school programme I.N.D.Y.25 which was given a very successful soft launch at the exciting BTCC race weekend at Knockhill, we hope to build on that activity over the coming months to ensure that we reach out to every council in Scotland, all 32 of them, the competition is free to enter and we would ask if you have any options to put the link into your own messaging to your customers we would be most grateful.

Also, in this magazine you will get the chance to meet my replacement as Chief Executive of the SMTA, Alan Gall. Many of you will recognise the surname that has previously been associated with the SMTA as Alan’s father, Glen Gall was President in 2002-2004. Glen was a huge support to me over my years as President, so Alan is very familiar with the ethos of the association, and this will allow him to make up ground quickly.

The plans are that Alan and I will work closely together through September and October and look to transfer responsibilities in November, this will give Alan time to get familiar with the business for a few months with the advantage (or otherwise) of having me at the end of a phone before I pack my bags on December 31st.

Sandy Burgess FIMI Chief Executive, SMTA sandy.burgess@smta.co.uk

04 COX AUTOMOTIVE

A cause for celebration but caution advised

08 MEMBER NEWS

Anderson Clark moves to employee ownership

22 JUST EMPLOYMENT LAW

The Government’s plans for employment law

24/26 SMTA EVENTS

Don’t miss out!

28 MEMBER PROFILE

Elite Land Rover, Clydebank.

30 SMTA STAFF NEWS

New Chief Executive announced

32 THOMSON COOPER

Your finance emergency service.

38 SMTA I.N.D.Y 25

Details on this brand new schools competition

44/46 LIFESTYLE FEATURES

The Kingdom of Fife & Party like a viking in Shetland

If you would like to take advantage of advertising in ScotsAUTOSCENE which reaches all SMTA members and beyond to approximately 5,000 sites across Scotland, or have an article you would like to discuss for publication contact Wendy Hennessy: Email: wendy.hennessy@smta.co.uk

For details of SMTA events please contact: Email: events@smta.co.uk

Scottish Motor Trade Association Ltd.,

Palmerston House, 10 The Loan, South Queensferry EH30 9NS

SMTA Ltd Tel: 0131 331 5510

Scotsure MBI Ltd Tel: 0131 331 5512

SMTA is proud to support:

by Philip Nothard, Insight Director at Cox Automotive

A cause for celebration, but caution advised.

Philip Nothard, Insight Director at Cox Automotive, shares his predictions for the used car market in Q3 and Q4 and explores the issues influencing the return to sustainable growth.

Cox Automotive’s second issue of Insight Quarterly, published mid-August, includes our revised new and used market forecasts and an analysis of the first half of the year in each segment. Here, I’ll explain why we think our baseline forecast of just over two-million transactions remains the most likely scenario and explore some of the factors influencing the market.

Reflecting on H1

We reflected on our original 2024 used car market forecast in May to reflect Q1’s actuals.

The SMMT had reported a strong start to the year: the used market grew 6.5% to almost two million units, a fifth successive quarter of growth and a five-year high. The actual number of transactions was within a whisker of our upside forecast of 1.96 million (equivalent to 99.5% accuracy). As we said then, this was good news and a cause for celebration.

Some commentators suggested this signalled a change in fortunes for the used sector, and such growth would be the pattern for the rest of the year. We exercised a more pragmatic view, stating that we expected Q1’s upbeat performance to repeat in Q2. But we cautioned that the second half of the year will likely see volume cool due to tightening supply into the market, heightening price competition in the new car space, and low consumer confidence.

Looking to H2

The actual year-on-year growth figure for Q2 was just 0.2% of our upside forecast (7.4% vs 7.2%) and our volume number was 96.5% accurate. But our baseline forecast for the full year, remains the likely scenario, not our upside projection of 7.7m, despite the volume growth witnessed so far. Our forecast for Q3 and Q4 has been adjusted to reflect H1’s actuals but our rounded full-year number remains at 7.4m.

Our baseline forecast predicts 7,434,709 used car transactions will be achieved by the end of the year. This is a marginal 1.2% increase on our previous forecast and reflects the performance recorded by the SMMT in the first two quarters and the conditions we anticipate playing out in Q3 and Q4.

This forecast anticipates 1,885,782 transactions in Q3 falling to 1,617,609 in Q4. The year will end with a total transaction figure 2.7% higher than 2023’s, which is 0.8% up on the 2000-2019 average.

Our scenarios explained

Upside: In our upside scenario, a balanced recovery continues to unfold, driven by increased choice, heightened consumer confidence, and a notable surge in Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV) ownership.

y New vehicle registrations follow a steady recovery trajectory, alleviating the strain on the cost of owning used vehicles compared to new ones.

y Recent production shortages, which previously limited choice in the used market, gradually ease as fleet and rental sector inventory enters the market. This influx and a notable upturn in consumer confidence support increased supply volumes.

y Economic measures, such as lower inflation and declining interest rates, implemented sufficiently in 2024, stimulate consumer confidence and enhance overall spending. Consequently, this alleviates pressure on both the leading and broader automotive sectors.

y The used EV market experiences significant expansion as consumer interest in ownership rockets. This heightened interest could stem from increased confidence in residual values, enhanced battery health, or government-driven initiatives to bolster demand.

Baseline: In our baseline scenario, a slow resurgence unfolds as economic factors maintain inflation at higher-than-ideal levels. At the same time, new vehicle production gradually recovers amid growing EV adoption.

y The broader economy remains stable, characterised by ongoing challenges but no significant deterioration. Longterm recovery plans and forecasts remain viable, although only a gradual reduction in inflation tempers them. While the UK interest rates are easing, they remain higher than previously experienced, showing only modest yearly declines.

y The recovery in new vehicle production stabilises and potentially gains momentum. As EV adoption grows, particularly in the new vehicle market, the return of fleet, rental, and business sector commercial discounts helps ease pressures on the supply of used vehicles.

y •The shift to EVs in the used car market continues slowly. Similar to the trend observed in 2023, the adoption of used EVs shows incremental progress but without significant acceleration.

Downside: In our downside scenario, weakened consumer confidence and economic struggles contribute to a challenging landscape where financing a used vehicle proves prohibitively expensive for many.

y The economy undergoes a substantial and prolonged downturn, with implemented measures failing to make a significant impact. Persistent high inflation rates persist, with limited prospects for reduction. The Bank of England maintains elevated base rates to counter inflation, further exacerbating economic woes.

y Fragile consumer sentiment decreases demand for used vehicles, leading to a contraction in the used car market.

Economic uncertainties prompt consumers to postpone or reconsider purchasing used vehicles, dampening market activity.

y Financing rates for used vehicles remain markedly higher than anticipated, rendering used vehicle ownership financially out of reach for many consumers. This disparity in affordability is particularly pronounced amid a cost-of-living crisis and within an economic landscape characterised by persistent inflation.

I’ll now touch on some of the influences on the used market. Insight Quarterly provides a fuller explanation.

New influences

When considering the used market, it’s vital to monitor the new market, which is currently volatile. Headlines boasting 2.5% growth in July and two years of consecutive growth suggest a positive trend, but the details reveal a different story. Fleet sales are propping up registration volumes, EV share is declining when it should be rising, and ICE vehicle availability is plummeting.

The Bank of England’s base rate drop on 1st August was welcome, but retail demand remains weak. This is due to the high entry price of most EVs, the relatively high cost of finance, ongoing cost of living challenges, and limited consumer appetite for big-ticket items. The government’s new economic plans will take time to have an effect.

Impact on the used market

Demand in the used market is subdued for similar reasons, but supply is the primary concern among dealers. Despite active fleet owners and operators, securing a steady flow of in-demand vehicles is challenging.

Used dealers feel the impact of the 3.1 million ‘lost’ registrations from 2020-23—vehicles that should now be replenishing forecourts.

ICE melt

The changing car parc, particularly regarding fuel types, is now evident. Our four-year fueltype forecast highlighted how manufacturers are shifting focus from ICE to EV and hybrid, a trend that is now accelerating. ICE models in the new market are rapidly diminishing, with long-standing best-sellers disappearing and not being replaced like-for-like, though these are the cars used buyers still seek.

Standalone used supermarkets are hit hardest by this shift, facing consolidation and financial challenges. Vehicle supply has dwindled, intensified by competition from franchised dealers and tighter control by manufacturers on de-fleet supply.

