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Auto Body Shops Asked to Submit Experiences with SRS Inspections by John Yoswick

I-CAR is seeking help from collision repairers as it reviews OEM safety inspections related to secondary restraint systems (SRS). Scott VanHulle, manager of I-CAR’s Repairability Technical Support and OEM Technical Relations, said the project grew out of a virtual summit the training organization held in March with 150 shops, insurers and automakers. The discussion centered around whether the industry had adequate information about what inspections

were required and when, what the inspections should “look like” and the “why” behind the inspections. The OEMs may not be aware of shortcomings in their procedures related to this, VanHulle said, because traditionally much of the feedback they receive is from dealership service departments that aren’t dealing with collision-damaged vehicles. I-CAR hopes to develop industry-vetted best practices related to the inspections, provide feedback to the automakers about any potential repair information improvements See SRS Inspections, Page 16

39 YEARS

AUTOBODYNEWS.COM Vol. 10 / Issue 10 / July 2021

Toyota Says It’s Still Too Soon to Focus on Electric Cars by Steven Loveday, Inside EVs

Toyota continues to assert its vehicle lineup will offer a variety of options over the next 30 years, a stance it reiterated at the company’s annual shareholders meeting.

Toyota has been pushing hybrids and hydrogen for years, and it still insists it’s not time to focus on

electric cars. An investor asked during the meeting why Toyota, the world’s largest automaker, has a different view from that of Honda. The competing Japanese brand has set a goal to have a fully electric lineup by 2040. Toyota Director Shigeki Terashi, who joined the call from Toyota’s Aichi headquarters, reportedly replied, “It’s too early to concentrate on one option.” Terashi added between now and 2050, the brand needs to offer mulSee Focus on Electric Cars, Page 16

Shop Strategies: Award-Winning Fix Auto Chicago Body Shop Owner Shares Best Business Practices

Korte’s Collision in MI Gives Away $4,000 in Repairs to Honor Milestone Achievement

by Stacey Phillips

by Zach Russell, Press & Guide

As a child, Peter Reszczynski recalls often spending time at an auto body shop located on the northwest side of Chicago. In 1984, he started a business with his parents, Import Auto Repair. When they retired, Reszczynski took over as owner and has managed the 9,500-square foot facility since then with a team of 22. In 2014, Reszczynski aligned his shop with the body shop network Fix Auto USA, becoming Fix Auto Chicago. Reszczynski also joined the

Since opening in 2003, Korte’s Collision has served the auto body repair needs of Dearborn Heights, MI. In their 18th year of business, owners Lisa and Matt Korte and their team recently passed the milestone of the 10,000th repair and wanted to give back to the community to celebrate by offering complimentary work. The winners of the giveaway say the free repairs couldn’t have come at a better time. “I’ve been in the auto repair business since 1984,” Matt Korte said. “Lisa had thought of doing a giveaway for our 10,000th repair and doing something for the people. We come from a Christian background and wanted to give back.” The milestone repair winner was Mike McRae, whose daughter, Brooke, a nursing student at Wayne State University, needed a repair on the front bumper of her red Ford Fusion after getting in an accident. He said he didn’t realize he had won the

Peter Reszczynski, award-winning owner of Fix Auto Chicago.

network’s Franchise Advisory Board, representing the Midwest region. Since then, Fix Auto USA has named Reszczynski the brand’s See Shop Strategies, Page 18

giveaway until after the work was complete.

Mike McRae, right, and his daughter Brooke stand with the owners and staff of Korte’s Collision after they were given a $4,000 auto repair for free for being the 10,000th customer. Credit: Zach Russell, for MediaNews Group

“Times have been hard financially, especially for my daughter, who was going to have to pay out of pocket for the repair,” McRae said. “I come in to pay, and then tell me ‘it’s all set.’ I couldn’t believe it. She and I both needed help and as fate would have it, it was huge. It was such a humbling experience. It made me feel great because of their See Korte’s Collision, Page 6

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CONTENTS

FREE 4x Monthly E-Newsletter. Subscribe Today! www.autobodynews.com

AUTOBODY ‘Breaking Barriers’: Michigan High School Student is Only Girl in Male-Dominated Program but That’s Not Her Focus ��8 AASP-MN Executive Director Announces

Total Losses and Phone Skills at ASA’s X50 Conference ��30 Yoswick - HLDI Shows Impact on Claims from Auto-Emergency Braking, Changes to Powertrains ��38

Retirement ��10 Broadway Automotive Announces Construction of New Collision Center, Largest in Midwest ��6 CARSTAR Tim’s Collision, GEICO Donate Refurbished Vehicle to Deserving Cleveland Recipient ��10 Chevy Corvette Production Halt to Continue Beyond June 1 ��10 Crash Champions Hosts NABC First

NATIONAL Auto Body Shops Asked to Submit Experiences with SRS Inspections ��1 Auto Care Association’s Auto Care Caucus Renewed with 117th U.S. Congress ��32 BMW 3-Series Vehicles Recalled Over Explosive Airbags ��44 Boyd Group Has Slower Start to 2021 ��40

Responder Emergency Extrication

CarAdvise, Affirm to Offer Long-Term Payment ��20

Event in Davenport, IA ��20

CCC Information Services is Now CCC

Ford Donates $250K to Support Minority

Intelligent Solutions ��43

Students Entering STEM Careers in

CIC to Hold In-Person and Virtual Event ��12

Southeast Michigan ��4

Cox Automotive Study Examines Best

Ford Renames MI Plant to Reflect Expanded Production Line, Commitment to Electrification ��15 J.D. Power Ranks Shelter Insurance No. 1 in Central Region for 4th Time ��23 Korte’s Collision in MI Gives Away $4,000 in Repairs to Honor Milestone Achievement ��1 Michigan 51st in Nationwide COVID-19 Recovery, Study Says ��12 Ohio Teen Studying Auto Collision Repair ��10 Root, Inc. Announces Entry into Wisconsin ��6 Stellantis Kicks Off Detroit’s Greenest Initiative, $1 Million Community Initiative to Boost City’s East Side ��14 TecMD Provides Mobile Services to Michigan Auto Body Shops ��20 Times Are A-Changin: Minnesota Set to Become 15th Clean Car State ��23 U.S. Marine Corps Veteran Receives Donated Vehicle at Celebration ��22

Practices of Dealerships Thriving in

Anderson - Scanning—It’s Not Just for DTCs Anymore (And Never Was) ��36 Attanasio - Painter/Car Restorer Miguel Perez Produces a Podcast and Creates a Brand ��42 Phillips - Jake Rodenroth of asTech on Vehicle Tech’s Relation to Collision Repair Diagnostics ��34 Sisk - Collision Training on ADAS, EVs,

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

Serving Illinois, Iowa, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, Ohio, South Dakota, Wisconsin and adjacent metro areas. Autobody News is a monthly publication for the autobody industry. Permission to reproduce in any form the material published in Autobody News must be obtained in writing from the publisher. ©2021 Adamantine Media LLC.

American Icon Automotive Finishes �� 14

Kia Wholesale Parts Dealers �� 37

Audi Wholesale Parts Dealers �� 35

Laurel Auto Group of Westmont �� 31

AutoNation Collision Parts �� 2

LKQ Corporation �� 5

Axalta Coating Systems �� 8

Luther Bloomington Acura-Subaru �� 33

BMW Wholesale Parts Dealers �� 39

Luther Kia of Bloomington �� 22

Car-O-Liner �� 9

McGrath City Hyundai �� 27

Certified Automotive Parts Association �� 18

Mercedes-Benz of Louisville �� 14

Classic BMW MINI �� 26

Mercedes-Benz Wholesale Parts Dealers �� 40

Classic Chevrolet �� 21

MINI Wholesale Parts Dealers �� 38

Classifieds �� 46

MOPAR Wholesale Parts Dealers ��28-29

Columbia Hyundai �� 22

Nissan/Infiniti Wholesale Parts Dealers �� 45

Eckler’s Automotive �� 15

Patrick Hyundai �� 34

Equalizer Industries, Inc �� 16

SATA Dan-Am Company �� 11

Ford Wholesale Parts Dealers �� 36

Sears Imported Autos, Inc �� 26

Gandrud Parts Center �� 17

Shaheen Chevrolet Parts Warehouse �� 23

Ganley Westside Subaru �� 12

Sherwin-Williams Automotive Finishes �� 7

GM Wholesale Parts Dealers �� 41

Sorbothane Soft-Blow Mallet �� 6

Hawkinson Kia �� 20

Spanesi Americas �� 13

Honda-Acura Wholesale Parts Dealers ��24-25

Subaru Wholesale Parts Dealers �� 44

Hyundai Wholesale Parts Dealers �� 43

Sweeney Chevrolet-Buick-GMC �� 10

Insta Finish �� 48

The Sharpe Collection of Automobiles �� 19

Kelly BMW �� 32

Willis Volvo �� 22

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

an Accelerated Digital Landscape ��47 Ford Partners with Mile Auto ��43 Ford Reports Huge Growth in EV Sales, Best May for SUV Sales Since 2003 ��47 GM Vehicles Recalled for Airbag Warning Lights ��32 Hertz’s Reorganization Plan OK’d by Bankruptcy Court ��44 I-CAR Supports Inter-Industry’s First OEM Glass Repair Certification Program ��44 Lamborghini Outlines Massive $1.8 Billion Plan to Shift to Electrification ��46 MSO Symposium Announces Format ��47 New Research Shows Specialty-Equipment Industry Largely Saw Sales Growth Over Past Year ��4 P&C Insurers Stuck at Providing Only ‘Good Enough’ Digital User Experience: J.D. Power ��45 Research Shows Auto Care Industry Expected

COLUMNISTS

INDEX OF ADVERTISERS

REGIONAL

to Reach $477B by 2024 ��40 SafeAuto Insurance to Join Allstate ��15 Toyota Introduces Data Privacy Portal ��16 Toyota Says It’s Still Too Soon to Focus on Electric Cars ��1 U.S. House Members Advocate for RPM Act ��36 Will We Have Enough Juice to Get Us to an All-EV World by 2035? ��26

Kia of Lansing �� 27

autobodynews.com / JULY 2021 AUTOBODY NEWS 3

Ford Donates $250K to Support Minority Students Entering STEM Careers in Southeast Michigan Ford is donating $250,000 to the National Action Council for Minorities in Engineering (NACME) to create the Detroit Area Bridge Scholars Program, intensifying ongoing efforts to reach underrepresented students and prepare them for successful academic and professional careers in STEM fields. Underrepresented students often face a trifecta of obstacles to overcome on their way to earning a degree in STEM fields: the overwhelming cost of school tuition, lack of preparation for university-level academic courses and little guidance on how to translate academic skills to the real world. The new donation from Ford helps NACME address all these issues, enabling the organization to collaborate with one of its 36 university partners, University of Michigan, to create a digital bootcamp and mentoring program that will provide high school students with scholarships, educational courses and mentorship opportunities. The program plans to engage 60 students across Southeast Michigan before they enter 11th grade and support their education through their first year of college, culminating with an opportunity to earn an internship at Ford. “The number of ambitious, capable students the STEM field loses every year due to lack of funding and support is simply unacceptable,” said Ken Washington, chief technology officer, Ford Motor Company. “Ford is

committed to building bridges so that people from all walks of life have the chance to be successful in STEM—and make a difference at places like Ford by changing the way we move.” The new three-year program from NACME will be focused on recruiting students in Metro Detroit, where the organization already works alongside the University of Michigan to provide students with the necessary tools to succeed academically and gain admission to college. “Ford Motor Company’s support of the Southeast Michigan Pathway to Engineering program is transformative,” said Michele Lezama, NACME president and CEO. “It will create meaningful opportunities for talented students to qualify for collegiate programs in engineering or computer science, fields that are a competitive need in the United States. We are extremely grateful to Ford for its leadership on the decision to strategically invest in our nation’s talent.” Created by the Ford Research and Innovation Center team that helps organize the company’s wide-ranging STEM efforts, the 2021 STEM Signature Program aims to make a significant impact on existing educational programs. The group expanded its support in 2021 to eligible programs that aim to generate a meaningful way for students to experience STEM fields and increase access to underserved communities.

In addition to funding, Ford provides program engagement as well as student mentorship.

Founded in 1974, NACME nonprofit has grown to be the largest provider of college scholarships for underrepresented minorities pursuing degrees at schools of engineering. NACME works with other organizations to also provide resources and opportunities for high-achieving minority college students to produce well-qualified candidates capable of succeeding in engineering and computer science. Building Bridges to the Future In addition to providing scholarships, the Detroit Area Bridge Scholars Program will support students in several ways, offering them meaningful experiences that will inspire them to pursue a career in STEM fields. Through their last two years in high school, the program will offer engineering “bridge” courses to properly prepare students for college. Students will be recruited to participate in the University of Michigan’s Introduction to Technology and Engineering program,

where they will study math, engineering concepts, technical communication skills and academic study skills in regularly scheduled classes. In addition to the core academic courses, MITE students will have the opportunity to interact with engineering role models through field trips, speakers and enrichment activities conducted by university faculty, staff and students. Before their senior year, students will also participate in the Summer College Engineering Exposure Program, an 11-day residential program that introduces students to various engineering disciplines. Students will also be paired with an engineering mentor—Ford employees, NACME alumni and University of Michigan engineering alumni—to meet with on a bi-monthly basis. NACME and Ford will work together to create meaningful interactions between mentors and students to demonstrate how engineering skills can be applied in professional settings. Additionally, NACME will hold bi-monthly webinars centered around college preparation, including university applications, financial aid, study skills and SAT/ACT prep resources. NACME support about 1,000 students each year, matriculating with renewing scholarships every four years. There are roughly 12,000 NACME alum across the U.S. Source: Ford

New Research Shows Specialty-Equipment Industry Largely Saw Sales Growth Over Past Year by Kyle Cheng, SEMA

While the past year has been disruptive to many sectors of the economy, the specialty-equipment industry has largely weathered the pandemic. Data in the new “SEMA State of the Industry—Spring 2021” report shows that while some companies saw sales declines, the majority saw growth over the past

year. Some, especially manufacturers, even report record sales. And that’s not surprising, as government data shows consumers are spending more on their parts and their vehicles than ever

4 JULY 2021 AUTOBODY NEWS / autobodynews.com

before. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, retail sales at motor-vehicle and parts dealers in April 2021 hit $139.5 billion—its highest level on record. Despite the pandemic, consumers continue to work on their cars. The industry is equally optimistic for the future as well. Most companies expect sales growth over the coming year as the U.S. returns to more normalcy.