Competition for young used ICE vehicles will intensify as the proportion of EVs and hybrids in the new market grows. New ICE vehicle prices are also rising, putting further pressure on margins.

EVolution

The EV market remains challenging. Although the decline in used EV values has slowed, volatility persists and is unlikely to settle before 2027. With the first wave of mass adoption via company car and salary sacrifice schemes maturing, the supply of three-year-old EVs will surge over the next 12-24 months. This increase in supply, alongside retail price competition in the new market, will create attractive deals for consumers but may make the high price of a used EV difficult to justify.

Dealer resilience tested

Average wholesale prices for cars aged 2 to 4 years, particularly in the ICE and PHEV segments, are stabilising. EV prices are also settling, though at a high financial cost to original owners. Dealers are now focused on managing this ebb and flow. Margins are under pressure from increased vehicle preparation costs, and many dealers have diversified their stock to include older vehicles. The sector’s resilience is being tested, but the ongoing volume of transactions indicates demand and profit opportunities remain, with growth possible through strategic adaptations.

About Insight Quarterly

IQ is the coming together of our annual Insight Report and previous quarterly AutoFocus. It aims to connect the dots between key trends and topics shaping the automotive sector today, sharing data and insights that provide a clearer vision of the road ahead. As well as the new and used market forecasts, it features insightful commentary from industry connections:

Owen Edwards from Grant Thornton explains the EU’s new import tariffs for Chinese EVs.

Lee Swinerd from Interpath discusses challenges within the manufacturing supply chain for ICE vehicles.

Steve Young of ICDP analyses the latest learnings on the agency model.

David Gray from EV Battery Solutions explores the key aspects of EV battery management.

Chris Green from Regit discusses the competitive advantage of data.

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MEMBER NEWS

Anderson Clark Motor Repairs moves to employee ownership.

Scottish Independent Motor Vehicle Repair, Anderson Clark Motor Repairs, is charting a new future under employee ownership after being sold to an Employee Ownership Trust (EOT) formed by its 14 employees.

The company based in Inverness has been in business for over 28 years. It is recognised as one of the top repair centres in the UK after winning numerous independent repair centre awards and having Investor in People Gold Standard Recognition, with a turnover of £2 million.

The business is currently owned by the Graham & Sheila Clark’s family who will remain involved as part of the transition to employee ownership. The new leadership team will comprise an experienced team with Managing Director Designate, Neil Johnstone, Katie Fraser, Company Secretary and Alan Reid, Workshop Manager, all having been with Anderson Clark for many years.

Managing Director Graham Clark, who formed the company in 1996 with his late business partner David Anderson, said: “People have always been at the heart of what we do, we have fabulous

staff and great customers. This felt as a natural progression giving the team control of their destiny and the company will remain in the hands of people who made it what it is today. Customers value our services, the personal aspect of how we conduct business and the familiar trusted staff who deal with their motoring needs”.

Anderson Clark Motor Repairs is believed to be the first Independent Motor Vehicle Repair Centre in Scotland to transition to an Employee Ownership Model. It joins the growing number of Scottish businesses that are moving to employee ownership. Research from Co-operative Development Scotland shows that the number of employee-owned businesses in Scotland now sits at 286, which is a huge 47% increase since 2022. Further the results of the census show that the sector contributed turnover of £1.471 billion to the Scottish economy with over 7,500 employees.

Anderson Clark Director, Alan Reid “Forming an EOT is the perfect solution for us. It allows us to continue to serve our customers, many of whom have used Anderson Clark Motor Repairs for over 20 years, while retaining the same talented members of staff, some of whom have been part of our team for just as many years. We hope to continue the success story of Anderson Clark, maintaining the high levels of customer service our customers have come to expect.”

We would like to thank Graham for this opportunity and wish Graham and Sheila all the best in retirement.

Anderson Clark were advised by Ralph Leishman of 4 Consulting, Douglas Roberts and Nimarta Cheema of TLT and Jonathan Innes of Innes and Partners.

Ralph Leishman said “It was good to see the enthusiastic reaction of the staff to employee ownership, which offers job security and will enable them to continue to provide a quality service to customers.”

Douglas Roberts, partner at TLT, commented “We really enjoyed working with Graham and his team as they explored employee ownership then implemented it. The values that have made Anderson Clark such a successful and well-known business will be preserved by this exciting next step in the company’s history”.

Jonathan Innes, Managing Director at Innes & Partners Ltd, commented “It has been a real privilege to support Graham and the team at Anderson Clark Motor Repairs Ltd through this process. Anderson Clark is an incredibly successful garage in the Highlands which has won many awards for its customer service. We are delighted that as a result of this transfer of the business to employee ownership that the history and heritage of the business will be preserved. This of course will allow the customers of Anderson Clark to continue to receive the best possible service at all times and for its employees to benefit to from that success.

Powering the automotive industry, delivering Experience-First, together.

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Keyloop and ATG have joined to create an integrated technology portfolio that more completely connects the entire consumer automotive journey, helping retailers and OEMs around the world, improve customer experience via innovative solutions.

Tom Kilroy

To see how Keyloop’s Experience-First blueprint could help transform your sales and aftersales CX journey, download our whitepaper, with a new bonus chapter now available.

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1. Insurance can be complicated

Lots of policies in the motor trade industry appear to be similar and overlap at first glance. Therefore, it can be challenging to navigate through all the complexities involved in motor trade insurance. However, an experienced broker specialising in motor trade will have the knowledge and expertise to help you understand the finer cover details and simplify the process for you.

2. Brokers are impartial

When it comes to your motor trade business, it’s difficult to remain objective. A reputable insurance broker, on the other hand, can provide unbiased advice. They will speak with you to understand your business needs, analyse the facts, offer you impartial advice, and ensure there are no gaps or overlaps in your cover. This way, you only pay for the cover you need, without paying for things you don’t.

reasons you should use a specialist motor trade insurance broker.

3. Aiming to save you time and money

A reputable motor trade insurance broker has access to a network of insurance providers and understands the range of options available to you. They will provide you with advice based on your needs and often go the extra mile to make sure you have the cover you need, at a suitable price for you. Instead of spending hours searching for options yourself, a professional broker can streamline the process – which will save you valuable time and potentially cost savings too.

4. Specialist expertise

A reliable motor trade insurance broker specialises in the motor trade industry. They will generally keep up-to-date on the latest laws, regulations, and market trends specific to the motor trade sector. This expertise means they can provide you with tailored advice and ensure your policies offer maximum protection in a cost-effective manner.

5. Claims support

In the unfortunate event you need to make a claim, a dependable motor trade insurance broker will be there to support you throughout the process. They can guide you through the necessary steps and help you navigate any complexities that may arise.

FREE Business insurance review

Using a highly-regarded insurance broker for your motor trade business can help provide you with peace of mind, expert advice, and efficient support when you need it most.

Marsh Commercial has a long-standing relationship with SMTA and is the approved insurance broker for its members. We offer a range of business insurance for the motor trade industry, including enhanced benefits we have negotiated, which members can take advantage of.

If you need further information about the different types of cover available or would like some advice, our FREE no-obligation business insurance review will compare the cover, service, and price you’re currently getting with what we can provide. As well as explaining the different levels of cover available, we will also see if you’re missing out on valuable enhanced benefits and whether we can save you money too.

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by Simon King CEO, Autotech Group

A step-by-step approach to addressing the automotive skills shortage.

The Scottish automotive aftermarket is still struggling with the significant challenge of the skills shortage. It’s a situation reflected across the country and, according to the IMI’s UK Automotive Vacancy Overview report, there are currently 4.3 vacancies for every 100 employees in the sector, amounting to 23,000 unfilled jobs – which is 43% above the average for all sectors.

According to our Autotech Recruit annual recruitment survey, released earlier this year, 52% of aftermarket managers and owners felt that the skills shortage was hindering their ability to meet customer demand, demonstrating the impact the crisis is having on the sector while highlighting an urgent need for immediate and comprehensive solutions.

Recruitment and training have naturally become high priorities for many garages and workshops. However, for any plan to be effective, regardless of size, these businesses need to take a fully rounded approach. As a specialist recruitment, training and technology provider for the automotive industry, we believe there are several key steps to tackling the skills shortage:

www.autotechgroup.co.uk

Immediate Strategies to Address the Skills Shortage

1. IMPROVING PERMANENT RECRUITMENT PRACTICES

Attracting the right talent is crucial to maintaining operations within a garage and meeting demand. However, the talent pool has depleted over the years due to the low numbers of skilled people entering the sector. Therefore, a job offer needs to be strong to attract candidates. This means competitive salaries, clear training plans, and a positive workplace culture.

2. OUTSOURCING TEMPORARY CONTRACTORS FOR SPECIFIC PERIODS

A blended workforce, combining the stability of permanent staff with the flexibility of outsourced temporary workers, can provide a profitable balance, especially when planned in advance. Skilled contractors are no longer seen merely as stop-gap solutions within the aftermarket but as valuable resources. They offer flexibility, allowing businesses to manage absences, skills gaps, and peaks in demand, including MOT spikes in September and October, providing the ability to scale up capacity without the long-term commitment associated with permanent hires.

3. DEVELOPING AND UPSKILLING THE EXISTING WORKFORCE

One of the most effective ways to bridge the skills gap is through targeted training and upskilling, along with planned CPD to ensure vehicle technicians, MOT testers, and managers remain compliant and are equipped to handle the latest vehicle technologies. Upskilling not only enhances service capability but also aids in employee retention.

4.

INTEGRATING TECHNOLOGY TO ENHANCE PRODUCTIVITY AND EFFICIENCY

Despite the automotive industry being at the forefront of technological innovation in vehicle development, this ethos has been slow to filter through to the aftermarket. Technology-based solutions, such as Assisted Reality headsets, should be adopted to make workshops more efficient, plug gaps in available skills, and ensure a first-time fix. With software-defined vehicles increasingly rolling into the workshop, the need to integrate technology with vehicle servicing and repair has never been more critical.

5. BUILDING THE NEXT GENERATION OF WORKSHOP TALENT

To ensure a steady pipeline of skilled professionals, garages and workshops must make a concerted effort to attract young talent by creating opportunities through work experience, apprenticeships, and internships. Engaging with local schools and colleges can help foster interest in automotive careers from a young age and help ‘grow your own talent’ which will help sustain a business well into the future.

Adopting this comprehensive approach and incorporating all five strategies won’t necessarily fill gaps immediately, but it will help create a more agile and responsive workforce capable of navigating the challenges of the future automotive landscape. By taking these steps, garages and workshops can remain competitive, resilient, and ready for the future.

Working as a true industry partner, Autotech Group has four separate brands—Autotech Recruit, Autotech Training, Autotech Academy, and Autotech Connect—all created to meet the needs of the automotive aftermarket, each offering unique solutions to help counteract the challenges brought on by the skills shortage.

Evolve your strategy and track your growth with Warranty First.

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At Warranty First, we’re revolutionising the used vehicle warranty landscape for dealers across the UK. Our Track & Evolve dealer development process is the key to transforming warranty from a standard offering into a highperforming income stream for your dealership.

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At its core, Track & Evolve is built on two key principles:

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By simplifying the process of warranty sale, the Warranty First Track & Evolve process enables dealerships to unlock previously untapped potential in this crucial area of their business.

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y Real-Time Performance Tracking - Access our exclusive 24/7 live performance tracker, providing instant insights into warranty sales by our experienced team.

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by Jason Williams Legal Advisor at Lawgistics

One digit difference could close your MOT Station.

The Ministry of Transport’s annual test, known as the MOT, is the fulcrum of vehicle roadworthiness (at least for that day!). The test keeps hundreds of technicians employed in the many MOT stations across Scotland.

The MOT is monitored and run by the Driver Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA), an executive agency of the UK Department for Transport, and has its own MOT compliance team.

Be assured the DVSA MOT team is watching all MOT stations and even the most minor of errors can prove very costly to a business.

One common error is the MOT tester recording the vehicle’s registration plate incorrectly on the DVSA system. For example, registration FY15NBG is recorded as FY15NGB, or the numbers are reversed. These are such minimal mistakes with disastrous consequences.

Firstly, the car that has just been tested is not shown as having

a current MOT, and if the driver does not check online, they could find that their car is clamped/ seized. An innocent victim of a simple error that anyone can make.

Secondly, another vehicle, maybe hundreds of miles away, is given an MOT without the owner’s knowledge. The owner finds out when they take the vehicle for what they think is its annual test, only to be surprised that their car passed an MOT in the months previous, when of course, it did not. This is where the DVSA is most likely to get their complaints from.

The complaints tend to result in a formal interview and investigation taking place with the authorised

tester and the person with overall responsibility for the site. The DVSA’s position is that such errors go to the heart of the integrity of the MOT system and should not be made. They say it is imperative the recording of the registration plate is taken from the car that is before the tester and NOT taken from any other document.

In almost all cases we have dealt with, the problem has arisen because the tester has taken the number plate from a document, such as a service invoice or even from the handwritten booking form. In each case, those documents noted an incorrect number plate.

Thus, we urge MOT testers to rely on their eyes and look at the car, not what is written elsewhere.

As MOT testers will doubtless know, the DVSA issues authorised testers and examiners with penalty points for indiscretions.

Such a failure – and certainly if anyone on site repeats that failure – is likely to end with a 500-point sanction against the MOT station, which could result in a cessation from testing or a ban of up to five years.

Moreover, it can potentially lead to a 28-day closure of the MOT station, creating significant consequences to the income stream and repute of the business. Notwithstanding the employment of those who may have done nothing wrong, not being able to work.

Here at Lawgistics, we have assisted several members who have been investigated by the DVSA MOT team, so ensure to contact us if you have a DVSA MOT-related problem.

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by Samer Cheaitou, Trainee Solicitor, Just Employment Law

The Government’s plans for employment law.

As you will no doubt be aware, the UK went to the polls on 4 July 2024, electing the first Labour Government in 14 years with a landslide majority of 174 seats. In the recent King’s Speech, the Government set out its legislative agenda, which includes introducing an Employment Rights Bill within its first 100 days. I will consider below some of the changes that may be included in the Government’s planned Bill.

Labour’s plans

A few weeks before the election, Labour published a paper titled “Labour’s Plan to Make Work Pay”. In the paper, Labour set out its proposals to increase employment rights and make work more secure.

It should be stressed at the outset that the proposals set out in the paper are just that –proposals. A period of consultation will take place with businesses, trade unions and civil society before any of these proposals become law.

Nevertheless, the paper gives a helpful indication of the Government’s likely direction of travel and the types of change that it envisages making to employment law.

Day one rights

The Government plans to introduce “day one” rights for leave, flexible working, sick pay and unfair dismissal.

In relation to unfair dismissal, this would involve removing the current two year service requirement before an employee can bring a claim for unfair dismissal against their employer. This would potentially be a significant change to the current legal landscape, where it is often low risk for an employer to terminate employment within the first two years.

The paper does mention employers being allowed to operate probationary periods with “fair and transparent rules and processes”. Therefore, it may well be the case that, during the probationary period, an employer will still be able to assess the suitability of new employees coming into the business. However, it is unclear what steps an employer will need to take, in order to fairly dismiss a probationer.

Nevertheless, it appears safe to assume that it is going to become more difficult for employers to dismiss short serving employees who are not good fits for the business.

Zero hours contracts and one-sided flexibility

The Government intends to end so-called “one-sided flexibility”, whereby workers have no guarantee of work from one day to the next. These plans include:

y Ensuring that all jobs provide a “baseline of security and predictability”.

y Banning “exploitative” zero hours contracts.

y Ensuring that everyone has the right to have a contract of employment that reflects the number of hours they regularly work, based on a 12-week reference period.

Fire and rehire

“Fire and rehire” is an informal term given to the practice of dismissing employees and reengaging them on less favourable terms and conditions. This is sometimes done as a last resort by businesses when there is a need to reduce costs.

The paper proposes to make fire and rehire unlawful, except in circumstances where a business would not be able to survive without making changes to employees’ terms and conditions of employment.

Other potential changes

Other changes proposed in the paper include:

y Increasing the time limit for employees to bring a claim before the Employment Tribunal from three months to six months. This will likely increase the number of claims (especially unfair dismissal claims) against employers as employees will have more time to bring such claims.

y Rolling back the restrictions on industrial action / trade union activity brought in by previous Conservative Governments.

y Merging employee and worker status into a single worker status that is entitled to all employment rights. Currently, the UK has a three-tier system of employment status: employees (who enjoy all employment rights, including sick pay and unfair dismissal protection), workers (including casual / zero hours workers – who enjoy some employment rights such as holiday pay and limits on working time) and the self-employed (who have no employment rights).

y Introducing a single enforcement body to enforce workers’ rights, including powers to inspect workplaces and take action against exploitation.