To learn more about the current state of the specialty-equipment industry and outlook for the rest of 2021, download the new “SEMA State of the Industry—Spring 2021” report today at www.sema.org/research. Source: SEMA

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Continued from Cover

Korte’s Collision

Broadway Automotive Announces Construction of New Collision Center, Largest in Midwest

generosity, and it saved her a lot of money.” The Korte Collision team fixed the front of the car that had been damaged in the accident, as well as one of the rear doors that was repaired previously, but showed signs of failing. The workers themselves suggested repairing the door, saying “if this is the giveaway repair, we’re going to do it right.” The free repairs totaled $4,000. “We knew it was a tough time for them, and it’s special that they were our 10,000th repair order,” Korte said. “I can’t say enough about them as people and how much they appreciated it.” McRae said the shop “went the extra mile.” “It’s a big blessing to us,” he said. “I don’t know how we would have repaired it otherwise. I can’t think of a greater story.” The shop is located at 27100 Van Born Road, Dearborn Heights, MI.

To house the all-new Broadway Collision Center, Broadway Automotive purchased the property and building at 2650 S. Ashland Ave in Ashwaubenon, WI, adjacent to its Chevrolet and Volkswagen dealerships at 2700 Ashland Avenue.

Broadway collision center

The renovated facility will be dedicated to collision repair, including drive-thru estimating, 42 repair bays and six down-draft paint booths, allowing collision personnel the space and technology to professionally and quickly repair vehicles. Broadway’s new collision facility will double the size of its current Ashland Avenue collision operations, and will be the largest in the Midwest.

Root, Inc. Announces Entry into Wisconsin Root, Inc., the parent company of Root Insurance Company, announced its entry into Wisconsin. Root is now available to the 4.3 million drivers in Wisconsin, making it the company’s 31st state. A fellow Midwesterner, Root was founded in Columbus, OH, and is thrilled to be available in more Great Lakes states. Root Insurance is founded on the power of data. The insurance innovator is committed to unbreaking an archaic industry using modern, mobile-first technology that brings a best-in-class experience to drivers. The Root app uses the technology in drivers’ smartphones to measure how they actually drive, making driving score the No. 1 factor in a Root car insurance quote, not discriminatory demographic factors such as age, ZIP code or credit score. With Root, drivers are in control and able to manage everything through the app, like choosing coverages and filing a claim in minutes. “We’re fundamentally changing and building a better car insurance experience,” says Root CEO

Alex Timm. “This is an exciting and pivotal point for us as we expand our footprint to bring affordable, easy and fair car insurance to Wisconsin’s drivers.” Wisconsinites can sign up through the Root app in less than a minute. After signing up, they’ll begin their test drive, which usually takes a few weeks. Root measures driving habits like focused driving, smooth braking and gentle turning to determine who is a safe driver and who isn’t. So good Wisconsin drivers could save more with Root. If you’re in the Dairyland State and interested in learning more, visit www.joinroot.com. To download the Root app, visit the Apple Store or Google Play. To find everywhere else Root is available, visit the website and filter by state.

Another portion of the building will house dealership administrative personnel.

“Increasing our quick service capabilities and adding manufacturer-trained technicians to meet our growing customer base and their maintenance needs is paramount.” — Michael Cuene “In addition to creating a stateof-the-art collision repair facility, moving our current collision operations will open up much needed space for our Chevrolet and Volkswagen operations, allowing us to grow these business segments as well,” said Michael Cuene, co-owner and managing partner, Broadway Automotive. Volkswagen facility upgrades will more than double the current service area size, while the Chevrolet customer lounge and restroom area will triple in size. “We are also very, very excited to significantly expand and upgrade our Volkswagen and Chevrolet cus-

nience means no appointment necessary. Increasing our quick service capabilities and adding manufacturer-trained technicians to meet our growing customer base and their maintenance needs is paramount.” Construction will begin in June, with Broadway’s new collision center scheduled for opening by year end. Customer lounge areas are expected to be completed by the end of November. Broadway’s collision repair facilities on Military Avenue in Green Bay and on Grand Avenue in Manitowoc will continue to operate at their current locations. Source: Broadway Automotive

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‘Breaking Barriers’: Michigan High School Student is Only Girl in Male-Dominated Program but That’s Not Her Focus by Keely Lovern, 13 On Your Side News

The auto body industry and working with cars has traditionally been seen as a male-dominated trade. But for one Ottawa County, Michigan, teen, she’s breaking barriers, not only as the lone girl in her tech center repair class, but also as one of the standout students in the program. Eva Mokma is a senior at Zeeland High School, and this year, she’s made a real impact in school and in her community. Mokma is the only girl in her auto body repair program at Careerline Tech Center. And in less than a year, she’s also one of their most accomplished students. “I just wanted to learn something new,” Mokma said. “I really didn’t know anything about it, I just wanted to try it and see where it went.” And it went far—fast—but Mokma said she was rarely intimidated. “It was a little scary when I started,” she said. “There were like 20 guys in our class and I didn’t know any of them.”

But Mokma was focused. “You just put your head down and work. You’re not there for too much more than working,” she said. And working hard is something her auto body repair teacher, Rob Corrigan, said Mokma does best, no matter what. “I think there’s a perception that this is a male trade,” Corrigan said. “That cars are associated with guys.” “The great thing about Eva is

“It should be something that you see every day, and really something we see all the time,” she added. Dave Searles is the director of Careeline Tech Center. He said he’s impressed with Mokma for several reasons. “I think she got a lot of attention because she’s a female in a traditionally male-dominated occupation,” Searles said. “But the reality is that she’s just really good at her craft.

“I don’t really think anything different of me being a girl in the auto body industry,” — Eva Mokma that she’s never been afraid to try new things,” Corrigan added. “And she’s always asking the right questions.” But for Mokma, she’s never seen it as an accomplishment just to be a girl working on cars. “I don’t really think anything different of me being a girl in the auto body industry,” she said. “I think females in any male-dominated industry should be normal.

“So not only is she a female in a male-dominated industry, the more important thing is that she’s really talented,” Searles added. Mokma was one of only three students in her class to earn an excellence award for academics and performance in her trade, and she’s already landed a full-time job right after graduation at Barber Ford. “My students earn by their

grade, how they’re here every day and how they treat others,” said Corrigan, “And Eva has all of it.” Corrigan added Mokma is also a great representation of the tech center and what they can offer students. “It’s a great option if you’re not looking for a college option,” said Mokma. “It’s a lot easier to get into a trade and get immersed into it.” Searles thinks Mokma represents this immersion and success perfectly. “A tech school education doesn’t mean college or no college,” he said. “It’s just a non-traditional pathway to education.” Mokma’s mentors say she is what their school is all about, and she’s made herself a success by working hard and never putting barriers on herself. “I just wanted to try it,” Mokma said. “I just really wanted to see what it was all about, and learn how to use some tools and how to do some new stuff.” “I have a daughter,” said Corrigan. “And I hope that she has the same opportunities and just dives right in and is not afraid just like Eva.”

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CARSTAR Tim’s Collision, GEICO Donate Refurbished Vehicle to Deserving Cleveland Recipient Recently, a deserving Cleveland, OH, recipient experienced a life-changing event—the presentation of a vehicle to provide them independence and the ability to work and take care of their family—thanks to CARSTAR Tim’s Collision and car donor GEICO, along with the National Auto Body Council (NABC) Recycled Rides program. The presentation was held at the CARSTAR Tim’s Collision in Twinsburg, OH. The deserving recipient was selected by Volunteers of America. “We could not think of anyone more deserving than this Navy veteran who put his life on the line for us,” said Jeremy Orsky, owner of CARSTAR Tim’s Collision. “We were excited that this gifting to him fell on Memorial Day weekend. His daughter depends on him and now he has a vehicle to get to and from work and help his kids.” The recipient, William Jones Jr., received a 2014 Chevy

Malibu donated by GEICO and refurbished by the team at CARSTAR Tim’s Collision. “I can’t believe it,” said Jones. “I am so appreciative. This will give me the ability to go visit my family and get back and forth to work.” NABC Recycled Rides is a unique program in which businesses representing all facets of the collision repair industry team up to repair and donate vehicles to individuals and families in need of reliable transportation. Since the inception of the NABC Recycled Rides program in 2007, members of the NABC have donated more than 2,500 vehicles valued at more than $36 million. Additional partners in the NABC Recycled Rides presentation included 1-800 Charity Cars, Volunteers of America and Enterprise Rental Car. Source: NABC

www.autobodynews.com

Chevy Corvette Production Halt to Continue Beyond June 1 by Jacob Oliva, Motor1.com

Ever since production started, the mid-engine Chevrolet Corvette has faced multiple hurdles along the way. And when we say hurdles, we mean production halts for various reasons, the latest of which was through the last week of May, due to supply issues not related to the global microchip shortage. It was initially reported production would resume June 1. According to Chevy spokesperson Trevor Thompkins: “Due to a temporary parts supply issue, I can confirm that Bowling Green Assembly (KY) will not run production the week of May 24. Our supply chain, manufacturing and engineering teams are working closely with our supply base to mitigate any further impact on production, and we expect the plant to resume normal operations on Tuesday, June 1.” However, it looks like this Corvette C8 production halt will be extended for another week, GM Authority has learned. This was

confirmed to the publication by Thompkins, still connected to the temporary supply issue. To recall, a previous production pause happened March 1-5 due to lack of availability of transmission components. Before that, there was a stoppage from Jan. 29 to Feb. 16 for reasons still not related to the global chip shortage. Truth be told, the Bowling Green factory in Kentucky has a lot of things on its hands right now, being the exclusive assembly plant for the Corvette since the ‘80s. Apart from the highly-coveted Corvette C8 Stingray, derivatives of the mid-engine ‘Vette are also currently in development, with pre-production units of the Corvette Z06 being built there since April. With the prototype already being tested on public roads early this year, the production version could debut this July. Then again, the current production woes aren’t working for the Bowtie brand and could alter the timeline. As always, we’ll keep an ear to the ground for further developments so watch this space.

10 JULY 2021 AUTOBODY NEWS / autobodynews.com

Ohio Teen Studying Auto Collision Repair by Matthew Cubberley, Sentinel-Tribune

Bella Eye is a self-proclaimed addict when it comes to learning. In fact, her quest to learn more than she previously thought possible is what drove her to pursue a career in automotive collision repair.

Bella Eye will be graduating from Penta’s automotive collision repair program. Credit: Photo by J.D. Pooley/Sentinel-Tribune

“I have an addiction to learning. As soon as I found out I could learn more than just math and science, I was all for it.” In terms of her experience at Penta Career Center in Perrysburg, OH, Eye has appreciated the difference between learning a trade and receiving a college preparato-

ry education. “It’s been different. The fact the I come into school and if I want to learn something new and that I have something on my mind that I want to learn, I can do it.” Eye also understands the importance and timeliness of her having learned a trade. “It’s important to me because everybody needs jobs. The fact that trades are so in high demand, mine as well, shoot for it.” Eye’s future goals include attending Owens Community College, where she plans to receive a refinishing certificate, which she will then “either become an estimator or keep painting [vehicles.]” As an estimator, she would report to the scene of an accident to decipher if a vehicle has been totaled or can be sent to a shop for repairs. For now, Eye, whose home school is Lake High School, is already working at Bauman Ford, where she repaints vehicles that have been in an accident, and is receiving great reviews from her employer.

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Michigan 51st in Nationwide COVID-19 Recovery, Study Says by Scott McClallen, The Center Square

Michigan’s COVID-19 recovery is the slowest in the nation, according to a WalletHub study released June 8. Here are Michigan’s metrics using data current as of June 7. Recovery from COVID-19 in Michigan (1=Quickest, 25=Avg.): 25th—Share of Population Fully Vaccinated 35th—Share of Vaccine Supply Used 25th—COVID-19 Death Rate 46th—COVID-19 Hospitalization Rate 18th—Share of Hospitals with Staff Shortages 45th—Share of Hospitals with Supply Shortages 34th—Average Daily Restaurant Visits 44th—Real GDP vs. Pre-COVID Levels 46th—Total Weekly Job Postings vs. Pre-COVID Levels 41st—Total Weekly Consumer Spending vs. Pre-COVID Levels 28th—Real Estate Active Listings vs. Pre-COVID Levels “Michigan ranks as having the

slowest recovery from COVID-19 in part because it has some of the highest COVID-19 hospitalization and positive testing rates in the country,”

The skyline of Grand Rapids, MI, at dusk. Credit: Shutterstock.com/Sean Pavone

WalletHub analyst Jill Gonzalez said in a statement. “Michigan has seen one of the biggest declines in real [Gross Domestic Product] due to the pandemic, it ranks as the seventh highest when it comes to the share of hospitals reporting supply shortages and has one of the highest rates of COVID-related doctor visits in the past week.” The fastest-recovering states were Iowa, Nebraska and Alaska in that order. Michigan is near-

ing 60% of Michiganders with a first vaccine injection. However, economic reopening is no longer tied to the first vaccination rate. On July 1, Michigan will drop its broad mask mandate. Currently, only non-fully vaccinated people must wear masks indoors. Indoor gatherings are limited to 50% capacity, up from 30% capacity in many places. The rule should help wedding, funeral and caterers statewide who were limited to 30 people indoors for over a year. Businesses can still impose mask mandates. Another reason for slow recovery might be climate and minimizing COVID-19 transmission, Gonzalez said. “A state’s climate can have a big impact on its recovery, too. States that are warmer, like Florida, allow people to be outside more easily, which gives extra protection to the elderly and other vulnerable demographics. This has led to an economic boom for warmer states, and as people consider where to relocate after the pandemic, climate and tax rates will be among the biggest factors in their decisions.”