Summary

It is important that employers are aware of and start preparing for the changes that the Government is planning to make to UK employment law. The need to take legal advice before dismissing, or taking formal action against, an employee (including employees with short service) will be greater than it has been for many years. Employers should also ensure that they have well drafted contracts of employment and legally compliant policies and procedures in place that best protect them in light of the Government’s proposed changes.

Just Employment Law are employment law specialists, with expertise in advising on disciplinary and dismissal situations and on drafting contracts, policies and procedures. If you are interested in learning more about our services, contact us on 0141 331 5150 or at enquiries@ justemploymentlaw.co.uk. You can also visit our website at www.justemploymentlaw.co.uk.

Females in Focus 2024

This year’s Females in Focus 2024 panel

JILLIAN SHEDDEN Managing Director at Knockhill Racing Circuit

An Inspiring Gathering

NICOLA GILDA Managing Director at Peoples Automotive Group

The Scottish Motor Trade Association is excited to announce the return of the Females in Focus lunch, taking place this year at the Grand Central Hotel in Glasgow on Friday, 20th September 2024. This lunch is always such a highlight of our event calendar and we are proud to be able to run an event that highlights the many career paths available in the motor trade to females.

We are proud to create a platform that celebrates and supports the achievements of women in our field, showcasing the varied and vibrant career paths available.

Engage with Inspirational Business Leaders

This year’s lunch will feature an inspiring panel of businesswomen who will share their journeys, challenges, successes, and insights into their careers. It’s a fantastic opportunity to gain inspiration, advice, and perspectives from those who have made significant strides in their fields.

Full details will be available soon, in the meantime any queries can be emailed to events@smta.co.uk

JULIE VILJOEN Aftersales Performance Manager at Toyota (GB)

Friday, 20th September 2024

Grand Central Hotel, Glasgow

Tickets Now On Sale

Book your tickets online –scan the QR code on above or visit events.smta.co.uk

Sponsorship items are available please email wendy.hennessy@smta.co.uk for information

Drinks Reception Sponsor

Testers registering for Group A and Group B Training & Assessment at the same time will qualify for our Two for One offer and will get both registration codes (one for each group) for the price of one.

SMTA EVENTS

SMTA Annual Dinner 2024

Thursday, 24th October 2024 at the Hilton Hotel, Glasgow

Join us for a special evening of Recognition & Inspiration

The Scottish Motor Trade Association is thrilled to invite you to one of the most anticipated events in our industry’s calendar, the SMTA Annual Dinner 2024. This prestigious evening will be a celebration of excellence, achievement, and community spirit within the Scottish motor trade industry.

Special Guest Speaker: Ben Collins, aka “The Stig”

We are honoured to announce that this year’s guest speaker will be none other than Ben Collins, renowned for his enigmatic presence as “The Stig” on the iconic television series, Top Gear. Ben’s insights and stories from behind the wheel promise to be an enthralling highlight of the evening.

Spaces for the SMTA Annual Dinner 2024 are limited. Secure your attendance at this prestigious event and be part of an evening dedicated to excellence, inspiration, and community spirit within the Scottish Motor Trade Industry.

Tickets Now On Sale

Book your tickets online – scan the QR code on the left or visit events.smta.co.uk

Sponsorship items are available please email wendy.hennessy@smta.co.uk for

PREFERRED OFFERS from GES Scotland ARE YOU LOOKING TO BECOME A DVSA APPROVED MOT TEST STATION? Are you looking to upgrade your existing MOT Test Station and install connected equipment? Call Niall Farmer now for an informal chat 07483 827734

Call Niall Farmer on 07483 827734 or email nfarmer@mpdonline.co.uk

“We are delighted with our new MOT bay, supplied and installed by Gemco. Niall Farmer from Garage Equipment Services quoted, organised the installation and assisted with all the DVSA paperwork. Every step of the process was made easy and the installation guys were amazing.”

Nicola, Lochside Motors, Dyce, Aberdeen

A passion for Land Rovers and all things engines.

SMTA talks with Paul Griffiths, owner of Elite Land Rover

SMTA – Can you tell our readers how your business started out?

PG – The business started out with my passion for Land Rovers and all things engines. From an early age I have always had a passion for engines and fixing things.

I started out as a one man band in a small dirty little unit, no matter how many times you swept the floor it was still covered in dust and dirt and the unit didn’t even have a toilet in side. I had to ask my neighbour to use his or go home (this was a 20min round trip) .

I always knew what I wanted to do when I was at school and that was to be a mechanic! My dad was in automotive design and had taken me in to work with him on school work experience but it wasn’t for me. I wanted to be at the coal face. The fixing of cars!

SMTA – Can you run us through a typical day at work?

PG – A typical day at work for me now is very different than when I started.

In for 8am, run down of jobs booked in for the day and what needs to be completed.

We then load the schedule and get the work for the techs setup.

From there it can be anything depending on what is required from fixing/ diagnosing a vehicle that is onsite with us or dealing with a customer or member of

staff. What ever is required at the time.

My most enjoyable time is in the workshop working on a car.

SMTA – What’s the key to your success?

PG – I wouldn’t say there is one factor here or one key. There a lots of factors but a few would be -

A lot of hard work. All the time. Turing up everyday doing what you need to do.

Wanting to be better all the time.

A very supportive wife.

And a passion for what I do that I think everyone can see.

SMTA – How do you maintain customer levels?

PG – We pride ourselves on customer service! We all really care about each and every customer that comes into us.

I have some amazing people that work for me that uphold these values so well.

SMTA – What are you plans for the future?

PG – We are going to carry out some building works getting a state of the art customer waiting area and some additional office space and training room.

Adding vehicle sales into the business as well.

SMTA – How does your SMTA / Scotsure membership help?

PG – It’s great knowing we have SMTA behind us. They help us with many areas from the brilliant trading partners setup to the MOT assessment’s. We are proud to have the badge outside.

SMTA – Where will the business be in five years’ time?

PG – Still going from strength to strength. I think we will have moved into the vehicle sales side of things by then as well, so some exciting things to come.

SMTA – What is the biggest challenge for your business right now?

PG – Keeping up with customer expectations, and a tricky brand at times. JLR parts have been really hard to deal with during their distribution centre integration but we are hopefully coming through this now.

SMTA – What’s the most important thing you’ve learned in your career, and how have you made use of it?

PG – To be really successful in this trade you have to care! You have to care about the people you have working for you, you have to care about your customers and care about the vehicles you are working on. You have to care about being the best at what you do!

Alan Gall to take the helm as new SMTA Chief Executive

Sandy Burgess to step down after a decade of visionary leadership; Alan Gall brings 35 years of industry experience.

At the end of this year, Sandy Burgess will be stepping down as Chief Executive of the SMTA. Over the past ten years, Sandy has guided the association with remarkable vision and leadership, consistently prioritising the needs of our members. With a lifelong passion for the motor industry, Sandy’s journey from apprentice to leader has been marked by his unwavering commitment to adding value and fostering growth within the association.

We are pleased to announce that Alan Gall will be succeeding Sandy as our new Chief Executive. Alan brings with him 35 years of extensive experience in the motor industry, having worked with Arnold Clark and internationally with Toyota and Rolls-Royce. We look forward to the wealth of knowledge and industry insight Alan will contribute as we continue to support and advocate for our members.

Elaine Cromwell, Partner at Thomson Cooper

Your Finance Emergency Service

As I write, I am preparing to pack up our trusty CR-V to make the 100 mile or so drive to our home for the week in beautiful Deeside. This will be our eighteenth year visiting, but our first without any of our now-grown children. I recall fond memories over the years of cycling and walking in the stunning hills surrounding the Dee valley, dragging surly teenagers behind us. I can also now laugh as I remember a rather shambolic holiday one year involving an old Vauxhall Zafira. While the old girl gallantly managed the notorious “Devil’s Elbow” (the 1 in 6 climb near Glenshee on the A93), she was clearly wanting a week of R & R once we arrived, not to be carting the five of us, with a bike trailer in tow, all over the Cairngorms

Not the best timing

Admittedly, a bit of a banger, first, the ignition switch went. Luckily, the local repair shop was able to source a switch quickly and came along to our lodge to fit it for us – a relatively quick and easy fix by the friendly, local garage owner. It wasn’t a major disruption - we were only a couple of days confined to the immediate area. Next, while on an outing further afield, we had a puncture – again, not a major issue, Mr C is quite capable in that department. It was the evening before our return home however, when just after refuelling for our homeward leg, disaster struck. With considerable grinding and crunching, our faithful motor slowly ground to a halt. Fortunately, we were able to pull over safely. Mr C now with his head under the bonnet, stood inspecting the damage, shaking his head. The remaining four of us, wide-eyed, nervous (but knowing better than to suggest any help) stood well back at the side of the road.