CIC to Hold In-Person and Virtual Event The Collision Industry Conference (CIC) is holding its next meeting—both in-person and virtually—8 a.m. to 5 p.m. EDT July 15 in Cleveland, OH. The in-person meeting will be held at the Renaissance Cleveland Hotel, and will be followed by a reception at 6:30 p.m. Hotel reservations are $139/ night. Book online via the hotel’s website or call (216) 6965600 and use the code “COLCOLA” or “Collision Industry.” Pre-registration is required for both the in-person and virtual meetings, for both Gold Pin and non-Gold Pin members. Go to https://ciclink.com/event/ july-14-15-2021-cleveland/ for registration information. While state COVID restrictions in Ohio have been lifted, CIC is offering a mix of seating, which includes socially-distanced options for those who desire. State mask guidelines say those who are vaccinated do not have to wear a mask. this protocol. Source: CIC

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Stellantis Kicks Off Detroit’s Greenest Initiative, $1 Million Community Initiative to Boost City’s East Side As part of a comprehensive threeyear, $1 million effort to support eastside neighborhoods around the Detroit Assembly Complex, Stellantis on June 3 launched Detroit’s Greenest Initiative, the company’s plan to make Detroit’s east side the most environmentally friendly neighborhood. Detroit’s Greenest Initiative was announced during the groundbreaking for a new neighborhood education pavilion, located at the stormwater park on the corner of Kercheval Avenue and Beniteau Street. Construction of the pavilion, which will be the first of its kind in Detroit, is expected to begin in fall 2021. In addition to the pavilion, Stellantis plans to install environmental educational signage, bike racks, a bat house, beehives, pollinator garden and rain garden, as well as work with local educators to develop an environmental-focused curriculum. “At Stellantis, we’re listening to our neighbors and working with them to improve the quality of life for people who live and work here,” said Ron Stallworth, external affairs

lead for Wayne County, Stellantis-North America. “The projects we’re announcing today are just the initial phase of our commitment to make this Detroit’s greenest neighborhood.” The initiative was shaped by community input from more than 75 meetings with neighborhood organizations, local residents, area businesses and community leaders. “These are the kinds of projects that make our neighborhoods better, greener places to live,” said Michigan Rep. Joe Tate. “We put in a lot of time working with Stellantis on the ideas that would be best for our community, and we are happy to see these projects starting.” In addition to the community pavilion and stormwater park, the key projects of the Stellantis Detroit’s Greenest Initiative include: Installation of a state-of-theart, ambient air quality monitoring station on the north end of Mack Assembly Plant, giving local residents access to accurate and reliable data about local air quality, completed in 2020 Contribution of $285,000 to

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serve as a model for corporate stewardship,” said Margaret O’Gorman, president, Wildlife Habitat Council. “WHC has worked with Stellantis and its partners for many years and we have seen the positive impacts these community-first initiatives can achieve.” In addition to a comprehensive environmental approach in local neighborhoods and manufacturing facilities, the Stellantis commitment to address community needs extends to blight demolition projects, home improvement grants for local homeowners, numerous funding commitments to support summer youth employment, Detroit Promise scholarships, an Advanced Manufacturing Career Academy launched last fall at Southeastern High School for local students and residents, and other education and economic development investments on Detroit’s east side and throughout the region.

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the Chandler Park Conservancy education plaza development, completed in 2020 Upgraded park landscaping to beautify the area, including native trees, a walking path and benches for sitting, completed in 2020 Planting of 1,100 trees on Stellantis’ property and within the immediate neighborhood to help revive the tree canopy together with The Greening of Detroit; 800 trees in the ground now Future projects will include providing local residents with rain barrels and information about the benefits of capturing and reusing rainwater with mirainbarrel, wildlife and habitat conservation efforts with the Wildlife Habitat Council and vacant lot restoration and beautification with the city of Detroit. The company will also work with the Detroit Department of Transportation to install solar-powered bus stops near the Detroit Assembly Complex to provide residents with well-lit shelters and mobile device charging stations. “Collaboration is at the heart of Detroit’s Greenest Initiative and can

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Ford Renames MI Plant to Reflect Expanded Production Line, Commitment to Electrification A longtime Michigan powertrain components plant now has a new name and an expanded production line that aligns with Ford’s commitment to an electric future. The Van Dyke Transmission Plant, in a nod to the advanced technology it will produce, will now be called the Van Dyke Electric Powertrain Center. For the first time, the plant will produce electric motors and electric transaxles for hybrid and fully electric vehicles, such as the 2022 F-150 Lightning. For more than 50 years, the Van Dyke Transmission Plant has produced suspension components and traditional transmissions for Ford’s internal combustion engine vehicles. In the past 10 years, the plant added hybrid transmissions to its production mix. Now, the plant is transitioning once again to support Ford’s commitment to electrification. “The advanced technology we are using at the Van Dyke Electric Powertrain Center is taking us to the next level for Ford’s electric future,” said John Savona, vice president, manufacturing and labor affairs, Ford Motor Company. “The electric

transformation we are making now is going to allow us to scale quickly as customer interest grows for our new electric vehicles.”

Left to right, John Savona, Ford vice president, manufacturing and labor affairs; Plant Manager Lisa Cittadino; Director of Manufacturing Debbie Manzano; and UAW Local 2280 Chair Nick Stefani reveal the plant’s new name—the Van Dyke Electric Powertrain Center.

The Van Dyke Electric Powertrain Center is a 2 million-square foot facility that sits on 145 acres and employees approximately 1,050 people. Ford recently invested $150 million in the plant for additional tooling, retaining 225 jobs. Currently, the plant produces conventional and hybrid transmissions for vehicles including the Ford Transit, Edge, Escape, EcoSport, Mondeo, Kuga, S-Max, Galaxy and

Lincoln Corsair. The Van Dyke plant started production in 1968, making front suspension parts. The plant produced its first transmission in 1993 with a four-speed automatic transaxle transmission for vehicles such as the Ford Taurus and Windstar. It transitioned to a six-speed transmission in 2006 for vehicles including the Ford Edge and Explorer and added an eight-speed transmission in 2018 for the Ford Edge. In 2012, Van Dyke launched Ford’s first front-wheel-drive hybrid transmission. In 2013, Van Dyke became Ford’s first North American zero waste-to-landfill transmission plant.The electric motor or eMotor is expected to be at full production this summer, with one eMotor to come off the line every 75 seconds. The eMotor features the latest technology in motor design and manufacturing, resulting in a quieter and more efficient motor. The eMotor can go into either a hybrid transmission or it can go into the eTrans for a fully electric vehicle. The electric transmission or eTrans is expected to launch early next year. Source: Ford

SafeAuto Insurance to Join Allstate SafeAuto will add capabilities and distribution with its 24-hour, 7-days-a-week customer contact centers at 1-800-SafeAuto and its website. The combination will leverage National General’s direct-to-consumer non-standard auto insurance operations and leverage National General’s track record of acquiring and integrating companies to accelerate growth. “I am confident that combining forces with National General with the backing of Allstate will allow SafeAuto to grow its platform in the non-standard space,” said Ari Deshe, co-founder and chairman of SafeAuto. “I wish to thank all of our past and present associates for their contributions to our success during our 27-year history.” The transaction is expected to close by the end of the third quarter of 2021, subject to the receipt of regulatory approvals and satisfaction of customary closing conditions. Source: SafeAuto

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Continued from Cover

SRS Inspections that are needed, and press for some level of standardization among the automakers. To do this, VanHulle said, “We need more data on what’s being found in the real world. Right now we have a lot of anecdotal examples of strange things that were found during inspections,” such as when a shop discovers a “bad actor” has installed resistors on a vehicle to mask that an airbag module is missing or inoperable. “We need a lot more than just those anecdotal examples,” VanHulle said. I-CAR has posted a brief form (https://rts.i-car.com/srs-inspection-feedback-form) shops can use to submit information on the SRS inspections they perform, what triggered the inspections and what was found. “And pictures, pictures, pictures,” VanHulle said. “I’m sure any of the people who deal with estimating have seen not very good pictures

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Focus on Electric Cars tiple options, such as hybrids and fuel-cell cars. He also said these vehicle types need to compete with one another to offer people the best options. While Ford, GM and Volkswagen have made it clear they’re going “all in” related to a future of EVs, Toyota argues battery-powered cars aren’t necessarily the way of the future. Moreover, it believes “non-electric cars” will continue to thrive in markets across the globe. “Some people love battery-electric vehicles but others don’t see the current technologies as convenient,” Toyota’s Chief Technology Officer Masahiko Maeda explained. “In the end what matters is what cus-

from the industry. If you give us a picture that is so extremely close I have no idea what part that is even on, it’s not a great picture. I need ones with geography. I need to be able to see what the part looks like

I-CAR has posted a brief form they are asking shops to use to submit information on the SRS inspections they perform

and where it’s located, and have it as clear as it can be.” By providing real-world findings to the OEMs, he said, the automakers may be able to include common things to look for during inspections, and it could be incorporated into I-CAR training. Vague references to “inspect for damage”

tomers choose.” As we previously reported, Toyota is saying publically it will leave the decision to car shoppers. However, Toyota isn’t just citing a lack of demand for EVs as the only concern. Rather, according to Automotive News, it also suggests the materials needed to make EV batteries “could account for a larger share of total emissions than those from tailpipes.” Nonetheless, Toyota did say it will make an effort to reduce production costs associated with EVs, though it will do so by producing them alongside other vehicles that don’t use battery-electric powertrains. Toyota says to truly reduce carbon emissions, automakers must look at a vehicle’s entire lifecycle, not just its tailpipe emissions.

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could be replaced by step-by-step processes. “The more data we can get, the more accurate information we can then have to work with,” VanHulle said. “This is not something we’re going to do for a week. This is a long-term data gathering.” I-CAR’s effort was welcomed by Jason Bartanen, vice chairman of the Collision Industry Conference (CIC) Emerging Technologies Committee. He points to one automaker whose procedures call for removing an undeployed airbag to inspect it, then reinstall it using new fasteners. “But they only service the fasteners with the airbag,” Bartanen said. “That presents huge obstacles. You’re essentially replacing an undeployed airbag because we had to take it out and inspect it. That’s where I think we can do a lot of good with this. “The OEMs have shown that they are responsive. The more information we can get them, the ideas for solutions…They are open to it and they’ve shown a willingness to change.”

Toyota Introduces Data Privacy Portal Toyota Motor North America (TMNA) is proud to announce the creation of the Toyota Data Privacy Portal to increase data transparency, accessibility and control for Toyota and Lexus vehicle owners. Toyota created Data Privacy Portal to give consumers a clear understanding and control over how their personal data is used— including providing options to share data where it benefits them, while making it easy to de-enroll should they choose. Data Privacy Portal informs users when an impactful change has been made to their privacy settings. Data Portal can be accessed for Connected Services-capable vehicles, starting from model year 2013, through the “account settings” section of the Toyota and Lexus apps. If the user owns multiple Toyota or Lexus vehicles, they can select custom privacy and data sharing settings for each individual vehicle. Source: Toyota

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Continued from Cover

Shop Strategies 2017 Franchisee of the Year for his market-leading performance, forward-thinking vision and leadership throughout the franchise system. “It was probably one of the best decisions I made,” said Reszczynski. “I strongly believe body shop owners who join together within a common platform can provide a higher value to consumers and insurance providers. By being a part of something bigger than themselves, operators have better growth opportunities to succeed long-term.” Fix Auto Chicago is a VerifFacts VQ medallion shop, a designation provided by VeriFacts Automotive to top-tier body shops that demonstrate high-quality service and repairs.

Kazimierz Rodak disassembles a car for repair planning.

In 2019, VeriFacts Automotive distinguished Reszczynski with the March Taylor Award for Outstanding Leadership as a Shop Manager. Autobody News talked to Reszczynski about the practices his collision repair facility has focused on over the last year to ensure the business’s future success.

Were there any new practices you implemented due to COVID-19?

Many of the practices that may have seemed unique for shops during the pandemic we have been doing for quite some time. They just happened to fit into the reality of what things have been like. One example is photo estimating, which we had been doing before COVID-19, but it has escalated over the last 15 months. We use photo estimating during the intake process to triage the vehicle, often before it

arrives, to help determine the level of damage, prepare the repair order and potentially pre-order parts. This helps maximize efficiency and lower cycle time. It also helps clients decide if they want to file a claim. Many try to pay out-of-pocket and it helps give them a general idea of the costs and processes involved. Our employees love it. It has helped us align production much better and our staff is very pleased with that. Another example is the concierge service we provide for our Chicago clients. This was common practice before the pandemic, but more shops are doing it now. For us, it has taken on a different proportion. During the pandemic, Fix Auto USA owners worked together to develop a process for transferring customer vehicles without having them travel to the facility, so it is a little safer and easier for them. It involves customer service representatives (CSRs) traveling to the potential client and providing them with a rental car on the spot and then returning with their vehicle after it is repaired. Depending on their comfort level, clients can come in and pick up the car at the shop or take delivery of it at their home or place of business. There are quite a few who have taken advantage of the program and they are very appreciative, but it is not for everybody. Many still prefer physical interaction with the facility.

What were some of the other ways Fix Auto USA supported franchises during the pandemic?

seating arrangements and additional safety protocols were implemented in the office and for employees. We found it much easier to ramp up our current practices rather than implement them from scratch. If we had not prepared for that, our sales would have potentially suffered a little more than they have.

Joanna Najdala, CSR-estimator, at Fix Auto Chicago.

Q: A:

How did COVID-19 affect your business financially?

In 2020, we ended the year 19% under what our numbers were in 2019. We had expected a 30% drop due to COVID-19, so we felt we closed the year stronger than anticipated.

18 JULY 2021 AUTOBODY NEWS / autobodynews.com

Q: A:

To what do you attribute your company’s success?

From the beginning, we strategically set up our shop as a higher-end facility that was forward-thinking. Training has always been our priority. Through my involvement in performance groups, we implemented lean production solutions and improved cycle times. At a very early stage, we also earned OEM certifications and have adhered to those standards for quite some time. As a result, we have built a sterling reputation. We are known for offering high-quality repairs, that are done efficiently, at a very cost-effective rate and in compliance with OEM standards—a win-win for the consumer. See Shop Strategies Page 22

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Fix Auto USA provided many tips with us through the company’s website. Not only have we been able to share those tips with staff, but we’ve also communicated to clients through our social media platforms. We’re part of Driven Brands now, and the entire Driven Brands’ communication was COVID-19-sensitive and customer-centric. Fix Auto Chicago has always prided itself on having strong cleaning and detailing practices. As a result of the tips shared, we added a disinfection step, which our customers appreciated. Physically, we provided spaced

Although we had to furlough some employees, we have since recovered and are operating with a full staff. Traffic patterns have picked up over the last several months and people are traveling again; that will likely provide additional claims.

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TecMD Provides Mobile Services to Michigan Auto Body Shops Tweddle Group is piloting a mobile diagnostics program in Southeastern Michigan. The service, TecMD, offers on-site diagnostics, programming, pre-scan, post-scan and calibration services for automotive collision and repair centers in Oakland and Macomb counties. Tweddle Group CEO Pat Aubry said TecMD answers an important need for Southeastern Michigan. “On-site/on-demand service makes a lot of sense,” said Aubry. “Especially with Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), it’s very dangerous for a collision center to neglect that part of a repair. Many shops have to send vehicles out for that kind of work. It’s inconvenient and it’s expensive.” Tweddle Group Director Mike Flaherty said TecMD primarily focuses on vehicle diagnostics for electrical systems, software programming for electronic control units (ECUs) and ECU calibrations for ADAS. “The average vehicle has

many ADAS systems relying on different sensors and components,” Flaherty said. “Each is

finely calibrated and sensitive to collision and post-collision repair. OEMs have even published position statements recommending post-collision inspection and calibration of ADAS systems irrespective of collision severity. If anything gets misaligned even slightly, you could have a significant safety issue. We make sure these systems get restored to OEM factory settings.” Flaherty said TecMD specialists are trained, certified and equipped with OEM-approved tools and procedures.

“We’re able to provide dealership-quality service with greater convenience,” Flaherty said. “Our curated OEM domain knowledge simplifies the repair process and reduces cycle time for collision centers. You call us, we show up with the requisite tools and knowledge to restore the vehicle to OEM standards for safety and operation.” Aubry said Tweddle Group is well-positioned to bring this service to Michigan. “We’ve provided expert support to major OEMs for almost 70 years,” he said. “We author OEM technical service documentation and repair procedures. We perform vehicle analysis. We develop cutting-edge diagnostic and repair platforms.” Aubry characterized TecMD as “a testbed for a broader vision of the company.” Learn more at TecMD.net. To request mobile service, call 888-TECMD-11 or 888-8326311. Source: Tweddle Group

CarAdvise, Affirm to Offer Long-Term Payment CarAdvise, an online vehicle maintenance, scheduling and discounted repairs marketplace, has launched a new partnership with Affirm, a financial lender of installment loans. This partnership will give CarAdvise members availability to choose a long-term payment option for their vehicle maintenance and repair purchases. CarAdvise’s platform allows members to search, compare prices and book vehicle and maintenance appointments online. Until today, members only had the option to pay at checkout via credit card. Now members will have the option to select Affirm as a payment method at checkout, allowing them to pay off maintenance over time. The Affirm payment program will allow CarAdvise members to pay for their maintenance or repair over a three-, six- or 12-month period. Source: CarAdvise

Crash Champions Hosts NABC First Responder Emergency Extrication Event in Davenport, IA Crash Champions, LLC, one of the nation’s largest independent collision repair companies, hosted a National Auto Body Council (NABC) First Responder Emergency Extrication (F.R.E.E.™) event for local first responders June 9 in Davenport, IA. The event provided an opportunity for hands-on learning regarding cutting techniques on late-model vehicles, addressing high-strength steel and composite materials, multiple airbags, onboard technology and changing vehicle design. The vehicles for the program were donated by Allstate Insurance, and HURST Jaws of Life provided the classroom education and extrication demonstration. “At Crash Champions, we see cars with increasingly complex design and safety features in our shops every day and appreciate how important it is for first responders to be equipped with the latest information on the newest vehicles,” said Matt Ebert, founder and CEO of Crash Champions. “Knowing specifically where and

how to efficiently cut and extricate can make all the difference when every second counts, and the NABC F.R.E.E. program can help to ensure first responders are best prepared to navigate the vehicles of tomorrow.” “The next generation of automotive materials, safety technologies and fuel sources present unique challenges following an accident, and keeping up to date on the latest new technology in vehicles is a challenge for every local fire department,” said Captain Jason Verschoore of the Blue Grass Fire Department. “Thanks to the NABC F.R.E.E. program, our teams had the opportunity to gain that knowledge through real-world exercises in a controlled setting.” Crash Champions is a proud partner of NABC and participates in the NABC F.R.E.E. and Recycled Rides programs. For more information about Crash Champions, visit www. crashchampions.com. Source: Crash Champions

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U.S. Marine Corps Veteran Receives Donated Vehicle at Celebration In appreciation of our military members and their sacrifice, Teri, a U.S. Marine Corps veteran from Minnesota, received a newly refurbished vehicle. The Honda Odyssey was donated by American Family Insurance and fully restored by LaMettry’s Collision with help from industry partners. Speakers at the celebration May 25 included U.S. Rep. Dean Phillips, Minnesota Rep. Kelly Morrison and Darrell Amberson, LaMettry’s president of operations. Amberson handed over the keys to Teri at the celebration ceremony. “It is a privilege and honor to be part of a company and an industry that is willing to invest time and dollars to make this happen. It is humbling that people from various industry entities work in harmony for what is ultimately for the common good of our community,” said Amberson. “It is so overwhelming, and I can’t talk because you guys have just taken [away] the last two years of stress in just this one day…So

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just know that I’m very thankful,” Teri said. “It’s the time with the children that you just gave me back.”

U.S. Marine Corps veteran Teri, second from left, with her children and LaMettry’s Collision President of Operations Darrell Amberson, right.

“My gratitude is beyond heartfelt, because we need days like this setting politics aside to come together as a community and do good by people,” Phillips said. “There is no better manifestation of that then today…This is what we need to do more of. So to all of you, I am grateful for your leadership, and for your inspiration. May we do more of it.

Luther Kia of

Bloomington

May Minnesota show our country what we’ve all got to do a little more of, and it’s day like this, programs like this and moments like this.” Morrison shared her appreciation for our armed forces, saying, “There’s no place in the world like the United States of America. It’s worth fighting for, and it’s worth protecting, but very few of us do. Only about 1% of Americans serve in our armed forces. That tiny percentage make disproportionate sacrifices for the rest of us. It’s on all of us to make sure that our veterans and their families are taken care of both during and after their service.” Contributing vendors making this donation possible include Richfield Bloomington Honda, Enterprise Rent-A-Car, 3M, aaa Auto Parts, A-Condition Wheel Company, BASF, Copart and EP Auto Tire & Glass. This is the 11th vehicle LaMettry’s Collision has repaired and donated to military families in need.

Continued from Page 18

Shop Strategies

Q: A:

What are your plans and expectations for 2021?

We will continue with the current practices we had before the pandemic and those recently implemented in 2020. We plan to emphasize our concierge service and additional safety steps for customers, even coming out of the pandemic. I think they have become accustomed to that now and expect it in the future. Our involvement with auto manufacturers continues as well. In addition to being part of many OEM certified repair programs, Fix Auto Chicago was certified in March 2021 as a Lexus Authorized Collision Center, a direct Lexus OE certification for independently owned body shops. We were the third shop in the U.S. to achieve this recognition.

Source: LaMettry’s Collision

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J.D. Power Ranks Shelter Insurance No. 1 in Central Region for 4th Time Leading global data and analytics company J.D. Power has announced Shelter Insurance ranked Highest in Customer Satisfaction among Auto Insurers in the Central Region in its U.S. Auto Insurance Study.

This is the fourth time Shelter received this honor—in 2016, 2018, 2019 and now 2021. This study asked customers to provide feedback about their overall satisfaction with their auto insurance company in the following study factors, in alphabetical order: billing process and policy information; claims; interaction; policy offerings; and price. Shelter scored well across

the factors and was ranked first in price, as well as billing process and policy information. “To be recognized by J.D. Power with this award once was amazing, but now it’s the fourth time, which is humbling, to say the least,” said Matt Moore, CEO of the Shelter Insurance Companies. “It’s a testament to our agents and employees living one of our core beliefs, and that’s to provide top-notch service, day in and day out.” “We appreciate our employees and agents whose hard work and focus have made this award possible,” said Randa Rawlins, president of the Shelter Insurance Companies. “We are also grateful to our customers who continue to place their trust in us. We continually set high expectations for ourselves to provide the best service.” The study is based on responses from 38,938 auto insurance customers and was fielded in February and March. Source: Shelter Insurance

Times Are A-Changin: Minnesota Set to Become 15th Clean Car State by Charles Morris for EVANNEX, for Inside EVs

Fourteen U.S. states currently enforce their own vehicle emissions standards, stricter than those set by the federal government. In 2019, Minnesota announced plans to join them. Now an administrative law judge has approved the proposed policy, ruling the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) can move forward with plans to adopt the Clean Cars Minnesota program. The program will go into effect after additional procedural steps. The recent ruling follows a move by the EPA to reassert the authority of states to enforce their own emissions standards, reversing efforts by the prior administration to take away this long-held states’ right. The adoption of the program is a major win for Gov. Tim Walz, who expects the new standards to give a boost to the EV market in Minnesota.

Simon Mui, a deputy director at the Natural Resources Defense Council, called the Clean Cars Minnesota program a triple win for the state’s economy, public health and the environment.

Tesla’s Model Y. Credit: Casey Murphy/ EVANNEX

The NRDC estimates the new standards could save the average Minnesota car owner as much as $1,600 over the life of a vehicle, reduce air pollutants by millions of tons annually and deliver hundreds of millions in fuel-related savings to the state.

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Will We Have Enough Juice to Get Us to an All-EV World by 2035? by Ed Attanasio

You don’t need to be a Californian to know electric vehicles (EVs) are coming whether we like them or not. In 2035, if you go to a new car dealership and mention gas, they will likely escort you off the lot. Well, maybe it won’t be that bad, but rest assured if you don’t own an electric car by 2035, your neighbors will talk. So, is there going to be enough juice in the box to make California―let alone the rest of the country―all-EV in the next 14 years? Recently, Autobody News interviewed Chuck Reynolds, the owner of Cyber Switching, Inc. in San Jose, CA. Cyber Switching’s power management solutions are targeted to small- and medium-sized commercial buildings. As a 40-year veteran of the electricity game, Reynolds was working on EV charging back when it was a novelty rather than the norm. He started his business in 1983 with a handful of electricians who shared

his vision of the future, including everyone driving an EV.

We’re going to need enough electricity to power an enormous fleet. Do we have it and if not, can we have it by 2035?

So, one of the biggest issues is infrastructure. When you come to work in the morning and you plug your vehicle into one of our charging stations, there are sometimes 20 to 30 people doing the same thing at the same time, with just as many waiting in line. Right now, people have to go out to their cars to take them off the charger, and that’s obviously not very efficient. Studies have shown that large companies are losing a lot of money while their employees have to stop what they’re doing so that they can move their EVs.

We installed charging systems in Cisco Systems back in 1996 because several of their employees had EVs, but that was very obviously forward-thinking at the time.

There shouldn’t be any technical or economic reason why the grid won’t support electrification. There is likely enough generation capacity out there right now, but it’s just not going to the right places. The biggest problem is going to be the infrastructure and getting the power to where it’s needed. A really good example is that in California now existing buildings, like condo developments and other multi-unit dwellings, can’t just say OK―we are going to install charging stations here, but the problem is they have limited power.

You can see the future of EV charging through some of your clients, so what have you learned?

Chuck Reynolds owns Cyber Switching, Inc., a power management company in Silicon Valley. He said there will be enough electricity out there to power all EVs by 2035, as long as it’s properly managed

Will companies that are not prepared end up paying through the nose if they don’t manage their power?

When many of these buildings were built prior to 1995, for example, these weren’t designed to handle all of these additional loads. With some of our clients who are in buildings built in the early 2000s, they’re not prepared when people hook up their vehicles and start charging.

Well, that’s going to put a spike on the grid because everyone is plugging in at the same time and if there are others waiting, they will roll it over every two hours approximately. That’s going to put a strain on the grid and is a concern for whomever is providing that power.

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That’s why the utilities are now charging “demand charges” for the peak amount of usage during that month for 15 minutes. It’s essentially a penalty that could be anywhere from $18 to $20 per kilowatt. So, if you have a large number of EVs coming in at the same time every morning, that’s going to be a big spike, especially since that’s when all of your other machinery will start kicking in. The problem is that if we want to achieve the 2035 regulations, we will need more and better infrastructure to handle the huge load. The user can install a power management system in order to spread the load evenly, so that not everything will come on at the same time. You can do the same with your EV charging to reduce the demand charge, and we are already doing that here at Cyber Switching, Inc. We have several patents on rotational charging systems. We currently have eight EV chargers in front of our building and it’s on one circuit that is staggered, which enables us to avoid paying the demand penalties. If you have

a power management system like the ones we have patents on, outages won’t ever happen. Most people don’t realize that there are many alternatives when it comes to power management. With so many EVs on the roads within the next few years, people will be charging their vehicles all at the same time, in many cases. There will be some pretty significant spikes and that puts a strain on the grid in that area. The worst thing that can happen is when you trip a breaker. That tells you you’re overloading the grid. I think that’s going to be the No. 1 problem that we can potentially encounter with large-scale EV charging.

home. With many of these homes that have been built starting in the 1970s, the utility company never anticipated this demand when everything comes on at the same time. It will be the same scenario, but in reverse. People will come home from work and plug-in all at the same time and it’s going to be a big load. It’s not like turning on a lightbulb― even with the small charges, it’s still going to be a 120V load, 1,400 watts or more. Even if you’re using one of the smaller chargers, turning it on is comparable to 14 100-watt lightbulbs simultaneously. The grid wasn’t set up for this originally, so it will have to change and adapt to handle these larger loads.

Will EV owners have to adapt in order to get their vehicles charged when needed?

Yes, people are always going to want to charge their cars at work, and by 2035 that will mean large parking lots full of EVs that are waiting to be charged. It will also be a problem at

Will people be forced to charge primarily during the day to accommodate the huge spike in usage?

Yes, I think that is what will eventually happen. You want to charge when that power is available, so that’s why the utility companies are pushing from 4 to 9 p.m.