Several calls later and a taxi back to our lodge, the recovery was organised for the day after, to relay us back home. The diagnosis - a snapped timing belt resulting in destroyed valves. The petrol we had just put in the car now worth more than the vehicle itself.

The moral of the tale – well first, make sure you get your timing belt replaced regularly (although Mr C maintains to this day it was still well within its replacement timeframe). Secondly, we cannot predict when disaster might strike but knowing who to turn to and what help is available can get us back on the road quickly and safely, with the minimum of fuss.

Take John for example...

A Greek tragedy

John runs a busy service and MOT workshop, second-hand car and van sales business. He relies on Shirley, his bookkeeper, to keep the finance-wheels on and turning. Shirley quietly and efficiently takes care of the weekly and monthly payroll, supplier invoices and payments, customer billing, second hand car VAT and chases up payment of accounts, making sure John knows how much cash is in the bank each week. It’s July, and Shirley is preparing to take a well-earned break – she’s off to Greece with her friend Jane, for some sun and relaxation. The wages are run in advance, and everything is up to date. John will cope with the admin until she returns in a fortnight.

The day of Shirley’s expected return and she doesn’t turn up for work. John leaves it a while, thinking her return flight must have been delayed. By mid-afternoon he hasn’t heard from her, which seems strange, so he tries calling her. No reply. The next day, still with no contact, he contacts her brother, her registered next of kin. To his astonishment, Shirley’s brother informs John she has fallen in love and intends to stay in Greece to be with Costas.

As John’s initial incredulity at the situation subsides, he starts to consider the impact on his business. While John understands what needs to be done, he doesn’t have the time to take on the accounts on top of everything else. He could advertise for someone new, but how long is that going to take and what if they aren’t any good? His business could be seriously affected if he can’t keep on top of the payroll, VAT, supplier and customer accounts. The last thing he needs right now is disgruntled employees or suppliers, or fines from HMRC for late filings or payments.

Taking care of business

John recalls reading a recent article in his trade magazine about the benefits of finance and payroll outsourcing. It explained that for many SME business owners, outsourcing part or all their finance function not only gives them peace of mind, knowing that professionals are looking after the payroll and bookkeeping, it can be cost-effective and efficient too. The article explained that while many businesses are reliant on just one or two staff to take care of the accounting, with outsourcing, a business has access to a team of finance professionals, qualified accountants and experts in fields such as payroll, VAT, tax and accounting compliance.

With outsourcing, employee absence (and romances) are no longer an issue and the use of service level agreements to document things like the expected turnaround time and costs of service make sure everything is clear from the outset. Using technology to help control tasks and workflow, outsourcing teams ensure deadlines and clients’ regulatory obligations are met. Many outsourcing arrangements can even take care of clients’ employee and supplier payments and will take care of regular credit control duties too. The article highlighted the importance of choosing an outsourcing partner with a strong focus on data security, fraud prevention and internal control procedures to ensure the threat of cybercrime is mitigated.

Peace of mind

For SME automotive businesses, outsourcing payroll and finance functions can offer a strategic advantage, ensuring compliance, efficiency, and peace of mind. By partnering with a reputable outsourcing provider, businesses can navigate the complexities of payroll and finance while allowing business owners to focus on their core operations, and drive growth.

Elaine Cromwell is a Partner at Thomson Cooper. She heads up the Outsourcing department, specialising in assisting clients with their finance function including payroll bureau, PAYE, payments and VAT. Elaine advises clients regarding internal controls, processes and systems.

Debbie McKay, Commercial Director, MotoNovo Finance

Battery Electric Vehicles –

Charging not price is the crucial change barrier.

The push to retail battery electric vehicles (BEVs) in the new car market to comply with the Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) mandate is creating some interesting and sometimes challenging growing pains for some manufacturers and retailers.

To deliver on what some manufacturers consider a ‘stretch’ target of 22% of new cars registered to be BEVs, we have seen price reductions, ‘switch offers’, and low or even zero-rate finance offers used to tempt buyers. Some manufacturers are also planning to cut back on new petrol and diesel sales in addition to special offers on BEVs to increase their BEV penetration percentage.

We see new BEVs becoming cheaper and used BEVs are establishing price parity as their prices fall, reflecting lower new prices. Conversely, used petrol and especially used diesel prices look set to rise as their supply contracts. However, converting consumers to switch to BEVs is about more than just price.

Recent independent research undertaken for MotoNovo revealed that 20% of consumers will consider buying a battery electric vehicle (BEV) when they next change cars, while only 3% currently own one. However, this growth needs to be seen in the context of interest in hybrid cars, where nearly half of consumers will consider buying one.

Digging deeper into peoples’ future car buying plans, the perceived price of BEVs is an issue, especially for lower household income groups, with 42% of people citing price as a purchase barrier. However, even if there was price parity between ICE and BEVs, just 13% of people expect to go fully electric when they next change cars.

Rather than price, the dominant factor dissuading greater customer interest in BEVs centres upon charging. Factors including the public charging infrastructure, range/range anxiety, inability to fit a home charger, the cost of electricity, and, in some cases, a straightforward desire not to charge a car at home all scored prominently as reasons to favour a shift towards hybrid car options.

From a manufacturer and retailer perspective, this indicates a need for a greater focus on charging and range education and support to improve customer understanding of how electric cars can meet the motoring needs of many people.

The average commuting distance in the UK is a little under twenty miles, and just 14% of commuters travel over 42 miles a day. In fact, according to UK government data, 99% of car journeys are less than 100 miles. The range of pretty much every BEV will cover these distances with ease, with

the average BEV range in the UK identified as 211 miles, according to energy company Octopus.

Not only will pretty much any BEV meet the needs of the 99% of people whose car journeys are under 100 miles, but anyone with a home charger will also find the cost of their travel reduced compared to a comparable ICE car, and they will not need to spend time locating or using a petrol station.

All industry stakeholders need to communicate this message far more proactively. At the same time, for authenticity and transparency, it would be better to share real-world range information so that people understand the impact of winter weather/daylight and the use of air conditioning on the range.

Annandale Distillery ‘Afternoon Tea for Two’ Competition Winner

The correct answer to the competition question ‘In what year was Annandale Distillery established” was 1836.

Congratulations to our winner:

Jamie Thompson of Sandmill MOT Centre in Stranraer.

Annandale Distillery, Northfield, Annan, DG12 5LL

I.N.D.Y. 25: Paving the Road to Scotland’s Automotive Future

About this challenge

Inspiring and supporting your learners to make well informed decisions about their future and assisting you to embed Careers Education, Information, Advice and Guidance into your schools programme FREE of charge.

This challenge encourages young people at primary and secondary level to start to think about their next steps after school and embeds careers education into the curriculum alongside being mapped to the Scottish curriculum for excellence.

Pupils are asked to undertake a number of key tasks including researching, reimagining, planning and pitching before then looking at the potential career options available using what they have just learnt.

Based around a sustainability and mobility focus model which asks teams to invent a new vehicle (primary) or

form of public transport (secondary) to support Scottish mobility.

The challenge also supports pupils in their soft and employability skills by using teamwork, communication and reasoning throughout.

There will be some fantastic work placement opportunities within our member network across Scotland (subject to availability) offering real “hands on” experience of our industry.

We have some great prizes available to the winning schools, details of these will be published on the SMTA website www.smta.co.uk on an on-going basis.

Why is this important for Scotland today?

The automotive sector has a huge skill shortage with over 20,000 technician places available right now. In addition, there are roles in support, sales, parts, admin and marketing, in total it is estimated there are 60,000 jobs plus marketing roles to be filled in our sector today!

The demographics of Scotland tell us that there are fewer young people coming through to train and fill these places and of course then we have the competition from other sectors across the country.

We need to promote the sector to the youth of today and workforce of tomorrow as a genuine and rewarding long term career option.