If you don’t have solar on your house to supplement your power, you might be in trouble. With many of those tract home developments built in the 1970s, there is not a lot of excess power there. So, that is where you’re going to have to spend the money―in infrastructure. Power management is a better alternative for companies on many levels. To meet their growing needs, they will have to upgrade their service to allow for more charging. But, that’s a large expense. With our system, you can use the power that’s available, and for most companies, they won’t have to change their electrical service and their employees will still get a charge for their vehicle. To avoid people moving their cars, we install what we call ‘dumb units’ that don’t have all of the bells and whistles, but they save time because employees won’t have to move their vehicles. This means that the ROI on these chargers is very fast because they don’t realize how much it can cost them in lost productivity when you have EVs in the picture.

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Chasidy Rae Sisk is a freelance technical writer from Wilmington, Delaware, who writes on a variety of fields and subjects, and grew up in a family of NASCAR fans. She can be contacted at crsisk@gmail.com.

Collision Training on ADAS, EVs, Total Losses and Phone Skills at ASA’s X50 Conference

Southeast News

The recent ASA X50 Conference & repair network processes, which in- OEM’s progress towards an electric Expo offered more than 50 live train- cludes benchmarking industry compet- fleet. ing sessions, including five classes itors, soliciting feedback from dealers Discussing high voltage awarewith Chasidy Rae Sisk specific to collision repair profes- and the collision industry, and collab- ness and training, Allen stressed, sionals. orating cross-functionally with Global “Everyone in our dealerships and our “Our engaging platform will Aftersales Engineering, CCA Collision collision network has to be trained to provide attendees with an inviting Wholesale Dealer Channel and Pro- know and identify EVs to recognize experience to learn from and inter- duction Engineering. that they shouldn’t touch the cabling act with instructors, sponsors and “There’s no compromise when and that it will require special care. Chasidy Rae Sisk their peers in awith way that uses techit comes to safety,” Blackmore con- Our high voltage technicians are nology to strengthen their networks cluded. “OEM repair procedures must trained to run diagnostics and de-enand build their industry knowledge,” be used 100% of the time, but the in- ergize the system, and high voltage said ASA Executive Director Ray dustry should stay close to the OEMs experts are trained in all high voltFisher. since technology is changing rapidly.” age systems and can repair all sys GM’s John Eck and Chris Roger Cada of Accountable tems, including the battery.” with Chasidy Rae Sisk Blackmore presented “GM Driving Estimating LLC presented “Estima- Allen discussed the safety conTechnology: Advanced Technologies tion, Education and Documentation cerns related to repairing EVs, notin ADAS and the Impact to the Re- that Drive Bottom Line Results.” ing the high voltage technician must pair Industry,” stressing the impor- “The facts of the loss are critical observe three safety rules before betance of scanning and calibrations because they tell you what damag- ginning the repair: de-energize the and providing updates on GM’s Coles are on that car… Since COVID, vehicle, secure the system against with Chasidy Rae Sisk restarting and check no lision Repair Network processes. you’ve become the eyes “[GM has] planned over 20 new and ears for the insurer, voltage is present. models in the coming years to move impacting the estimate and “You might think you’re to an electric vehicle fleet,” Eck if it starts off wrong, it will a rebel living in the mosaid, noting regulations, safety ex- never end up right,” Cada ment, but realistically, that pectations and ADAS features have began. “And the process moment is already past hiswith Chasidy Rae Sisk influenced changes in the industry. begins when you first talk tory,” he quipped. “We’re “And that’s exciting times, but it to the customer and get the already involved with these Kristen Felder vehicles and repairing them. also presents a mound of problems facts of the loss so you can and issues for our industry that we write the most accurate estimate ev- So, in all this confusion, ask yourhave to resolve. ery time. self, ‘Are you feeling lucky?’ Or “Gas regulations light “We have to build evidence are you ready for the future of the with required Chasidy Rae Sisk er vehicles, while also enhancing through documentation,” Cada con- e-tron?” safety expectations,” Eck explained. tinued. “It’s critical that we capture Kristen Felder, CEO of Colli“Safety is king, and customers are the evidence well so we can properly sion Hub, taught two classes during continually looking for safety op- assess the damage and have an out- ASA’s X50 Conference. The first, tions to protect their occucome that actually restores “Total Loss File Handling,” explored Chasidy Rae Sisk it to its pre-accident condi- the total loss process. pants and the with investment they’ve made. That requires tion. The evidence you’ve “Running a collision repair shop collected also justifies your has become more about accounting, a change in how vehicles are built and the technology charges, preventing insurers law, psychology and other adminoffered on them, including from saying no. But once istrative tasks than about actually the creation of new ADAS with Chasidy Rae Sisk you start repairing the vehi- repairing the vehicle,” Felder said. systems. More features becle, the evidence isn’t there, “The administrative side has become Mark Allen ing added to vehicles, forcso you need to collect it at almost overwhelming.” ing evolutionary change. The goal the very beginning.” Shops should be aware of multiis a world with zero crashes, zero Cada proceeded through a step- ple legal terms to be prepared to conemissions and zero congestion.” by-step breakdown of the documen- tend with a total loss situation. Felder Eck discussed the importance of tation required to provide evidence defined bailment and explained how scanning and calibration as Attanasio it pertains justifying the repairs performed, a law of contracts “gives you the with Ed to vehicles equipped with ADAS, in- such as pre-scans, clear images, ability to ensure a vehicle doesn’t get cluding how to access GM’s calibra- measurements and test drives. abandoned or pulled from you withtion documents. “Audi North America: EV and out your fees being paid.” Blackmore then discussed the Evolving Technology,” presented by She warned, “When it comes changes GM is making to its collision Audi’s Mark Allen, focused on the to total losses, having a ‘repair con-

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tract’ may not protect you from having vehicles removed and you not getting paid, or it may not protect your customer from having settlements diminished because of that.” After becoming familiar with civil and contract laws, Felder emphasized knowing state and municipal regulations is imperative since certain jurisdictions clearly identify who is qualified to be a storage or towing company, and those laws may also “govern what you can charge and lay out actions that are required on your end. If you have a regulation and don’t comply, you may not be able to collect what you’re charging.” Discussing how to establish services and pricing for total losses, Felder said, “If you’re in a contractual agreement that says you can’t charge for any services on a total loss, you’re stuck at this point, but if you don’t have that agreement, what do you charge? “Your duty is to be able to describe the reasonableness of your decisions. Whatever you charge, you’d best be able to explain each line to every 10th or every penny you have on the estimate because that’s going to be compared to ‘reasonable’ in other places.” Felder discussed common reasons related to the total loss process, which collision shops may charge, including fees related to intake, notification, securing the vehicle, administration, collision access time, cataloging and storing removed parts, environmental protection, photo documentation, repair planning, vehicle mobility, vehicle disposition, OEM access, DMV/lien/legal expenses and storage. Next, Felder recommended shops create and store pre-written form letters, which can easily be updated with the client and vehicle-specific information. She provided a list of pre-written letters to keep on hand, such as confirmation of pickup disposition, summary of charges for pickup, status update total loss, notice of total loss, summary of inspection with fees, authorization for inspec-

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tion with fees, notice of visual total loss and request for invoices. Examining examples of these forms, Felder identified which important aspects to include, repeatedly stressing the value of explaining the standards and regulations the shop must follow as well as the identification of the shop’s ethics in cost containment. “Proper documentation will get you paid down to the penny!” Felder said. During “Phone Skills for Collision Repair,” Felder pointed out, “The phone is probably one of the most important tools we have in the body shop. We’re on it all day and interact with customers more over the phone than face-to-face, but we’re really bad at the phone―and our skills are degrading!” Diving into the evolution of connection, Felder explained there are three layers of connection in the human brain. The neocortex is the rational brain, the limbic brain is the emotional aspect and the reptilian brain is guided purely by instinct and survival. “We want the people we’re deal-

ing with to be on the upper level, but first, we need to work through the first two layers. Understanding where someone is at mentally will help you communicate, connect and get them to do the things you want them to do.” Because the brain reacts to sound, the voice is a powerful tool that can be used to influence the customer when used correctly. Felder provided several tips for using the phone. Don’t use a script, use your name and theirs, ask questions, mirror their tempo, be kind and polite and speak inclusively by using “we” instead of “you.” To improve communication sessions, designate a talking space where the customer is the primary focus, designate a person who talks on the phone and keep a log system. “Cell phones are one of the worst things that ever happened to customer connection,” Felder warned. “We forget that our brain chemistry desires that connection. Don’t forget about the power of your voice or feel that you’re too overwhelmed. The more connected we are, the happier we are.” For more information on ASA, visit asashop.org.

Auto Care Association’s Auto Care Caucus Renewed with 117th U.S. Congress by Camille Sheehan, Auto Care Association

The Auto Care Association on June 7 announced the Auto Care Caucus has been formally renewed in the 117th U.S. Congress. The caucus will be co-chaired by U.S. Reps. Brian Fitzpatrick, R-PA, and Brendan Boyle, D-PA, who both share an enthusiasm and understanding of the auto care industry and will help facilitate communication about industry issues to their peers on Capitol Hill. Congressional caucuses are classified as Congressional Member Organizations and are made up of lawmakers who share common public policy goals pertaining to a particular interest, demographic or political party. The Auto Care Caucus mission statement explains, in part, that its purpose is to “…maintain a competitive free market for the motoring public; protect consumers’ vehicle data and the right to be the ultimate owners and stewards of their data; and to help ensure consumers have access to quality,

convenient and affordable auto repairs, maintenance and parts.” “I’m excited to see the continuation of the Auto Care Caucus with this new Congress and to witness our co-chairs’ support for the auto care industry,” said Bill Hanvey, president and CEO, Auto Care Association. “With technology being used more and more to tilt the competitive playing field in the vehicle repair industry, now more than ever we will be looking to Congress to support initiatives aimed at ensuring choice for car owners on where they have their vehicle serviced. The Auto Care Caucus will surely play a significant role in those efforts.” To learn more about the Auto Care Association’s Auto Care Caucus and the association’s government affairs initiatives, visit auto care.org/government-relations. Source: Auto Care Association

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GM Vehicles Recalled for Airbag Warning Lights by David A. Wood, CarComplaints.com

More than 301,000 General Motors vehicles are recalled because the airbag warning lights may stay illuminated and fail to provide warnings if the airbags fail. However, the warning lights stay activated only on alternating ignition cycles in these vehicles. 2021 Buick Envision 2021 Cadillac CT4 2021 Cadillac CT5 2021 Cadillac Escalade 2021 Cadillac Escalade ESV 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe 2021 Chevrolet Corvette 2021 Chevrolet Suburban 2021 GMC Yukon 2021 GMC Yukon XL The airbag warning light stays illuminated because the communications gateway module incorrectly processes a loss of communication with the sensing diagnostic module. GM learned in April about a possible problem and in May engineers opened an investigation to review field and warranty data, find-

ing 19 warranty claims possibly related. This caused GM to issue the recall, but the automaker says it’s unaware of any crash or injury reports. The U.S. GM recall includes 285,622 vehicles, while in Canada, about 16,071 GM vehicles are recalled. Recall notices will be mailed July 19, with details about dealerships updating the communications gateway module software. Owners who have accepted the terms and conditions will be able to receive the software changes using wireless over-the-air (OTA) technology without having to bring their vehicles to dealerships. However, owners may schedule to have the updates performed at GM dealers. Buick owners may contact Buick customer service at 800521-7300, Cadillac customers may call 800-458-8006, Chevrolet owners can call 800-222-1020 or GMC customer service can be reached at 800-462-8782. GM’s recall reference number is N212338110.

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Tips for Busy Body Shops

Stacey Phillips is an award-winning freelance writer and editor for the automotive industry. She has 20 years of experience writing for a variety of publications, and is co-author of “The Secrets of America’s Greatest Body Shops.” She can be reached at sphillips.autobodynews@gmail.com.

with Stacey Phillips

Jake Rodenroth of asTech on Vehicle Tech’s Relation to Collision Repair Diagnostics Telematics, Advanced Driver Assis- nostics involves having technicians tance Systems (ADAS) and OEM first confirm the vehicle model and repair procedures are all predicted trim level and then determining the to significantly with impactStacey the way Phillips ve- cause and correction. It also involves hicles are repaired in the fuinspecting the severity of ture, according to Jake Rodamage by confirming body denroth, director of OEM specification and suspension and industry technical relageometry using pre-aligntions for asTech. ments and 3D measuring During a virtual presystems. sentation co-sponsored by with Victoria Antonelli “The trim level designates the Nebraska Auto Body Jake Rodenroth, how many features and conAssociation (NABA) and asTech’s director of trol modules it has,” said the Kansas Auto Body As- OEM and industry Rodenroth. “All collisions sociation (KABA), Roden- technical relations, are inheritably different wearing augmented roth shared insight about and there is nothing routine reality glasses several vehicle technoloabout each vehicle repair.” gies and how they relate collision Often dealing with the newest with EdtoAttanasio repair diagnostics. He also discussed vehicles in the worst shape, technisome of the future concerns technicians need access to all vehicle concians will likely face. trol modules and features to ensure a safe and proper repair. Welding Diagnostics and painting operations, as well as In the evolving landscape of vehicle vehicle disassembly, may impact diagnostics, Rodenroth said Ledoux body the vehicle control systems. In addiwith Gary shops must recognize the difference tion, many labor operations require between collision diagnostics and ADAS calibration. mechanical diagnostics. “After a collision, we should be “Collision repair technicians really focused on making sure we and mechanical technicians will look see all of the modules and identify at the same vehicle from a very dif- all of the problems as proactively as ferent perspective,” said Rodenroth. possible,” said Rodenroth. with Stacey Phillips Speaking from firsthand experience working as a master technician for OEM Repair Procedures & Scan Tools a large OEM in his earlier career, he Although some collision repair techshared the difference between the nicians turn to YouTube when looking two. for information to repair a vehicle, On the mechanical side, most of Rodenroth highly advises checking the repairs revolve around a concern the OEM repair procedures. Mike Anderson or the vehicle’s with maintenance sched- “I feel like we learn on every ule. car,” he said. “We have to humble “The technician’s job is to iden- ourselves and research what is intify the cause of that concern and volved so you can get it right. You’ll then recommend the correction or be amazed at what you’ll find,” he repair on the vehicle,” said Rodren- said. roth. He recommends starting small Since many mechanical repairs and researching how to remove a are routine, he said the correction bumper cover, disconnect a battery is usually predictable. Therefore, a or perform a four-wheel alignment. variety of tools can be used to ac- Increasingly, Rodenroth said, cess the systems responsible for the dealer groups, OEM certified repair cause. Ultimately, mechanical diag- shops and many independent facilnostics comes down to first identify- ities are committed to following ing the concern, and then the cause OEM procedures. and correction. Rodenroth encourages techni In comparison, collision diag- cians to use the scan tools identified

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in the service manual to ensure the repair is completed correctly and can be defended if necessary. Some shops use aftermarket tools to help keep costs down, but Rodenroth cautioned they might not capture everything regarding scanning and diagnostics. “Scan tools aren’t magic wands,” he said. “They don’t just fix the problem for you. We need to figure it out. Only the combination of the correct tools, the OEM service manual and a trained technician can repair a vehicle effectively.” When it comes to invoicing, Rodenroth recommends itemizing everything done with the vehicle, and says this is especially important with ADAS calibration. He advises shops to research the marketplace and identify the price of scans being charged and the tooling used.