The I.N.D.Y. 25 “Transforming Transport & Mobility in Scotland” initiate is aimed at PRIMARY & SECONDARY school students drawing on the inspirational life achievements of a Borders farmer Jim Clark and inspiring them to get involved in a career in the automotive industry.

Jim Clark

Jim Clark was born on the 4th of March 1936 in the village of Kilmany in Fife. His family were farmers and moved to Chirnside in the Scottish Borders when Jim was a small child. As a young man he struck up a friendship with a local motorsports enthusiast and driver by the name of Ian Scott-Watson. The Clark family did not want Jim competing but eventually Ian managed to enter Jim into a race far away from the prying eyes of Jim’s parents. His immense talent was immediately apparent.

He initially raced for the Border Reivers team and then went onto achieve huge success with Team Lotus under the management of Colin Chapman. Jim’s motor racing achievements are hard to sum up due to his great successes. However at the top level he won the 1964 British Saloon Car Championship (the forerunner of the modern British Touring Car Championship), the 1963 and 1965 Formula 1 World Championships and the 1965 Indianapolis 500.

Now more than 60 years since Jim’s first Formula 1 Championship victory we have an obligation to celebrate his huge successes and ensure that our young people who sadly never got the chance to experience his incredible talent for themselves do not forget him.

This is the mission of The Jim Clark Trust which has the goals of Heritage, Education and Inspiration. Set up as a registered charity in 2015 the Trust helped to transform the rather tired Jim Clark Room (trophy museum) in Duns to the hugely impressive Jim Clark Motorsport Museum on the same site.

The I.N.D.Y. 25 challenge has been created by the Institute of the Motor Industry in partnership with the Scottish Motor Trade Association, to highlight the motor industry as a potential career choice. This has been done with a series of distinct work programmes mapped to the Scottish Government’s Curriculum for Excellence, whilst ensuring that the components are fun, as well as practical, delivering genuine life skills to the participants at both primary and secondary school level.

The participants have the opportunity to learn about different roles available to young people across the motor industry. Taking part in the process will be

The Judging Panel

“Operating a busy independent dealership is a demanding job, as a family business we are proud of our commitment to our customers and staff alike, it is heartening to see a programme tailored for Scotland’s school students to introduce them to the employment opportunities within our sector. Being a rural business we firmly believe in community involvement and this programme brings benefits to anyone who becomes involved in the schools and

Maggie Barry is an award-winning journalist and the former Motoring Editor of Media Scotland.

John Cleland is a twotime BTCC Champion and is the Managing Director of Cleland Volvo in Galashiels.

I.N.D.Y. 25 is Supported by

fun and educational, and is a pivotal step towards fostering a new generation of skilled and enthusiastic professionals, and shaping the future leaders of the motor industry.

It is heartening to see that the competition has been dedicated to celebrate the late Jim Clark’s 1965 victory at the Indianapolis 500 by engaging with the Jim Clark Trust. Goodwood is very happy to support the I.N.D.Y. 25 challenge, and that this immersive experience will not only equip the participants with practical skills, but also ignite their passion for the motor industry and motorsport arena for many years to come.

Sandy Burgess Chief Executive of the SMTA 2015–2024 with over 50 years automotive industry experience.

Julie Viljoen is the Aftersales Performance Manager at Toyota (GB) with a vast experience in the motor industry

local businesses alike, having it aligned to the Jim Clark Trust in Duns is an added benefit highlighting a local hero and the motorsport world.

I am delighted to be able to support this project for the year ahead and look forward to seeing what our young people are capable of designing as the automotive transport solution for the future.”

Nicola Gilda is the Managing Director of Peoples Ford running Ford Dealerships in Edinburgh and Liverpool.

Sandy Denham is the Vice Chairman of The Scottish Association of Motorsports Clubs and former Chairman of The SMRC

The Duke of Richmond and Gordon Chairman Goodwood Group

Louise Aitken-Walker, MBE

MOT testing guide for test stations has been updated.

Authorised examiners

How to become an authorised examiner, what training you’ll need, why your authorisation might cease, the facilities, equipment and security you need to carry out MOT tests, your responsibilities as a tester.

APPLYING TO BECOME AN AUTHORISED EXAMINER

The application to become an AE must come from the legal entity that will be in full control of the testing operation. This will either be:

y a company

y a partnership

y a sole trader

IF A COMPANY IS IN CONTROL OF THE TESTING OPERATION

In the case of a company, the AE would be the company itself, not the directors or company management staff regardless of who owns the company and who its directors are. The application is to be signed by any person duly authorised by the company to do so.

Written confirmation that the person is duly authorised signed by an ‘officer of the company’ is required.

The directors must be recorded on the company’s register at Companies House.

If a partnership is in control of the testing operation

In the case of a partnership the AE would be the partnership itself, for example the partnership of F Bloggs and A N Other.

The application is to be signed by a person duly authorised by the partnership to do so.

Confirmation that the person is duly authorised in the form of a statement to that effect signed by each of the partners will normally be required together with a copy of the current partnership agreement.

If a sole trader is in control of the testing operation

In the case of a sole trader the AE would be the person making the application, who must sign it.

Any authorisation by DVSA allows only the legal entity authorised to provide the testing service. If a company is reconstituted in a way that leads to a new company registration and number being issued then it will be regarded as a new entity and a new authorisation is needed.

Application outcomes

Applications will be considered by DVSA following appropriate enquiries and inspections. Applicants will be informed in writing as to the outcome of DVSA’s considerations, which will be either: authorisation granted / approval in principle (AIP) / intention to refuse

Premises and equipment

DVSA must be notified of any changes to fixed equipment and/or equipment that needs to be connected (transfer results to the MOT testing service) using the ‘Change testing equipment’ link on the VTS page on the MOT testing service.

MOT connected equipment as specified on DVSA’s latest list of acceptable equipment must be fitted and used when:

y applying to open a new MOT centre

y reopen a closed MOT centre (this applies regardless of how long it’s been closed)

y a MOT centre changes from one authorised examiner to another

y replacing previously authorised equipment

y adding an extra test lane (where changes include the installation of equipment that needs to be connected)

Who needs connected equipment

Connected equipment is required to be fitted and used by a garage where approval is sought:

y for a garage that hasn’t previously conducted MOT tests (new)

y for a currently testing VTS that is undergoing a change of ownership (where the site is transferred to a different AE)

y •at a garage that has previously been a MOT test station but has ceased to test (regardless of how long ago it tested)

Appendix 7: Convictions and repute

Notifying DVSA of any convictions for individuals involved in the MOT scheme, how DVSA defines convictions and repute, what happens when DVSA are notified about convictions, what happens if you fail to notify DVSA of any convictions.

Within the MOT scheme, it is important that the DVSA protect the public, DVSA staff, the integrity of the MOT scheme and the Agency. This includes preventing entry and removing any individual who should not be involved in the MOT scheme.

Any individual involved in the MOT scheme must be free of conviction and be of good repute as defined within this appendix.

Any individual involved includes:

y AE principals (aeps)

y Authorised examiner designated managers (aedms)

y AE delegates (aeds),

y Site managers (sms)

y Site admin

y Testers

y AE consultants (AECs)

To participate in the MOT scheme any business, authorisation, site and any individuals involved must be of good repute, the DVSA may take into consideration any information available at any time, whether that is during an initial application or on going. The information available can be DVSA generated but can also be from other reputable sources of intelligence, such as but not limited to the police and other government bodies.

The DVSA interprets good repute as the ability to continually meet requirements and expected behaviours within the MOT scheme. Any individual must be a credible professional, any conduct or behaviour that could be

considered unacceptable in the eyes of the public or the DVSA may deem a person to no longer being of good repute.

It is the responsibility of all individuals involved to be aware of and adhere to the requirements. The core principles that DVSA consider underpin good repute are:

y Professionalism, the expected skills, judgement and behaviour of someone or a business carrying out a service/job

y Integrity, trust, being honest

y No negligence, failure to take proper care and manage

y Responsibility, accept the results of your actions

y Excellence, strive for quality

y No evidence of repeated criminality or short comings within any DVSA service or scheme

Fife Facts:

Easily accessible by road, rail and bus, the Kingdom of Fife is situated on Scotland’s East Coast.

The Fife Coastal Path is Scotland’s longest continuous coastal path at 117 miles.

Dunfermline, once an ancient capital, is Scotland’s newest city.