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Rodenroth estimates the current market value of a scan is $50 while OEM diagnostics, whether done by a dealer, mobile vendor or another third-party, averages about $120. New Customers, Telematics & Over the Air (OTA) Updates Looking forward, Rodennoth said vehicle owners will increasingly become more connected to their vehicles, especially with a new generation of consumers, Generation Z. Often referred to as “Zoomers,” those included in this demographic were born middle to late 1990s to the early 2010s, and are what Rodenroth refers to as “digital natives.” “They aren’t afraid to use mobile apps in everything they do, whether it’s ordering a coffee or checking the health of their car,” he said. Over the next five years, Rod-

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enroth predicts there will be a substantial increase in the number of communications going on in the connected car, including the use of telematics and OTA updates. The majority of OEMs now use telematics to update a vehicle’s infotainment system, consisting of radio and multimedia video capabilities. Telematic connectivity to a vehicle will also help owners benchmark if they received a good repair. “They are going to start asking probing questions, maybe those they didn’t ask in the past,” said Rodenroth. “We need to be aware if they are connected to dealer-type services.” This will allow the dealer or independent repair facility to predict the maintenance needed on the vehicle and whether the diagnostics were performed. ADAS Calibration In terms of conducting an ADAS calibration, collision repair facilities are finding they have three options: sending vehicles to dealerships, having their own technicians do the calibrations in-house or arranging for a

third-party company to come in. Regardless of the decision, Rodenroth said shops will need to audit that the calibrations were done correctly. In the event of a failed calibration, Rodenroth reminded repairers to document it failed and then showed it passed. “It’s important to document the corrective repairers you did to make it pass,” he said. “You don’t want it to come back and haunt you, so document accordingly.” He also cautioned repairers to ensure the correct parts are used on vehicles and the procedures are followed. “When you start changing the way a vehicle is designed, you create variables for yourself that could create calibration failures,” said Rodenroth. “Remember that service manuals are written on perfect vehicles, not vehicles that have been repaired or have non-OEM parts fitted to them.” Electric Vehicles With automakers committed to an electric vehicle (EV) future, Rodenroth said OE factories and suppliers

are expected to change dramatically. This includes new types of manufacturers, in particular technology companies, such as Rivian, Lucid, SF Motors, Mahindra and Faraday Future. “Tech companies are winning the race to electrification,” he said. Rodenroth estimated dealer service volume might decline by as much as 35%, while tire replacement, glass and visibility services, and length of ownership are all projected to increase. “Collision repairers are also going to see a lot of parts, steering systems, braking systems and cooling systems that may require scan tools,” he said. “If a scan tool is involved in the repair, make sure you have the capability in-house or plan for it.” Virtual Reality and Augmented Reality Rodenroth said VR and AR are predicted to change how the industry is trained in the future. It will also impact how repair procedures are written and followed. “Repair procedures can be challenging to follow, especially if you

haven’t been formally trained with that OEM,” said Rodenroth. “AR/ VR offer an interactive way of dissecting the vehicle’s requirements and, best of all, explaining them.” Details like fluid quantities, measurements and torques specs are often overlooked; however, Rodenroth said they are important to ensure a safe and documented repair. “We, as an industry, need to slow down to have a chance at speeding up,” said Rodenroth. “Our consumers deserve better when it comes to whom they trust to repair their vehicles.” He said the industry should be an institution of learning and specification. “Every shop in America would hire at least one more technician if they could and with so many ‘tech jobs’ now available, it is even more important that we attract and retain as many young people as possible,” he said. “We need to find new ways of recruiting young people with different backgrounds and skill sets.”

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From the Desk of Mike Anderson with Mike Anderson

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

Scanning—It’s Not Just for DTCs Anymore (And Never Was) Those of you watching TV back in the 1970s probably remember the slogan, “It’s not just for breakfast anymore”―the Florida Orange Growers Association’s way to encourage folks to think about drinking OJ more often than just in the morning. I’ve been paraphrasing that slogan in relation to scanning to emphasize to people that scanning isn’t just about finding DTCs (diagnostic trouble codes). A real “aha moment” I had in relation to this about a year ago was when my father told me there was something just not right about the way his vehicle was driving. He’d had a broken windshield replaced on the car, and afterward, they scanned the vehicle and said everything was OK. But after driving it, and still noticing a problem, he took it to a dealership that confirmed the vehicle scan they performed showed no DTCs. That’s when I got involved, hooking my asTech device to the vehicle, and asking my friend Jake Rodenroth and his team to help me

out. They scanned the vehicle: Sure enough, no DTCs. But that’s when the asTech technician said, “Let me check something else.” He checked the data from the scan tool that shows how the vehicle’s steering angle sensor is set, and then compared it to the automaker specifications. You can guess what he found: The steering angle sensor was out of spec. My dad was right: There was something wrong with the vehicle. But it didn’t set a DTC. That opened my eyes to something I’m concerned about in our industry. Scanning isn’t just about checking for DTCs. It’s important, whether conducting scanning in-house or using a mobile or remote supplier or even a dealership, that you have a knowledgeable person who really understands the collision repair process involved. Someone who is going to dig further, ask the right questions. Someone who doesn’t assume no DTCs means everything is A-OK. Since that incident, I’ve done more research. I came across some

documentation from other automakers about the need to look beyond the just the presence (or absence) of DTCs. Whoever is scanning should also pull the “freeze-frame” or “snapshot” or “live” data. That can show data, for example, when a fault code occurred: the date, vehicle mileage, how many key cycles have occurred, or even―in one example I’ve seen― how much gas was in the car at the time. This kind of information can be critical as part of diagnosis, documentation and reimbursement. One example of the need for this step: With some Honda and Acura vehicles, an issue with the lane-watch system or seatbelt pretension won’t trigger a DTC; you have to check the “live” data. As an industry, I think we’ve overlooked the skillset needed for those scanning vehicles in our busi-

nesses. These aren’t just auto parts store scans (with no offense to those businesses). You can’t presume all that’s needed is to just plug it in. There’s so much more to it than that. You need someone who understands how to dig further, and who understands the “set conditions” that must occur in order to set a DTC. If a vehicle is towed to the shop directly from the accident scene, for example, it might not have been driven for the distance or time or speed needed for that DTC to be set. I think our industry is doing itself and its customer a disservice when it presumes anyone is qualified to conduct a scan. It’s insulting to knowledgeable technicians who really understand all that this important and potentially complicated process entails. That’s why I say: Scanning. It’s not just about DTCs anymore.

U.S. House Members Advocate for RPM Act By SEMA Washington, D.C., Staff

The Recognizing the Protection of Motorsports Act of 2021 (RPM Act), HR 3281, enjoys strong bi-partisan support in the U.S. House of Representatives as lawmakers voice their enthusiasm for passing the legislation. With the racing world’s eyes on the Indy 500 over Memorial Day weekend, the Indy Star printed an article from U.S. Rep. Greg Pence (R-IN) that advocated for Congress to pass the RPM Act, entitled “Indiana’s auto-racing tradition is under attack. Here’s how we save it.” Pence is a leading voice on the U.S. House Energy & Commerce Committee for the RPM Act and understands the importance of racing and the motorsports parts industry in Indiana and throughout the country.

Back in Washington, D.C., U.S. Rep. Fred Keller (R-PA) took to the U.S. House floor to speak to his colleagues about why he was proud to serve as an original co-sponsor of the RPM Act. Support for the RPM Act continues to grow with each week that passes. Currently, 58 members of the House have cosponsored the bill, including new cosponsors Rep. Antonio Delgado (D-NY) and Rep. Diana Harshbarger (R-TN). For details, contact Eric Snyder at erics@sema.org. Source: SEMA

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Industry Insight with John Yoswick

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

HLDI Shows Impact on Claims from Auto-Emergency Braking, Changes to Powertrains

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Matt Moore of the insurer-funded Moore said he suspects even more Highway Loss Data Institute (HLDI) drivers would turn that system off if offered some insights into the im- doing so was easier. But the AEB rewith Ed Attanasio pact auto-emergency braking (AEB) mained active on almost 92% of the could have on the frequency and vehicles equipped with that system. severity of front-end crashes in the “Folks like it. They leave it on,” coming years, during his presentation Moore said. at the recent Women’s Industry Net- While automakers have volwork (WIN) virtual conference. untarily agreed to equip all new HLDI’s rating system for AEB with Ed Attanasio vehicles with AEB by September systems involves two crash tests of 2022―and many automakers conducted at 25 mph and 12 mph. are ahead of schedule toward that Those speeds may sound slow, he goal―it still will take a long time said, but “the more speed you can for a majority of vehicles on the road drop out of a crash, you drop out an have AEB, he said. He shared a seexponential amount of energy.” ries of charts to demonstrate this. A 25 mph crash of a Mer- The first (slide 1) showed the with Ed Attanasio cedes C-Class resulted in more than percentage of new vehicles for $28,000 in damage, for example, which AEB is optional or standard Moore said, but when the speed was has grown significantly. reduced to 12 mph, “the cost is re- But the second (slide 2) showed duced by more than half,” to $5,715. even in 2019, HLDI estimated only “Of course,with if youEd canAttanasio go from about 6% of registered vehicles 12 mph down to zero, you can total- were equipped with AEB.

trains. Moore shared a slide (slide 4) showing how far hybrid, electric and turbo- or super-charged vehicles have grown, and will continue to grow, in

relation to vehicles powered by conventional gasoline engines. “What we’re predicting is by 2030, over 45% of vehicles will ei-

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Media and Publicity for Shops Despite widespread availability, vehicles equipped with auto-emergency braking comprise only a small percentage of those on U.S. roads, according to the Highway Loss Data Institute

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Body Shops Giving Back with Stacey Phillips

Tips for Busy Body Shops with Stacey Phillips braking is optional or standard has grown The percentage of new vehicles for which auto-emergency significantly ly avoid that hit altogether,” he said. A third chart (slide 3) showed AEB is expected to reduce front- how that is likely to grow over the end crashes that result in injury by next two decades, but still, the 50% more than 50%, Moore said. Of course, mark is not expected to be reached the potential benefits of AEB go away until about 2030. with Stacey Phillips if consumers turn the system off. “We’re predicting it’s going to But Moore said HLDI stationed be about 2045 until the vast majority researchers at some dealerships to of vehicles [in operation] have this check vehicles being dropped off for technology,” Moore said. service. They found the lane depar- Another factor driving up seture systems on those vehicles were verity of claims Moore pointed to only left on 50% of the time, and involves changes to vehicle power-

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ther be turbo-charged, super-charged, hybrid or electric, and that matters,” Moore said. He shared charts showing hybrid vehicles have higher collision and property damage liability losses

Electric vehicles, which Moore said will soon outnumber hybrids, have lower frequencies but higher severity. And turbo- or super-charged vehicles are also associated with increases in severity.

The percentage of registered vehicles vehicles equipped with auto-emergency braking will grow over the next two decades, but the 50% mark is not expected to be reached until about 2030

than their conventional engine counterparts. “This is, in part, because these hybrid vehicles are heavier,” he said. “More complex to repair, more parts.”

“For collision losses, about a 4% increase,” Moore said. “You take an already crowded engine compartment, and jam a whole lot more stuff under that hood as you would with a

turbocharger or supercharger, and you increase the amount of damage it’s going to have when those crashes occur.” Claims have also been impacted by a steady growth in vehicle horsepower over the past four decades, and increases in speed limits over the past 20 years.

A 1983 Toyota Camry had 92 horsepower; the 2019 model had either 203 or 301 horsepower. A 1983 Jeep Grand Cherokee had 180-220 horsepower; the 2019 model had 285-360 horsepower. The 1981 Ford F-150 had 115-165 horsepower; the 2019 model has 250-370.

The Highway Loss Data Institute projects hybrid, electric and turbo- or super-charged vehicles will continue to grow in relation to vehicles powered by conventional gasoline engines

“In 1981, most vehicles had less than 100 horsepower,” Moore said. “These days you can’t buy a vehicle with that little power.”

“More horsepower at any age nets you higher insurance losses,” Moore said. “The faster a vehicle is, the faster people are going to drive it.”

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Research Shows Auto Care Industry Expected to Reach $477B by 2024 by Camille Sheehan, Auto Care Association

The Auto Care Association on June 9 released its award-winning and industry-leading online publications, the 2022 Auto Care Factbook and the 2022 Auto Care Factbook & Lang Annual. The annual reports are the go-to source for automotive aftermarket industry data and include critical insight for aftermarket businesses to make informed, data-based decisions for the future. This 31st edition of the Auto Care Factbook report provides new data and insight on how the auto care industry fared from the COVID-19 pandemic, emerging consumer and industry trends, international market performance and more. While the total U.S. auto care industry size took a hit in 2020, the industry fared better than forecasted and is now expected to be a $477 billion industry by 2024. Industry shifts during COVID-19 have presented new opportunities for the aftermarket, including increased e-commerce growth, increased delays in vehicle maintenance; an increase

in the average age of vehicles in operation, an increase in vehicle miles driven nearing pre-pandemic levels and more. In this 142-page Auto Care Factbook report, readers will find: New e-commerce section including trends and sizing of this important aspect of the aftermarket including penetration and product category performance standouts (pg. 61) Expanded data and insights on hybrid, electric and fuel cell vehicles including adoption rates, replacement rates for selected parts, registrations and state incentive data (pg. 86) Expanded medium and heavy duty vehicle data including vehicle counts, proportions, registrations and demand by distribution channel and growing component subgroups (pg. 68) Expanded replacement rate data, from 94 to 184 parts and jobs (pg. 56) Expanded international section, including highlights of the Mexican, Chilean and Vietnamese aftermar-

kets, including VIO and other pertinent stats (pg. 120) Guidelines on how to use TrendLens™ to interactively compare data series with our trend comparison tool The 2022 Auto Care Factbook also provides Auto Care Association members access to many of the latest numbers included in the report through the association’s Auto Care TrendLens™ interactive data platform. There, members can drill down on data points, and filter and overlay with other data sets to get the full picture of the industry. “The COVID-19 pandemic is not the first time the auto care industry has proved its resiliency during economic hardship,” said Bill Hanvey, president and CEO, Auto Care Association. “Our industry growth continues to exceed expectations— despite recent challenges—and we’re confident that the new opportunities emerging from the past year will strengthen our future. This year’s Factbook equips readers with the latest data and in-depth industry analysis needed to navigate their business decisions with confidence

Boyd Group Has Slower Start to 2021 A major player in the North American auto glass replacement and collision market saw a nearly 10% decline in sales through the first part of 2021. Company officials attribute the slump to lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. The Boyd Group, parent company of several major retail auto glass and colli-

third-party administrator Gerber National Claims Services. Gerber Collision and Glass also recently acquired a new facility that was previously used as a collision repair center in Buford, GA, officials tell glassBYTEs. Boyd Group’s Canadian businesses, which include Boyd Autobody and Glass, were hit much

“We continue to prepare for the future, as restrictions continue to loosen, the economy re-opens and vaccination levels increase,” — Timothy O’Day sion chains in the U.S. and Canada, recorded $421.6 million in total sales in the first quarter of 2021. This was down by 9.9% compared to the same period in 2020. The company’s U.S. operations, which make up more than 90% of its sales and include Gerber Collision and Glass, Glass America, Auto Glass Service, Auto Glass Authority and Autoglassonly.com, saw a 6.5% decline in revenues. Boyd Group operates

harder, with a 34% dip in revenues. “Following steady improvement in demand in the last half of 2020, the improvement trend flattened out during the first quarter of 2021 with a significant surge in COVID-19 infections and reinstatement of restrictions in many markets, particularly Canada, where same-store sales declines were more significant in the first quarter of 2021 when compared to the fourth quarter of 2020,” Boyd

40 JULY 2021 AUTOBODY NEWS / autobodynews.com

Group President and CEO Timothy O’Day said in a letter to shareholders. “Compounding the demand challenges of COVID-19, production challenges, including technician capacity constraints in select markets, weather events in the southern states, and supply chain disruptions resulted in reduced demand for our services.” According to Boyd Group’s most recent financial report, sales performance in the second quarter of 2021 is “only marginally higher” than the first quarter. Improving demand in the U.S. has been partially offset by worsening demand in Canada due to continued or tightened restrictions. Looking forward, the company is optimistic economic conditions will improve. “We continue to prepare for the future, as restrictions continue to loosen, the economy re-opens and vaccination levels increase,” said O’Day. “As vaccination rates increase and as market demand returns to normal levels, we are well-positioned for the future.”

and clarity.” The 2022 Auto Care Factbook & Lang Annual includes the Auto Care Factbook plus the Lang Annual, which provides a supplemental, comprehensive overview of the U.S. light vehicle aftermarket and presents information and analysis available from no other source. All Auto Care Association contacts at member companies receive a complimentary digital copy of the 2022 Auto Care Factbook report as a member benefit. The non-member price for the publication is $2,450. The Auto Care Factbook & Lang Annual report can be purchased for $995 for members and $3,445 for non-members. To order any of these digital publications, visit digital.autocare. org/2022factbook or contact the Member Services department at publications@autocare.org or 301-6546664. Source: Auto Care Association

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Day Job/Night Job

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

with Ed Attanasio

Painter/Car Restorer Miguel Perez Produces a Podcast and Creates a Brand Many painters are content when took auto tech classes and worked they’re able to get their work done on one particular vehicle for several on time while keeping the quality years, he said. Gary Wickert “My brother’s 1989 BMW high, but that’swith just the beginning for Miguel Perez, head painter and blew up, so I took it to school and manager at Extreme Paint Shop, a we worked on it there. We thought division of Extreme Performance in that we were doing an awesome job, but when I look at that project now, I South Florida. While running a paint crew have to laugh. It shows how far I’ve and working on some of the world’s come and how much I’ve improved my skills and processes over the yemost unique andwith expensive vehicles, Stacey Phillips Perez has created a large following ars.” of painters, metal shapers/fabrica- After graduating from high tors and other collision repair and school, Perez took a year off to regautomotive restoration professionals roup and figure out his next move. worldwide with podcasts, merchan- Then he enrolled at WyoTech, madising and videos. joring in collision refinishing with Stacey His brand iswith Refinisher PornPhillips (@ a minor in metal fabrication. It was refinisherporn on Instagram) and his a good experience where he learned merchandising company is Refinish more, but he also realized school is only a platform and not just a ticket to employment. “Some people graduate from WyoTech and think with Stacey Phillips they’re going to enter the industry as a tech or a painter,” Perez said. “But the reality is that they’re going to start at an entry level and it might take five to 10 years to get to where with Stacey Phillips you think you want to be. I tell people that school gives you the basics and builds a foundation, but it’s only the beginning.” Miguel Perez, head painter and manager at Extreme Paint Refinisher Porn is a brand Shop in South Florida during the day, hosts a podcast at night with Stacey Phillips that can relate to any refinish technician in the Kulture (@refinishkulture), and cur- world, not only those in North Amerently more than 100,000 followers rica. It’s also not limited to painting have joined the network. automobiles either, Perez said. Perez, 34, began his career in “It can be cars, trucks, boats, paint/restorationwith as a teenager, wheplanes―anything that moves and Victoria Antonelli re he was exposed to working on can be custom painted is on our list. cars and boats. We’re a strong and very connected “My dad retired from the Coast group because we share the same Guard and he started a boat restora- goals and dreams. I use Refinisher tion business called Marine Perfec- Porn to showcase work that has tion,” he said. “I was working the- been done by some of the finest rewith Victoria Antonelli re after school and I learned a lot. finishers on the planet. They value Restoring boats helped me with my the feedback and we often discuss abilities, but working on cars was things like processes, paint, tools where I wanted to be.” and equipment to do a better job While attending Martin Coun- and create an amazing product every ty High School in Stuart, FL, Perez time.”

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Perez is a busy man, as the head of the paint department at Extreme Performance, a huge operation in Palm City, FL, that employs more than 30 people in several buildings equaling in excess of 66,000 square feet. Extreme Performance is known as one of the top custom shops in the U.S., and if you’ve ever attended a SEMA show, you’ve seen more than a few of their game changing creations.

or color matching at the party. We just hang out and get to know each other away from the show, and meeting new members in person is always great!” Perez is like the Bo Jackson of custom paint and body work because he can easily cross over from paint to metal and back, if needed. “I have always been attracted to fabricating and doing metal work, and that’s why I’ve always pursued it and worked to get better. Some painters are happy in the booth, but I have always wanted to play a larger role. I always tell people, especially if they’re new to the industry, be open to new things and don’t be afraid to develop new skills, because that way you will be more appreciated and more sought after.” Perez gives his followers a simple message―never stop When he’s not in a paint booth or doing metal work, Perez learning and don’t be afraid shares ideas, photos and short videos with a huge network to make mistakes along the he created six years ago on @RefinisherPorn way. Perez was on teams that play- “I got better because I had good ed roles in restoring vehicles for teachers and a lot of my mistakes Michael Jordan, Vanilla Ice and led to valuable lessons. New techniactor/comic/podcaster Joe Rogan, ques, better processes, little tricks― who inspired Perez to eventually always be working to improve and produce a series of podcasts himself. you’ll benefit in many ways down But despite all of the work this the road.” busy shop generates, Perez still finds Perez is delighted with what time to manage his popular Instag- he’s done on Instagram with @Reram account while creating mega- finisherPorn. cool T-shirts, hoodies and other pro- “My initial goal was to turn @ ducts emblazoned with his Refinish RefinisherPorn into a network wheKulture logo, available at www.refi- re people would come together, showcase each other’s work, and get nisherporn.bigcartel.com. To interact with his Instagram better as a result,” he said. “I never followers, many of whom are con- imagined that this would turn into sidered top-tier painters and metal what it is today and I’m excited abfabricators, Perez throws an epic out where it’s headed.” bash at SEMA. It didn’t happen last Wherever it’s headed, you year, obviously, and no one really know Perez will be there to help knows what the show will look like other refinishers, metal fabricators, this year, but people are still talking car rebuilders and collision repairers about the party he threw in 2019. from Los Angeles to NYC and ever “We do it at a different restau- ywhere in between. rant every year, and more and more people show up each time,” he said. AUTOBODY “We don’t talk about paint enzymes

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CCC Information Services is Now CCC Intelligent Solutions CCC Information Services Inc., a leading SaaS platform for the property and casualty insurance economy, on June 1 announced it is updating its name to CCC Intelligent Solutions Inc. The new name reflects the company’s focus on applying AI, IoT and advanced analytics to

power mission-critical workflows, commerce and connections across the multi-trillion-dollar insurance economy. The CCC Cloud platform connects insurers, collision repairers, automakers, lenders, suppliers and more to support the industry’s digital transformation. “CCC has evolved from a data provider to a SaaS technology partner digitizing interactions and

operations for more than 30,000 businesses across the P&C insurance economy,” said Githesh Ramamurthy, CEO, CCC Intelligent Solutions. “CCC is relentless in our commitment to our clients and pursuit of innovation. “The CCC Intelligent Solutions brand better encapsulates the company’s drive to power new ways of working and new insights, supporting our customers’ ability to deliver improved claims and repair experiences to their customers.” The name change follows the announcement of CCC’s pending merger with Dragoneer Growth Opportunities Corp. (DGNR) to take the company public. CCC continues to expand its solution set announcing the expected launch of AI-powered CCC Estimate–STP and CCC Payments, an enterprise-level solution supporting payments between businesses including between insurers and repair facilities through a third-party payment processor. The solutions build upon the company’s work to scale AI and connections across the claim’s life-

cycle, intelligently digitizing and improving the experience for users and end consumers and supporting insurers’ vision of straight through processing. CCC has processed more than 5 million unique claims using at least one of its deep-learning AI solutions, and in 2020, the number of claims that used two or more of its deep learning solutions grew 100%. The company supports more than $100 billion in commerce annually. Headquartered in Chicago, with seven offices nationwide, CCC and its nearly 2,000 employees take pride in delivering industry leading solutions and service to its customers―in 2020 achieving a net promoter score of 80, a high mark in the technology sector. Learn more about CCC Intelligent Solutions here. Source: CCC Intelligent Solutions

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Automotive giant Ford Motor Company is teaming up with Mile Auto, a next-gen insurtech innovator using computer vision and decision analytics to offer an affordable car insurance option based on mileage to low-mileage drivers. Ford owners who drive fewer than 10,000 miles per year could potentially save between 30% and 40% of their current rates. Mile Auto is changing the way car insurance is purchased with an offering that requires drivers to pay only for what they use. By leveraging onboard telematics data from current Ford models, Ford owners can choose to share mileage data with Mile Auto. Mile Auto does not require smartphones, mobile apps or other hardware to take advantage of lower rates. Mile Auto insurance is currently available in Arizona, Georgia, Illinois and Oregon. The company expects to expand its coverage to 50% of the U.S. auto insurance market by the end of 2021. Source: Mile Auto

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FOR YOUR COLLISION JOB. autobodynews.com / JULY 2021 AUTOBODY NEWS 43

BMW 3-Series Vehicles Recalled Over Explosive Airbags

I-CAR Supports Inter-Industry’s First OEM Glass Repair Certification Program Leveraging the collision repair expertise of I-CAR (Inter-Industry Conference on Auto Collision Repair), Mopar is launching its Mopar Certified Glass Installer Program, the industry’s first OEM glass repair certification. I-CAR’s training and support of the new Mopar program is a perfect extension of I-CAR’s 42-yearold vision, explained John Van Alstyne, CEO and president.

“I-CAR’s mission is to provide education, information, services and solutions,” he said. “This program represents a solution that brings to life the breadth of our mission. Along with education, audits, reporting and network support in collaboration with the Mopar team, this makes I-CAR a unique and perfect fit for Mopar’s new

program.” I-CAR currently has five glass-related courses as a requirement for the Mopar Certified Glass Installer program. Additionally, I-CAR will conduct virtual audits of glass installers to meet Mopar requirements, which were established jointly. Van Alstyne added I-CAR is uniquely positioned to support the Mopar Certified Glass Installer Program given its leadership position in the industry, expansive course portfolio and ability to reach glass installers and collision repairers nationally. Some of I-CAR’s educational support have included: The FCA Certified Collision Network has required I-CAR Gold Class® since its launch more than five years ago. Alfa Romeo Certified Collision Network shops require all four roles be at ProLevel 3, the highest level of individual recognition in addition to the shop maintaining I-CAR Gold Class. Maserati requirement for ProLevel 2 technicians within its certi-

fied network. Creation of FCA-specific educational courses and continued development of additional courses, including Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) Collision Repair Overview and 2018 Jeep Wrangler JL “As vehicle glass installation continues to become a much more advanced repair given today’s technology-laden vehicles, Mopar’s new program is a step forward for the inter-industry,” said Van Alstyne. “In pursuit of complete, safe and quality repairs, this program reinforces the many new ways we can accomplish this overarching goal.” To sign up for the program, contact I-CAR Customer Care at 1-800-I-CAR-USA (800-4227872) or visit I-CAR’s course catalog.

by David A. Wood, CarComplaints.com

A BMW airbag recall includes more than 4,500 of these vehicles equipped with non-azide driver airbag inflators (NADIs) manufactured by Takata. 2000-2001 BMW 323Ci 2000-2001 BMW 325Ci 2000-2001 BMW 328Ci 2000-2001 BMW 330Ci 1999-2001 BMW 323i 2000-2001 BMW 328i 2000-2001 BMW 330i 2000-2001 BMW 330xi

Source: I-CAR

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The driver-side Takata airbag inflators were previously inspected but not replaced under previous recalls. BMW says moisture can invade the inflator and cause it to explode. BMW dealers will replace the driver-side air bag inflators with newly designed inflators. Owner recall notification letters are expected to be mailed July 19. Concerned owners may contact BMW at 800-525-7417.