The Forth Bridge is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Dunfermline Abbey is the burial place of many Kings and Queens, including Robert the Bruce.

Stop. Look. Listen.

Gannets diving into the sea. Fishing boats landing their catch onto the quayside. Trains crossing the Victorian marvel of engineering that is the Forth Bridge. Families building sandcastles, paddling at the water’s edge and fishing in rock pools.

The sound of a cricket ball bouncing across the sand at Elie’s Ruby Bay. Paddleboarders drifting by. Horses galloping along a windswept beach. Waves crashing to the rocks at the bottom of a towering cliff.

Peace and quiet may envelop Fife Coastal Path but there’s always something happening.

Stride Out

Split into eight sections, there’s no need to undertake all 117 miles of the Fife Coastal path in one go.

Walk, run or cycle the route over a period of time. Or do one section, part of a section or the same mile every day, simply because you enjoy the view.

Looking for a challenge? Devote a week to taking this scenic coastal route all the way from Kincardine to Newburgh.

A Route That’s Been Walked For Centuries

Take a walk into history. Follow Fife Coastal Path. A clifftop castle - Newark Castle - that was the childhood home of one of Scotland’s kings. St Monans salt pans where a product once as prized as gold was made. The Lady’s Tower, now a ruin but once where a member of Fife’s aristocracy would slip out of her clothes and into the North Sea for a dip. A harbour tower where watch was kept for the ships of invading armies – and pirates.

Grand seafront houses where ship owners would look out for their vessels returning home. Fishing villages where, tragically, the fishing boats didn’t always return home. Train stations which brought Victorian holiday makers to the beach. And Wemyss Caves adorned with carvings by Picts, thousands of years ago.

fifecoastandcountrysidetrust.co.uk/ walks/fife-coastal-path/

Fife 191 Route

Take a trip on this wonderful route (around 191 miles in total) which will take you round the Kingdom of Fife. Along the way you’ll find picture-postcard fishing villages, magnificent castles and landmarks, stunning countryside, Instagrammable locations, world-famous golf courses, a spectacular coastline, delicious food, great places to stay, friendly locals and much, much more. www.fife191.com

LIFESTYLE

Party like a Viking in Shetland

For twenty-four hours, on the last Tuesday of January, Shetland’s capital, Lerwick is the location of Europe’s biggest annual fire festival – Lerwick Up Helly Aa. For the first time in three years, this superb spectacle will make a return on January 31, 2023. Visitors can expect almost 1,000 heavilydisguised torch-bearers, including the Jarl Squad Vikings, marching through the town and burning a full-size replica longship as part of this salute to Shetland history and Viking heritage. The procession and galley burning are followed by all-

night celebrations at the local halls where each squad will visit in turn and perform their unique act. 2023 will be a watershed year for Up Helly Aa with female participation welcomed for the first time.

Visitors who miss out on the action in Lerwick need not worry; the Shetland fire festival season runs from mid-January to late March, with twelve festivals in all, ranging from the South Mainland to Norwick in the north of Unst.

Shetland’s Viking Fire Festival, Ap Helly Aa, celebrates the end of winter and the return of the sun

Viking Graffiti in Orkney

Who knew that Vikings were into graffiti? The runes left within the ancient burial mound of Maeshowe in Orkney give a fascinating glimpse into the minds of the Norsemen who ruled the archipelago until 1469. Expect to giggle! Some of the inscriptions on the walls of this 5000-year-old masterpiece of Neolithic design and construction are reminiscent of the modern-day scribblings that can be found on bus shelters around the world today…

In Viking Footsteps

Both Shetland and Orkney were once Viking strongholds and the imprint the Norsemen left on the islands can be seen today in many ways – from place names to facets of the architecture. Here is just a selection of places to explore for anyone wanting to follow in Viking footsteps:

Viking Unst (Shetland): Unst, the most northerly island in Britain, is thought to be the first foot-fall of Vikings in the North Atlantic. There are the remains of at least 60 longhouses, the highest density of rural Viking sites anywhere in the world, including Scandinavia.

Jarlshof Prehistoric and Norse Settlement (Shetland): Discoveries made here include oval-shaped Bronze Age houses, an Iron Age broch and wheelhouses, Norse long houses, a medieval farmstead, and a laird’s house dating from the 1500s.

St Magnus Cathedral (Orkney): Britain’s most northerly Cathedral is set in the heart of Orkney’s capital Kirkwall. Known as the ‘Light in the North’, it was founded in 1137 by the Viking, Earl Rognvald, in honour of his uncle St Magnus.

Earl’s Bu and Church (Orkney): Visitors can trace the events of the great Orkneyinga Saga at the ruins of this round church and highstatus residence.

Maeshow on Orkney is the finest Neolithic building in North West Europe

Where Creativity Thrives…

Beyond fascinating history, stunning coastal scenery and an abundance of wildlife, both Orkney and Shetland have established a reputation for their thriving creative scenes. Follow the Craft Trail in Shetland and the Creative Trail in Orkney to discover workshops, open studios and truly unique souvenirs, inspired by the stunning land- and seascapes of the islands – from textiles to jewellery and furniture.

Visitors can also expect a feast for the ears –music runs in the blood of Shetlanders and Orcadians and both Shetland Folk Festival (27 to 30 April 2023) and Orkney Folk Festival (25 to 28 May 2023), just two of the many events in their musical calendars, promise an exciting mix of homegrown talent and visiting acts.

Adopt a SeaweedEating Sheep

Looking for the perfect Christmas gift for an animal lover? Milldam Croft offers the opportunity to adopt one of Orkney’s most famous inhabitants – the seaweed-eating sheep of North Ronaldsay. Owners Olly and Siân specialise in rare and native breeds and believe in farming in ways that regenerate the environment and habitats in the area. Adopting one of the cuddly sheep will help grow North Ronaldsay’s first forever flock, as well as supporting the Rare Breeds Survival Trust, who work to conserve the UK’s native breeds. A standard adoption pack costs £25 and comes with a personalised adoption certificate, North Ronaldsay sheep factsheet, photo of the chosen sheep, quarterly email updates with video content for one year, a handmade woolly gift and the opportunity to come and meet the adopted sheep.

North Ronaldsay sheep are noted for their diet of seaweed

Tech Scene

Tech Scene is brought to you with the support of the IVS 360 OEM-Trained Master Technicians at OPUS IVS and TMD Friction to whom we are very grateful.

Here we highlight some of the more common recent faults that our partners have come across in their workshops and of course provide you with the appropriate fixes.

Mercedes E-Class 2013 Automatic High Beam Assist function inoperable

Company: Marthinsen Bil & Lakk AS

IVS 360TM Technician: Mickey

Make: Mercedes E-Class 2013

Model Year: 2013

PROBLEM:

Automatic High Beam Assist function

CAUSE:

Wrong camera fitted to windscreen

IVS 360TM REPAIR ADVICE:

Looking at the issue with the Automatic High Beam Assist function not working, is due to the wrong windscreen camera fitted.

From the information supplied: The camera with part number A000 905 0338 was installed but looking at the Mercedes parts catalogue A000 900 6704 should be installed . Camera part number A000 905 0338 is a multifunction purpose camera (large mounting plate) and only installed in Mercedes vehicles

117 A0009050338 MULTI-PURPOSE CAMERA

156 A0009050338 MULTI-PURPOSE CAMERA

166 A0009050338 MULTI-PURPOSE CAMERA

172 A0009050338 MULTI-PURPOSE CAMERA

176 A0009050338 MULTI-PURPOSE CAMERA

218 A0009006704 CONTROL UNIT, COMPLETE

242 A0009006704 CONTROL UNIT, COMPLETE

246 A0009006704 CONTROL UNIT, COMPLETE

447 A0009006704 CONTROL UNIT, COMPLETE

The windscreen seems to have been replaced from the information supplied.

As the windscreen has been replaced, it’s possible the new Mercedes windscreen was manufactured incorrectly with the wrong camera fitting plate. And, looking at the image of the camera’s, the image shows an extra parts sticker which indicates the sensor has been replaced.