Hertz’s Reorganization Plan OK’d by Bankruptcy Court by Auto Rental News Staff

The bankruptcy court overseeing Hertz Global Holdings Chapter 11 proceedings has approved Hertz’s reorganization plan, the company reported June 10.

Hertz achieved payouts to equity, which are virtually unheard of in Chapter 11. Credit: Photo via flickr, www.dhub.com

The court’s approval clears the way for Hertz to emerge from Chapter 11 by the end of June. According to Hertz, creditors will be paid in full while existing shareholders will receive more than $1 billion in value. The plan will erase more than $5 billion in debt and provide more than $2.2

billion in liquidity. Hertz will emerge with $2.8 billion in credit and an approximately $7 billion of asset-backed vehicle financing facility. “As a result of its restructuring efforts, Hertz will emerge from Chapter 11 with a substantially stronger balance sheet and greater financial flexibility than it had prior to the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic,” Hertz said in a statement. “With the court’s approval of our plan today and a committed new investor group, we are poised to exit Chapter 11 by the end of this month as a well-capitalized and even more competitive company, with the flexibility and resources to pursue exciting new growth opportunities,” said Paul Stone, Hertz’s president and CEO. U.S. Bankruptcy Judge Mary Walrath said in hearing June 10 that payouts to equity are virtually unheard of in Chapter 11. The case “surpasses any result that I’ve seen in any Chapter 11 case that I’ve faced in my 20-plus years,” Walrath said, according to a Bloomberg report.

44 JULY 2021 AUTOBODY NEWS / autobodynews.com

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P&C Insurers Stuck at Providing Only ‘Good Enough’ Digital User Experience: J.D. Power With more property and casualty (P&C) insurance customers than ever migrating to digital channels during the past year, expectations for a superior user experience have grown, and many insurers are struggling to keep pace. According to the J.D. Power 2021 U.S. Insurance Digital Experience Study, released May 25, overall customer satisfaction with insurers’

digital in new ways to drive growth and engagement,” said Tom Super, head of property and casualty insurance intelligence at J.D. Power. “The real challenge for insurers is pushing the envelope on digital innovation. “Customers’ pace of expected change is accelerating, and insurers must be able to take steps to go beyond the basics of simply digitizing

“The bar just continues to get higher for customer expectations around digital, and while many insurers are hitting the mark on the digital basics, few insurers are using digital in new ways to drive growth and engagement,” — Tom Super digital offerings does not improve this year, despite industry-wide improvements in best-practice competency. “The bar just continues to get higher for customer expectations around digital, and while many insurers are hitting the mark on the digital basics, few insurers are using

customer tasks. Those that can make this leap will be poised to separate themselves from the pack.” The study, now in its 10th year, evaluates digital consumer experiences among both P&C insurance shoppers seeking quotes and existing customers conducting typical policy-servicing activities.

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The study examines the functional aspects of desktop, mobile web and mobile apps based on five factors: ease of navigation; appearance; availability of key information; range of services; and clarity of the information. The study was conducted in partnership with Corporate Insight, the leading provider of competitive intelligence and user experience research to the financial services and health care industries. “Being ‘good enough’ doesn’t cut it in a world where consumers are managing so much of their lives through digital interfaces and upending conventional notions of customer engagement,” said Michael Ellison, president of Corporate Insight. “While most insurers are making it possible to perform basic functions online or via mobile, very few are delivering a markedly improved, highly personalized overall experience via digital, even though innovative firms are showing that it is possible to do that now.” Key findings of the 2021 study: Insurer digital solutions not keeping pace with customer expectations: Overall customer satisfaction with the P&C insurance customer service experience improves to 860 (on a 1,000-point scale) from 858 in 2020, and overall satisfaction with the shopping experience declines to 788 from 800 a year ago, as record numbers of insurance customers transitioned to digital during the height of the pandemic. Beneath these headline figures, many individual insurers saw volatile year-over-year swings in their overall satisfaction scores. Basic digital competency not enough to drive improvements: Overall digital competency scores improve for nearly every insurer in the study,

but many customers still cite challenges with several account service and shopping tasks. Notably, satisfaction scores improve about 100 points or more when customers say completing tasks is “very easy” vs. “somewhat easy.” Complex tasks become new customer experience battleground: Across all account service and shopping engagements evaluated, the study finds customer satisfaction scores consistently decline as tasks become more complicated. Complex tasks such as requesting a quote, researching policy information, adding a driver/vehicle and viewing policy-related information are among the areas in which insurers struggle to delight digital customers. Tech-savvy mobile app users set stage for future of digital insurance experience: Satisfaction is substantially higher across all factors in the study among mobile app users and those who describe themselves as tech savvy. Mobile app usage increases 26% this year. Study Rankings GEICO ranks highest in the service segment for a fourth consecutive year with a score of 879. Progressive (868) ranks second. Farmers (867) and The Hartford (867) rank third in a tie. Mercury ranks highest in the shopping segment with a score of 821. Auto-Owners Insurance (816) ranks second and State Farm (807) ranks third. The 2021 U.S. Insurance Digital Experience Study is based on 11,548 evaluations and was fielded in February and March. For more information about the U.S. Insurance Digital Experience Study, visit https://www.jdpower. com/business/insurance/us-insurance-digital-experience-study Source: J.D. Power

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autobodynews.com / JULY 2021 AUTOBODY NEWS 45

Lamborghini Outlines Massive $1.8 Billion Plan to Shift to Electrification by Joey Klender, Teslarati

Lamborghini is planning to shift from gas-powered to electric for its world-class supercars. The company recently outlined a $1.8 billion plan, its largest in history, to shift away from combustion engines and toward electrification. CEO and President Stephan Winkelmann presented the company’s plan to decarbonize its future models. Known as “Direzione Cour Tauri,” or “Towards Cor Tauri,” the roadmap shows how the Italian automaker plans to begin electrifying its fleet by using its carbon-neutral site at Sant’Agata Bolognese in Northern Italy. The site has been free of CO2 emissions since 2015 and is the location of the Lamborghini Museum. The focus is simple: continue making the legendary, high-performance cars Lamborghini is known for, but make them environmentally friendly. Lamborghini will continue to identify technologies and solutions that guarantee top performance and driving dynamics that align with its “marque’s tradition.” A $1.8 billion

investment will be spread over four years. It seems, according to Lamborghini’s press release on the matter, the main goal is to reduce carbon emissions by 50% by the beginning of 2025. While Lamborghini will celebrate the combustion engine that has brought it to the peak of automotive performance, it plans to bring a fourth fully electric model in the latter portion of the decade. “Lamborghini’s electrification plan is a newly-plotted course, necessary in the context of a radically changing world, where we want to make our contribution by continuing to reduce environmental impact through concrete projects,” Winkelmann said. “Our response is a plan with a 360-degree approach, encompassing our products and our Sant’Agata Bolognese location, taking us towards a more sustainable future while always remaining faithful to our DNA. “Lamborghini has always been synonymous with preeminent technological expertise in building engines boasting extraordinary performance: this commitment will continue as an

absolute priority of our innovation trajectory,” he continued. “Today’s promise, supported by the largest investment plan in the brand’s history, reinforces our deep dedication to not only our customers, but also to our fans, our people and their families, as well as to the territory where the company was born in Emilia-Romagna and to Made in Italy excellence.” Lamborghini will complete the process in three phases: a celebration of the combustion engine from 2021 to 2022, a hybrid transition that will see the company launch its first hybrid series production car in 2023 with the rest of the fleet being fully electric by the end of 2024, and finally, the first fully electric Lamborghini, to be released in the second half of the decade. The celebration of the combustion engine may appear to be somewhat ironic in Lamborghini’s plan to launch an electric fleet. However, the company intends to pay tribute to the success provided by combustion engine vehicles. It will announce two new V12 models later this year. The hybrid transition planned by the end of 2024 will fuel the compa-

ny’s initial attempts to develop a hybrid series production car. This timeframe will be crucial for engineers to learn how to develop high-performance vehicles while compensating for additional weight provided by the battery pack. Finally, the first all-electric Lamborghini will be introduced in the second half of the 2020s. “Acceleration in the second part of the decade will be dedicated to full-electric vehicles, with the vision of a fourth model in the future,” the company said. “Once again, technological innovation in this phase will be oriented towards ensuring remarkable performance and positioning the new product at the top of its segment. “This is how Lamborghini sees the culmination of this part of its journey: Cor Tauri, the brightest star in the constellation to which the company’s roadmap points, is represented by a fourth fully-electric model.”

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Cox Automotive Study Examines Best Practices of Dealerships Thriving in an Accelerated Digital Landscape Cox Automotive on June 15 released a new study, “How to Thrive: Best Practices for an Accelerated Digital Landscape,” examining effective strategies dealerships are adopting to find profits and thrive in today’s marketplace. With the industry’s abrupt shift from an in-person dominant to a digital-first model, Cox Automotive’s survey of more than 450 franchise dealerships found those embracing new business solutions and digital capabilities became more efficient and profitable, while seeing consumer satisfaction scores soar to record highs. “Through this study, we’ve learned that whatever the market conditions may be, it’s the experience you provide that will drive satisfaction and retention,” said Lori Wittman, senior vice president of dealer software solutions at Cox Automotive. “Right now, consumers may come to you for a particular piece of inventory you have, but they’ll come back to you for the experience you gave them.” Given the current inventory and supply chain constraints, deal-

ers can take advantage of this lull to tune up systems and processes so they are fully optimized when supply of vehicles rebounds. “After a year of momentous change across our industry, Cox Automotive set out to better understand the most effective strategies for dealership success. Our ‘How to Thrive’ findings reveal the dealerships that capitalized on new strategies and capabilities flourished amid challenging circumstances,” added Wittman. According to the “How to Thrive” study findings, most dealerships fall into two dueling mindsets―those that are either adapting and thriving or static and struggling. The study found commonalities and advantages among the most successful dealers, aka Thrivers―those who have overcome recent challenges and defied the odds to improve their KPIs. Thrivers are doing things differently, including:

tailing into their dealership’s sales process.

during this time,” said a small franchise Thriver.

Adapting to customer desires in fixed ops: 70% of Thrivers are using text and/or email for quote approval, including pictures and videos, while 65% are also offering service pickup and delivery to enhance convenient solutions for customers.

“Implementation of digital contracting reduces turnaround time for paperwork for customers whether they are at home, in our showrooms or the service lane,” said a medium franchise Thriver.

Offering digital options across the experience: 59% of Thrivers have a strategy to incorporate digital re-

“Being flexible with online sales and remote deliveries has gained more loyalty and more referrals

Maximizing usage of data: 86% of dealers agree having accurate and complete customer data is a priority at their dealership.

“We are marketing a ton more. We are reaching out to the customers that haven’t seen us in 18 months or more,” said a large franchise Thriver.

Investing in their staff: 73% of Thrivers make employee satisfaction as important as CSI scores.

For more information on this study, download our Thrivers eBook at www.coxautoinc.com/thrivers/

Cox’s findings from the “How to Thrive” study underscore how investing in the right transformational technologies today will drive tomorrow’s better business outcomes. Direct comments from the qualitative portion of the study include:

Source: Cox Automotive

Ford Reports Huge Growth in EV Sales, Best May for SUV Sales Since 2003 Ford on June 3 reported its May sales results, including a new EV sales record, the best May sales since 2003 for Ford SUVs and the best May sales ever for Lincoln SUVs. “Ford sales were up 4.1% on tight inventories, while year-to-date sales increased 11.3%,” said Andrew Frick, vice president, Ford

Sales U.S. and Canada. “Ford and its dealers are working harder than ever to match the right mix of inventory to best meet the needs of our customers at the local level. We have been receiving a massive number of reservations for our all-electric F-150 Lightning over the last two weeks―totaling over 70,000 trucks. Ford brand SUVs had their best May sales in 18 years, while Lincoln SUVs posted a new May record.” Ford electrified vehicle sales grew 184% in May, achieving a

new EV sales record, with sales of 10,364 vehicles. Growth came from the Mustang Mach-E, which totaled 1,945 vehicle sales, while the F-150 PowerBoost totaled 2,852 for the month and Escape electrified sales totaled 3,617―up 125% over last year. Explorer Hybrid sales also had a big increase of 132% over a year ago, with sales of 1,156 SUVs. New products continue to drive transaction pricing. Average transaction prices at Ford were up approximately $3,400 over a year ago. Ford’s newest products―the Bronco Sport and Mustang Mach-E― expanded their sales relative to April, with sales of the two totaling 16,892 vehicles, while turning quickly on dealer lots. Overall F-Series sales through May are up 4.7% on sales of 316,359 trucks. With tight inventories, F-Series continues to turn at record rates. Retail orders for F-Series trucks are up threefold over last year. Ford continues to fill orders as more semiconductor chips become available. Ford brand retail SUVs posted their best May sales since 2003,

while Ranger sales recorded their best May sales since 2004. Ford brand SUVs were up 51.8% over a year ago on new product introductions of Bronco Sport and Mustang Mach-E, along with the continued momentum of Escape, Explorer and Expedition. With total sales of 14,303 for the month, Ranger sales expanded 41.8% relative to last year. With the all-new Bronco Sport and Escape, Ford greatly enhances its share of the small SUV segment. Ford’s May retail share is up almost 4 full percentage points in the small SUV segment, with sales of both Bronco Sport and Escape expanding their sales within two very different customer groups. Escape sales were up 51.4%, while the majority of Bronco Sport customers are coming from outside the Ford brand. Lincoln SUVs posted another record sales result in May. Lincoln SUV sales were up across the entire lineup in May with a total of 7,871 SUVs sold―up 24.3 percent. Source: Ford

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MSO Symposium Announces Format The Automotive Service Association is pleased to announce the 2021 MSO Symposium will be taking place as a live and in-person event Nov. 1 at the Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas, NV. The MSO Symposium is an annual collision industry event where repair facility executives from large, small and regional MSOs come to gather with like-minded peers. The 2020 event was held virtually over a week and was made available to everyone in the industry. This year’s oneday program will return to its original format. The event will begin at 10 a.m. PDT and will feature a unique line-up of presentations and panelists, concluding with an evening reception. Registration to this closed event will be made available in late June. Stay informed by visiting www.msosymposium. com. Source: MSO Symposium

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