NEXT STEPS PROVIDED:

PROVIDED BY

204 A0009050338 MULTI-PURPOSE CAMERA

207 A0009050338 MULTI-PURPOSE CAMERA

216 A0009050338 MULTI-PURPOSE CAMERA

218 A0009050338 MULTI-PURPOSE CAMERA

221 A0009050338 MULTI-PURPOSE CAMERA

231 A0009050338 MULTI-PURPOSE CAMERA

242 A0009050338 MULTI-PURPOSE CAMERA

246 A0009050338 MULTI-PURPOSE CAMERA

Camera part number A000 900 6704 is a mono camera (small mounting plate) and is installed in Mercedes vehicles

166 A0009006704 CONTROL UNIT, COMPLETE

207 A0009006704 CONTROL UNIT, COMPLETE

212 A0009006704 CONTROL UNIT, COMPLETE

Check if Mercedes have a new windscreen in stock and check if it has the small or large mounting camera plate .

“Thank you for your support on my Mercedes E-Class 2013! As per your instructions I checked the windscreen and multi-function camera, as the Automatic High Beam Assist function did not work. You concluded that the camera was wrong for this car, as well as the windscreen.

This car has been to 2 different Mercedes workshops, where calibration of the camera was tried without success. I ordered the correct windscreen according to the OE number, as well as the correct camera (mono camera). I

then performed an ADAS Calibration, and the Opus IVS Rap team assisted with me with software update. Now everything works perfectly! You are a skilled technician Mickey!

Without your help it would’ve taken me ages to discover that the issue with the Automatic High Beam Assist function was due to the wrong windscreen camera being fitted.”

~ Jarle Marin, Marthinsen Bil & Lakk AS

FOR INFO:

The camera with part number A000 905 0338 in this case was installed but looking at the Mercedes parts catalogue A000 900 6704 is the correct part.

VAG MQB Heating Deficiencies DRAFT UK

AFFECTED VEHICLES:

Audi A3 (2013 - 2019) | 8V Chassis

Volkswagen Golf (2013 - 2019) | MK 7

Seat Leon (2013 - 2019) | 5F Chassis

Skoda Octavia (2013 - 2019) | 7N Chassis

SYMPTOMS:

Cabin heating not getting hot or intermittent heat.

POSSIBLE CAUSES:

Dirt/silicate particles in the cooling circuit can cause the heat exchanger to block up.

Contaminated coolant in reservoir.

REPAIR STEPS:

1. Flush the system first using the following steps.

2. Flush out the heat exchanger in the opposite direction to flow (max pressure of 2bar)

3. Flush out the cooling system with the cleaning kit G 052 525 A3 with the following steps.

4.  Drain the cooling system once the engine has reached operating temperature where the thermostat has opened.

5. Clean out the heat exchanger by removing both hoses on the bulkhead

for the heat exchanger, blow air through the bottom of the 2 pipes (opposite direction to flow with Max 2 bar of air) to clear out the coolant. Refit back onto correct pipes.

6. Fill the coolant system with 3 litres of the cleaning fluid and coolant to the correct mixture ratio.

7. Run the engine for 90 minutes.

8. Drain the cleaning fluid out.

9. Fill the cooling system with 3 litres of the neutraliser and coolant to the correct mixture ratio.

10. Run the engine for 15 minutes.

11. Drain the neutralising fluid out.

12. Fill the cooling system with coolant to the correct mixture ratio.

13. Run the engine for 10 minutes.

14. Drain the coolant.

15. If the coolant reservoir has been heavily contaminated or sign of silica gel then replace it.

16. Fill the cooling system with coolant to the correct mixture and content.

Fight the fakes: The importance of choosing a reputable brake brand

Whilst going cheap on any vehicle part is never advised, choosing a brake brand purely on price can have serious consequences. Brakes are safety critical. If a price is too good to be true, then do not risk it. With the rise in counterfeit brake products entering the global aftermarket, friction manufacturers have had to become even more vigilant in helping customers to spot the fakes. However, it’s not just the product pirates that customers need to be aware of –there have been a number of cases of cheaper brake pads not meeting quality standards.

Scott Irwin, Head of Technical Training at Textar, a leading global manufacturer of brake friction products, advises his top tips for brake choosing a reputable brake brand.

THE DANGERS OF CHEAP BRAKE PADS

In the UK, a 2023 DVSA market surveillance unit investigation tested eight aftermarket brake pads with regards to performance and labelling in accordance with the European’s ECE R90 regulations. Three of the eight brands failed to meet the necessary requirements and were instructed to withdraw the parts from sale until the necessary approvals had been granted.

The ECE R90 regulation tests the performance of aftermarket products against the OE, where a tolerance of +/15% is accepted for a product to pass. As a global OE friction manufacturer with a commitment to only producing the best quality products, all Textar aftermarket pads are tested to OE standards, going above and beyond the minimum R90 requirements to always ensure consistently high-quality friction that performs well.

At a time where businesses and consumers alike are trying to reduce

costs, it can be tempting to choose a cheaper brand. At Textar, we understand the need for tiered brands based on different consumers’ budgets and vehicle requirements. That is why Textar’s parent company TMD Friction has a wide range of brands to suit every vehicle and driver’s needs, but never compromising on the quality. Every part still goes through our rigorous testing and must meet the company’s high standards before being released to the market.

BRAKE PAD BUYING TIPS

The need to keep costs to a minimum will more than likely see product pirates seize the opportunity and take advantage of the situation to push their cheaper products. For this reason, distributors and garages must remain vigilant. Only work with a trusted supplier or manufacturer, do not source parts from unknown or online sites just because they have a good deal or offer on. If you’re based in Europe, check the product supplied has an ECE R90, which can be found on the product or packaging. Do also research the manufacturer to ensure they are ECE R90 compliant or ask your supplier if the parts being supplied meet the ECE R90 requirements before agreeing to buy; this goes for online sales too. If there are still doubts, call the manufacturer’s technical support team for the required information.

Trade loyalty is an important part for Textar. Only qualified partners are allowed to distribute our brands. If our products are offered outside the known supply chains, whether in wholesalers, retailers or online, scepticism should be applied, especially if the brake pads or discs are traded at particularly attractive prices. Our products offer good value for money, but they can never be cheap. This is not possible when you consider the annual investments of 30 million euros into R&D to develop friction products precisely

matched to the respective vehicle, as well as extensive testing with test rigs and 38,000 hours of test driving on the road every year, all manufactured to Textar’s high technical standards. Particularly lowpriced offers from unknown suppliers should therefore be avoided at all costs.

HOW TO SPOT A COUNTERFEIT TEXTAR PRODUCT

TMD Friction’s premium OE Brand, Textar, has a renowned reputation for quality, performance and comfort. However, as with many other superior brands, this not only makes Textar an attractive choice for customers, but also to product counterfeiters. With inferior materials almost exclusively used within these counterfeit products, it drastically increases the risk of serious accidents. This dangerous problem is not limited to some markets; product pirates are active in all parts of the world. Textar has therefore invested globally in modern security systems and packaging that enable the customer to check the authenticity of the product with a few simple steps, as well as making life more difficult for product counterfeiters.

The crucial factor when developing security measures was to ensure it is available and achievable at all market levels - i.e. in the trade, in the workshop and in the DIY sector - to make it as easy as possible to detect counterfeits. One core element is the environmentallyfriendly cardboard packaging, which cannot be opened without leaving visible traces. This is because all flaps are firmly glued or sealed. Depending on the application, the packaging shows a stylised graphic of a car or a truck. The customer should therefore pay attention to the integrity of the packaging and whether the graphic can also be assigned to the product application car or truck.

THE TEXTAR PRORIGINAL SEAL

The packaging is sealed at the opening with the special Textar PROriginal seal to verify the authenticity of the product. An opened seal can no longer be closed, meaning an original Textar product will always have an undamaged seal. On the back of the seal, there is a QR code and a 12-digit, alphanumeric code, which can be easily scanned with the Textar app or the alphanumeric code can be entered into the dedicated Textar website www. fightingthefakes.com. Customers receive immediate feedback as to whether they have an original Textar product or if the purchased product could be a fake. If a fake product is suspected, Textar will contact the buyer.

THE FINAL WORD:

Choose high-quality brake pads

With the rise in counterfeit brake parts and the serious consequences they pose to the safety of drivers, passengers and road users, it is more important than ever to check the quality and authenticity of products purchased. It is recommended all customers take advantage of the quick and simple quality checks introduced by Textar to guarantee product authenticity, and to ensure the safety of their customers. For all TMD Friction brands, if you are concerned you may have purchased a counterfeit product, contact our technical support team who will be happy to help.

And remember, brakes are safety critical. You get what you pay for. Do you really want to risk it?